Effingham Magazine's Home & Garden issue 2023

and Garden HOME

1. Trish Brown, graduate of The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Trish is currently seated on the Chatham County Board of Elections. Styling artists such as P.Diddy, Christina Rae, and curating fashion shows with headliners such as Common, Keke Palmer, Waka Flocka Flame and Flau'jae, Trish Brown is no stranger to executing grand visions with stringent deadlines. Trish has a keen eye for style and detail and to date has written articles for Primrose Bridal Journal and is an expert CoAuthor on more than 20 Wiki-How articles.

2. Leidi Lester is a freelance photographer from Bogota Colombia with 8 years experience. She has traveled and worked all over the United States with studios such as Railyard Media. One of her proudest achievements is the work she did with models and highly experienced photographers in Las Vegas.

3. Erich Perez and his wife, Dr. Misty Seale are owners of iHeart Dental in Rincon. Erich’s other role is Founder and president of Kronos Media Productions and K&R Studios in Rincon. They specialize in videography and photography as well as sound and recording. Erich and his wife are avid Jeep enthusiasts and have 5 American Bulldogs. You can check them out at @gods.of.dogs on Instagram.

4. Cindy Reid has been a freelance writer for over 15 years. She has been published extensively in Effingham Magazine, Pooler Magazine, and other lifestyle magazines. A native of New York’s Hudson Valley, she embodies the saying “I wasn’t born in the South but I got here as soon as I could.” She can usually be found on a beach, on a boat or at a pier at sunset.

5. Emily Roscher is a lifestyle and real estate photographer, originally from Northern, VA. She found a love for photography as a hobby about 15 years ago, but started up her businesses in the last 4 years. When she isn’t behind the camera, she enjoys finding local coffee shops, and exploring new places with her husband and 4 kids.

6. Claire Sandow is a freelance graphic design and marketing professional who lives in Savannah with her husband, daughter and two cats. She is a graduate of Georgia College & State University, where she received a degree in Mass Communication. In her spare time, she enjoys pursuing her many hobbies, including knitting, crocheting, quilting and running.

7. Katrice Williams is a married mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration Degree. She later decided to pursue her writing interests. Katrice appreciates the Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings He has bestowed upon her. She loves spending time with her family.

8. Laura Zielinski is a freelance graphic designer specializing in print design. With more than 16 years experience, Laura enjoys shaping stories through meaningful design. When she’s not working, she loves spending time with her husband Keith and their three beautiful children, Alli, Matthew and Claire.

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Jan Southern, DPA CEO/Publisher

Penny Redmond Distribution

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Devin Hollingsworth Account Executive

2 4 April/May 2023 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

PUBLISHER

Jan Southern

Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

912-318-8645

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Christie Wilson, Director of Advertising

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Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

Home & Garden

Welcome to our annual Home & Garden Issue of Effingham Magazine. In this issue we share lives of adventure and the simple pleasures close to home.

Sometimes a life event can shake you to the core and be a catalyst to venture away from home. That’s why the Magnificent 7–Pamela and Glenn Jackson, Lori and Wayne Dasher, Johnnie and Teresa Jackson, and the memory of their friend Robert Dasher, who passed away from COVID–will set sail April 15 to complete the Great Loop, a recreational boating route that follows the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the Chesapeake Bay, the New York Canals, the Great Lakes, some inland rivers and the Gulf of Mexico. Think of it as the Appalachian Trail for boaters. We wish them well on their journey!

We also connected with globetrotter Billy Lane, who has a zest for adventure despite losing his hearing at 8 months of age. He enjoys skydiving (which he calls a relaxing sport!) and solo traveling. His latest travels have taken him to Scotland, where he loved taking in the sights and the changing weather. But for now, he’s back home in Rincon.

135 Goshen Rd. Ext., Suite 251 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406

EffinghamMagazine.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Write to us and tell us what you think. Effingham Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send all letters via email to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS

Effingham Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea or photo essay you would like to share, please submit ideas and material by emailing Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in Effingham County will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed to more than 250 locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at EffinghamMagazine.com

Views expressed in editorial or advertising do not imply endorsement by J. DelSUR Marketing Group.

Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

After spending time away, it can be comforting to return home. Springfield Mayor Barty Alderman–who can trace his family back to Effingham County since the 1730s–has been working with Jimmy and Dee Moncrief of Moncrief Renovations to restore an 19th century farmhouse on Rahn Station Road while retaining its historical integrity.

The Home & Garden Issue wouldn’t be complete without some gardening tips. Learn how to start a thriving container garden and get some pointers from some local nurseries for growing one of summer’s favorite harvests: tomatoes. With a strong foundation, you can look forward to a bumper crop even if you (like me) don’t have a self-proclaimed green thumb.

I hope you enjoy the stories in this issue of Effingham Magazine and that they give you the motivation to try something new, whether it’s a coat of paint or plans for a road trip.

CEO/Publisher

Effingham Magazine

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Jan Southern

Melissa McBride Stille of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC

Co-Pays • In Network • Out of Pocket • HMO

PPO • Medicaid • Medicare • CHIP

You may not know what any or all of these terms mean but there is someone who does know—licensed insurance agent and health care broker Melissa McBride Stille. After over 15 years in the health insurance industry, she is your best ally in obtaining health insurance that works best for you and your family.

Because she is locally focused, Melissa has a true understanding of our community. Being local means she can get to know you and understand your individual needs and situation. Being local means she is available for face to face interactions. You can meet in person, get answers via text, send her an email that gets answered quickly—whatever works for you. Try doing that at a big company with an 800 number! You never have to yell “Customer Service” into the phone because the person who picks it up is Melissa!

With the depth of knowledge obtained from years of experience she can help simplify the often confusing process of signing up for health insurance. Melissa has already done the groundwork and research for you. Being an independent health insurance broker means she works for you—the client.

As Your Agent:

• She takes the time to understand your needs

• Works with you directly, one on one

• Provides services free of charge to you

• Provides personalized recommendations

• Help you enroll in qualified health programs

• Reviews your health plan annually

Health insurance is both vitally important and often confusing. As your agent Melissa will explain the basic components of health insurance:

• Premiums

• Deductibles

• Policy Limits

• Exclusions

• Riders

All of these greatly impact both your care and the cost.

“I know many clients are understandably concerned with cost but the best insurance for you is not necessarily the cheapest. When we look at plans together we will consider all the costs related to the insurance, as well as what you are actually getting for your money.”

Things to consider when comparing plans, even within the same insurance company:

• Generally a lower premium means a higher deductible, and a higher premium means a lower deductible.

• Some plans have separate deductibles for different services. For example, a plan might have one deductible for medications and a separate deductible for other services such as physical therapy.

• Different plans cover prescriptions differently. It is very important to check what the plan offers for the prescription drugs you take and at what price. Many plans have different copayments for different drugs, and some drugs may be much more expensive than others.

• Most plans have provider networks you need to use to get the lowest-cost care. Make sure the plan’s network works for you. And if you already have a provider you want to keep seeing, make sure they are part of the network.

Melissa says it is important to prepare ahead of time for any life changes that affect your health insurance, such as retirement. “Don’t wait to start! You need to prepare three months in advance for life/insurance changes. Contact me and we can go over the timeline so you are ready at the right time.” The same goes for open marketplace deadlines—call Melissa and get on track in advance.

Melissa gives every client her cell number—it is even in all of her advertising so that every one, even future clients, can feel comfortable reaching out to her. She lives locally, with an office in Effingham but for the quickest response give her a call on her cell (912) 239-7119.

“I look forward to getting your call and helping you determine your best health care options.”

ABOUT THE COVER

With the warmer weather and the longer days of Spring, we turn our thoughts to gardening and home.

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Features

10 Home is Where Your Heart Is Barty and Joyce Alderman take on major home renovations

19 Invest in Your Health—You Are Worth It

21 Setting Up a Self Sustaining Container Garden

28 Billy Lane: Adventurer & Explorer

31 More Creating, Less Consuming

34 The Magnificent 7

Group seizes the moment with a once-in-alifetime boating adventure

39 Faith, Love, and Good Works

The Abbie DeLoach Foundation turns tragedy into a living legacy

45 You Say To-Ma-To, I Say To-Mah-To Effingham County garden experts offer advice for growing thriving tomato plants

48 Trend Report: 2023 Home Style Guide

Departments

5 Publisher’s Thoughts

52 Effingham Happenings

Don’t forget to check out EffinghamMagazine.com for more content, more photos and more information about events and happenings around Effingham County.

HOME IS WHERE YOUR Heart Is

Story by Cindy Reid | Photography by Erich Perez

Out on Rahn Station Road, between Rincon and Springfield, stands an old wooden farmhouse with a metal roof. To most passersby it’s an architectural reminder of days gone by. To the owners, Barton (Barty) and Joyce Alderman, the house is a living breathing story of family, of history, and currently of caretaking.

Barty is now, and has been, the Mayor of Springfield, GA throughout the years and is retired from GeorgiaPacific. Now he and Joyce are devoting their considerable energies into a complete renovation and restoration of the house and outbuildings.

No one is sure exactly how old the house is, but it is on a plat from 1824, that much is known. Originally from Salzburg, Austria, Barty’s family has been in the area since the 1730s.

“My great grandparents, my grandparents, my parents and myself have all lived in this house,” says Barty. “My great grandparents raised six children here, my grandparents raised four daughters here, and my parents—Naomi Shearouse Alderman and Alonzo Alderman—raised me and my sister here.”

Although he lived in other houses as an adult, Barty says he and Joyce always loved the farmhouse. “It has a lot of sentimental value to me and so much historical value. I have wanted to renovate the house my whole life.”

The Farmhouse

At one time the property the house sits on was a very large working farm.

“Grandpa was the largest farmer in the county at the turn of the century, when the property was much larger,” says Barty, who kept cattle on the land for 25 years. No longer farmed or grazed, the current property is 170 acres of woods and fields.

The house was originally situated elsewhere on the property and was rolled to its current location where a second story was added in the 1890s. At approximately 5,000 square feet “under roof” and 3,000 square feet “under air,” the house has generous proportions. There are several outbuildings including the barn, built in the 1890s, a syrup house (for sugarcane) and a smokehouse with the date “1804” carved into one of the log walls.

“The architectural style is definitely farmhouse—not plantation house,” Joyce says. “The challenge is to keep the farmhouse look but updated and elevated. Because we are doing things like adding two chandeliers but keeping the heart of pine floors, we call it ‘Elegant Farmhouse.’”

Moncrief Renovations

Moncrief Renovations is doing the restoration work— Jimmy Moncrief, the owner, along with his wife Dee. The Aldermans had tried renovating before, but after waiting for another contractor for two years, “we were ‘ghosted’” says Barty. They asked Jimmy to work on one aspect of the project and were so happy with the result they offered him the project.

“I jumped on it,” says Jimmy.

To the owners, Barton (Barty) and Joyce Alderman, the house is a living breathing story of family, of history.

Dee says, “We were honored and privileged to be offered the opportunity. We especially appreciate how Barty and Joyce are keeping the integrity of the house. Too many renovation projects wipe the originality of the house completely off. But the Aldermans are great to work with and, although they are adding convenience and modernity, it’s being done in a way that enhances the historic nature of the house without overwhelming it.”

The project is a true collaboration with daily conversations. Barty says, “Whatever it takes, Jimmy does. Jimmy has made it really easy.”

Barty has insisted on keeping as much of the original features as possible, such as exterior siding.

“The other contractor wanted to drywall over all the original wood walls,” he says,

“but Jimmy really understands what we want for the house.

Organic Changes

Changes to the house are made thoughtfully and pragmatically.

lightered stumps, the heartwood of pine trees, when the renovation began. Features such as the original heart pine floors will be refinished and kept, and although the two fireplaces had to be removed the original mantle pieces will be reinstalled, gas fireplaces will be installed and exterior brickwork is being done to look like the fireplaces are still going up sides of house .

“All the water, electric, and plumbing is being redone,” Jimmy says. “HVAC is being added, as is new insulation and all new windows.”

The house has now been lifted almost four feet in order to have foundation improvements because it was situated on

The upstairs attic had never been finished and was accessed only by a crawlspace, so they have installed a stairway and created the “Georgia Room,” as in UGA, and also added a bedroom and bath up there.

There are two bedrooms and 2.5 baths (Barty’s childhood bedroom has been turned into a library).

One lovely feature is the private porch that has been added off the master

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bedroom, a delightful sitting area that blends into the house .

They are using almost 90% of the original doors and the new windows will have the same grid pattern.

Three rooms will be wallpapered—the powder room, the master bathroom and the private porch wall—but they are using a neutral palette for other walls.

The covered porch, pantry and mudroom have all been extended.

Enhancing the character of the house is the most important issue—in fact, when a small piece of wood was installed upside down on the porch, Barty said ‘leave it that way, it’s now part of the house’s character!"

Barty says the house was unpainted until “my parents had it painted in the mid 50s, I remember it well because Mother used to say we were ‘too poor to paint and too proud to whitewash.’”

After renovations, the exterior will be classic white with black trim.

The big addition outside will be a pool.

“With 5,000 square feet and only two bedrooms, plus the pool, the house easily lends itself to entertaining,” says Barty, “which we look forward to doing soon. It also has lots of nooks and crannies where you can curl up with a cup of coffee and a good book.”

Haunted Stories

“They don’t bother me because I’m kin to them!” says Barty.

He recounts that many years ago, a woman had who knew the house told him of a few odd ghostly occurrences.

“She said there was an old man standing outside the door but by the time she got to the door he disappeared. Her description matched my Grandfather perfectly, down to his hat. She also said my bedroom was the ‘laying out room’ because they used it to lay out the person who died, and it had an outside door so people could pay their respects without entering the house.”

Although his grandfather and father both died in the house, Barty says, “I have

a comforting feeling whenever I walk in the door.”

Entwined roots

Joyce’s Aunt Ruth was married to relative of Barty’s family, “so Barty is kin by marriage,” she says. Like so many families in the area their family trees are entwined.

Joyce says, “ My grandfather loved Effingham County, but I never thought we would be renovating a home he could have visited in and probably dined in. It all comes full circle.”

She says Barty’s mother said, “don’t put money into this project, just tear it down. I looked at her and said ‘no we are not tearing the home down.’ But now I think she would be very pleased with what we have done.”

Dee say, “Anyone who loves an old house knows they are only a caretaker.”

It is safe to say this house is in the hands of very loving caretakers who are dedicated to honor the history and spirit of the home. ■

Patriot Pros Roofing: Integrity is Our Quality

When Matthew and Jamie Pratt founded Patriot Pros Roofing there were two values they knew they would never compromise—Quality and Integrity. They love helping people make the right decision on a very important asset, their homes. They do so with a relentless attention to detail and focus on providing the very best customer service.

“We approach every customer with a servant’s heart; eager to assist with honesty and integrity throughout the entire process,” Jamie Pratt says.

In addition to expert roofing services, Patriot Pros offers siding, windows, doors, gutters and fencing services as well. This allows the team to continue their attention to detail and quality to their customers’ other home renovation needs and gives homeowners one source to call whenever they have a project that needs attention.

Matt and Jamie Pratt are Rincon residents and love serving the Effingham County community as well as the surrounding areas from Tybee Island to Hilton Head.

If you are looking for expert work and excellent service for roofing, siding windows, doors and more, give them a call.

patriotprosroofing.com

912-665-3338

BADCOCK HOME FURNITURE & MORE Rincon

Welcome to the Badcock Home Furniture & More Rincon and Pooler store locations, where they love helping their customers make their house a home. “From your shopping experience to your delivery experience, we give our customers the best experience possible by delivering high quality products and putting our customers’ needs first,” says Jeremy Nease, owner of both stores.

Nease purchased the Rincon Badcock Home Furniture & More in 2011. He successfully grew the customer base, in fact it tripled in eight years, which led him to open his second store in 2019.

“We built the 15,600 square foot stand alone Pooler store from the ground up,” says Nease. “Both our stores are one stop shopping for everything you could need for your home, from recliners to mattresses. We have superior quality with extremely competitive prices ensuring you will get the best deal possible with us.”

For Every Room in the House

At Badcock it is easy to cost effectively transform your bedroom, living room, or dining room into a beautiful space you and your family will love. Their vast selection includes:

• Sofas (sectionals, sleepers), chairs, recliners

• Dining room sets, bar stools

• Bedroom suites, separate pieces, mattresses for all size beds

and Pooler Locations

• Kitchen and laundry appliances

• TVs, computers, home theaters

• Rugs, lamps, wall decor, decorative pillows

Spring Savings

Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your home! From new sofas to bright accent pieces, Badcock has it all. Revamp your living room or bring in new kitchen appliances. Create an inviting outdoor living space complete with a new grill (gas or charcoal)—and keep your yard beautiful with their selection of lawn equipment. And Nease says, “with the vast majority in stock, no waiting months here!”

Utilize your tax refund by investing in your home or take advantage of Badcock’s in-house financing. Badcock Home Furniture & More offers affordable payment plans just right for every customer. They make it stress free to apply for credit with in-house financing that works for you. Check it out and see how easy it is!

Winning Team

“Our team is here for you,” says Nease. “They all go above and beyond to give every customer the best possible outcome, from product selection to home delivery.”

The team is led by General Manager Bobby Heath, Theresa Davis, Rincon Store Manager and Dezi White, Pooler Store Manager.

“Our stores provide customers with the style of home furnishings they want, at prices they love, by friendly sales associates, in an atmosphere that allows them to picture the furniture in their own home,” says Nease. “Come in and check out our products in person.”

About W.S. Badcock Corporation

W.S. Badcock Corporation, a subsidiary of Franchise Group Inc. (NASDAQ: FRG), is a southeastern home furnishings company headquartered in Mulberry, Fla. Founded in 1904, its branded Badcock Home Furniture & More retail chain has grown to more than 380 corporate and associate dealer stores across eight states. Badcock carries a complete line of furniture, appliances, bedding, electronics, home office furnishing, accessories and seasonal items while offering payment plans just right for its customers.

For more information, visit www. badcock.com.

Cancer can be a terrible thing to experience. The best prognosis for all cancers starts with early detection so the quicker it’s found, the quicker you can start treatment. What does oral cancer look like? Here are some signs and symptoms to look for at home.

What is Oral and Throat Cancer?

It’s a collection of cancers that occur in and around the mouth and throat, globally affecting about 1 billion people annually. There are several risk factors that lead to oral cancers with the main three being tobacco use, alcohol use and HPV infections.

Are They Rare and Dangerous?

According to the National Cancer Institute, pharyngeal cancers—along with oral cancer—account for around 3% of all cancer diagnoses. Oral and throat cancers can be very dangerous and spread quickly if not diagnosed and treated early.

What are Signs and Symptoms of Oral and Throat Cancers?

A white (and/or red) patch, lesion, lump, sore, or ulcer in the mouth and throat that doesn’t rub off or go away with time. You may/may not have persistent sore throat or cough, voice changes, especially hoarseness or not speaking clearly, swollen lymph nodes (with or without pain), difficulty swallowing, ear pain, or weight loss.

What can be Mistaken for Oral and Throat Cancer?

The signs of throat cancer mimic symptoms of other conditions, such as traumatic lesions, allergies, colds, and sinus infections. Other diseases and illnesses can clinically resemble oral cancers too, adding to the need for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Is Oral and Throat Cancer Easy to Diagnose?

No. Cancer can not be diagnosed by just looking at it. Only a biopsy can determine if something is cancerous or not. Annual oral cancer screenings performed by a licensed and trained dentist/physician are recommended.

Can I Screen for Oral Cancer at Home?

Absolutely! You can look and perform your own oral and throat cancer screening and let us know if you see anything suspicious.

What is Suspicious? What am I Looking for in the Mouth? Look inside of your mouth for white or red lesions, patches or sores. Check everywhere in the mouth including above, below and the sides of the inner cheek and tongue as well as the roof of the mouth and back of the throat.

What if I See Anything Suspicious?

Take a picture of it and keep watching it for two weeks. Gargle with warm salt water rinses for that time. If you have any white, and/or red, lesion, patch, sore or ulcer in the mouth that is not healing after two weeks, notify your dentist or doctor right away.

At iHeart Dental, Dr. Misty Seale and her team take oral cancer detection seriously and want you to be the best and healthiest you can for as long as you can.

If you have any suspicious areas or lesions you need looked at, let us know so we can schedule your free Oral Cancer Screening with Dr. Seale and her team. Call us today to schedule your next appointment and become a part of the iHeart Dental family.

By Kerri Dodson, MNT, MCHWC, Master Nutrition Therapist

Let’s look at some numbers:

• 59% of Americans have at least one chronic illness.

• 42% of Americans have more than one chronic illness

• 28% have three or more chronic illnesses.

• The average American takes four prescriptions per month and spends on average $1,300 per year on their prescriptions.

• On average, a person will lose 2-3 days of work per illness. Add all this up and, there is a lot of money lost.

Of course, prevention is the best way forward. But what happens if the proverbial horse has left the barn? Why should we improve our health when we already have chronic illness(es)?

Being Healthy Can Reduce Healthcare Costs

Having poor health can make you unproductive and limit your day-to-day activities. Being prescribed long-term medications can wipe out your savings and assets. Medicine, doctor’s visits, and hospitalization are expensive. Experiencing a devastating financial downfall from hospital bills can be scarier than the illness itself.

You can reduce your risk factors for various conditions and improve your health by following simple lifestyle choices.

Being Healthy Means Better Quality Time with Loved Ones

When you take control of your health, you will reap the benefits of more energy, less brain fog, and more endurance. Have your children help you cook a healthy dinner. This will give you more quality time. Play with your grandchildren or go for a walk with your spouse and children. Make it a family affair.

You Can be In Control of Your Health.

Genes are not our destiny. 95% of our health is in our hands with our daily choices. That is great news! It means we CAN control our destiny. It all begins with small changes that

compound on themselves to add up to great health.

So, what does that look like? We can start small. Walk more. The best thing about walking is it is free. Park further away in the parking lot. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Get up from your desk every hour and walk for two minutes. Aim for 10,000 steps a day. It may seem like a lot; however, it begins with your first step. Just do your best by doing a little more than the day before.

Aim for 3-5 cups of fruits and vegetables per day. Fruits and vegetables contain important fiber, vitamins and minerals that are needed for good health. Fiber also promotes gut health which is essential for overall health.

Avoid sugary beverages and drink more water. Hydration helps keep your metabolism running and is also key for cellular communication. So, drink your H2O.

All the above will add up to much better health. If you are ready to take it to the next level, working with a Nutrition Therapist can help you make great health gains. With targeted testing for gut health (for digestive issues) and food sensitivity testing or DNA testing to optimize your genes through nutrigenomic (nutrition and lifestyle) you can reverse chronic illness, reduce medication, and achieve optimal health.

In the long run you will reduce your medical expenses and increase your happiness. It has been said that a health person has a million dreams, and the sick person only has one.

Let’s move you to the healthiest you.

Kerri Dodson, Master Nutrition Therapist, Master Health and Wellness Coach

SETTING UP A SELF-SUSTAINING CONTAINER GARDEN

By Claire Sandow

Container gardens are a great way to start a garden, especially if you don’t have a lot of space. You can grow many of the same herbs and vegetables that you would grow in an in-ground plot with the convenience of containers that can be placed in the optimal spots in your yard. A container garden with an automatic drip irrigation system can turn an apartment balcony, porch or any area into a mini selfsustaining farm.

To get started, you’ll need to collect your containers. An economical way to get started is to check with stores for

Then, select your plants. What produce does your family like to eat?

Plant leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers to have a ready-made salad or some herbs like basil, mint or rosemary to add seasoning to your cooking.

All these plants need water to thrive. Some, like tomatoes, need lots of water whereas other types of vegetables may only need a little water. While you can water them by hand, you can save time by using a sprinkler system or setting up an irrigation system. An automatic drip irrigation system can be set up with timers to ensure that your plants get the water they need when they need it most

The garden can become a family project where kids can be involved with planting, harvesting and preparing the vegetables to eat.

To learn more about the types of plants that do best in our region and how to care for them, the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service is a valuable resource. Their website is filled with great information about plant care, pest identification, a general calendar of when to plant certain crops and more.

Ready to grow? Head to a local nursery like Ebenezer Rose & Garden Nursery or Ijon Webb’s Farm Supply in Springfield and start exploring your

Habitat for Humanity Provides a Pathway to Home Ownership

There’s a reason that there are so many quotes about home. There’s no place like home, home is where the heart is, home sweet home. It’s because having a place to call home is valuable.

Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County has provided a pathway to home ownership for 22 (soon to be 23) families through the efforts of volunteers and donors.

Brittney Roper and her two children were living with her mother when Brittney decided to apply for a Habitat home. She and her family were able to move into their Habitat home in Rincon in 2018.

“I’m thankful for Habitat being able to provide for our community for younger generations that are striving to have a home. It’s harder in today’s economy to actually be a homeowner, but with Habitat anything’s possible,” says Brittney.

A Hand Up, Not a Hand Out

A Habitat home is not a handout, but a hand up for those who struggle to qualify for a traditional mortgage. Habitat homeowners are employed and must meet certain income criteria to qualify. They must also pay a 2% down payment and an affordable monthly mortgage payment.

Families who are selected must partner with Habitat for Humanity to complete at least 250 hours of “sweat equity”— time spent volunteering on the build site or at the ReStore—and complete home ownership education.

An impact study conducted among Habitat homeowners in Georgia reported that 59% of homeowners have more money

on hand since moving into their Habitat homes and nearly three-fourths of Habitat homeowners are able to save more money for the future. This financial security allows them to rely less on public assistance and the majority of families in Habitat homes receive no public assistance. Those who do receive assistance receive an average of less than $100 a month.

Homeowners also benefit from a sense of physical security. 77% percent of Habitat homeowners in Georgia report feeling safer in their new homes.

Lauren Alvarado, a Habitat homeowner in Rincon since 2017, spent several years moving between rental properties and struggled to find a place that was both safe and affordable for her and her two children. She applied for a home after her pastor encouraged her to take the chance.

“For someone to say ‘Hey, you don’t have to pack up and move again,’ you can’t put a price on that,” says Lauren. “It brings you a sense of relief and peace.”

Jimmy Rutland, President/CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County, encourages anyone who has the potential to qualify to apply.

“We want to help families achieve their goal of home ownership,” Jimmy says. “Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, apply anyway. You might be closer to your goal than you think.”

APPLYING FOR A HABITAT HOME IN EFFINGHAM COUNTY

Financial requirements to qualify for a Habitat home in Effingham County:

• Maximum annual income:

o Family of 1: $46,720

o Family of 2: $53,440

o Family of 3: $60,080

o Family of 4: $66,720

o Family of 5: $72,080

o Family of 6: $77,440

• Must have been employed full time for at least one year or part time for two years.

• Must have less than $1000 in delinquent debt.

• Credit score of 640 or higher.

• Must have gross income that exceeds 30% of cost of Habitat mortgage payment and less than 43% of housing cost in total debt.

Once these financial requirements have been met, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Living in an inadequate shelter due to problems with heating, water supply, electricity, etc.

• Living in overcrowded conditions.

• Spending more than 40% of income on housing (rent + utilities).

• Residing in Section 8 or Public Housing.

• Residence is not secured by an official lease agreement.

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Face Grace Esthetics

“We protect families and plan futures,” says Ashley Boyette, State Farm Insurance Agent. “My main focus is to make sure we protect what is important to you. From auto to home to life insurance, together we can take care of what matters most in your life.”

Taking care of her customers is what Ashley does best. She finds solutions and presents options that benefit you. She says life insurance is one such area, “Life insurance is where we can be a beacon of light during a time of trauma and loss by providing much needed funds when tragedy strikes.” Life insurance proceeds can pay off debts that might otherwise leave your loved ones in a difficult position. Ashley can work with you to find a policy that ensures your family can stay in their home, something she is passionate about. “Spending as little as $20 a month buys peace of mind,” she says, “And we can settle the death claim within five days.” She welcomes small business owners and would love to help them offer a benefits package to their employees.

And no need to worry about any fees because, “my services are completely free of charge, all day, everyday. An inquiry is free. A quote is free,” says Ashley. “Give me the opportunity to serve you, and if it doesn’t fit now, we can talk again down the road and see if it fits later.”

Ashley is a graduate of Georgia Southern University and is a longtime Effingham County resident. “Come see me and take advantage of my local knowledge and our great customer service, where we treat all our customers like family.” Being local means Ashley sees her customers in town, at community events and while volunteering at Habitat for Humanity, the Rotary Club, and the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce. She says, “I love all the opportunities that our small businesses offer, from yoga studios to restaurants. Our area is growing by leaps and bounds. And it is such a wonderful community to be part of with great opportunities and new people here everyday.”

Ashley Boyette’s State Farm Insurance is a customer focused office where the friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to serve you. Ashley says. “Give us the opportunity to earn your business. Call us today!”

BILLY LANE: Adventurer & Explorer

Story by Cindy Reid

For many of us the very thought of jumping out of a plane or traveling by all by ourselves in a distant country would send us right back into our comfort zone—which is usually curled up on the couch. Few of us are explorers or frankly, very adventurous.

Meet Billy Lane, a young man who permanently lost his hearing due to spinal meningitis at the age of eight months. Born in Savannah, Billy attended the Hope School for Hearing Impaired Children, Inc. and learned sign language as a small child. He attended local public schools until the end of sixth grade when he moved to St. Augustine to attend the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. A few years after graduation Billy moved back to Georgia to be closer to family. He is currently working for Halstead International and lives outside Rincon.

Billy is an avid licensed skydiver and international solo traveler, which makes him both an explorer and an adventurer. We caught up with him on a rare day when he was home—and on the ground—to catch up on his latest travels in Scotland.

How did you become involved with skydiving?

When I was young, I saw a lot of videos of people skydiving. The adrenaline rush fascinated me. A friend and I decided to do tandem skydiving for the first time in Titusville, Florida in 2005. I was hooked.

One year later, I decided to take training for a skydiving license. I went to Skydive the Farm in Rockmart, Georgia. They had amazing instructors, especially Andy Whitlock, who welcomed me to be their student. Deaf skydiver Billy Vance helped me to train with him. After the completion of training, I got my license. I can jump anywhere at the drop zones across the USA.

How many jumps have you done?

I have had countless jumps. I have been jumping since August 2006. That would be 16 years jumping.

What do you like about it?

I like and love skydiving because it’s a very relaxing sport. I love the adrenaline rush. Skydiving is one of the most thrilling feelings ever. Flying in airplanes, freefalling through the sky at 120 mph and deploying a parachute all create extremely pleasurable feelings within me. It doesn’t feel like falling, more like flying because of air and gravity. Skydivers come from all walks of life and create a unique atmosphere filled with interesting people. They are like a family. We get to jump with strangers and get to know them.

The skydiving community is filled with tons of people looking to enjoy life and

good times with friends in the sky and on the ground. Skydiving creates confidence, optimism, and positive feelings. Skydiving is a form of therapy, we all have things in life that stress us out and make life complicated, but when you skydive you are able to leave all your troubles on the ground.

You’re able to momentarily forget about the things that cause you stress on a daily basis while you fly around and play in the sky with your friends. I also feel that skydiving brings me closer to God and I can enjoy God’s creation from the sky.

Where in Scotland did you travel?

I was in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, also Stirling, Inverness, Portree (Isle of Skye), and Highland of Glencoe.

Why did you choose Scotland?

I have wanted to go to Scotland since high school. I love Scotland’s culture and history and Scotland is home to some of the most striking landscapes in the UK. Venture out of the cities and you’ll find no end of ancient abbeys, exquisite churches and cathedrals, historical monuments, old ruins, and castles.

They have magnificent castles, in all shapes, sizes, styles, and ages. I visited a lot of castles; Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, Urquhart Castle, Dunvegan Castle & Gardens, Eilean Donan Castle, and Doune Castle. Eilean Donan Castle is my favorite because of its stunning location on the small island and at the meeting point of lochs Long, Alsh and Duich and architecture of the castle’s interior and exterior.

Does being deaf make traveling by yourself more difficult?

I have been traveling by myself in the USA, but Scotland was my first time traveling overseas. Did I worry about that? Yes, in some way. Fortunately, I unexpectedly met people who were waitresses, flight attendants, in Scotland who knew a little sign language, known as BSL, short for British Sign Language. I understood what they were saying, and they understood what I was saying. I met a person from Ireland, using Irish Sign Language. I couldn’t understand what he was saying, and he couldn’t understand what I was saying in ASL or ESL. Luckily, he knew English in writing, so we enjoyed talking about where we were from for a little bit. Others who didn’t know any sign languages were very friendly and patient with me as I communicated in writing with the pen and paper I always carry with me.

What was special about the trip and what you experienced?

The Scottish people were the most incredibly friendly and welcoming I ever encountered. Scottish food is heart-

warming soul food that’s perfect any time of the year. Especially haggis, the national Scotland dish, which is banned in the USA. It has a very interesting texture and gamey taste because it contains sheep’s heart, lungs, and liver. I love it with breakfast and with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes) for dinner.

Scotland is known for four seasons in one day. Never was I once able to fully predict the weather. The weather in May is wonderful, only 50-60 degrees compared to 90-100 in Georgia. I had 17 hours of daylight in Scotland, plenty of time to explore.

I had an epic and adventurous drive through the Highlands of Glencoe. It has a road between the beautiful Highlands, waterfalls, and lochs with a lot of viewpoints where I frequently stopped and enjoyed the scenery.

Old Man of Storr is my favorite place for hiking on the Isle of Skye. It has incredible scenery at over 2,300 feet elevation. I love a little charming and colorful town and harbor called Portree located on the Isle of Skye. The town is surrounded by hills and impressive scenery.

Would you like to return to Scotland?

Absolutely, I consider Scotland my second home. I want to do another adventurous drive on NC500, short for North Coast 500, about a 500 miles scenic route. Driving on the left side of the road in the UK is different than in the USA. It takes less than 15 minutes to get used to it, it’s really easy.

Where would you like to go next?

I would like to go to Costa Rica to see their active volcanoes or Norway to the

amazing Alps. Or Egypt because I love ancient civilization.

Are you a beach person, a mountain person, or a city person?

I’m more like a mountain person because it has more challenges and scenery. I love taking a time out whenever I’m in the mountains, to just be in one place looking over to the stunning lush greens of the Highland. The chance of taking amazingly beautiful landscape photos is higher in the mountains. The sea is, of course, also beautiful but it’s the mountains where you get a diversified landscape: forests, lakes, rocks, peaks, springs, waterfalls, streams, rivers, animals, interesting vegetation, and the amazing look at the world from the above.

Mountains are also great places to get away from the city hustle and bustle. In the mountains you get to test your character and endurance which may come in handy later in life. When you are up in the mountains, all your worries will ease away as time stands completely still.

What other experiences are you looking forward to trying?

I want to try BASE jumping or cave diving.

What would you want people to know about deafness in general? And as it pertains to you?

Deaf people are people too. The deaf have a better awareness of their environment. Deaf people learn differently and communicate differently but it is the only way we are different from other people. We have the same interests and desires in life. ■

MORE CREATING, LESS CONSUMING

By Dr. Jan Southern, J. DelSUR Marketing Group

Let me describe a scene to you, and I’m calling myself out on this one. It’s 5 a.m. My feet are propped up on the couch, where I’m drinking my (first cup of) coffee and scrolling through my phone. I read the news but then switch over to apps like TikTok, Instagram or Facebook to see funny videos and get updates on what my friends and family are up to. I just checked on them before going to bed. Not that much has changed.

It’s here where I get a flash of deja vu, because I was just in this spot last night binge-watching a series on Hulu. It was an uncomfortable sensation that had reached a tipping point. I had been consuming so much content through reading articles, watching TV and scrolling social media that I was consuming far more than I created. Plus, I had hours of time unaccounted for. Time that could have been dedicated to reaching my personal and professional goals

Where did the time go?

My career in marketing has been all about creating meaningful imagery and words to help transform businesses and help them be their best. I have seen my work in marketing as a logical extension of my creativity. It is a rewarding career and I absolutely love what I do. But by consuming so much content, I was falling short of the person I wanted to be. I was missing out.

Consuming less and creating more is important for all of us, and it looks different depending on your personal and professional goals. Creating on a personal level can include building deeper relationships, having more meaningful conversations, or setting aside time for improving your health. Professionally, it could mean starting a business, developing new content or taking steps toward a more satisfying career.

This year, I am continuing my commitment to create more and consume less. Here’s a few ways I’ve found work well for me.

Personally:

• Sit for 10 minutes with my morning coffee without the phone or other distractions.

• Take out my journal and write one page of whatever is on my mind. This is an adapted “morning pages”

practice from the book by Julia Cameron—The Artist’s Way.

• Go for a walk and spend the first 15 minutes without listening to music or my favorite podcast. Just walk and take in the nature surrounding me.

• Eat at least one meal per day without technology distractions, either quietly alone or with my husband.

• Go to bed at least 4 nights per week without the TV on.

Professionally:

• I have committed to writing or creating content on a topic that interests me at least once per week.

• I doodle. As I am thinking about how to help a client solve a particular problem, I break out my sketchbook and doodle while I am thinking.

• In my organization, we now have more brainstorming sessions together. We develop client campaigns through fun, easy sessions where we throw each and every idea out and see how we can create something unique and effective for our client’s company.

• When I am stuck, I go for a walk or organize my office. If I am at home, I pick one area to clean or organize. This helps clear the clutter from not only my space but also from my head. With a clear mind I have created some of my best work.

• I’ve also utilized the screen time features built into my phone. Here, I can see how much time I’ve spent on my phone, set time limits for distracting apps and even schedule downtime away from my screen.

I cannot tell you what methods will work for your life. I would simply encourage you to find ways to live in the present and take a break from overconsumption.

I’ll leave you with a prompt to get your brain started: What could you create if you were consuming less? I would love to hear your ideas! Jan@ JDelSURMarketing.com. ■

"Consuming less and creating more is important for all of us, and it looks different depending on your personal and professional goals."

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Abucket list. Most of us have one, either written down in a journal somewhere or fixed in our minds. See the Grand Canyon, climb Mt Everest, write a novel, learn bass guitar. The honest truth is that only a handful of us ever really get to check off these experiences because well, life. Careers, mortgages, kids, responsibilities. The daily grind.

But sometimes we get a wakeup call, one we actually pay attention to, because it strikes so dear to our heart. For this close knit family the loss of their beloved Robert was that wake up call.

The Wake Up Call

On Sept 4, 2021, Robert L. Dasher, Sr., 53, of Guyton, Ga., passed away after a courageous fight with COVID, leaving his wife Lori, children Robert, Nolan, Maggie and April, and extended family in grief stricken shock. Brothers John and Glenn Jackson, along with their cousin Wayne Dasher, had grown up with Robert, remaining the best of friends into adulthood, and his death “hit us hard,” says Glenn.

This was the wakeup call and that’s where the Great Loop— a six thousand mile water journey— comes in. The catalyst was Wayne and his wife, also named Lori, who are long distance truck drivers. She says the Great Loop had been on her mind for years.

“Actually I wanted to do this for a long time,” says Lori, “and I kept trying to talk Wayne into it but Wayne wasn't fully on board. The morning Robert died, Wayne and I were in Arizona, driving back home to be with friends and family for his funeral when Wayne had a turning point. Out of the blue he looked at me and said, ‘we are doing the loop.’ Shocked, I replied, ‘well I was going to somehow do it but I'm glad you've decided to join me!’”

She says right after the funeral they told the others they were doing it, “and Glenn, who is the most responsible out of all of us, said ‘If you’ll wait till spring 2023 we’ll do it too.’ That settled it—it was a go!”

Pamela Jackson, who is married to Glenn, says boating the Great Loop was “always a bucket list item” for them. “We were all sitting around and talking about bucket lists. Robert had only had 53 years, which is such a short life,” she says, “so we decided we could do the Great Loop ‘one day’ or it could be ‘day one' of the adventure. We chose to make it day one, which subsequently became the name of our boat—Day One.”

“There was something about losing Robert that created a determination in us all,” says Lori. “Before

Sometimes we get a wakeup call, one we actually pay attention to, because it strikes so dear to our heart.

THE MAGNIFICENT 7: Seizing the Moment with a Once-in-a-Lifetime Boating Adventure

Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Leidi Lester

we knew it we were all deciding on boat names and were boat shopping!”

The Magnificent 7

Pamela and Glenn Jackson, Lori and Wayne Dasher, and Johnnie and Teresa Jackson are all successful people in middle age who found the impetus for adventure in the profound loss of a loved one. For the Great Loop they are ‘all in,” each couple essentially taking a year off, with trips back as needed for work and family.

They wanted to create a group name and logo so Glenn came up with “The Magnificent 7”—the core group of six plus Robert. The 7 is also a sweet reminder that Robert was a baseball player, and was always #7. The group says bonding together as the Magnificent 7 helps them to remember that “living life while you have it to live is simply magnificent!”

They are all experienced boaters, and although they have all owned various

boats over the years, they were not of the size needed for the trip. They will be traveling together but in three separate boats and so each couple has purchased a trawler specifically for the trip. Piloting a trawler has been a learning curve for all the

said “What the hell have we done?” But as she says, riding out the weather is part of the adventure and they are ready for whatever comes next.

Glenn and Pam are on Day One—a 44 ft Gulfstream—Johnnie and Teresa are on All In—a 43 ft Hatteras—and Wayne and Lori are on Hootie Hoo—a 47 ft trawler.

The Great Loop

The Great Loop is a continuous waterway that recreational mariners can travel that includes part of the Atlantic, Gulf Intracoastal Waterways, the Great Lakes, Canadian Heritage Canals, and the inland rivers of America's heartland.

couples but they are getting the hang of it. For Wayne and Lori it was an adventure from the start, having purchased a boat in Port Charlotte, Fla., that they arrived to bring home on the eve of Hurricane Ian. Just before the storm, they brought the boat inland and rode it out while onboard. After Ian passed Lori looked at Wayne and

It’s America’s Great Loop—aka the Great American Adventure That No One Has Ever Heard Of. Think of it as the Appalachian Trail for boaters.

The route follows the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the Chesapeake Bay, and the New York Canals northwards, goes across the Great Lakes, then south

“ “

on the Inland Rivers, and then west on the Gulf of Mexico. Like the Appalachian Trail, the trip can be done in one loop or in segments. The route can be done in two months but typically boaters take a full year if doing it in one continuous loop. There are just over 150 locks on the great loop, which passes through 15 states and two Canadian provinces.

Loopers can begin at any point along the route, and when they return to their starting point they are said to have “crossed their wake” and to have finished the Great Loop. It’s a lengthy trip and less than 200 people complete the 6,000 mile journey per year. Those boaters who are on the loop often fly a white burgee and those who have completed the loop fly a gold one. Those who finish the entire loop earn the right to be called “Loopers.”

Seasonal Compass

Because there is no official starting point or single route to complete the loop, boaters start wherever location and

weather conditions make sense for them. Of course they want to avoid severe cold and hurricane season, and the large route gives them that flexibility.

Most boaters plan segments dockage stops, and many take the opportunity to go ashore and see the sights.

The Magnificent 7 plan on following the seasons by heading north in the spring, east in the summer, west in the fall and south to the Florida Keys in the winter. Basically they are taking the Canadian route on the north side and then down through Alabama on the west side of the loop.

They plan on embarking on April 15—the first Saturday after Easter Sunday—so they can celebrate the holiday at home with family before leaving. The three boats will leave from the Savannah Riverfront at the same time so friends and family—including Robert’s wife Lori—can see them off.

Planned stops include the Trawler Fest, held in Baltimore in May, where they can meet fellow “Loopers.” Other highlights they are looking forward to are seeing

the Statue of Liberty by water, the Arch of St Louis, Niagara Falls and exploring Canada. They also want to visit as many baseball fields as possible, such as the iconic Wrigley Field and Yankee Stadium and, when the season changes, football fields throughout their journey, especially Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

“It’s an adventure and we gravitate to adventures,” Wayne says. “It may take us a little longer due to contractual obligations for work, necessitating a couple of quick trips back, but that’s okay, we will take it as it goes.” He says he is looking forward to meeting new people, discovering new restaurants and bars, and enjoying small towns along the way.

One thing the Magnificent 7 knows is that Robert will be with them and is in fact their guardian angel for the long trip. In honoring his life, they are choosing to live their lives without wasting a day or having any regrets. This is a story about the Great Loop, but it is also a story about family, friendship, bucket lists and most importantly…love. ■

The Great Loop. Map by cartographer Tom Fish https://geo.fish

More Than Pest Control

Darrell Dasher Branch Manager, Rincon Office

Darrell Dasher grew up in the Sand Hill area, so managing the Rincon office of Yates-Astro really is “home” for him. He gives back to his hometown by officiating sports events for all age groups in and around Effingham County.

His influence goes beyond our area through his involvement as a Shriner and a Mason. Shriner Hospitals for children never charge for their services, a blessing that is the result of the work of Darrell and many others. The Children’s Home in Macon is an outgrowth of his volunteer work as well.

Darrell considers it a form of “giving back” to his hometown by protecting area homes and businesses as a pest control professional with Yates-Astro. It is hometown people like Darrell Dasher who have made Yates-Astro, a family owned local business, the largest pest control provider in the region.

The Abbie DeLoach Foundation Turns Tragedy Into a Living Legacy

By Jimmy DeLoach Jr.

Life can turn upside down in an instant. That’s what happened for me and all those who loved my older daughter, Abbie, on April 22, 2015. She and her fellow Georgia Southern University students were on their way to a final day of nursing rotations when they were involved in a tragic seven-vehicle wreck due to a distracted driver. Abbie and four of her nursing-student peers died.

When I lost Abbie, I lost a piece of myself. And I vowed that her passing wouldn’t define her, me or our family. I wanted to focus instead on all the good she brought into this world in 21 short years.

Abbie was a fierce athletic competitor yet gentle role model at her Savannah, Georgia, high school. She was captain of the volleyball and basketball teams. While attending Georgia Southern University and working toward a nursing degree, she was active on her Kappa Delta sorority’s competition-winning volleyball team. Abbie was a devoted Christian and the best sister that my younger daughter, Annie, could have wished for.

Although focusing on the positives doesn’t take away the grief or pain, I’ve learned how to move forward by taking one next step. I have a new drive and purpose to help others and keep Abbie’s loving spirit alive.

Guided by Good Works and Vocational Passion

I try to live how Abbie would want me to live. I discovered that I could best do that by forming the Abbie DeLoach Foundation. Founded in 2016, the foundation benefits organizations that reward academic excellence, exemplary service work and athletic commitment. To date, more than $1.25 million in scholarship revenue has been provided to nursing students, student athletes and outreach abroad. Its tagline is “live inspired” because we are inspired by Abbie’s love for life and good works as a student, an athlete and an aspiring nurse.

The foundation holds two major events each year. It provides a scholarship luncheon and sponsors the True Blue 5K + Abbie’s Adventure Race, held on the Georgia Southern Campus during Homecoming Weekend to celebrate Abbie’s love of football and friends. Additionally,

the annual #HandsFreeForAbbie campaign in April coincides with distracted driving awareness month.

Grateful for the Effingham Community

My family and I appreciate everyone in Effingham and its surrounding areas who have supported the Abbie DeLoach Foundation. I grew up in Garden City and loved it. My family has long served in the community, starting with my father, Jimmy DeLoach. He served three terms as mayor of Garden City from 1973 to 1979 before being elected to represent Chatham County’s 7th District in 1980. He was reelected to two more four-year terms.

Many of my values were instilled from my dad, who was focused on faith and community. My family and I do what we believe is the right thing while being faithful, giving back and serving others. My brother, Eddie DeLoach, has also been active in community service and was mayor of Savannah, where today, he and I run Tidewater Landscape Management together. And we are proud that the Abbie DeLoach Foundation has scholarship recipient alumni from Effingham.

Get involved

If you, too, desire to get involved and give back, the Abbie DeLoach Foundation welcomes your support. Here are some of the many ways you can help:

• Pray for families that have suffered a loss of a loved one — especially a child.

• Visit our website at AbbieDeloachFoundation.com to learn how you can participate. You can make a donation to go toward scholarships or outreach abroad, and sign up to run in Abbie’s Adventure Race. You can also sign up for our newsletter, read my weekly blog about life topics and how to cope with grief, and connect with us on social media.

• Take the pledge in April at HandsFreeForAbbie.com, commit to end distracted driving and help spread the word on social media with #HandsFreeForAbbie. No parent should have to bury a child due to distracted driving.

Abbie’s time here was much too short, but the Abbie DeLoach Foundation keeps parts of her alive—her spirit, determination, competitiveness, caring nature, concern for others and compassion. Thank you for helping us do that.

THE TACKLE BOX: Your Store for Bait, Tackle & More

Leon and Angie are co-owners of The Tackle Box in Springfield, Ga. The two entrepreneurs are wellknown in their community. They acquired the bait and tackle store almost two years ago, and it has been an asset to the community, especially for the area’s many fishing enthusiasts.

Bait and Tackle

“We sell all sorts of tackle equipment… everything for fishing—poles, hooks, lures, etc. We’re unique because we sell live bait,” Leon says.

In fact, the store has long been the only venue in the county that offers live bait—crickets, worms, minnows and shiners. Beginning this summer, the team plans to provide shrimp bait for their customers as well.

Leon is a real fishing aficionado. His knowledge has proved to be priceless to customers; they appreciate the good advice they get from him regarding the sport.

“Leon connects with people well. He has enjoyed fishing since he was a little boy; he is so knowledgeable about it,” Angie says, and so Leon normally handles customers’ bait and tackle needs.

The Tackle Box’s Other Offerings Include:

• Fresh Boiled Peanuts

• Homemade Pork Skins

• Jams and Jellies

• Local Honey

• Fresh Eggs

• Produce (in the summer)

• Ammo

• U-Haul Truck Rental Service

• Untreated Plywood

• Fiber Art Studio—presented by Bethany Farm Alpacas—with classes for adults or kids (children’s crafts include alpacas or pony rides!)

Learn More

Customers are encouraged to contact The Tackle Box for any additional inquiries about the store or the classes at the Fiber Arts Studio. Leon and Angie value the support of their customers. The two are pleased to service the community that they are proud to call home.

YOU SAY TO-MA-TO, I SAY TO-MAH-TO

Effingham County Garden Experts Offer Advice for Growing Thriving Tomato Plants

Story by Claire Sandow

When it comes to backyard gardening, tomato growing is a common undertaking. Tomatoes are a plant that require a lot of attention to thrive, but the rewards are worth it.

One common pitfall faced by novice gardeners is trying to start their tomato plants from seed.

“Most people and even growers don’t grow from seed. You can grow tomatoes here from seeds if you start in February, but starting from small plants is sufficient as well,” says Russell Sowers, owner of Ebenezer Rose & Garden Nursery in Springfield.

Starting from a small plant allows you to get started later in the growing season while still giving you a summer harvest to enjoy. Just keep in mind that the plant can eventually grow to be upwards of 3

feet tall, so don’t forget to pick up a tomato cage to support your plants!

The climate of Effingham County allows gardeners to grow almost any variety of tomato from juicy cherry tomatoes to hearty beefsteaks.

“The most popular ones are the hybrids that are bred for taste and meat,” says Myra French of Ijon Webb’s Farm Supply in Springfield. “You can grow just about any variety of tomato out here but there are plant viruses and bugs that attack them.”

Disease resistant seeds are available, but no plant is immune to every ailment. Treating your tomato plants with a onetime systemic treatment can help with disease prevention and there are also insecticides that can ward off common pests like hornworms.

Another important factor to your success is the location of your tomato plant. You

can grow them in a greenhouse, but they just don’t taste as good. Tomatoes thrive when they get at least 6 hours of sun per day. But be careful because the sun can be a double-edged sword for your plants. When it gets too hot outside, tomatoes can experience sunscald, some yellowish-white patches that affect the flavor of the fruit.

Watering your tomatoes is a must, but it’s a delicate balance between too much and not enough. A combination of hot and rainy weather can cause the tomatoes to take in too much water and cause cracks in the skin of the fruit. Too little water means the plant does not get enough calcium, making the tomatoes susceptible to blossom end rot.

This information may sound intimidating, but the staff at your local nurseries are happy to help you get started and set you up for a rewarding harvest.

LOOK FOR OUR 2023 ISSUES:

Feb./March: Families in Business

April/May: Home and Garden

June/July: Women in Business

August/ Sept: Veterans/First Responders

Oct./Nov.: Anniversary Issue/Best of Effingham

Dec./Jan: Shop Local/Holiday Issue

Jan./Feb.: Health and Wellness

March/April: Women in Business/Music and Arts

May/June: Home and Garden

July/August: Veterans/First Responders

Sept./Oct.: Anniversary Issue/Best of Pooler

Nov./Dec.: Shop Local/Holiday Issue

Trend Report 2023 HOME STYLE GUIDE

Story by Trish Brown

We’ve been cooped up in our homes, staring at our surroundings (and each other) uninspired and burdened by laundry and our new work from home jobs. As we move forward as a society postCOVID, it becomes blatantly obvious—its time to refresh and repurpose our living spaces to be more reflective of our tastes and the new multi-functional spaces our homes have become!

Trish Brown—style expert and SCAD alum—brings the top five trends to embrace when redesigning our interior living spaces for 2023!

“We already know there are some trends from 2022 and prior years that we’ll see carried throughout the home and unfortunately, laundry is here to stay. The trends of 2023 give us the opportunity to break out of the traditional patterns and leave behind some outdated rules to bring more spontaneity and comfortability into our dwellings, especially as we start opening our homes for more entertaining.”

1.

Organization is More Important than Opulence

First things first—gone are the days when we bodaciously flaunted wealth with no rhyme or reason.

The new place to be is organized and inviting, with the thought process being that even without key accent pieces and other on-trend furniture, organization makes the home just flow more easily.

Organization is the little black dress every home should have.

With the economy impacting even the healthiest of wallets, eliminating clutter and dedicating specific zones for the items that bring you joy will quickly allow you to show off your chic aesthetic! From color coordinated closets to sectioned off organized spaces removing excess and dialing in on the key items that bring you both joy and functionality is the first trend that’s sure to be timeless and classic! Pictured here, we have the closet of Melissa, hand-built by her husband Vernon Donovan.

As a rule, light can create or detract the mood of a room, so it’s no surprise that statement lighting fixtures are poised to gain popularity as a modern trend for 2023.

This look may come in the form of decorative table lamps, chandelier lighting (but not the gaudy kind), or—for the bolder thrill-seekers, the long lost wall lighting companion— wall sconces will see a resurgence!

In elevating and opening the aesthetics of your home, explore attracting the eye to large smooth surfaces as an ideal way to explore placement of wall sconces in the new year.

When implementing this trend be cautious of over-lighting the space and washing out the mood created by other elements in the room. Be mindful of your interior goals and how the space will be used to determine how and where the trend is relevant for your space.

2. All of the Lights!

Round is trés, trés chic. The sterility that can come from revamping your space may need to be toned down with the use of some of the trends for 2023. That being said, get comfy with organic fixtures and entryways!

If you can’t bring yourself to bring actual spheres into your space (although, you REALLY should step outside your comfort zone and try it) explore round accent pillows in monochromatic color ways and don’t underestimate the power of a beautiful round light fixture, allowing you to tap into two trends simultaneously!

While this trend is sure to be popular, be careful—too many organic and round elements don’t give the eye a place to rest and can quickly overpower a room. Keep this trend as the, “ace up your sleeve” when you’re stuck on what element a static space may need to be livened up.

This ain’t your Aunt Florence’s tacky 70’s wall paper trend (Just kidding we love you Auntie Florence!!). Nope! Wallpaper has been one trend slowly creeping up in popularity, and with styles such as embossed faux crocodile, wall paper isn’t just for walls anymore either! Boring staircase? Applications of wallpaper to the riser (that’s the vertical surface on your staircase) are gaining more popularity as a way to add personality without overpowering a full room in the trend. If you’re too traumatized from the wallpaper of the 70’s, this plant inspired mural by Julia McDonough, exudes a coolness in a small space beckoning you to relax. A mural is a beautiful way to enjoy the impression of wallpaper, without the intimidating commitment of installing it yourself!

5. Come into the Out!

Here, nature is invited into the stylish home of 2023! Solid teak wood from Asia—shipped to the Richmond Hill, Georgia, home of Nisha and Rocco Giustino—capture the return to nature trend in their dining room space (above) that seeps into their living room as well (right).

With this trend the emphasis will be pairing an outdoor aesthetic with the atmosphere of your interior.

Want an airy feel? Keep the space open with lighter colored woods. Want a moody sultry vibe? Darker plants and deeper hues in flooring are excellent elements with which to experiment.

In this space the Indian and Puerto Rican roots of their heritage can be found in family photos, strategically placed wicker and rattan furniture, decorative pillows and area rugs.

Tap into any or all of these trends to update your home for 2023 and enjoy a refreshed multifunctional home!

Trish Brown has a BFA from Savannah College of Art and Design and is the owner of Trish B. Stylin’ Design

Photography by Calvin Parker, Calvin Wayne Photos

Featured Homes: Vernon and Melissa Donovan of Vernon Donovan State Farm and Donovan Rehab Pediatric Speech & Occupational Therapy, respectively

Rocco and Nisha Giustino,Charter Jet Pilot, CW4,USA Ret,. and Director of Human Resources, Nine Line Apparel & President of Operation Kid Forward, Savannah based Nonprofit, respectively.

3. Curve Appeal

4. Wall Paper? Yes, Please!

EFFINGHAM

Effingham Health System Foundation hosted the 2023 Gears and Grub Fundraising Event on March 4 2023. Gears & Grub is an annual event intended to help raise awareness of the EHS Foundation and how it supports the growth of healthcare services close to home through our community-owned healthcare system: Effingham Health System. Funds raised through the event go toward that purpose.

Gerbasi Signs made an incredible sign for the Caties Gathering CURE event.

Photo by Kronos Media Productions

Night of Effingham

Empire Gym Mutt Strutt Benefiting Guardians of Effingham

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