Savannah Hardscapes paving the way

Savannah Voted One of the Top 10 Walking Cities in the USA; See How One Company Has Paved the Way for Tourists and Locals Alike

Ellis Square Hardscaping by Savannah Hardscapes

Bluestones on City Hall in Savnanah provided by Savannah Hardscapes

Bricks provided by Savannah Hardscapes in Forsyth Park

Paving at the Forsyth Park Cafe, provided by Savannah Hardscapes

BLUE STONE in Johnson Square provided by Savannah Hardscapes

(HARDEEVILLE, SC) Taken a stroll through downtown Savannah, lately? Few cities can compare to the breath-taking beauty, stimulating scenery and unique beat to be found there.

http://www.savannahhardscapes.com

Recently ranked as one of the top 10 best walking cities in the U.S. by Walking Magazine, downtown Savannah is one of the largest National Historic Landmark districts in the country.

Enchanted Oaks, cobblestone streets, elaborate mansions, and historic squares make Savannah a very special place. Founded in the 1700’s, downtown Savannah is made up primarily of brick and stone, with streets that are laid out in a perfect grid, demonstrating early colonial city planning.

The art of masonry can be seen throughout downtown Savannah and is certainly part of its unspoken appeal. The beautiful stone work involved in constructing these downtown hardscapes is significant, and gives Savannah its distinct essence.

Bluestone, an organic stone derived of sandstone and quartz crystal, along with Savannah Grey Bricks which are the large reddish-brown bricks found throughout the historic district, are the elements which combine to give Savannah’s signature look.

According to William Rhangos, who co-owns the company Savannah Hardscapes with his brother Jonathan, Bluestone is a key element featured throughout this area and has historical precedence which dates back over one hundred years.

“Bluestone pavers are visually appealing pavers of natural stone ranging in color from blue-grey and green-grey to lilac,” says Rhangos. “These muted tones make up a pleasant color palette and blend well with Savannah’s current structures and scenery.”

Savannah Hardscapes—a Savannah company importing and distributing products globally—specializes in the sale and installation of stone, pavers, brick, stucco, mosaics, antique materials, fountains, fireplaces, outdoor furniture and architectural elements for both residential, commercial and public projects throughout the southeast.

Savannah Hardscapes has been involved in a variety of public and private historic renovations and decorative outdoor installations throughout the downtown area including Ellis Square, Johnson Square, Forsyth Park and the sidewalks surrounding City Hall.

The city squares are among the most delightful features in the area. Savannah Squares are small parks shaded by oak trees that are dripping with moss. Rich in history and complete with benches, fountains or monuments, the 22 squares are a Savannah staple.

Two of the most popular squares in town are Johnson and Ellis Squares. The recently renovated Johnson Square is one of Savannah’s first and largest.

Ellis Square, newly raised in the space of Savannah’s original “city market”, is located between the new Avia Hotel and the current and very popular City Market. Interactive fountains and an artistic hardscape of natural stone makes Ellis the most progressive of squares, adding a contemporary vibe and making it a current hot spot for tourists and locals alike.

The Historic Savannah Foundation’s long standing preservation activity has ensured that the historical appeal and character of the City be maintained and enhanced. Since the utilization of masonry pavers is historical in itself, the art of masonry is key in the design, construction and renovation of structures within the downtown area.

Many of these structures are also designed sustainably through the re-use of Savannah Grey Bricks in order to maintain the quality and look of old. Using reclaimed materials is a central aspect of green building practices.

According to Rhangos, Savannah Hardscapes works with a network of sources to locate and retrieve reclaimed bricks of many varieties which only become available when old buildings and streets are torn down.

Part of the fabric of masonry construction in the area, Savannah Grey Bricks are commonly used in residential renovations to repair and create consistent looks along walk ways, walls and exterior structures such as patio gardens—all common features within the fashionable Georgian style homes lining the streets.

The recently renovated Forsyth Park—a 30 acre park established in the 1840s containing a Confederate monument, magnificent water fountains, a large lawn where locals play and lounge, and now a popular café with outdoor seating—is a local favorite. Savannah Hardscapes facilitated the decorative outdoor installation of pavers and bricks during the large scale Forsyth renovation project, adding to the character and beauty there.

City Market, as well as River Street—a water front cobblestone drive of old cotton warehouses and stone buildings—are within walking distance to one another and the most frequented spots among visitors. These areas feature an eclectic and fun collection of restaurants, clubs, art galleries, and souvenir shops.

Downtown’s private spaces, however, including historic residences and spectacular patio gardens are Savannah’s secret gems.

To capture the true essence of Savannah, visitors stroll the squares where they discover over 1,700 restored homes, museums, galleries, and shops worthy of their attention, accompanied by a backdrop of Spires from various colonial period churches which punctuate the skyline.

Residents maintain extraordinary living spaces here. According to Rhangos, Savannah Hardscapes regularly works with clients in the area to create or modify a design, or to suggest materials for the existing structures.

“Private residences such as these contribute to the overall beauty and feel of Savannah,” Rhangos points out. “These historic homes are now owned and resided in by individuals living and working in Savannah.”

On any given day hundreds of folks can be found enjoying any one of Savannah’s many daily walking tours. The Savannah Historic Foundation’s Annual Tour of Homes & Gardens is the most popular of all walking tours, offering residents and visitors alike a rare opportunity to enter some of the City’s finest private homes to admire these restored interiors, decorative patios, gardens and special furnishings that have been treasured for generations.

The historic ambiance along downtown Savannah’s attractive and varied walking paths draws an increased number of tourists to the City each year. “Savannah Hardscapes is proud to be part of the continued restoration of this area,” says Rhangos. “It is great to move about the city and see people enjoying these spaces. It makes this work even more rewarding.”
www.savannahhardscapes.com 843.784.6060

William Rhangos

Jonathan Rhangos

Accountant Savannah

Hancock Askew & Co., LLP

www@hancockaskew.com

Chad T. Miller, CPA named Partner

Hancock Askew & Co., LLP, Certified Public Accountants and Advisors, is proud to announce Chad T. Miller, CPA has been named Partner.

Chad has more than 11 years of experience serving the business and accounting needs of both private and public companies. Based in the Atlanta office, Chad provides assurance and advisory services to Hancock Askew’s fast-growing private and public clients. His experience includes providing technical advice relating to initial public offerings, SEC periodic reporting requirements and implementation of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Chad looks forward to assisting with the firm’s expansion in the Atlanta market.

Prior to joining Hancock Askew, Chad worked in the assurance and advisory practice at a Big 4 firm in Atlanta for 8 years. Chad received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Georgia and his Masters in Accountancy from the University of Virginia. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Georgia Society of Certified Public Accountants.

For Media Information

Contact Ann Carroll

acarroll@hancockaskew.com

912-527-3321

912-704-7650

Solar Champions looking for $180 sponsors

Hi all,
I had a productive meeting with Randy Peacock on site and it appears that there could be 6 buildings in Phase 2 that are well positioned for solar. Based on a conversation with Lester Wiggins of Savannah Tech the solar ready component would include 60 feet of 1-1/4″ EMT conduit and 75 feet of 3-strand THHN #6 90degree rated copper wire. A browse through Home Depot indicated that the retail price of the materials would come to approximately $180 per building. In addition, there appeared to be 3 locations in the large senior-citizens building in Phase 3 that could be made solar ready.

So the challenge for Solar Champions is to raise the funds to procure these materials. All suggestions are encouraged. Frankly, the easiest way to raise the funds would be to identify 6 sponsors — companies, non-profits, institutions, individuals – that would be willing to pledge the full amount for one building. $180 is, after all, a very modest sum. In addition, the names of the sponsors would be included in all media coverage.  Please send me your ideas about those we could contact as sponsors — jack @solarcitiesusa.com or tel: 912-233-4288

Once we have those sponsors, or a combination of donors, for the six buildings of Phase 2, we can continue to search for donors for the 3 locations of Phase 3.

No one needs to come up with any money now — a pledge is sufficient.

Please give this some thought and get back to me.

A reminder that the next Solar Social will be held Tuesday, July 20 at SOL, 1611 Habersham. Tell your friends who are interested in promoting solar power.
Thanks,
Jack

Tommy Linstroth, Principal of Trident Sustainability announces New Partnership

(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Trident Sustainability Group announces a new partnership
with One Percent for the Planet. With this partnership, Trident Sustainability Group
commits to donating 1% of revenue to environmental non-profit organizations.

1% for the Planet exists to build and support an alliance of businesses financially
committed to creating a healthy planet. Founded in 2001 by Yvon Chouinard,
founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for
the Planet has grown to more than 1,200 members in 38 countries with over
$50 million donated.

Trident Sustainability Group is one of only 14 members in Georgia.

“It is important as a triple bottom line business that we demonstrate our philanthropy and
commitment to the environment from the get-go”, said Tommy Linstroth, Principal of
Trident Sustainability Group. “Especially in tough economic times, it is critical to support
other organizations dedicated to improving and preserving our natural environment.”

Trident Sustainability Group is a full-service sustainability and green building
consulting firm that focuses on providing triple bottom line solutions to a diverse range
of clients both locally and nationwide. Trident provides hands on guidance on green
building design and construction and offers extensive development-based expertise
to help clients achieve LEED certification for their projects. Trident also provides
institutional sustainability services to organizations, from nonprofit and small business
to municipalities and government agencies looking to decrease energy and water
consumption, improve indoor air quality, and reduce their environmental footprint.

www.tridentsustainability.com

“Deedah” will be shown at the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention this Saturday and Sunday in Orlando, Florida.

SAVANNAH MOVIE ABOUT DOWN SYNDROME TO SHOW AT NATIONAL DOWN
SYNDROME CONGRESS

July 12, 2010
SAVANNAH, Ga. – “Deedah” is an honest, touching and often humorous account of a seven-
year old girl’s relationship with her six-year old brother, who has Down syndrome – or as he
calls it – “Up!” syndrome. The film’s title comes from the nickname the boy gave his sister at a
very early age. The girl believes it was her brother’s first attempt at saying “sister.”

“Deedah” will be shown at the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention this Saturday
and Sunday in Orlando, Florida. The annual convention is the largest gathering of adults
and teens with Down syndrome in the United States. It is also a clearinghouse of the latest
information on all facets of Down syndrome.

The critically acclaimed 26-minute film, shot in documentary news style, follows the siblings
through their daily lives – at home, in school and in the community at large. Deedah tells us
what it was like when her friends first met her brother. She says they were initially somewhat
put off and concerned about his well-being. But now, she says, the children have embraced her
brother as part of their circle of friends.

However, stereotypes abound. The girl bitterly describes her brother’s experiences with bullying
and says people often make inaccurate assumptions about him because of the way he looks
and sounds. She says she hopes this film will open many people’s eyes to the unique talents
and abilities of not only her brother, but to all people with Down (Up!) syndrome.

Deedah describes her brother as smart, brave and funny, with a very bright future ahead of him.
The film is a good introduction to Down syndrome, as well as a reminder that sometimes our
perceptions of people are far from the actual reality.

“Deedah” was produced, directed, shot and written by Brooke May, a former television news
anchor and reporter who is now Vice President of the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
and a stay-at-home mom to Deedah and her brother, Jonathan, in Savannah
was co-produced and edited by Joshua Jasso of Savannah’s West.

“Deedah” has been shown at film festivals in Los Angeles, Vancouver, Miami, Macon, Georgia
and Amelia Island, Florida. It was also recently given an Award of Excellence by the Indie Fest,
which recognizes outstanding achievement in independent filmmaking.

For more information about “Deedah,” please contact Brooke May at (912) 655-8149 or
b.may602@comcast.net.

To check out our trailer and for other “Deedah” news, log onto our website at
http://www.deedahandme.com. And to become a fan, check out the “Deedah” facebook page!

SCFHC announces $680,000 judgment to settle racial and sexual discrimination lawsuit

Savannah-Chatham County Fair Housing Council, Inc.

7 Drayton Street, Suite 206

Savannah, GA 31401

(912) 651-3136

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SCFHC announces $680,000 judgment to settle racial and sexual discrimination lawsuit

On June 23, 2010, U.S. District Court Judge A. Randal Hall approved a Consent Decree ordering Bloomingdale Mobile Home Park operator Darwin Kenneth Morgan and his company DK Morgan Consolidated to pay a settlement totaling $680,000. Judge Hall ordered Morgan to pay the private plaintiffs $280,000 and pay the US Treasury $350,000 for eleven aggrieved parties identified by the US Department of Justice. In addition, Hall ordered an additional civil penalty of $50,000.00.

The lawsuit arose after the Savannah-Chatham County Fair Housing Council performed investigation through testing, and alerted the Civil Rights Division to Morgan’s discriminatory activities. The government conducted an independent investigation and uncovered additional evidence of discrimination, including more victims of the defendants’ conduct. The government’s suit, filed in September 2008, alleged, among other things, that Morgan denied the availability of mobile homes and/or mobile home lots to African-American persons while at the same time told white persons about available mobile homes and/or mobile home lots; refused to negotiate with African-American prospective tenants for rental; made statements with respect to the rental of mobile homes and/or mobile home lots at Morgan Mobile Home Parks indicating a preference, a limitation, or discrimination based on race or color; discouraged African-American persons from applying for a mobile home and/or mobile home lot while encouraging white persons to apply; and subjected female tenants and prospective tenants at Morgan Mobile Home Parks to discrimination on the basis of sex, including severe, pervasive and unwelcome sexual harassment. The government’s lawsuit was subsequently consolidated with a related private suit that had been brought by the Fair Housing Council and three individuals.

QUOTE

“This case should send a strong message to private owners, landlords, and property managers that may have eluded enforcement of fair housing laws in our area,” said Savannah-Chatham County Fair Housing Council Executive Director Wayne Dawson. “This resolution makes available nearly 100 units of affordable rental housing to current and potential Savannah citizens. In addition, it sends a message that sexual harassment in peoples’ homes will not be tolerated. When harassment occurs in the workplace, it often ends at 5; when it occurs in one’s place of residence, it ends at the Courthouse steps.”

CONTACT

Fair Housing Council Executive Director Wayne Dawson can be reached at 912.651.3136.

The Matthew Freeman Project

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Matthew Freeman Project: Pens & Paper for Peace has created a 30-minute television special entitled, “The Freeman Project: Television Responds.” The program is hosted by news anchors from three Savannah television stations – Casey Jones from WJCL, Jesse Blanco – Fox 28, and WSAV’s Russ Reisinger. The program includes a documentary by Peabody and Emmy Award winning filmmaker Jim Bunn detailing the life of Marine Captain Matthew Freeman and how his hometown of Richmond Hill, Georgia collected school supplies for Afghan school children – Matthew’s last request before being killed in combat in Afghanistan in 2009. The program also includes never-before-seen segments with Matthew’s widow as well as the Boy Scout who spearheaded the collection effort and his father who took them to Afghanistan when he was deployed there. The program has been given remarkable support by the television industry in Savannah, with airings of on Fox 28, and WSAV which has aired the program three times. Finally, the Comcast local access channel has agreed to run the program Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8:30pm and Saturdays at 9:30pm – for the entire months of July and August! Underscoring why the program is aptly named, “The Freeman Project: Television Responds.”

Scientist Cliffs Maryland

In the summer of 1986 I remember taking some of my mother’s ashes and spreading them in A Gate over the jetty by the Locraft cabin. Over 20 some years later I walked past that jetty today and looked up toward the sky and asked God to please send a sign that my mother was around. When I looked down there was a skinny 3 inch silver fish that had gotten washed up on the beach. His gills were not moving. I assumed he was dead. As I bent down to get it back in the water, a wave came up and pulled him back into the bay. I watched the fish swim away.

The STUART cabin in B Gate

Ashville’s Drum Circle, July 2, 2010

Lester and I found a gray smooth-topped bolder to sit on and watch the drumming circle begin to form. He elbowed me and pointed to the third drummer to the right; a fit, slightly tanned happy man in his mid 30ies, with a white “muscle-man” tank top, and designer sunglasses, a perfect mix of shabby and chic. I wondered if he was gay , straight or both.

Soon Aunt Chris’ friend Ruth joined us and then my friends from Savannah, Trisha and Karen. The drumming circle started to swell as new drummers sat down and effortlessly joined in with the rhythm. There was a slight detectable half beat measure but no clear boundaries. The dancers moved their bodies in all directions, like a forest of trees before a storm. The collective energy continued to grow until the drummers instinctually knew it was time to end this segment. They all pounded their tightly stretched animal-skin drum heads and with a collective one, two, three…the energy stopped.

The crowd then cheered and the players wiped their eyebrows, nodded to their neighbors, shifted their body and eagerly waited for the next round.