Effingham Magazine June/July 2020

FIRST RESPONDERS ISSUE

South Fork Provisions Provides Front Line Meals for First Responders

June/July 2020

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TRUSTED CARDIAC CARE CLOSE TO HOME Effingham Hospital Now Has Its Own Cardiology Center As our community continues to grow at a fast pace, it is our mission to meet the needs of the people who live here. We recently conducted a Community Health Needs Assessment Survey that identified a growing demand for expanded cardiology services. In response to this need, we opened the Effingham Cardiology Center at Effingham Hospital.

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IN THIS ISSUE

34 22

10

25

Amanda Zoll, ECHS

ABOUT THE COVER When the COVID-19 crisis struck, South Fork Provisions felt called to begin providing front line meals for first responders.

With the generosity of sponsors and other local business, South Fork Provisions has provided food and comfort to those keeping the community safe.

{

JUNE/JULY 2020

We want to hear from you!

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

}

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

38 Features

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Bless the Food Before Us South Fork Provisions Provides Front Line Meals for First Responders

Congratulations Class of 2020 United Way of the Coastal Empire COVID Rapid Response Fund

The COVID-19 Impact on the Healthcare Community Arrested Traffic

Rincon Police Ease up on Traffic Enforcement

& Take Other Safety Measures in Response to Pandemic

44

The Women Behind the Masks Local Heroes Create More Than 4,500 Masks, and Counting

Departments

7 22 32

Publisher's Thoughts Recreation Spotlight Dining Guide

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

EffinghamMagazine.com THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS:

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MEET THE TEAM Jami Brannen

Steve Prudhomne

is originally from Effingham County and now resides in Pembroke. Jami is a busy mom to two teenage girls and two fur babies. She has been the owner of A Shot in Time Photography since 2009 where she specializes in engagements, weddings, events, families, and her favorite subjects of all— children. In her spare time she loves to hang out with her girls, travel and attend drag racing events with her dad.

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

His hobbies include running, tennis, Frisbee and writing.

Kassidy Fikes

Cindy Reid

is a junior at Georgia Southern Armstrong campus. She is a writing and linguistics major who loves to read. Kassidy also love animals and her larger-than-life family.

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

Michelle Holloway

Katrice Williams

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

They have since welcomed two beautiful children into their family.

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.

Tonya Perry

Laura Zielinski

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

is a freelance graphic designer specializing in print design. A creative writing major in college who was always been passionate about art, Laura stumbled into graphic design 14 years ago and has never looked back. She enjoys shaping stories through meaningful design and loves spending time with her husband and three beautiful children.

Jan Southern, DPA Owner/Publisher

Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

Becca Peavey Sales Coordinator

Becca@JDelSURMarketing.com

Robyn Sheather Sales Coordinator

Robyn@JDelSURMarketing.com

Penny Redmond Distribution

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PUBLISHER'S THOUGHTS

FIRST RESPONDERS ISSUE JAN SOUTHERN Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com BECCA PEAVEY Sales Coordinator Becca@JDelSURMarketing.com ROBYN SHEATHER Sales Coordinator Robyn@JDelSURMarketing.com PENNY REDMOND Distribution A special thank you to writer/editor, MICHAEL BROWN

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

P.O. Box 2328 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406 EffinghamMagazine.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write to us and tell us what you think. Effingham Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor.

Please send all letters via email to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Effingham Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea or photo essay you would like to share, please submit ideas and material by emailing Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in Effingham County will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed to over 200 locations throughout Effingham County and beyond.

It certainly feels as if we are slowly getting our lives back to some resemblance of normal. For many, life seemed to stop and our ordinary day-to-day existence was turned upside down in a matter of weeks.

Thankfully, Effingham County was not as heavily impacted by health-related COVID-19 issues as many parts of our great country, but that did not make the experience any easier to accept.

We were all affected. Families lost income, students had to be home-schooled and almost every business in our area experienced a drop in customers and revenue. This was a very difficult time.

Jan Southern They say hard times bring out true character.

That statement holds true for the people of Effingham County. In this special edition of Effingham Magazine, we highlight the men and women who stepped up to help, feed, comfort and care for anyone in need. We saw teachers on parade driving by their students’ houses just to say “hello” and “we miss you.” Birthday caravans passing our elderly and ill in nursing homes to be sure the residents knew they were not forgotten. And we saw numerous businesses lean into the challenge of keeping themselves afloat while giving generously of the limited resources they had available.

If you step back from the chaos and uncertainly that is all around us in 2020, we are able to see an abundance of humanity, grace and generosity that is the true character of our community. That is what we strive to do at Effingham Magazine. Highlight the unique stories of the people and organizations that make this one of the best places to work, live and play. And this issue is the best example of that spirit.

Owner/Publisher Effingham Magazine

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Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Bless the food before us: South Fork Provisions Provides Front Line Meals for First Responders Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Tonya Perry

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J

oe and Jennifer VanGiller opened South Fork ProvisionsPrepared Meals to Go, Catering & Food Market in Rincon, Ga, just one year ago. Little did they know that by the end of the year they would be in the grip of an international pandemic and their business, along with millions of others, would essentially be “on pause.”

“My husband Joe and I are vessels doing what we are called to do,” Jennifer says, “Feeding people is a true Southern tradition. Food is invaluable and it is personal. I remember well when my mother passed away our church flooded us with food, and it was truly gratifying to be the recipient of such caring. In our business we want to be the middle person when events are happy or tragic because feeding people is from the heart.”

She says, “One year ago, we knew God was going to use us for something where we could bless others. My husband Joe has the gift to cook and God gave me the gift of gab! Together we can accomplish so much.

We took the plunge and opened South Fork Provisions.”

Ten months later the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Like many working parents, Jennifer found herself managing work and home in an entirely new

environment. She says, “I was juggling a business and being a Mom to our 8-yearold and 2-year-old. It was an exceedingly difficult time. We prayed hard, looking for our path forward.”

Front Line Meals “I first saw the idea of feeding first responders (emergency and medical personnel on the ‘front lines’) on Facebook on a post called “Meals for Medical” from Chatham County restaurants,” Jennifer says. “We prayed about it, and we felt this idea was placed on our hearts. The next step was to reach out to the local first responders in Effingham County.” And so Front Line was created.

Jennifer makes it clear that other local businesses have been providing meals as well. She says Chick-fil-A, Paddles Coffee and Café, Simply Southern Caterers, and El Real Mexican Restaurant have all been doing the same thing and providing meals to first responders throughout the county.

She says, “We are part of a large local community of caring people who are doing whatever they can right now to support our front line personnel.”

On Easter Sunday, South Fork Provisions provided their first Front Line meal, bringing Easter dinner to the staff

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at Effingham Health System’s Emergency Room. Jennifer says, “We wanted to give these folks the comfort of a real Easter dinner, so we brought in Easter ham, mac n’ cheese, green beans and all the fixings.”

She says, “Every Front Line meal from South Fork Provisions consists of a main dish, salad, rolls, and sweet tea. BBQ is a favorite, and that’s Joe’s wheelhouse, but we also change it up with chicken alfredo, chicken tetrazzini and other hot entrees.

We need to make sure food does more than simply satisfy hunger, it’s important to us that we are bringing comfort.”

Sponsorship Jennifer and Joe are grateful for all the donations and sponsorships that allow them to continue feeding the local Effingham County Front Line recipients.

The cost of sponsoring a shift meal is $100, and they accept donations from $20 and up (see more information at the end of the article).

Meals are provided free of charge and South Fork Provisions makes no profit as all donations and sponsorship funds are used only on the cost of the meals.

It is an opportunity for local businesses and individuals to contribute to their community in this time of need. Jennifer says they make a point to acknowledge the sponsors and donors by tagging them on social media and posting photos of the Front Line recipients receiving their meals. She says they see this is as a chance to build relationships that serve the community.

Front Line Recipients Front Line recipients include the Effingham Health System’s ER, sponsored

by Darrel Hutcheson-State Farm Agent and the Mintz Family. Due to their generous donations, South Fork Provisions was able to provide meals for both day and night shifts. Additional meals at the ER were sponsored by Cam & Lindsey Clay and Brookstone Community Church.

Medical staff at the Effingham Health System also received meals, made possible by the Counselman Family and Rincon Recovery Resources.

The Effingham ER staff, Rincon Fire Department and Rincon Police Department received meals sponsored

by James and Tiffany Siegmund, GOL Security Rincon, GA, and The Ladies at Lonesome Oak Subdivision. Dedicated Lawn Care LLC sponsored dinner for the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office and lunch for the Rincon Fire Department.

“This is the list of sponsors and it keeps growing! We have several other people that have donated funds that have been

“We are extremely blessed to meet all the people we have meet throughout the program. We need to be needed and we are needed here.” extremely helpful as well,” says Jennifer.

“We wouldn’t be able to make this happen without the help from our community and we will continue to provide the Front Line Meals as long as sponsorship and donations continue to come in to help.”

A big thank you to the sponsors and donors listed above and these wonderful folks: Sweet and Sassy Stamps, Oglethorpe Mortgage, Yates-Astro of

Rincon, New Life Florists, B Renewed Massage Therapy, Mintz Family, Renew Family, Ron Breth, Jessica Cook and Family, Rincon Baptist Temple, Philbeck Family, State Farm- Ashley Boyette, Rose Tebeau, Angela Bragg, Riggs Funeral Home, Wanderings Design & Décor, DeWitt Insurance, Effingham Health System ER staff, Rene LaGrange, James and Tina Dasher, Rincon Day Spa, MacMurray Family, Patricia Stearns,

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Gary and Shiloh Ferguson and the Maloney Family.

“Recently we were able to provide meals to every one of the six firehouses in Effingham County thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and donors, “ says Jennifer, “so we put the family in the car, loaded up the food and drove from station to station! We saw parts of Effingham county we had never seen before and it was really special for our entire family to be part of something so gratifying.”

She says, “We get tons of ‘thank yous’ and blessings from the first responders and we try to convey them to our sponsors and donors. We are extremely blessed to meet all the people we have met throughout the program. We need to be needed and we are needed here.”

Going Forward Jennifer says her and Joe’s response to the Covid-19 crisis “evolved like a flower blooming and I am so very thankful. And we had great helpers. Our staff consists of three special teenagers—Abby, Landon, and Anna. They were troopers from the beginning; they really stepped up and have been amazing.”

She reports that currently “Business is good, we are steady. People were using our services to stock up and we provided a little relief but that is easing up. We have faith that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing and it is a joy. It’s been such a crazy year, but it’s also been tremendously rewarding in so many ways we never could have foreseen.”

If South Fork Provisions has a motto it is “Bless the food before us, the family beside us and the love between us.” They have certainly proven themselves to be a blessing to the first responders of Effingham County. n

THE FRONT LINE PROGRAM & SOUTH FORK PROVISIONS www.southforkprovisions.net southforkprovisions@gmail.com

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Harold’s Auto Paint & Body is dedicated to 100% customer satisfaction by maintaining the highest level of consistent, quality collision repair. From precision paint matching to full structural body repair, their superior workmanship is second to none in the industry.

Owner Mark Arrington has been in the business for 31 years and says “Our focus is on customer service and our goal is to always exceed our customers’ expectations. Our focus is on community involvement as well. I was born and raised here, and I love my community.

We are probably the busiest shop in the southeast because of our loyal customers and I appreciate their loyalty on a deep personal level.”

Many of their customers have an insurance company involved in their collision and Mark says, “No matter what collision repair shop the insurance companies have on their list, we want to be YOUR shop of choice.” Harold’s works with all insurance companies and works directly with them to process your claim. Mark says, “Our mission is to make your experience as smooth and painless as possible through our high level of service and convenience.”

Their 21,000 square-foot facility is fully equipped so their hard working and dedicated technicians can do the job right – the first time. Mark says, “Our technicians are certified and complete ongoing training to be current on the latest techniques using state-of-the-art equipment ensuring every car that comes to our shop is repaired precisely to specifications.”

Mark says he and his outstanding team “will always be here if you have an issue, and we stand behind every job.”

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CONNECT WITH US! Find Effingham Magazine on Facebook & Instagram

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Celebrating Rescue Pets in Effingham County Rescue pets make the best pets. If you are ready to welcome a four-legged family member into your home, be sure to contact Effingham Humane Society at effinghamcounty.org/161/Animal-Shelter/(912) 754-2109 or CoastalPetRescue.org/(912) 228-3538 SEE MORE beloved rescue pets and share photos of your own rescues at www.facebook.com/EffinghamMagazine

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY RECREATION & PARKS UPDATE Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Michelle Holloway

T

he Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent shut down of academic and athletic programs across the country affected almost everyone, especially the nation’s children.

“This was historic. It has never been done before and I hope we never have to do it again. For many of our youths this was a season they lost and will never make up. “says Clarence Morgan, director of Recreation and Sports Management for Effingham County.

“We had to cancel 845 games, from the spring season of baseball, softball, volleyball and lacrosse. That was 697 baseball and softball games,85 volleyball and 60 lacrosse. We had to cancel activities that served 1,200 kids. We also lost track season because all their meets, home and away, were canceled.”

He says, “The Effingham County Navigators, a special needs group, suspended its activities too. It was not just the sports aspect; our kids benefit

greatly from the socializing and being around other kids, so that was also a huge loss.”

Mr. Morgan says, “We cancelled special events, including the Easter Egg Hunt plus Opening Weekend for baseball and softball, we canceled line dancing, Zumba, bingo—we lost it all for 10 weeks.

“Additionally, we had thirty to thirty five part-time workers, such as concession workers, who were not working, and twelve to fifteen umpires were also on hold. This was big and it had a major impact.”

But now it is almost time to “Play ball” again and the recreation department is geared up and ready to go. The Effingham County BOC and County Manager Tim Callanan have provided “Great leadership in getting back to normalcy,” says Mr. Morgan. “They asked for a plan and thank goodness I had a plan already laid out so we could be proactive in reopening.”

He reports that the reopening is going

well. Playgrounds reopened May 14 and the department is registering kids for a full Summer season of T-ball/baseball/ softball. (Registration dates: May 25th June 7th, see right for more information.)

They are working on a plan to bring back girls volleyball and will be announcing those dates as they are ready.

They are also going to try to have a few special events, such as Opening Day, which may be rescheduled for July.

Not everything was shut down at the Recreation Department. Mr. Morgan says he has been “Staying safe through this and the good Lord still has me here. I worked from home and I have never been on more conference calls in my life! I cannot wait to get back in the office in the next week or two. My boss, County Manager Callanan kept the recreation park employees employed.

Some were able to work from home but for other departments. They were all kept working throughout the ten weeks we were shut down. “

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Construction continued at the new gym facilities at the Clarence E. Morgan Complex. Mr. Morgan says, “The new facility will be 28,000 to 30,000 square feet and will house two full gyms.

Construction is proceeding well, and it should up and running by the end of the year.”

“Tell people we are back and to come on out and support us” says Clarence Morgan, “We are very thankful for our community and Effingham Recreation will always be here for our kids.”

Visit their website: effinghamrec.activityreg.com, and Facebook page for continuing updates and announcements. www.effinghamcounty.org effinghamrec.activityreg.com Effingham Recreation & Parks 808 Highway 119 S Springfield, GA 31329 912-754-6339

EFFINGHAM RECREATION & SPORTS MANAGEMENT We are so excited to announce that we are offering a full Summer season of T-ball/Baseball/Softball!

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: Ages offered: 3-12 (boys and girls) T-ball ages 3-4 (coed) 5-6 year old machine pitch 7-8 year old machine pitch 9-10 year old machine pitch 11-12 year old live pitch (countywide) Control date: September 1, 2020 Registration dates: May 25th - June 7th Cost: $70 Practices: June 10-July 4 Season: July 7-September 4th (approximately) Games: Leagues will play games against Rincon Rec teams Help us spread the word and put the registration dates on your calendar! We cannot wait to see everyone!

QUESTIONS? 912-754-6339 • effinghamrec.activityreg.com www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | June/July 2020 23

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Jennifer is an accomplished stylist with 8 years of experience. She strives to deliver results you will love along with a little extra pampering in the process. She is a mom of a blended family of 5, wife, beach lover and animal lover.

Make an appointment with Jennifer today!

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Alex Diaz, ECHS

W

hat a time this has been for the seniors of 2020. After twelve long years of study, sports, band, chorus, orchestra, FFA, yearbook, drama club, cheerleading—just when the excitement of graduation could be felt in the air—it was all canceled.

Done, over, shut the front door.

It wasn’t their fault. It was a decision made from love and protection, a decision to keep the students healthy and safe.

But it wasn’t what most kids get in their Senior Year.

And the kids made the best of it. They stayed home and dutifully completed online distance learning requirements.

They got busy helping neighbors, holding food drives, checking in with senior citizens and honoring our first responders. The school administers did everything they could with Virtual Awards Presentations, Virtual Art Shows, Virtual Senior Athlete Tributes, and heartfelt video messages from the teachers. Sports banners showcasing the student athletes were hung outside at the schools and their coaches made a video thanking the kids for exemplifying the best sportsmanlike conduct ever. Everyone made the best of it and it was genuinely appreciated by the students and their families.

By May there were yard signs at every graduate’s house—“A Senior Lives Here” —and graduation time was

Andrew Michael Coffee, SEHS

Daniel Cipleau, ECHS

Amber Whitten, SEHS

Congratulations CLASS OF 2020 Story by Cindy Reid

coming up. The caps and gowns were in and everyone–administrators, teachers, coaches, parents; wanted to do something more than mailing out diplomas, something more personal and as close as possible to what would have been the big day.

So the drive through graduation ceremony was invented. The graduates would get to put on their caps and gowns after all.

An outdoor stage was set up and the cars lined up on the big day. At the drive through ceremony the graduates had the opportunity to get out of their car, get their name called, receive their diploma (without a handshake) and have their picture taken before returning to their cars. Lots of cars were decorated–there were even a few limousines and party buses.

So much love and care went into making it special. Their teachers lined up to cheer them on with signs and applause.

Friends and families cheered from back of trucks, in makeshift grandstands. The ceremonies were live streamed for those who couldn’t be there in person and by all accounts a great time was had by all.

Here’s to the kids who made the best of it, a cheer for them and for the community that came together to celebrate with them.

Here’s to you, Class of 2020!

The drive through graduations were videoed and can be viewed online at each high school’s website.

As it stands now, Effingham High School will have an in-person ceremony June 20 and South Effingham High School will have an in-person graduation ceremony June 27.

WE ASKED OUR FOLLOWERS to share the photos of their graudates on our Facebook page, and their names and photos fill the following pages. Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/EffinghamMagazine.

Ashlynn Goff, ECHS

Ben Anderson and Caitlyn Hammock , SEHS

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Cam Allen, ECHS

Collin Olson, ECHS

Dayton Dixon, ECHS

Garren Ballard, ECHS

Caroline Rountree, ECHS

Haylee Rahn, ECHS

Katelyn Ladner, SEHS

Katlyn Davis, SEHS

Kody Everett, ECHS

Rachel Dukarski, SEHS

Marque and Grace Jackson, ECHS

Patrick Fansler, ECHS

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Faith Parr, ECHS

Frances McKenzie Cipleau, ECHS

Garrett Wade Rhodes, ECHS

Hunter Tindall, SEHS

Jacey Kline, SEHS

Jamie RIchtman, SEHS

Leila Weeks, SEHS

Lindsey Steptoe, SEHS

Mary Kathryn Brantley, SEHS

Raigen Brockett ECHS

Robert Odem, SEHS

Victoria Lockwood, ECHS

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WORKING FROM HOME? 7 Ways to Adjust during Covid-19

T

he Covid-19 situation has many of us stressed about our health, finances, family, and just wondering will we ever get back to “normal.” Maybe you find yourself working from home. Basic work from home guidelines may or may not be possible. What can you do to make working from home “work” for you? Here are some of the basics pre-Covid 19 work at home skills reframed for the current situation.

1. SET HEALTHY BOUNDARIES. What are healthy boundaries? When our boundaries are healthy, we can identify our own limits, be confident in our opinions, and stand up for ourselves when necessary. We also respect others’ abilities to define and set their boundaries. Even if this is something you already have in your relationships, “shelter in place” can be a challenge to your boundaries. Use these guidelines to strengthen them: a. What are your limits? Example- yelling at me to get my attention is not acceptable. Consequence, I will not respond to you if you yell, please use a calm voice. b. Separate your needs, wants and emotions from others. No one is responsible for your emotional state but you. Someone cannot make you feel something and conversely, you can’t make someone else feel something. Own your behavior and let others own theirs. c. Mirror the behavior you want from others. If you say, “do not yell at me,” then do not yell at others. d. Be consistent. Anything we do consistently becomes a habit which then becomes a belief.

2. DRESS AND GROOM FOR WORK. With Covid-19, maybe you have Zoom calls every day. Look your best by adding a clip on LED light.

3. HAVE A DEDICATED AREA SPECIFICALLY FOR WORK WHERE YOU CAN HAVE LITTLE OR NO INTERRUPTIONS. With Covid-19, everyone is home so there is not enough space to create privacy. Use headphones to create quiet and let others know that when you have headphones on you are working.

4. HAVE A DEDICATED SCHEDULE. With Covid-19 maybe you have a program on your computer or phone that you sign in and out of that tracks your activity.

This may seem stressful to be "observed” all day.

Reframe it with the positive; I do not have to drive to work, etc.

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

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

5. USE A CALENDAR TO KEEP YOU FOCUSED AND ON TASK. Use a handwritten calendar rather than a software. Writing with pen and paper allows you to remember and retain information more easily then typing alone.

6. WORKING FROM HOME CREATE ISOLATION. Covid-19 means you can’t meet in-person to get the usual feedback from coworkers. Schedule video feedback sessions. Seeing others will help lessen your sense of isolation.

7. RELIEVE STRESS. Allow yourself mistakes, we all make them.

Reframe them as an opportunity to be aware and learn something about yourself. Schedule regular breaks. Get up from your desk at least once every hour even it is just 5 minutes to stretch or take a few breathes.

Go outside whenever possibly take a walk, get some sun.

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

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Enjoy GREAT FOOD & DRINKS From these Local Businesses: Amazing Grace Cafe & Boutique

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UNITED WAY OF THE COASTAL EMPIRE COVID Rapid Response Fund

Story by Katrice Williams | Photos by Michelle Holloway

A

brupt change, enormous uncertainty and widespread fear can obviously impact the livelihood of many individuals. Even more, when these things are faced within the climate of a pandemic, it can be challenging to see the light at the end of the tunnel; however, it is there.

For nearly six decades, United Way of the Coastal Empire (UWCE) has persisted to aid those in need within the community.

The organization services four counties (or regions): Effingham, Chatham, Bryan and Liberty.

Elizabeth Waters, United Way Area Director for Effingham County, has been a part of the organization for several years.

Elizabeth and the rest of the UWCE team have a true heart for what the organization stands for: providing help by bringing “people and resources together.”

The Rapid Response Fund Diligently seeking to help the community in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, the organization created the COVID Rapid Response Fund—a special fund implemented to aid those affected most by the pandemic. UWCE “seeded the fund with $80,000;” at present, the organization has attained over $550,000 to assist their four counties. What is more, 100% of funding goes back into the community. Thus far, $318,000 has been dispersed, providing aid to almost 800 individuals.

The fund was initially created for individuals in serious need of rent and mortgage assistance—those who experienced such misfortunes as job hours being cut, lay-offs or even company shut-downs due to the pandemic. UWCE is also using the COVID Fund to provide emergency aid to any of their 53 funded agencies which have been hit hard, many compelled to cancel events and fundraisers.

“We saw the immediate need to help.

When we first started vetting clients for assistance, we were primarily focused on helping with rent or mortgage needs to prevent homelessness,” Elizabeth said.

UWCE understands the nearly insurmountable adversity associated with homelessness and seeks to help residents avoid its hardships as much as possible.

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“Our goal is to help prevent homelessness for those most at risk so they are healthier, safe and more likely to be able to step back into employment and thrive again when this crisis passes,” she added.

UWCE expanded their realm of assistance to include utilities, medical expenses and childcare; most assistance needed has been for rent/mortgage, utilities and food.

The organization recognizes that each region has unique needs and is committed to staying up-to-date with consistently changing statistics in order to fairly distribute funds. For this, UWCE uses a system called Asset Limited Income Constrained & Employed (ALICE) which reveals the percentage of individuals in each region who live “paycheck to paycheck”— those who can be negatively impacted by the smallest of financial changes.

Effingham’s ALICE population is 25%.

Further, Elizabeth is proud of the selfless efforts of the Effingham team, many of whom have quickly adapted to necessary changes. A lot of staff members have been cross-trained to help with the UWCE Crisis Hotline, 211, which allows potential clients to confidentially call in for assistance. The hotline experienced drastic increases in call volume during the peak of the pandemic.

A Collaborative Effort UWCE is privileged to have the help and support of some of their partner agencies,

including those specializing in aid for homelessness and rental assistance. There has been a great “pooling of resources.”

The Effingham Service Center is thankful for their collaborative partnerships with organizations such as the Effingham Emergency Management Agency (EEMA), a helpful and reliable resource.

“Together, we have implemented weekly community conference calls to inform local nonprofits, businesses, churches, and others of the ever-changing needs and available resources. We have not been able to do it alone; it’s a collaborative effort,” Elizabeth noted.

During these trying times, UWCE has prided itself in helping as many residents as possible who are in need of assistance.

“It is definitely very heart-warming to be able to make a phone call to someone and let them know: ‘we’re able to cover your rent for a month or two, so that’s one thing you don’t have to worry about,’” Elizabeth said.

One local resident knows that very well— Sonya Smesta. Sonya is immensely thankful to UWCE. She was employed in Savannah for several years. Sonya lost her job after the venue shut down due to the pandemic.

She was not yet receiving unemployment funds, and her rent was nearly due. If that is not enough, her car had recently broken down. The hardworking single mom found herself in a tremendously unfamiliar and difficult set of circumstances. Sonya felt

a bit apprehensive to reach out for help; however, she understood the direness of her situation, so she contacted UWCE regarding rental assistance via the 211 Hotline.

“Reaching out to someone for financial help is not exactly easy; I have a lot of pride. Everything was done with kindness and compassion. They treated me with such integrity. I was blown away. They were abundantly helpful and moved quickly to help me beyond what I could have ever hoped for. I found relief, and a lot of the burden was lifted quite quickly,” Sonya stated.

Elizabeth and the UWCE team love to hear such meaningful stories.

“That is the purpose of our organization.

We’re thankful to be able to live out that purpose everyday, especially now in this time of need,” she commented.

UWCE insists on being proactive, so the team continues to plan for their annual campaign which is in the fall. Also, though several events had to be canceled, UWCE is planning for some virtual activities in the near future. It is all about doing what is needed to help people in the best ways possible.

Those in need of assistance may visit: www.uwce.org or call: (912) 826-5300.

Additionally, donations are welcome to provide essential help to the community.

Individuals or businesses who would like to give may do so online or by calling (912) 826-5897. n

“They were abundantly helpful and moved quickly to help me beyond what I could have ever hoped for. I found relief, and a lot of the burden was lifted quite quickly.”

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Serving Savannah for all your precious metal needs

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Be the first to know‌

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Effingham Magazine News & Notes News & Notes Newsletter is a bi-weekly email promoting the events and happenings in our area.

Visit EffinghamMagazine.com to sign up or email Info@JDelSURMarketing.com!

P.O. Box 2328, Rincon, GA 31326

(912) 295-5406

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Financial education, free financial analysis, and solutions for your financial planning needs! Helping prepare you for all life’s changes. www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | June/July 2020 37

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The COVID-19

IMPACT on the

Healthcare Community Story by Kelly Harley | Photos by Michelle Holloway

I

n early March, life quickly changed.

Healthcare personnel at Effingham Health System (EHS) geared up for an ongoing battle. In a matter of weeks, staff and patients would realize that the new normal was here to stay.

“When COVID-19 became a true reality to the healthcare industry, we immediately implemented best practices and took a proactive approach to our response efforts,” says chief executive officer Dr. Fran Baker-Witt of Effingham County Health System (EHS).

She says the hospital partnered with the Georgia Hospital Association, the Georgia Department of Public Health, and other resources to position the healthcare system to stay in front of the unfolding crisis.

Dr. Baker-Witt says the pandemic is a

gamechanger for the healthcare delivery model and practices put into place are likely here to stay for an indefinite period.

Creative Approaches Some practices put in place are creative approaches to serving patients. Effingham Hospital realized early on that one of the best ways to serve the community was through telemedicine.

Telemedicine is not new to EHS. In 2017, EHS partnered with Georgia Partnership for Telehealth and launched telemedicine programs in Effingham County schools.

“We are good at telemedicine, and the infrastructure was already there. It was an easy transition to stay connected with our patients, in particular the senior population,” says Dr. Baker-Witt. “Our

patients responded very positively, and they love it.” Patients are not only grateful for the tool; they support the hospital’s restrictions committed to their safety and the safety of staff.

Another creative approach to patient care involves using technology in the hospital’s attached long-term care facility.

The 105-bed facility is near capacity, and with visitor restrictions, the staff is keeping patients connected with family members.

“We use devices such as iPads and cell phones to launch video calls with patients and their families.”

Dr. Baker-Witt says in mid-May, they coordinated four parades for long-term care facility patients. Residents were brought out in small groups, and family and friends

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paraded by in vehicles decorated with signs and balloons. “It was so exciting to see the residents’ faces light up. It helped to build trust and confidence in our facility. People shared photos and videos on Facebook, and it was a gratifying moment.” Dr. BakerWitt is proud to says that as of mid-May, there has not been one reported case of COVID-19 in the long-term care facility.

Safety Initiatives In addition to telemedicine and creative communications, the hospital implemented safety guidelines right away.

One of the first initiatives was the creation of an isolation area for people under investigation for possible COVID-19.

Eleven rooms allow staff to isolate patients who may be showing symptoms or think they may have the virus. Staff and patients are screened before entering the hospital.

Their temperatures are checked, and they have to answer a COVID-19 questionnaire.

In the primary care practices, patients must wait in their vehicles until called to come inside.

“From the screening at the front door up through discharge, COVID-19 is a constant reminder to staff and patients of mandated practices. We, personally and professionally, have an indelible imprint and reminder that we need to practice hand hygiene and sanitation,” adds Dr. Baker-Witt.

Perhaps one of the greatest things to come out of this is the outpouring of support.

From the hospital staff to the community, there is no shortage of kindness and compassion.

“I have witnessed my coworkers go above and beyond what is expected of them. They come in day in and day out and strive to deliver exceptional care to our community. Our staff has been asked to step up, and they have more than delivered,” says Brittany Ford, an emergency room nurse at the hospital.

She is also in school to become a nurse practitioner and has a young son at home. She admits anxieties were high, especially as everything was unfolding.

“The unknown of being in the emergency room and having to triage makes you more alert because you have to protect yourself and your coworkers. Having the screening outside helps relieve anxiety and allows us to prepare.”

Brittany credits teamwork for the success of the hospital’s response efforts.

She also credits the community for boosting morale. “Our community came together to show us love and support.

appreciate one another. We truly are all in this together.”

The Future of Healthcare As for the future of healthcare, there’s no question that the new normal will soon become just normal. Some of the safety precautions in place at Effingham Hospital will likely become permanent, while other restrictions may lessen as the pandemic plays out.

Regardless of what happens, COVID-19’s impact is lasting.

From a leadership standpoint, hospital operational staff was forced to reevaluate strategic direction. Planning for the upcoming flu season is already taking place, and logistically, the team is making sure there will be sufficient inventory in regards to personal protective equipment.

“This pandemic has inspired us to reevaluate total operations. We’ve realigned our priorities as we have seen a paradigm shift in how we care for and treat patients today and, in the future,” says Dr. Baker-Witt.

“Despite all of the changes, I’m proud to say the delivery of the quality of care was never compromised.”

As for Brittany, this crisis reminded her of why she chose a nursing profession.

“This experience, although stressful and difficult at times, has shown the world just how important and valuable our medical professionals are, and I am so thankful for choosing a career that allows me to care for my community.” n

“I have witnessed my coworkers go above and beyond what is expected of them. They come in day in and day out and strive to deliver exceptional care to our community.”

They wanted us to feel appreciated when we were away from our families.” Local churches and restaurants delivered countless meals to hospital workers throughout the height of the pandemic and brought in much-needed snacks and treats.

Dr. Baker-Witt says greater accountability has evolved through all of this. “The accountability that has been displayed between workers is impressive.

There is an unsaid mandate in which they are holding their peers to high safety standards. Staff come together and

UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE AT EHS FACILITIES: • Persons entering EHS facilities, including patients, will have their temperature taken and will be screened prior to entry.

• Anyone entering EHS facilities will be asked to wear a mask at all times.

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“Your Boating Pleasure Is Our Business”

Please consider adopting!

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Advertise in your community magazine We care about our community and are dedicated to promoting stories about the people, places and things that make Effingham, GA one of the best places to live, work and play.

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ARRESTED TRAFFIC:

Rincon Police Ease up on Traffic Enforcement & Take Other Safety Measures in Response to Pandemic Story by Stephen Prudhomme | Photos by Jami Brannen

D

uring these unprecedented times, when a pandemic has changed life around the world, what was normal has been replaced by a new norm—one of social distancing when out in public and plenty of time indoors.

In Rincon, the change can perhaps be best encapsulated in a traffic anomaly along Highway 21and observed by interim police chief Jonathan Murrell, who has been on the job since October. Motorists don’t have to wait to make a turn from West 17th Street onto the thoroughfare normally teeming with cars and trucks.

As it turns out, police officers in Rincon, despite having to spend minimal time at that intersection to make a turn, are not lining up as much as in past months to take advantage of this break in traffic; Murrell did note, however, that traffic enforcement was returning to normal as the city prepared for the Memorial Day weekend and various restrictions were being lifted throughout the country.

Since mid-March, when federal and state restrictions were implemented to slow the spread of Covid-19, Murrell said they reduced traffic control to minimize contact his officers had with the public and only respond to more serious incidents. When they do respond on the roads, he added, they use hand sanitizer and, at their discretion, face masks.

“We wanted to reduce contact with the citizens unless it was absolutely necessary,” Murrell said. “We would take calls over the phone instead of responding in person.”

On traffic stops, the department continued its general policy of having people remain in their vehicle while officers checked out their license. Along with having the driver show his license rather than handing it over, officers used an electronic device known as a ticket writer. Where a signature would ordinarily go, the officer wrote COVID-19.

Traffic court was held May 14, the first time since it was postponed in March.

Normally, anywhere from 60 to 150 people

would appear, according to Thompson, but only 30 showed up for the latest session.

He attributed the lower numbers to people following recommendations to pay tickets ahead of time.

Those who did show up had their temperature taken in the police department lobby before going through security and into the courtroom. If it was 99 degrees or higher, they had to schedule another court date. Inside the courtroom, social distancing was observed by people standing on prescribed marks before going to the solicitor and, in some cases, the judge.

Before the pandemic, Rincon police would accompany emergency vehicles on calls and, when the situation warranted, enter the home. Since March, however, while still going on the calls, officers remain outside the home unless it’s a dire situation such as cardiac arrest, according to Murrell. In such cases, they would wear masks when going inside.

Despite the pandemic, the department remains committed to serving and

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protecting the community and, if need be, arrest lawbreakers.

Patrol commander Lt. Daniel Thompson said arrests are made on a case-by-case basis. In the case of misdemeanors, they tried to minimize contact by releasing the individual and issuing a citation. With more serious crimes, such as domestic violence, Thompson said the person would be booked and questioned about their physical condition before being taken to jail; he added that jail personnel would be alerted on the impending arrival of the arrested party so they could take safety and preventative steps.

Measures to protect members of the police department extended to the station, located on West 17th Street.

Thompson said the department lobby remained open, noting that the staff area in the rear is secure and separate from the lobby. Previously, members of other law agencies would go in and out of the rear

area. The pandemic necessitated tighter controls on these outside law visitors.

“We monitor where they can go,” Thompson said.

Unusual or emergency situations can bring out the best or worst in people. Stories of heroism and charity are heartwarming and inspirational.

Conversely, tales of people taking

one another, trying to improve a negative situation rather than making it worse.

“I haven’t noticed a notable increase in any type of crime,” Murrell said.

In that same vein, Murrell noted he didn’t see any large gatherings of people, a violation of the social distancing guidelines. If he had, Murrell said he would have contacted the Georgia State Patrol. “We’re not charged with the duty to enforce social distancing,” Murrell said.

What he is charged with is protecting the public and staff during unprecedented times.

“This is completely new to me,” said Murrell, who began his law enforcement career in Statesboro in 2009. “I don’t want my officers to feel uncomfortable in responding to a call they feel is unsafe. I’m leaving it up to them as far as responding to calls. I’m fine with that.” n

“Rincon, as it turns out, offers hope that all is not lost in the world.” advantage of others and often resorting to crime during difficult times elicit feelings of anger and depression over a world gone wrong.

Rincon, as it turns out, offers hope that all is not lost in the world. This is reflective of a city where fundraisers are frequently held for local residents facing various hardships and people genuinely care for

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The Women Behind the Masks:

Local Heroes Create More Than 4,500 Masks and Counting Story by Kassidy Fikes

The infamous COVID-19, nicknames the coronavirus, has kept most of us bound to our homes for most of 2020. Some local women have made the most of their time and resources to make sure that those who work on the front lines as well as the public are safe when we have to go out.

5 Jennifer May

These women have been working night and day to make masks of all sizes to protect their communities and those that they love. These are the women behind the masks who have been making a difference.

Jennifer May, wife and mother of three lovely dogs, has been going above and beyond during the pandemic to help her community.

Her journey began when a friend sends her a link to hospitals in need, which jumpstarted Jennifer’s need to give back to her community.

As a crafter and quilter she had plenty of material to get started; the amazing thing is how quickly things took off.

Over the span of 6 weeks, Jennifer has provided masks to over 500 members of her neighborhood, as well as business in the area such as GameStop, Be-renewed Massage, Tin Fin, and Chick-fil-A. To date, Jennifer has made over 2,300 masks.

She is accepting donations of fabric but is only charging $5 per mask so as to not make a profit.

What really sets her masks apart from others being made right now is the material—she works with 100% quilting cotton with a tight weave that makes the best filter between the wearer and whomever they are talking to.

“Because so many people are making masks, the elastic for the ears is harder to find then toilet paper!” says Jennifer. After the stores and online shopping became less and less immediate, Jennifer took her creativity and turned to hairbands for a snug fit around the ears without all the wait.

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3 Bridgette Kincade Bridgette Kincade is an art teacher for Ebenezer Middle School who has taken her time out of school to give back to her community in their time of need.

It all started as a helpful and crafty way to keep busy after the closing of the Effingham County school. With her artistic talent and expertise as an art teacher, she decided to throw herself into making masks. It started as a small project for friends and neighbors but quickly took shape as an essential job.

Her project grew so big that she has made over 350 masks and counting. She is also providing masks for the board of education as they continue their efforts to keep children fed throughout the remaining school year from home.

What really sets Bridgette’s masks apart from the rest is that she takes the time to put filters in them so that they can be used by essential workers such as those in the medical field or military where filters are required.

“I wish I could have told my kids at school to stay safe before we went off for our 2-week break, but I suppose now is that chance! I want everyone in the community to stay safe and keep safe!” said Bridgette.

Carolyn Beasley 4 Carolyn Beasley is the owner and operator of Alterations by Carolyn. This time of year is usually her busiest with prom and wedding coming up but, with the pandemic running rampant, she decided to place her skills somewhere else. She threw herself into making masks for local hospitals and people in the community seven days a week. She estimates that she has made over 2,000 masks.

She is also making mask-like headbands with buttons on them because many nurses and medical personnel are finding that wearing masks all the time are rubbing their ears raw.

The button on the headband is an innovative way of keeping the mask from touching the ear.

“I can’t take full credit for that one though, I did get the idea from someone else,” Carolyn said.

She is not charging for the masks or the headbands but only asking for donations so that she can continue to buy materials. The excess cash donations she has received she donated to meals for medical to buy meals for our overworked medical staff. “I never planned on doing this to profit at all,” said Carolyn

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

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Animal Hospital of Rice Hope Farmer's Home Furniture The Mo' Southern Collection

Paint & Possibilities Rincon Recovery Resources, LLC South Fork Provisions Total Services Heating and Air Conditioning 21 South Mini Storage.................................................. 28 Amazing Grace Cafe & Boutique............................... 33 Angel Oak Home Loans............................................... 24 B and M Pools................................................................ 36 Bank of Newington....................................................... 47 Beau Dossey Roofing................................................... 20 Brave Salon......................................................................18 Burns Outboard Service...............................................40 Christina Wilson............................................................. 29 Dozier Law Firm............................................................. 29 Effingham County Victim Witness..............................21 Effingham Health Systems.............................................2 Effingham Recreation Center..................................... 22 Ellen Claire Soapery........................................................ 8 Fairway Bistro................................................................. 32 Faith Equestrian Therapeutic Center........................ 20 Fusion Coffee Roasters................................................40 Gnann’s Fix-it Shop......................................................... 9 Golden Hours Senior Services...................................... 8 Habitat for Humanity Effingham County..................19 Habit Healing Transformations....................................31 HarLawn Lawn Services............................................... 24 Harolds Body Shop........................................................14 Heritage Counseling..................................................... 36 Hester Business Solutions...........................................40 Hospice of Savannah.....................................................16 iHeart Dental...................................................................18 IMI Financial.................................................................... 37

Melissa Rhodes CPA..................................................... 28 Michelle Holloway Photography................................14 Miller Coin....................................................................... 36 Moo McGinn's Magic Creamery................................ 32 The Mo’ Southern Collection......................................41 Mo’ Southern Coffee...................................................... 9 Muse by Tracy................................................................ 30 My Sassy Sister............................................................... 37 Noah’s Ark Pet Grooming............................................ 28 Pizza Chef....................................................................... 33 Poet’s Blend.................................................................... 28 Riggs Funeral Home..................................................... 30 Rincon Chevrolet.......................................................... 30 Rusty Pig BBQ................................................................ 33 Salon at McCall.............................................................. 24 Salon Neveah..................................................................21 SoLow Solutions............................................................ 20 South Fork Provisions................................................... 33 State Farm - Clay Clark................................................40 Teach Right!.....................................................................21 Thomas C. Strickland and Sons Funeral Home.......21 Total Services................................................................. 48 Towne Pharmacy........................................................... 30 US Health Advisors........................................................ 20 Wiley's Home Center.......................................................3 Whole Tooth Dentistry..................................................16 Yates Astro...................................................................... 29

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