Winter 2015

27 Things to Do With Kids | The Resort Era: A New City is Born | Gift Guide Inside

WINTER 2015

The First & Finest

$ 3.95

Volume 12, Issue 4

Committed to Serve www.thomasvillemagazine.com

THOMASVILLE DENTAL CENTER ALAN G SANDERS, D.M.D Family Care • Sedation • implantS

PROTECTING TEETH

ON AND OFF THE FIELD

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015 4

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

• OWNER & FOUNDER Jack Kelly March 15, 1931 - July 8, 2015 • PUBLISHER, EDITOR- IN-CHIEF Christy S. Layfield | crlayfield@gmail.com • ADVERTISING MANAGER Christy S. Layfield • CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mark Anderson | Chuck Bowen | Christina Keown | Stephanie Rice | Andrew Sawyer | Bob Taylor • CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jennifer Taylor | Lynn Watkins | City of Thomasville/Thomasville Police Department • LAYOUT & DESIGN Cynthia Henry

Another three months have come and gone and, my, how fast the time flies.

As I was watching all the negative news of late, especially relating to law enforcement, I had an idea for a series of positive stories.

As I would watch these news stories, I would think how lucky Thomasville is to have the dedicated men and women in public safety who serve our community. As the wife of a paramedic, I have an idea of what they go through but, of course, I will never fully understand the impact the job has on them every day.

I wanted to give our readers a chance to meet, through the pages of this magazine, some of the people who put their lives on the line each day to “protect and serve” our community and ensure that we have a safe and secure city.

I hope you enjoy the start of this series, beginning with the Thomasville Police Department.

This is the first time we have ever changed the color of our logo, but for this issue I saw it as a fitting way to not only show support for our local police department but also support for all those who are “committed to serve.”

As I look toward the future and begin planning issues I both welcome and request that you let us know what you think of Thomasville Magazine. I want to hear your suggestions and ideas for new features and articles. Your comments are always welcome.

I also want to express my heartfelt thanks for the response to the in memoriam Jack Kelly issue. It was such an honor to pay tribute to him and I am so glad you all enjoyed it.

I hope you enjoy the Winter 2015 issue and look forward, as I do, to future issues.

Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year!

Thomasville Magazine is published quarterly by Thomasville Magazine, Inc. (Jack Kelly) All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Subscription rates in the U.S. are $15.00 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.

Christy Layfield

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Vol. 12 No. 4 Winter 2015

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Pedal Car Christmas

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2015 Gift Guide

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27 Things to Do With Kids in Thomasville

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Thomasville Hosts Rotary’s First U.S. Tennis Championship

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Committed to Serve Thomasville Police Department

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The Resort Era: A New City is Born

COVER

In Every Issue 6

Recipe

40

Food & Fitness

52

Landscaping

58

Calendar of Events

64

Ledger

The cover photo was taken by Lynn Watkins of Lynn Watkins Photography.

Pictured from left to right: Sgt. Jabar Dunbar, Charlie Johnston, and Elisa Carter.

www.thomasvillemagazine.com

www.facebook.com/pages/Thomasville-Magazine

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

WRITTEN JENNIFER TAYLOR WRITTEN BYBY CHRISTY LAYFIELD

6

Holiday Recipes This is my favorite time of year and what would the holidays be without a little giving? I can’t invite you all over for the holidays so, instead, I want to share a little of my family’s love of cooking here.

My grandmother and her five sisters published two

cookbooks – yes, my family loves food and cooking that much. I want to share two of my favorite recipes, taken from my family’s cookbook, “The Sisters Cook.” I hope you enjoy these recipes and find them as delicious as I do.

Sweet Potato Casserole 3c. sweet potatoes, cooked 1c. sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 c. sweet milk 1/2 c. butter pinch of salt

Drain potatoes. Mix all ingredients with a mixer and pour into buttered 8x8 casserole dish.

TOPPING 1/2 c. brown sugar, packed 1/3 c. flour

1 c. pecans, chopped 1/3 c. butter, room temperature

Mix together and sprinkle topping over mixture.

Bake at 350 degress for 30 minutes.

Squash Casserole One simply cannot have too many casseroles!

2 c. cooked yellow squash 1 can of cream of chicken soup 1 sm. Jar of chopped pimientos 1 c. sharp cheddar cheese, grated ½ pkg. herb stuffing mix

1 egg 1 onion, chopped 1 c. sour cream 1 stick melted butter

Mix ingredients together and pour into casserole dish.

Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Add the topping and bake for 5 min until browned on top.

TOPPING: One sleeve of crushed Ritz crackers.

Mix with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle on top.

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Veneers and Crowns | Zoom® Whitening | Sedation Dentistry | Dental Implants Cosmetic Dentures | Endodontics | Sleep Apnea Treatment

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015 8

I

PEDDLE CAR CHRISTMAS WRITTEN BY CHUCK BOWEN

suppose things were tough all over in the thirties, not just in deep South Georgia. Daddy, despite his college degree, worked at anything he could find to keep food on the table and pay the five-dollars-amonth rent. Mom constantly worried about the dangers he faced while railroading, cotton-ginning and wood-cutting. Her anxieties doubled when he had to spend an extended time away from us to tackle the assorted tasks assigned to FDR’s Civilian Conservation Corps, known to us as the CCC Camp.

Naturally, in those years there was never much money for Christmas. Our parents would have loved to fulfill every wish my sister and I could dream up, but a few pieces of fruit and candy and one small toy was usually all the budget would allow. Having never known abundance, we were more than satisfied. The Christmas of 1935, shortly after my fifth birthday, is the one that stands out in my mind more than any other. Our Hamlet had no such merchandise so it was on our Thanksgiving visit to a nearby town that I saw the object of my grandest fantasy: a red pedal car with a blue stripe, make-believe headlights, and a padded seat. I spoke of little else all the way to Christmas Eve. I knew it was unlikely that I had been good enough to warrant such a generous reward from Santa (after all, it was priced at an unheard of $9.95), but it had grabbed my imagination and would not let go.

I could see myself as the world’s greatest racecar driver, zipping along at the speed of light, or-–as mood dictated—picking up “rich folks” in what I liked to think of as my toot-toot taxi. For some reason that I cannot now understand, the mind-game I most enjoyed was pretending to be my dapper Uncle Bud, mama’s younger brother. I considered him the best traveling salesman in the business, and I could see me in my new red convertible casually driving around our small house from table to table and chair to chair, stopping briefly at each “to visit friends while I’m home for the holidays.”

On Christmas morning, mama kissed sister and me awake at first light, and we needed no prodding to check on Santa’s visit. As always, the family’s presents were arranged neatly around the small pine tree trimmed with ancient decorations.

But my recollection allows only one. There it stood, bright and shiny, as if freshly created out of some unlikely Christmas dream—the red pedal car! I danced around and squealed, and gave everybody generous hugs before climbing behind the inviting black steering wheel that would guide me into a thousand adventures. My parents added to the joy and intrigue by pointing out the large piece of wrapping paper that obviously once held my treasure and was now just outside the back door—dropped, no doubt, by Santa in his haste to continue his rounds.

The “best Christmas present I ever had” was my constant companion for the remainder of the winter—outside on good days, inside on bad. Mama reluctantly allowed my zipping from room to room, but declared the kitchen definitely off-limits. At the end of every ecstatic day, I wiped my automobile clean and parked it in its cardboard box garage beside my bed.

Spring brought the announcement that Daddy had found employment in the adjoining county. It seems the former headmaster had become disabled, and

s

“Best Christmas present I ever had”

usable belongings, to find another house. Besides, I would be starting school in a few months so maybe this was also the time to put away childish things.

I never again mentioned the red car.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

my father had been named principal-teacherbus driver at an eight-grade, four-teacher rural school. Our new home would be an unpainted frame house that rested on brick pillars just off the main road, surrounded by corn.

Lucky for me, I found the narrow lane leading to the house and our limited yard space to be hard Georgia clay—a tailormade racetrack. These were the scenes of my everyday playtime. I even found a neat cranny for overnight parking under the house beside the chimney.

By the end of April we were feeling comfortable in our new surroundings. It was then that the fury roared in from the southwest and changed my life forever in some significant way.

What we would later call the “crazy tornado” caught us unawares as we sat around the kitchen table after supper. The wind and rain became quiet, and then a terrifying roar was upon us. The lamp tumbled to the floor and the stove overturned. Daddy and Mama clung to us in the darkness and tried to shout comforting words, but sister and I were sure the world was ending.

After the danger passed, Daddy forced open a crumpled door and we sloshed through ankle-deep water and hail to our old Chevy.

We spent the remainder of the night with a neighbor.

Except for the family’s safety, fear had erased all concerns from my mind until we returned the following day to what remained of our home. The house had been twisted from its brick supports, and lay in a bizarre, mutilated, irreparable heap—squarely on top of my most cherished worldly possession.

I stood staring, trying not to cry. I thought of asking Daddy to help me dig my Christmas present from under the wreckage, but somehow no red car at all was better than a crushed red car. With encouragement, I managed to convince myself that now was the time for other things—to search for any

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American Red Cross of South Georgia

Serving: Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Cook, Echols, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Lanier, Lowndes, Pierce, Telfair, Thomas, Ware, Wheeler and Wilcox Counties http://www.redcross.org/support/donating-fundraising/donations/holiday-catalog

229.226.2181

125 Lester St. | Thomasville GA, 31792

GIFT GUIDE

Holiday

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

All $50 and under!

Eat, drink, & shop local

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Flourish of Thomasville 14004 US 19

Ally b boutique 102 N. Broad St.

Chewbeads necklaces $ 29.50 - 36.50 Soft, non-toxic jewelry that is colorful, chic, and above all else safe 100% silicone products no bpa, phthalates, lead, cadmium, or metal dishwasher safe soft on babies gums and emerging teeth

Papillon™ Scarves $34 This innovative design has buttons incorporated to allow endless versatility in fashion, security, and comfort. Transform your Papillon from a scarf to a shawl or cardigan, just to name a few.

Coobie bras $20 It’s simply the most amazing bra you’ll ever buy. Ultra-comfortable, supportive, and affordable - it’s the perfect combination.

Tummy tuck leggings $34 A must have fall necessity, she will thank you…trust me!

At Home

Loli’s

110 S. Broad St.

103 N. Broad St. Shop their great selection of Christmas décor.

Hollywood Nutcrackers by Kurt S. Adler 50 & under!

$

Who doesn’t need a set of stemless wine glasses! They come etched with unique Southern designs.

Set of 4 for $48.50

Gin Creek Tasting Room

Mimi’s The Look for Less 106 W. Jackson St.

106 N. Broad St.

Locally grown, produced, and bottled.

The perfect hostess gift!

2013 Lenoir $18.69 Red naked $14 Noble dry $13

$

Operated by brothers in Bainbridge, Ga. Cold pressed with no hard chemicals. Great for salads, marinating, baking, and grilling.

HOMME Sub-urban Haberdashery

206 W. Jackson St.

A best seller! It includes a wrist strap and crossbody strap. It is very spacious with several different compartments inside and can also be used a wallet.

Fuzzy Goat

Spence & Lance

223 W. Jackson St.

225 W. Jackson St.

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For the crafty person in your life, this is such a fun and unique gift!

Perfect for a gift that doesn’t have to fit!

Two learn to knit sessions for $50

Initial necklace $34 Earrings $24

The Bookshelf

126 S. Broad St. Flannel season is here!

Plaid shirts under $50.

Size and colors may vary.

Socks $12 - $14 The perfect stocking stuffer for that fun and unique individual in your life.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

The Liz Crossbody 36 w/monogram

Pecan ridge plantation oil: $20

The gift giving possibilities are endless!

You will be sure to find something for everyone.

“Lovesong Lullaby”

by Thomasville native Steven Clawson

14.99

$

Meet the Merchant 127 S. Broad St.

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

A best seller!

Genuine deer antler pen with its copper bullet tip and cartridge end make this appear authentic to ammunition. A perfect gift for the outdoorsman.

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$

Onward Reserve 115 N. Broad St.

Fashionable earrings have been placed inside this earring pottery dish and filled with a wonderfully scented soy candle.

It becomes THREE gifts in ONE. Priced under $20

Mary Madison Boutique 112 S. Broad St.

ONWARD RESERVE’s Harry’s Truman Shave Cream Set $20 For a barber shop–style shave at home, look no further.

Butler’s On Broad 216 S. Broad St.

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FinchBerry soaps 8 each or 4 for $30

$

Little girls jewelry $2.99 - $8.99 The perfect stocking stuffer for the little princess in your life.

Christmas Pajamas $39.99 includes monogram/appliqué This is the year to start a family tradition for the whole family Sizes range from 6 months to adult XL.

Hush Produce

3155 Ga Hwy 122 Shop their line of handmade syrups and jams made locally at Blackberry Patch.

The flavors and options are endless.

Price $6.49 each

A luxurious, handcrafted, chemical free bar soap, made in the USA.

Downtown Dollars 144 E. Jackson St.

Downtown Dollars can be used at

OVER 75 shopping & dining locations in Downtown Thomasville!

You can purchase them at the Thomasville Visitors Center, located at the Thomasville Municipal Building & Auditorium.

Savannah Court of Camilla

is a Personal Care Home nestled on a beautiful setting offering gracious hospitality in a comfortable and elegant atmosphere including:

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

It’s Just Like Coming Home

We carry many famous brands including Bradington-Young, Bernhardt, Cresent, Fairreld Chair, Hekman, Hooker, Kincaid, Lexington, Massoud, Stanley, Fine Furniture Designs, Wesley Hall, Luxurious Jamison Bedding & Smith Brothers

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

• 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

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Rayann’s Christian Bookstore 214 S. Broad Street

Sturdy Brother’s

218 A West Jackson St.

Join in the latest craze of adult coloring books. A fun and new way to unwind.

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Prices range from $ 10 - $15 Melissa & Doug Toys $ 5 & up For all ages boys and girls.

Crafts, puzzles and classic toys – oh my. Nurture your child’s creativity and imagination.

Kathy’s Shoes .

112 S. Broad St.

Hearth & Soul 1410 Market St, Tallahassee FL Antica Farmacista Black Label

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limited edition holiday candle - champagne

Handmade in Thomasville!

The Early Snap $28 3/4’ leather with brass halter snap and button stud. Perfect for keeping track of the ever disappearing keys.

Small Zipper Bag $32 This bag is big enough to hold your phone, money, and a few extras. It’s tan waxed canvas with a blue bottom.

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$

Kres Jewelers

Classic Toms all under $50 With every purchase you will help a person in need.

Taste of Thomasville Food Tour

Adults $40 Children 12 & under $35 A fun way to experience Thomasville’s rich history and fine culinary delights.

Purchase your tickets at www.tasteofthomasvillefoodtour.com

110 N. Broad St. Grill and serve in the same piece, perfect for grilling enthusiast.

Select pieces $50 & under Southern Gates Collection. The only place in town you will find this one of kind jewelry!

Small tree necklace $49.50 Round tree earrings $45.00

Country Oaks Golf Course 6481 GA HWY 122

Country Oaks offers individual and group lessons by PGA Professional Mike Owens. $30 per lesson for adults and $25 for juniors

CONNECTED TO THE PEOPLE HE LOVES

Southern Pines Senior Living A place where comfort, support and relationships come together.

Call Us Today 229-226-6074 ProvisonLiving.com/southernpines

423 Covington Ave. Thomasville, GA 31792

Kevin’s of Thomasville 111 S. Broad St.

Grassroots Coffee 116 S. Broad St.

One of the hottest items this year. Great unisex or hostess gift.

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Yetti Rambler $29.99 Yetti Lowball $24.95

You cannot disappoint with the gift of coffee.

Ponder’s

117 N. Madison St. For that football fanatic in your life.

Frames for all teams $ 14.95

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Gameday ornaments 21.95

Give a gift certificate or purchase one of their many flavors of locally roasted coffee.

The Gift Shop

103 S. Broad St.

$

Burlap Gameday mason jar $13.99

DDP Monogram and Gifts

15065 US-19 Gateway Shopping Center

How do you choose just one?

Perfect for layering!

Cashmere feel scarf $ 12.99/add a monogram for $8.50

Large, ultra-soft, multi-colored tartan plaid blanket scarf $ 22.99

You will not find a better selection of ornaments in town with prices ranging from $5 & up!

Holiday fox Owl Gold pinecone

24 7 $ 7

$

$

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The logo MEGA is a trademark of MEGA Brands Inc. Used with permission.

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015 18

Things To Do With Kids in Thomasville WRITTEN BY CHRISTINA KEOWN

Thomasville is well known for its festivals, museums, outdoor activities, rich historic history, and flourishing downtown. Whether you are new to Thomasville or lived here all your life, you can always find something fun and entertaining for the whole family.

ENJOY CULTURAL ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Thomasville is home to four performing arts studios: South Georgia Ballet, Thomasville Center for the Arts, Thomasville Entertainment Foundation, and Thomasville On Stage and Company. These offer a range of performances, art exhibits, concerts, and activities throughout the year. A list of upcoming performances and more can be found on the Thomasville Visitors Center Community Calendar. Age: varies. Cost: varies. Contact: www.thomasvillega.com or )229) 228-7977

The Big Oak is a well known landmark for Thomasville.

Estimated to be around 327 years old, this Southern Live Oak is located on the corner of Monroe and Crawford streets, in Elizabeth Ireland Poe Park, and is one of the largest of its kind found east of the Mississippi River.

Families can take a blanket and enjoy a picnic in the park or reserve the gazebo for an event. Local preschools use the park for field trips and Easter egg hunts. Want to take your picture with the tree? The Big Oak Cam is located high off the ground, giving a bird’s eye view of you and the tree.

Instructions for the camera and how to download your pictures can be found on Thomasville Visitor’s Center website. Age: all. Cost: free. Contact: www.thomasvillega.com/bigoak or (229) 228-7977

SEE NATURE AT THE BIRDSONG NATURE CENTER

Birdsong Nature Center is a living museum and outdoor classroom that provides hands-on learning and natural history instruction. It’s mission is to “foster awareness, understanding, and appreciation of nature and its interrelationships.” Located on 565 acres, this center features bird viewing, hiking trails, a butterfly garden, and more. Birdsong also offers programs such as bug hunting and helping to care for the butterflies. Age: all.

Cost: adults $5, children ages 4-12, $2.50, memberships available. Contact: www.birdsongnaturecenter.org or (229) 377-4408

GET ACTIVE AT COUNTRY OAKS MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE

Country Oaks Golf Course is a public 18 hole course owned by the City of Thomasville. It sits on 160 acres with a fully stocked pro-shop, snack bar, meeting space, full length driving range, and putting green. In addition to hosting tournaments, Country Oaks can also be reserved for weddings or other special events. Individual and group lessons are available for adults and juniors. Age: recommended for children old enough to play golf.

Cost: varies. Contact: www.countryoaksgolfcourse.org or (229) 225-4333

Doug’s Roller Rink has been a fixture in Thomasville for decades. The rink is open on Friday nights from 7 to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 11a.m. to 4 p.m. for kids 12 and under, and Saturday nights from 7:30-11 pm. The rink is also a popular place to hold private birthday parties and other gatherings. Age: all. Cost: varies. Contact: (229) 228-0363

ENJOY A MOVIE AT GATEWAY CINEMAS

Gateway Cinemas, located in the Gateway Shopping Center, hosts a Summer Kid! Show Series. This series features kid friendly movies on Tuesday and Thursday mornings during the months of June and July.

Admission, drinks, and popcorn are prices greatly discounted. Age: all. Cost: varies. Contact: www.georgiatheatrecompany.com/gateway7.aspx or (229) 226-6060

SHOP AND DINE IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN THOMASVILLE

Downtown Thomasville has a long and rich history that has been well preserved for us to enjoy today. From restored store fronts to the brick streets, downtown has an atmosphere of days gone by with the modern feel of today’s small town lifestyle. Shopping downtown provides a wide variety of boutiques, antiques, book stores, gift stores, art galleries, home decor, specialties shops, a spa and fitness facilities, and more. Dining downtown is an experience that locals and people from surrounding areas come to enjoy.

In addition to these business, many events throughout the year take place downtown. On the first Friday of the months of March through November, businesses stay open late and family friendly events are scheduled such as concerts. Other events such as Victorian Christmas, the

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

VISIT THE BIG OAK

GO SKATING AT DOUG’S ROLL A RINK

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

VISIT THE JACK HADLEY BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM

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The Jack Hadley Black History Museum is Thomasville’s first black history museum. The museum is named after historian James “Jack” Hadley, who preserved most of the museum’s artifacts himself. The museum focuses on outstanding black citizens of Thomasville and their achievements. It also includes posters, books, paintings, magazines, and other materials from black history. In addition to visiting the museum, educational programs and school field trips are available. Age: all. Cost: adults $5, children $3. Contact: www.jackhadleyblackhistorymuseum. com or (229) 226-5029

4th of July Festivities and Fireworks, parades, the City of Roses Car & Truck Show, and more events are held downtown throughout the year. Age: all. Cost: varies Contact: www.downtownthomasville.com or (229) 227-7020

JUMP FOR JOY AT LEAP FROGZ PARTY AND PLAY

Similar to golf, disc golf is a game in which you throw a plastic disc, or Frisbee, into a metal basket situated on an outdoor course. The person who completes the course with the fewest throws is the winner. Thomasville’s disc golf course was established in 2010 at MacIntyre Park and has 12 holes. Age: all. Cost: free.

Contact: www.thomasvillega.com or (229) 228-7977

Leap Frogz is an indoor bounce house center located in downtown Thomasville. This facility features bounce houses with large slides and obstacle courses. For children ages three and under there is a smaller bounce house that provides a slide and obstacle courses without the rougher play of older children. Parents can enjoy free WiFi, magazines, and complimentary coffee while their children play. A full service snack bar offers drinks, candy, pizza, and other food choices. Leap Frogz also offers three party rooms that can be reserved for birthday parties, church groups, or other events. Age: walking to 12. Cost: $8, children 2 and under $5 (parents free). Contact: (229) 233-8032

TAKE IN A FESTIVAL

GET GOING ON THE MULTI-USE TRAIL

PLAY DISC GOLF

Thomasville and Thomas County are home to over 12 annual festivals. Whether you enjoy antiques, cars, flowers, film, art, planes, or history, there is truly something for everyone all year long. For a complete list of these festivals, including their dates and locations, visit the Thomasville Visitor’s Center webpage. Age: all. Cost: free Contact: www.thomasvilega.com or (229) 228-7977

GO ON A SCAVENGER HUNT AND FIND THE LOST QUAIL

Quail hunting in Thomasville has been a popular pastime for over a century. To celebrate that tradition, 12 bronze quail statues have been hidden in downtown Thomasville for you to find. The quail are hidden in plain sight and finding them takes you on a journey through rich historic and natural areas found downtown. Score cards, available at the visitors center and online, provide hints to each quail’s location. Age: all. Cost: free.

Contact: www.thomasvillega.com or (229) 228-7977

One of Thomasville’s newer attractions is its Multi-Use Trail. This pedestrian and bicycle trail is currently under construction but has useable sections. Once completed, the sections will create a way to navigate the city and connect 17 public parks for the enjoyment of the community.

Age: all. Cost: free. Contact: www.thomasville.org

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Home Instead CAREGivers can provide a variety of services.

Some include:

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HomeInstead.com/585 Each Home Instead Senior Care® franchise office is independently owned and operated. © 2015 Home Instead, Inc.

engines, signs, and other memorabilia. The museum is open on weekends, during the week by appointment, and during the annual Thomasville Fly-In held the second weekend in October. Age: all. Cost: free.

Contact: www.powerofthepast.org or (229) 226-3010

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS AT RIVER CREEK

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WATCH A PARADE

Thomasville holds three annual parades. Two parades take place during Thomasville’s annual Rose Show and Festival in April. The Rosebud Parade features children and children’s organizations in the community. The Rose Show parade features bands, organizations, businesses, churches, clubs, and more from Thomasville and surrounding areas.

The third parade is the Christmas parade and it kicks off the holiday season. All three parades are held in downtown Thomasville. Age: all. Cost: Free Contact: www.thomasvillega.com or (229) 228-7977

STEP BACK IN TIME AT PEBBLE HILL PLANTATION

Pebble Hill Plantation has long been a favorite attraction for locals and tourists in Thomasville. Open to the public, this 3,000 acre plantation features history, art, nature, gardens, and livestock. Tours are available, as well as featured events throughout the year. Pebble Hill is also a great venue for weddings, corporate events, and birthday parties, and its grounds are a popular backdrop for photography. Age: all, children age 6 and under not permitted in the main house. Cost: children 2 & under free, ages 2-12 $2, and adult $5, admission to the main house is extra. Contact: www.pebblehill.com or (229) 226-2344

BROADEN YOUR HORIZON AT THE POWER OF THE PAST MUSEUM

Located at the Thomasville Regional Airport, this small aviation museum is the personal collection of the James Dekle family. It features antique aircraft, propellers,

River Creek: Rolf and Alexandra Kauka Wildlife Management Area is maintained by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and offers primitive camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing. Camping and hiking are allowed anytime at no cost, as long as a hunt is not currently being conducted. There are 2.2 miles of marked trails and an additional 18+ miles of unmarked trails throughout the area’s 2,400 acres. Bicycles are also permitted on the trails. The main gate is always locked, but walkways are open for foot and bicycle traffic. The 12-acre lake is currently closed for fishing but you can access both the Ochlockonee River and Barnett’s Creek on the property. Hunting opportunities for youth include deer, turkey, dove, and duck. These hunts are free and can be set up at www.gohuntgeorgia.com. Age: all. Cost: free, Georgia hunting and fishing licensing required. Contact: www.gohuntgeorgia.com or (229) 430-4254

GO BOWLING AT ROSE BOWL LANES

Rose Bowl Lanes features 20 synthetic lanes, cosmic lighting, automatic scoring, a full snack bar, pool tables, and an arcade. It is a popular place to reserve for birthday parties, church groups, and other events. Rose Bowl Lanes also has a youth bowling league that meets on Saturdays and the Fireball League, which is open to all, meets on Tuesday nights. Age: recommended for ages 3 and older.

Cost: varies, depending on day/family rates available.

Contact: www.bowlsrc.com or (229) 228-5569

GET FIT AND RUN IN A RACE

If your family is into running, then Thomasville is the place for you! The Heritage 5K Walk & Fun Run held in March. It is sponsored by the Thomasville YMCA and Commercial Bank as a way to promote healthy living. In April the very popular Rose City 10K Run, Walk, and One Mile Run are held during the city’s annual Rose Show and Festival. The Thomasville-Thomas County Humane hosts Run for Rover, the city of Boston hosts the Boston Mini Marathon, and Pebble Hill Plantation hosts the Quail Trail 5K Run, all held annually. Local public schools, such as Jerger Elementary School and Thomas County Middle School, also hold fun runs for students each year.

Age: children of running age. Cost: varies Contact: www. thomasvillega.com or (229) 228-7977

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GET OUTSIDE AT ONE OF THOMASVILLE’S PARKS

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Thomasville is home to over nine beautiful public parks, each with its special appeal. The Thomasville Rose Garden and Cherokee Lake Park feature an abundance of activities.

The Rose Garden boasts more than 500 rose bushes which bloom during the spring and summer months. Adjacent to the garden is Cherokee Lake Park, which features a popular walking trail around the lake, a large playground area, and lakeside pavilions that can be reserved. Fishing and boating (no gas motors) is permitted on the lake and a large number of wild geese call the lake home almost year round.

Macintyre Park features a disc golf course, playground, and a beautiful creek that runs through the entire park. Paradise Park features several playgrounds and is home to annual events such as Art in the Park and Bark in the Park.

Balfour Park and Thomasville Dog Park features a covered shelter, picnic tables, grill, playground equipment, tennis courts, and exercise stations, as well as, three separate fenced areas for dogs and a shared obstacle course. For a complete list of all of Thomasville’s parks, their locations and amenities, please visit the Thomasville Visitor’s Center website. Age: all. Cost: free Contact: www.thomasvillega.com or (229) 228-7977

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FIND YOUR HERITAGE AT THE THOMASVILLE GENEALOGICAL AND HISTORY LIBRARY TREAT YOUR TASTES BUDS TO THE TASTE OF THOMASVILLE FOOD TOUR

This walking tour guides you through a culinary and historical experience. The tour strolls through 1.4 miles of historic downtown Thomasville and takes approximately three hours to complete. Visit local food artisans and indulge in their tasty creations. Age: recommended for ages 13 and older. Cost: adults $40, age 12 and under $35, age 4 and under free. Contact: www.tasteofthomasvillefoodtour. com or (800) 656-0716

EXPLORE HISTORY AT THE THOMAS COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY

The Thomas County Museum of History is located in the heart of historic Thomasville. The museum explores the history of Thomas County through documents, photos, and other archives as well as a walking tour of historical homes, buildings, and exhibits. It is also home to the second oldest known private bowling alley in the country. Age: all. Cost: adults $5, children $1.

Contact: www.thomascountyhistory.org or (229) 226-7664

The Thomasville Genealogical and History Library is a repository of materials for family research, census records, county history, and war records. The library is in the process of renovating a new building and most of its collection is temporarily in storage. A small collection of resources are available by appointment. The new library location is expected to open in 2016. Age: recommended for older children. Cost: free Contact: (229) 226-9640

PLAY A SPORT WITH THE THOMASVILLE YMCA

The Thomasville YMCA has been an important part of Thomasville since 1903. Now with three branches, the YMCA provides families with safe programs that build character and promote healthy living. The ButlerMason branch features a gymnastics center, beach volleyball court, game room, gymnasium, chapel, study and computer room, outdoor basketball court, and the YMCA Child Care Center. It also features an outdoor water park with two water slides, a zero-depth activity pool, fountains, sprinklers and a competition pool. These facilities, including the gymnastics center and pool areas, can be reserved for birthday parties or other events. One of the things the YMCA is most recognized for is its sporting programs. Sports such as soccer, baseball, softball, T-ball, wrestling, swim team, cheerleading, gymnastics, track & field, basketball and tennis are offered to youth throughout the year. Swim lessons are available through

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015 26

the aquatics program and include parent-child classes.

Youth fitness classes, such as Zumba Kids and Hip Hop, are also available. Other programs include an after school teen program, summer camps, and sports camps. Age: all.

Cost: varies/Membership fee required for some activities.

Contact: www.ymca-thomasville.org or (229) 226-3446

JOIN A CLUB AT THE THOMAS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Thomas County Public Library has a wide range of activities for all. Starting as infants, children can participate in a reading time called Cuddle Time. Cuddle Time is held every Friday at 10:30 am and is a great way to introduce children to the library and for infants and parents to connect. Toddler Time is held on Thursdays at 10:30 am and includes short books, songs, and activities.

Lego Club meets every Thursday at 4:00 pm for ages Kindergarten through 5th grade. In addition to the weekly activities, movies and craft time are available each month.

The Children’s Area of the library also has lego tables, a coloring station, puzzles, books, touch screen computers with preloaded games, and a playhouse. For older children there is a Teen Chess Club and Animate Club, as well as a computers and movie days. The library also has a Vacation Reading Program for ages 11 and under, 12-17, and adults.

Age: all. Cost: free. Contact: www.tcpls.org or (229) 225-5252

VOLUNTEER AT THE THOMASVILLE-THOMAS COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

The Thomasville-Thomas County Humane Society is the largest non-profit animal welfare organization in southwest Georgia and provides humane treatment for lost, homeless, abused, and abandoned pets. Volunteers at the shelter perform many functions such as walking, grooming, and socializing animals as well as helping with office duties, adoption events, and fundraising. Teens under age 14 can volunteer when accompanied by an adult, children age 14 and over can volunteer solo in two hour blocks.

Families can also participate in the Family Foster Program.

The Humane Society also holds fun fundraising events throughout the year such as the Run for Rover and a Father/Daughter dance. Age: all. Cost: free Contact: www.thomasvillehumane.org or (229) 228-0613

TOUR WPAX RADIO STATION

WPAX Radio Station’s first air date was in 1922 making it the third oldest station in Georgia and the twentieth oldest station in the country. Located in downtown Thomasville, the station provides a 10-15 minute tour that includes the history of the station and how it operates. Tours can be scheduled for groups or individuals and are by appointment only. Age: all. Cost: free. Contact: www.wpaxradio.com or (229) 226-1240

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Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

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Thomasville hosts

Rotary’s first

U.S. TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

WRITTEN BY MARK ANDERSON

Francesco Ferron of Italy races to return the ball during a rally.

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You may not have been aware of it — unless you noticed the visitors with foreign accents sight-seeing in our city and struck up a conversation with one — but Thomasville recently was the scene for a Rotary International event that drew tennis players from around the world.

“

I love the place, I want to live here, said Daniela Macias, an Argentinian Rotarian who attended the week-long tournament with her 12-year-old son, Mariano.

”

The occasion was the annual World Championship of the International Tennis Fellowship of Rotary, which in the past has been played in such world-class cities as Vienna, Barcelona, Montreal and Zagreb, Croatia. The tournament here was the first held in the United States.

Thomasville might seem an unlikely site for such a distinction, except for the fact that Eugene McNease, a member of the Rotary Club of Thomasville and the fellowship’s next chairman, lives here. The affable tennis player with the easy grin was convinced the friends he had made over the years in the fellowship would love the charm of his hometown as much as he does and enjoy its southern hospitality.

It turns out he knew his friends well. “I love the place, I want to live here,” said Daniela Macias, an Argentinian Rotarian who attended the week-long tournament with her 12-year-old son, Mariano.

The 46 competitors had traveled from nine countries, ranging from Italy to Romania and Paraguay, and from U.S. states as far away as Connecticut. Being aficionados of the sport, they arrived to play tennis, but, as was apparent from the high spirits during the activities, they came as much for the fellowship and camaraderie.

“Where else can you spend an entire week with other Rotarians from around the world and make friends whom you see year after year?” McNease, ITFR’s vice chairman, said. “Even the international conventions are only four days.”

Tournament Director Eugene McNease (left) poses with local Rotarian and tennis player Tom Harrison, who handled the scheduling for the matches.

LEFT: Edson Luiz Tambelli of Brazil serves during a match. BELOW: Scott Rich, president of the Rotary Club of Thomasville, exchanges club banners with Edson Luiz Tambelli of Brazil.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

When the day’s matches were finished, the tennis players and the family members who accompanied them remained courtside late into the evenings, playing tennis pickup games with gusto and laughing and enjoying one another’s company.

“They didn’t want to leave at night,” said tennis pro Yvo Niks at Glen Arven Country Club, the venue for the tournament. “Last night they stayed until 1:30.”

The southern Georgia site gave the international visitors a chance to experience a slice of American culture overlooked by most tour packages. Veh Balazs, a Rotarian from Hungary, went off on his own to explore Thomasville.

“It’s slow and relaxed. People are so friendly,” he said when asked about his impressions of the city. He remarked on the town’s cleanliness, its old mansions and the live oak trees with hanging moss that canopy some of our streets.

Veh [ this is his last name; Hungarians write their last name first ] also joined a group tour of the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee, one of several excursions to regional cultural sites such as the Pebble Hill Plantation and Wakulla Springs State Park, where the sight of alligators and other indigenous wildlife thrilled the visitors.

When asked what he liked best, however, Veh unhesitatingly said Glen Arven, and not only because of the club’s pedigree as one of the oldest in the U.S. “I love that the members own the club and see that it’s run well,” he said, explaining that most Hungarian tennis clubs are businesses and members pay a fee to play.

Most of the international visitors and their spouses spoke excellent English, making communication easy.

But the players were creative in finding ways to overcome any language barriers. Rotarian Jim Lowry of Moultrie, GA, used an app on his cell phone that translated English to Portuguese to communicate with his tennis partner, Claudemar Andrioli from Brazil.

“I’d speak into the phone and then he’d speak into the phone,” said Lowry laughing.

The week wrapped up with a gala on a Saturday, just in time for some of the players to move on to New York City to watch the U.S. Open at the beginning of September.

“To have a week in Thomasville was wonderful for all of us,” ITFR Chairman Mladen Novakovic of Croatia

29

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

told the 135 people present for the awarding of the tennis trophies.

According to local Rotarian Joe Brown, who helped McNease organize the tournament, the event raised more than $20,000 through sponsorships and tournament fees. That money supported the event and will benefit the Rotary Foundation and the Georgia Rotary Student Program, an initiative founded by Thomasville native Will Watt to promote world peace and understanding. Through the program Rotarian families host students from around the world while they study for a year at Georgia colleges and universities. The GRSP foundation pays a portion of the students’ tuition, reducing the cost for the sponsoring club.

“

It’s really neat to see how friendly everyone is. It really is about fellowship.

—Thomasville Rotarian Irene Gleason

”

Enjoying the gala were (clockwise, from left) Art Allen, Ben and Doy Wilds, Don and Kim Thriffley, and Jeff and Leisa Zoller.

The tournament was the ITFR’s 11th. Since the fellowship’s founding in 2005, its tournaments, including the championships, have raised more than $305,000 for Rotary service projects, according to Novakovic. The 30 fellowship has grown quickly, to 1,481 members from 71 countries and all continents.

A couple of the newest members were local Rotarians who joined the fellowship just so they could play in the tournament in their hometown.

Thomasville Rotarian Irene Gleason and her husband, John, signed up for three months’ of lessons to prepare themselves for the competition.

Neither was a finalist but that hardly mattered.

“It’s really neat to see how friendly everyone is,” Irene Gleason said as she watched the finalists’ matches. “It really is about fellowship.”

As he reflected back over the week, tournament director McNease waxed on about the fellowship experience.

“This fellowship deal, it’s a part of Rotary that 90 percent of Rotarians know nothing about and don’t have an idea of what they’re missing,” the retired Social Security Administration executive said. “It’s an unbelievable opportunity. There’s nothing better than being hosted in a foreign country by fellow Rotarians with whom you have a connection not only through tennis but through friendship. They show you what the real country is, what the real food is, the real average, every-day events and life. That’s why these fellowships are so good.”

The avid tennis player is already looking forward to next year’s world championship -- at a Black Sea resort in Alban, Bulgaria, where Russian czars once vacationed.

The champions and finalists with their trophies at the gala, held at Glen Arven Country Club.

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Thomasville Magazine / FALL 2015

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Thomasville Georgia Police Department 2015

34

Committed to Serve

Thomasville Police Department WRITTEN BY CHUCK BOWEN

“When constabulary duty’s to be done, the policemen’s lot is not a happy one.”

–William Gilbert

When Bill Gilbert penned the above truism way back in the 19th century, obviously the men hired to wear a badge were dealing, even then, with their share of misfits. Today, “trouble” of one ilk or another continues to be imbedded in any and all societies.

Personally, I’m not one to believe our society reeks with cop-haters. However, there will always be an extremely vocal minority who cries “foul” at the slightest opportunity.

But make no mistake, one would be hard-pressed to find a cop anywhere in the Thomasville police department who would harm a citizen without more-than-adequate

provocation.

On the other side of that cultural coin, we don’t like to admit it, but the men in blue have not always been made up exclusively of “good guys.” The public at large may have been unduly influenced by old movies, pulp fiction, and the plethora of “Ferguson-type” episodes that have occurred around the country, causing some to carry an image of nightsticks bopping a knot on any available head. Over the years this has not polished the image of police in general.

“WOW FACTOR” IN THOMASVILLE! The “gotcha” attitude plays no role in the law enforcement philosophy of TPD Chief Troy Rich and his staff of devoted assistants. They are committed to practicing the highest level of politeness when dealing with all citizens. In fact, their Vision Statement is “An Innovative

Organization Exceeding Community Expectations.” The goal is to reach such a level of courtesy and excellence of behavior that it could be correctly characterized as the “Wow Factor.” The future is now.

Chief Rich and his staff emphasize nothing more than courtesy. Permit me to report a personal experience. A few weeks ago, my ancient convertible and I were tooling down Covington, bound for Smith. Just as we made our turn toward downtown, I was suddenly aware of flashing red lights in my rearview mirror. Naturally, I pulled over and stopped, wondering how I had suddenly become “public enemy number one.”

‘violent,’ but you would be well-advised not to leave your car unlocked.”

“Another constant problem is narcotics. Illegal drugs are present in every community, and that is always a big headache for our narcotics unit. Drug abuse leads to various types of dementia, violence, and even suicides.”

It should be mentioned that our “head policemen” are not exempt from training. Policer chiefs from all Georgia cities, regardless of size, meet twice annually to satisfy the “20 hours of Executive Training” requirement. Chief Rich commented, “I always return with new practices and lessons learned that are perfect for local implementation.”

Like most, I suppose, I’m easily intimidated by men in blue bearing badges and firearms. Expecting a frown and a reprimand for my unknown infraction, I was greeted instead by a broad smile and a low-key assurance that I was not in trouble, but was simply being reminded that I had not come to a full stop at the railroad that intersects both Covington and Lake Cherokee. The ultra-pleasant arm of the law concluded his remarks by assuring me that he was merely looking out for my safety. Relieved, I quickly promised to “do better next time,” and continued on my way.

MORE ABOUT THE CHIEF While growing up in New Jersey, Chief Rich admits to a somewhat dysfunctional childhood. Despite early conditions that could have “turned him aside,” his moral compass held true.

After completing his education in New Jersey, a close friend convinced young Troy that he should head south. He has now called Thomasville “home” for 25 years. Although he has served as chief less than two years, he advanced through the ranks and is well aware that the average adult citizen of Thomasville is virtually unaware of the rigors of police work.

He gave me a laundry-list of problems that face his 58man police force every day: “Property crimes are our biggest challenge, and you may be surprised to learn that the main perpetrators are mostly juveniles.

“An added problem is the fact that these juveniles are often part of a small gang. I would not characterize them as

After much thought, discussion, and study, Chief Rich conceived an innovative idea in the area of community relations. “It’s been a tough time to be a police officer since the Ferguson issue. There are a lot of misconceptions regarding police officers and the use of excessive force.

There are also a lot of realities,” stated the chief.

He continued, “There was a national false narrative stating that police officers are killing unarmed citizens.

Now that the general climate has somewhat settled down, I felt it was imperative to reach out to the local pastors and have a summit to discuss police use of force. The purpose is to teach them what we’re allowed to do based on the Constitution, the law, and our policies. Then, should we have a Ferguson-type incident in Thomasville, these 15 pastors—I thought it was a good idea to keep the number small—would be able to assure the public that the Thomasville Police Department followed lawful and correct procedures.”

The chief then pointed out that the third of the four scheduled summits would be the following Thursday evening at Southern Regional Technical College. He invited Publisher Christy Layfield and me, and we accepted.

Summit number three was both informative and enjoyable. Everyone present had dinner, then gathered in the adjacent room for a demonstration of the effectiveness of the taser, the baton, and a handgun adapted for use as a Target Marker. Maj. Shane Harris and Lt. Waylon Parker explained in detail how and when the three weapons are used. The pastors were encouraged to take turns firing the taser and the target marker.

Before departing, I spoke briefly with assistant pastor Spencer Wilson, of the Willow Head Missionary Baptist Church. He enthusiastically agreed that the chief’s idea of using the clergy as a bridge between the police and the general public was a stellar idea.

INSPECTIONS/HONORS Some would be surprised to learn that there is a camera in every car and every officer wears a body camera. All the patrols cars are equipped with laptops to be able to keep up with each other at all times and with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) that determines the presence and proper treatment of arrhythmia.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

PASTORS’ SUMMIT

35

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

2015 Junior Law Enforcement Academy

36

The Chief received my full attention when he mentioned that the TPD is a Gold Standard organization. Expressed differently, there are none better. Naturally, I asked how that honor was achieved. That was when the CALEA— the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies—came into play. It was explained that an elite group of officers from both the U.S. and Canada do an in-depth inspection of the department every three years.

Chief Rich emphasized that the inspection team examines everything that comprises the modern police department.

Understandably, he made sure I understood that the achievement of Gold Standard status places the TPD in the “many are called, few are chosen” category.

EMPHASIS ON YOUTH! The Thomasville Police Department is convinced that they do no better work than their efforts on behalf of our youth. Over the years, there have been more projects than space, time and memory will permit. Let’s mention three:

JUNIOR LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY. On a first-come, first- served basis, twenty-five local youth– ages 10-14 –are enrolled each July. Guest instructors from the GBI and the local SWAT team conduct the educational sessions at the Police Training Range. A wide variety of law enforcement topics are explained and demonstrated.

SHOP WITH A COP. With Christmas only a few weeks away, who can blame the kids chosen by various agencies for being more than eager to get the annual Shop with a Cop program underway. Many local businesses, organizations and individuals make it possible each year. In past years, the participants have enjoyed eating, shopping, and the camaraderie of local kind-hearted police officers.

C.O.R.E. The Community Oriented Revitalization and Education program provides youth a means of interactions with the police and the community at large. The Thomasville Police Department considers these relationships a vital part of the trust factor. The participants are encouraged to see officers in a trusting, different light than simply authoritative adults. This is accomplished by adults and children engaging in a variety of activities, many of them fun! Fun! Fun!

Officer CHARLIE JOHNSTON is a 29-year-old police officer who was born in Illinois and has served the past six years in the TPD. He is a member of the SWAT team and is a bike team patrolman. He has a daughter Elizabeth, age 2 and has recently announced his engagement to Tracy Allen.

Officer Johnston graciously agreed for me to join him on an appointed evening while he performed his patrol duties. On the scheduled date, before I climbed into his vehicle he had already received a domestic disturbance call. His fellow officer, Sgt. Jason Baldwin, joined us at the address and the two lawmen interviewed the lady who had placed the call. She explained that her grown son had been recently permitted to live with her, but the arrangement was not workable. Their conversation earlier that evening became heated, and after he departed she felt she should call the police. The officers explained the mother’s rights and instructed her to call again if their presence was needed.

In a subsequent interview, Officer Johnston pointed out that his day-to-night shift changes every four months. The night shift, he explained, has less traffic but more intoxicated drivers and also more burglaries. The “incidents” he encounters vary from serious to the cat-in-a-tree category. His most troubling “incident” involved a husband’s attempt to shoot his barricaded wife, but who ultimately shot himself.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

MEET THREE OF THOMASVILLE’S FINEST

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015 38

Sgt. JABAR DUNBAR, 37, is a 14-year veteran of the TPD. He was born in Ft. Benning but moved to Thomasville as a preschooler. He and his wife Felicia have two daughters, Delisia, age 23, Jaylah, 7, and a son, Terrell, 9. They all attend Barnett’s Creek Baptist Church.

“As a small kid,” Jabar admitted, “I never thought I would be a cop. Football was my thing. I always tried to do my best at whatever I tried. My Thomas County Central High School football team won three state championships.

When I enrolled at Troy State University, due to a high school injury, I was not offered a scholarship. But, due to working exceedingly hard, was granted one later and graduated with a degree in law enforcement. From the beginning, I have enjoyed working with kids, trying to motivate them to do their very best at whatever they attempted and to always respect different cultures.”

Once back in Thomasville, he worked at various jobs until Chief Jackson offered him a position and Dunbar went to work for the TPD in 2008. “The transition to the Thomasville Police Department was a great move for me,” he said. “I realized right away it offered a wide variety of opportunities and that’s where I wanted to be. I found people were willing to help you and would do it with a smile. My first three-and-a-half years, I worked with the narcotics unit, which is under the umbrella of the city and county.”

Sgt. Jabar currently supervises the bike team and the school resource officers.

Officer ELISA CARTER, 34, has an interesting background story. She has been with the Thomasville Police Department for nine years but was born in Dallas, Texas. She and her husband, Jeremy, have a daughter, Nosara, 3, and a son, Noah, 2.

At age five, her family was called to be missionaries in Mexico where she lived until age 16. “We then traveled all over the U.S. to get support for the people in Mexico,” Carter said. “When we came to Thomasville and visited Eastside Baptist Church, the membership wanted their youth to visit Mexico and witness our work first hand in the mountains near Mexico City. My parents had six children, and at that point they were struggling to make do and send all of us to school. Two of the adults from Eastside church, Scott and Robin Robertson, knew I wanted to come back to the states to finish my education. My parents agreed and I had been sufficiently home schooled to earn my high school diploma in two years.”

Her first job after graduation was at Commercial Bank, where she worked as a bank teller and handled translations for approximately two years. She learned the City of Thomasville was having a number of Hispanics move into the area and they needed someone who spoke fluent Spanish. As it turned out, the police department also needed someone to translate their cases. Chief Rich was head of the CID, so he would come and pick me up. The workload at the police department was so heavy that I was transferred there fulltime. I had no police training in my background, but they were confident I could do the work.” Her husband, a great supporter, is an electrical engineer for the City of Thomasville.

“The TPD sent me to the academy. I graduated and now I translate for the city police, the county, the GBI, the state court, and also assist the surrounding counties.”

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

MESSAGE FROM MAYOR MAX BEVERLY “Thomasville is exceptionally fortunate to have the caliber police force we have. Our officers serve our community with a level of integrity that is seldom seen among law enforcement agencies.

“Chief Rich and his predecessors have created a culture within Thomasville Police Department that governs every aspect of their operation under one precept: customer service. The results of this focus are a police force that boasts a calm demeanor, professional attitude and a dedication to treating each citizen with the highest respect possible.

39

“It’s just my opinion, but you could

just about go anywhere in the country and not see another law enforcement agency like Thomasville’s. And for that, I’m incredibly proud.”

Thomasville Magazine /FALL 2015

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE RICE

40

Holiday Activities

It’s officially holiday season! Red and green are everywhere, Christmas music is ringing in your ears, and you are already worrying about all those relatives coming to town! The kids are off from school, and you feel bad about leaving them home alone. Your fitness has now become the last thing on your mind.

Fear not! The holidays will come and go as they always do. That crazy aunt is never as bad as you anticipate.

Life carries on as the new years rolls around and you can wave goodbye to all the seasonal stress. But, can you wave goodbye to the sudden holiday weight gain because you let “life” take over?

It’s easy to let our normal lives go by the wayside once the roasted turkey pops out of the oven… until the ball drops.

Why do we compromise our fitness every holiday season?

Of course, the holidays bring about a different schedule, especially if you have kids or travel. Our good intentions are still there, but it can be very difficult to get to the gym.

So how do we put our fitness back into the holiday craze?

By finding creative ways to schedule it in!

Here are some holiday activities to maintain your sanity and fitness:

• Sign up for multiple walks/races that support your community and you can do with the whole family • Set your gym appointment for earlier in the day, before it gets away from you • Make a walking date with a friend – I’m sure you both can talk about holiday plans

The holidays can be so much fun, rewarding, and good for the family and your fitness. Remember, a body in motion stays in motion. Fitness can be done anywhere, anytime, Just be creative and have fun!

Freshman year?

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Thomasville Magazine /FALL 2015

• Take the family to the museum, use an activity tracker and get those steps in!

• Go mall walking before you start your shopping • Park as far away from the front door of the grocery store or mall as possible • If you have stairs in the house, walk up and down five times every hour • Put together a family football game • Have a dance party with the kids • Do one outdoor activity with the whole family everyday- capture the flag, tunnel tag, horseback riding, etc.

• Go to the local indoor swimming pool, jump in with those kids • Buy a fitness/yoga DVD and laugh as the whole family attempts it

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The Resort Era

WRITTEN BY BOB TAYLOR

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

is Born New City A

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Broad Street

South 100 Block, Looking North, c 1881 Thomas County residents were self-sufficient. Agriculture was diversified and business methods were modernized.

Thomasville played an important role in the Confederate cause during the Civil War by supplying goods and men.

Thomasville was accessible by rail from the north and, during the late 1800s, and became known as the “Winter Resort of the South.” At the beginning of this era, visitors came to Thomasville to breathe pine-scented air to help cure pulmonary ailments. Their friends joined them for hunting, fishing, and a life to include golf, horse racing, and bicycling.

Thomasville represented the best of Southern hospitality with the lavishness of the resort lifestyle.

Thomasville’s luxurious hotels hosted America’s wealthiest families as their guests. They discovered that it cost less to purchase land than rent hotel rooms, so wealthy families bought property and built grand mansions and plantation homes. Many of these plantations are still

Thomas County, located in southwest Georgia and bordering Florida, lept to life in 1825 when legislation was introduced by Thomas J. Johnson, owner-builder of Pebble Hill Plantation. A year later, on December 22, 1826, Thomasville became the new county seat. The county and the city were named for Major General Jett Thomas, a member of the Georgia State Militia during the war of 1812.

owned by the families who built them and serve as year round retreats and homes. Many of the “winter cottages” built during the 1880s have been restored through efforts of Thomasville Landmarks Inc., and Thomasville citizens.

Although the grand hotel era ended when the railroad dipped into southern Florida, Thomasville and Thomas County have continued the area’s tradition of cultural and economic diversity. With a rich heritage in Thomas County, the community works hard to guard and preserve its history and tradition.

FACTS ABOUT THOMASVILLE

Pinetree Boulevard is the oldest perimeter road in the United States. Situated 2.5 miles from the center of town, it was originally established as a “country drive” for visiting Northerners in the late 1800s.

Electricity arrived in Thomasville in 1889. Private

PHOTOS FROM THE COLLECTIONS OF THE THOMAS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY. This article includes historical information and facts taken from the book “Thomas County 1875-1900” by Dr. William Warren Rodgers. Other information was pulled from articles, online content and reference materials from town square publications, Tallahassee Magazine, and Georgia Trend.

RIGHT PLACE AT THE RIGHT TIME

The devastating five years of the American Civil War (1861-1865) had come to a close with Thomasville suffering little physical damage. Even so, those years were an enormous economic glitch for the entire South, and without a doubt for Thomasville and Thomas County. Housing accommodations were needed not only for its own citizens but also living quarters for the Northern occupational forces.

But life would get better. Thanks to the lack of wartime clashes affecting the town, Thomasville’s infrastructure had remained basically intact. From 1865 to 1900, Thomasville would experience an surge in the number of hotels, boardinghouses, and private homes on its streets and roads and the escalation of wealthy visitors enjoying the comforts and the healthy climate of the beautiful city.

HOTELS, BOARDINGHOUSES, AND HOMES

How do we tell the difference between a hotel, a boarding house, and a home? It appears that it was mostly in the appearance but it was difficult to determine. Fundamentally, the difference was in the number of rooms, but even there were so many exceptions hardly a hard and fast existed.

Sometimes owners would get into quite a non-solvable squabble over the point. If one wanted his or her business to be called a hotel, that’s what it would be.

THE FIRST PERIOD 1865-1880

The so-called “Resort Era” covered the years from 1865 through 1900. Difficulties caused by reconstruction delayed development, even though 1873 shone as a significant year because plans for Mitchell House were made known.

Before 1883 the most important hotels were the Mitchell House, Gulf House or Gulf Road House, West End, Young House, and Waverly House. The destruction of Mitchell House by fire in 1883 marked the close of the first era.

THE SECOND PERIOD 1880-1890

This was truly a golden one and Thomasville’s importance rose to the sky. News leaked out about this city, bringing special trains loaded with wealthy and distinguished guests.

The streets and boulevards swarmed with carriages pulled by beautiful horses. Men and women, dressed in stylish suits and gowns, attended balls and dinners and parties, promenaded, took rides, sunned themselves, played cards, hunted fox and shot quail.

During the winter season those with Southern accents melded with affluent mid-westerners and easterners and, even with visitors from Europe who spoke and understood only a few words of English. A native Georgian reflected once that,” In that war-impoverished country during the latter 80’s, strange almost exotic seemed the great winter resort in Thomasville, with its tourist hotels, its lavish show of ease and opulence and its idling crowds at play.”

Piney Woods Employees, c 1889

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

investors installed a small generator, having a capacity of just 50 lights, at the Thomasville Variety Works on Stevens Street.

In 1906 the City of Thomasville purchased a generator from Thomasville Electric Light and Gas Company for $32,000. The water system and the new electric plant were combined into the Water and Light Department, powered only during the night hours by coal and light oil to generate the electricity. D.R. Pringle became the first superintendent.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower visited Thomas County in 1956 to rest after an illness and to decide whether or not to run for a second term. The local Glen Arven golf course, one of America’s oldest, was a favorite of the President.

During the 1940s and 1950s, the use of electricity jumped by leaps and bounds putting the City in a challenging situation. In 1946-47 the efficiency of the equipment was improved with the installation of a 400-pound boiler and a 5,000-KW turbine. The last plant expansion was completed in 1951.

Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963, his widow, Jackie Kennedy arrived to stay on a Thomasville plantation. She was the guest of Mrs. John Hay Whitney of Greenwood Plantation. She attended mass at the local Catholic Church (All Saints Episcopal Church).

Thomasville is home to the Big Oak, a huge live oak tree with a limb span of 162 feet two feet wider than Niagara Falls is deep. It is 68 feet tall and the trunk has a circumference of 24 feet.

WPAX Radio Station is the third oldest station in Georgia and the 20th oldest station in the United States.

The City of Thomasville became one of the original members of the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia in 1977 in order to purchase electricity at a reduced rate.

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Mitchell House c. 1887

But based on the terrible conditions of 1865 little evidence indicated an luxurious future. In August, 1865, Mrs. C. W. Eaton opened a hotel some called a boardinghouse that was conveniently located, offered moderate rates, and superb service.

In 1865 Mrs. Conner operated a hotel. Her clientel were usually military officers lodged there. Making money like this seemed dubious in the eyes of many citizens who knew 44 that months earlier those same guests might be raising a gun their way. Hostility evolved when it became known that blacks also boarded at Mrs. Conner’s. Quickly the newspaper pointed out that the blacks were there as the Union officers’ servants. This quelled the dispute.

Mrs. Milton C. Smith, whose husband was a minister and had considered slavery morally wrong, also boarded Northern officers at her home on Dawson Street. The officers greatly respected Rev. Smith, and he used his influence to ameliorate relations between local residents and federal officials.

GULF HOUSE

When the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad tied into Thomasville, a new hotel was built next to the depot, because that’s where the people should be. Mrs. Carolin Lasseter owned the hotel. It was named, appropriately, the Gulf House, but ended up not being a good financial decision for the time. The War reared its ugly head.

In 1965 the Gulf House closed and Mrs. Lasseter put it up for rent or lease in 1866. Willis J. Parnell took it over and ran it until 1873. The building by this time was in need of repair.

It was constantly refitted, repainted, and refurnished and operated by E.E. Brown, then shortly afterward, by W.H. Clay.

In 1881, James Watt bought the Gulf House for a reported $5,000 and leased it to T.M. Butner. Then in 1883, Mrs. M.A. Bower, a business woman with a fine business reputation took over. She had managed the Mitchell House and the West End House. She decided to terminate her lease on the Gulf House and in 1885, sold the remaining portion of her lease term to Mrs. A.A. Boyd, an experienced hotel manager living in Philadelphia.

Management of the Gulf House changed several times during the next few years.

It became known as the “Drummer’s Home,” catering primarily to individuals or families wanting a meal or an overnight bed, rather than an extended stay. It remained in this style for over 25 years and became a familiar landmark.

In March, 1889, it burned and James Watt began immediately to replace it with a new Gulf House in its place. The new Gulf House cost about $18,000. It was made more characteristic with it’s blue paint, a tower, and was three stories high. Upon completion he leased the hotel to S.T. Philpot for 10 years.

Regrettably, in 1891, the Gulf House burned again. Again?

Some believed that the fire was arson, but no charges were ever brought. No one was injured because it was closed at the time. All the town’s fire-fighting forces the Neptunes, the Rescues, and the Vigilants stood helplessly by as the typically pine structure was consumed.

YOUNG HOUSE

E. Jenks Young owned another hotel that catered to local and regional clients. It was the Young House, which opened in 1865. In 1866, Mr. Young increased its size with a bricked addition. In 1867 the manager of Young House was W. M. Matthews. It was said of Mr. Matthews, “A mere look at his portly figure, a mere glance at his good natured physiognomy is all we need to convince us that the Young house will become a popular resort for good cheer and pleasant hospitality.”

The hotel was soon surpassed by more expensive and modern rivals, but it continued to exist. In 1880, W.M. Reese assumed ownership. The next year a lot and stable adjacent to the hotel were sold, and F. C. Fallis succeeded Reese. He vowed to uphold the high standards of the past and keep rates at a reasonable two dollars a day.

WEST END HOUSE

Broad at Clay By 1873, the West End House, operated by J. A. Linton, was probably the best hotel in Thomasville at that time. It was located near the center of town at the corner of Broad and Clay streets, and could accommodate about 50 guests. A special attraction was its elevated location fronted by a grove of large oaks, with an easy to access garden on the hotel’s property. Mr. Linton grew tired of running his hotel, leased it to two ladies, and moved to the country. Continuing to play fruit basket turn over, it was then released to Mrs. M. A. Bower in 1883.

WAVERLY HOUSE:

HARLEY HOUSE AND LEBEN HOUSE, ETC

Harley House, Leben House, and a number of other boardinghouses opened, but were not the quality that the arriving clientele were beginning to demand. At this time, Thomasville was little more than a place where people could catch their breath before continuing to Florida. On the other hand, quite a few people who had been spending the winter in Florida had also been stopping for a few weeks in this new town. It became evident that if Thomasville were to gain superiority over Florida, it must be able to comfortably house visitors in volume. If the lands of Southwest Georgia, with their dry and resinous atmosphere, aided bronchial and pulmonary diseases, this was all the more reason to provide adequate facilities. One Northern writer wrote an editorial that northerners coming south to spend winters have a right to expect the same facilities if they are paying their liberal board.

Vidette used the Boston papers to inform people in Massachusetts of Thomasville’s superiority to another winter area, Aiken, South Carolina. His only negative was that of the absence of a good hotel.

One writer from Ohio, praised Thomasville but again observed that a first-class hotel was needed.

By 1873 the situation had become a simple case of economics. John Triplett, wrote that the inclinations of the tourists are growing stronger every year to stop short of the humid atmosphere of Florida, and to take advantage of the pine lands of Southwest Georgia, which affords relief in pulmonary diseases that no other section does.

MITCHELL HOUSE

Broad and Jackson Thomas C. Mitchell, one of Thomasville’s wealthiest men, decided it was time for him to build a hotel. He selected two lots, long known as the “Remington property,” ideally located at the corner

Mitchell House Wedding c. 1900

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

Madison Mr. J.C. Peters declared his intention to get into the act and build a hotel for Northern visitors in 1881. Before long, Peters’ threat proved correct as he began construction of a two-story hotel on Madison Street, the site of his own residence. He opened Waverly House in late December, 1881.

This hotel, whose history spanned both eras, had large, plastered, and finely furnished rooms. There was a ladies’ parlor on the right of the main entrance and a gentlemen’s parlor on the left.

The Peters family leased their property in March, 1882 to F.M. Stevens and J.D. Foland of McKean County, Pennsylvania. Every one of its forty rooms was furnished with new furniture. A very important feature was that it was located only three minutes from the Thomasville business district. A distinct factor in its initial success was that it fulfilled a void caused by the burning of Mitchell House.

of Broad and Jackson streets, paid $15,000 for the land and made preparations to remove the family residence and to begin construction. A major hotel sitting in the middle of the little village was difficult to imagine, but it fascinated him.

A comment rose from the Reverend D. Steward, D.D. He had spent time in Thomasville and claimed that the climate cured his lung condition. Assuming that the hotel would become a reality, Steward could visualize why Thomasville could easily become a resort place during the winter months for persons in pursuit of health, and seek to escape from the severities of a Northern winter. By 1874 quite a number of Northerners and Western were coming to visit, and it was embarrassing to turn them away for lack of space.

With this in mind, Mitchell decided to get his idea underway. In the winter of 1874 and, despite the objections of many citizens, his hotel was given a tax exemption for ten years by the town council? Mitchell advertised for bids from builders and contractors, and the construction was carried out by firms from several Georgia towns. Some local laborers were hired, but for the most part, the firms brought their work crews with them. Convicts leased from the state made the brick.

The architect and superintendent, William Noonan, based his original plan on a hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, but modified the blueprint as he proceeded. As Mitchell House emerged, it more closely resembled Savannah’s Kimball House. Construction for the hotel began when the first brick was laid on the afternoon of June 23. The last one was set in place November 4, four months and eleven days later. The cost was over $100,000.

The Weekly Floridian was amazed at the brick structure.

It criticized Tallahassee’s disinterest. The Floridian said that the interesting thing about the whole business is, that everything was bought and being built by an old planter of Thomas County, and with his own capital!

The structure was completed in March, 1875, and immediately became the subject of admiring newspaper

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

articles. The hotel was three stories high and the first floor contained space for six stores.

In the building’s center was a gentlemen’s entrance which led to the main rotunda. To its left was the private, or ladies’, entrance opening to a stairway mounted to reach the ladies’ reception room on the second floor. The rotunda contained the office, baggage area, and a gentlemen’s stairway leading to a galley above.

Immediately back of this was a 41’ x 30’ billiard room adjoined by a washroom, water closets, a laundry, and servants’ quarters.

The furniture was walnut while crockery was made to order with Mitchell House imprints and designs. A fireplace was in every room. The hotel was lighted from top to bottom with gas manufactured on the premises.

Mitchell House was the first hotel in Georgia to present the Electric Annunciator. Each room is put in instantaneous communication with the desk. Just push a button which would ring a bell in the office and display the room number on a glass dial. The system used an ordinary battery.

Mitchell readied his hotel to open for the 1876/1877 season. He leased it for five years to C. S. Sanderson of 46 Massachusetts. A. L. Fabyan, an accomplished hotel man, was named manager and young Charles Marsh became the chief clerk. Mitchell House registered its first guest in October, 1876. The names and addresses of those who arrived were published in the local paper.

Visitors were flattered by this attention and very pleased in March when a veranda was added on the second story level on Jackson Street, providing an elevated promenade.

By the time Fabyan closed the hotel on March 25, 1877, and departed for New England, Mitchell House had filled most of its rooms.

The hotel was very well run. Northern management was complemented by Southern graciousness. Chief Clerk Marsh was carefully selected and epitomized as the “complete” hotel man. He could lead in prayer, play drawpoker, match worsted at the village store, shake for drinks at any hour, play billiards, was a good waltzer, and could dance the German, amuse children, judge horses, flirt with any young lady and not mind being cut dead when pa came down, and answer questions in Greek, Hebrew, Choctaw, Irish, or any other polite language at the same moment, without turning a hair.

The season of 1877-1878 was no less successful. The fame of the Mitchell House spread. In Rhode Island the Newport Daily News claimed that Thomasville was the South’s most popular resort for persons suffering from lung disorders. The Daily noted that many prominent northerners are spending the winter and spring months at the Mitchell House. A published guide to the state declared that Thomasville is a favorite resort for Northern invalids on account of its dry and healthy climate. Mrs. M. J. Pittman, better known by nom de plume, Margery Deane, arrived at Mitchell House

Piney Woods and wrote a series of descriptive letters for the Boston Transcript, Margery Deane passed along the claim that in five years Thomasville’s few strangers had increased to over five-hundred visitors. She also noted that “the war created no devastation here, as almost everywhere in the South and the colored people seem in better condition, though bad enough off.”

Deane praised Mitchell House, but drew the rage of local citizens by implying that the town “lived off their Northern guests.” Mitchell House underwent several management changes, but invariably those in charge were men who had run resort hotels in the North. In 1880, Mrs. Bower obtained a permanent lease on Mitchell House. As a shrewd businesswoman, she went north and hired J. E. Bradford to handle the books. She had worked at Narragansett’s Continental Hotel and Magnolia House on the Saint Johns River in Florida.

As the hotel prospered, the management continued to offer refinements. A three-chair barber shop, “manned by first-class artists, who used sharp razors and clean towels”, was added. In 1877, Concord and Delaware wines were included in its everyday fare. The 1880-1881 season brought the addition of an Italian band that played noon and night.

As that season ended it was announced that seventy-five more rooms would be added for the next season.

Even with increased competition, Mitchell House did not lower its rates, but held them at twenty dollars per month.

Incredibly, the 1882-1883 saw 3,194 guests register at Mitchell House, an increase of over a thousand from the previous year.

Then in August, 1883, in the wee hours of the night, a fire which began in the kitchen spread through the hotel.

Volunteer firemen battled bravely but couldn’t put out the flames. The only casualty was a William Brown, a black barber. About $125,000 of furniture was saved and the building was insured for $67,500, but the hotel was a total

PINEY WOODS HOTEL

Fronted on Yankee Paradise (Paradise Park) The rumors increased concerning the construction of a new hotel even that it might be close to Yankee Paradise.

Here is where Northerners strolled in the forest, had picnics, read, dozed, and most of all, breathed the pine-scented air.

That rumor began to be believed when the area north of Yankee Paradise began to be cleared. Maybe?

Finally ground was broken for the Piney Woods Hotel Company in September as Daniel Thurman, a black, turned the first shovelful of earth. The site was an approximately six-acre parcel, bounded on the south by the 20-acre Yankee Paradise, and adjacent to the railroad next to Metcalf Road.

Furthermore, it was only a few minutes walk to the heart of the town. How convenient it would be for the guests that would be visiting Thomasville!

J. A. Wood of New York was selected as architect. Work began and the townspeople tracked every brick and board as it went together in Queen Anne style, naturally with a roof

with five towers. The name of Yankee Paradise was changed to Paradise Park. All rooms were large and heated with steam, but also had open fireplaces. The projected opening date was January 1, 1884, but the difficulty in finding workers delayed the formal opening until January 11, 1885.

Piney Woods was an instant success. A listing of the guests for the first weeks of the hotel disclose addresses in Wisconsin, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Louisville, Pittsburgh, and Nova Scotia, as well as Congressman Joseph Rankin of Wisconsin and John Guy Vassar, a founder of Vassar.

The Christmas dinner of 1885 presented by Mrs. Bower and Manager Gillett in 1885 surpassed in elegance anything ever seen or tasted in Thomas County: Oysters en Coquille Green Turtle, aux Quenelles, Printaniere Royal Filet of Striped Bass, a la Normande Pommes Parisionnes Petit Pate of Oysters, a la harraise Filet de Boeuf, Pique, a la Duchesse Terrapin, a la Piney Woods Salmi of Quail, a la Chasseur Rice Croquettes, a la Maraschino Sorbet, a la Muscovitch Roast Xmas Beef, a la Sayles Spring Goose, Apple sauce Stuffed Young Turkey, Cranberry sauce Lettuce, a la Francaise

Chicken Mayonnaise Red Head Duck Georgia Venison Mashed and Boiled Potatoes Baked Sweet Potatoes French Green Pease Macaronia on timbale Rice Cauliflower, a la Hollandaise English Plum Pudding Orange Meringue Apricot Pie French Kisses Macaroons Cream Walnuts Petits Fours Assorted Cakes Charlotte Russe Champagne Jelly Vanilla Ice Cream Fruit Nuts Raisins Figs Roquefort, English and American Cheese Coffee

All hotels seemed to prosper. Many changed management, but did not falter in their operations. S. A. Peters continued to own Waverly House, although he leased it to various managers after 1882. In the summer of 1887 Charles T. Stuart of Valdosta became the new proprietor, but just before Christmas, Waverly House burned to the ground.

The cause of the fire was never known.

STUART HOTEL

Stuart Hotel Madison looking North

Broad Street Within a month Stuart purchased “Sunnyside,” a boarding house on Broad Street.” Operating a hotel was his forte, however, and Stuart bought the old Waverly House lot and began building a new 63 room, three-story hotel. The result was the Stuart Hotel which was opened in December 1888.

The Stuart remained open during the summer months and apparently did a successful off-season business. In large part because of his personality, Stuart made a success of his venture. Blessed with a sense of humor, Stuart posted notices all around his hotel. Amused guests could read on their walls such statements as “My time is five minutes faster than the railroad,” “Poker playing forbidden in this room,” “This is the only second class hotel in America,” and “Guests will please report bite, sight or smell of bed bugs.”

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

loss. H. J. MacIntyre held a public meeting to announce they would replace Mitchell House.

The response for a new hotel was not enthusiastic, and it seemed that the upcoming season would be greatly different. The town had lost a symbol: “The erection of this mammoth hotel in the piney woods of Georgia, marked a new era in the history of Thomasville,” was a statement of fact. No matter how truthful or nostalgic this was, people did not think Mitchell House could be brought back or even hide the need for a modern replacement.

In 1878 a rumor surfaced that a new hotel would be built one that would rival Mitchell House. More accommodations were needed now, but few doubted that the rumor was true.

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

NEW MITCHELL HOUSE

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The Mitchell House had been a successful and profitable hotel, and it was not long after the fire before plans were made to construct a successor. In August 1883, a public meeting was held to raise money for a $100,000 hotel; subscriptions fell far short of this goal, so a less costly structure was planned. Yet by the spring of the 1884 considerably more money was subscribed than had been anticipated, and on May 12, 1884, the first brick was laid.

George W. Sergent, formerly of Screven House in Savannah, leased the hotel from Thomas C. Mitchell for five years. In turn, Sergent gave up his lease to Uriah Welch, an able hotel man from New York. Under Welch’s management the new Mitchell House was opened to the public in February 1886.

The hotel was gas-lighted and valued at $160,000. The modern building was steam heated, although most of the rooms also had open fireplaces. Sixteen suites had private baths. Although the hotel opened late, by the end of the season, 2,700 guests had registered.

In the late 1880s and throughout the 1890s Mitchell House was leased and managed by several persons; it prospered under each change and ranked a close second to Piney Woods in importance.

MASURY HOTEL

Broad and Jefferson Mr. John W. Masury saw the need for another luxury hotel. Masury was an interesting New York businessman whose firm manufactured paint. He proposed in 1887 to build a European plan hotel. A petition by a number of citizens persuaded the city council to give Masury the same

Masury Hotel c. 1898

tax exemption as the Mitchell House and Piney Woods had obtained. The site selected was at the intersection of Broad and Jefferson. Construction on the three-story building began in November 1887.

THE BRIGHTON

After the Masury Hotel was completed, another building capable of housing 150 persons was added and became a separate hotel, the Brighton. The two buildings were connected across an alleyway and were virtually one structure.

Albert A. Neal, a Georgian, and his niece, Miss Louise Fletcher, took over the management and it opened for business in January 1889. It cost $100,000, and boasted of eighty steam-heated rooms and a table-seating capacity for 140 persons. Together with the separately managed Brighton, which was primarily an elegant apartment hotel, they formed a unit almost as large as any hotel in Thomasville.

Neither the Masury nor the Brighton proved as successful as expected. In the 1890s they had had a number of different managers, and amid confusion and accusations of mismanagement, the hotels closed in 1894.

Charles T. Stuart took over the Masury and attempted to duplicate techniques that had made his hotel a success.

The Brighton also opened under new management in 1895.

Later, both hotels were placed under the same manager, new personnel were hired, new managers were tried, but nothing worked. Finally, in 1900 the Masury was closed for lack of patronage. No future plans for it were made. The Masury had been unable to compete with Mitchell House and the Piney Woods.

A boulevard was built around Thomasville. This drive circled Thomasville at a two-mile radius and was extremely popular. Henry Sanford, county commissioner, surveyed and built the road with convict labor. Before Sanford Boulevard was finished, one citizen remarked that its completion would “cap the climax.” Thomasville had other attractions. Numerous visitors came for their health, and many of the ill merely sought the sun and took walks and rides through Paradise Park and the pine forests. Under an agreement between the Smith estate and the town, Paradise Park became city property to be used and to be kept open forever as a public park. It remains as agreed as Paradise Park.

There were sporadic examples of hostility between local citizens and the winter guests, but usually their relations were good. According to one visitor, he asked a local resident what the people lived on and received the reply, “On sick Yankees principally.” The situation was put more gently by a sojourner who was a minister. He explained that while Northerners were invaders, “instead of coming with guns in their hands, they bring no other weapons than gold which they scatter lavishly in a region where it is greatly needed. If

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

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“A bank i s a colle c t i o n o f it s cu stomer s .”

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

— STEPHEN H. CHENEY I CEO

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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.

We are Thomasville.

301 NORTH BROAD STREET TNBANK.COM

I

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229.226.3300

MEMBER FDIC

anyone ear-marked a high point for tourists, it probably was 1896. The nation was still plunged deep in economic depression, and the farmers of Thomas County were all angry and many were in complete political revolt, but the winter season in Thomasville was prosperous.

One event in 1896 demonstrated the rapport between local inhabitants and their guests. A tree-planting ceremony in Paradise Park honored Joseph Medill and A. K. McClure, editor of the Philadelphia Times and a champion of the “New South” concept of industrialization. McClure spoke to a large crowd and his speech was given considerable publicity in the local press. In a burst of civic pride one citizen declared that the “fame of Thomasville has spread from the shores of the Atlantic to the frost fringed borders of the great North West.”

Thomasville Today The face of Thomasville has changed but it continues to mature as a significant location. The fashionable hotels gave way in the twentieth century mostly to property owned by individuals, however, this process actually began in the late 1880s. Although Thomasville is still a smaller city, it remains a desirable destination for out-of-town visitors.

Additionally, the city that once thrived and was dependent upon friends from the North is now home to a essential corporation that keeps bread on the table for millions of people. It is home to a private university full of courses of study. It is home to a highly rated hospital offering medical services second to none. But it hasn’t lost its small town atmosphere, so valuable for nurturing children, raising spirits, and speaking to strangers who we meet on the street.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

WRITTEN BY ANDREW SAWYER

Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent

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UGA Cooperative Extension – Thomas County

Lawn Burweed

Though summer crops are harvested and few small grain crops were planted this winter, it is still a very busy time in the Extension office. UGA Extension provides educational programming through the winter to provide growers an update on row crop research. UGA Ag Economists are updating budgets and growers are busy making decisions on what to plant this season.

With mild winter temperatures brought to us by El Nino, things in the yard may be active as well. One question I receive now is, “What is this little weed with stickers on it in my backyard?” A spiny, low growing weed is growing in many lawns. What is this weed and how the do we get rid of 52 it?

The weed in question is most commonly called lawn burweed (Soliva pterosperma), a.k.a. spurweed, stickerweed, sandbur, and sandspur. Lawn burweed is a winter annual member of the Aster family. The weed germinates in the early fall months as temperatures cool and remains small or inconspicuous during the cold winter months. However, as temperatures warm in the early spring, or about the same time as spring sports activities, lawn burweed initiates a period of rapid growth and begins to form spine-tipped burs in the leaf axils.

The sharp-tipped spiny burs of this weed can cause minor irritation to the skin. Former UGA Extension Weed Scientist, Dr. Tim Murphy, says key identification characteristics of lawn burweed are 1) opposite, sparsely hairy leaves that are divided into numerous segments, or lobes, b) small, inconspicuous flowers, and c) spine tipped burs that are found in the leaf axils (junction of leaf and stem). Lawn burweed reaches an overall diameter of up to 6 inches and a height of about 3 to 4 inches.

Lawn burweed can be easily controlled during the winter months. Winter months are ideal to apply herbicides for the control of this weed. The weed is smaller and easier to control during this time of year and has not yet developed the spine-tipped burs. Control is not impossible in March and April but the spines have already formed by this time and will remain after the weed dies.

Some options to control lawn burweed are three-way

mixtures of 2,4-D, mecoprop (MCPP) and dicamba. These products can be used on bermudagrass, zoysiagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass. This group of products should be applied on a warm (at least 55° F.), sunny day.

Two to three weeks after the initial application, lawn burweed control should be evaluated. If control is not acceptable, an additional application may be necessary.

In addition to three-way herbicides, there is another herbicide that can be used for lawn burweed control in home lawns. Atrazine may be used for control in centipedegrass and St. Augustinegrass. Atrazine applied in November will have postemergence activity against newly sprouted lawn burweed seedlings and also will have preemergence activity against those that have not yet germinated during the fall.

The key factor in controlling lawn burweed is to apply an appropriate herbicide during the winter months. Lawn burweed is small and easier to control that time of the year.

Also, turfgrasses are not actively-growing during the winter months and have better tolerance to some herbicides.

Lawn burweed can be controlled in late-March, April and early May. However, two main facts should be considered. Lawn burweed begins to die as late spring temperatures approach 90° F and the plant is harder to control once the spiny burs have formed. Multiple herbicide applications are usually necessary, which increases the risk of temporary injury to the turfgrass.

Additionally, it takes time for the herbicide to control lawn burweed, and after death, it takes time for the dead burweed plants to decompose, which is one of the main problems with late treatments. Dead lawn burweed plants contain dead, or brown spine-tipped burs.

Dead or alive, the spiny burs still present a problem.

The only recourse at this point is to allow time for the plant to naturally decompose.

Information from this article was taken from “Lawn Burweed-It’s A Sticky Problem” by Dr. Tim Murphy and “Lawn Burweed” from Clemson Extension. For additional questions, contact the Thomas County Extension office at 225-4130.

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Thomasville Thomasville Magazine Magazine / WINTER /WINTER2015 2015

INVITATIONS birthday party • wedding • wedding shower • baby shower • notecards and many others

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

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

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.

DECEMBER 2015 December 5 Learn to Knit Age of Brass & Steam Kerchief with Susan Johnson 11:00am-1:00pm, Fuzzy Goat, 223 W. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA - This unisex triangular kerchief is knitted in a single skein of DK weight yarn. The shawl is approx. 53 inches in width and 15 inches from center back to center point, when blocked aggressively. This pattern could easily be made with fingering to worsted weight yarn. By simply adding more repeats of the stockinette and garter ribbed eyelet sections, you can make a kerchief or shawl as large as you wish. Note that yardage requirements will vary with different yarn weights. $30pp Register by calling 229-236-4628 or visit www.fuzzygoatyarns.com Info: Cadence Kidwell, 229-236-4628, info@fuzzygoat.com December 6 Sundays at Four Concert: Thomasville Singers brought to you by Thomas University 4:00pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 E. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA – “Sundays at Four” offers monthly concerts that feature local and regional artists performing a wide range of musical styles. $5 donation requested.

Reception to follow the performance. www.thomasu.edu/actu Info: Thomas University, 229-227-6964, actu@thomasu.edu December 7

New Genesis Center presents “Why Is Everyone so Happy When I Feel So Sad?” Strategies for Coping with the Holiday Blues

6:00-7:00pm, New Genesis Center, 814 Gordon Ave., Thomasville, GA – The first of the R & R Series: A fun, relaxed educational experience about various innovative healthcare methods. Presented by Myra J. Jordan, LMFT, CCHt. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Info: New Genesis Center, 229-228-9050 December 9 Brown Bag Lunch and Learn at the Chamber 12:00-1:00pm, Thomas County Chamber of Commerce, 401 S. Broad St., Thomasville, GA – “Constant Contact Email Marketing” Info: Christina Reneau, 229-226-9600, Christina@thomasvillechamber.com December 10 & 11 Victorian Christmas Festival 6:00-9:00pm, Downtown Thomasville- Historic Downtown Thomasville, an award winning “Great American Main Street City,” invites you to come and make a memory with us this Christmas season! Take an unforgettable journey back in time to 1890’s when life was simple and true Christmas spirit reigned. Enjoy horse drawn carriages, strolling carolers, holiday shopping, dancers, musicians, museums, food and holiday delicacies, and of course, St. Nicholas!

Victorian Christmas is held on Thursday and Friday evening from 6 PM to 9 PM. Both evenings feature the same great events! Info: Main Street Office, 229-227-7020, visit@thomasville.org December 12 Thomasville Fire Rescue Chili Cook Off 11:00am-1:00pm, Downtown Thomasville, corner of Jefferson and Broad St (in front of First Baptist Church), Thomasville, GA – The winner will be announced at 1:00pm. $3/per bowl, proceeds benefit the Thomasville Fire Rescue September 11th Memorial Fund. For more information or entry information, contact Derek Knight at derekk@ thomasville.org or 229-227-4038.

December 13-14 Christmas at the Keyboard presented by First Baptist Church Dec. 13, 6:00pm, Dec. 14, 7:00pm, Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, 144 E. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA – Christmas favorites presented by six grand pianos and organ. Concert is free and open to the public. www.fbcthomasville.com Info: Rev. Andy Daughtry, 229-228-6800, adaughtry@fbcthomasville.com December 17 TCA Whet Your Palette at 209 with Hillery Richards 6:00-8:00pm, TCA Studio 209, 209 W. Remington Ave., Thomasville, GA - Join Hillery as she teaches students

THOMSVILLE THOMSVILLE -THOMAS -THOMAS COUNTYCOUNTY VISITORS VISITORS CENTERCENTER Historic Historic Thomasville, Thomasville, Georgia Georgia a post impressional technique, by painting our beloved Longleaf Pinecone! $25pp www.thomasvillearts.org Info: Thomasville Center for the Arts, 229-226-0588, info@thomasvillearts.org

JANUARY 2016 January 17 Sundays at Four Concert: January Jazz Fest brought to you by Thomas University 4:00pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 E. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA – “Sundays at Four” offers monthly concerts that feature local and regional artists performing a wide range of musical styles. $5 donation requested.

Reception to follow the performance. www.thomasu.edu/actu Info: Thomas University, 229-227-6964, actu@thomasu.edu January 18 Hands On Thomas County MLK Service Day 9:00am-12:00pm, Various locations in Thomasville – Make it a day on, not a day off…volunteer! Community service projects will be organized throughout the city. Service hours may be available at select sites. Go to www. handsonthomascounty.org for more information. Info: Angela Kiminas 229-226-5200 info@hansdonthomascounty.org January 21 TEF Presents: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center 7:30pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 East Washington Street, Thomasville, GA 31792- The Chamber Music

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

December 19 Learn to Knit a Rasta Hat with Susan Johnson 11:00am-1:00pm, Fuzzy Goat, 223 W. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA - Have you wanted to make a hat…and to make one super quick? This texture-filled hat will be done in no time (time enough for gift-giving) and leave you wanting to make another! $30pp Register by calling 229-236-4628 or visit www.fuzzygoatyarns.com Info: Cadence Kidwell, 229-236-4628, info@fuzzygoat.com

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Society of Lincoln Center presents a program of breathtaking works by Mozart, Schubert, and Mendelssohn showcasing the virtuosity of world renowned artists performing together with brilliant young musicians. www.

TEFConcerts.com Info: 229-226-7404, tef@rose.net

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January 22-24 & January 29-31 TOSAC presents The Ugly Duckling – A Musical Story Jan. 22 & 23, 8:00pm, Jan. 24, 2:00pm, TOSAC Theater, 117 S. Broad St., Thomasville, GA - This delightful adaptation of one of the most beloved fables of all time is a quackingly good time! Ugly looks quite a bit different from his darling duckling brothers and sisters. The other animals on the farm are quick to notice and point this out, despite his mother’s protective flapping. Feeling rather foul about himself, the little fowl finds himself on adventure of self discovery all the while unknowingly outwitting a very hungry Cat. Along the way Ugly meets a whole flock of unique characters and finds out being different is not a bad thing to be. Info: Marc Cramer, 850-294-9694, jana.danielle10@ gmail.com January 23 HOTC Mardi Gras Fundraiser 7:00-11:00pm, Uno Hill Barn, Pebble Hill Plantation, 1251 US Hwy 319 S., Thomasville, GA - Cajun-inspired food will be served, drinks, music & dancing, auctions, and raffles. All proceeds will benefit HOTC volunteer and community service programs. Info: Angela Kiminas 229-226-5200 info@hansdonthomascounty.org January 28 2016 Economic Forecast 7:45am, Southern Regional Technical College, Building D, Rooms 106-108, 15689 U.S. Highway 19 North, Thomasville, GA - The Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce is proud to present the 2016 Georgia Economic Forecast! Join us for a breakfast meeting and Georgia’s economic projections for 2016! Info: Christina Reneau 229-226-9600 christina@thomasvillechamber.com January 29 FUSE presented by South Georgia Ballet 6:00pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 E. Washington St., Thomasville, GA - Join the Thomasville Center for the Arts and the South Georgia Ballet for an evening of music, dance, and art. Exhibit 6:00pm, Dance Performance 7:00pm and Party & Live Music 8:00-10:00pm www.southgeorgiaballet.org and www.thomasvillearts.org Info: 229-226-0588, info@thomasvillearts.org

FEBRUARY 2016 February 6 Vashti presents the Pines and Plantations Cookbook 40th Anniversary Celebration 12:00pm, Glen Arven Country Club, 1700 Old Monticello Rd., Thomasville, GA - Thomasville’s renowned Pines and Plantations cookbook, written and marketed for the profit of The Vashti Center, 40th Anniversary Celebration features Pastry Chef and Author Roland Messnier from Washington, DC. He will entertain guests and his presentation will showcase some of his fabulous creations that were served to several U.S. Presidents. The Luncheon will feature all recipes from the Pines and Plantations Cookbook. Chef Messnier’s books, Dessert University, A Sweet World of White House Desserts, and the White House in Gingerbread, will be available for purchasing and signing.

Patron Tables and Tickets will be available in November, 2015. For questions please contact Theresa Brown at tkbrown@ix.netcom.com.

February 14 Sundays at Four Concert: Musical Romance brought to you by Thomas University 4:00pm, Trinity Anglican Church, 325 W. Jackson St., Thomasville, GA – “Sundays at Four” offers monthly concerts that feature local and regional artists performing a wide range of musical styles. $5 donation requested. Reception to follow the performance. www.thomasu.edu/actu Info: Thomas University, 229-227-6964, actu@thomasu.edu February 16 TEF Presents: Pasadena Roof Orchestra 7:30pm, Thomasville Center for the Arts, 600 East Washington Street, Thomasville, GA 31792- With charming, typically dry British humor, the London-based Pasadena Roof Orchestra performs the swing/dance music of the 20s and 30s from musical giants such as Gershwin, Berlin, Kern, and Carmichael. www.TEFConcerts.com Info: TEF Box Office, 229-226-7404, tef@rose.net

THOMSVILLE-THOMAS COUNTY VISITORS CENTER Historic Thomasville, Georgia February 19 Fridays at Noon Concert: Dúo Pelliroja presented by Thomas University Noon, Thomas University Balfour Chapel, 1501 Millpond Rd., Thomasville, GA - “Fridays at Noon” offers bi-monthly lunch concerts that include a complimentary luncheon and feature regional and occasionally national performing artists. Info: Thomas University, 229-227-6964, actu@thomasu.edu

WHY SHOP WHEN YOU CAN DISCOVER... beautiful finds for special days or every day for yourself, your home or that special someone.

MARCH 2016 March 18, 19 & 20, 2016 Moultrie Federated Guild 59th Annual Antique Show Southern Regional Technical College, 800 Veterans Parkway North – A show you will not want to miss! A delightful mix of old and new…something for everyone: Antique and Vintage Furniture, Rugs, Jewelry, Sterling Silver, Cut Glass, Fur Coats, Art, Crystal Repair and much more. Visit moultriefederated guildantiqueshow.com.

MORE THAN A STORE.

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

February 28 Hands and Hearts for Horses Trail Ride at Pebble Hill Plantation 12:30-5:00pm, Pebble Hill Plantation, 1251 U S Hwy 319 S., Thomasville, GA - Throw on a jacket, load up your horse and join Hands & Hearts for Horses for a trail ride afternoon at BEAUTIFUL Pebble Hill Plantation.

Rather bring a wagon? That’s ok, too! For registration and details, call Frances Parker (229) 403-0771.

Funds help teach therapeutic riding lessons to children and adults with special needs and disabilities. Info: Frances Mims Parker, 229-403-0771, frances@handsandheartsfor horses.org

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Hampton Inn of Thomasville

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Wells Fargo Advisors is proud to support Thomasville Magazine Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. Financial Advisors 124 N. Broad St. Thomasville, GA 31792 229-228-9536 • 800-234-9536 www.wellsfargoadvisors.com

Investment and Insurance Products:  NOT FDIC Insured  NO Bank Guarantee  MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. ©2009 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved. 1210-2822[74129-v2]

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Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

ALLEN & ALLEN

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Myrtle Brinson Bozeman Feb 6, 1929 - July 2, 2015

James Palmer, Jr. Dec 9, 1938 - July 14, 2015

Catherine Blow Feb 11, 1926 - August 5, 2015

Charles Stewart Feb 14, 1933 - Aug 28, 2015

Preston Shiver Jan 25, 1942 - July 7, 2015

Jean Carpenter Dec 14, 1928 - July 16, 2015

Myrtle Tharp April 2, 1939 - Aug 9, 2015

Mary Rosch April 1, 1922 - Aug 29, 2015

Juanita Stilley Sept 21, 1945 - July 6, 2015

James Snow, Jr. May 19, 1947 - July 16, 2015

Willie Davis, Jr. Aug 15, 1925 - Aug 10, 2015

Kason Sexion Aug 29, 2015 - Aug 29, 2015

Nathan Thompson, Jr. Nov 22, 1940 - July 7, 2015

Barbara Steele July 2, 1941 - July 21, 2015

Katie Beckham July 5, 1917 - Aug 12, 2015

Paul Sherrod, Sr. April 19, 1934 - Aug 31, 2015

Adelaide Cholak Oct 12, 1917 - July 7, 2015

Jerry McClung June 22, 1930 - July 21, 2015

Lois Neighbors July 20, 1961 - Aug 13, 2015

Forney Cosper April 25, 1934 - Aug 31, 2015

Clarence Wilson Sept 12, 1945 - July 8, 2015

Clifton Hurst Feb 10, 1936 - July 22, 2015

Robert Scott Oct 2, 1944 - Aug 21, 2015

Thomas Wayne Stilwell Oct 17, 1949 - Aug 29, 2015

Essie Presley Dec 23, 1940 - July 10, 2015

Martha Clark Dec 4, 1938 - July 26, 2015

Mae Newsome March 23, 1921 - Aug 23, 2015

Olia Shifflet Feb 14, 1931 - Sept 2, 2015

Jeffery Mathews July 21, 1955 - July 10, 2015

Kathryn Chastain July 13, 1963 - July 29, 2015

Edwin Thompson, Sr. Jan 25, 1931 - Aug 24, 2015

Lee Godwin, Sr. Sept 26, 1924 - Sept 6, 2015

Dorothy Jane Sherrod Nov 26, 1942 - July 11, 2015

Mary Clark Harris Oct 5, 1922 - July 30, 2015

Juanita Burns Jan 18, 1929 - Aug 25, 2015

Terri Matthews Aug 8, 1958 - Sept 6, 2015

Larry Owens April 23, 1943 - July 12, 2015

Sara Crozier Estelle Wright Nov 19, 1943 - August 1, 2015 Oct 13, 1948 - Aug 26, 2015

Raymond Rowland Oct 21, 1947 - Sept 5, 2015

A LISTING OF LOCAL DEATHS IN OUR COMMUNITY. Provided by Allen & Allen Funeral Home & Whiddon-Shiver Funeral Home

WHIDDON-SHIVER Manning Clara Jean Duncan Jan 20, 1947 - Sept 16, 2015

Bonn Neal F. Nov 20, 1935 - Oct 24, 2015

Hurst Corine Dean Mar 19, 1945 - Oct 31, 2015

William Miller Dec 1, 1927 - Sept 8, 2015

Harvell Julie Ann Pyles Feb 22,1946 - Sept 24, 2015

Lewis Lisa Lynn May 14, 1967 - Oct 10, 2015

Faulkner Anne Spengler May 15, 1921 - Nov 7, 2015

Nellavee Christie Jan 26, 1923 - Sept 12, 2015

Harris Mary Jo Stringer Sept 29,1964 - Sept 25, 2015

Knipe Gregory D. July 21, 1953 - Oct 24, 2015

Moore Andrew Clifton Aug 16, 1926 - Nov 10, 2015

Rudy Hardman Sept 16, 1930 - Sept 12, 2015

Slappey Bruce Anthony July 5, 1962 - Oct 4, 2015

Robert McGee, Jr. Dec 31, 1960 - Sept 15, 2015

Butler Carolyn Mae Lane Feb 4, 1956 - Oct 3, 2015

Peter Wolek Dec 5, 1955 - Sept 16, 2015

Fletcher Shirley Faye Boseman July 20, 1945 - Oct 11, 2015

Nancianne Powers Jan 2, 1940 - Sept 16, 2015 Myrtle Nolen July 15, 1927 - Sept 20, 2015 Barbara Dravus Feb 16, 1953 - Sept 20, 2015 Malee Anderson Feb 7, 1939 - Sept 22, 2015 Barbara Collier July 9, 1937 - Sept 22, 2015

Lowder Grace Vanlandingham Oct 4,1937 - Oct 12, 2015 Strickland James Randy Feb 27, 1958 - Oct 16, 2015 Strickland Edgar Warren Nov 18, 1964 - Oct 16, 2015 Beasley Carol Stewart Nov 3, 1944 - Oct 17, 2015

Ethel Watkins March 17, 1927 - Sept 24, 2015

Weed Laverne Borghild Schneider Oct 28, 1921 - Oct 21, 2015

Larry Stokes Aug 2, 1939 - Sept 27, 2015

Campo James, Jr. Nov 18, 1965 - Oct 21, 2015

Maurice Peter July 19, 1938 - Sept 24, 2015

Chancey Gerald Albert Jun 4, 1926 - Oct 23, 2015

Mary Lou Allen Dec 20, 1931 - Sept 28, 2015

Thomasville Magazine /WINTER 2015

Memory Freiberg Nov 9, 1955 - Sept 7, 2015

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LIST OF ADVERTISERS

Thomasville Magazine / WINTER 2015

Al Dixon ................................................................................page 56 Allen and Allen Funeral Home .................................................page 64 Ameris Bank ..........................................................................page 53 Archbold Medical Center .......................................................page 23 Best Western/Holiday Inn Express ..........................................page 39 Big Oak Tree Rug Gallery .......................................................page 55 BloughTech ...........................................................................page 51 Bobby Dollar .........................................................................page 27 Camellia Gardens Nursing Home ...........................................page 63 Chophouse on the Bricks ......................................................page 56 CNS TV. ............................................................................back cover Commercial Bank.............................. ......................inside back cover Country Oaks ........................................................................page 32 Downtown Thomasville ..........................................................page 54 Farm Bureau .........................................................................page 36 Farm Credit Southwest Georgia ............................................page 31 Flowers Nissan ......................................................................page 25 Flourish .................................................................................page 49 Fuzzy Goat ............................................................................page 55 Hampton Inn .........................................................................page 62 Hearth & Soul ........................................................................page 61 Home Instead........................................................................page 21 Hubbard Christmas Tree Farm................................................page 32 Hugh Produce .......................................................................page 33 J. Smith Lanier & Co ..............................................................page 53 Kathy’s ..................................................................................page 55 66 Kres Jewelers........................................................................page 56

Livi & Company .....................................................................page 57 Legacy Village at Plantation Manor..........................................page 49 Loli’s .....................................................................................page 57 Mimi’s ..................................................................................page 56 Panaprint ..............................................................................page 32 Pelicanno Construction ..........................................................page 27 Robin Wise .............................................................................page 7 Savannah Court of Camilla .....................................................page 13 Singletary Tire Service ...........................................................page 66 Southern Heritage..................................................................page 13 Southern Pines ......................................................................page 15 Southern Regional Technical College ......................................page 41 State Farm ...........................................................................page 26 Taste of Thomasville...............................................................page 57 Taylor Benefit Resource .........................................................page 59 Trolly’s ...................................................................................page 57 The Gift Shop ........................................................................page 62 The New Image .....................................................................page 55 The Plaza Restaurant & Lounge .............................................page 55 The Sportsman’s Cabinet .......................................................page 53 Thomas County Federal ...........................................................page 3 Thomas County Historical Society ..........................................page 50 Thomasville Dental Center.........................................inside front cover Thomasville Learning Center ....................................................page 9 Thomasville National Bank......................................................page 50 Wells Fargo ...........................................................................page 61 Whiddon-Shiver Funeral Home ...............................................page 65

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