Pooler Magazine July/August 2014

July/August 2014

John

Fender:

Investing In His Community

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CONTRIBUTORS SUBSCRIBE

Sherry Cook is a Tennessee native who has traveled the world thanks to her husband’s military career. Germany, South Korea, Texas, Kentucky, and Alabama are just a few of the places they have called home over the past 25 years. Sherry and her husband now reside in Rincon, along with two of their three children. She is currently focusing on completing the requirements for her BA in History with the University of Maryland.

Sherry Cook

Todd Wood is a visionary photographer, director, and artist with an insatiable hunger for continued education in photography, film, social media and social art. His vision has no boundries.

As a photographer, Todd has won numerous awards from The Georgia Press Association for his photojournalistic images in sports, sport news and features. As a journalist, he has covered the Super Bowl and has been on assignment for ESPN Magazine. He has also received awards from the Georgia Press Association for sports writing.

Today he strives to combine his photography, videography and social media prowess in hopes of creating a more positive and creative community.

Todd Wood

Make sure you never miss a copy of Pooler’s only full-color lifestyle magazine.

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STAFF

Lea Allen

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

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04 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 05

CONTENTS July/August 2014

features

08 John Fender

Investing In His Community 14 Patriot Weekend Coming To Pooler 20

Pooler Recreation Spotlight Dr. Jim Portzer

departments

07 26 37

Publisher’s Page

Dining Guide Wasabi Fusion Let’s Do Business

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

Make Plans For Patriot Weekend Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Lane Gallegos graphic design lane@idpmagazines.com Lea Allen administrative assistant/circulation lea@idpmagazines.com DiAnna Jenkins account executive dianna@idpmagazines.com Barbara Anderson account executive barbara@idpmagazines.com

It’s hard to believe this year is already half gone.

It seems like just yesterday we were all gathered around the Christmas tree, exchanging gifts with loved ones.

Now, the heat of the summer is here. People are making all kinds of plans…summer vacations, beach time, pool parties…..all kinds of fun.

While you are making plans to wind down this year’s summer, don’t forget to put Patriot Weekend on your calendar.

This year’s event, hosted by the City of Pooler, will be held September 4-6, 2014.

Festivities begin on Thursday evening, September 4th as the Pooler Chamber of Commerce has their annual Taste of Pooler and the Westside event. This will be held at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum from 5:00 – 7:30 pm.

Julie Hales, PUBLISHER

On Friday, September 5th, Savannah Quarters will be hosting the Patriots and Heroes Golf Tournament. The tournament starts at 9:00 am.

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

The Fifth Annual Pooler 5K will take place on Saturday morning, September 6th, starting at 8:00 am. Also on Saturday, The Festival In The Park begins at 4:00 pm.

This year’s Festival will have a great hometown feel and lots of great food, a free concert and a wonderful fireworks show! The Festival is FREE and open to the public.

All proceeds from the weekend festivities will benefit the Warrior Transition Battalion at Ft. Stewart, the place where wounded, injured and ill soldiers go to heal.

108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 3126 (912) 826-2760

Come on out for a day of fun, and a chance to support our soldiers in this great community event. Read more about it on pages 14-16. We hope to see you there.

Circulation: Pooler Magazine is publlished bi-monthly (six issues a year), printing 9 ,000 copies and distributed to over 180 locations.

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

Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 07

08 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

john fender

Investing in his community • Story by JULIE HALES Photos by TODD WOOD •

Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 09

“W

hen I was in college, I would drive down I-16 on my way to Macon and I would see this sign that said Pooler, Georgia. Then, all I would see was pine trees until I got to a sign that said Bloomingdale, Georgia. And then there was more pine trees,” says John Fender, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Pooler.

That memory of Pooler is nothing but a memory. Pooler has become home to John and his family.

Leaving those college years and fast forwarding to 2004, John received a phone call. He states, “I was pastoring a church in Alabama, and a man called me and told me that they were starting a church in Pooler, Georgia and the first thing I think of is pine trees! I asked the gentleman did anyone live in Pooler? He told me it was a different place now and that I ought to come check it out.”

And, that is just what he did.

In 2004, when John made that trip, he remembers getting on the Parkway and driving, and seeing nothing until he got to the Chik-Fil-A. He says, “There was nothing for miles, then a ChikFil-A, a Walmart and a Home Depot. I remember thinking ‘Something is going on here.’”

Having been a small town guy, Pooler seemed to be perfect for John. Even with its growth pattern just beginning, he knew it still had the home town qualities he had grown up with.

John Fender was born in Jesup, Georgia. He grew up in Brunswick. His grandfather owned a grocery store on Jekyll Island, that later became his father’s business.

John graduated from Glynn Academy. While in high school, he played baseball and traveled all over the Savannah area. “I am sure during that time I did travel through Pooler, I just don’t remember it,” he says.

After graduation, John went to college at Mercer in Macon, Georgia. Here he received a Business Degree with the goal of taking over the family business. While at Mercer, John met his future wife, Leslie. The two were engaged in their senior year.

In 1995, the couple was married. They moved to St. Simons Island, where John took over the grocery business from his father, a job he thought he would have for the rest of his life. Those plans changed. After 4 years, John and his young family picked up their stakes.

While in high school, John was given many opportunities for leadership roles in his church. But, being groomed to run the family business, he felt he had a clearly defined path.

John was very active in his church growing up. He was also involved in campus ministry while at Mercer. And, the more opportunities that came to him for ministry, the more he wanted to be a minister.

After 4 years, John and his young family picked up stakes. In 1999, with a 6 month old daughter, John and Leslie moved to St. Louis, Missouri so John could go to school to become a pastor.

They spent the next three year in St. Louis. Upon graduating, John got a job as a pastor of a church in Marion, Alabama. John pastored this church in Alabama until he got the call to come check out Pooler.

In 2005, John and his family moved to Pooler for him to become the pastor at First Presbyterian Church. “We have been in Pooler for the past 9 years. Presbyterian pastors don’t move around like other denominations. And even after 9 years here, I feel like I am just getting started,” states John.

Getting started is just what this young pastor did.

John Fender hit the ground running. He wanted to invest in a community in the name of Jesus Christ.....long term. And, that is

10 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

what he has done. He states, “Moving here is 2005 was exciting.

The city was smaller then. Investing in a church and a community that was about to grow was very exciting for me.”

And, not only has the City of Pooler grown, so has First Presbyterian Church. The congregation has grown from 20 people when John moved into town, to over 200 members.

With growing this church, John also felt a need to reach out to city officials and see how there could be a partnership to help out in the community.

Back in 2007, John and Police Chief Chan spoke about John becoming the Chaplain for the City of Pooler Police Department.

They talked about this possibility for awhile. Then, in 2008, when the explosion happened at the Savannah Sugar Refinery, Chief Chan called and told John it was time to do it.

“We decided if we were going to do it, we were going to do it right,” remembers John. Chief Chan was adamant about John being certified to take on this position. So, that is what he did.

“Being Chaplain has been very special....a blessing to me and to other people,” says John. As Chaplain for the Pooler Police, he gets called out on fatalities, he gives death notifications and is called upon to lead prayer at city events and functions. This position has also opened up city opportunities for John and his church. He adds, “It has been a great joy to me.”

One of those doors opened in 2010 when First Presbyterian was looking for a way to engage more in the community. Barry Whitehead, a member of the church at the time, told them of the Warrior Transition Battalion Unit at Fort Stewart. This is a place of rehab for soldiers who are wounded, injured or ill and need a place to heal for more than 6 months.

A fundraising effort was on the horizon. And this has been more than a fundraising effort, it has become a community event.

The Pooler 5K was born. John asked for help in getting this started. He went to John Schmitt with the Pooler Police Department and Cindy Daniel of Daniel Defense. Both committed immediately. “The Pooler 5K would not have happened without their help,” John says.

In its first year, the Pooler 5K raised $10,000 for the Warrior Transition Battalion. In 2011, they raised $16,000 and in 2012, they raised $20,000.

In 2013, they wanted to expand the event. So, they partnered with the City of Pooler and put on the very first Patriot Weekend.

Instead of just a 5K, a full weekend event was formed. The event raised $22,500 for the Warrior Transition Battalion.

In 2014, the City of Pooler is officially taking over Patriot Weekend. John says, “It has been a joy working on the 5K and helping the city put on such a wonderful community event.”

Now that John is “taking a back seat” to the event, he is sure to have another community project underway soon. “I want to get out in the community and be involved. My motive is to meet people. I want the citizens of Pooler to know a pastor if they have a need,” he says.

Moving to Pooler has been good to John and his family. But, it has also been good for the City of Pooler. John’s leadership and desire to make a difference in his community has been an asset to our city.

John and Leslie have two children, Caroline, who is 15 and Catherine, 12. “We have no plans to move. The Lord put me here, it was His strategic move. We plan to continue to help people grow deeper in their relationship with God.”

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PATRIOT WEEKEND COMING UP IN POOLER • Story by JULIE HALES

T

he City of Pooler is proud to bring you a fabulous community event, Patriot Weekend in Pooler. This three day event will showcase Pooler, Georgia, one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Georgia, and some of the finest young men and women in America, our soldiers!

This will be a great hometown festival with lots of great food, a free concert and a wonderful fireworks show! The Festival is FREE and open to the public.

The weekend festivities kick off on Thursday, September 4, 2014 as the Pooler Chamber of Commerce brings you their annual Taste of Pooler event. The Taste of Pooler event requires tickets.

They can be purchased through our website: www.PatriotWeekend.org The event will be held at the Mighty Eighth Air Force

14 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

Museum from 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm. Come out and enjoy great food and meet new friends. The Mighty Eighth is located at 175 Bourne Avenue.

On Friday, September 5, 2014 at 9:00 am, the Savannah Quarters Golf Course will host their Patriots and Heroes Golf Tournament. Savannah Quarters is one of the South’s premier lifestyle and golf club communities. For more information about the tournament, please contact Bob Stevenson at rstevenson@troongolf.com.

The 5th Annual Pooler 5K will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2014 at 8:00 am. The Pooler 5K is a partnership between the First Presbyterian Church of Pooler and FCA Endurance. For more information about the 5K, contact Steve White at enduranceraceservices@gmail.com .

Parking Options There is limited parking available at Pooler Park. Simply turn in the main entrance to the park. Once that lot is full, the Pooler Police will be directing you to our second lot.

There is a second lot available at West Chatham Middle School (corner of Rogers Street and Pine Barren Road).

Old Town Trolley will be providing free shuttle service from 5:00pm10:00pm back and forth from the school to the park and back!

How to Get Involved There are four ways to get involved in Patriot Weekend in Pooler 1) Become a Sponsor (Sponsorship opportunities are open until August 1, 2014) 2) Become a Vendor (Opportunities are open until September 1, 2014) 3) Volunteer 4) Help promote the event To help promote either event, please join our facebook pages: www.facebook.com/ PatriotWeekend and www.facebook.com/The Pooler5K Also on Saturday, the Festival in the Park will begin at 4:00 pm. The event is free and will be family friendly. There will be lots of opportunities to purchase food, drinks and merchandise from local vendors.

Also, from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, our second annual First Responder Showcase will be held. This is a great opportunity for our residents to meet the great folks that serve in our local Police and Fire Departments, and to also check out their vehicles and equipment. The whole family will enjoy this event. Come see fire trucks, bomb sniffing dogs, emergency helicopters and more!

At 7:00 pm, there will be a free concert by Pooler’s own Chuck Courtenay. Chuck Courtenay is a DMP Nashville Recording Artist. His music includes classic country and a bit of roadhouse rock and roll. He is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Then for the finale of the festival, there will be a fireworks display starting at 9:00 pm. Be sure to bring your chairs and blankets and enjoy the show.

The Festival in the Park will be held at the Pooler Park off Rogers Street at 900 S. Rogers Street.

The proceeds from the entire weekend will benefit the Warrior Transition Battalion at Ft. Stewart, the place where wounded, injured and ill soldiers go to heal. Come out and show your support for those who have been wounded, injured or become ill while serving in our military.

Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 15

Join us for a weekend celebration as we

HONOR OUR MILITARY Proceeds from the weekend will go to support wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers at Ft. Stewart’s Warrior Transition Battalion.

For information about any of these opportunities please email: info@patriotweekend.org

Pooler Chamber of Commerce Taste of Pooler and the Westside Thursday, September 4, 2014

The Fifth Annual Pooler 5K Saturday, September 6, 2014 at 8:00 am

Savannah Quarters Golf Course Patriots and Heroes Golf Tournament Friday, September 5, 2014 at 9:00 am

The Festival in the Park Saturday, September 6 from 4:00 pm - 9:30 pm

5:00 pm - 7:30 pm at the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum To be involved contact: Karen Robertson at marketing@visitpooler.com

To be involved contact: Bob Stevenson at rstevenson@troongolf.com

16 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

To be involved contact: Steve White at steve.whitefcae@gmail.com

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Dr. Jim Portzer

Enjoying America’s Favorite Pastime • Story by SHERRY COOK

Photos by TODD WOOD •

“I see great things in baseball. It’s our game – the American game.” - Walt Whitman

D

r. Jim Portzer’s game too. He has been involved with America’s favorite pastime since he was a young boy growing up in Horseheads, New York. The doctor started out as a participant in the ever popular sport, and over the years he has advanced to coaching the game. Dr. Jim Portzer is an Emergency Room physician at St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital in Savannah. He graduated from Villanova University in Pennsylvania, and attended medical school at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine. He and his wife, Theresa, have two sons, James and Brett.

Dr. Portzer’s job involves management of injuries and illnesses that arrive in the hospital emergency room, and he also performs administrative work for his employer, Georgia Emergency Associates. Shift work that covers all days of the week, including nights and weekends, is something that goes along with being an E.R. doctor. In his off time, he is a dedicated volunteer coach for the Pooler Recreation Department.

Even though he has a crazy work schedule, Dr. Portzer has managed to volunteer his time with the recreation department for the past eight years. Jim has even managed to coach as many as four teams at a time. He gives his co-workers a large amount of credit for being able to pull off this feat. “I have a wonderful group of co-workers that swap shifts with me to allow for appropriate time off for coaching,” he says. He also adds that there is a group of six additional volunteers that assist with coaching when he is unable to be there.

Jim’s involvement with the Pooler Recreation Department began when his children got involved with their youth sports program. “My children have played baseball, football, and basketball at the recreation department over the years,” he says. He has coached baseball there for the 6-14 age groups since 2006, and luckily he has managed to coach both of his son’s teams each year.

That is one of the greatest benefits he gets from volunteering; he gets to spend quality time with his own children.

Dr. Portzer played the game of baseball up until about two years ago, when he decided it was time to hang up his cleats. His coaching days began as a player/manager in Buffalo, New York in 2000. Once he moved to Savannah, he coached middle school baseball. This past season he managed to coach the 12U team, the 14U team, and the 14U travel team for the recreation department, as well as one of the middle school baseball teams at Savannah Christian Preparatory School.

The mission statement for the Pooler Recreation Department is to provide the best quality program and activities for the com-

20 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

munity that are safe, competitive, and educational and that create, promote, and enhance a healthy lifestyle, as well as encouraging good sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play. Dr. Portzer’s coaching philosophy goes along perfectly with this statement and he has three main things he emphasizes and hopes to impress upon his players each season. They are: 1. Fun and fundamentals – Fun being in the game, the relationships you make during the season and the experiences you have with your teammates and coaches. “I have made lifelong friendships through the game and hope my players do as well,” he says. The fundamentals involve learning to play the game with appropriate techniques which leads to better play and greater success in the sport.

2. Respect – Respect for the game, because it is a game he loves. “I hope my players learn not only game lessons, but life lessons,” Coach Portzer says. He teaches his players to respect their teammates, opponents and the umpires.

3. Safety and health – The entire coaching staff hope to protect the players from injury by teaching them about the importance of proper warm-ups and protecting their throwing arms. Dr. Portzer has strict rules on throwing and pitch counts. He also encourages any players with an interest in pitching to learn the position so the burden does not fall on just a few players.

Dr. Portzer genuinely loves the game of baseball and has experienced great enjoyment from his volunteer duties over the years.

A number of wonderful friendships have been made over the years with players and their families. Watching the kids mature in the sport and witnessing the relationships they cultivate has given him some wonderful moments to remember. There have also been some funny moments over the years as well.

The youngest players usually provide the audience with a few funny moments during the season. Dr. Portzer recalls a fledgling player going back to pick up a Band-Aid that had fallen off during his run to 1st base. Kids experiencing the sudden urge to go to the bathroom while on the field have provided the coaches and parents with a few comedic moments as well throughout the years.

Dr. Portzer’s sons James and Brett are ages 13 and 11, and will eventually be too old to participate in sports with the Pooler Recreation Department. Nonetheless, he plans to continue working with the kids there even after his have moved on. “I certainly enjoy the game enough to coach the sport when my children are out of the recreation department and off to college,” he says. It is obvious that baseball, the American game, is Dr. Jim Portzer’s game as well.

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oshi Hirata is living proof that quality and originality are the keys to culinary success. Toshi is CEO of Seasons of Japan, a Japanese quick service restaurant group that simply does everything right.

Don’t let the term “quick service” fool you. The food comes to you fast and fresh but there is nothing “fast food” about it. They have a very extensive and impressive menu.

Seasons of Japan is a family business. Toshiya started with the company right out of school. He ran the Bistro location, then on Bay Street in Savannah. He moved to Charlotte, NC for a few years, but is now back with the business and is the Vice President of the company.

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shrimp and chicken.

Seasons of Japan prides itself on specializing in Hibachi, Teriyaki and Sushi styles of cuisine. Toshiya says, “People don’t expect us to be like high-end Hibachi Grill restaurants. But, when they dine with us, they get a big surprise.”

And, if you have not been in to eat recently, you will be tempted by all the new menu items they have added. “We have changed our sushi menu and have come up with new items to be a better fit for Americans. We like to call it “beginner sushi,” says Toshiya.

Some of the new sushi items include lobster and a different assortment of fish. Some are now deep fried. They even have one called Panko Chicken. This is a “fried chicken sushi” and has become a new favorite to many.

“We take great pride in bringing our customers healthy, high quality meals at affordable prices,” added Toshiya. To accommodate the health minded individuals, Seasons has also added a

new Hibachi item, Hibachi Chicken Breast which is made from all white meat chicken.

They have also started serving more Japanese authentic dishes.

This is a way to introduce Americans to the Japanese culture.

“Bottom line….we want our customers happy eating our foods.” said Toshiya, “We will also be adding Korokke soon, a deep fried mashed potato with bread crumbs. It is very popular in Japan.”

Seasons of Japan is also now packaging their white (shrimp) sauce. It is packed and sealed at the factory, using the Seasons of Japan recipe. This makes for a highly sanitary, quality product.

Soon, this will also be available in bottles for purchase, along with Teriyaki and Steak sauce.

The Hirata family has been working hard to expand their business. Seasons of Japan is now located in three states, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. They will be opening in in Irvine, CA in August of this year and also have commitments to open franchises in Chicago, IL, LaJolla, CA and San Francisco.

“Our goal is to become nationwide….and possibly worldwide.

We would like to take our food back to Asian communities and see how the American version will hold up in Asian culture,” stated Toshiya, “We are hoping our expansion to the west coast will open national franchise opportunities.”

With every new franchise opened, Seasons is there with the franchisee to work and help it get off the ground. Toshiya said,

“We work, we hire, we set up, we train….we do it all. We don’t just run a restaurant, we run an academy. We teach and train our chefs and hire our people giving them the opportunity to learn and grow and move on to other locations.”

Customer satisfaction is of the utmost importance to every member of the Seasons’ team. Customer convenience plays a big part in that process. They now have online ordering available. You can utilize their Facebook page, their website and they even now have a mobile app available for ordering. Just register yourself online, order and stop in to pick it up….no more waiting in line. You can even designate a pick up time.

Seasons has also started a new program, Loyalty Points. With this new program, for every dollar you spend, you receive the same amount in loyalty points. At certain point values, you receive discounts or free items. Toshiya says, “It is important to us to do these things for our loyal customers. It is our way of giving back.”

So, escape the fast food merry-go-round and step into the world of Japanese cuisine at Seasons of Japan!

The Pooler location is open for dine-in and takeout Monday – Thursday, 11:00 am – 9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm.

You can call in your order at 912-748-9383 or visit their website at www.seasonsofjapan.com.

P l a c e s to E at & D r i n k i n P o o l e r Seasons of Japan 455 Pooler Parkway Pooler, GA 31322 www.seasonsofjapan.com (912) 748-9383

950 C Morgan’s Corner Pooler, Georgia 31322 912-450-0887 or 912-450-0885

wasabifusion.net

28 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

Wasabi Fusion 950 C Morgan’s Corner Pooler, Georgia 31322 wasabifusion.net (912) 450-0885

To Advertise in the dining guide, or to find out how to get your restaurant, pub or bar listed please call Julie at (912)657-4120, DiAnna at (912)308-7408 or Barbara at (912)631-5000

The The Savannah Savannah Country Country Day Day School School Congratulates Congratulates the the Class Class of of 2014 2014

The Class of 2014 has achieved an outstanding 70% admission rate to all schools. In addition, they have garnered nearly The Class of 2014 has achieved an outstanding 70% admission rate to all schools. In addition, they have garnered nearly $4 Million in scholarship offers, in addition to HOPE, and have been admitted to some of the most competitive colleges $4 Million in scholarship offers, in addition to HOPE, and have been admitted to some of the most competitive colleges and universities in the nation. In state, there are a record number of students matriculating at Georgia Tech, in addition to and universities in the nation. In state, there are a record number of students matriculating at Georgia Tech, in addition to 17 students who will be attending the University of Georgia.

17 students who will be attending the University of Georgia.

Below is a sampling of admitting colleges and universities for the Class of 2014: Below is a sampling of admitting colleges and universities for the Class of 2014:

savcds.org savcds.org

S S U U

Discover Discover the the Country Country Day Day difference: difference: explore explore our our campus; campus; spend spend time time in in our our classrooms. classrooms.

Call 912.925.8800 to schedule a visit.

Call 912.925.8800 to schedule a visit.

Virginia Tech Virginia Tech Washington & Lee Washington & Lee University University Washington University Washington University of St. Louis of St. Louis Wellesley College Wellesley College Wheaton College (IL) Wheaton College (IL) Wofford College Wofford College NTR COU COUNTRYY AH H A

U U E E

United States Military United States Military Academy Academy UNC-Chapel Hill UNC-Chapel Hill University of Florida University of Florida UGA-Honors UGA-Honors University of Michigan University of Michigan University of Richmond University of Richmond University of Rochester University of Rochester University of Virginia University of Virginia Vanderbilt University Vanderbilt University

AAVN E SEASV AN TH TH NN

Grinnell College Grinnell College Macalester College Macalester College Mills College Mills College New York University New York University NC State University NC State University Pepperdine University Pepperdine University Rhodes College Rhodes College Southern Methodist Southern Methodist University University Tufts University Tufts University

HO H Y SYCSC OLOL DADA

Boston University Boston University Brandeis University Brandeis University College of William & Mary College of William & Mary Davidson College Davidson College Emory University Emory University Furman University Furman University George Washington George Washington University University Georgetown University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Georgia Institute of Technology Technology

U S 1905 Q ES U PE R S OR Q PE S CIE1905 N TI A M M R ES RS C IE N TI A M M O

Service Service II Knowledge Knowledge II Character Character

Michael Zoller, MD, FACS Fred Daniel, MD, FACS Stephen Rashleigh, MD, FACS William Moretz, III, MD

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In Pooler

Pooler Magazine | May/June 2014 37

Godley Station Animal Hospital • Story by SHERRY COOK •

G

odley Station Animal Hospital in Pooler is a full service veterinary clinic that is committed to providing the highest standard of quality professional care in veterinary medicine for their patients. Dr. David Howes opened the hospital in June of 2003.

The doctor moved to Georgia after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and he and his wife are excited to be raising their family in the Pooler area.

Clients will not only find a full range of veterinary services at Godley Station Animal Hospital, but they will also find a business where the clients, patients, and staff are treated like family. Dr. Howes is passionate about his profession and treats his clients and staff with great kindness and respect. Office manager Tara Little says, “The employees at Godley Station Animal Hospital view Dr. Howes as more of a family member than boss.” She also adds that Dr. Howes is always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, whether it’s an employee or client.

It is evident that Godley Station Animal Hospital is a wonderful place to work because many of the staff members have been there for more than seven years. Kathy South, manager of the animal hospital, has been there since they first opened the doors over ten

38 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

years ago. Dr. Howes has worked hard to create a pleasant and satisfying work environment that his employees love, so of course job turnover is very low at the clinic.

The local veterinarian treats his staff like family and regularly rewards them for their hard work and dedication. Occasionally Dr. Howes will provide lunch for the entire staff at the clinic, and has even gone as far as setting up an ice cream sundae bar for them to enjoy. Outside of work, he organizes a variety of social gatherings for his faithful employees. Tara adds, “Working for someone as great as Dr. Howes is very rare.”

The staff at Godley Station Animal Hospital includes four compassionate and professional veterinarians, a crew of knowledgeable veterinary and kennel technicians, and a group of warm and welcoming desk personnel. The clinic’s associate veterinarians are Dr. Kristin Hiers, Dr. Dayna Haupt and Dr. Michael Brown. They also adhere to the same kind of work environment as Dr. Howes, and are committed to providing compassionate care and understanding to their patients and owners.

The Godley Station Animal Hospital staff is not the only warm and inviting thing patients will encounter. Upon entering the facility, clients will enter a large, appealing lobby where coffee is

always available. They can wait comfortably with their pets in the expansive waiting area before appointments. Televisions are available in each exam room for the pleasure of the clients. A separate entrance is available for all grooming and boarding needs.

Pets are an important part of a family, and of course everyone wants veterinary services they can trust and rely on. The professionals at Godley Station Animal Hospital strive to give each animal owner complete and honest information about the health of their pet, which enables them to make the best decision possible for their well-being.

A wide range of services are available at Godley Station, from full hospital care to experienced dog and cat groomers to online management of your pet’s health. Some of the available services include: • Behavioral Medicine – Dealing with behavior problems can be frustrating for pet owners, so before you suffer through another day of inappropriate behavior give the professionals a call so they can help.

• Boarding – If you need to travel and can’t take your pet along, plan to have them stay in a safe, clean, and comfortable environment. Godley Station’s guests are treated as if they were their own.

• Emergency and Critical Care – Do you know where to go if your pet needs critical care or has to be hospitalized? Godley Station offers this care during regular business hours.

• Grooming - Do you have to wrestle with your dog at bath time? Are you frightened to trim their nails? If you are looking for reliable and experienced pet groomers Godley Station Animal Hospital is the place for you. Call today to schedule a personalized grooming appointment with their professional and friendly staff.

They will make every effort to keep your pet safe and comfortable during their grooming appointment.

• Microchipping – Pet owners need a form of identification for their pets that is reliable and cannot be stolen, lost, or damaged. A microchip is a safe and simple answer to this. Implantation of the microchip takes only a few minutes and is very safe. Contact the staff at Godley Station today about microchipping your pet today.

• Dental Care – If your pet has bad breath it could be a sign of an unhealthy mouth. Serious medical conditions such as heart or kidney disease could be the reason for the unpleasant odor. Your pet’s dental health shouldn’t be taken for granted. Call today to discuss your pet’s dental care needs and how they can help.

• Pet Portal – Pet owners can keep up with vaccinations, appointments, and health records online via Pet Portal. It also offers an extensive pet health library. Activate your Pet Portal today through the clinic’s website.

At Godley Station Animal Hospital you are not just another appointment on the book; you are an important part of who they are. You and your pet can always expect to be treated just like family.

• Radiology – Godley Station Animal Hospital offers their patients cutting edge veterinary medical care, and they accomplish this by being equipped with the best tools in medical technology.

Their patients have access to state-of-the-art digital x-ray and ultrasonography which are essential in diagnosing illnesses and injuries such as tumors,bladder stones, broken bones, chronic arthritis, certain spinal cord diseases, and a variety of other conditions.

• Vaccinations – Pets can live longer and healthier lives these days thanks to the advancement in vaccinations. Protecting your pet is very important to the clinic’s staff, so developing a vaccination schedule is important to them. Give them a call today to set up an appointment and get your pet on an appropriate vaccination schedule.

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127 Canal St. Pooler, GA 31322 912-748-8805 Boarding Facility: 912-450-8814 www.godleystationvet.vetstreet.com/ Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 39

Bringing It Back

CONSIGNMENT • Children’s Clothing • Men’s Clothing • Women’s Clothing • Household Decor • Infant Equipment • Toys • Handbags • Shoes • Accessories • Handmade Items • School Uniforms

Tater Bugs is the area’s favorite cloth diaper store and a wHOle lOT mOre! • Ergonomically Correct Baby Carriers • All Natural Skin Care for Babies • All Natural Nail Polish • Hair Bows • Re-Usable Snack Bags • Essential Oils • Herbal Teas • All Natural Household Cleaning Products • All Natural Toys Made From Recycled Materials • Breastfeeding Supplies Organic and earth • Support Groups Friendly Products • Consignment

and much, much more!

Come see us at: 335 SE US HWY 80

Pooler, GA (Next to the Omelette House)

Or Call us at: 912-656-7326

(912) 348-2077 • (912) 247-6960 1024 U.S. Highway 80, Pooler, Georgia 31322 Next To New Super Buffet Hours: Tues-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-3

40 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

Hours:

Mon-Fri 10-5 Sat 11-4

www.taterbugssavannah.com

Bringing It Back Consignment

T

• Story by JULIE HALES •

The growth of Pooler has brought many new businesses to our area.

Entrepreneurs are making their way to our city to experience their dream.

Nicole Crutcher is no different.

She saw the amazing potential Pooler’s growth offers and decided to open her business in the heart of our city.

Bringing It Back Consignment opened its doors in April of this year. With only a few short months in business, Nicole is very excited and pleased with the results thus far. Nicole says, “I worked in a consignment store in the past and my mother owns one in North Carolina. It was a wonderful experience for me and having that knowledge really has helped me get started. I did a lot of research and Pooler just seemed to be the perfect place to be. I am happy with my decision.”

With three small children of her own, Nicole knows the need of a consignment shop that offers a variety of merchandise for children. From infants through school age, Bringing It Back has something for everyone. They carry clothing, toys, shoes and items for infant needs up to school uniforms for the older kids.

Not only does Bringing It Back carry children’s merchandise, they also have women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, jewelry, books and handmade vendor merchandise. Their women’s and men’s clothing items range from sixe 0 to 2X. They carry anything from high end brands to your everyday romp around clothes.

“We don’t just take in anything. We want our merchandise to be top notch. Any clothing brought into the store must be in good clean condition. Everything we carry is priced right for a great value to our customers,” she states.

When you walk through the doors of Bringing It Back, it is very obvious that Nicole takes great pride in her new venture. The store is very neat and organized, and the staff is very friendly. “We are so excited. There are days when a customer will tell us how great the store looks or how much they like our arrangement of things. It gives us a special feeling and makes us very happy to be here,” she states.

She adds, “I have been a customer. I have been the one on the other side trying to get the best I can for my family and children.

We believe in treating our customers fair….and friendly. Excellent customer service is a given in my store.”

Bringing It Back is not your typical consignment store. Nicole uses her experience and knowledge to offer a little something out of the norm. She has different sales throughout the month and one day of each month she offers a 50% discount storewide.

There is always a dollar rack in the store. The items on this rack get refilled every month.

She also offers a 50-50 split with her consignors. That is

much better than the typical 60-40 split. “We pay as soon as the merchandise sells. There is no up-from money exchanged,” she explains.

“We also offer an exchange policy. Our customers have 7 days to return items, as long as they are not sale items,” she adds.

Although she has put in countless hours of making her dream come true, she will be the first to admit she could not have done this without a wonderful support system. “I could not have done this without my amazing husband, Chad Crutcher. My mother came down from North Carolina to help me get started. And, my best friend, Tricia Johnson, helped put it all together, and still helps me by working on the store with me,” she says.

The next time you are looking for a good deal, you should check out Bringing It Back Consignments. They are located at 1024 US Highway 80. They have something for your entire family.

PAID FOR ADVERTISEMENT

Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 41

Tater Bugs

L

• Story by SHERRY COOK •

eslie Mayle is a military spouse who relocated to the Pooler area when her husband Dan received orders for reassignment. As a mother to three boys, she knows the importance of good quality baby products. Leslie says she saw a need in the local community for a business that offered top of the line baby items that were not only safe for the child, but also economical and environmentally friendly.

On July 8, 2013, she opened Tater Bugs in Pooler.

Tater Bugs is committed to providing its customers natural, organic, and eco-friendly baby products from around the world.

As parents learn more and more about the potential dangers in regards to toxic chemicals, they are taking the time to research and make informed choices when it comes to what their child comes in contact with. The negative impact that is being made on the environment is another area of concern for many people these days.

Leslie carries a great selection of products in her Pooler store.

Customers can find Boba and Tula baby carriers and wraps, Earth Mama Angel Baby skin care products, Blooming Bath baby goods, Pura sippy cups and accessories, Planet Wise goods, and a number of cloth diapers and accessories. You can also find Green Toys, environmentally friendly laundry soap and household cleaners, an assortment of items made by local mothers, and a fine selection of pre-loved cloth diapers at Tater Bugs.

It is estimated that approximately 20 billion disposable diapers are thrown into landfills each year. Plus, each baby that uses these diapers consumes 300 pounds of wood, 50 pounds of petroleum, and 20 pounds of chlorine each year. It will also take 250-500 years for the diapers to decompose! A great way to stop this is by using cloth diapers.

Cloth diapers are making a comeback, and today’s modern diapers are made of organic materials that are chemical free and ex-

42 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

tremely soft and absorbent. Since cloth diapers are changed more often, the use of cloth diapers is much gentler on and healthier for a baby’s skin. Affordability is another factor to consider. It costs approximately $250-$500 to purchase cloth diapers for an infant, and the cost to purchase disposable diapers would be $1,500-$2,500. The cloth diapers can also be reused for multiple children.

Tater Bugs is the only cloth diaper store in the area, and they offer a fine selection of top notch diapers and accessories. Bum Genius, Grovia, and RumpARooz are some of the modern cloth diapers that customers can find at the store. All natural, cloth safe diaper creams, diaper sprayers, wet bags and accessories can be purchased at Tater Bugs.

Leslie is proud of the fact that she is not only selling baby related products to local mothers (and fathers), but she is also offering them support and answers to any questions they may have. “The thing we offer that Walmart or Amazon can’t is help,” she says.

Cloth diapering classes and information about natural parenting is available to anyone that is interested.

Tater Bugs boasts a very relaxed atmosphere that their customers and children will enjoy. There is a play area for children as well as a quiet space where mothers can feed their babies. Leslie says she and the staff know most everyone that comes in the store and are always happy to answer their questions. “One of my employees answered an email from a customer at 3:30 a.m.,” she brags. Customer service like this is what she is proud to offer the local community.

If you are a parent looking for natural, ecological products for the healthy lifestyle of your baby, then Tater Bugs is the place for you. Come in today and check out the excellent selection of modern, quality baby supplies that Leslie has available.

PAID FOR ADVERTISEMENT

Pearle Vision Center of Pooler

E

• Story by SHERRY COOK •

Eye health care and wellness has been the primary focus for Pearle Vision Center for more than 50 years. Pearle Vision has become a household name, synonymous for caring for their patient’s eye care needs.

Dr. Leewood Brawner Still, OD joined the team at Pearle Vision in Pooler in May of this year. Prior to being in Pooler, Dr. Still worked at Atlanta Eye Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

Dr. Still is originally from Savannah.

She is the daughter of Dr. Darnell Brawner, MD, and a well-known OB-GYN who practiced in Savannah for over 50 years and delivered over 20,000 babies.

Dr. Still is skilled in caring for patients with ocular diseases, specialty contact lens fitting, and offers adult and pediatric optometric care. She completed her clinical training at The Eye Care Center in Memphis, TN, VA Medical Center in Lexington, KY and Coastal Vision Center in Fernandina Beach, FL. She graduated cum laude from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN in of May 2012.

Dr. Still began her career at Atlanta Eye Center. She provided primary eye care for patients of all ages. Dr. Still established a reciprocal partnership with Omni Eye Center providing post-operative patient care following cataract and LASIK surgery. She worked in collaboration with area ophthalmologist in management of neurologic, retinal, glaucoma and corneal diseases effecting her patients.

Dr. Still always knew she wanted to return to her hometown to raise a family in the same manner she was raised. Having worked in the past in Pooler, she observed the community spirit and unlimited potential Pooler provided for small businesses. She realized the area would be a perfect environment to begin building her practice. Pearle Vision offers her the best of both worlds, close proximity to her home as well as the ability to join a well established practice and continue to build an even bigger patient base.

Pearle Vision Center’s services range from comprehensive eye care to fitting you with prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses and contact lenses. They offer the latest styles in designer brands such as Ray-Ban, Vogue, Coach and others. They also have a wide variety of contact lens brands including Acuvue and Air Optix.

At Pearle Vision Center of Pooler, they are always looking for ways to help you care for your eyes. They will adjust, repair, exchange or replace your eye wear. They offer state-of-the-art technology combined with a level of personal attention that is second to none.

They are not just your eye expert. They are your neighborhood eye care center. They go above and beyond to show how much they care. From educating you about your eyes to advance care options, or just helping you find better frames, you can always count on clear answers and personal attention. They know you depend on your eye care professional to provide you with the very

best in eye health services.

Getting the right prescription for your eyeglasses or contact lenses is an important part of good eye care. But seeing clearly is just one part of your overall eye health. It is important to have regular eye exams with an optometrist whether or not you wear glasses, and even if your vision is sharp. You should never be kept in the dark about the health of your eyes.

The doctors at Pearle Vision Center believe in looking at the big picture when it comes to the health of your eyes. They take time to get to know you, your eye history and your vision needs. They know that getting the right prescription involves balancing several factors, including clear eyesight, visual efficiency and your ability to process visual information seamlessly.

Dr. Still adds, “Pearle is set apart from others. We at Pearle are not just concerned with your eyes alone, we look at the patient as a whole and assess how current and past medical history effects the eyes. We do our best to provide holist care. We take pride in knowing our patients on a first name basis.”

Dr. Still is the process of transitioning to working full time.

Her future goal is to acquire the practice from the current owner, Dr. John Janvier, OD, FAAO. She says, “I am happy to be buying Pearle Vision in Pooler. This is where I want to be. This is home for me and my family. And, I want my patients to feel comfortable and know that I am here to stay.”

If you need a routine eye examination, an eyeglass fitting or treatment for an eye disease, come by and visit Dr. Leewood Still at Pearle Vision Center of Pooler. She will provide you with the best overall eye care, advice, options and follow up on your eye health needs.

Pearle Vision Center is located at 105 Grand Central Blvd in Pooler. Call 450-9200 to schedule an appointment to see Dr. Still today.

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44 July/August 2014 | Pooler Magazine

Polk’s Plus Farm Fresh Produce

I

• Story by SHERRY COOK •

t’s that time of year when everybody is looking for fresh vegetables and fruits. Local farmers are gathering their crops and taking them to market.

When it comes to buying fresh fruits and vegetables, there is no better place to go than Polk’s Plus in Pooler, Georgia.

The Polk name is synonymous with fresh vegetables in our area. Polk’s has been around the Savannah area since the early 50’s as they opened their first location in downtown Savannah.

Hezekiah Polk, founder of Polk’s Produce, opened this family business in the area that is known as Old City Market. They moved from this location to St. Julian and Montgomery where Vinny Van Go-Go’s is currently located.

They stayed in this location for over 30 years and left only for the City of Savannah to build the current City Market back in the 1980’s.

Hezekiah’s children, Becky and Jerry, were raised in this family business.

Both worked with their father downtown, and when the business moved to Skidaway and LaRoche Avenue, and later to Sandfly.

Jerry eventually opened a location on Liberty Street under the name of Polk’s Fresh Market. When Jerry made the decision to close the downtown location, Becky decided they had to find a way to carry on the family tradition.

Becky Polk Bashlor, current owner of Polk’s Plus, states, “Daddy was still alive at the time. I just knew we had to have a Polk’s.”

In March of 2010, Becky opened the doors in their current location in Pooler. “Pooler seemed like a great location for us. I live in Effingham County and I am from Pooler. This just seemed like home to us,” adds Becky. Mr. Polk was right by her side every day until he passed away in December of 2012.

Polk’s is truly the definition of family working together. When Becky opened her doors, her son Wesley and his wife Jody were right by her side. They have both since taken positions with the City of Pooler, but come back and help out on the weekends and when they are doing special events. Her husband Ray also helps in the business and her younger son, Barry, is a vital part of this family venture.

“I am very proud of Barry and what he has done here,” states this proud mother and grandmother. Her face literally lights up when she speaks of her children and grandchildren. It does not take much to realize the love this lady has for each of them.

Barry started another division of the company about three years ago when he began Polk’s On The Go. This division gives their customers the opportunity to order fresh fruits and vegetables that are delivered directly to the consumer.

Barry tells us how this works. “I send emails out every Friday to let our customers know what we will have the following week.

Each order consists of 7 items….4 vegetables, 2 fruits and always tomatoes. You can order two different size boxes, a half and a

full. A half box has at least 6 pounds of produce and costs $15.

The full box has at least 11 pounds at a cost of $25. We deliver to Pembroke, Richmond Hill, Wilmington Island, Effingham County and, of course, Pooler. Wed even let you make substitutions if you don’t like everything on our list.”

Polk’s specializes in the freshest of the fresh. “This time of year we have all the local farmers bringing us produce straight out of their fields. Most of them have shellers so you can buy your peas and beans already shelled or you can shell them yourself,” says Becky.

One of Polk’s specialties is vine ripe tomatoes right out of the field. “We are very fortunate to have worked with many of our growers for a number of years. We take pride in only selling the best,” she adds.

Polk’s is the place to go for produce. They carry just about anything…..tomatoes, peaches, potatoes, squash, zucchini, butter beans, all kinds of peas, watermelons onions, blueberries….upi name it and they have it.

They also have a variety of other items in their store as well.

They carry Hunter Cattle Meat, local honey, Savannah Coffee Roaster coffees, jams, jellies, pickle, dairy products and their own line of spices. They even make fresh chicken salad and ham salad and serve lunches on Thursday and Fridays. And, they have fresh baked cakes daily. They have a great variety of plants that are hand picked by Becky herself.

And don’t forget the boiled peanuts, a specialty of Polk’s for many years!

If you are looking for fresh fruits and vegetables, Polk’s is the place to go. You will be treated like one of the family. “We built this business on family values and we like to pass that on to our customers,” states Becky. So, come visit them on Highway 80 in Pooler…..you are sure to leave with a smile on your face.

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Pooler Magazine | July/August 2014 45

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