(SAVANNAH, GA) COMMUNiTY HEADLiNES, November 1, 2010

(SAVANNAH, GA) VOTE ON TUESDAY!

(SAVANNAH, GA) The next presentation in the Food for Thought Series will be on Thursday, November 18, 2010. Allan M. Kagen, and his presentation “Patent Basics for Entrepreneurs, Startups and Small Business”. RSVP TO jjordan@georgia.org 912-963-2551.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Noted architecture and design author Susan Sully will talk about “The Southern Cosmopolitan” at noon on Nov. 9 as part of the Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty Masterpiece Series. Sully’s talk will celebrate the lavish, sophisticated, cosmopolitan strain in Southern style from its roots in the eighteenth-century to its ongoing expression today. Payment of $25 for the luncheon-lecture must be received by Nov. 5; Checks should be made out to CDS Lecture Series and sent to Lori Combs, Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty, 17 W. Charlton St. Savannah, GA 31401. Proceeds will benefit The Telfair Museums. For location info call 912.234-3323 http://www.celiadunnsir.com

(RICHMOND HILL, GA) The Captain Matthew Freeman 5K Run for Peace will be on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, at 9 a.m. Register at http://www.freemanproject.org. There will a silent auction, brunch and inflatables for the kids. Dogs are welcome. ARTICLE

(SAVANNAH, GA) Project management Certification Training in Savannah http://www.pmisavannah.com

(SAVANNAH, GA) Small Business Council SMART Lunch Series November 2 at 11:30. Speaker David N. Sovchen, Partner, Tri-River Foods will present “Five Principles for Business Success” as outlined in Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas’s book – Dave’s Way. RSVP to

644.6434 or SSmith@SavannahChamber.com

(SAVANNAH, GA) MODERN MASTERS from the Smithsonian American Art Museum will be at the Jepson Center from Nov 5, 2010 – Feb 6, 2011. http://www.telfair.org

(SAVANNAH, GA) The premier of two new TV shows featuring local troops deployed overseas will play November 7th, from 6-8:30pm, at Moon River Brewing Company. Contact Michael Jordan for more info mj@cosmosavannah.com.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Fidel Castro’s daughter, Alina Fernandez, will be the keynote speaker during the 2010 International Week at Armstrong Atlantic State University. Fernandez will speak at 3 p.m., Sunday, November 7. FOR MORE INFO

(SAVANNAH, GA) The inaugural Savannah Green Events Guide & Directory will be released on November 9th, 2010. The free publication serves as a how-to guide for hosting a green event and as a repository for more eco-friendly sites and vendors. The Guide will be updated annually to reflect new or expanded opportunities for “greening” local events. Pick up a complimentary copy at the release party hosted by GreenDrinks Savannah, or online at http://www.savannahgreenguide.org.

(SAVANNAH, GA) One injury claim can cost a small business owner hundreds of thousands of dollars with an average Lost Time claim of $38K. On November 10, learn “How to Reduce the Chances of a Costly Employee Injury Claim; 5 Tips for Workplace Safety,” when The Sullivan Group’s Safety and Loss Control Manager Scott Goldsberry speaks at the Exchange Club at noon. Call Tim Beers for more information, 912-925-6608. http://www.simplysullivans.com

(ISLE OF HOPE, GA) The 10th Annual Isle of Hope Art Show will be held on Sat. Nov. 13th at the Isle of Hope Marina. Hours are 10AM-4PM. For more info 912-355-1718. Open to the public, free.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Savannah Rotary donates $1000 to the Ferst Foundation

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Arts Academy Theatre Guild will hold its annual “New York, New York” Auction on Saturday, November 13th from 7:00 – 10:00 PM at The River Club, 3 Martin Luther King Blvd; Savannah, GA. Admission is $20 and includes heavy hors d’oeurves and the opportunity to bid in both silent and live auctions. Call Barbara Awad 912-631-1219

(SAVANNAH, GA) Do your vitamins have the USP or NSF certification on the label? http://choose-health.org/pharmaceutical-grade-nutritional-supplements/

(SAVANNAH, GA) Which paver is right for your home project? ARTICLE

(SAVANNAH, GA) Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, upcoming events: http://savannahchamber.com/events.php

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Council, Navy League of the United States invites the public to attend a membership mixer upstairs at Rocks on the Roof in the Bohemian Hotel (102 W. Bay Street) from 6-9pm on Tuesday, November 16th. There is no charge, and no RSVP is required. (912) 598-0940 or dtkeller29@aol.com.

(ISLE OF HOPE, GA) There will be no COMMUNiTY HEADLiNES for the next two weeks

Pavers Are Used Today Both Inside of Homes and Out; How to Select the Right Paver for Your Home Improvement Project

The best way to select the right paver for your project is to identify the scope of your project and to then select the color and texture which you feel best matches the site, its improvements and, of course, your personal preference. If possible, view an installed example of the product—the larger the better—to get a feel for how the finished product will look. Most local distributors of paver products will show large sample installations at their facilities.

While there are some different strength characteristics from product to product to consider, the choice is primarily based upon achieving the final look that the customer is seeking.

Pavers are making their way into interior spaces today. While Clay and Concrete pavers are not generally the choice to transition onto the covered porch, Natural Stone products are seeing far greater use within interior living spaces. In our region, Sandstones such as Crab Orchard stone from Tennessee and Bluestone from New York and Pennsylvania are frequently being used in both places, starting outside of the residence and continuing from the exterior into to high traffics areas inside like entry foyers and kitchens.

Other Natural Stone pavers such as Limestone Travertine and Coral Stone are also increasingly popular today. Limestone products are commonly being used in our southern climate because they are typically available in light colors and are cooler on your feet in hot weather. It is not unusual to see Turkish Travertine—with attractive colors from light crème to gold and walnut brown—utilized outside on a pool deck, inside within the kitchen, and on bathroom floors.

The most popular pavers today are interlocking Clay and Concrete pavers, which are available in a huge variety of colors, textures and size combinations.

Beyond color, the texture of the chosen paver may convey a clean contemporary finish, or a more rustic aged appearance. Also of importance today is the degree of drainage benefit that certain pervious installations can provide, allowing water to drain through them into the soil instead of adding to run off in drainage systems.

With exterior pavers the primary focus falls on drainage issues and run off. The more covered surface area you have on a lot, including your home or office, the more water may “sheet” off into inadequate drain systems which often results in flooding in many of our neighborhoods.

While some portions of your property, like your building itself, require the stability of a solid foundation, many walkways, patios and even pool decks do not. This issue is referred to as “permeability” and describes the ability of water to migrate through the paved surface and be absorbed into the ground below instead of running off onto the street. Pavers are more permeable than standard concrete and thus provide greater drainage benefit for your location.

When it comes to selecting which of these Pavers to use for your patio or yard, it is helpful to pick them and place them around the area to see what you like. It should be relatively simple, but the number of choices available to customers today is enormous.

Like other home improvement options, a little home work goes a long way toward insuring that you will be happy with the result of your home project when you are done. Getting the look and performance from your choice means not only appreciating the look and feel from the surface, but also the strength and function underneath.

As with most home improvement selections today, consumers are appropriately seeking products which are environmentally friendly, or “green”. Favored are materials that are naturally sourced, sustainable and those that have a minimum negative impact on their location and surroundings.

Information on different installation techniques is available on the interlocking Concrete paver institute website: http://www.icpi.org
—
Brothers, William and Jonathan Rhangos, are co-owners of Savannah Hardscapes. Savannah Hardscapes is a local company that specializes in the sale and installation of stone, pavers, brick, stucco, mosaics, antique materials, fountains, fireplaces, outdoor furniture and architectural elements for residential, commercial and public projects throughout the southeast. http://www.savannahhardscapes.com 843-784-6060

SCORE Conference in Macon, October 2010

I want to thank GIL HAYES to putting all this together – it was a wonderful conference! Thank you – I’ll be adding our picture shortly. – Marjorie

Folks in attendance:
Al Torpie – thank you for asking me to present my PR lecture at this conference
Andy Wowczuk – can’t wait to learn more about Strategic Breakthrough training – GREAT INFO
Faye Anderson – glad you have stepped up in Columbus!
Fred Abood – who promises to never use power point again:)
Jeff Mesquita – great presentation on Shoe Leather Marketing
Jim Zettergrene – thank you for driving!
Joe Ruf – terrific presentation on ROUNDTABLES – and great conversation about marketing
John Keel
Leland Burkart
Nancy Cleveland

Annette Rodriguez
Sheryl Silva – I’ll be in touch about RSVP helping out in Laney Walker
Dick Godschalk
Terri Denison – Great to see you again – great update on the SBA
Jack Bernard
Dave Jones

(AUGUSTA, GA) AUGUSTA Awarded $1.8 Million for Development of 15th Street Corridor – Augusta Tomorrow

Augusta Tomorrow

HUD & DOT Award $1.8 million to Augusta for development of the 15th Street Corridor

The unprecedented collaboration resulting in the joint DOT and HUD Community Challenge Planning Grant received 583 applications nationwide and only 62 grants were awarded. Augusta, Georgia was one of only two cities in the State of Georgia to receive an award. Augusta’s substantial grant award was for $1.8 million.

These grants were awarded to create a more holistic and integrated approach to connecting affordable housing, job opportunities and transportation corridors. As the “keeper of the vision” for Augusta’s Urban Area Master Plan, The Westobou Vision, Augusta Tomorrow is critically interested in the 15th Street Corridor. This corridor connects the commercial downtown district with the medical district, is an upgraded point of entrance due to a new $30 million Georgia Department of Transportation roadway project and is an important gateway into Augusta.

Augusta Tomorrow committed to working with the City of Augusta to implement this grant and has approved $120,000 in in-kind resources toward this goal.

For additional information, please contact Camille A. Price, Executive Director, Augusta Tomorrow, Inc. at mainoffice@augustatomorrow.org or 706-722-9100.

Camille A. Price
Executive Director
Augusta Tomorrow, Inc.
Enterprise Mill
1450 Greene St., Suite 85
Augusta, GA 30901
706-722-9100
cprice@augustatomorrow.org
http://www.augustatomorrow.org

A Savannah Chiropractor and Massage Therapist helped me avoid shoulder surgery

Savannah Chiropractor

Dr. David Davies http:www.savannahchiropractic.wordpress.com

Todd Norris does ART Massage

(SAVANNAH, GA) Trey Cook, President of the Savannah Rotary presents a $1000 check to Sheila O’Connor, a representative from the Ferst Foundation. The Ferst Foundation is an organization that gives a new book each month until the age of 5. Their goal is to lay the foundation for an educated, competitive and productive workforce in Georgia.

http://www.ferstfoundation.org/

Savannah Hardscape’s column in the Savannah Morning News:

Stone is the original “Green” building material. This abundant natural resource is very durable, naturally beautiful and available in a full spectrum of colors, textures, and shapes. Stone has been used for centuries for creating buildings, streets, walls, flooring, and art. Savannah’s prized River Street ramps and walls were was constructed with ballast stones from incoming ships. The still-standing buildings and walls along the street were made from local brick and ballast stone, creating beautiful and, obviously, long-lasting structures. Stone is a reuseable product and many homeowners are choosing to use reclaimed stone in their new or remodeling projects. There is a natural stone option for every project and every imagination.

http://www.savannahhardscapes.com

1. Travertine, limestone and marble: These stone cousins are great for interior and exterior applications. Honed and tumbled finishes will add a classic finish on flooring, walls and backsplashes. Polished finishes add high style to formal and commercial spaces. Take them outside in a tumbled finish for a non-slip, cool to the touch patio, pool deck or even a driveway. There are now a variety of products available for every budget.

2. Bluestone: This slate product quarried in Pennsylvania and New York is very different from the imported slates that arrive from India and China. Good quality bluestone is resistant to flaking and shaling and does not typically need to be sealed. Bluestone can be used in many forms. The irregular flagstone or pattern flagstone with a natural cleft texture can be mortar-set or dry-laid for patios, walkways, stepping stones and driveways. The quarries also produce large blocks of bluestone that can be fabricated into step treads, coping, sills, thresholds, curbing and other architectural elements. A range of available finishes include a non-slip thermal (flamed) finish, bush-hammered, honed or even polished. Historic Savannah and Charleston are laid with thousands of square feet of bluestone sidewalks, courtyards, patios, and architectural details.

3. Granite: Every where you look in Savannah, you see granite curbing and cobblestones. Travel up the eastern seaboard and you will see granite cobblestone streets in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York City. In Europe, Roman roadways paved with granite cobblestones are still in use or can be found underneath many modern streets. This hardy, classic stone is a perfect complement to traditional and contemporary architecture. A popular and versatile stone, granite can be made into honed and polished tiles and countertops.

4. Coral Stone and Coquina: Ancient oceans full of aquatic life were long ago formed into fossil and shell filled limestone. Cut from huge blocks of stone that are now well above sea level, coral stone and coquina is a perfect material for pool decks, patios and architectural elements. Coquina contains a huge array of shell and small animal fossils in each tile. Coral Stone contains a range of preserved coral fossils. Both of these light-colored stones stay cool in hot sun with a non-slip texture perfect for pool decks and outdoor areas. The blocks of stone can be carved into anything you can imagine; fireplace surrounds, balustrade systems, columns, tables, benches, urns and more.

5. Midwestern Limestone: Limestone quarried in the Midwestern United States, especially Indiana and Wisconsin is a beautiful addition to most any architecture. The first quarry in Indiana opened in 1827 and the area has been producing stone for buildings across the country ever since. The Empire State Building, Chicago’s Tribune Building and the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC are clad in limestone. Classic courthouse design, seen in Ridgeland, SC, implements limestone water table, sills, banding and pedaments. The limestone from this area is very consistent in color and texture, making it an ideal product for historic restoration as well as new construction. The large blocks of stone can be fabricated into door and window surrounds, cladding, sills, steps, column and wall caps, and pedaments. The fabricators are capable of reproducing any architectural drawings for decorative and structural elements.

6. Fieldstone: Fieldstone refers to a stone harvested from above ground, basically picked up in fields. This stone has been weathered and aged to a rustic finish. Quarries sort the fieldstone by size and shape into pallets. Historically, fieldstone was used to construct low landscape walls to divide properties and contain farm animals. Today, this stone is a great addition to landscape as garden borders, retaining walls and veneer stone for homes, businesses, and fireplaces. Different areas of the United States produce different colors of fieldstone, so there is sure to be one for any project.

7. River Rock: River Rock has been culled from stream and river beds and sorted by size. These smooth, mostly rounded stones are perfect for many uses. The pea gravels are used in driveways, walkways and planting beds. Slightly larger stones are a great alternative to pinestraw or wood mulch as well as drainage areas. Large river rocks can be used for borders and low walls. River Rocks used as a veneer stone on a home or fireplace can mimic the look of historic ballast stones and rustic mountain homes. A newer trend is using river rocks imported from Mexico, Indonesia and South America. These countries offer a large range of colors, including black, green, red, peach and white. Colored river rocks are a fine accent in water features, fountains, planting beds and zen gardens.

8. Clay brick pavers: Clay brick pavers installed in Savannah over 100 years ago can still be found on streets and sidewalks all over downtown. Clay brick pavers are fired to a high compressive strength and are a durable alternative for driveways, patios, streets, sidewalks, and crosswalks, as well. Clay bricks will not fade or crack and require virtually no maintenance. Paver systems are easy to install and repair. Clay brick pavers are manufactured throughout the Southeast, making them a cost-effective local resource. Many manufacturers are now producing a permeable alternative to the classic clay brick paver. These are a necessary tool to facilitate drainage and to help maintain clean groundwaters for a healthy environment.

9. Flagstone: Flagstone refers to a variety of slates and sandstones, typically found in an irregular or broken shape. This material is quarried from many sites across the country and is simply split and palletized in its irregular form. Most popular in this area are the Tennessee and Oklahoma sandstones. Tennessee sandstone incorporates a beautiful palette of brown, gold, and beige with some black and pink. Oklahoma flagstone is a more subtle mix of brown, gold and black. Flagstone can be incorporated into large and small designs as pool decks, patios, walkways, stepping stones and driveway accents.

The Georgia Score District Leadership Conference 2010, Macon, GA

I want to thank GIL HAYES to putting all this together – it was a wonderful conference! Thank you – I’ll be adding our picture shortly. – Marjorie

Folks in attendance:
Al Torpie – thank you for asking me to present my PR lecture at this conference
Andy Wowczuk – can’t wait to learn more about Strategic Breakthrough training – GREAT INFO
Faye Anderson – glad you have stepped up in Columbus!
Fred Abood – who promises to never use power point again:)
Jeff Mesquita – great presentation on Shoe Leather Marketing
Jim Zettergrene – thank you for driving!
Joe Ruf – terrific presentation on ROUNDTABLES – and great conversation about marketing
John Keel
Leland Burkart
Nancy Cleveland

Annette Rodriguez
Sheryl Silva – I’ll be in touch about RSVP helping out in Laney Walker
Dick Godschalk
Terri Denison – Great to see you again – great update on the SBA
Jack Bernard
Dave Jones

Jack Bernard – advocating for health care reform

Jack Bernard,

Current System Rations Care

As opposed to what many in my Republican Party might say during this election cycle, America does not have the best health care in the world. According to an extensive study by the World Health Organization, we are ranked number 37. We are behind such advanced countries as Oman (8), Morocco (29), and Chile (33). Plus, our per capita expenditures are by far the highest in the world. For instance, France the country with the best health system has per capita expenditures of $ 3,420 of while the U.S. runs $6,719.

A major factor dragging us down is the way our health care is financed and rationed. Unfortunately, the recently passed health care law incompletely addresses these deficiencies. However, a repeal alone will put us right back to the current system, which is intolerable from both a cost and equity standpoint. There is a better alternative.

Surveys have shown that most Americans are firmly against rationing. With the Town Hall disruptions by the Tea Party rowdies and their continuing activism in the GOP, there has been a lot of publicity about how care might be rationed under “Obamacare” as members of my party would put it. There has been much less analysis of what is happening right now in the U.S. regarding health care rationing because of economics, despite the fact that over 40,000 Americans die each year due to lack of insurance.

Tea Partiers choose to close their eyes to the above, saying that all people can afford whatever they want medically in this land of plenty. People just do not want to work or to pay for it. But is this myth true?

A recent Kaiser Foundation poll found that 59% of those surveyed were being forced by financial factors to make inappropriate choices about their health. For instance, 42% were using home remedies or over the counter drugs, even when they knew that they should be seeing a physician. Another 33% directly delayed care when they knew that they should be getting it due to cost factors. In addition, 29% failed to refill prescriptions because of affordability while 27% put off receiving needed medical treatments.

DHHS states that 20% of E.R. visits are for primary care. When the medically indigent routinely wait for endless hours to be seen by an E.R. physician, that is rationing. It is also an inexcusable waste of resources caused by our current non-system of care.

Hewitt Associates looked at Cobra, the 18 month health insurance extension required by law when an employee leaves a firm offering coverage. Average Cobra coverage for a family costs about $12,000/ year. Under the stimulus package, the Federal government recently began covering 65% of the insurance expense for certain workers up to 9 months. Enrollment immediately doubled, to 38% of those eligible. People of all ages want insurance; it is rationed by affordability and the unemployed simply cannot afford to pay out $1000 monthly with no job.

Another DHHS study showed that in 2006, over 40% of low-income workers (i.e. under 200% of poverty level) were not insured. It also showed that the South, my home, was the region of the country with the fastest rise in the uninsured working poor. With the rapid rise of premiums under our existing system, even more employers are projected to drop coverage in the future (only 25% of small businesses offer coverage now). Once again, another example of our nation economically rationing care to its workers.

The National Council of Churches and other religious leaders stated in June of 2009 that the need for reform is an “urgent priority”. They went on to say that “the prospect of high-quality, affordable health care for everyone is a measure of our wholeness as a nation”. What should be done?

The respected organization Physicians’ for a National Health Plan (PNHP) has analyzed the current situation and determined that the most cost-effective route is Medicare for all. Medicare’s administrative costs are 3% whereas private insurance runs 31%. The additional funds could be utilized to cover the uninsured. Yes, there are some waiting lines in Canada for ELECTIVE procedures, but Canada spends half what we do on health care per capita. With our current spending level, we need not have lines here. In any case, under Universal Medicare any rationing that might be required would be based on medical need as determined by your physician, not HMOs and insurance companies as it is now. All patients would receive care, regardless of their income and finances.

Unfortunately, the leadership of neither party supports Universal Medicare. As usual, there is self-interest involved. Republicans and conservative Democrats are influenced by lobbyist money. Senator Baucus (D), the head of the Senate finance committee, has received $3 million from health and insurance lobbyists over the last few years. The liberal Democratic leadership wanted a health care win at any cost, even if it compromised their principles. The thinking was that it would preserve their Congressional majority…but the effect of a poorly thought out, complex, reform plan apparently is doing the opposite.

Repeal and going back to the way it was is not the answer. We simply cannot go on the way that we have, with health care eating up more and more of our personal budgets and ever greater numbers of people becoming uninsured. But, neither is the new law passed by Congress. The only way to get a handle on both costs and access is Universal Medicare. Bite the bullet now, or the pain will be much, much worse in another 15 years when it is next addressed.

Bio- Jack Bernard has been a senior executive with several national health care firms. He is the former Chairman of the Republican Party of Jasper County Georgia and the Jasper County Commission, as well as a current BOC member..

Down Syndrome Buddy Walk Oct 23, 2010 in Forsyth Park, Savannah GA

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk Festival will be held Saturday, October 23rd in Forsyth Park. The fifth annual Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate without special training. Registration begins at 8:00 AM and is $12 per person (price includes t-shirt, food and festival activities). The walk kicks off at 10:30 AM, and the festival for the whole family is from 11 AM to 2 PM, offering live music, bouncy rides, train rides, carnival games, bake sale and more http://www.LDSSGA.org to register online.

(SAVANNAH, GA) COMMUNiTY HEADLiNES Oct 18, 2010

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk Festival will be held Saturday, October 23rd in Forsyth Park. The fifth annual Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate without special training. Registration begins at 8:00 AM and is $12 per person (price includes t-shirt, food and festival activities). The walk kicks off at 10:30 AM, and the festival for the whole family is from 11 AM to 2 PM, offering live music, bouncy rides, train rides, carnival games, bake sale and more http://www.LDSSGA.org to register online.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Bouhan, Williams & Levy LLP is pleased to announce that Gregory G. Sewell has joined the firm as an associate attorney. His practice focuses on corporate law, civil and commercial litigation, including non-compete covenants and non-disclosure agreements, as well as medical malpractice, hospital and insurance defense.

http://mysavannah.wordpress.com/2010/10/13/savannah-law-firm-bouhan-williams-levy-hires-greg-sewell/

(SAVANNAH, GA) Savannah Book Festival will host historian and writer James Swanson to discuss his latest book, Bloody Crimes: The Chase for Jefferson Davis and the Death Pageant for Lincoln’s Corpse, Oct., 19, 7 p.m., at Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church at 429 Abercorn Street. A question-and-answer session and book signing will follow.
http://www.savannahbookfestival.org

(SAVANNAH, GA) Bicyclist rides 11,000 miles across America to raise awareness about obesity, stops in Savannah.

http://mysavannah.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/bicyclist-rides-11000-miles-across-america-to-raise-awareness-about-obesity-stops-in-savannah/

(SAVANNAH, GA) Solar Champions Solar Social, Tues.

Oct. 19 from 5:30 to 7pm at SOL restaurant 1611 Habersham.

912- 233-4288

(SAVANNAH, GA) ART EXHIBIT “Talent has No Boundaries” for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Tuesday, October 26, 2010, 4:00 – 7:00 pm, Savannah State University, King Frazier Student Center Ballroom. Guest Speaker: Regina Thomas. Free, open to the public.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Relish Magazine’s celebrity chef Jon Ashton will conduct the lively, two-hour show on Oct 21 at the Savannah Civic Center, $10 tickets 912.652.0236

http://savannahnow.com/news/2010-09-09/celebrity-chef-jon-ashton-warms-local-crowd

(SAVANNAH, GA) Judges Announces for Pet Costume Contest, Oct 30 “SAVANNAH PAWrade” JUDGES

(SAVANNAH, GA ) Party & Auction Nov. 6 to benefit the Blessed Sacrament School. Auction items include stays at a Costa Rica vacation home and two Tybee homes, hunting and fishing trips, downtown and Hilton Head packages, a sleepover for eight at the Jacksonville Zoo… Tickets for the country hoe-down with a mechanical bull are $25 in advance from the school, $30 at the door. http://www.bss-savannah.org

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Light The Night walk was held Friday, October 15th in Forsyth Park. Photos by Kim Thompson. http://spotted.savannahnow.com/galleries/index.php?id=381353

(SAVANNAH, GA) The SBDC presents “How to Make Money with Social Media” Oct. 28, 2010, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm at the Coastal Georgia Center for $129 http://www.savannahsbdc.org or call 912-651-3200

(SAVANNAH, GA) Junior Achievement of Georgia, Savannah District announces the names of the laureates for the 11th annual Savannah Business Hall of Fame being held on Tuesday, October 12th. This year’s honorees include Mr. Gus Bell, Mr. David Byck, and Mrs. Paula Deen. Photos by Kim Thomson

http://spotted.savannahnow.com/galleries/index.php?id=381308

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Tree Foundation is pleased to present this talk by Dr. Kathleen Wolf ” Current Trends in Community Trees” on Monday, November 1st, 2010 from 3-5 p.m., at the Metropolitan Planning Commission Building,110 East State Street. http://www.savannahtree.com.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Bouhan, Williams & Levy, LLP selected for ‘Best Law Firms’ by U.S. News & World Report for the categories of Admiralty and Maritime Law, General Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation and Corporate Law.
PHOTOS

(SAVANNAH, GA) Abilities Unlimited is happy to announce that it has nominated the Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department (CCPRD) for the 2010 Special Olympics Georgia Training for Life Award. This award is given each year by the State of Georgia Department of Parks and Recreation as it recognizes a local government for its impact on Special Olympics athletes. AWARD

(SAVANNAH, GA) Photos by Kim Thomson of the Savannah Tree Foundation Fall Frolic 2

http://spotted.savannahnow.com/galleries/index.php?id=381333

(SAVANNAH, GA) The new music program is looking for help at Garrison Visual and Performing Arts Elementary School. While it is an arts school, the band program has a shortage of music books. Portman’s has opened an account called the Garrison Music Program Fund. Donors can call Deborah Parker at Portman’s at 354-1500 and make a tax deductable donation. Call Ms/ Hammontree for more info 912-655-6521 dhammontree@comcast.net

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Branch of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) will present a LEED® Gold Certification plaque to the Marine and Coastal Science Research and Instructional Center (MCSRIC) at Skidaway Institute of Oceanography on Tuesday, October 19, at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For additional information: http://www.skio.usg.edu

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Humane Society for Greater Savannah is pleased to announce its 2010-11 Board of Directors

(SAVANNAH, GA) Help Marshpoint Elementary win a $25,000 technology grant from Pepsi. Leslie Ducey a kindergarten teacher at Marshpoint has been nominated, she wants to connect our children to the world using technology. The money would be used to buy Smart boards, projectors, webcams and flip cameras for the class rooms. You can vote once a day, voting ends October 31. Please visit http://www.refresheverything.com/connectstudentstotheworld or text* 102844 to Pepsi (73773)

(SAVANNAH, GA) Lecture on Free Federal Seed Capital for Small Business R&D, Presented by: John Mills, Director, SBIR Assistance Program, ATDC, Georgia Tech EII, Thursday October 21, 2010, 11:30-1:00pm, Rm. 126, PARB Building, Georgia Tech Savannah Campus. To attend Email: jjordan@georgia.org, by Phone: 912-963-2551

(SAVANNAH, GA) Landings Art Association Annual Fall Show at Merrill Lynch Building in Skidaway Village on Skidaway Island Mon. Oct.18 through Wed., Oct.20 from 9-5. The show is free and open to the public. For more info, call 598-8262 or visit http://www.landingsart.org

(SAVANNAH,GA) Annual Landings Art Association sidewalk show and sale will be on Main Street in Skidaway Village from 10-3 on Sat. October 30. For more info, call 973-885-9893 or visit

http://www.landingsart.org

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance alights upon Savannah’s race track with a variety of performance and performer vehicles from 10-29 thru 10-31. The track days allow viewers the opportunity to not only watch the races, but to meet the drivers, view the vehicle up close, and even take “hot lap” rides.

http://www.hhiconcours.com 843.785.SHOW

(SAVANNAH, GA) “American Jihadist” a documentary by director Mark Claywell of Savannah will run Friday, October 22 at 8pm, Jespson. Q & A to follow. Tickets $6.00 at the door. http://savannahmagazine.com/articles/savannah-s-american-jihadist

(SAVANNAH, GA) Applications are being accepted for the 2011 class of the Institute for Georgia Environmental Leadership (IGEL). Contact Patty McIntosh, IGEL chair elect and principal at Melaver McIntosh for more information: pmc@melaver-mcintosh.com. Online application is available at http://www.igeleaders.org; deadline is November 5.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Local restaurateur Jamie Deen will be the master of ceremonies for the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk Festival on Saturday, October 23rd in Forsyth Park. (912) 728-8505 http://www.LDSSGA.org to register online. See “behind the scenes” video of the TV Commercial shoot

(SAVANNAH, GA) Savannah Sunrise Rotary presents the 13th Annual Trick or Trot on October 30th. 5/10K – 7:30AM registration, 8AM race start time. http://www.TrickorTrot.net

(SAVANNAH, GA) Recorded lecture, ‘Everything you need to know about buying a home in today’s market, including tips from a home inspector, credit and mortgage advice from a banker, an explanation of real estate contracts from a lawyer, and advice about sorting through home choices from the sales manager with Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty.
LECTURE

(SAVANNAH, GA) One injury claim can cost a small business owner hundreds of thousands of dollars with an average Lost Time claim of $38K. On November 10, learn “How to Reduce the Chances of a Costly Employee Injury Claim; 5 Tips for Workplace Safety,” when The Sullivan Group’s Safety and Loss Control Manager Scott Goldsberry speaks at the Exchange Club at noon. Call Tim Beers for more information, 912-925-6608. http://www.simplysullivans.com

(SAVANNAH, GA) Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, upcoming events: http://savannahchamber.com/events.php

(ISLE OF HOPE) Isle of Hope Pool & Community Club presents the of 2nd Annual Isle of Hope Hope Haunted Trail, Fri, Oct 29 at the Isle of Hope Pool. 5:30p- Kids’ Carnival, 7p- Haunted Trail. $5. msmarshalljr@comcast.net.

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk Festival will be held Saturday, October 23rd in Forsyth Park. The fifth annual Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk in which anyone can participate. .www.LDSSGA.org

(ISLE OF HOPE, GA) The 10th Annual Isle of Hope Art Show will be held on Sat. Nov. 13th at the Isle of Hope Marina. Hours are 10AM-4PM. For more info 912-355-1718. Open to the public, free.

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Savannah Arts Academy Theatre Guild will hold its annual “New York, New York” Auction on Saturday, November 13th from 7:00 – 10:00 PM at The River Club, 3 Martin Luther King Blvd; Savannah, GA. Admission is $20 and includes heavy hors d’oeurves and the opportunity to bid in both silent and live auctions. Call Barbara Awad 912-631-1219

(SAVANNAH,GA) Annual Landings Art Association sidewalk show and sale will be on Main Street in Skidaway Village from 10-3 on Sat. October 30. For more info, call 973-885-9893 or visit http://www.landingsart.org

(SAVANNAH, GA) Heart disease is not just about cholesterol problem it is about chronic inflammation in the body, Dr. Sam Young explains

https://my.dimdim.com/view/all/samyoungmd/default/f7ad538e-4499-4892-9136-d8d0600385c1

(TYBEE ISLAND, GA) Tybee Island, GA breaks record for tourism this past summer. http://savannahnow.com/exchange/2010-10-14/tybee-island-summer-tourism-charts-2010-0

(SAVANNAH, GA) On Tuesday, October 26, 2010, 1:00 pm – 4:00pm Cathy Rodgers and I will be presenting a Lecture for the Georgia Center for Nonprofits on Social Media and PR.

http://www.gcn.org/OnlineMarketingStrategiesTechniques.aspx

(STONINGTON, CT) Happy 23rd Birthday to my daughter Carol! I miss you!!!

(SAVANNAH, GA) The new Leadership Savannah Class had a military field trip to Travis Field and Hunter: We got to fly in a C130 with the back of the plane wide open, overlooking Tybee Island. AMAZING DAY! PHOTO

Abilities Unlimited Nominates Chatham County Parks and Recreation/Public Works for Training for Life Award

SAVANNAH, GA – Abilities Unlimited is happy to announce that it has nominated the Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department (CCPRD) for the 2010 Special Olympics Georgia Training for Life Award. This award is given each year by the State of Georgia Department of Parks and Recreation as it recognizes a local government for its impact on Special Olympics athletes. The CCPRD has offered outstanding support to Abilities Unlimited, Inc. for many years from providing a Special Olympics Powerlifting facility, giving decorations for its local events and transportation for its team to Special Olympics events.

The Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department has also provided Abilities Unlimited, Inc. with financial support for quality coaches as well as helping them to host Special Olympics Powerlifting Coaching Clinics and a Special Olympics Area 17 Winter Games Powerlifting venue. Because of this support, Abilities Unlimited, Inc.’s Special Olympics Powerlifting team has grown to be one of the largest in the state. In addition to the nomination,
Abilities Unlimited, Inc. presented the Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department with a plaque of appreciation.

Abilities Unlimited offers progressive exercise, Special Olympic and Paralympic training to those in our community with special needs. Abilities Unlimited programs promote a sense of value and belonging in our community. Participants are offered opportunities and taught skills to regain and improve life skills, mobility and independence.

For more information about Abilities Unlimited, please call (912) 351-3504 or email Rlang58515@aol.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Savannah Book Festival

What exactly is the Savannah Book Festival?

The Savannah Book Festival is a fun, informative and entertaining three-day event in February that celebrates books and the written word. We bring in authors from around the country to Savannah, who then present their work to audiences of booklovers eager to hear what they have to say. www.savannahbookfestival.org

Do the authors sit on panels or give seminars?

No! Both our author presenters and our festival attendees love the fact that each hour is devoted to one author and his or her work. We have no panels or symposia, thus each author is free to communicate directly and intimately with the audience. The upshot: award-winning writers regaling their audiences with stories of their lives in letters.

What kinds of writers come to the festival?

In short, all kinds: we welcome bestselling authors of popular fiction and non-fiction, as well as poets, historians and other critically acclaimed authors. There is something for everyone at the Savannah Book Festival. Some of the renowned writers coming to the 2011 Savannah Book Festival include Tobias Wolff, Lee Smith, Karl Marlantes, Thomas Chatterton Williams, Vince Dooley, the poet laureate of Georgia David Bottoms, Sandra Brown, Paula Wallace and Chuck Leavell, keyboardist for the Rolling Stones.

Does SBF authors do any community outreach while they’re in town?

Yes! Our SBF in Schools Program brings many of our award-winning writers into local middle and high schools, colleges and universities to talk to students about writing and books. Since its founding in 2008, the Festival has introduced thousands of young people to dozens of authors, adding depth and breadth to their curricula.

How much does it cost to attend the Savannah Book Festival?

Nothing! Most of our events are FREE and open to the public, including our Friday Night Keynote Address and the actual festival on Saturday. We do hold a few fundraising events throughout the weekend, which this year include a special Saturday evening talk with Sandra Brown and her son Ryan, and a Sunday Brunch talk with former UGA football coach Vince Dooley.

When does it take place?

This year the festival has shifted to a new weekend perfect for travel to Savannah: President’s Day weekend, February 18-20, 2011. We will have events on all three days of this holiday weekend—most of which, again, are free and open to the public.

Where does all of this happen?

Most events take place in or around Telfair Square in historic downtown Savannah, GA, where presentation venues include the Telfair Museum; the Telfair’s Jepson Center for the Arts; and Trinity United Methodist Church. We also have a free speech tent in the square, as well as tents for exhibitors and VIPs such as donors and the media.

Who comes to the festival?

People of all ages and from all walks of life visit the Savannah Book Festival, with most attendees coming from within 300 miles of Savannah. But we do bring in visitors from as far away as New York, Chicago, California and Europe.

What is the Sunday Brunch Talk?

Each year the Festival invites a renowned author to come speak at our Sunday Brunch talk about his or her latest book. This year, former University of Georgia football coach Vince Dooley will present his book Vince Dooley’s Garden – The Horticultural Journey of a Football Coach, and talk about his love of gardening. If you’re interested in attending this fun event, you can purchase a table for $750 at the Savannah Box Office.

Can I buy books and have them signed by the author at the Festival?

Yes! We partner with Ex Libris, the bookstore for the Savannah College of Art & Design, to bring you books by all of the authors featured at the Savannah Book Festival. The tent is set up so that you may purchase your books, then walk over to the author’s table to have them signed.

Will there be exhibitors at the Festival?

The Festival also features an exhibitor tent in which many small and university publishers, as well as individual authors and non-profit organizations, sell books by authors of all genres. If you’d like to be an exhibitor at the 2012 Festival, click here.

How is the Festival funded?

Unlike Savannah’s other festivals, we do not have a primary donor as a major revenue generating option. We receive no regular government or corporate funding. Instead, we rely on the kindness of individual donors to help keep the festival free and open to the public.

How can I get involved?

If you’d like to help us make the Savannah Book Festival a perennial fixture in Savannah’s cultural life so we can continue to bring America’s finest writers into our lives, we’d love to have your support. Our Literati—friends who give at least $100 per person, or $150 per couple—receive wonderful benefits such as exclusive invitations to SBF events featuring nationally renowned authors throughout the year; access to our author hospitality suite on Telfair Square on Festival day; and special access to the organizers of the Festival and advnce information regarding all of our events. To find out more, click on this link to our donation page.

We also love our volunteers, and if you’d like to contribute by giving your time, please click on this link to our volunteer page.

Bicyclist rides 11,000 miles across America to raise awareness about obesity, stops in Savannah

Teddy Herrera stopped in to inspire kids working out at Performance Initiatives on Friday, October 15th. Teddy is cycling 11,000 miles across America to raise awareness about obesity and fitness, while serving as an inspiration for young people to actively chase their dreams. Teddy took time out from his 21 major city tour to train and inspire our young members. As the founder of Across America for Childhood Obesity, he challenges youth at each stop to reach their dreams one pedal at a time.

On Friday, Teddy shared his equation for success: Decide to do something + Do It = Success

You can follow Teddy’s journey at http://acrossamericaforchildhoodobesity.wordpress.com

Relish Magazine’s celebrity chef Jon Ashton comes to Savannah, Oct 21 at 7pm, Civic Center

Relish Cooking Show and Expo coming to Savannah
Event celebrates Savannah’s love of food

The pages of Relish magazine will come alive when the Savannah Morning News presents the Relish Cooking Show and Expo, October 21 at 7 p.m., at the Savannah Civic Center.

Relish celebrity chef Jon Ashton will conduct the lively, two-hour show that features authentic recipes, useful cooking tips and new ideas for the kitchen. Ashton, a prominent advocate for children’s nutrition, believes “food is a social exchange that connects people.” Food-loving crowds across the country have connected with his unique blend of culinary style, on-stage flair and audience interaction.

The event includes a pre-show expo showcasing products and services presented by local vendors. Each show attendee will receive a gift bag that includes coupons, special discount offers and the Relish Cooking Show recipe booklet. The Expo begins at noon and continues until show time.

“We’re expecting a sold-out show,” said Ashlee Duren, events coordinator at the Savannah Morning News. “We encourage readers to purchase advance tickets now.”

Designed to entertain, educate and empower home-kitchen chefs, the show’s menu includes seasonal fare ranging from crispy herbed chicken to fresh tomato salad, pasta and asparagus dishes, and scrumptious shortcakes with berries.

Relish magazine appears in the Savannah Morning News on the first Thursday of each month and has a nationwide circulation of 15.5 million copies. Each issue celebrates American’s love of food by offering colorful features on cooking, dining and entertaining. Whether it’s a formal dinner or a tailgating party, good-for-you foods or a sweet indulgence, a hidden roadside restaurant or a family picnic, Relish magazine is always lively, festive and fun.

The Savannah Morning News invites you to be a part of this special event by purchasing advance tickets at the Civic Center Box Office. Tickets are $10 each. For more information, contact the Savannah Morning News.

Judges Announced for Pet Costume Contest Oct 30 “SAVANNAH PAWrade”

‘PAWrade’ with costumed pets to benefit local charities
Savannah real estate expert Celia Dunn and Helen Downing to judge
pet costume contest held by Jacob G. Smith Elementary and TailsSpin

(SAVANNAH) – Savannah real estate expert Celia Dunn of Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty, along with Pete Liakakis, Helen Downing, Stratton Leopold, Lynn Fairbanks, Doll Miller, DeAnna Douglas, Jane Tyler and Mark Smith, will judge a pet costume contest, the first “Savannah PAWrade,” benefiting local charities.

Jacob G. Smith Elementary School and TailsSpin Pet Supplies Store are joining forces to hold the First “Savannah PAWrade” on Saturday, Oct. 30, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Habersham Street down Lamara Street, adjacent to Habersham Village Shopping Center. All proceeds raised from Savannah PAWrade will be divided among Jacob G. Smith Elementary and the participating pet rescue agencies.

The event will include a Pet Costume Parade and Contest with local celebrity judges, dog wash, pet nail trimming, Savannah local artisan bazaar, music and food, trick-or-treating at Habersham Village merchants, and TailsSpin’s signature Low-Cost Pet Vaccine Clinic and Microchip Clinic.

Attending the Savannah PAWrade event is free. For the Pet Costume Contest, there is an entry fee of $5 per pet. First, second and third place winners receive prizes from Blue Buffalo, Natural Choice and Natural Balance Pet Food Companies, and engraved Pet ID Tags and Gift Certificates from TailsSpin Pet Supply Store. Humans are encouraged to tag along in the PAWrade as well. For further information, schedule and entry application, please go to http://www.savannahpawrade.com.

Many Savannah pet rescue agencies are scheduled to participate, including the Atlanta Weimaraner Rescue, Aussie Rescue, Coastal Pet Rescue, Dachshund Rescue Education Awareness and Mentoring, Dachshund Rescue of North America, Grateful Golden Retriever Rescue, Humane Society for Greater Savannah, PAWS, Pound Pups Rescue, SOLACE, and Save-A-Life.

Several groups will bring dogs and cats that are available for adoption along with information on rescuing and saving these pets’ lives. For every pet adoption during the event, TailsSpin Pet Supplies will assist new pet owners by giving them a free engraved ID tag, a free small bag of dog or cat food, and 10 percent off their purchase that day.

Known for its tradition of integrity, Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty specializes in residential and commercial properties in Savannah and the Low Country of Georgia and South Carolina. Founded in 1981, Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty is noted for outstanding service to its clients, thorough knowledge of Savannah and the South Carolina Low Country, and excellent staff, in addition to having one of the region’s top property management departments. Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty is a member of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate. The owners are natives of Savannah who have more than 60 years’ combined experience in real estate. The offices are located at 9, 13, and 17 West Charlton Street on Madison Square in Savannah and 6 Bruin Street in Bluffton, S.C.

For more information, call Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty at (912) 234-3323 or visit http://www.celiadunnsir.com. To contact the Bluffton office, call (843) 836-3900.

About Habersham Village Shopping Center
Habersham Village Shopping Center is located on Habersham Street, between 61st and 63rd streets. It is Savannah’s most established neighborhood shopping center with a premiere location in Midtown Savannah. Habersham Village boasts such established merchants, such as Bar Food, Barberitos Cantina, Bay Camera, Bella’s, Beverage Warehouse, Bikram Yoga, Clary’s, David’s Cleaner, Hirano’s, Kiwi Fleur, Marco’s Pizza, Punch and Judy, Red and White, and Savannah Rum Runners and TailsSpin.

ART FESTIVAL IN SAVANNAH – TYBEE ISLAND – 30 MINUTES FROM SAVANNAH

14th Annual Tybee Festival of the Arts – showcasing regional and local artists
TYBEE ISLAND, GA – The 14th Annual Tybee Festival of the Arts Juried Art and Fine Craft Show will be held October 16th 10am – 6pm and October 17th 10am – 5pm. This year’s event will again take place oceanfront rain or shine at Tybee’s South Beach with a spectacular view of the Atlantic and the Tybee Pier & Pavilion.
The 14th Tybee Festival of the Arts will feature more than 40 artists from throughout the Southeast including Georgia, Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, marking this year’s Festival the largest ever so far. A variety of mediums will be represented including: jewelry, oil, oil and wax, photography, glass, pottery, ceramics, watercolor, copper art, metal art and clay sculpture. There will be $4,000 in prize money up for grabs for the winning artists.
This year a new and exciting addition will be Children’s Art Booth, where 4th to 7th grade children will get a chance to do some real oil painting. Activities such as fingerpainting and crafts will be offered to the very young artists as well.
Live music will be available both days courtesy of Randy Smith of Instant Karma Productions featuring Annie Allman, Randy Hatman Smith and Jan Spillane to name a few.
The 14th Annual Tybee Festival of the Arts is sponsored by The City of Tybee and The Tybee Arts Association. For more information about the Tybee Festival of the Arts, Tybee artists and all things art related here on Tybee Island visit TybeeArts.org.
14th Annual Tybee Festival of the Arts
When: October 16th 10am – 6pm and October 17th 10am – 5pm
Where: Tybee Island, GA – South Beach Parking Lot
Admission: Free to the public
Live music schedule:
Saturday Oct 16
12noon – 1:00pm Annie Allman | Savannah, GA
1:15 – 2:15 Aviva and the Flying Penguins | Atlanta, GA
New age/Contemporary music | avivamusic.ning.com
2:30 – 3:30 Brenda Morie | Savannah, GA
Jazz flutist and vocalist |brendamorie.com
3:45 – 5:30 Randy Hatman Smith and Michael Moody | Tybee Island, GA
Beach, Boogie and Classic Rock | hatmanentertainment.com
Sunday Oct 17
12noon – 1:00pm Jan Spillane | Savannah, GA
Blues, Country, Folk | janspillane.com
1:15 – 2:15 Ashley Allen |Augusta, GA
2:30 – 3:30 Lacey Caldwell | Tybee Island, GA
Savannah Arts Academy student | Country, Blues, Rock
3:45 – 5:00 Randy Hatman Smith and Michael Moody |Tybee Island, GA
Beach, Boogie and Classic Rock | hatmanentertainment.com
Tybee Arts Association PO Box 2344 Tybee Island, GA 31328 Tel: (912) 786-5920 Email: info@tybeearts.org
Media contact: Sari McAfee, Tybee Arts Association
912-220-2020 | sarimcafee@yahoo.com
Visitor contact: Tybee Island Visitor Center | 802 First Street Tybee Island, GA 31328
912-786-5444 or toll free 800-868-2322 | vc@tybeevisit.com | http://www.tybeevisit.com

The new Leadership Savannah Class spent the day with the Military; we flew from Travis Field with the Ga Air Guard on a C130 to Hunter Army Airfield.

SAVANNAH LECTURE – Nov 10 – Learn how to Reduce the Chances of a Costly Employee Injury Claim

Community Headline: One injury claim can cost a small business owner hundreds of thousands of dollars with an average Lost Time claim of $38K. On November 10, learn “How to Reduce the Chances of a Costly Employee Injury Claim; 5 Tips for Workplace Safety,” when The Sullivan Group’s Safety and Loss Control Manager Scott Goldsberry speaks at the Exchange Club at noon. Call Tim Beers for more information, 912-925-6608.
http://www.simplysullivans.com

For Immediate Release:
How to Reduce the Chances of a Costly Employee Injury Claim; 5 Tips for Workplace Safety

(SAVANNAH, GA) According to the National Safety Council, direct costs alone for one employee injury can total up to $38,000 with indirect costs costing the company an additional 4 to 5 times that amount.

Worker’s Compensation costs, depending on occupational risk and the compensation board in your state, can range between 1-1.5% of your employee’s salary.

During these hard economic times, companies need to save all the money they can. Implementing a Safety and Injury Prevention Plan can not only keep your company in balance with state regulation, it can save your bottom line.

According to the US Department of Labor Bureau of Statistics, 2008 saw decreases in overall workplace injuries, noting one reason for the decrease was solid employer implementation of these programs.

Scott Goldsberry, The Sullivan Group’s Safety and Loss Control Manager, gives the Top Five Safety Tips for businesses:

1) Develop a written safety program or manual.
Without being in written form, it’s hard to enforce safety policies and procedures. All employees should have access to the program or manual starting with the New Employee Orientation. Whether or not the company prints a manual for all employees or a master copy is available so everyone has access to it would be an individual company decision.

2) Develop a safety-training program.
Customized to the type of work produced by the employees at the company, training at all levels is essential. Training will remind the employees that the company cares about their health and well-being as well as ensure that they work in a safe manner. 85-90% of all Workers Compensation claims are caused by unsafe behavior. Regular, documented safety training will secure their education in work safety and help reduce the urge to work in an unsafe manner.

3) Host regular meetings on State and Federal Regulations.
Regulations change regularly, which is why it’s important to stay alert of State and Federal rules. With Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations posted on their website, there’s no excuse to be ignorant of them. All employers should be aware and well versed in the regulations to protect their employees from injuries and to protect the company from large fines. Familiarity with OSHA regulations is the responsibility of the company’s management team, just like operators of vehicles on the state highways are required to know the rules of the road to prevent accidents and to protect them from receiving citations.

4) Accident investigations should be completed after every injury.
Investigations ensure companies learn from the mistakes that were made and how not to duplicate the situation. Each accident should be investigated to the point that a “root cause” is determined so that reoccurrence of the same type of injury is reduced or eliminated through proper corrective measures. 85-90% of all workplace injuries are the result of unsafe behavior; however, eliminating hazardous conditions is the first step to reducing injuries.

5) Larger Companies need Safety Committees.
A safety committee, comprised of equal numbers of management, supervisors, and hourly employees gives the company a feel for all sides of the issues. Hourly employees are the ones doing the job so their input is crucial. You also want them involved because co-workers find it easier to discuss problems openly with one another rather than with supervisors or management. Supervisors have to be there since they have worked their way through the ranks and know how to control the situation from the ground up. Management needs to be a part of the committee so decisions on policy and procedure changes or decisions on spending money on items needed to prevent injuries and accidents can be made quickly.
Safety committees can be used to review accidents, conduct safety audits, develop corrective measures to prevent reoccurrence of accidents or injuries, develop new policies and procedures to reduce the risk to the workforce, motivate the workforce to work safely, and develop new trends from OSHA Logs and Insurance Company Loss Runs to determine the focus of the safety program.

Scott Goldsberry has more than 30 years of safety and loss control experience and currently works with The Sullivan Group and its clients on creating policies and procedures for safety and injury prevention.

Safety and Loss Control was an area The Sullivan Group felt necessary to incorporate as a part of their network of resources for its clients. Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlighted 2008 decreases in its latest injury census, increases were found in transportation and warehousing (3.4% increase), and government (2.2% increase).

The Sullivan Group focuses on supporting small and medium sized businesses with experts in all aspects of Human Resource Management. Safety and Injury Prevention joins their other resources, including: employee benefits, payroll, compliance tactics, staffing, and workers compensation insurance.

For more information on The Sullivan Group and how they can help your business, visit their website, http://www.simplysullivans.com.

Savannah Law firm – Bouhan, Williams & Levy hires Greg Sewell

(SAVANNAH, GA) Bouhan, Williams & Levy LLP is pleased to announce that Gregory G. Sewell has joined the firm as an associate attorney. His practice focuses on corporate law, civil and commercial litigation, including non-compete covenants and non-disclosure agreements, as well as medical malpractice, hospital and insurance defense.

“We are very happy to have Gregory join us,” says Todd Baiad, a partner with the firm. “His wide breadth of knowledge and professionalism make him a natural fit at Bouhan, Williams and Levy.”

A native of Savannah, Sewell previously worked as an associate at Brennan & Wasden LLP. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia and earned his Juris Doctor degree from Georgia State University School of Law. There he was a recipient of the Litigation Honors Designation and acted as the Community Service Chairman for the Executive Committee of the Student Bar Association.

Today he is a member of the Savannah Bar Association, State Bar of Georgia, Young Lawyers Division of the Savannah Bar Association, American Bar Association, Georgia Court of Appeals, Supreme Court of Georgia and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Georgia.

In addition, Sewell sits on the Board of Directors for the Benedictine Military School Alumni Association, volunteers with The St. Baldrick’s Foundation for childhood cancer research and coaches basketball at Saint James Catholic School. He has also participated as a Scoring Evaluator for the Georgia Mock Trial Competition and is a member of the Fenian Irish Society of Savannah.

Headquartered in the Armstrong House at 447 Bull Street, Bouhan, Williams & Levy, LLP is among Savannah’s oldest law firms. They can be reached at http://www.bouhan.com or 912-236-2491.