Pooler Magazine November/December issue

SHOP LOCAL ISSUE

DINAH GRETSCH: Championing Future Musicians While Creating a Legacy for Learning

November/December 2023

The Hines Family - Savannah, GA The daughter of an Olympic swimmer, Angela swam competitively until a scoliosis surgery ended her career. Her two daughters both followed in the family’s footsteps, and when 11 year-old Nola developed signs that Angela feared might signal the onset of scoliosis, she brought her to St. Joseph’s/Candler.

WE’RE COMPETITIVE ABOUT PROVIDING THE BEST CARE.

Dr. Steven Greer, a musculoskeletal physician specializing in sports medicine, diagnosed Nola with a 2cm leg-length discrepancy. He understood how much competitive swimming meant to the family. Because his approach involves identifying noninvasive therapies to delay or prevent surgery whenever possible, his solution was relatively simple—Orthotics would give her the support she needed. Today Nola continues to pursue the sport she loves, as Dr. Greer continues to treat the entire family.

“My goal is to help patients get where they want to be in life with as minimal intervention as possible, whenever possible.” – Dr. Greer

“THAT’S WHY I CHOOSE ST. JOSEPH’S/CANDLER” – Steven Greer, M.D. – Musculoskeletal Specialist

SJCHS.ORG SJCPHYSICIANNETWORK.COM

T HANK YO U

POOLER for voting us Best Childcare!

CAMERA ACCESS Through a partnership with "Watch Me Grow," parents have camera access to their child’s classroom. Each classroom has two cameras so parents can get a peek at their little one any time throughout the day.

We believe in open access throughout the day, which gives parents piece of mind.

ANGEL LEARNING CENTER is an accredited private learning center that provides a premier early education and child care experience for children and families. Our Owners, Leadership Teams, and School Staff partner with parents to help build the right foundation for future learning and in life.

THE ONLY 3 STAR QUALITY RATED CENTER IN POOLER!

PARENT COMMUNICATION With the Procare Parent connect, parents communicate with the teaching staff in real time to receive updates about classroom activities, program happening and photos of your child at play and learning.

CONTACTLESS CHECK IN & OUT We provide a QR code for parents to scan with their cell phones to check their children in and out of the program.

SIGN UP & STAY CONNECTED Sign up for our program at angellearningcenter.com under the Register Now section and Savannah/Pooler. Or check out our Facebook page to see what we do throughout the day.

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CONTRIBUTORS 1. Jenny Lynn Anderson is a public relations and marketing strategist, author, travel blogger, and national motivational speaker who loves to generate buzz.

2. Leidy Lester is a freelance photographer from Bogota, Colombia, with 8 years experience.

She has traveled and worked all over the United States. One of her proudest achievements is the work she did with models and highly experienced photographers in Las Vegas.

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3. Erich Perez and his wife, Dr. Misty Seale are owners of iHeart Dental in Rincon. Erich’s other role is Founder and president of Kronos Media Productions and K&R Studios in Rincon. They specialize in videography and photography as well as sound and recording. Erich and his wife are avid Jeep enthusiasts and have 5 American Bulldogs. You can check them out at @gods.of.dogs on Instagram.

4. Stephen Prudhomme is a native of New Jersey who lived in Savannah and Rincon for 25 years before moving to Pikeville, TN, with his wife and son. He’s written sports, features, news and business for a number of newspapers and magazines over nearly 40 years and likes table tennis, Frisbee and running.

5. Cindy Reid has been a freelance writer for over 15 years. She has been published extensively in Effingham Magazine, Pooler Magazine, and other lifestyle magazines. A native of New York’s Hudson Valley, she embodies the saying “I wasn’t born in t he South but I got here as soon as I could.” She can usually be found on a beach, a boat or at a pier at sunset.

6. Claire Sandow is a freelance graphic design and marketing professional who lives in Savannah with her husband, daughter and cat. She received a Mass Communication degree from Georgia College & State University. In her spare time, she enjoys pursuing her many hobbies, including knitting, crocheting, quilting and running.

7. Laura Zielinski is a freelance graphic

Jan Southern, DPA CEO/Publisher

Morris L. Southern Chief Operations Officer

Christie Wilson Director of Advertising

Devin Hollingsworth Account Executive

Caitlin Ruth Account Executive

Penny Redmond Distribution

designer specializing in print design. With more than 17 years experience, Laura enjoys shaping stories through meaningful design. When she’s not working, she loves spending time with her husband Keith and their three beautiful children, Alli, Matt and Claire.

8. Mabel, morale officer, enjoys roaming the backyard at home, sitting for hours on the back porch and coming to the office to greet visitors and encourage the staff. Mabel loves getting treats and taking long naps in her mommy’s office in the afternoons.

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

Shop Local PUBLISHER Jan Southern Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com 912-318-8645

In this holiday issue of Pooler Magazine, we are so pleased to share some amazing stories that exemplify the heartbeat of our community – its people.

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER Morris L. Southern Morris@JDelSURMarketing.com

Dinah Gretsch, a name renowned in the international guitar and drum industry, graciously brings her family’s legacy to our community. Commitment to quality and to giving back to the community are among the traits that have sustained Dinah and her husband’s combined 100 years in business.

We invite you to read her inspiring story on page 10.

CLIENT SERVICES Christie Wilson, Director of Advertising Christie@JDelSURMarketing.com Devin Hollingsworth, Account Executive Devin@JDelSURMarketing.com Caitlin Ruth, Account Executive Caitlin@JDelSURMarketing.com DESIGN Laura Zielinski DISTRIBUTION Penny Redmond

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

135 Goshen Rd Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406 PoolerMagazine.com

Jan Southern

But our commitment to local extends beyond business; it extends to the very essence of humanity in the story of Kimberly Golden, who turned her own life’s challenges into a heartfelt gift for the homeless. Turn to page 34 to learn of her resilience and kindness.

We can’t forget to mention the Pooler Magazine Best of Pooler, Readers’ Choice Awards event held at Savannah Quarters on October 12. Thousands of you cast your votes for hundreds of local organizations and individuals. Many of the winners and their families came together to celebrate. We were so honored to bring this event to the Pooler community for the second year in a row. You can capture a glimpse of the night through the photos on page 16.

As you turn the pages in this issue, you will see many familiar faces and some new ones—each a testament to the wonderful businesses and people that making shopping local in Pooler such a lovely experience.

Yes, we have the traffic, but we also have outstanding places to shop and restaurants and some pretty amazing residents. So, remember to think about your local community when making purchases this holiday season.

Shop Local. Shop Pooler.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write and tell us what you think. Pooler Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send letters via email to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

CEO/Publisher Pooler Magazine

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 Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email.

Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in the Pooler area will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Pooler Magazine is published bimonthly and distributed to hundreds of locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at PoolerMagazine.com.

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

Views expressed in editorial or advertising do not imply endorsement by J. DelSUR Marketing Group.

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

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 5

Melissa McBride Stille of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC

Are You Ready for Health Insurance Open Enrollment?

“I work for my clients, not the insurance company!”

Choosing health insurance is a complex problem that won’t solve itself! But Melissa Stille can, and will, solve it with you. Meet licensed insurance agent and health care broker Melissa McBride Stille. With more than 15 years in the health insurance industry, she is your best ally in obtaining health insurance that works optimally for you and your family. As the sole proprietor of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage she is dedicated to presenting her clients with the best health care options available because “I work for my clients, not the insurance company!”

As your agent, Melissa: • Takes the time to understand your needs.

• Provides personalized recommendations.

• Works with you directly, one on one.

• Help you enroll in qualified health programs.

• Reviews your health plan annually.

• Provides services free of charge to you.

Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Oct 15 - Dec 7

This is when everyone with Medicare has to choose to either keep their current plan or enroll in a different one. Health and drug plans often change cost, coverage, and who is in their networks annually. It’s tempting to keep what you have , even if you aren’t satisfied, because investigating new plans can be very confusing. That’s why working with a local agent is critical to obtaining the best outcome for your needs.

Working with Melissa—at no cost to you—will ensure that you: • get the most benefits from your plan • get the lowest drug cost • get personal service all year whenever you need help or have questions It can look like a tangled web but Melissa can explain the four parts of Medicare (A, B, C, and D) as well the difference between Medicare Advantage and Supplemental Plans.

She can also assist with seeing if you qualify for Extra Help (federal prescription help) Medicaid or to eliminate the monthly $174.70 Medicare Part B Premium (2024 premium). Melissa also works with Medicare recipients under 65, including those who have Medicare through Social Security Disability because they too have to make the same decisions annually.

Melissa states “I know many clients are understandably concerned with cost but the cheapest insurance may not fit your needs. When we look at plans together, we will consider all the costs related to the insurance, as well as what you are actually getting for your money.”

Affordable Care Open Enrollment Dates

Nov. 1 - Dec. 15 (Effective date: Jan. 1, 2024) and Nov. 1 - Jan. 15 (Effective date: Feb. 1, 2024) There is an extension period for Affordable Care only, so if you miss the deadline all is not lost! Give her a call—Melissa is there to help you figure it out together. “I care about each and every client and do an annual review of everyone’s health policies because there are so many changes,” she says. “If you are my client, I guarantee you will hear from me!”

She lives locally, with offices in Rincon and Springfield, and is available via text, phone, email and for in person meetings. For the quickest response give her a call on her cell 912-239-7119. If you have a question regarding your health insurance options, reach out.

Remember, there is NO COST because “I work for my clients, not the insurance company!”

A Non-Government Agency

Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC Cell (912) 239-7119 | www.StilleYourAgent.com Melissa@StilleYourAgent.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

IN THIS ISSUE

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34 ABOUT THE COVER Dinah Gretsch is a force of nature who has helped Gretsch Company become worldrecognized drum and guitar makers. Read her story on page 10.

Features

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Dinah Gretsch Matriarch champions future musicians while creating a legacy for learning

Best of Pooler Celebration Photo Gallery The Publisher’s Picks See some of the wonderful merchandise offered by locally-owned businesses

Brittany Whitehead The adventures of an author

Socks to Sandwiches Bloomingdale woman survives car crash and expands homeless ministry

Departments

Read all the stories and more at PoolerMagazine.com

5 42 49

Publisher’s Thoughts Pooler Happenings Pooler Events

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 7

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nyone who has ever met Dinah Gretsch knows they have met a force of nature.

She is a whirl of excitement—a flurry of dreams realized—all complemented by twists and turns of entrepreneurship and success.

Plus, her life story is laced with enthusiasm for music which has helped shape the story of the Gretsch Music empire and “That Great Gretsch Sound.”

Dinah admits she is no musician. Rather, she has always been a lover of music. An Air Force brat, she lived in England and all over Europe while her father served in the military.

In England, she witnessed the expansion and explosion of rock music. She met the Beatles when she was 13, and along the way went to day festivals and concerts where she met Dave Clark 5, Rolling Stones, Petula Clark and Herman’s Hermits.

“I was profoundly influenced to get involved with music early on; all of these groups were still unknown in the United States. When I came back to the United States, I was basically an English rocker,” she quips with a laugh.

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Dinah admits she is no musician. Rather, she has always been a lover of music.

“

DINAH GRETSCH: Championing Future Musicians While Creating a Legacy for Learning Story by Jenny Lynn Anderson | Photography by Erich Perez

But she was so much more than that. She was an entrepreneur at heart. A numbers girl. As a junior in high school, she taught bookkeeping to adults at night school. She bought her first business, a credit bureau and collection agency, at age 20. She sold that and moved to another opportunity. Next up, she went to work for Fred Gretsch Enterprises, located in Ridgeland, SC in 1978, which at that time manufactured banjos and guitars and was a mass merchandiser supplier. She married Fred Gretsch five years later.

Fred had always wanted to buy the Gretsch Company back because it had been sold to Baldwin in 1967. In early 1985, the Gretsch Company came on the market. The couple purchased it and the beautiful harmonic blend of partnership and marriage commenced.

Dinah became the First Lady of Gretsch and they started building their business to become known as the Dynamic Duo in the music industry. And along, the way they became world-famous drum and guitar makers.

A Centenary Sensation Today the couple has been in the business for 100 years combined. “We’ve made a great team because I like the financial and operational side of the business and Fred enjoys the marketing, licenses and the intellectual property part,” explains Dinah. www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 11

Early on, they moved the drum factory production facilities to Ridgeland and started manufacturing guitars again in 1989 after production had been on hiatus for eight years. That same year, Gretsch Music moved its headquarters to Pooler, Georgia.

Although they bring different talents to the mix, they both love to connect to others. For instance, in 1988, George Harrison’s Cloud Nine album cover featured him holding a 1957 Gretsch 6128 that he purchased in Liverpool in 1961.

Dinah immediately sent him a thank you card and as a result they became great friends. Just weeks later, Harrison invited the Gretsches to California to discuss making the Traveling Wilbury model for him, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty and Jeff Lyn. Over the years, the couple have crisscrossed the world and continued doing business by networking this way to connect to different artists through their passion for music. This formula for success has indeed worked.

The Gretsch Company celebrates its 140th year anniversary this year.

Case in point. She has extensively worked with visionaries such as David Wish, founder of Music Will, a nonprofit organization that changes lives by transforming music education in US public schools.

She and Fred also believed they could make a difference at Georgia Southern.

The University named its School of Music the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music in 2021 and the couple pledged $3 million plus gave their Gretsch Collection of historic drums, guitars, and company archives to Georgia Southern. The University will catalog and display the

52 girls signed up in 2022 for the two elective classes that could accommodate only 34 students.

“It’s so exciting and it’s gone over like a bang,” she exclaims, adding they will add a ukulele program this year.

Dinah notes how Taylor Swift profoundly impacted guitar sales years ago when she went on tour. “When girls saw her rock that guitar on stage, they believed they could do it,” Dinah adds.

This vision for a child’s exposure to music education is what drives Dinah Gretsch. “Music makes you smarter because you have to focus, practice and be part of a team,” she explains.

For this taskmaster, this isn’t just lip service.

She puts her money where her mouth is. Mrs. G’s Foundation made it possible to add 11 modern band programs in Chatham County Schools. She has also made a substantial donation to NextGen, a program of NAMM. Her gift of $300,000 impacts college-aged students and faculty engaged in music programs by creating new and creative routes to find Reaching Future careers and success in the Musicians music industry.

Early on, Dinah had Speaking of tasks, the great devotion to invest in “numbers girl” jumps back music programs that would into the conversation when impact young people. Her asked how business has been reach is vast and—like a lately and how guitars have Her goal has been to change the trajectory spider—she has strategically been selling. Always being in of children’s lives through music ... she has woven authentic, personal tune to the music industry connections with schools market and its nuances, she aligned her goals to programs and people and universities, creating immediately replies, “I think an extensive network of Taylor Swift being on tour who had similar desires to impact change. educators that want to again is going to impact sales impact future generations of this year, but let me look at musicians. my records because I’m a From music programs at West collection of the company’s instruments real stickler.” She continues, “And I can Point, Elmhurst University and Georgia which is valued in the millions. tell you every guitar that we had sold and Southern University to Thomas Heyward Additionally, Georgia Southern the serial number and what dealer we sold Academy, St. Vincent’s Academy and partnered with the Gretsches and Richard it to.”

Chatham County Schools, the Gretsch Kessler to create an amazing historical I hear her chair scrape the floor, her matriarch has impacted thousands upon exhibit at Plant Riverside in Savannah. feet gliding a few feet away and within 30 thousands of students. seconds she starts rattling off how many Furthermore, she serves on the Girls Rock were sold in the pro series alone and National Association of Music Merchants Unquestionably, besides her six continues to break it down into different (NAMM) Foundation Board and Georgia children, 16 grandchildren and 12 price points. Ever the accountant, of Music Foundation, supports the Otis great-grandchildren, the apple of her course. But then, the marketing guru Redding Foundation and has created eye is the girls musical program at St. arrives on the scene and makes the offer. scholarships and foundations such as Vincent’s Academy.

“You know, if you want a custom Gretsch Mrs. G’s Music Foundation. She has “This is my pride,” she admits. “I knew guitar, something with diamonds, we can remained laser-focused. Her goal has the music teacher and I said, ‘Hey, let’s see make one for $25,000.” I’ve never held a been to change the trajectory of children’s if we can get girls to play guitar.’” guitar in my hand; however, by the sheer lives through music. Over and over, she The all-girls school had only had a charismatic nature of this woman, her has sought out and aligned her goals to choral program in the past so the duo love of music and her drive and desire to programs and people who had similar added guitar and drum programs into make a difference in the world, by golly, desires to impact change. the curriculum and it went so well that I’m sold. ■

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Melissa McBride Stille

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Here are just a few of my favorite items from around Pooler! I hope you enjoy these special products and can share them with someone this Christmas.

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R Hill & More 6. Stoner’s Pizza – Pembroke StonersPizzaJoint.com 7. Savings on pool service from Pool Solutions Inc. PoolSolutionsPlus.com

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ome things are just meant to be. Eyes lock across a room and the rest is history. That’s exactly what happened to Brittany Whitehead when she first saw the sweet pup with the soft brown eyes.

“I immediately knew Hannah was our dog,” says Brittany. She had gone into PetSmart to get food for their rescue cat Pumpkin Spice Latte where she saw Hannah, a mixed breed shelter dog, at the Georgia Animal Rescue and Defence, Inc. (GARD) table.

“Hannah had been at the shelter for 508 days. Joy Bohannon, GARD’s President, had found her on the side of the road, malnourished and abandoned,” says Brittany.

Hannah had been successfully treated for heartworm at the shelter, but that

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023

stigma made prospective adoptive families nervous. Not Brittany.

“God put this dog in our path,” she says. “I was adamant and that is not my personality. It was a snap decision.”

But Brittany’s husband Reza was a firm no. Reza (Georgia Air National Guard Recruiting Supervisor for the 165th) had recently taken a full-time position at Hunter Air Base.

“We had just moved here from Atlanta, and I felt we were too busy to adopt an animal,” he says. But he had to acknowledge there was something special between Brittany and Hannah.

“The connection was right there,” he says. “More than when she met me! It was an aha moment.”

And there was a good reason to expand their family. “Between moving to a new town and changing schools, it was a lot for our son Landen at the time. He was dealing with anxiety,” says Reza. They did research as to what could help him and some of that research pointed to adopting a pet.

In short order Hannah was adopted by the Whitehead family. They added to her name, making her “Hannah Banana,” and as hoped, their sweet pup gave Landen new responsibility and purpose.

“Hannah turned Landen’s anxiety into joy,” says Brittany.

“She was a blessing from the start.”

By the Numbers The Whiteheads are a busy family with a lot of energy and a very big heart. Reza and Brittany have been married 12 years and they have four children. Landen, who is now 15 years old, Lilly (13 years old), Leela (10 years old) and their newest addition, baby girl Lennox, who is eight months old.

The family has three rescue pets—their cat Pumpkin Spice Latte, dog Hannah Banana and guinea pig Cookie.

Brittany has published two children’s books, with plans for a third, and together Brittany and Reza have created a party rental business.

Adventures in Writing The books got their start naturally. “The animals always follow me in the morning. Leela, our youngest at the time, hated getting up in the morning so I would walk to her room with all the animals, and I would make them ‘talk’ to her.”

Says Brittany, “I gave Hannah a sweet voice, and it became essentially a skit we would do in the morning. It was funny and cute, and I wanted to share it with everyone.”

Reza says, “My wife said, ‘I want to make this into a book.’ I said, ‘cool babe,’ because it was a great idea, but I thought it would take about six to twelve months because she is not a professional book writer. She knocked it out in two days! Her first book.”

By the end of the first week Brittany had an illustrator and publisher company. Altogether the production took two months.

The Adventures of a House Pet is a story of friendship, trust, playing, love, family, and more. Take a journey through the perspective of a rescue animal that longs for a family, and a pet that wants world domination (take note, the world is their family’s home).

Adventure is the theme, and this lovely story will give you that and more. Your child will enjoy seeing the shenanigans of www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 27

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Photo by @caila_captures

Pumpkin (the villain) and Hannah (the hero rescue animal), and learn how rescuing a dog can not only change a family, but how we see each other and help each other out!

with children that I specifically have words in the books that parents need to explain to children, so as they read, they participate.”

Community and school groups are encouraged to reach out and schedule an event. “We love partnering with community and pet adoption groups. I do readings and when appropriate bring Hannah. She loves kids and the kids love seeing her. They ask, ‘where’s Pumpkin?’ but we leave the events to Hannah!” says Brittany.

She has also added a line of plush “Hannahs” and “Pumpkins” which can be purchased online or at events.

They are available for private parties, special events, weddings and community functions. The trailer is also available for rent on its own.

Pippy Lou’s was recently at the Ellen Claire Soapery Grand Re-Opening, serving the Ellen Claire Blue Breeze, and at the Ottawa Farms Pro Rodeo. They will be at the 2023 EWIB Holiday Extravaganza, hosted by Effingham Women in Business and other holiday events.

The Adventures of a House Pet: Pumpkin’s Plan This second book gives you clear insight into the mind of a jealous, crafty and ambitious cat called Pumpkin.

She surrounds herself with only those who she considers will be useful to her plan to take over the world. But who will help The Fur-Ever Family her achieve all this? Does she succeed with “We love being together,” says Brittany, her plan? Does she learn any lessons in “we’re happy just eating snacks and the process? Find out in this watching a good TV show all edge of your seat edition of together. I sit on the couch Adventures of a House Pet. with “my twins,” Hannah and Pumpkin the cat stars Lennox, one on each side.”

Writing the books was important because alongside Hannah in both Brittany says Hannah was they create a legacy for her family and they books. “Originally Pumpkin excited by Lennox’s arrival. was definitely not a fan of “She wants to play with her. bring awareness to animal rescue groups.

Hannah. She would look at Hannah has been bringing the dog like ‘what is that?’

Lennox toys in her mouth Over time she’s mellowed— since she was two months now she tolerates Hannah!”

Party with Pippy! old. When the baby cries, she comes and The books are a planned series of Reza says, “Brittany’s entrepreneurial finds me. It’s very sweet! Like the dog in three separate titles with the third due spirit and the process of creativity is her Peter Pan, she is definitely a ‘Nanny Dog’.” out next year. bread and butter.”

Brittany says she would love to branch In a completely different direction than out and create a non-profit. “That’s Creating a Legacy book publishing, Reza and Brittany took something we are trying to figure out. We “Having the books published was a lot their love for entertaining and rehabbed a care deeply about animal rescue and families, of fun for the kids, especially Leela, who 1972 horse trailer into a ‘dry hire’ mobile and we would love to help everybody.” loved taking the book to elementary school. bar. Non-alcoholic drinks are often bland Reza says, “We want to really make a She really likes being a shining star—just afterthoughts at events. Pippy Lou’s fixes difference, to feel we created something like her dad!” that by creating individually tailored that fills a much-needed niche.”

Brittany says writing the books was mocktails that are “Instagram worthy” and For now, the family stays busy doing important to her because they create the highlight of any event. This is a real book and Pippy Lou events, because “we a legacy for her family and they bring treat for those who want to hang out and love hanging out and supporting each awareness to animal rescue groups. enjoy a delicious nonalcoholic drink. other,” says Reza.

Literacy is vitally important to Brittany, Although they do focus on mocktails, As the book says, “rescuing a dog can who buys children’s books for herself out Pippy Lou’s drinks can be made into not only change a family, but how we see of a love of children’s literature. She says, alcoholic drinks when the hosts provide each other and help each other out!” ■ “It is so meaningful for parents to read the alcohol.

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 29

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BADCOCK HOME FURNITURE & MORE RINCON AND POOLER LOCATIONS Welcome to the Badcock Home Furniture & More Rincon and Pooler store locations, where they love helping their customers make their house a home.

“From your shopping experience to your delivery experience, we give our customers the best experience possible by delivering high quality products and putting our customers’ needs first,” says Jeremy Nease, owner of both stores.

Nease purchased the Rincon Badcock Home Furniture & More in 2011. He successfully grew the customer base, in fact it tripled in eight years, which led him to open his second store in 2019.

“We built the 15,600 square foot stand alone Pooler store from the ground up,” says Nease. “Both our stores are one stop shopping for everything you could need for your home, from recliners to mattresses.

We have superior quality with extremely competitive prices ensuring you will get the best deal possible with us.”

For Every Room in the House At Badcock it is easy to cost effectively transform your bedroom, living room, or dining room into a beautiful space you and your family will love. Their vast selection includes: • Sofas (sectionals, sleepers), chairs, recliners • Dining room sets, bar stools • Bedroom suites, separate pieces, mattresses for all size beds

• Kitchen and laundry appliances • TVs, computers, home theaters • Rugs, lamps, wall decor, decorative pillows Spring Savings Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your home! From new sofas to bright accent pieces, Badcock has it all. Revamp your living room or bring in new kitchen appliances. Create an inviting outdoor living space complete with a new grill (gas or charcoal)—and keep your yard beautiful with their selection of lawn equipment. And Nease says, “with the vast majority in stock, no waiting months here!”

Utilize your tax refund by investing in your home or take advantage of Badcock’s in-house financing. Badcock Home Furniture & More offers affordable payment plans just right for every customer. They make it stress free to apply for credit with in-house financing that works for you.

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Winning Team “Our team is here for you,” says Nease.

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The team is led by General Manager Bobby Heath, Theresa Davis, Rincon Store Manager and Dezi White, Pooler Store Manager.

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“Our stores Best Home Decor provide customers Best Furniture Store with the style of home furnishings they want, at prices they love, by friendly sales associates, in an atmosphere that allows them to picture the furniture in their own home,” says Nease. “Come in and check out our products in person.”

About W.S. Badcock Corporation W.S. Badcock Corporation, a subsidiary of Franchise Group Inc. (NASDAQ: FRG), is a southeastern home furnishings company headquartered in Mulberry, Fla. Founded in 1904, its branded Badcock Home Furniture & More retail chain has grown to more than 380 corporate and associate dealer stores across eight states. Badcock carries a complete line of furniture, appliances, bedding, electronics, home office furnishing, accessories and seasonal items while offering payment plans just right for its customers.

For more information, visit www. badcock.com.

POOLER LOCATION: (912) 348-3753 300 Southwest Hwy 80, Pooler GA RINCON LOCATION: (912) 826-4500 321A Columbia Ave, Rincon GA

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 33

O

n July 5, 2022, Kimberly Golden and her son distributed bags containing a pair of socks and a sandwich to the homeless in Savannah. Later that night, Golden was on an Uber run when she was hit by a drunk driver near Berwick Plantation and suffered extensive injuries.

Her days of helping the homeless would not end on that night, however.

Enjoying a miraculous recovery that allowed her to return home after five days, the Bloomingdale woman enlisted the help of her church to expand the ministry and acquire nonprofit status.

Once homeless, Golden is seeing to the material needs of those in the same situation while offering spiritual nourishment.

Socks & Sandwiches Golden operates Socks & Sandwiches.

Last November, she was granted nonprofit status. This allows her to solicit sponsorships. Golden funds the ministry with her own money and donations from family, friends and members of her church, Bread of Life Ministries, in Pooler.

Every other month, Golden, her pastor and other members of the church distribute 100

Living in Florida, Golden found herself homeless due to marijuana use, criminal activities and generally “not obeying God.” From 1999 to 2008, she either lived on the streets or with family; she said an individual is classified as homeless if they’re not paying rent or mortgage.

Golden’s fortunes began to change when she qualified for a Section 8 housing voucher in Florida. She used it for four years there and another four years when she moved to Georgia in 2011. In February, Golden and her husband, whom she met shortly after coming to Georgia, moved to Bloomingdale.

In 2018, Golden started driving for Uber. She also attended church and said she “heard” God telling her to start a ministry for the homeless, often receiving this message at sermons. At first, she didn’t listen to God’s voice.

“I would tell God you’re not talking to me,” Golden said. “It was the doubt of the enemy.”

When it became clear God was speaking to her, Golden finally heeded the calling.

Recalling her own experience of being homeless and getting her feet wet and always looking for a bite to eat, she started the Socks & Sandwiches ministry.

“

Recalling her own experience of being homeless and getting her feet wet and always looking for a bite to eat, she started the Socks & Sandwiches ministry.

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bags containing two pairs of socks, a sandwich from Jersey Mike’s, a Bible track, church information card, and a Socks & Sandwiches card featuring the Bible verse from Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, do it wholeheartedly as though you were working for your real master and not merely for humans.” They visit the homeless in Savannah’s Johnson, Franklin and Ellis squares and finish at a park one block south of 37th Street.

The socks are unisex and vary in length and thickness, depending on the season.

Golden pays full price for the Jersey Mike’s sandwiches. She said she inquired about a discount and was told the company only assists selected charities. Golden receives some unexpected help at times, however.

“A stranger donated $50 after seeing what we were doing,” said Golden, noting they minister to the homeless, most of whom are men. “That made us feel good. That’s inspiring.”

The Road to Ministry Golden’s recovery from a near-fatal accident and journey from homeless to a family woman heading up a ministry is equally inspiring.

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Golden and her son packed 10 bags for men and 10 for women with two pairs of socks and sandwiches they made. They went to the homeless encampment under the Truman Parkway in Savannah and distributed them. Despite some initial concerns over their safety, Golden said the visit went well.

Golden planned subsequent visits, but then came the accident that nearly claimed her life.

The Accident A motorist ignored a blinking caution light as Golden was heading south on Hwy. 17 and crashed into the front driver’s side of her car. “It was dark out,” Golden said. “I didn’t see him coming. All I saw was a bright light before he hit me.”

Golden later found out he had been drinking since the previous day, starting at a July 4th party. Golden was taken to Memorial Hospital with an exploded abdomen, broken vertebrae and ribs and numerous other injuries.

Shirlenia Daniel, executive pastor of Bread of Life Ministries, said Golden is a faithful woman of God who had always showed up for services since joining the church when it first

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023

SOCKS TO SANDWICHES: Bloomingdale Woman Survives Car Crash and Expands Homeless Ministry Story by Stephen Prudhomme | Photography by Leidy Lester

www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 35

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opened in 2014. Otherwise, she would call as a woman of God who loves God and has to demonstrate their faith through good to say she was running late. a heart for people. He adds she’s small in works, as commanded by God. Daniel grew concerned when she didn’t stature but big in heart. Erick told Golden “We encourage them to have a better hear from Golden and did a lot of praying. she didn’t need to be out there by herself and life,” Shirlenia said. “The goal is to get She found out about the accident and to use wisdom in such an undertaking. That them off the streets. We’ve even led some visited Golden in the hospital, afraid how led to Erick and others joining the ministry to salvation.” she would find her friend. Despite seeing and marveling at the woman who started it.

Mary Daniels is an elder at Bread her in a neck brace, her leg in the air and a “It’s totally awesome,” said Erick, noting of Life Ministries and a member since cast on her wrist, Daniel realized her fears it reminds him of outreach work he did 2016. She joined Golden’s ministry last were unfounded. at a church in North Carolina. “She’s a November.

“Her spirit was so inviting,” Daniel said. person who really loves the Lord and hasn’t “It’s a great opportunity to talk to them “She had an amazing attitude and said forgotten where she came from. My heart about the Lord and encourage them that she was sorry she didn’t call following the went out to her when I heard of the ministry they don’t have to be homeless,” Daniels accident. It was a rejoiceful time.” and asked how we could support her.” said. “It’s a chance to listen to their story Following two surgeries, and realize we’re a job away from Golden, amazingly, went home being homeless. A lot of people after five days. She noticed don’t want to approach the her ankles were swollen and homeless because they’re dirty or The visits to help the homeless subsequently learned she had smell. We have to look at the inside are an opportunity to witness to broken both of them and had of a person.” to wear casts for 12 weeks.

Daniels describes Golden as them, share prayer and give them Nevertheless, Golden considers no-nonsense but also the kindest herself blessed. person. resources to improve their lives.

“I still have arms, legs and “Kim would give you the shirt eyes,” she said. “God had me off her back,” Daniels said. “She’s making dinner for my husband 36 been through a lot in her life, and days after the accident. It’s a miracle.”

The visits to help the homeless are that’s prepared her for what she’s doing By last November, Golden was “fully an opportunity to witness to them, share now. She’s so kind and compassionate. I upright” and ready to return to her prayer and give them resources to improve enjoy being her friend.” ministry but wanted to do it on a larger their lives, according to Erick. Some of Golden has learned to listen to God and scale. Concerned with Golden’s safety, her individuals, he adds, joined his church, follow his instruction. She recognizes she pastor, Erick Daniel, his wife, Shirlenia, where they receive help with food, clothing could have died in the accident, but God and other members of the church joined and interviewing for a job. still has work for her to do in helping the the effort. The team has gone out three A lot of the funds for the ministry less fortunate and offering an insight and times since then, working as a team to come out of Golden’s pocket, according empathy borne out of her own experience provide socks, sandwiches and hope for an to Shirlenia. She said it’s her ministry, of being homeless. eternal life devoid of homelessness and the her baby, and Golden’s commitment to it “I’ve always been a person to help other woes afflicting mankind. Their next didn’t waver following her accident. others,” Golden said. “I enjoy letting visit was planned for Oct. 21.

“She said God had put it on her heart to people know they’re not alone and God is do it,” Shirlenia said. “She wasn’t going to sending people to help you. The ministry is A Heart for People stop and would remain faithful.” spiritual.” ■ Erick, senior pastor and founder of Golden kept her word, buttressed by a Bread of Life Ministries, describes Golden church family that shares her commitment

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023 37

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fencing services as well. This allows the team to continue their attention to detail and quality to their customers’ other home renovation needs and gives homeowners one source to call whenever they have a project that needs attention.

Matt and Jamie Pratt are Rincon residents and love serving the Effingham County community as well as the surrounding areas from Tybee Island to Hilton Head.

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START 2024 STRONG! We offer THE BEST ADVERTISING options to help you start the year strong for your business! Advertisers can appear in Pooler Magazine, Effingham Magazine and Bryan County Magazine—published in print and online—and are highlighted on social media.

LOOK FOR OUR 2024 ISSUES: Jan./Feb.:

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Home and Garden

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

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Angel Learning Center | Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union Lowcountry Foundation Repair | Mo Southern Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage 40 Volume Salon and Spa..................................... 14 Advanced Alternative Medicine............................ 24 Angel Learning Center............................................. 3 Atlantic Radiology Pooler Imaging Center........46 Audiology and Hearing Aid Services, LLC.......... 18 Apollo Pharmacy..................................................... 19 Badcock Furniture & More.................................... 33 Barbers of the Lowcountry...................................20 Budget Blinds of Pooler & Statesboro.................. 8 Chatham Oral Surgery........................................... 14 Chop Barber Shop, LLC......................................... 32 Coastal Contracting, LLC...................................... 51 Courtyard by Marriott.............................................44 DNA Computerworks.............................................46 DoubleTree by Hilton Savannah Airport.............44 E-Z-GO of Pooler...................................................... 8 Edward Jones-Theresa Palmer............................ 19 ExperCare Urgent Care.......................................... 31 Geico Spinks ............................................................38 Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union..............39 Georgia Skin & Cancer Clinic................................. 9 Great Oaks Bank...................................................... 24 Henry Plumbing....................................................... 24 Hospice Savannah...................................................46 J.C. Lewis Ford......................................................... 52

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J DelSUR Marketing Group................................... 47 Leopold’s Ice Cream...............................................40 Lowcountry Foundation Repair........................... 19 Mo Southern Coffee.............................................. .43 Oaks at Pooler......................................................... 14 Patriot Pros Roofing...............................................38 Pool Solutions Plus, Inc.........................................40 Pooler Chamber Of Commerce.......................... 32 Pooler Recreation Department............................ 32 Port Wentworth Chamber of Commerce.......... 15 PrimeCare of Georgia ...........................................30 Queensborough National Bank...........................30 and Trust Company Savannah Children’s Theatre................................50 Savannah Interagency Diversity Council............ 41 Serenity Med Spa.....................................................50 Shelf Genie................................................................. 9 St. Joseph’s Candler ................................................ 2 Stille - DeWitt Health Brokerage , LLC........... 6, 20 Tanger Outlets......................................................... 21 The Salt Table........................................................... 25 Thomas C Strickland & Sons Funeral Home ...... 8 Toasted Yolk Cafe...................................................... 8 West Chatham YMCA............................................. 18

POOLER EVENTS

November 2023 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

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Friday

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11/8: Champagne & Bourbon

Saturday

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6-9pm | 5975 Ogeechee Rd, Savannah

11/9: Member Appreciation Oyster Roast 10am | Pooler Chamber of Commerce

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11/11: Veterans Day Observance 10am-1pm | The Villages at Godley Station

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11/11: Bombs N Barbells 7:30am | Burn Boot Camp

11/16: Full Bloom’s Holiday Kickoff 19

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5-7:30pm | Full Bloom, Pooler

11/17-19: Christmas Made in the South 10am-5pm | Savannah Convention Center

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11/18: Annual Gala & Lip Sync Battle 6-10pm | National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

11/18: 6th Annual Honor Mark 5K 8am-5pm | Daffin Park

December 2023 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

11/23: Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise

Friday

11:30am-7pm | Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Saturday

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11/24: December Nights & Holiday Lights 6-9pm | Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens

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12/2: Holiday Festival in the Park 12-4pm | Pooler Chamber of Commerce

12/9: Shopping with Santa 10

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10am | Polks Plus

12/8-12/10: Christmas on the River Savannah’s Waterfront

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12/17: Christmas at the Cathedral 10am | Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

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12/19: Community Service 10am - 12pm America’s Second Harvest Volunteer Center

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12/24: Christmas Eve Cruises Savannah’s Riverboat Cruises

Find more events and happenings at PoolerMagazine.com.

December 1, 8, 15: 7:00pm December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17: 3:00pm

POOLER THEATRE CLASS: WE ARE MONSTERS For 2nd through 8th grade students.

Register Now!

www.savannahchildrenstheatre.org/pooler-classes

Tickets! www.etix.com/ticket/v/2877/ savannah-childrens-theatre

SAVANNAHCHILDRENSTHEATRE.ORG | 912-238-9015 | 2160 E VICTORY DRIVE, SAVANNAH, GA

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | November/December 2023