Effingham Magazine - April/May 2018

CHRIS SHEA

Effingham County’s Agribusinessman of the Year

L ANNUA

Home & Garden ISSUE

APRIL/MAY 2018 Habitat for Humanity Making the Dream of Home Ownership A Reality

Vicki and Kevin Edwards Building Relationships One Rock At A Time

Katie McGrory Bringing Help, Hope and Awareness Where It Counts

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CONTRIBUTORS Katrice Williams

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

Kathryn

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

Lea Thornton-Allen

Naomi Forrestall

Karlee Anderson has a Bachelor of Arts

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

Lane Leopard

Kelly Harley is a writer and social

media strategist for businesses navigating the world of online marketing. She founded Social Creative, a social media management company dedicated to helping businesses effectively use social media. Kelly believes everyone and every business has a story worth sharing. From her early days as a television news reporter, her experience in storytelling and social media spans nearly 15 years. Kelly is married with two children and lives in Bloomingdale.

Shelia Scott is an Effingham County na-

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

Nelson Laporte is a New York native,

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

06 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

Miranda Osborn-Sutphen is

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

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in this issue

April/May 2018

features 10

Chris Shea

14

Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County

18

Vicki and Kevin Edwards

22

Katie McGrory

Effingham County’s Agribusinessman of the Year

Making the Dream of Home Ownership a Reality

Building Relationships One Rock at a Time

Bringing Help, Hope and Awareness Where It Counts

departments 09

Publisher’s Page

29 Sports Section 30

Johnny Coleman

32

Andrea Garcia

34

Zebrandon Gant

2017 Softball Coach of the Year

10

ECHS Volleyball Player

State Wrestling Champion

special 37

Home & Garden Section

14

18 08

April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

22

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

One Dozen Down Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Naomi Forrestall graphic designer Lea Thornton-Allen administrative assistant/circulation lea@idpmagazines.com Lane Leopard account executive lane@idpmagazines.com

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 31326 (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.

S

pring is definitely in the air…some days anyway. We have certainly had some crazy weather so far this year. One day, it’s shorts and flip flops, and the next it’s sweaters and jackets.

Just when you think you know it’s going to be sunny and 85 degrees outside, there’s frost on the ground again. Life is full of surprises.

Last month, I celebrated my 12th year in business.

Independence Day Publishing was founded in March of 2006. Since then, my life has been full of surprises.

Things change, kind of like the weather.

Twelve years ago was a scary time for me…but scary in a good way. I was determined to open this business, no matter what it took. But, I was apprehensive in some ways. I mean, I was leaving a job with great pay and benefits, to follow a dream. It was a huge risk, but one I was willing to take.

When I think of how this year has started, not Julie Hales, PUBLISHER always knowing what to expect from day to day, it sums up the entire reality of my job as owner of this magazine. I never know what’s going to happen from one day to the next…that is one of the most beautiful parts of being in this business. There is never a dull moment.

There are many variables in this crazy occupation of mine…one day I may be in meetings all day, the next day I may be selling an ad, the next day I may be on a photo shoot or writing a story or working with a freelance writer…you just never know where I will be or what I will be doing. But, there is always one common denominator, I love what I do.

The past dozen years has been very rewarding to me. I never dreamed when I opened this business that my journey would take me down so many different paths. Each path has led me to another adventure. How blessed I am.

But the best adventure of all is that I get to share each and every experience with you, throughout the pages of Effingham Magazine. All of the wonderful people I have met along this journey are outlined on the pages you have seen over the last 12 years. And, the good news is, the pages of my journey will continue to be shared with you, our readers, for a long time to come.

Here’s to my next dozen!

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

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is publlished bi-monthly (six issues a year), printing 10,000 copies and distributed to over 180 locations.

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

ABOUT THE COVER Meet Chris Shea, Agribusinessman of the Year for Effingham County in 2017.

CHRIS SHEA

Effingham County’s Agribusinessman of the Year

L

ANNUA

Home & Garden ISSUE

APRIL/MAY 2018 Habitat for Humanity Making the Dream of Home Ownership A Reality

Vicki and Kevin Edwards Building Relationships One Rock At A Time

Katie McGrory Bringing Help, Hope and Awareness Where It Counts

Chris shares with us his love of farming, and how that love and work ethic paved his future. www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

09

CHRIS SHEA

Effingham County’s Agribusinessman of the Year

story by Kelly Harley

photos by Tonya Perry

I

f you’ve ever worked on a farm, you know it’s not an easy job. Even if you haven’t ever stepped foot on one, you can likely imagine the time and energy that goes into maintaining one. It involves manual labor.

It depends on the weather, which could affect grain prices and ultimately your crops.

Chris Shea knows that farming requires a certain type of work ethic. “When you have a farm, you always have something to do. It’s not a 9-to-5 job, you have to work around the clock, even on weekends,” says Chris.

Chris should know. He owns two farms, one in Effingham County and one in Statesboro, Georgia. The Effingham County-native, with his family, started the 80-acre cow farm 15 years ago and now raises 75 cows. He lives on the farm and between him and his family, they do all the work. They farm the hay for the cows and feed them. His daughters, ages 17 and 11, also play an active role on the farm. “It’s enjoyable. It takes time, but it’s valuable time,” adds Chris. They raise the calves and sell them when they get around six to eight months old, usually at a cattle auction in Swainsboro, Georgia.

Chris’s other farm in Statesboro is a 243-acre longleaf pine farm. He started that farm about a year ago as a business opportunity. He sells the pine straw for people to use for things such as flower beds and then cuts the timber off the mature trees. Chris offers advice for someone considering farming, “If you have a passion, go after it. Do what you love.”

That’s exactly what Chris is doing. His passion for farming, cows and the outdoors started at a young age. He calls himself a normal country boy who grew up hunting

and fishing. When he attended Effingham County High School, he participated in the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization. FFA was founded by a group of young farmers in 1928 with the mission to prepare future generations for the challenges of feeding a growing population.

The program teaches that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting - it's a science, it's a business and it's an art.

While Chris participated in the pro-

gram, one of the highlights for him was showing cows. He raised the Red Angus cows that he showed. He participated in local fairs and competitions. He says being part of FFA taught him responsibility and he built lasting relationships with other people who had similar interests, interests that his daughters now share. Both are part of the FFA program and they, too, show cows. “It’s really rewarding as a father to see my daughters do this. I help them with the cows and spend great quality time with them. I even teach them some tricks I know,” says Chris.

Chris isn’t just a farmer, he’s also a businessman. After graduating high school in 1999, he attended Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College in Tifton, Georgia. He then transferred to Georgia Southern in Statesboro, Georgia, and graduated with a business degree. From there his love of buying and selling heavy equipment took off.

“I’ve always bought and sold tractors and backhoes with my father, so in 2004, I went to work for Low Country Machinery,” says Chris. After working as a salesman at Low Country Machinery selling JCB equipment for 12 years, Chris worked his way through the ranks and, in 2016, decided to purchase the dealership. In addition to owning Low Country Machinery, he also owns the subsidiary businesses of Low www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

11

Country JCB, Low Country Massey Ferguson and Low Country Kubota in Statesboro. Since 2016, Chris says his companies have doubled and he now employees 48 people. Chris says every day is different and he enjoys meeting new people.

“Customers are looking to me for advice on what kind of equipment to buy,” says Chris. “It makes me feel good that they put their trust in me. Some people work their whole lives to buy one tractor.”

Chris’ hard work pays off, not only personally, but professionally. In 2017, Chris was honored by being named Effingham County’s Agribusinessman of the Year. The award was presented to him at the 2017 Effingham County Young Farmers Annual Awards Banquet at Ebenezer Retreat Center by Georgia State Representative Jon Burns. Ironically, Chris worked for Jon at a feed store while he was in college.

The award isn’t something you apply for, you have to be nominated. “I was totally shocked when I received the award. I thought we were there for my daughter who was getting an award for showing cows,” says Chris. He says the award means the world to him because he went from loading bags at Ijon Webb’s feed store at age 14 to owning his own company.

As a farmer and business owner, he is very aware of the changes in the farming industry and Chris says the farming industry is constantly evolving. Tractors are becoming automated and are equipped

12 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

with GPS, auto steer and auto spray. He says the smaller farmers are fading out and bigger farmers are coming in. He credits that change to cost in equipment. “A lot of smaller farms are teaming up with other smaller farms in order to share equipment cost,” says Chris. “One farmer might have a cotton picker and the other a combine and they will help each other out. It takes teamwork to keep smaller farmers going.”

Chris doesn’t come from a family of farmers. He learned the trade just by being around friends that had farms and working at the feed store. Of course, FFA played an invaluable role in preparing Chris for what he’s doing now. Chris recommends every-

one find something they enjoy doing, especially when it comes to children. “I think everyone should learn a trade. Kids sit behind a shut door and play video games or text on their phones,” says Chris. “If we want to occupy the time of the younger generation, we need to teach them how to do something.”

If you spend enough time with Chris, you might find his passion for farming and helping others achieve their success in farming may rub off on you. If it’s not farming, it could be his genuine interests in helping his customers or his passion for working hard every day.

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13

Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County story by Kathryn Vandenhouten

photos by Shelia Scott

Making the Dream of Home Ownership a Reality

story by Kathryn Vandenhouten

photos by Shelia Scott

H

abitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization founded on the conviction that everyone deserves a decent place to live. Its mission is a simple one: Seeking to put God’s love into action to bring people together to build homes, communities, and

hope.

Since 1995, Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County has been working to achieve that mission by advocating for fair housing policies, constructing homes, and providing training and resources to help local families improve their living conditions. So far, they have helped twenty families build homes in Effingham, and they hope to keep adding families every year.

Jimmy Rutland has been involved with the organization since 2004. He started as a volunteer, and the more he became involved, the more passionate he became about helping the community. Now he is the Executive Director, and he works for Habitat for Humanity full time.

In addition to being a standard non profit, Habitat is essentially a construction company, mortgage originator and retail operation as well. “Habitat of Effingham is multi-faceted,” Rutland explains.

Unlike other mortgage companies, Habitat works closely with families to maintain their debt to income ratio and to not only get them into homes, but to keep them there.

“We’re taking people off the streets,” says Rutland. “And it’s keeping their debt to income ratio less than 43 per cent. Their total housing is only 30 per cent, including their taxes, so that’s a game changer for somebody.”

Jim Presnell is also on the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity. As a real estate agent and contractor, he literally lays the foundation for these homes. He has volunteered hundreds of hours on multiple homes, but says helping a child get into a good home is always worth it.

“Habitat for Humanity builds homes for families. Families have kids. Kids are what make the world go ‘round,” says Presnell.

“That’s what the bottom line is for me.”

Presnell also dispels the common misconception that Habitat families get homes for free. “The misnomer is that we build houses and give them to folks,” he says. That is not the case. “They purchase the home just like everyone else. They have a mortgage, and they also have to put in what we call sweat equity. They have to put time into building the homes with us,” Presnell adds.

Habitat families do not need a handout; they just need a helping hand. They pay a mortgage like anyone else would, except their lender is Habitat for Humanity, and their cost is more manageable.

Most banks won’t give someone a home loan if they haven’t maintained the same type of job for two years, for instance.

Habitat focuses less on the type of job and more on the fact that someone has kept steady work.

Another major difference is that Effingham’s Habitat for Humanity doesn’t just build homes, they build lifelong relationships with the families. Wilhelmina Roberson can attest to that.

She moved into her new home in December with her three children, the oldest of whom has Down Syndrome. She is grateful for Habitat and for Mr. Rutland and Mr. Presnell for their continued friendship and support. “They’re great people. I love them,” she says. “I can’t say enough, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.”

Roberson calls her new home a blessing, and she knows she has a support system in Rutland, Presnell and all of the Habitat crew.

“I can call them any time I need to if I need anything,” she adds.

“They’re still involved. If I have any problems, they don’t hesitate.”

Brittney Roper is another community member who can say that Habitat for Humanity has changed her life. She moved into www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

15

her mother’s Habitat home when she was seventeen, and now she is getting a home of her own.

Her new home is currently under construction, and she can’t say enough about Habitat for Humanity of Effingham.

“It’s amazing,” she says. “I never thought I would be a homeowner at this age.”

She says raising the first wall of her home was one of happiest moments of her life. “I smiled ear to ear for like thirty minutes,” she says. “I was full of emotions at the time. It was happy, and I felt like tearing up. I was just overjoyed.” For her and her two small children, this home is not just shelter, but security.

She also says that Rutland and Presnell are not just workers for Habitat, but family. Habitat has made such a difference in her life that she plans to keep working for them long after her home is built.

“It’s a great experience and feeling to know that you’re helping someone else in the same situation you were in,” says Roper. “I’m going to continue volunteering.

Helping is a really good feeling.”

Both Jimmy Rutland and Jim Presnell agree. “It’s good for the heart-period.

Physically. Emotionally. Mentally,” Presnell says. “Habitat does the body good.”

One of Rutland’s most memorable moments occurred recently upon a home’s completion: “Her son came up to her and asked, ‘When are we going to have to move again?’ and she got to tell him, “This is

16 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

ours. We don’t have to move any more.’”

Stories like these abound from Habitat for Humanity, and hopefully they will continue to bless area families with homes every year. Their goal is to build at least one home each year, but they need the support of the community to do so.

Whether it be donations of money, property, supplies or labor, any help will make a difference. Habitat Restore, located at 3065 Highway 21 in Rincon, is a retail sales and donation center whose proceeds go back into helping the community.

The ReStore is always accepting donations of used furniture, appliances, building materials and other home goods, in addition to monetary donations. No donation is too small to make a big difference.

For those who can’t make donations, volunteers are always needed. “We save almost half the cost of a house in labor,” says Rutland. No experience is required.

“All you need to know is which way to hold a hammer and how to hold up a two by four,” he adds.

Both Jimmy Rutland and Jim Presnell want the people of Effingham to realize that Habitat of Humanity doesn’t just help families, it helps the entire community. If they take an empty or abandoned lot and build a new home, the city gets taxes and the property value for nearby homes is usually increased as well. The entire community benefits.

Effingham’s Habitat for Humanity is

changing lives in our community. With continued local support, donations, and volunteers, they will continue helping area families by making the dream of affordable housing a reality.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County, visit habitatec.org.

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Vicki and Kevin Edwards

Building Relationships One Rock At A Time “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single minute before starting to improve the world.�

~Anne Frank story by Katrice Williams

photos by Tonya Perry

V

icki Edwards has long appreciated the difference that a happy, healthy community can make. For some time now, she has strived to bring her community together through “friendship and fun.” In fact, her warmth, creativity and love for community is exemplified by the efforts and initiatives that she implores through her local business, Effingham Rocks, a rock group that she started over a year ago.

Vicki states, “It’s all about bringing the community together—to build relationships one rock at a time.”

Actually, Vicki has been in Effingham for about two years after moving from her hometown, North Augusta, South Carolina. Vicki and her husband, Kevin, have four adult children and one little grandbaby on the way. Though Kevin admits that Effingham Rocks is Vicki’s “baby” he has played a tremendously instrumental role since its inception. Vicki’s inspiration for her rock group, the first in Effingham, actually came from her hometown, as she was a member of a local group there.

Hence, she was able to experience all the fun and benefits firsthand.

What’s more, the rock “painting…hiding…finding” phenomenon has become an enormously popular pastime, as it is “going on all across the U.S. and some other countries.” Vicki and Kevin are confident that the group is fun for all ages, adults and children alike.

Kevin remarks, “Individuals can range from a two-year-old that just paints colors on a rock to the best of artists that have put a lot of detail into it.”

Some people regard the idea as the most massive and ongoing Easter egg hunt of all time, only painting and hiding rocks

instead of eggs. Individuals are able to register to join the group via Effingham Rocks’ Facebook page. Members can purchase rocks from various venues; Lowe’s is often a popular choice. Afterwards, they have the opportunity to paint their rocks as they please and at their leisure. “Acrylic paints and paint pens work best;” using a paint sealer is recommended, so that the rocks are not affected by normal weathering. n

Everyone is an artist, so there is no skillset that is too minimal. Then, they can cleverly hide them outdoors, nearly anywhere and everywhere. Popular hiding places are parks, churches, historical landmarks and businesses. Some have been found at Walmart, Kroger, dental offices, in the Lowe’s garden center and at the YMCA. Indoor hiding is not usually encouraged, except with the approval of the venue’s management.

Vicki says, “You can just stumble across them all over the community.”

Also, members are encouraged to “hide and seek” in safe areas; this discourages activity in very high places, brushes (unseen reptiles may be present), places that may not be easily assessible or those that may be physically challenging. Participants may choose to leave helpful hints for seekers on the Effingham Rocks’ Facebook page. Further, those who find and take a rock are expected to hide another painted one to make up for the one they acquire.

This allows the amount of rocks to remain plentiful for members so that the cycle can go on.

Vicki comments, “That’s the whole cycle of it…paint, hide, find, repeat.” Participants “may opt to keep what they have found, leave it or relocate it somewhere www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

19

else.” Vicki and Kevin ask that members place the group name with the Facebook symbol on the back of their rocks. They, too, ask that individuals take pictures of their rocks and post them on the group page to share with others.

Kevin says, “You might see one sitting on a lamp post at the grocery store; you just pick it up and take your picture. You can keep it or re-hide it.”

Individuals are not limited to hiding rocks in Effingham but can take them on most any excursion. The couple has been astonished to look on the Facebook page and see the Effingham Rocks symbol on various rocks that have been taken to different places, whether to other states or countries like Germany.

“It’s really neat to see where some of these rocks go,” Kevin stated.

Vicki definitely wants it to be tons of pure fun for the entire family and “takes a Christian approach” to handling their business. That said, there is no tolerance for “negative talk on the website.” Advertising is also not permitted. For safety reasons, a brief questionnaire must be completed by prospective members, which allows Vicki and Kevin to better understand individual motivations for joining, noting any “questionable people.”

“We are listed as a closed group; that’s just strictly to keep our families and friends safe.

This is family-oriented. This is straightup fun for the family,” Vicki insists.

Vicki and Kevin certainly get in on the action, too. They enjoy painting their own creative pictures on each rock. Vicki feels that Kevin is “very artistic” and much more of an artist than he knows, as he shows a rock adorned with a beautiful waterfall that he painted.

“We hide rocks; we find rocks, just like everybody else. We actually bump into other people outside doing it, and it’s so much fun. This is a big thing. We love it. The parents and kids—they love it,” Vicki said.

Vicki likes seeing that kind of happiness coming from all around the community, parents and kids alike. She is proud to con-

20 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

tribute to that joy. She loves when parents post a picture of their kids on the Facebook page smiling from ear-to-ear holding a rock. Vicki even recalls being messaged by a lady that told her of how the rock that she found, with a special picture on it, really “made her day.” She also mentions a member taking one with her to a nursing home to share with a patient.

Vicki adds, “It’s making a difference in the community…that’s really big with me.”

Through Effingham Rocks, Vicki and Kevin also support various local, noteworthy charities and fundraisers. They were recently asked to paint some rocks for some of their group members to take to the veteran’s hospital in Augusta, Georgia.

“We love to see them travel,” Vicki stated.

Vicki welcomes the support of local businesses, as everyone can play a part.

One of her biggest goals is to see the group grow and see participation from neighboring counties. She is also looking forward to the group’s next big “rock swap,” which is basically one big, centralized rock jamboree for members of her group. Parents

and kids are able to come together to paint rocks and do some hiding and finding outside on a nice day. Various tables with rocks, paints and supplies are provided free of charge at the events for adults and kids to paint as they like. They also ask for others to bring their own special painted rocks to trade at the event with other rock painters, if they wish. Great snacks are provided as well. Yes, there is food… folks….and fun. Vicki aspires to have one or two each year. New Providence Baptist Church, where Vick works, kindly provided the location for the last rock swap, and it was a great success.

In her spare time, Vicki loves to spend time with her pets. She has four dogs and is anxiously awaiting some chickens. Kevin jokes and says that she is about to have a little “micro-farm,” as she already has a garden, fish pond and coop for her new chickens. Vicki, too, loves to do antique and vintage furniture shopping; she really likes painting the furniture she attains.

On the other hand, Kevin has participated in tournament fishing, specifically kayak tournaments, for some time now. At times, when he fishes at his leisure, Vicki gets out on the water with him. The couple loves spending time together and with family.

Vicki does aspire to paint the world kind one rock at a time and is definitely doing just that with Effingham Rocks. Alongside her husband Kevin, she persists to make the difference that is needed in the world, one community at a time. In her own words, “It’s about fun, family and friendship.”

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107 N. Laurel St • Springfield, GA 31329 www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

21

Katie McGrory Bringing Help, Hope and Awareness Where it Counts “One of the most beautiful things you can do on this earth is to let people know they are not alone.” ~Shannon L. Alder story by Katrice Williams

K

atie McGrory, a Savannah native, has lived in the area since 2016. She has been a licensed professional counselor and registered play therapist for Harmony House, her private practice, since 2009. Katie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Armstrong Atlantic State University

22 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

photos by Tonya Perry

in 2002; she later obtained her Master of Science Degree in Clinical Psychology from Georgia Southern University in 2006.

Thereafter, Katie started teaching collegiate level psychology and went on to begin her counseling career. Currently, Katie does mental health counseling, treating a vast range of clients, from birth to adult.

Katie offers 100% of various counsel-

ing and mental health services. Whether engaging in cognitive behavioral therapy with adults, helping women through challenging divorces or assisting grandparents with behaviorally challenged grandkids who reside with them, Katie’s professional scope is quite broad. She, too, offers group therapy and family counseling sessions to all who may benefit. Actually, Katie is

proud to be a part of a fairly new form of group therapy; alongside Mary Close and Jessica Partain, owners of Riley’s Rescue Ranch in Guyton, Katie works with her young clients to interact with therapeutic horses. These horses are trained to maintain the “right temperament to work with kids with all kinds of issues.” The concept has proved to be very successful for her families. Katie appreciates all the promising services offered by Mary and Jessica, knowing that it is a “team effort.”

Katie focuses largely on helping children with numerous concerns, whether ADHD, anxiety disorders or autism, only to name a few. Autism itself is defined as a “mental condition, present from early childhood, characterized by difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts.” Katie specializes in treating children with high-functioning autism, which often impacts a child’s social skills in contrast with low-functioning autism, which can pose much greater challenges.

Interestingly enough, the Harmony House logo, a house made of “puzzle pieces,” indicates that Katie specializes in helping children with high-functioning autism; it is utterly definitive of Katie’s professional plight, as she persists to fulfill her motto: “to create harmony when the puzzle pieces fit.” When parents are enlisting Katie’s assistance, she wants to figure out each detail about their child…each pattern of behavior…each motivation or lack thereof. She “looks at all that is going on with the child” to begin steps to properly fit those often misunderstood, confusing puzzle pieces together.

Katie affirms, “Then, we can start the work of addressing their issues and begin creating harmony. When the puzzle pieces

fit, things get better.”

As a registered play therapist, Katie has specialized training in working with children. Katie is able to assess activities and behaviors during a play session, which allows her to make proper inferences.

“I use my playroom to build relationships with children. Adults talk about their feelings, but children play out their feelings,” she said.

Katie has long had a passion for those impacted by autism and has a sincere heart to help. She would like the community and society as a whole to understand autism better; she wants to clear up the misconceptions that have been prevalent for so long. Hence, Katie knows that most of the misunderstandings and falsities about childhood autism are directly due to a lack of information about the condition, and she certainly wants to help her clients with autistic children to understand it better.

“I want to have more information and more support out for the autism community. I love working with kids who have high-functioning autism because I feel I understand how their brain works; I understand their challenges because I understand them. I can explain to their parents and to the schools the way they feel and

why they’re acting a certain way,” she said.

Often feelings of hopelessness and defeat may consume parents who feel that they have exhausted every plausible solution.

Nonetheless, Katie is committed to “give support to the families,” working with each of them to cater to their own very unique situations. She strives to piece together the best course of action for their lives in order for the “child with autism to be the most functioning person they can be.”

Many who are unaware of the effects of autism often feel that diagnosed children would benefit solely from discipline and correction. However, Katie wants to spread proper awareness to the families and community as a whole.

She asserts, “Parents come to see me because they feel like they failed as parents, because their parenting skills are not working. This isn’t a child who’s being bad or acting up. This is a child who is confused and doesn’t understand our world, so I can meet them where they are to know how to be successful and functioning. The families are getting healthier.

The parents are grateful; I’m a support system for them, too. I think the parents feel supported and empowered to be able www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

23

to handle these issues, having that support and knowing they’re not alone and knowing I’m advocating for their children. I just love the families I work with.”

Further, Katie is aware that many school counselors, special education teachers and other educational professionals lack knowledge of the condition; therefore, it is often not given the correct attention. Katie attends 504 meetings and IEP meetings at schools to help inform educators and help them with each individual case as much as possible.

She remarks, “These kids are like my kids. I’m very protective of them and want to make sure that they get really good counseling.”

In addition, Katie knows that it definitely takes a village to help children succeed. That said, she receives client referrals from various community professionals, whether pediatricians, attorneys, schools or others in the lives of those children who may exhibit a need for assistance.

Katie’s practice is doing very well and she is looking forward to the future. She aspires to one day offer an after-school program for children with high-functioning autism, those kids beyond the

24 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

middle school years. She would also like to do ongoing training for counselors and play therapists, so there is more of them available to help children in the community. She, too, would like to offer a special support group for this community, where families of children with autism can meet

each other and ‘connect’ kids together. She plans to offer parenting groups, those emphasizing effective parenting techniques geared towards each individual child’s needs.

Katie knows that there is no “I” in “team.” She is incredibly grateful to Jerri Frost, who has been her colleague since 2016. Jerri is a licensed clinical social worker for kids and adults; she is presently working on her registered play therapist credentials. Jerri has helped a lot, and Katie feels that her contributions have been invaluable.

“She has been a great help…a great addition to the community; she took some of the load,” Katie stated.

Katie is currently on the board of Ready2Connect, an organization which helps to empower people who are unemployed and looking for work, along with those seeking financial stability.

She works closely with DFCS (Department of Family and Children Services), along with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), who are committed to improving the lives of children in foster care.

In her free time, Katie, who is very big on rescue pets, likes to spend time with her rescued fur babies. She has four dogs, seven cats and even a therapeutic horse, Mocha. She also likes to read and go to catch a good movie at times.

Katie wants all families in need of assistance to know that needing help is okay.

Moreover, asking for it is courageous.

She comments, “Needing help with their children is not a weakness; it’s not a reflection of their parenting. It’s okay to need help; it’s important to get good help.

Families can get healthier…that’s the goal.”

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www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

25

EFFINGHAM VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM VICTIMS AND WITNESSES HAVE RIGHTS TOO

I

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent”

f you have been the victim of a crime or have witnessed a crime, your participation in the criminal justice process is very important.

As a victim or witness, you are entitled to certain rights and services.

The biggest problem with this is the simple fact that most people don’t know what to do or where to go for help.

Effingham Victim Witness Assistance Program is here to assist. EVWAP is the only agency in Effingham County to provide advocacy assistance to victims and witnesses of violent crime.

The mission of EVWAP is to provide assistance including referrals, advocacy and support to victims and witnesses of violent crimes in order to lessen the trauma of their victimization and empower them to become survivors.

Fran Ross, Executive Director of EVWAP, stated “We assist victims of violent crime, both men and women. We are here to empower survivors to thrive.”

Ross is very serious about her position and wants to educate our community on the services offered through EVWAP. She adds, “Our staff will advise you of your rights, and explain what resources we have available to help you.”

Established in 1989 and incorporated as a non-profit organization, the program provides extensive services to victims and witnesses of violent crimes (armed robbery, assault, rape, child molestation, murder, domestic violence, etc) in Effingham County.

In order to accomplish the goals and objectives described in the mission statement, specific services are provided for victims of crime. Crisis counseling, emotional support and understanding of victimization are vital to the process. EVWAP provides comprehensive services and referrals to collaborative agencies to ensure that victims and their families are able to move toward a safe, secure and healthy environment that is free from violence.

26 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

-Eleanor Rosevelt

EFFINGHAM COUNTY VICTIM WITNESS PROGRAM EVWAP services include the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Emotional Support from Victimization Crisis Intervention 24-Hour Emergency Response Temporary Protective Orders Assistance with Good Behavior Bonds Assistance to get to Safe Shelter Safety Plan Referrals to Agencies/Programs Assistance with Victim Impact Statement Assistance with Victims Compensation Court Companion Information on Criminal Justice Process Referrals for Professional Counseling Community Outreach Against Bullying, Teen Dating Violence, and Domestic Violence Victims Compensation

Victims and immediate family members may be eligible for Victims Compensation if the victim has been physically injured from the following crimes: •

Assault/Battery

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Homicide Sexual Assault Domestic/Family Violence DUI crash Hit-and-Run Vehicular Homicide Child Abuse Child Exploitation Child Pornography Kidnappingp Financial Compensation includes the following: Medical Expenses Lost Wages Funeral Expenses Mental Health Counseling Crime Scene Clean-up Effingham Victim Witness Assistance

Program is located in Springfield. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. And they can be reached at 754-7460.

All services of this organization are free.

Your donations are greatly appreciated and go towards providing assistance to those who have been victimized by domestic violence or other crimes.

Internships and volunteer programs are also available. Call for details.

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Dr. Travis Wiggins: Colon Cancer Prevention

C

olon Cancer is a type of cancer that is very common in the United States. Unlike other cancers such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and others, colon cancer is one that is potentially prevented.

A way to prevent the potential dangers of colon cancer is to have a test called a Colonoscopy.” In the 90’s, the National Polyp Study came out. Basically, it wasn’t just that it helped to identify cancers early, it actually saved lives. It was a mortality benefit in the neighborhood of 50-74%,” explains Dr. Travis Wiggins of Gastroenterology Consultants of Savannah.

Dr. Wiggins continues, “We have seen a 2-3% rate of reduction in the amount of colon cancers diagnosed in the US in the last 20 years. A large part of this is due to colon screening initiatives.”

In 2000, The CMS (Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services) started covering colonoscopies for cancer screening. Since then, the US has enjoyed a reduction in the amount of colon cancers diagnosed within a single calendar year.

In recent months, another type of test that is helpful for colon cancer screenings has emerged. It is called FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test). FIT is noninvasive and tests for blood in the stool. This test, if done consistently on an annual basis, can serve as a good tool for early detection and prevention.

If the FIT is positive, a patient must then have a colonoscopy. Dr. Wiggins highly recommends that anyone with a personal history or family history of colon issues to have a colonoscopy. “If you are experiencing bleeding, a change in bowel habits or any other higher risk symptoms, FIT is not an option. A colonoscopy is the recommended way to go.” says Dr. Wig-

and radiofrequency ablation for Barrett’s esophagus.

Dr. Wiggins is very much a family man.

He and wife, Jennifer, have three sons that he lovingly calls “The A Team,” Austin, Alex and Andrew. He is very involved with his boys and is a coach for a 7th grade basketball team and an 8U baseball team. He laughingly says, “I am a coach with hobby of being a Gastroenterologist.”

He and his entire family will be participating in the upcoming ‘Get Your Rear in Gear’ 5K hosted by the Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion. Gastroenterology Consultants of Savannah is in its 7th year of being one of the presenting sponsors. “This is a very worthwhile cause. All proceeds of the event will be used to provide screening kits and colonoscopies for low income and underserved patients in our area,” says Dr. Wiggins.

You can schedule an appointment to see Dr. Wiggins in the Physicians Center at Effingham Hospital by calling his office at (912)354-9447.

gins.

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a close look inside the colon and rectum.

A thin, hollow, lighted tube with a tiny video camera on the end is gently eased inside the colon and sends pictures to a TV screen. The exam takes about 30 minutes and the patients are given medicine to help them relax and sleep during the procedure.

Colon cancer screening should typically start at the age of 50. Some of the newer guidelines recommend screening the African American population starting at the age of 45. If a patient has an increased risk of colon cancer screenings should start at 40, and in some cases of family history, even younger.

Dr. Wiggins is affiliated with all the hospitals in Savannah, but every Wednesday you’ll find him in Springfield at Effingham Hospital. He is board certified in Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Internal Medicine.

Special areas of concentration for Dr. Wiggins are colon cancer screening, reflux disease, pancreatic and biliary diseases

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www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

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28 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

EFFINGHAM SPORTS

Johnny Coleman 2017 All-Greater Savannah Softball Coach of the Year

I

story by Kelly Harley

f you had to pick a coach, Johnny Coleman may be your first pick. The Effingham County-native is committed to teaching kids about sports, education and life lessons both on the field and in the classroom.

Johnny is a special education teacher at Effingham County Middle School. He works with students with slight learning disabilities; students who need a little more support and attention. “It’s rewarding. The students I work with, you wouldn’t be able to tell them apart from anyone else,” says Johnny. “They have learning disabilities and, with a little extra help and time, they can be just as successful.”

Johnny’s passion for teaching grew 20 years ago. He graduated from Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia, with a degree in middle grades education and later earned a certification in special education. His career has led him to teach physical education, geography and at an alternative school for a few years.

This is his second year as a special education teacher at Effingham County Middle School.

The work that Johnny does in the classroom extends beyond the walls of the room. As sincere as his passion for teaching, so is his passion for coaching sports. Currently, Johnny serves as the coach for Effingham County High School’s girls’ fastpitch softball team and as the coach for Effingham County Middle School’s boys’ baseball team.

“It’s always special to see young people put a lot of effort into something and be successful at it,” says Johnny. “Because I grew up here, I know the majority of the kids I coach; I’ve known most of them since they were born.” Johnny also has the privilege of coaching his own children. His daughter plays for the girls’ fastpitch softball team and his son for the boys’ baseball team.

“Seeing them and their friends doing well, has been really enjoyable. Being around your kids more, it’s just very special. A lot of coaches don’t have that luxury,” says Johnny.

When asked about his coaching style, Johnny says he doesn’t like to yell or scream at the kids. He takes more of a competitive approach and it’s an approach that doesn’t mean just beating the other team. “We try to have a competitive atmosphere. I want the kids to just be better than they were the day before,” says Johnny.

“These kids are going to have to compete for jobs and everything else one day. I try to stay as positive as possible and help them learn and not be scared to mess up.”

Johnny says his favorite part of coaching is seeing the kids put in the effort. He says they put in so much work on top of everything else they have to do, it’s impressive to watch them. “When they win or do something better than they did before, that’s what I enjoy. When they succeed, it means a lot,” says Johnny. “As a coach, I just try to give them the information the best ways that I can to get them better physically and mentally and hope they take it the rest of the way.”

30 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

photos by Shelia Scott

In 2017, his girls’ fast pitch softball team made it to the playoffs. The final eight teams – also known as the Elite 8 – played a tournament in Columbus, Georgia. While the team didn’t win the championship, Johnny says they played really well and that’s what matters. That same year, Johnny was named the 2017 All-Greater Savannah Softball Coach of the Year by the Savannah Morning News. “It was very unexpected. Last year was the first year I had coached the softball team there. We had a good program in place, talented girls and outstanding assistant coaches,” says Johnny.

Since a young age, Johnny has been drawn to sports. He grew up in Meldrim, Georgia, and his first childhood memories were at the Meldrim ballpark. His mom played softball and his grandfather and uncle coached softball teams. Johnny started playing T-ball in kindergarten and football in second grade. He played recreation ball growing up and played baseball and football all four years while he attended Effingham County High School.

“High school football was huge when I was in high school.

There was only one high school and the whole county was behind us. It was a great atmosphere then,” says Johnny.

Despite his love of sports, his parents always made sure he kept his grades up. If you didn’t have good grades or got into trouble, you couldn’t play. Johnny says that really helped him realize the importance of having an education and being skilled in sports.

He says his mom always made sure he did the right thing and carried himself the right way, and his dad made sure he was doing everything right on the football field. He says the support of his family was instrumental in his success. He also credits his success to playing under really good coaches. He played for football coach Bob Griffith and baseball coach Jim Simmons; Simmons still coaches in Statesboro. “They really helped me to learn a lot when I was fresh out of college and they had a big influence on me,” says Johnny.

It’s those same ethics Johnny is now passing on to those he coaches. He requires them to keep their grades up, to do the right thing and to work as hard as they can. “I try to be open-minded.

The older I get, the more I am open to new things. I research as much as I can,” says Johnny.

He wants his players to know that just because you’ve done something all these years, doesn’t mean you can’t find a way to do it a little better.

www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

31

Andrea Garcia ECHS Volleyball Player

Story by Cindy Burbage photos by Shelia Scott

A

lthough volleyball is more than a hundred years old, it is just now developing into a favored sport.

Local volleyball player, Andrea Garcia, proves that perseverance is the way to succeed and accomplish life goals.

The Effingham High School athlete has been playing volleyball for almost 5 years; but getting serious about the sport in the 8th grade. “Before I started middle school, I had no idea what volleyball was. On the first day of school, there was an announcement saying that volleyball tryouts were going to be held the next day. I asked my mother if I could tryout and she said yes, thinking that I was joking with her because I had never touched a volleyball in my life. The next day, I went to tryouts; after tryouts, I looked at my phone to discover that I had about 24 missed calls from both my parents and 50 texts asking where I was. I called them and

32 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

they yelled at me for 10 minutes asking where I was and why I didn't call them. I said that I was at volleyball tryouts and they stayed quiet for about one minute. ¨You were being serious about that?¨ my mom asked me. I said yes and asked if they could pick me up at 5:00 for the next two days. They agreed to, but, they thought I would be cut from the team immediately. To our surprise, I made the team,” she exclaimed and then jokingly replied, “I even got the rookie award my 6th grade year.”

She did not realize her calling as a volleyball player or knew that her future in the sport could change. “I didn't become serious about volleyball until Coach Amy Duke came to one of our practices and invited me to be a guest player for her club team. That tournament changed my life! For the first time, I got to see what volleyball was really about. I made friends with many different people, created memories that I will treasure for the rest of my

life, and developed fundamental character traits, all while learning how to play. For the first time, I was excited to go to practice and to get better. Without Coach Duke, I would never have discovered the passion I had for volleyball,” she recalled.

Andrea chronicled, “For the first two years, I played as the setter. In my eighth grade year, the coach put me in as an outside hitter. That year I also won MVP. It wasn´t until my freshman year of high school that I was told I was too short to play hitter.

My dreams of being a volleyball player were crushed. That is until the high school varsity coach, Brittney Lein, told me to try playing libero. ¨Li-what?¨ I had never heard of that word. I agreed and spent the majority of tryouts passing instead of hitting. The day they announced what teams we made, I expected to be put on the JV team because I thought there were other players that were so much better than me. Seeing the amount of skill this team had pushed me to work hard and be just as good as everyone else.

Though I had no idea what the libero was, I knew I had one job: to keep the ball from hitting the ground. Since then, I have been playing libero for the Effingham County High School Varsity volleyball team. And I enjoy every minute of it. Now, I can't imagine playing any other position than Libero.”

After playing a match against a rival school, Andrea’s volleyball careered changed. “The GACA North-South All-Star Classic is a two day event where the best players from all over the state are chosen to compete against each other. I was nominated by Coach Bob Massey from Statesboro High School. After playing against their school team, Coach Lein came up to me and said that Massey wanted to nominate me to play for North-South All-Star game. I was able to meet amazingly talented girls from around the state and bond over our love for volleyball. After putting a lot of hard work into our practices, The North-South teams faced each other in a best 3 out of 5 match. After putting our all in four sets, our team won 3-1. This was one of the best experiences of my life because I got to see true passion and determination with girls I have never even played with. I am very grateful that I got to participate in this once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Volleyball is not the only sport that the sixteen year old Junior

has mastered. “I grew up playing soccer. Since I come from a culture where soccer is idolized, my uncles, Salvador and Javier Figueroa, urged my mother to let me play soccer. For the first few years of my life, I lived and breathed soccer. I played on an all boys team coached by my uncle Salvador until the age of 13. As I got older, my mom was worried that I would get hurt playing with older boys. That is when Robert Long approached me and invited me to tryout for a new soccer club. I played for that club for two years until I decided to take a break from soccer. I thought that when I grew up, I would become a professional soccer player for the women's national team. But as high school went on, I realized that I couldn’t be in AP classes and do both sports at once. I had to choose which sport I wanted to continue to play. It was one of the hardest choices I’ve ever had to make, but in the end I chose the sport that made me the happiest.”

Andrea’s drive is one that she learned firsthand from her family. “My family has always been very supportive of me. They put a great deal of time and energy into our family restaurant, to create a good future and wellbeing for my sister and I. My parents grew up in poverty in Mexico, and started their lives together in the United States with little money and little-to-no family. After living in Houston and working in restaurants for a few years, they decided to move to Georgia to have a fresh start and attempt to pursue their dreams and open their own restaurant. Since then, my parents have successfully managed two businesses. My older sister, Nadia Garcia, has been like a second mother to me. Because my parents spent a majority of their time working, my sister has been responsible for keeping me on track with school work and making sure I had food to eat after a long day of practices and school. My family has done so much for me and I am very grateful to have them in my life,” Andrea shared.

Andrea Garcia’s future is bright. After graduation, she plans to attend a four year college/university where she will pursue a master’s degree in both Aeronautical engineering and Mechanical Engineering. Hopefully the high school honor student will design and build airplanes to travel around the world.

www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

33

Zebrandon Gant State Wrestling Champion

E

“Failure is a choice, winning is the challenge.” story by Cindy Burbage

ffingham County High School senior, Zebrandon Gant was first introduced to wrestling four years ago. “My friend Austin (A.J.) King and I were jumping on his trampoline one day and he said " Z, have you ever thought about wrestling, would you try out for the wrestling team?” I was going to basketball tryouts, but I changed my mind and went with A.J. instead,” the athlete shared.

His first year of wrestling proved he had natural ability. He went on to state as an alternate wrestler. The following seasons demonstrated he was growing as a competitor. “My 2nd year I placed 3rd in the state. Last year, I placed 2nd in the state. And this year I became the State Champion with a 57-0 record,” he humbly said.

But the 2017-2018 wrestling season was not about the championship; it was to honor a great friend. It was to express to the world what a footprint a comrade had made in Zebrandon’s life. “My friend A.J. was like a big brother to me. We did things together like playing basketball, riding bikes, playing football and fishing. Fishing, I have to say was our favorite. A.J. passed away in an accident on August 5, 2017. I wanted to do something that would honor him, so I went into the 2017-2018 wrestling season with the commitment to practice hard, work even harder- that was what A.J would have done. He was a hard worker. His legacy will live on in those whose life he touched while he was here. That was where the 57-0 record came in. He wasn't the best wrestler, but he was the hardest working one. He had great work ethics”, he

34 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

photos by Shelia Scott

sadly articulated.

It seems that sports in general is “Z”’s niche; he also participates in the football as well. “On the football field, I play several different positions, which include running back, quarterback, linebacker and strong safety. I play where I am needed to get the job done,” the team player voiced.

The football field is not the only field Zebrandon plays on either. The Effingham Rebel is a starting striker for the school’s soccer team. “I was nominated and won at the high school level for the Wendy’s Highschool Heisman. I excel in those sports as well. Failure is a choice, winning is the challenge,” he modestly said. This award is not a simple win; with over 29,000 public and private school scouted for a Heisman winner, “Z” has proved to be that all around athlete and a role model for others.

Being a dedicated sportsman is more than a one-person feat.

Zebrandon is a member of a big family who cheer for him. “I live with my parents, Ricky and Sandra Gant. I have two sisters Miah and Ariana, three brothers Lee, Marques and Jacquavious. I also have three nieces and one nephew. I have lots of support from my other family members and my church,” he proudly admitted.

After high school, the eighteen-year-old plans to attend college and eventually become a marriage counselor.

For Zebrandon Gant’s size, determination and just plain ole hard work has demonstrated to be a good recipe for success. “The other thing that I would like people to know about me is that I am a gentle giant. Most people are intimidated by my size but I would give the shirt off my back and help anyone who needed it. One word that has been used to describe me is humble, it is never about me alone. The best work is teamwork. I owe a special thanks and recognition to Coach Guggino, Coach Jordan, Bobby our athletic trainer, Isiaiah Royal, Alex Williams, Lee Johnson, and my teammates Zekeil Walls and Josh Wright,” the demure gentle giant closed.

The Best Mexican Food In Town

Dining Guide El Real Mexican Restaurant 105 Weisenbaker Road Rincon, GA 31326 912- 826-3524

Omelette Cafe

Mon-Thurs.....11:00AM-10:00PM Fri-Sat..............11:00AM-10:30PM Sun...................11:00AM-10:00PM

105 Weisenbaker Rd.

Rincon, GA 31326

(912)826-3524

8 Locations to serve you!

Open from 6AM - 9PM 7 days a week 405 S. Columbia Ave

(in the Goody’s Plaza on Hwy 21)

~ Remember We Have Take Out Available ~

410 S Columbia Ave, Rincon 10070 Ford Ave, Richmond Hill 325 SE Hwy 80 theomelettecafe.com

WHY ADVERTISE IN EFFINGHAM MAGAZINE? • Only full color, quality of life community magazine in Effingham County.

• Distribution of 10,000 copies gives you maximum exposure in the marketplace.

• Flexible contract options-including advertorial opportunities!

• Promotes positive business culture.

• Average 4-5 readers per magazine.

• Local stories about local people, events and happenings.

• Minimum of 4 week exposure in local market place.

• Ad production by professional design team included in cost.

• Seasoned and creative publisher, writers, photographers and graphic designers.

Effingham Magazine highlights the People, Places and “Things You Want To Know” in and around Effingham County.

Feature articles depict life and people through local stories that showcase our area and it’s people.

Call Me Today To Secure Your Spot In This Award Winning Magazine!

PO Box 1742 Rincon, GA 31326

office: 912-826-2760 cell: 912-652-4120 EffinghamMagazine.com

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

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Email Lea Thornton-Allen at lea@idpmagazines.com to receive our newsletter!

108 International Drive • PO Box 1742 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 826-2760 • www.EffinghamMagazine.com 36 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

Home & Garden

APRIL/MAY 2018

Business as Usual at Wiley’s Home Center

E

ffingham County is experiencing more new construction now than we have seen since 2008. The market is good.

And, the change in the market is a blessing to many.

As the real estate market affects many businesses in our community, it has a major effect on the furniture business. New houses are sure to equal new furniture, and the people of Wiley’s have seen the impact.

Although Wiley’s has been a well-known name in our community for over 31 years, the amount of new clientele has increased dramatically over the last several months.

“New people are walking in our store daily and being pleasantly surprised at the selection and quality we have to offer,” Says Detra Thomas, CEO of Wiley’s Home Center.

Wiley’s is experiencing a more frequent turnover of inventory due to the residential growth. Detra adds, “You can walk in our showroom on a weekly basis and see something different. We are constantly getting in new shipments and changing our displays.”

“We are happy to welcome the new people into our community. It is very refreshing to see new faces walking through our doors, but just as equally rewarding to grab a hug or a kiss from those who have been loyal to us for many years. We are all a big happy family,” adds Detra.

And, family is important to this local business. It has been family owned and operated since inception. In April 1987, Wiley and Rosalyn Thomas opened the doors and welcomed the people of Effingham County and nearby communities in. Their daughter, Detra, joined a year later.

When you walk in the door at Wiley’s, you immediately see a vast display of furnishings. Most furnishing are set in a “room” atmosphere, giving you an idea of

what it will look like in your home.

Don’t forget about the 35,000 square foot warehouse, full of additional inventory. Wiley’s carries over 150 brands of furniture, appliances, bedding and floor coverings, there is something for every taste.

At Wiley’s Home Center, they understand the importance of great customer service and do not underestimate the power of trust and loyalty. Whether you are a new customer or a repeat one, you will be treated like family. Wiley’s Home Center is proud to serve their customers with integ-

rity, honesty, and customer satisfaction When you come to Wiley’s you are always greeted with a friendly, smiling face.

“We often hear customers say that there is not a store like this anywhere in the area that carries the quality of furniture for the price,” Detra states. “Our goal is to provide excellent customer service and same day delivery.”

So, if you are looking for quality furniture at a reputable store, look no further.

Wiley’s Home Center is the expert at “Helping to Make Your House a Home.”

Testimonials "I shop at Wiley’s Home Center because I am treated like I am the most important customer. The staff continues to give quality customer service and is willing to assist you in whatever way necessary.

The kindness and concern expressed by all makes you want to return."

- Stacey Weston

38 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

“I have been shopping at Wiley’s for many years. Detra always has plenty to choose from and makes sure that I am well taken care of… from my purchase to the delivery” -Audrey Hales

“Being fairly new to Effingham County, I had no idea what to expect when I walked through the door at Wiley’s my first time.

Boy, was I impressed. The selection is unbelievable and the quality speaks for itself.

It is by far better than any of the furniture stores I have visited in Savannah.

-Marsha Stewart

Make Your House A Home...

Go By Wiley’s To Make Your Selections Best Selection of Quality Furniture in Effingham County.

Over 35,000 Square Feet of Inventory Just Waiting For You.

Come See Us Today!

Living Rooms... tons of choices

Recliners Many, Colors, Shapes and Styles Bedrooms... for little kids and adults

Dining Room Sets... long, round, square...

Accessories for your whole house

12 Month Same As Cash - Immediate Delivery

HOME CENTER Family owned & operated

912-826-2932 www.wileyshomecenter.com Hwy 21 North, Rincon (Just South Of The Effingham YMCA)

SHOP • DONATE • VOLUNTEER We build strength, stability, self-reliance and shelter Our Vision A world where everyone has a decent place to live Our Mission Statement Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope

3605 Hwy 21 South Rincon, GA www.habitatec.org

About Habitat for Humanity Effingham County Habitat ownership corresponds to…

Hours: of Thursday - Saturday 9amhome - 5pm

Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County is part of a global, • Greater financial security all us tohousing pickorganization up items nonprofit operated on Christian principles The ReStore has something for everyone. that seeks to put God’s love into action by building homes, com- • Less reliance on public assistance Increased confidence to fund munities andlike hope. Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County • Used• and surplus buildingin ability materials u would to donate. is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and children’s college education furniture, appliances and household goods worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating • andUsed preserving • Increased feelings of safety 912-826-1476 homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by

• Stronger feelings of community

providing training and access to resources to help families imconnectedness and civic engagement prove their shelter conditions. Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should • Positive changes in family dynamics have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and • Enhanced feelings of personal well-being that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.

The Effingham County affiliate was incorporated in 1995 by a group of Effingham County residents led by Morris Oglesby of Rincon.

PO BOX 578 • Springfield, GA (912) 826-0578 • habitatec.org

every smile

comes from a place of safety and security that only a home can bring.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to build a better life.

Donate or volunteer at habitatec.org.

of Effingham County

40 April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

D

iAnna Jenkins and Kimberly Stalnaker make up a dynamic real estate team. These ladies are both licensed with Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty in Rincon.

They are only a “team” in the name of real estate, but they don’t call themselves a team. They are equal partners.

And, this partnership gives their clients a phenomenal “two for one” deal.

Recently, these ladies have become affiliates with the “Homes For Heroes” program. Homes for Heroes’ mission is to provide savings to heroes who provide services to our nation and its communities. Heroes include: firefighters, law enforcement, military (active, reserves and veterans), healthcare workers, EMS and teachers. Participating sellers receive reduced listing commissions and participating buyers will receive a check about two weeks after their closing in appreciation for their service. The amount of reward is based on the sales price of the home.

Both Kim and DiAnna are very excited about their new affiliation with this program. “It is a wonderful way for us to serve our community. We have helped so many military families and law enforcement find their dream homes. Now, we can do this as a way of giving back to those who serve us,” states DiAnna.

“My dad was a proud veteran. He served in both the Marines

and the Army. In this last election, my father had me get him an absentee ballot, so he could fill it out from his death bed. He felt it was that important to vote,” says Kim, “He died five days before the presidential election, but his vote was in.”

Kim and DiAnna both live in Effingham County. They have both been licensed since 2003. DiAnna states, we are licensed to sell all over the state, but Effingham is the area we love.”

These ladies start every day with prayer together. They pray for their buyers and sellers, and for their families and friends. Kim says, “We feel this is important to us. It is first and foremost that we give thanks to God for our business.”

If you are looking to buy or sell, give this team…no…give this partnership a call. From backroads to beaches, and everywhere in between, DiAnna and Kim will get you home!

Some of Our Current Properties

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Available Building Lots:

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IT IS IMPORTANT TO BUI

NLMS 665216 | GA 41830 | FL L024665 | SC MLO-665216

C 912-657-2957 | O 912-826-0927 RickySellsGA@Gmail.com www.RickySellsGeorgia.com

Whether you contact a Realtor first or a Mortgage Lender, it is crucial to shop with confidence. That means getting a pre-qualification letter. I take the detailed steps to get to know you on a personal level and figure out the best way to get you financed. There are many programs available for various financial situations, that’s why my job is to help simplify the process. Find a lender you trust who is going to educate you throughout the mortgage journey and work well with everyone involved in your home purchase.

After your lender gets you pre-qualified, hire a Realtor like me.

Don’t worry, I work off the commission provided by the seller’s side so there is no out of pocket expenses from the buyer. As your Realtor, I will provide you with the tools and knowledge to find you the best home that fits your needs within your budget.

I will handle EVERYTHING from contract to close. A Realtor carries his client through the entire transaction from ensuring you get in touch with the right mortgage provider to picking out the perfect house and negotiating the purchase price to educating you and helping you schedule the inspector and setting you up with the right closing Attorney. My job is to ensure your best interest in the transaction. Need to sell your home first? I can do that too and provide a competitive rate!

C 912-656-3524 | O 912-417-3123 Ivy.Eilerman@OnQFinancial.com www.Ivy.OnQFinancial.com

IVY EILERMAN

MORTGAGE CONSULTANT On Q Financial

RICKY EILERMAN

REALTOR Coldwell Banker Intercoastal

CONTACT A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL TODAY AND LE Photography by Lacie Wiggins; Southern Lens Photography

ILD A TEAM YOU TRUST.

C 912-856-9325 CapwellHomeInspections@Yahoo.com

C 912-691-0943 mrt@mjlawpc.com

Having your home inspected by a certified Home Inspector like me is important. What’s a home Inspection? It’s a professional evaluation of the current condition of a home that you are looking to buy or sell! The results of my report help you to make an educated home purchase. As a certified Inspector, I bring valuable knowledge to the table to help you feel secure in moving forward with the offer. I’ll send a detailed report to you and your Realtor. He or she can negotiate getting defects fixed or even renegotiating the price!

Let’s get that house Capwell Approved!

Remember...“walls can’t talk”

When our office receives a contract from the real estate agent or a title request from the lender, our team gets to work on the legal side of transferring ownership of the property. We provide legal guidance to individuals relating to the purchase or sale of real property. We prepare and review documents relating to real estate transactions such as purchase agreements, lien documents, title insurance policies and other closing documents. Our staff remains in constant contact with your Realtor and Lender to ensure a smooth closing. It is my job, as your Attorney, to make sure that when you leave our closing table you have a complete understanding of the documents you have signed and that your interest in your property is protected.

ANDREW CAPWELL

HOME INSPECTOR Capwell Home Inspections

ET’S GET STARTED!

MATT TOLER

REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY McManamy Jackson Law

On Q Financial, Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender. Loan approval is subject to applicant’s qualification for a loan program. On Q Financial does not guarantee that each applicant will receive a loan. NMLS 5645 | GA 22050 | SC MLS5645 | FL MLD1131 | IE0404180681Y000003h5jX

New Life…New Owner

Dawn Usher Takes The Reigns at New Life Flowers and Gifts It’s been business as usual at New Life Flowers and Gifts. Not many people would even recognize any changes at all. But…there has been a big change…Stephanie Long has sold the business to long-time employee, Dawn Usher.

“Dawn was the very first full-time employee I ever hired. She had been with me, off and on, for the past 28 years. She and I have seen a lot of changes together, and I am happy to see her moving forward with the business. The reigns are now in her hands and I wish her the very best,” states Stephanie.

Dawn started in this industry in May of 1979 at Flowers-nThings in Rincon. They are no longer in business. With a total of 39 years in the industry, her talent in floral design has just continued to grow.

“This has been a life-long dream. I have always wanted to own my own flower shop,” Dawn says.

For the past several years, Stephanie has thought of selling the shop. But, as they say, timing is everything. So, when she was ready, she approached Dawn with her idea.

“I had no idea if I could pull it off, but I asked her to give me a number. We were able to work it out, and here I am,” says Dawn of her recent purchase.

The actual change of ownership happened on January 1 of this year. Yes, it has been four months now, and the shop is running full steam ahead. “We have been extremely busy since the change, work has been very steady,” adds Dawn.

Dawn wants all her customers to know that New Life Flowers and Gifts still offers the same great products and services as always. Fresh flowers bring new life and energy to any space. So, always think of them when it’s time for a new arrangement for any occasion.

New Life Flowers and Gifts is not just a florist. It is a gift shop stocking all the latest and best gift items, and they carry unique items to decorate any room in your home.

Dawn is proud to carry on the tradition of New Life…being the florist and gift shop that makes the ordinary, extraordinary.

So, stop by and congratulate Dawn on her new venture. She and her staff will continue to give you the “little extra” that helps set them apart.

Spruce Up Your Home...

HOME INTERIOR AND DECOR

(912) 826-4261 Hwy 21 - Rincon 44

April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

Looking for Lawn Equipment?

Gnann's Fix-It is the place to go.

G

nann's Fix-It Shop was founded in 1964 by Bowers Gnann, Jr.and was originally a small-town repair shop intended to fix small appliances such as lamps, toasters, electric irons, etc. Today, over 50 years later, Gnann's is still running strong; now specializing in sales and service of power machinery and lawn equipment such as lawn mowers, chain saws, tillers, and the like.

Although this small, family-oriented business has grown considerably from its humble roots, the core values of sales and service has not shifted in the least. Gnann's Fix-It is now owned and operated by Clarence and Charlie Gnann, two of the sons of founder Bowers Gnann. Both Clarence and Charlie grew up working in the store and both know the business from the ground up.

Gnann's Fix-It Shop is more than simply a repair shop. They are certified dealers of well-known and reliable brand names such as Snapper, Stihl, Exmark, Billy Goat, Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Tecumseh, and more.

Gnann's Fix-It stands behind all of their equipment 100% and are always available to answer any power equipment questions you may have, even if you did not purchase it from them. Gnann's offers full service on most equipment, and has a well-trained staff of friendly and knowledgeable mechanics and sales personnel.

If you prefer to repair your equipment yourself, Gnann's can

also help with that. Their parts department is stocked with a wide variety of various parts for all types of lawn equipment, and if they don't have it in stock, chances are they can get it within a short amount of time.

If friendly, reliable, and honest service is what you are looking for, Gnann's Fix-It Shop is the way to go. Whether you need new equipment, need old equipment repaired, or are just seeking the expertise of qualified and responsible mechanics, Gnann's Fix-It can help satisfy all of your lawn and garden needs.

Gnann's Fix-It Shop is located at 1015 South Laurel Street, and is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm and on Saturday 8 am to 12 pm. Their telephone number is (912) 754-3745.

12995

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IMMER

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GNANN’S FIX-IT SHOP

“This is absolutely the best blower I have ever purchased. It is a great piece of equipment NEW! FSA for 56the price, plus with the STIHL name, it has BATTERY-POWERED dependability I can count on.”

NEW! BGA 56 BATTERY-POWERED HANDHELD BLOWER

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1015 S LAUREL STREET PO BOX 351 SPRINGFIELD, GA 31329 NEW! FSA 56

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Includes AK 20 battery and AL 101 charger.

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Lightweight handheld blower – just 7.3 lbs. with AK 20 battery

Lightweight trimmer – just 7.3 lbs. with AK 10 battery

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Check out these reviews and others on the product pages at STIHLdealers.com.

† Includes AK are 20DSRP. battery AL 101 charger.

Includes AKguide 10 bar battery ALthe101 charger.

The actual listed length mayand vary from effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on. © 2017 STIHL All prices Availableand at participating dealers while supplies last.

“This is absolutely the best blower I have ever purchased. It is a great piece of equipment for the price, plus with the STIHL name, it has dependability I can count on.”

Lightweight handheld blower – just 7.3 lbs. with AK 20 battery

GNANN'S FIX-IT SHOP INC Lightweight trimmer – just 7.3 lbs. with AK 10 battery

1015 S LAUREL STREET • SPRINGFIELD, GA 31329-0351

– user TL805

912-754-3745

Check out these reviews and others on the product pages at STIHLdealers.com.

All prices are DSRP. Available at participating dealers while supplies last. †The actual listed guide bar length may vary from the effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on. © 2017 STIHL

GNANN'S FIX-IT SHOP INC

STIHLdealers.com

www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

1015 S LAUREL STREET • SPRINGFIELD, GA 31329-0351

45

nal Mortgage tgage Company… dest Mortgage Company…

International Mortgage oN THE $8000 TAx Mortgage CREDIT International Mortgage International Mortgage nal Mortgage CELEBRATING $8000 TAx CREDIT28 YEARS

Effingham County’s Oldest Mortgage Company…

Effingham County’s Oldest Mortgage Company…

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CAll FoR DETAIlS oN THE $8000 TAx CREDIT CAll FoR DETAIlS oN THE $8000 TAx CREDIT • 100% Packages CAllFinancing FoR DETAIlS oN THE $8000 TAx CREDIT • 100% Financing Packages • 100% Financing Packages • First Time Buyer Programs • First Time Buyer Programs 100% Buyer Financing Packages • First• Time Programs • Debt Consolidation • First Time Buyer Programs • Debt Consolidation • Debt Consolidation • Construction Loans • Debt Consolidation Financing Packages • Construction Loans • Purchases • Construction Loans • Construction Loans • Purchases me Buyer Programs • Purchases • Refinances • 100% Financing Packages • Refinances • Refinances • Purchases • VA Loans onsolidation • VA Loans • First Time Buyer Programs • VA Loans • Free Consultations Jane Hughes • Free• Free Consultations • Refinances Consultations Jane JaneHughes Hughes • Home Improvement Loans uction• Debt LoansConsolidation • Home • Climate & Non-Climate Controlled Storage • Home Improvement Loans Improvement Loans • VA Loans (912) 826-5386 • Fax: (912) 826-4556 826-5386 • Fax: (912)826-4556 826-4556 • RV & Boat Storage ses • Construction Loans (912)(912) 826-5386 •McCall Fax: (912) • Rincon, GA 55055505 McCall RoadRoad • Rincon, GA 5505 McCall Road • Rincon, GA • Free Consultations • Boxes & Packing Supplies Serving Effingham County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia Serving Effingham County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia Jane Hughes nces • Purchases Serving Effingham County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia PRESIDENT Home Improvement Loans • Budget Truck Rentals ns ••Refinances onsultations (912) 826-5386 •Programs Fax: (912) 826-4556 • VA Loans • First Time Buyer - 100% USDA Jane Hughes PRESIDENT • FHA, VA & Conventional • Construction LoansGA • Purchases 5505 McCall Road • Rincon, mprovement Loans • Free Consultations Jane Hughes Hughes Jane • Serving Refinances • Free Consultations • Home Improvement Loans PRESIDENT Effingham County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia PRESIDENT • Home Improvement Loans 26-5386 • Fax: (912) 826-4556

N THE $8000 TAx CREDIT

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(912) 826-5386 • Fax: (912) 826-4556 Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee#5748 505 McCall • Rincon, (912)Road 826-5386 • GA Fax: (912) 826-4556 hughes@internationalmortgage.com McCall • Rincon, GA ingham County, surrounding areas Road & Road all of••Georgia 55055505 McCall Road Rincon, GA 5505 McCall Rincon, GA Serving Effingham County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia

Residentialsurrounding Mortgage Licensee#5748areas & all of Georgia Serving Effingham EffinghamGeorgia County, Serving County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia

GRMA#26250 GRMA#26250

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NMLS# 158359 (Novella J. Hughes) GeorgiaResidential Residential Mortgage Licensee#5748 NMLS# 158273 (International Mortgage Co.,Mortgage Inc.) Licensee#5748 Georgia

April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

www.21SouthMiniStorage.com

826-3623

Hwy. 21 at McCall Road 5540 McCall Road

Quality Workmanship...the First time!

S

pring is a season for new beginnings. Take a look around your home and think about what you want to make “new”. Martin Construction can take your ideas and make them a reality. Martin Construction can do renovations, additions, preventive maintenance, and repairs. We offer flexible scheduling and keep your project stress free. So if you’ve outgrown your current living space or just need a makeover, call Jesse and Cindy to tackle whatever project you have in mind for your home.

y Call m iMi for M a and on needs p m u r i G struct ! n o c r you airs or rep

Jesse Martin (912) 429-5488 Cindy Martin (912) 429-2120

PO Box 2358 • Rincon, GA

jcmjr1959@aol.com

www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

47

Thank You For Reading (912) 826-2760 www.EffinghamMagazine.com 108 International Boulevard, Rincon, GA 31326

Helping You Find Home!

Real Estate Without The Hassle Whether listing or selling, I will be with you from start to finish!

Julie Hales 5805 Hwy 21 S. â&#x20AC;˘ Rincon, GA

(912) 826-0927

(912) 657-4120

jhales346@windstream.net

www.RinconColdwellBanker.com

Let B & M Pool Spa & Patio Create Your Vacation At Home

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backyard swimming pool is the perfect place to spend long summer days. Whether you want a large pool for afternoons of family fun, a uniquely shaped pool to blend in as a centerpiece within your backyard landscaping, or a simple pool for exercising or relaxing, B & M Pool, Spa & Patio can create a beautiful backyard water environment tailored to fulfill your dreams and stay within your budget.

B & M Pools is ready for summer! They are your complete backyard resource, specializing in in-ground vinyl liner and leisure pools and Doughboy above ground pools and Marquis Spas.

They have everything it takes to turn your backyard into a summer oasis.

And, what backyard would be complete without a grill? There's nothing like a good old-fashioned cookout! B & M Pools is a proud carrier of Holland Grills and they are your local retailer of the Big Green Egg. Searching for stress relief? You just found it! B & M carries the Marquis Spa line. These spas provide you with the ability to relax and unwind after a long day. They are available in a variety of styles and colors to suit your needs, each of these models is suitable for your family’s enjoyment. Their creative and innovative designs that provide you the ultimate soaking experience, cost less to operate, and require the least amount of maintenance.

Marquis also offers swim spas. The Aquatic Training Vessel will elevate your swim spa experience. Marquis has focused on

power and hydrodynamic flow to give you the ability to control the flow and adapt it to your fitness level and goals. The ATV will help you optimize your swim training, fitness, health, and wellness.

B & M Pools also service your existing pool with renovations, liner replacements, repairs and part replacements. They stock a full product line for pool and spa maintenance, along with some very cool and unique accessories.

B & M has everything you need to have a summer vacation...at home...in your own backyard. Go see them today and transform your yard into fun in the sun!

Turn Your Backyard Into A Summer Play Ground...

• Quality Inground Vinyl Liner Pool Construction • Leisure Fiberglass Pools • Doughboy Above Ground Pools • Holland Grills • Evergreen Flags • Big Green Eggs • Marquis Spas

One-Stop Pool Shop

B & M Pools is your complete backyard resource specializing in inground vinyl liner and Leisure fiberglass pools, Doughboy above-ground pools and Marquis Spas.

Call For Your In Home Consultation (912) 826-1997 6020 Highway 21 S., Rincon • www.bandmpools.com

www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

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Leading the way in Effingham County

Sue Anderson of Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty Receives Top Honors

S

elling real estate is more than just getting listings and buyers. It is helping people find their dream home and making it a smooth and pleasant transaction.

Local Realtor, Sue Anderson. has been helping families find their dream homes for almost 35 years. She has earned both local and national recognition as one of the top Real Estate agents in her field. She has been awarded Agent of the Year at Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty every year since 2011.

And, 2017 was no different. Not only has Sue Anderson been named 2017 Agent of the Year again in our local office, she has also been awarded the number three spot in the state of Georgia for Coldwell Banker.

“When we had our awards banquet, I was in shock. I had no idea I was ranked number three in the state. I just don’t keep up with that sort of thing. It’s not about the number of houses, it’s about the people you help along the way,” stated Sue of her recent accomplishments.

“She’s an amazing Realtor and person” says Carmen Cribbs, Broker for Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty.

“She is one of the most modest and kind people that you will ever meet. She is committed to her customers and clients and wants to provide the highest quality of service to them. I am so very proud to be associated with her and have her as part of our Coldwell Banker family.”

Sue contributes her years of success and longevity to integrity, old fashioned hard work and strong negotiating skills.

Her career in real estate centers on providing quality service to her clients.

Specializing in Southeast Georgia, Sue markets both resale and new construction. Sue’s clients remain loyal with referrals being a big part of her business.

She also has a passion for decorating, which enables her to assist sellers with getting their homes in “show condition” for buyers.

“Effingham County offers an excellent inventory of homes for sale, with home options ranging from new homes

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to re-sales in all price ranges. With the incredible access to the internet, the way buyers shop for real estate has changed significantly over the past several years.

I listen carefully to my clients and identify their real estate needs,” says Sue Sue also started doing some rental management about two years ago. At that time, she hired an assistant, Steve Ellis, that she can’t say enough good things about. “Steve is excellent. He has grown so much in knowledge over the past couple of years. There is no way I could do all that I do without him. Not only does he list and sell as well, he is amazing in the rental part of my business,” Sue adds.

Brandi Talton, owner of Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty, says, “I am so proud of Sue and all her accomplishments. She is definitely a leader and mentor to many of our agents. She,

April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

along with each of our other agents and staff members, help to make us the company we are today. I could not be any prouder of our team.”

Sue has one daughter, Danielle Young, who graduated from the Medical College of Georgia. Danielle is currently in her first year of residency in Pediatrics at Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville. Danielle’s husband, Porter, is in his second year of residency as an Orthopedic Surgeon at Shands Hospital, also in Jacksonville.

In Sue’s downtime, she enjoys going to estate sales, and spending time at her home away from home, St. Simons Island.

If you are looking for an agent, and want one of the best, Call Sue Anderson.

Her detail to professionalism and her commitment to service is sure to make Sue the agent you are looking for.

Work With A Winner... Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty

Congratulations

AGENT OF THE YEAR

International Presidents Premier

Sue Anderson

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR Danielle Kirkland

INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTS ELITE James Presnell

INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTS CIRCLE Jennifer Rabon

International Sterling Society

Carmen Cribbs

Alice Hurst

Sherry Murphy

Judy Quinney

Lyndsay Smith

INTERNATIONAL DIAMOND SOCIETY Ricky Eilerman

DiAnna Jenkins

Kimberly Stalnaker

Office Staff Available 7 Days A Week 5805 Hwy 21 S • Rincon, GA 31326 912-826-0927 • 877-826-0926

Each Office is Independentally Owned and Operated

A portion of all Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty proceeds are donated to local charities.

Traci Wells

Selling Effingham County Properties

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April/May 2018 | www.EffinghamMagazine.Com

T

raci Wells has enjoyed great success as a Realtor for over 15 years. Therefore, it is no coincidence that when Traci made the decision five years ago to join a local firm with global exposure, she joined Cora Bett Thomas Realty.

As a result of this successful partnership, Traci has been able to make a difference in the lives of her clients in Chatham, Bryan, Bulloch, Effingham and surrounding counties. Interestingly, a real source of pride for Traci is the company’s relocation and referral department. She mentions, “We have a phenomenal relocation department. We are contacted by potential clients from different parts of the world as well.”

More importantly, when Traci meets with clients she is actively listening to their vision along with their needs and desires for their new home. This intuitive approach, coupled with Traci’s vast experience, is the formula for success for her clients in finding and purchasing the house they will call home.

Whether it is a couple purchasing their first home or a client who is selling their home to move on to a different chapter in their life, Traci is enthusiastic and passionate about her work. Helping clients fulfill their dream remains the most rewarding aspect of her career and the biggest reason Traci continues to love what she does, each and every day.

Traci and her husband, Andy, are natives of Bryan County and now reside in Effingham. However, banking was Traci’s initial profession, though real estate proved to be a better fit. This financial experience compliments her real estate career. Success in both of these complex fields require great attention to detail and an ability to understand and communicate with people from all walks of life. Traci possesses that unique ability.

She remarked, “Banking is a great background to have! Once I entered into the world of real estate, I was intrigued as to “how and why” these processes work. I have always wanted to know the nuts and bolts of everything”. With Andy’s background as an independent construction contractor, this proved to be Traci’s greatest motivator and encourager as she began to move towards a career in real estate. “He taught me the new construction background. Working with and learning from Andy has proved to be invaluable.”

Traci considers it a privilege to be a part of Cora Bett Thomas Realty, who has set an unparalleled standard in the local market.

Notably, Cora Bett Thomas Realty is not a franchise, but is indeed “globally networked just like a franchise.” The benefits include a higher degree of capitalization on meeting customers’ needs and industry demands, as well as allowing the company to have a complete customer focus and client goal-orientation.

She explains that though the company has an inception date of 1995, Cora Bett has been in real estate industry for much longer.

Cora Bett is an expert in the ins-and-outs of real estate, enabling her to develop and maintain an exclusive brand. Cora Bett

Thomas Realty is renowned for the firm’s downtown Savannah presence. The addition of Traci to the office allows for the opportunity to respond to the market growth demands occurring on the outskirts of Savannah. Traci is thrilled to be able to focus on the outlying counties. She remains confident that the company can accommodate her clients’ needs while offering an unparalleled level of service.

Traci is thankful to be a part of such a professional and supportive team. She asserts, “we all support each other; we work hand-in-hand together. The company provides us with all the necessary and most up-to-date tools to get our jobs done – and done well.”

More importantly, the market is still climbing out of the slump caused by the 2008 crash, Traci feels that the market is on a course of steady incline. She explains, “you do not want a rapid incline; you want a steady incline – that is what makes the economy turn.” Furthermore, Traci is pleased with the course set

by Cora Betty Thomas Realty. She adds, “I feel that the company is going in the right direction for what the market and economy allow.”

As a Realtor, Traci has many accomplishments. She is a member of the Savannah Board of Realtors, the Georgia Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors, and has served on the Community Housing Committee for Pembroke for quite some time. She was also named Cora Bett Thomas Realty’s 2016 Agent of the Year. She does feel that working with an outstanding team of professionals and a company of unparalleled service while being able to fulfill dreams is her greatest success.

In addition to her Realtor status, Traci has her Council of Residential Specialist (CRS) designation. To obtain a CRS status, “Realtors must meet a number of stringent requirements that combine advanced hours of education and training, experience and demonstrated success in the marketplace.” This certifies that the individual “has completed advanced professional training and demonstrated outstanding professional achievement in residential real estate.” This small community of distinguished agents are among the top three percent of all Realtors in the United States. Traci takes pride in her CRS designation, as it is an accolade that she takes tremendous pride in and feels it sets her apart from others in the industry.

In her spare time, Traci enjoys spending time with her family and traveling with her husband. They are both NASCAR enthusiasts, traveling to races whenever possible.

Over the span of her career,Traci has employed many different methods of selling and marketing, learned endless new regulations, and scouted new markets. She and Cora Bett Thomas Realty have set new standards as they continually strive for excellence in an ever-changing real estate world, filled with endless possibilities.

Cora Bett Thomas Realty 13 East York Street • Savannah, GA O: (912) 233-6000 F: (912) 233-2447 M: (912) 657-0577

www.CoraBettThomas.com

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2017 23

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www.EffinghamMagazine.com | April/May 2018

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