Effingham Magazine April/May 2014

es n y sue H s n Is a c rde 4 u t L Ga y 201 e a Me me &pril/M Ho A

during an emergency every minute counts… why choose

Effingham Health System?

&DUH LV SURYLGHG E\ WKH VDPH JURXS RI ERDUG FHUWL¿HG KLJKO\ VNLOOHG SK\VLFLDQV \RX¶OO ¿QG LQ 6DYDQQDK PLQXV WKH WUDYHO ULVNV FRVW ZDLW WLPH DQG SDUNLQJ KDVVOHV

Advanced Care You Can Count On….Always.

9LVLW RXU QHZ HOLWH WHDP RI HPHUJHQF\ PHGLFLQH SK\VLFLDQV DW (I¿QJKDP+HDOWK RUJ

HEALTH SYSTEM

912-754-6451 459 Highway 119 South 6SULQJ¿HOG *$

02 October/November 2013 | Effingham Magazine

“RAMEN”

We never take shortcuts, but you can if you ordered online.

www.seasonsofjapan.com Toshi Hirata Seasons of Japan, CEO

455 Pooler Pkwy Publix Shopping Center

OTHER LOCATIONS:

Savannah, GA-Abercorn • Savannah, GA-Berwick Statesboro, GA • Brunswick, GA North Charleston, SC • Summerville, SC • Jacksonville, FL Irvine, CA • Berkeley, CA • Vernon Hills, IL

912.748.9383

www.seasonsofjapan.com

There’s A New Club In Town!

Club 180

Join Today And Help End Homeless In Effingham County.

Family Promise of Effingham, Inc. is a non-profit orgnization with the sole purpose of ending homelessness in our community.

Why We’re Here

Families are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population. Over 40% of the U.S. homeless population are families with children. One out of every 50 children, or 1.5 million children, are homeless.

Children experiencing homelessness have increased health problems, increased mental problems, struggle in school, and have an estimated graduation rate below 25%.

How Family Promise Works: Host Congregations

About four times a year - for a week at a time - each host congregation provides a place to sleep, meals (supper, breakfast and bag lunch) and compassionate hospitality for up to four homesless families in the Family Promise program. Hosting rotates among congregations, which house the families from dinner time to the next morning.

Volunteers

Volunteers are the core of the Family Promise network. At the hosting sites volunteers cook, serve meals, socialize with guests, play with the children and stay overnight.

Volunteers also help with runing the Day Center, as well as fundraising activites.

Day Center

The Day Center is the business hub of our network. Guests are brought from the hosting congregations to the Day Center from 7 am to 5 pm, their day-time home base. Here, homeless families work on-on-one with a professional case manager to look for employment, housing and address problems that stand in the way of permanent independent housing for these families. The Day Center also provides families a mailing address, a place to shower, and a place to do laundry.

Transportation A bus transports guests daily to and from the Day Center. The bus also carries beds and personal belogings from one host congregation to the next.

“Your Help is Needed!”

As a member of Family Promise of Effingham’s Club 180, you can help homeless children and their families in our County make a 180 degree turn from homelessness to financial stability. By giving just 50 cents a day, you can help provide showering and laundry facilities for our homeless, as well as access to computers for online job applications.

Help us provide compassion, care, and hope for Become A Member of More information, including our homeless families in Effingham County.

Make Club 180! volunteer opportunities and Your Donation Will Change your check payable to Family Promise of Effingham, progress updates visit and mail to PO Box 964, Rincon, GA 31326.

Lives In Effingham County EffinghamFamilyPromise.org We Accept Payments Monthly, Quarterly or Yearly 04 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

50,000 Memories 100,000 Smiles Coldwell Banker,Where home begins....

View Our Listings Online! www.RinconColdwellBanker.com 5805 Hwy 21 S. • Rincon, GA 31326 912-826-0927 • 877-826-0926

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

CONTRIBUTORS SUBSCRIBE

Barbara Russell is a freelance writer and photographer, and in the past she was a high school English teacher and a flight attendant. Always an avid horse person and riding instructor, she enjoys writing for equine publications and she is writing a young adult novel about horses. For several years she wrote feature stories and a history column for Effingham CloseUp, and she has been published in a variety of magazines. Currently she enjoys writing for Independence Day Publishing.

Barbara Russell

Make sure you never miss a copy of Effingham’s only full-color lifestyle magazine. Sign-up on-line at www.EffinghamMagazine.com

FOLLOW US on Facebook. Check-out our Facebook page and keep up with the exciting things happening in Effingham.You’ll find us at Effingham Magazine.

TWEET We’re on twitter!

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

INSTAGRAM Follow us on Instagram to see behind the scene photos from our articles! Tag your own Effingham photos with our tag #EffinghamMagazine!

WRITE US 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

Write to us and tell us what you think.

Effingham Magazine welcomes all letters to the publisher. Please send all letters via email to Julie Hales at julie@idpmagazines.com, or mail letters to P.O. Box 1742, Rincon, GA 31326. Letters to the publisher must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Victoria Patterson has been a professional artist for 15 years plus, and her love for photography has led her further each year into an exploration of timelessness. She can bring out a creative side in people they didn’t even know existed! Victoria’s portraiture stands out from others with originality.

Her style is photojournalist, a little traditional, liberally sprinkled with artzy flair. Portraits and weddings for friends and relatives gradually led to a more formal occupation and a clarification of what it is that she looks for through the lens of a camera. Her photography is a constant search for beauty, character and depth, for that place where time stands still.

Victoria Patterson

Effingham Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea, or photo essay you would like to share, please submit ideas and material by emailing 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 Effingham.

STAFF

www.effinghammagazine.com

Lea Allen

Lane Gallegos

DiAnna Jenkins

06 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Barbara Anderson

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 07

in this issue

April/May 2014

features

10 16 23 26

Lucas Hynes Busy Doing What He Loves

Effingham Historic Society Enjoy Effingham’s History

Update: Lea’s Journey

10

Worship Section 135th Annual Sunday School Convention

departments

09

Publisher’s Page

22

Dining Section

28

16

City of Rincon Spotlight City Manager Wesley Corbitt

23

specials

31

Home & Garden

&

Home

08 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Garde

n

2014

26

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

Help End Homelessness 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

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

As I sit here on press day, I have something heavy weighing on my mind. And, I would like to take this opportunity to share something that has become very dear to my heart.

A little over a year ago, some very caring people in this community starting having core meetings to form an organization here in Effingham County.

These people had a mission…..a mission to help our homeless children and their families and give them shelter….and a way to overcome their obstacle and get their families back to the life they once knew.

A lot has happened in this past year. Family Promise of Effingham has become a reality.

Hundreds of volunteers have given their time and resources to make this happen.

Several months ago, I was asked to be on the Julie Hales, PUBLISHER Board of Directors of Effingham Family Promise.

What an honor for me to be a part of this organization.

In this past year, we have had several fundraising efforts that have proven to be a success. We have had a bus donated to us for our transportation services. We have been given a lease on a location for our Day Center….and renovations are currently underway.

We are now in the process of hiring our very first Executive Director. This is an exciting time for Family Promise…..and for Effingham County!

Like any non-profit organization, Family Promise is in need of funds to help us open our doors and offer this life-changing opportunity to our fellow neighbors.

I am sending out a personal challenge to each of you….my family, my friends and all of the people of Effingham County!

Club 180 is a way you can help! By giving less than 50 cents a day, you can help turn a family 180 degrees from homelessness to self-sufficiency. That’s only $180 a year.

Help us end homelessness in Effingham County. For more information, please take a look at page 4 for details on how you can be a part of this wonderful service. I challenge you to be a member of this new club!

108 International Drive Rincon, GA 3126 (912) 826-2760

ABOUT THE COVER

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

Effingham county native, Lucas Hynes, tells about his military career, the love of his family and music. Wounded in battle, this courageous young man still serves our country and is about to embark on a new career. We wish you luck, Lucas!

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

s ne Hy Issue s ca en Lu ard 14 et & G ay 20 e M me pril/M Ho A EFFApril2014.indd 1

4/4/14 8:15:49 PM

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 09

Lucas Hynes:

Busy Doing What He Loves Story by SHERRY COOK Photography by VICTORIA PATERSON

L

ucas Hynes has been extremely busy for the last fourteen years. Military deployments, college classes, singing gigs, and just plain old hard work have filled the weeks, months and years for the Effingham native.

Hynes grew up in Springfield and graduated from Effingham County High School in 2000. While he was in school, he was active in sports and the marching band. He was captain of the soccer team, participated in football, and played the saxophone and French horn.

Family has played a very important part in this young man’s life, and he is lucky to have such a loving and supportive one. “I come from a very patriotic family,” says Hynes. His grandfather, James Edwards who passed away last year, served his country during World War II. His father, Bob Hynes, served in the Air Force for a few years, and eventually retired after a career in the Army National Guard.

Lucas would get the opportunity to do his part in due course. He was anxious at an early age to serve his country, so he joined the National Guard when he was just seventeen years old. He and his father served together in the same unit.

After graduation, Hynes enrolled at Georgia Southern University to study Political Science/Pre-Law. Life would take a drastic turn for Lucas, and it would take a bit more than four years for him to graduate. The terrorist attack on September 11th took place in the nation, and the loyal young man would be called to serve his country. His National Guard unit would be the first ever to be called upon to deploy.

College would take a backseat to Lucas’ new life as an infantryman in a combat zone. Christmas Eve of 2001 was a pretty rough time for him. He recalls sitting around a barrel fire with a group of Green Berets from 3rd Special Forces Group. Some of them were playing the guitar and singing around the fire that night. This was a way for the guys to relieve a bit of the stress they endured each and every day. Lucas remembers at that moment promising himself, “If I ever get home, I am going to learn to play the guitar.”

The nineteen- year-old young man did make it home and he made good on that promise. Lucas taught himself how to play the guitar, and by his second tour he was the one serenading everyone around the fire each night.

“My first time to play in public was during the church service at the chapel at Camp Phoenix,” he says. Soldiers were always coming and going, so keeping a guitarist was quite a task. “I was asked to play and felt I couldn’t say no,” says Lucas. He even bought a guitar and had it shipped there, and when he left he donated it to the church.

Lucas was determined to finish college, but three deployments made it difficult at times. Whenever he had to withdraw from his classes, the college would refund his tuition but he would still have to make up the lost credits. “I definitely had a different perspective about life and my country at this point,” he recalls, “and sitting through Political Science classes proved to be difficult at times.”

Eventually, hard work and perseverance paid off and Lucas Hynes received his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science/ Pre-Law in 2008.

When a soldier deploys, it’s natural for their family members to worry about their safety. Hynes’ mother, Julie, was worried about her son, and he says it hurt him deeply to know that she was going through this. “My dad knew

12 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

when times were rough and things were not going smoothly during a deployment just by talking to me. I would tell him to make sure my mother was not watching the news too much,” he says.

He knew that would just make her worry even more.

The day would come when the things his mother feared and worried about would become reality. It was Christmas Day 2005 and Lucas was wounded when an IED exploded. The shrapnel hit him and caused some bleeding, but it was not too severe. Three days later he wasn’t as lucky. This time the IED knocked him unconscious.

The Red Cross sends messages to family members when a soldier is wounded, but these messages are very vague. They don’t give the full extent of the injuries. “They couldn’t tell Mom and Dad how bad it was,” he remembers. They only knew that their son was hurt.

Thankfully, Lucas was not gravely wounded and was able to return home to his loving and supportive family. The heroic soldier received the Purple Heart in a special ceremony when his unit returned to the United States. General Dudney, who was his Brigade Commander at the time and an old friend of his father’s, pinned the award on the hero during the ceremony. Moments like these are extremely significant and meaningful to men like Lucas Hynes.

Singing and playing the guitar locally was not something Lucas ever had aspirations about, even though he had always loved music. “I worked as a bartender while I was in college, and I would play a couple of songs I wrote every once in a while,” he says. He admits he was starting to get the bug to perform even more at this point, especially after he began to play around town with Jimmy Seckinger and Jake Collins.

Lucas and Eric Oglesby regularly play together now. Eric, according to Lucas, is a phenomenal lead guitarist. They mainly

perform modern country music, but they can cover anything from Southern Rock, Coldplay, Lionel Ritchie and Elton John. The two perform on the college circuit in Statesboro, Snazzy’s in Pooler, and Gafney’s Cheap Seats in Springfield pretty regularly. They also do parties, weddings and even charity events.

Songwriting is also something Lucas enjoys doing. “Soldier’s Prayer” is a song he wrote just before he left for Iraq. The last two or three shows he has done, he has played it for the Army veterans in the room. It is a great opportunity for them to toast their fellow veterans. After Lucas returned from his last deployment to Afghanistan, he was approached by Sgt. Major Ronnie Perryman and offered a job as an infantry instructor at Fort Stewart. He jumped at the offer and worked at the schoolhouse for two and a half years. “I loved being an instructor because we would be in the woods training for long days. I’m the type of person who would rather be outdoors getting dirty instead of indoors crunching numbers,” he says. The job ended last September, but Lucas is in the process of acquiring his dream job.

Lucas Hynes wants a job where he can serve his country, aid his fellow citizens, and sleep peacefully at night knowing he is contributing and making a difference. He will be starting a new job in May with the government that will enable him to do all of this. The process he has gone through to acquire this job has been long and strenuous, and only 24 applicants in the nation were selected for the job. He says he went to college in order to pursue this type of career, and he is excited about his future. Staying active in the National Guard is also in his future plans.

Henry David Thoreau said, “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” This quote describes Lucas Hynes perfectly. This amazing, young man who has been busily living his life as a student, soldier and singer has found great success along the way.

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 13

(912) 826-0010 (800) 613-4287 Come check out our new maintenance prices in the Service Department, where you get the best price for the best service,

Everyday!!!

Hot mama? Keep Her Cool!

A/C Special

19

• Check Line Pressures $ 95 • Check Remperature At Vent • Inspect For Leaks • Tax & Shop Supplies Not Included With coupon. Must present coupon Certified Service at time of purchase. Offers may be combined. Expires 6-7-14.

14 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

1000 OFF

$

Wheel Alignment We Service All Makes & Models

Certified Service

With coupon. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Offers may be combined. Expires 6-7-14.

10% OFF

Any Service Work

With A Maximum Discount of $200

Certified Service

With coupon. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Offers may be combined. Expires 6-7-14.

Serving you since 1954 with one misison:

to provide comprehensive services to people of all ages with speech, language and hearing problems regardless of financial status.

• Hearing Evaluation/Hearing Loss • Tinnitus or any perceived sounds in the ear • Hearing Aids/Hearing Devices

• Cochlear Implants • Effects of Noise Exposure • Hearing Protection

912-355-4601

Rincon Office 711 Zitterour Road • Rincon, GA 31326 Located in the United Way Service Center Savannah Office 1206 E. 66th Street • Savannah, GA 31404

www. SpeechAndHearingSav.org

New Job? Retiring? Laid Off? How are you managing your 401K?

Let me help protect what you have earned

Troy Allen • Financial Services Professional

912-660-0582 • troy@grantfinancialgroup.net • Grantfinancialgroup.com 5763 Hwy 21 South, Rincon Georgia License # 647578

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 15

Enjoy Effingham’s History Story by SHERRY COOK Photography by VICTORIA PATTERSON

16 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

A

t the quiet corner of Pine and Early Street in Springfield sits the Effingham Museum and Living History Site. The museum and site offer visitors a look at some amazing, historical artifacts from the local area as well as a glimpse into what daily life was like throughout the earlier years in Effingham County.

The Historic Effingham Society and the vision they had to preserve the wonderful history of the region is the reason the Effingham Museum and Living History Site exist. The society was established in May of 1986 when around twenty people met at Walter Zoller’s farm to discuss Effingham County and its history. The members were interested in preserving documents, locations, memorabilia and memories pertaining to the county.

Several of the members were members of the Georgia Salzburger Society, and they saw a need in preserving the history of Effingham County that was not connected to the Salzburgers.

Realizing that they would need a place to store and display the artifacts and books they were collecting, a search for a structure began. Around 1993, the new Effingham County Jail had been completed and the old facility was vacant. The County Commission granted the society permission to use a portion of the old jail as a museum. They started with only a minor portion of the building being used to display the pieces of history the group had collected, but today the entire building contains a wonderful assortment of fascinating memorabilia.

The museum is filled with a delightful and interesting variety of exhibitions. Visitors to the museum can see a display of pre-historic bones in one area, and items that date from the Colonial-Revolutionary period in another.

A complete 1940’s kitchen is located in the former jail, complete with an ice box and cast iron stove. War collectables such as weapons, uniforms from local veterans, and photographs are also available for viewing. Retrospectives from the pre-historic era all the way to the 1960’s are available for public viewing at the Effingham Museum five days a week.

The Museum’s library and research center is well stocked with over 300 genealogy books, microfilms of census records and local newspapers. Over one hundred local family genealogies are located in the library for viewing. Several of the books in the library have been written by members of the Historical Society. If anyone is interested in researching their family tree, this would be the place to start.

The Living History site is located adjacent to the museum, and is a fascinating piece of Effingham history.

Twelve buildings dating from 1790 to 1950 sit on the property. Betty Renfro, volunteer and museum curator, says that most of the buildings, tools, fixtures and furnishings have been donated to the society by local citizens. They may have things in their attic, sheds or barns that are sentimental to them and they can’t bear to throw them away, so many times they will call the Historic Society to find out if there is a need for them at the site.

The Seckinger-Bridgers House was the first building on the site and is a wonderful 1900’s home that has

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 17

been restored to that period. The house was furnished and opened for tours in November of 2005, and some of its interesting features are the dogtrot porch and canning closet.

Other restored homes located on this site are the 1800 Gnann Summer House and the 1830’s ZittrouerSeckinger House. The Blandford Depot, a smokehouse, cookhouse, blacksmith shop, equipment shed, barn, cane mill and syrup shed are some of the other historical structures found on the property.

A perfect opportunity for the public to experience what life was like in Effingham County in the old days is happening on April 12th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The first Effingham Festival, sponsored by the Historic Effingham Society, will take place at the Living History Site. There will be demonstrations of old crafts and handwork by volunteers dressed in period costumes. Vendors with crafts, food and baked items will be there, as well as children’s activities. Antique dolls and beautiful, handmade quilts will be on display in the Herman and Ruth Gnann Home. There will also be musical entertainment the day of the festival by some wonderful bands, solo artists and rambling musicians. If you haven’t taken the opportunity to visit the museum or site yet, don’t miss out on this one. The members of the Historical Effingham Society would love to have you as their guests.

The Effingham Museum and Living History Site are open to the public on Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon and Tuesday-Friday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The admission price is $5 per person. Group tours can be scheduled by calling the museum at 912-754-2170 and making an appointment.

They also have a gift shop on site where visitors can purchase books, calendars, ornaments, tee shirts, note cards, dolls, framed and unframed prints, maps and more.

Betty Renfro and Beverly Poole, members of the Historical Society and museum volunteers, will gladly give you a tour of the premises. The society’s board members also volunteer at the museum on Monday’s each week.

18 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Effingham Festival At The Living History Site Saturday, April 12, 2014 9AM-5PM

(At the corner of Pine & Early Streets, Across from the Old Courthouse) Schedule of Events 9:00

Gates Open

10:00 Flag Salute and Special Music at Opening Gate 10:15 Cannon Firing 11:00 Cannon Firing 12:00 Cannon Firing 12:05 Tommy Hall Band 1:00

Cannon Firing

1:05

Brian Fuller

2:00

Cannon Firing

2:05

Joyful Noise

3:00

Cannon Firing

3:05

Josh Sanders

Come Join The Fun And Take A Trip Back In Time! There Will Be Fun For The Entire Family!

• Music • Food • Crafts • Children’s Activities • Bakes Sales • Doll & Quilt Show

Effingham History At Its Best Effingham Museum: Displays from pre-historic to 1960 including Native American Indians, Civil War, Veterans Room, and the Old Jail with Infirmary and cells

Living History Site Twelve buildings dating back 1790 to 1950, houses furnished, barn, blacksmith shop, carpenter shop, Blandford Depot, Demonstrations of old crafts and handwork Josh Sanders In Concert 3:05PM

For more information visit www.historiceffinghamsociety.org Or call office at 912-754-2170 Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 19

The Wendelken Wendelken Agency The Agency

Keith Roberts (912) 484-3288 • Life • Health • Retirement • Supplemental

Since 1956, we’ve made customer service and personal attention our top priorities.

Paul Wendelken (912) 826-0211 • Auto • Home • Renters • Accident • Cancer

107 N. Columbia Avenue • Rincon, GA 31326 (Next to Bank of America)

(912)826-5264

www.DeWittAgency.com www.facebook.com/dewittinsurance

5877 Highway 21 South • Rincon, Georgia Securities and Advisory Services offered through Vision Financial Group of Georgia.

Investment Advisory Services Offered Through Investment Advisors, A Division of ProEquities, Inc., A Registered Investment Advisor.

Securities Offered Through ProEquities, Inc., A Registered Broker-Dealer, and Member of FINRA & SIPC. Vision Financial Group of Georgia and DeWitt Insurance Agency are independent of ProEquities.

Specializing In Implant and Periodontal Laser Treatment www.coastalempireperiodontics.com

Other services include:

crown lengthening • scaling & root Planing • soft tissue Grafts extractions with ridge Preservation (if needed) • sinus lifts IV Conscious Sedation • LANAP Certified Preferred Providers of most insurances to include: Delta Dental, Gulfstream, United Concordia, Met Life, Connection Dental

912.445.5311

10055 Ford Avenue, Suite 3-C, Richmond Hill, GA 31324 (next to The Savannah Bank)

20 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Dr. Justin Bordlemay, DMD Board Certified

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

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

Monday - Friday 8:30-5:00 Saturday 8:30-12:00

Main Office: 5201 Frederick Street, Savannah Satellite Offices: Pooler, Richmond Hill, Rincon, Statesboro, Southside Savannah

Michelle Yamada, PA

Brad A. Rawlings, MD

www.entsavannah.com

Appointment: 912-351-3030

Dentistry at GoDley station

Ruby Edwards Barkley, D.M.D. Fillings

|

extractions

|

Partials

|

Tracy Durham, D.D.S.

Dentures

|

Crowns

|

Bleaching

|

Veneers

|

Cosmetic And General Dentistry For The Entire Family!

(912) 748-4494 www.tracydurhamdds.com

HoURS: Mon-Wed 8:00am-5:00pm Thurs-Fri 7:00am-2:00pm extended Hours available Upon request

145 Traders Way, Suite D | Pooler, Georgia 31322 Conveniently located near I-95 at Godley Station

NoW ACCePTING NeW PATIeNTS

emergencies

- Most Insurance Plans Accepted - All Gulfstream Plans Accepted - Carecredit Available

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 21

dining guide The Best Mexican Food In Town $1.00 off every meal to EFACEC & GP Employees

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

105 Weisenbaker Rd. Rincon, GA 31326

(912)826-3524

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 or Dianna at (912)308-9408

El Real Mexican Restaurant

105 Weisenbaker Rd. Rincon,GA 31326 (912)826-3524 El Real Mexican Restaurant is a local family owned business located in the heart of Rincon.

They offer great service and even better food! Go by and give them a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Hours Mon - Thu: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 10:30 pm Sun: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Lucky’s Tavern Weisenbaker Road

Rincon, GA 31326 (912)295-2285 This laid-back, neighborhood establishment is filled with locals, food and fun. The classic bar food menu is done well and served quickly by the friendly staff.

Have a fun night out with friends at Lucky’s Tavern in Rincon, GA Hours: Lunch – Until

Seasons of Japan

455 Pooler Parkway Pooler, GA 31322 912-748-9383 Escape the fast food merry-goround and step into the world of Japanese cuisine at Seasons of Japan! Seasons of Japan is a Japanese restaurant serving genuine Japanese and all Hibachi styles cuisines that are cooked to order.

Hours Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm, Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 11am9:30pm, Sun 11:30am-8:30pm Seasons of Japan

a Neighborhood Place To kick back

dine in or take out

GreAT menu inCLudinG HuGe CHeeSeBurGerS And deLiCiouS winGS mondAy 6pm-9pm

river street poker

open 6 days a week

monday-saturday 3:00pm-2:00am

108 weisenbaker road, rincon

(912) 295-2285

wedneSdAy THrouGH SATurdAy

karaoke

Lucky’s Tavern & Sports Grill is a 21 & up establishment. Business Hours Are Subject To Change.

22 April/May 2013 | Effingham Magazine

Update:

Lea’s Journey

Clif Yawn of Yawn’s Gym and Lea

“D

on’t let your weight stop you from trying new things. All you have to do is take the first step,” says Effingham Magazine’s very own Lea Allen.

In our annual Health and Wellness issue, we featured Lea as she embarked on a public journey. If you missed our last issue, you can still read her story online at www.effinghammagazine.com.

Amazing things have happened to Lea since she started this journey on January 21st. She is happier, healthier and absolutely grateful for all the help and support she has received along the way.

Effingham Magazine is also grateful to the people that have volunteered their time and services to help Lea reach her goals and forever transform her life.

Lea’s “Dream Team,” as we have lovingly named them, is Anisa Grantham of Rincon Recovery Resources, Matt Syno of Effingham Health System, Clif Yawn of Yawn’s Gym and Karate and Desmond Crone, her Personal Trainer.

Anisa meets with Lea once a week and helps her address her food addiction and her emotional connections with food. Anisa has also guided her on nutrition and meal plans.

Matt also meets with her once a week.

He tracks her body measurements, her BMI, weight and hydration levels. They also discuss nutrition, calories and healthy food choices. Matt says, “Lea is happier and so full of energy. YAY!!! She has shown a nice steady decline. I am

very happy with her progress so far.”

Clif, not only supplies the gym for Lea’s training, he has also taken on a personal role in her journey. Along with helping her in the gym, he is now teaching Lea the art of karate. She is taking lessons from him twice a week and has already earned her first belt.

Desmond works with Lea Monday through Friday in the gym. They work out approximately an hour and a half every morning. He challenges Lea with proper workout techniques and the right combinations of cardio and weights.

“Lea is doing a fantastic job in the gym.

Her attitude is super positive and she has shown tremendous determination,” states Desmond.

Lea has made some very significant changes in her life since this journey began. She is definitely on the road to a happier and healthier lifestyle.

In the eight weeks that have passed since she began, Lea has lost a total of 32.6 pounds. Her BMI has decreased from 54.8% to 48.8% and her body fat has decreased from 55.9% to 51.8%.

Lea Says, “I am overwhelmed at the support that I am receiving from the community. During this Journey, I have been introduced to two new things, Karate and Yoga. What an experience!

Both of these things have helped me build my self-confidence.”

If you would like to follow Lea along her journey, visit her facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/leas. journey.

Lea and her trainer Desmond Crone

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 23

Meet Dr. Travis Wiggins Board Certified in Gastroenterology & Internal Medicine Therapeutic and Diagnostic Endoscopy Caring for digestive disorders of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine (colon), liver, pancreas and gallbladder.

Happy seeing the good folks of Effingham County Effingham Hospital 459 GA Highway 119 South Springfield, GA 31329

(912) 354-9447 Appointments Available In: Springfield, Pooler, Bluffton & Savannah

24 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Paul’s Automotive Your One Stop Auto Shop

826-5115

www.paulstireauto.com 312 S. Columbia Ave. Rincon (next to Badcock Furniture) Paul Goss, Owner

Experiencing...

HEadacHEs, Back Pain, FatiguE? Gentle ChiropraCtiC Care For the entire Family Massage Therapy Available

accepting new patients

Most Insurances Accepted Proudly Representing Many Of The Industry’s Finest Companies

912-826-1061

185 CommerCial Drive • rinCon, GeorGia

5763 Hwy 21 South, Rincon agency@burns-ins.com Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 25

135th Annual

Sunday School Convention May 4th – 10:00 AM

The Rev. P.H. Crumpler, a Methodist, is more or less given credit for forming the Effingham County Sunday School Association. It is said that at the close of Methodist Camp Meeting, he expressed a desire to invite other churches and Sunday Schools to join together for a meeting. The first Sunday School Association of Effingham County was held on Wednesday, May 28, 1879 at the Methodist Campground in Springfield. Of the 25 Sunday Schools in the county, 15 were represented.

The 135th Annual Convention of the Sunday School Association of Effingham County will be held on Sunday May 4th, at 10:00 a.m. with participating Sunday Schools ready to march under the tabernacle at 9:45 a.m. and the morning program will begin at 10:00. The convention will once again be held at the historic Effingham County Methodist Campground.

This longstanding traditional gathering unites Sunday Schools of all denominations featuring special music from each group, congregational singing and a sermon.

With this being the Methodist’s year to host the convention, President Whit Myers of Mizpah United Methodist Church has secured Dr. David Seyle, President of

Saturday, April 19 12:30 - 2:30 pm

Easter services Saturday, April 19 - 2:45, 4:30 and 6:15pm Sunday, April 20 - 9:15am, 11am & 12:45pm

26 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Andrew College, to be the guest speaker.

Andrew College has been called the “educational gem” of the Southeast. They are a private, residential, liberal arts college related to The United Methodist Church.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Sunday School Convention, a longstanding highlight of the year for Christians who gather here annually.

Come and be a part of this historic event as fellow Christians unite to worship God and carry on an Effingham County tradition.

You may want to bring a basket dinner to share as several churches get together every year for dinner on the grounds.

If your Sunday School is interested in participating, please contact Stuart Exley at 754-3402.

Join Us This Easter As We Celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection 6:30am - Easter Vigil (Sunrise Service) 8:30am - Breakfast 9:30am - Easter Service 11:00am - Easter Egg Hunt For Children Of All Ages

155 Goshen Road • Rincon, GA (912) 826-3332• www.stlukesrincon.com Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 27

City of Rincon Spotlight

I

Meet Rincon’s City Manager, Wesley Corbitt

n 1979, an opportunity to become a partner in a CPA firm, brought newly married Wesley Corbitt and his wife, Pamela, to Effingham County. Here, they raised their children, Benjamin, Nathan and Amy. “The Lord has blessed me with a beautiful and wonderful wife. She is the heart of our family. We have three great kids, and now we have two awesome daughter in-laws and one awesome son-in-law,” says Wesley, as he beams with pride.

“All of our kids are married and living away. Benjamin

works for Ferguson International in Atlanta, Nathan is a financial planner and resides in Woodstock. And, Amy is a nurse at the same hospital her husband is doing his residency at in Virginia. We are very proud of all of them,” he adds.

When asked if he has any grandchildren, a sweet smile floods his face. “We have two grandsons and a granddaughter on the way. I already know she is going to be spoiled,” he answers.

Then a precious story comes to his mind. He says, “My

oldest grandson was reciting the 23rd Psalm by the age of 2 and a half.” This man is definitely one proud grandfather.

Wesley’s career in Effingham County began with Wendell Wilson, CPA. After working with Wilson for a few years, he became a partner in the firm, then named Wilson and Corbitt. In later years, they added a third partner and became Wilson, Corbitt and Kessler.

In 1994, Wesley became the founding pastor of Grace Community Church. The church had begun to grow and God led him to make a decision. In 1996, Corbitt sold his assets of the firm to the other partners to pursue his ministry.

In the infancy of Grace Community Church, Wesley Corbitt gave his entire salary of the first 5 years back to the church. In order to provide for his family, he opened his own CPA firm where his hours would be more flexible to allow him to take care of his church and church family.

He later merged his CPA practice with Caines and Hodges, CPA to form the partnership of Caines, Hodges and Corbitt CPA, They later brought on a fourth partner, Ed Pace. As Grace continued to grow, God led Wesley to make another decision. He resigned and began full time ministry.

In 2009, the City of Rincon was seeking a part time Finance Manager. At this time, Wesley felt he had carried Grace Community Church as far as he could. He felt it was best to seek someone else as the senior pastor, someone that could take their congregation to another level of discipleship and teaching.

As a CPA, Wesley had many clients that were government entities. Working with cities and counties on their planning and audits, he felt he had a lot to bring to the table for the City of Rincon.

He applied for the position and was awarded the job.

He immediately fell into things easily. “I loved working with

the people. I soon found myself wanting to take on more responsibility,” he states.

Wesley was later approached by someone who asked him if he would consider a position as City Manager. “My first thought was no. But, I thought about it and I knew I wanted to do what I could to help. I went to the Mayor and told him I wanted to apply for the position,” he says.

Wesley Corbitt was named Interim City Manager in December of 2011. ”I wanted to make sure it was the right fit for the city and for myself before I took it on as a permanent position,” he states.

After a year, it came time for the city to hire a permanent City Manager. Wesley applied for the position. After an interview process of several applicants, Wesley was unanimously chosen by Council for this position.

Wesley says, “I went into ministry to make a difference. I can apply my financial experience and my business knowledge to making a difference to help the people and this community long term.”

When asked the biggest change he has seen since coming to the City of Rincon, he says, “The city and county have a better working relationship now than they have had in over 10 years. The employees here are more positive with each other and about their jobs. This positive attitude spills over to better customer service.

I ask them to treat each other and the citizens we serve like we are all one of God’s creations.”

When asked about his future plans with the city, Wesley says, “As long as I can continue to contribute in a positive way, and as long as the Council sees fit, I will continue to stay.”

Wesley Corbitt is a family man. He is a man of God. And he is a leader in the City of Rincon.

City of Rincon

Mayor Ken Lee Council Members Reese Browher Levi Scott Jr. Christi Ricker Scott Morgan James Dasher Paul Wendelken

302 S. Columbia Ave

ph:(912)826-5745

www.cityofrincon.com

fax:(912)826-2083

City Manager: Wesley Corbitt

City Clerk: Wanda Hendrix

City Attorney: Raymond Dickey

Utilities Director: Tim Bowles

Police Chief: Phillip Scholl

Recreation Director: Michael Osborne

Fire Chief: Corey Rahn

WWTP Director: Tracy Gunter

City Planner: LaMeisha Hunter Kelly

Director of Golf Management & Course Superintendent: Seth Zeigler

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 29

“Your Boating Pleasure Is Our Business”

Jewelry, Collectables & Unique Gifts

Curiosity Shoppe Jewelers 210 N. Columbia Ave. (Hwy 21) Rincon, GA 31326 Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm

826-4512

108 Busch Lane, Rincon

(912)826-5885

burns@burnsoutboard.net

Thomas C. sTriCkland and sons Funeral homes

Family Owned And Operated Effingham Chapel 2460 Hwy 21 South, Rincon

912-754-6421

West Chapel 901 Hwy 80 West, Pooler

912-748-2444

www.stricklandandsonsfuneralhome.com

30 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

912-826-3791 6014 Hwy 21 S. Suite B, Rincon • McCall Plaza Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-7pm (late appointments by reservation only) Friday 10am-5pm • Saturday 10am-2pm

&

Home

Garden 2014

Dena Rodewolt, Realtor

D

ena Rodewolt, realtor for ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate, is proud of the fact that she is known for a reputation built on respect, honor and integrity.

This hardworking professional is passionate about her career and doesn’t believe in doing a job short of a 100% effort. Dena was born and raised in Effingham County.

Her husband, Christopher, is a Georgia State Trooper. They have been happily married for 17 years and have a nine-year old son, Austin. The family attends First Baptist Church of Springfield.

Real estate was not Dena’s first career choice after college. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education and taught at Springfield Elementary School for several years. The young educator decided to quit her job when she found out she was having a baby. She never returned to teaching, but instead chose real estate as her next career path. In June of 2007, Dena passed the board exam and received her real estate license. She closed on her first house in July of 2007, just one month into the job, and hasn’t let up since. Even though the market was beginning to decline when she entered the field, she still had a passion for it. “I loved this job from day one,” she enthusiastically replies. This go-getter has grown from being a buyer’s agent to a listing and selling agent, as well as a relocation specialist.

Regular property sales, foreclosures, short sales, commercial properties, and land sales are several of the areas this ERA realtor assists her clients with. As a matter of fact, this lifelong country girl loves to help her clients in the selling and buying of land and acreage. She also works with members of the military and Gulfstream workers that are relocating to the area, and represents CARTUS, USAA, and Navy Federal Credit Union.

Dena loves the fact that she receives many referrals from former clients. This hardworking realtor believes that “work comes before play” and she says, “If I don’t work, then I don’t eat.” This pretty much sums up the reason behind all those referrals. Clients are looking for someone to represent them and make things happen no matter what hurdles they may encounter. This someone is Dena Rodewolt.

The job of placing people in homes is a serious one for Dena.

She is not just assisting them with the purchase of a home; she is participating in something that will impact their lives for years to come. A new home means a great deal to many people. For this reason, she makes it a point to get to know the people she represents in order to do what is best for them during this exciting, new phase in their life.

Dena takes pride in knowing the local area and being a part of

32 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

it. Effingham County is a great place to live and more and more people are choosing to move here. “They know the schools are exceptional and that makes people comfortable,” says Dena. She feels since she grew up and raised her own family in the county it makes her a great representative to clients looking to relocate to the area. “I inform my clients that they can make a home here, not just buy a home here,” she says. “They can truly build a life here in Effingham County.”

Whether you are interested in purchasing a new home, selling your current one, or investing in land and acreage, Dena Rodewolt is the realtor for you. Give her a call today and see for yourself just how hard this experienced professional will work to make your real estate experience a pleasing one.

A ReputAtiOn Built On

Respect, Honor and Integrity

Dena C. Rodewolt Cell 912-667-1113 Office 912-826-2550 5857 Hwy 21 South Rincon, GA 31326 drodewolt@windstream.net

MoversAdvantage offered by USAA Relocation Services, Inc., a licensed real estate broker and subsidiary of USAA Federal Savings bank. USAA means United Services Automobile Associaton and its affiliates.

LaTrelle Pevey, Realtor

“L

ife is good here in Effingham County,” says LaTrelle Pevey, veteran broker with ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate in Rincon. The real estate market is ever growing in this desirable area near Historic Savannah and Coastal Georgia. “An influx of corporate neighbors is bringing ample job opportunities and families desire to grow here,” she adds. Of course, it also helps that there is access to great shopping, an international airport, and beautiful sandy beaches. Effingham County schools are among the best in the state, and there are plenty of available homes and land for sale in this area. According to LaTrelle, Effingham County is the place to be.

LaTrelle Pevey is a lifelong resident of Effingham County and has been in the real estate business for over 28 years. Her intimate knowledge of the county and the surrounding areas make her a natural for matching first-time homebuyers with the perfect home for their budget and their needs. “First-time homebuyers have always had a place in my heart and are by far the most gratifying,” she says.

This hardworking professional believes in giving back to her community and the real estate industry. She has been involved in many local clubs and charity events throughout the years. Working with the Savannah Area Realtors has brought her much success and pleasure. LaTrelle is a past Realtor of the Year, was the President of MLS in 2001, and President of the Savannah Board of Realtors in 2004.

In 2012, the dedicated broker was awarded the Konter Award for continued service on the board. “The opportunity to serve my peers has truly been an honor,” she humbly says.

Success is no stranger to this driven real estate expert.

LaTrelle and several of her fellow co-workers recently made the trip to Los Angeles to attend ERA’s 2014 International Business Conference. ERA awards their top associates, brokers, and franchises, located worldwide, at the conference each year. This year LaTrelle was recognized in the Circle of Achievement, an honor bestowed upon the top producers in the nation. ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate was also recognized at the conference as one of the top franchises in the nation at the event.

ERA Associate Broker LaTrelle Pevey has first-hand knowledge of how to best market your home or find you a home by employing her wealth of information and knowledge of the area. It is through her training and knowledge, her customer service, and her determination and diligence that she has developed a clientele of repeat business that she feels has sustained her through good times and bad times. When first-time customers return to her for additional real estate needs, Latrelle says it feels like at this point they have become family.

34 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

This reliable ERA broker loves spending time with her family.

When she is not busy selling homes and property to interested parties, you can find LaTrelle tickling her toes in the warm sand of the beautiful Georgia beaches, or spending time with her loving family. Sons Ric and Ron and their family members, which include two grandsons and three granddaughters, are the cherished family she relishes her free time with.

Yes, life is good in Effingham County. Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home, LaTrelle is more than qualified to aid you in your transaction. She would love to help you find that dream home or professionally market your current property. Call ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate today and make that appointment with her. Don’t miss your opportunity to connect with this award winning broker. She will treat you like family.

I know all the dirt in Greater Savannah...

every square foot of it!

“Good communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. You can count on me to provide you with the information you need on a schedule and in a manner that suits you best.�

LaTrelle Pevey Associate Broker

(912) 658-7777 www.ComeHomeToSavannah.com

ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate 5857 Highway 21 South, Rincon, GA 31326 Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 35

Deetie Rahn, Realtor

T

alk about an amazing year! Deetie Rahn, veteran realtor for ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate, was recently recognized as their number one selling agent for 2013, and number 8 in the nation.

ERA Franchise Systems LLC, a global franchise leader in the residential real estate industry, recognizes realtors that have achieved the highest level of sales each year at their International Business Conference. Deetie and several of her fellow employees headed to Los Angeles last week to attend the 2013 Conference. She said the entire experience was exciting and very motivational. The Red Carpet reception, walking across the stage to receive her honor, and seeing her face flashed across a billboard were moments she will always treasure and remember.

There is one thing that Deetie would like to make clear about this prestigious recognition. “I would like to thank my clients, support staff, family, friends, and the good people of Effingham County, because without their undying support this outstanding year would never have been possible,” she says. “It has given me great joy to be a part of this amazing community, and I can never thank you enough.”

Deetie would like to give a special thanks to Shane Rowe, her assistant and fellow agent. “Shane has been with me for three years, and he is very much appreciated. Without him my accomplishments would not be possible,” she states. Jennifer Zimlich, assistant to Shane, is another team member who has played a big part in her success.

Last but not least is Deetie’s childhood sweetheart/husband of 55 years, Reiser Rahn. She says this kind man has always been very supportive of her real estate career.

“Many spouses can’t handle this type of career, but Reiser has always been so helpful. He helps me in any way possible, even if it’s just putting up my signs,” she says.

Deetie has been in the real estate business for 25 years, and she has been recognized for her achievements several times over the years. 2013 is the third year that she has placed in ERA’s top ten. Deetie and her daughter Beth were high achievers in 2005, when they worked as a team.

“I have always enjoyed real estate.

I loved selling things when I was a kid and I still do to this day,” she says. The hardworking professional married at a young age, and she and her husband started their family. She kept busy with a variety of activities. Keeping the books for her husband, civic duties such as the PTA and Garden Club, and church activities filled her days.

She even taught swimming lessons for several years, and eventually went into the horse business. “My life was filled with fun and exciting things,” says Deetie.

Eventually, her kids were grown and she looked around to see what else she could do. Deetie was not the type of person to sit still for long, so she decided to get her real estate license. She had been a lifelong resident of Effingham County, so she thought this could be a wonderful career choice for herself. In 1989 she passed the board and went to work for LaTrelle Pevey, who had her own business at the time. Deetie and LaTrelle both work for ERA in the same office today.

Most of Deetie’s business is repeat business and referrals. She says that she has sold one house four times over the years. She has a very personal approach to her customer service and enjoys getting to know her clients. Deetie may be a very busy woman, but she always has time for her customers.

Giving back to the community is very important to Deetie Rahn. She is a certified Hospice volunteer and provides music therapy for their patients. “I play the piano at Lakeview Manor a couple of times each month for the residents. They love hearing rock and roll and anything that is upbeat,” she says. It is evident that volunteering is very rewarding to her.

If you are in the market for a new home or are interested in listing your current property; please give this nationally recognized professional a call today. Deetie hopes to keep those referrals and repeat customers coming. She is always glad to get your business.

Call Deetie and Start Packing

Deetie Rahn - ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate 5857 Hwy. 21 South, Rincon, GA 31326 912-667-0300 cell • 912-826-2550 office www.deetierahn.com 36 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

When Experience and Knowledge Matter!

2013’s #1 Agent for ERA Southeast Coastal Real Estate #8 Nationally For ERA

Call Deetie and

Start PaCking!

Deetie Rahn, GRI Realtor ®

912.667.0300 Mobile 912.826.2550 Office

www.deetierahn.com deetierahn@yahoo.com 5857 Hwy. 21 South Rincon, GA 31326 www.SoutheastCoastalRealEstate.com

Southeast Coastal Real Estate

Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty

C

oldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty in Rincon will be celebrating their 15th anniversary this July. They opened their doors in 1999 and have been one of the leading listing and selling real estate companies in Effingham County for a majority of those years. Their outstanding success and longevity can be attributed to the excellent customer service their clients receive from a hardworking group of agents and support staff. “We are only as good as the people who work for us,” says owner/manager Brandi Talton.

In honor of this achievement, there will be a “Business After Hours” party at their office on July 8th from 5-7 p.m. The event, which is promoted by the Effingham Chamber of Commerce, is an open house celebration in which Coldwell Banker has the opportunity to thank all of their clients, agents, staff, and members of the community for the support they have shown them over the years. James Presnell, broker, says, “We wouldn’t be here without them.”

Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty has a solid reputation in the real estate business. They have been at the top of the game for twelve of the fifteen years they have been in Rincon. “We hold a strong market share in the greater Savannah area,” says James Presnell. The firm is a member of the Savannah Area Realtors, which gives them access to a number of valuable resources that give them an upper hand in the real estate business. They are also a Fair Housing Equal Opportunity Office that abides by a high code of ethics.

Community involvement is very important to the agents at Coldwell Banker. This thriving team of professionals enjoys giving back to the community that has given so much to them. They are actively involved in the Effingham County Exchange Club, the Rotary Club of Effingham County, Manna House Ministries, Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County, and the Effingham Chamber of Commerce. A portion of every closing goes to local charities.

It is no wonder that Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty is such a successful real estate company. They have thirty plus, full and part-time agents and associate brokers, who are extremely dedicated to the folks they work so hard for. “We thrive on good customer service, which in turn gives us a great amount of repeat business,” says the owner, Brandi Talton. Ten of their agents have been honored by the Distinguished Sales Society, and six have received Coldwell Banker National Awards in the Eastern Region and Georgia Division.

Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty offers specialized services ranging from residential and commercial sales, property management, and foreclosures. Military and corporate relocation is another area they are qualified to assist individuals with. They also have their own rental management department. Their service area covers Effingham, Chatham, Bryan, Screven, Bulloch, and Liberty County. They also have realtors licensed in South Carolina if anyone is interested in that market.

Brandi and James believe the outlook on the future market is improving. They say it has picked up substantially both nationally and locally. The inventory is waning, therefore pricing is stabilizing. A seller’s market may soon be in the future. Another indication of improvement is the sudden rise in new construction.

Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty prides itself on being a family oriented business. Working together and playing together, as well as helping each other out, make for a great work atmosphere. A great camaraderie can be found among the staff and

38 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

agents at this prosperous business. They are also open to new agents interested in joining their family.

Brandi and James are excited about the company’s upcoming anniversary, and hope to see you at the “Business After Hours” event. If you are looking for a leading company to assist you in your real estate needs, Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty has got you covered.

James Presnell and Brandi Talton

Brandi Talton-owner/manager James Presnell-broker Autumn Sprankel-administrative assistant/tech manager Elaine Sherrod-assistant manager

Heidt Burns Real Estate Consultants, Inc. Located at: 135 Goshen Ext. St. 120 Rincon, GA 31326

Contact us about these great properties!

912-826-2800 or visit our website

www.heidtburns.com

Southbrook

16 Del A Rae Circle Guyton Ga

Open floor plan home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on large corner lot with an attached garage. Gigantic fenced yard, graced with the owner’s many plantings: roses, jasmine, cedars, grapevine, wisteria, callas & more. Large shed, garden area, covered patio and rocking chair front porch for morning coffee. Call Ardra Hartz 912-220-2687

204 Dixie Street

Full brick home with 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, living room, dining room, and family room, attached garage and detached 2- car garage/ workshop. Conveniently located in Port Wentworth.

For more information, Call Pam Dumas 912-656-5437

201 White Bluff Drive

Nice family home in a well- established neighborhood. Situated on a large corner lot, this Guyton home features 3BR, 2BA and is located close to schools.

Call Chris Heidt for details 912-661-1239

Cornerstone

This quaint neighborhood offers cottage style homes on large shady lots. Standard features include hardwood & tile floors, granite countertops, metal roofing, and friendly front porches.

Priced in the 200’s.

Call Kim Stalnaker 912-663-0982

Cottage style homes on large shady lots. Located in South Effingham, Southbrook offers a variety of floor plans including 3 and 4 bedroom options, front porch, metal roofing, carport and situated on 1/2 acre lots or larger. Builder contributes $4500.00 in closing cost with acceptable contract. Several homes are currently under construction. Come early and make your selections.

Priced from the mid 120’s. Call Kim Stalnaker today 912-663-0982

103 Maurine Ave

This Immaculate home in South Effingham county offers an open floor plan with cathedral ceilings. This home also features 3BD, 2BA, an enclosed garage that can be used as 4th bedroom and extra bonus room or office with separate entrance. Located on a large lot with a fenced backyard and small pond. Call Scott Starling 912-658-8642

Beautiful 4 bedroom 2 bath home in highly sought after South Effingham location.

Quality craftsmanship stands out in every room. Large great room w/fireplace, large bonus room upstairs, office, separate dining room, large back deck for entertaining.

For a private showing, call: Julie Hales (912) 657-4120 or Dianna Jenkins (912) 308-7408

912.826.0927 Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 39

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation

Aaron Langes

F

(NMLS ID 306991)

Stacie Taylor

(NMLS ID 411398)

irst Guaranty Mortgage Corporation (FGMC) is a nationwide direct lender offering residential mortgage services to meet the individual needs of their customers. The company offers a wide range of purchase and refinance loan programs, and their staff of mortgage professionals are ready and available to discuss the loan programs that best suit your needs.

Purchase Loan Programs: • Conventional • FHA Standard • FHA 1x Close • FHA 203K • Homepath® • Homepath® Renovation • Homestyle® Renovation • Permanent Financing for Construction • VA • USDA Refinance Loan Programs: • Conventional • DURP • FHA Standard • FHA Streamline • VA Standard • VA IRRRL • USDA Standard • USDA Streamline Aaron Langes, Stacie Taylor and Ivy Eilerman are hardworking members of the First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation team located in Pooler. Aaron Langes, Branch Manager and has been recruiting some of the top talent in the area, and he says the secret is having a platform that knows, understands and fully supports the needs of top originators. “FGMC provides a premier platform that can accommodate high volume originators. Superior service attracts superior talent!” he adds.

What truly sets FGMC apart from other lenders in the area is their true passion to deliver the absolute highest level of customer

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation Pooler, GA Branch 138 Canal Street, Suite 306, Pooler, GA 31322 Branch NMLS ID 882215

40 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Ivy Eilerman

service to everyone involved in the loan process. Langes believes that in the next couple of years, FGMC will be recognized as a dominant residential mortgage provider in the Savannah Market and hopes to expand market share into Augusta and Hilton Head.

“We are confident that there will be new home builders entering the market and more qualified borrowers looking to take advantage of market conditions as interest rates continue to creep back up,” he says.

Stacie Taylor, Senior Loan Officer, consecutive year to year awards winner, recently joined FGMC and says, “Honestly, I was a little hesitant about moving to FGMC after spending my loan originating career with depository banks. After researching the company, I realized that they provided more loan solutions (products) than what I was capable of providing at the bank.

FGMC was a perfect fit for me which equates to expanded solutions for the needs of my clients.” Stacie advocates that she works hard for her clients and dedicates herself to setting new industry standards for customer service and support.

“This looks to be a very promising year and I am poised and ready to assist my clients to achieve their dream of home ownership,” says Stacie. March production for 2014 has been very strong, and she is excited and motivated that buyers are paying attention to interest rates (which remain low). “Q1 has been great and it appears that we will continue to have a wonderful year!”

Stacie says.

Ivy Eilerman recently joined FGMC. She believes that she is now positioned with the right mortgage company that can support her efforts in helping more folks (in the local area) that are seeking to become homeowners. “We’re a direct lender. This means we can offer a wider variety of loan programs, control our turn times, and provide competitive rates and fees. We can utilize common sense underwriting,” she says. These factors provide the perfect combination for a competitive advantage in the Savannah market and the mortgage industry as a whole.

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation gives customers the one-on-one attention that you will not likely receive from faceless online mortgage companies. Aaron, Stacie and Ivy work individually and collectively to build strong and lasting relationships.

They look forward to working for you soon!

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation is a Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee.

Loan programs are accurate of April 2, 2014 and are subject to change without notice

HOME LOAN DIVISION R

We understand the mortgage needs of Georgia home buyers and homeowners. We’re staffed with mortgage professionals that are completely familiar with the lending process from start to finish; and provide a level of customer service and support that sets an industry standard. We care about our community‌ and, we care about you! Give us the opportunity to show you how First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation is the national lender with the local appeal!

FGMC offers a full array of loan programs designed to best meet the needs of individual circumstances (including: FHA, FNMA, VA and USDA).

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE MORTGAGE CONSULTATION

(912) 226-7588

Call Us Today: First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation Pooler, Georgia Branch 138 Canal Street, Suite 306 Pooler, GA 31322

fgmc.com

Branch NMLS ID 882215

D

TU

RO

VE

TIO

APP

N

FEDE RA

G USIN COMM HO I

ER ION SS

L

LEN

S DIN G IN

TI

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation is an FHA Approved Lending Institution, and i s n o t a c t i n g o n b e h a l f o f o r a t t h e d i re c t i o n o f H U D / F H A o r t h e f e d e r a l g o v e r n m e n t .

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation Headquarters is located at 1900 Gallows Road, Suite 800, Tysons Corner, VA 22182 (800) 296-2275. Company NMLS ID 2917.

MORTGAGE BANKERS ASSOCIATION

HUD-920 8 (8-83) (HB4115.1)

First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation, is a Virginia corporation. Information is accurate as of 2/24/2014 and is subject to change without notice. First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation offers a variety of loan programs. Contact a First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation representative to learn more. This should not be construed as a commitment to lend. First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation is licensed as follows: Alabama: Licensed by the Alabama Banking Department, Licensee No. 21332; Arizona: Licensed as an Arizona Mortgage Banker under the Arizona, Department of Financial Institutions, 4347 West Bell Road, Suite 1, Glendale, AZ 85308, Licensee No. 0907158; Arkansas: Combination Mortgage Banker-Broker-Servicer Licensee No. 11884; California: Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, Licensee No. 6037237; Colorado: Registered to conduct business; Connecticut: Licensed by the Connecticut Department of Banking, Licensee No. 10162; Delaware: Licensed by the Office of the State Bank Commissioner, Licensee EQUAL HOUSING No. 2403; District of Columbia: Licensed by the District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking, Licensee No. MLB2917; Florida: Florida Mortgage Lender Licensee No. MLD333; Georgia: Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee No. 13967; Idaho: Licensed OPPORTUNITY by the Idaho Department of Finance, Licensee No. MBL-5032; Illinois: Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee No. MB.0005484, by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Banking, First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation, 1900 Gallows Road, Suite 800, Tysons Corner, VA 22182; Indiana: Indiana First Lien Mortgage Lending License under the Indiana Department of Financial Institutions, Licensee No. 11058; Iowa: Licensed by the Iowa Division of Banking, Licensee No. 2004-0309; Kansas: Kansas-Licensed Mortgage Company, Licensee No. SL.0000212; Kentucky: Licensed by the Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions, Licensee No. MC16957; Louisiana: Residential Mortgage Lending Licensee No. RML-1421; Maine: Supervised Lending Licensee No. NLC649592; Maryland: Maryland Mortgage Lender Licensee No. 1731; Massachusetts: Massachusetts Mortgage Lender and Broker Licensee No. ML 2917; Michigan: 1st Mortgage Broker/Lender/Servicer Registrant Licensee No. FR0714; Minnesota: Minnesota Residential Mortgage Originator License No. MN-MO-20399083, This is not an offer to enter into an agreement under Minnesota law. Any such offer may only be made pursuant to the requirements in Minn. Stat. Section 47.206 (3) and (4); Mississippi: Licensed by the Mississippi Department of Banking and Consumer Finance, Licensee No. 000282/2008; Nebraska: Nebraska Mortgage Banker Licensee No. 1470; Nevada: Licensed by the Nevada Division of Mortgage Lending to make loans secured by liens on real property, Licensee No. 1047, First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation, 1489 West Warm Springs Road, Suite 215, Henderson, NV 89014, Phone No. 702-454-4212; New Jersey: Licensed by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, Licensee No. 9700530; New Mexico: New Mexico Mortgage Loan Company License No. 01085; New York: Licensed Mortgage Banker - N.Y.S. Banking Department, Licensee No. B500800 (d/b/a FGMC In Lieu of True Corporate Name First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation); North Carolina: North Carolina Mortgage Lender Licensee No. L-100362; North Dakota: Licensed in North Dakota as First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation dba FGMC, Licensee No. MB101924; Ohio: Ohio Mortgage Broker Act Mortgage Banker Exemption No. MBMB.850010.000; Oklahoma: Oklahoma Mortgage Lender Licensee No. MB001318; Oregon: Oregon Mortgage Lending Licensee No. ML-2634; Pennsylvania: Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking, Licensee No. 20768; South Carolina: South Carolina Mortgage Lender/Servicer Licensee No. MLS-2917; Tennessee: Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions Mortgage Licensee No. 791; Texas: Licensed by the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, Licensee No. 43786; Utah: Utah Mortgage Entity Licensee No. 5491155; Virginia: Licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission as a Lender and Broker, Licensee No. MC-436; Washington: Washington Consumer Loan Company, Licensee No. CL-2917; West Virginia: West Virginia Mortgage Lender Licensee No. ML-20742; Wisconsin: Licensed Wisconsin Mortgage Banker, Licensee No. 26835BA; Wyoming: Licensed by the Wyoming Division of Banking, Licensee No. 1831.

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 41

Gnann’s Fix-It Shop

G

nann’s Fix-It Shop is celebrating 50 years in business.

Founded in 1964, by Bowers Gnann Jr., the shop in those days repaired lamps and small appliances. The times have long since changed.

Now, our society is more fast paced. People don’t try to repair these things anymore. They would just rather discard them and go buy a new one. This change has made service shops like these rapidly disappear.

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

Gnann’s now specializes in lawn equipment and ATV’s. The company has grown considerably in its 50 year history. They now have ten employees. This enables the brothers to run a smooth operation and give the best service possible to all their clients. It is the oldest and most complete establishment of its kind in the area.

Sales and service is what Gnann’s is all about. You’ll find the most courteous and experienced staff to assist you. “You’re going to find knowledgeable people to deal with,” said Clarence. “We will help you with your problem and walk you through whatever you might need.”

Stocking the most compete parts inventory around, Gnann’s will fit you with the right part or equipment to do the repair and offer tips on how to fix it yourself.

If you’d prefer, the fix-it shop will perform an expert

repair for you.

Gnann’s is the place to purchase your next lawn care machine. They carry Snapper and Exmark products. They also carry Stihl hand held equipment. They have a variety to choose from, from small push mowers to large riding mowers.

If you are ready to get serious about buying that ATV you’ve had your eye on, Gnann’s carries a selection of Arctic Cat ATV’s.

These are great for hunting, joy riding and they make great Christmas gifts.

“People assume that the big chain stores are cheaper than us, but not necessarily,” said Clarence. “We can be very competitive if people just give us the chance. We handle our own warranty work. Shopping with us guarantees great products and quality service with no need for searching for repair work.”

If friendly, reliable, and honest service is what you are looking for, Gnann’s Fix-It Shop is the way to go.

Whether you need new equipment, need old equipment repaired, or are just seeking the expertise of qualified and responsible mechanics, Gnann’s Fix-It can help satisfy all of your lawn and garden and ATV needs.

“LOCAL BUSINESSES REINVEST IN THE LOCAL ECONOMY 60% MORE THAN CHAINS.”

$

40

14995

$

16995

$

17995

Gnann’s Fix-it shop (912) 754-3745 • gnannsfixitshop.com

42 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

This is the time to take charge of our own future and support locally-owned businesses.

Join your friends and neighbors by logging on to www.independentwestand.org, take the pledge and find independently owned businesses near you.

www.independentwestand.org www.facebook.com/IndependentWeStand twitter.com/IndWeStand *Civic Economics - 2007 San Francisco Report on Retail Diversity

Brewer Land Surveying

A

re you in need of a residential or commercial land survey? If so, then Brewer Land Surveying is the firm for you. They are a full service, fully licensed and insured surveying firm serving Georgia and South Carolina.

Craig Brewer, owner and operator of the firm, stumbled into the business eighteen years ago. He was quickly fascinated with surveying, and remains as passionate about the field today as he was then. Brewer serves on the Board of Directors for SAMSOG, and writes product reviews for Professional Surveyor magazine. He is involved in the local community and currently volunteers his time serving on the Pooler Planning and Zoning Board.

Brewer Land Surveying is currently experiencing great growth in their business. “Every year since 2010, we have had at least a 20% growth,” Craig says. Brewer recently added a new employee to the firm, John Tucker, to assist him with this significant increase in the services they offer. John, Field Manager for the firm, has fifteen years of experience in land surveying and construction management skills.

This local company aids a variety of clients with their surveying services. They include homeowners, engineers, architects, municipalities, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, military contractors, construction companies, mortgage companies, insurance firms, and attorneys to name a few.

The types of surveys Craig and John can provide include boundary surveys, topographical surveys, foundation surveys, ALTA/ACSM land surveys, subdivision plats, and route surveys.

They can also provide GPS control points, aerial photography control targeting, and mapping for GIS infrastructure projects.

The surveying firm specializes in flood elevation certificates.

What is the importance of obtaining a survey? Brewer says he receives many requests to survey a piece of property after it has been purchased.

In many of these cases the buyer did not get what they thought they were purchasing. A home or property purchase is a large investment, so a survey beforehand is a smart move. If you are building, renovating, or planning a project, many times a survey is required for designs and permits. A FEMA Flood Elevation Certificate, which Brewer Land Surveying can provide, helps homeowners identify things that can be done to lower their insurance premiums.

Craig Brewer is passionate about his work and helping people protect their homes and property. He will be personally involved in every part of each project from start to finish. “Customers can trust me to do my best to help them with whatever their surveying needs are. I may not be the “cheap guy” but my fees are reasonable and the service I provide will exceed their expectations every time,” he proudly says.

Specializing in Flood Elevation Certificates Also Offer: • Boundary Surveys • Topographical Surveys • Foundation Surveys

• As-Built Surveys • ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys • Subdivision Plats • GPS Control Points

• Route Surveys • Mapping for GIS Infrastructure Projects • Aerial Photography Control Targeting

(912) 856-2205 PO Box 441 • Pooler, GA 31322 craig@brewersurvey.com

Proudly Serving Savannah, Pooler, Rincon and Surrounding Areas.

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 43

Wiley’s Home Center

A

re you in need of new furniture, but not quite sure what today’s trends are for home decorating?

Not everyone is an interior designer, so finding the right “fit” for your home may be more challenging to some. At Wiley’s Home Center, they take the burden completely off your shoulders.

When you walk in the door at Wiley’s, you immediately see a vast display of furnishings, set in a “room” atmosphere, giving you a perfect picture of how your “room” will look. There is no second guessing what pieces should be placed together, Wiley’s has done it for you.

When you walk through the 35,000 square foot showroom you will see living rooms tastefully put together with perfect matching accessories. You will see bedrooms put together with perfect accenting pieces. Dining tables and matching china cabinets tastefully decorated giving you a vision of how it will look in your home.

Wiley’s carries over 150 brands of furniture, appliances, bedding and floor

44 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

coverings. Wiley’s offers immediate delivery, 12-month- no-interest financing with approved credit, and in-store financing with approved credit, and superior service after the sale.

In 1987, Wiley Thomas embarked on his dream…the dream to open a quality furniture store in Effingham County.

Now he shares the reality of his dream with his daughter, co-owner, Detra Thomas.

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

Wiley’s is located on the north end of Rincon, just over the viaduct. It may take a few minutes longer to get to, but it is definitely worth the time.

So, if you are looking for quality furniture at a reputable store, look no further. Wiley’s Home Center is the expert at “Helping to Make Your House a Home.”

Detra Thomas and Wiley Thomas, owners

New Life Flowers & Gifts

R

efresh your home for spring with flowers. Fresh flowers bring new life and energy to any space. Celebrate the return of warm weather with beautiful arrangements of spring flowers from New Life Flowers & Gifts.

New Life Flowers & Gifts is the florist that makes the ordinary, extraordinary! That is the slogan that New Life adopted, and living up to it is what sets them apart. Stephanie Long, owner, says, “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”

And a little extra is what you get from New Life Flowers & Gifts. “Our customers are very important to us. We ant to make sure that each one receives a quality product and that they are treated like family,” she added.

New Life is not just a florist. It is not just a gift shop. It is a specialty shop catering to all your floral, gift and home decorating needs.

New Life helps make gift giving easy, as easy as picking up the phone to have flowers or a gift delivered. The gift shop in the store is full of amazing treasures like holiday ornaments and gifts, silver serve ware for weddings, Woodwick Candles, Willow Tree figurines, devotional books, plush animals, monogrammed items, an entire Georgia Bulldog section, many types of tumblers, garden flags and standard flags for outdoors, flag poles and metal flag stands.

Not only does New Life carry these remarkable items, they also have a terrific display of home interior items. They carry many beautiful items for the home, as well as, custom made silk arrangements to add that special touch to any room.

If you are thinking about giving your home a new look in the design department, come check out New Life Flowers & Gifts. If you do not see what you like, talk to Stephanie. She will schedule an appointment to come by your home and handle that project for you.

If you have never been to New Life Flowers & Gifts, stop on by.

You will like what you see.

Stephanie Long, owner

Spring has SPRunG at

New Life FLOWERS & GIFTS Spruce Up Your Front Door For Spring Flags & Mailbox Covers Candles • Willow Angels • Photo Frames Vases • Mirrors • Lamps GA Bulldog Gifts • Bridal Registry Great Selection of Wedding Accessories & Gifts

826-4261 • Hwy 21 • Rincon

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 45

Martin Construction

I

s a home renovation or addition something you are considering? Have you outgrown your current living space or does it just need a makeover? Has your “Honey Do” list gotten out of control?

If so, Martin Construction can help.

Jesse Martin, owner of Martin Construction, has over thirty years of experience in renovations, remodeling, additions, repairs, design, and construction of homes. He takes pride in the fact that he owns and operates a local business that is honest, reliable, and fair. Martin Construction is also dedicated to providing their customers quality workmanship each and every time.

If you are considering remodeling your out-of-date kitchen, adding a peaceful sunroom or a much needed garage to your home, or even converting your attic space into a bonus room or family game room, then Martin Construction is the business you are looking for. “No job is too small or large for us,” says Jesse Martin.

Pride in their superior customer service is something else they are extremely proud of.

“My customers like the fact that they deal directly with me,” he says. “We are a hands-on business that stays on the job until it is completed,” he adds. Martin Construction does

the designing, quoting, as well as the labor and construction from start to finish. If you are looking for a company to do a turnkey job, then this is the company for you. Any project you are considering will be a stress free one with the aid of Martin Construction.

Many times customers need a company that can be flexible with scheduling. Jesse Martin will gladly work with you and meet your scheduling needs. Convenience is very important to the customer, and Martin Construction will go out of their way to guarantee complete customer satisfaction.

Martin Construction is not only limited to renovations and additions. They also perform preventative maintenance, and a large variety of home repairs. “Some people don’t realize that you have to maintain your home,” Jesse says. “You cannot ignore it, because when you do, expensive problems arise that if caught early could have been prevented or have been less costly.”

Martin Construction is qualified and ready to tackle whatever project you have in mind for your home. Whether it is an addition, a renovation or remodel, or just a repair, give them a call and let them handle the rest. You will be glad you called.

Quality Workmanship...

The First Time!

Jesse Martin, owner

• Remodeling • Additions • Preventative Maintenance • Repairs • Bath and Kitchen Renovations • Decks/Fences/Driveways

Before

Honest...Reliable...Fair P.O. Box 2358 • Rincon, Georgia

Jesse Martin (912) 429-5488

After 46 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

jcmjr1959@aol.com fax: (912) 295-5396

There are savings waiTing inside your CompuTer.

find ways To save money on your monThly eleCTriC bill in 15 minuTes.

Take our free online energy checkup. It’s designed to give you a personalized report based on your actual energy usage. To take an online checkup, go to GeorgiaPower.com/energycheckup.

offiCial energy parTner of you

SM

Š2012 Georgia Power

Synergy Designer Homes

While a rapidly changing market means builders have to adapt, Brennan didn’t change his commitment to give back to those around him. After graduating from Benedictine Military School, Brennan obtained a degree in education from the University of Georgia. His goal was to invest in others through education, but when he found himself in the home building industry in 2003, he knew this was where he was meant to serve his community. As a project manager for a local builder, he worked hard to give new homeowners a positive experience as a platform for their journey into homeownership.

Just two years after his start in home building, Brennan was able to found Synergy Designer Homes with the mission to build not just dream homes, but to build up people around him. His strengths are encouraging and motivating others to achieve goals they never thought possible, and this applies across his and professional worlds.

Brennan serves as a coach and mentor for his employees, and outside of work, he coaches youth in sports. He is a Past President of the Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah and continues to serve on its board and committees. As a member of Savannah’s Affordable Housing Task Force, Brennan wants to help make the opportunity of homeownership accessible to everyone. Along with advocating to provide access to the basic need of shelter, Brennan founded Christmas in the Square, where his efforts have helped feed and provide clothing to hundreds in need in Downtown Savannah.

Not only does Brennan hold himself to a high standard, he sets high expectations for everyone around him. Primarily, he leads by example. Brennan has built what many might call “Savannah’s Dream Team” for home building. From construction to sales, he has been able to recruit the area’s best and most experienced professionals to join his mission. Collectively, the Synergy Designer Homes team gives back countless hours to the community through various organizations and charities, evidence that the group has joined to embrace Synergy’s selfless culture.

When asked about his contributions to charities, his parish, and the community, Brennan is very humble and just expresses how thankful he is to be able to give back. Even when times were tough, Brennan never second-guessed giving back to the community or his investment in serving and growing people. This quiet spirit of service and stewardship has paid off for Brennan with Synergy Homes achieving record growth. Some may call it karma, others call it luck, but Brennan just calls it the way you do business: in a community, for a community.

Read Brennan’s vision for Synergy Designer Homes is to continue to grow, his promise to ensure that it is done responsibly, and his commitment is that he will continue to give back.

Giving Back to Others: A Home Builder’s Unique Path to Growth

W

hen Read Brennan founded Synergy Designer Homes in 2005, his vision didn’t include the drastic stall in the local real estate market as a result of the nation’s “Great Recession”. Statistically, almost two thirds of home builders have left the industry in the past eight years, so how was Synergy Designer Homes able to weather the storm? The answer is not what one might think.

Read Brennan contributes his staying power to doing just that: Staying. Staying consistent with his mission, staying on the same path that brought his previous success, and staying true to himself, his family, his customers, and his community.

48 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Why Own When You Can Rent?

RentAl Items FoR • Home owners • Contractors • Parties

The clean you expect. The service you deserve.

OFFn 20% tio M h en Wit is Ad Of Th

ServiceMaster of Savannah

189 Commerical Dr. • Rincon, GA

Residential/Commercial Carpet Cleaning

(912) 826-2600

21 Rental & SaleS monday-Friday 7:30Am-5:30Pm, saturday 7:30Am-noon

Get the WoW from your Windows Free estimates Free installs Quality Products reliable service

Carpet • Area Rugs • Upholstered Furniture Hardwood & Tile Floors

Custom Tailor Your Cleaning Needs With Superior Results.

912-234-0270

www.SMSavannah.com

REALTORS.....

showcase your listing in Effingham Magazine.

Call us today for great rates!

Savannah Blinds, Shutters and Shades 108 International Drive • P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, Georgia 31326

912-224-0459 • savannahblinds@gmail.com

(912) 826-2760

Beautiful 2-story home sits on 9.66 acres of paradise.

3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, bonus upstairs, sunroom over looking beautiful yard with spring fed creek.

For a private showing, call: Julie Hales (912) 657-4120 or Dianna Jenkins (912) 308-7408

912.826.0927 50 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

Effingham County’s Oldest Mortgage Company…

International Mortgage

Plumbing sPecialists We Install, servIce and repaIr:

CAll FoR DETAIlS oN THE23 $8000 TAx CREDIT 100% Financing Packages Celebrating Years First Time Buyer Programs

• sinks/faucets • showers/tubs • toilets • water heaters (replace or repair) tankless, gas or electric • repipe • slab leak detection & repair • bathroom & kitchen remodel

• •

(912) 826-5386

Home Improvement Loans

Jane Hughes PRESIDENT

• First Time Buyer Programs - 100% USDA • FHA, VA & Conventional • Construction Loans • Purchases • Refinances • Free Consultations • Home Improvement Loans

• Home Improvement Loans

(912) 826-5386 • Fax: (912) 826-4556

(912) 826-5386 • Fax: (912) 826-4556 hughes@internationalmortgage.com McCall Road•• Rincon, GA 55055505 McCall Road Rincon, GA Serving Effingham County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia Residentialsurrounding Mortgage Licensee#5748areas & all of Georgia Serving Effingham EffinghamGeorgia County, Serving County, surrounding areas & all of Georgia GRMA#26250 GRMA#26250

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

Yates-Astro Termite & Pest Control The most trusted name in termite and pest control since 1928!

Free te i e T r mction e p Ins

Ask Inc About Prog entive our ram Fo r E Cust xisting ome rs

We surpass the competition with promptness, reliabilty, professionalism, integrity and quality of work.

GREENLEAF PLUMBING COMPANY

912-988-7163

emergency service 24/7

greenleafrestore.com

like us On Facebook

resIdentIal & commercIal • lIcensed & Insured master plumber A subsidiary of Greenleaf Construction & Restoration, LLC

21

SOUTH MINI STORAGE • Climate & Non-Climate Controlled Storage • RV & Boat Storage • Boxes & Packing Supplies • Budget Truck Rentals

CAll TodAY: 826-2580 www.21SouthMiniStorage.com

826-3623

Hwy. 21 at McCall Road 5540 McCall Road

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 51

Greenblade Turf & Sod

S

pring has finally arrived and area homeowners are looking forward to a beautiful green and lush lawn that the warmer days bring with it. If your yard is in a poor state, new sod for your lawn may be the answer for you. You may be considering selling your home, or you may just desire a lovelier landscape. No matter what the issue is, Greenblade Turf & Sod can help you spruce up your residence and give your property great curb appeal.

Greenblade Turf & Sod, owned and operated by Michael and Tara Hart, is located in Guyton. The Hart’s are dedicated to providing residential and commercial customers in Southeast Georgia with top-quality sod. Greenblade may not be the largest supplier of sod in the region, but they produce some of the best grasses on their 350 pristine acres. Quality is and will continue to be their number one concern.

They make sure that each pallet of sod is always fresh for the customer, so that is why they dig to order. “We never allow sod to sit on a pallet longer than 24 hours,” says Tara Hart. This is why they request a 24 to 36 hour notice to prepare and cut sod for delivery or pickup. In the spring and summer months, sometimes a 5 to 7 day notice is necessary.

Greenblade offers delivery of sod to residential or commercial customers. They also offer installation of sod on all yards requiring ten or more pallets. One pallet of sod covers 500 square feet of land. If a customer needs less than ten pallets, they have the option of placing their order and picking it up themselves. Custom irrigation installation is another service that is offered by Greenblade.

Several varieties of superior grasses are available to the cus-

“Our grass is legal... but we SMOKE the competition!”

Grading • Sod Sales • Sod Installation • Irrigation

Please Call Today For A Free Est

imate!

(912) 728-TURF(8873)

www.greenbladeturfandsod.com

52 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

tomer; Zoysia, Bermuda, Palmetto, and Centipede. “Centipede grass is by far the most popular grass we deliver or install,” says Tara. This grass grows best in full sun and needs very little fertilizer or water. Palmetto St. Augustine Grass is another variety that would produce a beautiful lawn. It has a thick blade and creates a lush-looking lawn when properly maintained.

Once sod has been installed for a customer they must keep the grass wet for a week to two weeks in order for the grass to take root. This means it should be watered for three to four hours each day. An organic fertilizer, such as Milorganite, will help the grass grow and thrive and is highly recommended by Greenblade Turf & Sod. If you are looking to spruce up your lawn this spring, then Michael and Tara Hart would be more than happy to help you with this task. Let Greenblade Turf & Sod provide and install superior sod to help showcase your property.

BEFORE

AFTER

The Cottage

T

here’s no better way to brighten up your home’s interior than to add an original piece of art and beautiful custom framing that you can treasure for years to come. Beth Lathem Pye and Mary Jane Callaway of The Cottage would be thrilled to help with this under-

taking.

The Cottage is next to Hair Tenders and Empowered Life Chiropractic & Wellness Center, nestled behind International Mortgage. It is a unique business that offers custom framing and matting, as well as items created by local artisans and authors.

Beth started the business after leaving her former job as a draftsman for the Army Corps of Engineers. The decision has been a blessing for her because she is able to spend more time with her family and pursue framing on a full time basis. “I find it exciting to enhance art or precious memories while preserving them with conservation framing,” says Beth.

Mary Jane, Beth’s sister, worked part time at the business in the beginning. The two have always enjoyed working together and combining their creative talents; they believe that each client is an individual and each creation is unique. This past September the duo opened their new store front in Rincon.

Framing is not the only service that is available to their customers. Hand lettering/calligraphy, photo restoration, digital photo to art, creative matting, conservation framing, awards, canvas stretching, and shadow boxes are a few of the other available services.

Precious memories and treasures that may be tucked away in a drawer or hidden in a box can be turned into a beautiful shadow

box and proudly displayed.

Mary Jane Callaway and That collection of fishing lures, Beth Lathem Pye the box of Girl Scout badges and awards, or your son’s favorite baseball cards that have been collecting dust can now be preserved forever in an artistic manner. “Art should evoke an emotional response in its owner, and it is those feelings and memories you are preserving when you invest in custom framing,” says Mary Jane.

The Cottage also has a wonderful collection of jewelry, wood carvings, needlework, stained glass, books, paintings, drawings, and photographs created by local artisans and authors. They are passionate about supporting local artists and offering their creations to the public. One of their goals is to eventually have local artists come in and teach classes in their store.

If you are looking for a new piece of artwork for your home, or needing to frame that diploma that is hidden away, or thinking about creating a shadow box out of your own box of memories, then The Cottage is place to visit. Give Beth and Mary Jane a call today and start displaying those treasures.

A Gift Of Art is.. A Gift frOm the heArt • Shadow BoxeS • ColleCtaBleS • awardS • ConServation Framing • CanvaS StretChing • PortraitS • diPlomaS • FaBriC/needle art

912.826.5553 cottageofcustomframing.com

104 International Drive • Rincon, GA (Behind International Mortgage) Mon-Fri 10-6 Saturday 10-2 Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 53

Badcock & More

T

hinking about replacing your floor covering? Choosing the right flooring for a particular room in your home may seem like a daunting decision.

It is a process that will combine your personal taste with careful thinking about its practicality. After all, it’s a surface you, your family and friends will walk, stand and sit on; your kids will spill, play and grow up on. But asking yourself a few key questions at the beginning of the process should help reduce your worry, ease your choice and increase your longterm satisfaction with your new floor.

How many people will regularly use the room, and how much traffic will the floor receive? Children and pets will definitely make a difference in your decision. Will the floor be exposed to moisture or sunshine regularly? How often is the floor likely to need cleaning? How long do you hope and expect your new floor to last?

Floors must withstand your lifestyle. They get scratched by high heels, crusted by muddy boots and crushed by furniture legs. Sunlight, moisture, pets, stains, spills, and childhood accidents all leave marks. Yet it is common to focus on how a floor covering looks and forget how it will wear.

Getting the right kind of flooring for your home is one of the most important decisions you have to make for your home. There are four clear choices when it comes to floor covering: carpet, wood, tile, and vinyl.

To help make the decision a tad easier, go visit your local Badcock & More in Rincon. They are your neighborhood flooring store with an array selection of Mohawk carpet, laminates, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), as well as Tarkett Fiberfloor and Peel n Stick carpet tiles by Birkshire.

Locally owned and operated by Jeremy Nease since 2011, you can feel good about buying from someone that takes an interest in your community and a company that will be there when you need them.

Badcock & More has over 160 flooring stores throughout the Southeast, making them one of the largest accounts for both Mohawk and Tarkett. That gives them the buying power that other stores can’t match and the ability to pass the savings on to their customers. Badcock & More stocks more then 40,000 square feet of laminate for your convenience.

Your local Rincon Badcock & More was ranked #5 in the company for flooring. What a great accomplishment and evidence of trust from the community, your neighbors and friends.

Jeremy has all flooring installations completed by a local, approved certified installer and Jeremy stands behind his work! He also wants you to know they only sell USA made products!

Just like their furnishings and appliances, there is easy financing available on your flooring purchase as well. The provided financing covers it all: the material and if needed the labor and installation.

Stop by the large showroom to check out the flooring samples

54 April/May 2014 | Effingham Magazine

and receive expert advice to help you with your selection. Since the floor is usually the largest surface in a room, it lays the foundation for the entire look of the space—color, style, texture, and pattern.

While you are there, stroll through the store a look at the full range of furniture, bedding, appliances, electronics and accessories. Inventory consisting of name brands such as La-Z-Boy, Simmons, Ashley, Cattnapper and Southern Motion. They also offer a wide range of the newest iComfort mattresses.

Giving your home a new look and feel just got easier at your local “one-stop-everything-for-your-home” Badcock & More Home Furniture Store. Top quality, brand names and friendly service right here in Effingham County.

So, what are you waiting for, stop by and see Jeremy, Bobby and the rest of the staff on Highway 21 in Rincon to check out their monthly flooring and furnishing specials. The only Effingham furniture store to offer 18 or 24 month 0% interest and 12 month in-store 0% interest.

Effingham Magazine | April/May 2014 55

Celebrating 6 years and a new location!

Join Us satUrday april 26th 2:00-5:00 For an afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and special discounts!

826-HaiR (4247) 135 Goshen Rd. ext. • Suite 162

www.SalonRetreatRincon.com