Effingham Magazine's 2022 Annual Veterans/First Responder issue by JDelSUR Marketing Group

VETERANS/FIRST RESPONDER ISSUE

Sonic® Salutes Effingham’s Veterans and First Responders

August/September 2022

IN THIS ISSUE

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2022

Features

Tracy Yardley! Catch up with the visual storyteller of Sonic the Hedgehog (and more)

Darrell Dasher

Smalls Funeral Home: Family Serving Families

Giving back to his community every day

Effingham’s oldest African American-owned business has a legacy of community leadership

18 ABOUT THE COVER Rincon resident Tracy Yardley!, visual storyteller of Sonic the Hedgehog, created an original cover saluting Effingham’s veterans and first responders. Sonic the Hedgehog is the property of Sega.

Saya Watson Local second grade student took top title for her age group in National American Miss Georgia pageant

Port Wentworth Fire Department: Meeting the Demands of a Thriving Community

Duty, Honor and a Love for Humanity Effingham surgeons give back in Ukraine

Fitness, Fellowship and Faith of Effingham

The Sound of Freedom

Iron sharpens iron in local men’s group

For those who live in close proximity to several military installations, the booms we hear are the sounds of freedom

Habitat for Humanity

Empire Gym

The Art of William O. Golding at Telfair Museum

Home ownership changes lives

Couple builds a fitness empire for Rincon

Artist and navy veteran William O Golding captured a changing maritime world

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

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Melissa McBride Stille of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC

Melissa McBride Stille Works for Clients—Not the Insurance Company!

Are you turning 65 and need help navigating through your options?

Are you turning 65 and thinking about retirement and don’t know what to do? “Many people are trying to decide if they should retire and how that would impact their health insurance.” says independent insurance agent Melissa McBride Stille, “If someone is 65 years old and wants to stop working, knowing their health care options ahead of that decision is crucial because there are far reaching consequences.” Melissa has been in the health insurance industry for 14 years and is the sole proprietor of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage. She says, “DeWitt Insurance Agency has been in business since 1956. When I purchased the agency’s health department, I incorporated it into my agency name to keep the continuity within the community.” As a health insurance broker specializing in Medicare, she is dedicated to presenting her clients with the best health care options available. She says at age 65 most people need to think about the pros and cons of Medicare options or continuing insurance through their employer. Don’t stress over the paperwork she says, “All you need is to bring me is yourself and your current group benefits. Don’t depend on your Human Resources department to help you because they are not insurance specialists. We can do a three way call between yourself, your HR dept and me so I can thoroughly assess your situation. Together we will optimize your benefits while tailoring them to your needs.” Melissa can also facilitate your Medicare application with the Social Security office. “There are many factors, particularly with Medicare Part B.” Some scenarios involve penalties but they may not apply to you, that’s why working with a Medicare specialist is critical to obtaining the best outcome. Each client presents individual issues. You may have a spouse who is dependent on your benefits and too young for Medicare. Melissa will help you compare the cost of staying at your current position and using your employer benefits plan, versus retiring and having your spouse obtain health insurance through the marketplace. Perhaps your spouse has a chronic illness or is in an assisted living facility—these are important factors in your decision. Step By Step Process • Is Medicare Primary or Secondary • Open enrollment periods • Deductibles vs out of pocket • Spousal Considerations • All income levels need expert guidance Melissa also works with Medicare recipients under 65, including those who have Medicare through Social Security Disability and with people using Affordable Care Act Marketplace insurance, and some group insurances. “I care about each and every client and do a review of everyone’s health policies every year because there are so many changes annually,” she says. “I like to simplify things and present you with your best options.” She gives every client her cell number—it’s in all of her advertising so that every client, even future clients, can feel comfortable reaching out to her. She says, “I work for my clients, not the insurance company.” If you have a question regarding Medicare or other health insurance options, give Melissa a call!

Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC Cell (912) 239-7119 | www.StilleYourAgent.com Melissa@StilleYourAgent.com | 5877 Hwy 21 South, Rincon

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Thank You

Members of our MILITARY, VETERANS, and FIRST RESPONDERS have worked and sacrificed so much for our community and our country. Effingham Magazine is proud to tell their stories on the following pages and to feature businesses and services that support them.

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22Businesses Businesses1 1Owner Owner 2 Businesses 1 Owner 2 2 Businesses Businesses 11 Owner Owner

More Than Pest Control Darrell Dasher

Branch Manager, Rincon Office

SERVING COMMUNITY SERVINGTHE THELOCAL LOCAL COMMUNITY SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AVANTI AVANTI SPORTHORSES SERVING THE SPORTHORSES LOCAL COMMUNITY

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.

AVANTISPORTHORSES SPORTHORSES AVANTI AVANTI SPORTHORSES

vanti vanti Serving The vanti vanti vanti Local Community

HORSE HORSE HORSE RIDING RIDING RIDING HORSE LESSONS S P O R T H O R S E S LESSONS LESSONS RIDING HORSE S PS OP R T H O R S E S BOARDING O R T H O R S E S BOARDING BOARDING LESSONS RIDING TRAINING S P O R T H O R S E S 734-649-8069 TRAINING TRAINING 734-649-8069 734-649-8069 BOARDING LESSONS S P 1768 O R T HPLEASANT O R S E S ACRES RD GUYTON,TRAINING GA BOARDING 1768PLEASANT PLEASANT ACRES RD GA 734-649-8069 1768 ACRES RD GUYTON, GUYTON, GA 734-649-8069 1768 PLEASANT ACRES RD GUYTON,TRAINING GA Jessica MacDonald Real Estate Group 1768 PLEASANT ACRES RD GUYTON, GA Jessica MacDonald Real Estate Group Jessica MacDonald Real Estate Group REALTORS ACHIEVING YOUR HOME GOALS REALTORS ACHIEVING YOUR HOME GOALS REALTORS ACHIEVING YOUR HOME GOALS R E A LR EE AS LT AE TS ET A T E Jessica MacDonald Real Estate Group REAL ESTATE REALTORS ACHIEVING YOUR HOME GOALS Jessica MacDonald: 717-649-2169 Jessica MacDonald Real Estate Group REAL ESTATE REALTORS ACHIEVING YOUR HOME GOALS Sharon Owens: 912-580-7730 REAL ESTATE

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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.

717-649-2169 717-649-2169 717-649-2169 912-756-5888 912-756-5888 912-756-5888 717-649-2169 www.JessicaMacDonaldGroup.com www.JessicaMacDonaldGroup.com 912-756-5888 www.JessicaMacDonaldGroup.com LiveRichmondHill@gmail.com 717-649-2169 LiveRichmondHill@gmail.com

LiveRichmondHill@gmail.com www.JessicaMacDonaldGroup.com 17 Richard Davis Drive Richmond 31324 17 Richard Davis Drive Richmond Hill,Hill, GAGA 31324 912-756-5888 17 Richard Davis Drive Richmond Hill, GA 31324 LiveRichmondHill@gmail.com www.JessicaMacDonaldGroup.com 17 Richard Davis Drive Richmond Hill, GA 31324 LiveRichmondHill@gmail.com 17 Richard Davis Drive Richmond Hill, GA 31324

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CONTRIBUTORS 1. Leidi Lester (with Railyard Media) 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Lexi Rockwell has lived in Savannah her whole life and graduated from Point University in 2019 with a degree in Business and Social Media Marketing. She has been an award-winning professional photographer for ten years—but her favorite thing to do is shoot video projects throughout the Savannah area.

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.

9. Mabel, morale officer, enjoys roaming the backyard at home, sitting for hours on the back porch and coming to the office to greet visitors and encourage the staff. Mabel loves getting treats and taking long naps in her mommy’s office in the afternoons.

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Jan Southern, DPA CEO/Publisher

Penny Redmond Distribution

Christie Wilson Account Executive

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

VETERANS/FIRST RESPONDER ISSUE PUBLISHER Jan Southern Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com 912-318-8645 CLIENT SERVICES Christie Wilson, Account Executive Christie@JDelSURMarketing.com DESIGN Laura Zielinski DISTRIBUTION Penny Redmond

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

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.

Now and always, we recognize and appreciate the incredible work of our military, the sacrifice our veterans have made, and the continued efforts of our community first responders. We celebrate them all in this issue of Effingham Magazine. Our community is better because of the men and women we salute in this issue. And what a fun way to salute them by having Sonic the Hedgehog® on the cover, illustrated by Effingham’s very own Tracy Yardley!

Jan Southern

In this issue, you can read about Dr. John Wesley Odom and his trip to the war zone in Ukraine to provide medical relief. We get to learn more about the Port Wentworth Fire Department, the group of men that share a passion for fitness and faith in Effingham in F3 Group, a brand new and unique gym coming to Rincon—Empire Gym, and Darrell Dasher from Yates Astro who spends his free time giving back to his community. We also get to read about Effingham’s oldest African American owned business—Smalls Funeral Home—a legacy of leadership in the community. And if you’ve ever wondered what all those booms are in the middle of the night around here, we have those answers for you in “The Sound of Freedom” on page 42. This issue is packed with the stories of inspiring people and organizations that make me so proud of our community. I hope you enjoy reading each page just as much as we enjoyed creating them for you.

CEO/Publisher Effingham Magazine

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.

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incon resident and comic book artist Tracy Yardley! was featured in Effingham Magazine back in 2016, but we thought it was time to check in and see what he was up to these days. Wow—has he been busy! Tracy has continued as an important contributing artist with IDW Publishing’s Sonic the Hedgehog comic book series, and he has also been drawing several new and exciting comic books. Tracy and Sonic have been hard at work. One big project was Sonic the Hedgehog 2: The Official Movie Pre-Quill, a oneshot comic book special published by IDW Publishing as a collection of five prequel stories to the 2022 film Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Tracy did ten pages of art work for it and it has been extremely well received. He was happily surprised to see it included with the Sonic movie DVD set at Walmart recently! Tracy also drew the cover for the Sonic the Hedgehog 30th Anniversary /Free Comic Book Day 2021, IDW Publishing, commemorating Sonic’s 30th Anniversary. The cover was also one of the many unlockable bonus illustrations in the June 2022 video game, Sonic Origins, which was just released on all major game consoles. Finding His Way “I really didn’t read many comics as a kid, “says Tracy, “but I was into animation. I liked Ducktales, Transformers, really anything on TV.” The Lord of the Rings book series and Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books were also his big favorites. From South Illinois originally, Tracy came to Savannah to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), which he chose for their comic book and graphic novel art programs. After graduation he worked on several independent comics and was taking one around to the conventions. His association with the Sonic franchise was born at one of these appearances. “At one convention, an acquaintance from SCAD saw me sketching Sonic in my

notebook,” he says. “He knew someone who was looking for new Sonic artists and gave me a number to call, which I did. They asked for samples of my work, which I sent, and after that they gave me a chance.” Tracy’s Sonic Debut Tracy’s debut issue was Archie Comics Sonic the Hedgehog #160, in 2006. “You don’t get hired with resumes or interviews. You get a job because you draw in advance, then you meet other people and show people in the industry proof that you are good and somewhere along the way someone will remember you and call.” Sonic the Hedgehog comic books were originally based on SEGA's video game character Sonic the Hedgehog. Tracy was a Sonic fan long before being hired by Archie Comics. In fact, the reason he professionally spells his name with an exclamation mark is a tribute to Scott Shaw! one of the first artists who worked on Archie Comics Sonic the Hedgehog, who does the same. Tracy has been a regular artist and occasional writer for the Sonic comic series and its various spin-offs, at both Archie Comics (2006 – 2017) and IDW Publishing,

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TRACY YARDLEY! VISUAL STORYTELLER OF SONIC THE HEDGEHOG (AND MORE) Story by Cindy Reid | Photography by K&R Studios

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(2018 - present). He did two issues of Sonic last year, #42 and #44, and just last month he drew three covers for IDW Publishing. At this point “Drawing Sonic is mostly second nature. It varies year to year, who you are working with, which is interesting,” he says. “The movie book was a little different. I had to simplify and get their likeness from the movie, and the real world scenes were an interesting challenge. I think it turned out pretty well.”

addition to Sonic the Hedgehog, he has produced art for other comic series, including: • Cosmo the Mighty Martian, Archie Comics • Hero Cats of Stellar City, Action Lab Entertainment • Riding Shotgun, Tokyopop • Felix the Cat, Source Point Press In addition to comic book art, Tracy also takes commissions (which are closed at the moment) from individuals looking to have a drawing made of a character they created. He says he would like to branch out to storyboarding for animation however it is very competitive, and he is grateful to continue to be working in the comic industry.

The Art of Creating Comic Books A new comic book starts out as a written script without pictures. Tracy says the process is an assembly line. “Comics go from the editor to the writer to Advice for Aspiring Comic Artists the penciller, which is me. Pencillers “I tell kids the basics never change. Learn interpret the story visually, which then to draw things. Get a sketchbook and draw, I tell kids the basics never goes to inkers. After the inker, the page fill three to five pages every day. A comic goes to the letterer who adds in the change. Learn to draw things. might have a diner, or a tree or something dialogue. The colorist is last. The process sci-fi, you never know what you will have Get a sketchbook and draw. is mostly done digitally, which brings to draw. Basics, that’s the point of the speed and convenience.” sketchbook, the foundational ability to “I print out the script and create a draw specific things.” thumbnail sketch, starting on page one, Tracing is also a perfectly legitimate way to learn drawing panel one. I need room to draw, and I also need to think about because “it trains muscle memory to draw smooth lines, and dialogue. Just to get started I draw this part ‘sloppily’ at first.” then you can add in your own style.” Tracy says the goal is to “Pump out a book as fast as you can. Tracy says, “My advice is to have a lot of work ready to show. Turnaround, working on a monthly book, is less than a month You have to put in the work and put yourself out there. Not because they need time to make corrections.” everyone is willing to do it. You have to be self-motivated. “ They work three to six months ahead of production time, And that includes having the discipline to work from home. which is six months to a year ahead of publication. He says it’s Tracy’s wife Megan is a full time Special Education teacher, and important to know when a drawing is finished and not belabor they have five children and an elder aunt who lives with them. it, as others are waiting for the drawing so they can do their “We got married very shortly after I got the job and had a part. “Finished is not perfect, but more importantly it’s done.” family right away. The first ten years I would work by staying One of Tracy’s first original comics was Nate and Steve, and in

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up at night. I was caregiving our kids, cooking, and cleaning during the day. I used to work in the bedroom, at night after the kids went to bed. I slept two to four hours a day. Then I created a personal zone by cutting a desk in half and putting it in a walk-in closet. After 11 years in our house, my wife and I finally have an office.” Still a Video Game Fan Not surprisingly, Tracy likes to play video games. “One big reason I drew Sonic originally was because I like the Sonic games,” he says, “I like games with stories, goals to achieve and puzzles to solve as well as simple arcade games. I like more old school games than my kids play.” Tracy says he has collected a few Sonic items over the years, but he primarily collects video games. He has more than 300 Nintendo Switch games and more than 100 PS4 games, both digital and physical. A Blessed Family For family fun, they took a trip to Orlando this summer. He says, “We went to Disneyworld recently and we had a blast! Our kids are from high school age to ten years old, so it was perfect. A highlight was the Galaxy Guardians, it was actually a roller coaster, and it was amazing. A really great family vacation.” He says he is fortunate to be where he is because it takes a lot of work and a lot of luck. “I have been able to work in comics for a long time and make a living from it. I have gotten to see my kids more throughout their entire lives more than most parents because I work from home. I am glad I have been able to be there and be a big help to my wife. Things have worked out for us. I have faith. I believe in Jesus Christ, and I believe God has provided much of what we have. We are blessed.” n www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 15

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DARRELL DASHER: GIVING BACK EVERY DAY The old saying, “If you need something For 20 years he has been officiating youth with fundraising for the Shriners Hospital done ask a busy person” must have been basketball, baseball, and football. Being for Children. thought up for Darrell Dasher, because he an official is a huge time commitment, he He is also a member of Clyo Lodge #280, is extremely busy and he gets a lot done! would be at games four or five times a week, the “Oldest Existing Chartered Lodge of In addition to a demanding job, he finds and at tournaments they could sometimes Freemasons in Effingham County.” Their the time to officiate at three different youth have ten games in one weekend. He says he fundraisers help support the Masonic sports and be active in numerous civic and “likes interacting with the kids and doing Home of Georgia, a residential child care community spirited organizations. something positive for them.” facility that provides care to children in His roots in Georgia run need. They host an annual deep. Born and raised in golf tournament, raffles, yard Sand Hill, he still lives about sales, and the popular BBQ one hundred yards from the butt sale. Jump in and get involved ... You’ll meet all kinds of house he grew up in. Darrell When he’s not officiating, at great people and give back to your community. served in the U.S. Army for a meeting or helping out with four years, in fact he says, a community project, Darrell “It’s the only time I have lived can usually be on the water or away from home,” and he attributes his Unfortunately, he is currently out for six on the greens. service to his country with installing a “lot months with back surgery, but he looks “I like fishing, boating, golfing. I play a of discipline.” forward to getting back to it as soon as lot of golf and I like being outdoors.” Many people know him as the Rincon possible. Acknowledging he is a busy man he Branch Manager at Yates-Astro Termite & Darrell is a member of the Rotary Club says he keeps his calendar by memory and Pest Control, a company he’s been with for of Effingham County, the Effingham says, “I do enjoy it all even if it gets to be a 21 years. “I love it, “says Darrell, “I really County Chamber of Commerce, and handful.” like all the relationships I’ve made with the several local business networks. He is For those looking to follow his lead and people in the community, and I honestly also a board member of the Ebenezer help out in their community his advice enjoy taking care of our customers.” Boys Home, just one of many children’s is to “jump in and get involved, join the One way Darrell gives back is through charities he helps support. As a member Rotary, join the Chamber of Commerce. sports officiating. “I used to play softball but of the Effingham Shrine Club and the Alee You’ll meet all kinds of great people and then I got older and wanted to stay involved Pirates—a Shriner unit operating under the give back to your community. Just do itand give back, so I started officiating.” Alee Shrine in Savannah—he is involved you’ll be glad you did.”

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SMALLS FUNERAL HOME: FAMILY SERVING FAMILIES Story by Cindy Reid | Photography by Lexi Rockwell

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lack owned and operated funeral he saw an opportunity to fulfill a need in “During that time, Mr. Smalls was the homes have a rich heritage and Guyton. Continuously open since 1947, community babysitter, because working are as much cultural institutions they continue to “help families celebrate from his home meant he could watch out as they are businesses. African American life with dignity and respect…and for everyone,” Garvin says. Mr. Smalls entrepreneurs in this field were brought understand that each family is unique and spent a lot of time with Garvin, as he into the middle and upper classes where has personal requests and traditions.” did with many area children, eventually they often became leadership figures in Even after a fire almost destroyed the teaching him the funeral home business. their communities, providing care and business in 1995, Smalls Funeral Home As a young man Garvin thought he dignity to the deceased, and are often a base stayed open and served the community would do “the usual—get a decent job and of operation within a neighborhood. work there until I retired.” In 2016, the annual revenue of He did work at Georgia Pacific for the U.S. funeral industry amounted 30 years before retiring, but he also Mr. Smalls got me here doing the funeral to about $14.2 billion; this being ended up owning a funeral home, business. I didn’t see the rest coming but generated from 15,818 funeral serving in the military and being homes, as well as crematoriums, active in politics, including terms as I am glad I went down this road... cemeteries, and industry suppliers. Mayor of Guyton. Garvin says his six Approximately 1,200 of these years in the United States Marine funeral homes are familyCorps Reserves taught him strict owned African American independent with the help of local churches and discipline, and he highly recommends businesses. (https://blogs.loc.gov/inside_ businesses. Mr. Smalls’ protégé and every young person be required to serve a adams/2021/02/african-americansuccessor Michael Garvin rebuilt the year in the armed forces in one branch or funeral-homes) funeral home and—under his direction—it another for that reason. Smalls Funeral Home is Effingham remains a vital hub for the community in When asked what kept him invested in County’s oldest African American owned new and traditional ways, ever evolving to Guyton all these years, he says “I came business, opened by Samuel Smalls, Sr. the needs of today’s world while honoring out of the deep country so to me Guyton in 1947. Now going into their 75th year, their significant historical roots. was a city. I was ‘sticking my stick in Small’s Funeral Home serves Effingham, the ground and this is it.’ Mr. Smalls got CEO/Owner Michael Garvin Bryan, Bulloch, and the surrounding me here doing the funeral business. I The youngest of nine children, Garvin counties. didn’t see the rest coming but I am glad was born in rural Evans County, and Mr. Smalls learned his trade at a I went down this road, following other moved to Guyton when he was ten years Savannah funeral home that he left when community leaders.” old. It was a move that changed his life.

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Pillar of the Community He says lately he has seen some good growing. I was raised up on a farm, so I Garvin reports Smalls Funeral Home things happening in the community such get back to it for peace, plants, and cows. I continues to thrive. “We are definitely as roads being upgraded and city facilities just look at it.” still in business. We are the oldest African being used. Projects started during his He says he enjoys his busy life and has American-owned business in Effingham tenure as mayor, such as the pharmacy no plans to become a full time farmer. “It’s County and may also be the oldest and medical center, “are still thriving and one thing to visit,” he says, “it’s a different continuously operated African American keeping Guyton on the map,” he says. thing to make it a job. “ owned business in the state,” he says. He would like to see Guyton continue to Gavin enjoys being able to help people. “Smalls Funeral Home has been have controlled growth while retaining its “It’s always been satisfying to make a important to many people over the historic presence and look. difference in somebody’s life, to be able to years. As I look at it, it’s been a pillar for “We have to juggle between the two be a blessing. I am glad I went this way in Effingham as a whole. Not only do families concepts. Some don’t want any growth life and can see what I did to inspire other come in grief and in their time of need, but then we will surely die. I would like to folks, but my only hero is Christ Jesus. but they also come to us for all That’s who I look up to.” sorts of practical reasons, to get Smalls Funeral home is assistance in how to do things.” located at 203 Samuel Smalls Sr It’s always been satisfying to make a difference Garvin says people come to Ave, Guyton, on a road renamed them for various reasons, such in honor of Mr. Smalls and his in somebody’s life, to be able to be a blessing. as trying to find loved ones, for many contributions to Guyton, voting and political information, Effingham County, and the state or for help in obtaining cars and of Georgia. The funeral home auto insurance. He says “Smalls Funeral see restaurants, doctors, lawyers, all these is as vital today as it has always been Home has always been a focus point. businesses come to town, because they because they truly embody their motto of People came to Mr. Smalls because he attract more folks. If we don’t grow as a town “Family Helping Families.” had legit information; he knew how to get and as a community, we won’t survive.” Garvin says, “You can call on us, and not things done. We have just carried on.” “Today I probably help more grown just in funeral need. We get calls to loan folks than kids, “says Garvin, but he out chairs, our tents, to host banquets, to Guyton Growth would like to see the town engage with the help seniors. We do it all. Smalls Funeral As measure of his community stature, local youth in a positive way. “They need Home is here for you.” As it has been for Smalls was elected to the city council more to do in the summer. We’ve talked the last 75 years, a beacon of light for the and served as mayor pro tem in Guyton. about bringing a community pool, or community. n Continuing the tradition, Garvin has been water park, where kids could go and cool active in politics and has served multiple down. And we have talked about opening terms as mayor as well. the gym in the summer but it got pushed Today he says “Politics are on the back to the side so it might be time to reopen burner, but you just don’t lose all interest that discussion.” in something that you’ve been involved (912) 772-3400 or 912-772-3499 with for many years. I am still concerned Many Blessings www.smallsfuneralhome.com for the community but it’s important to To relax Gavin says “I go out to my 203 Samuel Smalls Sr. Ave, Guyton give room to new people.” farm, and I look at the cows and things

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Q&A With Saya Saya is a pro at the interview competition, so we asked Saya a few questions much like the ones she’s asked by the judges. What is your favorite thing about pageants? My favorite thing about pageants is making new friends. Most of my best friends are from pageants and we always have so much fun. I also love dressing as a princess. What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to be a police officer when I grow up because I want to catch bad guys, help people in need and eat donuts! What’s your favorite color? Pink What’s your favorite food? Daddy’s chicken tacos What’s your favorite animal? Unikitty What’s your favorite movie? Inside Out What’s your favorite book? Kitty’s Magic What’s your favorite subject? Art

Saya Watson Takes Home Top Title at National American Miss Georgia Pageant

aya Mccaa Watson recently competed in the National American Miss Georgia pageant and took home the top title for her age group, National American Miss Princess. She will represent Georgia in the national pageant in Orlando this November, where she will have the opportunity to win scholarship money and other exciting prizes. Saya is the daughter of Gabriel and Katie Watson. She attends Rincon Elementary School, where she will be in second grade. Saya got started in pageants at age 2 after seeing her older sister competing in one. Since then, she’s been going strong, competing in multiple pageants each year. This is her second year competing in the National American Miss Georgia pageant. Last year, she was the first runner-up, so she was motivated to try again this year, and her hard work paid off because she went home with the top honor. Saya competed in four categories: formal wear, personal introduction, interview and a community service project. During the formal wear portion, she showed off a formal dress and was escorted onto the stage by her dad. She then gave a 30

second speech where she introduced herself, her hometown and told the audience a fun fact about herself. The interview portion is a closed competition. She met one-onone with judges who asked her open-ended questions about her interests and goals. The community service project is a collaborative effort among the contestants. Before the pageant, each contestant brings a children’s book or school supplies to donate to a library, school or shelter. The donations are then presented by the state queens. Saya engages with the community through her platform, Saya’s Smiles, where she delivers encouraging cards and snacks for first responders to thank them for all that they do. She hopes to expand Saya’s Smiles by visiting nursing homes, hospitals and other places where people need a smile. When she’s not doing pageants, Saya loves doing arts and crafts and cheering with the Rincon Recreation Center. If you’d like to cheer Saya on as she competes in the national pageant, follow her on Instagram at @thenamgaprincess. www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 27

PORT WENTWORTH FIRE DEPARTMENT Meeting the Demands of a Thriving Community

n 2021, the Port Wentworth Fire “I put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into roads of Highway 21 and Interstate 95 Department answered 1976 calls from it and [I’m pleased] to see it become the falling in their jurisdiction, the Port across the community, a 17 percent department that I envisioned years ago,” Wentworth Fire Department has a lot of increase over the previous year. They are Moore said. ground to cover. a small but mighty team—30 full-time Among the notable calls that they have Keeping Up with Port Wentworth’s firefighters, six part-time firefighters, responded to in the past include the C-130 Growth a training lieutenant, a captain and an crash in 2018. Because of the scale of that In Chief Moore’s tenure, he led the administrative assistant—that works event, they collaborated with departments department to receive an improved across two stations in the city limits. from surrounding areas as well. Insurance Services Office (ISO) They are led by Chief of Fire Operations “With the explosive growth of the city, Lance Moore, who has been trying to keep this department up working with the fire department with demand and growing at an since 2009 and has been the chief equal pace with the city has been a They are a small but mighty team that since 2016. He has witnessed challenge,” Moore said. “It’s a lot firsthand the city’s rapid growth of work, but it’s fun.” works across two stations in the city limits and, with it, the growth of the Future goals include improving department. equipment and training programs “When I started, we had one and hiring more staff to handle score. This shows how prepared a fire person on each truck and ran two trucks the city’s growing population. They also department is in the event of a fire per shift. Now we’re up to 10 people per hope to build a new station north of emergency and encompasses equipment, shift,” Moore said. “We’re growing and Interstate 95 to accommodate the growth training, water supply, call response making things happen.” in that area. times and more. An ISO score is given Moore came to the Port Wentworth “[A new station] will greatly enhance our by the Insurance Services Office, and the Fire Department after working with a ability to serve the public,” Moore said. lower the number the better. In 2020, department in Massachusetts. Firefighting “We need a facility up there to continue to was a career change for him, spurred by an the department received a score of 3, an do our job efficiently.” improvement from the 5 that they had in aspiration to help others. At any given time, there are 10 firefighters previous years. Homeowners insurance “Helping the department grow and go in on a shift between the two stations, working the right direction is what gets me up every companies use this score when they are 24 hours on, 48 hours off. determining rates, and a better score can day,” Moore said. The duties of the fire department translate to lower insurance premiums for extend far beyond putting out fires. All the He followed his family to Port Wentworth everyone in the area. for a change of weather and scenery. He department’s vehicles and equipment are Port Wentworth is home to a wide started at Port Wentworth Fire Department inspected daily to ensure that they are in variety of residential and commercial as a volunteer firefighter in 2009 and was working order. They also train businesses development. With the especially busy hired full-time a few months later. and civilians on proper fire extinguisher

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use, service more than 500 fire hydrants throughout the city limits and visit commercial buildings each year to conduct pre-plan inspections. These visits give firefighters an idea of how they would go about responding to a call in that structure and also allows them to point out and correct any fire code violations. Community Partnerships The Port Wentworth Fire Department is no stranger to getting out into the community. They’ve rescued trapped kittens, driven Santa Claus through area neighborhoods, given awards to young heroes and participated in Stand Up For America Day. Every week, you can find them at the Port Wentworth Senior Center doing blood pressure checks. Sometimes, community organizations come to them. The department received a donation from Girl Scout Troop 30385 to provide oxygen masks for pets who are rescued from fires, part of the troop’s Bronze Award service project. The Port Wentworth Fire Department also has a strong relationship with Southeastern Guide Dogs, a nonprofit organization that trains service dogs for the visually impaired and for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Trainers bring dogs to the department to acclimate to the sights, smells and sounds of fire gear so that they are prepared to assist their handler in the event of an emergency. Lieutenant Manny Morilla with Port Wentworth coordinates with Southeastern Guide Dogs whenever they come to visit. “It’s gratifying to be a part of their training,” Morilla said. Be a Part of the Department A new class of recruits has just wrapped up their training, which consists of a challenging physical training regimen that includes running, weight lifting and agility exercises to ensure that they’re ready for what’s ahead. While physical fitness is a large part of the job, the recruits also spend eight weeks training in a classroom setting, working with live burns, and perfecting other firefighting skills to pass their National Professional Qualifications Firefighter I test. People come to Port Wentworth Fire Department from all walks of life and different levels of experience. What’s essential to their success at the department? A willingness to learn. “Absorb all the knowledge you can. We have people that come on board with 10 years experience and a ton of certifications down to people who are just seeing the inside of a fire truck,” Moore said. “A positive attitude goes a long way.” Like the city, the Port Wentworth Fire Department is growing and has openings for those interested in a fast-paced career that allows them to make a difference. Interested candidates can apply at cityofportwentworth.com. ◆

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www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 29

DUTY, HONOR AND A LOVE FOR HUMANITY: Effingham Surgeons Give Back in Ukraine Story by Katrice Williams

30 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

hoever says freedom is free is oblivious to the priceless sacrifices made by kind and courageous people in our world, those who at their own expense demonstrate a selfless consideration for the lives of countless others. Dr. John Wesley Odom and Metro Surgical Metro Surgical has been serving the needs of the Effingham community since its doors opened in 1994. Its cofounder Dr. John Wesley Odom attended medical school in Guadalajara, Mexico. He obtained his medical degree and completed his surgical residency at New York Medical College. Dr. Odom completed his Trauma Fellowship at Rutger and is an Associate Professor of Surgery at Medical College of Georgia. Following medical school, he practiced as a trauma surgeon in Savannah before opening Metro Surgical in Rincon alongside Dr. Mark Blankenship and Dr. Anthony Foley. Metro Surgical is one of few “single specialty general surgical practices in the state,” specializing in various procedures including: hepatobiliary surgery, colorectal surgery, minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery and advanced robotics. The Metro team of surgeons are driven to make a difference in the lives of patients in the Dr. John W. Odom Dr. Anthony Foley Dr. Joey Christmas Coastal Empire and beyond. circumstances plaguing so many there. “Mykolaiv was the final city we came to Additionally, both Dr. Odom and Dr. “We wanted to show those soldiers that behind Ukrainian lines. It had been heavily Foley are former U.S. Army surgeons. Dr. there are a lot of people over here that shelled. About half the population had Odom joined the Army in 1990 during the support them,” Dr. Odom says. evacuated,” he says. Persian Gulf War. As an Army Major, he April marked the start of their twoWhile Dr. Odom learned that he would was a battalion surgeon, part of the 1st work right there in the city at one of Infantry Division and he was a paratrooper month stay in the active war zone. The doctors first arrived in Poland, where they its large general hospitals, Drs. Foley and part of special operations. were met and accompanied by retired and Christmas worked at a smaller “I liked being in the field,” he says. hospital with fewer medical Likewise, as a highly professionals and resources. decorated officer, Dr. Foley That hospital was in the engaged in several tours We wanted to show those soldiers that there town of Kurakhove, near the of duty in both Iraq and Donbas area, only five miles Afghanistan as a special are a lot of people over here that support them from the Russian line. operations surgeon. “I was about 25 miles Dr. Joey Christmas, who is from the Russian line. They also a surgeon on the Metro were five miles from it where most of the Surgical team, is a West Point graduate. He Special Forces medics. “We walked across the border near fighting was going on. The Donbas was the was a U.S. Army combat engineer before Rzeszow, Poland. Travel was very difficult heart of the beast. They were at a smaller completing his medical degree. there, but [members] of Special Forces county hospital with three Ukrainian A Call to Duty are pretty good guys to have with you surgeons. They were extremely busy This past spring, the three surgeons— when you’re traveling somewhere like because they were far more short-handed all having a plethora of former military that,” he says. there,” Dr. Odom says. expertise and acting of their own volition— Dr. Odom saw the devastation all around No one could imagine the environment traveled to aid crisis relief efforts in him as he traveled through zones that had all the surgeons had to acclimate to. Ukraine; they could not ignore the tragic been ravaged by heavy artillery. Though he was uncertain of what to expect

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“

There were air raids every day—every day. Artillery was being fired all night long. It sounded like thunder booms all around ... We took care of a few civilians, but most were military casualties.

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from one moment to the next, Dr. Odom remained committed to providing patients with the best medical care possible. “There were air raids every day—every day. Artillery was being fired all night long. It sounded like thunder booms all around,” he says. Most of the injuries that the Ukrainian troops had endured were the result of shrapnel wounds from artillery. “We took care of a few civilians, but most were military casualties,” Dr. Odom says. Overcoming Adversity Most of the Ukrainian surgeons had been trained very differently from surgeons in the USA. If that is not enough, imagine the challenge of performing a task as delicate and intricate as a surgical procedure while not understanding the language being spoken. Though there was a translator, the language barrier was undeniably problematic. “Most of the surgeons there were Russian-trained. It was a difficult system to get the hang of, and the language barrier made it more difficult,” Dr. Odom says. Dr. Odom lived at the hospital, and he found the conditions to be unimaginable. Many people, including the hospital staff, had moved into the hospital because

they had nowhere to go. Even as a skilled surgeon, Dr. Odom was challenged to the core, but he refused to be overwhelmed and overcome by it all. “The hospital was old and outdated. It was like turning back the clock about 40 years. The windows were broken out. Food was very sparse. Everybody in

the hospital lived off boiled cabbage for about two weeks. I thank God that my wife packed a bunch of protein bars for me. There was no running water. Nurses would bring in big buckets of water each day from who knows where. I did have some bottled water to drink,” he says. Dr. Odom explains that the hospital

32 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

budget was about $4 million dollars for the year. To put that in perspective, that’s about the budget for services at a Savannah hospital for one day! He noticed that a major hurdle he had to overcome involved gaining the Ukrainians’ trust. Though they wanted his help, many were very proud, even in spite of the circumstances surrounding them. “It took a while to gain acceptance. They were very proud—extremely proud of their system and extremely turf-conscious. Eventually, I was able to win them over,” he says. Phenomenally, the surgeons would not hesitate to go back to help in the future. In fact, they would have welcomed the idea of staying longer; nevertheless, they had to come back home. “We tried to give them as much time as we could. We were happy to do it. We would love to go back. We personally benefited far more than the people we helped. All three of us have families, so there was limited time we could spend. It also placed a financial burden on the practice for all of us to be gone,” Dr. Odom says. The Real Heroes All the surgeons are beyond grateful to their loving families who understood the dire nature of the circumstances and

offered their unyielding support. Dr. Odom loves and appreciates his wife Amanda, who has been right by his side. “Our families are the big heroes. More than my sacrifice, it was my family’s sacrifice,” he says. He remembers being unable to talk to Amanda for 10 days upon arriving in Ukraine, as he learned that Russian officials could intercept calls. She did not know where he was or how he was doing during that time. He was eventually able to purchase a burner phone to call her. Sincerest Gratitude All the doctors have immense gratitude for St. Joseph’s Candler Hospital and Sisters of Mercy. Both organizations generously sent thousands of dollars of supplies with them to Ukraine to support the cause. It should be noted that without obtaining proper legal documentation and help from elected officials, the trip would have been incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Dr. Odom extends a special thanks to Congressman Buddy Carter and Congressman John Burns. “Both were instrumental in helping us with the logistics of getting there and helping us get the paperwork we needed,” he says. Though there are numerous domestic issues this country presently faces, Dr. Odom hopes that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine will not go disregarded. All three surgeons—Dr. John Wesley Odom, alongside Dr. Anthony Foley and Dr. Joey Christmas—have used their phenomenal gifts and talents in their mission to be altruistic ambassadors of doing good in the lives of others. ◆

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 33

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SKINSIDE OUT: What You Put Inside is as Important as What You Use on the Outside By Winny Barnes-Cournoyer

The connection between health and beauty is naturally inherent. To some degree, we all understand that living a healthy lifestyle improves our appearance and overall well being. But what many of us don’t realize is that the connection between beauty and health is just as strong for others too. Food, water, stress management and sleep are more important than cosmetics and skincare products. Properly managing what you put on the inside is just as important as what you put on the outside. My name is Winny, and I am a licensed esthetician and certified dental assistant at iHeart Dental. For as long as I can remember I have always had a passion for helping others. Being raised around beauticians and care providers, I pride my work around transforming and caring for my clients to achieve the best version of themselves. At a young age I felt this in my heart and soul that I would one day be able to transform my clients from the inside out as I do today. So let’s discuss some routines to help you achieve your best self: Oral Care Basically practice good oral hygiene. Drink plenty of water and brush with fluoride toothpaste. Also, visit your dentist and perform oral cancer screenings at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures. Skin Begins Within Fill your body with what it needs such as essential nutrients, vitamins, water and ditch everything else —your skin will reap the benefits. Take control of your health and be mindful of what you put into your body from inside out. Skin Care Analysis, Facials and Therapy: Who Needs Them? The answer is all of us. Facials are a perfect way for you and your esthetician to establish a relationship with your skin to determine its specific needs, along with relaxing your mind and body. There are many skin types, and not all are created equal which is why it is crucial to learn what it is that your unique skin requires in your everyday routine. Results Begin and End with You! Once you’ve established your skin’s needs you can then target, prevent, protect, and maintain any skin concerns. An ideal skincare routine should consist of cleanser(s), exfoliator, moisturizer and SPF. Some skin types require a bit more TLC and that’s where serums and spot treatments come in. This does not need to be overwhelming. Work with your esthetician to develop a plan specific to your skin and your needs. Schedule your next facial at iHeart Dental Spa. Anti-Agers = Antioxidants We can’t see it with our naked eye, but our skin is always at war with free radicals—harmful molecules that come from UVA/UVB rays, pollutants, smoke, and much more. Free radicals compromise our collagen and cause hyperpigmentation which displays the effects of aging. Although gravitational aging is inevitable, we do have the ability to slow down the effects of aging in some ways. That’s where antioxidants and sun protection come in. Antioxidants come from plants, which is why I personally incorporate plant based products in my routine taking the most concentrated approach. Research and science have proven plants are potent especially when applied to skin and ingested. Therefore, in developing skin care products, scientists and chemists look to what nature uses for protection, as we are a part of nature. Some popular antioxidants are vitamin C and E, green tea, ubiquinone, and grape-seed extract. SPF and limiting your UVA/UVB exposure are other well known ways to win the war against those free radicals. Ask yourself, would you rather have that killer tan, or a more youthful appearance? The choice is yours. Top Tips Daily practices that can prevent breakouts and promote overall wellness: • Eat more wholesome foods • Manage stress by managing your time • Get the proper amount of sleep for your body • Find an exercise that you enjoy and move your body • There are 24 hours in a day, make time for yourself • Practice mindfulness by being present and surrendering past thoughts • Limit social media usage • Limit alcohol (912) 499-1133 | iheartdental.com | 135 Goshen Rd Ext #205 Rincon, GA

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What makes an insurance agent special? A passion for helping others and a commitment to the community he or she serves. That is how Ashley Boyette— State Farm agent views her role. She is a small business owner and State Farm agent serving all of Effingham County. Ashley Boyette and her team understand that their clients need to find the best and most affordable insurance and financial services possible. Specializing in all types of insurance and financial planning, they treat every customer like they would treat their own families. They let the needs of the customer guide the recommendations and advice they provide. They strive to protect families and help them plan for the future. Ashley says, “I love this community because it is very welcoming. We are also made up of organizations that want to help others. Whether it is children’s sports programs or the Manna House, we all come together to help each other. I am very proud to be part of this great community.” Ashley also loves spending time with her own family. She has two little boys and loves watching them learn karate. She also loves the outdoors and even doing yard work! If you need insurance, financial planning advice or just a friendly face, stop by Ashley Boyette’s office. You will be glad you did.

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/thestampersboutique | 586 S Columbia Ave Ste 11, Rincon www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 37

Fitness, Fellowship & Faith of Effingham: IRON SHARPENS IRON

ffingham F3 The Effingham Fitness, Carolina. He then found the Pooler F3 held you accountable. I have military Fellowship and Faith (F3) group group and joined their workouts in May brothers from long ago that I’ll never began on April 9, 2021. Known as 2018; he later joined Effingham F3 when forget, and my F3 brothers now are no “The Foundry”—a name which honors the it began. different,” Scott says. rich history of Effingham’s blacksmith “I’m still going strong today, not because Whether hiking with heavy rucksacks, and metal works industries—the group of the workouts, but because of the family running or strength training, the highmeets at the Clarence Morgan Complex of brothers I have who encourage me,” he endurance, boot-camp style workouts are between Rincon and Springfield. Workouts says. Scott’s F3 nickname is “Noodles”— familiar to all the veterans. commence on Monday, Wednesday and given to him because he despises pasta. Scott knows that men benefit from Friday mornings at 5:30 a.m. and forming strong, meaningful male end at 6:15 a.m. The group shares bonds—those solid relationships in the common F3 goal: to “plant, that are edifying to their lives. He As a man, it’s good to have other men grow and serve small workout groups appreciates the group of men he has there to sharpen you—to speak into for men for the invigoration of male come to know, respect and love. community leadership.” “They are my extended family. your life. It’s healthy. It’s vital. They challenge me to keep getting Scott “Noodles” Howard stronger and push me to be my Scott Howard has been a part of the best. All that bleeds into my family, Effingham F3 team since it began. Scott, a Further, the U.S. Army veteran has work, community and church life. Men pastor at Eldora Baptist Church, has been noticed that many of the principles and shoulder heavy burdens in life as fathers employed at the Colonial Group for nearly values incorporated during his military and leaders. Our F3 brothers are there to 25 years. career go hand-in-hand with those call us out when we have done wrong and The married father of two and emphasized by F3. encourage us when we are doing right,” grandfather of six learned about the F3 “There are several former military Scott says. organization from his twin brother Doug veterans that are part of F3. It brings “Dirty Pipes” Howard, whose F3 nickname Wes “Falcon 9” Harper back that lifestyle we knew and is fitting since he is a professional Wes Harper has been a committed loved—the brotherly competition and plumber. Scott experienced his first F3 F3 member for about a year. He is a encouragement and the camaraderie workout while visiting Doug, a member distribution channel manager and is formed with those that pushed you to of the Johnson County F3 group in North married with two daughters. He became be physically and mentally stronger and

“

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familiar with F3 after agreeing to attend a workout following his loss in a push-up challenge to one of his current F3 brothers, Brian “Quikrete” Logan. And how did Wes “Falcon 9,” happen to get one of the coolest F3 nicknames around? “I was lucky. On my first day, Elon Musk happened to launch a rocket,” he jokes. As a husband, father and business professional, Wes has found that F3 has positively impacted nearly every facet of his life. “I’m around guys like me—those with a wife and family. Life has challenges. You’re able to work through it together—you push them, and they push you. There’s a big accountability factor to it. You start naturally applying that accountability in other places in your life,” he says. Many of the guys pride themselves in stepping up as beacons of motivation, encouragement and help. “There’s a lot of leaders in our group— natural leaders. They do a good job of pushing everyone—not leaving anyone behind,” Wes says. Wes is happy to have a band of brothers that push him to go above and beyond. For instance, he has never been big on

running; however, with the support and encouragement from his team, even running becomes a rewarding task. “Accountability is where I hang my hat. I never regret working out with the group,” he says. Patrick “Hobby Lobby” O’Tuel Patrick O’Tuel, a church planter for Connection Church, is married with four children. He began working out with the Pooler F3 group over two years ago. “Hobby Lobby” was born after the group found that he has always enjoyed doing arts and crafts with his kids. Patrick takes pride in his F3 family. He knows that it is a benefit and privilege to have other men to relate to. “No man is an island. We shouldn’t live to ourselves. We need other brothers in our lives that say, ‘Man, I’m going through that, too; we can get through it together,’” Patrick says. F3 is about men assuming their rightful place in their families and communities – being the positive difference they want to see in the world. “We give everyone that push of encouragement to be the leader God wants them to be —the husbands and dads our

community needs. At the end of the day, we need other men to push us out of our comfort zones or the funks we get in. Our boys need men to teach them how to be a man,” Patrick says. Assets to Their Community The men of Effingham F3 have strived to be assets to their community, whether aiding in the tornado disaster relief in Richmond Hill, supporting the Wounded Warrior cause or raising funds for various nonprofits. They are currently looking forward to the 5k/10k Treutlen House Run on August 13. The Treutlen House “provides residential services to boys ages 10-21 that are in the Georgia Foster Care System.” “It’s about doing for others and bringing back the idea of servanthood to male leadership,” Patrick says. Iron sharpens iron, and the men on the Effingham F3 team have built a remarkable camaraderie and brotherhood by doing just that—sharpening each other. For more information on the Effingham F3 group, contact Scott Howard at showard1600@outlook.com or call (912) 658-0116. ◆

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 39

Your Neighborhood Pet Store

Voted Best Pet Supply Store and Best Groomer #SupportSmallBusinesses • WoofGangBakery.com •

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EFFINGHAM RECREATION

www.effinghamcounty.org/289/Recreation-Parks | (912) 754-6339 Effingham County GA Recreation & Sports Management 40 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Savannah’s premier group of ear, nose, and throat professionals, specializing in total care of head and neck disorders. Main Office: 5201 Frederick St., Savannah

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www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 41

t can be loud. Very loud. Booming loud. in fact. So loud that you wonder what on earth is happening. For some it’s a daily nuisance, for others it’s barely noticeable anymore. For all of us, it is what comes with living in close proximity to several military installations. It’s often called—with gratitude—the sound of freedom. We Know We Are Loud The US Army base at Fort Stewart, Hinesville, Ga, and Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah, Ga, generates a tremendous amount of noise, mostly from training exercises. They say, “We know we are loud,” and often post noise advisories on their website and social media pages. Not surprisingly, local residents often chime in on the subject. Some recent comments: Keep that freedom ringing. It shakes my house a little and I love it. When the pots rattle on the rack in my kitchen, I know it is the sound of my country’s readiness. I live in the flight path of the helicopters. Have heard them my whole life to where I don’t even pay them any attention anymore! It’s just the sound of freedom! Makes me sleep better at night. I am so glad to hear the sound. To me it sounds like protection. There are always a few who are just glad to know what the heck is happening, and also a few comments from others who have difficulty living with it. Just going to drop this in over at Nextdoor. Folks in some neighborhoods have never heard the booms before and were confused. Thanks for this information. I really did not know what was going on. I know we need to be battle ready—but I hate this feeling of being shell shocked again. So this is what I’ve been hearing. No worries! Keep training! I did think it was thunder at first...Feeling quite safe and thankful knowing it’s you guys. Hunter Army Airfield Fort Stewart The history of Hunter Army Airfield is essentially the history of aviation and, more broadly, the history of America. From its start as a small municipal airport, Savannah’s aviation jewel has played a crucial role in our country’s defense. Knowing this history may make an understanding of the noise and sounds emanating from there more interesting and less invasive. There is a good reason for every boom you hear! 1929 - Savannah Municipal Airport, located on 730 acres on the outskirts of the city, opens. 1940 - The airport is renamed Hunter Municipal Airfield, in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Frank O’Driscoll Hunter, 42 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

THE SOUND OF FREEDOM Story by Cindy Reid

The “Hound Battalion,” 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, receives the newly modernized M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks at Fort Stewart, Georgia, February 2022. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Trenton Lowery)

An M1A2 main battle tank from 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, fires a calibration round, Feb. 1, 2022 at Red Cloud Range-Foxtrot on Fort Stewart, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin Larson)

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 43

Pvt. Robert Byrd, the youngest Soldier in his company at 18 years old and a native of Dayton, Ohio, assigned to the “Hound Battalion,” 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, remote fires the modernized M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tank for the first time at 3rd ID on Fort Stewart, Georgia, May 1, 2022. (Courtesy Photo)

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a native of Savannah and a World War I flying ace. (He retires as a Major General in 1946) 1941 - The United States Army Air Corps builds the Savannah Army Air Base at Hunter Municipal Airfield. After the attack at Pearl Harbor, Savannah AAB becomes a base for several Antisubmarine groups and squadrons of I Bomber Command and later Army Air Forces Antisubmarine Command with a mission to patrol the Atlantic coast, locate and attack German U-boats. After the war the airfield is returned to the City of Savannah. 1950 - The City of Savannah swaps the airfield with the United States Air Force Strategic Air Command, along with 3,500 acres of additional land, for Chatham Air Force Base. The 2nd Bomb Group moves to the base, now reopened as Hunter Air Force Base. 1967 - The Air Force closes the base, and the Army assumes control. The U.S. Army Flight Training Center is developed in conjunction with the flight training conducted at Fort Stewart. The helicopter pilot training is rapidly accelerated, and pilots are trained and sent to duty all over the world, with a substantial percentage seeing active duty in Vietnam. 1973 - HAAF is deactivated, but reopens in 1975, serving as a support facility for the 24th Infantry Division (Mechanized), at Fort Stewart. 1974 - 1st Battalion, 75th Infantry Regiment (Ranger), parachutes into Fort Stewart where the battalion is stationed until moving to HAAF in 1978. Today HAAF is a military airfield and subordinate installation to Fort Stewart, which is the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi River, covering 280,000 acres. HAAF has the Army’s longest runway east of the Mississippi River and an aircraft parking area that is more than 350 acres. This space allows the 3rd Infantry Division from Fort Stewart to efficiently deploy soldiers and cargo worldwide. It is an essential part of our nation’s defense. “While it is frustrating and at times down right hard to sleep, I am

grateful for our soldiers and am willing to endure the noise so they can be properly trained and safe.” Why is it SO LOUD? Yes, it can get pretty loud. Noise from Fort Stewart and HAAF can be heard many miles away. Here’s a few reasons why: • The artillery impact area supports fixed wing aircraft from other services dropping up to 1000 pound bombs and helicopter gunships firing rockets and guns

24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for 450 miles of shoreline from the northern border of South Carlina to Melbourne, Florida, averaging more than 250 SAR cases a year. Within a fifty mile radius you will find: • Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport in Savannah, GA—8 miles • MidCoast Regional Airport at Wright Army Airfield, GA—25 miles

• Ranges are active at least 324 days a year

• Hilton Head Airport at Hilton Head Island, SC—30 miles

• A busy day can have 20 to 30 ranges active at one time

• Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in Beaufort, SC—40 miles

• The training area has more than 70 active ranges • Munitions fired vary from small 9 mm bullets to large, easily heard 155mm artillery rounds • 12 million rounds are fired there annually • Dense cloud cover and cold temperatures can make sound travel further • They train year-round, and at all hours of the night and day. Doing so ensures readiness when they deploy. And there are many people coming and going. Fort Stewart and HAAF serve about 22,310 Soldiers, 42,957 family members, 4,500 civilians, 19,000 retirees, and National Guard soldiers. At the air base there are approximately 5,500 soldiers, airmen, coast guardsmen and Marines on station. Lots going on! Other Area Noisemakers There are several other airports and military installations nearby that also generate noise. One is the Savannah Air National Guard Base, 165th Airlift Wing is located at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. The165th AW, which currently flies the C-130H cargo aircraft, provides air transport for airborne forces, their equipment, and supplies with delivery by airdrop or airland, and to provide strategic airlift of personnel, equipment, and supplies. Coast Guard Air Station Savannah is also located on HAAF. Equipped with MH-65 Dolphin helicopters, Air Station Savannah provides Search & Rescue (SAR) coverage

The Marne Report Produced by the Fort Stewart Public Affairs Office, the Marne Report is a podcast that explores what’s going on at Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield. On a recent episode “Hear Comes the Boom” (March 4, 2022) host Kevin Larson talked with Lt. Col Scott Stephens,1-64 Armor Battalion commander, and Amanda Price, Directorate of Public Works, about training noise and why soldiers have to train like they fight, especially in conditions with low or no light. Thank a Veteran Training is an essential component at any military installation. Our Armed Forces need to recreate ‘real life’ scenarios, day and night, seven days a week, in order to be completely prepared for any contingency. Every loud boom is a crucial element of the mission to keep our Armed Forces service men and women—and our country—safe. And overwhelmingly our residents appreciate it. We LOVE the sound of freedom! I don’t care what time of the night. These folks HAVE MY BACK! It’s a small noise compared to the sacrifice that the service members have made. Let freedom ring! For More Information: Those who have concerns about the noise from HAAF / Fort Stewart can call the Fort Stewart Public Affairs Office at 912.435.9879. Their office is open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ◆

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 45

ELLEN JACOBS: Honesty and Integrity Matter at Country Financial Being in the “First Responders” issue is important to insurance agent Ellen Jacobs because her family knows firsthand the challenges first responders face. Her husband Greg has been a Fire Captain for 16 years with the City of Savannah Fire Department. Greg is the most recent “Fire Officer of the Year” award recipient, an award which is especially meaningful because he was nominated by fellow fire officers. Ellen and Greg have two active sons, Jonah, age 13, and Lucas, who is seven years old. Ellen enjoys working with everyone in the community but says “I particularly identify with the spouses and families of other first responders, especially fire fighters. There is a level of trust between us because we share the same concerns and I know the realities of their schedules and work life.” Because first responder schedules aren’t typically 9 to 5 Ellen says she is “always available to meet with you when it works for you, at my office, at your home, wherever is best for you. “

Ellen was drawn to insurance after learning about Country Financial and says “Country Financial is a company I feel good about working with because their values of honesty and integrity align with my values. Here I can be the kind of insurance agent I would want to do business with, with complete transparency and total customer service.” There are many opportunities to go online and get a quote, but with a local insurance agent you can stop by and actually talk to a real person, which is really priceless in this day and age. The Jacobs are active in the community through charitable outreach with Savannah Fire Local 574 and local events such as charity golf tournaments, 5K runs, and school supply drives. Ellen says she enjoys it because “I love talking to people. I make a point of getting to know the people in our community. I am not a salesperson at all, I don’t talk insurance at you! What I want to know is ‘how’s your family? how’s your new baby? did you get the car you wanted?’ I want to know you

46 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

and I want you to know me. That’s the kind of insurance agent I am.” For fun, the Jacobs love to get outside on their property in Pembroke where they built their forever home. Their land includes lots of trails where they ride four wheelers and take nature walks, and they relax with family time around the fire pit. Future plans include adding chickens, goats and possibly an alpaca to make their home a family farm. “As the spouse of a fire fighter, I have seen up close what can happen in life. As an insurance agent I am here to help you protect your car, home, business and more with Country Financial insurance.”

(912) 508- 0360 ellen.jacobs@countryfinancial.com 613 Towne Park West Dr, Suite 102 Rincon, GA 31326

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HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: Home Ownership Changes Lives

“

I really never thought this was something that would happen. It’s been a huge blessing. It’s really changed everything

“

For Lauren Alvarado, homeownership has made a huge difference in her life. She is an audiology assistant at Savannah Speech and Hearing and a single mother to two sons. Partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County allowed her to realize her dream of buying a home. As her sons grew up, she spent several years living in rental properties and had to move multiple times. Like many people in our community, she faced the challenge of finding a place to live that was affordable and safe. “I always wanted a stable home environment for my children because it totally changes their path,” Lauren said. Lauren was encouraged to apply for a Habitat home by her pastor. After submitting her application, collecting documents, meeting with the board and several months of waiting, she was accepted as the partner for Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County’s 18th home in 2016. “I really never thought this was something that would happen,” Lauren said. “It’s been a huge blessing. It’s really changed everything.” Once Lauren was accepted, she took the first steps toward building a home to call her own. From choosing a floor plan to selecting paint colors, she got to have a hand in the planning process before groundbreaking. “For someone to say ‘Hey, you don’t have to pack up and move again,’ you can’t put a price on that,” Lauren said. “It brings you a sense of relief and peace.” It’s often said that a Habitat home is not a handout, it’s a hand up. Habitat homeowners have to meet a variety of requirements to be considered for a home. They must have been employed at the same place for at least a year, be able to make a 2 percent down payment and monthly mortgage payments, have a credit score of at least 640 and have less than $1000 in delinquent debt. Homeowners also have to complete 250 hours of “sweat equity” volunteering on the build site or at the ReStore and complete homeownership education. “It was really cool to physically be a part of my home being built,” Lauren said.

The construction process of a Habitat home takes more time than most because it is built by community volunteers and contractors who donate their services. “It’s an unbelievably humbling experience,” Lauren said. “There’s so many people that volunteer their time. These are people I’ve never met, but they’re willing to help build my home.” In September 2017, Lauren and her sons moved into their new home. Nearly five years after moving in, Lauren still remembers the people she connected with during the construction of her home. “You get more than just a home, you get a sense of community…you become part of a family.” The Habitat family will grow again this year as Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County begins construction on its 23rd home. Volunteer opportunities at the build site will begin this fall. If you would like to be a part of the building process, visit habitatec.org to sign up.

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SUPPORT HABITAT THROUGH THE RESTORE You can also support the Habitat for Humanity family by shopping for gently used furniture, appliances and household items or surplus construction materials at the ReStore. Stop by the ReStore on August 20 from 9am-5pm for Customer Appreciation Day, where they will thank their customers for their support over the years. There will be a cookout, coffee and chances to win raffle prizes donated by community partners.

Best of Effingham Coming Soon!

VOTE for the Best! Voting begins August 8th

TO VOTE: Hover your phone’s camera over the smart code or visit BestofEffingham.com.

Best of Effingham results will be published online and in the October/November issue of Effingham Magazine. If the business you want to vote for is not listed, let them know so they can be added to our business directory. Votes will be calculated once the poll has closed. Any categories not listed for 2022 will be considered for Best of Effingham 2023.

50 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

THOMAS C. STRICKLAND AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES

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912-748-2444

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We have a wide selection of IN-STOCK items ready for delivery or pickup today! ►

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In store, interest free financing available upon approval at 6, 12 or 24 months to pay! Badcock also has a revolving plan and third-party financing from AFF.

(912) 826-4500 | www.badcock.com/rincon-ga | 321 S Columbia Ave, Rincon www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 51

DREAM. BUILD.

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(912) 441-8679

Ada Bueno

buenoscleaningservices.com @buenoscleaningservice

Supporting Effingham Women in Business

| (912) 800-9288 | 804 Towne Park Drive Suite 200, Rincon, GA

912-508-8031 | 912contracting.com

Let us help you live your best life with

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* Restore your libido & improve your relationship * Feel younger, healthier, happier OTHER PROGRAMS AND PROCEDURES Medically supervised weight loss, toxins and fillers, PRP Hair Restoration, Sexual Health, and IV Therapies 614 Towne Park Loop, Rincon GA (same building as Empire Gym) | renewrejuvenatemd.com 52 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Bring

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10 % O d for FF any pr ogra m or proce dure b y 10/14 /22

Couple Builds a Fitness Empire for Rincon Have you ever seen a name of a business and a tagline and you immediately think, “Wow! That is powerful!” Such is the case with a brand new gym set to open in early fall in the heart of Rincon. The name is Empire Gym. His Kingdom. Your Empire. Owners Jamie and Mary Cain came up with the name last spring when they moved back to Jamie’s hometown to be closer to family and allow their nine-yearold son more time with his grandmother. “We’re building a home in Guyton and we found another home in my motherin-law’s church. We are leaning on our spirituality as newly baptized Christians. We thought God had brought us here to open a gym, so the name is fitting because it speaks to the growth-building that can occur both spiritually and physically,” explains Mary. The champion name is not the only thing that makes it unique. It is also the only gym with an owner that is an IFBB Pro, Strongwoman Pro, and MAS Wrestling World Champion. It is also the only gym of its size and caliber in Effingham County. Being physically fit comes naturally to both Jamie and Mary. Jamie is a military veteran, having served in the Army for 13 years with an additional four years in the Reserves. He has lifted weights since he was 14 and played competitive softball for 20 years during and after high school. After retiring from the military, his dream was to open a gym. Mary began twirling batons at age four and was awarded a baton twirling scholarship at Kansas State University. She fell in love with body building at age 24 and started teaching fitness classes. Combined, they have more than 25 years training experience and practical application along with multiple certifications. Prior to moving to Effingham County, the couple owned a gym in Columbus, Ga., and Mary was a sole proprietor of a gym in Macon before the couple met. Each brings their own special energy and skill to the business. “I love people!” exclaims Mary. “I enjoy helping people transform their bodies and it’s so cool to see my clients feel better about themselves,” she adds. Mary believes the greatest challenge as a trainer is working with clients on their relationship to food. “I think that 85% of the transformation occurs with food. Everything we do in our

society is centered around food. We’ve got to switch back to portion control because no food is off limits as long as we do it with portion control. I work with my clients to transition their mindset to eat for fuel, not for flavor,” she explains. Clients often text photos of their food to Mary to stay on track with their meals, send her cardio photos daily and do checkins every Saturday. “I am constantly checking in to make sure they are doing what they are supposed to be doing because that’s how you achieve your goals in the big picture,” she says. Commitment to a gym membership is often a challenge as well, but Mary is a true accountability partner. Jokingly Mary describes herself as an alarm clock that no matter how many times you hit snooze, it is still there waiting for you! While Mary is the face of the business, Jamie is the manager of operations. “I tease her that her job is to train clients; my job is to make sure that she has a place to work,” says Jamie. “With the time commitment it takes to train clients properly, you really have to have a day-to-day business manager to make a gym successful,” he adds. The gold standard for an optimized body is increased lean muscle mass, decreased body fat and increased bone density, so Empire Gym will serve up exercise options to help you succeed in these areas. The weightsbased facility will house an expansive selection of equipment, the ARMORY will provide an additional 1,250 square feet of functional fitness group training space and there will be resources for a complete wellness experience, including the DEXA scan, which provides a complete picture of your body composition—bone density, lean muscle mass, fat mass and body symmetry. The Empire Gym will be open 24/7 and located at 614 Towne Park Loop in Rincon. Membership discounts are available to military, selfless service providers and educators. Learn more about how you can become more healthy and fit at www. empiregymsavannah.com.

912-433-2337 14 Towne Park Drive West empiregymsavannah.com

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 53

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.

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Brooke Autry, Platinum Properties Chick-Fil-A Rincon EMPWR Solar iHeart Dental LEAP Youth Development Program

Ally’s Bakery.................................................………………………… 36 Audiology & Hearing Aid Services.......... ………………………… 57 Badcock Home Furniture & More........... ………………………… 51 Bank of Newington .................................................................60 Bank South Mortgage - Melissa Guzman........................... 16 Beau Dossey Roofing ............................... ………………………… 41 Bueno’s Cleaning Services, LLC.............. ………………………… 52 Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy ................. ………………………….25 Coastal Contracting, LLC......................... ………………………….52 Coastal Performing Arts Academy.........………………………… 26 Country Financial.....................................................................46 Charmaine Jones.................................................................... 51 City of Port Wentworth.............................………………………… 29 Dena C. Rodewolt, ERA Real Estate..................................... 47 Edward Jones - Trisha Boyett.................... ………………………… 9 Effingham County Recreation.................………………………… 40 Effingham Health System........................... ………………………… 2 Elonwick Candle Co.................................. ………………………… 41 EL Real Mexican Restaurant..................... ………………………… 24 Empire Gym................................................. ………………………… 53 ENT Associates of Savannah, P.C............ ………………………… 41 Gnann’s Fix-It Shop...................................………………………… 34 Goshen Park Commercial Center ......................22,25,34, 57 Habitat for Humanity.................................………………………… 48 Harlawn Yard Services............................... ………………………… 24 The Horne Law Firm.................................... ………………………… 3 iHeart Dental............................................................................. 35 Jessica MacDonald Real Estate................. ………………………… 9

54 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Rincon Chevrolet State Farm, Clay Clark Stille-Dewitt Health Brokerage, LLC Sweet Treats Cannery Total Services Heating and Air

Jon Burns....................................................................................51 Kronos Media Productions..................................................... 26 Lady Liester Photography / Railyard Media .......................50 LEAP.............................................................. ………………………… 24 Live Oak Public Libraries...........................………………………… 36 Magic Insurance......................................... ……………………..…. 55 Melissa McBride Stille.................................. ………………………… 6 Michelle Edwards, Realtor........................………………………… 50 Moncrief Square.........................................………………………… 36 Nutrition Coach Kerri Dodson................. ………………………… 23 Patriot Pros Roofing.................................. ………………………… 16 Prime Care of Georgia............................................................ 36 Ready 2 Connect........................................................................ 8 Renew & Rejuvenate Aesthetic MD Clinics ....................... 52 Rusty Pig BBQ ............................................ ………………………… 22 The Stamper’s Boutique............................ ………………………… 37 S Nevaeh Beauty Academy, LLC.............. …………………………24 State Farm, Ashley Boyette....................... ………………………… 37 State Farm, Clay Clark................................ …………………………16 SunCare Hospice, LLC................................ …………………………52 Telfair Museum..................................... ………………………… 58,59 Thomas C. Strickland & Son’s Funeral Home ....................51 Towne Pharmacy......................................... …………………………25 Two Rivers Health Clinic............................ …………………………36 Veals Mobile Car Wash and Detail........................................ 41 West Chatam YMCA................................... …………………………41 Woof Gang Bakery......................................…………………………40 Yates-Astro Termite & Pest Control....................................... 9

EFFINGHAM

The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony for Face Grace Esthetics with owner Robin Butwan.

Angel Oak Idol contestants at Mars Theatre. (photo by Railyard Media)

Joe Marchese Construction and the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce held a groundbreaking on Friday, May 27 for the new Seasons of Japan Restaurant on Highway 21

56 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

oshen park commercial center

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www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2022 57

ARTIST AND NAVY VETERAN WILLIAM O. GOLDING CAPTURED A CHANGING MARITIME WORLD Some artists have witnessed world more ambitious goals on the world stage. over. A merchant mariner in the 1910s changing events that later influenced Golding’s time in the Navy encompassed and 20s, Golding appeared in newspapers their work. One such artist was William the Spanish American War in Cuba and the in 1917 among the list of survivors of O. Golding (1874-1943), subject of the Philippines, and the Philippine War that the sinking of the merchant ship Galena exhibition The Art of William O. Golding: followed. by a German submarine in the English Hard Knocks, Hardships and Lots of He referenced pre-Spanish American Channel. Golding and his crewmates had Experience at Telfair Museums’ Jepson War incidents in drawings of the tugboat delivered a shipment of oil to Rouen and Center, whose 49 years as a seafarer Dauntless, which operated between were on their way back through the English provided him with Channel, southwest of direct experience of Ushant, when the U-boat war and a changing attacked. The survivors world order. made it to Brest, France, Golding (a.k.a. where American troops Golden) was an were just arriving to African American fight in the Great War. mariner who was Although Golding did not kidnapped as a child draw the attack outright, from the Savannah his drawing of Ushant waterfront in the has a wartime feel in its 1880s, beginning a depiction of a fortification lengthy career at sea. with armed soldiers. Half a century later Golding’s fascination in the 1930s, Golding with sailing warships drew the ships that suggest that he was also he remembered something of a Navy and places he had history buff, and that visited in a series as a veteran, he saw his of remarkable own place in that history. drawings that mix He drew American and memory, history, and British warships of the imagination. age of sail in loving The Art of William O. Golding: Hard Knocks, Hardships and Lots of Experience is Golding spent detail, including the USS on view at Telfair Museum’s Jepson Center in Savannah through August 28. his first years in Constitution, also known Liberty County as the as “Old Ironsides,” which adopted son of William Anthony Golding, Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, and he may have seen when it visited Savannah one of the original 33 Black lawmakers in made headlines when it made unsanctioned on a post-restoration tour in 1931. He Reconstruction-era Georgia and founder gunrunning missions to Cuban rebels also made multiple drawings of the USS of a school for African Americans, which between 1895 and 1898. Other Spanish Constellation, which had captured slave would become the Dorchester Academy. American war themes appear in Golding’s ships and hunted for Confederate raiding Sometime between 1880 and 1882, drawings of the U.S.S. Texas, an armored vessels during the Civil War and was still young William O. Golding was visiting cruiser which saw action in Cuba, and Fort in use as a Naval training ship in Golding’s Savannah where his father may have had Morgan in Mobile, Alabama, a military day. business. He and a cousin were exploring installation which was reactivated during Golding made his drawings from a bed the Savannah’s waterfront when a captain the war. at the United States Marine Hospital in tricked him into going aboard a sailing On the other side of the world, Golding Savannah where, as a veteran, he was ship and he later found himself out at sea. drew the island of Luzon and a scene entitled to treatment in an era of otherwise Golding would not see Savannah again for of U.S. warships in Manila Bay in the segregated hospitals. Diagnosed with more than two decades. Philippines, where Commodore Dewey’s chronic bronchitis, and severe asthma, he Although little is known of his early life at fleet defeated Spanish forces in 1898. Other lived on and off at the hospital, where he sea, records indicate that he enlisted in the drawings depict U.S. warships in the port of died in 1943. US Navy in 1892 at the age of 18, beginning Saigon (now Ho Chi Min City), then part of Today Goldings work resides in museum a decade in the service. French Indochina, and document his visits collections including Telfair Museums Golding’s drawings often include a to numerous Chinese treaty ports during which holds 23 of his drawings. The current military thread, reflecting his experiences of this period. exhibition includes 72 drawings and is the a time when the US Navy began to employ Although he left the Navy in 1902, largest survey of his work to date of this modern armored warships and to seek Golding’s experiences of war were not significant American artist. 58 August/September 2022 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

ON VIEW THROUGH 8/28!

FREE JEPSON CENTER & TELFAIR ACADEMY ADMISSION FOR LOCALS* SAT & SUN THROUGH 8.28! VISIT TELFAIR.ORG *Includes residents of Chatham, Bryan, Effingham, Liberty, Beaufort, & Jasper Counties. Elizabeth Rossof (American, b. 1973); 5 XI’AN AMERICAN WARRIORS, 2019; nylon fabric, electric fans. Sharon Engelstein (Canadian, b. 1965); Seeker, 2012; nylon fabric, electric fan. BLOW UP: Inflatable Contemporary Art was organized by Bedford Gallery at the Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, CA

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Effingham Magazine's 2022 Annual Veterans/First Responder issue

Articles inside

Smalls Funeral Home: Family Serving Families

Saya Watson

Tracy Yardley

Port Wentworth Fire Department Meeting the Demands of a Thriving Community

Darrell Dasher

Fitness, Fellowship and Faith of Effingham

Duty, Honor and a Love for Humanity

Publisher’s Thoughts