There’s always something happening in the Hostess City. Stay in the know about upcoming events and the latest information with our periodic News & Notes.
Upcoming Events
True Crime Convention-Case Study: John Wayne Gacy presented by Graveface offers unprecedented insight into John Wayne Gacy
Who: Graveface Museum
When: Saturday, May 11
Where: Hutchinson Island Convention Center
What: True crime enthusiasts and aficionados are eagerly anticipating True Crime Convention-Case Study: John Wayne Gacy. This groundbreaking event offers attendees a comprehensive deep dive into one of America's most infamous serial killers, John Wayne Gacy, with panelists who have firsthand experience in the case, a collection of Gacy's art and memorabilia, and an advanced screening of the pilot episode of the highly anticipated documentary series "Question of Doubt."
This True Crime Convention promises to be an unparalleled experience for attendees, offering insights and perspectives that have never been shared before. Panelists with intimate knowledge of the John Wayne Gacy case will provide unique insights and personal anecdotes, shedding light on the complexities of this chilling case and the impact it has had on law enforcement and society as a whole.
In addition to the panel discussions, True Crime Convention-Case Study: John Wayne Gacy will feature a collection of John Wayne Gacy's art and memorabilia, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the mind of a serial killer. From his haunting paintings to personal artifacts, this exhibit will provide a fascinating yet unsettling look at the life and crimes of Gacy.
One of the highlights of this True Crime Convention is the advanced screening of the pilot episode of "Question of Doubt," a groundbreaking documentary series that promises to challenge existing narratives and offer new perspectives on the John Wayne Gacy case.
With never-before-seen footage and interviews with key figures, "Question of Doubt" is poised to revolutionize our understanding of this complex and enigmatic figure. Ryan Graveface, researcher and historian says, "The scope of this case is much larger than anyone realizes. Despite decades of media coverage, there are revelations I've been able to make that have evaded even contemporary documentarians, podcasters, and journalists. I'm grateful for a chance to finally share this information with the public with the goal of bringing justice to victims of this case and their families."
"I'm excited to finally be able to share what I've been working on for over a decade. Despite this case being over 40 years old and most of the have been victims identified there are still so many unanswered questions and victims' families that don't have closure so why should we stop searching for answers? The scope of the case is much bigger than what we've been told."
Tickets for True Crime Convention-Case Study: John Wayne Gacy are available now, with limited availability. Don't miss your chance to be part of this groundbreaking event and unravel the mysteries of the John Wayne Gacy case. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit gravefacemuseum.com
Local Updates
Brewers Association Recognition Award John Pinkerton, Moon River Brewing Co.
The Brewers Association (BA)—the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American craft brewers—is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Industry Awards. Since 1987, the association has recognized individuals who have positively contributed to the craft beer community. The 2024 award recipients will be honored for their dedication and service during a special ceremony on April 23, 2024, at the Craft Brewers ConferenceOpens in new window® (CBC) in Las Vegas.
The Brewers Association Recognition Award is presented each year to an individual or company whose inspiration, enthusiasm, and support have contributed to the craft brewing movement.
Recognition Award winner John Pinkerton is the owner and brewmaster emeritus of Moon River Brewing Company in Savannah, Georgia. He was the Brewers Association Board of Directors’ first member representing the Southeastern states. During his tenure from 2009 through 2014, John chaired the Brewpubs Committee, served on the Government Affairs Committee, and held a position on the Technical Committee. John was the founder and first president of the Georgia Craft Brewers GuildOpens in new window, where he has led transformational change for the craft brewing community in Georgia, including growing guild membership by over 400%.
John’s relentless advocacy and positive spirit have played a pivotal role in enacting legislation in the Peach State, notably the “Brewpub Bill” (HB472) in 2012. He was also integral in setting the foundation for the critical “Beer Jobs Bill” (SB63) in 2015 and SB85 in 2017, which allowed breweries in Georgia to sell their products for on-premise consumption, marking the completion of a 50-state initiative to recognize this right for every brewer.
Separately from his legislative achievements, John has fostered community in many ways. For the homebrewing community, he has provided a meeting place for the local group, Savannah Brewers League, for more than 22 years. He has sponsored, contributed to, and held countless competitions and small homebrewing festivals in the Savannah area. For his community of staff, Pinkerton went the extra mile during the COVID-19 pandemic when he ensured all furloughed staff members had insurance coverage by covering the total cost of each premium at significant cost to Moon River.
Enmarket celebrates grand opening of 131st Store with community event and ribbon cutting ceremony
Enmarket celebrated the grand opening of its latest store, marking a significant milestone as the 131st Enmarket convenience store to serve the Southeast community. Located at the intersection of White Bluff Road and Eisenhower Drive, this newly constructed store brings an array of offerings to the area.
Many members of the community and vendor partners came to join the celebration. Guests enjoyed a diverse array of product samplings from The Eatery @Enmarket, including pizza, chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese and Mooz Yogurt. Multiple esteemed vendors like Coke, Pepsi, Gatorade, Frito-Lay, Red Bull, Prime Hydration, and Alani Nu joined the festivities and shared free products. Customers had the opportunity to spin the Enjoy Rewards wheel for chances to win fuel discounts, food discounts, free car washes and extra entries for door prizes.
The Enmarket ribbon cutting took place at 11 a.m. and grand opening was from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on April 18 at 10 Eisenhower Dr. in Savannah, Ga.
“We were thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of our newest store, enriching our ability to serve our valued customers, especially those in proximity to the Hunter Army Airfield,” remarked Matt Clements, President of Enmarket, a division of the Savannah-based Colonial Group. “As we commemorate our 60th year Anniversary, this milestone holds special significance for us, reflecting our longstanding commitment to providing exceptional service and convenience to the communities we serve.”
Featuring food service from the renowned Eatery and Mooz frozen yogurt, the new store promises a delightful experience for visitors. Additionally, customers can avail themselves of the convenience of an in-bay Marketwash car wash.
Employing 25 individuals on-site, the store stands on the grounds of a former Fiat dealership, now transformed into a state-of-the-art retail space. Boasting a 12-pump canopy offering multiple fuel grades including unleaded, mid-grade, premium, non-ethanol, and diesel, Enmarket ensures a comprehensive service experience for patrons. Moreover, the addition of Marketwash, Enmarket’s in-bay carwash brand, provides customers with an array of car wash package options, accessible through the Marketwash mobile app.
Enmarket remains committed to environmental stewardship, exemplified by the preservation of a 300-year-old live oak tree on the property. Collaborating with Bartlett Tree Services, Enmarket implemented various conservation techniques to safeguard this natural treasure. The majestic Savannah Live Oak now serves as a focal point, offering outdoor seating beneath its sprawling canopy.
Spanning 6,098 square feet, the convenience store boasts the acclaimed Enmarket Eatery. Recognized as the Convenience Foodservice Innovator to Watch by Convenience Store News in 2020, the Eatery offers a Southern-inspired menu featuring an array of fresh, healthy, and on-the-go options. From breakfast burritos and platters to lunch specials and made-fresh fried chicken, the Eatery caters to diverse tastes. Moreover, customers can indulge in Mooz frozen yogurt, complemented by an endless beverage bar offering high-quality Bean-2-Cup coffee, Savannah Sweet Tea®, and a myriad of fountain and frozen beverage choices.
Steven Freund awarded prestigious James H. Brewer Excellence in Club Management Award
Steven Freund, the Executive Director at The Landings Golf & Athletic Club, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the prestigious James H. Brewer Excellence in Club Management Award.
The Excellence in Club Management Awards was founded and established by McMahon Group and is co-sponsored by the National Club Association. It is an annual award that recognizes private club general managers and chief operating officers who have exhibited outstanding skills in managing their club. The James H. Brewer Award is awarded to club managers of a Country/Golf Club with 600 or more Full Privilege Members.
“Receiving the James H. Brewer award is an affirmation of the good work of our front-line staff, leadership team, volunteer leaders, our Board, and the support of our members. Together, our Club has evolved and grown, and any recognition I might receive is because of all those who have poured their hearts into making The Landings Golf & Athletic Club indispensable in the lives of our membership,” said Freund. “I am grateful to lead and serve our great club and am honored to be considered in the same company with the finest leaders in our industry. I humbly receive this award on behalf of everyone associated with our Club.”
Steven’s 48-year career spans hotels, resorts, restaurants, and now, private clubs. With 20 years at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, including opening The Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Lake Oconee in 2001, he established himself as a leader in the hospitality world. His tenure includes managing several Five Diamond properties and Mobil (now Forbes) Five Star hotels, and he was instrumental in launching hotels across Asia and North America. His expertise led him to become a certified presenter for the Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center.
Since taking on the role of Executive Director at The Landings Golf & Athletic Club in Savannah, Georgia, in 2010, Steven has led a thriving club with over 3,400 membership households and a team of 550 staff. The Club boasts six championship golf courses, 31 tennis courts, 15 pickleball courts, ten dining venues, five pools, and a 52,000 square foot wellness center. It’s no surprise that The Landings Golf & Athletic Club is recognized by Boardroom Magazine as one of America’s Distinguished Clubs, achieving Emerald status and ranking among the top private clubs in the United States.
Bill McMahon Sr., the founder of McMahon Group, expressed his excitement about this year’s award winners, highlighting the importance of great managers in creating exceptional clubs. Joe Trauger, president & CEO of the National Club Association, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the dedication of these award recipients to the private club industry. The formal recognition will take place at the National Club Conference on April 29, honoring these outstanding individuals for their contributions and commitment.
