Effingham Magazine December January 2016-17

December/January 2016-17

Ashia

Miller

Effingham’s Miss Georgia

Holiday Issue

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S TA F F

CONTRIBUTORS Katrice Williams

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

Lea Allen

David Pena was a Language Arts teacher in the Georgia public school system for over twenty years. Also a professional musician on the weekends, he enjoys writing about local happenings and the interesting, diverse mix of cultures that make up the Southeast. He loves to spend time with his son Carter, golf and play tennis.

Tonya Chester Perry is a married mother of two children.

She is a full time photographer with a studio based in Rincon. She graduated from college with a degree in business. She is originally from Louisiana. After living in different states, she now resides in Effingham County. She is a Maternity, Newborn, Child, High School Senior and Wedding Photographer. When not working she enjoys spending her time with her husband & kids.

Lane Leopard

Cindy Burbage

is a native of Richmond Hill. She began writing in college and took a hiatus to raise her four beautiful children. Cindy enjoys traveling and is always ready for a road trip. She believes that faith is greater than fear.

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..

Natalie McAllister is a life long Effingham resident. She has a great love of photography. Taking photos of family and friends sparked Natalie’s desire to become a professional photographer. Since then, her passion has grown to child and newborn photography. She is a wife and mother of two.

She volunteers her time weekly to a local food bank. Natalie is also an Avon representative.

06 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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in this issue

December/January 2016-17

features

10 14 17 19 22 26 30 32

Ashia Miller Glitz, Glamour and Giving Back

Scott Thompson Heroics in the Midst of the Storm

Effingham Health System Hurricane Heroes

Douglas Williamsr 2016 20-Gauge Junior World Skeet Champion

Adam Wood Making Every “Catch” Count

Alexis Mercer “Flex For Lex”

Josh Cipleu ECHS Football

Elizabeth Kicklighter SEHS Cheerleader

departments

09

Publisher’s Page

35

Let’s Do Business

39

Shop Local, Shop Effingham

08 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

10

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

Thank you Effingham County Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Lane Leopard graphic designer lane@idpmagazines.com Lea Allen administrative assistant/circulation lea@idpmagazines.com Marsha Stewart account executive marsha@idpmagazines.com

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 3126 (912) 826-2760

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.

Another year is about to end. It’s hard to believe!

This time of year always finds people thinking of what life has been like, what the year has meant to them...and, what plans they have for the upcoming year.

As a business owner, not only do I think about this from a personal perspective, I also think about it in regards to my business.

2016 was a huge year for Independence Day Publishing. We celebrated our 10th year in business and 10 great years of bringing you Effingham Magazine.

What a blessing this has been to me. Ten years of being in business. Sometimes it seems unreal. When I left the corporate world ten years ago, I knew I was making the right decision. I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted the opportunity to bring this community a magazine that the people could call their own. A magazine that was completely and totally devoted to Effingham County.

Julie Hales, PUBLISHER Ten years later, I am still able to live this dream. I am able to live and work in one of the greatest communities in the United States. And, I am honored that I can still give this community a magazine featuring the wonderful people who live here ...my neighbors, my family, my friends, my colleagues.

I want to personally thank the citizens of Effingham County for all your support over these last 10 years. I want to thank the advertisers who believe in us and what we do.

Without you guys, there would not be an Effingham Magazine.

I want to thank all of my staff and freelancers who have contributed to our success along the way. You guys are amazing and I am blessed to have you all as a part of my life.

I have a lot to be thankful for through this holiday season. I hope each of you will stop and reflect on all the things you have to be thankful for as well.

As the year end closes in, we are making plans for another great year of Effingham Magazine. Remember, this magazine is for you! We welcome and appreciate any ideas you have for us...stories you would like to see, new sections you would like us to include... share your thoughts with us. Email me at julie@idpmagazines.com.

We look forward to sharing the best of the best of Effingham County with you in 2017.

See you in the new year!

December/January 2016-17

Ashia

Miller

Effingham’s Miss Georgia

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.

ABOUT THE COVER Meet Ashia Miller, Effingham County Native and the reigning Miss Georgia.

She shows that true beauty is not just glitz and glamour, it’s also about giving back.

Cover photo by Tonya Chester Perry

Holiday Issue

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 09

Ashia Miller Glitz, Glamour and Giving Back

E

story by katie vendenhouten photos by tonya chester perry

ffingham County native, Ashia Miller, is the ultimate combination of beauty and brains. She is the reigning Miss Georgia, and she is thrilled to have represented her home state in the Miss United States Pageant this summer in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Most people don’t know that we have a Miss Georgia right here in Effingham County, but Miller says she is working hard to get out in the community to motivate children and to encourage anyone who thinks big dreams can’t come true in a small town.

She began competing in pageants much later than most contestants. She was 23 when she first started. Now, at 26, she has already won honors such as Best in Interview at the Miss Georgia South USA 2014 and 2016 pageants, fourth runner up at Miss Savannah St. Patrick’s Day 2014, as well as fourth runner up in the 2015 Miss Georgia South USA pageant.

Even though she was late getting involved in pageants, she certainly has a knack for it. Her most prestigious title, of course, came this year when she was crowned Miss Georgia United States.

Her involvement in pageants was always about more than physical beauty. Pageants have fed her competitive nature while also giving her a platform to make a difference and give something back to her community.

“I competed on French horn for so long that I wanted to feed that competitive streak,” she says. “I love beauty and glamour and hair and makeup, but I also like volunteering and so beauty pageants encompass that as well.”

She has always wanted to speak at schools and motivate young people. “I think the reason a lot of girls get involved in it is because of the opportunities and the platform it gives you to talk about your personal causes and to be able to be a role model,” she says.

One of her favorite causes to promote is music education. Miller was a success in her own right as a musician before she became Miss Georgia. She graduated from SEHS with the prestigious John Philip Sousa Band Award and earned a full out-of-state tuition waiver to attend the Florida State College of Music.

She graduated from Florida State with a degree in Classical Music with a concentration in French Horn, and claims that music education has benefited her tremendously. “Taking music lessons and learning an instrument improve cognitive processes,” she explains.

“There have been many studies done that show that musicians’ brains are different, and only two years of learning an instrument has positive effects on the brain, and I certainly have my training in music to thank for my unwavering work ethic,” Miller adds.

She put that work ethic to use when she started competing in pageants. She works full time at The University of Phoenix as a Campus Operations Coordinator, and while she’s preparing for a pageant, she dedicates one to two hours a day to training.

For Miller, it’s all about balance. Managing her job, pageant preparation and various speaking engagements and personal appearances has been a juggling act, but she wouldn’t have it any

10 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

other way.

She says her Miss Georgia title has afforded her many opportunities, but the greatest of these is getting out in the community and promoting causes like Meals on Wheels and being a motivational speaker at schools and other venues.

“I’ve always wanted to go into schools and talk to kids,” Miller says. “But being able to do it now is extraordinary because you get to see the kind of impact you can make just from having a crown and sash on.”

“I always ask the children about their dreams and their goals, and they always have interesting answers, but just seeing someone like me that comes from the small town of Meldrim that no one’s ever heard of in Effingham County, that means a lot to kids who come from different socioeconomic backgrounds,” she explains.

Believe it or not, Miller has had her fair share of obstacles in life. She wants children to know that they, like herself, can overcome anything. She is proof of that.

She has been the victim of bullying and physical abuse, but she refuses to let those negative experiences define her. “Inevitably, there are kids who have experienced the same things,” Miller explains. “Being able to speak to them in that way on their level and encourage them, I think that it means a lot to me, but I know it means a lot to them as well.”

Oddly enough, Miller says her looks were never really an advantage for her when she was growing up. “I wasn’t popular in high school. I wasn’t even what many people would consider attractive,” she says. “I think I’m like a swan. I just kind of aged well.”

Miller recalls her difficult experiences with cliques in high school and in college: “I know what it’s like to be bullied, I know what it’s like to be on the outside looking in.” She talks about the struggles in her life in hopes of helping others overcome similar situations.

She’d like to be known not for her beauty, but her compassion for others. She loves to volunteer and give back to her community in any way she can.

Volunteering for Meals on Wheels is especially important to her. When she was growing up, both sets of her grandparents were recipients of Meals on Wheels. Miller has seen the impact the program had on her family and she speaks highly of the program that feeds so many people nationwide.

“It’s always been very close to me because I saw the volunteers indirectly when I was younger,” she says of the charity. “And I said, ‘this is something I want to be involved with’ because of the respect I had for my grandparents.”

In fact, one of her biggest supporters is her paternal grandfather. Miller says it meant the world to her for him to be there when she won the Miss Georgia United States pageant.

“He’s always been so supportive,” she says of her grandfather.

“It was the first pageant he ever attended, and he was there and I won it, and my onstage question was about Meals on Wheels and

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 11

my grandparents.” It all seemed to come full circle at that moment.

Her family is extremely close. She lovingly refers to her mother as the “momager” who custom makes her evening gowns, and it was her brother, Jarrod, who inspired her to start playing the French horn.

Ironically, her brother says his little sister has inspired him just as much as he has inspired her. “She’s driven to succeed, and volunteers her time every holiday season since she was 16 years old to homeless shelters,” he says. “I’m very proud of the woman she has become, and I know she can inspire the youth during her reign as Miss Georgia.”

Miller certainly is an inspiration to the youth of Effingham County. Shortly after winning her title, her picture was mounted in the halls of SEHS with a banner along with other prominent community figures.

She will forever be a face that other students of her alma mater can look up to.

Her attitude is one of positivity and grace. Even though she may not have won the title of Miss United States, she maintains an optimistic outlook. “I felt like I did my best, but one of the things you learn from being in pageants is that only one person is going to get the sparkly hat, and that may or may not be you,” she says with

a laugh.

Her ultimate goal is to get into broadcasting, and she has her sights on an anchorwoman position with CNN or Entertainment Tonight. She loves public speaking, and she thinks it would be the perfect career.

For now, she continues to make the most of her sash and crown by judging beauty pageants, volunteering, and speaking at schools and other community events. She says people may not remember what you say, but they’ll always remember how you make them feel, and so she does everything in her power to make people feel good.

Miller prides herself on her southern charm and hospitality. “I like to say that I’m a glass of sweet tea with a little something special in there,” she says with a smile. “I’m very southern, very. I prefer simplicity over anything.”

Ashia Miller is a beautiful person, inside and out. In her own words: “Beauty is something that is moreso internal than anything.” This year’s Miss Georgia United States has shown that true beauty is not just glitz and glamour, but giving back.

To schedule speaking engagements or appearances with Ashia, contact her at ashia.k.miller@gmail.com.

“I think the reason a lot of girls get involved in it is because of the opportunities and the platform it gives you to talk about your personal causes and to be able to be a role model.”

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Scott Thompson: Heroics in the Midst of the Storm “We rise by lifting others.” ~Robert Ingersoll

S

story by katrice williams photos by tonya chester perry

cott Thompson, originally from Pembroke, has lived in Effingham for almost twenty years. Scott and his wife Laura reside in Guyton with their three small kids: Madilynn—seven, Mallory—four and McCoy— one. The couple co-owns Thompson and Thompson Service Group Inc., the parent company of Rooter-Man Plumbers.

Actually, the business has been in the Thompson family for a long time. “It was initially Scotty’s Pottys Inc., which started in 2004;” Scott was only 21 years old at the time. The Thompson family has a long history in the professional service industry. In fact, Scott’s uncle Corey Rahn owns Rahn’s Wrecker and Septic Service in Rincon.

Scott points out, “That’s where I worked my whole high school career. That’s when I got started with the porta potties. Then, after that, it was kind of a natural transition into Rooter-Man, because I already knew some of the work.”

Rooter-Man’s inception dates back to 2008, though Scott sold the portable restroom division of the company in 2011, choosing to focus solely on the plumbing side.

Several other related companies in the industry handle plumbing for new construction as well as overall service-related tasks.

However, customers can be confident in the competence, skill and keen insight that Rooter-Man brings to each job, since Scott and his team specialize only in “service plumbing and drain cleaning.”

He feels privileged to provide his customers with unmatchable service.

“Most of our work is service, not service and new construction.

It’s a business that will never die, because everybody always needs a plumbing service,” Scott asserts.

He values his customers and the invaluable level of rapport that he has been able to build with them over the years. He knows that they are a huge factor in the success of his organization. Scott is committed to incorporating strong principles and high standards into his company for his customers.

He comments, “We’re a family-owned company, and we want to treat our customers the same way we like to be treated as customers. Our customers are first, because without our customers, we would not be in business.”

This same value-driven and selfless outlook allowed Scott and his team to do a lot of people a whole lot of good during the recent havoc of Hurricane Matthew. In the midst of the storm, many individuals were compelled to temporarily relocate for safety, while others in the area had to endure the affects of the hurricane.

The infamous storm caused massive power outages, placing many families in extremely uncomfortable and compromising situations for several days. As a matter of fact, Scott’s home lost power on Friday, October 7th. The power remained out until the next Monday. During that time, power was also lost at the Rooter-Man Company. Office operations were at a stand-still, since no office equipment could be utilized. Telephones and cell phones

14 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

were inoperable, due to overall system issues. The Rooter-Man Team had to leave their Effingham office for a while in order to conduct company business. Scott appreciates the enormous amount of kindness shown to his team by the Chicken Salad Chick Team in Pooler, who gave him and his staff access to their dining lobby to use Wi-Fi for their phones, while they were also able to “set up shop in the dining room” to carry out business functions.

Scott feels that such kindness shown is truly priceless, especially during such a dire time.

Though Scott’s family lost their home’s carport and had some displaced trees due to the fierce, stormy winds, their home remained intact. Scott began to think about how the storm may have affected others in the area; he found that countless families were without power as well.

“I knew power was not going to be immediately restored,” Scott states. The outage problem caused very significant dilemmas, especially when considering the impact that it had on the livelihood of families who did not have a good way to preserve their food throughout the duration of the storm.

Scott adds, “A lot of families were without power. With the loss of their food, they didn’t have a hot meal.”

Scott spoke with Laura about the trying situation, and they both wanted to help their community—one that they have taken a great deal of pride in for a long time. They concluded that they would invest their time and resources in making sure that those families in the area whose electricity was affected by the storm were able to get some hot meals. The couple purchased a plethora of hot dogs, hamburgers and other snacks. Hence, on Tuesday, with help from their devoted team at Rooter-Man, the couple “fired up the grill” outside of their office building and started cooking.

Scott recalls, “We had people showing up as soon as they saw it. A lot of them were real thankful, because it was their only hot meal. We were able to feed residents, power company workers, Georgia Department of Transportation Workers, tree company workers and even a group of 60 National Guardsmen.”

Scott talks about a young lady who was pregnant; she left him a message. Her family had stood in line to get her a meal. She was grateful for the incredibly thoughtful event. He found that she gave birth to her baby the very next day. Scott was very touched and feels that it is “stories like that which make things all worthwhile.”

Scott is very thankful to be part of such a considerate and compassionate community—one that will freely go above and beyond to lend a helping hand when needed. He is very appreciative for the efforts of many concerned citizens in the community who volunteered their time to help with the food preparation and distribution throughout the week. Further, many individuals and businesses donated food and drinks.

“They would go in the grocery store like they were shopping for

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 15

themselves and just bring in bags and bags of stuff that they bought—pretty much helped replenish people’s pantries and refrigerators,” Scott says. Cash, clothing and many other beneficial supplies were brought in.

After speaking to various members of the community, Scott was able to get referrals concerning families that were in the most need of help. Consequently, many families were immensely helped through the generous efforts of others.

Scott mentions, “People were just dropping off anything and everything that they thought people would need. We tried to get it out as much as possible to everybody.”

The benefit lasted from Tuesday, October 11th through Friday, October 14th. During the last couple of days of the event, food was also delivered to individuals who were unable to make it.

Scott and the various volunteers who helped with the memorable cause were proud to give back to their community while also exemplifying ‘The Golden Rule: Do unto others...’

“I would hope that someone would be willing and had the heart to stand up and help me out if I were in a time of need. We got a feeling of accomplishment--that we actually made a difference during a time of need,” Scott states.

With the assistance of his wife Laura, his dedicated team at Rooter-Man and many other noteworthy people, Scott Thompson truly made a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals and families.

In his own words, “Somebody had to help out.”

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Effingham Health System’s ER Serves 180 Patients During Hurricane Matthew

H

urricane Matthew has come and gone leaving parts of our community in shambles. We took a devastating blow from its winds and rains. But, thankfully, Effingham County had no fatalities.

We had many people in our community working diligently to keep our citizens safe. From the sheriff’s department to first responders to county officials, along with many volunteers lending a helping hand to neighbors, friends and families.

There were many heroes on our roads and in our neighborhoods making sure we all were safe. There was also a huge hero saving lives that weekend, Effingham Hospital’s ER Department.

Throughout Hurricane Matthew, Effingham Health System’s Emergency Room—a Level IV Trauma Center—demonstrated the value of a critical care access community Hospital.

At one point on Saturday, with storm winds still blowing, the hospital was actively caring for 38 patients, not including those in the waiting room. Four critical patients were stabilized and airlifted to Augusta between 2:00pm and 8:00pm on Saturday, after major winds subsided. Two

others were transported by ground.

The ER continued to treat similarly large numbers of patients through Sunday, as residents began clean up after the hurricane. At that point, Effingham Hospital provided the only source of emergency care for residents of Effingham county and surrounding areas.

Fran Baker-Witt, Interim CEO for Effingham Health System gave credit to her team, saying, “We are so proud of our people. They worked together, around the clock, to care for an unprecedented number of patients in our emergency room.”

“We started assessing the situation on Tuesday evening. Our leadership team met in Kieffer Hall and we started watching the Weather Channel to keep abreast of the storm. We called this meeting our first ‘Hurricane Huddle.’ We then ‘huddled’ twice a day, starting on Wednesday morning,” Baker-Witt added.

Baker-Witt and the leadership team called for “all hands on deck” by 7:00 PM on Friday. All staff was in-house with sleeping arrangements made by 7:30 PM. Staff members reporting in for the hurricane stayed at the hospital until Sunday.

“We had intentional and effective communication with our entire staff. Everyone

knew what was expected. The performance of our people is attributed to that,” states Baker-Witt.

Dr. Chris Campbell came on at 7:00 on Friday. He was the primary Emergency Medicine Physician in the emergency room that night, and one of the biggest heroes of the weekend.

During the night on Friday, Dr. Campbell was the only physician in the ER. On Saturday morning, the flood gates opened and he made the decision to call in Dr. Winstead to help with the increased patient load. Before the day would end, a third physician, Dr. Shell, had to be called in. Dr. Campbell took control of the situation and made sure every patient received the care they needed.

“The ER physicians at Effingham Hospital are the same physicians that treat patients at Memorial Hospital in Savannah.

As things were happening Friday night, I started taking pictures of our patient board and sending them to the other physicians.

We were actually treating more patients in Effingham than they were in Savannah,” says Dr. Campbell.

He adds, “Late into the night on Friday night when the winds were at their highest, we were not just an emergency room, we

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 17

were an ICU unit. We had four critically ill patients and we were running like an Intensive Care Unit for over 12 hours. When the winds calmed somewhat on Saturday, we have to airlift these four patients to Augusta.”

“Our nursing staff was exemplary during the storm. I never heard one complaint. Every patient got the health care they needed. It was truly a team effort. Everyone put other people before themselves. That’s how we made it happen,” Dr. Campbell further states.

One of the other heroes of the weekend was Emergency Room Senior Staff Nurse and Trauma Coordinator, Dana Shores.

Shores came in on Friday morning and worked through Sunday evening. As part of the leadership team, her main duty was to make sure they had key players in place and equipment ready.

The nursing staff was broken down into three teams. At one point on Saturday, Shores had to wake up another team of nurses to handle the patient load.

“We had 10 nurses on the floor at one time. Everyone worked well together as a team…the physicians, nurses, techs…even housekeeping and maintenance was a huge part of the weekend.

They made sure we had fresh linens for the patients and made sure all of our equipment was working properly. And, the dieticians made sure everyone was provided the proper nutrients. It was like the pieces of a puzzle coming together. It wasn’t just the ER staff, it was the entire hospital,” says Shores.

Effingham Health System served 180 patients in the ER that weekend, all with no bad outcomes. Baker-Witt explains, “Our staff’s response demonstrates our commitment to the community and lives up to our Vision, providing leadership and the highest potential health outcomes for the patients we serve…in every situation. Their integrity and loyalty are unsurpassed.”

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Douglas Williams II

2016 20-Gauge Junior World Skeet Champion

P

story by cindy burbage

ractice can make perfect. Just ask sixteen year old Douglas Williams II. During a tournament held at Forest City Gun Club in July, the adolescent straight shooter took home the title of the 2016 20-Gauge Junior World Skeet Champion.

At the young and impressionable age of nine years old, Douglas began accompanying his sharpshooter father to the gun range and shooting tournaments. After a few years of being a watchful eye, he decided to follow in his Dad’s footsteps.

Douglas began shooting at the age of twelve. “I started shooting because of my

photos by natalie mcallister

Father. He shot for the longest time before my little brother and I came along and I would attend his shoots,” the marksman remembered. “And whenever I got to the point my father thought I could not only learn how to do it but also appreciate the game, he introduced me to it.”

Douglas is a member of the Forest City Gun Club in Savannah where he practices under the guidance of his coaches, Lee Summerford, Zach Guerrettaz and his Dad, Douglas Williams. Skeet and Clay shooting is not as seasonal as most sports, it continues throughout the year. During the summer, his practice schedule is three to four days a week, but throughout the

school year, practice drops to a couple of times a week and weekends. Shooting the gun is not the only regime for preparing.

His coaches teach them how to be mentally strong and physically ready for the tournaments and future events. His Dad gave him his best advice, “Be safe, enjoy what you are doing and don’t be so hard on yourself. And take it easy and have fun.”

The biggest competition of the year and in the country was held September 30 October 2, Douglas competed in the Southeast Regional in Georgetown, SC. The four day event hosted by Back Woods Quail Club, accommodated over 650 participants competing in the sporting clay meet. This

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | October/November 2016 19

particular event is basically golf with a shot gun. This competition began with a preliminary tournament of 100 targets and throughout the weekend they competed in different hunting scenarios. Within the fifteen different stations, the shooters encountered incoming targets or a variety of game simulated targets.

With most sports, the player must be comfortable with their equipment to be successful. His gun of choice is the Krieghoff K80 Pro Skeet and he prefers 2 ½ -2 ¾ inch Winchester or Rio shot gun shells for a 12, 20 ,28 and 410 gauge.

Loving what you do is part of the recipe for a successful athlete. “I enjoy this sport because there is something new every time there is a tournament. There are new people, new scenery and new format”, Douglas shared. “It’s something that I can just have fun with and meet all types of new people,” he continued.

While participating in sports is designed to teach team work and comradery, the prizes aren’t half bad either. In the world of shooting athletics, the awards consist of many different selections. Douglas is quite decorated with medals, coins and patches from his wins. His collection of trophies include numerous belt buckles and Yeti cups that are etched with the name of the tournament he swept. Some tournaments also congratulate the winners with cash.

Douglas participates in these events at least once a month that are located within Georgia and the Southeast area.

Being challenged is something that drives Douglas and academics is another area in his life where he shines. The South Effingham High School Junior is an AP honor student with a pathway of Logistics completed and currently working on an Engineering pathway. “The AP classes are challenging, but they will prepare me for after high school and how to do things in life,” he explained.

Although skeet and sporting clay is a year round sport, Douglas does find the time for seasonal sports also. As a freshman, he began his high school baseball career on the varsity team, one of the only players his age to do so. His sophomore year proved to be just as exciting as he lettered in the sport. The talented athlete is a utility player, as he plays pitcher, catcher and first and third base.

When he is not competing, the scholar participates in several clubs at SEHS, including Beta Club, National Honor Society and Technology Student Association (TSA).

In his spare time, Douglas enjoys the love of the great outdoors of hunting for

dove, quail, pheasant and white-tail deer.

The love and respect for Mother Nature has been instilled in him.

The Williams family has made the sport of shooting a family tradition. Doug Williams not only taught his son, Douglas how to shoot, but also set the example for winning titles, prizes and tournaments.

Doug has made the All-star Georgia team, Georgia State Sporting Clay Shoot and just this year won the 2016 20 Gauge and 410 Sporting. His twelve year old brother, Dawson, is also an accomplished shooter.

Within his first year of participating in tournaments, he scored 5th in the nation in Sporting Clay for the Rookie Division.

Dawson was at a surprising age of only ten years old. Mom, Rhonda Williams, playfully admitted she doesn’t shoot as much as she used to.

With love and the great support of his parents, Douglas Williams II has a plan to attend a college with a shooting department and fulfill his dream of becoming an engineer. In just four short years, this adept athlete has demonstrated hard work and perseverance towards accomplishing his goals. And although earning the title of 20 Gauge Junior World Skeet Champion for 2016 is an astonishing feat, Douglas is not stopping there; he has his eyes set on a higher prize. He is currently in the running for the 20, 28 and 410 gauge All American.

Also he is the highest D class shooter in the state of Georgia and ranked in the state for Junior; and Douglas holds 2nd in the Southeast as well.

Douglas would like to thank his sponsors and his baseball coaches for all the support they give him.

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“I enjoy this sport because there is something new every time there is a tournament. There are new people, new scenery and new format”, Douglas shared.

“It’s something that I can just have fun with and meet all types of new people,”

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 21

Adam Wood

Making Every “Catch” Count

story by katrice williams

H

ook, line, and sinker…a phrase that is not at all foreign to Adam Wood. Adam, a Springfield native, lives in the local area with his wife Lindsey and their one-year-old daughter Denny. Adam is currently the TBF (The Bass Federation) National Champion as a Co-Angler. Actually, Adam’s road to this incredible honor began at a very early age.

“My dad [Randy Wood] has been taking me fishing since I was old enough to remember and probably before that too. I didn’t spend a lot of time indoors when I was a kid; I was outside doing something,” Adam remarks.

In fact, Adam has been bass tournament fishing since he was about 12. He even won several tournaments in his earlier teenage years, after beginning his fishing endeavors at a small, local club in Bryan County—the Bryan County Bassmasters. Further, Adam was afforded the opportunity to compete against more experienced adults, often up to about 30 at one time. Adam continued to fish on the small, more local level until a little while back.

He states, “I’ve just fished small club tournaments and little open tournaments in the river really until this past year. I’m pretty new to the whole bigger scene.” He later adds, “I really enjoy the tournament fishing. I’ve been successful at it so far.”

The scene may be a bit new to Adam but his competitive spirit is certainly not. Adam has always appreciated a bit of good competition regardless of the sport.

He declares, “Fishing is very competitive, and I like to win-- I go to win; I don’t like to lose. I’ve always been a competitive person. I played sports growing up my entire life, and my family is highly competitive. We like to win at anything we do. My mom

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photos by tonya chester perry

[Christi Wood] is where my competitive nature comes from. My mom is a great athlete and succeeded at anything she has ever done. She has been a player, a coach in the county, and she played for Georgia Southern in softball when she was in college. She is actually in the Effingham County Hall of Fame.” Christi’s overall athleticism and long-time commitment to coaching (softball and tennis) made her worthy of such a notable accolade.

Obviously, the apple seldom falls far from the tree. Adam’s recent success has been nothing short of remarkable, and he strives to continue to master the sport that he has long been so fond of.

Regarding his TBF Championship, Adam insists, “It’s a huge accomplishment--to get that far and to win and to be named a national champion.”

All of Adam’s tournament fishing involves bass catch-and-release, where competitors are scored on the weight of their fish throughout the tournament’s duration—the weights of the live fish, that is. Yes, each bass caught for scoring consideration must be alive in order to gain points. Participants are given a daily fish quota (five fish), where the heaviest fish gets weighed in each day over the span of the tournament (normally three days total).

Afterwards, the fish are released back into the lake or river. Adam’s catches include largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, though he “weighed-in with largemouth bass” each day of the TBF Tournament.

Adam fishes as a co-angler, an individual who teams up with a boater and fishes alongside them in competitions. More specifically, the co-angler makes their catches from the back of the boat. It is important that the co-angler and boater complement each other by working well together. Proper communication between the two

which he usually does in the winter months. Even more, he loves all the time he gets to spend with his wife and daughter. Sometimes, they even join him on some of his fishing excursions.

His wife Lindsey smiles and says, “We’ll go to the river with him. We just usually lay out in the sun while he fishes.”

Adam likes to watch bass fishing tournaments on television.

He likes to see the different styles and techniques used by various professionals.

Adam states, “I think it’s kind of neat to watch how they go about a tournament and to win.”

Adam is grateful that he has qualified to “fish the Costa Series next year.” Since he is the TBF National Co-Angler Champion, all of his entry fees will be paid for him. He will have the chance to compete with about 200 individuals over a three-day span. It will be Adam’s “first time fishing on this level—against guys who do it for a living [the professionals].”

Adam suggests, “If I do well, I may try to continue fishing those types of tournaments—high risk/high reward.”

One of Adam’s biggest aspirations is to fish in the FLW (Forrest L. Wood) Tour Championship to compete among the best of the best professionals for the Forrest Wood Cup. He reveals, “I would like to fish the FLW Tour—your ultimate goal is to get there. You can qualify for the cup through the series I’m fishing next year.”

Adam is currently working to “build a good, strong foundation” in the sport that he loves so much as he strives to make every catch count—hook, line and sinker.

Fishing is very competitive, and I like to win - I go to win; I don’t like to lose.

is crucial, so that each will know how to best aid in the success of the other. The team has a better chance of succeeding when they are on one accord, which allows for more effective and efficient fishing. The co-angler should consider the game plan of his boater for the day, while always being prepared, yet flexible. After all, they do not compete against each other; they are in separate categories.

In spring 2015, Adam competed in the Georgia Top Six Tournament at Lake West Point in LaGrange, Georgia, where “the top six qualifiers from every club” were chosen to face off; Adam finished third out of about 194 total co-anglers. Thereafter, the top 12 competitors from it went on to compete in the Southern Divisional at Lake Norman in Charlotte, North Carolina. There, Adam was one of the top two qualifiers, which allowed him the privilege to represent his home state, Georgia, as a representative of the Bass Federation in the national championship of The TBF Tournament this past April. This three-day event took place at Table Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri. The tournament included over 30 other co-anglers. Adam finished first overall.

As the TBF Champion, Adam qualified to compete in the BFL (Bass Fishing League) All-American Tournament, a semi-professional league. Adam competed for the BFL Title this past June at Lake Barkley in Cadiz, Kentucky. After “leading going into the last day of the competition,” Adam finished third out of about 50 co-anglers. He is very proud of that victory.

“It’s a huge honor to finish third against really competitive, skilled guys,” Adam asserts.

Adam is truly a fisherman at heart, as he even enjoys fishing for fun in much of his spare time. He is also quite fond of hunting, www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 23

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 25

Alexis Mercer: “Flex For Lex”

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story by susan lee photos by tonya chester perry

lexis Mercer is strong. She’s spent many years playing softball, working out and eventually competing in bodybuilding. But it was when she was facing the greatest challenge of her life this summer that the 23-year-old athlete realized her true strength.

In July, Alexis was diagnosed with Stage 1 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. It started out as shortness of breath, followed by a swollen hand, then a swollen arm. A doctor at the after-hours clinic thought it was an infection and prescribed steroids. But Alexis knew something was really wrong and the next day she went to her primary care physician, who found that her heart rate and blood pressure were elevated. She was sent over to Effingham Hospital, where they did a chest x-ray and CT scan. That’s when they found it.

“It was a huge mass in my chest, and it was pressing on a vein and restricting blood flow to my arm,” she explains. Alexis was admitted to the hospital for a biopsy, and then started her cancer treatment. She will undergo 12 rounds of chemotherapy, followed by radiation.

For the time being, the young woman who loved working out at the gym was sidelined. It wasn’t long, however, before her friends, fellow athletes and even former competitors posted their love and best wishes for Alexis via social media. Using the hashtag #FlexForLex, supporters posted pictures of themselves flexing.

“When I saw the first picture, it was incredible,” recalls Alexis. “I just loved it.

But then there were more and more, from people I didn’t even know, in other states. I just couldn’t believe it.”

The online campaign was started by fellow bodybuilder Danielle Ragazzini. “I had met her, but I didn’t know her well,” says Alexis. “Now I feel like I’ve known her all my life because she’s been so supportive.”

Alexis was soon approached by some of her girlfriends with t-shirt designs that they came up with as a fundraiser for her.

One was Sierra Newman, who works at Embellish Boutique in Pembroke. They created a shirt with #FlexForLex over a silhouette of a female bodybuilder sporting a ponytail. The other shirt was created

by Brooke Sapp and Bailey Horton and features “Flex For Lex” over the cancer

awareness ribbon and flexing arms.

The shirts were an immediate success and shipments have been re-ordered several times. “It’s an amazing feeling, having such wonderful friends,” she says. “And it makes me feel so good that so many people who don’t even know me are buying these shirts.”

People throughout the community have also rallied to hold fundraisers for Alexis and her family. Events included a Benefit Poker Run with live entertainment at Alibi’s; a special day of classes and boot camps at Anytime Fitness in Rincon; and the Sweat for a Cure Boot Camp event at the Effingham Fairgrounds, presented by

Get FIT with TIFF, and featuring a tug-ofwar and an obstacle course (which Alexis is proud to say she completed).

“I just can’t believe all of the kindness and wonderful support,” she says of the many people who have supported her through #FlexForLex and the fundraisers.

Alexis’ mom is also amazed at the number of people who have reached out to support her daughter. “She’s an inspiration to so many people,” says Jamie Mercer, a breast cancer survivor and radiologist. “When I read the posts on her Facebook page, about her outlook and her faith, I’m just overwhelmed and proud. I’m her mom, and I’m supposed to be her rock, but she’s my rock.

26 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

She’s my inspiration.”

Alexis’ father, Tim, has also been a constant and loving supporter, along with her older brother Matt, a nurse anesthetist in North Carolina. From an early age growing up in Rincon, Alexis played softball and excelled in the sport through high school, graduating from South Effingham in 2011.

She received a softball scholarship to Armstrong State University and went on to become the all-time home run leader in Peach Belt Conference history with 60 home runs, ranking among the Top 10 in NCAA Division II history.

It was during her final year at college that her athletic focus shifted to bodybuilding. She won her first competition in August 2015, the National Physique Committee’s Excalibur competition in Charleston, SC. This win qualified her to compete at the NPC Junior USA Championships in Charleston in May of this year, not long before her cancer diagnosis. “It’s a huge national competition,” Alexis says. “Prep for the show is 16 weeks, which means a strict diet and intense workouts. It was at the end of the school year, so I was studying all night, trying to graduate, while at the same time keeping up my diet and fitness routine.” She didn’t place at the competition, but adds that it was worth all the effort. “I learned so much and made a lot of new friends,” she says.

For now, Alexis is focusing on making it through her treatments and spending time with family and friends. “I have some bad days, when I’m feeling sick or nauseous,” she says. “But I’ve always been a positive person so I just try to make the best of it.

This experience has made me appreciate my family even more. I feel like I owe them the world because I just can’t imagine not having their support.”

Her boyfriend, Kaleb Writch, is a bodybuilder and has been by her side through her illness. “When I was first diagnosed, it hit him hard,” she says. “But he puts on a strong front and keeps me going.”

Not content to sit on the sidelines for too much longer, Alexis is gradually taking steps toward reclaiming her fitness lifestyle. She’s looking ahead to the bridge run, which is in December. “I usually run the entire route, but this time I’ll probably walk a lot of it,” she says. “It’ll be fun.”

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 27

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 29

Josh Cipleu ECHS

Varisty Football

story by cindy burbage photos by natalie mcallister

A

senior at Effingham County High School, Josh Cipleu eats and breathes football. The seventeen-year-old athlete got his start playing on the Ebenezer Middle School football team after moving to Effingham County in June 2011. But that wasn’t his first time playing, he recalls, “I always loved playing backyard football with family and friends. I couldn’t wait to join the middle school team.” Once

he got a taste of how football created both team and school spirit, and found an outlet for his athletic talent, there was no looking back.

As a freshman, Josh began with the Rebel team as a defensive linemen and moved to the offensive line, where he began playing guard the following year.

“I’ve been the starting left guard since 11th grade but also I get to play some defensive tackle,” he described. According to the

30 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

website, MaxPreps, Josh averages at least two tackles per game. If ambition is a key to passion, Josh’s passion definitely shows.

The first string left guard enjoys spectating football as well as playing. Staying true to his roots, his beloved football teams are University of Michigan and NFL team the Detroit Lions. “These two are my home teams. I grew up in Michigan until I was 12 years old and then moved to Effingham County because of my Dad’s job.” And

even though he is no longer in the NFL, Tim Tebow, will always be someone that this high-schooler looks up to. “He’s such a great person on and off the field. He devotes a lot of his time towards helping others,” the athlete comments. It’s Tebow’s ability to both perform for fans and give back to the community that has gained this fan for life.

Football is not the only sport that Josh Cipleu has tackled during his high school years. The talented senior is also a member of the Effingham County High School lacrosse team, where he plays goalie.

Lacrosse being semi physical in nature, like football, it’s only natural this full contact sport lover took notice and joined the team.

With a rigorous practice schedule, Josh finds the time to keep up his grades and understands that academics are important.

His team practices every day after school until early evening. Over his four years of high school, he has managed to juggle sports and academics, including honors and AP classes to prepare him for college.

The ball player is also a member of Fellowship of Students (FCS), the Spanish Club and the National Honors Society. Josh is also an active member of his youth group

at church where he participates in volunteer work, and is involved with community service as often as he can.

After graduation, Josh will handoff his pigskin life for college life. Georgia Southern is in his future, and he is prepared to major in electrical engineering. Will he become an Eagle on the field, “I don’t plan on continuing my football career in college, but if I get an opportunity, I wouldn’t turn it down,” the ECSH Rebel admits.

Josh Cipleu shared, “Football has impacted my life in many ways. I have learned many valuable life lessons from playing this sport.” The sport and being part of a brotherly team has taught him to be disciplined and has brought out his competitive side, showing him to compete in all aspects of his life. Being accountable for all decisions is a lesson he will take with him as he travels through this thing we call life. And finally he affirmed, “Football ultimately shaped the person I am today.”

His parents, Magdalena and Dorin Cipleu added, “The main thing I would like to say about Josh is that he makes us, as parents so proud of him. He’s very helpful, respectful and likes to be involved. We are very blessed to have him and to call him

our son. The sports, the clubs, the coaches, and the teachers have played a significant impact on his performance and who he is!”

What is this proud Effingham County High School Rebel’s favorite game nightwhen they challenge South Effingham County High School’s Mustangs on the gridiron. On Friday, September 9, 2016 the rival teams met on the field for their biggest game of the season. Although both teams gave it their all, the Effingham County High School Rebels walked away with the win of 34-7. The Rebel’s record with SECH Mustang’s is 12-11, evidence that this is just the battle that goes back and forth with Effingham football fans loving every minute of it.

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 31

Elizabeth Kicklighter:

South Effingham High School Cheerleader and so much more

A

story by cindy burbage

lifelong resident of Effingham County, Elizabeth Kicklighter not only brings cheer to hometown football games, but also gives back to her beloved community.

Participating at a very early age in Mini Mustang cheer camp, is one of her first memories. However, that wasn’t what stirred her passion for cheering; watching her older sister, Kelsey, cheer was her inspiration. “With my sister cheering in high school, I knew I had to be like my big sissy at a very young age,” Elizabeth shared. It wasn’t until she was a middle school 6th grader that she began cheering with her team.

Cheering is hard work and takes dedication; for the Mustang senior, it is her only sport and is a year around commitment.

She cheers for football and the basketball team. “I cheer for Effingham High School as well as Cheer Savannah All Stars. I also participate in weights in my high school and have been coached since I was an incoming freshman, so that is a fun extra.

Although I do not get to compete in weight lifting, I would like to do it at least in my lifetime,” Elizabeth admitted.

The Mustang cheer team has claimed many region titles throughout the years.

“Despite our best efforts, we have not won our region in a few years but we are hoping to reclaim that title this year. For my all-star team we came in 11th place at the World’s competition this past April.

That was an experience I will never forget.

It was one of the hardest, most rewarding weekends of my life,” she reminisces.

The eighteen-year-old confesses she has a great admiration for cheering for her South Effingham High School Mustang football team and loves all of the cheers.

However, if she had to choose one to be her favorite, it would be “C’mon Stangs let’s move them down”, this is performed when the team is close to a touchdown.

She shared the chant, “Touchdown, touchdown, c’mon Stangs lets move them down!

Once we get the touchdown, we cheerleaders just get filled with excitement and jump

photos by natalie mcallister

up and down because we are so happy.”

“My favorite stunt would have to be the pyramid my team at SEHS competed my junior year. It had so much creativity and was a challenge for my team at first but as a team we overcame that bump and had success. Part of the reason it is my favorite is because seeing my coach’s face, Cayte Vickery, when we hit (perfected the pyramid), it filled all of us with ultimate satisfaction because we knew we made her proud. Another reason it is my favorite is because it cannot be done unless the whole team puts in the effort,” she explains. The Mustang cheer squad is truly like family; every member is an important part of the team. “We have each other’s back on and off the mat. We can all trust each other and go to one another in a time of need.

No matter if it’s hair and make-up or a break-up, we can always talk to any member of the team, including our coaches. It is a welcoming environment that I have been honored to be a part of,” Elizabeth beamed.

Spirit filled Elizabeth is more than a cheerleader. Her extra-curricular activities include many school clubs such as: National Honors Society, Beta Club, French Honors Society, Student Council and Interact Club. She is also a participant in pageants, Mini Mustang Cheer Camp and attends Compassion Christian Church. Elizabeth also believes it is important to give back to her community. She gives her time to the big sister/ little sister program at Cheer Savannah All-Stars, Kisses for Katie 5K volunteer, and the Angel Tree at SEHS to name a few.

After graduating with honors from South Effingham, Elizabeth Kicklighter plans to attend a four-year college and spread her cheer. “As an athlete, I hope to cheer in college for the Saturday game days as well as competitively. It has been a lifelong dream to cheer in college and make it to those big game days. I plan to major in some form of engineering as well as statistics. Then I plan to go on to medical school after completion. I would like to one day become a successful surgeon.”

32 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

With complete humbleness and a heart full of thankfulness Elizabeth added, “I am truly grateful to my entire family-my parents and sisters: Mickey, Kim, Kelsey and Addie. It is completely year around cheer for my family. They bend over backwards to help support my academics as well as my cheerleading. As for my coaches throughout the years, I cannot express how thankful I am to them. As well as the coaches in the weight room making sure I am in the ultimate condition to perform my sport and in good health. Although my sister attends college and law school, she tries to be at as many games and competitions that she can make. I could not have accomplished any of this without the help of my parents. I owe everything to them, they push me to be my best. I may not always appreciate it in the moment, but they are always looking out for my best interest and I cannot thank them enough. Ultimately I am thankful to God. I would not be able to do anything without Him. He is the one that is always with me, whether I’m taking a test or taking the mat for a competition, He is the rock I lean on.”

Motivation can come from within or what is around us; it is what keeps us moving in the right direction. Elizabeth Kicklighter is moving in the right direction and reflects every day on Philippians 4:13, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 33

BEFORE

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WE COME TO YOU 34 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 35

YOUR ONE STOP SOLUTION FOR HYDRAULIC REPAIR AND ASSEMBLY

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36 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

KEEP CALM AND

O

MAKE ART

Paint & Possibilities story by susan lee

n Halloween of 2015, Effingham newcomer Christy Thayer was nearly brought to tears. She and her family had recently moved from the West Coast, a place where they had very few trick-or-treaters.

A place where neighbors kept to themselves and just went on about their busy lives. But on this night in Rincon, she witnessed what she described as a scene out of a magazine. Hundreds of children trick-or-treating in her neighborhood, accompanied by parents who took the time to chat and enjoy the evening.

Christy knew she had finally come home.

It was this welcoming spirit and embrace that inspired Christy to launch her new art studio, Paint and Possibilities, in the heart of downtown Rincon. The space is a haven for children, adults, families and friends to explore, unleash and celebrate their creative side. The business’ mission statement sums it up perfectly: “Bringing people together through a variety of interactive, fun and educational art experiences, to uplift the human spirit and impact the communities in which we serve.”

But if you expect a session at Paint and Possibilities to be an evening sipping wine and everyone painting the same painting, you’re at the wrong studio. “Our focus is on kid friendly and family friendly programs,” says Christy. “We do paint on canvas, but that’s a small portion of our classes.

Our projects incorporate traditional art mediums, including fabric and wood-based art, and allow people a lot of creativity in choosing paint colors and personalizing their pieces.”

Artists of all skill levels have a wide array of programs to choose from, with classes scheduled at the studio throughout the month. In addition, Paint and Possibilities hosts special sessions for birthday parties, fundraisers, and private groups such as family reunions, girls’ night out and bridal showers.

The Paint and Possibilities team is even mobile, offering customized activities at schools, businesses and special events. For example, they presented a special Thanks-

photos by tonya chester perry

giving workshop at Ebenezer Elementary during which families working together to create “Thankful Trees”.

Now that Christy and her family are settled in Rincon and her business is off the ground, she can reflect on her family’s happiness and blessings. “People are so kind here,” she says. “Everyone knows your name, and there are so many opportunities to meet and get to know people. I never felt that connection in any other place I lived.

Our children are still young, so they’ll be able to grow up with a sense of community, in a place where people go out of their way to help others.”

And it was because of Christy’s appreciation of Effingham County and its people that she created the studio’s Charities partner program. “Every month, we choose a different Effingham charity and donate a percentage of all the money we make,” she says. “God gives you gifts and it’s important to give back. I want to share my blessings with the community because of the way my family has been so warmly embraced.”

Christy’s family consists of husband Greg Thayer and their two children, son Cody, 8, and daughter Caylee, 6. An NC Engineer at Gulfstream, Greg is also her business partner and actively involved in the studio, creating all the wood pieces needed for projects.

Not too long after the family moved to

Effingham, Christy’s parents “followed their grandchildren” across the country and now live two doors down. Jerry and Naida Arthur are not only doting grandparents, they’re also both artists who regularly pitch in to help with the studio.

Paint and Possibilities is located at 293 S. Columbia Ave. in Rincon, (912) 2176860. For more information on upcoming classes or to book a program, visit www. paintandpossibilities.com or check out their Facebook page (Paint & Possibilities Rincon).

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 37

Historic Building In Downtown Guyton

Painting for The Holidays • Art Classes • Private Events • Birthday Parties • Fundraisers & More!

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The building was fully renovated using strict historic preservation guidelines. Priced well below appraised value, you don’t want to let this property slip away. $320,000.

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Paint & Possibilities

Art Studio • Mobile Events 293 S. Columbia Ave., Rincon, GA

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38 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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Shop Local GUIDE

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 39

EFFINGHAM SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

SHOP LOCAL

S

mall Business Saturday means Shop local. Buy local.

Support local businesses. You’ll be glad you did, for a number of reasons.

Local business owners are our friends and neighbors. They support our schools, attend our churches, serve in local civic groups and have invested their livelihood in our community.

Nearly 70 cents of every dollar spent locally returns to the community, according to the 3/50 project, a nonprofit group which champions small businesses and their historic impact on our country.

Spend $100 with local businesses, and that’s $68 staying in Effingham County through taxes, payroll and other expenditures.

By contrast, only 43 of every dollar spent in a national chain stays home, while online shopping means $0 remains in Effingham County.

What’s more, local sales generate local taxes, which go to funding such basic and important services as fire, police protection, road repairs, parks and recreation.

If that’s not reason enough to consider shopping at home, consider that small businesses created more than 65 percent of the new jobs in the United States over the past two decades, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration, which has again proclaimed November 26 as Small Business Saturday, “a day to celebrate and support small businesss and all they do for their communities.”

So shop local this holiday season, and all year round. Help keep Effingham’s economy moving forward, strong and vibrant.

Did you know that a simple act by you can result in improving infrastructure and activities here in Effingham County? That sim-

P O SH 40 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

ple act is doing as much of your shopping here in the county, as possible. When you do that, your sales taxes stay here and provide the funds to build parks, and improve roads and add to the quality of life that we have come to expect by living here in Effingham County.

The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce is supporting Small Business Saturday here on Saturday, November 26. If you need clothing, jewelry, toys, household goods, and any number of other gift items, you can find them right here in the county. From a bottle of wine to a new dress and from a new car to a new toy for the kids, we have it all right here.

You might not have realized it, but Springfield has become a shopping destination for antiques. Rincon has lots of commercial and retail shopping available, and Guyton has shopping too (while you’re out admiring the stately old homes). Be sure and check in to see what Pop and Gees has in store!

Relatives coming to town? Get tickets to a show at the historic Mars Theatre in Springfield. First run movies show there every week along with special concerts through the year. Or if you’re the outdoorsy types, get your kayaks and canoes out and do some blackwater paddling on the Ebenezer Creek, lined with ancient cypress trees, many of whom have trunks several feet around.

If you or your guests are into history, Effingham County’s roots go back to 1734 and we have two wonderful museums to showcase all that history. Visit the Historic Effingham Museum and Living History site in Springfield and the New Ebenezer Salzburg Museum on Hwy. 275 east. The artifact collections and the genealogy materials are first rate. Check their hours before you go.

L A C LO

Happy Holidays From Your Farmers Furniture Sales Team

(912) 826-1390 473 S. Columbia Ave., Rincon, GA Monday - Friday 10am-7pm • Saturday 9am-5pm

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM “The Salon”

Give your hair a holiday treat!

OLAPLEX SPECIALS UNTIL DECEMBER 31

912-826-3791

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

Magazine.com | October/November 2016 41

EFFINGHAM’S FIRST ANNUAL

Holiday Open House

Check out the specials at the participating businesses for the 1st Annual Holiday Open House to be held on November 26th, 2016. The Effingham Chamber of Commerce is hosting this event and offering $20 Gift Certificates valued at $25 for those bought between November 1st and November 26th. Gift Certificates bought between November 27th and December 24th will be full price of $25.

Gift Certificates may be used at any participating businesses listed below between November 1, 2016 and January 31, 2017.

Remember, when you shop local, you are helping your neighbor to succeed!

42 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Merry Christmas From The Quick Cash Team “We’re More Than Just A Pawn Shop” Brand New Items Available Daily • Guitars and Accessories • Jewelry • Firearms and Accessories • Audio Speakers We also have a great selection of Laptops and Game Systems Lay Away Now For Christmas

912-826-1872 www.quickcashteam.com McCall Plaza, Hwy 21 at McCall Road • Rincon, GA Monday-Friday 9AM-6PM, Saturday 10AM-5PM

LAY AWAY NOW FOR CHRISTMAS

GNANN’S

FIX-IT SHOP 1015 S LAUREL STREET, PO BOX 351 SPRINGFIELD, GA 31329

912-754-3745 gnannsfixitshop.com email:gfixit@windstream.net

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 43

Great Gift and Decor Ideas!

(912) 826-4261 Hwy 21 - Rincon

Effingham Community Orchestra

10th AnnuAl holidAy ConCert & Homemade Cookie Sale Sunday, December 4, 2016 3:00 P.M. FREE ADMISSION Effingham County Recreation & Parks Department Gynasium 808 Highway 119 South Springfield, Georgia 31329 Cookie Sale immediately follows concert.

Cookies are $5.00 per Baker’s Dozen, mix or match.

For information visit web site: www.effinghamcommunityorchestra.org

44 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

See Our

Christmas Room!

20% OFF Friday and Saturday After Thanksgiving (912)826-5885

210 N. Columbia Ave. (Hwy 21) Rincon, GA 31326 Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm

Curiosity Shoppe Jewelers

Toys And Games To Educate and Entertain!

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday Specials!

• CLASSROOM RESOURCES • EDUCATIONAL TOYS & GAMES • GIFTS & INVITATIONS

PECANS CRACKED & BLOWN

Go Nuts

586 S. Columbia Ave (Hwy 21) Rincon Behind Subway and Sonic MON-FRI 10-6 • SAT 10-4

10 lbs - $37.50 • 5 lbs - $20.00 To order call Brandi (912) 657-0463

www.TeachRightStore.com

(912)826-1681

GREAT GIFTS FOR

Wishing You and Yours A Happy Holiday Season from

everyone

Stop by and shop with us on

Small Business Saturday November 26 MaryJane Brinson, owner (912) 826-1101

Merle Norman Cosmetics and Boutique

163 Commercial Drive, Rincon GA.

Order Your Ham and Turkeys

FULLY COOKED FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Also offering all the trimmings, call for complete list. Pre-Order Now!

LocaL Seafood, Meat and SauSageS • Shrimp • Oysters • Steaks • Bacon • Fresh Homemade Sausages • Fish • Crab • Hamburger • Pork Chops Holiday Gift Certificates Available OFFERING TAKE OUT:

Ribs, Snow Crab Legs, Barbeque, Sandwiches, Fried Shrimp, Low Country Boil Call Ahead For Pick Up or Eat At Our Outdoor Serving Area!

319A S. Columbia Ave. Rincon, GA 31326 912-826-1613 Takeout: 912-826-1057

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | December/January 2016-17 45

Merry Christmas Twas the night before Christmas, And all through the house...

Wait! What? You don’t own a house?

Welllll then (Ahem) -Jingle Hales, Jingle Hales, Call me up today!

I’m not Santa, but your home Wouldn’t fit into a sleigh, hey!

Jingle Hales, Jingle Hales, Stop Throwing Your Money Away!

Why pay rent when you can own, Let’s get started today!

Call Me. Julie “Jingle” Hales

46 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Listing And Selling Homes in Effingham for Over 11 Years!

Call Me... where HOME matters.

Julie Hales (912) 657-4120 jhales346@windstream.net

912.826.0927 5805 Hwy 21 S., Rincon, GA 31326

www.RinconcoldwellBankeR.com

Ho Sa lida ba vin y rk gs ab t out o at

“Keeping It Main Street”

November 25 & 26, Friday and Saturday After Thanksgiving Small Business Sale • Excepting ECCC Gift Certificates

We have plenty of choices for holiday gifts. Come in and visit our store and warehouse for exceptional gift ideas this holiday season!

12 Month Same As Cash - Immediate Delivery

HOME CENTER Family owned & operated

912-826-2932 www.wileyshomecenter.com Hwy 21 North, Rincon www.EOf ffingham agazine.com | December/January (Just South TheMEffingham YMCA) 2016-17 47

SPECIALIZING IN: Maternity • Newborns • Children • High School Seniors Engagements • Weddings & Event Photography

293 S Columbia Avenue Rincon, Ga 31326 816-718-2836 tperryphotography1@gmail.com www.facebook.com/tperryphotography

48 December/January 2016-17 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com