As autumn colors begin to paint the South Georgia landscape, the Hospice Satilla Board of Trustees invites you to share in an evening of community, compassion, and celebration at the highly anticipated Silver Bowl Gala, set for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, November 13, at The Banter, located at 255 Main Street in downtown Blackshear.
This annual event is open to the public and requires no ticket or formal invitation. Guests are encouraged to bring a “Heart for Hospice” and make a contribution of any amount into the traditional silver bowl placed at the entry. All proceeds go directly toward supporting Hospice Satilla’s mission of providing compassionate end-of-life care in our community.
This year’s venue, The Banter, is steeped in local history. Originally part of J.F. Ratliff & Son Feed & Seed, a prominent South Georgia seed business established in 1911, the building has housed a variety of beloved local businesses over the years, including Dean’s 5 & 10, Fancee Fingers Salon and My Sewing Basket.
In 2021, Misti Martin, a local realtor with EXP Realty, transformed the historic Ratliff building— comprised of three commercial units and a spacious rear warehouse—into a vibrant gathering place. With a commitment to preservation, she purchased the building in 2023 and began an extensive restoration.
Today, that former warehouse space is The Banter, where preservation meets modern revival. The heart pine floors and exposed brick walls were carefully restored, celebrating the building’s original character. Beautiful brick archways, constructed from masonry removed to install new windows, now serve as striking architectural details— repurposed with care and intention.
“We look forward to welcoming you for a delightful evening in a space where history, community and purpose come together,” For those new to the area, the Silver Bowl Gala is considered not only a time to gather with family and friends but also an opportunity to raise essential funds to support the expenses of Hospice Satilla.
“As a non-profit organization, we rely on the generosity of individual donors and the business community to fund our efforts in providing the care and services that members of our community desperately need,” says board member Candice Moody Rice. “Your help ensures that those in their greatest time of need have access to exemplary physical, emotional, and spiritual care, regardless of their ability to pay. Hospice Satilla offers care to the eight surrounding counties of Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Pierce, and Ware.”
Whether it is dancing the night away to the tunes of The Naturals or savoring treats from Heavenly Delights by Gina, the Board of Hospice Satilla invites everyone to share an evening celebrating the past and supporting the future of Hospice Satilla.
For those unable to attend, contributions may be mailed to Hospice Satilla, 808 Evergreen Way, Waycross, GA 3150. Attire is business casual, and all are welcome.
For more information, please call 912-285-2340.
