Effingham Magazine August/September 2020

BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE

Carter Holton Effingham Two-Way Baseball Player Eyeing Pro Career

August/September 2020

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IN THIS ISSUE

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020

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48 ABOUT THE COVER Carter Holton, a rising senior at Benedictine Military Academy, pitches and plays first base and outfield on the school’s baseball team. With scouts already coming to see him play, he has his eye on a baseball career at Vanderbilt University, and ultimately, the pros.

Features

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{

We want to hear from you!

Please send your comments, questions and stories ideas to Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

}

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

Naturally Good Effingham two-way baseball player eying pro career

Maggie’s Milk Community Community of women comes together to fulfill a mother’s wishes for her baby girl

A Letter from the ECSD Superintendent Questions & Answers with the Principals of Effingham County School District Rincon Police Chief Jonathon Murrell: Dedicated to his Community

43

Kicking DiPG, The Reid Crosby Foundation,

Teams up with South Fork Provisions for Fundraiser

48

Something’s Always Buzzin’ at The Hive Repertory Theatre

Departments

7 36 38

Publisher's Thoughts Recreation Spotlight Dining Guide

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Your Community Website EffinghamMagazine.com now includes MORE community information, MORE events and happenings and MORE great stories about the people, places and happenings from Your Community Magazine.

EffinghamMagazine.com THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS:

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MEET THE TEAM Kelly Harley

is a writer and social media strategist for businesses navigating the world of online marketing. She founded Social Creative, a social media management company dedicated to helping businesses effectively use social media. Kelly believes every one and every business has a story worth sharing. From her early days as a television news reporter, her experience in storytelling and social media spans nearly 15 years. Kelly is married with two children and lives in Bloomingdale.

Michelle Holloway

is a lifestyle photographer who studied photojournalism and public relations at Northern Arizona University, where she was awarded the Scripps Photojournalism Scholarship. During her time at NAU, she worked as a staff photographer for the Lumberjack school newspaper. She moved to Georgia with her husband three years ago after he accepted an engineering position with Gulfstream. They have two beautiful children into their family.

Tonya Perry

is a married mother of two children and several animals. She is a photographer based out of Rincon, Ga. and a volunteer photographer at the Effingham County Animal Shelter in Springfield where she photographs the animals in hopes of getting them adopted. She graduated from college with a degree in business. When not homeschooling & working, her favorite thing is to spend time with her husband, kids and dogs.

Cindy Reid is a graduate of Mills College in

Oakland, CA. She spent most of her career working with authors in the retail book business before becoming one herself. She has a daughter who lives in the state of Washington. A native of New York's Hudson Valley, Cindy now makes her home on St. Helena Island.

Katrice Williams

is a married mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration Degree.

Interestingly enough, at the time, she also had an interest in writing. She and her family moved to Pooler in 2003 from the Atlanta Metro Area.

She later decided to pursue her writing interests.

Katrice appreciates the Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings that He has bestowed upon her.

She loves spending time with her family.

Laura Zielinski

is a freelance graphic designer specializing in print design. A creative writing major in college who has always been passionate about art, Laura stumbled into graphic design 14 years ago and has never looked back.

She enjoys shaping stories through meaningful design, and she loves spending time with her husband and three beautiful children.

Steve Prudhomme

is a freelance writer and tour guide who lives in Rincon with his wife and son. A native of New Jersey, he has a journalism degree from Georgia State University and worked as a newspaper sports editor on Hilton Head Island and editor for two community newspapers in Colorado. His hobbies include running, tennis, Frisbee and writing.

Jan Southern, DPA

Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

Matthew Downes

Sales Director Matthew@JDelSURMarketing.com

Tonya Perry

Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com

Addie Ricketson

Marketing Assistant Addie@JDelSURMarketing.com

Penny Redmond Distribution

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PUBLISHER'S THOUGHTS JAN SOUTHERN Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com MATTHEW DOWNES Sales Director Matthew@JDelSURMarketing.com TONYA PERRY Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com ADDIE RICKETSON Marketing Assistant Addie@JDelSURMarketing.com PENNY REDMOND Distribution A special thank you to writer/editor, MICHAEL BROWN

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

P.O. Box 2328 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 over 200 locations throughout Effingham County and beyond.

BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE Is it really back to school time? Where did the summer go? I don’t know about you, but these last few months have been a blur for me. Pandemic, business closures, job losses, virtual learning and wearing masks has been stressful for all of us. But as I have said, we are a resilient community and we will get through this together.

I couldn’t be prouder of the businesses in our community. Their ability to pivot during these months and try their best to provide their products and services to customers has been inspiring. Many of these companies are gracing the pages of this issue of Effingham Magazine. Take the time to Jan Southern read their advertisements and visit their websites and storefronts. While we haven’t been able to interact in person as much as we would like, I see and hear their stories of perseverance and ingenuity and it gives me hope for our future as a thriving county. They are amazing.

The strain on parents and students and the Effingham County Schools has been particularly challenging too. It has not gone unnoticed. In this issue, we highlight the schools in Effingham and hear from Superintendent Dr. Yancy Ford and the principals about their plans for the upcoming school year.

And, we get a truly special and touching glimpse into the life of a little girl and her family that will make your heart swell with hope and love. We feel honored to share her story.

Owner/Publisher Effingham Magazine

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NATURALLY GOOD Effingham Two-Way Baseball Player Eying Pro Career Story by Stephen Prudhomme Photos by Tonya Perry

W

hen Carter Holton was 6 years old, he was playing catch with his father when he was hit in the face with a baseball. Although the impact of rawhide meeting flesh made him cry, the youngster, wiping tears from his face, resumed the game of catch.

Eleven years later, Carter is likely making opposing players cry in frustration after he strikes them out with a fastball in the 90s or smacks a game-winning home run.

Dubbed “The Natural” by Savannah sportscaster Frank Sulkowski, the 17– year-old Guyton resident is a real-life Roy Hobbs who doesn’t need stunts or special

effects to produce a game-winning homer and the perfect Hollywood ending.

Carter is a rising senior at Benedictine Military Academy who pitches and plays first base and outfield on the school’s baseball team. Before this season was cut short by the pandemic, he continued the two-way dominance that earned him Savannah Morning News Player of the Year honors in 2018-19.

In 2018, Carter pitched a perfect game against Statesboro at Grayson Stadium, striking out 17. Along with the aforementioned Player of the Year honors, he also was named Region Player of the Year in 2018-19, 2018 Georgia Dugout

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Player of the Year, 2019 Team Georgia member, and a two-time participant in the FCA All Star Game.

“I’ve been coaching high school baseball for over 20 years and seen a lot of good players,” said Benedictine baseball coach Kevin Farmer, noting Carter pitched a nohitter against Oconee County this season.

“He’s a special player. He works hard and is humble, and his baseball IQ is off the charts. He knows how to play the game.”

A left-handed pitcher, the 5-foot-11 Carter throws in the low 90s and has been clocked as high as 97 mph. Rome Dean—a former teammate at Benedictine—has faced Carter in intrasquad games. www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2020 11

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“He’s one of the top pitchers I’ve ever faced,” said Dean, a 2020 graduate who played shortstop and third base. “He has a big change of speed from his curveball, change up and fastball and keeps you off balance. His fastball tails a lot. I think he’s ready to play pro ball.”

Although Carter’s an outstanding hitter with power, his pitching is likely the ticket that will help him realize his dream of playing Major League Baseball.

“Carter has the pitches and control,” Farmer said. “He knows how to set up pitches and is strategic on the mound. He works fast and stays in rhythm.”

Falling in Love with the Game The aforementioned game of catch with his dad came three years after Carter discovered baseball.

“I fell in love with it,” said Carter, whose inspiration was an older brother who played baseball. “Since I loved it so much, I worked at it. It was all I knew.”

Carter’s father, Carl, said his son would watch a game on TV and then go out and try and replicate the plays. His resolve to keep on playing despite being hit in the face when he was 6 convinced Carl that Carter could go a long way in baseball.

Carl coached his son until he was 12 years old. Carter has played travel ball since he was 7 years old. For the past two years—playing Team League Baseball— he’s been coached by Jamie Crane.

An associate scout with the Atlanta Braves, Crane said Carter, beyond his talent, is very mature and advanced as far as the game. He added he doesn’t get too high or too low.

Complementing his maturity, calm makeup and understanding of the game are some outstanding physical skills.

“Carter’s one of our best pitchers,” Crane said. “He has really good command

and is ultracompetitive. He has a very quick arm. Carter’s a throwback hitter who feeds on fastballs and really mashes them. He’s a difference maker for us. He’s also very humble and such a good kid and teammate.”

The Next Steps Along with his baseball talent, Carter’s an excellent student who had over 30 scholarship offers and wants to major in sports medicine. He chose Vanderbilt, a school known for academics and its strong baseball program, after giving a verbal commitment several years ago. Among its alumni is David Price, a hard-throwing lefty who helped the Boston Red Sox win

Carter’s ultimate goal, however, is to play professionally. Scouts come to his games, and Carter said he’s heard they like what they see so far.

Although Carter looks up to Clayton Kershaw of the Los Angeles Dodgers, saying the lefty has a really good curveball and controls the game well, he aspires to play for a team closer to home.

“I’d like to play for the Atlanta Braves,” Carter said. “That would mean a lot.

Family and friends could come see me play pretty easily.”

Carl said his son always had a goal of playing baseball. Although his older son was a talented player, Carl said he didn’t share Carter’s dream of making it to the big leagues.

Recruited by Georgia, Georgia Tech, Clemson, USC and Tennessee—among others— Carter chose Vanderbilt.

“His dream was Vanderbilt,” Carl said. “They have a strong baseball program. They’re also strong academically. He’s a very smart kid. He takes honors classes.”

Add to that a great attitude.

“I hardly ever see him get frustrated,” Carl said. “He has a lot of self-discipline.”

While Carter admires Kershaw, his dad said he evokes comparisons to another left-handed pitcher, one who is in the Hall of Fame as a member of the Atlanta Braves and helped the team win its lone World Series title in 1995.

“He reminds me of Tom Glavine,” Carl said. “He just doesn’t throw the ball. He has great control.”

And power.

“Throwing has always come natural to an extent,” Carter said.

“I do long toss and just try and throw a lot and keep my legs strong.”

“He’s a special player. He works hard and is humble, and his baseball IQ is off the charts. He knows how to play the game.” a World Series before signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“They win all the time,” said Carter, explaining his choice of Vanderbilt. “They have too-notch coaching and facilities.

I love to win. The academics are also important.”

Although he just started playing in tournaments again and missed some 30 games due to the pandemic, Carter said he’s in the same position as the other players. The time off, it seems, didn’t affect him on the mound or at the plate. At a tournament in Emerson, Ga., in three games, he struck out four in two innings and batted .428 with three home runs.

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How it All Began Just to think, it all started with a game of catch and a ball hitting tender flesh rather than the mitt that would have convinced many 6-year-olds to take up another avocation. Perhaps tennis or basketball, where the ball’s not as hard.

Then again, Carter, as he’s demonstrated throughout his life, stands out from the crowd. It’s going to take more than a ball to the face to knock him out of the batter’s box or off the mound.

“I knew he was special when I saw him wiping tears from his face after being hit with the baseball,” Carl said. “I thought to myself this kid is going somewhere. He has the competitiveness, the will and desire to play baseball.”

Carl will have to remain the authority on that game of catch from yesteryear when Carter displayed uncommon resolve and a love of the game as a 6-year-old.

“Honestly, I don’t remember being hit with the ball,” Carter said. “I’m sure it happened.”

Carter also plays basketball; he played his sophomore year at Benedictine after being injured as a freshman. He said he plays everywhere and shoots pretty well.

Baseball remains his first love, however.

“It’s quick moving,” Carter said; when it’s mentioned that many criticize baseball for being too slow, Carter amended his statement and noted it can be quick moving. “It keeps me in shape.”

Carter doesn’t limit his labors to the baseball diamond and mound. He also works at the Shell House, doing some cooking and preparing salads. Carter also likes to help out in the community by helping out at school baseball camps. This includes working with youngsters on an individual basis who want to follow him to the mound.

“I know they look up to me,” Carter said.

“It’s teaching the next generation.” n

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Maggie’s

Milk Community Story by Kelly Harley | Photos by Michelle Holloway

On November 17, 2019, six-month-old Maggie Hesling’s life changed forever. In a matter of hours, she lost both her parents and her four-year-old brother. Little did she know that through the tragedy, her support system would only grow. Friends, family, and strangers bonded with Maggie through a special gift, which she will always cherish.

E

mily Burnside remembers sharing her first pregnancy with her best friend, Brittany Hesling. Emily was having a girl, and Brittany’s gender was kept a secret. “We were six weeks apart in pregnancy. Brittany had 10-pound Jack, and she helped me through the first stages of being a mom. She was the absolute best mom.” In 2018, Emily had another baby, and in May 2019, Brittany gave birth to Maggie.

On November 16, 2019, Brittany celebrated her 31st birthday, and she, husband Chris, Jack, and Maggie traveled from their home in St. Marys, Georgia, to Florida to see dolphins.

On their way home, they were hit head-on

by a wrong-way driver on a highway in Gainesville, Florida.

Brittany and Chris were killed instantly, and Jack, who was transported to the hospital, was put on life support, but then taken off and his kidney donated. Maggie

personality. For all of us, especially the brothers and sisters who adored them, they truly were someone to look up to,” said Kim Hesling, Chris’s stepmother.

Brittany and Chris were high school sweethearts who grew up in Effingham County. They stayed together through college and eventually made their home in St. Marys.

Emily and Brittany were born a day apart. They shared everything best friends share, and so when Emily heard the news, she went from grieving best friend mode to mom mode.

She remembered Brittany telling her that she wanted to breastfeed Maggie until her first birthday, but with only a

“This story of milk sharing illustrates that motherhood is a universal bond that knows no boundaries.” miraculously suffered only a few bruises.

“When we got the news, we were all so completely broken. Chris, Brittany and Jack were open, funny, caring and full of

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“Maggie has a total of 77 milk mommies and 81 milk brothers and sisters. Emily says each bag of milk was pumped with love.” little of Brittany’s breastmilk left in the freezer, she had to get creative. “I made a Facebook post about donating breast milk for Maggie, and it went viral. I had so many people reach out to me, and several hundred ounces were donated within a few days,” says Emily.

Then within a few months, 6,000 ounces of milk were donated. Friends, family, and strangers shared their milk.

“After learning that she needed breastmilk, even though I was living in Pennsylvania, I knew I had to help.

I reached out to the breastfeeding support group at Penn State University, and everyone wanted to help. Seven

mothers met me all over the University Park campus to share their milk,” says breastmilk donor Katherine Schneider.

“With the help of an anonymous donor, we shipped 550 ounces of frozen milk to baby Maggie.”

“I have four kids, and baby number four was the first to refuse a breastmilk bottle. I was sad and a little frustrated, but a month later, I heard about Maggie’s need for breastmilk and knew God had a bigger plan. I was honored to donate all of my breastmilk to Maggie to help her get through her first year happy and healthy,” says donor Jeanine Webster.

It Takes a Village It was a community effort. Friends of Chris and Brittany donated deep freezers to store the milk. Numerous people drove milk from places like Atlanta, Jacksonville, Tennessee, and Alabama. Emily and two of Brittany’s other best friends, Amber and Erika, made Brittany’s mom’s home a command station. They raised more than $50,000 in donations to include food, diapers, baby items, and more. “How Emily was able to organize getting milk from all over was nothing short of amazing. I’ve heard the phrase ‘light in the darkest hour’ before, but I never truly understood its full meaning until this,” adds Kim. Maggie has a total of 77 milk mommies and 81 milk brothers and sisters. Emily says each bag of milk was pumped with love, and many moms wrote Bible verses on the bags of milk and included notes of love. “Each time I reached out to one of the milk moms, I told them that I promised if the situation were reversed, Brittany would be helping them, too,” says Emily.

On May 7, 2020, Maggie celebrated her first birthday. She is a happy, healthy baby and a perfect combination of both her mother and her father. Of all the gifts she received that day, the best gift came from her mother. “We had one bag of Brittany’s breast milk left, and we kept it until Maggie’s birthday. Her last cup of breast milk was from her mom,“ says Emily. A true gift from the heart.

“As Maggie grows, I know there will be times that will be hard knowing what she lost that day, but the beautiful things that took place in the aftermath sure will be one amazing story to tell,” says Kim. “When we say prayers with her at night, we always say a prayer for the milk mommas and milk babies and everyone who blessed us and helped us.“ Emily says she will never move on from losing her best friend. Instead, she will move forward and remember the love that came out of all of this. It started with a healthy 6-month baby girl who needed breastmilk. A Facebook post, a few phone calls, and many prayers later, Emily never would have imagined she would have over 650 messages, 325 texts, numerous phone calls, and a promise to Maggie. “There are no words to express the love and gratitude that we have towards Maggie’s Milk Community,” adds Emily.

As one donor mom wrote: “This story of milk sharing illustrates that motherhood is a universal bond that knows no boundaries. Mothers from many towns, cities, states, and countries came together to help another mother fulfill her wish to breastfeed her baby.” n

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DR. MARINA HAGENS JOINS HOWARD FAMILY DENTAL Dr. Marina Hagens has joined Howard Family Dental practice in Rincon, where she will serve patients alongside Dr. Karen Goulden. The practice specializes in general dental care for the whole family and is now open to see patients Monday through Friday.

Dr. Hagens received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Jacksonville before obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix in Europe. She also completed her Executive Master in Finance (MIF) degree from the TIAS School for Business and Society in Tilburg, a city in the Netherlands.

Dr. Hagens went on to graduate with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from both the University of Colorado and UMC Nijmegen in the Netherlands.

“I was inspired to become a dentist by my father who was in the profession as well,” said Dr. Hagens. “Every day I strive to follow in his footsteps by providing an exceptional level of care and education on good oral health habits to my patients, and that is something I will carry into my new role at Howard Family Dental in Rincon.”

Howard Family Dental in Rincon is located at 201 Business Park Drive, Suite 101. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (912) 826-2273 or visit our website at www.HowardFamilyDental.com.

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earn certifications towards employment across a number of professions, gain invaluable on-thejob experience through Work-Based Leaming and internship programs, and participate with real-world applications of science, technology, engineering and math.

A Letter from the ECSD Superintendent

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he Effingham County School District is eagerly preparing for a new and exciting school year despite COVID-19’s efforts to dampen our enthusiasm. This past Spring, our teachers and staff responded quickly to the unforeseen challenges of the pandemic to create effective and resourceful ways to educate students. Additionally, district employees have worked endless hours this summer to revise our educational delivery models to allow for both virtual and traditional learning opportunities. We have also set procedures in place to mitigate the spread of the virus within our school system so families can feel confident that students are learning in a safe and healthy environment.

The Effingham County School District is currently serving approximately 13,000 pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students. Our reputation for quality education in a safe environment guarantees that those numbers will continue to increase each year. Our elementary and middle school students receive strong educational foundations preparing them for high school programs such as Honors and Advanced Placement courses, participation with the STEM Academy, and opportunities for involvement in one of our many career pathways at ECCA. Our students can earn college credit while still in high school,

This year, ECSD families were given the opportunity to choose between two class-setting options: the Traditional Leaming Option and the Virtual Leaming Option. Students enrolled in the traditional option will participate with classes in the conventional brick-and-mortar school setting. In an effort to provide the safest possible environment for students and staff in the traditional setting, extra measures will be enforced to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

These measures include random temperature checks, increased cleaning and disinfection of school buildings, increased availability of hand sanitizer, modified classroom seating arrangements, and social distancing to the greatest extent practicable. Students who participate with the Virtual Leaming Option will take all classes at home in a virtual environment while remaining enrolled in the Effingham County school system. Although the virtual option has been made available specifically for students with medical needs or health conditions, no student has been required to provide a documented medical reason to participate. ECSD has made virtual learning available to all interested families and plans to provide chromebooks to eligible families as well as additional Wi-Fi connectivity in selected areas throughout the community.

Our school system would like to express gratitude to Effingham County citizens for voting to accept the bond referendum at the June 9th election.

These funds will enable us to continue to offer exceptional programs in safe facilities. The ESPLOST funds will support projects including needed additions to several ECSD schools, increased safety measures to protect staff and students, a new elementary and middle school within the next five years, and reduction of traffic congestion during pick up and drop off times.

The citizens have entrusted us with these financial resources, and we are committed to utilizing them responsibly to meet the needs of our growing student population.

It is a privilege for the Effingham County School District to educate the students of our wonderful community, and we are grateful to be a part of the Effingham family. We vow to do all we can to continue earning your trust and support and to offer Effingham’s children the best possible educational experiences.

Sincerely,

Dr. Yancy Ford ECSD Superintendent

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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS with the Principals of Effingham County School District LATOYA JONES, Blandford Elementary As the Principal of Blandford Elementary School, I am looking forward to continuing to serve the BES community. I am a Georgia Southern University graduate, married to Anthony Jones, Asst. Band Director of the Effingham County High School, and we have a 5-year-old son, Trenton.

What are your goals for the school year?

Our goals at BES are to continue to develop good leaders and learners while keeping students comfortable with learning in a safe environment.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

BES is participating in Leader in Me to support the social emotional aspect of learning and leadership. Our students are very excited to continue to work on The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

What’s your favorite summer memory?

My favorite summer memory is when my mother took my brother and I to Disney World and Universal Studios! I am looking forward to continuing to provide that same fun experience to our son, Trenton.

TRAVIS DICKEY, Effingham County Middle School I’m proud to have grown up in Effingham. I went to Rincon Elementary, Effingham Middle (then called Central Junior High), and Effingham High School, graduating in 1991. I went to UGA for undergraduate and Georgia Southern for graduate school.

When I look back on my time as a student, I can think of many teachers whom I adored and who were a major influence on me. And not just teachers, bus drivers, coaches, and administrators too. To give just one example, I remember with fondness my elementary school bus driver, Mrs. Mayola Sanders. Each day as she drove, she smiled and talked to us about being good and kind-hearted. I didn’t think too much of it at the time, but it resonates with me today, because that’s what we all want to be—a positive influence on students.

the curriculum for what we call “literacy block and talent time.” This is a special part of the day where some students get extra reading practice, some get extra writing practice, and others do hands-on enrichment activities. Now, we’re excited about the updates we’ve made--adding a writer’s workshop, tweaking the literacy strategies, vetting reading selections based on student interest, and developing new and interesting activities for enrichment.

What are your goals for the school year?

You might say Mrs. May represents what we hope to accomplish at ECMS. The faculty and staff work extremely hard to be a positive influence. For example, teachers spent the past few months revising

What’s your favorite summer memory?

Spending so much time with my family, my wife Paige Dickey and our two sons and daughter. We’ve had more time to spend together in the past four months than ever, and it’s been a pleasure.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

I’m thankful to be part of such an outstanding faculty, such a terrific learning culture. The staff is dedicated. The students are a joy. The growth that occurs each day is extraordinary. But with 22 years of experience, having worked at a number of different schools, both public and private, I can say without a doubt, ECMS is a really cool place to be, and I’m honored to be a part of it.

CHARLOTTE CONNELLY, Guyton Elementary I graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1995 with my teaching degree, then six years later received a leadership degree from Georgia Southern University. I moved to Effingham County in 1997 and was hired to teach at Guyton Elementary School. During the past 24 years at GES, I have taught Pre-K, worked as Assistant Principal and I am now starting my 10th year as Principal. I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful daughters who support me in my busy career.

relationships with all students and parents by having an open dialogue whether it be in person or virtual.

What are your goals for the school year?

My goal this year is to provide students with a strong foundation of moral and academic excellence through a safe and supportive learning environment especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. I want my staff to continue to develop meaningful

What’s your favorite summer memory?

We own B and E Farm and enjoy showing, selling and raising goats. Our goats are a large part of our lives and I enjoy sharing them with others.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

During these challenging times, I want everyone to know that I feel it is critical we support each other. At GES we will continue to come up with creative ways to help the physical, mental and emotional well-being of our students, staff and parents. This upcoming school year will be like no other we have experienced but together we will be GATOR STRONG!

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MICHELLE CORLESS, Sandhill Elementary This will be my first year as principal after serving as Instructional Supervisor/ Assistant Principal for the last three years at SHES. This is my 26th year as an educator.

I began teaching elementary music at Claxton Elementary and J.D. Dickerson Primary School in Vidalia. I taught first and fourth grades at Rincon Elementary and served as Instructional Supervisor/Assistant Principal before coming to Sand Hill. My Bachelor’s is in Music Education and I have certification in Early Childhood Education. I have a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Georgia Southern University and a Specialist’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Lincoln Memorial University. I completed the Effingham County Aspiring Leaders Program in 2011 and Aspiring Principals Program in 2016.

I have been married for 22 years to my husband John. We have twin boys, Johnathan and Graham, who will attend Georgia Southern University in the fall.

What are your goals for the school year?

My goal is to continue the academic improvements and successes for our students while involving the community in these efforts. This goal is more important than ever in our community and our district. Our motto at Sand Hill is “Together We Can,” and after ending the last school year early due to the pandemic, our new motto is: “Together We are Better!”

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We did not end the last school year as expected but we are very excited to see our students and build strong relationships with them and their families. Our school year may look quite different however, we are going to do our very best to make the “traditional school experience” as close to normal as possible while providing our virtual students with quality instruction that mirrors the traditional school experience. The safety of our students and staff will continue to be our top priority.

What’s your favorite summer memory?

My favorite summer memories involve traveling with my family to Homer, Alaska. During our many travels to this area, we enjoy hiking to glaciers, fishing for halibut and salmon, and whale watching from our family’s boat.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

Although the COVID-19 experience was very unexpected, we learned a great deal about technology and how to present learning in this format. Our teachers and staff rose to the occasion. They were able to make individual connections with students through this virtual format and I believe this experience has forever changed how educators teach and make learning visible.

DR. TORIAN A. WHITE, South Effingham High School I am a proud 1999 South Effingham High School graduate and I am excited to enter my 18th year in education as principal at SEHS. Professionally, I have served as a mathematics teacher, graduation coach and assistant principal at the high school level for the first ten years of my career. I transitioned to the world of middle school as principal for a total of seven years prior to my first year as SEHS principal during the 2019-2020 school year.

My family and I live here in Effingham and we are grateful to spend time with family and friends nearby. I enjoy playing basketball, watching ’90s TV sitcoms and movies, enjoying University of Georgia games, traveling, and relaxing near the water with family and friends.

faculty, and staff are committed to the safety and well-being of our students and staff during this challenging time. I am proud of the plans we have made, and I am confident that our students will continue to be the cooperative, engaged learners in this new situation. We intend for SEHS to continue to be a safe, stellar learning environment. To stay connected to the Mustang Nation, I encourage our community to follow us on Facebook and Twitter, as well as viewing our website for key information and dates. As always, I will continue to share my weekly Mustang Memo newsletter that includes a weekly overview of activities and key announcements. I look forward to the cooperation of our Mustang Nation!

What are your goals for the school year?

Alongside our dedicated team of administrators, teachers, and staff, my chief goal for this year is to re-connect the Mustang Nation. Since we left our building in mid-March, a great deal has taken place individually and collectively within our community, state, and nation. The trauma that has resulted from societal challenges, unexpected unemployment, and other impacts of the pandemic have been invisible to school employees and support professionals. Therefore, now more than ever, we re-open with an emphasis on the power of connection, empathy, and resilience as our students strive forward on their path toward graduation.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

During my life, I have learned that each challenge offers an opportunity to grow if we choose to take that positive perspective. So, we are choosing to embrace this unprecedented situation as a time to support one another, growth through this challenge, and give nothing less than our best each day. I look forward to working with our students, parents, faculty, and staff.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

As it has been outlined by our Superintendent and district leaders, I want our community to know that our administrators,

What was your favorite summer memory?

This year, my favorite summer memory was our time at a summer house rental with family watching movies, relaxing in the pool, playing games, and reading.

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DR. PAIGE DICKEY: “All Children Can Learn” Story by Cindy Reid

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fter a 30-year career in public school education, Rincon Elementary School Principal Dr. Paige Dickey is retiring. Paige and her family have called Rincon home for 25 years. She looks back fondly on her students, her work, and the community of Rincon.

“Rincon and all of Effingham County care about the people who live here,” she says. “I am proud to be part of our communities.”

Paige’s husband, Travis Dickey, is the Principal at Effingham County Middle School and they have four children.

Educational Career Paige earned a master’s degree and an Educational Doctorate from Georgia Southern University. A special education teacher for seven years before becoming a

school administrator at South Effingham High School (Assistant Principal) and Effingham County High School (Assistant Principal), Paige became Principal of Rincon Elementary School in 2006.

As a principal, she says, “Hiring faculty and staff was my favorite thing to do because I believe it is the most important part of the job. You can teach someone how to teach but you can’t teach how to love kids and how to be kind.”

She says the educator positions encompass many areas, but ultimately come down to one thing, “Being a teacher—and school principal—is all about relationships and people. You must genuinely like people. “

Next Step Paige started working part time in real estate three years ago. “I grew up with contractors, builders and realtors throughout my family and I have always thought I would eventually join that business.” She became a member of the prestigious Savannah Area Realtors Distinguished Sales Society her first year.

These days you can find Paige at Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty where she is busy helping people achieve their housing dreams. She says, “Education and real estate are a lot alike. It is all about building relationships and getting to know people.

I love hearing their stories and helping families find exactly what they want.”

The Rincon community thanks Paige Dickey for her many years of devoted service and wishes her well in her next step in life. n

Laura Osborne Chosen as STEM Teacher of the Year for Local AFA Savannah Chapter and for State of Georgia

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aura Osborne, 5th grade teacher at Sand Hill Elementary School in Effingham County, GA, has received two special honors from the Air Force Association. She has been named STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Teacher of the Year for the Savannah Chapter of the Air Force Association (AFA) and also AFA STEM Teacher of the Year for the state of Georgia.

“The Air Force Association believes STEM teachers shape the future of our nation by introducing students to exciting new concepts and offering a glimpse into what is possible,” said Ed Hood, President, Savannah AFA Chapter 137. “Along with grants and scholarships, recognizing those who educate America’s youth is an important aspect of what AFA is all about. The AFA’s

Teacher of the Year program provides an excellent platform for teacher recognition.”

Osborne is involved with many STEM activities to include sponsoring her school’s STEM Club, coaching their award winning Science Olympiad team, and creating project based learning activities to engage her students. “For the past six years, an average of 90 third through fifth grade children have stayed after school once a month to participate in our STEM Club,” said Osborne. “Those projects have included constructing paper airplanes with a discussion of the forces that act upon a plane, building bridges and towers with various materials to understand the engineering design process, using multiples of numbers to create artwork, producing origami to review angles and shapes, and creating student-safe weapons such as marshmallow catapults and crossbows to discover how forces and trajectory affect projectiles. Students are eager to come in each month to find out “What are we doing this month?”

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DR. DEREK SKAGGS, Encompass Academy I am originally from Louisville, KY. I have a B.S. in Computer Information Systems, and M.A. in Special Education, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership with an emphasis on Special Education.

I started my teaching career at Anderson County High School in Lawrenceburg, KY, where I also coached high school football and track. I moved to Beaufort, SC, in 2010 where I helped open up WBECHS. I worked in South Carolina as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, a special education coordinator and a director of special education. In 2019, I accepted a position as a School Improvement Specialist within the Department of K-12 Transformation for the Savannah-Chatham Public Schools System.

What are your goals for the school year?

My goal this year is to enable my staff to provide the best possible educational and functional services to the students and families we serve to help ensure they have the opportunity to reach their maximum potential.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

Our staff will be working diligently to ensure we are providing the best possible supports and services to all of our students in all settings, face-to-face and virtually.

What was your favorite summer memory?

My favorite summer memory from this past summer is spending time with my 5-year-old son hiking and fishing.

LISA WOODS, Springfield Elementary I have lived in Effingham County most of my life and attended Springfield Elementary as a child. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Jim Woods for 35 years and we have two children. Our son, Russ works for an accounting firm. Our daughter, Emily is a dentist in Savannah and is married to Lance Coleman. They live in Springfield.

I teach Sunday School at Springfield United Methodist. I have two dogs and five cats. I absolutely love being the Principal at Springfield Elementary where I have the privilege of working with our amazing students as well as the very best faculty and staff!

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

At SES we will work very hard to ensure that each student’s academic, social and emotional needs are met in a nurturing environment. During the year we will have special events and celebrations and we will try to include parents as much as possible using technology and virtual school visits.

What are your goals for the school year?

The most important goal is to welcome our precious students and faculty back to Springfield Elementary and help them feel safe and happy in their school home. Other goals include supporting teachers as they provide all students with the opportunity to thrive and learn in an engaging, fun and positive environment.

Also, to help teachers promote collaboration, problem solving, creativity and critical thinking through the intentional use of a variety of high impact instructional strategies.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

I was very proud of the way our teachers and staff members quickly met the challenges of going to school virtually. The teachers were outstanding and worked hard to meet the needs of their students and their families. We all learned a great deal about technology, resilience and how much we loved and missed our students! Our teachers, staff, students, and parents proved once again that they are Bulldog Champions!

What’s your favorite summer memory?

I enjoyed going out in the boat and watching the dolphins swim!

I loved when my son and his girlfriend came down for a visit and watching my daughter virtually graduate from dental school with our family!

ANNA BARTON, South Effingham Elementary The upcoming school year marks my 7th year as principal of South Effingham Elementary School. I have been a resident of Effingham County since 2007 and am proud to call Effingham my home!

What are your goals for the school year?

The main goals this year are student and staff safety, student growth and closing gap and social and emotional well-being for all. The school is always in the business of teaching and learning at the highest levels possible.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

The SEES faculty and staff put 100% into everything they do and the new journey that they are embarking on will be no different. More than ever before, we need our community to support our schools, trust in our teachers and administrators, and

most importantly—remember that we are in this TOGETHER for our children!

What’s your favorite summer memory?

Over the summer, I spent time with my family, including my oldest son, David Allen, in St. Petersburg, and I also spent some time with one of my brothers and his family on St. Simon’s Island.

I love the beach! All of my favorite summertime memories include the beach.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

Due to COVID-19, it is inevitable that school will be different this year. It is so important that the school community works together to become stronger than ever even though we may not be able to physically come together as often as we are accustomed to. SEES is committed to providing a safe and positive school environment for children in both the traditional and online settings.

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DANA WRIGHT, Ebenezer Elementary This year will be my second year as the Principal of EES. My husband, Wade Wright teaches and coaches in the county.

Our daughter, Ansleigh will be a senior at ECHS this year. I have been blessed to work at Marlow Elementary, Sand Hill and Ebenezer Elementary Schools in Effingham County. I started my teaching career teaching 4th grade in Liberty County for one year before transferring to Effingham County to teach 2nd grade at Marlow Elementary. When Sand Hill opened in 1995, I transferred to teach 2nd grade there and while at Sand Hill, I taught second grade and Reading Recovery before moving to the Instructional Supervisor (Lead Teacher) position. After 8 years, I transferred to Ebenezer Elementary to be the Assistant Principal, a position I kept for 13 years before starting last year as the Principal. This is my 30th year in education, and I still love it.

I love seeing the kids every day, getting to know them and talking to them when they are at lunch. Helping teachers be successful is the most rewarding part of my job now.

What are your goals for the school year?

Our number one goal this school year is to make sure all of our students, parents and employees are safe. Another goal is to have more communication with our parents on school wide events. I encourage all EES parents to join our PTSO Facebook Page. We communicate through that and we will be sending out

more messages through our call-out system. We also have some lofty goals with our teachers working on research-based teaching strategies that meet students where they are and help them to make greater gains in their reading progress. Teachers also set individual goals.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

I want the community to know that I love working at EES and will always seek ways to improve student progress. We are making many plans for this school year and we will make every effort to make this the best school year possible while making it the safest place. We may have to change a few plans as this year moves on, but all decisions will be made for what is best for students.

What’s your favorite summer memory?

My favorite summer memory this summer is spending time with my family. We did not take a vacation this summer, so we spent a lot of time together watching Netflix and hanging out making memories. I have also taken advantage of the extra time to clean up and cleanout—that makes me feel good.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

The school system has worked extremely hard all summer long to prepare for what we must do for the safety of our students and employees. I am so proud to work for the Effingham County school system.

CHRISTY BROWN, South Effingham Middle School I am proud to serve as the new principal of South Effingham Middle School. I have worked in the Effingham County School District since 2003 serving in various roles including teacher at Marlow Elementary, assistant principal at South Effingham Middle, and principal of Sand Hill Elementary. It is with great honor that I’m back at South Middle where I started my administration career. I believe that all students can learn, given a positive and safe environment in which all stakeholders collaborate together. I’m a dedicated educator, but also a mom and wife. I’ve been married for 16 years and have 3 children that attend Effingham County Schools.

What are your goals for the school year?

South Effingham Middle School’s theme this year is “Growing Into Greatness.” We will focus on the growth of all members of the South Middle family. We understand that in order to be great, we have to continue to reflect on our practices and strive to grow each day. We are also excited to start our second year incorporating school-wide STEAM linking hands-on experiences at Honey Ridge Agricenter with grade level standards. Other major focuses this year will be safety and building strong relationships with our South Effingham families.

our students the opportunity to work hands-on at our campus and at Honey Ridge to solve real world problems. Please join our Facebook page @SouthEffinghamMiddle to learn more information about our school and upcoming events. We look forward to an awesome year!

What’s your favorite summer memory?

My favorite memory is just being on vacation with my family spending time together and relaxing.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

I try to make the best out of every situation, so I just enjoyed spending the extra time with my family during our time at home. I was also very proud of Effingham County for quickly switching to the world of virtual learning to meet the needs of our students. It was great to see such hardworking and dedicated educators.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

Our staff will receive professional development throughout the year to strengthen our STEAM program. STEAM provides

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KIRBI RATNER, Rincon Elementary I wasn’t raised in Effingham County, but I had the opportunity to start a family and begin my teaching career in this incredible community. This decision lead me down a path of endless opportunities.

Indeed, it was the best decision I’ve ever made for my family and my career.

Serving in my 16th year at Rincon Elementary, this school year brings new opportunities for me as the new school principal. What an honor!

I am blown away with the support the students, parents, staff, and BOE offer. It’s going to be an incredible year.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

What an exciting year for RES! We are pleased to announce that we have added an agriculture class, led by Ashley Burns, for our students. I can’t think of a better year for our Bobcats to learn about food and natural resources.

What are your goals for the school year?

Due to the wonderful teachers, support staff, and leaders that have served before me, Rincon Elementary School has a strong history of success. I am committed to continue that tradition of excellence. Every moment counts. Every student matters.

Working alongside my strong administrative team, I am confident that I have the BEST faculty and staff to get the job done.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

Most definitely, the COVID-19 pandemic brings challenges.

As Bobcats, we are ready to tackle the year by spotting new opportunities and pouncing on those possibilities. That’s how gains are made. As always, we will get through this together and better. We are ready for the challenge.

What’s your favorite summer memory?

Summer is a beautiful time to enjoy family. Spending time with my husband and three children on the water brings joy, laughter, and renewed energy to me. It’s the simple things in life that bring beauty.

AMIE DICKERSON, Effingham County High School I have been married to Jamie Dickerson for 27 years. We have a daughter who is a senior at UGA and a son who is 17 and a senior at ECHS. I have had the awesome opportunity to work for Effingham County Board of Education for 24 years and truly love what I do.

What are your goals for the school year?

Goals for the upcoming year include providing a sense of security and safety for our students, faculty and staff, finding ways to link last year to this year both academically and socially and to continue to teach our students adversity and perseverance through the unexpected situations that may arise.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We are planning ways to reach out to our community that will include special homecoming opportunities and businesses to show their support of ECHS and “paint it blue”.

What’s your favorite summer memory?

Relaxing in my pool with family and friends.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

COVID-19 has provided many opportunities for us to excel in areas we did not realize were an option. Our teachers have learned more ways to teach and our students have found different ways to learn. Was it different? Absolutely. But even through a pandemic we will continue to strive to be the best educators supporting the best students.

DR. BRIGID NESMITH, Effingham College & Career Academy This will be my 23rd year in education!

I received my doctorate from Georgia Southern in 2018, and I’m excited to move from principal of SEMS to principal of ECCA. Travis Nesmith and I just celebrated our 20th Anniversary. My son Coleman­is a senior at SEHS dual enrolling at GSU, and my daughter, Kiera, graduated from SEHS in 2019 and attends Piedmont College. She is a student assistant coach for women’s basketball. I also have four dogs.

What are your goals for the school year?

My goal is to build new relationships with staff, students and parents at ECCA. I also want to make the best educational decisions for all students given the pandemic affecting our nation and to create a safe and STEM focused learning environment where all students can be successful!

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

I want the community to know that ECCA is dedicated to the

safety of all students and staff while also creating opportunities for students to grow in their ability to make STEM connections both within the STEM Academy and CTAE classes. We will have a school-wide STEM theme of water this year. Parents can expect for their student to make water connections in all content areas. Water will also be brought into STEM projects that will occur during Instructional Focus time. We will continue to support the STEM efforts of elementary and middle schools in Effingham County.

What’s your favorite summer memory?

My favorite summer memory was renting bikes with my family to ride around the Auburn campus and then having a great lemonade at Toomer’s.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

We have missed students being in the halls and classrooms of our school. We can’t wait for their return! I want parents to know that regardless if they choose virtual or traditional learning, their students will continue to be an important part of our ECCA family! We will get through this together!

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LESLIE DICKERSON, Marlow Elementary This school year marks my 30th year in education and my 5th year as an elementary school principal. I have a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and an Educational Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. My husband, Henry Dickerson, teaches Law and Justice at ECHS after serving in the military for 32 years and 13 years with the Department of Natural Resources. My son, Trent, is a graduate of Ogeechee Technical College and is the Assistant Farm Manager at the Honey Ridge Agricenter. We are a family of educators and have a deep-rooted love for Effingham County and our schools!

What are your goals for the school year?

I have an uncompromising view that all students can learn, given a positive learning atmosphere that welcomes exploration and ways to enhance student confidence. I am excited to have students back in our classrooms and hallways filling them with energy and enthusiasm for learning.

Our accomplishments at Marlow Elementary have been monumental and we will continue to focus on teaching, learning and maintaining the very best environment to make sure that happens.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

Our hope is to get to a point where we get to engage in our traditional community activities at school. We want to assure Mustang Nation that we will work to continue our reputation of providing a stellar environment for students to learn with all safety precautions in place. We ask for the full support of our parents in making sure students are healthy. We ask for grace and patience with the new protocols that are required of the school that will be put into place due to COVID-19. This will ensure that we all remain safe and healthy for all daily tasks.

What was your favorite summer memory?

My favorite event each summer is spending time camping with my family and friends. This allows time for me to relax, rejuvenate and focus on those that make my world complete!

TAMMY JACOBS, Ebenezer Middle School I am a product of the Effingham County School System. I received my BS in Mathematics Education (2001) and my Master’s in Educational Leadership (2005) from Georgia Southern University.

I received my Educational Specialist degree (2018) from Georgia College and State University. I worked as a math teacher at SEHS from 2001-2007, an assistant principal/testing coordinator at SEHS from 2007-2012, the instructional supervisor at SEHS from 2012-2018, and the principal at Ebenezer Middle School from 2018-present.

I have a wonderful, supportive family: My mother, JoAnn Hathaway, who was an educator for over 25 years and is now loving retirement; my sister, Tonja Hathaway, who is one of the hardest working and loving individuals on this planet; my husband, Bryan Jacobs, who is extremely understanding with the demands of my job, and my five-year-old twin boys, Isaac and Asher, who are my greatest accomplishments.

What are your goals for the school year?

There is so much uncertainty in store for this school year; however, one aspect that will remain as always is the fact that

EMS faculty and staff will continue to offer purposeful and meaningful instruction to our students. Our goal each school year is to provide a safe and welcoming environment to our students, to provide timely information to our parents, and to involve our community as much as we can.

What’s happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We are really excited to start a STEM initiative with some of our eighth-grade classes this year. EMS will be asking for input from the community, so stay tuned!

What’s your favorite summer memory?

My favorite summer memory was spending time with my precious family at the beach.

Would you like to add anything about COVID-19?

I would like to commend the students, faculty, and staff at EMS! We are facing unprecedented times for this school year; however, I have complete confidence in the ECSD plan of action, and I appreciate our Board of Education for looking at all avenues and making the decisions that are best for our students, parents, faculty, and staff. n

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Bravesalon.com | Follow Brave Salon on Facebook @brave.aveda.salon 34 August/September 2020 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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Recreation is Back + Sand Hill Complex Improvements Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Michelle Holloway

C

larence E. Morgan, the Director of Effingham County Recreation and Parks Department, is happy to report the recreation department has made a strong comeback.

“In the last 45 years we have gone through a lot,” he says, “but the shut down due to the pandemic was an unprecedented upheaval. But we are getting back. We are not back all the way, but we are definitely getting there.”

Mr. Morgan says, “The shutdown affected many people and it took a lot of effort by the Board of County Commissioners and County Manager Tim Callanan to get things running again. At their July 7th meeting, myself and about 30 or 40 parents greeted the commissioners and Mr. Callanan with a big ‘Thank You’ banner and thank you signs we had made up. We want to

show our support because they don’t get thanked enough!”

“We were able to open the playgrounds and travel baseball team practices May 14, club soccer on May 15 and regular baseball on June 20. Bingo and Line Dancing are up and running and we are registering for fall sports now.” Summer baseball and softball are going well, with 38 (25 Effingham Rec and 13 Rincon Rec) teams in the league playing 175 games. Due to the adjusted schedule, the teams will play until mid to late August.

Mr. Morgan says having the activities back open for the children is vitally important. He says, “What are kids missing not being able to participate? They are missing socialization; they are missing making new friends and they are missing independence in their own world for one hour a day. An important space in their life

is missing. They are missing the education they get from a coach, who could be the one shining star in their life. Kids grow in their own way and they learn something every day by being in sports and other recreational activities.”

“People are ready,” he says, “they are ready to get outside and play. If your heart says let your children play, then follow your heart.”

He acknowledges that “Some folks will take a season off and only parents and their children can make that decision. We look forward to their return when they are ready.”

The department is currently accepting registrations through August 6 for the upcoming Fall Programs: • Youth Football (Ages 5-12) • Cheerleading (Ages 5-11) • Youth Soccer (Ages 2.5-14)

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New EFFINGHAM RECREATION GYM Coming in November/December 2020 Look for more information in the next issue of Effingham Magazine.

Mr. Morgan notes there is a change of age groupings for soccer because they have adopted the GRPA/Georgia Soccer guidelines, making this a transition year.

He says if you have questions or you want to move a child up in age groups just “call the office and we can help.”

And it is not just the children returning: “Coaches are coming back, we had up to 75 soccer teams throughout the 2019 season and they register online, too, so we won’t know for sure just yet, but we think we are in good shape,” says Mr. Morgan. However, he says they are always looking for additional soccer coaches, because “People didn’t play soccer growing up back then so they don’t think they have the expertise but that’s not necessary for the youngest teams— they don’t even keep score until age 8 Youth. We have to beat the bushes to find soccer coaches, but we always get them. If you are interested in coaching look online or call the office and we are happy to help you get started.”

At this time, all activities are being held outside and they haven’t started any indoor activities yet. As for the indoor sports season, Mr. Morgan says, “We will

do our best to have a normal volleyball season. Basketball starts on November 1 and the season is on the drawing board to be back to normal.”

For questions or further information contact: E-mail: recreation@effinghamcounty.org Phone: 912-754-6339 Register online for Fall Programs at www.effinghamrec.org.

Improvements at Sand Hill Complex The Effingham County Recreation and Parks Department Sand Hill Complex (Sand Hill Complex, 300 Stagecoach Avenue, Guyton, GA 31312) has undergone many new improvements over the past few months and is looking better than ever. Mr. Morgan says, “The upgrades were made possible by the encouragement and leadership of the ECBOC and D1 Commissioner Forrest Floyd and the Recreation Board.”

It is large facility that features three soccer fields, five ball fields, a playground, and a pond. There is ample open space for kite and remote control airplane flying, in fact an airplane club has been using it continually since the 1980s. In use 350 days a year it is a popular facility in the

parks department and often hosts district and statewide competitions.

The new improvements include: • New batting cages (2) • New pitching machine • New outdoor basketball court • New soccer field goal posts • New fence around the soccer field • New fence around the playground Mr. Morgan says the improvements were funded by SPLOST, s specialpurpose local-option sales tax used for funding capital outlay projects in Georgia.

It is an optional 1% sales tax levied by any county for the purpose of funding the building of parks, roads, and other public facilities. Mr. Morgan says, “SPLOST is how many of these types of improvements get funded.”

“Many changes have been made at Sand Hill over the years,” says Mr. Morgan. “It was a helicopter pad training area during Vietnam war and was given to the county by the US government in the 1970s. In early 2000 we made major improvements and now again in 2020.

This facility has come a long way and has had a major positive impact on the community.” n

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RINCON POLICE CHIEF JONATHON MURRELL: Dedicated to his Community Story by Katrice Williams

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hief Jonathon Murrell recently became the new Rincon Chief of Police. He stepped up as interim chief on September 11, 2019. Interestingly enough, Chief Murrell, formerly Lieutenant Murrell, had never sought after the role throughout his career in law enforcement. However, with unwavering overall support and a unanimous vote by the city council, the chief graciously and willingly filled the position.

“I never aspired to be the chief of the department; however, it has been a pleasant surprise. Everybody has been completely supportive—those within the police department (PD) and outside of it, including the city manager, the city council and the mayor,” Chief Murrell stated.

In fact, City Manager John Klimm previously reported that “the council likes the chief’s team approach” while Mayor Ken Lee feels that the chief “brought the team together, raised morale and did an exemplary job” as the interim chief.

Chief Murrell began his career with the Rincon PD in May 2010. Prior to obtaining the role of interim chief, he had been serving as lieutenant since January 2019. Before joining the Rincon PD, he was an officer within the Statesboro PD, but he decided that he wanted to serve his own community.

“I enjoyed it, but I wanted to come home to the department in the place where I grew up,” he said.

Though a Beaufort, South Carolina native, Chief Murrell grew up in the local area. The proud husband and father calls Effingham home.

Actually, he comes from a family committed to public service. His dad, in particular, was one of his biggest mentors growing up, as he was an officer within the Beaufort County Police Department.

“I always looked up to him and respected what he did,” Chief Murrrell said.

The chief understands that his community deserves a dedicated department with a true heart for service and community. His team shares that vision.

“We work together as a team; we’re building and maintaining an atmosphere where everybody feels invested in the department. We’re jovial within the department, but when it comes down to business, we’re professional,” he asserted.

The chief knows that having that team approach, along with high morale and stability, is of utmost importance.

Regarding department stability, he feels that trusting and rewarding professional relationships inside and certainly outside the department take time to build. Hence, he is thankful that the department has maintained a low turnover rate for quite some time, as one of the chief’s top priorities is to ensure that the department and community have a positive relationship.

Going forward, the chief has several beneficial goals, including an initiative to incorporate a chaplain’s program within the department.

Chief Murrell is looking ahead to a promising future for the department and the community. He feels that his team is

“going in the right direction.”

“We want the public to feel they can voice their concerns and get a fair response. We want to be an agency that’s approachable by the public.” n

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Local Police Departments Hold

COFFEE WITH COPS Photos by Tonya Perry

Earlier this month, the Rincon, Springfield, and Guyton police held a Coffee with Cops event at Paddles Coffee & Cafe in Springfield.

Coffee with Cops is held throughout the year at different locations to give the community a chance to get to know those who serve and protect us each and every day. This month, Rincon Police Chief Jonathon Murrell , Rincon Police K-9 officer Sgt. J. Hayes, Springfield Police Dept Chief P. Winn, and Guyton Police Chief James Breletic attended the event.

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KICKING DiPG

THE REID CROSBY FOUNDATION Teams up with SOUTH FORK PROVISIONS for the “Second Saturday BBQ Smoke-Out” Fundraiser

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Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Tonya Perry

arah Crosby says, “Our foundation was created in honor of our son Reid who died from DiPG, a rare brain cancer.

When he was sick people helped us, people we didn’t even know, and establishing our foundation has been an opportunity for us to give back.

“After a diagnosis of DiPG, parents are told to go home and make memories with their child. Between medical bills, missed work, traveling expenses, and many other unforeseen costs, most families are left hopelessly wondering how they will be able to deal with it all.

“That is where we come in. We strive to provide aid to help lessen the burden on these families. Through Kicking DiPG, we make a monetary gift, which families can use however they choose. We were truly fortunate, if I can use that word, but we were fortunate to have the support of our family, friends, and community and we are grateful to be able to help others now.”

Jennifer VanGiller from South Fork Provisions said, “Each month we host our 2nd Saturday Smoke-Out, where people can get hot BBQ plates and support a local non-profit. As a part of the BBQ plate sale, we choose a different foundation to help support, and 10% of our sales go to that non-profit. We use this as an opportunity to shine a light on local charities and give back to our community. For July, we chose Kicking DiPG-The Reid Crosby Foundation to help spread the word to our local community on this wonderful non-profit. “ Sarah, who has been the Speech Therapist at Sand Hill Elementary School for the past five years, will be returning to the school system this year as a Speech Interventionist, rotating through four different schools. She says “We are working hard to stay safe and I look forward to seeing all my students.”

LEARN MORE: www.kickingdipg.org www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2020 43

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44 August/September 2020 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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46 August/September 2020 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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How to ACCEPT UNCERTAINTY as we FACE A NEW NORMAL

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s humans, we need fear to keep us aware and stay safe. Your entire goal as a human is to survive. Not knowing what may happen next fills us at best with anxiety and at worst, panic. As we all do our best to navigate the current heightened wave of uncertainty, I would like to offer a few ideas on how embracing uncertainty can improve the quality of your life.

First, I want to emphasize that not knowing is a constant state of human existence. We really do not know much of anything for certain. What I am offering is an opportunity to reframe how you experience uncertainty. If it is going to happen anyway, what can we do to make it a more inviting experience?

1. GRATITUDE. We all have something, most likely many things, for which we can be thankful. Research validates daily gratitude lists can improve your overall quality of life. Make time every day to list at least 5 things for which you can be grateful.

2. INSTEAD OF “FEARING WHAT IF” FOCUS ON HOW YOU WILL HANDLE THE WORST-CASE SCENARIO. Work out a plan, “If this happens, I will do X,Y,Z.” This works for any fears you have. It gives you time to become aware of what you fear and break it down. This exercise will allow you to regain power and perspective.

3. CONNECT WITH A HIGHER PURPOSE. Something that is uplifting, music, singing, your faith. Maybe take up a new cause or support your favorite charitable organization. The new normal has created many new opportunities to be of service.

4. FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE. When you make a mistake, accept that mistakes are inevitable. Be grateful for the opportunity to learn what did not work and keep the parts that did work. We are built to adapt. Seeing the positive will make it less stressful.

5. REFUEL WITH SELFCARE. Get quality sleep, take a walk, do yoga, get some exercise, go outside whenever possible and connect with nature.

6. BREATHE. Breathing is subconscious so happens automatically. Yet we can consciously breathe more deeply. There are many different breathing exercises that can contribute to better sleep, digestion, and overall health. My favorite is conscious breathing exercise.

Simply count each exhale as you breath. Only count the exhales and stop at 5. You may continue this for up to 10 minutes. In order to stay focused and aware keep it broken into sets of 5.

7. CONNECT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. Being lonely can heighten fears, increase anxiety and depression. Reach out with a phone call, texting does not count, meet them to take a walk, facetime or zoom them. We need each other. Even if it must be 6 feet apart. www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mindful-anger/201807/science-provesgratitude-is-key-well-being

Sharon Hathaway is a Certified Health and Life Coach specializing in weight loss, stress reduction and lifestyle changes.

Sharon uses a habit healing method of curated information, empowerment and support to inspire her clients to successfully make lasting changes in their lives.

For more information or to schedule an Individual Discover Session or group event, visit habithealingtransformations.com or email sharon@habithealingtransformations.com.

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Something’s Always Buzzin’ at The Hive Repertory Theatre Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Tonya Perry

T

he Hive Repertory Theatre is an educational theatre located in Rincon, Georgia, serving the Effingham county community. Since opening in March 2019, The Hive has been busy producing children’s theatre, dramatic plays, musical theatre, revues, as well as theatre camps and theatre classes. Founder and Managing Director Lisa Wood is a certified performing arts teacher who is dedicated to enhancing the theatre arts scene in our area.

Lisa grew up in Effingham County and has an extensive background in the performing arts. A graduate of Effingham County High School (Class of 2002), Lisa says, “I have been involved with theatre for a long, long time.

I did a lot of theatre at ECHS as well as community theatre, and then went on to study performing arts in college.”

After earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre from Jacksonville University and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of North Florida, Lisa decided to open The Hive in Effingham County.

show and keep working on them until we know for sure when we will be open for performances at any given time,” says Lisa. As it stands now this is the slate of upcoming shows: • Pygmalion • Writers Runaround • Alice in Wonderland • A Christmas show to be announced.

Tinkerbell, which had been postponed due to Covid-19 was performed in mid-July and the “Just Disney” and “Just Broadway” summer camps have been completed.

A New Starring Role: Teacher This fall, Lisa is starting a new position as the Theater & Chorus teacher at South Effingham High School. No stranger to academics, she has been teaching theatre for 15 years, most recently at Oglethorpe Charter School. She says being involved with performing arts is beneficial for all students, even the ones that think they won’t like it.

“My favorite student is the one who doesn’t like theatre, because they are a challenge. I love to see that light they get when they ‘get it.’ I never worry if they are going to like it because I know at some point, they are going to love it!”

www.thehiverep.com

(912)433-5902

Lisa says students are told what to do all day but theatre, marching band, other performing arts gives kids back ownership of their time. “It’s so important to kids and to me to be a part of bringing it to them.”

102 International Dr. “I wanted to create an Rincon, GA 31326 opportunity for both children and For children being homeschooled, Lisa offers adults to participate in community theatre classes privately through The Hive. theatre because there was not a lot here and I love helping people find an outlet to perform,” Family Fun she says.

The Wood family resides in Rincon, and Lisa says her husband The Hive is a resource for the whole community, says Kyle Wood, “is absolutely my biggest supporter !” They have Lisa. “At The Hive, we work with people of all ages, from two daughters, Cadence, 16, and Lillian, 11, who love performing PreK to their late 70s. We have opportunities for every on stage, being backstage and helping out at The Hive in every single person because our shows run the gamut from department. Lisa says, “This spring the girls helped for weeks straight drama to musicals and everything in between.” building sets and doing lots of work at the theatre.”

In addition to acting classes, they have classes for In their free time, the family enjoys being outside, and this “behind the scenes” interests such as costumes, year they started camping. As Lisa says “We ran away and theatre tech, set building and stage craft. went camping. We loved it!”

No stranger to performing, Lisa steps into roles if needed, in fact she recently played Capt. Hook in Tinkerbell because the actor who was originally cast moved out of the area. Lisa says, “I can sing, act, direct, do costumes, set design and dance—but I am not a great dancer!”

Upcoming Events at the Hive “All show dates are tentative due to the pandemic, so we will continue to greenlight every

Why Theatre?

The arts are important because “you can learn all subjects from the arts—from math, science and literature to the human values including empathy.”

Lisa adds: “The arts bring our community together, they give ownership, they make you feel a part of things. But the most important thing the arts do is make people happy!”

There's always something buzzing at The Hive!

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Please thank these advertisers for contributing to our community and making this publication possible. If you want to be part of this list, email Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com or call 912.295.5406.

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(912) 754-7460 | EffinghamVWAP.org 50 August/September 2020 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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