This week in the Coastal Empire was packed with events, nonprofit momentum, individual recognitions and new leadership taking hold across sectors. From chefs preparing for a farm-to-table celebration to nonprofits gearing up for major spring fundraisers, our communities continue to build strong, meaningful impact.
Here are this week’s highlights:
🍽️ Culinary Celebration: Chefs + Farmers Event Draws Near
Local restaurants and talented chefs were officially announced for the Second Annual Chefs + Farmers Event scheduled for Thursday, March 5. This showcase emphasizes Savannah’s vibrant culinary scene and the importance of farm-to-table partnerships supporting local producers and chefs.
🎨 Arts & Culture: Workshops, Exhibits and Family Fun
A rich lineup of cultural experiences was announced this week:
- Historic Savannah Foundation released its spring Artisan Spotlight Series featuring hands-on workshops including fermentation, needle felting and bead embroidery, perfect for makers and craft enthusiasts.
- The Telfair Museums is preparing to open Off the Coast of Paradise: Artists and Ossabaw Island, 1961–Now on March 13, highlighting regional artistic exploration.
- For family fun, the Coastal Heritage Society hosted its annual Seuss Fest at the Savannah Children’s Museum, bringing imagination and reading to life for kids and families.
❤️ Nonprofit Buzz: Fundraisers, Art Shows & Community Causes
A slew of nonprofit initiatives are building momentum:
- Tickets went on sale for the Fourth Annual Find Your Voice Lip Sync Competition benefiting Mary’s Place Sexual Assault Center of the Coastal Empire, raising awareness and funds for survivor support services.
- EmployAbility announced an inclusive fine art show celebrating creativity and community, a platform for local artists of all abilities.
- Board leadership was announced by the Savannah Jaycees, marking new community engagement and volunteer leadership.
- Savannah Speech and Hearing Center announced a grant from International Paper, a win for speech and hearing services.
- Senior Citizens Inc. revealed its 2026 Legends, Leaders and Life Well Lived honorees, celebrating those with longtime community contributions.
- Coastal Care Partners expanded with a new Low Country local unit of the Aging Life Care Association, led by Amy Pierce.
🏆 People & Business Buzz: Recognitions and New Appointments
Our region continues to attract talent and earn accolades:
- Attorney Zachary H. Thomas earned recognition as a 2026 Super Lawyer — joining other respected local professionals in statewide nods.
- Seventeen local attorneys from HunterMaclean were recognized as 2026 Super Lawyers or Rising Stars, highlighting legal excellence in the region.
- Coastal States Bank welcomed Charlie Labassi as Treasury Services Relationship Banker, strengthening support for local businesses.
- Savannah Age Management Medicine announced the hire of Nurse Practitioner Sarah Malone, expanding healthcare access for proactive aging care.
- In civic leadership, Gabrielle Nelson was appointed to multiple National League of Cities leadership committees, enhancing the region’s representation in national municipal committees.
🌟 What This Week Showed
Across culinary pursuits, cultural enrichment, nonprofit activity, professional achievements, and civic leadership, this week reinforced that the Coastal Empire is a place where community engagement and local excellence thrive simultaneously.
Keep buzzing: more great stories are developing every week.
I am Chris Benton Co-Founder of The Coastal Buzz, Co-Host of The Chris & Sandy Show & Publisher of The Customized Ride.