Pooler Magazine September/October 2020

ANNUAL SPORTS ISSUE

Logan Jones Volleyball’s Back-Row Star is a Standout at Savannah Christian

September/October 2020

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T

here are plenty of sports and fitness opportunities right here in Pooler.

From team sports to individual activities, we have a wealth of choices.

Many are low to no cost and require nothing more than a desire to get outdoors.

Let’s look at some of the most popular, and some that may be new to you.

Pooler Recreation Department Pooler Recreation Department offers many popular programs for youth and adults in the Pooler area. They also manage the Pooler Stadium which now has state of the art turf, with both football and soccer lines. The field was completed in 2015 and boosts field lights, scoreboards, and large capacity grandstands.

The Pooler Rec Department Youth teams include: Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Softball, T Ball, Flag Football, Football, Pep Squad, Spring & Fall Volleyball. Youth programs offered include Dance, Tennis (for kids ages 4 and up), Gymnastics (Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced). Adult basketball runs from August-October.

Pooler Recreation Complex The Pooler Recreation Complex has playing fields, basketball courts, baseball fields and a large playground with two sections for children of different ages. The playground is equipped with a seesaw, climbing walls, several slides, rope spider web and monkey bars. On the smaller age group section, there are several slides as well and a braille board with the numbers and alphabet. Semi shaded; it is an extremely popular spot for families. There are restrooms on site.

Check it out: 200 Preston Stokes Dr, Pooler, GA 31322 | www.poolerrec.com

ATHLETIC & RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES IN POOLER Story by Cindy Reid

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YMCA of Coastal Georgia YMCA of Coastal Georgia operates 11 units, in Bulloch, Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty, McIntosh and Glynn Counties. Pooler’s West Chatham YMCA has summer camps, several sports teams, martial arts, and fitness programs. The YMCA has an indoor pool and offers swim lessons and swim teams.

Check it out: 165 Isaac G Laroche Dr, Pooler, GA 31322 | 912.748-9622 | www. ymcaofcoastalga.org Tom Triplett Community Park Chatham County Parks and Recreation Department manages Pooler’s Tom Triplett Community Park, which is a huge resource with many sports and fitness options for both youth and adults.

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The park features an 18-hole disc golf course that attracts disc golfers from around coastal Georgia. The park is located on the northern side of Savannah and is convenient for those who live in the Pooler area.

With restrooms, multiple pavilions, two tennis courts, and a jogging track to go with the disc golf course, Tom Triplett Park has everything you need to have a fun day outside. It is handicap accessible and has a designated dog exercise area.

Amenities include: • Two tennis courts • 1.5 mile jogging track with fitness course • 18 Hole Disc golf course • Two fishing piers on a freshwater lake, stocked with fish Check it out: 100 Tom Triplett Rd Pooler, GA 31322 | 912.652.6780 | parks.chathamcounty.org/Parks/ Community-Parks/Tom-Triplett

Running & Cycling Pooler features many pleasant walks and Tom Triplett Park has a 6 mile loop trail that features a lake. The trail is rated as moderate and offers several activity options. (Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.)

Indoor Fitness Opportunities Pooler has many choices for Gyms, Fitness Centers and Cross Fit facilities. Look online, and in person if possible, as different gyms offer different features such as specialized equipment and operating hours.

Martial Arts remains a popular athletic choice for children and adults.

The discipline and focus required to advance in martial arts training can yield many benefits in everyday life and the practice of martial arts encourages participants to be more physically active.

Pooler has several martial arts schools that serve all ages.

health

well-being,

“When it comes to and is about as close to a as you can get.”

regular exercise magic potion

Club Ball In addition to school sports and recreation department teams, many children and teenagers participate in what’s known as “club teams” or “travel teams” for soccer, volleyball, gymnastics, lacrosse, baseball softball, wrestling, and many other sports. The majority of the clubs are in Savannah, and many can be found at www.savannahsportscouncil. com/about/local-teams/ Golf In an area known for its many golf courses, Pooler may surprise you with its 18 hole Disc Golf Course at Tom Triplett Park. Disc golf is very much like traditional golf but instead of clubs and little balls, players use a flying disc or Frisbee. Like golf the goal is to complete each hole with the fewest strokes or throws. It’s played on a wooded field and is a lot of fun (and good exercise).

For those who like a traditional course there is the private course Savannah Quarters Country Club in Pooler, and the Lost Plantation Golf Course, located nearby in Rincon.

– Nhat Hanh

Miscellaneous Sports Ideas….

For the archer, Wildcat Archery & Hunting Supply, Inc., a Pro Shop for the recreational archer, competition archer, or bowhunter. (1370 US Highway 80 East, Pooler, GA 31322 | 912-965-9453) Oglethorpe Speedway Park is traditionally open every weekend March through October. OSP has been providing exciting auto racing action since 1951 and features high-speed action in many divisions on their famous half-mile clay oval. Comfortable stadium seating: camping and tailgating permitted. (200 Jesup Rd, Pooler, GA | 912.964-8200) And just for fun, visit the Fun Zone and try out the Go Carts and Mini Golf course. (1040 US Highway 80 E, Pooler, GA | 912. 330-9860.)

As you can see Pooler offers ample opportunity for any of us to get fit, enjoy a new sport, join a team, or simply take a nice walk in the park. Remember, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step!” n

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MEET THE TEAM Kelly Harley

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

Michelle Holloway

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

They have two beautiful children in their family.

Tonya Perry

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

Steve Prudhomme

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

Jan Southern, DPA

Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

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Tonya Perry

Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com

Matthew Downes

Sales Director Matthew@JDelSURMarketing.com

Cindy Reid is a graduate of Mills College

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

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.

Jean Williams is a native of Atlanta, a

retired banker and real estate investor. She and her husband are enjoying retirement living in The Villages at Godley Station in Pooler. Jean’s favorite hobby is exploring and writing about the history of Pooler.

Laura Zielinski

is a freelance graphic designer specializing in print design. A creative writing major in college who was always passionate about art, Laura stumbled into graphic design 14 years ago and has never looked back.

She enjoys shaping stories through meaningful design and loves spending time with her husband and three beautiful children.

Tiffany Yearwood Intern

Penny Redmond Distribution

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Your Community Website PoolerMagazine.com now includes

MORE community information, MORE events and happenings and MORE great stories about the people, places and happenings from Your Community Magazine.

PoolerMagazine.com THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS:

Pat Parker

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IN THIS ISSUE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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24

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26 ABOUT THE COVER With skills developed from a passion for the game, Logan Jones is a standout player on the volleyball team at Savannah Christian Preparatory School (SCPS), where she is currently a senior.

Features

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Logan Jones Volleyball’s Back-Row Star

Getting Its Irish Up

Savannah Gaelic Group Growing Despite Pandemic

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Cheer Savannah Phenomenal Cheer Program Helps Shape the Lives of Young Athletes

Fields of Dreams on Hold

Pandemic Delays Expansion of Pooler Athletic Facilities

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FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

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Mayor Rebecca Benton A Heart for her Community

Captain Robert William Pooler The City of Pooler’s Namesake

Departments

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Publisher’s Thoughts

Don't forget to check out PoolerMagazine.com for more content, more photos and more information about events and happenings around the greater Pooler area.

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PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

JAN SOUTHERN Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com TONYA PERRY Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com MATTHEW DOWNES Sales Director Matthew@JDelSURMarketing.com PENNY REDMOND Distribution TIFFANY YEARWOOD Intern LAURA ZIELINSKI Design A special thank you to writer/editor MICHAEL BROWN

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write to us and tell us what you think. Pooler Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send all letters via email to Jan Southern at Jan@ JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact.

Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS 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.

SPORTS ISSUE Welcome to the annual Sports issue of Pooler Magazine. While many traditional sports and extracurricular activities have been restricted amid Covid-19 guidelines, athletes are still training, practicing and building strength, whether individually or as a team. Now more than ever we need our teams, right? We are pleased to be able to share a small sampling with you, our valued readers.

In this issue we bring you a unique selection of sports related stories. Read about Logan Jones, student athlete and volleyball star Jan Southern from Savannah Christian. Take a rare glimpse at the Savannah Gaelic games and the power of the Cheer Savannah. We have even thrown in some pretty interesting snapshots of Pooler.

While we may not be able to see many of our teams playing in person, we can still watch and celebrate them from afar. We can appreciate their hard work and dedication to their sport and be grateful for the ability to support them. Pooler Magazine is happy to share some of their stories.

Thanks for reading Your Community Magazine.

Owner/Publisher Pooler Magazine

{

We want to hear from you!

Please send your comments, questions and stories ideas to 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 bi-monthly and distributed to over 175 locations throughout the Pooler area and beyond.

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

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LOGAN JONES:

Volleyball’s Back-Row Star Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Michelle Holloway

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L

ogan Jones is smart, focused, determined—every inch an outstanding student athlete. She has been playing girls’ volleyball since she was eight years old and is a standout player on the volleyball team at Savannah Christian Preparatory School (SCPS), where she is currently a senior.

In her position as libero, Logan was instrumental in the Raiders win against longtime rival Calvary for the Area Championship last season. She passed a 2.3 in serve receive and had 50 digs, setting a new school record, state record and was recognized as “SCPS Athlete of the Week” for her performance.

The team made it to the 2019 GHSA third round of state, where they ended their season with a loss to Walker (Marietta GA) in the Elite 8 and finished with a 32-8 record.

The Jones family is a volleyball powerhouse—mom Julie Jones is the Athletic Director and Volleyball Program Director at SCPS and sister Landon (Pooler Magazine 2018) is in her senior year playing volleyball on a full scholarship at Georgia Southern.

Logan says she has always been in a gym, from tagging along with her mom to playing club ball at age eight. “I played everything—basketball, volleyball, soccer and softball, but had to quit basketball after eighth grade due to the colliding schedules of basketball and club ball,” she says. “You could say I was a gym rat!”

Julie Jones says her involvement with athletics, and Savannah Christian, goes way back as well. Now in her 24th year of coaching, she says, “I was a graduate of Savannah Christian, went off to school, came back, and started coaching. I became involved with girls’ volleyball because Coach Kelly said, ‘Julie I need you to coach volleyball’ and it was the one sport I didn’t play! He said a good coach can learn to coach anything.

So, I dove straight in and love it— it’s all my family has ever done.”

In the libero position since 6th grade, Logan says, “It’s pretty much second nature. If I could choose to play any other position, I would choose to be the setter, they run the offense and are an asset to every team.”

Most fans only know the libero because they wear a different color shirt than the rest of the team so that one player stands out from the rest. Liberos are defensive specialists and cannot block or attack the ball when it is entirely above net height. However, when the ball is not in play, the libero can replace any back row player, without making a substitution.

“Logan is athletic and under control—which is a valuable skill. She has a genuinely nice demeanor, she is confident and calm and she supports her fellow teammates.”

In a sport where height can be an issue, Logan, at 5 foot 6 inches, says “It would be good to be tall for other positions but there is no need in mine.” Her position requires the ability to anticipate where the opposition is going to hit the ball, so analyzing the opposing teams tendencies and shots is key.

Club Savannah Coach Matt Linebarger, Director of Savannah Volleyball, has been coaching Logan in club ball for years. “I have had Logan in the gym since she was nine years old. Logan is athletic and under control—which is a valuable skill. She has a genuinely nice demeanor, she is confident and calm and she supports her fellow teammates.”

He says she has been a driving force, “in a subtle way because some plays she does surprises you,” and in the libero position she has been one of the most successful ones he’s seen, with the “moves of a calm athletic player on the court.”

He says, “She has made tremendous strides in the past year and she has really come into her own. She is her own person, her own player, playing her own game.”

Community This summer Logan participated in the SCPS Raider Volleyball Camp: Rising 4th – 8th, which she said “You do need a lot of patience, but it was lots of fun. The kids really enjoyed it, and I enjoyed teaching

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them.” Her mother Julie says, “Logan has a knack for giving to kids, which I saw at the children’s camps. I really think she has a spiritual gift to work with children.”

Julie also credits the Pooler Recreation Department for community involvement, “Both our daughters are products of the Pooler Recreation Department, where the girls were incredibly involved with basketball and softball. Logan works there when her schedule permits as a referee and manning the scoreboards.”

As for summer fun, Logan says “I love going to Tybee, I love the beach, pools, sun—pretty much all of that!”

athletes to send in their “stay at home workout” videos, so Logan and her sister Landon sent in a video of their quarantine workout and it was aired on the station news.

Logan says, “We have equipment in the garage, so we used that, and we did some ball control drills against the side of the house, essentially anything to touch a ball and keep those muscles moving.”

In addition to workouts and practices, Logan stays fit by eating healthy and limiting fast foods. She says “I try not to eat junk. Chocolate chip cookies and ice cream are a splurge!”

Senior Year In a challenging time for schools, Logan says she is looking forward to getting back to school for her senior year. She takes several dual enrollment classes, including math, English and Spanish because they also earn her college credits. English and biology are her favorite subjects. She says she loves Homecoming Week and “the rivalry games because they are so intense and competitive!”

The team has practice and workouts every day, including ladder drills and circuits, and Logan also lifts weights to stay in shape. During quarantine, local television station WJCL asked student

Next Steps In September, Logan will make a big decision and sign to one of the colleges actively recruiting her for their women’s volleyball teams. The schools under consideration are Georgia Southern, Georgia College, and College of Charleston.

Logan says she will probably major in business with an eye towards medical sales or maybe exercise science.

She says she has played with the same teammates for years. In fact, she and Lexi Polychrones have been on the same teams since they were nine years old, from club ball to high school, so “moving to the next step will definitely be bittersweet.”

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As far as her college choice goes, Logan says, “In the end it’s about the team and the atmosphere that the coaches bring.”

Julie says, “We have six seniors on this year’s team, and they are a talented group and I hope they all get the opportunity to play. They are a close knit group of girls, and I have enjoyed being around them and coaching them.”

She adds, “Each daughter was blessed with good volleyball teammates, and they have made connections for life.”

Club Savannah Coach Matt Linebarger says, “Logan has a tremendous future ahead of her. As she gets the opportunity to play in college, she’s going to go far beyond!”

Leaving SCPS and her coach will be a big change. “Being a coaches’ daughter can be tough, and we can get on each other’s nerves, but we do love each other,” she says. “I know when I am playing in college she will be there coaching from the stands.

My Dad, my grandpa, and my uncle were always coaching from the sidelines any chance they could. My family is always there for my games and it means so much to me to know they are there. They are my biggest fans!” n Editor’s Note: Logan is happy to report she signed with Georgia Southern!

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Logan’s Advice to New Players • Don’t take any practice or game for granted, as we all know it can be taken away in a second.

• Work hard—it pays off.

• Take every ball you can!

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On the rivers, trails and backroads of Effingham County, you’ll feel the stress of your daily routine fade into cozy comfort, tranquility and warm smiles.

Immerse yourself in our natural beauty, compelling history, and friendly southern hospitality.

Explore our inviting downtown areas, bike routes, wineries, secluded fishing spots and farms.

Effingham County has one-of-a-kind shops, and restaurants to suit any taste. Gather with us at our seasonal festivals and events, escape into the past in a restored 1940s movie palace, and so much more. We welcome you as one of our own to ensure your experience

feels like home.

Photo by: Rick Lott

(912) 754-3301 www.EffinghamCounty.com

W elcome home

to a life-changing student experience!

To learn more or schedule a tour, contact Debbie Fairbanks, Senior Director of Advancement 912-721-2114 or dfairbanks@savcps.com.

WWW.SAVCPS.COM

SCPS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, nationality, or ethnic origin.

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STREETS & SONS TIRE AND AUTO REPAIR They Do it Right the First Time!

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orne Streets and his two sons are combining their many years of automotive expertise to open a brand new neighborhood auto repair shop.

“All three of us have extensive auto experience” says Lorne Streets. “I worked in the car industry for 15 years at multiple dealers, including eight years at a Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler dealership where I was a service advisor and in management.”

As certified automotive technicians, sons Darren and Justin bring experience and expertise to every job.

Darren started as a detailer for used cars and worked his way up to be on the “quick service” staff and is certified in all aspects of automotive repair including engine, transmissions, and AC. After working for Sears Auto and Toyota, son Justin is expert in tires, suspension, brakes, batteries, service, and maintenance.

Lorne says, “When we experienced layoffs due to the pandemic, we decided to put our auto knowledge—sales, customer service, and technology—to good use. We did mobile repairs for six months and as we continued to grow, we thought ‘this could actually work!’”

Now expanding from mobile repairs to a permanent shop, Streets & Sons Tire and Auto Repair will open their doors on September 1, with a Grand Opening scheduled for September 12.

Every Customer is Like Family Because they are a family business, they take extra care to treat their customers like family.

“We treat people like they are our mother, father, sister, wife, son. We respect our customers and stand behind our work with a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty,” says Lorne. “We don’t advertise much because we depend on customer satisfaction and good word of mouth.” As he says, they “Do it right the first time!”

Streets & Sons Services In addition to all general automotive repairs, Streets & Sons’ services include: • Quick oil, tire rotation, general maintenance • Tire Sales and installation • Timing Belt replacement • Fleet Maintenance • Bolt on performance parts • Trailer hitches • Engine replacements/swaps • Restoration work • Minor paint service • Spray in bed liners • U Haul dealer- trucks and trailers (24 hr. service) Grand Opening Celebration Don’t miss their Grand Opening Celebration—September 12, from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. There will be free giveaways every 20 minutes and a free cookout lunch! They will also be having a car show, and all makes and models are welcome.

To celebrate their opening, they are running multiple specials for the month of September.

GRAND OPENING SPECIALS* $25 standard oil change (up to 5 quarts) 5% OFF any one repair FREE AC System Check FREE Rotate with oil change *1 special per customer

5555 Export Blvd, Savannah, GA 912.349.6594 HOURS Mon.-Fri.: 7:00AM-6:00PM Sat.: 8:00AM-1:00PM, Closed on Sunday

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BREWER LAND SURVEYING Brewer Land Surveying is a fullservice land surveying firm located in Pooler and licensed for operation in Georgia and South Carolina. Owner J. Craig Brewer is a licensed Land Surveyor with over 14 years of professional experience. Experience, attention to detail and customer service are the keys to the success of Brewer Land Surveying.

Although the company has grown over its 10 years in business, their focus remains on the individual customer.

Craig says “We serve everyone, from the homeowner who needs a residential survey, to commercial developers and design professionals. We work with architects, engineers, attorneys, real estate professionals and mortgage companies. No job is too small for us.”

Their areas of focus include Commercial and Residential Land Surveys, Topographic and As-Built Base Map creation, ALTA-NSPS Land Title Surveys, as well as FEMA Flood Elevation Certificates, Boundary Surveys, Foundation Surveys, Subdivision Plats,

GPS Control Points, Route Surveys, Wetland and Marsh Jurisdiction Line Mapping and Aerial Photography Control.

“Every survey is unique to the property and environmental factors surrounding the property,” says Craig, “and because we have the experience, we know what to look for and how to manage complex issues.”

FUN FACT- Three of the four U.S. Presidents on Mount Rushmore were land surveyors. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln surveyed colonial or frontier territories prior to serving office.

Craig and his team at Brewer Land Surveying are ready to work with you on your project, residential or commercial.

“Please contact us to discuss your needs.

There is no charge for estimates,” says Craig, “We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and provide you with the best service in the industry.”

J. Craig Brewer Craig is licensed as a Professional Land Surveyor in the states of Georgia and South Carolina. Craig has over fifteen years of experience as a land surveyor. His areas of focus include Commercial and Residential Land Surveys, Topographic and As-Built Base Map creation, Construction and Industrial surveys, and ALTA-ACSM Land Title Surveys.

Craig has also written product reviews for Professional Surveyor Magazine.

Brewer Land Surveying 604 US Highway 80 W, Pooler, GA 31322 (912) 856-2205 info@brewersurvey.com

BREWER LAND SURVEYING Brewer Land Surveying is a full-service, fully-automated land surveying and mapping firm licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. Residential and Commercial.

J. Craig Brewer, Licensed Professional Land Surveyor

Some of the services we offer are: • FEMA Flood Elevation • ALTA/ACSM Land Title Certificates Surveys • Boundary Surveys • Subdivision Plats • Topographical Surveys • GPS Control Points • Foundation Surveys • Mapping GIS infrastructure • As-built Surveys • Aerial Photography • Route Surveys Control Targeting Estimates are free, so call us today. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and provide you with the best service in the industry— high quality surveying and mapping services in a timely manner at a reasonable cost.

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T

he Irish are well represented in Pooler and Savannah, and each year the latter hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

A Pooler woman wants to get everyone’s Irish up throughout the year, and she’s relying on some ancient sports started in the Emerald Isle to hurl her agenda toward that goal.

Tara Reese is one of six board members of the Savannah Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), which is part of the international GAA that promotes Irish culture and sports.

Started in May with just six players, the Savannah GAA now has 30 adults and 10 to 12 youngsters, and the group ranges in age from 10 to 55.

Although the players practice at Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at Savannah’s Forsyth Park, they haven’t competed in any league matches due to COVID-19. A future practice site will be at the Pooler Recreation Complex, behind the Pooler YMCA, according to Reese.

Although she’s not Irish, Reese attended the February Irish Fest in Savannah with friend and Irishman Caleb Harkleroad.

While there, they quickly made friends with two couples, one from Ireland and England, respectively, the other from Ireland and New Jersey, respectively.

Four days later, having previously discussed their mutual interest in Gaelic sports at Billy’s Place, they repaired to O’Connell’s Irish Pub and formed the Savannah GAA; meeting at the Irish Fest proved serendipitous, as Reese and Harkleroad had previously discussed starting a Gaelic athletic group.

These six board members oversee a group that has experienced impressive growth, a notable feat considering the limitations brought on by the pandemic.

“It’s something different,” Reese said.

“The focus is on community and getting to know one another. It’s a cool sport and the oldest in the world.”

Gaelic Football Gaelic football doesn’t feature any tackling. Reese described it as a cross between soccer, rugby and volleyball.

Although the men and women have practiced together, they’ll play on separate teams once the season starts.

Hurling Hurling, described as the fastest game on grass, involves hitting a ball slightly smaller than a baseball and called a sliotar with a stick similar to one used in hockey.

Reese said it combines elements of baseball, 18

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lacrosse and cricket.

Gina Shields and her husband, Damien, a native of Ireland, are also board members.

They’re one of the two couples who met up with Reese and Harkleroad in February and eventually formed the Savannah GAA. A resident of Pooler, Gina has quickly taken to Gaelic football.

“It’s super fun to watch and play,” she said. “There’s so much action. It’s like soccer, but there’s more contact and opportunities to score.”

Although she’s practiced camogie, the women’s version of hurling, Gina said she’s unlikely to play during the season.

“It’s an intricate game,” Gina said. “It requires a lot of skill and is like nothing an American has experienced.”

What many American have experienced is the festive atmosphere of St. Patrick’s Day that marks the group’s activities on and off the field throughout the year and not just one day in March.

That approach, Gina explained, follows the GAA’s goal of promoting culture, community and craic, a term for news, gossip, entertainment, fun and lively conversation that is prominent in Ireland.

“We’re all about having a good time,” she said. “It’s very social. We enjoy a beer or two.” n

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CHEER SAVANNAH W When you have a passion, you work hard at it. When you’re good at something, you usually love it. That is how it is for Stephanie Britt, owner of Cheer Savannah. She is celebrating her 21st year in business, and not only has she built a phenomenal cheer program, but she has also helped shape the lives of many young athletes.

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hen she opened Cheer Savannah, Stephanie Britt says it was the first time competitive cheer was introduced to the community.

“We were the only cheer gym in Savannah for about 12 years,” says Stephanie. “Some people didn’t quite understand the concept of competitive cheer and thought we should have pom-poms.”

Competitive cheer is anything but pom-poms. It involves tumbling, jumping, stunting, dancing, and showmanship.

Cheerleaders are considered athletes and spend many hours working on their skills.

“We start girls as young as three, and some of our athletes are in their early 20s.

We have so many that start at a young age because it takes time to develop skills, and there is a lot of competition out there,” says Stephanie.

When it comes to competition, Cheer Savannah has made quite a name for itself.

For the past four years, the Lady Lace team competed in The Cheerleading Worlds™ (the biggest cheerleading competition there is) and placed in the top 10. In 2020, COVID-19 canceled the Worlds trip, but the team was pegged to be in the top five.

This year was also the first year Cheer Savannah had a second team going to Worlds. The team is a non-tumbling team, and when they competed in January, they won the highest score of all the teams, which qualified them for Worlds.

Brooke Cowart cheered at Cheer Savannah for almost 14 years. “It was by far the best decision that my mother ever made for me. I started Cheer Savannah when I was five years old and became alumni when I graduated from

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high school, and then I went to cheer at Georgia Southern. Cheerleading wasn’t just a hobby for me—it was my passion,” says Brooke.

Brooke is like many of the other athletes at Cheer Savannah who go on to cheer in college. Stephanie says there is a 100 percent success rate when it comes to Cheer Savannah athletes making their college cheer teams.

Kellianne Edgy started at the gym in sixth grade. “Stephanie shaped me into part of the woman I am today, and there is no way I could have been successful cheering for Georgia Southern University without her. Cheer Savannah has grown so much since I first started, and I always love going back to support,” says Kellianne.

Stephanie says it really comes down to helping the cheerleaders to grow up and be successful adults. She and the six other coaches work hard to teach cheerleading skills, as well as help the athletes develop fundamental life skills.

“You learn how to lose, and you learn how to win. You learn about sacrifice, time management, and communication skills,” says Stephanie. “We work on building up people. We aren’t just doing cheerleading; we’re developing leaders and good people.”

“Cheer Savannah is much more than just a cheerleading gym; it’s a family. It’s a place for people to do what they love—with the people they love. Some of my very best memories to this day are between those walls or on the stage with my teammates.

There is no place like it. Cheer Savannah

made me into the woman I am today,” adds Brooke.

Stephanie says cheerleading is like a sisterhood. The girls travel together, they have pool parties, they win together, and they lose together. “It’s great to see a teenager who wants to spend more time working on a sport. I’m intentional about teaching these girls about chasing their dreams,” says Stephanie.

There are around 10 teams at Cheer Savannah. Cheerleaders travel from all over to cheer there, including Brunswick, Vidalia, and even South Carolina. The stateof-the-art gym is only five years old and features 11,000 square feet of space. There are three full-size cheer floors, two tumble tracks, and an air track. It’s quite a change from where Cheer Savannah started nearly two decades ago.

However, what hasn’t changed is the spirit and the passion the coaches and athletes have for the sport. They spend hours behind the gym door working on routines, perfecting tumbling skills, and learning new choreography. Much of the credit goes to the leaders.

“While also being the owner of Cheer Savannah, she’s also one heck of a coach. I wouldn’t have been half the athlete that I was if it weren’t for her and the other coaches at Cheer Savannah. She only hires the best of the best for her athletes, and that’s why so many kids go off to cheer in college once they leave Cheer Savannah. They set you up for success after high school—not just during your time there,” says Brooke.

Perhaps an even better compliment Stephanie can receive is when she gets invited to one of the girl’s weddings or baby showers, or they send their children to her for her to teach.

“I pour so much of my heart into these children and to see that they believe in me, is one of the greatest rewards and why I do what I do,” says Stephanie. n

“Competitive cheer is anything but pom-poms. It involves tumbling, jumping, stunting, dancing, and showmanship.”

When it comes to dreams, they aren’t stopping at the gym. This year, Cheer Savannah started the first-ever co-ed competitive team. There are four boys in the program and this allows the gym to have a third team that can compete in Worlds.

“I think having four boys has changed the gym, but the girls love it. The boys bring an additional competitive spirit, and I think it makes the girls better,” says Stephanie.

Stephanie and the coaches train roughly 200 athletes each year. While her numbers are smaller than when she was the only gym in town, she likes how it is now. “Everybody feels loved, and we get to know each of the athletes. It’s like one big family,” says Stephanie.

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I

n response to Pooler’s increasing population growth and the subsequent need for leisure activities and venues in recent years, the city’s recreation department stepped to the plate and helped push through a plan for expanded facilities near the YMCA. The project has been thrown a curveball by the pandemic, however.

Recreation, while important during this unprecedented time, has been restricted due to the threat of the virus. Projects such as this one have been delayed, while participation numbers are down after several years of significant growth.

Before Tanger Outlets spearheaded a growth explosion some five years ago, the sports complex on Rogers Street was more than adequate to see to the recreational needs of Pooler residents. When the outlet center opened, however, Pooler became

a popular destination and attracted an influx of new residents. Schools, stores, homes and apartments sprung up seemingly overnight. Recreation wasn’t far behind; five baseball/softball fields, a soccer field and stadium opened up near the YMCA. Just as the city was challenged to meet the demand for other services, recreation faced a similar task of providing adequate faculties for a growing population that wants to take advantage of the area’s abundant sunshine and temperate climate throughout the year. SPLOST funds were approved to build five more baseball fields, tennis complex, playground and, possibly, a fitness trail. These would expand a complex that includes five baseball/softball fields, soccer field, and a stadium that recently had artificial turf put in and hosts high school and recreation football games.

Then came the pandemic.

“There’s so much on hold,” said Leisure Services director Hugh Elton, who has served in that capacity for 13 years. “We’re still working on drainage and infrastructure. So much depends on COVID recovery.”

The Coronavirus has also impacted recreation programs. These include youth basketball, soccer, baseball, softball and T-ball and adult basketball and kickball.

Elton said all the programs shut down in March. “We’re slowly opening them back up,” Elton said.

The cancellations included a Buddy Curry football camp and Tracy McGrady basketball camp. Elton noted that the number of participants in the recreation programs is about 50 percent compared to last year; in 2019, according to Elton, there were an estimated 3,100 youngsters and 1,500 to 1,600 adults satisfying their

FIELDS OF DREAMS ON HOLD Pandemic Delays Expansion of Pooler Athletic Facilities Story by Stephen Prudhomme | Photo by Michelle Halloway

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athletic cravings through the Pooler Recreation Department.

“We’re trying to get everything back on track,” said Elton, who’s working with a number of agencies to safely reopen recreation programs. “We’re coming up with a plan to start in the fall. I’m cautiously optimistic things will return to normal.”

Elton is also in charge of the city’s senior center, which he described as very active. The pandemic has curtailed much of that activity, however.

“We can’t get in there,” said Elton, referring to the restrictions that have been implemented to protect the seniors, considered high-risk, from COVID-19. “The center director has been running errands and delivering meals." He added future plans call

for renovating the current senior center or building a new one.

Elton has witnessed tremendous growth on the recreational front during his 13-year tenure. He credited city leadership with recognizing the importance of recreation and being committed to upgrading facilities to keep up with the demand brought on by an expanding population.

Elton, for his part, shares that commitment in his role as Leisure Services director.

“I enjoy providing services that make people happy—enjoying the parks and programs,” Elton said.

Now if the pandemic would just exit the field, Elton and many Pooler residents, both young and old, could go

back to focusing on balls and strikes, passes and receptions, goals and headers.

And a mask is something only worn by two individuals behind home plate.

Steven Chang is ready to return to the field of play.

The Pooler resident played and coached rec football, basketball and baseball and served as umpire. Given the sports void brought on by the pandemic, Chan has focused on his son and daughter, who compete in travel ball and cheerleading, respectively. He’s planning on coaching his son’s upcoming youth football team.

“I’m glad to be back at it,” Chan said.

“My son and I throw the football around in the yard and with neighborhood kids.

We’re trying to stay active.” n

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“

MAYOR REBECCA BENTON: A Heart for Her Community Story by Katrice Williams

W

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

“

– Helen Keller

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e’re going to get through this,” Pooler Mayor Rebecca Benton compassionately yet confidently stated concerning the current Coronavirus Pandemic. Making history by becoming Pooler’s first female mayor, Mayor Benton has been diligently serving the Pooler community since her inauguration in January.

The daughter of Frank and Elizabeth Benton, Rebecca grew up in the local area.

Throughout her childhood, her dad was the owner of Benton’s Dairy while her mom was an educator for nearly 20 years.

Rebecca, a University of Georgia graduate, majored in political science; she taught for a few years prior to going back to school to fulfill her true passion—law.

Now, as mayor, she is a semi-retired attorney. The mayor has long been interested in politics and due process of law, striving to find the best ways to serve citizens. She has served on the city council for over 16 years and encourages other citizens to take part as well.

“I’ve always been concerned about where I live and what’s best for my community. It’s such an honor to be mayor. Though I can’t solve all their problems, I want to be there for constituents. I want to see more people come out with their positive input so we can work together for our community,” she said.

Serving our Community with her Whole Heart Mayor Benton does not aspire to serve at the state level, as she sees the true benefit of helping to create positive change in her own community—where her heart lies. Pooler is a city-manager form of government under the leadership of City Manager Robbie Byrd; nonetheless, Mayor Benton knows that her position allows her to be an asset wherever needed.

“I want to do the best I can for the city where I live,” she added.

One of the mayor’s biggest goals and priorities is helping to implement traffic improvements in the rapidly growing area.

Actually, there are some projects in the works to make much needed infrastructure changes. The mayor is also looking forward to welcoming additional venues (restaurants, shopping destinations, etc.) to the city in the future; she, however, understands that the added luxuries will likely bring more traffic to the area.

“If you want services, you’re going to have traffic,” she stated. She knows that the benefits, though, far outweigh the small sacrifices.

Even more, the mayor understands the challenging times that much of the community is currently facing with COVID-19. “We’ll get through this. I pray and do the best that I can. I didn’t have a rule book for COVID-19. By policy, the cities in Chatham County follow the Chatham Emergency Management Agency

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(CEMA) orders, and we want to be consistent with the governor,” she said.

A Unique City with Unique Issues Though Pooler is basically in Savannah’s backyard, it has its own unique issues to be handled in a way that best benefits the Pooler community. Even during these trying times, the mayor knows where many needs exist and persists to properly address them.

Moreover, she is proud to work alongside a team of professionals who also have the city’s best interest in mind, going beyond the call of duty. Hence, the mayor is immensely grateful for the efforts of both the Pooler Police Department under the leadership of Police Chief Ashley Brown and the Pooler Fire Department led by Fire Chief Wade Simmons.

“Our police and fire departments take good care of us; they have our backs. They’re always looking after the residents in regular times and in pandemic times. We are so lucky to have them,” the mayor stated.

That said, when the city’s annual budget is made, city funds are first allocated to the public safety arena, and quite understandably so, as first responders are consistently on the front lines for the community.

A Mayor Deeply Involved in her Community Mayor Benton has long been a proud member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where she is a member of the choir, nomination’s committee and former chairman of the church council. “I volunteer and enjoy it there,” she remarked.

In addition, the mayor is an avid member of the West Chatham Rotary Club, Pooler Garden Club, Seeds and Weeds Garden Club and was even the former secretary and treasurer of the Georgia Association for Women Lawyers (GAWL).

More so, Mayor Benton feels that it is important for the community to come together during this time.

“Be patient and respect your fellow man. Remember the Golden Rule: ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’ Just use common sense—wash your hands, social distance and wear your masks when needed,” she said.

Looking forward to a promising road ahead, Mayor Rebecca Benton certainly has a heart for her community. n

NEW 18-ACRE DEVELOPMENT WILL ENHANCE LOCAL COMMUNITY Darshil Patel, CEO of Sweven Investment Group, has partnered with powerhouse commercial construction leaders, The Dewitt Tilton Group, to enhance the development of the East side of Pooler with an astonishing 18 acre project that will provide the local community with a combination of dining, shopping, and other miscellaneous commercial properties.

A ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Kansa Center in Pooler was held on August 4th, commemorating the first of three phases of the development project. Phase one will consist of a 13,000 square foot retail space and is projected for completion in early Spring. Although the names of

the occupying businesses have yet to be disclosed, a mixture of businesses, such as restaurants, a hotel, a medical office, and some retail spaces are anticipated amongst the new developments.

Conveniently nestled between Interstate 16 and the new St. Joseph’s/ Candler Pooler Campus, the Kansa Center will not only commercially diversify the area, it will also create a variety of work opportunities for the surrounding community.

The Kansa Center, along with the street, Kansa Circle, are named after Darshil’s family name, Kansawala, which was also the name of the village in India where his grandfather was raised.

The Pooler Chamber of Commerce has “Re-Branded” As Pooler continues to grow, the Pooler Chamber felt it time for a fresh look.

We are all encompassing for our businesses in Pooler—and those not in Pooler—that support the chamber and the city.

Take a look at our new logo:

Our new name is:

Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, Inc.

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We’re growing! To meet the needs of our community, we are excited to announce the opening of our new, larger space just steps away from our previous location. SouthCoast Health in Pooler will be adding urgent care services and additional specialties in the coming months.

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Savannah’s premier group of ear, nose, and throat professionals, specializing in total care of head and neck disorders.

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Hospice Savannah’s Exemplary Care Continues During the COVID-19 Pandemic Hospice Savannah, Inc. and the Steward Center for Palliative Care remain open and dedicated to helping you cope with symptoms of serious illnesses or with end-of -life care.

CDC guidelines are strictly followed so that you, your loved one and our staff stay safe. Call 912.355.2289 for a free, confidential consultation.

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Hospice Savanah’s Inpatient Unit visitors and staff are checked for fever and asked screening questions before being admitted. At a time when hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are prohibiting visitors, we are committed to permitting two loved ones at bedside. (With stringent infection control measures in place, one of our nurses recently posted on our Facebook page that she feels safer in our inpatient unit than in public!)

The Edel Caregiver Institute offers free individual and virtual group support to family members caring for a loved one with serious illness, disability or dementia. Feelings of frustration and isolation are worsening for many during the pandemic; please let us help you. Simply call Jill at 912.629.1331.

Full Circle Grief & Loss bereavement counselors offer free individual and virtual group counselling for any child, teen or adult in our community. They also provide virtual memorial gatherings during this time when funerals and memorials are difficult to attend in person. Just call 912.303.9442.

Hospice Savannah’s Thrift Shoppe in Pooler is open, and our Hospice Savannah Foundation staff is diligently working to ensure acknowledgements of your gifts. It is increasingly critical during this difficult time to fund our many vital community services! Reach our Foundation at 912.629.1027.

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How to ACCEPT UNCERTAINTY as we FACE A NEW NORMAL

A

s humans, we need fear to keep us aware and stay safe. Your entire goal as a human is to survive. Not knowing what may happen next fills us at best with anxiety and at worst, panic. As we all do our best to navigate the current heightened wave of uncertainty, I would like to offer a few ideas on how embracing uncertainty can improve the quality of your life.

First, I want to emphasize that not knowing is a constant state of human existence. We really do not know much of anything for certain. What I am offering is an opportunity to reframe how you experience uncertainty. If it is going to happen anyway, what can we do to make it a more inviting experience?

1. GRATITUDE. We all have something, most likely many things, for which we can be thankful. Research validates daily gratitude lists can improve your overall quality of life. Make time every day to list at least 5 things for which you can be grateful.

2. INSTEAD OF “FEARING WHAT IF” FOCUS ON HOW YOU WILL HANDLE THE WORST-CASE SCENARIO. Work out a plan, “If this happens, I will do X,Y,Z.” This works for any fears you have. It gives you time to become aware of what you fear and break it down. This exercise will allow you to regain power and perspective.

3. CONNECT WITH A HIGHER PURPOSE. Something that is uplifting, music, singing, your faith. Maybe take up a new cause or support your favorite charitable organization. The new normal has created many new opportunities to be of service.

4. FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE. When you make a mistake, accept that mistakes are inevitable. Be grateful for the opportunity to learn what did not work and keep the parts that did work. We are built to adapt. Seeing the positive will make it less stressful.

5. REFUEL WITH SELFCARE. Get quality sleep, take a walk, do yoga, get some exercise, go outside whenever possible and connect with nature.

6. BREATHE. Breathing is subconscious so happens automatically. Yet we can consciously breathe more deeply. There are many different breathing exercises that can contribute to better sleep, digestion, and overall health. My favorite is conscious breathing exercise. Simply count each exhale as you breath. Only count the exhales and stop at 5. You may continue this for up to 10 minutes. In order to stay focused and aware keep it broken into sets of 5.

7. CONNECT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. Being lonely can heighten fears, increase anxiety and depression. Reach out with a phone call, texting does not count, meet them to take a walk, facetime or zoom them. We need each other. Even if it must be 6 feet apart. www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mindful-anger/201807/science-provesgratitude-is-key-well-being

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

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

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

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The City of Pooler’s Namesake

CAPTAIN ROBERT WILLIAM POOLER Story by Jean Williams

C

aptain Robert William Pooler’s father, John Estah Pooler, and his wife, Ann, arrived in Chatham County, Ga., from England sometime before 1784 just after the Revolutionary War. In 1804, John Pooler was a Justice of the Peace in Savannah. John and Ann had three daughters and one son—Captain Robert William Pooler (1796-1852). John Pooler’s real estate holdings expanded 3 counties, totaling 5,000 acres.

Captain Pooler was born and raised in Savannah and graduated with an engineering degree from West Point Military Academy in 1815. In 1821 Captain Pooler married Mary Eliza Julia Wayne, and they had one daughter and one son— Robert William Pooler, Jr. In 1850 Captain Pooler’s extended family lived in District 13 of Savannah. The Pooler family members together owned real estate in different counties valued at over $30,000.

After his death in December 25, 1853, Captain Pooler’s estate was managed by the Chatham County Probate Court and his widow, Mary J Pooler, who owned property in the Brown Ward and Lot 10

40

on Broughton Street, Savannah. Captain Pooler’s estate listed 1,650 acres of land owned in Chatham, Effingham and Houston County.

Captain Pooler is buried in Savannah’s Laurel Grove Cemetery North. On January 22, 2007, the West Point Society of Savannah placed a new grave marker at Captain Robert William Pooler’s grave with a full military honors ceremony including taps. This was a fitting tribute for the 100th Anniversary of the City of Pooler.

A Strong Advocate of Building a Savannah to Macon Railroad In 1833 a group of Savannah officials obtained a state charter for the Central Rail Road and Canal Company with the intent of building either a railroad or canal link from Savannah west 190 miles to Macon, Georgia to transport cotton and other products to the port of Savannah.

Building this railroad in Georgia was significant in order to compete with South Carolina’s railroad that was already transporting people and freight from the Savannah River near Augusta to the port of Charleston.

Raising money was difficult, so in

1836 the name was changed to Central Railroad & Banking Company to sell bonds to fund the project. The first president of the company was William Washington Gordon, a friend and West Point classmate of Captain Pooler. Mr. Gordon was a former Savannah Mayor, a lawyer, banker, engineer, business man and the Grandfather of Juliet Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts. Captain Pooler was appointed as an Agent of the company and was commissioned to produce a Feasibility Study of building a railroad from Savannah to Macon.

Captain Pooler traveled and surveyed the 190 mile route through every town, county, across every river and swamp to produce the study and lay out the route. Captain Pooler sold his land to the Railroad Company for the site of the first railroad station located at the corner of Rogers Street and W. Collins St / U S Hwy 80 East, 10 miles west of Savannah.

Construction began in 1835 and the first station was named “Pooler” in honor of Captain Robert William Pooler. The City of Pooler was incorporated in 1907 and has become a thriving city. The Savannah– Macon Railroad enhanced the economy of the City of Savannah and the seaport. n

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Captain Robert W Pooler’s Career and Civil Service to his Country, his Hometown and to the State of Georgia 1813

Cadet at U S Military Academy West Point with his Savannah friend, William Washington Gordon

1815

Graduated from West Point with a engineering degree and was Commissioned a Bvt 2nd Lt in the US Army Corps of Engineers

1815-18

Assistant Engineer in the construction of the US Defense Fortification of the Gulf of Mexico

1817

Promoted to full 2nd Lieutenant

1818

Resigned his Commission from the U S Army Corps of Engineers to served as the U S Surveyor of the Port of Savannah, Georgia

1819-22

Captain of Light Artillery Georgia Militia

1821-53

Counselor at Law Savannah, Georgia

1823-25

Member of the Georgia House of Representatives at the Georgia State Capital in Milledgeville

1824-37

Captain and later Commander of the Republican Blues Georgia Infantry Militia

1825-28

Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, Oyer and Terminer for the City of Savannah, Georgia

1828-46

Member of the Court of Ordinary

1828-48

Judge of the Superior and Inferior Courts of Chatham County, Georgia

1833-39

State of Georgia Constitution Convention member to amend the State Constitution

1833

Agent and surveyor - Central of GA Railroad to do a Feasibility Study for the Savannah to Macon railroad

1850

Receiver of Tax Returns of Chatham County, Georgia www.PoolerMagazine.com | September/October 2020 41

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | September/October 2020

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definition of beauty. Beauty is about confidence and feeling comfortable in your own skin. It’s about embracing and celebrating your uniqueness.

We’re here to help you achieve your own

MERLE NORMAN

T

iffany Writch, owner of Merle Norman Cosmetics in Pooler, has been a member of the Merle Norman team for a long time. Growing up she worked in three different Merle Norman stores, and has been using their products since she was 13 years old.

She believes in the exceptional quality of their products.

“When a brand has been around that long it shows you how great they are,” she says. “Their cosmetics and skin care products are the best and they really stand behind their products.”

From their bestselling skin care line of cleansing creams, moisturizers, and wrinkle smoother to their amazing cosmetic line including mascara, foundations, and lip stick, Tiffany is confident there is something for anyone in the Merle Norman line. Their diverse array of cosmetics caters to a range of ethnicities and ages, skin tones and individual needs, and they often launch new product lines to accommodate customer demands.

The company motto is “try before you buy,” and Tiffany encourages every prospective buyer to truly experience Merle Norman by trying any product before purchase. In fact, she would love for women to come in for free makeover and take a sample home!

Merle Norman Cosmetics also includes a store within the store— Lulu’s Closet, a full boutique of clothing, shoes, and accessories. “We sell many brands such as Kendra Scott, SPANX, Karlie and Quay,” says Tiffany. “Now is the perfect time to shop for transitional fall pieces.”

She is pleased to announce another exciting feature, “Erin Smith is our new medical aesthetician who is bringing the latest skin care treatments and technologies to ensure healthy skin results,” says Tiffany. “Erin will be working on Tuesday and Fridays, so call today to make your appointment!”

Take the time to do something lovely for yourself and visit Merle Norman Cosmetics for exceptional products and superb personalized service.

405 US Highway 80, Suite 102 Pooler GA | (912) 988-1379 HOURS: Tues-Fri: 10-5:30

Saturday: 10-4

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LOOK OUT for our Shop Local Issue (Pooler Magazine Nov/Dec 2020) Just in time for the Holiday Season!

If you have a local business and would like to be included in our special “Shop Local” issue, give us a call!

Office: 912.295.5406 Cell: 912.318.8645 info@JDelSURMarketing.com | PoolerMagazine.com

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Pooler Magazine News & Notes

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

Visit PoolerMagazine.com to sign up or email Addie@JDelSURMarketing.com!

P.O. Box 2328, Rincon, GA 31326

(912) 295-5406 44

www.PoolerMagazine.com | September/October 2020

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POOLER HAPPENINGS September Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

12:00 - 6:00 pm • 272 South Columbia Avenue, Ste 110 Wednesday

1

JULY 4

9/10: B Renewed 1 Year Anniversary Celebration Thursday

2

Friday

3

Saturday

4

5

9/19: Pirate’s Day 10:00 am - 2:00 p.m. • Children’s Museum of Pooler

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

9/23-9/27: The Savannah Safe Jazz Fest Wednes.-Sun. • Various Areas Around Savannah

13

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18

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9/25-9/26: SCAD Animation Fest Fri.-Sat. • Virtual

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21

22

23

25

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9/26: Boots & BBQ Hoedown 5:30 - 9:30 pm • Faith Equestrian Therapeutic Center

27 28 JULY 4, 2020

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30

9/26: Oh My Megalodon 3:30 am - 7:00 p.m. • Children’s Museum of Pooler

October Sunday

Monday

10/1: Savannah Food Truck Festival 11:00 am - 6:00 pm • Savannah Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

1

Saturday

2

3

10/24: Treats for Eats Food Drive 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. • J.F. Gregory Park, Savannah

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

10/24-10/25: Wag-O-Ween 12:00 - 5:00 pm, daily • Savannah

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15

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19

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21

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23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

HALLOWEEN

Find more events and happenings at PoolerMagazine.com.

To submit your events to the calendar, email Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com.

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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 Badcock & More Home Furniture | Mo’ Southern Savannah Christian Preparatory School Southern Motors Acura | State Farm - Pat Parker, Agent Advanced Alternative Medicine........................................................... 42 Brave Salon.............................................................................................. 36 Brewer Land Surveying..........................................................................17 Carter’s Pharmacy.................................................................................. 30 Effingham Chamber...............................................................................14 Effingham County Animal Shelter...................................................... 38 Effingham Health System........................................................................2 Ellen Claire Soapery............................................................................... 42 ENT Savannah..........................................................................................37 Georgia Southern................................................................................... 23 Great Oaks Bank..................................................................................... 33 Hospice Savannah.................................................................................. 38 Howard Family Dental........................................................................... 34 IMI Financial..............................................................................................37 Jenny Leblanc Real Estate.................................................................... 38 Landmark 24 Homes................................................................................3 Lost Plantation Golf Course................................................................. 32 Low Country Window Washers........................................................... 30 Lucy Belle..................................................................................................16 Melissa Rhodes, CPA..............................................................................16 Merle Norman......................................................................................... 43 Miller’s Coin & Currency........................................................................37 Mo’ Southern Collection Coffee......................................................... 47 Octane Bar............................................................................................... 22 Pappy’s Pressure Washing.....................................................................16 Pars Oriental Rugs.................................................................................. 22 Perfect Pools........................................................................................... 32 Queensborough Bank................................................................. 45 & 48 ReEnvision Bookkeeping...................................................................... 32 Rustic to Ritz Events.............................................................................. 34 Savannah Christian Preparatory School.............................................14 So-Low......................................................................................................16 South Coast Health ............................................................................... 35 Southern Eagle Brewing........................................................................31 State Farm - Pat Parker......................................................................... 32 Street & Sons Tire Auto Center............................................................15 US Health - Lucie Garner..................................................................... 42 The Whole Tooth ................................................................................... 30 Trish B Stylin............................................................................................ 22

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www.PoolerMagazine.com | September/October 2020

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The

Mo’Southern co f f ee A rich signature blend of southern roasted goodness.

Now available in K-cups!

Georgia Roasted Premium Coffee from right here in Effingham County.

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first) coffee that I can actually drink with nothing added. My goodness! It is smooth and almost velvety-like. What a difference from my usual go-to coffee! ”

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great for making your favorite mixed coffee drinks. I use both a drip machine and a French press, and the flavor is always consistent. ”

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We're expanding in the

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Breaking ground Fall of 2020

G E O R G I A’ S C O M M U N I T Y B A N K since 1 9 0 2 www.QNBTRUST.bank QUEE-20007CR

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