Effingham Magazine - Dec/Jan 17-18 by JDelSUR Marketing Group

December/January 2017-2018

Josh Reddick Effinghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mr. October

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December/January 2017-2018

features 10

Josh Reddick

Darius Scott

Eugenia Spradley

Top Ladies of Distinction

Brad Carr

Effingham’s Mr. October

Exceptional Teen Accepted At Ivy League School

Weaving Of Words

Serving Women, Seniors and Youth

Meet Effingham’s Chamber Director

departments 09

Publisher’s Page

special 37

Shop Local, Shop Effingham

16 26

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in this issue

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S TA F F

CONTRIBUTORS Katrice Williams

is a married mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration Degree. Interestingly enough, at the time, she also had an interest in writing. She and her family moved to Pooler in 2003 from the Atlanta Metro Area. She later decided to pursue her writing interests. Katrice appreciates The Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings that He has bestowed upon her. She loves spending time with her family.

Kathryn Vandenhouten

is a freelance writer who enjoys meeting new and interesting people. She earned her English degree at Georgia Southern University, and caught the travel bug while studying abroad in Costa Rica, where she received a minor in Spanish. After college, she worked briefly in Yellowstone National Park, where she enjoyed hiking and photographing the scenery and the wildlife. She now lives in Rincon and loves spending time with her husband, Sean, and two children, Turner and Emery.

Lea Thornton-Allen

Shelia Scott is an Effingham County native and Salz-

burg descendent. She has been married to her husband, her best friend, for 6 years. Between them they have 9 children and 4 grandchildren. She started dabbling in photography when her kids were little and fell in love. When not with her husband and kids, she’s off somewhere, camera in hand looking for the next amazing shot!

Wanda Simmons

Nelson Laporte is a New York native, Nelson

Laporte exudes his passion for photography & finding the beauty in each moment with every photo he produces. In March 2016, Nelson moved to Savannah, Ga after serving 8 years in the United States Marine Corps to be closer to his “why”, his daughter, Elizabeth. You can truly understand love for photography as he captures the milestones of her & his clients’ lives.

Naomi Forrestall

Miranda Osborn-Sutphen is an Austra-

lian-born’s professional career started somewhere between journalism and fetching coffee before taking a happy turn to photography, graphic design and all things visually creative in-between. From newspaper photos to magazine shots, from product shoots to weddings, her CameraKoala.com photography has appeared in numerous nationwide catalogs, publications and has had the privilege to grace several magazine covers in Liberty County, GA.

Karlee Anderson

has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Professional Communications from Armstrong State University. She has experience in writing grant proposals and writing for the Inkwell, Armstrong’s paper. In addition, Karlee enjoys spending time with her fiancé, Zach, and her family. She is very involved in her home church and does volunteer work for various ministries. Her hobbies include reading, singing, and attending as many of her brothers’ sporting events as possible.

December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Lane Leopard

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

Our World Series Champion Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Naomi Forrestall graphic designer Lea Thornton-Allen administrative assistant/circulation lea@idpmagazines.com Wanda Hendricks Simmons account executive wanda@idpmagazines.com Lane Leopard account executive lane@idpmagazines.com

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

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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 Julie Hales at julie@idpmagazines.com, or mail letters to P.O. Box 1742, Rincon, GA 31326. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ny person living in Effingham County, or anywhere in the Coastal Empire, would just about have to be dead right now not to have heard the name Josh Reddick over the last several weeks. I mean the guy is everywhere...local newspapers, every local channel on the television...even some not so local, radio, Facebook...he’s everywhere! And, now, he is in Effingham Magazine. Yes, he has been in our magazine before...on more than one occasion. But, when you have someone that has accomplished the things this man has, you feature him again. Yes, this man is now a World Series Champion, OUR Josh Reddick, OUR favorite right fielder, OUR Mr. October. I think it goes without saying how proud we, as a community, are for him. Josh has been playing professional baseball since 2006, and he still calls Effingham County his hometown, the place he was raised, Julie Hales, PUBLISHER the place he loves and the place he continues to give back to...exponentially! In his recent trip home, Josh was honored by a surprise pep rally at his old Alma Mater, South Effingham High School. It was a total surprise to him, but one he will never forget. He was also in the Rincon Christmas parade where he graciously signed autographs and had his picture taken with numerous fans. And, he was at the groundbreaking ceremony at the Clarence E Morgan Sports Complex for the Josh Reddick Field. If you haven’t heard anything about this field, you need to make it a point to know. This man, Josh Reddick, has donated just shy of one million dollars to Effingham County for the construction of this field at our new recreation complex. This field will be like no other field Effingham Countians have ever seem. It is going to be something special. This all turf field will have stadium seating and large gates and dugouts to accommodate special needs children. He is doing this because he feels like every child in our community should have the same opportunities to play as he did as a child here. Who does this kind of thing? Josh Reddick does, that’s who. Thanks Josh for all you do for our community...you’re our champ!

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 JJulie Hales at julie@ idpmagazines.com Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in Effingham.

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is publlished bi-monthly (six issues a year), printing 10,000 copies and distributed to over 180 locations. Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

December/January 2017-2018

Josh Reddick Effingham’s Mr. October

ABOUT THE COVER Meet Josh Reddick, member of the World Series Champion Houston Astros. Read about Josh’s career from Effingham to Boston...to Oakland...to Los Angeles...to Houston. See how this Effingham guy continues to give back to his hometown.

photo by Andrew Yousse, Photographer for Houston Astros www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Josh Reddick Effingham’s Mr. October

story by Julie Hales photos by Andrew Yousse, Photographer for Houston Astros

You see, you spend a good piece of your life gripping a baseball, and in the end, it turns out that it was the other way around all the time.

HISTORY Baseball surely has a grip on Josh Reddick. For the most part, it’s had a grip on him his entire life. Josh started playing T-Ball in Effingham when he was only 4 years old. Now, at age 30, he is still ‘in the game.’ Kenny and Cheryl Reddick really didn’t know what to expect when their five year old son told them he wanted to play in the Major Leagues. Most parents would brush that off as a childhood whim, but these parents didn’t do that. Cheryl shares, “We supported him in every way we could. We wanted to make sure he had every opportunity to succeed.” Kenny coached Josh and his team mates in the county recreation department and they paid his way to gain more experience through travel ball. Josh then played high school ball for the South Effingham Mustangs under the

leadership of Coach Kirkland, a man he admires and admits helped him find success on the ball field. Middle Georgia College was his next stop in his baseball career. Josh was named Region XVII Junior College Player of the Year during his short time there. As a freshman outfielder, he led the conference with a .461 batting average, he scored 57 runs on 89 hits, seven of which were homeruns and had 33 RBI’s…not bad for a college freshman. In 2006, Josh Reddick was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 17th round of the MLB Draft. Yes, MLB stands for Major League Baseball. This guy’s dream was coming true. In 2011, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics where he played right field for his first full year in the majors. “It was a different team with different dynamics. It was very different from Minor League

10 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

~Jim Bouton

baseball,” says Josh about his beginning experiences with the Oakland A’s. But, he adapted very well. It was here, in 2012, that Josh won the Golden Glove Award. In 2016, Josh found himself being traded again…next home…Los Angeles. As a Dodger, Josh was immediately headed to the playoffs. He loved playing with them and there was a much larger excitement level there than he had experienced in Oakland. But, his time in LA was short lived… Josh found himself being a free agent. However, his free-agency was very short lived. He says, “Houston came calling pretty quickly.” This made the transition a very smooth one for our favorite right fielder. It was in Houston where Josh continued to flourish and his Major League career reached new heights. Here, OUR major

leaguer accomplished the dream every little leaguer dreams about…Josh Reddick is now a World Series Champion! THE MAN You gotta be a man to play baseball for a living, but you gotta have a lot of little boy in you too. ~Roy Campanella Anyone who knows him knows there is a little boy lurking somewhere within the man. There aren’t many professional ball players that have as much fun as Josh Reddick. He will be the first one to tell you that he likes to make it fun…whether it be Spiderman climbing the fence to steal a homerun or his love for wrestling that has traveled with him wherever he goes… even to his new home, now better known by Reddick fans as “Wooston,” he is having fun. And, that man remembers where he came from and what it was like to be that little boy with big aspirations. “Winning the World Series is a childhood dream come true. That’s any kid’s dream as a five year old in the backyard putting that scenario through their head of game 7 of the World Series, and going through the motions in the back yard of winning it. Being able to live through that is something I feel is the accomplishment of my childhood dream,” he shares. Most people in Effingham County have followed his career. Many watched him play as a child in the recreation league,

others followed his high school career and on to college. Some may have only started following him when he was picked up in the MLB draft. But, whenever they became a fan, they remained a fan. As a fan, they all experienced the excitement of watching him play in the big leagues and making it to the World Series. They shared in the excitement of every inning of every game. But, no one can imagine the excitement Josh himself was feeling. When the series came down to game 7, the excitement turned into anxiety for many. But, the Houston Astros proved to us all they were indeed the best team in the nation. Josh shares, “I was so excited. My heart was racing the entire 9th inning. I remember sitting in the dugout next to Carlos Beltran, who had just recently retired. Knowing that he wouldn’t be back and being able to experience something like that with him, it being my first one and his first one in such a different age group, it was just amazing. My heart was racing. There was just so much excitement. I don’t think I have ever sprinted as fast my whole life as I did onto that field when that last out was made.” When Josh was asked what it felt like to be a World Series champ, he shares, “It feels really great. I am trying to find special words to explain it. Awesome is the word I keep going back to. Being able to hold that World Series trophy and knowing I am going to be able to bring it to Effingham for a few days. To be able to share that with my hometown is going to

be something that I am going to enjoy and hopefully bring some smiles around the county as well. I want to be able to share it with the hometown that I love so much and try to help out as much as I can, the town that gives me so much back to me personally. It is just going to be a special moment.” Josh is very close to his family. This man knows, and loves, his roots. Having his family at the World Series was very important to him. “I couldn’t imagine it without them. To be in my first World Series, to have all my family around, my best friend and my girlfriend, all my loved ones, to be able to experience this with them, whether win or lose, it showed how much support I had. I really wanted them all to be there. I can still look back to before I was in the big leagues, to when I was playing travel ball and when I was in the minors, they all came to watch me play and supported me and I felt they all deserved to be there. They all helped me get to where I am today,” he says. On his first trip home after the series, Josh was surprised with a huge pep rally at South Effingham High School. Coaches, family, students, county officials and others were there to show their support. He says, “I was shocked. I was told to come to the high school and I really didn’t know why or what to expect. Knowing Trey (President of the Josh Reddick Foundation), there’s not really much you don’t expect. The sky is the limit with him. I know how crazy he can be and how crazy this foundation can be. I was very thankful for what the people at South Effingham High did for me. To be supported like that as a high school alumni there, made me feel really special.” THE JOSH REDDICK FOUNDATION Since its inception in 2014, the Josh Reddick Foundation has been on a mission to advocate for the youth of Effingham County with a focus on supporting students, preserving recreational parks and

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Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

helping those in need. The Foundation hosts all charitable events in Effingham County and the money raised is given back to the community. Portions of all money raised go toward the recreation departments as well as the sheriff’s office, fire departments, animal shelter, the Manna house, the Treutlan House and others. The Foundation also gives money back to the Board of Education by being a platinum level sponsor to both Effingham County High and South Effingham High. They also gave money to each elementary school this year and have plans to give to each middle school in the Effingham School District. In July, the Foundation started accepting nominations for “The Josh Reddick Athlete of the Month.” The first winner was recognized in August and the contest is open to any athlete residing in Effingham County from 6th grade up. Athletics are not the only focus of the Foundation. Each year, the organization awards four graduating seniors, one male and one female from each high school, a $1000 college scholarship for academic excellence. Josh’s desire to give back to this community has remained evident in everything he does. The Foundation is an avenue where he can continue to do this. When speaking about the Foundation, Josh shares, “In the off season, it means everything to me. To be able to come back and run a few events and be able to give back to this county that I love so much is important to me. I just really enjoy trying to help this county to improve on what we

already have. If there is any way I can help, to kind of leave my mark, it makes me feel good inside to give back. This is where I got my start, this is where it all began. I feel like I have to give back to it, to be able to help the next generation as much as I can. We are all supposed to leave it better for the ones behind us.” THE ‘MIRACLE FIELD’ With Houston having suffered so much devastation from the hurricane earlier this year, the World Series title was something each player desperately wanted to bring home. Even with it being Josh’s first year in Houston, he still found himself on the streets and in the neighborhoods doing what he could to help these victims…that

is the Josh Reddick Effingham County has grown to love. This man is always giving. And, his biggest gift is going to be something absolutely amazing for all of Effingham County. The groundbreaking ceremony for the Josh Reddick Field was recently held at the new Clarence E. Morgan Sports Complex in Springfield. This field is being built with a gift of one million dollars by Josh so that all the youth of Effingham will have a place to play. This will be a turf field which is being built to be accessible to children with special needs. Josh feels like every child in our community should have the same opportunities to play, to live their dream. One of the most important messages Josh wanted to relay in this story was his thanks to Effingham County for all their support of him throughout his career. Well Josh, we want to thank you for all you do for the people in Effingham County! UPCOMING EVENTS FOR THE JOSH REDDICK FOUNDATION December 9th Home Run Derby Clarence E. Morgan Sports Complex 9AM December 16th ‘Run the town with Reddick’ 5K Downtown Springfeild 9 AM January 27th Annual Josh Reddick Concert Featuring Chris Janson Festivies Start at 3:00PM For More Information, visit www.joshreddickfoundation.com

12 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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The only thing we can see

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Darius Scott Exceptional Teen Accepted At Ivy League School story by Kathryn Vandenhouten

photos by Shelia Scott

arius Scott has big plans for the future. The talented SEHS senior has already done what most people will never do; he has been accepted into an Ivy League school. When it comes to American universities, the Ivy League represents the pinnacle of academic success, and Scott’s recent acceptance into world-renowned Cornell University is a dream come true. It has been quite a journey, but Scott says his whole high school career has led him to this point and he is proud of how far he has come. “It started freshman year when my counselor recommended that I try this speaking engagement,” explains Scott. The contest was a Rotary high school speech competition. Little did he know that the contest would lead him to a higher calling. He decided to speak on the topic of human trafficking, which is a worldwide problem that he wanted to address. “My first year I won second place,” he says. “I was happy that that was my first time speaking at all and I placed.” The next year, Scott’s speech on human trafficking won first place. Since he began competing in public speaking, he has won multiple speech competitions, including the Rotary Area Exhibition for Metropolitan Savannah and the Ann Owen Oratorical Competition. Scott certainly has a niche for public speaking, but the subject of human trafficking moved him to action. He didn’t just want to speak about it; he wanted to do something about it. “I have my own little creative idea. It’s called a “Be Free Bracelet,” and on the outside it has a positive message or theme... and on the inside it has the human trafficking hotline,” he explains. He spends his own money making the bracelets, and has given hundreds of them out at various events. Eventually, he wants to create a website and facebook page to promote his Be Free Bracelets to keep raising awareness. “I just thought it would be right for me to not just speak about it, but to do something about it as well, so I figured this is a good way to do it,” he says. Unfortunately, many people don’t know that Savannah and Atlanta have become hotbeds of activity for human trafficking, and everyone can do more to be aware of their surroundings and be on the lookout for suspicious activity. The signs may be difficult to recognize, but he wants to raise as much awareness as he can so people remain vigilant and know there is a hotline to call if someone suspects human traffick-

ing. He created the bracelets in March, and they have already brought international attention to the cause. A woman from Scotland recently heard about Scott’s Be Free Bracelets, and contacted him in regards to human trafficking. “In her small town, they had just found a human trafficking pimp,” he recalls. It made him realize that human trafficking is not just a “big city” problem and that he has made an impact. In addition to tackling worldwide humanitarian issues and delivering winning speeches, Scott is also a multi-talented athlete. He plays basketball and competes in track and field, but the past two years he’s been honing his newfound talent: the triple jump. “I’ve improved my marks so much in the past two years,” he says. “I’ve gone to the Junior Olympics twice. I went to State twice, and I’ve placed at State and Junior Olympics.” His success did not come easily, though. Last season he even contemplated quitting. “I scratched and fouled out of six consecutive meets, and on that last meet where I fouled out I was contemplating on whether I should stop, whether I should switch events, or am I even athletic enough to play track and field?” he recalls. Fortunately, he kept going, trained

harder, and finally started seeing results. He said it was tedious driving forty-five minutes to Northern Lights Training in Savannah every day during the summer, but it definitely paid off. Last season at the State competition, he jumped a full two feet farther than he had ever jumped before. Not only did that jump set a personal record for Scott, but it also set the SEHS school record for the triple jump as well. “It’s been a very fun, heartbreaking and rough experience, but it’s taught me a lot of life lessons,” he says. “And it’s taught me a lot of ways to overcome adversity and keep pushing through no matter what.” Scott recently committed to Cornell University’s Men’s Track and Field Team, and is thankful for the opportunity to compete in the Ivy League. “I’m grateful that I’ve qualified for the track team. For them to recognize me as not just an athlete, but a student who can perform well-- I’m very excited.” he says. “Just getting in is the opportunity of a lifetime.” He says he couldn’t have done it alone. He credits coaches Kim Wilson, Laura Soles and Rosemarie Whyte-Robinson for investing their time training him, Michelle Coburn and Dr. Mark Winters at SEHS, his pastors and church family at the Pentecostal Miracle and Deliverance Center of Guyton, his loving grandparents,and his

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parents, Roger and Sonja Scott. “First and foremost, I want to thank my parents. They are my backbone. They support me in everything I do,” he says. “My mother has been a motivator, a prayer... I can’t even explain where I’d be without her right now. My father invested in my dreams. All of the trips, flights, hotels-he was there." He also has two brothers, R.J. and Isaiah, of whom he is very proud. He and his younger brother, Isaiah, will be representing SEHS for the 2018 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Students of The Year program. Every dollar they raise for LLS will count as a vote, and if they raise the most money, they will earn the LLS title of Students of the Year. Whether they win or lose, the Scott brothers are making an impact in the community, which is the ultimate goal for Darius Scott. “However you can influence the world, find it, and go and connect with other people who you want to be like,” he advises. “Find opportunities to volunteer, find opportunities to make a difference in the community that you’re in now, because you have to start small.” He encourages students to reach out to their school counselors. They are often an untapped resource. “Counselors have a whole bunch of opportunities that students can get into, but nobody goes and asks about opportunities like that,” he says. He feels it was no accident that his ninth grade counselor, Yutasha Lloyd, first encouraged him to do that first speech competition. “I think that was the first step in the journey that God was going to take me on, and my spiritual relationship with God has really taught me to humble myself and really just wait on God, because He will elevate me whenever it is my time to shine.” Scott says his faith plays a huge role in his attitude, service, and his overall success. “Being a Christian, God is the head of my life and He has been leading me down this path.” That path has lead him to serve others, and he plans to major in Biological Science at Cornell and become a Physician’s Assistant. No matter what path he takes, Darius Scott is sure to achieve success at every turn. With his determination, positive attitude, and work ethic, he is definitely going places. His next stop? The Ivy League. For more information about Be Free Bracelets or to join or donate to Team Scott for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society fundraiser, contact Sonja Scott at 912-660-4357.

18 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Finding Beauty In Every Moment

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Nelson LaPorte and daughter, Elizabeth

Eugenia Spradley WEAVING OF WORDS story by Karlee Collins

photos by Shelia Scott

n June of 2017, ninety-one year old Eugenia Spradley published her first book called Weaving of Words. The book includes poems about her family’s stories, beautiful places she’s visited, lessons she’s learned through the years, and more. In each one, her love for the Lord is an obvious inspiration. “It’s spiritual poetry,” she says. “I’ve got to give God the credit because the words come to me through Him laying them on my heart.” She explains that once she began writing it became easier and easier as time went on: “In fact, I’ve got enough stuff here to write a couple more books. It’s just something that I like to do.” Eugenia has been writing for many years. “I remember even in the fifth grade having a desire to write,” she shares. Through the years she wrote poems and stories occasionally. However, it wasn’t until 2003 that her writing hobby became something of more importance to her. “When I had ovarian cancer the third stage, I felt that, if I was going to write, that it was the time to do it now because I didn’t know how many more years I had,” she says. “I said, ‘God if you’re ready for me, I’ll just change my address to heaven and if you’re not ready for me yet, then give me something to do.’ That’s when I started seriously writing.” Eugenia’s doctor had discovered the cancer, and she was able to have surgery. There was still much in store for her to do. “My nephew is an army chaplain married to just a wonderful lady,” she shares. “Over the years, during their marriage, I have corresponded with her and I would send her poems all along.” Through this relationship of written words, Eugenia’s niece-inlaw, Ricki Walker, enjoyed the poetry so much that she took it upon herself to make sure that the work got published. “She wrote and said ‘Aunt Jean, I’m gathering up all the poems you’ve sent me and I’m sending them to a publisher.’ She decided to use my work for some benefit to others,” Eugenia says. “I had made an attempt earlier, but I could never get any cooperation from the person I was talking to about it. So, I just gave up. Thinking maybe it isn’t the Lord’s will.” She believes God’s plan was better because with her niece handling the business side of things, she was able to just enjoy the excitement of becoming a published author. “I’ve got to give her credit,” Eugenia says. “Ricki took all the problems so I appreciate her for that. She had to do a lot of work.” Ricki was not the only loved one to get involved in celebrating Eugenia’s writing. “A friend of mine gave me a book signing. They had it at Carey Hilliard’s in Garden City. It was exciting, exciting!” she shares. Friends and family came from all around to show their support and admiration for Eugenia’s accomplishment, including Ricki and her husband who traveled down for the event. “I just sat at a table and people would come to me and talk to me,” she explains. “Well at the end of the day, my friend handed me about five hundred dollars’ worth of checks; people had bought books!” This gift of writing that Eugenia had been sharing only with close friends for many years had become something to be shared with many, and she is still filled with excitement. Eugenia gives God all the glory for her writing abilities: “It was more or less taking words that God laid on my heart and weaving them together into poetry.” She has led a beautiful life and in thankfulness, she writes about it to allow others to peek into her experiences. One source of her inspiration comes from childhood memories of her grandfather. “Grandpa loved to sing to us,” she says. “In the evenings, all of us would sit on the front porch and Grandpa would sing to us.” She recalls songs that she loved to hear from him and the joy she shared with her siblings and cousins at being in his presence. “He’d play string games with us. And everything we learned at Sunday school or Bible school or school, we’d have to remember. Because he would sit on the wash bench in the

backyard under the chinaberry tree, and we would have to tell him about the things we learned and memorized,” she reminisces. Another relationship that has inspired her writing is the one she had with her sister, Sarah. Eugenia was three and half years older than Sarah, and they shared a close bond throughout their lives. In the later years of life, the relationship became a little different: “She had Alzheimer’s for nearly ten years and was in a nursing home in Richmond Hill.” During that time, Sarah lost her ability to communicate, but Eugenia continued to visit her. On the last visit that they had before Sarah passed away, Eugenia was blessed with what she calls “a farewell party.” She explains, “That day, the big room, where all the people usually are, was totally empty except for Sarah and me. And she began to clap her hands.

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She was alert. When she started to clap her hands, I started singing Jesus Loves Me.” Sarah and Eugenia spent two hours of singing and clapping and hugging. “No one came into the room. God knew it was our farewell party and God didn’t let anyone come in and disturb us,” she says. “God knew that we wouldn’t see each other on this earth again.” A love for family is a huge part of Eugenia’s writings. She and her husband, William, were married at fourteen years old and celebrated fifty-nine years together before he passed away in 1999. She remembers him with fondness and stories of him and her children are included in her book of poetry. “My husband worked in a grocery store most of his life as a produce manager. When each one of our sons got old enough, he’d put them to work in the store with him,” she shares. Her two sons decided after working with their father that they would pursue different careers, but the early example of a hardworking man was important in shaping their motivation. Eugenia is very proud of all three of her children and what they have become, and that pride is evident in her work. Eugenia has now been writing “seriously” for almost fifteen years. “I’ve got a box under my dining table full of more work,” she laughs. She is already considering publishing again, and has a publisher pursuing her for a second book. “I’ll have to gather my work together and see what’s appropriate,” she says. “I would not only use poetry because I’ve got a lot of other things that I’ve written that are about experiences that are not poems.” She is already exploring ideas for the name of her second book. While waiting for the sequel, Weaving of Words can be purchased through her website www.weavingofwords.com. The book is a special treasure filled with Eugenia’s life wisdom and insight that she hopes God will use to touch many lives.

22 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

“Our mission is to provide comprehensive service to people of all ages with speech, language and/or hearing problems without regard to financial status. We are committed to excellence in customer service and satisfaction.” • Hearing Evaluation/Hearing Loss • Tinnitus or any perceived sounds in the ear • Hearing Aids/Hearing Devices • Cochlear Implants • Effects of Noise Exposure • Hearing Protection Rincon Office 711 Zitterour Road • Rincon, GA 31326 Located in the United Way Service Center

912-355-4601

Savannah Office 1206 E. 66th Street • Savannah, GA 31404

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Be in the know...

EFFINGHAM MAGAZINE & NOTES Effingham Magazine & Notes is a bi-weekly e-newsletter promoting community happenings and events.

Keep yourself in the KNOW in Effingham! Email Lea Thornton-Allen at lea@idpmagazines.com to receive our newsletter!

108 International Drive • PO Box 1742 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 826-2760 • www.EffinghamMagazine.com

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Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

For A Gentle Touch And Listening Ear... At Premier Dental Designs – your local Rincon Dentist – we believe that the only way we can effectively be your dental care provider is if we earn your trust. That is why we go above and beyond in delivering outstanding dental care and exceptional service to all of our dental patients and friends.

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24 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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Meet Dr. Travis Wiggins Board Certified in Gastroenterology & Internal Medicine Therapeutic and Diagnostic Endoscopy Caring for digestive disorders of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine (colon), liver, pancreas and gallbladder.

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www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Top Ladies of Distinction Serving Women, Seniors and Youth story by Katrice Williams photos by Miranda Osborn-Sutphen

Adrienne Boner and Deborah Enoch: “Shapers for Change” “You were born with the ability to change someone’s life; don’t ever waste it.” ~Unknown

any organizations strive to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. (TLOD) is certainly a noteworthy example. With an inception that dates back to September 8, 1964, in Tyler, Texas, this

“non-profit educational, humanitarian organization” was established as a heart-felt initiative of the U.S. First Lady, at the time, Mrs. Lyndon Baines Johnson. As an exemplary woman who believed in empowering other distinguished women to serve the community and help others in need, First Lady Johnson diligently sought to recruit a

26 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

group of women “who would work cooperatively” to help combat various issues within the communities, particularly those experienced by young people. Several notable ladies attended an invitation-only luncheon, which was proposed by First Lady Johnson to discuss the establishment of a group dedicated to serve

“youth and adults in the community.” The recipient of the invitation was Willie Lee Glass (Tyler, TX), the wife of Texas College President Dr. D.R. Glass. Mrs. Glass, a Texas College educator, was well-known as a “tireless advocate” for continuous improvement and change. She invited her former student, U.S. Air Force Major Ozell M. Dean (Washington, DC). Major Dean’s relative and talented music teacher Franchell Boswell (Tyler, TX) also attended. Many other “trailblazers” were invited to pool their skills and talents in order to address various social issues. Other TLOD founders include: Ina Bolton Brown, Ph.D. (Houston, TX), an avid academician; Augusta Rivers Cash-Latham (Memphis, TN), a noteworthy educator; Ruth Payne Smith (Austin, TX), a home economics instructor along with Georgia Bell Presswood Nelson (Dallas, TX) and Laverne Madlock, who both played very instrumental roles in the organization’s growth over the years. Further, the title “Lady” became a title of distinction for each member. Under the leadership of Lady Drema Lee Woldman, out of Chicago, the current TLOD national president, the organization presently includes thousands of women across the nation “working together to invest in their communities through their service and leadership.” The organization has several major focal areas, or “thrusts,” in which they dedicate their efforts. These include: Top Teens of America “Top Teens” (helping teenagers to strive towards overall excellence), Status of Women (dedicated to the empowerment of all women), Senior Citizen Service (assisting seniors with their overall needs), Community Beautification (helping to visually enhance and improve the community) and Community Partnerships (working with other organizations toward a common and beneficial interest). Lady Adrienne Boner is the president of the Effingham (Area IV) TLOD chapter. Actually, Adrienne initially joined the Savannah chapter and has been a member of TLOD for ten years. The Ohio native, along with her husband Benjamin, have been in the area for some time now. Adrienne attributes a great deal of her inspiration to join the phenomenal organization to her mom Lady Carolyn Stanley, organizer for the Effingham chapter, who has been a part of TLOD for over ten years. Carolyn is a career educator who taught Adrienne the importance of being involved in positive activities, especially those dedicated to helping others. Adrienne states, “Top Ladies is based on serving the youth, serving senior citizens and serving women—it’s what led me to

join. They just had some really good projects that I wanted to be involved in.” In addition to being the chapter president, Adrienne works on the area level. She is in charge of Area IV Technology and is the Area IV Assistant Financial Secretary. Six states make up Area IV, including Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Alabama. All are under the leadership of the Area IV Director, Lady Crystal C. Pittman, who is out of Miami. There are a group of states that make up each area, so there is ample

coverage for the entire country. Adrienne, alongside TLOD, supports and participates in several meaningful projects. Some include: St. Jude’s, March of Dimes, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), National Council for Negro Women (NCNW) and the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America (SCDAA). Interestingly enough, most projects take place on the national level. For example, if there is a Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Walk or a St. Jude’s Walk-a-Thon, members from all

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

around the country will participate in them at similar times in their respective areas, exhibiting massive amounts of unity and commitment. Adrienne reveals, “All over the country, everybody is holding some type of walk to raise money on that same day.” Much of the organization’s focus is currently on fundraising efforts. They have been thrilled with their involvement with Painting with a Purpose, which is a monthly fundraising event given by Painting with a Twist, where paint studios host events to “raise money for certain local or regional charities.” Adrienne explains that “50% of the proceeds have come back to the chapter” when it has been sponsored. The ladies appreciate all the community members that have taken part in it. The Effingham Chapter has been relentlessly dedicated to raise money for the Top Teens, so that they may all travel to the TLOD Area IV Annual Conference in March 2018 held in Birmingham, Alabama. The teens, themselves, are having various popcorn fundraisers to contribute to the cause--funds raised will help with transportation costs. The trip should be informative and fun. Adrienne knows that it will be a memorable experience for the young people. She is very grateful and considers it to be a great privilege to be a part of the group. She enjoys working alongside the

other very ‘distinct’ ladies. “I feel like I gained another family. It’s a very humbling experience, especially when we’re serving people who are underprivileged. It keeps me aware of current issues. I love to serve,” Adrienne asserts. Adrienne feels that the organization is in a league all its own. There is a sincere focus on helping others, which is accomplished through the collective efforts of a uniquely diverse and talented group of women. She knows that the only prerequisite necessary to become a member is for individuals to have a genuine interest in people…a genuine interest in community. Adrienne states, “Anybody and everybody can be involved in Top Ladies…if they want to serve.” A major short-term goal that Adrienne has is to acquire more community partners. She understands that more support allows for even more beneficial opportunities and resources for the community as a whole. “We would love to work with some other businesses,” Adrienne remarks. Top Teens is one of the major thrusts of the entire organization, as the ladies understand that children are the future of this country, and it is imperative to afford them the very best opportunities that are available. In fact, it is such a vital interest, that all TLOD chapters must include a Top Teens thrust in order to exist. Lady Deborah Enoch, a North Carolina native, has been in the area for over 20 years, along with her husband Jaycee; the couple has two adult children and two grandchildren. Lady Deborah is a charter member for the Effingham chapter of TLOD, as she was inducted in August 2016. She, too, has been the chapter advisor for the Top Teens since December 2016. The group welcomes young ladies and young men in grades 8-12. It is obvious that Deborah has a beautiful heart for young people and enjoys working with them. She serves as the youth advisor at her church home, Goodwill Baptist Church. She is the owner and director of Teach, Love and Care Learning Center, caring for children ages six weeks to 12 years of age. In fact, one of her Top Teen members likes to volunteer at the center in her spare time and really has a knack for working with the little ones. Deborah enjoys her time with the teens and feels that it is truly rewarding to positively contribute to their lives…their well-being…their futures. She remarks, “Our Top Teens are a fantastic group.” The teens have the opportunity to par-

28 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

ticipate in all the overall initiatives of the TLOD, including all projects and events, and the ladies are happy to mentor the teens and lead by example. Deborah mentions, “In everything we do, we’re teaching them. We assist them with different projects; when we do projects, they’re there to back us up.” In addition to other national projects, the teens also participate in the “Blessings in a Bookbag” fundraiser. It is a national fundraiser, providing “food and supplies to kids in need.” Designated areas in each state are provided bookbags filled with goodies or supplies—based solely on the greatest need in the area. There are numerous opportunities the teens have to learn invaluable life skills. Deborah and the other ladies provide the teens with helpful workshops, those designed to teach about proper manners and etiquette, communication skills, speech-delivery, proper business dress and an array of other skillsets. Also, the teens will have the opportunity to compete in debate webinars and competitive spelling bee tournaments. Regarding helping the teens, Deborah declares, “Everybody can help somebody. These are the types of things we’re teaching them. It’s up to us.” The future certainly looks bright for this outstanding organization, as they are making a tremendous difference in the lives of others. Website: www.tlodinc.org Email: effinghamchapter@gmail.com

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Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Meet Our Chamber Director,

Brad Carr 30 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

ounded in 1986, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce made a commitment to support its existing businesses and attract new enterprises to its thriving business climate. What began as a need to address individual concerns evolved into a well-rounded program. As a team of well-rounded business and community leaders, the Chamber has the ability to accomplish what no one business owner can do alone. Effingham County continues to grow and the Effingham Chamber has been on the forefront of changes in the county. The Chamber has continued to serve the community by providing leadership and forward thinking to the citizens and business of Effingham. When a new business opens their doors, the Chamber is there to lend support, provide helpful information and to help promote them in the community. Our Chamber takes pride in getting to know each and every member. Now, we have a new man who is out knocking on those doors. Brad Carr took over as the Executive Director of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce in June of this year. Brad took over this position from Rick Lott, who retired earlier this year. Brad grew up in Woodstock, Georgia. He attended Georgia Southern University, receiving both a Bachelor and Master's degree. Brad is now happy to be a part of all of Effingham’s communities. He has always enjoyed this area of the state. So, when the job for Executive Director of the Effingham Chamber of Commerce became available, he knew he had to pursue it. He shares, “I see Effingham as a great county with a rich history, and enormous potential for the future. I am happy to be here and be a part of that growth.” Before coming on board with the Chamber, Brad served with the Georgia Southern University Office of Alumni Relations since 2011. Prior to his work there, he was the Sequoyah District Executive in the Northwest Georgia Council Boy Scouts of America. Today’s Chamber consists of about 300 members from a wide variety of business types and sizes. Its 14 member Board of Directors represents all the businesses in our community with an eye on collective achievements and quality of life. Since taking this position, Brad has enjoyed being out in the community. “I have been working on meeting all of the members of the Chamber, and finding out what the Chamber can do for each one of them. I want to know what the business needs are in our county so I can better serve the people and help the Chamber continue to grow,” shares Brad. What began as a primarily rural county, Effingham County

today is more of a mixture of country and city. We boast an exceptional educational system which has made new residents flock into our communities. With this residential growth, new businesses have arrived as well. This growth is the future of our county…and the future of our Chamber. Brad Carr sees that and wants to make sure the Chamber has everything needed to help our new businesses, as well as our long time existing members. Brad's future goals for the Effingham Chamber of Commerce is to grow the business community throughout the county, so that all the businesses feel connected and support each other. He says, "We want the Chamber to be the place for business in Effingham County. From networking, to training on the latest business trends, the Chamber seeks to provide our membership with the very best resources for sustainability and growth."

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Effingham County’s Oldest Mortgage Company… Effingham County’s Oldest Mortgage Company… Effingham County’s Oldest Mortgage Company…

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32 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

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34 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

p: (912) 826-2760 f: (912) 826-2762 effinghammagazine.com

Shop Local GUIDE

Shop Local, Shop Effingham

veryone knows that the traditional Christmas colors are green, white and red. For merchants, however, black is perhaps the most important color of the season. It means enough silver and gold could come their way to get their bottom line out of the red. The Christmas shopping season is what puts retailers in the black. Unless you are in retail, you’re probably not aware of how expensive it is to succeed in that field and how slim margins can be. Most retailers operate at a loss throughout the year. They stay afloat because of the yearend frenzy of consumer spending. It is generally believed that Black Friday is the busiest shopping day of the year, but that’s not necessarily the case. Typically, busiest shopping day honors goes to the Saturday before Christmas or, if Christmas falls on a weekend, the Thursday and Friday before. Very few people get all of their Christmas shopping done in any single day during the season. It is the entire month (give or take) leading up to Christmas that makes the merchants merry. The whole thing conjures up images of ravenous shoppers barreling mindlessly through stores, trampling everyone in their way, grabbing at everything in sight, and contending with one another over the last great bargain. But that’s not the true holiday spirit. That spirit can be found when shoppers are truly thoughtful about what they buy and where they buy it. That’s why the small business organizations in Effingham County encourage residents to spend their money in local businesses. Dollars spent in our locally owned businesses have a tremendous impact on our community. When shopping locally, the dollars stay in our community, creating jobs, funding more city services, and providing more money for community development.

36 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Small businesses form the backbone of our local economy, generating jobs and improving the quality of life for citizens. For every dollar you spend locally, you are doing your part to help stimulate and preserve your local economy. And, don't forget about the wonderful services provided by some of our local small businesses...services such as hair salons, nail salons, and spas are vital to the local business mix, and provide thoughtful gift options. Our local merchants offer thousands of products and services from local artists, artisans, farmers, and other producers of celebrated goods. Buying local means more than just supporting merchants–it supports local producers as well. It’s also important to remember that if you have grown accustomed to shopping online, you can shop online locally, too. Virtually all local merchants have websites. If a merchant doesn’t have purchasing capabilities on its site, simply call them. You can get the best of both worlds: on line convenience and personal service from people you know. You can even save on shipping by picking up your purchases at your convenience. Shopping local has so many advantages,...and with all our local businesses have to offer...why go anywhere else? Shop Local, Shop Effingham...that's what it's all about!

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Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Christmas Shopping Made Easy • Nora Fleming

Name Brand Gift Items and Local Wear

• Fripp & Folly • Straight Up Southern • Lily Grace

Local Mema’s Candles

• It’s A Girl Thing

Rina’s Kitchen

• Nine Line • Puppie Love Apparrel • It’s All About The South

Studiers Honeypot Jumpin Goat Coffee

• Simply Southern

Tebeau Hill Apparel & Gifts

107 N. Laurel St Springfield, GA 31329 (912) 407-0651

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM “The Salon”

Give Your Hair a Holiday Treat...

912-826-3791

Hwy 21 S. Suite B, Rincon • McCall Plaza Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 10am-7pm Friday 9am-5pm • Saturday 10am-2pm early & late appointments available

38 December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Make an appointment today with one of our professional stylists!

Quality Car Wash

New Location! 216 Central Blvd. Guyton, GA 31312 (912) 536-7047

Wishes Everyone A

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

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It’s Always Christmas at New Life... Gift Choice Galore! You can’t go wrong this Christmas when you shop us.

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159 Commercial Drive • Rincon, GA (912) 826-4261 • www.newlifeflorist.com www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Great Gift Ideas...Just In Time For Christmas!

Quality Service Center Wishes everyone a

Merry Christmas & Happy Holiday Season! Stop by and get your Holiday Gift Certificates for that hard to shop for person!

203 S. Columbia Avenue / Hwy 21 phone: 912-826-4059

Your Local Retailer We Also Carry: • Holland Grills • Quality Inground Vinyl Liner Pool Construction • Leisure Fiberglass Pools • Doughboy Above Ground Pools

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Your Package, Shipped Anywhere! We wish all of you a very Merry Christmas this year!

Rincon Packaging and Shipping 475 Northbridge St. Ste A Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 826-3992 40

December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

1979 HWY 119 SOUTH • GUYTON, GEORGIA (912) 772-7047 • WWW.RIGGSFH.COM

Holiday Gifts And Customer Service With Southern Charm!

Come See Us For All Your Personalized Gifts

Follow Us On Facebook • 748-5733 Shop Online www.southerncharmembroidery.com 660 Old River Road • Bloomingdale, GA (Meldrim)

Tree of Light

An important annual ritual

n the first Sunday of December, the counselors of Hospice Savannah’s Full Circle Grief and Loss Center host a Tree of Light memorial gathering to remember and honor those who have passed on before us. As bereavement professionals, they know how hard it can be for someone to face the upcoming holiday season when they carry the loss of a loved one in their heart. Hospice Savannah hosts a memorial gathering each quarter so that families can come together to remember those patients who died within the last month, and those who died a year ago. But in December, the counselors invite the whole community to the beautiful Demere Center for Living where Full Circle is housed. Chairs are set up on the outdoor patio, there is music, touching sharing of memories, and a candle lighting during which there is a reading of names of those being honored. “Each year we have a speaker share their story of loss,” says Holland Morgan, bereavement coordinator for Full Circle, “Last year, Betsy, one of own counselors, told the story of her grief journey after her mother’s death. Her talk was entitled, ‘Even the bereavement counselor has a hard time’ and I think it was an important message to help normalize and validate the feelings that so many of us share.” Full Circle counselors provide year-round support sessions, individual or group, to any one throughout Bryan, Chatham, Effingham Liberty and Long counties who struggles with the death of a loved one. They also offer a children’s overnight grief camp, help children affected by gun violence, support people whose loss is through suicide, ‘Grief and Holidays’ workshops and many other programs. “Our annual Tree of Light event is not only a meaningful and important grief activity, but it also serves as a major fundraiser so we can continue to offer these services at no charge,” says Kim Stangle, VP of the Hospice Savannah Foundation. “As a hospice,

December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Medicare obligates us to provide grief support to our patients’ families for up to 13 months after the death of their loved one. But Hospice Savannah does much, much more. Our Full Circle Grief and Loss Center depends on grants and community donations to continue its important programming. Any one who donates to our annual Tree of Light campaign will receive a brass tree ornament, have their name and their loved one’s name in the event’s program, and know that they are helping us to help others.” To make a donation, simply visit www.HospiceSavannah. org/TreeofLight or call the Hospice Savannah Foundation at 912.629.1055. All community members are warmly invited to the 26th annual Tree of Light candle lighting and memorial gathering at 5:15 p.m. on Sunday, December 3, 2017. Full Circle Grief and Loss Center is located inside the Demere Center, 6000 Business

Are you caring for a spouse with a chronic illness, a parent with dementia, or a disabled loved one?

Help is available at no charge Center Drive, off Chatham Parkway in Savannah. The event can move indoors in case of inclement weather and refreshments will be served following. To find out more about Full Circleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s programs, please visit www.HospiceSavannah.org/fullcircle or call 912.303.9442.

Gain hands-on practical skills, referrals to community resources, connect and learn from others in your situation www.EdelCaregiverInstitute.org 6000 Business Center Drive

(off Chatham Parkway close to I-16)

922.629.1331 Ad made possible by generous support from A program of not-for-profit Hospice Savannah

www.Effingham

People with a Gift for Helping

Magazine.com | December/January 2017-2018

Cobb’s Galleries Antiquing and Collecting Since 1981

story by cindy burbage

photography by miranda osborn-sutphen

ocated in heart of historic Savannah, Cobb’s Galleries is poised on the corner of Abercorn and E 37th Street at the historic Krouskoff House. Upon entering the gallery, you are taken back in time with the atmosphere of the 1895 house that furnishes more than 250,000 antiques and collectibles. Al Cobb, Sr., owner of Cobb’s Galleries, began his love and appreciation for heirlooms with gold and silver. His debut store was called Cobb’s Gold and Silver Galleries; over the years, he expanded to handle a wider array of collectibles. The polished antique dealer expanded his business to include art, antiques, jewelry, pocket and wristwatches, coins and currency, Civil War relics, post cards, stamps, antique dolls, toys, games and not to mention thousands of other collectibles which include 6,000 vintage vinyl record albums , and the largest collection of cookbooks in Georgia (approximately 6,000). There are 6,000 each of vintage comic books, magazines, figurines and art pottery in stock. Also included in the collections are leather bound classic novels published by Easton Press along with Hamilton Mint. With the wide variety of treasures, Al Cobb shared, “We still buy all kinds of sterling silver and gold items. We buy and sell singles, rolls and bags of 90% silver coins to ½ dimes to silver dollars.” Gold coins and international coins and paper money can

also be bought and sold; this includes entire coin and currency collections. Cobb Galleries is also in the market to purchase stamps, Civil War memorabilia, post cards and token and medal collections as well. “I really need to emphasize that we need to buy / trade out or barter for broken, dented, scratched and unwanted sterling silver jewelry and sterling flatware and hollow ware. Gold jewelry and gold or platinum scrap can be repurposed into jewelry/ coins/ medals and more flatware for the future generations is also a need,” the antique dealer shared. “Rare coins and paper money from the USA and around the world needs special attention too. Also, Grandpa’s and Granny's old yellow gold dentures , bridgework and teeth get a good laugh out of many people who have no use for them other than melt down for the Gold.” With the banks only five blocks away, Cobb Galleries offers one hour or less service in most buying transactions; customers can get their cash today. Buying and selling of item of yesterday is not the only flair of Cobb’s Galleries. Al Cobb, Sr. has been an estate and insurance appraiser since the 1970’s. His numerous years of experience allow him to appraise any ancient, antique or modern day collectible. In fact, his services are trusted by many local companies. Prices are competitive: a verbal appraisal for up to ten items is $100 and written ones for insurance and estate purposes are $250 plus 10% per thousand, based on the total evaluation. Cobb’s Galleries has been a familiar name in Savannah and the surrounding areas for more than 36 years; their memorable reputation is based on their honesty and their five star ratings on all fronts. This includes their Better Business Bureau listing and a 100% on EBay. Please visit savannahantique.com for more information on the gallery and their collections. The shop is open Monday – Saturday 9am-2:30; later appointments can be made by calling the gallery at 912-234-1582. . Each room of the gallery is bursting with riches of yesterday and today; waiting for you to come explore and claim.

122 E 37th St • Savannah, Georgia (912) 234-1582 • www.savannahantique.com 44

December/January 2017-2018 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Paid For Advertorial

Springfield Merchant’s Association Welcomes You To

The Holiday Shop Hop

Saturday, December 16 • 10 am - 2 pm In Conjunction With The Josh Reddick Foundations “Run The Town With Reddick”

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