Effingham Magazine April/May 2019

ANNUAL HOME & GARD EN ISSUE

Allen & Karla

Gnann

The Gift of Gardening and Love

April/May 2019 Sisters on a Journey Cure Childhood Cancer

Juliana Palmer Junior Showmanship Dog Handler

Candice Kohl Author Profile

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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BOARD-CERTIFIED, PEDIATRIC CARE

CLOSE TO HOME

The addition of a board-certified pediatrician is a big part of our commitment to transforming healthcare for Effingham and surrounding communities. Seeing patients in Guyton, Springfield, and through our local school-based telemedicine program.

DR. BAILEY ALFORD

Medicare.gov/hospitalcompare

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CONTACT US: 912-754-2560 | EffinghamHealth.org | 459 HWY. 119 SOUTH, SPRINGFIELD

We can get you where you want to be:

HOME

Home is where the Heart is!

We can help you find your way.

CALL A RINCON COLDWELL BANKER AGENT Office Staff Available 7 Days A Week 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.

www.RinconColdwellBanker.com

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IN THIS ISSUE 10

Allen & Karla Gnann

16

Sisters on a Journey

22

Candace Kohl

30

The Little Non-Profit that Could

41

Juliana Palmer

APRIL/MAY 2019

The Gift of Gardening and Love A Community Coming Together to CURE Childhood Cancer One More Story

Ready2Connect is now powered by Action Pact

Junior Showmanship Dog Handler

Departments 09 Publisher’s Thoughts

10 16 30

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TIRES BRAKES OIL CHANGES ALIGNMENTS WHEELS LIFT KITS

We specialize in Custom Wheels, Tires and Lift Kits.

STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT Serving Effingham for more than 10 Years.

DAVIS TIRE (912) 826-0434 5550 McCall Road, Rincon, GA All Oil Changes include Free Tire Rotation, Brake Inspection, Tire Pressure check, and we will also top off fluids. www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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CONTRIBUTORS Katrice Williams

Shelia Scott

is a married mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration Degree. Interestingly enough, at the time, she also had an interest in writing. She and her family moved to Pooler in 2003 from the Atlanta Metro Area. She later decided to pursue her writing interests. Katrice appreciates The Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings that He has bestowed upon her. She loves spending time with her family.

is an Effingham County native and Salzburg de-

Kelly Harley

Tonya Chester Perry

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

is a married mother of two children. She is a full time photographer with a studio based in Rincon.

She graduated from college with a degree in business. She is originally from Louisiana. After living in different states, she now resides in Effingham County. She is a Maternity, Newborn, Child, High School Senior and Wedding Photographer. When not working she enjoys spending her time with her husband & kids.

Kathryn Vandenhouten

Cindy Burbage

is a freelance writer who enjoys meeting new and interesting people. She earned her English degree at Georgia Southern University, and caught the travel bug while studying abroad in Costa Rica, where she received a minor in Spanish. After college, she worked briefly in Yellowstone National Park, where she enjoyed hiking and photographing the scenery and the wildlife. She now lives in Rincon and loves spending time with her husband, Sean, and two children, Turner and Emery.

is a native of Richmond Hill. She began writing in college and took a hiatus to raise her four beautiful children. Cindy enjoys traveling and is always ready for a road trip. She believes that faith is greater than fear.

Chris Kincade

Jan Southern

Chris Kincade is honored to be part of the team and thankful for the opportunity to work with the wonderful people in this community. His beautiful wife, Bridgette, and their amazing son, Fitz, are the absolute best parts of every one of his days. God is his true north.

G>^V

Jan Southern is owner of J. DelSUR Marketing Group in Rincon, Ga. Her company helps her clients reach goals through brand development, marketing, digital and social strategy. She is the former Associate Vice President for Marketing and Communications at Georgia Southern University. She and her husband Morris moved to Rincon in 2017 and quickly fell in love with the area.

STAFF

Julie Hales Owner/Publisher julie@idpmagazines.com

Lea Thornton-Allen Office Manager lea@idpmagazines.com

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Marsha Stewart Executive Assistant marsha@idpmagazines.com

scendent. She has been married to her husband, her best friend, for 6 years. Between them they have 9 children and 4 grandchildren. She started dabbling in photography when her kids were little and fell in love. When not with her husband and kids, she’s off somewhere, camera in hand looking for the next amazing shot!

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

TIMES ARE CHANGING...

Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Lea Thornton-Allen office manager lea@idpmagazines.com Marsha Stewart executive assistant marsha@idpmagazines.com

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 826-2760

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write to us and tell us what you think. Effingham Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send all letters via email to Julie Hales at julie@idpmagazines.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS 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 County will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is published bi-monthly printing 10,000 copies and distributed to over 200 locations.

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

T

he Spring season is always a beautiful time.

Sunshine, green grass and a time for hope and renewal. It is also a time to take stock and evaluate areas for improvement.

It is no secret that Effingham County is evolving and changing on a daily basis. The growth of our county has been exceptional over the last several years.

We must change as well….and we are!

As we are well into our 13th year, Effingham Magazine continues to strive to offer you, our readers and advertisers, the best features on our residents along with important information about our area. That is why we are making some important Julie Hales, PUBLISHER enhancements to “Your Community Magazine.”

You may have noticed our new masthead on the front cover. We want you to know we are here for you…our community, giving you the best of the best of Effingham County.

You will also see some design changes throughout the magazine, and you will continue to see more changes in upcoming issues.

Along with these design changes, you will also be seeing some new sections and features we will be adding throughout the year. We have some exciting things in the works now that I think our readers are going to fall in love with!

We will also be bringing you a way of promoting exciting events coming up in our community. If you have an event coming up. let me know. We can help you promote it...just send me your information for your upcoming events to julie@idpmagazines.com.

Most importantly, we will also be updating our website and offering new digital platforms for our readers and advertisers in the coming months. This is very exciting for us, and trust me, it is going to be worth your wait…truly solidifying our motto of “Your Community Magazine.”

Stay tuned!

ABOUT THE COVER Our cover story gives you a special article about an incredible couple who live, work and play in Effingham County. Meet Allen and Karla Gnann. Playing for them is creating beauty...beauty in the form of flowers and plants. These guys are a perfect feature for our Home and Garden issue as they share with us their love for gardening...and for each other.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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Allen & Karla Gnann:

The Gift of Gardening and Love M

any gardeners pridefully put tons of love into the gardens they plant. Allen and Karla Gnann are no exception. This couple has been gardening for a long time now.

Their beautiful home garden has flourished over the years because of all the time, care and love that they have put into it, but it pales in comparison to the love that these two have shared for so long.

Allen and Karla are both Effingham natives. The couple met as children and attended the same church--Springfield Baptist. They actually grew up in the church together. Though they knew each other for a long time, the “romantic” interest didn't surface early on. However, things changed, all in a moment’s time.

“We knew each other, but we didn’t date.

He walked into Conway Lumber one day when I was working there. Even though I knew him, it was love at first sight. We went out on Tuesday, August 20th, 1991, and he asked me to marry him on February 14th of the following year. We were married on March 6th of that same year,” Karla said. In fact, the couple recently celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary, a date they share with their 24-year-old beautiful daughter Hunter, as it is also her birthday. Allen and Karla love their baby girl to pieces and feel very privileged to share that love with their new son-in-law Nick. Hunter and Nick currently live in North Georgia.

Interestingly enough, Allen, whose nickname is “Gadget,” can fix almost anything. He has worked with his hands for most of his life, encompassing a broad range of skill sets.

“I’ve done service of some type all my life. Everybody says I can fix anything… bring things back to life. Instead of buying, I’d rather build it myself; I like to make things out of nothing,” Allen stated.

Allen is currently the service repair specialist at Wiley’s Home Center

Story by Katrice Williams Photos by Sheila Scott

My pa-pa built houses for a living before retiring. After he retired, I helped him remodel homes during my high school years,” she said.

Karla, too, gets her admiration for gardening from her granddaddy.

“My granddaddy Newton did gardening all the time, and I helped him,” she commented.

Karla specializes in lawncare.

She is presently part of the team at Ijon H. Webb in Springfield, which offers weed, seed, feed and an overall variety of products that covers nearly any farming or gardening needs. Karla has definitely been able to capitalize on her talents there.

in Rincon, where he has been an “I love it there,” she added. instrumental part of the team there for over four years. Prior to that, he worked in After they were married, Allen and Karla television repair for over 27 years at Walt’s enjoyed landscaping together for over nine Television & Appliance, owned by his years. The two made a formidable team. parents, Walter and Carolyn Gnann.

Actually, there was one other important He received an array of service-related member of their team over those years who experience there that has proven to be a they adored and worked alongside every beneficial asset over the years. Allen has also possessed a real passion for gardening day, their dutiful and loving dog Missy.

She died five years ago at 18 ½ -years-old. as long as he can remember. He credits “We started gardening together. We just many of his skills, along with his gardening talent, to a noteworthy inspiration: his maternal To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow. granddaddy, Russell Burns.

– Audrey Hepburn “He could make anything work. He was also a bigenjoy it and like to grow anything…like to time gardener…a very good gardener. He see it come up and produce,” Allen stated. sold vegetables in Springfield for years. He The Gnann's home garden started out had a big fruit stand in front of his house. relatively small. But it has grown so much Everybody bought from him. I guess my liking for gardening came from him,” Allen over the seasons that they are using a portion of their neighbor’s land, who has said. kindly accommodated the couple since the Karla herself has possessed an array of garden’s expansion. talents and skills for quite some time. She The garden boasts a delectable variety mentioned her granddad Melvin Newton, of fresh and beautiful produce. Whether who was a notable builder. In addition to “cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet corn, Karla’s dad, Buddy Newton, and mom, turnip greens, cabbage, kale, spinach, Connie Newton, her granddaddy (“pa-pa”) green beans, peas or squash, to name a few was a great mentor while she was growing items,” the garden has a host of tasty up.

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produce. If it can be grown, chances are, it is in Allen and Karla’s garden.

All the items are truly in a league all their own, as similar products found in stores do not share in the great taste or overall quality.

“It’s never as good out of the grocery store as it is out of a fresh garden. It never compares. The flavor is so much better,” Allen said.

The turnips are a big hit in the community, as many local citizens will agree that they are absolutely outstanding.

They are also one of the couple’s most preferred items to grow. “Our favorite thing that we grow are the turnips. They’re called ‘Just Right Turnips’: they’re a hit with everybody. They’re wonderful turnips…it’s unreal,” Allen added.

Allen and Karla have been tremendously blessed with beautiful harvests, and the two certainly have paid it forward. They have generously given away more of their crops over the years than one could probably imagine; they would not have had it any other way.

Both Allen and Karla feel that a strong work ethic goes a long way, and they are reaping the rewards of diligence and dedication. Both normally spend a lot of time each week caring for their garden through good, old-fashioned hard work,

whether “pulling up weeds, hoeing or tilling.”

“We don’t spray weeds; we till weeds,” Karla stated.

The couple agrees that it is best not to consistently rely on various short-cuts for help in gardening. They strive to stay away from harsh pesticides as much as possible.

“We do a lot of hard work. We try to stay away from chemicals,” Allen revealed. It is obvious that both Allen and Karla are concerned about keeping their garden healthy, which assures that each consumer has the opportunity to fully enjoy good produce.

Looking ahead, Allen and Karla may decide to add to their garden in the future.

As for now, they both are quite content, as they enjoy what they have accomplished thus far.

In their spare moments, the couple likes spending time together and with family.

Allen really enjoys blacksmithing. He hopes to get more into it when he retires.

Karla has her very own woodshop at home.

She even built the furniture for Hunter and Nick’s outdoor wedding. Allen joked, “She builds the new stuff, and I fix the old, broken stuff.”

Allen and Karla Gnann are truly reaping what they have sown for so many years.

As the two continue to share a fulfilling

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life together, they also continue to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The couple has a future of sunny skies, and their beautiful home garden is surely a wonderful symbol of a promising tomorrow.

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Congratulations Jenn Rabon On being named among the

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912-667-3822 (Cell) 912-826-0927 (Office) 912-826-5828 (Fax)

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Effingham County Recreation & Parks “Producing Champions For Over 40 Years” Offering Both Youth and Adult Sports

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www.effinghamrec.org 14 April/May 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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Call for Your In-Home Consultation (912) 826-1997 6020 Highway 21 S, Rincon • www.bandmpools.com www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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SISTERS ON A JOURNEY: A Community Coming Together to CURE Childhood Cancer.

O

n March 9th, more than 900 people gathered together at Honey Ridge Plantation in Guyton for the annual Sisters on a Journey fundraiser, which benefits Catie’s Fund for the CURE Childhood Cancer organization. This year’s event was a huge success, raising more than $144,000 for pediatric cancer research.

Proceeds will benefit CURE’s precision medicine program, which uses genetics to better determine each child’s individual cancer treatment. So far, Catie’s Fund has raised more than $1.3 million, and Sisters on a Journey has gone from one event to four events throughout southeast Georgia, with plans to keep expanding.

Sisters on a Journey is a fun-filled evening where participants purchase tables and decorate them with unique themes. Attendees outdid themselves this year with over-the-top tablescapes that were colorful and creative, with many diverse themes ranging from books to businesses.

Guests perused over four hundred items in a silent auction, enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by Simply Southern, and listened to live music by the local gospel band, Goshen Travellers.

Raffles and door prizes added to the fun,

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and even more excitement ensued after dinner, when auctioneer Kenny Williams started the live auction with his mile-a-minute auction cry.

As the co-founder of Catie’s Fund and Sisters on a Journey, Jenny Wilkins couldn’t be happier with how the event turned out. She first started raising money for childhood cancer to honor the memory of her daughter, Catie, who passed away from complications of brain cancer when she was four years old. Wilkins has now made it her mission to raise money and awareness for childhood cancer in hopes of finding a cure.

While Wilkins may be the one “in charge,” she says it is the support of the volunteers and the community that really makes the event a success each year. She says the vendors, attendees, and everyone who donates their time or resources are the ones who make it all possible. “We couldn’t do any of this without them,” she says.

Amy Moore, owner of Simply Southern, has catered the event for years, and she loves cooking for the cause. “I just do it for cost because they’re trying to raise money,” says Moore. “Every dollar that they don’t have to spend on expenses can be a dollar that’s added to finding a cure.”

Moore says this year’s dinner was

particularly inspiring. Usually, the parents speak about their kids who have gone through cancer treatment, but this year the children also spoke. “It’s remarkable that they’ve battled cancer and gone through things that some of us could not even imagine…and they just have such a positive outlook on life,” she says. “They see things from a different perspective.”

One of the original committee members of Sisters on a Journey knows all too well how a cancer diagnosis can change one’s perspective on life. Abby Smith has been involved with the fundraiser from day one, but after being diagnosed with breast cancer, the cause is even closer to her heart.

“At the time of the dinner, I had been through six rounds of chemotherapy

treatments. As a 37 year old, it was tough-physically, mentally, emotionally,” Smith explains. “But knowing our children endure the same treatment plan is absolutely heartbreaking. That is why I feel it is more important than ever for events like Sisters on a Journey to raise awareness and funding for research that will lead us to a cure.”

Smith jokingly says she “bullied” her way onto the committee when she heard Jenny Wilkins was going to start a fundraising dinner to benefit childhood cancer research. Like many people in Effingham County, she had heard about Catie and the Wilkins family, and she wanted to help in any way she could. “Cancer is a horrible disease that affects the lives of too many, and I want to see it eradicated,” she says.

“Every dollar that is raised through the Sisters on a Journey dinners is one step closer to finding that cure.”

Unfortunately, most people don’t realize that childhood cancer research is extremely underfunded. Cancer is the leading cause of death by disease in children under the age of nineteen, and approximately one in 285 children will be diagnosed with cancer before age 20. Despite these facts, only 4% of the National Cancer Institute’s annual budget goes toward funding childhood cancer research.

That statistic stuck out for Catie Busquets, who attended the fundraiser with coworkers from Coastal Electric of Georgia Inc. She was shocked to learn that the children don’t get anywhere near the

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funding that she would have expected.

“You’d think childhood cancer would be at the top of the list,” she says. “But it’s not.

Only a small amount goes to them.”

This was Busquets’ second time attending the Sisters on a Journey dinner, and she says it’s one of the best fundraisers she’s experienced. “It’s for a good cause.

It’s a well organized event, and it’s fun,” she says.

For Busquets, the best part of the program was listening to the children speak about going through cancer treatment. “Something that I took from them is you would think childhood cancer is a depressing and sad thing, and these kids, they were able to find some sort of joy in their journey.” She says the most moving part of the evening was the sheer number of people who turned out and the generosity of the community.

It is that spirit of community that Sisters on a Journey is all about. When Jenny Wilkins was asked what her daughter would think of everything being done in her honor, Wilkins says it’s hard to imagine her at 16 years old, but she can imagine 4-year-old Catie smiling at the thought of helping other children. What makes Wilkins even happier is seeing the community come together.

“I want the focus to be on the community,” Wilkins says. Seeing how freely people given their time, talents, and donations has been overwhelming.

She maintains that the volunteers and participants are the true champions of the event. “We have an amazing community,” Wilkins reiterates.

Abby Smith echoes the same sentiment when asked what makes Sisters on a Journey so special: “I love that this event brings our entire community together for one cause, one purpose and with one heart. Every year we say a lot of ‘thank yous’ to our guests and volunteers, but I think it is also so very important to say, 'BE PROUD. We are making an impact for our children.’”

Indeed, the community should be proud.

Raising $144,000 in a single night is quite the accomplishment. It is a testimony to what can be achieved when a community rallies together for a good cause.

With continued support, Sisters on a Journey will keep growing and raising awareness for childhood cancer research.

In fact, it has grown so much that Wilkins has decided to start working full-time with CURE Childhood Cancer to keep raising money for her favorite cause. For now, though, she is satisfied with the success of this year’s event.

Wilkins summed it up perfectly in an open facebook post to the community: “Effingham County, I’m so thankful for the community you are, the way that you serve so graciously, and the way you give so generously. Saturday night couldn’t have gone much better. $144,000 raised for research. You guys blow us away again and again. Thank you.”

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For more information about Sisters on a Journey, Catie’s Fund, or to volunteer or make a donation, email Jenny Wilkins at Jenny@curechildhoodcancer.org or visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.

GNANN'S FIX-IT SHOP A

sk anybody in Effingham County where to get your lawn equipment repaired, they will all tell you Gnann’s Fix-It in Springfield Gnann’s Fix-It Shop has been repairing things for people in this community since 1964. Founder of the business, Bowers Gnann, spent many years repairing anything from toasters to lamps to lawn mowers for his fellow Effingham residents.

Today, over 50 years later, Gnann's is still running strong; now specializing in sales and service of power machinery and lawn equipment such as lawn mowers, chain saws, tillers, and the like.

The core values of sales and service has not shifted in the least in these past 55 years. Clarence and Charlie Gnann, sons of founder Bowers Gnann, both run the company now that their father started all those years ago. Both Clarence and Charlie grew up working in the store and both know the business from the ground up.

Gnann's Fix-It Shop is more than simply a repair shop. They are certified dealers of well-known and reliable brand names such

as Snapper, STIHL, Exmark, Billy Goat, Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Tecumseh, and more. Finance options are available for qualified buyers.

The core values of sales and service has not shifted in the least in these past 55 years.

Gnann's Fix-It stands behind their equipment 100% and are always available to answer any power equipment questions you may have. Gnann's offers full service on most equipment and has a well-trained staff of friendly and knowledgeable mechanics and sales personnel.

If you prefer to repair your equipment yourself, Gnann's has a superb parts department that is stocked with a wide variety of various parts for all types of lawn equipment. If they don't have it in stock, chances are they can get it within a short amount of time. Just ask them to order it.

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 Shop is located at 1015 South Laurel Street, and is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm and on Saturday 8 am to 12 pm. Their telephone number is (912) 754-3745.

GNANN'S FIX-IT SHOP 1015 S. LAUREL ST., SPRINGFIELD 912-754-3745 www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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(912) 348-2739 4 Towne Center Ct • Pooler • poolerbowl.com 20 April/May 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

L

ocated in Guyton, GA, in a historic home built in 1880, with a welcoming wrap-around front porch, you will find 506 Magnolia. The warm yellow home, that seems to smile, while dripping in Southern history, helped to coin the new motto of 506 Magnolia: “Come shop in a piece of history, where we treat all of our customers like family!”

“Come grab a hot or cold drink, or snack, and simply relax on this amazing front porch, listening to the birds and watching the squirrels play,” says owner Marlena Siciliano.

506 Magnolia is focused on bringing high quality fashionable merchandise at affordable prices to their customers.

“We sell ladies clothing, from the little princess to the queen bee. We also carry jewelry, accessories, baby gifts, wedding gifts, unique handmade gifts, artwork, home decor, southern signs, crystal suncatchers, local honey, handmade soap & soy candles, etc.,” explained, Marlena. “We will also be adding some garden décor, used furniture, vintage & antiques, later this spring.”

506 Magnolia is also planning to add classes, such as art classes, paint classes, and jewelry making classes to their list of products and services offered to their clientele.

912-667-7607 or 912-658-4015 506 Magnolia St., Guyton, GA Hours; M W F, SAT. 11-6 www.The-Butterfly-Boutique.com

Tired of those hard water spots on your shower glass?

It's Like New Glass with ‘Sea Thru Glass’

Mike Lamson, owner of Capt Mike’s Yacht Maintenance, has been in business for over 20 years. This trade has now opened a new door for Mike and his family.

“This whole business actually started by accident. I was cleaning windows on a client’s boat and he asked me if the process would work on a shower. I told him ‘glass is glass’ and that we would give it a try,” says Mike.

They went to the clients home and Mike did seven showers for him that same day…and the results were amazing. Mike posted pictures of the results on Facebook and started getting calls immediately. His wife, Tina said, ”This is the business we need to be in.”

Some research followed and it was discovered there was a definite need to be met. And, there was no one in this area supplying this service.

Mike’s many years in his business has enabled him to research what works best to clean glass. ”We have perfected our water spot removal and glass treatment system through years of experience on boat glass and have now applied it to shower glass restoration,” says Mike.

So, the creation of “Sea Thru Glass” was inevitable. They are licensed and insured and ready to serve you.

Call them today for an appointment!

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CANDACE KOHL: One More Story Story By: Cindy Burbage • Photos by Sheila Scott

A

good storyteller captivates her audience, drawing the reader into her world; that may be a world of realism or fantasy. Long time Guyton resident, Candice Kohl, has been charming audiences for more than twenty years. The author has more than ten books to her credit and her newest manuscript, Sheba’s Ghost, is set to be released at the end of March 2019.

Although she had written most of her life, Candice’s first book was published in her early forties. “My first book was called ‘The String on a Roast Won’t Catch Fire in the Oven: An A-Z Encyclopedia of Common Sense for the Newly Independent Young Adult.’

“I wrote this for my oldest son. He called me one day and said, ‘My refrigerator door won’t close.’ I said, ‘Why not?’ You see, he had this dump of an apartment next to a tortilla factory. He had an old-time refrigerator, like with the coil on the top and little box freezer from 1932,” she chuckled. “When he was growing up, we pretty much had frost-free. I probably didn’t when he was real tiny; I mean, he wasn’t defrosting the refrigerator, I was.

He had no concept that he had to do something about the ice that built up. But he thought it was snow. I realized then that when you’re raising your kids, they’re not watching what you’re doing. So, if they just go out on their own suddenly, they are hit with just everything. I wrote this book, an A-Z, from move-ins in apartments, doing walk-throughs so you don’t get blamed for damage that you didn’t do, ccompound interest on a credit card, what you are paying if you are not paying it off every month. As adults, somewhere along the way, you learn to do it. You don’t sit down with your 10-year-old and explain compound interest or stuff like that. So, that was my first book.”

Candice’s passion was historical romance novels, which included ‘A Twist in Time,’ Destiny’s Disguise’ and ‘The Rarest Flower’ to name a few. Most of her books are medieval and typically take place in England. “When we lived in Atlanta, we went to England, Scotland and Wales on a

vacation. I remember we toured the Tower of London, and Philip (my husband) says to me, “Oh my gosh, you got it all right!” I had never been in a castle but spent a lot of time in libraries researching, digging through books to be sure to have accurate information,” she shared.

After a life altering event took place, the novelist decided to retire from writing. “After my husband had a massive stroke in 2000, I worked as a carriage tour guide. Toward the end of my tour guide career, I started doing walking

tours. At the end of that I figured, I had given over 7000 tours in Savannah.

Between working and taking care of my husband, I just stopped writing,” Candice wearily expressed.

It wasn’t until nearly two years after her beloved husband’s passing that she realized she had one more story. And with that, she wrote Sheba’s Ghost. This novel is different, it is inspired by her life. Candice explained, “A woman in her middle 60’s loses her husband of 40 years and she has to make a new life for herself. She is

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

23

a retired social worker and her husband was a drama teacher and actor. He was the loud and flamboyant one and she was the nose to the grindstone one. They have two grown kids, her daughter lives in France and her son in California. She is pretty much alone. She must make a new life for herself because when you’ve lost a spouse, you’ve lost your life too. You’ve always been part of a pair. You take away one of the people and now you are just extra. Like if you’ve played Bridge, they don’t need you anymore because it’s got to be pairs. If you are on a couples bowling league, you aren’t going to be bowling on the couples bowling league anymore. You just get pushed to the side because you aren’t part of a couples’ club anymore. So, Sheba has to make a new life for herself. Early on after her husband dies, she realizes that he may be dead but not gone. Things keep happening that make her realize he is still around.”

When she wrote this book, she was thinking that if you are a Christian, you always have this idea of Heaven or Hell.

Heaven is up and Hell is down, you learn this in Sunday school at four years old and it sticks with you the rest of your life. But

once she heard a psychic say, ‘they are just over there.’ It’s like once the physical body is gone, your soul, spirit or energy doesn’t take a rocket ship to some other galaxy, they are just over there. And sometimes there’s crossing through, and that is why people keep finding pennies, pennies from Heaven.

Candice thinks the book’s title is twofold.

Sheba becomes a ghost in her own life because she is not actively in the middle of it like she once was. And as her husband hasn’t gone too far, she has a ghost. It’s a book for old people about old people. It’s a story about a woman that is suddenly alone and wasn’t prepared for it and has to deal with life.

American literary writer, F. Scott Fitzgerald once said, “You don’t write because you want to say something. You write because you have something to say.”

Just as Sheba, Candice too had to embrace the metamorphosis of her life after her husband’s death; this was the inspiration for her new book. Although Sheba is a fictitious character, there is real life in Candice Kohl’s latest and last novel.

As this article went to print, Sheba’s Ghost by Candice Kohl became available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Sheba’s Ghost by Candice Kohl

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25

T

otal Services Heating and Air Conditioning opened their doors to Effingham and surrounding counties over four years ago, but their story goes much further back than that. Travis and Lisa Stephens met while in high school and both worked for Lisa’s family business.

Lisa worked in the office for her family’s HVAC business, while Travis learned the trade from her father and grandfather in the field as a service technician. “I honestly don’t remember a time before this line of work,” laughed Travis. “We were blessed to have the opportunity to learn from Lisa’s grandfather and father and to have those core values from the old days instilled in us - be honest with people and treat them right and it will come back to you.” Those values are Total Services Heating and Air Conditioning’s core values and driving forces behind their business today.

In addition to working with one another for over twenty years, Travis and Lisa were also high school sweethearts and have been married now for nineteen years. They have four beautiful children who they hope will one day learn and grow from their family business just as they both did. “Our kids are our main focus,” explained Travis.

“We do make some sacrifices to be of service to our clients, but we are dedicated as a family to helping others. We aren’t scared of hard work.”

26 April/May 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

The entire team at Total Services Heating and Air Conditioning believe in providing the highest quality at fair pricing, while always making their customers their main focus.

Total Services serves Effingham, Bryan and Chatham counties and they put the clients' needs above the bottom line. “I pride myself on not being a salesman,” stated Travis. “I am a service provider.”

His wife Lisa explained Travis’ passion for his work saying with a loving chuckle, “he just loves what he does.”

“It’s almost sickening to my kids how much I love this work,” laughs Travis.

“I am a people person who loves my job because I am able to go out and speak to people, and more importantly, help them in their times of need.”

Travis explained that customer satisfaction is the most rewarding part of their work. “I read a quote the other day that really resonated with me,” said Travis.

“It read, ‘the bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.’ It is important to us that you refer us to your friends. Knowing that people trust you means the world to us.

After all, you have your name and that’s it.”

One may think it would be risky to own and operate a business with your spouse, but Travis and Lisa could truly write the owner’s manual for how to do so with grace and elegance. They have found the perfect balance between running their business, their home, and making time for their family and one another. “Owning our own business has provided us with more quality time with our kids and for that I am so thankful,” explained Lisa.

“Lisa balances me,” explained Travis.

“She helps to remind me to breathe,” he laughed.

Their son is already following in their footsteps working part-time for the family business when able, and the other children are already excited to do so as well when they are older.

Travis and Lisa are always finding ways to give back to their local community, feeling extremely blessed for all they have been provided. Total Services Heating and Air Conditioning are proud sponsors

of many local sports teams, The Treutlen House in Effingham, and the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS). “We are always giving back to the community as it is important to us. We feel blessed to be in a position where we can help, so we do all that we can and get involved in as much as we can,” explained Travis. “It means a great deal to be able to help our neighbors. We are honored to be able to serve this great county, as well as, our surrounding counties.”

Total Services Heating and Air Conditioning offers a full range of indoor comfort products and services, including, but not limited to: Heating and air conditioning, residential and commercial service of all makes and models, Indoor air quality, filtration and humidification, system upgrades and replacements, complete duct systems, repairs and cleaning, annual maintenance agreements, emergency service and offer free estimates.

Call Travis, Lisa, and their team at 912.728.6720 and let them help you navigate the world of HVAC with a team you can truly trust! You have a friend in the business!

You may also visit them online at www.TotalServicesHVAC.com, or like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TotalServices16 License #CR110002

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

27

Summer is almost here!

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

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29

The Little Non-Profit That Could In the words of Destiny Bradshaw, Director of Ready2Connect

T

he journey of the initial HELP Program, that ultimately led to Ready2CONNECT, started with my family’s own financial struggles that began when my husband was sidelined from his job after an unexpected knee injury. I was propelled into the world of non-profit by a single journal entry in 2009 chronicling the struggle of finding and obtaining available resources during that difficult time. In order to relay what I’ve learned during the most recent leg of my journey, I had to go back to the pink spiral journal and reread the entries of some of our “valley” moments. It’s amazing how you don’t even realize how far you’ve traveled until you start to retrace your steps.

Like so many families facing unforeseen circumstances, I was working while weathering our family’s own personal storms.

“Lord bless me, and I will bless others,” was my initial prayer for help and relief. I had no idea the path that would open before me. I had no expectations and no preconceived plan. That turned out to be a good thing, because God gave me a better plan than I could have ever imaged. I now had a mission and a plan to put into action.

Bonnie Dixon, former Area Director of United Way of the Coastal Empire, saw value in bringing a program to help families, such as mine, to the community.

In 2012, United Way recruited me to develop and implement a career development program in Effingham County that would help create a network of resources for families facing the pitfalls of unemployment. As United Way is not designed to be a sole financial support for any agency, I was encouraged and supported to take the next steps and seek independence. Ready2CONNECT, Inc. solidified 501c3 status and began operating independently in January of 2016.

Thankfully, we were out the gate with an enthusiastic, engaged and supportive board of directors from the inception of the organization. The truth is, many of us were novice to the layered process of starting and sustaining a non-profit. As an Executive Director of a non-profit agency, I initially was not focused enough on the

financial aspects of the business. I also had to change my perspectives and really consider it a business, not just a mission or a passion. I had the passion, the drive and the desire to improve lives. However, you can’t help the people you serve without resources and finances. No matter how challenging fundraising can be, I’ve now learned, it is the lifeline of a non-profit agency.

Like so many other small non-profit directors, I was wearing too many hats.

I was the director, the program manager, the case manager and the grant writer.

Securing unrestricted funds is a challenge that many non-profits face. It is made

even more challenging when a director lacks consistent day-to-day staff and must multitask routine duties. I would often joke that I felt like the pastor of a very small church. I made sure the rent was paid, the lights were on, the funds were available for the families that we served, and I sometimes went without a salary, for months at a time. My husband would often ask me, “Are you volunteering?”

In 2017, Diane Rogers of Concerted Services, Inc. (now action pact) and I were scheduled to meet concerning incorporating their Money Smart Program into the Ready2CONNECT career readiness curriculum. However, the meeting started in one direction and ended in another. One gift that we all have and don’t share enough of is the gift of transparency. It opens hearts, opens hands, and opens doors! I told my story.

I explained how the career readiness program worked and how it could be an effective tool to help families end the cycle of routinely utilizing government (community) resources, with no resolve.

30 April/May 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

At the close of the meeting, we said we would touch bases to schedule a followup meeting for a later date and Diane was about to leave. Something came over me to ask her one more question. “What do you think about R2C providing the career services for Concerted Services?”

I brought the partnership idea to my board of directors. They said, “This is your baby. What do you want to do?” The BOD was committed to taking the necessary steps to move the organization to the next level of development for financial stability.

Because they recognized the exhausting cycle of me being the only employee and having to repetitiously retrain volunteers and interns, they were open to a variety of solutions. After much prayer and consultation with my family, I realized that this was the best next step for our organization. I had taken us as far as we could go; operating without a consistent staff. Like the scripture says, “When you’ve done everything you can do, that’s when God will step in and do what you can’t do.” – 2 Corinthians 12:10 After a year of negotiations, with the Concerted Services team (Executive Director, Bryan Singleton; Deputy Director, Shelli Tyre; Development Director, Elena Ryals; and Community Services Director, Diane Rogers), we had a plan in place to bring R2C’s career readiness services under their organizational umbrella. In February 2019, we officially began the process of joining forces to benefit the community.

It didn’t hurt to have an attorney on the board to help seal the deal. Nancy DeVetter of Georgia Legal Services served as R2C Board Chair and was extremely instrumental in the transition negotiations.

One of the most important skills sets that I’ve learned along the way is that we should surround ourselves with people that excel in their area of expertise and let everyone do what they do best. It will save you time, energy and leave room for you to perform your best work. Adding the holistic career training program of

STATS FOR 2018: 67 individuals improved employability skills and obtained employment QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE? What is Ready2CONNECT powered by action pact? What is the meaning of powered by action pact?

In order to provide opportunity for growth and future replication, our hallmark career readiness services will become a program under the umbrella of action pact (formerly Concerted Services, Inc.). Budgeting will include funding for additional staff and direct participant benefits to ensure and enhance continued holistic case management services and allow R2C to make a greater impact in the community.

What service components will Ready2CONNECT powered by action pact program provide?

Ready2CONNECT powered by action pact will continue to provide the following employability services to the Effingham and West Chatham community: CONNECT (Community Network Navigation Empowerment Career Training) CONNECT provides a three-month customized case management program that includes a four-week career readiness curriculum in which participants acquire skills and tools necessary to help them find and retain employment. Participants receive follow up reviews for an additional six months following program dismissal to ensure employment retention Potential participants must be residents of Effingham and West Chatham Counties, unemployed or underemployed, and 18 years of age or older.

Ready2CONNECT, Inc. to the services currently provided by action pact (formerly Concerted Services, Inc.) is mutually beneficial for all parties and does just that! The Ready2CONNECT program will be able to expand its reach by adding necessary staff and action pact will be able to add our established holistic case management model within their current service area. It is such a blessing that action pact sees the value in the services that the Ready2CONNECT program has to offer the community and desires to see it in other counties. That’s AMAZING! This has been a journey in building relationships. Since 2016, with over 35 community partners in our network, the holistic career readiness program of Ready2CONNECT, Inc. closed the gap of unemployment barriers for 181 program

participants; resulting in sustainable employment opportunities. At a recent Director Elaine Spencer, highlighted the power of collaborations and the importance of relationship building.

I look forward to working with and for the action pact organization. I am excited for the future and opportunity to continue pursuing my passion of helping others who are experiencing many of the same struggles my family faced.

I’m thankful for Julie Hales, owner of Effingham Magazine for helping to chronicle our journey of growth in the community.

Remember to have joy in your journey and always be open to change. It often leads to growth opportunities.

To Volunteer, Give, or Join Please contact Destiny Bradshaw, Ready2CONNECT Director (912) 295-2148 or dbradshaw@myactionpact.org

Upcoming Orientations: Tues., April 9, 2019, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Tuesday, June 4, 2019, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m Tues., August 6, 2019, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m Tues., Oct. 8, 2019, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m Tues., Dec. 10, 2019, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m CONNECT-ED (GED & Literacy) Future Minds Literacy and Adult Education, Inc. will be contracted by action pact and continue to facilitate GED and Literacy Services for CONNECT-ED. The program affords area students the opportunity to participate in a learning community that allows them to work at their own pace, address barriers to learning and identify their personal learning styles, FREE of charge.

The program is offered to adults 16 and older.

Class Schedule: Tues. and Thur. evenings from 6 – 8 p.m Ready2CONNECT powered by action pact 711 Zitterour Dr. Rincon, GA 31326 Who’s hosting R2C’s Annual Back2School Blowout?

The Back2School Blowout will continue to be an annual fundraiser and community event to benefit the Ready2CONNECT.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

31

Life isn’t PERFECT, but your HAIR can be!

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www.RinconColdwellBanker.com 32 April/May 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Jim Presnell (912) 661-3331

GeoVista Credit Union exists to help YOU afford life!

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ecoming a member at GeoVista offers benefits for you and your family.

“Our Credit Union offers lower fees and lower rates,” said Wanda Howell, Manager at GeoVista’s Rincon branch.

“A credit union is owned by its members.

GeoVista specializes in products and services for the individual.

A variety of financial services are offered including checking and savings accounts, remote deposit, auto loans, home mortgages, home improvement loans, personal loans, Visa credit cards, VISA debit cards and ATM cards.

Choose from a variety of checking accounts to find just the right one to fit your special needs. Kasasa Cash Checking reaps higher dividends with no service charge. Vista Choice Checking and Regular Checking are also options. The Senior Checking offers special benefits for members 50+ years.

Loan options include Mortgage Loans with maturity terms up to 30 years.

Professional loan officers have experience in assisting from initial application to final closing. Choose from a Personal Loan, Auto, Home Improvement or Line of Credit to fit individual needs.

account to cover purchases…..a great way to establish or rebuild credit.

GeoVista offers online banking & bill pay, mobile banking and e-statements.

They are geared to provide service and convenience for their members.

If you live, work, worship or attend school in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham or Liberty counties, we’d love to extend an invitation to join our credit Union. Why not become a member today!

GeoVista has a variety of savings accounts that pay competitive dividend rates with convenient features like direct deposit and payroll deduction to make saving even easier. Share Certificates are available from 3 months to 60-month maturities.

Count on a personal experience with GeoVista. In times of financial stress, our staff stands ready to suggest possible solutions.

Several Visa Credit Card choices feature conventional and secured cards. Members have the opportunity to obtain a Visa Credit Card by depositing cash into an

Rincon Branch • 271 S. Columbia Ave., Rincon, GA 31326 • (912) 826-4008 • www.geovista.com

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www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

33

LOOKING FOR YOUR FOREVER HOME? CHECK THESE OUT!

RARE FIND IN SOUTH EFFINGHAM

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Beautiful four bedroom, three and a half bath home just waiting for the perfect family. Home has 3,260 Square Feet of heated space, with spacious porches and decking, making a total of 4612 square feet under roof. The great room has a 23’ ceiling, with 9’ ceilings throughout the remainder of the home, all with custom wood trim. Huge kitchen with an island bar, a walk-in pantry and a breakfast area…also has a formal dining room.

The Master Suite is downstairs and has two walk-in closets, a Jacuzzi tub and a separate shower with two shower heads and a rain fall. The master suite also boasts an additional room for an office or sitting area. There is a huge gas fireplace in the great room…a large laundry room with room for a freezer. The three other bedrooms are upstairs and all have walk in closets, one bedroom has private bath the other two share a Jack and Jill bath. There is a two and a half garage attached to the home.

This home has so many extras… sprayed foam insulation on exterior and interior walls also ceiling, hand scraped wood floors, porcelain tile, marble tops in bathrooms, covered deck with built in seating, screened porch, solid wood custom cabinets throughout home…not to mention the shop out back with three garage doors…can be used for storing your boat, extra vehicles…or a working shop. Home also has a security system, newly concrete paved driveway and two new HVAC units along with a private well and septic.

The home sits on 2.73 acres in private 19 lot subdivision lined with white vinyl fencing and decorative street lights. $429,000 $449,900

CallMe MeToday TodayFor for A a Private Call PrivateTour!

Tour! $429,000 $449,900 BRING THE FAMILY...PLENTY OF ROOM FOR EVERYONE Or, bring the mother-in-law. Home has a total of 5 bedrooms, 3 baths and can be divided for a mother-in-law suite or your college student.

It also has two kitchens and two living rooms with a huge great room with fireplace and a huge dining room big enough for any large family. The home is over 4200 heated square feet and has a beautifully landscaped yard, privacy fence in the back along with several strorage buildings and a workshop.

Priced for a quick sale! Only $299,000

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5805 Hwy 21 • S. Rincon, GA

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www.RinconColdwellBanker.com 34 April/May 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

For the Love of People...

This Effingham native owns her own real estate business, ALICE HURST REAL ESTATE and her own land clearing business, GEORGIA FORESTRY MULCHING. You can’t say house divided on this one as real estate and land clearing go hand in hand for Alice Hurst in some of her transactions. This young lady has been interested in real estate her entire life following in the foot steps of her grandmother, Eleanor Reynolds who was a Realtor for 40 plus years with G. Phillip Morgan in Savannah. She has learned how to take care of land and been around all aspects of land her entire life thanks to her dad, Gibson Huger who among several things always had her and her sister around a tractor, backhoe and a piece of land!

When he wasn’t able to run his tractor anymore, he taught Alice how to run it with the bush hog and she would cut the fields for him. She loves people and loves the outdoors, a combination that fits well for her running both businesses.

Alice works with commercial and residential parcels and tracts of land and says her degree in Marketing obtained from Georgia Southern along with her network of people and being born and raised here in Effingham County has really helped her market her real estate and with getting her listings SOLD. She has an operator full time, Jamie Aldrich for the land clearing company, Georgia Forestry Mulching and they work together to bid jobs and Jamie runs the machine and does a great job for the company and our customers. Our customers love him!

He is constantly getting tips or food made for him, it is really awesome. It is hard to find good help sometimes and I feel Jamie is an answered prayer because he treats the equipment as if it were his own and he treats all of our customers with the utmost respect and always goes above and beyond to make the customer happy!

Whether you have land you need cleared or a house you need to sell, give Alice a call at (912) 665-0755 Thinking of Selling or Buying a Home?

Give me a call, your local resource for Effingham County and surrounding areas!

ALICE HURST (912) 665-0755 cell (912) 826-0927 office alice@alicehurst.com alicehurst.com Alice Hurst Real Estate alicehurstrealestate

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www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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- Delivery - ToGo Orders - Catering Come Check Out Our Game Room

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“Your Boating Pleasure Is Our Business”

Come visit Paisley's & Polka Dots @ The Artist Warehouse Custom builds, Custom Painting, Home Decor & so much more!

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Thank you for reading Your Community Magazine

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• Windows and We Specialize In Doors

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Effingham Exterior Experts Financing available www.E

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Make An Appointment Today...

We’ll Give You A Reason To Smile!

DENTISTRY AT GODLEY STATION

145 Traders Way, Suite D Pooler, GA 31322

(912) 748-4494 Dr. Tracy Durham

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Visit Our Rincon Location 613 Towne Park Drive, Suite 305 Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-4330

HOURS: Mon-Wed 8:00am-5:00pm Thurs-Fri 7:00am-2:00pm

Extended Hours Available Upon Request Most Insurance Plans Accepted All Gulfstream Plans Accepted Carecredit Available

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EFFINGHAM REAL ESTATE A Leader in Our Community

Sue Anderson of Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty Receives Top Honors!

Number One Agent for Coldwell Banker in the State of Georgia Agent of the Year for Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty Awarded Coldwell Banker's International President's Premier Agent Award Sue Anderson (912) 657-5300

sgahomes@comcast.net • SueAndersonRealEstate.com

Sue Anderson has been helping families find their dream homes for over 35 years.

She has earned local, state and national recognition as a leader in her industry.

Her success is the product of longevity, integrity, old-fashioned hard work and the ability to negotiate. Her career is centered on providing quality service to her clients. If you are looking for an agent, call Sue. Her detail to professionalism and her commitment to service is sure to make her the agent you are looking for.

Office Staff Available 7 Days A Week 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.

www.RinconColdwellBanker.com www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | April/May 2019

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Juliana Palmer and her Frenchie, Remix

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Juliana Palmer

Junior Showmanship Dog Handler Story by Kelly Harley. Photos by Tonya Perry

A

t 14 years old, Juliana Palmer already has an impressive resume. She’s an eighthgrader at South Effingham Middle School who is active in soccer, band and Future Farmers of America.

After school and on the weekends, she is involved in a sport that many kids her age know nothing about. Juliana is an American Kennel Club (AKC) Junior Showmanship dog handler who is well on her way to making a name for herself and building a successful future that is sure to take her places.

With all of her and her dog’s titles, ribbons, trophies and award rosettes, it’s hard to believe that it was only two years ago that Juliana entered the world of dog showmanship and dog sports.

Her mother, Kathryn Palmer, recalls seeing an advertisement for a local dog show and decided to take Juliana.

Kathryn, a dog handler herself, says her daughter showed a zealous interest Juliana Palmer and her beloved Kerry Blue Terrier, Mistique. in the sport. “She took a junior handler training class and loved it. We had French shows and showing the Palmer family’s Bulldogs that she worked with and she French Bulldogs of South Peach Frenchies. won Best Junior in Show her very first “Ever since I was little, I always wanted to time in the ring,” says Kathryn. Juliana do something with animals. It’s great that I then went on to participate in her first get to work with these amazing dogs every real sanctioned breed conformation show day,” beams Juliana. “They are so smart, where she won Best of Breed with her so cute and funny. It’s amazing to work French Bulldog, Remix. You might say the with them because they really enjoy it and rest is history.

I get something out of it – achievement. I In no time, Juliana was attending more know that winning isn’t everything, and no matter the outcome of judging, my dog is still my number one dog.”

When asked what it’s like inside the ring, Juliana’s face lights up. While she says it can be stressful and nerves can creep up, she is more excited than

nervous. “It’s so much fun just talking to the dog before you get in the ring and then being so focused when you get in there. There’s a lot to focus on and I have to make sure my dog’s best qualities are noticed by the judge in my presentation,” says Juliana.

Juliana started out showing French Bulldogs and has since added Kerry Blue Terriers to her resume in order to work with another breed she loves and to learn advanced coat grooming. There’s a higher level of skill that comes with working with Mystique, her Kerry Blue Terrier whom she’s trained from the beginning. “I’ve learned so much already and there is still so much for me to learn,” admits Juliana. There’s no doubt she will continue to learn because she is dedicated and passionate about what she does with her dogs. “Seeing her evolve and grow in the sport has been amazing.

Her natural ability and her connection with the dogs is simply amazing. I see a bright future ahead of her in representing the breeds she works with and continuing the passion behind preserving purebred dogs. As a mom, it’s my role to help her reach her goals and be successful in this sport she loves so much. It all leads to great opportunities for her future,” smiles Kathryn.

Juliana has tremendous family support from her parents and her two brothers.

Juliana has the support of her local

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Savannah AKC Kennel Club that her family is a member of. Her mother, Kathryn, currently holds the position of President of the Club. She also has the support from her junior showmanship mentor and Kerry Blue Terrier breed expert, Tuesday Hanna.

Tuesday is a certified master groomer who has competed on GroomTeam USA. She’s also a professional all-breed handler, a Kerry Blue Terrier breeder, and owns a mobile grooming business in Savannah called T.C.H. Grooming. When she met Juliana, she immediately saw potential.

“She is a natural that has a noticeable connection with the dogs she works with.

She is soft, not heavy-handed and caring,” says Tuesday. “She also doesn’t get easy dogs to work with and she puts in the work necessary for her and the dog to be successful.”

Juliana is the one who is training, grooming and working daily to “finish” her dogs. Most days that means putting in work after she gets out of soccer practice at 6 p.m. and on weekends. Because Juliana and Tuesday are co-owners of the Kerries Juliana shows, the dogs often are shared between time in both homes. Tuesday and Kathryn are impressed with the drive and passion Juliana exudes and the fact that she never complains about the amount of work she has to put in. “She makes a lot of sacrifices to do what she loves. She has a good balance between a normal teenager life during the week and the dog show world on the weekends, but she does miss out on things like sleepovers with her friends at home because she travels so much,” says Kathryn. Juliana doesn’t let those missed sleepovers get her down and talks about all the friends (other junior handlers) she has made at the shows. “I have met and made many friends while attending shows, so I get to see those friends also and that makes it fun.”

It’s those same junior handlers that her mother says look up to Juliana for her dedication and shared passion they have found together. Tuesday says top handlers have taken notice of Juliana’s skills, too.

“Some of the top handlers are wanting to work with her and will ask her to assist them often at shows. They are taking notice of her natural abilities and desire to learn,” says Tuesday. Along with breed conformation, Juliana is also competing in AKC companion sports, such as Fast CAT, Lure Coursing and is beginning Obedience.

French Bulldog in the Nation and number 2 Lifetime Fastest French Bulldog on

“She makes a lot of sacrifices to do what she loves. She has a good balance between a normal teenager life during the week and the dog show world on the weekends, but she does miss out on things like sleepovers with her friends at home because she travels so much,”

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record by the AKC. FAST CAT® stands for Coursing Ability Test, a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run one at a time, chasing a bunny lure. Just recently while in Florida, Juliana won Best Junior and Best Junior in Cluster during a large show.

Shows, which consume most of Juliana’s weekends, have her traveling to many places. She’s been to Florida, South and North Carolina, Illinois, Alabama and all throughout Georgia just to name a few places. Her family and all the dogs travel with her in their motorhome that they stay in while on the road. Her plan for this year is to attend and compete in the AKC National Championship Junior Competition in Orlando, Florida, in December. She is required to have five or more first place wins in her Junior Class to attend, which she has already qualified for. After that competition, her sights are set for Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, an all-breed conformation show that is held in New York City. It’s an honor to be invited and the invitation isn’t just handed to you. Juliana will need a total of seven Best Junior wins and a 3.0 grade point average to attend. Tuesday has no doubt she will meet her goals. She has already achieved two Best Junior wins and has many upcoming opportunities to compete for her final five. “The handler is judged in juniors, not the dog. Juliana is so knowledgeable for just doing this only two years. I know she will continue to learn and do great things,” adds Tuesday.

Juliana’s future is definitely a bright one. She’s a teenager, who when dressed in the suit that she wears while in the ring, looks more like a young adult, and has the attitude it takes to go far in life. She wants to go to college to be a reproductive veterinarian, which is a veterinarian with advanced training and expertise in the field of reproductive health, and responsible breeding and genetic practices. For now, though, she is enjoying her teenage years and the opportunities in front of her.

“My favorite part is to be able to get the opportunity to work with dogs. I love that my dogs can be so goofy and run around and be the perfect family dog, and then when they are in the ring, they are the smartest in the world. I love finding the most potential in the dogs.”

SHOP • DONATE • VOLUNTEER We build strength, stability, self-reliance and shelter Our Vision A world where everyone has a decent place to live Our Mission Statement Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope

3605 Hwy 21 South Rincon, GA www.habitatec.org

About Habitat for Humanity Effingham County Habitat ownership corresponds to…

Hours: of Thursday - Saturday 9amhome - 5pm

Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County is part of a global, • Greater financial security all us tohousing pickorganization up items nonprofit operated on Christian principles The ReStore has something for everyone. that seeks to put God’s love into action by building homes, com- • Less reliance on public assistance Increased confidence to fund munities andlike hope. Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County • Used• and surplus buildingin ability materials u would to donate. is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and children’s college education furniture, appliances and household goods worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating • andUsed preserving • Increased feelings of safety 912-826-1476 homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by

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providing training and access to resources to help families imconnectedness and civic engagement prove their shelter conditions. Habitat for Humanity was found• Positive changes in family dynamics ed on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and • Enhanced feelings of personal well-being that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.

The Effingham County affiliate was incorporated in 1995 by a group of Effingham County residents led by Morris Oglesby of Rincon.

PO BOX 578 • Springfield, GA (912) 826-0578 • habitatec.org

every smile

comes from a place of safety and security that only a home can bring.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to build a better life.

Donate or volunteer at habitatec.org.

of Effingham County

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The Grass is Always Greener on Our Side.

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You Love Them Enough To Give Them The Best PET GROOMING • BOARDING

Bring your pup in for a groom... they will come home in style. We offer baths, cuts, nail trims, full grooming packages... every pet deserves a spa day!

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Capturing A Lifetime Of Memories...

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