TYBEE POST THEATER WELCOMES LOCAL STARS TO HOST “LIGHTS UP: A BROADWAY REVUE”

TYBEE POST THEATER WELCOMES LOCAL STARS TO HOST “LIGHTS UP: A BROADWAY REVUE”

TYBEE ISLAND, GA. – September 30, 2021 – The Tybee Post Theater is slated to host “Lights Up: A Broadway Revue,” a performance by soprano Jessica Fishenfeld, mezzo-soprano Sara Zoe Budnik, baritone Trevor Martin and pianist Justin Addington. Join this dynamic vocal trio at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 24 at the historic Tybee Post Theater, 10 Van Horne Ave. on Tybee Island, to celebrate the return of Broadway and live performances in the United States.

“Lights Up: A Broadway Revue” pulls together songs and tales from new and old Broadway shows, featuring songs from Rodgers & Hammerstein, Sondheim, Wicked, Frozen, Phantom of the Opera, and more! The vocalists featured in this performance are familiar faces to Savannah’s music scene, with all three individuals having competed in the Savannah-based American Traditions Vocal Competition (ATC). In addition, Fishenfeld and Budnik perform as Featured Artists with the Savannah VOICE Festival (SVF).

“Savannah is a great place for artists to call home and Sara, Trevor and I are grateful to the Tybee Post Theater for developing this show with us,” said Fishenfeld. “We are excited for the opportunity to create live music and look forward to welcoming our guests on Oct. 24 for this eloquently created program.”

The Tybee Theater, Inc., is a 501 (3) © non-profit corporation formed in 2001 and dedicated to restoring and operating the Tybee Post Theater as a performing arts and cultural center that is an integral part of the island community, enhances the cultural experience, encourages and attracts visitors, and improves the overall quality of life. To learn more about the Tybee Post Theatre, please visit www.tybeeposttheater.org.

Tickets to “Lights Up: A Broadway Revue” start at $25 each. For more information about the performance or to purchase tickets, please visit https://tybeeposttheater.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=536

 

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For media inquiries, please contact Kristyn Fielding at kristyn@lesleyfrancispr.com or 229-393-6457, Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-429-3950, or the team at 912-417-LFPR (5377).

EDITOR’S NOTES

Justin L. Addington is the Minister of Music at the historic First Baptist Church of Savannah, GA. Highlights of his twenty-plus year career as a church musician include the development of a nationally recognized concert series, performances of numerous major works with orchestra, the release of a professionally recorded organ CD, and choir tours to England, Italy, Austria, and Carnegie Hall. Justin received a Bachelor of Arts (cum laude) in Music Education/Vocal Performance from Limestone College in Gaffney, SC. While at Limestone, Justin won first place in the South Carolina NATS Competition for Musical Theatre, and in 2012 he was named the college’s Young Alumnus of the Year. Justin received a Masters of Church Music in Choral Conducting from Concordia University Wisconsin, and a Doctorate of Theology in Worship Studies from the Robert E. Webber Institute in Jacksonville, FL. Justin maintains an active schedule as a recitalist, accompanist, lecturer, clinician, composer, and consultant. In addition to his work as a church musician, Justin has also taught music in the public schools, served as a board member for several non-profit arts organizations, and worked as an actor and musical director/pianist for numerous semi-professional and community theater companies.

Sara Zoe Budnik is a vocalist from New York City who hops from genre to genre. Sara Zoe has performed in cabaret venues, regional theatres, toured nationally, and performed across the seas via world cruise. Broadway World described Sara Zoe’s Mezzo-Soprano vocals as “Moving” and “Soulful” and that her performance “exudes a warmth that is hard to describe.” As a proud member of the USO Show Troupe, Sara Zoe has the honor of saluting America’s military through music that ranges from big band to Americana to today’s top 40 hits. Sara Zoe is also one of Savannah’s newest residents! After being a semi-finalist in the American Traditions Competition in February of 2020, she fell in love with Savannah and moved here from NYC! She also performed at the Savannah VOICE Festival’s ninth season: LIVE! You can see more of Sara Zoe at hellosarazoe.com

Jessica Fishenfeld, soprano and actor “triumphed” (NY Observer) in her New York City Opera debut in the World Premiere of Stonewall, with “clean coloratura” (Opera News) and “spunky personality” (Opera Wire). She made her off-Broadway debut as Brünnhilde in Das Barbecü. Amid the mass pandemic closures of 2020, she produced and performed in Grateful: The Songs of John Bucchino, 20th Anniversary Virtual Concert, “one of the slickest, best-produced virtual concerts to come out of the last ten months” (Broadway World), among Broadway and Cabaret luminaries. She also appeared virtually with the New York Festival of Song, OmniArts Foundation, Center for Contemporary Opera, Teatro Grattacielo, Savannah VOICE Festival, etc. She recently starred in the world- and NY- Premieres at Circle in the Square and National Sawdust and won Semi-Finalist prizes in the 2021 American Traditions Competition and 2019 Lotte Lenya Competition. Other highlights include soloist appearances at Carnegie Hall, Birdland Jazz Club, and more. Visit jessicafishenfeld.com for more and keep in touch on IG @jecafish for the latest news!

Trevor Martin is a versatile performer, with credits spanning Musical Theater and Operatic repertoire. As an advocate for new opera, his world, and regional premiere highlights include: Prof. Milton (Voir Dire), Mark Twain (TESLA), The Muse (When Adonis Calls), Paul (Amelia), Belletti (Barnum’s Bird), JFK cover (JFK). Other operatic favorites include: Ford (Falstaff), Count Almaviva – Le nozze di Figaro, Guglielmo (Così fan tutte), Marcello (La bohème), Escamillo (Carmen), Figaro (Il barbiere di Siviglia), Elder Mclean (Susannah). He has performed with companies such as Beth Morrison Projects, Center for Contemporary Opera, Madison Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera, Fort Worth Opera, Virginia Opera, Opera in the Heights, Asheville Lyric Opera, Opera North, Circle in the Square Theatre, Wolfbane Productions, City Springs Theatre Company, Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, Revival Theatre Company, and Sharon Playhouse. He won the prestigious Lotte Lenya Competition and was a quarterfinalist in the American Traditions Vocal Competition.

The American Traditions Vocal Competition (ATC) celebrates and preserves all styles of classic American music. The organization promotes these songs by producing annual vocal competitions in Savannah, Georgia, that awards in cash prizes. The ATC is committed to serving the greater Savannah community. The organization provides musical education, exposure and performances for Savannah locals of all ages. This nonprofit arts institution was born of the desire to foster and preserve traditions of musical expression, which have been significant in the culture of the United States, by celebrating the repertoire that represents both the art and the popular cultures of our country.

Savannah VOICE Festival (SVF) is a nonprofit arts organization in the state of Georgia. The Festival brings classical vocal excellence to the Savannah area through a two-week celebration of concerts, events, and educational presentations during the month of August and throughout the year. Focusing on arts awareness and audience development in the performing arts, it offers music from opera, musical theatre, and popular song

GET A BOOST WITH RUNNING BOARDS: LINE-X

GET A BOOST WITH RUNNING BOARDS: LINE-X

Depending on the height of your truck (or you), it can be a challenge to get up into the cab. And you probably know that the simple solution to that problem is to install some running boards. But deciding which running boards are the best option for you, may not be as simple. At Liberty LINE-X, we can give you the information you need to find the right assist steps and running boards for your truck or SUV. First, let’s talk about the difference between step bars and running boards.

STEP BARS
Step bars function as a lower step to help you get into your truck or SUV. Step bars are made of either steel or aluminum and commonly run the length of the cabin. Step bar features include the following:

  • Streamlined appearance
  • Great option for off-roading
  • Side protection for your truck or SUV
  • Rounded shape prevents ice and snow buildup

RUNNING BOARDS
If you’ve got a higher vehicle, running boards might be a better choice because they give you additional height for increased clearance. Plus, running boards can really amp up your truck’s appearance by providing customization options. You can choose the shape, size, and style. We can also install lighted running boards to your truck or SUV. Running boards are probably the right pick if you’re looking for these characteristics:

 

  • Flatter and wider stepping surface
  • Keeps vehicle interior clean by providing wiping surface
  • Range of shapes and sizes
  • Helps protect doors
  • Upgrades vehicle appearance
  • Available in lighted and retractable options

Now, which brands are the best when it comes to side steps and running boards? Here are some of our favorite companies for these particular truck and SUV accessories:

Westin
Westin manufactures high quality step bars and running boards. Westin steps and running boards come with several different options and feature a non-skid surface.

Amp
Amp Powerstep Running Boards combine advanced technology with streamlined looks. The Powerstep design provides ultimate traction to prevent slipping when you’re climbing in or out of your truck or SUV. These running boards also come in various clearance heights.

N-Fab
N-Fab offers an extensive selection of side steps and running boards. You can choose from a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials—from a rugged to contemporary look. N-Fab also offers upgrades such as lighting.

Luverne
With Luverne running boards, you are guaranteed functionality, durability, and style. Additionally, Luverne running boards are custom fit for your vehicle. Luverne aluminum steps package sleek with strong.

Rock Slide Engineering
Rock Slide Engineering specializes in aftermarket accessories for all JEEP Wrangler models. Rock Slide Engineering is meticulous in its attention to detail, providing the perfect accessory. Using state of the art technology, Rock Slide Engineering steps are the perfect choice for your JEEP.

 

Running boards and side steps are one of the most popular aftermarket accessories for trucks, JEEPs, and SUVs. Why? Because many customers see them as essential for safety and usability. At Liberty LINE-X, we can help you find the right running boards for your vehicle. And we can install whatever side steps or running boards you choose with efficiency and expertise. Come visit us at our shop and we’ll step up the look and functionality of your ride. 

BEYOND THE BELL LAUNCHES IN MACON-BIBB COUNTY AND INVITES THE PUBLIC TO RIBBON-CUTTING EVENT – OCTOBER 20

BEYOND THE BELL LAUNCHES IN MACON-BIBB COUNTY AND INVITES THE PUBLIC TO RIBBON-CUTTING EVENT – OCTOBER 20

MACON, GA. – September 29, 2021 – Georgia-based non-profit organization Beyond The Bell is set to open a new location in Macon-Bibb County on October 1 and is inviting the public to a ribbon-cutting and grand opening event on Wednesday, Oct. 20 at 11 a.m. located at the new office, 3115 Vineville Avenue, Macon, GA 31204. Light refreshments will be provided and local leaders and the faith-based community will be in attendance.

Beyond The Bell, along with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) provides tools and evidence-based strategies to train, educate, and support youth and families in the prevention of alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use and abuse.

“The goal behind Beyond The Bell’s programs is to ensure the safety and healthy development of our community’s youth so they can maintain healthy habits the rest of their lives and become productive citizens. We aim to educate parents on the issue of underage drinking and drug use because it is helpful for parents to have the knowledge to discuss risk factors with their kids and be a positive example for their children,” said Executive Director Sandra Dean. “We are thrilled to be introducing Beyond The Bell to Macon-Bibb County and using our programs to improve the lives of the youth in this community.”

Beyond The Bell offers programs to the community including the Botvin Life Skills Training”, which consists of a 7-week groundbreaking substance abuse and violence prevention program which is designed to promote mental health and positive youth development. They also implement the “Positive Social Norms” campaign which focuses on the fact that people’s behavior often is influenced by their perceptions of what is “normal” or “typical.” The problem is that people usually severely misperceive the typical behaviors or attitudes of their peers. For example, if people believe that the majority of their peers drink, then they are more likely to drink. Using social norms marketing to inform people that most of their peers do not drink can potentially lead them to avoid drinking.

For more information about Beyond The Bell and its programs/resources, please visit www.beyondthebellkids.org.

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For media inquiries, please contact Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com, Allie Robinson at allie@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-547-3100 or the team at 912-417-LFPR (5377).

SAVANNAH BALLET THEATRE TO PRESENT ORIGINAL ADAPTATION OF SLEEPY HOLLOW

SAVANNAH BALLET THEATRE TO PRESENT ORIGINAL ADAPTATION OF SLEEPY HOLLOW

SAVANNAH, GA. – Sept. 28, 2021 – Savannah Ballet Theatre (SBT) is slated to present its production of Sleepy Hollow, based on Washington Irving’s classic tale, at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 29 and 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 30 at the Tybee Post Theatre, 10 Van Horne Ave. on Tybee Island. SBT’s original one-act adaptation of Sleepy Hollow, created by SBT artistic director Suzanne Braddy, has delighted audiences and Savannah area critics since its premiere in 2018.  

Sleepy Hollow, set in upstate New York, tells the story of Ichabod Crane and the legend of the Headless Horseman. This classic tale of superstition and rivalry is transformed through SBT’s signature storytelling by fusing American colonial fantasy with special effects and the talent of SBT’s professional dancers.

“We are thrilled to return to live performances at the historic Tybee Post Theater and invite Savannah to support this original production,” said artistic director Suzanne Braddy. “The storyline is easy to follow, the music is engaging, and this family-friendly ballet is sure to be a fall favorite!”

SBT is Savannah and southeast Georgia’s only professional dance company. Their mission is to develop and showcase the talent of dedicated Savannah dancers alongside top professional dancers who train in the studio and engage in educational outreach and promotion of the art of dance within the community.

Join SBT for this gothic tale, perfect for all ages, filled with mystery and suspense. To purchase tickets, please visit www.tybeeposttheater.showare.com or call 912-472-4790.

For more information about Sleepy Hollow or the Savannah Ballet Theatre & School of Dance, please visit www.savannahballettheatre.org.

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For media inquiries, please contact Kristyn Fielding at kristyn@lesleyfrancispr.com or 229-393-6457, Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-429-3950, or the team at 912-417-LFPR (5377).

FOCUSING ON THE GOOD NEWS

Life is stressful and we all seem to be reeling from the constant bad news about health, politics, crime and more.  I would like to step away from all the negativity we are facing these days and focus on some amazingly positive macro trends in the world for a change. Firstly, do you know how lucky we are to still have a local newspaper in print and online?  Jeff Whitten has been my editor at The Bryan County News for a number of years, and I am very appreciative of him.  I can tell you that he has one goal – to inform and entertain readers about happenings in this great community.  He does this as accurately as possible without trying to push a particular point of view.  When the newspaper does put forward their own views or those of a columnist – such as mine – it is clearly labeled as such.

Let’s focus on some other positives today.  National news and especially social media rarely places the emphasis on positives.  Divisive and pessimistic stories get more attention and, more click throughs online so because of this, there are a number of really fantastic, positive things that have been happening in the world over the past few decades that, in my view, simply do not get enough attention.  So, this week’s column is my very modest attempt to move the needle a little bit in the other, more positive, direction.

What macro trend shall we look at first?  How about worldwide poverty?  The UN defines “extreme poverty” as living on under $1.90 per day, a level unimaginable to Americans.  According to studies by The World Bank, a whopping 92% of Americans believe that extreme poverty is getting worse in the world.  However, nothing could be further from the truth.  In 1990, 29% of the world’s population lived at this extreme poverty level, but just 25 years later The World Bank reported that this number had dropped to 10%. (Visit www.data.worldbank.org for more information). The UN has a stated goal to end extreme poverty completely by 2030

Here is another great one.  Fewer pregnant women are dying.  A century ago, women had about a 1% chance of dying every time they gave birth.  UNICEF reports that globally in 1990 deaths caused by or exacerbated by childbirth had dropped to about 0.4%, and by 2017 this number had halved again to about 0.2%.  This is attributed to better sanitation, availability of antiseptic products, blood transfusions and antibiotics.  On a related note, the World Bank says that newborn deaths in 2018 were down 52% from just 28 years earlier.  This massive improvement comes mostly from very low income countries which now have better healthcare, more midwives and nurses, and much improved immunization programs.

How about deaths from famine?  Scientific publication “Our World in Data” reports that out of every 1 million people in the world, 5,470 died from famine in the 1960s.  In the 2000s, this dropped to 460, and from 2010-2016, it dropped again to just 40.  How can this be?  Reduced poverty, better agricultural yields, and improved access to healthcare.  Also, since war and oppressive governments are big reasons for famine in the modern world, global improvements in democracy and stability have helped a lot.

Let’s talk about the other C-word apart from COVID-19 – cancer.  According to the American Cancer Society “the death rate from cancer in the United States has continued to decline. From 1991 to 2018, the cancer death rate fell 31%”. This includes a 2.4% decline in 2018 alone – a record for the largest one-year drop in cancer deaths.  The Cancer Research Network says that current cancer research trials in the US have given patients an extra 3.3 million years of life.  And one more great data point on this subject from the land of my birth: a couple of years ago, The Queen Mary University in London announced a new test for cervical cancer.  In their trials, pap smear tests were only 25% accurate in detecting invasive cervical cancers.  The new test is 100% accurate – wonderful news.

The 20th century saw the average American live dramatically longer after retirement.  In 1900, research firm Statista says most people died 29 years BEFORE they even got to the prevailing retirement age.  By 2010, this was up to 15 years AFTER retirement.

Women’s voting rights?  In 1930, only 18% of the countries in the world allowed women to vote.  Today?  99%.  The only country in the world that doesn’t allow women the vote today is the Vatican City.  Let’s hope it stays this way in Afghanistan.

I could go on and on and fill this newspaper with wonderful “big picture” achievements that have happened in recent years.  So, while we all have to acknowledge these tough times and difficult things we must deal with, as well putting up with the divisions sometimes created and magnified by social media, let’s not forget a core truth – the past few decades have seen some truly historic improvements in the human condition. 

Accordingly, I say goodbye this week with a quote from bright, bubbly, and ever-optimistic Mouseketeer and Beach Party fun girl from the 1960s and 70s, Annette Funicello.  “Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful!”

God Bless America, and let’s stay positive!

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Lesley grew up in London, England and made Georgia her home in 2009.  She can be contacted at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com  or via her PR and marketing agency at www.lesleyfrancispr.com

SAVANNAH VOICE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES VIRTUAL STREAMING OF SEASON NINE – OCTOBER 1-16, 2021

SAVANNAH VOICE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES VIRTUAL STREAMING OF SEASON NINE – OCTOBER 1-16, 2021

SAVANNAH, GA. – September 21, 2021 – The Savannah VOICE Festival (SVF) announces the virtual streaming of six episodes highlighting performances from Season Nine, “LIVE” which took place in Savannah during August 2021. These episodes can be purchased at www.savannahvoicefestival.org for an individual streaming link to be delivered by email before each show. from Oct. 1-16, 2021, beginning at 7 p.m. EST. For patrons’ convenience, the stream will be available for access for 72 hours after the initial streaming date. Each episode costs $25 to stream or $20 for members.

The events will begin at 7 p.m. EST and most episodes consist of 50 minutes of edited highlights showcasing some of the best performances from season nine “LIVE-online”. La Bohème will be a recording of the 75-minute production as presented during season nine and Liz Lang’s recital is a reproduction of her August concert at The Telfair Academy. The six episodes will be streamed as follows:

  • Friday, October 1, 7 p.m. – Kickoff: Together Again
    • After a year of virtual work together, the artists of the Savannah VOICE Festival go back on some iconic stages of its beloved city for live audiences. Take a journey through the performances of this season and enjoy opera, musical theatre, and song.
  • Saturday, October 2, 7 p.m. – Broadway
    • Join us for an evening of Broadway new hits and classic tunes! See our 2021 Festival Artists instantly transport you to the Great White Way!
  • Friday, October 8, 7 p.m. – A Night at the Museum
    • Enjoy an elegant curation of arias & songs performed by our 2021 Festival artists coupled with the beautiful artwork that lives in the Telfair Rotunda.
  • Saturday, October 9, 7 p.m. – La Bohème
    • The Savannah VOICE Festival brings Puccini’s masterpiece La Bohème to life on stage with a stellar cast of Festival artists under the direction of Fabrizio Melano and Andrew Bisantz. This abridged production will have you enraptured in beautiful music with a night at the opera!
  • Friday, October 15, 7 p.m. – Headliner: Liz Lang, soprano with Howard Watkins, piano
    • Tune in to watch the stunning recital of Liz Lang, soprano with Howard Watkins, piano with special guest John Tisbert, trumpet. You don’t want to miss these incredibly talented artists. _
  • Saturday, October 16, 7 p.m. – Finale: Until We Meet Again
    • Celebrate a collection of amazing moments and performances over the 2021 Savannah VOICE Festival! With highlights and behind the scenes moments, we can’t wait to close this season with this incredible Finale!

“We are so thrilled to be able to offer this streaming opportunity for our patrons that maybe couldn’t travel to our in-person festival this year,” said Executive Director, Maria Zouves. “We want everyone to have the chance to see the hard work and abundant talent of our SVF artists during our recent ninth festival.”

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Editor’s Notes 

Savannah VOICE Festival is a 501(c) 3 tax exempt nonprofit arts organization in the state of Georgia. The Festival brings classical vocal excellence to the Savannah area through a two-week celebration of concerts, events and educational presentations during the month of August and throughout the year. Focusing on arts awareness and audience development in the performing arts, it offers music from opera, musical theatre and popular song. Donations are tax-deductible. 

For media inquiries, please contact Kristyn Fielding at 229-393-6457 or kristyn@lesleyfrancispr.com, or Lesley Francis at 912-429-3950 or lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com

SAVANNAH AFRICAN ART MUSEUM RESUMES REGULAR OPERATING HOURS, LIMITS CAPACITY AND TOUR SIZES

SAVANNAH AFRICAN ART MUSEUM RESUMES REGULAR OPERATING HOURS, LIMITS CAPACITY AND TOUR SIZES

SAVANNAH, GA – September 20, 2021 – The Savannah African Art Museum (SAAM) has resumed normal, pre-pandemic operating hours but will continue to limit capacity inside the museum as well as group sizes for each tour. SAAM opens its doors each week from Wednesday to Saturday, welcoming guests from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The West Africa gallery tours start on the hour, every hour, with the first tour beginning at 11 a.m. and the last tour beginning at 4 p.m. The Central Africa gallery tours start every hour on the half our, with the first tour beginning at 11:30 a.m. and the last tour beginning at 3:30 p.m.

Masks are required for all visitors and staff while inside the museum. Signage is placed throughout the museum to direct the flow of traffic and encourage social distancing. Sanitizer stations are also located throughout the building for guests and staff. All public areas will be sanitized throughout the day.

“The ability to resume our normal business hours is a welcome change to both our staff and our guests. We are so pleased to offer our visitors more time to learn about the history of African art and the cultural influences it had, and still has, around the world,” said SAAM Founding Executive Director and Chief Curator Billie Stultz. “We are still leaving in place some social distancing and other protection measures, but that also indicates that we are able to offer a clean and safe environment for everyone.”

The Savannah African Art Museum is a nonprofit institution devoted to spreading awareness and appreciation of African culture. It touts an art collection of over 1,000 objects from West and Central Africa. The museum’s collection spans over 28 countries and represents over 180 cultures.

Admission is free; donations are welcomed and appreciated.

For more information about the museum or to access virtual tours and initiatives, please visits www.savannahafricanartmuseum.org  or follow SAAM on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest using the handle @SavannahAfricanArtMuseum.

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For media inquiries, please contact Hollie Barnidge at hollie@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-272-8651, or Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-429-3950.

SAVANNAH CLASSICAL ACADEMY’S CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BARRY LOLLIS INDUCTED INTO THE ROTARY CLUB OF SAVANNAH

SAVANNAH CLASSICAL ACADEMY’S CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BARRY LOLLIS INDUCTED INTO THE ROTARY CLUB OF SAVANNAH

SAVANNAH, GA –Sept. 20, 2021 – Today, Savannah Classical Academy’s (SCA) Chief Executive Officer, Barry Lollis, was inducted as a member of The Rotary Club of Savannah.

The Downtown Rotary Club of Savannah is the city’s largest Rotary Club and was established over 100 years ago. Rotary club of Savannah is an affiliate of Rotary International, a worldwide service organization that brings together business and professional leaders and encourages them to become involved in their communities through humanitarian services. Members observe high ethical standards and work to advance goodwill and peace around the globe.

A graduate of Georgia Southern University and Piedmont College with a master’s in education, Lollis is an innovative educator who has worked in the Savannah Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) since 2004.  A former high school Principal at Windsor Forest, Lollis came to SCA in 2017 and has overseen significant improvements in the academic achievements of the school. The Savannah Classical Academy opened in fall of 2013 and their mission is to provide every child with a classical and academically rigorous education while installing a commitment to civic virtue and moral character.

“I am very honored to represent SCA and to be inducted into The Rotary Club of Savannah. I look forward to serving the city of Savannah through this organization. The Rotary Club of Savannah encourages acts of service that have built and grown the success of the city, and I am pleased to be a part of that,” said Lollis.  

It is the philosophy of Savannah Classical Academy that all students benefit from a rigorous, content-rich, educational program that develops academic potential and personal character. The school provides an environment that fosters academic excellence through the habits of thoroughness, the willingness to work, and the perseverance to complete difficult tasks. Through a defined traditional, Classical-Liberal curriculum, students are prepared to become active, responsible members of their community.

For more information about Savannah Classical Academy, please visit www.savannahclassicalacademy.org

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For media inquiries, please contact Kristyn Fielding at kristyn@lesleyfrancispr.com or 229-393-6457, Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-429-3950, or the team at 912-417-LFPR (5377).

ASBURY MEMORIAL CHURCH WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRIES, ELLIE COVINGTON

ASBURY MEMORIAL CHURCH WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRIES, ELLIE COVINGTON

SAVANNAH, GA – September 16, 2021 – Asbury Memorial Church has welcomed a new member of their staff: Ellie Covington, the Director of Children and Family Ministries.

Covington has volunteered with All things Farmers Market, Loop it Up Savannah, River Keepers, Surf Rider, and eBird. She also graduated from Savannah State University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science and worked for the Georgia Shellfish Laboratory as a research technician. She now works for the United States Army of Engineers as an environmental planner.

“I love kids! I am looking forward to becoming part of the ministry team. This is an exciting time to re-connect and meet new families at Asbury and Wesley Oak!” Said Covington. “Sharing God’s love, creating care, and hearing what kids think about things always inspires and teaches me!”

The Director of Children and Family Ministries works to develop and nurture children in the Christian faith and build a strong sense of community among families, increasing the Church outreach and faith formation with families and children. This role focuses on implementing programs and empowering individuals to use and grow their gifts by volunteering time and resources to support children’s ministry.

“We welcome Ellie to our team with open arms and great enthusiasm. We are very much looking forward to the ways she is going to impact the children and families that are a part of our congregation,” said Rev. Hester. “We are very thankful for the ability to extend our staff and our message into molding the minds of these children.”

Asbury Memorial is a Christ-centered, forward-thinking, all-inclusive congregating that celebrates the joy of God creatively and is committed to remaining a welcoming and affirming congregation for all. For more information about Asbury staff and their worship services, please visit their website at www.asburymemorial.org.

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For media inquiries, please contact Kristyn Fielding at kristyn@lesleyfrancispr.com or 229-393-6457, or Lesley Francis at lesley@lesleyfrancispr.com or 912-429-3950, or the team at 912-417-LFPR (5377).

THE HISTORIC BEAUFORT FOUNDATION’S FALL FESTIVAL OF HOUSES & GARDENS

LFPR

Historic Beaufort Foundation

By Mary Thompson 

THE HISTORIC BEAUFORT FOUNDATION’S FALL FESTIVAL OF HOUSES & GARDENS

Have you ever wanted to step back in time and experience the history of beautiful Beaufort, South Carolina?

Historic Beaufort Foundation (HBF) would like to invite you to our Fall Festival of Houses & Gardens. Explore Beaufort’s history, architecture, and landscape in one unforgettable weekend as HBF introduces you to the Beaufort Style.

Friday Luncheon and Lecture
October 22nd 11:30am-1:00pm
Members: $65 | Nonmembers: $75

Historic Beaufort Foundation’s Executive Director, Cynthia Jenkins, 2021 recipient of The Governor’s Award for Excellence in Preservation, will discuss The Beaufort Style and Beaufort’s impact on architecture in the South.

Friday Walking Tour of National Landmark Historic District*
October 22nd 2:00pm-6:00pm
Members: $65 | Nonmembers: $75

We invite you to join us for a rare peek into Beaufort’s history as gracious property owners welcome you into their private homes and gardens to experience the history, architecture, and style of historic Beaufort.  Each of the homes on this year’s tour are representative of The Beaufort Style— ranging from a mid-19th century manor to a charming Victorian cottage.

*A Walking Tour Bundle is available for this event. You’ll receive $10 off when you book the Friday Walking Tour in combination with the Saturday Afternoon Country Retreat and Lowcountry Picnic.

Lowcountry Art Celebration
October 22nd 4:30pm-9:00pm

Beaufort’s Annual Fall Artwalk through historic Downtown Beaufort features 13 of Beaufort’s premier galleries. This thriving arts community represents more than 400 artists celebrating the Lowcountry.

 

Saturday Afternoon Country Retreat and Lowcountry Picnic
October 23rd 1:00pm-4:00pm
Members: $75 | Nonmembers: $85

If you are seeking a uniquely southern experience, look no further. Enjoy a picnic at a beautiful southern estate tucked in the banks of the Combahee River in Prince William Parish.  A delicious Lowcountry picnic lunch is included in this event. The estate is a short 30-minute drive from downtown Beaufort.

Sunday In the Beaufort Style-A Part of HBF’s Scholar Series
October 24th 9:30am-12:00pm
Members: $100 | Nonmembers: $125 Tickets are limited for this exclusive event.

Spend your morning immersed in the Lowcountry with a visit to the Barnwell Gough House and enjoy a truly southern brunch in the home’s formal gardens. This magnificent house showcases the influence of Adams and the burgeoning Federal style of architecture. With its southern facing orientation, T-shape design, hipped roof, two-story portico, and raised foundation, this home is a perfect example of the tabby form of architecture. Notable experts in the field will provide in-depth interpretations of this beautiful home In the Beaufort Style. Together, we’ll celebrate The Beaufort Style and its unique contribution to the southern landscape.

The Historic Beaufort Foundation’s Fall Festival promises to be an enchanting weekend celebrating the beauty, influence, and community of historic Beaufort. We would love for you to join us for any-or all-of our unique and informative events as we come together to learn about the history and impact of Beaufort, South Carolina.

Register today!