Chili Town 2021!!
Think you’ve got the best Chili in the Boro? Here’s your chance to prove it! Join us in Chili Town on December 3rd at the Downtown Statesboro Holiday Celebration. It’s FREE to enter and registration is easy. Forms can be emailed to [email protected], dropped off at the Visit Statesboro office at 222 S. Main Street, OR mailed to PO Box 1516, Statesboro GA, 30459.
Click the link below to access registration form:
CHILI TOWN 2021 REGISTRATION FORM
2021 Cook-Off Categories:
- Overall Best Chili
- Best Restaurant Chili
- People’s Choice
- Best Decorated Booth
FOR CHILI CONTESTANTS:
This competition is open to organizations, businesses, amateur chefs, or chili loving individuals. Chili Town will be located across from City Hall where participants will be assigned a 10×10 space with access to power. You must bring and set up your own tables, tents (if you so desire) and decorations. Set up must be completed by 4:30 pm and judge’s chili samples will be collected at 5pm. Sample cups and spoons will be provided.
CHILI TOWN WILL OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AT 5:30 P.M. Please have at least 4 to 5 gallons of chili on-hand for the public to sample for voting in the People’s Choice category. Participants are expected to bring their own condiments such as crackers, sour cream or cheese. Participants must also have a visible SIGN with the team name and bring their own extension cords to power all electrical units.
Each participating table must provide team members to serve chili during the Chili Town hours. Volunteers are not available to man any booths or tents for this event!
FOR CHILI TASTERS:
Admission to Chili Town is FREE and open to the public. Tickets will be available for purchase to vote in the People’s Choice category for $1 with all proceeds going to the Boys & Girls Club of Bulloch County.
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Shopping By Lantern Light 2021
Kick-off the holiday season at the Statesboro Main Street Farmers Market’s Annual Shopping by Lantern Light. Browse over 50 booths for Thanksgiving goodies like fresh produce, cakes, pies, meats and casseroles plus you can begin your holiday gift buying early! There will be a huge selection of fine art, crafts, jewelry, soaps, candles, and more! Click below for a printable application if you are interested in becoming a vendor!
Applications can be dropped off at our Visit Statesboro office at 222 S. Main Street. Please call 912-259-9555 with any questions.
2021 Shopping by Lantern Light Vendor Application
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A Bite of the Boro: Jonny Boy Cookies
Jonny Womack, also known as Jonny Boy, didn’t start out as a baker. Long before the days of Jonny Boy Cookies, Jonny worked in the healthcare field, first as an LPN and later as a drug representative. While making his rounds to different doctor’s offices, Jonny would take his homemade cookies along to thank the staff. Big Boys Cookies was initially conceived to make Jonny’s cookies more professional.
By the time the holiday season came around, offices started calling Jonny, looking to get more of his cookies. Jonny just kept saying yes- leading to over 90 dozen cookies being ordered by different doctor’s offices! Armed with only a single Kitchen-Aid Mixer and a single conventional oven, the cookies began to be baked. Jonny would bake 30 hours at a time. Hannah, Jonny’s wife and “quality control”, would wrap and package them. Thankfully, two more mixers were borrowed shortly after.
After the holiday rush, over the course of a long car ride, Jonny and Hannah decided to take the plunge. In March 2016, the original Big Boy Cookies food truck hit the road. Turning your home business into something more does have its challenges. As part of their marketing, Jonny started a Facebook business account, which requires an address. Since they were a food truck, Jonny listed his home. One morning, while he and Hannah were sitting on their porch drinking coffee, a car pulled up. A couple had driven from Charleston to try their famous cookies! Of course, Jonny and Hannah welcomed them in, and baked them some cookies for their effort. As the business continued to grow, the next step was a brick and mortar, and in September of 2017 that’s exactly what opened along The Blue Mile in Statesboro, Georgia.
Jonny Boy now has over 50 cookie recipes, from Jalapeño Corn to Caramel Apple. Taking care of people has always been integral to Jonny and his cookies reflect that, with lactation cookies and gluten free and vegan options. Flavor is also at the core of Jonny Boy Cookies. Their original tagline was “Finally, a Cookie for Adults!”, which led to some confusion about the contents of the cookies…however, Jonny was quick to clarify.
“Our cookies have nuanced flavors that adults will pick up on and enjoy, but the kids will love too!” His personal favorite tends to change, but one that always stays near the top is the Molasses Cookie. These are finished with a roll in a coarse sugar, adding a pleasant texture to the outside. Jonny boy definitely has opinions about flavor.
“I won’t make an oatmeal raisin cookie- they’re gross. I do have an Oatmeal Rum Craisin though!” When asked about his best seller, Jonny said chocolate chip, noting that it’s most peoples “security blanket” cookie. Christopher Kimball, co-founder of America’s Test Kitchen, tried to create the perfect chocolate chip cookie by baking hundreds of cookies, an expedition that actually helped inspire Jonny, by showing him the variety and experimentation that went into baking cookies. Much like Mr. Kimball, Jonny has little formal culinary training.
“If we knew what we were doing, we wouldn’t have what we have. I don’t have to follow strict guidelines- that’s how you get Chicken and Waffles!” The Chicken and Waffles cookie is a specialty cookie that carries a sweet, maple flavor with a spicy finish. Bold is a word that is used to describe Jonny’s flavors often, but is also important to him in the decision making process of each cookie- such as picking the correct bourbon for the Maple Bacon Bourbon cookies.
Next time you stop in, be sure to check out the Georgia Grown items they carry, including Cork’s Kettle Corn, Dee’s Nuts, Byne’s Blueberries, and Southern Pawz products. One product Jonny Boy offers that you may not be familiar with is their edible cookie dough, which is made with pasteurized eggs and cooked flour. Freezing cookie dough actually adds a depth of flavor and while it can be eaten as is, Jonny also says that baking the cookie dough is a delicious, worthwhile experience.
The food truck, now called the Cookie Wagon, is still on the go, available for events, and can be tracked through their social media. Johnny Boy Cookies is now able to ship nationwide and plans to expand their online offerings. Their cookies can also be delivered locally through Chow Now. Don’t see your favorite Jonny Boy cookie in the case when you come in? Order a half dozen and they will be happy to bake them up fresh for you!
The Grand Rebrand Celebration will be Friday, October 1st. When asked about the name change, Jonny was quick to say that he didn’t feel like they lost big boy- but gained Jonny Boy! “Jonny Boy” represents the new spin on southern tradition that Jonny prioritizes in his baking.
The Grand Rebrand Celebration will kick off at 9am as a full day of fun! Not only will fall favorites be available, including Pumpkin Snickerdoodle, Cotton Candy, and Oatmeal Butterscotch, but a brand new cookie will be announced! Pie Society and Sweet Spice, two food trucks, will be set up outside at 10:30am. BOGO discounts and giveaways, including the chance to win a half dozen cookies per month for a year, will be happening until 6pm. Swing by on Friday from 9am-6pm to get in on the action at 441 South Main Street, Statesboro. Give them a call at (912) 259-9866 or head to https://jonnyboycookies.com/ to check out their website.
All images courtesy of Jonny Boy Cookies social media accounts.
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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A Bite of the Boro: Northside Seafood
Located near the intersection of Savannah Avenue and Northside Drive, this locally owned restaurant needs to be on your radar! Northside Seafood has been around since 2018, but this restaurant has recently grown in popularity. If you’re looking for fresh fish, crab, or low country boil, Northside is the place!
Walking in through the front doors, the restaurant is fittingly filled with coastal décor, including a ship’s wheel mounted onto the front of the counter. Clean and organized, you’ll notice how smoothly this ship sails on your first visit! Ordering ahead is recommended, as the menu is large and ensures that all of your food is hot and ready to go at the same time.
Shrimp, whole fish, and crab sit on ice. If you prefer, you can purchase your seafood from the case, raw and ready for you to prepare at home! Alternatively, you can pay an additional $1 per large item (or $1 per lb) for the staff at Northside Seafood to cook up your choice. They keep an assortment of fish on hand, including fresh flounder, tilapia, whiting, catfish, croaker, sea bass, and red snapper.
If you opt for one of their baskets, Northside offers a wide variety of sides, including French fries, fried pickles, fried okra, plantains, sweet potato fries, and hush puppies.
Seafood isn’t the only thing that Northside is serving up! They also serve up fried chicken wings, which can be tossed in one of their eight sauces. Northside has classics like lemon pepper and buffalo, but also fun flavors like sesame and general tso. Chicken tenders and boneless wings are also available, but one of the standouts isn’t found on many menus. Their chicken livers are crispy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection!
You can call ahead at (912) 225-9888 or order through their website online. Give them a visit at 708 Northside Drive today!
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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A Bite of the Boro: Dolan’s Bar B Que
“We smoke while you sleep” is a tagline that tells you a lot about the philosophy behind Dolan’s Bar B Que. Pit masters are used to early mornings and labors of love, but Mary Beth Brown has even more responsibilities as the operator of Dolan’s. Mary Beth co-owns the restaurant with her sister Lazar Brown Oglesby (Honey Specialties). We recently spoke with Mary Beth while touring the new location.
Mary Beth explained how diners will order at a front counter. Her goal is fast service for everybody. “I want you to be able to come in and grab something quick, especially during lunch. An hour for lunch goes by very fast, especially if you’re trying to go in somewhere and sit down. There aren’t a lot of places in Statesboro that operate like that.”
There is a drive-thru window that will be used exclusively as a pick up window for Dolan’s orders that have been called ahead, another testament to the speed and service Mary Beth wants to offer. However, if you aren’t in a hurry, Dolan’s will also be a great place to hang out. Their porch will be pet friendly and they plan to have live music on a regular basis. Relax and watch your favorite team on one of the TVs while enjoying a beverage, since Dolan’s also has your libation needs covered.
You’ll be asked while ordering if you want bar service. If yes, you’ll be given a separate table marker that will alert a bar server. Dolan’s will have a full bar, featuring nearly 10 signature cocktails that are all named after Statesboro Bars of the past. This includes drinks like The Wooden Nickel, The Flame, Animal House, and Legends. There will also be a focus on featuring locally sourced spirits, such as a frozen Arnold Palmer based drink that will include Savannah Sweet Tea Bourbon.
One of the features of Dolan’s that people have noticed from the outside is what has popped up behind it- a large, brick pit and chimney. Mary Beth explained that Dolan’s will actually have two pits for barbecuing: a traditional brick pit and a barrel pit. The brick pit is modeled after a pit on the family farm used by Dolan, Mary Beth and Lazar’s granddad, who is the namesake of the restaurant.
“There are certain things I like better on the brick pit and certain things I like better on the barrel. And in Texas, the holy grail of BBQ, a lot of them do it the same way. They cook their pork butts and chickens on the brick, which is what my intention is. Brisket and ribs on the barrel.”
Distinct from the dark greens and rustic aesthetic, a portion of the dining room stands out, with white tile and blue cabinetry. This is the new home of Honey Specialties where you can purchase cheesecakes, chicken salads, and casseroles. This corner will also sell Dolan’s sauces and merchandise like t-shirts and hats.
When asked why Dolan’s was being opened in Statesboro, Mary Beth smiled, and began by very graciously acknowledging how wonderfully Millen has supported both Dolan’s and Honey locations.
“On any given Saturday in Dolan’s in Millen, the majority of the people that are dining with us are not from Millen. At least half, if not more, are from Bulloch County- Statesboro could support this vision, while I could stay local.”
The potential impact a restaurant like Dolan’s could have on our community can’t be understated and Mary Beth’s excitement is infectious. She has many ideas she wants to implement down the road, such as Sunday brunch and bingo night.
“It’s almost done. I had one of these moments; it was when the electricity finally got turned on. I came by, it was close to dark, and all the lights were on, inside and out. I almost started crying. We’re so close.”
If you want to join the Dolan’s crew, they are currently accepting applications for most positions on their website (https://dolansbbq.com/). Look for Dolan’s Bar B Que to open in late September or early October on the Blue Mile.
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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A Bite of the Boro: D’s Friendly Diner
Ask locals about D’s Friendly Diner and they’ll tell you that it’s one of Statesboro’s best kept secrets. Open since 2012, it is the ideal small town restaurant experience. From the welcoming atmosphere and kind servers to the tasty diner cuisine, there’s little not to love. D’s has a variety of sandwiches, salads, burgers, and breakfast platters, as well as plenty of opportunities for customization.
Open from 7am-1:30pm seven days a week, you can enjoy their breakfast or lunch offerings anytime. From the red checkered tablecloths to the pictures of regulars hanging on the walls, D’s Friendly Diner is a local joint full of good food and good times.
Visit Statesboro Staff Recommendations:
Becky Davis is a fan of the Eggsplosion Burger, which takes the classic combo of burger and egg, and makes it D’s style, with the egg cooked to your preference.
Justin Samples recommends the Philly Omelette that’s filled with philly steak, melty swiss cheese, onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Add a little bit of hot sauce and this savory dish is sure to start your day off on the right foot!
One local hack Visit Statesboro recommends for D’s Friendly Diner? Skip the toast. Order a biscuit instead, which is cut in half and warmed on the griddle. With a little bit of jam, it’s the breakfast equivalent of dessert.
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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Free Comic Book Day- August, 14th
Free Comic Book Day is an annual event hosted at hundreds of comic book shops across the country to celebrate the art form and encourage new fans. Here in Statesboro, Galactic Comics & Games is the place to get in on the action on Saturday, August 14th.
The doors will open at 9am and every individual will be able to select four comics from a wide selection, featuring all of the major publishers carried at the shop. Keith Brown, owner of Galactic Comics & Games, recommends people come early, as some of the comics are in high demand.
There will also be opportunities for additional free comic books! You can receive two comic books if you are cosplaying or wearing a costume. This will also enter you into a special raffle for bonus prizes and gift certificates.
Several local artists will also be set up at the shop, doing live sketches and selling their art. This is a great opportunity to talk with artists and learn more about the art form itself. This is Galactic’s 16th year celebrating the event- make sure you add Free Comic Book Day to your Saturday plans when you Visit Statesboro!
You can enjoy the festivities yourself at Galactic Comics & Games, at 21 East Vine Street. For more information, give them a call at 912-489-3123.
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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A Bite of the Boro: Uncle Shug’s Bar-B-Q Place
Even on your first visit, there is something familiar about Uncle Shug’s Bar-B-Q Place. Perhaps it’s the warm southern welcome you receive when you open the front door. It might be the aroma of wonderful smoky meat that immediately conjures images of juicy pulled pork and crispy skin. Or maybe it’s Stacy Underwood himself, the man behind the Uncle Shug’s restaurants in Statesboro and Brooklet, guaranteeing you’re getting some of the best southern cooking around.
Uncle Shug’s BBQ Place, previously Uncle Shug’s on Main, opened on July 28th to eager Statesboro diners. Their menu has a range of BBQ staples, including brisket, ribs, chicken, and pulled pork. Each entrée has the choice of being “small” or “large”, which determines whether you have one or two sides. Orders are placed at the front and you are given a placard for your table.
Food is quickly delivered to you, hot and ready to enjoy. The ribs are flavorful enough to be eaten on their own, but don’t miss out on trying Uncle Shug’s BBQ sauces, which will be waiting at your table. The brisket, a cut that can be hard to cook, was tender and rich. Surprisingly, one of the things people are raving about most are the French fries. Cut fresh daily, these crispy, shoestring fries are tossed in Shug’s Seasoning as soon as they come out of the fryer. The Seasoning is a top-secret family recipe that is made in private by Mr. Underwood himself- no employees allowed!
Freshly made hamburger patties, Georgia shrimp, and BBQ nachos are just a few of the other menu items that Uncle Shug’s Bar-B-Q Place has to offer. Keep an eye on this restaurant, as new menu items will likely be added soon!
Banquet space is available and, as always, Uncle Shug’s is offering catering. Come in and dine Tuesday through Saturday from 11am-9pm. For more information, contact them at 912-842-7484.
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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A Bite of the Boro: Bull & Barrel Steakhouse
Walking into Bull and Barrel Steakhouse in downtown Statesboro is an experience for the senses. As soon as you step on to the intricate black and white tiles of the entrance, the smell of sizzling steaks and fresh herbs greet you. The bar, immediately to your left behind a chic wooden block wall, creates the background music of martini shaking and ice clinking. The upscale atmosphere is excellent and, while only operating since May of 2020, has already helped to make Bull and Barrel Steakhouse one of the most popular fine dining restaurants in Statesboro.
While perusing their menu, why not begin your experience with one of their cocktails? Whether you’re craving something classic (Paloma), fruity (Key Lime Martini), or a pick me up like the Flatliner (which features local Cool Beanz Cold Brew, Bailey’s, and Frangelico), Bull and Barrel’s talented bartenders are sure to have a solution.
You can always tell who has tried the Pork Belly appetizer at Bull and Barrel…they mention it anytime Statesboro food comes up! The crispy, smoky edges are a perfect contrast to the tender, juicy inside. The cold, flavorful coleslaw is an unexpected delight too.
Another popular appetizer is the Deviled Egg Flight. Three varieties of deviled egg are served with this flight, featuring okra, bacon, and pickle. Everyone in the South has an opinion on what constitutes the perfect deviled egg- but if your definition includes a creamy, smooth filling, you need to try these! Bull and Barrel provides a modern take on a southern staple with flavors (and a final sprinkle of paprika) that makes this dish feel like home.
Entrees at Bull and Barrel Steakhouse change with the seasons to ensure you’re getting the best ingredients. What you can always count on seeing on the menu is a selection of hand cut steaks and prime rib that will delight the meat lovers in your life!
Bull and Barrel Steakhouse is a wonderful addition to the culinary scene in Statesboro. If you want to dine here, they are open from 5:30-9:45pm Wednesday through Saturday. Reservations are required and can be made at 912-259-9990.
Sydney Davis
Hospitality Specialist
[email protected]
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Georgia Association of Museums State Conference
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Marietta, GA. – The Georgia Association of Museums (GAM) is excited to announce its annual conference, April 26-28, 2021. As the COVID-19 vaccine rollout continues statewide, GAM is pleased to offer a hybrid experience to conference-goers, who may opt to attend in-person sessions in Statesboro, GA, or virtually using the Zoom teleconferencing platform.
“We are excited to bring our first ever hybrid conference to Statesboro,” said Matt Davis, GAM President. “Statesboro has helped create a great program with wonderful evening events and sessions, museums to visit, and protocols in place to keep all members safe. I look forward to seeing everyone, either virtually or in person, in April.”
Building on the success of GAM’s 2019 and 2020 conferences, which set attendance records and drew museum professionals from three states, the 2021 conference slate will feature 15 sessions that address all aspects of museum operations, appealing to those from volunteer-led organizations as well as the state’s flagship institutions. Keynote speaker Zinnia Willits, Executive Director of the Southeastern Museums Conference, will energize GAM’s members with her reflections on the field after a tumultuous yet inspiring year. Recipients of GAM Awards, which recognize excellence among Georgia’s museum employees, volunteers, and supporters, will also be honored.
In-person sessions and workshops will take place in the Russell Union and Williams Center at Georgia Southern University (GSU). These wonderful facilities will provide a central location for attendees and vendors to gather, along with the technology to connect with virtual conference attendees. In addition to GSU’s existing campus safety measures and limited seating capacities, all in-person attendees will be required to wear masks correctly and maintain six feet of social distance from others.
A great slate of programming at Statesboro museums also awaits in-person attendees. Evening events will take place at three local institutions supported by GSU – the Botanic Garden, the Center for Wildlife Education and Lamar Q. Ball, Jr. Raptor Center, and the Georgia Southern Museum – as well as the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau, home of the Museum on Main. Attendees will visit other area museums on their own throughout the week before relaxing at host hotel Home2Suites near GSU’s campus.
“Statesboro and Bulloch County are steeped in history and appreciate tradition, yet the communities also have long encouraged education and innovation,” said Brent Tharp, Georgia Southern Museum Director and GAM conference host committee chair. “That makes it the perfect place for the museum community of Georgia to gather, learn, share, and revive.”
To register for the conference or for more information, visit gamg.org or contact GAM Administrative Director Michele Rodgers at [email protected]
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