May/June 2017
Jackie Tatum
Volunteering for Hospice Savannah’s Pet Peace of Mind
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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. Tonya Chester Perry is a married mother of two children. She is a full time photographer with a studio based in Rincon. She graduated from college with a degree in business. She is originally from Louisiana. After living in different states, she now resides in Effingham County. She is a Maternity, Newborn, Child, High School Senior and Wedding Photographer. When not working, she enjoys spending her time with her husband and kids.
Cindy Burbage
is a native of Richmond Hill. She began writing in college and took a hiatus to raise her four beautiful children. Cindy enjoys traveling and is always ready for a road trip. She believes that faith is greater than fear.
Susan Lee
began her writing career more than 25 years ago when she served in the U.S. Air Force as a military journalist stationed in Washington, D.C. After completing her tour of duty, Susan stayed on as a civilian employee in Washington, working for more than 10 years as Public Relations Director for the Air Force’s Services Division. She moved from D.C. to Effingham County in 1996 after meeting her husband, Springfield native Wesley Lee. She has continued to work in public relations and marketing throughout the years and is excited to now focus more on her writing.
SUBSCRIBE Make sure you never miss a copy of Pooler’s only full-color lifestyle magazine. Sign-up on-line at www.PoolerMagazine.com FOLLOW US on Facebook. Check-out our Facebook page and keep up with the exciting things happening in Pooler.You’ll find us at Pooler Magazine. TWEET We’re on twitter! INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram to see behind the scene photos from our articles! Tag your own Pooler photos with our tag #PoolerMagazine! WRITE US Write to us and tell us what you think. Pooler Magazine welcomes all letters to the publisher. 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 publisher must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published. ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Pooler 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 Julie 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 Pooler.
Shelia Scott is an Effingham County native and Salzburg descendent. She has been married to her husband, and 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 family, she’s off somewhere, camera in hand looking for the next amazing shot!
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CONTENTS May/June 2017
14
Pooler MOPS
22
Pooler Recreation Spotlight: Hamp Jones
08 Jackie Tatum:
Hospice Savannah’s Pet Peace of Mind 22
07
Hospice Savannah Opens Thrift Shoppe in Pooler Departments
Publisher’s Letter
Specials 29
Home and Garden
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26
Amy Lee Westervelt: The Pygmalion Effect
“Springing” Into Action Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Lea Allen administrative assistant/circulation lea@idpmagazines.com Wanda Hendricks Simmons account executive wanda@idpmagazines.com
Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:
PUBLISHER’S Thoughts
Spring is here and summer is right around the corner! The days are longer, the nights are warmer and the people of Pooler are “springing” into action. This time of year always brings change. We get outside more. We start taking on home projects.....painting, gardening....we even get motivated to change some things inside as well... new furniture, blinds, decorations...just overall sprucing up. At this time every year, we bring you our annual Home and Garden issue. This section serves as a good tool for you to call on local people to help you get these jobs done. From building to real estate to furniture to home owner’s insurance, we have everything you need to help you get your home on track before summer. Julie Hales, PUBLISHER As always, we have featured some of Pooler’s amazing residents. There is always someone in our community that is doing something special to give back. Jackie Tatum is one of these people. She has been volunteering her time for the last several years to Hospice Savannah’s Pet Peace of Mind program. This is a fantastic story about this lady who helps out with the pets of Hospice patients, either to help the caregiver for awhile or to find new homes for them after the owner’s passing. What a great story...make sure you read this one! There is never a shortage of material with communities as wonderful as Pooler. So go ahead and turn the page and familiarize yourself with a few more people from your neighborhood.
108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 3126 (912) 826-2760 CIRCULATION: Pooler 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 Do you love your pet? Do you wonder what will happen to your pet if something happens to you? Meet Jackie Tatum. She works with Hospice Savannah to help put your mind at ease!
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JACKIE TATUM:
Hospice Savannah’s Pet Peace of Mind
A
Story by SUSAN LEE
Photos provided by SHELIA SCOTT
ccording to Jackie Tatum, “You have that one car and that one dog in your life.” For Jackie, that dog was her German Shepherd, Nicko. “It was right after I got divorced and I was a young mom,” she said. “He was very protective of us, like he was the man of the house. He would get upset if I even danced with someone. When my daughter stepped on a nail one day and was crying, he wouldn’t let anyone near her. He died at the age of 14 and it took me a really long time to deal with it.
of animals. For the last several years, she has volunteered with Hospice Savannah’s Pet Peace of Mind. “The program was created to relieve some of the burden from the caregiver while the patient is in the final stages of life,” she explained. “We do anything we can to help the family take care of the patient’s pets, which they usually consider a member of the family. That includes taking pets to the vet, getting them groomed, taking them for walks and keeping them stocked with food. Hospice patients want to know that their family is taken care of and that includes their pets.”
“He was the one, the dog of my life.”
Jackie remembers a case a few years ago of a woman and her two beloved dogs. “She had been in hospice care as an outpatient for a couple of months and her family said they were going to take care of her dogs,” she recalled. “But when the patient was moved to Hospice House, the family said they didn’t want the dogs. Jackie stepped in and took the dogs to foster them at her Critter Sit facility until they could be placed in suitable homes. After a few months, she found a home for one of the dogs but it was another six weeks before they placed the other one.
It was Jackie’s love of dogs that gave her the idea to start her daycare for dogs, Critter Sit. Located in Garden City, she describes her business as “a place where a dog can be a dog, running around, playing and socializing with other dogs.” The facility features seven play yards, agility courses and a covered pavilion for individual and group activities. When she’s not at Critter Sit, Jackie devotes her free time to the care and welfare
“The patient had been so worried about her dogs,” said Jackie. “The day after we told her the second dog had a home, she passed away. It was like she had been holding on until she knew they were both okay.” Jackie’s currently fostering a one-year-old male terrier mix for a Hospice Savannah patient and is hoping to find the sweet pup, “Copper,” the right owners who can give him a loving new home. “Dogs love unconditionally and do grieve when they lose their owner,” she said. “But if they are given the opportunity to love again and build a new relationship, they will. That’s why it’s important to give animals from shelters or rescue groups a chance at a new life.” Hospice Savannah volunteer coordinator Christy Fulcher has known Jackie for many years. “She is the most animal-loving person I know,” she said. “She volunteers with her certified therapy dog for us, and is also the face of our Pet Peace of Mind program - she helps get the word out at community events.”
cancer. “He lived in Atlanta but came to visit me and told me he really wanted to live the rest of his life here in Savannah, where we grew up,” she said. “I told him we’ll do whatever we have to do to make it work. Hospice brought a hospital bed to my home along with everything I needed to take care of him and be there for him until he passed.” In addition to her volunteer work with Hospice Savannah, Jackie is also director of Therapy Dog International’s Savannah chapter. She and her therapy dog, Vanilla, a Great Pyrenees, are regular visitors to Hospice Savannah. “Patients love the pet therapy,” said Jackie. “They love to tell you stories about their dogs and all about the dogs they had growing up. Even if the patient doesn’t like dogs, the family members often want to see and pet the dog. I just know that if I’m ever in the position these patients are in and I’m not able to have my own dogs, I would really want someone to bring in a dog to see me.” Every month, she holds TDI sessions for prospective therapy dogs at her Critter Sit facility. Her clinics are for dogs and their owners who need a bit more training or practice as therapy dogs. “We work with the dogs to make sure they’re prepared for all situations they might face as a therapy dog,” said Jackie. “For example, According to Beth Logan, Director of Marketing and Volunteer Services for Hospice Savannah, the Pet Peace of Mind program began in 2013. “Christy and I went to a presentation by the veterinarian who started the program nationally for not-for-profit hospices,” said Beth. “We were so impressed by the idea, we knew immediately that we wanted to implement it for our patients. For many of them, their pets are more beloved to them, and more loving to them, than their own family members are. It just felt like the right thing to do that we extend the compassion we offer to our patients to their pets too.” Beth added that while Hospice Savannah received a small start-up grant from the Banfield Charitable Trust, Pet Peace of Mind now depends on the generosity of donors in the community to sustain the program. Jackie knows firsthand all about the valuable services offered by Hospice Savannah. Her younger brother, Rick (Sowell) passed away a year ago from
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I have wheelchairs, hospital beds and crutches here, which we use to get the dogs comfortable around the equipment.” The therapy dog certification test is also held at the center, drawing people and dogs from as far away as Atlanta and Florida. Dogs who pass the TDI test are registered nationally. Jackie has also been involved with the Savannah Kennel Club since 2009 and has served as a board member off and on for the past six years. She’s currently the club’s treasurer. The club will host their annual dog show this December at Red Gate Farms, as well as “Responsible Dog Ownership Day” at Daffin Park in September. Her passion for animals goes back as far as she can remember. Jackie grew up in Savannah, the daughter of Charles Sowell, a railroad employee, and Aline, a medical transcriber. Her parents adopted her as an infant; she was born in July and they brought her home on Christmas Eve. She had pets throughout her childhood, but never as many as she would have wanted. Jackie laughs when she looks back on the time she asked her mom if she could have Wallabees, the suede shoes that were popular back then. Her mom responded, “I told you, no more animals!”
Jackie graduated from Beach High School, then went on to study computer science at Draughons Junior College, now South College. She moved out to Pooler and soon enough had dogs, horses, goats, sheep, ducks and chickens. “My parents used to joke that my biological parents must have been farmers,” she said. To help cover the costs of feeding and caring for her animals while she was in college, Jackie took a part time job at a vet clinic, cleaning out the kennels. Veterinary care turned out to be a perfect fit for Jackie, as she went on to work in the field for 25 years, managing an animal hospital for 16 of those years. Jackie still lives in Pooler, on five acres of land she bought 30 years ago after her divorce. “I bought the property back when Pooler was quiet and wooded, but now I’m surrounded by subdivisions,” she said. Her two children are grown now: her daughter, Tiffany, is 30 and her son, Barrett, is 24. The rest of her family includes two parrots, some fish, two miniature horses named Cocoa Puff and Marmalade, and two therapy dogs, Vanilla and an Australian shepherd named Pants.
The memory of Nicko, that “one dog,” lives on in a young German Shepherd named Reuger who’s also very protective of her. “It had been a long time since I had a puppy,” said Jackie. “My last 4 or 5 dogs were adult dogs, all rescues. I forgot how much work it took to take care of one. It was like having another baby.” And if you’re wondering about “that one car” of Jackie’s life, it was one she owned in the mid-80’s, a car as distinctive and spirited as Jackie. A 1976 Dodge Demon, gold with a black hood scoop. For more information about Hospice Savannah’s Pet Peace of Mind, call (912) 629-1048. To find out how you can support the program, contact the Hospice Savannah Foundation at (912) 6291055. For more information about dog daycare services at Critter Sit, or about Savannah’s Chapter of Therapy Dog International, call (912)238-0067 or visit www.crittersit.com.
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Jennifer mullis and mops international: Sharing Is Caring
“There is no way to be a perfect mother, and a million ways to be a good one.” ~Jill Churchill
M
Story by KATRICE WILLIAMS
OPS International, Inc., or Mothers of Preschoolers, is a Denver-based non-profit organization which began in Wheat Ridge, Colorado in 1973 by a small group of mothers. The first meeting included the moms sharing their mommy-experiences, laughing together, learning together and having fun with crafts and devotion. They soon pooled their experiences, skills and creativities into the new organization. Hence, a community of mothers was formed, which has tremendously grown over the years. Currently, there are MOPS groups all over the country and the world, which connect communities of moms in various cities. The organization focuses on moms with children 0-5 years old; it also welcomes expecting mothers. MOPS feel that motherhood is a gift to be celebrated and understands that properly “raising human beings is beautiful and hard, and having each other to lean on is life-saving.” Based at First Presbyterian Church in Pooler, where John Fender is the pastor and Michael Brown is the assistant pastor, the Pooler MOPS organization has existed for about eight years.
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Photos by TONYA PERRY
Their mission is: “to create a supportive community based in love and service, dedicated to bringing women closer to Jesus and equip them to grow as women, mothers and leaders.” Jennifer Mullis, who is also a member of First Presbyterian, has been part of the local MOPS group for about two years now. Jennifer, a Macon native, moved to Pooler over three years ago. In fact, she and her husband, Stephen, relocated to the area from Macon when their baby boy Isaiah was only two weeks old. Presently, Jennifer and Carlie Martin, who are also members of First Presbyterian, are co-coordinators of the Pooler MOPS group. There are currently about 40 members, 12 of which are members of the group’s steering team--group leaders who are responsible for planning meetings, coordinating and leading group activities and implementing various programs. Ladies who have been members of MOPS for at least one year are eligible to join the steering team; Jennifer and Carlie are both on the team. Some steering team roles include marketing, advertising, finance and discussion group leaders just to name a few. Jennifer comments, “It’s like running a little business.
We have to promote and advertise…reach the moms and come up with new programs. It’s wonderful, and it’s a lot of fun.” MOPS meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month, while the steering team meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month; both groups meet from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Jennifer is excited about the program and sees the undeniable benefit in it. She values the friendships that she has made and whole-heartedly appreciates all of the invaluable contributions of the other ladies. Jennifer asserts, “It’s moms helping other moms…being there for each other and encouraging each other. Being a mother is one of the biggest blessings there is but also one of the most difficult jobs. It’s 24/7; there are no holidays. There are days that our kids, as much as we love them, they test us. As soon as we think we have it all figured out, there’s another age and stage. I’ve loved that this group has given us an opportunity to encourage each other and to be able to ask questions. We’re supporting each other, and we’re all going through the same things together.” The ladies are able to enjoy arts and crafts at many meetings; they have been recently working on canvas art for their kid’s bedrooms and nursery walls. “We try to find crafts that will be relaxing and enjoyable—hopefully something they can take home and enjoy,” says Jennifer. The steering team also has speakers at many of the meetings—individuals whose insight and knowledge are immensely helpful to the moms. There is a wide range of topics addressed that changes based on what may be most relevant to the group at any given time. Interestingly enough, one of their very own steering team moms, Leigh White, recently spoke. Leigh is a certified nutritionist who gave the moms a lot of useful information regarding their kid’s nutrition needs. She passed out some great recipes and even gave them hints on how to slip good veggies into meals. Further, Pastor Fender himself spoke to the moms on the importance of helping their children to be thankful, as the principle of appreciation and selflessness can be easily taken for granted at times. If it is instilled early on, chances are, it will stick. Jennifer states, “He just did such an amazing job of helping us understand how to give the children the bigger picture. It was very convicting to me.” What’s more, Pastor Fender has been a great mentor for Jennifer while she has been a member of First Presbyterian and a part of MOPS. “Thankfully, he’s a wonderful leader; he does an amazing job of helping Carlie and I know that he is there. He will help give us direction. At the same time, he lets the steering team do the day-to-day decision making. It’s so great that he trusts us to do what the moms need. We know we can call on him, and he’s there,” Jennifer mentions.
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Prior to meetings, moms are able to take their children to childcare, also known as MOPPETS. Moms can always rest easy knowing that their kids are well cared for. MOPS understand that the stages of little ones can be very different; therefore, children are placed in nurseries according to their ages. All nurseries are properly staffed with childcare specialists. Reneé Stauffer is the MOPPETTS Coordinator; she oversees the entire program and plans the lessons for the children. Whether watching videos, having snacks together, doing arts and crafts or other interactive activities, Reneé ensures that the kids will get a ton out of each visit. Regarding Reneé, Jennifer insists, “She is amazing; she does amazing things.” This time provides a great outlet for the moms, understanding that even the most incredible moms in the world can benefit greatly from a bit of relaxation and adult socialization. “We really try to let the moms have some down time—time that we really need,” Jennifer remarks. Speaking of time, the ladies give a lot of their time to some magnificent causes throughout the year. The group collects much needed items for Covenant Care Adoption Services. Moreover, the ladies enjoy their yearly participation in Operation Christmas
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Child, as it is heart-breaking to know that any child is in need, especially during the Christmas Season. They also collect BandAids all year long for CURE Childhood Cancer and the Memorial Hospital Children’s Cancer Center. The group gets the kiddy Band-Aids like princess ones for girls or super hero ones for boys. “These Band-Aids seem like such a small thing, but the children love getting them as opposed to the plain hospital ones. It’s amazing how even that can make such a difference,” Jennifer reveals. Jennifer is very proud of her own little tumbling tyke Isaiah. He is a happy and active little three-year-old. Isaiah likes when his mom has MOPS meetings because he loves interacting with the other kids at the daycare. As his personality is developing more and more each day, Jennifer knows that the social skills that he is building there are priceless. Still, as a mom, she gets a little sad when she realizes just how fast her little boy is growing up. Jennifer truly “loves her MOPS group” and knows that the organization has a bright future ahead. She is “so excited and encouraged to have the support of other MOPS moms and can’t express enough how helpful it is to have it.”
Pooler MOPS First Presbyterian Church 1115 Hwy. 80 East Pooler, GA 31322 (912)-330-9415 poolermops@gmail.com
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Hospice Savannah Opens Thrift Shoppe in Pooler
H
ospice Savannah, our community’s original not-for-profit hospice, is excited to open a Thrift Shoppe in Pooler’s Fortune Plaza located at 329 US Highway 80 East. Sales from the store will provide a new source of revenue in support of the programs and services provided by Hospice Savannah. Kim Stangle, VP of the Hospice Savannah Foundation, relocated to Pooler a year ago from Florida. The large hospice with which she was associated enjoyed great success with thrift stores, and she wanted to bring a similar model here. “If you think about it, it can help both hospice and the families we serve,” Kim says. “People we help, as well as anyone in the community, can donate items to our Thrift Shoppe. Donors and shoppers can feel good about supporting Hospice Savannah.” A beloved community organization, Hospice Savannah is the only Joint Commission accredited hospice in this area. Founded back in 1979, their caring employees and volunteers now help families throughout Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty and Long counties. Monies raised by the Thrift Shoppe help Hospice Savannah provide the very best care for patients and their families; help family caregivers care for their loved one and themselves; and help those who are grieving find comfort and healing. The Thrift Shoppe opens in late April with hours of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and a grand opening is planned for 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 6. The Pooler Cham-
ber staff, board and Ambassadors along with Hospice Savannah board members and Mayor Lamb will be in attendance. HHow can you help? Manager Bonnie Starr is currently recruiting outgoing and friendly volunteers who would enjoy serving the public on the sales floor or sorting and tagging donated items. A short application form can be found on the store’s webpage: www.HospiceSavannah.org/Thrift or you can drop by and meet her at the store. And of course, donations of gently loved household items, clothing, books or furniture are welcomed! Drop off your items at the store during business hours or at Hospice Savannah’s administrative offices, located at 1674 Chatham Parkway, Monday through Friday. If more convenient, donations can also be dropped at Hospice House at 1352 Eisenhower Drive in Savannah on Thursday mornings between 10:00 a.m. and noon. Please call the Foundation at 629.1055 for more information if needed. As Kim and Bonnie say, “Supporting the Hospice Savannah Thrift Shoppe is an easy way to help us change lives for the better.” Hospice Savannah Thrift Shoppe 329 US Highway 80 Pooler, GA 3 912 629.11122 (Shoppe phone) www.HospiceSavannah.org/Thrift
Thrift Shoppe manager Bonnie Starr is pictured with Hospice Savannah Foundation’s Ophelia Rodriguez (L) and Kim Stangle (R)
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Help is available at no charge
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uring the first weekend of May, a small army of Hospice Savannah’s staff and volunteers and 60 or more children descend upon New Ebenezer retreat center in Effingham County for an overnight children’s grief camp called Camp Aloha. “Last year I had the privilege of again volunteering for Camp Aloha. Sixty seven children ages 6 to 17 took part in activities and counseling to come to terms with the death of their mother, father, sibling, or grandparent,” the hospice’s CEO, Debra Anthony Larson writes. “I feel the most important lesson the campers take away is that of knowing they are not alone and it will be okay. During the weekend the children make many new friends who understand what it feels like to have a loved one die. They have so much fun swimming, playing basketball, taking a hike and dancing to music. As a volunteer being able to provide a hug and bring joy and a smile to their faces is so very rewarding.” Videos from previous camps, more information and application forms are available on line at www.HospiceSavannah. org/CampAloha or you can call Hospice Savannah’s Full Circle bereavement counselor Barbara Moss at 912.303.9442. While camp is a wonderful experience, Hospice Savannah’s support for young people is available year-round. Full Circle bereavement counselors can meet with children individually or in group settings at their offices at 6000 Business Center Drive (just off Highway 17 and Chatham Parkway) Savannah or by appointment at the United Way buildings in Rincon. Barbara also leads support groups in the public schools as needed. All grief counseling is freely offered as a community service of not-for-profit Hospice Savannah and Camp Aloha is generously underwritten by community support and funding from the Kaminsky Automotive Group.
Please call 912.303.9442 if you, or someone you love, needs help.
Gain hands-on practical skills, referrals to community resources, connect and learn from others in your situation www.EdelCaregiverInstitute.org 6000 Business Center Drive
(off Chatham Parkway close to I-16)
922.629.1331 Ad made possible by generous support from A program of not-for-profit Hospice Savannah
People with a Gift for Helping
www.PoolerMagazine.com | May/June 2017
21
POOLER RECREATION SPOTLIGHT
Story by KARLEE ANDERSON Photos by SHEILA SCOTT
C
oach Hamp Jones is a beloved coach for the Pooler Recreation Department. He has coached there for three years, and he finds being able to teach kids about basketball to be a very rewarding job. He loves “seeing the kids’ development from day one to the end of the season.” That’s what coaching is all about for him. “I just want the kids to be happy…to have fun. It’s all about the kids,” Coach Jones says. He does this by making sure his own focus is in the right place as a coach and in turn, teaches the kids where to fix their focus. He says, “My biggest [thing] is just making sure everybody gets developing and learning the game of basketball.” “A lot of times you want to win all the time, but it’s not about winning. It’s all about the development,” Coach Jones explains, “basically just learning the game. You can be the most confident person in the world, but if you don’t know the game you can be unsuccessful.” He learned these truths from his own time as a player. His knowledge and talent for the game of basketball took him from playing as a child and teen to playing at the collegiate level and on to an overseas league. His skill for coaching first developed while he coached for a girls’ high school team and a boys’ middle school team in the past. Playing at the collegiate level at Georgia
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COACH HAMP JONES
Southern University, Coach Jones was inspired by his own coach and learned goals that he applies with each opportunity he has had to coach. “My college coach was one of the most influential guys in my playing days,” Coach Jones shares. “He was more [about] learn[ing] the game the right way than being the best athlete in the world.” That wise philosophy is one that Coach Jones tries to pass on to his players. “I think effort is a talent,” he says. “If you’re putting forth 100 percent effort, you’ve got a chance of winning at any game. That’s one of the things I try to teach the kids as well.” However, hard work and lots of effort are not necessarily things that need to be dreaded. He finds a way to make learning and working enjoyable. Constant drills, harsh words, and unhappy kids are not things that you will find at one of Coach Jones’s practices. He is all about the smiles, laughs and joyful faces that come with learning. The most effective way to get kids to develop is allowing them to have fun as they learn. “I do a lot of fun games, a lot of developmental games for the kids.” Often coaches get so caught up in wanting to win that they forget to pass on the love of the game to the children that they are teaching. Kids are little sponges
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soaking up what you teach them, and truly successful athletes are those that love what they do. Coach Jones is fully aware of the importance of passing on the love for the game through passing on the fun. “Winning is good. We win a lot of games, but as long as the kids are happy playing and they like to play [that’s what matters most.]” With Coach Hamp Jones as the leader, a Pooler parent can be confident about their child’s basketball learning and loving experience. He will ensure that the kids know the game well, understand that effort is a must, and have a fantastic time while developing their skills. Coach Jones has a coaching philosophy that others in his field would benefit from borrowing.
Seeking Sponsorships For Our Youth Teams Seeking Volunteers For Coaching
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1400 square foot dining area, kitchen with complete stoves, ample room for outdoor activities, $100 per day rental.
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24 May/June 2017 | www.PoolerMagazine.com
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The Pygmalion Effect
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Story by DAVID PENA
he story of how one Pooler resident turned her dream into a reality by simply having a fierce determination spurred on by an unrelenting belief in
herself. Amy Lee Westervelt is a woman who had a vision of what kind of life she wanted for her family, then pursued and ultimately achieved that vision through perseverance and determination. As a mentor for LuLaRoe, a clothing brand that has catapulted from near obscurity to cult status in the past few years, she now oversees a team of 10,000 women. Along with her husband William, Mrs. Westervelt has attained a level of financial security that they could only dream of just a few short years ago. However, Amy Lee’s is a story that could have had a completely different ending, were it not for her incredible tenacity and belief in herself. “About three years ago, my husband was stationed at Hunter while going to Armstrong to become an officer,” Westervelt recalls. “One day he received orders to go to Alaska, and despite Will’s efforts to find a replacement, we ended up living there for two years. During that time, I was filled with anxiety about my husband possibly being deployed to Afghanistan again, being gone a great deal of the time, as well as being in harm’s way.” Additionally, it was very costly to bring Will’s children from a previous marriage to Alaska for occasional visits. It all weighed so heavily on Westervelt that she ultimately had to confide in her husband, tearfully relating to him about her desire to be free of her role as “Army wife.” She says, “I didn’t expect a life where we were just two ships who pass in the night, one of us working eight hours while the other one watches our kids and works another eight hours. I wanted a family who spent quality time together, and I also wanted my kids to be home-schooled. I basically wanted out of the army way of life.” Surprisingly, William agreed to her plan that involved him leaving the army, but with one condition. “I knew that (our way of life) was something she just couldn’t bear anymore. We were in Alaska with no family support at all. She was pregnant and winter was coming, so I understood where she was coming from,” he says. “My only stipulation was that I would resign as long as she could find a way to make $4000.00 a month, which was my salary at that time.” Westervelt recalls, “I had absolutely no idea how I was going to achieve this, but I was confident that I was going to because my back was against the wall; there was simply no way that I wasn’t going to do it.” As luck would have it, a woman came to one of Amy Lee’s yard sales wearing a LuLaRoe skirt. When Amy Lee complimented her on the skirt, the woman explained that she actually sold them and proceeded to show Amy Lee her truck, which was stocked with totes full the stylish skirts. “I really loved the clothes and ended up going to a couple of parties where they were showing the LuLaRoe line of clothing. By then I had built some networks on Facebook, including one called ‘Modest Dressing Women.’ I thought that it would be great to bring this style of clothes to the group, so I did. I then teamed up with my good friend Erin, and we figured out how to sell this brand on-line in late 2014. It then took me about a month before actually buying into the company. In fact, we were the first to sell our inventory on-line, and the rest, as they say, is history!” A couple of months later, Amy Lee wasn’t just earning what the family needed for Will to retire; she was making considerably much more than either one expected. By the time the family left Alaska, their financial situation was such that Will was able to resign his commission in the Army, and the couple had tens of thousands in the bank before finding their new home in Pooler. “I
thought it was great that she would have something to do,” says Will, “but I never imagined that it would turn into what it is.” Mrs. Westervelt has worked for LuLaRoe for almost three years and apart from the on-line business, she even has a room in her house totally dedicated to the company’s products. “It’s basically set up just like a store,” says Westervelt. Founded in 2012 by DeAnne Stidham along with her husband Mark, LuLaRoe has since sought to provide an opportunity for people to create their own freedom by selling comfortable, stylish clothing while setting their own pace and schedule. Thus, the ethos of the company was born out of the its desire to provide others with a foundation for personal success and growth. LuLaRoe also emphasizes the idea that if you want someone else to be successful, treat them as if they truly are; then they are destined to become that person. This idea, known as the “Pygmalion Effect” was dramatized in the movie “My Fair Lady” and helped lead to the creation of LuLaRoe. “We have the most popular brand of women’s clothing in the country right now,” says Westervelt, “but a lot of the women in this area only buy our products on-line since they don’t know I’m here. I can always sell to customers by appointment. I just love making women feel beautiful. It’s great to see that when women try on our clothes for the first time, they always feel incredible and more feminine; they feel like they can take on the world. I also love helping the women on my team achieve financial independence. It’s all extremely gratifying to me.”
If you’re interested in purchasing some of the latest products from LuLaRoe or simply want to learn more about the company, you can email Amy Lee at amylee@gratitudeandglamour.com or call her at (781) 243-9322.
www.PoolerMagazine.com | May/June 2017
27
INSPIRING AND GUIDING OTHERS TO A HEALTHY LIFE! “I spent most of my childhood being obese. As I became an adult, the weight continued to pour on. I started dieting at the age of 13. For the next 12 years, I tried every pill and diet on the market. Nothing worked. The weight would come off, then back on double within 6 months. In 2014, at 300 pounds, I decided I was ready to take my life back. I tried an approach that I never have before. Not a diet, but a complete and total change of lifestyle. I began working with a trainer 5 days a week and changed my eating habits. I began to eat foods that benefited and fueled my body. Two years later, I am maintaining a weight loss of 125 pounds. I know what it feels like to have no hope, no energy, nor joy in life. I know the feeling of just existing instead of living. My hope is to inspire and guide others to a healthy lifestyle. I want to show those who have no hope that there is hope, and together we can conquer their weight issues. All it takes is one small step ...and that first step is just making a decision and allowing me to guide you the rest of the way!” - Lea Allen, Certified Personal Trainer
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28 May/June 2017 | www.PoolerMagazine.com
www.PoolerMagazine.com | September/October 2016
43
HOME & GARDEN
B
story by susan lee
uilding or remodeling a home should be an exciting time. After spending months and even years saving money for the project, the last thing anyone wants is contractor woes. We’ve all heard horror stories about home projects that began with seemingly sincere promises before quickly spiraling out of control. That’s why Effingham home builder and remodeler Sean Carter started his company, Cub Homes, more than three years ago. With two decades of experience under his tool belt, Sean is committed to completing projects in half the time of other builders, while continuing to deliver the highest levels quality and integrity. “We want to change the perception that construction work can’t be completed on time,” said Sean. “We start working immediately, scheduling all technicians and giving you a detailed timeline. And all scheduled deadlines are met, so the home can usually be completed in as little as three months.” Sean began working in construction as a young boy in Macon, helping his father, a longtime home builder. By the age of 13, he was hanging vinyl siding and continued to work in the field every summer and while attending the College of Charleston, where he graduated from in 2003 with a degree in Business Administration. Sean began building houses in 2003 and a few years later moved to Effingham, where he met and eventually married Clyo native Trista Davis. The couple now has a four-year-old son, Cub, and a one-year-old daughter, Davis. Sean built their home a few years ago in Clyo, on a portion
CUB HOMES, LLC
of the land that has been in his wife’s family for more than 100 years. “I love living in Effingham and being part of such a wonderful community,” he said. “It’s a great place for kids to grow up.” According to Sean, he is committed to giving his clients the same quality and craftsmanship that went into building his family’s home. And whether you’re interested in a kitchen remodeling, a sun porch or an additional bedroom, it’s no problem for Cub Homes, a licensed, bonded and insured business, to transform your home into something extraordinary. For more information on how Cub Homes can remodel your home or custom build a new one, contact Sean Carter at (912)4297373 or cubhomessavannah@gmail.com.
“We Build Quality Homes FAST” Building The Perfect Home For You
Have your dream home constructed by Cub Homes, LLC in Effingham County. Instead of searching for the perfect home, consider having it built by our skilled and licensed builders. You can trust us to handle your new home construction.
Build On Your Own Land
30 May/June 2017 | www.PoolerMagazine.com
We a remo lso do delin g! (912)429-7373 www.cubhomessavannah.com email: cubhomessavannah@gmail.com
A Truly Good Neighbor With over twenty years in the insurance business, State Farm agent Sam Sharpe is ready to help Pooler residents get the most from their homeowner’s insurance. When Hurricane Matthew roared into the Southeast in October of last year, it left streets and homes flooded and hundreds of thousands of residents without power. Also, in its aftermath, Matthew left downed trees, extensive damage to roofs and massive flooding. All told, 37 people died in Georgia, South and North Carolina. State Farm agent Sam Sharpe, speaking from his Pooler office, recalled the hurricane’s devastation and and Georgia residents’ efforts to return to normalcy after the storm passed. “When the hurricane hit, people found out really quickly about the differences in their home-owner’s policies. We were handing out checks while some folks were standing in their yard waiting on someone else. No one wants a natural disaster to hit, but it showed that we could really step up and deliver for our customers.” Policy holder Scott Cothran echo Sharpe’s sentiments. “Within two hours after calling in our claim, Sam and his team were in my backyard assessing the damage. A few hours after that, he had a tree crew in my yard assessing the situation. Being able to speak face to face with your agent and for them to personally see what your situation is rather than sending pictures to some distance national provider is a tremendous asset.” Sharpe has been in the insurance business now for 22 years. Growing up in south Georgia and initially making his mark in the Atlanta area, Sharpe has since made Pooler his home and is amazed at its transformation in the nine years that he and his family have lived there. “Since I live here, I jumped at the chance to serve my neighbors and friends in Pooler. I’ve coached over 20 teams at Pooler Rec and area schools, and the city is growing at such a rapid pace that it seemed to be a good move for us,” he says. Sharpe was given the opportunity to kick-start the Pooler office just three years ago. After making Chairman’s Circle ten years in a row at his Savannah agency, State Farm offered Sharpe the opportunity to branch out in Pooler. The honor is awarded to the top three percent agents in the country in terms of customer service. State Farm has been in the business of protecting homeowners since 1922, and they offer the most affordable home and flood insurance today. Sharpe adds, “We’re committed to helping our customers find solutions when they need it the most, and it’s especially rewarding to me when I can provide relief to my clients in times of duress.”
Contact Sam at his Savannah office at (912) 961-1115 or at his Pooler location (912) 748-7300 for your insurance needs.
www.PoolerMagazine.com | May/June 2017
31
WILEY’S HOME CENTER
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Wiley’s Celebrates 30 Years!
or 30 YEARS Wiley’s Home Center has become a household name in Effingham and the surrounding counties. In April 1987, Wiley and Rosalyn Thomas opened their doors and welcomed the people of Effingham County and nearby communities to shop for their home goods, which included appliances, furniture, flooring, and décor. Their daughter, Detra Thomas, joined a year later and now serves as CEO of the corporation. Are you in need of new furniture, but not quite sure what today’s trends are for home decorating? Not everyone is an interior designer, so finding the right “fit” for your home may be more challenging to some. At Wiley’s Home Center, they take the burden completely off your shoulders. When you walk in the door at Wiley’s, you immediately see a vast display of furnishings, set in a “room” atmosphere, giving you a perfect picture of how your “room” will look. There is no second guessing what pieces should be placed together, Wiley’s has done it for you. With a 35,000 square foot showroom and 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 integrity, honesty, and customer satisfaction. At Wiley’s, you will only find brands of the utmost quality and reliability. One of those brands is Serta. Serta, Inc. (“Serta”), through its licensees, is the #1 mattress manufacturer in the United States. Serta’s product portfolio includes the Perfect Sleeper®, which is the Only Official Mattress of the National Sleep Foundation, and the iComfort® Sleep System, both named Consumers Digest Best Buys. Serta through its licensees also manufactures the exclusive Bellagio at Home® mattress collection. As the leading provider of mattresses to the hospitality industry, Serta partners with hotel groups such as Hilton Worldwide, Marriott International, Intercontinental Hotels Group, Choice Hotels International, Best Western International, Omni Hotels and Resorts, as well as Bellagio Las Vegas. In addition, Serta is distributed internationally in more than 150 other countries. With its worldwide network, Serta is able to respond quickly to customers’ needs while still preserving strict control standards to ensure the highest quality. Serta’s other subsidiary, Simmons Bedding Company, LLC, is based in Atlanta and markets a broad range of products including Beautyrest®, Beautyrest Black® and BeautySleep®. Both companies also serve as key suppliers of beds to many of the world’s leading hotel groups and resort properties. Serta has been a pioneer in comfort since introducing the very first Perfect Sleeper® mattress to the world in 1931. Since then they have brought many “firsts” to the industry, including the breakthrough iComfort® Sleep System featuring the latest
32 May/June 2017 | www.PoolerMagazine.com
in gel memory foam technology. Today, Serta is proud to be the #1 mattress manufacturer in the United States and a leading brand across the globe. They share this achievement with their dedicated retail partners and remain committed to helping them grow with the most innovative products and advertising programs. Every Serta mattress is designed to provide exceptional comfort. Their product portfolio spans every price point and mattress construction, so that everyone can find the sleep comfort they deserve. 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.” Wiley’s is located on the north end of Rincon, just over the viaduct. It may take a few minutes longer to get to, but it is definitely worth the time. 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.”
Detra Thomas and Wiley Thomas, Owners
Where is everybody?
T oul hey db ea
sh
O Do ur gg pri on ce eA sa we re so me !
t
Celebrating
30 Years! Family Owned and Operated Since 1987
Come By And See Our Great Selections!
12 Month Same As Cash - Immediate Delivery
HOME CENTER Family owned & operated
912-826-2932 www.wileyshomecenter.org Hwy 21 North, Rincon (Just South Of The Effingham www.P oolerMagazineYMCA) .com | May/June 2017 33
Welcome to Wyndham...
Landmark 24 currently has several communities in Pooler, Willow Point, Spring Lake, Harmony, Berkeley Walk Townhomes, Forest Lakes and Cumberland Point. Wyndham, a neighborhood inside the gates of Forest Lakes, is opening a new phase. These beautiful homes are priced from the high 200’s to the low 400’s. Considered one of the best locations in Pooler, Wyndham at Forest Lakes offers more upscale homes with larger sites. Tucked away in a quiet, peaceful area, Wyndham at Forest Lakes is just minutes from shopping, Interstate 95, Savannah International Airport, and Historic Savannah. Landmark 24 is lead by the area’s finest, award-winning builders, partners Jerry C. Wardlaw, his brother Jack Wardlaw and Steve Hall. As second generation builders, their long standing reputations are built on a foundation of commitment to excellence. Their design sensibility offers quality and embodies essence of the southern lifestyle. Building beautiful homes, in attractive neighborhoods, with family oriented amenities, in premier locations, are just some of the elements that come together to create Landmark 24 Homes’ formula for success. Landmark 24 Realty is the exclusive real estate agency for Landmark 24 Homes. Cindy McPherson is the broker of this elite group and manager of this division. Cindy has been in the new home business since 1982, the last 13 of those with Landmark. With her years of experience, she has been a tremendous asset to the Landmark family. As a resident of Pooler, Cindy says, “The demand here is amazing. This is my favorite place to sell. When I first came here 13 years ago, there was not much here. I have watched it grow. I knew Pooler would be a ‘hot spot’ moving forward.”
There is one thing about Landmark 24 Realty that some people may not know. Even though they are the exclusive agency for Landmark 24 Homes, they are also a general real estate brokerage firm. Their goal has been to provide comprehensive services that offer the best value for prospective homeowners in the Greater Savannah area. “We have a great team. We have sales offices in each of our communities allowing us access to the customers. This gives us the ability to list and sell re-sales. About 25% of our business is general listings,” Cindy says. She adds, “The expertise of our agents is second to none. This team has sold over 4000 homes in the 13 years I have been here. We are here to service our clients. Whether it is a new home sale, a re-sale, or a listing, we want our homeowners to be happy.” The demand for new homes now is greater, and there is not much supply. The prices are beginning to go up and new home inventories are still below normal. The turn-around in the industry has been a slow process, mainly because banks have been more cautious about lending for construction. Even though the banks are a little tighter now, the agents at Landmark 24 Realty rarely get into a situation where they can’t get their clients in a new home. They have preferred lenders and are always ready with a recommendation. “First time home buyers are not supposed to be real estate professionals. That’s our job. We welcome the opportunity to educate and assist them in finding a home that meets their needs,” Cindy says. Visit the Landmark 24 Homes Sales Model and Information Center at 502 Forest Lakes Drive, Pooler, GA 31322, or see our available new homes at Landmark24.com.
Whether it is your first home or you are moving up, Landmark 24 has something for everyone. 34 May/June 2017 | www.PoolerMagazine.com
New Homes Starting in the High $200’s
New Phase Now Open Homes Built By Landmark 24 Homes Inside The Gated Community of Forest Lakes
912-450-3131
www.PoolerMagazine.com | May/June 2017
35
Win a House with the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway®
W
inning a $400,000 house can be as simple as buying a $100 ticket. That’s what the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway is offering®, and it’s all for a good cause. Making its way to the Pooler area, the fundraiser gives one lucky winner a chance to win a brand new 4,000 square foot house built by Mungo Homes. This year’s house features 5 bedrooms, 3 and one half bathrooms and many upgrades including formal rooms with heavy molding, a gourmet kitchen that opens to the great room, a luxurious master suite with a sitting area and dressing room. The house is located at 105 Martello Road in Pooler, GA in Davenport at Savannah Quarters. For directions, visit www.dreamhome.org. Each ticket buys a chance at winning the house and other prizes valued at $1,000 or more. Only 6,500 tickets will be sold. Other prizes include gas for a year, courtesy of Clyde’s Market, a $1,000 gift card at Shaw Floors, a custom photography session with Sara Hogan Photography, a Brizo® Artesso® Articulating Kitchen Faucet with SmartTouch® Technology in Stainless Steel finish, and many more! Each $100 ticket purchased will help children who are fighting cancer and other life-threatening diseases. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Our purpose is clear: Finding cures. Saving children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent
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to more than 80 percent since it opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent, and we won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude is primarily supported through public contributions, and promotions like the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway help to support the hospital’s lifesaving work. Winners will be announced on the live St. Jude special airing on WSAV 3 on Wednesday, June 28 at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome for a free tour of the St. Jude Dream Home house during the OPEN HOUSES every weekend from May 20 to June 25 on Saturdays from 9am – 5pm and Sundays from noon – 5pm. Register FREE at the house to win a $5,000 VISA gift card! To purchase a ticket for the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway, call 1-800-3839844. For more information, visit www.dreamhome.org. Box: Reserve your ticket today! Thank you to Mungo Homes, WSAV, Kix 96, Cohen’s Drywall, Four Builders Plus Siding Division, Jenkins Plumbing Company, Masterbrand Cabinets, Quality Electric of The Coastal, Carolinas, Stark Truss Systems, Stier Supply Company, VNS Corporation and BACA Concrete St. Jude Dream Home Open Houses – May 20 to June 25 on Saturdays 9am –5pm, Sundays 12pm-5pm Call 1-800-383-9844 or visit www.dreamhome.org
www.PoolerMagazine.com | May/June 2017
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38 May/June 2017 | www.PoolerMagazine.com
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Amy Lee Westervelt
Independent LuLaRoe Retailer