Sumter County Magazine Summer 2025 by With You In Mind Publications

REMEMBERING JIMMY CARTER SCENES OF SUMTER

Celebrate THE PROCESS

AT ART HIVE STUDIO, STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SAVOR THE JOURNEY!

BEATING The Odds:

By Rebekah McLeod

Teen mom achieves advanced education degrees with support from family and Georgia Southwestern.

AAmericus native ChaLance Deriso dreamed of one day becoming a teacher, but the odds were not in her favor. Pregnant at 16, she faced daunting statistics: 60% of teen mothers fail to graduate high school, and a mere 2% complete college by age 30.

“I let the dream go,” ChaLance says. “I didn’t think I would be able to do all the things I wanted since I was a child myself having a baby.”

ChaLance continued high school, and when she became pregnant again in her junior year, she decided she would settle on becoming a paraprofessional, a career that would allow her to provide for her two children while still working in the classroom.

With the support of her mother and grandmother, ChaLance graduated high school in 2013 and forged ahead, securing two associate degrees in 2018 in education and business from South Georgia Technical College.

Call it fate or providence, but while working at Bright Beginnings Daycare, two of ChaLance’s students happened to be children of employees who worked at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW). Chelsea Collins, Director of Marketing and Communications, and Dr. Rachel Abbott, Dean of GSW’s College of Education, both recognized something special in ChaLance, and encouraged her to apply to the Friday-only program at GSW for working adults to finish their bachelor’s degrees.

ChaLance was uncertain at first: “I never imagined myself being at a university, let alone GSW. Despite my doubts, I filled out the application and committed to the program. The faculty and staff were so loving and supportive; I just feel like everything happened for a reason and it was the right time.”

After three years, ChaLance completed her Bachelor of Education through GSW’s hybrid education program,

managing a full course load every semester and attending class on Fridays while working full-time and caring for two young children. Despite the challenges, the effort paid off significantly. “I did not have real financial stability until I graduated from GSW,” ChaLance explains. “Earning my bachelor’s degree tripled my salary from the preschool to the public schools.”

ChaLance fondly recalls pivotal moments of her GSW journey, emphasizing the profound impact of the university’s support network. She speaks highly of the connections made with her professors, highlighting how they advocated for her in meaningful ways.

“During my senior year when it came time for my internship, I was concerned I wouldn’t be making any money because I thought I may have to leave my daycare job. However, my professors made it a point to help me get a paid position at Dooly County Schools. They guided me through resume building, and even conducted mock interviews to boost my confidence for the real interview. Their support and guidance were instrumental

in preparing me for the professional world.”

As a lead teacher at Sumter Primary, ChaLance has continued her educational journey at GSW, graduating with her Master of Education in 2023 and preparing to graduate with her Education Specialist degree this year. Her extensive training has allowed her to excel at work and follow her passion for math by leading the math team.

ChaLance credits her faith in God and the support of her family with her success. “I would not be where I am without my mom - I give her all the credit, because I shouldn’t be this far. I am blessed with such a great support system.”

If you would like to learn more about GSW’s College of Education programs, certificates and endorsements, visit gsw.edu/Education.

12 Celebrate the Process

At Art Hive Studio, they encourage their students to savor the journey for the beautiful experience that every step provides.

50 Firing Up the Future of our Community

With 17 years as an educator, Josh Drew has seen the difference that Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs make in the future of young people.

66 Cuts with Care

Brandon Price, the owner and operator of Sophisticuts Mobile Barber, assist those with special needs and offers support for the neurodivergent community.

Wet Feet, Deep Faith

Mitchell and Jennifer Smith, after several years of searching for God’s plan for their lives created Wet Feet Ministries.

Photo by David Parks Photography

REMEMBERING JIMMY CARTER

“A strong nation, like a strong person, can afford to be gentle, firm, thoughtful, and restrained.”

- Jimmy Carter -

102 Scenes of Sumter

Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply.

Hometown Living at its Best

a better way to bank

OOur oldest went to visit my brother, who lives in xas, a few weeks ago. he had an amazing time and reported on all the activities and conversations. ne conversation in particular caught my attention. he asked him, “What do you want your “legacy” to be?” Wow!!!

this whole subject intrigued me. started looking up definitions and interpretations for “legacy.” Many of the definitions revolved around money/and/or things to be left to family members, especially future generations. so, if we do not leave money for our children, have we left a poor “legacy” or no “legacy” at all?

i also found that the term “inheritance” was used in conjunction or in place of “legacy.” this started getting a little confusing to me until i read an article by rachel Cruze, 7 Bible verses that Will help You Leave a Legacy. she stated that “having something to leave to your kids or community: A Legacy.”

she also stated that Proverbs 13:22 indicates that when we demonstrate godly character qualities, like integrity, trustworthiness, love, and compassion to those around us, especially the next generation. ideally, our next generations will manage their blessings God’s way for his glory for a long, long time.

if i were asked today about what i want my legacy to be, i would say that my children are my legacy, and they would be able to say that i want to know God as my mom and dad did.”

Proverbs 13:22

Jay and Patti Martin

sales: (912) 654-3045

Email: jay@wyimpublications.com

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Eboni before her 157-pound weight loss.

celebrate the process

Story by ALEXA TEBBEN |

At Art Hive Studio, they encourage their students to savor the journey for the beautiful experience that every step

provides.

TThe process of creating art is sometimes overlooked in favor of a masterful finished product. At Art Hive Studio, however, they encourage their students to savor the journey for the beautiful experience that every step provides.

Owner Madison Hernandez Chandler explains, “We appreciate a small, boutique experience here.” Since opening in April 2022, they have maintained an atmosphere that encourages the celebration of creative expression.

Photos by David Parks Photography

Madison hopes to inspire parents and other adults to encourage creative thinking in their young ones. Remembering that joy is often found in the journey helps us enjoy the process. Keeping this in mind, her students relish in the opportunity to be creative alongside their Art Hive Studio peers.

Their classes usually contain around six students. This boutique process art studio allows Madison the opportunity to distribute her attention in a manner that benefits each student. Because of this, she says, “You really get a chance to connect with those kids and learn their unique interests and tendencies.”

When asked about her creative background, Madison explains that she has been inclined to any and all things creative from a very young age. “I struggled a lot with attention and reading in elementary, middle and even high school,” she says. “Art just became my outlet.”

In college, Madison studied studio art with a concentration in painting. She says of her education, “The studio art degree route allowed me to learn many different mediums including painting, graphic design, photography, ceramics, textile, installation art, and art history.”

Around this time, Madison received a diagnosis for ADHD. She shares that as a kid art helped hone her focus better than anything. “It came so naturally and is cathartic in a lot of ways. It was like my safe place in a world that did not make much sense to me before I had my diagnosis.”

While in college she built a career in photography which helped feed her love for creativity. She specialized in photographing non-traditional weddings and lifestyle family sessions. At this time, Madison lived in Atlanta with her husband David Chandler. In 2019 they welcomed their son into the world.

Before long, they decided to leave Atlanta. As new parents they wanted to be close to family and alleviate some of the financial stresses of living in a costly city. Madison is from Americus and her family still resides there. As David is a firefighter who works up to 48-hour shifts, she describes her family’s support as “the biggest relief.”

Once in Americus, Madison took a job as an elementary art teacher at a local private school.

While she enjoyed teaching kiddos how to create art, she felt under supported and underresourced in that particular job.

“It didn’t take long for me to decide that I want to take everything that I love about being an entrepreneur and everything I love about sharing my love for art and make it into something beautiful,” she admits. Madison taught at the school for a year and half before deciding to pursue entrepreneurship.

When starting her business, Madison implemented her knack for creativity into many of the decisions regarding her brand. “When I was thinking of a name for a business, I really wanted it to feel playful and energetic,” she says. “Yellow is a very happy, vibrant color.”

Having selected the color, Madison soon

A common theme Madison has seen in her years as an artist is the wonders creativity can do for the mind and nervous system.

“Art is within all of us,” she says. “I believe in routine access to invitations to create and setting up materials in ways that feel inviting. I don’t want that to just end at the walls of our studio.”

settled on the name Art Hive Studio. She explains that the studio carries certain elements of a beehive, and the name perfectly conveys what it is like to work in the studio. Their classes, which are heavily process focused, often consist of stations where students work.

“We also focus a lot on collaboration so that part of the hive name really lends itself to that,” Madison says. “Every semester we create collaborative artwork where every person contributes something small to the overall piece.”

She explains that her husband David has been instrumental in many aspects of getting the business up and running. “He’s been the muscles

She explains that her husband David has been instrumental in many aspects of getting the business up and running. “He’s been the muscles of the operation,” Madison says proudly. From moving heavy shelves to installing emergency lights, David has offered his manpower along with incredible support that encourages her to keep pursuing her dreams.

of the operation,” Madison says proudly. From moving heavy shelves to installing emergency lights, David has offered his manpower along with incredible support that encourages her to keep pursuing her dreams.

In addition to their regularly scheduled classes, they host workshops on an ad hoc basis. They will sometimes bring in other artists to help co-facilitate these events.

“When I was in elementary school, I learned how to make a story book from

painted pictures,” Madison recalls. She reconnected with her teacher, Mrs. Jody Arrington, who taught her how to teach that very workshop to her own students. “That was a neat experience to bring this person who touched my life as an educator to help my craft to teach other students.”

As a professional artist, Madison also creates murals for clients on request. Through this work, she has established a relationship with the Phoebe Foundation. Madison created three murals for the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center before they presented her with the idea of incorporating her students into the creation of a fourth.

For this particular piece, Madison says, “We incorporated the hospital’s motto and the kid’s hands at the border of the artwork.” The installation is 8 ft wide by 5 ft tall with a custombuilt frame and will stand in the emergency department by the nurse’s station. The Phoebe Foundation is constantly working to improve the patient experience. Having had her own struggles with access to healthcare in rural South Georgia, Madison is overjoyed to help play a hand in Phoebe Foundation’s mission.

Art Hive classes are focused on five categories of materials: cardboards/recyclables, paint, paper, mark making tools, and loose parts. Madison says that community members help her by collecting recycled materials to repurpose in her classes. At any given time, they leave these materials on her front porch which she greatly appreciates. “It’s really neat that people in our community think about our program and about our kids and are willing to set materials aside for them” she says.

In regards to brainstorming ideas for projects, Madison pulls curriculum from The Creativity Project. She also uses the resources of other art teachers on social media. When she started her business, Madison created the Kids Process Art Studio Owners Facebook group which now boasts about 100 members.

“There’s no handbook for this and there are so many ways you can do it,” she says of running the studio. Bouncing ideas off other teachers helps immensely. “Being able to have access to that support and knowing there are other people dealing with similar struggles and similar successes as well has made this journey feel a lot less lonely.”

A common theme Madison has seen in her years as an artist is the wonders creativity can do for the mind and nervous system. “Art is within all of us,” she says. “I believe in routine access to invitations to create and setting up materials in ways that feel inviting. I don’t want that to just end at the walls of our studio.”

This belief is reflected in their mission statement which reads, “Connect: with family

and friends; Create: openly and with curiosity; Celebrate: the process, don’t rush it!”

SHOP CELEBRATE STAY Plains

HISTORIC INN & ANTIQUE MALL

Central Baptist Church exists to make disciples of all nations who Connect to God, Connect to others and Connect to the world. Join us for worship Sunday’s at 9:30 AM.

Wet Feet,Deep Faith

Story by Lisa Holloway | Photos provided

Mitchell and Jennifer Smith, after several years of searching for God’s plan for their lives created Wet Feet Ministries.

MMartin Luther King, Jr. once said “Faith is taking the first step even when you can’t see the whole staircase.”

How many of us have the kind of faith to actually take that first step, not knowing where that staircase may lead? Mitchell and Jennifer Smith, along with their children, have done exactly that. After several years of searching for God’s plan for their lives and with the guidance and influence of numerous Christian friends, Wet Feet Ministries was born in March of 2023. The name of their ministry comes from the book of Joshua, chapter 3, where

the priests of God were told to step into the flood water and watch how God would provide the path, one step at a time. That is exactly how the Smiths are following God’s call to ministry.

So what prompted the first, somewhat uncertain, step of faith? After years of unrest, knowing God had a plan but not knowing what it was exactly, Mitchell and Jennifer felt led to leave successful careers and sell their home, trusting that God would provide

the answers and resources they needed to carry out His plan for their family. Through various interactions and connections, it became clear that the Lord was calling them to family ministry, to serve families through retreats that strengthen the family dynamics, teaching them what God says about His creation of marriage and family and the importance of its preservation while aiding parents in discipling one another and their children. They

The mission statement of Wet Feet Ministries is to glorify God and make disciples by investing in families and leading them to lives of service. The goals of Wet Feet Ministries are to glorify God in all things, to further His Kingdom, to provide service opportunities for families. to provide retreat for families--a quiet and secluded place for rest, relaxation, prayer, and meditation-- and to encourage and support Godly marriages.

place an emphasis on missions, spreading the gospel, and seeing the benefits to marriage and family sustainability when a family serves others in need, setting aside self and loving their neighbor. Putting this vision into action, Wet Feet Ministries has already hosted 70 families at 11 retreats with at least 3 more planned for 2025. In addition, the Smith family has served in the Yucatan state of Mexico, Jamaica, and Taiwan as well as taken several trips to rural Kentucky, often bringing other families with them to serve.

When asked about the struggles and successes of walking in faith, Jennifer said “Our flesh worries that people won’t come to retreats or sign up for mission trips because of their busy schedules, but God

always reminds us not to be anxious and He brings together just the right people at the right time. We continue to be surprised by the feedback we get from retreats and mission trips, from “that was awesome, we want to do it again” to “our family has shifted our priorities because of what the Lord led us to at this retreat” to “God saved our marriage at this retreat”.

After several years of searching for God’s plan for their lives and with the guidance and influence of numerous Christian friends, Wet Feet Ministries was born in March of 2023. The name of their ministry comes from the book of Joshua, chapter 3, where the priests of God were told to step into the flood water and watch how God would provide the path, one step at a time.

After years of unrest, knowing God had a plan but not knowing what it was exactly, Mitchell and Jennifer felt led to leave successful careers and sell their home, trusting that God would provide the answers and resources they needed to carry out His plan for their family.

We have seen God work through the families that have stepped out in faith to serve, producing fruit in their own lives in addition to those they have served. We never imagined being a part of God’s work of restoring and reviving marriages and families, but as He tells us in Ephesians 3:20-21 that He is able to do more than we could ask or imagine according to His power at work within us, and to God be the glory!”

When looking back at all the ways God has provided for their family and Wet Feet Ministries, the Smith family is amazed! Their family has been led from home to home, and lived in 5 homes since selling theirs, all provided by churches or individuals who are partnering with them. Their home church, Concord Church in Americus, continues to be a generous regular donor to Wet Feet Ministries along with many other churches that have provided opportunities to share the story of Wet Feet Ministries and how God is working in and through them. Jennifer noted that their partners, through prayer, encouragement, and financial support, have been evidence of God’s hand on Wet Feet Ministries and they give God all the glory. To register for a retreat, inquire about a mission trip, or about how you or your church can partner with Wet Feet Ministries, please visit their web site at linktr.ee/ wetfeetministries or Google Wet Feet Ministries. SCL

Wet Feet Ministries has already hosted 70 families at 11 retreats with at least 3 more planned for 2025. In addition, the Smith family has served in the Yucatan state of Mexico, Jamaica, and Taiwan as well as taken several trips to rural Kentucky, often bringing other families with them to serve.

HARVEY Drilling

STORY BY LISA HOLLOWAY

With 17 years as an educator, Josh Drew has seen the difference that Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs make in the future of young people

Firing Upthe Future

of Our Community

Josh Drew, CEO and CTAE Director of Sumter County’s IGNITE College and Career Academy, spends his days making sure students are being prepared for life after high school. After finishing his baseball career at Georgia Southwestern State University, he headed to UGA and found himself in the program for Agricultural Education which changed not only his life, but the lives of countless students in this area of South Georgia. With 17 years as an educator, he has seen the difference that Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs make in the future of young people. Under his direction, IGNITE enrollment numbers have consistently increased to a projected 75 participants in the Work Based Learning Program in 2025.

Additional partnerships are needed, and Josh encourages local businesses to contact him to join in the IGNITE experience, a highly successful partnership that is making positive and lasting impacts on the students in Sumter County as well as the workforce of our area.

What is the program all about and how is it improving the landscape of education and our community? To understand, we need to go back to 2017 when the vision began as a partnership between Sumter County Schools, One Sumter, South Georgia Technical College, Georgia Southwestern State University, and the Sumter County Development Authority. The goal has been to create a learning environment that accelerates the development of a quality and capable workforce. Sumter County was awarded $3.1 million to develop and implement

In 2022, an IGNITE student, Joan TovarMartinez was recognized through the National FFA as the National Champion of the Grain Production Proficiency Award (GPPA). He continues his career in agriculture with Minor Brothers Farms, the business where he began his Work Based Learning journey. Josh says that success is measured in ways other than test scores or awards.

the program and in September of 2021, the vision became a reality on the campus of Sumter County High School. The Academy is under the umbrella and approval of Sumter County School Board but is unique in that there is also a Board of Directors composed of local entrepreneurs, CEOs, educators, and community leaders who provide guidance on what skills are needed and what opportunities are available for both workforce and higher education.

Currently, there are 54 employment partnerships that provide work-based learning opportunities for high school students. These partnerships provide on-the-job training while students are gainfully employed. In 20232024 school year, a total of $287,000 was earned for over 28,000 combined work hours with 2024-2025 school year projected to be even higher. In addition, students are able to

participate in dual enrollment through partnerships with South Georgia Technical College and Georgia Southwestern State University. This program allows high school students to enroll in post-secondary classes and earn credits, providing a head start on post-secondary degrees. Because of these partnerships, students can graduate from high school with skills to be successful in careers and/or college credit earned for free.

When asked what he considers to be the biggest accomplishments of IGNITE, Josh noted that there is a 100% graduation rate for students in the CTAE program. In addition, in 2022, an IGNITE student, Joan Tovar-Martinez was recognized through the

The goal has been to create a learning environment that accelerates the development of a quality and capable workforce. Sumter County was awarded $3.1 million to develop and implement the program and in September of 2021, the vision became a reality on the campus of Sumter County High School.

National FFA as the National Champion of the Grain Production Proficiency Award (GPPA). He continues his career in agriculture with Minor Brothers Farms, the business where he began his Work Based Learning journey. Josh says that success is measured in ways other than test scores or awards. He has seen an increase in students being more accountable for their success and developing problem solving skills while engaged in real world experiences. Additionally, many students have transitioned to full time employment with their Work Based Learning Partners upon graduation.

BY RACHEL PRICE | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Care with Cuts

Brandon Price, the owner and operator of Sophisticuts Mobile Barber, assist those with special needs and offers support for the neurodivergent community.

IIt took over 3 hours for Brandon Price to cut and style the hair of his first neurodivergent client. A young boy, nonverbal, who required patience and understanding. After his second appointment with this same client, the young boy expressed affection reserved only for his loved ones much to the surprise and joy of his mother. We often find ourselves living in a world where empathy, patience, and understanding are in short supply. While many can shy away from assisting those with special needs, Brandon is like a tower of strength and support for the neurodivergent community. He is the owner and operator of Sophisticuts Mobile Barber, an inclusive and accommodating Barber Shop for the entire community.

Brandon’s journey as a Barber began as a necessity and turned into a deeply personal mission. In 2019 Brandon received a life changing injury that made him unable to work for 16 months. Upon clearance, he made the decision to attend South Georgia Technical College as a Barbering student with the support of his wife.

“My wife, Rachel, began a Professional Cleaning Business that has been very successful since 2016. Fortunately, coupled with her encouragement, it allowed me the opportunity to pick a career path and focus on building a business and name for myself” He tells me. Under the guidance of Instructor Andre Robinson, Brandon found a community of men and

women at SGTC that helped encourage him to push for his Master Barbers License.

As a father to an eight-year-old son diagnosed with ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, developmental delays, and Tourette syndrome, he intimately understands the challenges faced by neurodivergent children and their families.

“One night my wife said to me “I feel like God could use your experience with our son to help others”. He shares. “So, we began discussing what a shop of my own might look like. We knew it needed to be convenient, welcoming, affordable, and meet a need. We looked at our personal connection to the neurodivergent community to fuel this passion and give parents a place where they know their child is welcome, while providing calm and safety in a situation that can be overwhelming for most Barbers and those with sensory issues.”

Sophisticuts is more than just a barbershop; it’s also mobile. One of the standout features which reaches clients

who might have difficulty traveling to a traditional barbershop. Whether it’s elderly individuals, those with mobility issues, busy fathers and professionals, or families with children who experience significant anxiety in crowded or noisy environments, Brandon meets these clients where they are, ensuring they receive the care they need in the comfort of their own space. He travels the entirety of Sumter County and surrounding cities, such as Albany.

“I have a few clients that feel more comfortable in their own environment and I want this experience to be one less stressor for parent and child alike, so I bring my shop to them.”

Brandon tells me that his shop and his mobile kit are set up to be as sensory safe as possible. He has blue lights in his shop, which are calming. His shop also has sensory seats, toys, a noise machine, mats, and much more. His hair clippers are noiseless or low volume for sensitive ears and he offers a range of brushes for

“My son is my greatest blessing. Without him, I do not know where I would be. He has taught me the importance of patience, relationship, and understanding. He is my reason why. My wife is my biggest supporter, the creator of ideas, and our family’s backbone. God has gifted me blessing after blessing and I want to serve and honor Him through my work with the community.”

those that may be extremely tender headed. Brandon and his wife will send a welcome video to most new clients as a way to familiarize the client and ease anxiety for child and parent. “As a parent of a child that used to get really overwhelmed in many noisy and unfamiliar situations, it just feels like this is what I am called to do. I’ve heard stories from parents that took their child to a Barber and were asked to leave, or did not get a full experience because of a lack of patience. This is not to put any Professional down. As a parent of a child with unique needs, I think I can understand a little better and have knowledge on what a child can handle and when to back off and let them process and take a break.” Parents have expressed deep appreciation for Brandon, as he provides not only quality haircuts but also a caring presence—one that often results in children who are typically reserved, connecting and engaging with him in ways that feel safe and familiar. It does take patience and understanding as an initial session can run up to 4 hours. Brandon allows the client to play, relax, and give him instruction if they’re overwhelmed. He allows them to rest and snack or sit in their parent’s lap. Elizabeth Sarah, one of the parents, told me “My son has never liked haircuts so it takes a really long time to cut his hair. We’ve been

to Sophisticuts Mobile Barber twice already, and Brandon is so kind and patient with my boy... he even warmed up to Brandon on the second haircut! Not only does he tailor his sessions to the individual, but he makes the parents feel welcomed. It’s tough taking a special needs child to do things like doctor appointments, barber, dentist, etc. Those places make us feel like fish out of water, because we can’t fully be ourselves in public. But at Sophisticuts, we can. We don’t have to apologize for our children. Brandon understands and sees us. He’s amazing, and I already look forward to our next appointment!”

And once that initial session is completed, the following sessions are much shorter. “It is also important that I only charge what a regular Barber would charge, even if I take a loss the first few sessions. Because once that relationship is established, it makes it all easier on my client and their parents, as well as myself. I would rather meet their needs and create a relationship of trust.” he says.

Brandon also serves his community beyond haircuts. He is a proud board member of Sumter Players and was recently elected as the vice

chairman of the student advisory board at South Georgia Technical College (SGTC). His involvement in these organizations reflects his dedication to fostering opportunities for growth and development among youth and the community at large. He also played a part in Tim Tebow’s “A Night to Shine” - a prom experience for all ages with special needs.

He also offers busy professionals and fathers a unique experience with facials, traditional shaves, and hairstyles. Brandon has earned trust in the community because he is not just a barber; he is an advocate, a supporter, and a friend to both children and their families. As he continues to grow Sophisticuts Mobile Barber, one day planning to also have a mobile station he can travel with to fairs, festivals, or city events to offer traditional shaves and facials for men, his vision remains focused on inclusivity and support for the neurodivergent community. His story is a testament to the impact of empathy, understanding, and community engagement. Through his work, he not only transforms the lives of those he serves but also paves the way for greater acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity in society.

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Remembering Jimmy Carter

“A strong nation, like a strong person, can afford to be gentle, firm, thoughtful, and restrained.”

- Jimmy Carter

JJimmy Carter (James Earl Carter, Jr.), thirty-ninth president of the United States, was born October 1, 1924, in the small farming town of Plains, Georgia, and grew up in the nearby community of Archery. His father, James Earl Carter, Sr., was a farmer and businessman; his mother, Lillian Gordy Carter, a registered nurse. He was educated in the public school of Plains, attended Georgia Southwestern College and the Georgia Institute of Technology, and received a B.S. degree from the United States Naval Academy in 1946. In the Navy he became a

submariner, serving in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets and rising to the rank of lieutenant. Chosen by Admiral Hyman Rickover for the nuclear submarine program, he was assigned to Schenectady, New York, where he took graduate work at Union College in reactor technology and nuclear physics and served as senior officer of the pre-commissioning crew of the Seawolf, the second nuclear submarine.

On July 7, 1946, he married Rosalynn Smith of

Plains. When his father died in 1953, he resigned his naval commission and returned with his family to Georgia. He took over the Carter farms, and he and Rosalynn operated Carter’s Warehouse, a general-purpose seed and farm supply company in Plains. He quickly became a leader of the community, serving on county boards supervising education, the hospital authority, and the library. In 1962 he won election to the Georgia Senate.

People’s Republic of China. He championed human rights throughout the world. On the domestic side, the administration’s achievements included a comprehensive energy program conducted by a new Department of Energy; deregulation in energy, transportation, communications, and finance; major educational programs under a new Department of Education; and major environmental protection legislation, including the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act.

Mr. Carter authored 32 books, many of which are now in revised editions: Why Not the Best? 1975, 1996; A Government as Good as Its People, 1977, 1996; Keeping Faith: Memoirs of a President, 1982, 1995; Negotiation: The Alternative to Hostility, 1984, 2003; The Blood of Abraham: Insights into the Middle East, 1985, 1993, 2007; Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life, written with Rosalynn Carter, 1987, 1995; An Outdoor Journal:

Jimmy Carter (James Earl Carter, Jr.), thirty-ninth president of the United States, was born October 1, 1924, in the small farming town of Plains, Georgia, and grew up in the nearby community of Archery.

On December 12, 1974, he announced his candidacy for president of the United States. He won his party’s nomination on the first ballot at the 1976 Democratic National Convention, and was elected president on November 2, 1976.

Adventures and Reflections, 1988, 1994; Turning Point: A Candidate, a State, and a Nation Come of Age, 1992; Talking Peace: A Vision for the Next Generation, 1993, 1995; Always a Reckoning, and other Poems, 1995; The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer, illustrated by Amy Carter, 1995; Living Faith, 1996; Sources of Strength: Meditations on Scripture for a Living Faith, 1997; The Virtues of Aging, 1998; An Hour before Daylight: Memories of a Rural Boyhood, 2001; Christmas in Plains: Memories, 2001; The Nobel Peace Prize Lecture, 2002; The Hornet’s Nest: A Novel of the Revolutionary War, 2003; Sharing Good Times, 2004; Our Endangered Values: America’s Moral Crisis, 2005; Palestine Peace Not Apartheid, 2006, 2007; Beyond the White House: Waging Peace, Fighting Disease, Building Hope, 2007; A Remarkable Mother, 2008; We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land: A

On July 7, 1946, he married Rosalynn Smith of Plains. When his father died in 1953, he resigned his naval commission and returned with his family to Georgia. He took over the Carter farms, and he and Rosalynn operated Carter’s Warehouse, a general-purpose seed and farm supply company in Plains. He quickly became a leader of the community, serving on county boards supervising education, the hospital authority, and the library.

Plan That Will Work, 2009; White House Diary, 2010; Through the Year with Jimmy Carter: 366 Daily Meditations from the 39th President, 2011; as general editor, NIV Lessons from the Life Bible: Personal Reflections with Jimmy Carter, 2012; A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power, 2014; The Paintings of Jimmy Carter, 2014; A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety, 2015; The Craftsmanship of Jimmy Carter, 2018; and Faith: A Journey for All, 2018. SCL

PHOTO CREDITS

Associated Press

Associated Press/Branden Camp. 2014

Associated Press/DC

Bettman Archive/Getty Images

Blanchard Photography

Carter Family Photo/Jimmy Carter Library

Columbus Ledger-Enquirer

Courtesy of Fine Woodworking

Diana Walker/Time & Life Pictures via Getty Images

Dustin Chambers for the New York Times

Friends of Jimmy Carter

Getty Images

Karl Schumacher, White House 1977

Ken Hawkins

Library of Congress

Matt McClain, The Washington Post/Getty Images

Michael Brennan/Getty Images, 1976

National Park Service

NPS/ U.S. National Archives

Phil Hardy

Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images

Rick Diamond/Getty Images

Smitt Photography

The Washington Post/Getty Images

EVENTS

MAY 2025

1-31

Burger Bash – Americus ALL DAY

The competition may be steep as all eateries downtown and throughout Americus will be vying to bring home the title of Best Burger in Americus. Guests are invited to try out all the spots and vote throughout the month on what they consider the best hamburger. Rules are available at Americus Main Street, 101 W. Lamar St. downtown, or by calling 229-924-4411, Ext. 235.

MAY 2

First Friday Americus ‘Multicultural May’

5 PM-8 PM

For the first Friday of May, enjoy “Multicultural May” on this First Friday. Celebrate cultures from the United States and around the world. For more information, call Jennifer at Americus Main Street at 229-924-4411, Ext. 235 or Rod at the Americus Visitor Center at 229-928-6059.

MAY 3

SAM Shortline train ride – Wine & Cheese train

1 PM, 3:30 PM

Enjoy an hour-and-a-half long round-trip

SAM Shortline train ride aboard historic

Street Depot in Americus. Wine and cheese tray will be served onboard the train as you relax and enjoy the scenery. The package Includes a souvenir wine glass and four different wine samplings from Wolf Creek, and a charcuterie board with a variety of cheeses, meats and crackers. For more information on this and all other SAM Shortline rides, call 229-276-0755 or visit www. samshortline.com.

MAY 8-11

‘Steel Magnolias’ – Americus 7 PM, 2:30 PM

Visit the historic Rylander Theatre in Americus for the performance of “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling. The performances are presented by Sumter Players. The times are 7 p.m. on May 8-10 (Thursday-Saturday) and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 11 — Mother’s Day. Tickets are on sale beginning April 8 at Rylander.org. Adult tickets are $17 and tickets for seniors and students are $12. For more information, call the Rylander at 229931-0001 or Laura McConatha at 706-3254604 or email lauramcconatha@gmail.com.

MAY 10

Spring Wine Festival – Americus

11 AM-5 PM

Visit Wolf Creek Plantation for its ninth annual Spring Wine Festival on the second Saturday of the month. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free tastings and tours will be offered, in addition to dozens of arts and crafts vendors on site. The address is 207

WAYS TO ENJOY SUMTER COUNTY THIS SPRING & SUMMER:

Wolf Creek Drive, Americus.

For more information, contact Hannah at 229-942-0091. Note that the ninth annual Grape Stomp Festival will be coming up on Sept. 13.

MAY 10

Evening Cemetery Tour – Andersonville 7 PM

On the second Saturday night of the month, join Andersonville National Historic Site park staff at the Andersonville National Cemetery for an Evening Cemetery Tour. The entrance gate will open at 6:30 p.m. The program will begin at 7 p.m., and end by 8 p.m. The program will be offered every second Saturday throughout the summer. Please note that the main entrance, prison site tour road, and the National Prisoner of War Museum will be closing at regular hours and will remain closed during the program. For more information, call 229-924-0343, Ext. 3, or 229-322-6898 or 229-931-7222. You also can email Gia at gia_wagner@nps.gov or Charles_Barr@nps.gov.

MAY 26

Memorial Day

ALL DAY

For events at the Andersonville National Historic Site or the Andersonville Civil War Village, call 229-924-2558. The Drummer Boy Civil War Museum in the town will be open regular hours.

JUNE 2025

JUNE 14

Happy Flag Day!

JUNE 14

Second Saturday Sidewalk Sale – Americus 10 AM-2 PM

Looking for that perfect summertime outfit, swimsuit or gift? Then shop downtown on the second Saturday of the month to find the perfect bargain. Numerous Americus businesses will be participating. For more details, call 229-924-4411, Ext. 235.

JUNE 14

Evening Cemetery Tour – Andersonville 7 PM

On the second Saturday night of June, also Flag Day, join Andersonville National Historic Site park staff at the Andersonville National Cemetery for an Evening Cemetery Tour. The entrance gate will open at 6:30 p.m. The program will begin at 7 p.m., and end

by 8 p.m. The program will be offered every second Saturday throughout the summer. Please note that the main entrance, prison site tour road, and the National Prisoner of War Museum will be closing at regular hours and will remain closed during the program. For more information, call 229-924-0343, Ext. 3, or 229-322-6898 or 229-931-7222. You also can email Gia at gia_wagner@nps. gov or Charles_Barr@nps.gov.

JUNE 16-21

Missoula Children’s Theatre – Americus

TBD

Visit the historic Rylander Theatre in downtown Americus for the annual Missoula Children’s Theatre and the performance of “Hansel and Gretel.” Dates are Monday, June 16 through Saturday, June 21. Registration opens on April 16. Missoula Children’s Theatre is for ages 6-18. From its headquarters in Montana, the arts organization’s core goal is to serve youth with quality and accessible performing arts programming to far-reaching parts of the globe. For more information, call the Rylander at 229-931-0001 or visit www. rylander.org.

JUNE 23-27

Janet’s Planet Astronaut Academy –Americus

TBD

Kids ages 8-12 can visit the historic Rylander Theatre in Americus and enjoy a week of Janet’s Planet Astronaut Academy. It’s a summer camp that creates an out-of-thisworld experience with Janet Ivet and her team of educators and experts! Each day brings a new mission and expert guests from the science community. The event runs Monday, June 23 through Friday, June 27. Registration opens on April 16. For more information, call the theater at 229-931-0001 or visit www.rylander.org.

JUNE 27

Downtown Beach Party – Americus

5 PM-8 PM

Rylander Park in downtown Americus will be the site again for the annual Downtown Beach Party to kick off summertime. Tons of white sand will fill the park as kids get a taste of the beach without going far! For more information, call 229-924-4411, Ext. 247.

JUNE 28

SAM Shortline train ride – Plains, Trains & Fireworks

5:30 PM

For the most spectacular fireworks show in all of Sumter County, visit President Carter’s hometown of Plains to celebrate Independence Day. The event is held annually on the Saturday preceding the Fourth of July. The train will depart at 6 p.m. from Georgia Veterans State Park at Lake Blackshear and arrive in Plains at 7:45 p.m. The fireworks show begins at dusk. All shops on Main Street in Plains will be open before the show begins. The train departs Plains at 9:45 p.m.

For tickets or more information, call 229-2760755 or visit www.samshortline.com.

JULY 2025

JULY 4

Happy Independence Day!

JULY 19

SAM Shortline train ride – Sumter Explorer

9 AM

Avoid the summertime heat by hopping aboard the SAM Shortline Excursion Train for this delightful trip across Sumter County. You will travel through Cobb, DeSoto, Leslie, Americus and Plains. Boarding begins at 9 a.m. with departure at 9:30 a.m. from Georgia Veterans State Park at beautiful Lake Blackshear. The train arrives in Plains at 11:15 a.m. for a 1½-hour layover. The train arrives in Americus at 1:15 p.m. and will stop for an hour and 45 minutes. Special abbreviated tours of the historic Windsor Hotel will be offered by the Americus Visitor Center. For details on this and all other SAM Shortline rides, call 228-276-0755. The Americus Visitor Center number is 229-928-6059.

JULY 12

Evening Cemetery Tour – Andersonville 7 PM

note that the main entrance, prison site tour road, and the National Prisoner of War Museum will be closing at regular hours and will remain closed during the program. For more information, call 229-924-0343, Ext. 3, or 229-322-6898 or 229-931-7222. You also can email Gia at gia_wagner@nps.gov or Charles_Barr@nps.gov.

JULY 19

SAM Shortline train ride – Sumter Explorer 9 AM

Scenes

of Sumter

Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply. Take a look at a few more reasons