October/November 2017
11 Year Anniversary Issue
Winston Hencely Soldier AND Survivor
INTRODUCING OUR NEW
P E D I AT R I C I A N
Bailey Alford, M.D.
TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE FOR OUR CHILDREN. Call Effingham Family Medicine to schedule an appointment.
GUYTON: 912-772-8670 SPRINGFIELD: 912-754-1035
912-754-6451 EffinghamHealth.org
I’ll Fight For Your Rights. LAW is one of the great healing professions..... While medicine heals the body and the clergy heals the soul, The law heals societal rifts. - Steven Keeva
Rick Rafter
• Personal Injury • Family Law • Criminal Law • Civil Litigation • Probate
Phone: 912-754-7200 Fax: 912-754-7207 Cell: 912-661-2410 Email: Rick@rafterlawfirm.com
801 N. OAK STREET • SPRINGFIELD, GA
United Way of the Coastal Empire thanks Georgia-Pacific and its Savannah River Mill employees. Year after year, Georgia-Pacific employees rally to raise tens of thousands of dollars to help others in need, they send us two of their best and brightest employees to volunteer as Sponsored Associates, and they give generous foundation gifts. They also have provided support for the United Way marketing efforts through production of the One By One campaign video and PSAs.
United Way of the Coastal Empire thanks the Effingham Magazine for donating this ad.
Looking For The Perfect Home This Fall?
Let Your Local Coldwell Banker Agent Help You Find Your Dream Home. Office Staff Available 7 Days A Week 5805 Hwy 21 S. • Rincon, GA 31326 912-826-0927 • 877-826-0926
A portion of all Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty proceeds are donated to local charities.
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October/November 2017
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Winston Hencely
16
Manna House Ministries
22
Clyo Homemakers
28
Hospice of Savannah
32
The City Of Springfield
36
Cheryl Tobey
42
Christopher Chavis
46
Traci Wells
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Dining Feature
Soldier and Survivor
Feeding The Hungry In Effingham County
Giving Back To Effingham For 50 Years
It’s All About The Small Stuff
Downtown Development Authority
Founder of Coastal Empire Dressage Assoc
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Conquering the Catch...Hook, Line and Sinker
Salesperson of the Year 2016 Cora Bett Thomas
The Loft Cafe
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42
32
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WE’RE TRANSFORMING HOW WE APPROACH PATIENT CARE AT EFFINGHAM HEALTH SYSTEM— INCLUDING FAMILY MEDICINE. 22
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in this issue
— SUSAN N. HARRISON, FNP-BC PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER EFFINGHAM FAMILY MEDICINE
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912-754-6451 EffinghamHealth.org
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When Only the Best Will Do Experience And Dedication Matters • • • • •
Licensed since 2002 Certified Residential Specialist Distinguished Sales Society Superior Customer Service 2016 Agent of the Year for Cora Bett Thomas Realty Moving Out of the Area? I can locate a Realtor to work for you. Ask me how.
Traci Wells Office: (912) 233-6000 Fax: (912) 233-2447 Mobile: (912) 657-0577
Cora Bett Thomas Realty 13 East York Street Savannah, GA 31401
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
Susan Lee
began her writing career more than 25 years ago when she served in the U.S. Air Force as a military journalist stationed in Washington, D.C. After completing her tour of duty, Susan stayed on as a civilian employee in Washington, working for more than 10 years as Public Relations Director for the Air Force’s Services Division. She moved from D.C. to Effingham County in 1996 after meeting her husband, Springfield native Wesley Lee. She has continued to work in public relations and marketing throughout the years and is excited to now focus more on her writing..
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.
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October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
David Pena is a former Language Arts and Journalism
teacher who taught in the Georgia Public School system for over twenty years. He is now the Unit Director for the Boys & Girls Club in Savannah, Tompkins Unit where he oversees the after-school programs. In his spare time, he loves spending quality time with his twelve year-old son Carter, playing golf, and playing music with his band. He loves writing feature articles because he gets to meet some interesting folks who have unique stories to tell.
PUBLISHER’S Thoughts
Celebrating Eleven Years 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
Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:
108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 826-2760
I
t still amazes me that Effingham Magazine has been in existence for eleven years. Some days, it feels like yesterday. We have made a lot of changes over the years. I sit and look at some of our older issues and I realize how we have grown, the design changes we have made have had an overall impact on our "look." Being able to produce this magazine for Effingham County has been hectic at times, but so rewarding. The hectic part works its way out with time, the rewarding part never ends. It is very rewarding, and humbling, to me to be able to publish Effingham Magazine. It gives us an opportunity to bring you more...more of the best our area has to offer and opens many doors for me to be able to give back to my community. I knew eleven years ago when I founded Effingham Magazine that this would become my passion. There was no doubt in my mind. This wonderful county has Julie Hales, PUBLISHER too many wonderful people, unique events and special places not to get the recognition it so deserves. It is truly an honor to bring you each new issue of Effingham Magazine. Seeing that fresh cover on the stands...it just makes you want to stop and pick up every issue. We thank you for allowing us to do this. Without our loyal readers and advertisers, this would not be possible. It would also not be possible without all the amazing people on our team...each of them are so very important to me, and I know I couldn't do this without each one of them. I also want to thank my family and friends. You guys have always given me the support I need to continue this "love affair" I have with my job. So, sit back and enjoy the ride. I can't wait to see what the next eleven years bring.
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. 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.
October/November 2017
11 Year Anniversary Issue
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.
Winston Hencely Soldier AND Survivor
ABOUT THE COVER Meet Winston Hencely, Effingham Soldier. It’s been almost a year since Winston was injured in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan. Read as he tells us of his experience, and his remarkable road to recovery.
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Winston Hencely
W
Soldier AND Survivor Story By Kathryn Vandenhouten
inston Hencely doesn’t consider himself a hero. He says he was just doing his job. He never imagined a confrontation with a suicide bomber would leave him struggling to survive. He’s still on the road to recovery, but the Effingham soldier is defying expectations at every turn. In November of 2016, the ECHS graduate was an army specialist soon to be promoted to sergeant when he was nearly killed. He recalls knowing instinctively that something was wrong that day. Unlike most Afghan Nationals, the man looked mean and out of place, so Hencely approached him. “If I see something, I’m going to say something,” he says. When the man ignored Hencely after questioning him, he grabbed the man’s shoulders from behind, and that’s when he felt the vest. “He blew up right next to me.” The explosion killed five people and injured sixteen. Four died onsite and another succumbed to injuries later. Hencely suffered a penetrating traumatic brain injury and multiple shrapnel wounds. “Shrapnel went in the front of my forehead and lodged eight bone fragments in the frontal lobe, and the shrapnel is still back between the occipital lobes,” he says. He then lifts his shirt to show a large scar across his chest where he was cut open to remove even more shrapnel from his body. Immediately after the incident, a
Photos By Nelson LaPorte
large piece of his skull was removed due to brain swelling. Most people celebrate their twenty-first birthdays by going out on the town; Hencely spent his 21st birthday getting a metal plate in his head. His mother, Vicki Hencely, says she remembers the day of the bombing like it was yesterday.” I was sitting here, and I was watching the news, and ticker tape went across the screen and it said ‘Suicide bomber on Bagram in Afghanistan kills 4 and injures 17,’” she recalls. When she couldn’t reach her son by phone, friends tried to assure her that she would have gotten a call if something had happened to Winston. Twelve hours later, she got a call from Fort Hood, Texas that confirmed her fears. “I just had that gut feeling. Just that uneasiness. That feeling that something wasn’t right,” she says. When her son arrived to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., doctors had to prepare her for what she was about to see. “It was hard to walk in and see him on life support and the machines breathing for him, and he’s just shaking because the part of the brain that controls body temperature was damaged so they couldn’t control his body temp,” she says. “It was horrible.” Miraculously, Hencely woke up from his coma and never looked back. Doctors said he would be paralyzed on his left side, likely never to walk again. Hencely had other plans. “I made a decision early on,” he explains. “I could’ve easily given up and
just be in the bed the rest of my life. Have somebody feed me, change me-I could’ve, but what quality of life is that?” So he did what any soldier would do; he fought. After months in the hospital and multiple surgeries, he never stopped fighting, and his hard work has paid off. “They told me that I wouldn’t walk. Six months later I was walking. They told me that I wouldn’t run-what next?” says Hencely. If there’s one thing he loves, it’s proving people wrong when they say he can’t do something. “I use a lot of that as motivation,” he explains. “Sometimes you just get dealt a really bad hand. Whining about it doesn’t make your situation any better.” It is that determination that has gotten him this far. He still has a long way to go on his road to recovery, but after multiple surgeries, months of hospitalization, and ongoing therapy, he is proud of how far he’s come. “I’ll never be the same as I was, and I’ve
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accepted that,” he says. His mental scars will last as long as his physical ones. Since the explosion, Hencely has suffered from post traumatic stress and anxiety. The constant fear of danger is never far from his mind. Fortunately, a service dog, Loki, was donated to Hencely to ease his anxiety, and the two are now inseparable. “It’s just nice to have something you can talk to that doesn’t talk back but still shows some sort of love for you,” he says. The love and support from the community has been overwhelming as well. Hencely and his family were amazed at the homecoming he received in Rincon when he came back. Hundreds of people lined the streets to welcome him home. There are still yellow ribbons lining the road to his home, put up by friends and neighbors to honor him. “I’ve never seen so many people come together,” he says. “I want to thank everyone for their support and prayers and everything they’ve done for me.” The homecoming parade, get well cards, and thousands of well-wishes on social media shows the overwhelming support he’s received from family, friends, and the entire community.
“Americans don’t know how good they have it, that’s for sure,” say Hencely. “It’s nice being back in America.” If there is one thing he has learned from his brush with death, it is gratitude. In fact, he says the whole experience has made him a better person. “It took all this happening to me to realize I don’t deserve anything,” says Hencely. “I’m really more open minded now. I value my life a lot more.” He wears a memorial bracelet with the names of those who died that day. It reminds him how lucky he is to be alive, and he vows to do something great with his second chance at life. “I have that with me because they didn’t get the chance to live and I did,” he says. “It’s really hard. Every day is a struggle for sure. My body’s getting better, but I have a lot that I need to work on to mentally overcome.” He still struggles with survivor’s guilt, but he is more focused on the future than the past. “There’s a lot I want to do,” Hencely says. “I want to focus on something in neurology or neuroscience. I have a lot of interest in that and I’ve learned a lot.” Along with his many coins, awards, and his Purple Heart, he has an exact replica of
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his skull with a hole in it the size of a fist. To see it is to truly realize how lucky he is to be alive. Hencely’s motto is “make the rest of your life the best of your life.” No matter how cliche it may sound, he believes he is here for a reason and he plans to live life to the fullest. “There’s a lot more in store. I have big plans. Be patient with me. I love the support and I plan on giving back,” he says. One of the causes that have become even more dear to the Hencely’s is the Adopt A US Soldier program, which connects supportive civilians to deployed soldiers. Hencely himself spent months in the hospital, and his mother and grandmother never left his side. Other soldiers are not so lucky. “Walter Reed took a part of my soul away,” says Vicki Hencely. “You can’t visit a facility like that and walk away whole.” She says the image of sick and injured soldiers with no family was heartbreaking, which is why the Adopt A US Soldier program is so important. “It’s our young kids missing two arms, missing both their legs and don’t have anybody. Their mom’s not there. Their dad’s not there. Their family’s not there,” she adds. Luckily, Winston had strong family and community support throughout his entire ordeal. In fact, he says that waking up to see his family there gave him the encouragement he needed to get well. “That was key to my recovery,” he adds. “Waking up and having my family there.” In addition to supportive family and friends, he also gives credit to the staff at Effingham County Hospital, where he continues physical therapy. Little by little, he is regaining strength and mobility. Winston Hencely will never be the same person he was before he was injured, but maybe he wasn’t meant to be. And though he doesn’t like being called a hero, this soldier’s battle to recover has made one thing certain: he is a fighter.
Finding Beauty In Every Moment
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Nelson LaPorte and daughter, Elizabeth
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Locally Owned and Operated by Scott Simmons 14 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
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D
Story By David Pena
r. Canfield and her team at Premier Dental Designs have been helping to keep the smiles healthy and bright in Rincon for over ten years. Since it first opened in 2005, Premier Dental Designs has been providing families in Rincon with the very best dental care available, and Dr. Angela Canfield takes pride in serving this ever-growing community for more than a decade now. “I love being a general family dentist here because you get to be a part of each patient's family and get to see their children grow up,” she says. “Every day is different, and I truly love working with and educating my patients. Helping them to participate in the best oral and overall health that they can obtain is the number one reason I chose to become a dentist.” Born and raised in West Virginia, Dr. Canfield attended West Virginia University, where she majored in biology, specializing in nutrition and gerontology. She graduated from the West Virginia University School of Dentistry in 2005 with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree (DDS). From there she completed advanced courses in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, as well as orthodontics and periodontics. Dr. Canfield is a member of the American Dental Association, the Georgia Dental Association, and the Southeastern District Dental Association, and she is licensed by both the Georgia and National Boards of Dentistry. For the past twelve years, Dr. Canfield and her team at Premium Dental Designs have been dedicated to preservation of their patients' health, and although aesthetics are a very important factor in looking and feeling great, their primary goal is to see that each of their patient's dental health is the best that it can be in order to improve overall health. Thus, they use only state-of-theart technologies for all procedures, which help Dr. Canfield and her staff to detect dental concerns at the earliest stages. They can then treat their patients' dental issues with precision and provide stunning customized restorations. Their premium dental software system also helps to maximize time as well as the efficiency with which they treat each case. Premium Dental Designs offers preventative, cosmetic and orthodontic dentistry for the entire family. In addition to providing
regular cleanings, fillings and extractions, their procedures also include dentures, root canals, crown and bridge work, as well as the treatment of perio disease. The staff also takes pride in the fact that their office always maintains a very friendly atmosphere. For example, the they are pleased to provide amenities such as complimentary hand waxing to each of their patients. In addition, New Patient Forms are now available on-line so that new patients can complete the forms at their leisure. “When you visit our office in Rincon, you can be confident that you will be receiving the finest and most advanced dental care available,” promises Dr. Canfield. For their efforts, Premier Dental Designs was voted best dental practice in Effingham for 2010, 2011, and 2012. “At Premier Dental Designs, we believe we have to earn your trust in order to be your dental care provider. That is why we go above and beyond to deliver outstanding exceptional service to all of our dental patients and friends in Effingham.”
5871 HWY 21 South • Rincon, GA, 31326 912-826-4037 • www.premierdentaldesigns.com Paid For Advertorial
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MANNA HOUSE MINISTRIES Feeding The Hungry In Effingham County Story By Karlee Collins
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Photos By Shelia Scott
“
I
t began over 25 years ago when basically five churches came together to put the resources together to help people that were in need,” Lisa Bush, the Manna House director, explains. “And it grew and snowballed into what it is today.” The Manna House is a ministry of food assistance to Effingham county residents that find themselves in need. Lisa Bush has been a part of the ministry since 1999 and has been the director for ten years. Today, the Manna House is a food pantry that serves approximately nine hundred families every month. “The families can come every month and get that food assistance. They normally receive anywhere from 100-150 pounds of food when they come in,” Lisa shares. “For a lot of them, we are their only hope for food assistance, and they really depend on coming here and getting that food, and without us they just wouldn’t have it.” Partnerships are what make this project possible. “We partner with all our grocery stores in our area,” she says. “That gives us the benefit of getting donations on a corporate level and we’re able to secure a lot of food to pass out to people who need it.” In addition, the Manna House is now supported by over twenty-five churches and partners with the school system and other businesses and programs to continue having plenty of food and man power. Lisa is one of two paid staff for this ministry; the other is Liz Quarterman, Lisa’s assistant. Volunteers are what make the impressive numbers possible. “We have about sixty volunteers that come every week, and some of them give over fifty hours a month,” Lisa shares. “We’re open three days a week to the public, so we have some very dedicated volunteers that give of their time, and we could not operate
without them.” Liz has been at the Manna House for four years, and one of her favorite parts is seeing the unity of the volunteers in helping their fellow Effingham County residents. “There’s so many people from different walks of lives, denominations, church backgrounds coming together for one common cause, and that is to meet the needs of the people of Effingham county,” Liz says. The volunteers help to sort and distribute the food donations as well as run the thrift store that helps financially support the ministry. When a family or individual comes to the Manna House for the first time, they go into the office area and are asked to show proof of residency and identification. After the paperwork has been completed, the family is taken to the food pantry building where they are given a cart full of groceries. “The first time clients are always the super best ones,” Liz explains. “We bring out the cart, and I don’t know what their expectations are and then they start crying.” Each cart is equipped with staples like grains, canned goods, and dairy products. Depending on what donations have come in, there are many special things, like fresh fruits and veggies or baked goods. Lisa shares, “They’re basically like ‘is all that for me?’” Liz explains that the food may not get them through the whole month, but it will free up some money for whatever is causing pressure in their lives. “People live their lives every single day with needs and a lot of people think ‘homeless,’ but you know what, it can be anyone,” she says. “Anyone that’s had an unexpected bill, a sick baby, a car break down, the house flooded, husband got laid off a job…it can be anything, and they can come here and get food. The money that they were going to buy food with they can help with the
need.” Whatever the case may be, the Manna House is full of loving people and ready to assist as much as possible. Throughout the fall, some projects will be going on to further assist residents in need and to get more people involved in supporting the Manna House ministries. “We will be doing our Fall Food Drive,” Lisa shares. “We reach out to the community, businesses and individuals in our churches that are interested in taking one grocery bag.” Each bag comes back filled with goods that help stock the food pantry. She says, “We put that plead out and it's usually an overwhelming result.” In addition, the Manna House is partnering with the school system and Woodmen of the World for an exciting project. “It’s going to be an effort within the schools to raise awareness for hunger and to allow the schools the opportunity to earn a thousand dollar grant from Woodmen of World for their school by participating in a food drive,” she explains. Both of these initiatives along with the donations of other supporters will help with the upcoming Thanksgiving project. Each fall,
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families register for a special Thanksgiving meal box that comes with a turkey and many of the other side dishes that are usually on the Thanksgiving table. “That'll just be something to help them so they don’t have to worry about where they’re going to get their Thanksgiving meal,” Lisa says. “We usually do anywhere from seven to eight hundred families in addition to what we already do each month.” Both Lisa and Liz give all the credit to God for the work that is being done. Liz says, “God’s hand is on Effingham County in so many different ways. If you never knew anything about the Manna House, it is amazing to see how big He works here. We all grew up thinking that He was big, but we see it truly in every day.” Lisa and Liz have watched as provisions have been made in unexpected ways, and they give God all the credit. Lisa shares one particular incident: “We needed somebody to help with some maintenance issues outside, and out of the blue, I get a community service worker that we don’t know the guy, but he shows up and he’s a master electrician and a master carpenter.” Liz adds, “Last year 1800 gallons of milk showed up right after the hurricane.” The Manna House had no power, but all this milk and bread was provided along with plenty of volunteers, and they created a drive-thru for those that needed assistance during that tough time. “To me, it was the most exciting thing that has happened here. When people couldn’t buy milk and they couldn’t buy groceries, He provided enough to feed hundreds,” Liz shares. The Manna House’s main purpose is to provide food to those in need, but it gives so many other gifts to the community through uniform assistance for school kids, the thrift store for the public, volunteer opportunities for students with disabilities, community service opportunities, workman’s compensation partnerships, and much more. Effingham County is blessed to have an organization full of people willing to serve and help, but there are always needs to be filled in order to make this ministry function at its best. “We’d like for the community to know, we’re an entity here that can use your financial support,” Liz says. Monetary donations can help to ensure that operations continue smoothly and can also help purchase food in bulk for better prices than can be found in a grocery store. Donations of food for the pantry and items for the thrift store are also great ways to be involved in this community ministry. The Manna House’s team plans to continue serving well and wants to grow to serve better, and the community has a wonderful opportunity to rally behind this mission!
NOVA MUSIC, formally known as Island Guitars
M
iss Nova-Rae, a native of Jacksonville, Florida, has had a passion for music since she was a young girl. She started playing the drums and realized how much she truly loved it. Raised on southern rock music, she began taking music lessons at the age of six Nova played in a few rock bands growing up and shared this passion with her sister. She proved to be a master of many trades, as she took the stage playing both the drums and the guitar, as well as singing in several punk and rock bands. Nova’s family always owned businesses as she was growing up. Their guidance and knowledge were instrumental in helping her open her own business. Nova could always be found doing her homework while sitting behind the cash register in the family business. Later, she would find herself working in this same spot. “I pretty much grew up behind the cash register after school. So I knew business was definitely in my future. It seemed so interesting. It just seemed right. By the time I was about thirteen or fourteen, I knew that I wanted to have a music store.” Moving on to bigger and better things “I left high school and got my GED. I opened my store when I was eighteen here in Rincon. At that time, the store was named Island Guitars. It was scary, it was a lot of work but I had my family behind me, and a lot of mentors. I learned really fast that it wasn’t rocket science,” she says jokingly. “I know some people probably didn’t think I was making a smart choice by leaving high school to open a business, but I was ready to start my career. And, since then, I have gone back to school and will soon complete my Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina-Beaufort.” She adds.
“As long as you care and you follow the rules, do things according to the book—really care about what you are doing, then it’s not that hard,” she expresses. Nova proved that stepping into familiar tunes by owning her own business was the smart note to play. While she started at a young age, she powered through and has had continued success. What can customers and clients expect when walking into Nova Music? Nova Music is a musical instrument store that sells mostly used and vintage instruments. The store also facilitates music lessons on a number of instruments with professional instructors, at a fair price. These lessons are held right at the stores location in Rincon and run during after school hours. Nova’s extensive knowledge on instruments, music and running a business in every aspect, has ensured the success of her store. She explains that the music lessons are the most important part of the business. She says, “People come in and they see all of the guitars on the wall and all of the accessories, someone re-stringing a guitar, people buying stuff… but three quarters of our facility are lesson rooms. So we have on average anywhere from one-hundred to one-hundred and fifty students come in for their lessons once a week. It is huge! I’m so thankful that the community has supported us on that. Effingham needed a reputable place to bring their kids for music lessons, one that is organized. By bringing their kids here, they don’t have to worry about having to go in someone else’s home, or having someone come to theirs.” Parents can rest assured that Nova and her instructors will take good care of their children while providing professional music lessons. Take the hassle out of it, book your next lesson at Nova Music.
Contact Nova Music for Information and Book Your Lesson! (912) 295-5588 • www.reverb.com/shop/nova-music-ga Paid For Advertorial
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Creating Smiles That Last A Lifetime! Dr. Gary Johnson Dr. Tracy Durham
Why drive to Pooler? We have a new location in Rincon at Towne Park West. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am - 2pm Dr. Tracy Durham and Dr. Gary Johnson now have two locations to better serve their patients!
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(912) 748-4494
(912) 295-4330
145 Traders Way, Suite D Pooler, GA 31322
613 Towne Park West, Suite 305 Rincon, GA 31326
WWW.TRACYDURHAMDDS.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 Savannah Office 1206 E. 66th Street • Savannah, GA 31404 20 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
912-355-4601
www. SpeechAndHearingSav.org
A Blooming Business
Helping to Brighten Lives in Effingham for over Thirty Years
“W
Story By David Pena
e're in the business of emotions,” explains Stephanie Long, owner and operator of New Life Flowers and Gifts in Rincon, “and since you deal with people's feelings in my line of work, you tend to get closer to them.” This year the popular floral and gift shop is celebrating its thirty-third year in business. And because it's the only store of its kind in the area, New Life Flowers and Gifts has had to expand its product lines, which now include Yeti tumblers, Scout Bags and WoodWick candles, just to name a few. “We also started offering bridal registries and baby shower registries, while expanding our baby lines in the process,” she adds. In addition to offering a wide array of gifts, New Life is also a full-service florist as well. As Stephanie will tell you, flowers have always been in her blood. “I grew up in the floral industry, so I tell folks that I was born in a flower box,” she says with a laugh. For thirty years Long's mother had her own floral shop in Savannah, but Stephanie was ironically not planning to follow in her mother's footsteps. “I told everyone I would never do this,” she laughs, “but it's all I've ever known, and I simply love what I do. You have to love it because it involves long hours and working weekends and most holidays, but I wouldn't have it any other way.” Long explains that one of the many perks of working in the floral industry is having the opportunity to help her clients celebrate their good times and help to comfort them in times of bereavement. “I really feel like flowers help to provide comfort to people, so that's why funerals are generally the most fulfilling type of work that we do,” she says. Long-time employee Dawn Usher echoes the sentiment, saying, “It's the last thing a family can do for their loved one, so it's something that I'm always proud to be a part of.” Conversely, providing wedding arrangements gives the staff just
as much satisfaction, albeit in a different way. “We also do a lot of weddings,” continues Stephanie, “and I always seem to get really close to my brides. I've been doing this for so long that I'm actually doing some of their childrens' weddings as well, so that's neat.” Many of Long's customers have been coming to her for as long as she's been in business, a fact not lost on her. “I've seen so many changes in this community over the years, and we've grown right along with it. I love my customers, and I'm pleased to be working with various commercial clients as well. In fact, we specialize in our commercial work. For instance, we've been proud to serve Gulfstream for over twenty years.” With the holidays just around the corner, Long and her team are going to have their annual Christmas Open House in November. During the event, the price of the store's entire inventory is reduced by twenty percent. “We've done this every year because we just love helping people get ready for the holidays. We always have a complete line of ornaments, garlands and wreaths for them to choose from,” Long says. The Open House will be held this year on November 10 from 4 to 8 pm and on November 11 from 10 to 5 pm. “There will be great Christmas music playing throughout the store, and we'll be serving refreshments and giving out door prizes. The customers really look forward to it, so we invite everyone to come in and begin the holiday season with us. It will be just like a Christmas wonderland at New Life Flowers and Gifts!”
159 Commercial Dr • Rincon, GA (912) 826-4261 • www.newlifeflorist.com Paid For Advertorial
www.Effingham
Magazine.com | October/November 2017
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Clyo Homemakers
Giving Back To Effingham For 50 Years
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Story by Susan Lee
n January of 1966, a new women’s club was formed in Effingham. The week after their first meeting, the ladies opened the Springfield newspaper and read an article that began, “The Haymakers Circle was organized on Monday afternoon at their club room in Clyo.” While the actual name of the group at the time was the Clyo Homemakers Circle, the erroneous title of Haymakers wasn’t that far from the truth. The old saying, “make hay while the sun shines” essentially means taking advantage of an opportunity and doing something while you have the chance. And that’s exactly what this group has been doing for half a century. Whenever they’ve had the chance to help someone in need or an opportunity to donate to their community, they’ve always been on hand with generosity and kindness. The group changed their name to the Clyo Homemakers Club in 1989 and celebrated their 50th anniversary last year. The charter members were: Edna Allen,
Photos by Shelia Scott
Jaunita Allen, Evelyn Arden, Eva Crenshaw, Shirley Exley, Carolyn Exley (Seckinger), Marie Exley, Marsha Exley (Buckley), Maude Gnann, Margaret Groover, Caryl Morgan, Carolyn Morgan, Julia Rahn and Linda Rahn. Most of the women were previously members of the Clyo Home Demonstration Club, affiliated with the State of Georgia through the Extension
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Service. In the early days, the Homemakers met for years in the former Metzger store across the railroad tracks, renting it for the amount of the annual tax payment. Because the building wasn’t furnished, the ladies brought in tables and chairs and did their best to transform it into a welcoming club house (despite the fact that it had no
restroom or kitchen). As early as 1976, the group began discussing plans to build a meeting place and soon opened a bank account to start saving toward that goal. They became incorporated in 1991 and soon after purchased the lot north of the Clyo Fire Department. This .7 acre lot had been the site of the home and office of Dr. William Wyburg Smith. The club’s building committee was Jaunita Allen, Julia Rahn, Edna Allen, Margie Sullivan and Carolyn Morgan. They not only spearheaded the fundraising, but they also contacted several contractors for bids, selected the floor plan, borrowed money and managed the building process. In 1993, they accepted a bid from Harvey Kieffer to build a brick building 32 feet by 50 feet for $46,000. “I have not included any expense or profit for myself in these figures,” Harvey noted on the bid.” They had to obtain a small loan on the building for funds not raised through fundraisers. Julia’s fondest memory is when they broke ground. “It was almost hard to believe what this group of women had done, all of us working together,” she said. “We had dreamed for so long of having our own building and now it was a reality.” The official ribbon cutting ceremony was held on June 22, 1993, at the first meeting in the new clubhouse. By June 1996, the loan had been paid and they ceremoniously burned the note at a family night supper meeting. A true civic organization in every sense, the Clyo Homemakers Club has raised money to support the Effingham community from its earliest days. As Edna Morgan wrote in the club’s 1966-1990 history: “At the first regularly scheduled meeting on Jan. 25, 1966, the treasurer’s report showed a balance of $7.11. A money making project was needed. The first project
was for each person to put one dollar to work for a month, either make a pie, cake or hand work, sell it, and put the profit into the treasury. As time passed, we became more generous and our money making projects increased.” Over the years, their fundraising projects have included bake sales, barbecue dinners, yard sales and Tupperware parties, to name just a few. Each October, the club meeting includes a “Feed the Elephant” auction. “Members bring an item, wrap it up in any way to disguise it, then members bid on it,” explained Patsy Usher. “At the beginning they were mostly baked goods but now we have a variety of items. You just don’t know what you might get.” They have also published an enormously popular series of cookbooks since 1976, the most recent entitled “The Best of Effingham”. And each year since the very beginning, the women have sold raffle tickets to award one lucky winner a beautiful hand-stitched quilt. Current members of the quilt committee are Helen Edwards, Julia Rahn, Claudine Arnsdorff, Hazel Lee, Dottie Hamilton and Linda Murray. All proceeds from the ticket sales are used to award a $500 annual club scholarship as well as a $500 scholarship for 4-H students. Last year the group made an additional quilt. “For our 50th anniversary, the group made a special quilt that included patches saved from each of the past quilts,” said Edna Allen. The raffle for this commemorative quilt was only open to club members. The proceeds from their fundraising endeavors have helped countless Effingham people and community organizations over the years. The group has provided Christmas gifts and food for needy families, delivered Thanksgiving baskets to homebound seniors, helped transplant
recipients with needed funds, and hosted birthday parties at the nursing home. They have donated to the Effingham schools, Clyo Fire Department, American Cancer Society, Diabetes Foundation and many other groups. The Clyo Homemakers Club’s current officers are: Bonnie Morgan, President; Patsy Usher, Vice President; Julia Rahn, Treasurer; and Betty Allen Sikes, Secretary. The Board consists of Dottie Rahn, Hazel Lee, Brenda Dasher and Past President Patsy Usher. Club Chaplain is Marlene Porter. Scholarships are coordinated by Betty Allen Sikes and Lee Ellen Hanberry. Lee Ellen also manages rentals of the clubhouse. Brenda Dasher coordinates ticket sales for the quilt. Currently, the Clyo Homemakers Club has approximately 35 members. “Our members come from throughout Effingham,” said Betty Allen Sikes. “A new member is recommended by a club member and voted on by the club.” She added that 10 new members were added last year.
www.Effingham
Magazine.com | October/November 2017
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“I really enjoy the meetings because it’s a nice group of ladies and I enjoy the fellowship,” said Lee Ellen Hanberry. “You never know what you might learn or who the speaker might be. And you also know you’re doing good for other people. I go home after a meeting always feeling better than before I came.” Edna Allen was a charter member of the Clyo Home Demonstration Club. “It’s an honor to continue to carry on what we had started years ago,” she said. “I’ve met so many wonderful people that I would never have met if I didn’t belong to this club.” For many club members, the Clyo Homemakers Club is a part of their heritage. Julia Rahn’s mother, May Exley, was a member of the Home Demonstration Club and later joined the Clyo Homemakers Club.Betty Allen Sikes' mother was charter member Jaunita Allen. “My mother loved this club,” said Betty. “She was the chairperson when our club building was constructed. I’m proud to be a member to honor her and continue to help the community.” Bonnie Morgan’s mother, Marie Exley, was also a member. Because her mother was not able to drive to the meetings, Bonnie drove her to the club and eventually became a member. “We’re a close-knit bunch,” she said. “We’re family.” Each September, all of the members who are 69 years old and younger host a luncheon to honor the members who are over 70 years old. It’s a special event, with the younger ladies providing the covered dishes and entertainment. For half a century, the women of the Clyo Homemakers Club have given of their hearts and souls and dedicated themselves to their community. Fortunately for the people of Effingham, they don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
24 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
Christi Ricker
I
Moving Forward...Together Story By David Pena
f elected mayor, Christi Ricker's focus is to unite Rincon and continue to ensure the success and safety of its residents. Mayoral candidate Christi Shores Ricker is definitely a woman with a plan. “My goal as mayor is to become the driving force who helps Rincon grow in the right direction while still protecting its citizens and their future.” She says that her experience as a City Council-member has not only prepared her for the position, but has partly been her impetus to run. That is, along with some divine intervention. “My friend, a former council member, suggested that I run for City Council after attending our Sunday School Christmas party. My Sunday School teacher also agreed that I would be an asset as council-member. ” After initially dismissing the idea, Ricker discussed it with her mother, who prompted her to pray over it. She then conferred with her pastor, and ultimately Ricker had a change of heart about her political future. “I'm now happy to be serving my fourth year on City Council, she says, “and I hope everyone is pleased with my work thus far.” During her tenure, the Athletic Department hired two full-time employees, and all of its programs have grown, notably adding cheerleading, lacrosse and basketball to the city's offerings. “We've also built up our baseball fields and constructed a concession stand at Macomber Park. In addition, we are set to have our first movie night in the park, and we've had the circus here for the past two years.” Ricker adds that while she's pleased with the work she's accomplished, there's definitely room for improvement. “I really feel that we could've done more, and as mayor I hope to continue to improve and grow these programs and cultural activities.” One of Ricker's concerns when she became a council-member was the city's business district, an area she'd like to continue to focus on if elected. “I feel that there's room for improvement in the business district, especially in the area of beautification. I suggested that we hire a marketing company to help us with the vacant properties.” While Ricker shares the sentiments of most Rincon citizens that more restaurants should be added in the area, especially Chic-fil-A, she also feels that the city's focus should center
around local revenue. “I think we should help the local businesses that are already here,” she says. “It's in the best interest of our community as a whole, in my opinion.” Ricker has resided in Effingham County for the past twenty years along with her husband Brian and their two children, Alexis and Alaina. As proprietors of Clean Duct, LLC since 2008, Ricker says the couple have been vested in the city's business community for nearly a decade. “Although I grew up in Richmond Hill, my husband and I chose to live here because we both have family in the area, and it would be a great place to raise our own family.” The couple have been active members in Rincon First Baptist Church, where Ricker has served as an outreach leader, care group coordinator, and a founding member of a mission group. Ricker says that she's well-equipped to handle the position, despite the misconception about it. “Most people feel that (being elected) mayor is a step up from being a council-member; however, in a 'weak mayoral' system like we have, that's not the case.” So it begs the question, “Why the bid for mayor of Rincon?” Ricker says that the position is integral to the cohesiveness of the city and its government. “The mayor should be the one to bring us all together and the person who makes sure that all the pertinent information has been brought forward. All of the council needs to be included in the critical decision-making process, and at times during my service this has not been the case. I'm ready to be that person who helps move Rincon forward.”
ChristiRicker.com Paid For Advertorial
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26 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
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27
It’s all about the small stuff or When light returns after the eclipse of the sun
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n 1997, Richard Carlson wrote a book called Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff …and it’s All Small Stuff. In most circumstances in our lives, I would agree with that sentiment. But when we experience the death of someone we love and we are grieving, the pain oftentimes comes from the absence of the small stuff. What is it that you miss about the person who has died? Is it simply not having their presence? That is probably part of it, but when the grief wave hits; when the pain shoots to your very core, what is it that triggers those grief attacks? Usually, it’s the small stuff. Keep Me in Your Heart was the last song Warren Zevon wrote while he was dying from cancer. “Sometimes when you're doin’ simple things around the house Maybe you'll think of me and smile You know I'm tied to you like the buttons on your blouse Keep me in your heart for a while.” There is nothing much simpler or smaller than the buttons on your blouse. He is talking about the connection we have with our loved ones that permeates everything we are and everything we do. Do you think of your mother just as an amorphous idea? I wouldn’t think so. Do you think about cooking with her when you walk into your kitchen and grab her cookbook with all of your grandmother’s recipes? Or, do you think of her when you find the quilt she always had on her bed when you were a kid? The same quilt she would wrap you up in when you didn’t feel well. Do you wrap yourself in it now to remember her? This is the small stuff… How about your Dad? Do you remember his cologne? When you hear an old song, do you remember dancing on the toes of his shoes? Do you have his robe that he wore every weekend morning to read the paper? Do you feel his strength if you put it on like he has his arms around you? This is the small stuff… Brothers and sister…cousins and friends…these are the people that anchor us to times and places and are oftentimes the unseen compasses in our lives. Do you think of your sibling when you reach up and touch the scar on your chin from where they pushed you out of the bunk beds? Did you clean out your attic this spring and find the Rick Springfield poster your best friend who just died of breast cancer gave you for your 14th birthday? How many
28 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
nights did the two of you stay up talking about Rick Springfield? Don’t you wish you could call your friend or sibling and hear their voice again? This is the small stuff… Warren Zevon goes on to sing… “Hold me in your thoughts, Take me to your dreams Touch me as I fall into view When the winter comes Keep the fires lit And I will be right next to you.”
How often did you sit next to your spouse on the couch or in the car holding hands? Do you think of them as your hand brushes against their pillow at night? Do you feel sad and a little foolish when you still walk in the house after being gone and say out loud, “Honey (or darling or sweetie …) I’m home”? The rush of the recognition that they are not there comes at you like a gale force wind but in the quiet breeze afterwards you might still hear, “Welcome home Sweet Heart.” This is the small stuff… In grief, it can feel like the “small stuff” will always have the potential to overwhelm. Pushing memories and unbidden thoughts away may feel like the only way to survive. But, in the long run, the small stuff is what keeps us connected and staying connected
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Help is available at no charge is what helps us heal. The small stuff is what life is made of and telling the story of the small stuff brings our loved ones back to life in our hearts and memories. Sometimes it can feel very much like the light has been turned off on that part of our lives. Virginia Woolf wrote, “How then does the light return to the world after the eclipse of the sun? Miraculously. Frailly. In thin stripes. It hangs like a glass cage. It is a hoop to be fractured by a tiny jar. There is a spark there.” The spark is hope. Hope is what moves us forward in our grief. Hope that the memories will bring more smiles than tears. Hope that the pain will lessen. Light comes back after the eclipse of the sun. It returns to light the path of your grief journey and too illumine the small stuff that is, in the end, the enduring connection to those that we love… Because love is always stronger than death. Betsy R. Kammerud, LCSW, MVF-CSW, ACHP-SW is a Bereavement Counselor with Full Circle Grief and Loss Center located at 6000 Business Center Drive in Savannah. Grief counseling is provided to any child, teen or adult at no charge as a community service of not-for-profit Hospice Savannah, Inc. Reach Full Circle at 912.303.9442 or visit www.HospiceSavannah.org/fullcircle
Gain hands-on practical skills, referrals to community resources, connect and learn from others in your situation www.EdelCaregiverInstitute.org 6000 Business Center Drive
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People with a Gift for Helping
Magazine.com | October/November 2017
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30 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
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Martin Construction
Local business that has over thirty years experience of helping to build dreams in Effingham.
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Story By David Pena
esse Martin, owner of Martin Construction, has over thirty years experience in renovations, remodeling, additions, designing, and general repairs. Martin takes pride in the fact that he owns and operates a local business that has been honest, reliable, and fair to all his customers. “We would like to thank all our customers that have made our success possible,” says Jesse. His wife Cindy, who recently retired from pediatric nursing career after over thirty years in the profession, plans on joining her husband in the family business. They will continue to offer their customers the same quality workmanship that is expected from Martin Construction on each and every project. “We are extremely flexible with scheduling and work to meet all of our customers' needs,” says Jesse. The Martins are also very proud of the superior customer service they've been able to give to each of their customers through the years. “Our customers appreciate dealing directly with us,” he adds, “because we are hands-on and stay focused on each job until it's complete.”
Cindy and Jesse hope to teach their grandchildren that commitment, reliability, and workmanship are necessary in order to be successful in any endeavor. God has blessed the Martin family and their business, and they hope to give some of that back to their community. Cindy
says, “We plan to give our time and talents to the needs of the community as well as to worthwhile causes.” Please contact Jesse at (912) 429-5488 or Cindy at (912) 429-2120 for more information about Martin Construction Company or to schedule an appointment.
PO Box 2358 • Rincon, GA 912-429-5488 Paid For Advertorial
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Magazine.com | October/November 2017
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Springfield's Downtown Development Authority Story By David Pena
T
he DDA is looking to jumpstart the renovation and revitalization of downtown Springfield. “If you're not growing as a city, you're dying,” says Lonnie Pate, Chairman of the Downtown Development Authority. “Growth is all about improving the community, and you need financial investment to do that, whether it be in housing or retail or any area. And while we have a county-wide Industrial Development Authority and Chamber of Commerce that help the entire county, we simply needed an entity like the DDA whose main focus is attracting new revenues specifically to the downtown area of Springfield.” Erin Phillips, Springfield's Community Development Director and coordinator for the DDA, says, “The city activated its Downtown Development Authority in 2016, which every community in the state is allowed by legislation to do. This allowed Springfield to have a bit more control over what happens to specific properties within the city and to help certain businesses and property owners be eligible for programs that are only available to those within a (designated) DDA area.” Springfield created the DDA to both attract new businesses in Springfield, as well as, to oversee revitalization of properties located primarily on Laurel Street. The DDA is moving forward with plans to renovate one such property, the former Walt’s Furniture building, which the city purchased in 2015. Phillips explains, “When the city bought the building, the first ques-
tion that came up was what exactly to do with it. In part, this was why the DDA was activated in the first place. The city did not have the means to renovate the building and didn't want to sell it. Instead, it will be given to the DDA, who will then determine the most ideal use for the structure.” The current plan is that the former furniture store will be leased to a tenant who would then sublease it to businesses that include retail and professional offices as well as a restaurant. The DDA would renovate the building, using a combination of grants and loans, and its primary tenant would then repay the DDA back for the renovation over a fifteen year period in a lease-to-own arrangement. Phillips says the building would have spaces for a
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variety of tenants, and after the project is finished, the DDA will move on to other buildings downtown. “The Mars Theatre is the gem of Effingham,” says Pate. “We are so very proud of that project and its success, but we simply need more options downtown. The Mars is the only thing we have to offer after hours in Springfield, and we've got to attract more businesses in the area to compliment the Mars Theatre. Personally, I'd really like to see more restaurants opening up downtown. Hopefully, this (Walt's Furniture store) project will be the impetus we need to get things really rolling in Springfield.” “The DDA is very similar to an Industrial Development Authority, in that it is partially funded by the city, but operates as a
completely separate organization from the city government,” explains Phillips. “The DDA is run by its own independent board, but the board members are appointed by the City Council.” That's the reason behind the furniture building being given to the DDA instead of being put up for auction and turned into warehousing. “It's just better for the growth of the downtown district,” adds Phillips. The DDA is also offering “facade improvement” grants as well as startup
grants to new businesses. “The board believes that offering these incentives will hopefully entice new small businesses to open downtown as well as encourage existing business to stay there,” says Phillips. This, in turn, will “help promote revitalization and renovation of existing structures in downtown,” the DDA said in a letter to the city council. The facade grants would be matching funds from $500 to $2,500. The DDA would pay up to half of the cost of qualified projects, basically up to $2,500 per project. “It's designed for any operating business in Springfield to install a new facade or renovate their existing one, provided that the property faces the street or parking area,” says Pate. The grant money could go toward improvements of awnings, signs, walls, paint as well as landscaping and courtyard improvements. In addition, the startup grants would be awarded to businesses that create new jobs downtown. Businesses could get $1,000 per new employee, with a cap of $2,000 per business. Pate adds, “I'm really passionate about the work that the DDA is doing. This is where I live, so I want to make sure that my children's children have places to go in Springfield. Let's face it- Springfield has not really been known as a hot spot in
Effingham, but by tidying up the existing businesses downtown, these grants would hopefully help attract new businesses for the future. Honestly, it's just like any neighborhood, in that sense. If someone is looking to build a house somewhere, then they first take a look at the properties around it.” And while Pate is pleased at the progress of the renovation of the old Walt's Furniture building, he emphasizes that the project is just the start of a long process for the city. “This is really only the beginning of a longterm plan for our city; it's the start of great things to come for Springfield.”
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LENDING A HAND IN EFFINGHAM COUNTY
Follow Us On Facebook To Donate - Visit Our Website
JOSHREDDICKFOUNDATION.ORG
Noah’s Ark
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PET GROOMING • BOARDING
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34 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
Scott and Sons Trucking Family, Loyalty, and Generosity
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Story By Stephanie Cardozo
oger Scott lives in Rincon with his wife, Sonja, and three sons, RJ, Darius and Isaiah. There, he has built a lovely life for himself and his family. One filled with integrity, honor, hard work and generosity. A Business Man From The Start Mr. Scott takes us back to his high school days when he was a master of the basketball courts. “I used to dunk basketballs,” he jokes, “I’m Dunkin Donuts now.” “I’ve always been an entrepreneur. It really started in high school. We had a fundraiser selling M & M’s so we could see the Atlanta Hawks play the LA Lakers. I sold all of my M & M’s. But the trip was going to be cancelled because not enough sales were made. So, I took everyone’s candy and sold theirs too. What kid wouldn’t want to go to an NBA game? I sold all of them and the coach told me I was an entrepreneur and that he saw me owning my own business one day. Coach’s brother bought a lot of jogging suits and asked me to sell them because I knew a lot of people. He gave me six and I sold them in an hour. He came back with a truck load and I sold some more,” he adds. It was a no brainer from that moment on, Roger knew how to sell. He knew how to make a profit. He started out owning a clothing store in Springfield after college. Sometime later, he opened a restaurant next door. Mr. Scott’s store and restaurant were very successful. However, the town went under some changes, causing him to move in other directions. He then opened a tire shop. After much thought and advice from a friend, Roger bought his first truck and later earned his first contract work. He then moved on to purchasing more trucks and hiring drivers. “Before I knew it, I had about eight or nine trucks. I realized there was a decision that had to be made. I saw how well the trucking business had grown and I have been trucking ever since. Roger and Sonja started the Scott and Son’s Trucking together.
Photos By Shelia Scott
Roger is the president and Sonja is the vice- President. Sonja handles the administrative side: contracts, payroll, communication with Georgia DOT and DBE. “After all the different businesses I’ve tried, I found my niche and this business has been my success… a success that would lead me into a great retirement,” adds Roger. The Scott’s three sons are a huge part of his inspiration. Roger enjoys the work and speaks of his business and employees with integrity and joy. Currently Dionne Jenkins is the dependable administrative assistant. Roger and Sonja both know how blessed they are to have Jenkins on board for the past seven years. Showing Appreciation And Gratitude By Giving Back Mr. Scott and his family host an annual Christmas party for his truckers, a thank you and a joy to share good times with his dedicated employees. “Many of our drivers and their wives rarely get at attend a semi- formal affair ....so we enjoy celebrating them during our Scott & Son’s Trucking ‘Christmas Gala,’” adds Scott, “The Lord keeps blessing me—the more I give, the more I receive....so we enjoy celebrating them during our Scott & Son’s Trucking “Christmas Gala.” Mr. Scott also holds a back-to-school rally. He gives back to the community and anyone in need of school supplies. Scott and Son’s Trucking has paved a way of success for Mr. Scott and his family, allowing him to live a life by design and give back ten-fold. Mr. Roger Scott would like to give a special thanks to his parents, grandfather and Douglas Smallwood, the man who talked him into purchasing his first dump truck. “We owe our start from supportive parents, friends and family. My wife believed in my dreams and has helped in every aspect of starting this company. I am a blessed man,” he adds. Scott and Son’s Trucking provides hauling of a variety of building materials. Some of their recent projects include Pooler Tanger Outlet, Backriver Bridge and warehouses along the 95 corridor. They work with private, state, and federally funded contracts. They are proud to have have extremely dedicated customers who support their business.
2422 Hodgeville Rd 912-660-0056 Paid For Advertorial
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Rincon, GA
ScottAndSonsTrucking@Yahoo.com www.Effingham
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Cheryl Tobey Founder of Coastal Empire Dressage Association Story By Karlee Anderson
W
hen Cheryl Tobey’s oldest daughter turned eight, she gave her the awesome gift of a horse. Cheryl did not know then of the exciting journey that she was starting, not only for her daughter, but for herself. She was a school counselor for nineteen years, and while she worked, she grew a passion for horses and riding through the influence of her daughters, Emma and Kate. “They dragged me into it,” she laughs. Now, Cheryl is the president of the Coastal Empire Dressage Association, an affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation. She started this group three years ago to help support and grow the community around her hobby that she has grown to love. “I had always fiddled around and trail rode,” Cheryl shares. “As the girls grew and went off to college, they left the horses
Photos By Nelson LaPorte
here…I said, ‘They’re here, so I might as well start riding.’ And I started getting more serious about it.” That start was about eight years ago, and within a couple of years, she had begun to take her riding to the next level by competing in dressage. “I’m only about training or first level,” she says. Dressage is a progressive training plan. A beginner will start with basic walk/ trot movements and add more difficulty as he or she progresses. The levels are introductory, training, first, second, third, and fourth; after fourth level, the dressage competition progresses to a more major scale. “You can work your way up to the stuff you see at the Olympics which is called FEI…the highest level,” she explains. At each level of dressage, a rider can compete and show with three different tests. When Cheryl and other dressage competitors practice, they know the test to work on and practice the parts.
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When the time comes to compete, Cheryl is given a very specific time to begin; being even one minute late can disqualify a rider from the competition. There is an arena that is sixty by two hundred meters and is surrounded by large letters. “They’re not in alphabetical order; they make no sense whatsoever,” Cheryl laughs. “When it’s your turn you go in and you go around the outside of it. The judge is sitting in the middle at the far end.” Each competitor must pass by the judge to make sure they know who they are and what number they have. “They blow a whistle or ring a bell, something so you know, and you have forty-five seconds to get yourself in the arena,” she explains. All of the tests have around twenty movements that have to be performed with precision. “Each one of those things is given a score from zero, which means you didn’t do it at all, to ten, which is absolutely perfect,” she says.
“They will add those up and divide it by the total possible score so that you get a percentage. If you’re in the sixties, you’re real happy. Someone who can get a 70-74 is ecstatic!” Cheryl’s own joy and excitement led her to begin the Coastal Empire Dressage Association which averages twenty-two members. “It is just a community, so you can get together and do things. We put on two schooling shows a year,” she shares. “About every other month we will hold a meeting and have a speaker so members can come and learn.” Currently, the association is preparing for their fall schooling show on October 28 at Echelon in Guyton. As president of the group, Cheryl is highly instrumental in hosting this show. She works with her vice president and treasurer as well as any of the membership that wants to be a part of the planning. “We have sort of this ad hoc committee, and
they’ve divided up the duties and taken care of different parts of the show,” she says. The upcoming show is something that Cheryl is really thrilled to share with the community. Even prior to her own ventures in dressage competition and association leadership, Cheryl became licensed as a C2 steward and a technical delegate for the United States Equestrian Federation. “I’m hired by horse shows, big horse shows to come and make sure people and the shows are following the rules that the federation has set up,” she states. “I spend two to three days or a week making sure that everyone – the show management, the judges, the participants – all are playing fairly and equally.” Usually, this job requires her to travel to surrounding states like Florida and South Carolina; however, this summer she has traveled as far as Texas for a show. “I’ve been a steward
for probably close to ten years, and I’ve been a technical delegate, which only does dressage, I think about five years now. It’s two separate things,” she says. Those two separate things each required their own licensing. There is a clinic to attend,
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apprenticeship, application and an exam. Cheryl completed that licensing process for both positions with the encouragement of a friend. “At the time, the United States Equestrian Federation was looking and seeing that a lot of their stewards were getting very old and that they would have a shortage,” she explains. She decided to fill that gap and because of her enjoyment of dressage specifically she decided to be a technical delegate as well. “There aren’t many people in the country that do both things,” she shares. Cheryl’s family is important to her, and they support her in her passion differently. Her husband, Tony, is not as interested in watching long hours of competition. “It’s like watching grass grow to him,” she laughs. For a local show, Tony is there right on time to see Cheryl compete, like he will be for the upcoming show at Echelon. “Because it’s my club, he’ll come and help me set up, and he runs the concession if I need him to,” she says. Her daughters were the inspiration and motivation that got her started in the hobby. The love for horses,
specifically Arabians, is shared by the three ladies, and they are passing it on to a new generation. Cheryl has young grandsons that are enjoying getting to learn about horses alongside their mamas and grand-
38 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
ma. With the support of her family, Cheryl is succeeding in her pursuits in dressage and enjoying the day-to-day fun of being a horse owner.
List with Coldwell Banker Intercoastal RealtyThis Fall...
T
he fall real estate market is almost always a hot season. Home selling in the fall is the second best time of the year to sell a home. Families have returned from summer vacations. Kids have gone back to school. The holidays aren't here yet. It sounds like a great time to prepare to home to sell. People are happy and relaxed as the temperature begins to drop. Home buyers are out looking, thankful the summer heat is behind them. If you have been contemplating putting your house on the market, now is the time to do it. Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty would like to offer you some tips for attracting buyers in the fall. *Clean Up the Yard Rake dead leaves and debris in your lawn. Don't let overgrown vegetation block the windows or path to the entrance. Cutting bushes and tree limbs will let the sun inside and showcase the exterior of your home. Cut away summer vines and cut down dead flowers. *Create Fall Curb Appeal The most popular fall flowers are chrysanthemums (or mums), and they bloom for a long time. Marigolds are also good for fall. Plant them in pots and place them on the steps and along the sidewalk. You can accent with pumpkin or other fall favorites. *Clean the Windows Rain and wind from the summer months can make your windows dusty and streaked. You might not notice smudges, but buyers will. To sell a home, your windows need to sparkle. Remove screens and spray them down.
*Check the HVAC You want the air inside your home to smell fresh. When was the last time you changed your AC filter? Have the HVAC system checked before you need to turn on the heat. *Clean Out the Fireplace Ah, nothing smells better than smoke from a wood-burning fireplace. If you have a gas fireplace, light it when buyers come through. If the fireplace is filled with cobwebs because it hasn't been used for months, vacuum it out. *Turn on the Lights Everywhere Bring in the light. When days get shorter, the sun sets lower in the horizon and casts wider shadows. Pull up the blinds and push back the drapes on every window. Turn on every light in the house *Call Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Real Estate and list your home The friendly agents at Coldwell Banker are ready to serve you. Just give them a call and set up a listing appointment. All the agents at Coldwell Banker are experienced and have your best interest in mind. They will guide you through the process and help you get the best dollar for your home. Call them today at (912) 826-0927
www.RinconColdwellBanker.com Paid For Advertorial
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Christopher Chavis Conquering the Catch…Hook, Line and Sinker “As no man is born an artist, so no man is born an angler.” ~Izaak Walton
Story by Katrice Williams
Photos By Shelia Scott
C
hristopher “Chris” Chavis is an Ellabell native who has lived in Effingham for over 10 years, along with his wife LeAnn. The couple has a son, Landon, 16, and daughter, Gracy, 13. Chris has been doing millwork since graduating from high school and is currently a longshoreman at Georgia Port Authority in Savannah. Bass fishing has long been Chris’ passion, as he has loved it as far back as he can remember. “I’ve been fishing ever since I was old enough to hold a fishing pole. My granddad used to carry us everywhere with him. He fished tournaments as we were growing up. That’s where I got my passion for it from,” Chris mentions. Chris’ granddad Lee Benson is definitely his biggest mentor. Chris fished on the local small club level as a member of the Three Rivers Bass Club for a while. During only his “second year of fishing at the club, he had several good finishes and won angler of the year in points.” After his first year, he “got more into the competitive side” of things after becoming more acquainted with that arena. He remembers thinking, “If those guys can do it, I can do it.” Early on, he knew that it would be most beneficial to “start fishing really well at home before going abroad to compete;” he was confident that after mastering his skill on his home turf that he could begin “venturing out” much more. Chris fished in team and local, open tournaments and even participated in various charity competitive events. Chris began competing as a co-angler, an individual who sometimes fish in the rear of the same boat as a highly skilled and professional boater at competitions; the pairings are often randomly selected prior to events, as the two usually compete independent of one another. Actually, “the very first time that Chris fished as a co-angler, he won.” What’s more, Chris fished in a couple of Bass Fishing League (BFL) Tournaments and American Bass Angler (ABA) Tournaments where he performed very well. Chris declares, “I never would have thought in two years that I would’ve done as good and went as far in it as I have.” Chris is enormously grateful for all of his accomplishments on the water. Some 2016 finishes included 1st place at the BFL at Clarks Hill in March 2016, 2nd place at the BFL Savannah River Division at Lake Hartwell in April, 1st place finishes at Catt Trail and the Savannah River Elite Anglers last September and 1st place at the Hallow-
een Tricky Two-Day Competition last October just to name a few. Actually, he did a phenomenal job this year alone, placing 3rd at the ABA National Championship at Lake Old Hickory in April, 3rd at the ABA South Carolina Division at Lake Russel in May, 3rd at the Coastal Bass Anglers Memorial Day Open at the Savannah River in May and 2nd at the Metter Bass Masters Open in July. Chris has a host of other accomplishments where he led in points over the past few years. All-in-all, Chris has “fished two national events which included over 300 anglers, ten regional events having over 250 anglers and about 20 local events, which included nearly 100 anglers;” he is pleased at his placement in each tournament. Further, Chris began fishing as a boater this year, and he continues to exceed even his own expectations. In fact, some boater “trails to be finished” include: American Bass Anglers Ram Open Series in South Carolina, the FLW (Forest L. Wood Fishing League)/BFL Savannah River Division and the FLW/BFL South Carolina Division, all being regional tournaments. In contrast to a co-angler, there is normally more vested interest and overall responsibility
with being a boater; Chris really enjoys the challenges that come along with it. He states, “I’ve done really well as a boater for my first year. There is a lot more on the line.” Chris welcomes anyone interested in learning more about his fishing endeavors to look him up via Facebook. Chris has some very beneficial advice for anyone desiring to get more into the sport and compete against others. He suggests, “Make sure you are good around here, then go out and fish as a co-angler for a while until you feel really good and confident that you can do a good job against those guys on their home lakes.” With all of his skills, accolades and accomplishments, Chris has a sincere love for the sport—a love that would be difficult to remain over the years without the tremendous support of his wife and kids. They are his biggest cheerleaders. They are truly proud of him and are looking forward to his professional growth in the sport and all that the future has to offer. LeAnn comments, “We’re happy to support him. I’m excited for him. How many times do you get to support somebody trying to live their dream? He would support me in anything I wanted to do. We’re behind him completely.”
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She admits that she does go fishing with her husband on occasion and is pretty okay with leaving most of the real fishing up to him. However, she always goes with the goal of getting a catch. LeAnn jokes, “I like to go fishing, but I really like to go ‘catching.’ I’m like, hey, let’s go. If we don’t catch anything, I’m ready to go.” Chris, a genuinely humble guy, would rather talk about his family or his second love, fishing, than ever be boastful about himself or his achievements. LeAnn insists, “He would rather talk about anything other than himself.” Going forward, Chris is looking forward to working his way up to the upcoming FLW Tour or the Bass Masters Elite Series, the goal of nearly every angler striving to consistently capitalize on their professional skills. Hence, he has several noteworthy goals in mind. Chris remarks, “Next year, I would like to try to fish the FLW’S and the Bass Masters Open. My goal is to take it another step up and go from there and see how it goes. I’m confident enough in myself that I feel like I can go compete and do good… take the chance and go after it.” Chris is certainly grateful to all of those family and friends who show their support. Also, he feels very privileged and thankful for all the companies who have chosen to sponsor him, including BD Landscaping, D&V Electric, Beasley Conditioned Air and Greenleaf Construction. “Having the support of local companies and good friends and family—it makes a humongous difference to keep you going,” Chris asserts. When he is not reeling in a catch, Chris enjoys spending quality time with his family, as he appreciates all of the time
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that they so willingly and open-heartedly sacrifice for him to follow his aspirations. Christopher Chavis is looking ahead to all of the opportunities in store for him as he persists to reach other noteworthy heights. While continuing to embrace the
October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
same humility and modesty that is instilled within, the opportunities are nearly endless for this talented and accomplished fisherman.
creativedesigns by Gina “
M
Story by Stephanie Cardozo
y goal is to be a one-stop shop for businesses.” Raised in Effingham, Gina Brown is a mother of two boys and is growing her business right from her very home. She aims for excellence with her graphic designs. “I can make anything you need.” She designs everything from websites, decals, t-shirts and much more! This humble, hard working mother, began freelancing before she started her business. “I started to get so many compliments and I just fell in love with it,” she expressed, going back to the moment that brightened the creative light inside of her. Gina explained that going full-time with CREATIVEDesigns proved to be much more difficult than she imagined but she knew it was what she was meant to do. So she worked harder for what she felt passionate about. “It started by just doing it here and there, now it’s full time and I love it,” she said with a smile in her voice. How do you manage working from home and taking care of two boys? “My boys are older so they get it. They help me some, here and there. My youngest is very creative. He likes to see what his mama is doing. But once they go off to school in the morning, I sit at my desk and I start working and about the time they get home, I shut everything down and that’s family time.” Gina is sure to stay organized with keeping her business and family separate, proving that moms can run a business and still have time for the kids. “Part of the reason why I wanted to do this full-time is because I wanted to spend time with my kids. Working full-time where I was working—I was not able to do that. I worked all the time, now I’m able to make my own schedule and if I need time off, I can allow myself that time,” adds Gina. Gina says she enjoys creating logos for her clients the most because it allows her the opportunity to bring their vision for their business to life. “Logos are my favorite to do, I like to get into my client’s head and see what they envision for their business. Your logo is your staple. My job is to bring that vision to life for my clients. Big moves were made when Gina and her family moved from Richmond Hill back to Effingham. When asked about the change, she simply answered, “I grew up in Effingham. It was nice to get away but Effingham is home,” she expressed with joy. Setting goals for more success Gina has been working hard from her home office and is looking to open a store where she will have the tools to create bigger jobs for her clients. She is hopeful that this will be soon, as her business proves to be a success with loyal customers returning for professional designs. Potential clients are encouraged to head over to Gina’s website, https://creativedesignsbygina.wordpress.com, where you will find details on her creations such as, product designs, graphic designs
and media maintenance. You can also follow Gina’s Facebook page for updates on her creations, www.facebook.com/CREATIVEDesigns.bygina Prices vary and are made to order. Gina takes a lot of pride in the quality of work she provides for her clients, and makes their needs and vision a priority.
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Traci Wells
Salesperson of the Year 2016 Cora Bett Thomas Realty 46
October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
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raci Wells has enjoyed great success as a Realtor for over 15 years. Therefore, it is no coincidence that when Traci made the decision five years ago to join a local firm with global exposure she joined Cora Bett Thomas Realty. As a result of this successful partnership, Traci has been able to make a difference in the lives of her clients located in Chatham, Bryan, Bulloch, Effingham, and surrounding counties. Interestingly, a real source of pride for Traci is the company’s relocation and referral department. She mentions, “We have a phenomenal relocation department. We are contacted by potential clients from different parts of the world as well.” More importantly, when Traci meets with clients she is actively listening to their vision along with their needs and desires for their new home. This intuitive approach, coupled with Traci’s vast experience is the formula for success for her clients in finding and purchasing the house they will call home. Whether it is a couple purchasing their first home or a client who is selling their home to move on to a different chapter in their life, Traci is enthusiastic and passionate about her work. Helping clients fulfill their dream remains the most rewarding aspect of her career and the biggest reason Traci continues to love what she does each and every day. Traci and her husband, Andy, are natives of Bryan County and now reside in Effingham. However, banking was Traci’s initial profession though real estate proved to be a better fit. This financial experience compliments her real estate career. Success in both of these complex fields require great attention to detail and an ability to understand and communicate with people from all walks of life. Traci possesses that unique ability. She remarked, “Banking is a great background to have! Once I entered into the world of real estate, I was intrigued as to “how and why” these processes work. I have always wanted to know the nuts and bolts of everything”. With Andy’s background as an independent construction contractor this proved to be Traci’s greatest motivator and encourager as she began to move towards a career in real estate. “He taught me the new construction background. Working with and learning from Andy proved invaluable.” Traci considers it a privilege to be a part of Cora Bett Thomas Realty, who has set an unparalleled standard in the local market. Notably, Cora Bett Thomas Realty is not a franchise but is indeed “globally networked just like a franchise.” The benefits include a higher degree of capitalization on meeting customers’ needs and industry demands, as well as allowing the company to have a complete customer focus and client goal-orientation. She explains that though the company has an inception date of 1995, Cora Bett has been in real estate industry for much longer. Cora Bett is an expert in the ins-and-outs of real estate, enabling her to develop and maintain an exclusive brand. Cora Bett Thomas Realty is renowned for the firm’s downtown Savannah presence. The addition of Traci to Cora Bett’s office allows for the opportunity to respond to the market growth demands occurring
on the outskirts of Savannah. Traci is thrilled to be able to focus on the outlying counties. She remains confident that the company can accommodate her clients’ needs while offering an unparalleled level of service. Cora Bett is also affiliated with the “Leading Real Estate Companies of the World.” This distinction is an “invitation only affiliation”. Obviously, not all real estate firms have this premium level of notoriety. With such a distinguished industry standard, it is of no surprise that Cora Bett Thomas Realty currently ranks 7 in their Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Traci is thankful to be a part of such a professional and supportive team. She asserts, “we all support each other; we work hand-in-hand together. The company provides us with all the necessary and most up-to-date tools to get our jobs done – and done well.” More importantly, the market is still climbing out of the slump caused by the 2008 crash, Traci feels that the market is on a course of steady incline. She explains, “you do not want a rapid incline; you want a steady incline – that is what makes the economy turn.” Furthermore, Traci is pleased with the course set by Cora Betty Thomas Realty. She adds, “I feel that the company is going in the right direction for what the market and economy allow.” As a Realtor, Traci has many accomplishments. She is a member of the Savannah Board of Realtors, the Georgia Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors, and has served on the Community Housing Committee for Pembroke for quite some time. She was also named Cora Bett Thomas Realty’s 2016 Agent of the Year. She does feel that working with an outstanding team of professionals and a company of unparalleled service while being able to fulfill dreams is her greatest success. In addition to her Realtor status, Traci has her Council of Residential Specialist (CRS) designation. To obtain a CRS status, “Realtors must meet a number of stringent requirements that combine advanced hours of education and training, experience and demonstrated success in the marketplace.” This certifies that the individual “has completed advanced professional training and demonstrated outstanding professional achievement in residential real estate.” This small community of distinguished agents are among the top three percent of all Realtors in the United States. Traci takes pride in her CRS designation, as it is an accolade that she takes tremendous pride in and feels it sets her apart from others in the industry. In her spare time, Traci enjoys spending time with her family and traveling with her husband. They are both NASCAR enthusiasts, traveling to races whenever possible. Over the span of her career Traci has employed many different methods of selling and marketing, learned endless new regulations, and scouted new markets. She and Cora Bett Thomas Realty have set new standards as they continually strive for excellence in an ever-changing real estate world, filled with endless possibilities.
Cora Bett Thomas Realty 13 East York Street • Savannah, GA O: (912) 233-6000 F: (912) 233-2447 M: (912) 657-0577
www.CoraBettThomas.com www.Effingham
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CLIMATE & NON-CLIMATE UNITS COMMERCIAL DISCOUNTS 24 HR. GATED ACCESS ALL SIZE UNITS 2 Locations Serving Effingham Residents: RESERVE YOUR UNIT TODAY: www.stopnstorstorage.com 48 October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
STOP N STOR 8901 HWY 21 Port Wentworth
by Rice Creek/Rice Hope I-95
21 30 I-95
315 GA HWY 30 | Port Wentworth 8901 GA HWY 21 | Port Wentworth 912-964-4433 912-335-8772
Ear, Nose and Throat Associates of Savannah Celebrating four decades of treating patients in the Coastal Empire
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Story By David Pena
or the past forty years, when patients in the Coastal Empire have experienced any type of head and neck disorders, they usually found their way to offices of ENT Associates of Savannah. Since starting the practice four decades ago, Dr. Zoller and his colleagues have seen many technological advancements in the medical field, but one thing remains constant with him and his staff: a dedication to giving the best possible care to every patient that comes into their offices, which are located in Savannah, Rincon, Pooler, Statesboro, Blufton and Richmond Hill, in addition to the ENT Surgical Center located on the Armstrong campus. Dr. Zoller recently reflected on the enormous growth of his practice over the years. “Having trained in Boston, I started in 1977 in Savannah. Seven years later I was joined by Dr. Fred Daniel, who trained in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Twenty-two years ago, Dr. Stephen Rashleigh joined the practice, having trained in Chicago, and Dr. William Moretz III joined us ten years ago after being trained in Augusta. Dr. Brad Rawlings joined six years after his training in Norfolk, Virginia. Our most recent addition, Dr. Diane Davis, was in practice for over thirty years in Dublin, Georgia before joining ENT Associates two years ago. We've had to add those physicians as well as our physician's assistant, Michelle Yamada, in order to handle the volume of patients at the various satellite offices,” he says. “In fact, we've been in Effingham County and Richmond Hill for about twenty-five years now. We initially had our office in the Effingham Hospital, but we later moved to Rincon in order to serve our clients who didn't want to drive in to
town for their appointments. I also see quite a few of our Effingham patients at my Pooler office.” In addition to the physicians, ENT Associates of Savannah has five doctors of audiology on staff who are experts in the newest hearing aid technology. The Audiology Department works both independently and in conjunction with the physicians to provide a wide range of hearing services, both diagnostic and rehabilitative. Additionally, there is an allergy clinic for testing and treatment. For over two decades now, residents in Effingham county can now benefit from the services that ENT Associates have been offering to Savannah residents for forty years. “The population in Rincon grew so much that we eventually made the decision to move there. Now we have one of our senior partners, Dr. Stephen Rashleigh, M.D., who is at the Rincon office one day a week. He stays extremely busy,” says Dr. Zoller with a smile. Dr. Rashleigh adds, “We've been going to Effingham for over twenty years, and it's been a mutually beneficial relationship. There's definitely a need for our services, since many of our patients don't care to drive into Savannah.” Dr. Zoller adds, “It's really nice to be part of the Effingham community, which has grown significantly. Many of our patients who have moved there from Savannah can now receive the same top notch service from our satellite office in Rincon.” Founded in 1977, ENT Associates has been proud to provide the residents of Georgia and Low country of South Carolina with outstanding ENT care and is looking forward to another successful forty years.
5201 Frederick Street • Savannah, GA 31405 912-351-3030 • www.entsavannah.com Paid For Advertorial
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912-826-3791
D
6014 GA Highway 21 S, Suite B Rincon, GA
o you have a local hair salon in Effingham? The kind that makes you feel like family when you walk in the door? If not, you need to give The Salon at McCall Plaza a try. The Salon specializes in new and innovative coloring and cutting techniques. They use and sell Olaplex, Antidot, Paul Mitchell, Redken and Kenra products. In addition to cuts and colors, The Salon also offers perms, smoothing treatments, special occasion hairstyling, make-up, waxes and more. While you wait, please relax, read a magazine and enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee in our waiting area. Sheila Cela, owner of The Salon at McCall Plaza has been a hair stylist for 35 years. Keeping it in the family, Sheila’s daughter Shalon has also become a stylist and has worked side by side with her mom for the past 13 years. The team at The Salon takes great pride in their family-friendly atmosphere. “My girls are all professionals. They all have wonderful clients and they do a great job and serving them and keeping them happy. I am proud of them all,” shares Sheila. The Salon serves men, women and children, making everyone in the family feel comfortable from the moment they walk in the door.
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For the children, they have plenty to keep them busy while mom or dad is having their hair done. The Salon has a knack for taking care of their male clients. Men can feel a little uncomfortable in a salon setting. But that never happens at The Salon at McCall. Men are very comfortable there. Their friendly staff makes the guys feel right at home. For all of the brides-to-be and her wedding party, ask about their bridal hair session. Bridal packages are available in the salon or on location, offering make-up as well. The Salon has eight stylists with over 100 years combined experience. They are Angela Thomas, Debbie Cubbedge Sykes, Brooke Langford, Johnna Klontz, Sheila Cela, Shalon Cela, Shelby Schrader and Kristy Teston. They attend hair shows as often as possible.. For their stylists, it is very important to know the newest color techniques, cuts and styles to provide clients with the best the industry has to offer. The Salon is open Tuesday through Saturday with late evening appointments available for those who cannot make it in during the daytime hours or Saturdays. So if you are looking for a family friendly salon, check out The Salon at McCall Plaza. You won’t regret it.
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Dining Guide
Story By Katrice Williams
Photos By Shelia Scott
The Loft Café
Different Face, Same Place…Come Eat with Us “You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces—just good food from fresh ingredients.” ~Julia Child
T
he Loft Café definitely offers a delectable dining experience. It has been a noteworthy and sought-after restaurant in the community since its inception in 2010. As the café begins its 8th year of service, its two co-owners, Bruce Kirwan and Zach Wooten, are excited about what’s to come. Though some things like the extraordinary customer service and palate-pleasing products have not changed, the restaurant’s exterior face with its bold, new image has. However, customers have the opportunity to continue to enjoy great food at the same convenient location as before. Bruce Kirwan continuously strives to differentiate the café from others. Early on, he wanted to assure that each customer’s experience would be memorable, and he understands that a good amount of effort is needed for that to be a constant reality. Bruce and Zach feel that service is always the essential foundation for a successful venue. “We try to give that service that you don’t find in any other areas,” Bruce remarks. Bruce and Zach strive to employ individuals who value the importance of high levels of customer service and also understand the substantial difference that they make in customers overall dining experience. Regarding employees, Zach states, “I like to see personality and pride in their work.” Though the team is small, which works well for the atmosphere dynamics and business demands, each team member strives to remain true to Bruce and Zach’s goals for the business, which is simply: great service, great food, great atmosphere. Besides exceptional levels of service, the two co-owners place extremely high standards on all of the products that are served at the restaurant. Though the price is truly reasonable, to a custom-
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October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
er’s delight, nothing about the quality of food is compromised. Only the freshest, most choice ingredients are used to prepare each dish. Additionally, there is a very consistent turnover with the items, as nothing is stored for long periods of time. Bruce and Zach commit to product quality by only ordering what is necessary to be prepared within just a few days. This means that there is “never any spoilage,” no freezer-stored or old food on hand; the “items are in and out.” Zach insists, “Anywhere I eat, I’d personally rather pay for a quality meal. You can tell a difference in the materials.” All of that is a formula for an exceptional meal. Each order is important and is prepared with that in mind-the two guys would have it no other way. “Every order gets ‘done-up.’ It’s done to order. I hand-prepare every order--from every sandwich to the flatbreads…you name it. It’s made fresh when you get it,” Zach comments. He knows that it may take just a little longer to prepare, but feels that it is “well worth it.” The team strives to ensure that the atmosphere is consistently welcoming for all of their customers. In fact, Bruce and Zach had a vision for the business early on, and they persist to ensure that even now. Bruce mentions, “I wanted a homey environment…trying to give that southern-comfort feel.” Zach agrees that a warm and comfortable atmosphere is not only beneficial but essential. The menu has more of an American-traditional type scope. Whether enjoying the wide array of signature sandwiches, including the Corned Beef or Turkey Reubens, which are topped with either sliced corned beef or smoked turkey breast, along with “sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Thousand Island dressing” or the French Dip Au Jus Sandwich, made with “Au Jus dipped
roast beef with Provolone cheese on an Italian roll,” it’s hard to go wrong with any of the sensational sandwiches. Many customers prefer the variety of wraps that are offered, which may include the famous Club Wrap, with its “smoked turkey breast, ham, thinly sliced bacon, Provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise” or even the Chicken Caesar Wrap, which includes “grilled chicken breast, romaine lettuce, shredded Italian cheese and Italian dressing.” Further, the two agree that the delicious flatbreads that are made similar to pizza are definitely a big hit with many customers. From the Buffalo Chicken Flatbread, topped with “grilled chicken breast fillet smothered in homemade buffalo sauce, mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of Ranch dressing” to the Chicken Pesto Flatbread with its “grilled chicken breast, mozzarella cheese, Portobello mushrooms and homemade peso sauce;” these are truly tasty and sure to please. Regarding the flat breads, Bruce states, “No one else really does it for the price…we do them pizza-style.” Bruce and Zach admit that their fresh salads are often a fan
favorite. Whether it is the Greek Salad made with “lettuce, sliced ham, feta cheese, black olives, tomatoes, red onions and house Greek dressing” or their chicken and tuna salads, customers do not leave disappointed. “They’re fresh…topped with a lot of ingredients. These are always the best. They’re not pre-made, sitting in a cooler all day,” Bruce insists. Interestingly enough, Bruce and Zach take pride in making as many homemade dishes as possible, including both their pasta and potato salads, along with their salad dressings. Bruce mentions, “Anything that we can effectively create, we try to.” The two co-owners agree that franchising ideas and other business ventures may be entertained sometime in the future; however, they are both pleased with the direction that the business is going. Bruce Kirwan and Zach Wooten, along with their team at the Loft Café, plan to continue to keep customers first, knowing that real quality will always count. They welcome all, saying, “Come eat with us.”
lad Sa 2017 t s Be ich d w e d t Vo San d an
New look, same great place, The Loft Cafe’ Serving Effingham county since 2010! 135 Goshen Rd. Ext. • Suite 150 • Rincon 826-5733 www.Effingham
Magazine.com | October/November 2017
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Our Menu Posted On Facebook Daily
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Includes: 2 Sides, 1 Entree, Bread and Tea Open Sunday - Friday 11:00 am - 2:30 pm Friday Night 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Call ahead or come by ~ 826-0073 Located 907 Lisa St. (Behind Krystal)
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826-0117
105 Weisenbaker Rd.
Rincon, GA 31326
(912)826-3524
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October/November 2017 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com
Hours: 11AM-9PM Mon-Thurs 11AM-10PM Fri-Sat Sunday Closed
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www.RinconColdwellBanker.com (912) 657-4120 5805 Hwy 21 S. Rincon, GA 31326 912.826.0927