Liberty Life Oct. - Nov. 2016

HINESVIILLE & THE HISTORIC COAST

Over 300

Quilts Seams Sew Right

LeConteWoodmanston Plantation Discovering Its Former Grandeur and Beauty

Tastes So

Sweet

The Geechee Kunda Sugar Cane Harvest Festival

Empowering Young Ladies to Take on the Future

Voted Best of Liberty 3 Years Running

A special thank you to the Fraser family for allowing us to use such a historical part of our community.

Leigh Smiley Managing Broker REALTOR® (912) 977-3401 George Holtzman e-Pro, GRI, CRS, ABR Broker (912) 572-4300 Marilyn Knowles 2I¿FH 6FKRRO Administrator (912) 368-4300 Kallie Breningstall 5HORFDWLRQ 0DUNHWLQJ 'LUHFWRU (912) 368-4300

David Cargill Jr. REALTOR® (912) 271-0138

Jeanne Evans GRI, MRP, ABR, $VVRFLDWH %URNHU REALTOR® (912) 977-4230

Brigitte Shanken CIPS, RSPS, $VVRFLDWH %URNHU REALTOR® (912) 222-8279

Dagmar Madden REALTOR® (912) 572-6005

Brian Maike $VVRFLDWH %URNHU REALTOR® (912) 271-7281

Margarita Fell GRI, REALTOR® (912) 492-8764

Jimmy Shanken CIPS, RSPS, $VVRFLDWH %URNHU REALTOR® (912) 977-4733

Crystal Gaddy *5, $VVRFLDWH Broker, REALTOR® (912) 271-3646

Skyler Wingate REALTOR® (912) 387-3076

Helene Peterson REALTOR® (912) 271-7263

Justin Zieman REALTOR® (912) 572-3747

Luis Lopez REALTOR® (912) 977-4321

3DWULFN 6RXOH REALTOR® (912) 332-8839

730 General Stewart Way Hinesville, GA 31313 912.368.4300 www.coldwellbankerholtzman.com

Drew Davenport REALTOR® (912) 602-4917

Jennifer Driggers REALTOR® (912) 213-2935

$QQLFN /H %URQ REALTOR® (912) 271-1012

'DYLG 0F1LFKROV REALTOR® (515) 556-3396

/LQG\ %ODQFKDUG REALTOR® (912) 402-1222

1LQD 0F&RUPLFN REALTOR® (912) 655-9644

Pok Smith REALTOR® (912) 492-1587

$OLFLD )RUG REALTOR® (904) 219-7756

Nikki Gaskin REALTOR® (912) 610-8304

Angie Kinzer REALTOR® 912.271.4649

HOLTZMAN, REALTORS®

©201 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the priciples of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

n.

0ROUDLY SERVING THE RESIDENTS OF ,IBERTY #OUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS SINCE

JOJ Jones Osteen Jones Concentrating in personal injury cases including: ¾ 18 Wheeler Wrecks

¾ Product Liability

¾ Car Accidents

¾ Wrongful Death

¾ Premises Liability

,ARGEST %STABLISHED 2EAL %STATE 0RACTICE 3ERVING ,IBERTY #OUNTY AND 3URROUNDING !REAS *Member GA & CA Bar

J. Noel Osteen Billy N. Jones Charles M. Jones (1930 – 2007)

Linnie L. Darden, III* L. Kelly Davis Jeffery N. Osteen, PC Richard E. Braun, Jr. Carl R. Varnedoe Aimee Harris Davis

% #OURT 3T s 0 / "OX Hinesville, GA 31310

% /GLETHORPE (WY Hinesville, GA 31313

&ORD !VE s 3UITE 2ICHMOND (ILL '!

WWW.JOJLAW.COM

Serving

Liberty &

Long County

Then

&

Now PRINT

I

WEB

I

SOCIAL

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2016 NUMBER 29

20

LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation The hidden memories of a rice plantation

39

32

Quilting Queen Local resident quilts to her delight

50

Girl Power!

Sugar Cane Festival

Community programs help teen girls discover themselves

A harvest of history and kindness

10

Our Faves Things to enjoy this October & November

12

Hot Happenings Events in Liberty

14

Faces & Places Candid shots from Liberty’s recent events

16

Coastal Cravings Awakening New Spirits

56

Life is Sometimes Lemons Fear of Cockroaches

58

Proust Questionnaire Christina Anthony Vice-President of United Military Care, Inc.

GENERAL MANAGER Kathryn Fox MANAGING EDITOR Tiffany King ADVERTISING

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeff Whitten ART DIRECTOR Ekaterina Wilkerson

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Krystal Hart

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ben Bradley

Caitlin Kenney

Geoff L. Johnson

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Victoria Phillips

Patty Leon

Lawrence Dorsey

Tiffany King

Brent Zell

Joanna Ng

Caitlin Kenney

Johnny Brown

Liberty Life magazine: 125 S. Main St., Hinesville, GA 31313 912-876-0156 info@libertylifemagazine.com Published by Morris Newspaper Corporation of Hinesville, Inc. Liberty Life magazine is a publication of Morris Newspaper Corporation of Hinesville, Inc. For SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES, BACK ISSUE ORDERS and ADVERTISING INQUIRIES call 912-876-0156 For EDITORIAL INQUIRIES, email editor@libertylifemagazine.com. We welcome your news.

Please send press releases and media kits to info@libertylifemagazine.com.

Copyright 2016 by Morris Newspaper Corporation of Hinesville, Inc. All rights reserved.

This publication may not be reproduced in any form without written consent of the publisher.

Where every meal is like Sunday dinner……

NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON Holidays are hectic enough, let us take care of your holiday meal planning.

With a vast selection, Occasions’ takes the guesswork out of your holiday dinner and event planning, allowing you more time with family and friends.

Elegant presentations that satisfy the palette.

Our southern hospitality and attention to detail will assure that your event will flow smoothly and to your specifications.

Lynn S. Cannon • Midway, GA 912-884-5584 • 912-271-2107 occasions-event-planning.com 6

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Occasions CATERING & EVENT SERVICES

Editor’s Letter

A

utumn is in full swing and we couldn’t be happier! The season of change is here and those long awaited days of sunshine and coolness have finally arrived.

You’ve heard of the old saying “It takes a village to raise a child.” Here in Liberty County, the community lives up to those words. There are a plethora of programs and clubs geared towards teens — our future leaders. In this is-

sue we’re focusing on a few organizations that empower girls to do and become whatever they want while staying true to themselves and others. Women have more opportunities and these organizations help prepare young ladies for the world and areas still untrodden by women.

The annual Geechee Kunda Sugar Cane Harvest Festival is another way people are educated — both young and old. The festival celebrates the rich Gullah Geechee culture and the historical significance of the sugar cane harvest. This harvesting of sweetness was a social event that brought people together for friendship. It’s funny how sharing the history of what brought people together in the past continues

7

to do the same in the present, and passes along the importance of community.

Along with a history of culture passed down to generations, is a history of love. Dewayne Stewart sews love into every stitch of her quilts.

Her quilts, made for friends, family and customers have an heirloom quality and unique look. They will provide warmth, comfort a crying baby and be a special memory for those closest to her. Ms. Stewart talked about her love for quilting, which is more than a hobby — it’s a passion.

The LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation is a significant place in Liberty whose landscape and history are on the verge of disappearing.

The famed rice plantation was reconstructed into an enchanting botanical garden and memorial for the enslaved Africans whose knowledge was key to the successful harvesting of rice. Since that time, wild plants have overtaken trails and walkways, and a lack of funds have led to preservation efforts coming to a halt. But there is still hope. We visited LeConte and discovered why such an important place needs to stay open and be preserved.

Liberty is so full of history and culture. We hope that the autumn breeze inspires you to go outside and soak it all in.

On the Cover

(Back) Mea Wilson, (front) Tymea Scott, Tia Wilson and Tyena Ellis of the Girl Scouts are on a mission to change the world.

Photography by Joanna Ng Cover design by Ekaterina Wilkerson

Love and Liberty for all, Tiffany King Managing Editor

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

GSEAGLES.COM

FOOTBALL

PRE-ORDER

B AS K E T B A L L S E AS O N T I C K E T S GSEagles.com/Tickets 1 - 8 0 0 - G S U -W I N S

W O M E N ’S S O C C E R S TAT E S B O R O, G A

8/19 8/26 8/28 8 9/9 9/ 9/ 9/11 9/23 9/ 9/25 9/ 9/30 9/ 110/2 10 110/16 10 0

UNC WILMINGTON NORTH FLORIDA UNC CHARLOTTE KENNESAW STATE SOUTH FLORIDA UL LAFAYETTE TEXAS STATE COASTAL CAROLINA TROY APPALACHIAN STATE

7 P.M. 7 P.M. 1 P.M. 7 P.M. 12 P.M. 7 P.M. 1 P.M. 7 P.M. 1 P.M. 1 P.M.

M E N ’S S O C C E R S TAT E S B O R O, G A

8/16 9/9 9/24 9/27 10/12 10/22 11/5

SCAD EXHIBITION JAMES MADISON NORTH FLORIDA CAMPBELL GARDNER-WEBB HARTWICK APPALACHIAN STATE

7 P.M. 4 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M. 7 P.M.

VOLLEYBALL S TAT E S B O R O, G A

Buy tickets at GSEagles.com/Tickets

9/1 9/1 9/2 9/2 9/9 9/9 9/10 9/13 9/30 10/1 10/7 10/8 10/21 10/22 10/28 10/29 11/11

JACKSONVILLE STATE BASH IN THE BORO CHARLESTON SOUTHERN BASH IN THE BORO SAVANNAH STATE BASH IN THE BORO THE CITADEL BASH IN THE BORO BUFFALO SPRINGHILL SUITES INVITATIONAL WAKE FOREST SPRINGHILL SUITES INVITATIONAL SOUTH CAROLINA SPRINGHILL SUITES INVITATIONAL NORTH FLORIDA SOUTH ALABAMA TROY APPALACHIAN STATE COASTAL CAROLINA UT ARLINGTON TEXAS STATE ARKANSAS STATE LITTLE ROCK GEORGIA STATE

1 P.M. 7 P.M. 1 P.M. 7 P.M. 12 P.M. 7 P.M. 6 P.M. 6 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M. 6:30 P.M.

SEASON TICKETS ARE JUST $20 GSeagles.com/tickets and 1-800-GSU-WINS

Live streaming available at GSEagles.com/watch

MAY 24 - 28, 2017

J . I . C L E M E N T S S TA D I U M , S TAT E S B O R O

“

There’s a crispness in the air that greets the morning sun, a feeling of anticipation, a new day has begun.

T Harvest days are ending, winter is drawing near, yet in between is surely the most special time of year.

They call it Indian Summer, and it seems to fit the bill, for it’s as if the Lord took a feathered brush and painted all the hills.”

our

FAVES

- Julie L. O’Connor

THE THINGS WE CAN’T STOP RAVING ABOUT ! OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2016

FALL SPORTS FALL FESTIVALS Fall festivals are so much fun. Pumpkins, hay rides, scarecrows and harvest time, combined with rides, food, games and entertainment, are all so wonderful. It’s bright and cool outside, and when the sun sets amongst the music and laughter, the colors match the fall decorations — orange pumpkins, red apples and yellow leaves. These festivals celebrate all things autumn and the season of change.

One of our favorite fall festivals in Liberty County is the Scarecrow Stroll and Beggars Night in October on Main Street. Check out Hot Happenings to learn more information about this annual, exciting event.

Four of the big-named sports starts in the fall and sports enthusiasts have their pick of the litter — football, baseball, basketball and hockey. If these sports fanatics exist in your home, get ready for what will seem like every weeknight and weekend filled with cheers, boos, sports commentators, fantasy leagues and replays. Just remember, it’s all for the love of the game and experience.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS Chrysanthemum is the flower of November.

Mums or chrysanths, as they are often called, were first cultivated in China as far back as the 15th century and introduced into the United States in 1798. They bloom in a variety of shapes, such as pompoms, and colors — the most traditional color is yellow.

Chrysanthemum flowers can be used to make teas, medicine for congestion, is a natural repellant and can relieve itchy eyes. Some consider it to be the most popular flower next to roses, and has come to symbolize long life, optimism, joy, compassion and friendship.

10

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

GET OUT AND VOTE PUMPKIN SPICE Pumpkin Spice-everything is here. If we could taste autumn it would be pumpkin spice. It has infiltrated everything in the last few years — lattes, coffee, ice cream, donuts, pastries, smoothies and more. There’s no avoiding its aromatic seduction of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and allspice. Just dive right in an embrace the taste of fall.

It’s been four years already and Election Day is upon us again. The nominees will battle it out in the states to win the highest seat in the land. This presidential race had its unique moments, but after the debates, political polls and pundits it’s important to remember one thing — get out and vote. Our right to vote is a privilege that many across the world do not have. No matter your political views or affiliation go ahead and vote. Vote and be the change you want to see.

3 RD ANNUAL

HOT HAPPENINGS

October 1 BI 5K Color Prowl

Get colorful – literally – at this inaugural event, which will start at 9 a.m. at Bradwell Institute. Participants in this fun run/walk will get colored powder tossed on them by business sponsors. For more information, call 912-980-5969 or 912237-5727, or email lkupres@liberty.k12. ga.us or mcturtle32@ gmail.com.

1 Sunbury 5K This annual fundraiser for local charities will begin at 10 a.m. at Sunbury Crab Company on Brigantine Dunmore Road in Midway. Previous years’ races have raised funds for the American Diabetes Association, Carpathia Paws and the Liberty Coalition for the Homeless. Cost to enter is $30 through Sept. 30 and $35 the day of the race.

For more information or to register, go to

November

http://www.fleetfeetsavannah.com/races/ sunbury-5k.

Liberty Taekwondo Championship

8 Healthy Hinesville 5K Run/ Walk Proceeds from this event will help provide gifts for mental-health hospital patients in Georgia through the Mayor’s Motorcade program.

The race starts at 8 a.m. at the Liberty County Courthouse in Hinesville. Cost to register is $25 until Sept. 24; cost after that date is $30. For more information or to sign up, go to www.cityofhinesville. org.

8 Fall Pumpkin Patch Enjoy kids’ activities, food, hayrides, crafts and more from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bryant Commons in Hinesville. For more information, go to www.hinesville downtown.com.

This competition, which is expected to draw participants from across the country, is set for Shuman Recreation Center, 800 Tupelo Trail in Hinesville. Go to http://tkdcalendar. com/events/ liberty-taekwondochampionship/ for more information.

Graveyard Golf Classic A fundraiser for local programs and services, this open-to-the-public event starts at 1 p.m. on Taylor’s Creek Golf Course on Fort Stewart. Cost is $62.50 for an individual or $250 for a four-person team.

Participants must preregister for a gate pass. Showtime is at 10:30 a.m., lunch is at 11 a.m. Call 912-3684282 or email lori_ mcampbell@yahoo. com to register.

Midway Museum Cemetery Tour

CRUSHING CLAYS FOR A CAUSE The action begins at 8 a.m. at the Dorchester Shooting Preserve for this third-annual event for the United Way of the Coastal Empire.

Cost to register a four-person team is $600.

Participants get lunch and snacks, use of a golf cart, up to 50 clays and a team photo.

To register, call 912-368-4282.

12

Costumed actors and actresses talk about the history of the county and Midway Church – all to candlelight – at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. at the Midway Museum, 491 N. Coastal Highway.

Cost is $15 per adult and $5 per child. For more information, call 912-884-5837 or go to themidwaymuseum.org.

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

SCARECROW STROLL AND BEGGARS NIGHT Hinesville’s biggest event gets started at 5 p.m in the downtown area. Attendees can visit candy stations and craft and activity booths, take hayrides, play games, visit a haunted house and more. The costume contest will start at 6 p.m., and a free familyfriendly movie will be shown at 7 p.m. in Main Street Park.

For more information, go to hinesvilledowntown. com.

@9 Zombie 5K Run If you’ve ever wanted to run through woods filled with zombies, here’s your chance.

It all starts at 5 p.m. at Holbrook Pond on Fort Stewart. Cost to participate is $30 per adult and $17 per youth until Sept. 30, $35 and $19 from Oct. 1-16, and $40 and $20 on the day of the race. Pumpkin carving and a showing of the film “Hotel Transylvania” will take place after the run. Call 912767-6212 for more information.

WANT MORE? Go to the

COMMUNITY CALENDAR at www.coastal courier.com

VETERANS SALUTE The fourth-annual tribute will feature, for the first time, a battle of the bands. The salute runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Bryant Commons, 438 W. Oglethorpe Highway in Hinesville.

For more information, call 912-492-6401 or email kbellshape@gmail.com.

VETERANS DAY PARADE The parade starts at 4 p.m. at Bradwell Institute in Hinesville, with the parade line-up beginning at 2 p.m. East Liberty County American Legion Post 321 will have a concession stand with drinks and hot dogs.

To apply, email eastlibertyampost321@gmail.com.

“Come and Take It” Encampment One of Liberty County’s defining historic events is brought back to life, with interpreters showing what life was like when Col. John McIntosh gave his famous response when the British wanted him to surrender Fort Morris during the American Revolution. The encampment will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fort Morris Historic Site, 2559 Fort Morris Road in Midway. Featured activities will include musket and cannon drills and blacksmithing. Call 912-884-5999 for more information or go to gastateparks.org.

Turkey Trot 5K The race, now in its third year, will start at 8 a.m. at Bradwell Park in downtown Hinesville.

Registration before Nov. 4 is $25 per adult and $15 per youth age 12 or younger; costs after Nov. 4 are $30 and $20. T-shirts, snacks and prizes will be part of the festivities. Register at https://runsignup.com, call 912-368-4227 for more information.

FACES & PLACES CANDID SHOTS FROM LIBERTY’S PAST EVENTS

Live Oak Public Libraries Hinesville Branch Grand Opening August 5, 2016 1. Audrey McGirt and Kim McGlothlin 2. Debbie Whitehurst and Rene’ Harwell 3. Lisa Waye and Rose Mary Brown 4. Jim Thomas, Vicky Nelson and Graylan Quaterman 5. Sarah Snider and Christine Sablack

First Annual Altamaha District Scout Show August 13, 2016 { Bryant Commons } 6. Justice Ramos and Alex Gilbert 7. John Lininger and Georgia State Patrol Trooper Eric Wilks 8. (back) Leilani Sykes, Millie Sykes, (front) Beverly CarradineGilmore, Mea Wilson and Missie Schwartzkopf-Mays 9. Josh Vazquez, Josue Vazquez, Jayden Vazquez, Gabriela Vazquez and baby Julian

8

14

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

9

HURRY IN FOR GREAT DEALS

0%

NEY NO MO DOWNdit all cre ions applicaptted! acce

financing available UP TO 8 4 MO NTHS

LIBERTY CHRYSLER

912-876-5129 • 750 W. Oglethorpe Hwy, Hinesville • www.LibertyChrysler.com

Othe the h r restri he strictio ricct ctio cti t ons may mayy apply p . ppl See ee dea deal eal eea aler for o deetai a ls. s

Your Hometown Dealer

Coastal Cravings

AWAKENING NEW SPIRITS

story by PATTY LEON /// photography by GEOFF L. JOHNSON

S

avannah Georgia is notoriously known for its spirits. Some are said to wander the halls of old hotels while other restless souls wander the city streets and cemeteries. And while the stories of ghostly spirits are numerous, there are other spirits that are also deeply tied to Savannah’s history. One spirit is about to be reawakened in the west end of the city in a bold and tasteful fashion. That spirit being — whiskey.

“We would like to be Georgia’s premiere whiskey distillery,” Rob Ingersoll says as he peers into a section of the building that will soon house hundreds of barrels of aging bourbon whiskey.

Ingersoll and his long-time friend and

16

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

business partner Chris Sywassink have taken over the building which once housed the Frozen Paradise Nightclub at 641 Indian Street.

The club closed October 2015 and will soon be the future site of the two men’s dream, Ghost Coast Distillery.

It was an idea that the two friends bounced around back in December 2013.

“We just decided we wanted to do something… There was no distillery here so it made sense that if someone was going to bring something to the city that it would be something new and different and quite honestly the city almost demands it,” he says, placing the hardhat on his head and stepping into the construction site. “Being Savannah residents, we researched and we realized this was very green pasture… Savannah needs a distillery… so it

ABOVE Rendering of Ghost Coast Distillery at 641 Indian Street, which is being designed by Felder & Associates.

became an idea that we’ve since spent a lot of time on… the majority of that time has been spent on a huge amount of research into the industry and how we were going to execute it here in Savannah… to build something the city would be proud of.”

The two men weren’t sure where the distillery would be located. Then one day Ingersoll stumbled upon the vacant building in what was once a defunct section of the city, which has since seen some reemergence.

After receiving the necessary permits, the inside of the approximately 17,000 square foot building was gutted and construction began in late 2015.

Ingersoll looks across the Savannah River. The grand and iconic structure of the Talmadge Bridge looms across the skyline near

TOP The grand and iconic structure of the Talmadge Bridge looms across the skyline from where the distillery is being constructed. BOTTOM LEFT The center room is being cleared while plumbing is installed. The room will house hundreds of barrels of locally produced aging bourbon whiskey. RIGHT Owner Rob Ingersoll said he and his long-time friend Chris Sywassink came up with the idea for the distillery looking to bring something different to the city.

his building. He glances back toward the inside of the building and sees the workers diligently going about their tasks. He smiles and says things just fell into place.

“I don’t like to use the word ‘synergy’ but there is a bit of that going on here in the stretch of a couple of blocks,” Ingersoll says, noting that they are near Southbound and Service Brewery.

“It is nice to have Service (Brewery) down the street,” he says. “They have been great neighbors. And they really did do a lot to bring something new to this end of the River Street area. We are also very fortunate that there is a business called Jelinek Cork across the street.

They make closures for a lot of spirits and many other things and it’s by pure accident, and a lot of luck, they are just across the street

“

THERE WAS NO DISTILLERY HERE SO IT MADE SENSE THAT IF SOMEONE WAS GOING TO BRING SOMETHING TO THE CITY THAT IT WOULD BE SOMETHING NEW AND DIFFERENT...”

- Rob Ingersoll

from us.”

He walks across the interior of the building. The inside bare and gutted. The concrete floor is cut in certain areas for plumbing and electrical work. Blueprints lay on top of work stations. It’s hard to imagine what the finished product will look like but Ingersoll says the work is on schedule and they should be in full production by this fall or winter.

“The way that this is being built out… we will have the facility in a position where we can start production first and then the rest of the building will be complete,” he says, noting they need to make sure they can produce some spirits before they open their tasting room and retail store to the public.

He enters the western portion of the building and starts to share his vision.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

17

LEFT The distillery will occupy a former nightclub building and be roughly 17,000 square feet.

RIGHT Owner Rob Ingersoll stands before the still room. Upon completion there will be 16 feet high glass doorways in the entrance passage behind him.

“This one section of the building will house the office spaces, tasting rooms and store,” he says, adding it is the only area that will also have air conditioning.

Ingersoll walks through an opening made between brick walls. The middle room is where he says the barrels will be housed.

“We are going to expect to put together or build at least an inventory of 300 barrels of whiskey in the first year,” he says. “Our focus is going to be bourbon whiskey… right out of the gate we will be producing bourbon that we will age from two to three years and do not plan on putting in a bottle until it is absolutely ready.

In the meantime, we will have flavored vodka and flavored whiskey that we will have for distribution. And there will be a couple of other products and projects we are considering for the future.”

He smiles and walks into the room in the east end of the building which will house the 18

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

still. Sunlight shines in down from the roof through several ceiling windows. Ingersoll looks upward and points to the corner of the room.

“The still is about 16 feet tall. So we needed some head space,” he says and notes the ceiling in this part of the building is 18 feet high.

Ingersoll says they purchased what he considers to be the best made still in the nation to produce their whiskey.

“We will have one American made copper pot still manufactured in Louisville Kentucky…

It’s from the best… Vendome Copper and Brass Works equipment,” he says.

He adds that they’ve hired some bright and creative distillers to create their bourbon.

“They are bringing that craft aspect and the creativity that I would otherwise completely lack,” he explains. “They both have science backgrounds as well and that certainly helps in trying to maximize production and quality.”

Their corn whiskey will be aged in charred

new oak American barrels for a minimum of two years.

“But we plan to age it for longer because we think it will produce a better product… it does get better the more you age it,” Ingersoll says.

The still and barrel room are not air conditioned but Ingersoll says that helps the aging process.

“This nice coastal empire heat will help those barrels respire and actually generate some extra flavor,” he explains. “Barrels are living and breathing things and having that heat will help them respire and we will utilize several seasons of having those things expand and contract and add a lot of character to what we are putting in those barrels.”

Ingersoll steps outside and describes the ornate glass doors and windows that will adorn the corner of the building. He says he is still somewhat dumbfounded to be the first local whiskey producer in the city.

“There is some debate as to whether we are the first distillery here since prohibition,” he says with a laugh. “But we do believe that if there was a distillery here in Chatham County post prohibition… well, we will be the first legal distillery since prohibition. We won’t be making moonshine. Everything we make and sell will be taxed paid.”

And locally produced using local ingredients and influences.

“With our flavored vodka we are finding a particular flavor that we can bring forth from some of the history of Savannah,” he says. “And we will have a flavored whiskey that will have a flavor that ties to the historic significance or agricultural significance of Georgia.”

Tony Bagnulo is head of marketing and sales for Ghost Coast Distillery and says everything they plan on developing will be tied to the community.

“The city has a long history associated with spirits and is very enthusiastic of their spirits and having a good time and we are embracing that and bringing that to life in our distillery,” he says.

“There is a lot of American history associated with whiskey, rum and a number of other

DID YOU KNOW? When James Oglethorpe first arrived to colonize Georgia the first three formal laws he enacted in 1734 were: NO SLAVES: Oglethorpe believed slavery would create an idle upper class and would create a potential for violent uprisings.

Despite protest from the colonists who thought that slaves were essential for the cultivation of Georgia, the ban was upheld until 1750.

NO LIQUOR: Oglethorpe tried to curb strong spirits like whiskey, rum and brandy but allowed ale, beer and wine.

NO LAWYERS: Lawyers were also banned from 1733 to 1755. Oglethorpe and the trustees didn’t trust lawyers and believed each colonist was capable of pleading his own case. spirits,” Ingersoll adds. “And being a coastal city… a port city… a lot of that originated here as it was going through the supply chain to the rest of the country.”

Alcohol was illegal in Georgia from 1908 to 1935. This ban was two years before the prohibition era nationwide and lasted two years longer than prohibition ended. However that didn’t stop the residents of Savannah from enjoying their libations.

Many took to making moonshine. Others helped traffic illegal hooch as it entered Tybee Island from the Bahamas and other port towns.

It is rumored that even President Howard Taft visited Savannah in 1909. Despite the alcohol ban he indulged in an alcoholic beverage with the locals.

Ingersoll says this rich history is what drives him to see this project to fruition. He adds the company name pays homage to the connection that the residents have to their city, its history and its folklore.

“There is a spiritual tradition here and we thought it made a lot of sense… and it’s fun,” he says.

For fun and interesting trivia visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/ ghostcoastdistillery/?fref=ts Visit their website at: http://www.ghostcoastdistillery.com/. p

Something to smile about.

N E W PAT I E N T S P E C I A L

$25 Off

Your First Visit Family. Friendly. Neighbors.

Discount applies only to fees not covered by insurance. No refunds will be given for credit balances resulting from use of this coupon. May not be combined with other discounts/promotions. Must be presented at first visit.

Thomas A. Cade, DDS & James Kellner, DDS ƑŏŀB :åĹåų±Ĭ ÏųåƴåĹ ±Ƽ Î BĜĹåŸƴĜĬĬåØ :e ƑŏƑŏƑ

ŠŀŏƗš ƑƆîěƆîîŏ Î HowardFamilyDental.com HFD88

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

19

Plantation on the Verge of Disappearing story by PATTY LEON /// photography by GEOFF L. JOHNSON

It was eerily quiet as we walked along the trail that meanders through the marsh and swamp. The early morning fog formed a cloudy mist rising and wrapped itself around the cypress trees. The trailhead, covered in leaves, crunched under our steps. Suddenly from above a loud swooshing sound drifted across the treetops. Something, rather large, flew overhead casting a brief shadow across the sky as it moved from west to east toward the edge of the swamp.

O

n the opposite end of the cypress and oak covered trail, a garden emerges.

The grass that encompasses the square is neatly cut while the center shows sign of wild growth between the fruit trees, plants and flowers.

Beyond the garden wall, bricks outlining the foundation of what used to be a grand manor pokes above the ground. The fog rolls across the land and for a fleeting instance, the plantation is clearly visible. There in the fog, people working feverishly cultivating rice and cotton. And the grand garden is vibrant and alive. Just as sudden, the fog lifts and the hauntingly beautiful image — gone.

A wood stork glides across the sky making its way toward the woods and swamp. The loud swooshing sounds of its wings in flight indicate

this was the same sound we heard earlier before.

The bird, the only true native stork of North America, soon lands next to a few of his fellow species. Wading in the low tide of the swamp water, they drink and feed.

The bird and the land it chose for a brief reprieve of flight, share a common bond beyond their enchanting beauty. Both are threatened with imminent extinction if not carefully monitored and cared for.

Luckily, the wood stork has seen its number increase due to conservation efforts of the past few years.

However the same can’t be said for the grand trail and gardens of the LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation in Liberty County.

The land once owned and cultivated by a prominent family is just one reason it deserves saving and preserving. The plantation, listed in the National Register of Historical Places is

significant not only in the county but across the nation.

At one time LeConte-Woodmanston was a thriving rice producing plantation, encompassing 3,354 acres that was acquired by John Eatton LeConte, an American naturalist, in 1787.

The estate was eventually passed on to his two sons Louis and John Eatton LeConte Jr. But it was Louis LeConte who permanently operated and lived with his wife and kids on the plantation. His brother would often visit as part of his studies. Both men were renowned naturalists and are credited with the study of Georgia fauna due in part to Louis LeConte’s botanical garden.

LeConte nurtured his garden, especially after the death of his wife. It was the epicenter of his being on the plantation.

He also carried on the production of rice and cotton started by his father and assisted by roughly 200 slaves. Louis LeConte fathered

ABOVE Leaves and debris from recent thunder storms cover the mini wooden bridge that leads into the rice dikes.

22

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

seven children, six which survived to adulthood.

All became notable naturalists, scientists and physicians within Liberty County, the state and across the west from the Smokey Mountains to California. It was his two sons John and Joseph LeConte who gained national recognition for their scientific studies and contributions.

John and Joseph LeConte graduated from the University of Georgia. Both men were notable physicians and scientists publishing articles on chemistry, physics, botany and natural history.

Both men ended up in California founding what is now the University of California — Berkley.

Joseph LeConte was the founder of the Sierra Club and was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 1875. John LeConte was elected as well in 1878.

And both men, through historical accounts,

treasured their childhood on the plantation running through the woods, swimming in the swamps and playing in the fields.

Nearly a century later the property was owned by a timber company. Recognizing the need to preserve the historical significance of LeConte’s beloved land, the timber company deeded 63.8 acres, the portion thought to have housed the plantation home and gardens, to the Garden Club of Georgia in 1977.

They formed the LeConte-Woodmanston Trustees with the intention of reconstructing the original botanical garden and creating exhibits showcasing what life on a working rice plantation was like during the 1700-1800s.

The original trustees did a lot of work throughout the years in keeping LeConte-Woodmanston functional and operational.

With the assistance of archaeological groups and scientists, grants and community donations, they recreated some of the rice dikes and botanical garden.

But whether due to a down economy, lack of interest, lack of funding or all of the above, some plantation projects didn’t get finished and some fell to neglect.

In 2007, Mary Beth Evans, then president of Master Gardeners in Liberty County, came in and served as a liaison between Master Gardeners and the newly formed LeConte-Woodmanston Foundation.

Together they worked on bringing life back to the botanical gardens. They started cultivating nearly 300 species of camellias, just as Louis LeConte did a century earlier. They worked on revitalizing the rice dikes and creating the

LEFT Pathways lead to the area that was once rice dikes. During its heyday the rice dikes beyond this trail would be a wide, open field that would be flooded as needed to cultivate the rice.

TOP RIGHT Other sections of the trail lead you deeper into the Bull Town Swamp.

BOTTOM RIGHT The trail ends at flood gate pond. Tree limbs and

weeds need to be cleared but the benches provide a quaint area to bird watch.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

23

bridges, walkways and trails that led into the rice fields and Bull Town Swamp. They reconstructed a slave cabin and mapped out an area marking the foundation of what could have been one of the plantation homes that sat on the land.

They built a pavilion to host events and welcome visitors and set up picnic tables and seating throughout the front entrance.

The foundation also partnered with Jim and Pat Bacote, founders of the nearby Geechee Kunda Cultural Arts Center and Museum.

With the assistance of the Bacote’s, the LeConte foundation announced its intention to create a slave memorial. The Slave Walk was to present a complete picture of the plantation story and the era of enslavement as well as the rich cultural heritage of the first African Americans in the area.

In 2008 Evans was appointed executive vice

president of the LeConte-Woodmanston Foundation. One day while sorting through stacks of papers she found at the office, she came across some interesting documents.

“There was one paper that showed the names and the value of Louis LeConte’s slaves at the time that he died,” she recalls. “And when you see people being valued at $10… it really hit me hard. It is one of the few places left where people can still go out there and walk on the dikes…and right now it’s where you can see a lot of the cypress growing… but it was the slave story that I fell in love with.”

Evans says it furthered her cause in getting the Slave Walk completed. Students from the Savannah College of Arts and Design came out to help with the project. Donations came in to begin the purchase of the pavers.

Funds were coming in allowing for the re-

vitalization of the walkways and trails. The movement also brought attention to the fact the LeConte-Woodmanston was rich in diversified wildlife and ecology. Soon LeConte-Woodmanston was part of the Coastal Georgia Greenway as well as part of the Historic Liberty Trail, East Coast Camellia Trail and the Coastal Georgia Birding Trail.

Then everything came to a grinding halt.

By the mid to end of 2009 the toll of the recession meant less funding and more cut backs. Operational hours were slashed, projects stopped and funding dropped.

With less money coming in, staffers were unable to keep up with the maintenance. Volunteers lessened while the tasks mounted.

By September 2010 the wrought iron gates were locked and LeConte was open by appointment only.

LEFT An ivy covered trellis and brick pavers lead into what was once the grand botanical garden at LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation. Several varieties of camellia, fruit trees and plants are in need of care at the current garden.

RIGHT One of the projects finished by the LeConte Foundation Trustees

was the replica construction of the slave quarters.

24

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

To make matters worse, Evans tendered her resignation as she was unable to keep up with the demands of each task while also finding time to stay devoted to her family.

“My heart is still with LeConte,” she says during a phone conversation. She admits she misses the opportunity to meet new people and talk about LeConte’s rich history.

Today the gates remain closed. There may be a few times you can find them open as someone tends to cutting the grass around the garden.

But the meticulous task of pruning the apple trees or pulling the weeds around the few remaining camellias and plants is left undone.

On this day the gate is open and we walk toward the nature trails. While not completely overgrown the trail needs some tending. One of the walkways leading to the dike is impassable.

A massive oak has tumbled down blocking the passage. The rice fields and dikes are somewhat engulfed by the cypress trees and weeds.

Spiders flourish and the morning dew glistens off their web. The trail guides are barely legible, making it difficult to identify the local flora and fauna before you. Some of the signs show evidence of vandalism, others are just worn from the weather.

However, if you close your eyes and just be still you can picture the former grandeur of the rice fields and garden.

“You have to imagine that this was completely open… no trees… it was cleared like farmland,” John Ryon says as he talks about his recollection of the rice field and dikes during a phone call.

Ryon is the Chief Financial Officer of the LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation Foundation.

For years Ryon also worked passionately at preserving the plantation and its land. He worked countless hours on research, devoted a lot of his time in giving tours and helping maintain the grounds.

He fought tirelessly for funding and grants,

as did all the officers of the foundation.

He says his research taught him many interesting things about the time period. For example he learned the rice fields were set up as squares.

He adds that the land sits on the Bull Town Swamp and the LeConte’s employed a method of flooding their rice fields, which was unique from the other local rice plantations.

“The water at this plantation, back in the early 1800s when it was functioning, is what they called a gravity fed system,” Ryon says. “It wasn’t tidal fed like the one in Darien. So you had to have a source of water and the Bull Town Swamp was the source. You would open the gates and let the water into the fields… then you open the other gates on the other end to let the water out… the water didn’t stay in there all the time...the rice doesn’t grow in the water it grows in the moist soil. So you had to keep it moist.”

Evans adds that people didn’t realize the

ABOVE Inside, the slave cabins depicts how the families lived, slept and kept warm with a fire place during the colder winter nights.

26

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Get away this summer...

We want to help!

We offer installment loans from

$333 to $1,516* Contact us today at (912) 368-3730 to discuss a loan for you.

We Do Taxes | Hablamos Español

319 W General Screven Way, Ste E Hinesville, GA 31313-3065 www.security-finance.com *All loans are subject to credit limitations and our underwriting policies. Actual loan proceeds may vary based upon loan terms and any ancillary products selected. Dollar amounts are rounded to the lowest whole dollar and are subject to change.

Military Lending Act Notice: Due to changes in the Military Lending Act regulations, we regret that we are no longer able to make loans to members of the Armed Forces serving on active duty or active Guard or Reserve duty or the Spouse or Dependent of such a person. If this applies to you, please disregard this offer. We support and are grateful for the service and sacrifice of all service members.

New Life

Individual, Marital, and Family Therapy Support of Military and their Families Substance Abuse Services Support Groups Parenting & Divorce Seminars Critical Incident Stress Response Risk Reduction Program (DUI School) Clergy & Church Support

Fraser FFra se err Counseling Counseling i g Center Cente e r enter A Division of the Mary r Lou Fr F aser Found F ation for o FFamilies es

203 Mary Lou Drive • Hinesville

912.369.7777

www.frasercenter.com Like us on Facebook

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

27

significance of the gates.

“A lot of people had heard about flood gate pond and they would come down there and fish every year,” she says. “But they didn’t really know the significance of it.

She says the first generation of freed slaves didn’t talk much about what they went through.

“So the oral history never really got passed down… and we were reintroducing people to the history there.”

Ryon says it was the African slaves that taught the plantation owners the articulate techniques of flooding the fields and cultivating the rice. And there was a lot of value in their knowledge.

“It was where most of the rice in the country at that time was being produced,” he says. “And it played a big part of the local economy.”

Ryon explains how the entire coast of Georgia and possibly parts of the North Florida and South Carolina coast was known as the rice bowl.

Evans and Ryon say there are still direct descendants of the LeConte family as well as descendants of their slaves that visit the site for reunions. Some of the local descendants meet

DID YOU KNOW? LeConte-Woodmanston Plantation is located on Barrington Ferry Road. Did you know that this road was established

by James Oglethorpe?

John Ryon says that the road would take people down to the Barrington Ferry which would then take people across the Altamaha River to Fort Barrington.

“That was supposed to be one of the out posts for early warnings if the Spanish or somebody was coming up that way or served as a barrier for the Indians,” Ryon says about the fort. “That road was what they call a post road…much like the post office…the post road is where they carried the messages…it was an official road to carry messages on…it went from Savannah to the Barrington Ferry.” each year. The rest not as often.

Some of the local descendants still come to fish at the Bull Town Swamp, as their families have done for generations.

The waters are loaded with catfish and mudfish as well as a few predators.

During our recent morning exploration, three baby gators swam near flood gate pond.

Upon hearing our footsteps the wood storks flew off, their swooshing wings creating a melody just one chorus note above that of the chirping birds. In the distance, a woodpecker could be heard diligently at work.

Ryon admits he hasn’t had a chance to go out there lately, but much like Evans he hopes the plantation will get the necessary attention and funds it deserves.

“We need a lot of things,” he says, noting the garden needs work, the organization needs a better web-site, the trailhead needs to be improved and the rice dikes restored.

Only time will tell if LeConte-Woodmanston will flourish or become a foggy memory and lost to the past. ¶ Donations may be sent to: LeConte-Woodmanston Foundation, Inc. P.O. Box 179, Midway, GA 31320 For information and appointments call: 912-884-6500

TOP A wood stork seeks refuge at flood gate pond. The waters at flood gate pond are loaded with catfish and mudfish.

BOTTOM Three baby gators swim near

flood gate pond. Spiders flourish in the gardens and the morning dew glistens off their web.

28

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

You asked for it...

You got it!

The New

& Improved

TV and Entertainment Guide

BEYOND BASIC

TV

SING, INC. BEST CARE NURScreven Way 229-E West General Hinesville, Georgia 31313

Phone: (912) 368-5477

Email: bestcare@coastalnow.net

BEST CARE for...

Companion Personal Care Aides Homemakers Appointment Escorts

VA, Private pay amd Most Insuranc

“Call Us”

2 x 2.5” ad

e Plans Accepted

2 x 2.5” ad

A Southern Boys Co. LLC

Whether you are preparing for the construction of a new building or looking for meticulous maintenance, A Southern Boys Co. LLC is ready to lend hand.

May 29 - June 4, 2016

COMMERCIAL LAWNCARE- RESIDENTIAL AND LICENSED AND INSURED

2 x 2.5” ad

ASOUTHERNBOYSCO.COM • 912-432-4055

'The Dresser' r," Anthony Hopkins stars in "The Dresse which premieres Monday on Starz.

Ask about our Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data Plans SWITCH TO CRICKET AND GET A $50 BILL CREDIT * Excludes AT& T

912-320-4147

229 W General Screven Way Hinesville, GA 31313

Suite J

www.cricketwireless.com

2 x 2.5” ad

TO PLACE AN AD,

CALL 876-0156

L

• Local Listing • Entertainment News • Sports Listing • Crossword Puzzle • Sudoku • Word Search

Get Your Business Seen!

TO PLACE AN AD

6 x 2” ad

h lp you navigate

Call 876-0156

TO SUBSCRIBE NOW, CALL 876-2566

Is it easy for your customers to find you online?

WE CAN HELP!

Let us give you a free online visibility report!

Call today for your free report!

(912) 876 - 0156

We offer many digital products and services to help your business online!

• social media management • search engine optimization • reputation management • local business listings • geotargeted ads • site and search retargeting • mobile websites • responsive websites • and MUCH MORE!

A Quilting Queen All in Stitches story by TIFFANY KING /// photography by LAWRENCE DORSEY

Dewayne Stewart has been called a quilting queen, who makes more quilts than Martha Stewart. I don’t know about Martha Stewart, but Ms. Stewart has made over 300 quilts since 1951 — quilted all by hand.

She is 83 years old and doesn’t see herself stopping anytime soon. Quilting is her passion and she enjoys every minute of it.

ABOVE Ms. Stewart sits in her quiet home filled with quilts, family photos and precious memories.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

31

32

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

S

tewart was born and raised in Sprott, Alabama, with two sisters and two brothers, and was exposed to quilting at an early age.

“I went with my mother to quilting bees when I was a child,” Ms. Stewart said. “They would always meet at someone’s house and the ladies would get together, the children would play.

They could quilt out a quilt in a couple of days.”

Ms. Stewart married at 18 and she has two children, Cynthia Stewart and Ben Stewart, who inherited their mother’s creative ability. Cynthia paints and does stained glass art, while Ben is talented in woodworking.

Their mother started quilting after getting married and her first quilt was for her son with a bow-tie pattern, made out of feed sacks.

“At that time they were putting all kinds of feed — chicken feed, hog fee — everything in printed sacks. Even flour came in printed sacks.

They were very pretty. We used them for making clothes and that’s what I used to make my first

quilt,” Ms. Stewart said.

The first one she made with the sacks, she didn’t quilt herself. Ms. Stewart made the appliquéd, also called the top, and it was quilted by a dear lady who did her mother-in-law’s laundry.

After that she started to make her own quilts.

Her husband was in the Army and they travelled extensively together. She didn’t quilt a lot during those early those years, but picked it back up around 1973 and revved up in the 80s.

Ms. Stewart quilts every day. She gets up at 6 a.m. and quilts until 7:30 a.m. She then starts the day’s work and ends her nights quilting. Ms. Stewart has a schedule that she follows during the week which includes playing canasta, rummy cue and meeting up with the Red Hat Club.

Ms. Stewart likes to have two or three quilts going at the same time to get rid of the boredom.

Quilts have three main components: the appliquéd piece on the top layer, batting in the middle, and backing.

Quilting is the stitching that holds the three layers of the quilt together while forming a dec-

orative design on the back that mirrors the top.

Quilting can be done either by hand or machine.

Hand quilting is done using a quilting hoop or frame, using quilting thread and special needles called “betweens.” One hand stitches while the other is under the quilt to grab the needle through the top, batting and out the backing.

Hand quilting creates a dotted line while machine quilting creates a straighter, finer line.

Handmade quilts seem softer to the touch and more dimensional.

“It’s just something I enjoy doing. It’s almost a lost art. People still make quilts but they have a machine to make it. I still do mine by hand.

That’s just what I enjoy doing because to me the machine quilting is beautiful but you do away with the heirloom quality. There’s something special to doing something by hand,” she said.

“Every time I start a new pattern, I’m really excited about it. It’s my pastime.”

Ms. Stewart cuts out the pieces for the appliquéd, which can take a long time depending on the pattern, and sews them together on a sec-

ABOVE One of Ms. Stewart’s quilts, featuring the log cabin block pattern and picturesque scenes of a church, lay on a bed in her home.

She makes up the bed and takes a photo of each completed quilt to document what she made.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

33

ond-hand sewing machine she paid $25 for in Germany around 1968. Once her pattern is sewn together, she spreads out the three layers on the floor and pins them together to remain still while quilting. She has her own workroom with storage cabinets full of fabrics, boxes of scraps and pattern books.

She quilts on a frame purchased from WalMart in the early 80s for $12.95.

“I think it’s really been worth it,” she said about the frame while laughing. “Years ago they hung frames from the ceiling in a room and at night they could roll them up to be out of the way. I didn’t have a place for anything like that.

So this works just fine for me.”

Some of Ms. Stewart’s quilts are displayed on a frame in her living room that resembles a ladder. It was once her husband’s grandmother’s quilting frame. Stewart’s son, repurposed the frame as a display. At the top is a very special quilt, created for her husband by his grandmother.

Ms. Stewart keeps special, sentimental objects

like that in her home, along with a ton of family photos. She said her home isn’t fancy but recognizes that she’s rich in more important ways.

Ms. Stewart has given quilts away as wedding gifts and presents for friends. Her son in particular greatly benefitted from her quilting skills.

She sold quilts to Unicoi State Park in Georgia to help pay for her son’s college education.

“When my son started college in 1988 in Atlanta, we went to Unicoi State Park just to see the place. We went in the lodge to eat and these quilts were hanging there. Then I said that quilt looks just like a quilt I quilted for a lady in Savannah,” she recalled. The woman bought the tops and paid Stewart to quilt them.

Ms. Stewart couldn’t believe it was at the park, but the more she looked, the more she was certain it was her work.

“I always put my initials and date in the corner of them. I went and looked and there it was,” she said. “So I went and talked with the manager of the place. I said, ‘I did that quilt. Would you buy them from me if I made them?’”

LEFT Ms. Stewart has about 60 quilts in her home that she stores in various closets and drawers.

Ms. Stewart made a couple of quilts and took them to the park. The manager was very impressed and agreed to buy all the quilts she could make, which was about 100.

Besides Unicoi, Ms. Stewart’s quilts have been displayed at craft shows and were the focus of her own quilt show in October 2011 at Celebration Castle. There were about 50 quilts on tables and hung in front of the windows. The hanging quilts looked like stained glass with the sun shining through the windows, and each quilt had a name and background story.

There are thousands of patterns in the world of quilting. Each state has its own pattern and her husband’s favorite was the Lone Star pattern for Texas. Designs can get intricate when different patterns are combined and Ms. Stewart has matched many patterns together over the years, such as Grandmother’s Fan and Jacob’s Laddder to create unique pieces. Other patterns she’s worked with include string of beads, which has a delicate look, double wedding rings and log cabin.

RIGHT Ms. Stewart considers her quilting

frame and sewing machine well-worth purchases that have aided her in making hundreds of quilts.

34

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Turn your house into a

Sawgrass

Evelyn

Vintage

Homestead

104 Sandy Run Drive Hinesville, GA 912-368-9229 (Behind Enmark Highway 84)

Monday - Friday 9AM to 7PM • Saturday 9AM to 6PM • Sunday 12PM to 5PM • www.badcock.com

“I can talk all day about my quilts. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working on it. I love quilts. I have found when I’m talking to people about quilts, they say, ‘My grandmother made me one and I still have it,’” she said.

Quilts can last for a long time if properly cared for. Ms. Stewart advises washing a quilt in cold water, on a gentle cycle, then hanging it outside to dry to avoid wrinkles. Her fabrics are not expensive because “if you take care of quilts they will last a lifetime.”

Scraps are never just scraps for Ms. Stewart either. She feels she can never throw any scraps away because it can be used for another appliquéd. The First Baptist Church in Hinesville has a sewing group that makes dresses to send overseas, Ms. Stewart said. They give her their scraps and Ms. Stewart is excited to show them the completed work.

HER SECRET GARDEN AND TRAVELS M. Stewart has another passion — gardening. During her many travels with her husband and daughter, she has brought home seed pods and flowers to plant in her garden. While visiting Colorado she took a seed pod that she later realized was mullein, also known as cowboy

toilet paper. Her sunroom is called “The Cactus Room” because it is filled with different cacti of unique shapes and colors with flowers.

“I have a little garden in the yard. In the springtime I have broccoli, cucumbers, squash, green bean, tomatoes and kale,” she said. “When I pull that up I’ve got peas and okra now. When I pull those up, I’ll have turnips and collards. We had a big garden when my husband was living.”

Ms. Stewart collected rocks on her travels that are also incorporated into her garden. She has rocks from Lake Superior and all parts of the country. She and her husband learned about polishing rocks while on a trip and when they came home they purchased a polishing machine. Her polished rocks can be found in the Cactus Room and all over her garden.

When Ms. Stewart’s schedule is clear after her quilting session, she can be found outside tending to her garden or walking along the edge of the woods with her camera.

“There’s always something to do outside. It’s either my flowers or cutting the grass. I trim all my shrubbery. There’s always something to do around here,” she said. “When we had the big garden, I loved canning and freezing all that kind of stuff — things that people don’t do much

anymore.”

An assortment of mugs hanging on her kitchen wall also chronicles her travels to every state in the Union except for Rhode Island and Delaware.

“I grew up on a farm in Alabama. I was born at the end of the depression, we had absolutely nothing. But people of my age are familiar with that. But to have the opportunity to travel and do the things that I have been able to do, I’m so grateful,” she said.

Ms. Stewart found a slip of paper one time that read, “He who has never travelled has only read one chapter of the book.” That became her philosophy.

“This is a beautiful country we live in,” she said. “People need to travel and see it more.”

Everyday Ms. Stewart is grateful for what she has — family, precious memories of her husband of 57 years, gardening, her love for quilting and more. She is happy with her life and called it a great ride.

What’s next for Ms. Stewart? In November, she will travel to North Carolina with her daughter to participate in another craft show and of course — more quilting. p

ABOVE Ms. Stewart stands under a lattice archway in her beautiful garden, which is filled with plants and rocks collected while traveling with family.

36

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

It’s Your Life. It’s Your

COMMUNITY The Coastal Courier We cover the issues that matter to the people of Liberty County and Ft. Stewart.

If it’s happening at city hall, in the schools, on your streets or in your neighborhood you’ll find out more about it in the pages of Coastal Courier and Liberty Life and online at CoastalCourier.com.

Need to know which Liberty County businesses offer the best deals and values? You’ll find more local advertising with us than with any other media company in the region.

Subscribe today for only $39 and enjoy 13 months of • Home delivery of the Coastal Courier on Sunday and Wednesday • Unlimited access to all content at CoastalCourier.com – voted best newspaper website in Georgia 5 years running • 6 issues of Liberty Life, our beautiful, award-winning, community magazine

New Subscribers Only Extra Bonus: First Month FREE

Call 876-2566

Get Your News.

Serving Liberty County and Coastal Georgia since 1871

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

37

Reach your customers on their PHONE with SMS Text Messaging!

CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

912.876.0156

story by KRYSTAL HART /// photography by JOANNA NG

“Girl “Gi ““G Girl G irl rl P Po Power Pow Power!” wer!” we er!” r! is is a an n anthe ant a an anthem nth n tth hem hem em th tha tthat ha att h has a ass b bee be been eeen een n cchee cheered hee h eeer ered re red sin siiince since in nce th n th the hee 18 11800s 180 80 80 00s 00 0ss in 0 i the U.S. Just fearless fought our rights during Women’s Rights Jusst Ju J st like ike ike k the tth hee fe f arle fearle fea arrlleess ssss women wome wome men n who wh w hoo ffough h fo ought ught gh htt for ffoorr oou u urr rig rri ig ghts gh g hts ht ts du dur d urrin ur riing ring ing ng th tthe hee W h Wom om Movement, Move M ov oveeme ement m ntt Liberty me ment, Lib L berty ber errty rty ty County Cou Cou Co ount un un nty ty has ty ha has as some sso som ome om me strong stttro rong ong ng women wom w woom omeen omen n who who are w are re working woorkkin workin work w king ki in ng g to keep girls empowered during modern times. I had the opportunity to meet with leaders of five community organizations that empower teenage girls to carry the torch.

Keep reading to find out who they are and what they had to say.

40

Talented and Educated Leading Ladies T.E.L.L. mentoring program for girls ages 10-19 envisions a community in which every youth experiences nurturing, one-to-one relationships and community support that provides them an opportunity to grow into community leaders.

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Talented and Educated Leading Ladies

T

alented and Educated Leading Ladies, also known as T.E.L.L., is an enrichment project for young ladies who want to become community leaders. T.E.L.L. was officially established in 2013, under the partnership of Georgia Coastal Youth, Inc., and now has its own incorporation which was granted in 2015.

The program is open to girls ages 10-19. An application and assessment is required to be filled out by parents to identify areas of strength and weakness that need to be targeted and developed. The annual membership fee of $35 purchases the T.E.L.L. attire and curriculum.

Currently, 10 girls are enrolled and four have submitted applications for this session.

Founder Shawntell Greene has been serving young ladies in the Liberty since 2011, educating them to make positive life choices that will enable them to maximize their personal potential. Her goal is to nurture girls that will grow into leading ladies using their talent and education.

What made you create the organization?

Having a heart for our youth, in particular our teen girls, I saw the need. With the daily issues they face, I decided to create an organi-

zation that helps develop our young ladies into great young leaders in our community.

What makes your organization a special place for teen girls?

We are a safe haven where teen girls can come and talk openly about the issues they face.

Whether in school, at home or from premature relationships, it is our intent to not only create an open atmosphere but a “No Judgment Zone,� where girls feel free to talk about any and every thing. We also empower our young ladies with tools and resources by way of workshops, seminars and college trips.

What has been your favorite memory while serving in the organization?

Our very first Leading Ladies banquet was extremely memorable. It is an annual event where our girls are on display to showcase all they learn in our program for the entire year. At the banquet our young ladies also honor some revered Leading Ladies in our community that have been great examples for all women.

What programs do you offer and what issues do they address?

Our program provides activities and workshops dealing with crises young ladies deal with. One training we offer is W.A.I.T. Training

which stands for Why Am I Tempted? training.

It is instructed by mentor Michele Washington.

This training brings awareness of sexuality and how to deal with sexual temptations. We also offer our Just Dance program instructed by mentor Allison McDaniel. It is a performing arts program to uplift, inspire and encourage young ladies to express themselves through the art of dance and drama. Mentors Janice Hill, Wanda Washington and Wanda Rhodes-Wright also faithfully volunteer with the organization.

What is the biggest problem you see threatening our girls?

In a nutshell, most teen girls suffer from low self-esteem, which causes all types of issues to form resulting in increased suicide rates and teen addiction. It may also lead to promiscuity which causes increased rates of teen pregnancy and STDs including HIV/AIDS. Empowering mentor groups that embrace our girls at a tender age can certainly divert those feelings of lowness and promote positive self-esteem that uplifts our girls.

For more information, visit www. tellleadingladies.org or call 404-805-7353.

T.E.L.L. is also on Facebook and Instagram @ TELLofLibertyCounty.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

41

Girl Scouts of the USA Girl Scouts has been part of the Liberty County community for more than 70 years. The program teaches young girls to try something new so they can discover more, dream bigger and change the world.

Girl Scouts of the USA

G

irl Scouts work to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. This mission applies to girls of all races, religions, national origins, economic backgrounds and varying abilities. Girl Scouts has been part of Liberty County for more than 70 years, with approximately 30 troops. The Girl Scouts of Fort Stewart, Liberty County and Long County, also known as the Sycamore Service Unit, has approximately 380 registered girls and adults.

A Girl Scout must be in kindergarten through 12th grade to join one of the six Girl Scout levels.

Registration is $15 for one year. Members of Amerigroup, WellCare or Peach State health plans, receive free Girl Scout memberships and a voucher to spend in the local Girl Scout shop toward uniform components, handbooks or badges. Adults, female and male, who are 18 years and older may volunteer in various capacities Led by Mea L. Wilson, the local Girl Scouts prides itself in providing young girls leadership experience to discover themselves and their values. They use their knowledge and skills to explore the world, connect with other girls

locally and globally, and take action to make the world a better place.

How long have you been part of the Girl Scouts?

I have been a member of Girl Scouts in Liberty County for 28 years, serving in many capacities. I have three girls in Girl Scouts. I started Girl Scouts because of my mother, Millie L. Wilson, being my role model and making everything she was doing as a leader so much fun and exciting. The way she worked with other girls really gave me the desire to become a Girl Scout at 5 years old. I eventually earned my Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest award in Girl Scouts, equivalent to the Boy Scout Eagle Award.

What makes your program special?

Our program centers on the Girl Scout Leadership Experience — a collection of activities and experiences you’ll have as you earn badges selling cookies; participating in virtual skill building sports clinics, community service projects, cultural exchanges and STEM programs; going on exciting trips to explore the outdoors; doing Take Action projects; practicing environmental stewardship and more.

How is Girl Scouts impacting the community?

Girl Scouts impacts the community by encouraging and providing an avenue for youth to engage in positive community events. The girls identify problems within their community then brainstorm solutions that can make a change locally. They then present the issues they have identified and their proposed solution to our community leaders. Together we work as a community to solve the problems.

What is the biggest issue threatening your organization?

The biggest problem threatening Girl Scouts today is our culture. As a society, the values that were once held strong have diminished over the years.

What do you want the community to know about Girl Scouts?

Girl Scouts of the USA is diligently working to find sponsors for girls and adults that can’t pay the yearly registration fee. Any organization willing to sponsor a girl or adult can contact the local scout office.

For questions and information concerning Girl Scouts locally, email girlscouts_mea@yahoo. com.

Located right outside the main gate of Ft. Stewart

$0 DOWN • 90 DAYS SAME AS CASH!

We’ve got what you Want & for less than the big guys We finance through Simple Finance! Apply online on our website.

501 W GEN SCREVEN WAY # H HINESVILLE

WWW.HINESVILLEFURNITURE.COM • (912) 876-6580

OWNERS: JEFF MOBLEY & STEVE TROHA - 3RD GENERATION FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED -

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

43

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Delta G.E.M.S. mentoring program strives to teach young girls that they are beautiful and can accomplish anything they put their minds to. Using its successful program model, the Hinesville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta has been instrumental in the development of/other mentoring programs in the community through partnerships and collaboration.

44 LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE E /// OCTOBER NOVEMBER 2016

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

H

inesville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. was chartered on May 24, 1987. The organization immediately started mentoring young girls through the Del-teens Program for middle-school-aged girls.

In 2008, the chapter entrusted two members, Genese Baker-Lane and Petula Gomillion, to establish the Dr. Jeanne L. Nobles Delta G.E.M.S. (Growing & Empowering Myself Successfully) program in response to the changing needs of the community.

There were no mentoring programs locally focusing on the target population of teenage girls who had been nationally identified as at-risk.

During the inaugural year, 22 teens from Liberty and Long counties participated in the program. They have averaged 20-30 youth per year and served approximately 500 young ladies in Liberty, Long, Bryan and Wayne counties since 2008. Currently, members Gwendolyn Starr and Jameshia Patterson serve as co-chairs of the G.E.M.S. program. Sarah Stevens, chapter vice-president, serves as the risk management coordinator.

Young ladies ages 14-18 at a high-school in Liberty, Long, Bryan or Wayne counties are eligible. There is no cost to participate; however, there are some expenses for career and college preparatory tours. If a young lady is not financially

able to do an activity, sponsorship is provided.

Chapter President Petula Y. Gomillion has been a member of Delta Sigma Theta for 23 years and a member of the Hinesville Alumnae Chapter for 11 years. She supports the Delta G.E.M.S. program whole-heartedly and shared what the organization has done to keep the program going.

What are your program goals?

The Delta G.E.M.S. program was created to catch the dreams of African American at-risk girls ages 14-18. It provides the framework to actualize those dreams through the performance of specific tasks that develop a “can do� attitude.

The goals for Delta G.E.M.S. are to instill the need to excel academically; to provide tools that enable girls to sharpen and enhance their skills for academic success; to assist girls in proper goal setting and planning for their futures; and to create compassionate, caring and communityminded young women by actively involving them in service learning and community service opportunities.

What has been your greatest success story while serving in the organization?

Our greatest success is exposing these young ladies to career and college options. One of our first actions was to take the young ladies to local college fairs and expose them to college life and preparation. This initiative has grown into a yearly

overnight college tour in which we have partnered with other local organizations, such as Bradwell Institute Pearls, T.E.L.L., Baconton Missionary Baptist Church and Emmanuel Christian Church.

We are also proud to say that every young lady that has completed the Delta G.E.M.S. program has graduated from high-school and 85 percent have graduated from college.

What is the biggest problem you see threatening our girls?

Despite the progress of women in today’s society and the many opportunities that women are experiencing, our young ladies, especially African American girls, face gender biases, systematic racism, self-esteem/images distortion, social media/cyber bullying and they still lag in science and math.

What do you think is most important for people to know about your organization?

The Hinesville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has been a servant of the Hinesville, Ludowici, Richmond Hill, Pembroke and Jesup communities for 30 years.

We take pride in being an organization dedicated to serving the community through outreach programs, mentoring and providing scholarships.

Any interested young lady can download a Delta G.E.M.S. application at www.hinesvillealumnae. com or email gemshac@gmail.com.

Their first steps.

Their first car.

Their first day of college.

Your hometown banking team, left to right: Hinesville Branch Manager Danny Creasy, Mortgage OfďŹ cer Gerald Lee and City President James Rogers.

.O MATTER WHAT hlRSTv COMES NEXT IN your kids’ lives, I can help you be ready.

Ask me about auto loans, savings accounts, college savings and more.

Committed to Hinesville.

CALL ME TODAY. Joseph L Grant, Agent 101 W Oglethorpe Highway Hinesville, GA 31313 Bus: 912-368-0073 josephquotes.com M-F: 9:00 am - 5:30 pm After Hours Appts Welcomed!

Hablamos EspaĂąol

Experienced Bankers and Lending Experts Committed To Building Relationships That Last

Hinesville Location 101 West Hendry Street | 912.368.2265

amerisbank.com 1501151

6WDWH )DUP %ORRPLQJWRQ ,/

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

45

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Nu Rho Omega Chapter The ASCEND initiative focuses on achievement, self-awareness, communication, engagement, networking and developmental skills. Students in the program receive academic enrichment and life skills training to support their journey to college or vocational employment.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Nu Rho Omega Chapter

A

lpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. cultivates and encourages high scholastic and ethical standards, promotes unity and friendship among college women, alleviates problems concerning girls and women, maintains a progressive interest in college life and serves all mankind through a nucleus of more than 265,000 women. The Nu Rho Omega Chapter was chartered in Liberty County on December 13, 1980. One of its programs is the ASCEND Program, which stands for achievement, self-awareness, communication, engagement, networking and developmental skills. It provides an opportunity for students to receive academic enrichment and life training skills leading to meaningful employment and careers.

ASCEND focuses on providing assistance to girls in grades 9-12. All interested applicants must be enrolled in high-school, maintain a minimum 2.0 grade-point average, and submit a recent report card and letter of recommendation. There is no cost to participate.

Dwinda Wilson has been serving in the

organization for 42 years and Dr. Juanita V. Smith has been serving for 45 years. Currently, Wilson and Smith co-chair the program that includes 16 girls during this school year.

What made you become involved in the organization?

While attending college, we became inspired by the work that transpired through AKA on our campuses at Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, and Morris Brown College in Atlanta. As undergraduates, we joined the sorority to lend a hand in providing service to all mankind.

What has been your greatest success story while serving in the organization?

The greatest success story has been working collectively to implement the youth programs in the community and striving to provide assistance for girls to reach their maximum potential and achieve success for future endeavors.

What programs do you offer and what issues do they address?

We currently have five target areas that were implemented in 2014 and will run through

2018. The Educational Enrichment target area will engage in the sorority’s signature youth enrichment program ASCEND and promote the learning process by providing substantial support to students through the AKA One Million Backpacks initiative which will donate and distribute one million backpacks and related school supplies to students over the four-year period. We also support, the Think HBCU initiative to highlight Historically Black Colleges & Universities and their contribution to the sorority and society.

What do you want people reading this article to learn about your organization?

We hope that readers will focus on the fact that Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is 108 years old and the members have worked continuously for the past 36 years providing service to the local community. We also hope that readers will recognize that we will continue to volunteer and donate resources in thousands of communities around the world.

For more information on the ASCEND Program, visit www.nurhoomega.org or www. aka1908.com

The City of Riceboro is located on Historic Coastal Hwy 17 and is home to the Historic Baptismal Site, SNF, INC., Historic FAB - Crossroad, Lecounte-Woodmanston, Hampton Island, and the Geechee Kunda Arts Center & Museum.

The Oldest Existing Town in Liberty County, celebrating the “Annual Ricefest” every second Saturday in November and Gullah Geechee Culture.

For additional information, call (912) 884-2986.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

47

Zeta Phi Beta offers girls a foundation of sisterhood where they learn to understand and appreciate one another to achieve common goals. Photo provided.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Chi Pi Zeta Hinesville, Ga

T

he Chi Pi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was chartered in Hinesville on May 19, 2009 and accredited as a graduate chapter on July 11, 2009. Members include active duty soldiers, veterans, educators, mothers, wives, administrators, social workers and other leaders. These phenomenal women do not let their organization’s size deter them from accomplishing great things such as mentoring programs for young girls.

They offer the Pearlette Club for girls under the age of 9. The Amicette Club includes girls 9-13 years old who are willing to strive toward the high ideals of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and who demonstrate leadership potential. The Archonette Clubs includes girls ages 14 - 18 matriculating in middle-and high-schools who demonstrate an interest in the ideals of scholarship, sisterly love and community service. There is a cost to participate; however, the chapter hosts fundraisers to assist with costs. No one is excluded for inability to pay.

Chapter President Larita Dalton and Youth Advisor Johnnie Sledge point out that even though membership is small, their chapter uses

48

every opportunity to work with the girls and give back.

What programs do you offer and what issues do they address?

Our Archonettes youth auxiliary strives to raise the consciousness of area youth to help prepare them to become leaders in the community. The Amicette youth auxiliary encourages them to take responsibility, develop new interests and be aware of the need to share responsibilities and to understand one another to achieve common goals. The Pearlette youth auxiliary is designed for members to provide the girls an image to emulate in promoting the ideals of community service, friendliness and finer womanhood. The program is also designed to develop self-esteem, lasting friendships, cultural enhancement and camaraderie.

What made you offer these programs?

To provide a foundation for sisterhood, academic achievement, personal development and leadership, social consciousness, opportunities, aspirations, loyalty and friendship, values, accountability and commitment.

What has been your greatest success story while serving in the organization?

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

There are so many successes. Each one holds its value and cannot be measured. I’m happy that we are an organization that is willing to be change agents in the community and making an impact any way needed. We are visible, available and a resource that the community can depend on. One of our principles is service and that’s what our chapter is well known for.

What is the biggest problem you see threatening our girls?

Negative influences as well as not enough programs and activities designed for them within their own community. We need to focus on our youth and ensure that they know their importance and value.

What do you want people reading this article to learn about your organization?

We are a community-conscious, actionoriented organization working to set a standard and always looking to make a difference.

We will continue to be a positive and visible organization in the community, focusing on education, growth, awareness and development.

To participate in the Zeta Phi Beta youth programs, visit www.chipizeta.org or call the Youth Advisor Johnnie Sledge at 912-572-2995.

JOIN US FOR

Eleventh Annual

Rivers Alive

FIND THE RIGHT PLACE TO CALLHome Managing Apartments • Condos • Homes

Over 50 locations in Liberty County

Saturday, October 22nd 8:30am until 12:30pm Rivers Alive is a statewide waterway cleanup effort sponsored by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation. The mission of Rivers Alive is to create awareness of and involvement in the preservation of Georgia’s most precious resource — our waterways.

First 500 registered volunteers receive Rivers Alive T-Shirts.

Picnic lunch after events at Riceboro Creek.

Contact Keep Liberty Beautiful at 880-4888 or klcb@coastalnow.net www.keeplibertybeautiful.org

Are you happy with your

WEBSITE

PROVIDER?

THINK AGAIN Maybe a change would do you good.

We’ll give your business a fresh new look with a modern, mobile-friendly website.

Call today: (912) 876-0156

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

49

Sugar Cane Harvest Sweetens Culture, Community story and photography by CAITLIN KENNEY

The Geechee Kunda Sugar Cane Harvest Festival has for the last 11 years brought together the Coastal Georgia community for a day of unity, history, and cultural immersion.

T

he Geechee Kunda Cultural Arts Center and Museum is located at 622 Ways Temple Rd. in Riceboro and the heart of the site is a building complex that includes a museum and an open sitting area where performances can be conducted.

“My wife and I, we are both from Coastal Georgia. My grandparents actually lived right on this very land,” said Jim Bacote, program director, facilitator and caretaker for Geechee Kunda, as well as a keeper of the Gullah/Geechee culture. The land was “part of what was a 4,000 acre rice, cotton, and indigo plantation owned by the Joseph Jones family.”

Bacote’s great-great grandfather was an overseer on the plantation. “All sorts of terrible, terrible unthinkable things happened on this plantation,” he said.

“But also this plantation was a place where my grandfather became a labor negotiator to get better rights for the enslaved Africans. This

NOW BACK IN THE DAY, THIS WAS THE ONLY SWEETNESS, THIS WAS THE ONLY SUGAR THAT WE HAD. SO EVERYTHING BASICALLY COMES FROM THIS. YOU CAN SUBSTITUTE THIS FOR ALL SWEETS. SAME THING.” - Hosley Hall

was the land of the hanging tree, it was the land of the whipping post. But it was also the land of the resisters, it was the land of the runaways,” Bacote said.

“And since this was a land of many, many terrible things, we decided it would make an ideal place to be the greatest place for the healing of all of the wounds and injuries that was caused by the forced enslavement of African, not just African labor but African skills,” he said.

Now the land is a place of learning, research, and demonstrating the ways of the past, such as the sugar cane harvest. Bacote said that aside from their exhibits, performances, marketplace, “most importantly we’re most proud of that we have an ongoing research and documentation effort. And we have a good time.” He added that the center helps people from all over the world including the National Park Service and the State of Georgia.

“This is our mission. Initially we built Geechee Kunda, we said this is going to be a family, historical museum,” he said. “But be-

ABOVE A man feeds a stalk of sugar cane into a press to extract its juice. It will then be boiled into syrup.

52

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

CLOCKWISE Attendees of the sugar cane festival watch the different stages of the process that goes into making syrup. Jamal Toure, a historian, talks to attendees about Gullah/Geechee history. A sign welcomes visitors to Geechee Kunda. Members of the Geechee Gullah Ring Shouters before their performance at the festival.

A bottle of pure cane syrup on display.

A woman enjoys a piece of raw sugar cane.

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

53

fore long we had buses from the Smithsonian in Washington. And everything you see we did ourselves. It’s a story of self-sufficiency.”

The Gullah/Geechee culture is “what resulted from all of the different African influences in Georgia and in the Southeast US that evolved and became the Gullah/Geechee culture,” Bacote said.

The African roots of the culture includes language, spiritual ways, food, music, medicine, and survival arts like basketry, said Bacote.

The harvesting festival creates an immersive learning environment and also a history lesson on past generations about not only the process, but how their fathers and grandfathers grew and consumed the product.

The process starts with the manual grinding of the sugar through an old sugar cane press.

One person feeds the cane into the grinder while another pushes a wooden beam in a circle, CLOCKWISE

2016 GEECHEE KUNDA SUGAR CANE HARVEST FESTIVAL Saturday, Nov. 26 at 10 a.m.

The harvest will be grinding cane all day and cooking fresh cane syrup. It will be an all-day family-fun event with arts and crafts demonstrations, soap making, basket sewing, instrument making and herbal medicine displays.

Entertainment and education includes blues with Hosley Hall, jazz with Bernard Rose, Ring Shouters and storytellers.

operating the grinder.

As the cane is crushed, its juice is drained

Juice from the sugar cane stalk is cooked.

The audience listens to Hosley Hall talk about the sugar cane syrup process.

Hosley Hall skims the top of the cooking syrup.

54

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

into a pail and when that is full, the juice is poured into a stove where it is cooked for up to four hours.

“Every batch of syrup is different. It depends on the sugar content,” said Hosley Hall, a Walthourville farmer who was cooking and teaching about the syrup during the 2015 harvest. Hall also sells his own syrup locally.

The 50 gallon pot used for cooking the cane juice at the harvest will yield between eight to 12 gallons of syrup and could fill about 50 to 60 bottles, according to Bacote. With all the cane that they have, they will continue to make syrup even after the harvest’s visitors return home.

“I had a lot of customers from up north, they liked the maple so I have one that is like half maple and half pure,” Hall told the spectators watching him through the cooking process. He added that the product is one of his fastest selling.

The harvest is a community event where

catch up on what’s been happening and what’s going to happen next. Young people got to meet each other and marry each other… In a lot of instances, it was the first time in a year that you’ve seen everybody. So it’s something that we all looked forward to.”

Continuing the harvest tradition is important because it allows the community “to remember where we came from and to remember that, like hey we were proud,” said Bacote. “It’s a way of honoring, teaching about and remembering those who were before us. Those who made us possible. Those who taught us to survive, you know the perseverance, the resilience of this enduring culture. So it’s just a way of remembering that as a means of hope, as we forge forward for a still better day.”

“I want them to take away the sweetness of the sugar and I want them to feel good about themselves and about the human race,” Bacote said about his hopes for visitors to the festival.

“It shows, as you can see, it shows that we can all come together, we can have a good time, we can all be educated, we can all share things. So not only is this a harvest of cane, but this is the harvest of information and kindness and of goodwill.”¶

Financial Solutions for All Aspects of Life The mission of South Georgia Bank is to provide banking services that exceed the expectations of our customers, shareholders, and employees.

Full Service Community Bank Glennville 654-1051 • Claxton 739-0400 Reidsville 557-1051 • Hinesville 408-1051

NMLS# 66 NMLS# 6 4717 664717

neighbors and friends sit together, watch the cooking and ask questions about the process and canes used.

Hall said that he has been involved in sugar cane all his life and has been professionally cooking it for over 20 years.

“Now back in the day, this was the only sweetness, this was the only sugar that we had,” he said. “So everything basically comes from this. You can substitute this for all sweets. Same thing.”

The harvest carries on the tradition, said Bacote, “that after the enslavement, there were not any jobs and a lot of the former plantation owners who— they were mad at the Africans— so we had to rely on each other. We made it. We farmed, we shrimped, we fished, we trapped animals in the swamp and we survive. And a big part of our survival, there wasn’t money, we grew everything.”

The harvest was also a significant social occasion for the farmers.

“It was a day off. Everybody cut their cane and they brought it to one location and actually this was a location in the community right here where we are today that people would come,” he said. “And sometime the cane, the harvest, would go on for a week. It would be a time to

www.southgabank.com

vehicle

rv

boat

MOVING & STORAGE FREE 1st month’s rent Lube, Oil & Filter

1995

$

Plus Tax

(up to 5 qts. oil) No disposal fee.

Diesel & synthetic extra.

Not valid with any other offer.

With coupon. Expires 11/30/16

Alignment

Air Conditioning

20 OFF $10 OFF

$

Any Alignment Most cars and light trucks.

Cannot be combined with other offers.

With coupon. Expires 11/30/16

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1983!

Air Conditioning Tune Up With coupon. Some restrictions apply.

Cannot be combined with other offer.

Expires 11/30/16

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE AND SAVE $10!

Cannot be combined with other offers. With coupon.

837 Elma G Miles Pkwy Hinesville, GA 31313

www.LibertyTireAndBrake.com

(912) 876-4111

1146 E.G. Miles Parkway Hinesville, GA 912.408.7878 Mon-Fri: 8:30am-5:30pm | Sat: 8:30am-3pm www. AllAmericanStorageUhaul.com OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 /// LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE

55

Life is Sometimes Lemons

FEAR OF COCKROACHES

I

am deathly afraid of cockroaches. It doesn’t matter if it’s a tiny baby one or full sized monster. I recall growing up in South Florida cockroaches, or palmetto bugs as they are commonly known, were a nuisance most homes had to deal with. I can trace this fear of the nasty and fully winged adult creature back to when I was about 6 years old.

One of the perks of living in Miami as a child was that Walt Disney World was a mere four hour drive and, back then, quite affordable even for a family of four. School was out for the summer, dad had time off from work and mom had packed up the suitcases. The morning we were heading out mom woke us up around 5 a.m.

It was still dark outside and I was barely awake but dressed. Dad sat me down on his recliner as he went off to wake up my brother and pack up the car. Mom was busy washing last minute dishes and prepping snacks for the road trip.

Rocking back and forth, I soon drifted into a wondrous slumber filled with Disney visions. Thoughts of seeing Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck trickled through my brain.

Extremely ticklish, I woke up with the sensation of something tickling my ankle. My eyes fluttered open and I glanced down. The tickling moved from the back of my ankle to the front of my leg just at the base of the knee.

My eyes opened wider and I let out a blood curdling scream. For that brief instant anyone who heard me would swear I was being savagely harmed. I was paralyzed and could only watch as this massive cockroach crossed

56

by PATTY LEON

back down my leg to my ankle, only to turn and start to crawl back up towards my knee.

I couldn’t speak or move, petrified that this Godzilla-sized roach might run up my leg faster, towards my quivering body. Or worse fly towards my head or face. Thinking back I’m sure this was only a few brief seconds.

But as a little girl watching this huge bug run across my tiny leg — if felt like an eternity of terror.

...AS A LITTLE GIRL WATCHING THIS HUGE BUG RUN ACROSS MY TINY LEG — IF FELT LIKE AN ETERNITY OF TERROR. My dad bolted into the house, my mom dropped the dishes in the sink and came running into the family room. They rushed over to the recliner and looked down at me. My dad looked into my terrified eyes as I stared down the beast rushing up my leg. He grabbed the dish towel away from my mom and swatted the monster off my leg. My mom grabbed the broom and smashed the beast to pieces.

My brother, who only woke up after hearing me scream, came stomping into the room realized what happened, called me a chicken and walked back to his bedroom to get dressed.

Finally free of the creature’s grasp, I start-

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

ed to cry and curl up into the fetal position.

My dad lifted me up and carried me to my room. Knowing I was still scared to death he turned on my night light and tucked me under the sheets until the car was packed and we were ready to go.

The trip to Walt Disney World was fabulous. It’s funny how I can recall I had a great time yet most of that is a blur while the nightmare of that horrific creature crawling up my leg still lingers to this day.

Since then roaches always make me freeze in my tracks. No matter the size the moment I see one I analyze what steps I can take to get out of its way. It takes every ounce of courage I can muster up to even try and kill one with a broom or bug spray. I always picture it defying the odds and running after me despite attempts of whacking it with a weapon or drowning it in Raid. Normally, if someone else is with me, I hand them the task of destroying the beast. It is one of the reasons I now own cats, they simply love that job and handle the matter quite efficiently.

I’m not bothered, so far, by other insects as much. I don’t freak out around ants, bees or beetles. Unless it’s a horned beetle. Those suckers are huge. I had a terrible experience with those during a road trip in 1996 while driving through Van Horn, Texas.

As they say “Everything is bigger in Texas,” especially those suckers and to see one close up as you try and use the bathroom at 3 a.m. — horrific. But that is a story for another day. Roaches still top the list. Whenever I see a Yates-Astro commercial I still turn the channel to avoid seeing their mascot roach.

Even animated they are icky. ¶

Let us help you navigate

the DIGITAL world Business Owners... Would you like to...

Reach customers actively looking for your product or service in REAL TIME? Reach customers looking for your product or services on all the popular social media sites?

Reach customers via SMS text messaging BEFORE they make a purchase decision?

Reach customers on Liberty’s most popular community website with a dynamic premium banner ad placement?

Reach customers with a targeted email message BEFORE they make a buying decision?

Reach customers with a great looking mobile web page that links directly to your website?

Let us help you navigate the digital world…

We can help get your business in front of thousands of online customers for a price you can afford.

Call now and get a FREE report on your company’s online performance.

Call 912-876-0156 or email lmiller@coastalcourier.com

Proust Questionnaire

CHRISTINA ANTHONY

VICE-PRESIDENT OF UNITED MILITARY CARE, INC. IS PASSIONATE ABOUT HELPING OTHERS REACH THEIR POTENTIAL you helped someone who might have otherwise been cast aside. I truly want people to be successful. I enjoy spending time with others so that they can become the person they were intended to be, not the person that they have to settle for. I will help anyone who needs help. To me, it’s my passion.

What, to you, is perfect happiness?

I would have to say that perfect happiness revolves around family.

I find happiness and comfort when I can be around the ones I love. Family means everything to me. It’s what I promote through my work and it’s what I believe in my soul.

What one material possession would you save in the event of a fire (assuming your family was safe)?

I am a sentimental person so I would save the memories of my family.

I know that a memory is not a material possession, but to me that is the only thing that holds true value.

Every item can be replaced. But as long as I have my memories, I will be a very rich person. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but to me, a well-remembered moment is priceless.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

A very good friend once told me that you do not always have to have an answer for someone. Sometimes the best way you can help someone is just by listening. Just because someone talks to you does not necessarily mean that they want a solution from you. Most often, that person just wants someone to listen to their problem without judgment.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I would change the fact that I take everything personally. If something does not go quite right, I take that as a failure. I try the best I can everyday.

As we all know, sometimes things do not work out the way we planned them. Even if the event or situation works out, I always look at what went wrong and how to fix it. I cannot seem to enjoy the moment. My mind quickly turns to the “what can I do to make it better?” or “why did this or that happen?”. I wish I could just focus on the positives rather than the negative. Sometimes being a perfectionist has its problems.

58

What trait do you most admire in another person?

I most admire a person who can be honest. It takes more effort to tell a lie than to just tell the truth. I have always tried to live by the creed of honesty first even when the truth is painful. I would rather know where I stand in any given situation than to have my feelings spared. Tell me what I need to hear rather than what I want to hear.

What is your greatest fear?

I have a fear of snakes. To me, their slimy appearance and scaly texture send chills down my spine. The thought that they can camouflage themselves really well is frightening.

Hopefully, one day I will get past this fear. For now, I will continue to pray that I don’t cross paths with a snake.

What real or fictional person do you most identify with?

I most identify with Ellen DeGeneres. To me she is funny, charitable, doesn’t need to explain herself to others and promotes a sense of calm and likeability. In addition to being funny, she loves to pull pranks on her guests. I try to keep my office light and often prank the volunteers for some levity. Her heart is always in the right place as she gives her time and money to whomever asks. I try to give back to my community in whatever ways I can. She makes no apologies for who she is. She is a genuine person who people aspire to be like.

I will not apologize for the love I have for my work. I hope that I can inspire others to want to volunteer and make a difference in the community.

LIBERTY LIFE MAGAZINE /// OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

What is your greatest extravagance?

I would have to say I do not really have one. I try to focus all my time and energies to help others. I do not like to overindulge. I believe that I have everything that I need or want right now.

If money weren’t an object, how would you spend your time?

I love to spend my time on the beach, squeezing the sand between my toes, listening to the water wash up on the shore and taking in the sun.

I find this to be my time of relaxation.

I would love just to lie out at the beach and let the time pass.

What is your favorite thing about yourself?

The thing I like most about myself is my ability to find the best in others.

I like to help people that others may not see potential in. I believe that everyone has a purpose and calling.

I like to help guide people to make the most of their potential. I enjoy sitting down and talking to them to find out what their goals are and then set out a path to achieve them. There is nothing better than knowing that

What trait do you most deplore in another person?

A person who lies has no place around me. I cannot and will not put up with someone who feels they need to lie. There is no such thing as a small lie or a lie that has a purpose.

As far as I’m concerned, the only purpose a lie has is to betray my trust.

Who are your favorite musicians?

I am more of an eclectic soul. I have always liked musicians from different genres. I like everyone from the Mama and the Papas to more modern artists such as Adele and Pit Bull.

I do not necessarily have a favorite musician as I do have a love for great music.

What are your favorite books?

I like any book written by Nicholas Sparks. I find his writing style refreshing. Plus, I’m a hopeless romantic. Of course, I like to curl up with a good Stephen King book as well. As much as I love the romantic story, I love the heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat horror novel equally.

Four reasons to look closer‌

Calin Badea, MD

Rebecca Shaver, PA

Martha Kitchings, NP

Lisa Crews, NP

Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

Family Medicine

Family Medicine

and see why Liberty Family Medicine is the clear choice for primary care.

8IFO TFBSDIJOH GPS B QSPWJEFS UP DBSF GPS ZPV BOE ZPVS GBNJMZ m XIFUIFS JU JT ZPVS ZFBSMZ DIFDLVQ UFNQPSBSZ JMMOFTT PS DISPOJD DBSF NBOBHFNFOU m GJOEJOH UIF QFSGFDU QSPGFTTJPOBM UP BTTJTU UISPVHI FWFSZ BTQFDU PG ZPVS IFBMUIDBSF OFFET JT WFSZ JNQPSUBOU "U -JCFSUZ 'BNJMZ .FEJDJOF PVS QSPWJEFST BOE PGGJDF TUBGG VOEFSTUBOE UIBU DPNQMFUFMZ 'PS B HSFBU QBUJFOU FYQFSJFODF DBMM GPS BO BQQPJOUNFOU UPEBZ 8F SF IFSF GPS ZPV

Liberty Family Medicine Liberty Regional Medical OfďŹ ce Building 455 South Main Street, Suite 104 Hinesville, Georgia 912-876-5644

Have Big Plans This Fall But Your Budget Leaves You Dreaming?

Come see us for all of your financial needs. We offer great rates on Mortgage and Vacation Loans along with Credit Card options.

Financial Services For All Liberty County Residents GeoVista Credit Union has been proudly serving our military since 1964 with branches on Fort Stewart & Hunter AAF. Today, we continue to offer financial services to the military as well as residents of Liberty, Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham and Effingham Counties.

Savings • Checking • Auto Loans • Personal Loans Mortgage Loans • Visa Credit & Debit Cards Ask about Kasasa Cash - A Checking Account with Big Rewards!

601 W. Oglethorpe Hwy, Hinesville | 912-368-2477 | www.geovistacu.com This Credit Union is Federally Insured by the National Credit Union Administration