Georgia, 2019 July

GEMC

Georgia Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle MAGAZINE

Chinese artist finds freedom in America page 20
Smithsonian exhibition comes to Georgia page 24
JULY 2019

THE
ARTS
Georgia I S S UCeElebrating the Georgia lifestyle
Arts THE ISMSUEA G A Z I N E

GEMC

GEMC

Georgia Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle

Arts



centers

unite

coMmAmG uA nZ iItNieEs

page 32

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Steffen Thomas Museum
of Art
page 16
Youth theaters let kids
shine
page 26
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Contents JULY 2019 VOL. 75, NO. 7

THE
ARTS ISSUE

ATHrE ts ISSUE

DAVID KAMINSKY

COURTESY BILAN LIAO

UGA MARINE EXTENSION / GEORGIA SEA GRANT

COURTESY STMA LEEANN KOLE

10

20

16 Changing lives through art The Steffen Thomas Museum of Art's outreach programs nurture at-risk students. By Sarah Russell

20 The strength within Chinese artist and educator BiLan Liao finds freedom in America. By Amber Lanier Nagle

24 Crossroads: Change in Rural America The Smithsonian Institution's new traveling exhibition comes to Georgia. By Arden Williams
26 In the spotlight Youth theaters give kids a chance to shine. By Laura Raines
On the cover
Zoey Zhang performs "Jasmine Flowers," a traditional Chinese dance, at the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival. (Photo by Rhian Swain / RedWolf.)

16

26

4 MAILBOX 6 PICTURE THIS? 8 GEORGIA NEWS 10 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 14 CURRENTS 25 TRIVIA CONTEST 32 AROUND GEORGIA
Art lives at the heart of Georgia communities
36 GEORGIA'S ENERGY
OUTLOOK

38 CURIOUS GEORGIA
What's in a (county) name?
40 GEORGIA GARDENS
Elephant ears add drama to your landscape
42 GEORGIA COOKS
Frozen treats to beat the heat
46 HOMETOWN HEROES
John Longino leads a life of volunteerism
www.georgiamagazine.org 3

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MailBOX Comments from our readers Compiled by Jennifer J. Hewett From THE EDITOR

March's familiar sights
I saw the March 2019 issue--very nicely done. I remember seeing the old Cyclorama as a kid at Grant Park. [See "The circle is unbroken," page 16; bit.ly/cycl319.] I see a letter to the editor from my hometown (Griffin), and I even recognize the Indian mounds in "Picture this?".
Nice issue across the board, and the new look is really strong! Keep up the great work.
--Keith Phillips, via email

GEMC

Georgia Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle MAGAZINE

Gardening with native plants page 38
Recipes from Georgia Grown Executive Chefs page 42
MARCH 2019

Georgia Restoring the CelebratingtheGeorgialifestyle

Cyclorama



page 16

MAGAZINE

GEMC

GEMC

Georgia Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle MAGAZINE

www.georgiamagazine.org

Astronaut Shane Kimbrough page 20
Burr Performing Arts Park page 26

light Fromdarkneinstso

Three-year-old Brooklyn Hunt navigates the world with her tiny
white cane.

The Center for the Visually Impaired builds skills, confidence
By Amber Lanier Nagle

T he days after Brooklyn Hunt's birth in November 2015 were bumpier than her parents, Rydal residents Trey and Lexie Hunt, h4wsaeoadnustnenh'xctepegresabcwitnaehcidnek.gntBowsrhtoeheoigekwhhlyato.nssTbpwhoieetraiingrl,hpfoaeenrdddmi6asotphrroieecuitanensdtss,

ahttfcinheemaadarnrteeece",i"yvetdBeaLrcrBsloeoou,rxuroaoailksnetodioldokyHmblnnhyuesenewn.arotmanptsshiuainsgeyp'shrtsuit.ltiessr"hasTwwauchvekieteeri--hneyaghadmbeltilrhleraaonibtinfnetrwigdaotsihunanwimel.clidWhttohhre,e

fasrhnigouhcltAkterifnanteesgrodnmuuenoswd."rs,eatbotleothaomedHwoufondrktos,c.atSonervMsedRne-Ilwiavneeedrke-d

old

Brooklyn was blind. She has septo-optic

dysplasia,

a

rare

(tohnateriensu10lt,e0d00inbtihrtehus)ncdoenrdgeenveitlaolpcmonednittoiofn

01_Cover_0319.indd 2

her

optic nerves "It was a lot

and pituitary for us to take

gland. in, and

at

first, we grieved for the loss of the life

we had imagined for her--the life we

wanted her to have," Hunt says. "But

Feedback on May's issue afterafewweeks,westoppedgriev-
ing and chose to approach [Brooklyn's blindness] in a different way.

Our family came together. We said,

We are thrilled to be part of the May `Brooklynwillneverknowshe
disability.' That's how we have

has a chosen

to raise her."

2/11/19 3:29 PM

2dcpm0vaa1iarcm9kktnii5tnshe1sgse9uso.Ce]inneTottnfhhotGeeeleiraigonrfhortdigtrc,i"ivltaehpidMearuegVaaaeigllssl2ayu6wzas;iehnlblyoeist!ewI.[lrmSsyve/eptheaae"inrFiedmrdo-mis Lreecalraniminigntgoalilvifee, ss(vyfCpitCloHtiotesaossChrShlrVhanircuwouhenoetrcohIageaTeem)uihhvtulorylc"dhhilnaiirhuT.lo;Wnsysleedrmrtd"oNeemlioyecioAeTHllrdcmhuecevpeanSfitlasauweimoegalnnpcvefyavtisnhrsohveaor,eneVysstuervisoi3apostntirtaalepta-oenosheeiukhgntyr,,owpltdmennitsaeedaGdsmteh.'garieo.leaeuroTetPererwIbprednisao-p'dhmirvCvltpuontyoriltaieatetnegoclhVleerhouhdtrCeiidwreIoyafaeagLretsBynV,etfn'usnaghmoshameheraItannttg5loctrraesslaisaeiel;ihnvsEotetrtebdreh.eaity,i"el,kglrohciddvAegeIlvdldetseneei'ylemeotetavsCeassnpdsa6Fstaey,yreeateoinoelssHsmtminwmnonoofuvcrdCafturtdgpeloicoapefeaatVmanwihlrnnrsrnhanineenItymeeetcfoicaddlhPiaorgtsetpoezbshvethssrrmtpkarstitiheMadeleetocrehtsaishondeion-etlcbeoaintyKivdefdsdhht4ryxnedeBh,;teV,swoeolsrv0BaEieffnai-aointfooie0nrsreGhtstirlerlor0tundvi.eFleeswIootiWadsicNLtonhstnnBukiallhaionlldeiegoElridypyelewytedsonbGceanrwnIanS.sBoam,lniVtIiisEcnTwsngpaNtnti--epAvhesrsrieedh.aceitapoRaefhookmeriarfrcSkrnyweolenhep.orm-dd."ne their families. cane at both facilities.

--Center for the Visually Impaired,

via Facebook

COURTESY CENTER FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

LAUREN HOWARD PHOTOGRAPHY

`Brooklyn at's

will how

never know she we have chosen

has a disability. to raise her.'
--Lexie Hunt

26 Georgia Magazine May 2019
26-29_B_Visually_Impaired_Use_this_one_0519.indd 26

4/11/19 11:35 AM

I enjoy the magazine every month, but the May issue was extra-good. Many thanks.
--Lawrence Burton, Washington

GEMC

GEMC

Georgia Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle MAGAZINE

Old-fashioned chrysanthemums page 36
Salads for all occasions page 42
MAY 2019

Georgia Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle
TheM A G A Z I N E

Miracle

Georgia League Celebrating the Georgia lifestyle

page 20



MAGAZINE

Stuck on Stuckey's page 16
Center for the Visually Impaired page 26

GEMC

www.georgiamagazine.org
01_Cover_0519.indd 1

4/11/19 2:27 AM

I just wanted to let you know about the awesome response I have gotten from Georgia Magazine readers. As of mid-May, we had received hundreds of e-mails and calls from folks looking for local leagues to play, volunteer or donate. We also have had a few requesting starter packages to possibly build a Miracle League in their local community.
It has been a real pleasure working with you, and we greatly appreciate your willingness to spread The Miracle League's mission. I know many families' lives will forever be changed from reading your article and getting hooked up with a local Miracle League. Thank you!
--Stephanie Davis, vice president of national programs, The Miracle League, Conyers

New to Georgia
June's issue was my first issue since moving to Georgia. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the magazine and plan to check out a few of the events mentioned within. Thank you!
--Lisa Sarmiento, Kathleen

Share your thoughts. Email us at magazine@georgiaemc.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space.

Artists and arts organizations play an important role in our state. According to the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the creative industries--including the visual and performing arts, culture, film, music and digital entertainment sectors-- represent a combined $62.5 billion in economic impact. In this issue, we focus on Georgia's arts scene and how it helps build strong, vibrant communities.
Perhaps the most visible organizations promoting creativity in our communities are the numerous arts centers, alliances and councils around the state. These groups seek to foster an understanding and appreciation of the arts through classes, exhibits, events and outreach programs. Read "The heART of the community," starting on page 32, to see how their efforts are making the arts accessible to people of all ages.
The importance of art education in schools is often underestimated, but research has shown that it helps children connect knowledge to personal experience and self-expression. This emphasis on learning through experience is at the heart of the Steffen Thomas Museum of Art's Art$mart outreach program for at-risk students.
All three components of the program emphasize a strong work ethic, a drive to succeed and the ability to have a positive impact on one's community. See "Changing lives through art," starting on page 16, to learn how these students are enriching their own lives and those of others.
Finally, we give a nod to the importance of art to the human spirit with a profile of BiLan Liao, whose paintings explore the trauma of her early years in Mao's new China. Turn to page 20 to learn how talent, determination and a belief in the American dream led her to achieve her goal of freedom in the U.S.
Enjoy!
Laurel George Editor

4 Georgia Magazine June 2019

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ADVERTISING

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Picture this?

Guess where this is and you could win a $25 gift card!

In "Picture this?" the reader whose photo of a Georgia place is published wins a $25 Target gift card--as does the person who correctly guesses what the photo is and where it was taken. The winner's name (drawn at random from correct guesses) and the answer will appear in a future issue. The winning photo selected by our sta will be published in exchange for the gift card; Georgia EMC claims no right in and will ultimately destroy or delete all photos that are not selected.
If you're ready to guess or have taken a photo for us to consider, email picturethis@ georgiaemc.com or mail to "Picture this?," P.O. Box 1707, Tucker, GA 30085. Submissions should be 300-dpi photos of locations that are accessible to the public and easy to identify. Please send photos and guesses separately.
Guesses for the July contest must be received by July 22, 2019. With all correspondence, please include your name, mailing address and phone number.

Our winners from May 2019 are Pam DeLapp, of Buena Vista, who took the photo, and Marie-Josee Bray, of Crawfordville, who correctly guessed that it is a monument dedicated to Strategic Air Command warriors at the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins. MAY 2019
6 Georgia Magazine July 2019
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Georgia Magazine, the largest-circulation monthly magazine in the state, is published by Georgia Electric Membership Corp. (GEMC), the trade association for Georgia's 41 consumer-owned electric utilities. On average, more than 540,000
members welcome the magazine into their homes each month. Georgia's not-for-profit electric
cooperatives provide reliable, safe and affordable electric service to more than 73 percent of the
state's land area, serving 4.5 million residents. For more information, visit www.georgiaemc.com.
EDITOR Laurel George MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Hewett, CCC PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Gayle Hartman
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kevin Braun, CCC ASSOCIATE EDITOR Amy Schneider ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jim Jess STAFF ASSISTANT Mae Coleman
EDITORIAL INTERNS Courtney Thompson and Chaney Wynne
ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Laine Kirby Wood, (770) 289-5700 Harold Chambliss, (678) 906-4050
NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE American MainStreet Publications, (800) 626-1181
DESIGNERS Trudie Thibodeaux, Kerstin Weis
Georgia Magazine (USPS-473120, ISSN 1061-5822) is published monthly by GEMC, P.O. Box 1707, 2100 East Exchange Place, Tucker, GA 30085. Periodicals postage paid at Thomaston, GA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send changes to Georgia Magazine,
P.O. Box 1707, Tucker, GA 30085.
Acceptance of advertising by Georgia Magazine does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Georgia's electric
membership corporations of the product or services advertised.
GEORGIA MAGAZINE'S LIABILITY FOR ERRORS IN, OR OMISSIONS OF, ADVERTISEMENTS, WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR IN TORT, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO DAMAGES TO THE ADVERTISER'S BUSINESS, SHALL IN NO EVENT EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF CHARGES FOR THE ADVERTISEMENT THAT WAS OMIT-
TED OR IN WHICH THE ERROR OCCURRED.
Georgia Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Manuscripts, photographs and artwork must be accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes to be returned. Georgia Magazine reserves the
right to edit any material published.
How to get in touch
Subscriptions: Contact your electric cooperative first; they may send the magazine by request. Or send check or money order for $10 (12 issues) or $16 (24 issues) to the address below. Allow 4-6
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Change of address: If you personally subscribe, mail your address change to the address below. If you receive the magazine through your electric
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Article submissions or story ideas are welcome for review; send to the address below. Guidelines are available by emailing magazine@georgiaemc.com.
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Visit www.georgiamagazine.org for more of everything you love about Georgia!
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844.AGSOUTH | AgSouthFC.com
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800.768.3276 | AgGeorgia.com
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LOANS FOR LAND, FARMS, AND HOMES

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GEORGIA News Compiled by Jennifer J. Hewett

5 places to go for music lovers

COURTESY AUGUSTA MUSEUM OF HISTORY

Many talented musicians hail from Georgia. The list includes James Brown, the Zac Brown Band, OutKast, Gladys Knight and Trisha Yearwood. If you're in the mood to learn more about some of Georgia's successful native musicians or to listen to some good music, here are five places and tours to check out.
The Ma Rainey House and Blues Museum in Columbus is dedicated to the legendary blues musician. Visitors can tour the shotgun house where Rainey lived for five years before her death in 1939 and view exhibits dedicated to the singer. See bit.ly/marhcol for details.
Piedmont Park in Atlanta hosts numerous events yearround. Musical events in the park include concerts, the annual Atlanta Jazz Festival in May and Music Midtown, set for Sept. 14-15. Learn more at piedmontpark.org.
The Augusta Museum of History's Local Legends exhibit features musicians, athletes, artists and authors from Augusta. The James Brown, Godfather of Soul exhibit features costumes worn by the singer, photos and audio-visual stations. Visit augustamuseum.org for information.
The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House in Macon is dedicated to the influential Southern rock band. The museum is in the home where the band's original members lived from 1970 to 1973. It features exhibits, music and artifacts that showcase the band's history. Learn more at thebighouse museum.com.
Guide Rex Dooley with Rock Candy Tours points out some of the musicians who have performed at Grant's Lounge in Macon.

Costumes from some of Augusta's legendary entertainers are on display at the Augusta Museum of History.
Rock Candy Tours in Macon offers weekly walking and shuttle tours, plus customized personal rambles and step-on tours. Stops highlight venues where Macon's rich musical history comes alive, including Rose Hill Cemetery, The Rookery, Grant's Lounge and H&H Soul Food Restaurant. Visit rockcandytours.com for details.
For more great places highlighting Georgia's rich musical heritage, visit exploregeorgia.org.
--Courtney Thompson
Georgia glimpses
Super Bowl recycling. Nearly 42,500 pounds of elec-
tronics--including computers, monitors, TVs, audio equipment, cellphones and small appliances--were recycled as part of Verizon's Super Bowl LIII Recycling Rally at Zoo Atlanta on Jan. 19. Zoo Atlanta, the National Football League, Verizon and the Atlanta Super Bowl Host Committee sponsored the event during Super Bowl LIII activities to help keep waste out of local land lls.
`Wild' art. More than 30
artists drew inspiration from Zoo Atlanta's animals in June during the sixth annual Art Gone Wild Paint-Out Week. Visitors watched while the artists sketched and painted zoo scenes, then guests had the opportunity to purchase some of the art to take home. For details, visit zooatlanta.org.

8 Georgia Magazine July 2019

MARYANN BATES ZOO ATLANTA

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M

BURKE WALTER

are on

Fox Theatre Institute helps preserve, revitalize other historic theaters

A Fox Theatre Institute grant helps fund improvements at the 101-yearold Imperial Theatre in Augusta. For information on this year's concerts, musicals, movies and ballets, visit imperialtheatre.com.

M any people know about the Fox Theatre, one of the most popular performance venues in Atlanta. Each year, more than 500,000 people see rock concerts, Broadway productions, ballets, comedy shows and movies at the theater, which was named "the No. 1 non-residency venue worldwide for the decade" in 2009 by Billboard Magazine.
Fewer people may know about the Fox Theatre Institute (FTI). Launched in 2008 as an outreach program, the FTI offers preservation expertise, grants and other financial support and education to performing arts venues in Georgia and other states.
More than $479,400 has been awarded to 13 historic theaters as part of the FTI's 2018-19 grant program. One recipient, the Imperial Theatre in Augusta, received $15,000 for its continuing preservation work. The Imperial Theatre also received this grant last year.
"We are utilizing the FTI grant to hire an architectural firm to develop plans for interior improvements, including reconfiguring the concessions area, expanding restroom space and installing an elevator," says Charles Scavullo, executive director of the Imperial Theatre.
Scavullo says the preservation of culturally significant places such as the Imperial Theatre is important.
"Historic theaters are cultural gems that, once lost, deprive future generations of the opportunity to experience entertainment in a classic theater setting. A historic theater provides ... the opportunity to `travel back in time' in a sense," he says.
Other theaters awarded planning

grants are the Holly Theater in Dahlonega and the Sara O'Kelly Municipal Auditorium in Grantville. Preservation grant recipients are the Academy Theatre, Hapeville; Grove Theatre, Atlanta; Habersham Community Theater, Clarkesville; Waycross Area Community Theatre, Waycross; Royal Theatre, Hogansville; The Plaza Arts Center, Eatonton; Warrenton

Cultural Center, Warrenton; and Winterville Auditorium, Winterville. Emergency repair grants were awarded to Theatre Macon in Macon, and the Elba Theatre in Elba, Ala.
FTI grants for 2019-20 will be announced in late October or early November. Learn more at foxtheatreinstitute.org.
--Courtney ompson

YOU WOULDN'T PICK UP A LIVE POWER LINE...
SO WHY RISK CUTTING ONE WHILE DIGGING?

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NATHAN BAERREIS

EVENTS Calendar JULY Compiled by Pamela A. Keene

DAVID ROGERS FRED FELLOWS, "A CHANGE IN THE MENU," N.D., BRONZE, 16 X 13 X 10", BOOTH WESTERN ART MUSEUM, CARTERSVILLE, GEORGIA, GIFT OF JIM & LAVON THOMAS.

Big Bugs invade Fernbank
N early a dozen gigantic bugs will call Fernbank Museum home through July 21. David Rogers' Big Bugs, created by the artist of the same name, features insects crafted from found wood and pieces of metal.
"Because Big Bugs is located outside in our WildWoods area, the sculptures bring a new perspective to the natural environment," says Brandi Berry, vice president of marketing and communications with Fernbank. "These 10 towering sculptures showcase the often-overlooked animals that play such a vital role in our ecosystem."
Rogers' insects include a praying mantis, a spider in a web, a 17-foottall dragon y, a row of ants and a 7-foot ladybug.
"The bugs are positioned close to the trails, and their towering height is very impressive," Berry says. "These works of art create the perfect sel e or Instagram moment around every corner."
The museum is located at 767 Clifton Road N.E., Atlanta. For more information, visit fernbankmuseum.org or call (404) 929-6300.
--Pamela A. Keene

FERNBANK

Event details and costs are subject to change; please verify before attending.

I Historic High Country
Community Quilt and Fiber Arts Exhibit, through July 14, The Art Center, Blue Ridge. Traditional and nontraditional quilts, ber arts. (706) 632-9223. blueridgearts.net.
Faces of Bartow, through Aug. 31, Bartow History Museum, Cartersville. Explore the history of Bartow County, including early photographs. (770) 387-2774. bartowhistorymuseum.org.
July 4th Parade, Sounds of Liberty Concert and Fireworks, July 4, downtown and Carrollton City School Complex, Carrollton. Downtown parade and an evening concert by the Carroll Symphony Orchestra, followed by reworks. (770) 214-9746. visitcarrollton.com.
Summer Music Weekends, July 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 26-28, Rock City, Lookout Mountain. Weekend concerts with musicians including Old Time Traveler Matt Downer, country music singer Amber Carrington, adventure rockers Highbeams and singer-songwriter Tarryn Aimee Smith. (800) 854-0675. seerockcity.com.

Etowah Games Day, July 6, Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, Cartersville. Try your skills at historic sports and simple games. (770) 387-3747. bit.ly/etowmnd.
Creative Explorations, July 8-Aug. 17, Carrollton Center for the Arts, Carrollton. Celebrate the work of students and instructors at the Center for the Arts. (770) 838-1083. carrolltonarts.org.
24th Annual Chas B. Davis Memorial PRCA Rodeo, July 12-13, Davis Cattle Co. Arena, Ringgold. Professional cowboys, cowgirls, entertainment, food, vendors and an Old West atmosphere at a working ranch. (423) 304-5955. bit.ly/chasbrod.
Bartow County Championship Rodeo, July 12-13, Bartow County Saddle Club Covered Arena, Cartersville. Bull riding, calf roping and other events. (706) 218-0382. bit.ly/bartcor.
Downtown Nights, July 13, Ringgold Pavilion and Ringgold Depot Opry, Ringgold. Craft vendors, food and music. (706) 935-3061. cityofringgoldga.gov.

Main Street Live, July 13, The MILL Amphitheater, Villa Rica. Local talent showcase hosted by Rod Man, winner of "Last Comic Standing," Season 8. (678) 840-1440. bit.ly/dtvrc.
Mother's Finest, July 20, The AMP at Adamson Square, Carrollton. Concert by the Georgia rock band. (770) 832-6901. bit.ly/cmsampc.
TRP Comedy Club at the Ringgold Depot, July 26, Ringgold Depot, Ringgold. A night of improv and stand-up comedy. (706) 935-3061. bit.ly/trpcomc.
Vann House Days, July 27-28, Chief Vann House Historic Site, Chatsworth. Explore family life in the 1800s with blacksmithing demonstrations, butter churning, quilting, pottery. (706) 6952598. bit.ly/cvhsite.
I Northeast Georgia Mountains
50th Annual Independence Day Celebration, July 4, downtown, Colbert. Parade, concert by Country River Boys, vendors, family activities. (706) 788-2311. colbertgeorgia.com.

10 Georgia Magazine July 2019

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FRED FELLOWS, "A CHANGE IN THE MENU," N.D., BRONZE, 16 X 13 X 10", BOOTH WESTERN ART MUSEUM, CARTERSVILLE, GEORGIA, GIFT OF JIM & LAVON THOMAS. THE ROCK RANCH

Southern Gospel Concert, July 13, Historic Ritz Theater, Toccoa. Music by Clark and Sandi Kesler, with Cheryl Sumpter and Divine 3. (706) 282-3232. bit.ly/ritztoc.

Sunset Tour, July 13, North Georgia Zoo, Cleveland. Take a guided tour of the zoo at dusk. (706) 348-7279. northgeorgiazoo.com.

Arrowheads through the Ages, July 16, Hardman Farm Historic Site, Sautee Nacoochee. Kids' activity teaches how tools evolved and how Native Americans used them. (706) 8781077. bit.ly/gsphrdmn.

Treasures from the Vault, through July 28, The Booth Museum, Cartersville. View rarely exhibited objects from the museum's collection, small-study paintings, presidential materials, miniature sculptures. (770) 387-1300. boothmuseum.org.

"The Wizard of Oz," July 19-21, Lavonia Cultural Center, Lavonia. Stage production of the classic story. (706) 491-9374. bit.ly/frankcp.
68th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair, July 19-27, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Arts and crafts, music, carnival rides, demonstrations. (706) 896-4191. bit.ly/gamtnfg.

Regions are determined by the Georgia Department of Economic Development. See its online calendar at www.exploregeorgia. org for additional events.

21st Annual Butternut Creek Festival, July 20-21, Meeks Park, Blairsville. Juried arts and crafts, entertainment, food. (706) 781-1221. bit.ly/bttrcrk.

thorpe University, Atlanta. Georgia Ensemble Theatre presents this Broadway play (set in Atlanta) about the relationship between a Southern lady and her driver. (770) 641-1260. get.org.

Independence Day Fireworks, July 4, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Celebrate America's independence. (706) 896-4191. bit.ly/gamtnfg.
Ida Cox Music Series, July 6, 13, 20, 27, downtown, Toccoa. Concerts featuring Radford Wyndham, July 6; Royal Johnson, July 13; Edgar Loudermilk, July 20; Canyon Ladies, July 27. (706) 282-3309. bit.ly/idacser.
Independence Pool Party, July 7, Victoria Bryant State Park, Royston. Music and games with prizes at the park's swimming pool. (706) 245-6270. bit.ly/vibrysp.
Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruizin, July 11-13, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Classic cars, hot rods. (706) 896-4191. bit.ly/gamtnfg.
"Mamma Mia!," July 12-13, 19-20, Hart County High School, Hartwell. Take a comedic romp to a Greek island, set to the music of ABBA. (706) 376-7397. bit.ly/savprod.
"Gilligan's Island--The Musical," July 12-14, 19-20, Dillard Playhouse, Dillard. Take a threehour cruise in this musical, presented by the Community Players. (706) 947-1354. bit.ly/ngacom.
The Grass Roots, Box Tops and The Association, July 13, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Concert by three top bands from the `70s. (706) 896-4191. bit.ly/gamtnfg.

"Newsies," July 26-Aug. 11, Holly Theater, Dahlonega. Musical tale of newspaper delivery boys who take on a publishing titan. (706) 530-5162. hollytheater.com.

Salute to the Red, White & Blue, July 4, downtown, East Point. Celebrate the Fourth of July with art, music and food. (404) 270-7059. bit.ly/estptms.

'Shine Pedalers Metric Bike Ride, July 27, Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, Dawsonville. Metric and half-metric rides along two routes through Dawson County. (706) 265-6278. bit.ly/shinepedm.
I Atlanta Metro
"Beauty and the Beast," through July 28, Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta. Puppets bring the classic fairy tale to life. (404) 881-5151. puppet.org.

Outside the Lines Exhibit, July 5-25, Cultural Arts Center, Douglasville. View folk art by Lee Laney, 3D art by Tonia Mitchell and paintings by Linda Mitchell. (770) 949-2787. artsdouglas.org.
3rd Annual Veterans with PTSD Benefit Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show Weekend, July 12-14, various locations, Mableton and Douglasville. Vehicles on display, plus cruise-in. (571) 269-7724. bit.ly/vetsptsd.

The Summer Swan Invitational, through Aug. 8, The Swan Coach House Gallery, Atlanta History Center, Atlanta. Works by nearly four dozen artists on display. (404) 2662636. swangallery.org.

Inescapable: The Life and Legacy of Harry Houdini, through Aug. 11, Breman Jewish Heritage Museum, Atlanta. Explore Houdini's magic and mysteries through posters and original apparatus used in his performances. (678) 222-3700. thebreman.org.
"Driving Miss Daisy," June 28-30, July 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, Conant Performing Arts Center, Ogle-

Fun in the Summer Time, July 10-12, 17-19, 24-26, The Rock Ranch, The Rock. Family fun with tractor train rides, paddle boats, carousel, cane-pole shing, cow train, in atable water slides. (706) 647-6374. therockranch.com.

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EVENTS Calendar

Christmas in July, July 13, Marietta Square,

b

Marietta. Beach music, evergreens, amingos,

e

reindeer art and Santa. (770) 429-1115.

(

bit.ly/msqxmas.

Y

Reptile Day, July 13, Fernbank, Atlanta.

P

Get up close and personal with reptiles.

C

(404) 929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org.

n

(

BARNES DRUG STORE

Departure, July 14, Heritage Green, Sandy

Springs. Concert by Journey tribute band.

M

(404) 382-8255. bit.ly/herssp.

T

l

Sacred Harp Singing, July 20, Spivey Hall,

(

Morrow. Participate in sacred choral music

through psalms, fugues, odes, anthems, folk

D

songs and revival hymns. (678) 466-4200.

Barnes Drug Store 100 Year 11th Annual 5K Fun Run, July 13, Barnes Drug Store, Valdosta.

R

spiveyhall.org.

5K event to raise funds for The Miracle League of Valdosta. (229) 245-6001, ext. 544.

p

bit.ly/barns5k.

d

43rd Annual Peach State Depression Glass

o

Club Show and Sale, July 27-28, Cobb Civic

Center, Marietta. Antique and Depression glass 4th of July Celebration, July 4, Florence

Celebrate America's independence with

and kitchenware for sale from 28 vendors.

Marina State Park, Omaha. Enjoy boat rides and reworks after dark. (706) 769-3965.

(770) 426-1458. psdgc.com.

crafts, make your own ice cream and run relay

oconeecounty.com.

I Presidential Pathways

races. (229) 838-4706. bit.ly/gspfmsp.

Ol' Time Fourth, July 4, Jarrell Plantation,

"Robin Hood," July 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, Springer Juliette. Hear the Declaration of Independence

Bluebirds and Butterflies, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Opera House, Columbus. Children's theater

read aloud at noon, plus sack races, skillet toss,

T

F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Pine Mountain. Learn production of Robin Hood and his band of

living-history demonstrations. (478) 986-5172.

J

about bluebirds and butter ies and how to

merry men and women. (706) 327-3688.

bit.ly/gspjarp.

p

attract them to your yard. (706) 663-4858.

bit.ly/sprngop.

l

bit.ly/fdrspga.

Salem Campmeeting, July 12-19, Salem

t

SummerFest, July 6, downtown,

Campground, Covington. Worship services daily,

b

Franklin. Street dance, food, concert

plus guest choirs, music. (770) 786-6841.

by singer/songwriter Charlie Hudgins, bit.ly/sacmpm.

A

reworks. (706) 948-0466.

C

heardchamber.com.

"The Addams Family," July 19-21, 26-28, On

J

Stage Walton, Monroe. Musical comedy about

b

Secrets of the Museum, July 13,

the legendary family. (770) 267-2747.

Georgia Veterans State Park, Cordele.

onstagewalton.org.

S

View items not normally on display.

S

(229) 276-2371. bit.ly/gavetmus.

National Moon Day, July 20, Museum of

o

Aviation, Warner Robins. Celebrate the 50th

b

St. Paul & The Broken Bones, July 25, anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing with

Sweetland Amphitheatre, LaGrange.

exhibits and family activities. (478) 222-7580.

M

Concert featuring the Alabama rock

museumofaviation.org.

N

band. (877) 725-8849. sweetland.events.

d

KC and the Sunshine Band, July 25, City

p

I Historic Heartland

Auditorium, Macon. Concert by the hit band

from the `70s and `80s. (478) 803-1593, ext. 1.

I

Our Town and Beyond, through

maconcentreplex.org.

Aug. 11, Georgia Museum of Art,

P

LYNDON HOUSE ARTS CENTER

Athens. Celebrate the 100th anniversa- Harvest Moon, July 26, The Foundry, Athens.

J

ry of the Athens Art Association with an Tribute band performs the music of Neil Young.

S

exhibit of works by its early members, (706) 549-7051. thefoundryathens.com.

i

including painter Lamar Dodd.

"

(706) 542-4662. georgiamuseum.org.

"Damn Yankees," July 26-28, The Plaza Arts

Center, Eatonton. Broadway musical about a

F

Red, White and Boom, July 3, Old

baseball fanatic who trades his soul to the devil

P

Towne, Conyers. Concert by Fly Betty

for a chance to win against the New York

b

Band, kids' activities, food trucks, a beer Yankees. (706) 923-1655. plazacenter.org.

l

Cut & Paste: Works of Paper, through July 27, Lyndon

garden and reworks. (770) 602-2606.

House Arts Center, Athens. Celebrate nearly a dozen

conyersga.com.

I Classic South

J

Georgia artists who create works of art from paper.

B

(706) 613-3623. bit.ly/lyndonwp.

Oconee 4th of July Fireworks,

Freedom Fireworks Extravaganza, July 3,

f

July 4, Epps Bridge Centre, Watkinsville. downtown, Washington. Celebrate America's

b

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BARNES DRUG STORE DAVID KAMINSKY

birthday with entertainment, watermeloneating contest, rides and reworks. (706) 678-5111. washingtonwilkes.org.

July 4th Fireworks, July 4, Thomasville Amphitheater, Thomasville. Games, food, music and
reworks. (229) 228-7977. thomasvillega.com.

Sunshine Festival, July 4-7, Postell Park, St. Simons. Arts and crafts, 5K, reworks, entertainment. (912) 262-0628. soglogallery.com.

Yankee Doodle Dash, July 4, Savannah Rapids Pavilion, Martinez. 5K and 10K races on Augusta Canal Tow Path in a bare-bones race format; no race shirt and limited race categories. (706) 823-0440. augustastriders.com.
Music in the Park, July 5, 12, 19, 26, Rutledge Town Park, Rutledge. Bring a picnic, blanket and lawn chairs to enjoy Friday evening concerts. (706) 342-4454. visitmadisonga.com.

Sunset Boat Tour of the Swamp, July 4, Stephen C. Foster State Park, Fargo. Join a ranger on a relaxing sunset boat ride through the Okefenokee. (912) 637-5274. bit.ly/scfspark.
39th Annual Sunbelt Ag Expo Field Day, July 25, Darrell Williams Research Farm, Sunbelt Ag Expo, Moultrie. Half-day farm tours by tram. (229) 985-1968. sunbeltexpo.com/ field-day.

Independence Day Colonial Faire, July 6, Fort Morris Historic Site, Midway. Colonial games, music, musket and cannon rings. (912) 884-5999. bit.ly/gspftmo.
Family Game Time Fun, July 12, Laura S. Walker State Park, Waycross. Fun and games at the

Drive Country Band, July 6, Oconee Driving Range, Reynolds Lake Oconee, Greensboro. Band performs classic country, modern country, rock, dance and Top 40 music. (706) 467-6000. opas.org.
SEE PAGE 8 FOR MORE
MUSIC ACTIVITIES
The Community of Laney-Walker/Bethlehem, July 10, Augusta Museum of History, Augusta. As part of the Brown Bag History Lecture Series, learn the history of the redevelopment project that encompasses two African-American neighborhoods. (706) 722-8454. augustamuseum.org.
Art Exhibition, July 11-Aug. 30, Sacred Heart Cultural Center, Augusta. Exhibit by painters Je Tilden and Linda Tilden. (706) 826-4700. bit.ly/sacrdht.
Screen on the Green, July 13, Magnolia Springs State Park, Millen. Watch a family-friendly movie outside with sodas and popcorn. (478) 982-1660. bit.ly/magspgsp.
Moth Campout, July 20-21, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, Augusta. Identify moths at the park during National Moth Week. (706) 396-1428. phinizycenter.org.
I Plantation Trace
Peach State Summer Theatre, June 28-30, July 3-7, 10-14, 17-21, Sawyer Theatre, Valdosta State University, Valdosta. Three musical shows in repertory: "Mamma Mia!,""Little Women" and "Crazy for You." (229) 253-2914. bit.ly/vsupeach.
Flower Float, July 2, 5, 13, 26, Seminole State Park, Donalsonville. Paddle Lake Seminole between blooming water lilies and yellow lotuses. (229) 861-3137. bit.ly/gspsmsp.
July 4th Celebration, July 4, Earle May Boat Basin Recreation Area, Bainbridge. Music, food, family fun, reworks. (229) 248-2000. bainbridgecity.com.

Gallery Exhibition, July 29-Sept. 11, Turner Center for the Arts, Valdosta. Solo exhibit of paintings by Buddy LaHood and biennial exhibition of the Withlacoochee Quilters Guild. (229) 247-2787. turnercenter.org.
I Magnolia Midlands

4th of July Celebration, July 4, Paulk Park, Fitzgerald. Fireworks, music and contests for all ages. (229) 426-5033. fitzgeraldga.org.

Firecracker Fest, July 4, Mill Creek Park, Statesboro. Music, frog-jumping contest, greased pole, kids' activities, family games, reworks. (912) 489-9087. bullochrec.com.
July 4th Blast & Fireworks, July 4, Southern Pines Regional Park, Dublin. Music, food, water park and reworks. (478) 277-5060. bit.ly/dubj4.

Suzanne Jackson: Five Decades, June 28-Oct. 13, Telfair Museums Jepson Center, Savannah. Exhibit of works by the American multimedia artist. (912) 790-8800. telfair.org.

Fireworks, July 6, Appling County Recreation Center, Baxley. Enjoy family fun when reworks begin at dark. (912) 367-7731. bit.ly/baxleyfw.
God & Country Fireworks Show and Concert, July 6, Telfair County Recreation Complex, McRae-Helena. Concert by Hawkins Friends & Family Band, plus reworks. (229) 868-6365. telfairco.org.
"Mary Poppins," July 18-21, Averitt Center for the Arts, Statesboro. Stage production of the popular musical. (912) 212-2787. bit.ly/avrtctr.
I Georgia's Coast
Independence Day Festival, July 4, Waterfront Park, St. Marys. Parade, arts and crafts, entertainment, 5K and 10K races, reworks. (912) 8824000. visitstmarys.com.

park's picnic shelter. (912) 287-4900. bit.ly/lswkrgsp.
Sunset Paddle Along the Darien Waterfront, July 14, 27, Fort King George Historic Site, Darien. Take a trip through Black Island Creek and the Darien River. (912) 437-4770. bit.ly/gspftkg.
Ogeechee Monsters, July 19-20, Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill. Fish with rangers for sturgeon, stingrays and sharks in this evening event; reservations required. (912) 727-2339. bit.ly/ftmcgsp.
Gospel Sing, July 26, Mars Theatre, Spring eld. Concert by The Perrys and special guests King's Cross. (912) 754-1118. marstheatre.com.

July 4th Independence Day Fireworks, July 4, Tybee Beach Pier and Pavilion, Tybee Island. View reworks over the ocean. (912) 786-5444. visittybee.com.

Events for the October 2019 issue are due by Aug. 15. Email calendar@georgiaemc.com. See more event listings at georgiamagazine.org.

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Currents

News from Georgia's electric co-ops Compiled by Amy Schneider

MARSHA PEAVY

Shooting event supports fallen officers' families

R epresentatives of Georgia's electric membership cooperatives (EMCs) are promoting and participating in a fundraiser for the families of law enforcement personnel who are killed in the line of duty. The National Criminal Enforcement Association's (NCEA) annual Shoot for the Blue clay-shooting competition is scheduled for Aug. 23 at the Cherokee Rose Gun Club in Griffin.
Lloyd S. Snyder, director of member relations at Tucker-based Oglethorpe Power Corp., and Michael McMillan, president and CEO of Barnesville-based Southern Rivers Energy, are working with the NCEA to encourage participation in the event.
"This event is a fun day of competition, and it supports such a worthy cause," Snyder says. "We are hoping for a great turnout to raise as much money as possible to help these families whose loved ones have given their lives to their communities."
The full day of shooting consists of six Lewis Classes, and the winner of each class receives a gun. There also are raffles

A competitor takes

aim during the

for other rifles as well as door prizes. The day will conclude with an awards ceremony.

Shoot for the Blue event in 2017.

Registration is $800 per four-person team

until Aug. 10 and $1,000 after that date. The

competition is open to anyone. To register, contact

Lt. Chad Payne of the Lamar County Sheriff's Office at cpayne@ncea314.

com or (706) 741-5396.

The NCEA was formed by Lisa Bishop Webb, the widow of Capt. Rob-

ert Edward Bishop of the Villa Rica Police Department. Bishop was shot

and killed while writing a citation during a traffic stop on Jan. 20, 1999.

EMMA ANDERSON

14 Georgia Magazine July 2019
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Okefenoke REMC celebrates with children's artwork
As part of its 80th anniversary celebration this year, Okefenoke Rural Electric Membership Corp. (REMC) in Nahunta invited children age 12 and younger to color a drawing of Willie Wiredhand, the mascot for electric cooperatives, touring the swamp and marshes that define Okefenoke REMC's service area. Winners were selected in three age groups, and each winner received a four-pack of tickets to Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta. The winners were Tyson Page of Hoboken (age 5 and younger); Jenna Walsh of Brunswick (ages 6-9); and Emma Anderson of Hortense (ages 10-12), whose artwork is shown at left. The co-op received more than 150 entries, all of which will be displayed at its annual meeting in September. Okefenoke REMC member Denese Proctor of Woodbine drew the picture that the children colored.
6/12/19 7:33 PM

DEBRA COX / MITCHELL COUNTY EXTENSION

G
C T l e
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g i A
a c H s d
t s

SHORTTakes

DEBRA COX / MITCHELL COUNTY EXTENSION

MARSHA PEAVY

Georgia's EMCs salute agriculture

Young visitors hear about electricity from Mitchell EMC representatives Heather Greene (from left), Nathan Ireland and Sherrie Adams at Third-Graders Learn Ag on March 20 at the Mitchell County Ag Pavilion.

G eorgia's electric membership cooperatives (EMCs) celebrated Georgia Ag Awareness Week in a variety of ways March 18-22. Mitchell EMC in Camilla collaborated with Mitchell County Extension, Baker County Extension and other organizations to sponsor several activities, including Third-Graders Learn Ag, an informational event for more than 300 third-graders from local schools. Mitchell EMC contributed an exhibit at which students learned how electricity is produced and delivered.
The EMC also sponsored the Mitchell County Agricultural Photography Contest, which awarded ribbons to the winners and honorable mentions in four age categories (third through fifth grade; sixth through eighth grade; ninth through 12th grade; and adults) and cash prizes to the first-place winner of each category ($50) and to the overall winner ($75). There were 22 participants in the contest, and the overall winner was "Quality," a photo of American metal signs by Isabella Holley.
For the second straight year, Tucker-based Georgia EMC partnered with the Georgia Farm Bureau to provide copies of an agriculture-related book to all public libraries in the state. This year's selection was "Right This Very Minute: A Table-to-Farm Book About Food and Farming" by Lisl H. Detlefsen.
Some EMCs celebrated Georgia Ag Awareness Week with social media posts about the agriculture-related projects under way at local schools using grants from the cooperatives. Diverse Power in LaGrange shared a photo of students at Heard County High School in Franklin working in the school's greenhouse. Jackson EMC in Jefferson spotlighted a garden tower at Twin Rivers Middle School in Buford that is meant to demonstrate growing healthy food in small spaces.
Several Georgia EMCs commemorated the week on social media with tributes to farmers and facts about the state's agriculture industry. Here are a few of the facts shared in "did you know?" posts by EMCs:
Each Georgia dairy cow provides an average of 2,533 gallons of milk per year. The peach is a member of the rose family. --Carroll EMC in Carrollton
Georgia is the nation's leading pecan producer, averaging 100 million pounds per year. Three of every four Georgia counties are involved in poultry and egg production. Every Georgia county has cattle farms. Each ear of corn has an average of 16 rows and 800 kernels. --Hart EMC in Hartwell
Corn is grown in every Georgia county. A bale of cotton weighs about 480 pounds. Nearly half of the peanuts grown in the nation are from Georgia. --Sumter EMC in Americus Debra Cox of Mitchell County Extension contributed to this article.

Ready for its close-up: Mariettabased Cobb Electric Membership Corp. (EMC) played a role in the recent renovation of Cyclorama: The Big Picture at the Atlanta History Center. Close observers will see "telegraph wire" that really is aged, oxidized copper wire donated by the cooperative. Above, Kevan Espy, senior vice president of electric operations at Cobb EMC, displays the wire.
Camp scholarships: Jackson-based Central Georgia EMC donated $2,000 in Operation Round Up funds to Butts County 4-H to provide scholarships for youngsters to attend its summer camp. In Operation Round Up, members opt to round their monthly bills to the next dollar, and the di erence is put into a fund for charitable causes.
Fueled by electricity: Tri-County EMC in Gray and the Milledgeville-Baldwin Chamber of Commerce co-hosted EV19, an event to introduce the public to the bene ts of electric vehicles, on April 26 at Central Georgia Technical College's Milledgeville campus. About 150 people attended the event, at which they could test-drive and learn more about the vehicles.
Travel agents: The Wrens-based Je erson Energy Cooperative Foundation presented $3,654 in Operation Round Up funds to the Wrens Elementary School Junior Beta Club. The funds supported the school engineering team's trip to the National Junior Beta Club Convention in June in Oklahoma City.
www.georgiamagazine.org 15

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?

Changing lives through
ART
Ste en Thomas Museum of Art outreach program
nurtures at-risk students
By Sarah Russell

PHOTOS COURTESY STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART

COURTESY SOUTHERN CO.

STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART

T he painting "Fishers of Men" by Steffen Thomas may appear simple at first glimpse. But its message is profound.
His painting reflects the directive given to Jesus' disciples: It is not enough to just be a "fisher"; one must cast his or her net in service to mankind.
Thomas' own net was cast far and wide. His artistic journey began in 1920, when he was apprenticed at age 14 to a stonecutter in his hometown of Frth, Germany. His talent was immediately apparent, and within a few years he was accepted to the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich.
Thomas established his own studio at age 21 and left Germany the following year to pursue his artistic vision in the United States. A firm believer in the American dream, he soon made a name for himself as the "young Bavarian sculptor" and settled in Atlanta. There he became well-known for a series of public commissions, most famously the statue of former Georgia Gov. Eugene Talmadge on the grounds of the Georgia Capitol and a bronze sculpture titled "Trilon" on Peachtree Street near the Woodruff Arts Center.

Above: Artist Steffen Thomas is shown in his studio in midtown Atlanta, around 1984. Left: Thomas' "Fishers of Men" painting can be seen at the Steffen Thomas Museum of Art in Morgan County.
Much of Thomas' art is displayed at the Steffen Thomas Museum of Art (STMA) in Buckhead in rural Morgan County. The museum is one of the few in the country dedicated to a single artist and was his widow's tribute to him.
"Something that was very important to Steffen Thomas during his life was education and nurturing the next generation," says Elizabeth Collins, the STMA's arts outreach coordinator.
A critical component of the STMA's mission to educate youths is The Art$mart Project, an outreach program with three education modules: A Day at STMA, a field trip and art experience; Creative Teens Earning Green (CTEG), an arts education program for at-risk students; and College Collaboration, which brings together museum personnel and seniors from area colleges and universities.
Thomas' daughter, Lisa Thomas Connor, initially approached the Morgan County Alternative School in Madison regarding a program that would serve students outside the

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STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART ??

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PHOTOS COURTESY STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART

Top left: During A Day at STMA, youths create portraits using twisted wire. Top right: A student makes a reverse painting based on Steffen Thomas' art. Left: Morgan County Alternative School students create a multidimensional sun mural for the Morgan County Sheriff's Office.

COURTESY SOUTHERN CO.

educational mainstream. "I saw there were many [students who] were quite creative
and talented. And I felt like if we could touch them in some way ... get in touch with a positive side to them, this might stick with them and help their self-esteem," she says.
Established in 2002, Creative Teens Earning Green is now a weekly program at the school. Athen Lee, the school's director, says the school's students are primarily middle schoolers and high schoolers who are served best in a nontraditional school environment. During the 2018-19 school year, 36 students participated in the program.
How do the incoming students react to the news of an arts class?
"You get a lot of those looks," Lee says with a laugh.
Attendance is not mandatory, but the laughter from the arts class has proven to be a powerful draw. The fully interactive, non-lecture-format class is led by Rutledge-based teacher, writer and artist Angelina Bellebuono and the

museum's art and outreach instructors, Elizabeth Collins and Chuck Hanes.
The diversity of the lessons reflects Thomas' enthusiasm for all aspects of art, including sketching, pottery and sculpture.
Painting her self-portrait and constructing a Mardi Gras mask were among the favorite projects for Talia, 15.
"I really like making the birdhouses, too," she adds. The birdhouses were made to support a Habitat for Humanity fundraiser. It is not uncommon for the students'
projects to benefit nonprofit organizations. "It has always been a big part of our program. We talk about community and connecting--the ways they can be positive citizens in the community," Collins says. In addition to contributing their artwork to fundraisers, students design, create and install permanent art projects as gifts to local nonprofits. Examples include a welded metal sculpture created
Steffen Thomas created art in many forms. Shown here is a ceramic piece titled "Nixon and Gang."
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When you go
Steffen Thomas Museum of Art, 4200 Bethany Road, Buckhead. (706) 342-7557. steffenthomas.org. facebook.com/steffenthomasmuseumofart.

Thomas' art in the community
In addition to the Ste en Thomas Museum of Art in Buckhead, many other sites around the Southeast display Thomas' artwork. These include Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center in Atlanta and the Jacqueline Casey Hudgens Center for Art & Learning in Duluth. A sculpture also is installed in midtown Atlanta at the corner of 15th and Peachtree streets.
For an interactive map of where you can see Thomas' public art, visit bit.ly/thomasartmap.

STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART

for the Humane Society of Morgan County and an outdoor kinetic sculpture made for The Caring Place, a local food bank.
Projects such as these build the students' self-esteem as they and their work are shown acceptance and appreciation by community members.
Monetarily, Thomas was a successful working artist. CTEG teaches students that they can sell their artwork--hence the "earning green" in the program's name.
Giving the students an avenue to make money really gets their attention, Lee says.
Students first decide what their product will be, then incorporate marketing aspects. How will you present what you produce? Where will you sell the product? How do you reach buyers? Students sell their products at local festivals, the Madison Arts Guild gallery and the STMA gift shop. They also learn how to reach buyers beyond their immediate area by utilizing social media.
"It's a huge way artists are selling their work now," Collins says.
The program might just as easily have been titled "learning green." Much of Thomas' art reflects his belief in earth stewardship. Repurposing materials--literally trash--also teaches that costly art supplies aren't necessary. Torn T-shirts, Talia explains, were used to create a large woven wall hanging given to the

Top: A docent guides visitors through the Steffen Thomas Museum of Art in Buckhead. In the foreground is a model of Thomas' "Trilon" sculpture. Left: Vivid colors draw the eye to "Innsbruck," one of Thomas' watercolor paintings.
Farmview Market. The newest element of CTEG
is the Toolkit for Living, an interpersonal curriculum designed by Bellebuono. For many of these students, navigating life has been challenging. Often, their behavior reflects that. "Yes, the world has some pretty ugly stuff in it. We don't have to make that OK. We can choose to be different from that," Bellebuono says. Her lessons are delivered interactively. For example, the day's lesson might be about kindness and its effect on those around them. As they create artwork, the students discuss these concepts with one another and the CTEG instructors. Perhaps the most important lesson of the program is the intangible one--the one it is hoped the students retain long after paintbrushes are put aside. That is to let them know that regardless of current circumstances, "they are still seen, they are still loved, they are still valued," Bellebuono says. You can almost see Thomas' smile as his net lovingly embraces the most wonderful but unlikeliest of art students. Sarah Russell is a freelance writer from Hot Springs, Ark.

18 Georgia Magazine July 2019

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Experience GEORGIA'S BLUE RIDGE
BlueRidgeMountains.com

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BiLan Liao is photographed in front of "My Journey." The six figures in the painting are self-portraits of the artist at various stages of her life.

COURTESY BILAN LIAO

THE STRENGTH WITHIN
Chinese artist and educator BiLan Liao nds freedom in America
By Amber Lanier Nagle Paintings by BiLan Liao

Bold, provocative paintings embellish the walls of BiLan Liao's Norcross home. The collection represents a recorded history--a memoir, of sorts. "They are about facing my truths," Liao says. "My paintings tell the many stories of my family and my journey from growing up in China during a dark and difficult time to finally finding my freedom here in America." Her powerful imagery induces a sense of uneasiness, even sorrow. Yet, as a collection, Liao's works resonate with themes of hope and perseverance. Her paintings remind us never to give in to adversity and always to cherish the human rights that many take for granted.
THE DARKNESS OF CHINA
Born in Hunan province in 1954, Liao grew up during a turbulent period in China's history. From 1958 to 1961, Chairman Mao Zedong led a campaign known as the Great Leap Forward that attempted to push China from an agrarian economy to a socialist society through abrupt industrialization. Millions suf-

fered and died during this time. Liao's father had been a prosperous
physician and businessman, but things changed during the rise of the new China. The Chinese government seized property, closed schools, destroyed books and sent artists, educators, doctors, lawyers, business owners and other professionals to farms, factories or prisons.
"The Chinese government controlled the flow of news as well, and anyone caught listening to unauthorized radio stations was severely punished," Liao says. "My father hid under a blanket and listened to the `Voice of America' on a small transistor radio, while my mother stood at the window keeping watch. Listening to the broadcasts gave him hope that freedom and opportunity would one

20 Georgia Magazine July 2019

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6/13/19 11:35 AM

COURTESY BILAN LIAO

day return to China." The government eventually im-
prisoned Liao's father for his capitalistic thinking and speech. Her mother and grandmother sold the family's possessions to keep food on the table.
"We experienced terrible hunger during that time," she remembers. "Once, after weeks of not having meat, my brother and I sat down to eat and there were little pieces of meat in the rice. After I finished, I stretched my empty bowl over to my grandmother and asked for a second helping, but she said there wasn't any more. When I asked her why there wasn't any more, my grandmother said, `I only caught one mouse.'"
The years were long and unimaginable.
"I went to work as a welder when I was just 14 years old," Liao says. "While working at the factory in Changsha, I met two brothers who were graphic designers. They encouraged me to study art. Even then I knew the value of education, and I knew I had to better myself and create my own opportunity."
At 16, she went to work at a factory that manufactured ventilating fans. Yao, a young man who worked in the factory, took Liao under his wing and taught her to write Chinese posters for the factory.
"I learned illustration and photography from Yao," she says. "And I took lessons in literature and Chinese poetry

COURTESY BILAN LIAO

COURTESY BILAN LIAO

BiLan Liao and her daughter, Ling
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In "Voice of Freedom," Liao's father listens to the radio program "Voice of America" in secret. Anyone caught listening to American radio in China during the time of the Great Leap Forward would be punished.

www.georgiamagazine.org 21
6/13/19 11:35 AM

"The Feast of the Tiny
Mouse" portrays the hunger Liao's family suffered
during the great Chinese famine, which began in 1960.
To learn more about BiLan Liao or to inquire about tours of her home gallery or speaking engagements, visit bilanliao.com.
In this painting, young BiLan
Liao is depicted studying in secret. Her
factory-worker colleagues
assisted her, giving her
handwritten textbooks and violin lessons.
22 Georgia Magazine July 2019
20-22_BiLan_Liao_0719.indd 22

from his father at their family's home in the evenings." Liao's "capitalist" status prevented her from going to college,
but she studied in secret, hoping the government would one day loosen its restrictions on postsecondary education.
She married a fellow artist, Sou Luo, when she was 21 and gave birth to a daughter, Ling.
"China had a one-child policy, and Sou wanted a son," she says. "Daughters were not valued, and Sou never gave Ling the attention and love she deserved."
Even as she juggled work and motherhood, Liao longed to go to college. In 1983 she was allowed to enroll in the Hunan Province Art and Craft College and eventually earned a degree in graphic design and photography.
She became a pattern designer for a towel factory, launched her own fashion design company and taught art classes. Liao divorced Sou in 1991 and moved to Shenzhen, where she thrived, rising to the prestigious position of the city's director of painting for the BoaAn Art Center.
PATH TO AMERICA AND FREEDOM
After years of planning her escape from China, Liao was granted permanent U.S. residency in 1999 as an "Alien of Extraordinary Abilities." She helped her daughter secure a visa to come to America and study at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind., and they settled there. So as not to burn through her savings, Liao found work washing dishes in the university's cafeteria.
"I had worked so hard," she says. "I didn't think about all the obstacles ahead of me and ignored the fact that I would have to learn a new language and start all over in my 40s. I was so happy to finally be in America."
Supporters helped her learn English and find better jobs and opportunities. Within nine years, Liao earned two master's degrees in art and became an art professor at Paducah School of Art and Design in Paducah, Ken.
In 2011, she built the BiLan Liao Gallery in Paducah, where she exhibited her works depicting the stories of her family and their tragedies and triumphs.
She's also written a book about her difficult journey to freedom.
"The artwork and stories in `Diary of the Dragon's Daughter' follow my family's journey in China and offer an honest look at the political, social and cultural issues of China," she says. "Painting and writing about the painful chapters of my life was extremely therapeutic."
Today, Liao lives in Norcross with her husband, Ken Scroggs. She spends time with her two grandsons and concentrates more than ever on her art, public speaking tours, events and the development of a documentary and a feature film. Liao and Scroggs open their home gallery for private viewings a few times each year.
"I hope my story spreads a message of hope; that's what I want," she says. "I want others to understand the strength of the human spirit. That strength lives inside each of us. Even in the midst of the most difficult times, never give up your dreams. Never!"
Amber Lanier Nagle is a freelance writer living in Adairsville.
6/13/19 11:36 AM

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JOHNNY ADOLPHSON / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Crossroads:
Change in Rural America
The Smithsonian Institution exhibition comes to Georgia

By Arden Williams

Crossroads: Change in Rural America, an exhibition that examines the evolving rural landscape, will tour six Georgia communities, starting in August.

Rural communities in the U.S. experienced dramatic change during the 20th century. Today, the vast majority of the U.S. land-

The exhibition will spend six weeks in each of six communities around the state in 2019 and 2020. Host communities will collaborate with local businesses and civic organizations on exhibits highlighting how small

scape is rural, but between 1900 and 2000, the per- towns can honor their past while focusing on opportunities for growth.

centage of Americans living in rural areas dropped Photography contests and programs for area youths are also planned.

from 60 percent to 17 percent.

Crossroads is presented by Georgia Humanities, the Center for Public

Crossroads: Change in Rural America, a travel- History at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton and Tucker-based

ing Smithsonian Institution exhibition, explores how Georgia Electric Membership Corp. The exhibition is part of Museum on

rural communities have adapted and survived amid Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state

this societal shift. The exhibition focuses on rural

humanities councils nationwide.

America's identity, land, community, persistence

Support for the Museum on Main Street program is provided by the

and response to change.

U.S. Congress. Additional support for the Georgia tour comes from the

"Americans have lived at rural crossroads for

Georgia Department of Economic Development and Trucks Inc. of Jackson.

generations. This exhibition tour is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Georgia to learn more

For more information and a full list of sponsors, visit georgiahumanities.org or contact Georgia Humanities at (404) 523-6220.

g

about the history and culture of our state's rural

Arden Williams is a senior program officer for Georgia Humanities.

communities," says Ann McCleary, director of the

Center for Public History at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton and national curator of the

When you go

exhibition.

Visit Crossroads: Change in Rural America in the following communities:

Through photos, objects, film, audio and in-

Thomaston, Aug. 24-Oct. 5, Thomaston-Upson Arts Council. tuacga.com

teractive technology, the exhibition examines how

McRae-Helena, Oct. 12-Nov. 23, Telfair Center for the Arts. tcfta.com

attachment to and interaction with the land formed Monticello, Dec. 7-Jan. 11, 2020, Monticello-Jasper Visitor Center.

rural culture. A historic box radio informs visitors

jaspercountycoc.com

about how electrification came to rural communi-

Cuthbert, Jan. 18-Feb. 29, 2020, Andrew on the Square, Andrew College.

ties, and a touch-screen kiosk features music, audio

andrewcollege.edu

and video clips and interviews. Accompanying

Summerville, March 7-April 18, 2020, Summerville Train Depot.

programs explore the pleasures and challenges of

summervillega.org

rural living and encourage conversations about local Blue Ridge, April 25-June 6, 2020, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association.

history and goals for Georgia's future.

blueridgearts.net

24 Georgia Magazine July 2019

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6/11/19 3:26 PM

JOHNNY ADOLPHSON / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Morton_GAMag_7.19.qxp_Layout 1 6/3/19 10:08 AM Page 1

Find it this month!

BE THE ENVY OF YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

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1) What is the name of the monthly arts program for cancer patients and their families at the Jacqueline Casey Hudgens Center for Art & Learning?
2) What role did Sydney Nolin hope to play in "Willy Wonka JR."?
3) How much grant money did the Fox Theatre Institute award to 13 other historic theaters in 2018-19?
4) Norcross artist BiLan Liao wrote a book about her experiences in China and moving to America. What is the title?
5) What did Morgan County Alternative School students in the Creative Teens Earning Green program create as a gift for The Caring Place?
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6/14/19 8:19 AM

I Spo igh

Z BETH DISON LLER ELIZABETH BROOKMAN

LI

LIZ BETH DISON

Youth theaters

SHANNON ZA

give kids a chance to shine

By Laura Raines

N ot every kid dreams of acting on stage, but the opportunities are growing in Georgia for those who do. Drama classes, workshops, summer camps and youth productions are putting more kids in the spotlight and developing their talents. Many kids are stage-struck early. Tucker rising fifth-grader Sydney Nolin knew she wanted to act since portraying the kid who forgot her lunch in a secondgrade play. In February, she took part in "Willy Wonka JR.," produced by the Academy of Arts at Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain. Tryouts didn't go quite as she'd hoped. Aiming for the role of Veruca Salt, a bratty rich kid, Sydney was chosen instead as a Candy Cane Kid (with a few lines) and an Oompa-Loompa. She still had a great time. "I liked singing and learning the dances. It was exciting being on stage," she says. Delaney Musgrave, now a rising sophomore at

Greater Atlanta Christian School in Norcross, had a similar casting disappointment when she started with the academy in third grade.
"We were doing `The Little Mermaid,' and I thought I'd get the lead, but I learned that sometimes being in the ensemble is a lot more fun," Delaney says.
Her starring role came later, however. In March, she played Belle in "Beauty and the Beast."
"It's always the people that make drama such a
Top left: Lila Smith as Sebastian and other sea creatures perform during "The Little Mermaid" at the Academy of Arts at Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain. Top center: Ariel, portrayed by Erin Moore, talks with her friend Flounder, portrayed by Evie McNiel, during that "The Little Mermaid" production. Top right: Amelie Steffen and Sampson star as Annie and Sandy in a production of "Annie" at Savannah Children's Theatre.

26 Georgia Magazine July 2019

26-29_Youth_Theaters-719.indd 26

6/13/19 11:47 AM

great experience," she says. "And you learn so much.

Lessons amid the fun

Acting helps me with school presentations and public

It's a huge commitment for families, but the ben-

speaking. The comfort level you get from theater is like efits go well beyond performing.

nothing else."

"The kids don't realize how much they're learning.

`They're mesmerized'

They're reading and memorizing lines and learning to speak in front of a group and how to work as a team,"

Smoke Rise Baptist Church started the Academy of Tovar says.

Arts in 1992. Since then, the program has grown to four

Reed Bailey started with Little Actors' Theatre as a

shows a year, cast with kids from elementary to high

7-year-old.

school, as well as classes in music, dance, drama and

"I was a shy kid but always felt pulled toward the

the visual arts.

performing arts," Bailey says. "Acting brought me out

"Every child who auditions gets a part," says Janet of myself, and it was fun. I made a ton of friends from

Chadwick, drama director and voice teacher. "We had other schools that I'd never have met otherwise."

two casts for `Willy Wonka,' which was mind-blowing,

Now band director at Brooks County High School

but it created more opportunity, and I love working with in Quitman, he recommends the performing arts to his

all the kids."

students.

Tuition for the classes, concessions fees and dona-

Last month, On Stage Walton (in its 50th season

tions keep the productions free to the public.

as a community theater) in Monroe produced its first

"I love that we're celebrating the beauty of art,

all-youth show, "Peter Pan."

talent and teamwork," Chadwick says. "Seeing the audi-

"We've always cast youths in adult shows, but

ence response is so satisfying. We sit the little kids on

with cutbacks in the schools for theater education,

the floor down front and they're mesmerized."

we saw a growing need for youth drama training and

Tired of driving their kids to Tallahassee, Fla.,

productions. We expect `Peter Pan' to be the first of

for summer drama camp, three moms--Lisa Mangle,

many," says Marc Hammes, artistic director of On

Phyllis Childree and Diane Tovar--started Little Actors' Stage Walton.

Theatre of Valdosta in 2004.

The company does a drama hour at the library,

"We do summer camps and give three perfor-

and kids who show interest sign up for Saturday and

mances a year. We have to stretch the dollars to make

summer workshops to learn about acting, singing,

ON ZA

the budget work, but it's worth it," Tovar says. "Everyone dancing and auditioning.

gets cast. I figure if they had the guts to show up for

"At the end we perform a

an audition, they should get to participate. They don't play I wrote. Everyone has

always get the roles they want, but everyone has some- a part and chance to

thing to say."

shine. No one is the

LLER ELIZABETH BROOKMAN
LIZ BETH DISON

26-29_Youth_Theaters-719.indd 27

Above: Jackson Lee stars as Prince Eric in "The Little Mermaid" at the Academy of Arts at Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain. Left: Young actors perform a scene from "Pippin" at Savannah Children's Theatre.
www.georgiamagazine.org 27
6/13/19 11:47 AM

Delaney Musgrave plays Belle to Robby Kocher's Beast in "Beauty and the Beast" at the Academy of Arts at Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain.

third tree from

the end. They

SHANNON HONEYCUTTSMITH

get good training," Hammes says.
"Theater is a community, a family, and kids

gain a lot of self-confidence from

being a part of it," Hammes says. "Not

everyone wants to be on stage. Some like the backstage

technology or want to build sets, but everyone gets that

sense of belonging and the need to support each other.

Plus, they're providing entertainment, and that feels

good."

Savannah Children's Theatre's Creative Adventures classes cater to the youngest theater lovers (prekindergarten through first grade).

`Really good energy'
Kelie Miley, who has worked in youth theaters for 40 years, says she's seeing a growing movement in youth theaters and in the variety of material written or adapted for children. Many plays now have junior scripts.
Miley founded the Savannah Children's Theatre in 2004.
"Our mission is to inspire, educate and entertain children and their families," Miley says. "Theater is good for all kinds of kids. It brings shy ones out of their shell. Those who usually bounce off the walls learn to find their place, to be part of a story and to listen. Theater grounds them."
Children often get their first theater experience through the organization's school field-trip program.
"The students have all seen movies, but many aren't familiar with live performance, so this is one of the most important things we do," Miley says. "We have about 30 different shows that are curriculum-based. Our artists divide the kids up to play theater games, rehearse and then perform shows for each other."
Sometimes parents will see a spark in their children that they hadn't seen before and will encourage them to take a class or go to drama camp.
"I love working with all the kids and seeing them grow artistically and as people," Miley says. "They won't all be stars, and that's a learning proposition, but they find that this is a good place to be. There's really good energy here."
Laura Raines is a Mableton-based freelance writer.

EMILY CASEY

CARMEL COWART

On Stage Walton in Monroe holds summer drama workshops for children. This group performed in "Back to the Fifties."
28 Georgia Magazine July 2019
26-29_Youth_Theaters-719.indd 28

A few opportunities for kids to perform in Georgia Academy of Arts at Smoke Rise Baptist Church, Stone Mountain,
(678) 533-0562, smokerisebaptist.org/arts
Athens Little Playhouse, Athens, (706) 521-4454,
athenslittleplayhouse.net
The Atlanta Children's Theatre Company, Atlanta, (404) 550-1600,
atlantachildrenstheatre.com
Georgia Ensemble Theatre Summer Camp, Roswell,
(770) 641-1260, bit.ly/getsummercamp
Horizon Theatre Company Youth Classes and Camps, Atlanta,
(404) 523-1477, bit.ly/horizoncamps
Little Actors' Theatre of Valdosta, Valdosta, (229) 292-4742,
littleactorstheatrevaldosta.com
Oconee Youth Playhouse, Watkinsville, oconeeyouth@gmail.com,
oconeeyouthplayhouse.com
Off Broadway Children's Theatre, Alpharetta, (770) 664-2410,
offbroadwaykids.net
On Stage Walton, Monroe, (678) 635-8597, onstagewalton.org Savannah Children's Theatre, Savannah, (912) 238-9015,
savannahchildrenstheatre.org
Youth Creates at 7 Stages, Atlanta, (404) 522-0911,
bit.ly/youthcreates
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6/12/19 12:51 PM

STEPHEN ARMSTRONG

Around GEORGIA By Laura Raines

art The he

of the community

Centers throughout Georgia promote creativity, expression

Art lives at the heart of Georgia communities thanks to an array of arts centers, councils and alliances throughout the state. Arts organizations have an annual impact of $2.2 billion on the state's economy, according to the Georgia Council for the Arts, but those are just the statistics. The real impact is visible in a fifth-grader who sees her painting exhibited, a family that enjoys an arts festival and an artist who finds a place to show his work.
The mission of most arts organizations is to add enrichment, raise cultural awareness and build community vitality. Each organization does it differently but always creatively.
Jacqueline Casey Hudgens Center for Art & Learning, Duluth, (770) 623-6002, thehudgens.org
Started as a grassroots effort to bring more art to the community, the Hudgens has grown into a 3,400-square-foot classroom and exhibition space, a Kids Zone space for handson activity and a 28,000-square-foot outdoor Weeks Sculpture Garden.
"With three gallery spaces, we show three to five exhibits quarterly, including international art like etchings by Rembrandt, the private collections of Gwinnett [County] residents

THE HUDGENS CENTER

32 Georgia Magazine July 2019
32-35_Around_GA_SW_0719.indd 32

THE HUDGENS CENTER

Above: Family Day! at the Jacqueline Casey Hudgens Center for Art & Learning in Duluth is a free event that engages visitors of all ages in creating art. Left: Students enjoy a field trip to the Weeks Sculpture Garden at the Hudgens Center in Duluth.
and art by students and Hudgens Prize finalists," says Ife Williams, executive director.
The Hudgens Prize is a $50,000 award and solo show given to one Georgia artist every other year.
"It's our way of encouraging professional artists to work in Georgia, but we want everyone to experience making art--that feeling of accomplishment, of problem-solving and the pleasure of connecting to others," Williams says.
6/14/19 7:53 AM
Continued on page 32

EMILY LIGHTNER

STEPHEN ARMSTRONG

Midge Carter, a Youth Villages AmeriCorps member, performs with the therapeutic drumming program at the Taste of Douglasville fundraiser in May.
With a focus on the visual arts, the Hudgens offers classes, summer youth camps and specialty workshops like the Healing Arts, a free monthly program for cancer patients and their families.
Often seen as an elective, art is frequently the first thing cut from school and community budgets, "but art isn't really an `extra,'" Williams says. "It's the creative part that lets people experience new things. Everybody has something creative in them."

The Cultural Arts Council Douglasville/Douglas County works to install artwork in office buildings, including this mural by Carrollton artist Alan Kuykendall in the Douglas County Foster & Adoption Center.
ART Station in Stone Mountain holds a summer camp in which children and teenagers work with professionals to produce their own plays.

Cultural Arts Council Douglasville/ Douglas County, Douglasville, (770) 949-2787,
artsdouglas.org Housed in a 1901 Victorian home, this cultural
arts council is constantly expanding its horizons. "Our classes include not only drawing and
violin and piano but [also] fashion design, jewelry making and the spoken word, because art is all around you. It's the building you're standing in, the clothes you are wearing," says Emily Lightner, executive director.
To make art more visible in the community, the center started a public arts initiative last year. With grants and partnerships with other civic groups, the Cultural Arts Council has painted fire hydrants, created a butterfly garden, commissioned a mural, mapped a trail of film locations in the county and painted the words "Be the Change" in school bathrooms.
The Art on Loan program puts the work of local artists in office buildings, and fun events like Shamrockin' for the Arts bring art, music, food and people

ART STATION

of all ages together. A scholarship fund is making art classes affordable for more students.
"Everyone needs art and relaxation," Lightner says. "I'm proudest of the fact that we're making a difference in the community. Art makes a difference in people's lives."
ART Station, Stone Mountain, (770) 469-1105, artstation.org
While traveling with the Georgia Council for the Arts as a director of grants, David Thomas saw places where the arts thrived and places where they didn't.
"The difference was in the leadership and the planning," says Thomas, founder, president and artistic director of ART Station.
www.georgiamagazine.org 33

32-35_Around_GA_SW_0719.indd 33
2

6/14/19 7:53 AM

Around GEORGIA

with professionals to produce their own plays. In a multi-generational program, seniors and kids share their life stories in video or story boards. ART Station hosts intimate musical evenings in its cabaret theater, while its Tour of Southern Ghosts Storytelling Festival at Stone Mountain Park draws 15,000 every October.
"It's very important for a community to have an arts center. It becomes a community center where artists, patrons and residents can come together and work together. It becomes a catalyst for economic development," Thomas says.

RHIAN SWAIN / REDWOLF

Top: Bassist Reggie Sullivan performs at the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival in 2017. Right: ART Station's professional theater company presents "A Broadway Christmas Carol."
In 1986, Thomas and several friends approached the DeKalb County Commission with plans to start a public/private arts center in Stone Mountain. DeKalb County purchased the historic trolley-car barn of the Atlanta Rapid Transit (ART) system, while the group forming the nonprofit arts organization raised $3.5 million to renovate the building, and ART Station was born.
Today, ART Station is a multi-building theater, dance, music, visual and literary arts environment that houses several theaters, its own Actors' Equity Association theater company, five art galleries and classrooms to learn skills such as drawing and novel writing.
About 300 children and teens attend summer arts camp to ignite their creativity. They design 3D ideal towns and work

ART STATION

Greater Augusta Arts Council, Augusta,
(706) 826-4702, augustaarts.com Founded in 1968, the Greater Augusta Arts
Council serves as an umbrella organization for promoting the arts.
"Augusta is a very vibrant arts town, and we're the ear and voice of the arts community," says Brenda Durant, executive director. "We have a large community of writers, filmmakers, musicians and fine artists. We listen to them, and we speak up at city commission meetings to make sure we are heard."
To promote the arts, the council features arts news, a calendar of events and lists of galleries and arts classes on its website. It hosts a weekly radio talk show and organizes the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival, a 2-1/2-day event of performances, crafts, food and a juried art show with more than 100 artists each September.
It also serves as Augusta's public art agency and administers cultural grants from the city of Augusta.
"One of the unique things that we do is offer

Soweto Street Beat, an Atlanta- and Soweto, South Africa-based dance theater company, performs during the annual Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival.
34 Georgia Magazine July 2019

RHIAN SWAIN / REDWOLF

32-35_Around_GA_SW_0719.indd 34

6/14/19 7:53 AM

RHIAN SWAIN / REDWOLF RHIAN SWAIN / REDWOLF

seminars to artists on the business of being an artist. We bring in subject-matter experts on everything from marketing and social media to physically hanging a show," Durant says.
"People want to live in a community where the arts are vibrant. It makes people feel more at home and instills a sense of pride."
Laura Raines is a freelance writer who lives in Mableton.

The Greater Augusta Arts Council conducted a "yarn-bombing" public art display in the city this year.

Sampling of arts organizations in Georgia
Annette Howell Turner Center for the
Arts, Valdosta, (229) 247-2787,
turnercenter.org
Arts Clayton, Jonesboro, (770) 473-5430,
artsclayton.org
Atlanta Artists Center, Atlanta,
(404) 237-2324, atlantaartistscenter.org
Averitt Center for the Arts,
Statesboro, (912) 212-2787,
averittcenterforthearts.org
Blue Ridge Mountains Arts
Association, Blue Ridge, (706) 632- 2144,
blueridgearts.net
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, Atlanta,
(404) 872-5338, callanwolde.org
Decatur Arts Alliance, Decatur,
(404) 371-9583, decaturartsalliance.org
Georgia Council for the Arts, Atlanta,
(404) 962-4000, gaarts.org
Gilmer Arts, Ellijay, (706) 635-5605,
gilmerarts.com
Hammonds House Museum, Atlanta,
(404) 612-0481, hammondshouse.org
Mable House Arts Center, Mableton,
(770) 819-3285, mablehouse.org
Middle Georgia Art Association,
Macon, (478) 744-9557,
middlegeorgiaart.org
Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts,
Monroe, (770) 207-8937,
monroewaltonarts.org
Roswell Fine Arts Alliance, Roswell,
(770) 641-3705, rfaa.org
Savannah Art Association,
Savannah, (912) 232-7731,
savannahartassociation.com
Spruill Center for the Arts, Atlanta,
(770) 394-3447 (education center) and
(770) 394-4019 (gallery), spruillarts.org
Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta,
(404) 733-4200, woodruffcenter.org

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6/14/19 7:54 AM

GEORGIA'S Energy Outlook By Alan C. Shedd
Georgia-grown renewable energy

SOONTHORN WONGSAITA / SHUTTERSTOCK

N ow that we are in the heat of summer-- with days of extended daylight--it's worth noting that sunshine is an increasingly important part of Georgia's energy supply. Georgia's electric membership cooperatives (EMCs) are involved in generating solar power and making it available to their members. Though Georgia lacks the abundant sunshine of the southwestern U.S., the combination of rising solar-panel efficiency, falling prices, low interest rates and available low-cost, flat rural land has allowed solar power development to grow rapidly. Georgia now ranks 11th in the country in installed solar capacity.
Solar power is just one of several forms of renewable energy. Hydroelectric power, methane gas from landfills, waste wood from construction and forest management and wind power are all used to produce electricity.
The use of renewable sources of energy to heat homes and businesses is not a new idea. Capturing heat from the sun to help warm a dwelling dates back to prehistoric times, when humans discovered that a south-facing cave let in the sun during the winter.
Using solar and wind power to generate electricity is a little more recent. More than 100 years ago, heat from the sun was harnessed to produce steam to turn an electric generator. In 1954, the first photovoltaic cell to generate electricity directly from sunlight was patented. The first effective wind turbine was a battery-charging machine installed in Scotland in 1887. In the 1930s, small wind turbines provided electricity for farms across the Midwest. Today, electricity from renewable sources is a growing part of our national energy mix.
In 2001, Georgia's electric co-ops joined forces to form Green Power EMC, a nonprofit corporation
36 Georgia Magazine July 2019

As of 2018, electricity generated by
the sun represented 87 percent of the 283 MW of renewable energy Green Power EMC
members generate--
enough renewable energy to serve 38,000 homes, while reducing
carbon dioxide emissions by 416,000 metric tons.

that facilitates production and awareness of clean, home-grown energy. Initially, the most cost-effective source of green power was methane gas from decomposing waste at landfill sites. This gas is collected, treated and used as fuel for an engine-driven generator. Additional energy resources--including a low-impact hydroelectric plant and a wood-waste boiler plant--were added. Several small-scale solar systems also were installed for educational and experimental purposes at local schools.
By 2010, the economics of utility-scale solar had improved. Green Power EMC collaborated with an industrial real estate firm to install a 12,000-squarefoot, 115-kilowatt system on the roof of an existing building. From there, projects became larger and more numerous. The Hazlehurst 20-megawatt (MW) solar farm in Jeff Davis County was completed in 2014. It covers 135 acres with 87,000 solar modules capable of generating enough power for more than 2,600 EMC households.
As of 2018, electricity generated by the sun represented 87 percent of the 283 MW of renewable energy Green Power EMC members generate--enough renewable energy to serve 38,000 homes, while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 416,000 metric tons. This is equivalent to the carbon absorbed by 500,000 acres of trees for one year. An additional 670 MW of new capacity will be complete by 2022.
Interest in renewable sources of energy continues to grow. Georgia's EMCs are always looking for innovative ways to harness renewable energy and deliver it to their members cost-effectively.
What can homeowners do to utilize renewable energy? Find out in our next article.
Alan C. Shedd is the director of sustainability for Tucker-based Oglethorpe Power Corp.

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6/12/19 12:54 PM

Curious GEORGIA By H.M. Cauley

COURTESY SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL POSTAL MUSEUM ISTOCK.COM / PICTURELAKE

What's in a
(county) NAME?

W ith 159, Georgia is noted for having an inordinately high number of counties, second only to Texas' 254. That list includes some curious names: How

spelled Casimir) Pulaski; and Baron Johann de Kalb of Germany. The state's original settlers--the Cherokee, Muscogee,
Coweta and Seminole tribes--are remembered in those

did the residents of Taliaferro or Effingham come up with those counties. The Chattahoochee, Chattooga and Oconee rivers also

titles? Is Peach County really peachy? Is Rockdale really rocky? lend their names to Georgia counties.

The answer to those last two queries is simply "yes." Rock-

Outstanding Georgians aren't forgotten, either. That list

dale gave a nod to the granite that runs below the soil; Peach

includes poet Sidney Lanier, speaker and newspaper editor

County is a reference to the central region and the Fort Valley

Henry Grady, University of Georgia Chancellor David Barrow,

area, where the fuzzy fruit long has been a primary crop.

anesthetics pioneer Dr. Crawford Long and George Whitefield, a

But Crisp, Bacon and Coffee counties were named for

pastor who founded an orphanage near Savannah. (The county

people (U.S. Rep. Charles Frederick Crisp, U.S. Sen. Augustus

varied the spelling to Whitfield.) In Liberty County, the name

Octavius Bacon and Gen. John E. Coffee, War

reflects the locals themselves, who

of 1812 hero), not breakfast foods.

demonstrated unwavering support for the

To learn what inspired these county

Revolution.

names requires a deep dive into American

In 1853, the residents of Hart County

history. Most take their titles from men who

took their title from the only woman on the

made notable contributions to the country,

list. Tales of Nancy Hart's one-woman

state or area in the earliest days of the new

campaign against the British, though possi-

nation. The patriotic list includes Washing-

bly exaggerated, earned her a reputation as a

ton, for George Washington, the first U.S.

feisty supporter of the Revolutionary cause.

president; Jefferson, for Thomas Jefferson,

One man whose exploits are document-

the third president; Henry, for Revolutionary

ed in that war is Col. Benjamin Taliaferro,

War hero Patrick Henry; and Madison, for

who also served in the U.S. Congress and

James Madison, author of the Constitution.

whose unusual last name is now part of the

A lengthy list honors men who served in

county roster.

the Revolution and the War of 1812 as well as

But why are there so many counties?

those who distinguished themselves as gov-

Stan Denton, a senior historian with the

ernment leaders in Georgia and Washington,

Savannah-based Georgia Historical Society,

D.C. Hall, Carroll, Baldwin, Walton, Han-

says it was all about political clout.

cock and Gwinnett remember Lyman Hall,

Top: Polish Count Kazimierz

"Having more counties prevented big-

Charles Carroll, Abraham Baldwin, George Walton, John Hancock and Button Gwinnett, signers of the Declaration of Independence.
In the cases of Effingham, Richmond, Fayette, Chatham, Pulaski and DeKalb, the nods went to European nobles who supported the colonists' cause: Thomas Howard, the earl of Effingham; Charles Lennox, the third duke of Richmond; Gilbert du Motier, the marquis de Lafayette; William Pitt, earl

Pulaski, the namesake of Pulaski County as well as Fort Pulaski in Savannah, was mortally wounded while leading a charge against the British during the American Revolution. A U.S. postage stamp in his honor was issued in 1931. Above: Also honored with a U.S. postage stamp (in 1972) was Sidney Lanier, a Macon-born poet, author and musician for whom Lanier

ger ones from having all the political power," he says. "At some point, the thought was we needed to create these counties to give more rural and less populous counties representation in the state legislature. But it is odd because we don't have 159 electoral districts."
More information about county names and histories is online at georgia encyclopedia.org.
H.M. Cauley is an Atlanta-based

of Chatham; Polish Count Kazimierz (also

County is named.

freelance writer.

38 Georgia Magazine July 2019

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GEORGIA Gardens
GEORGIA Gardens By Helen Newling Lawson
What big ears you have!
Add drama to your landscape with elephant ears
I n their native Asia, elephant ears grow in tropical forests, but they are equally at home in our climate. Bodie Pennisi, a professor of horticulture at the University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens, calls elephant ears "an excellent choice for Georgia landscapes."
But the plants we collectively call "elephant ears" are not all the same. There are three different (although closely related) species: Colocasia, Alocasia and Xanthosoma. Differentiating between the species can be difficult, but luckily you don't need to know the species to grow them successfully, since all have similar needs.
Exploring your options
Exciting new options for size, shape and color are hitting the market every year.
Some horticulturists are breeding to make plants as large as possible, like Colocasia `Jack's Giant,' while others are striving to create varieties suited to smaller yards and containers. Leaves can vary in shape, including the upward-curving Colocasia `Coffee Cups' and the scallop-edged Alocasia amazonica varieties known as "African Mask."
The range of available foliage hues proves you don't need flowers to have color. In addition to leaf shades of lime green, black, pink and purple (including multicolored patterns), there are also varieties with colorful leaf veins and stems.
Growing elephant ears
Fertilize elephant ears monthly using a liquid or granular fertilizer, starting when the foliage emerges in spring. If your yard has either too much heavy clay or quick-draining sand, work in lots of organic soil amendments and possibly some slow-release fertilizer before planting.
Although the tubers can be large, they do not need to be planted deeply. Two to 4 inches below the soil line is plenty. Tubers are best planted in spring, after the danger of frost has passed. 40 Georgia Magazine July 2019
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COURTESY PLANT DELIGHTS NURSERY

Colocasia `White Lava'
6/11/19 3:53 PM

Colocasia `Hawaiian Punch'

COURTESY PLEASANT VIEW GARDENS

Plant your elephant ears in filtered sun or partial shade and in a protected site where the leaves won't be damaged by strong winds. After planting, keep them well-watered and mulch to help keep roots moist, which Brandon Coker of the UGA Trial Gardens in Athens says "helps the plants keep a full, lush form."
Despite the tropical look of elephant ears, winter doesn't have to spell their end. Many varieties are hardy to Zone 8 and some into Zone 7, thus covering most of Georgia. If you aren't sure which variety you have or it isn't hardy in your area, you can dig up the tubers and store them through the winter. Helen Newling Lawson is a freelance writer in Forsyth County.
The enormous, purple-black leaves of Colocasia esculenta `Diamond Head' provide a striking backdrop to summer annuals.

We're all ears
Elephant ears are available in a wide range of colors, sizes and shapes. Here are a few to try:
Colocasia `Aloha': Brandon Coker,
manager of the UGA Trial Gardens in Athens, calls this dark-leafed variety "stellar" and recommends giving it plenty of sun. "You'll be amazed how much of a showstopper it can be," he says.
Colocasia `Hawaiian Punch':
Hot-pink stems and veins against bright green leaves will knock your socks o .
Colocasia `White Lava': Bred in
Hawaii, this selection has a bright pink splotch erupting from the center of the leaf, with white stripes spreading outward.
Alocasia amazonica `Polly': Equally
well-suited as a houseplant, this smaller Alocasia has dramatic white veining and a distinctive leaf shape.
Alocasia `Borneo Giant': Norman
Winter, former director of the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens in Savannah, says, "This one is like a sequoia in comparison to other Alocasia [varieties]."
Colocasia esculenta `Diamond
Head': This selection performs best in full sun. In shade, its leaves lose their luster and appear dark green instead of purple or black.

HELEN NEWLING LAWSON

Sources for elephant ears
Breck's Premium Bulbs,
Guilford, Ind., (513) 354-1512. brecks.com.
Longfield Gardens,
Longfield, N.J., (855) 534-2733. longfield-gardens.com.
Plant Delights Nursery,
Raleigh, N.C., (919) 772-4794. plantdelights.com.
Proven Winners, Sycamore,
Ill., (815) 895-8130. provenwinners.com.

Elephant ears team up with other colorful foliage and flowers to create stunning combinations.

COURTESY HILLWOOD MUSEUM AND GARDENS

Elephant ears love moist soil and some can even be grown in standing water, like this Colocasia `Illustris.'
www.georgiamagazine.org 41

COURTESY PROVEN WINNERS

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6/11/19 3:57 PM

GEORGIA Cooks By Courtney ompson

Cooling off
Frozen treats to beat the heat

S ummertime in Georgia is always hot. With temperatures averaging in the high 80s, cooling off is a must. Here are some tasty treats that will help you stay cool this summer.

FRESH BLACKBERRY SORBET
Courtesy of Chef David Darugh at Beechwood Inn, beechwoodinn.ws 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup water 3 cups fresh blackberries 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
In a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Add the blackberries and bring to a boil again. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer, stirring constantly, until the berries are soft and beginning to dissolve, about 8-10 minutes. Add xanthan gum and stir well. Let cool for about 10 minutes.
Strain the berries through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, scraping the pulp with the back of a large spoon to release the juice. Discard blackberry pulp and seeds. Add lemon juice to the blackberry syrup and stir to combine. Note: You should have about 1-1/2 cups liquid. Cover and refrigerate
until chilled, at least 3 hours or up to 8 hours.
Pour blackberry syrup into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions. Transfer the sorbet to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, at least 2 hours or up to 3 days, before serving. Yields 1 pint.

DAVID DARUGH / BEECHWOOD INN

42 Georgia Magazine July 2019

Chef David Darugh serves Fresh Blackberry Sorbet as an intermezzo at Beechwood Inn in Clayton.

From left, pals Anna Grace Ellington and Adileigh Taunton enjoy a blue raspberry Kona Ice at the 2018 Barnesville Buggy Days festival in Barnesville. Anna Grace is the daughter of Chester and Brittany Ellington, of Thomaston, and Adileigh is the daughter of Stephen and Jessica Taunton, of The Rock. All are members of Upson Electric Membership Corp. (EMC).
Chill out!
9th Annual Atlanta Ice Cream Festival, July 27, Piedmont Park, Atlanta. atlantaicecreamfestival.com
Leopold's Ice Cream's 100 Year Birthday Block Party, Aug. 17, 212 E. Broughton St., Savannah. (912) 234-4442, bit.ly/leo100bday
15th Annual Miss Mary's Ice Cream Crankin', Aug. 25, Roswell Square Park, Roswell. missmarysicecream.org

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6/14/19 10:54 AM

ona tival of ton, nd bers .
,
42-44_Cooks_alt_0719.indd 43

1

2

FROZEN PEANUT BUTTER PARFAIT
Courtesy of the Georgia Peanut Commission, gapeanuts. com. 2016 Georgia National Fair Peanut Recipe Contest, Sweet Dish category, Second-place winner Karen Slaughter Crust 2 cups pretzels, crushed 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed 3/4 cup butter, melted Ice Cream Layer 1 half-gallon vanilla ice cream, softened 1 cup creamy peanut butter 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed Topping 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter 2 tablespoons peanuts, chopped
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. For crust, mix together pretzels, peanuts, brown sugar and butter. Press into 10-inch square pan. Bake 10 minutes and cool completely.
Use a mixer to beat ice cream, peanut butter and brown sugar together in a large mixing bowl until well-blended. Pour over crust and immediately place in freezer.
In a small bowl, make the topping by microwaving whipping cream about 25 seconds, or until steaming hot. Add the chocolate chips and peanut butter; stir until smooth. Place in a sealable plastic bag. Snip the corner of the bag and drizzle mixture over the frozen parfait. Sprinkle top with chopped peanuts. Return to freezer until set. Cut into squares to serve.
MORE
WATERMELON MINT LEMONADE SORBET
Courtesy of the Georgia Watermelon Association, facebook.com/gawatermelons. Recipe by Dawn Cheplick 1-1/2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 cups watermelon, seeds removed 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup mint leaves (still on the stem) or 1 tea bag of mint tea
In a high-speed blender, blend lemon juice, watermelon and sugar until the sugar has completely dissolved. Take the mint stem and bruise the leaves by pressing into your palm. Place the whole stem (or mint tea bag) into the watermelon mixture and place in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
Take mint (or tea bag) out of the mixture and discard. Transfer mixture to an ice cream maker and process according to manufacturer's directions. Store in a sealable container in the freezer.
www.georgiamagazine.org 43
6/14/19 10:07 AM

JESSICA TAUNTON

ISTOCK.COM / VOLTAN1

ISTOCK.COM / PETEGAR BROOKE HOLLEY

GEORGIA Cooks

PEACH ICE CREAM WITH AMARETTO CRUNCH

Courtesy of the Georgia Peach Council, gapeaches.org. Recipe by Chef Gena Knox 2 cups fresh chopped peaches, unpeeled 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1-1/4 cups sugar, divided 2 eggs 2 egg yolks 1-1/2 cups whole milk 1-1/4 cups heavy cream 2/3 cup crushed amaretto cookies or graham crackers
Combine peaches, lemon juice and 1/2 cup sugar in a medium bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour. Meanwhile, whisk eggs, yolks and remaining 3/4 cup sugar in a medium bowl; set aside.
Heat milk in the top of a double boiler set over gently boiling water until it comes to a light simmer. Whisk 1/2 cup hot milk into the egg mixture and then slowly add egg mixture into double boiler with remaining milk. Stir with a wooden spoon until thick and mixture coats back of spoon, about 15 minutes.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and whisk in heavy cream; refrigerate until cold. Drain juice from peaches and stir the liquid into cream base. Return peaches to refrigerator. Pour cream mixture into ice cream maker and process according to manufacturer's directions. Just before ice cream is set, stir in refrigerated peaches and crushed cookies. Serves 6-8.

Bracyn Holley loves picking strawberries at Dickey Farms in Musella, then cooling off with a strawberry-peach swirl. He is the son of Joshua and Brooke Holley, of Thomaston. They are members of Upson EMC.

NOCHURN STRAWBERRY BUTTERMILK ICE CREAM
Courtesy of The Dairy Alliance, thedairyalliance.com. Recipe by Rebecca Egsieker, The Dairy Chef 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed
milk 1/2 cup buttermilk 1/2 cup strawberries, cleaned, hulled,
chopped, then mashed with a fork 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup strawberries, cleaned, hulled,
chopped In a mixing bowl, combine cream
and sweetened condensed milk. Whip on high speed until soft peaks form. Add buttermilk and mix on low until wellcombined. Gently fold in the mashed strawberries and vanilla.
Pour mixture into a metal loaf pan. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and place in freezer for 1 hour.
Remove pan from freezer. Stir in chopped strawberries and mix the ice cream thoroughly.
Cover pan tightly with plastic wrap
44 Georgia Magazine July 2019

and place in freezer for at least 6 hours or overnight. Yields 1 quart.
LAVENDER GEORGIA PECAN ICE CREAM
Courtesy of the Georgia Pecan Commission, georgiapecans.org 3/4 cup Georgia pecans 1-1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons
granulated sugar, divided 6 egg yolks 3 cups heavy cream 1-1/2 cups whole milk
1-1/2 tablespoons dried lavender
2 vanilla beans (split, scraped) Heat oven to 375
degrees. On a baking sheet, toast pecans until they are lightly browned. Remove from oven. Toss in mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of sugar and return to oven for 2 minutes. Remove pecans and cool. When cool, lightly

chop pecans and reserve. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk
1-1/4 cups sugar and egg yolks. Whisk until light pale in color.
In medium sauce pot, combine cream, milk, lavender and vanilla beans. Bring cream mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Remove from heat.
Whisk 1/2 cup of cream mixture into eggs, then slowly return mixture to sauce pot and continue to cook over low heat, whisking constantly. Note: Custard should not boil but should be tested with a spoon. Dip spoon in mixture and run finger over the back of it. When your finger leaves a trail, it is done.
When custard is done, remove mixture from heat, strain and cool. Once cool, add pecans to mixture. Transfer mixture to ice cream maker and prepare according to manufacturer's directions.
Share your favorite potluck recipes for our Georgia Cooks article in December!
Email your recipe--listing all ingredients and directions, plus your name, address, phone number and electric co-op name--
to georgiacooks@georgiaemc.com.

42-44_Cooks_alt_0719.indd 44

6/14/19 10:08 AM

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6/14/19 1:52 PM

DONNA LONGINO

Hometown HERO By Jackie Kennedy
John Longino prepares to serve customers at the counter of the MUST Ministries food pantry in Canton.
46 Georgia Magazine July 2019
46_Hometown_Hero_SW_0719.indd 46

John Longino
Waleska attorney leads a life of volunteerism
J ohn Longino has been a lot of places and seen a lot of things. The trial lawyer's volunteerism has taken him to Miami, where he established a food pantry, and New Orleans, where he supplied food and fresh water to people displaced after Hurricane Katrina.
Since 2009, Longino has lived in Waleska with his wife, Donna, who nominated him as a Hometown Hero.
"I don't know of anyone more deserving of recognition for a lifetime commitment to helping others," she wrote in her nomination.
Longino co-founded Centro Latino in Dalton, a Hispanic agency offering relocation assistance, and served on the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Georgia. He was named Rotarian of the Year in 1998 for his volunteer work with central Georgia flood and tornado victims and was presented the Justice Robert Benham Award for Community Service in 2014 by the State Bar of Georgia.
Through the years, he has hosted 10 foreign students who attended colleges in the U.S., and last year, he volunteered with Catholic Charities to assist asylum-seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Longino currently serves as a translator for Spanish- and French-speaking clients at the MUST Ministries food pantry in Canton.
"The purpose is not to hand out food," he says, "but to make people feel important when I hand food to them. A lot of it is engaging with these beaten-down people."
The Hometown Hero says becoming a Christian in 1984 spurred his volunteerism.
"If I say I follow Jesus, I'm committed to follow Jesus," says Longino. "He didn't say, `Blessed are those who sit and watch TV.' He wants me to go help people, and fortunately I've been able to do that."
Jackie Kennedy is a freelance writer living in LaGrange.
6/11/19 4:07 PM

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