contents
10 | Determined to Survive
Local businesses share ways they are
coping in the midst of a pandemic.
30 | Caring for the Community
Jason Colbert is on a mission to help
families deal with crisis while supporting
his favorite hometown.
38 | Serving God and Country
Susanna Haynes discovers her
calling as a U.S. Air Force Chaplain.
48 | Toombs County Cowboy
Farm life can be hard work,
but Kirk Little loves the challenge.
60 | A Light on the Corner
Ginger Russell is helping build the
community through dedication
and prom dresses.
72 | Those We Remember Well
Catching up with one of Toombs County’s
memorable teachers, Mrs. Merle Wilkes.
82 | Vidalia’s Own Queen of Cheer
VHS Coach Ann Michele Toole takes
her cheer team to the highest level.
92 | Shining On in Oak Park
Community groups like the Shiners, are
revitalizing the Old School House in
Oak Park with a festival and 21st century
technology.
100 | With Art and Empathy
Helping people through the
power of creativity.
110 | Friend of the River
Parker Waller’s friends celebrate his love of
the river with an annual clean-up day.
120 | A Quiet Roar
Staff writer Teri Williams gets candid with
Atlanta writer Randall Arthur about his latest
book set in Lyons.
126 | Save a Dance for Dad
Daddy Daughter Date Night has
become a treasured tradition for many
Toombs County families.
in
every
issue
124 | The Local Market
126 | Lyons Main Street
134 | Chamber of Commerce
136 | Downtown Vidalia
Association
138 | Scenes of Toombs
143 | Advertiser’s Index
About the Cover
Susanna Haynes’ career as a U.S. Air Force Chaplain is a natural extension of what she has
been doing most of her life. Susanna’s father, Willie Haynes, was the founder and pastor of
New Vision Missionary Baptist Church. “I was born into ministry,” said Susanna. From serving
as a volunteer chaplain at a women’s shelter to serving as a youth pastor in Incheon, South
Korea, Susanna would hold many ministerial positions before finally joining the Air Force
chaplaincy.
4 TOOMBS COUNTY MAGAZINE
144 | Last Words
Sometimes a woman’s best
friend is her dog.
focus on health
8 | Technology for Your Well-Being
Meadows Health takes new measures to
protect your health during wellness visits.
at home
20 | The Sides of Summer
Easy recipes for your next gathering.
24 | Time for an Update
Improve your home’s value
with these suggestions.