Effingham Magazine - August/September 2019

BACK TO SCHOOL ISSUE

Dr. Yancy J. Ford FULL CIRCLE

August/September 2019 Trey Jernigan Inspiring Others

Pam Moore Lifelong Friendships with International Students

Morris Southern Aiming High and Enjoying the Journey

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

IN THIS ISSUE

11

Dr. Yancy J. Ford

16

Trey Jernigan

22

Principals' Corner

Full Circle

Inspring Others

Hear from the Principals from the schools in Effingham County.

Pam Moore 28 Creating Lifelong Friendships

48

Morris L. Southern Aiming High and Enjoying the Journey

Departments 9 Publisher’s Thoughts 44 Dining Feature: El Real Mexican Restaurant

11

16 28

48 6 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Back to School 22

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CONTRIBUTORS Kelly Harley

Barbara Russell

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.

Barbara is a freelance writer who loves for people to tell her their stories. She has had over 100 articles published in local and regional publications as well as national horse magazines. She is a riding instructor certified with the British Horse Society, and she has been an English teacher and a flight attendant, but her greatest joy is being a mom and a grand mom.

She is currently writing a young adult horse novel.

Cindy Reid

Katrice Williams

has been published in About Town, skirt!, Salon. com and The Coastal Mariner. A graduate of Mills College in Oakland, CA, she spent most of her career working with authors in the retail book business before becoming on herself. She has a daughter who lives in the state of Washington. A native of New York's Hudson Valley, she now makes her home on St. Helena Island.

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK!

Katrice 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.

ABOUT THE COVER An Effingham County resident, born and raised, Dr. Yancy Ford, has been positively impacting the lives of students’ for the past twenty years. From the classroom, to the playing field, from coaching to teaching, our cover story takes you through a welllived life that has come full circle.

STAFF

Jan Southern Owner/Publisher

Lea Thornton-Allen Office Manager

Shelia Scott Photographer

Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

Lea@ JDelSURMarketing.com

Shelia@JDelSURMarketing.com

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Penny Redmond Distribution

PUBLISHER'S THOUGHTS FAREWELL, BUT NEVER GOODBYE Jan Southern owner/publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com Julie Hales account executive Lea Thornton-Allen office manager Lea@JDelSURMarketing.com Shelia Scott photographer Shelia@JDelSURMarketing.com Penny Redmond distribution

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

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

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 Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact.

Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS 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 Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in Effingham County will be considered.

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed to over 175 locations throughout Effingham County and beyond.

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

T

his past year has come with some important changes for me. Some good...some bad...and some that just had to be.

As some of you may know, my mother has been ill for the past couple of years. She has had numerous hospital stays..spending a total of four and a half months in the hospital last year. As a result of her illness, she is no longer able to live alone and take care of herself. She has been living with me for over a year.

It has been difficult for me to juggle the magazines and sell real estate along with the responsibility of taking care of my mother. There just isn't enough time in the day for me to do all the things required of me.

I have made a decision to sell Effingham Magazine. It has been a bittersweet decision, but one Julie Hales I feel is the best thing I can do for myself and my family.

Effingham Magazine has been my "baby"....and we all know how hard it is to give that up! But, the time has come!

This is by far one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. It came with many sleepless nights and enough tears to fill the Ogeechee River. But, my heart won over and I am certain I am doing the right thing.

I would not be able to do this if I were not confident that the new owner will take over the reigns and continue to bring the people of Effingham County a quality, community magazine, showcasing the people, places, businesses, events and organizations that make our community so special.

The new owner is Jan Southern with J. DelSUR Marketing Group. Jan is a Rincon resident and comes with many years of marketing experience. She is very creative and has tons of new ideas to bring to the table that will enhance the magazine and carry on the Effingham Magazine tradition for many years to come.

As you know, I have had some wonderful people by my side in this journey! And, all the thanks and love I have for them will never be enough! They will continue to serve you as they always have.

Lea Thornton-Allen...You have been my rock in this business...always being there for me, no matter what I asked of you, you took it on like a champ. And, I couldn't be more proud to be your "mom." You are amazing and will continue to do amazing things.

Shelia Scott...thanks for your recent addition as full time photographer...only after years of bringing beautiful images to us for publication. Your eye with that camera of yours is phenomenal...I look forward to seeing much more from you!

I have agreed to stay on for the next three months as we navigate through this transition. And....I am super pumped about this....Jan has asked me to stay on as an account executive with the magazine for an indefinite period of time. I started my career in this industry over 23 years ago as an advertising salesperson. I have truly missed that. Now, I will be able to dedicate my new "Part Time" position doing what I love....helping Effingham businesses grow by giving them the best advertising opportunity in our community. Also, I will be dedicating more time to my real estate career.

I appreciate your trust in me over the past 13 years! It has truly been my honor to be a part of this community and to highlight the 'best of the best' Effingham has to offer. The relationships and friendships I have made along the way will impact my life forever! I could not be more grateful to Effingham County for this wonderful opportunity it has afforded me!

I am looking forward to seeing you soon.....this is not the end...this is a new beginning.

I am excited to see where this new journey takes me.

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Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Shelia Scott

Yancy J. Ford HOMETOWN EDUCATOR 10 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

S

ometimes being from somewhere makes all the difference. Some kids grow up in the country and can’t wait to leave home and see the world. Other kids see home as the world and can’t wait to grow up and find their place in their community.

Meet Dr. Yancy Ford, who took the ‘hometown’ road. Early on, he made the choice to utilize his skills and education in the world he grew up in and that choice has greatly benefited the Effingham County community.

As an integral part of the Effingham County School District, Dr. Ford has been positively impacting the lives of students for the past twenty years.

Effingham County is truly Dr. Ford’s hometown. He says, “I definitely had a small- town upbringing. I was born and raised here. We lived in Clyo, Georgia, on Fair St, for seventeen years.

After that we moved to Pineora, and lived on Old Marlon Road by Smithy’s Grocery. “He says, “Kids today wouldn’t recognize that life. We didn’t even have cable television. We had three channels and I was the remote control!” He says, “My roots are in the simple life, which was a good life.”

After graduating from Effingham County High School, Dr. Ford headed to Statesboro where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business and Sport Marketing from Georgia Southern University in 1998. After a few stints in the private sector, such as interning at MCI Heritage of Golf on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and outside sales representative at Cable and Wireless Communications in Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Ford made the choice to change his focus.

He says today, “The best decision I ever made- except for marrying my wife- was to change career paths and get into education.” He returned to Georgia Southern University and in 1999 earned a Business Education Certification.

In the Classroom Dr. Ford started his teaching career at Effingham County Middle School in 1999 as a Business Education Teacher and then moved to Effingham County High School (ECHS) also as a Business Education Teacher in 2000. In 2004, he became Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at ECHS and in 2006 he was named ECHS principal.

Always continuing his education, in 2004 he earned a Master of Education (M.Ed.) from Georgia Southern University. In 2009, he earned the Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) from Georgia Southern and in 2015 he was awarded a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

football teams to win three GRPA (Georgia Recreation and Parks) State Championships, consecutively in 2015, 2016 and 2017.

The Georgia state GRPA championships, in conjunction with his long record of involvement with youth sports, led to him being inducted into the Effingham County Sports Hall of Fame this year.

Dr. Ford states, “I said I would only accept this honor if the group of ten players who had been on all three GRPA championship teams with me were also included. The Hall of Fame agreed and this was the first time a team was so honored.” He says, “They are all now in different high schools, and have gone their own way, but we keep in touch and we all share a special bond.”

Teamwork When speaking of bonds, Dr. Ford says, “That translates right into leadership. As a coach, as a high school principal, and as an assistant superintendent, I found you need to surround yourself with good people.

Create a team and the winning takes care of itself. “He says leadership teams are essentially core groups working towards a common goal.

“My goal as Assistant Superintendent is to support principals, teachers and support staff at the ground level to help students achieve for the good of the student.” Because he says, “Students need to be prepared for post secondary life in the work and educational venues. Students need to be ready to move to the next phase of their life.”

Students have changed Dr. Ford says because their resources and tools have changed so dramatically. “Students now have so much knowledge at their fingertips. But students still want structure. They still want to be cared about. They still need mentors, teachers, coaches, band directors, agricultural directors. “He says, “Students thirst for that bond still.

Now they have so much information they need to be careful and they need to learn that everything on the internet is not true. We need to help them decipher between what’s what and help them to problem solve on their own.“

also from Georgia Southern University.

In 2016, Dr. Ford, who had been the Principal at Effingham County High school for ten years, was chosen to become Assistant Superintendent with the Effingham County School system, working with Superintendent, Randy Shearouse.

”I have a

passion to help youth achieve and to be their very best.”

On the Field Dr. Ford has been involved with sports and athletics throughout his life and career. He says, “I have a passion to help youth achieve and to be their very best.” He has an extensive background in coaching Varsity and Junior Varsity baseball and football.

In a huge win, Dr. Ford coached the 10U and 12U Effingham County Jaguars

New Safety Programs “We have to work hard and make our schools safe havens.” says Dr. Ford. “We have 12,000 students in our charge and safety is our top priority. If our buildings aren’t safe, teachers can’t teach. One of those safety measures

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 11

includes security vestibules, which is an enclosure used to isolate any threat, in every school in the county.” Says Dr. Ford “They have already been in place at the elementary schools and toward the end of the school year they were added into the middle and high schools.” Dr. Ford says before the first day of school, security vestibules will be up and running in every school.

In another safety measure, the school district worked together with the Effingham County Sherriff McDuffie to roll out a new program called tip411, which is a smart phone app used to improve school safety. Dr. Ford says, “Using the free app, anyone can report information concerning bullying, hazing, drug use, suspicious or potentially criminal activity and any issue that may potentially jeopardize the safety of students and the school. A student can anonymously report if a student is talking about hurting himself or others. It is 100 percent anonymous. Once students started realizing it was absolutely anonymous, they started using it and now we even get tips on activities outside of school, which gives us the opportunity to get parents involved.“ Supporting Students Dr. Ford says seeing students overcome adversity is the most gratifying part of his job. He tells a story, “I dealt with a young man who was struggling, so much so that he dropped out of school.

He came to me and asked me to write a letter of recommendation to the US Army.

Because I treat all kids with respect and dignity, I wrote that letter. One day, much later, he showed up at the high school with a flag in a box. The flag had flown

in Afghanistan, where he had served.

He thanked me for not giving up on him and brought me that flag. “ Dr, Ford says not giving up on kids is key. “Kids travel different roads and we need to support them as individuals. We need to create responsible taxpaying citizens. For me it is a challenge to help a kid who is struggling and see if we can’t give them hope and see what success feels like. Even the best citizens need support and sometime a kid needs a little extra push.“ Family Dr. Ford met his wife Deidre when they were both in the tenth grade. They will celebrate their twentieth wedding anniversary on November 20 of this year. He says,”We dated for ten years before our wedding, so we have been together thirty years. “Both are in education, Deidre is currently the Assistant Principal at Marlow Elementary School. They have two sons, Mathew, who is a rising ophomore, and Josh who is going into seventh grade.

They all enjoy spending time at the beach together. Dr. Ford says he likes jogging and fishing but he really loves attending high school sports in his spare time. “I love watching high school sportsfootball, baseball, cheerleading, volleyball, any sport. And it’s not just athletics- I like chorus, band, Ag events where a student gets to show a livestock they raisedbecause I enjoy seeing the camaraderie and because I appreciate the amount of effort it takes to perform on a field.”

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Full Circle “Right now, I am in my office which was my fifth grade math classroom!” says Dr. Ford, “So I have indeed come full circle.

I feel very blessed and honored to have the opportunity to go to school every day and serve because it is definitely a service position. I am honored to serve the citizens, the students, and the county by contributing to our community.”

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TREY

JERNIGAN Inpiring Others 16 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Story by Kelly Harleyn • Photos from the family

G

raduating from high school is an exciting time in a person’s life. The accomplishments, the friends, the parties, and a promise that your next adventure is waiting for you, is something many students will never forget. For one Effingham County High School senior, his graduation is extra special. There was a time in his life when his father wasn’t sure his son would graduate with a regular diploma, let alone leave such a big impression on those around him. On May 26, 19-year-old Trey Jernigan proudly donned his cap and gown and walked across the stage. He did it; he received his high school diploma.

Overcoming Challenges When Trey was four years old, he was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, also known as Asperger's. Many professionals consider Asperger’s a less severe form of autism. When Trey’s father, Albert Jernigan, learned of his son’s diagnosis, he vowed never to let his son believe he couldn’t do what he wanted to.

“My son has never been told he can’t do something,” says Albert. “He had some special education classes and extra support along the way to help him succeed. I was always very careful because I wanted him to get the extra help, but never more than he needed.”

Albert is a single father. He also is raising his daughter, Sarah, who is entering her junior year of high school.

Many years back, Albert started his own business so his schedule would work better for his children, especially when it came to Trey and making all his doctor appointments and school meetings. Not only does Trey have Asperger’s, but he is also an insulin-diabetic. Just recently he’s been able to lower the number of daily insulin shots. For five years, he was getting four shots a day.

His father remembers when Trey was in elementary school, he would always play by himself. It wasn’t until he entered middle school, that he started to socialize with other students. In high school, he stood out even more. “One of his best friends was the football quarterback. His friends embraced Trey when he attended his junior and senior proms. He just became a more outgoing person,” says Albert.

Standing Out The impression Trey made on his friends and his teachers was best noted at his graduation. He was presented with the

Principal’s Award, a long-standing award at Effingham County High School.

This award is given to one student each year. Trey nor his family had any idea he was the recipient. “When Mrs. Dickerson first started talking, I didn’t know she was talking about me. Then after a little bit, I realized it was me and I got excited,” says Trey.

father says is one of his son’s greatest assets. “One week after graduation, one of his friends dropped by to show Trey his new truck. That made my son so happy. And me, too. His friends care about him,” adds Albert. He’s touched so many lives that even his first-grade teacher, who now lives in Virginia, came to see Trey graduate.

Not only did Trey embrace school, but he was also very involved in Future Farmers of America (FFA). He never missed one meeting and was noted as always being willing to help.

“Being part of FFA was great for Trey. I think it helped promote his social skills and gave him a purpose,” says Albert. Last year, Trey received an award for his involvement in FFA. He was presented with an FFA blanket.

Albert laughs when he thinks of Trey’s dedication to the club.

“At the end of each meeting, he wanted to know exactly when the next meeting was going to be.”

The Future for Trey There’s no doubt, Trey’s future will be one of success. In his short 19 years, he’s

“There are many things I considered when deciding which student would receive this award. Out of these character traits, the one that would truly describe this student is perseverance. I have known this student since sixth grade and he is one of the happiest people I know.

He always has a smile on his face and a hug if you allow. He moves through school with determination and urgency and sometimes doesn’t even slow down for the person in front of him. Although traditional school is not his strongest attribute, he came and maintained. School never seemed to be a bother or a chore but instead an opportunity and an experience.

He never meets a stranger or someone he would not speak to. He sees everyone as a friend and assumes you see him as a friend as well.”

– Amie Dickerson, principal, Effingham County High School.

“Trey is an inspiration. The way he responds to the world around him is with a sincere happy attitude,” says Amie Dickerson, principal, Effingham County High School. It’s that sincerity that his

already made great improvements. Albert remembers he would have to contain his son in his room at night so he couldn’t get out. He started with baby gates and eventually had to come up with a better solution. “Trey was in his room and I accidentally dozed off. Suddenly, I heard

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 17

my truck running in the garage. Trey had managed to climb the baby gate, get my keys and start my truck. The scariest part was my daughter was standing behind the truck and Trey put the truck in drive and hit the wall. It could have been my daughter if he had reversed.” After that incident, Albert came up with a solution that involved a self-made door with a deadbolt and wooden bars that allowed Trey to still seeout. He just couldn’t open the door. When Trey was around 12, his father put on a regular door. He trusted Trey would be OK. Other memories Albert shares include never being able to leave Trey alone. If he needed to run to the store for bread, Trey went. If he had to work, sometimes Trey and his sister would have to sit in the truck and wait for their father to finish a job. Now, Trey stays home by himself. It’s these small milestones that Albert says are encouraging. When school starts back, Albert says he will start helping his son find a job. “He can do something. He has a capable body and I’ve never set limits on what he can do,” says Albert. Albert does agree that the job will have to be somewhere Trey feels comfortable. “I’m hoping maybe he can find a job at one of his old schools. He would feel safe there. I admit, sending him out into the big world is a little scary.”

Several things still undecided is whether Trey will ever drive. His father says at this point Trey says he doesn’t want to.

Another unknown is whether Trey will ever live by himself. Albert says it’s a wait and see kind of process.

One known, though, is Trey’s ability to live life to the fullest and overcome difficulties. Albert says he is very proud of his son for all that he has accomplished.

“I’m proud of his award, I’m proud he

TREY

Trey received the Principal's Award from Effingham County High School in 2019

JERNIGAN graduated with his class, and I’m proud that he treats everyone with kindness and compassion.” Trey is also proud of his accomplishments. “Graduating from high school made me happy and I’m proud because school is tough. At the same time, I’m glad it’s over,” says Trey.

“I’m proud of his award, I’m proud he graduated with his class, and I’m proud that he treats everyone with kindness and compassion.”

18 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Trey, with his father Albert Jernigan

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Back to School Principal's Corner With the school year underway in Effingham County, we wanted to catch up with the principals to see what they have planned for the coming year, and what they did over the summer to gear up for a busy academic year.

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My name is Anna Barton, and I am proud to be the principal of South Effingham Elementary School (SEES)–home of the Mini-Mustangs! The 2019-2020 school year marks my 19th year in education and my 6th year as an elementary school principal. I wholeheartedly love this school and the wonderful community that surrounds it.

What are your goals for the school year?

My primary goal as principal is to continue our longstanding tradition of excellence in academics while providing a safe, loving and nurturing learning environment for all children who attend SEES. For the 2019-2020 school year, the staff’s goal is to continue strengthening our understanding of the various components of balanced literacy, specifically focusing on writing across all content areas.

Anna Barton Principal South Effingham Elementary School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We are ALL a community of learners! Our fabulous Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) has several wonderful events planned for this school year, and they are always looking for volunteers. In addition to our 4th annual Fun Run fundraiser kicking off in September, SEES will host a variety of events that involve our community, such as: Parent Orientation Night, Trunk or Treating/Family Movie Night, Paint and Pizza Night, Family Reading Night, Math Night, Dinner with Santa, PTO meetings, Book Fairs, Storybook Character Parade, and GA Milestones Parent Night just to name a few. Get involved!

What was your favorite summer memory?

Going to the beach is something I have loved since I was a small child. I was very lucky to have grandparents that owned a house on Tybee. My best childhood memories were those that were spent there. We would spend several weeks during the summer. The beach was and still is my happy place.

Christy Brown is proud to serve as principal of Sand Hill Elementary School for the third year. She has worked in Effingham County School District since 2003, serving in various schools as a teacher and assistant principal. She believes that all students can learn, given a positive and safe environment in which collaborative support is provided by all stakeholders. All of which, the Effingham County School District provides on a daily basis. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University. She then continued her education at GSU where she completed her master’s and education specialist degree.

What are your goals for the school year?

Sand Hill will remain focused on continuous improvement in academics, safety, as well as relationship building with community members and Sand Hill families. .

Christy Brown Principal Sand Hill Elementary School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

The first special event that we have planned this year is our Fun Run fundraiser to help support our school in our quest to provide one to one technology to our students. Please join our Facebook page to be the first to know about our upcoming events. We look forward to an awesome year!

What was your favorite summer memory?

Mrs. Brown’s favorite way to spend her summer break is by the pool making memories with her family.

I graduated from the University of South Carolina in May of 1996. I moved to Effingham County in 1997 and was hired at Guyton Elementary school. During the past 24 years at GES, I have taught Pre-K, worked as Assistant Principal and I am now starting my 10th year as Principal. I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful daughters who support me in my busy career. We own B and E Farm and enjoy showing, selling and raising goats.

What are your goals for the school year?

My goal is to provide students with a strong foundation of moral and academic excellence through a safe and supportive learning environment. I want us to develop meaningful relationships with all students, staff and parents by having an open dialogue and creating a feeling of trust. Relationships are key to having a successful community of learners.

Charlotte Connelly Principal Guyton Elementary School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

Each year students do a musical program at the Guyton Gator Performance Nights for their parents and community members. GES has hired a new music teacher and we all are looking forward to seeing what the students can do! We will have Family Nights in the fall and spring to encourage parents to come into our school and learn about what their children are studying in the classroom. This will also be the second year of the Fun Run in March to bring our school and community together for a good cause.

What was your favorite summer memory?

This summer my family stayed close to home. I love the salt water and going out in our boat. We took several trips to Daufuskie Island. Once on the island we would go to the beach and ride around the island on a golf cart. I enjoy being with friends and family. We had some fun times!

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 23

I have had the awesome opportunity to be a part of Effingham County Board of Education since 1996.

I began as a paraprofessional at SEHS while completing my bachelor's degree. I then taught at ECMS and EMS. I became an assistant principal at EMS in 2008, then EMS principal in 2011. In October of 2018, I was offered an adventure of a lifetime to move to ECHS as principal. Not only am I an educator but I am also a wife and mom. I have been married to Jamie Dickerson since 1993 and we have two children. My daughter Abbie will be a junior this year at UGA and my son Josh will be a junior at ECHS. What are your goals for the school year?

Effingham County High School is an awesome place. We have great students and a wonderful faculty and staff. My goals for this year is to continue the tradition of excellence and hopefully add to this already successful school.

Amie Dickerson Principal Effingham County High School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

This year will be the first annual "Freshman welcome pep rally". This will be the Sunday before open house and only for upcoming Freshman. This will be a true pep rally that we are hoping will get our Freshman class excited about being a REBEL. What was your favorite summer memory?

During the summer I have the opportunity to "escape" to the lake for a week with my family. This allows for relaxation and rejuvination. And all I have to do all day is lay around on a float.

It is with great pleasure that I serve as Principal of Marlow Elementary School. I have a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and an Educational Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I have enjoyed 29 years in education. My husband, Henry Dickerson, teaches Law and Justice at ECHS after serving 32 years in the Air National Guard and working 13 years for the Department of Natural Resources. My son, Trent, is a graduate of Ogeechee Technical College and is the Assistant Farm Manager at Honey Ridge AgriCenter.

What are your goals for the school year?

I have an uncompromising view that all students can learn, given a positive learning atmosphere that welcomes exploration and ways to enhance student confidence. I am excited to have student’s back in our classrooms and hallways filling them with energy and enthusiasm for learning.

Our accomplishments at Marlow Elementary have been monumental and we will continue to focus on teaching, learning and maintaining the very best environment to make sure that happens. As we move forward, we will continue to keep a quote by Emerson at the forefront of our minds, “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

Leslie Dickerson Principal Marlow Elementary School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We will have our Mustang Stampede Events throughout the year, a night sponsored by Mathnasium, our Fourth and Fifth Grade choral performances, our PTO Family Meetings and so much more. Stay tuned and check out our school website regularly for the 2019-2020 events.

What was your favorite summer memory?

My family and I were able to relax and enjoy camping and hiking with family and friends this summer.

I am going into my 14th year as the principal at Rincon Elementary. I served as a special education teacher in both Chatham County and Effingham County, a special education coordinator in Fayette County, and an assistant principal at South Effingham High School and Effingham County High School prior to becoming the principal at Rincon Elementary School. I was born and raised in Savannah, moved to Effingham County in 1995 and began teaching at Effingham County High School. I am married to Travis Dickey and we have two sons and two daughters.

What are your goals for the school year?

My goals for the school year are to continue to build on the wonderful traditions that make Rincon Elementary a wonderful place to go to school. We moved into a beautiful new building last year and spent the year establishing ourselves at the new school and getting to know many new students and families. We are looking forward to seeing all of them return this year along with many new faces.

Dr. Paige Dickey Principal Rincon Elementary

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

This school year we are looking forward to our Kroger Math Night, STEM Night and Literacy Night.

Our most popular event of the year is our annual Walton Burns Memorial May Day Celebration which is held the first Friday of May each year. We welcome our school families, friends and community members to come out and celebrate our students with us on the special day.

What was your favorite summer memory?

My favorite event each summer is spending a week at the beach with my family. It is a great time to relax and spend time with my husband and children.

24 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

I am an Effingham County native and graduate of South Effingham High School from 1997, its inaugural year. I taught math at SEHS before becoming assistant principal/testing coordinator where I stayed for five years. I then moved to the SEHS instructional supervisor position. In October 2018, I became the principal of Ebenezer Middle School. I received a Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics Education degree and Master’s in Educational Leadership from Georgia Southern University and an Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership from Georgia College and State University. I plan to enroll in a doctoral program for the Fall 2020 semester.

What are your goals for the school year?

This will be my first full year as principal, so I plan to learn more about being a principal and getting to know my staff and students a little more this year as well as connect with the community. I would also like to see an increase in our CCRPI score; therefore, continual data analysis of our past struggles along with present assessments is a necessity to see gains in this area.

Tammy H. Jacob Principal Ebenezer Middle School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

I am excited to announce that EMS will be connecting with our parents and students through social media where all special events will be posted. More information about this will be shared at the Open House on 8/5, and through our school phone/email system.

What was your favorite way to spend the summer?

Any free time I have I devote to my wonderful family. Whether we were on the beach, by the pool, out and about or just hanging out at the house, we made plenty of memories. I have to give a shout out to my precious mother, JoAnn Hathaway, the best sister in the world, Tonja Hathaway, my awesome husband, Bryan, and my rambunctious and adorable twin boys, Isaac and Asher—they make my world complete!

As a lifelong learner, I have always known the value of education. This value was instilled in me at a very young age. As a young child who was raised with a family of educators, I always knew that I wanted to live, teach, and raise my own family in Effingham County. I am married to Anthony Jones, Asst. Band Director of ECHS and we have a sweet little boy named Trenton.

What are your goals for the school year?

For the 19-20 school year, my main goal is to ensure academic success for all Blandford Elementary School students, while also continuing to build a relationship with the village of supportive community members who enjoy being a part of the BES family.

LaToya Jones Principal Blandford Elementry School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We are excited about two special events taking place at BES this year. To support the Social Emotional Learning Initiative, BES was awarded the opportunity to pilot the Leader in Me program with support from the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Franklin Covey Foundation. In September, we will also have a Boosterthon Fun Run Fundraising event that will allow BES to add more books to our Media Center.

What was your favorite summer memory?

I was very excited to be able to not have any specific plans this summer other than read and relax with my family. We often have very busy summers and this year our goal was to appreciate our loved ones by just enjoying time with each other.

My name is Ashley Kieffer, and I serve as the Principal and CEO of Effingham College & Career Academy. I received my Bachelor of Business Administration and my Master of Arts in Teaching from Georgia Southern University, and I received my Education Specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University. I began teaching business education at South Effingham High School and transferred to Effingham College & Career Academy upon its opening in 2010. I taught Marketing education followed

by Distribution & Logistics prior to becoming the Principal in 2015 and the Principal/CEO in 2019.

What are your goals for the school year?

The Effingham College & Career Academy goals for the 2019-2020 school year include growing the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program and increasing student achievement on standardized tests including Georgia Milestones, Advanced Placement, Local Endof-Course, and End of Pathway. The final goal is increasing the rigor and relevance in the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) courses taught at ECCA.

Ashley Kieffer Principal & CEO Effingham College & Career Academy

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

Effingham College & Career Academy hosts: Two Science Symposiums showcasing student research and development of real-world challenges; Miles in Style 5K run at Honeyridge Agricenter to benefit a local charity; Miss ECCA scholarship pageant; Culinary Arts Valentine Day; Regional, State, and National competitive events in SkillsUSA, HOSA, TSA, FCCLA, Science Olympiad, Science Fair, and Inventure Challenge.

What was your favorite summer memory? My favorite summer activities were taking a Disney cruise with my wife and son and having our daughter home from the University of Georgia.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 25

In 1998, I got my first teaching job at South Effingham High School. While at SEHS, I met my husband, Travis Nesmith, and we married in 2000. After eight years at SEHS, I taught at SEMS for two years. My first administrator position was at Sand Hill Elementary School as Instructional Supervisor for four years before moving back to SEMS as Instructional Supervisor. In December of 2016, I was named the principal of SEMS. I obtained three degrees in Educational Leadership from Georgia Southern University: Masters, Educational Specialist and Doctorate. I am blessed with two children, Kiera (18) and Coleman (15) and four fur babies.

What are your goals for the school year?

The theme for SEMS for this school year is “Linking for Success.” My goal is to create a successful link for the educational success of all students. We are incorporating school-wide STEA²M linking hands-on experiences at Honey Ridge Agricenter with grade level standards. Another goal is to incorporate PBIS into the classrooms which was successfully implemented last year.

Dr. Brigid Nesmith Principal South Effingham Middle School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

At SEMS, we couldn’t be more excited about our school-wide STEA²M Program. Our teachers are receiving professional development to prepare to give students the opportunity to apply the Engineering

by Design Process while working collaboratively to solve real world problems. Our school will collaborate with Honey Ridge Agricenter allowing students to research issues on the farm and take field trips for hands-on experiences tied to grade level standards and overarching grade level questions.

What was your favorite summer memory?

My favorite memory from the summer is spending quality time with my family relaxing on the lazy river at our condo in Orlando.

I have been blessed to work for the Effingham County School System for many years. I started my career as a kindergarten teacher at Springfield Elementary and now I am the principal of this amazing school.

I am married to my high school sweetheart, Jim, and we have two wonderful children, Russ and Emily.

I graduated from Armstrong and Georgia Southern University. I am a Salzburger and I enjoy learning about the history of my ancestors. I teach Sunday School at Springfield United Methodist Church.

What are your goals for the school year?

One of my goals for this school year is to make sure that my students feel safe and happy when they are at school because when students are safe and happy, they are motivated to be Champion Students.

I strive to make sure that our boys and girls know that when they walk in the doors each morning they are in a place where people care about them and will do everything possible to help them fall in love with reading, writing, math, science and social studies.

Lisa Woods Principal Springfield Elementary School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

We have many fun events planned throughout the year. My staff plans two talent shows, a book parade, Champion Night at the DAWG House, Field Day, Grits and Grandparents, a valentine dance, a forth and fifth grade Superbowl, several chorus productions, an art show, and many more events throughout the year. At SES we have a motto that states, We Work Hard and We Play Hard! I want the staff, students and parents to love being a part of Springfield Elementary! Check out our Social Media sites for details.

What was your favorite summer memory?

Summer has been wonderful! I have been planning a wedding with my family for my daughter, Emily.

She will marry Lance Coleman in August. We have had a wonderful time making all of the arrangements for this special occasion.

My name is Dana Wright and I am excited to be a first-year Principal of Ebenezer Elementary School.

I have been lucky enough to serve as the Assistant Principal at Ebenezer Elementary School for the past 12 years. I began my career in Liberty County. I have also worked at Marlow Elementary and at Sand Hill Elementary.

What are your goals for the school year?

Over the last several years, EES is proud to have made many gains and attained many goals in our academic progress. This school year, our school will continue to focus on making gains in writing.

Teachers will set goals for students and students will set goals for themselves. Another goal EES staff sets for ourselves is to make a positive impact on the children we serve every day. We are proud we get to serve our students and we will make sure they feel safe and loved each day.

Dana Wright Principal Ebenezer Elementary School

What is happening this year that you would like the community to know?

Parents are welcome at special activities that we plan throughout the year. Our main fundraiser for our PTSO is our Fun Run which is scheduled for Feb. 27, 2020. We look forward fo some fun changes with the Fun Run this year.

What was your favorite summer memory?

My favorite way that I spent my vacation this summer was on a cruise with my family. We visited the Virgin Islands. It was such a relaxing trip. I was also able to spend the 4th of July at my in-law's cabin near Blue Ridge, GA. I also enjoy spending time at home relaxing just watching tv and being with my family.

26 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Don’t Just Call Any Salon,

Call The Salon (912) 826-3791 Hwy 21 S., Suite B at McCall Plaza

Hours: Tuesday, Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. early and late appointments available www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 27

g n i t a e r C s p i h s d n e i r F g n o l Life g About AnotherCulture While Learnin

dent Host tu S e g n a h c x E n ig re o Pam Moore – F

Story by Barbara Russell• Photos of Pam Morris by Shelia Scott

28 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

I thought I would just enjoy “somebody from another culture but I got much more that that! It’s the love, the relationship, the travel.

It gives me another family!

"

T

he first time Pam Moore and her husband, Rusty, became a host family for a foreign exchange student, she didn’t know what to expect.

“I thought I would just enjoy somebody from another culture,” she said, “but I got much more that that! It’s the love, the relationship, the travel,” she said. “It gives me another family!” She couldn’t hide her enthusiasm.

Moore enjoys being a host so much that she has hosted four students, and she will host another student this school year.

“Students love and become immersed in this country,” she says. And it’s obvious that they are immersed in her family and her heart. “I laugh a lot about their language,” she says, “and they laugh at

mine, as we try to pronounce words correctly. They are in awe of the WalMarts….so amazed that you can buy tires and food in the same store! And they want to go back home and open a Dairy Queen and a Krispy Kreme!”

A group of photos hangs on the living room wall. Pictures of her exchange students are in the grouping along with pictures of the Moore’s children and grandchildren. These students have definitely become part of the family, and when they return home they stay in touch.

“All of my students have come back to visit,” Moore says, with a delightful look on her face. She names them: Jamile, Marlene, Laura, Carla and Anna. “They work to pay for their airfare, and one worked in an ice cream shop to pay for hers.”

When Moore first became involved with exchange students, she didn’t dream that it would open the door for her to also travel to visit other countries. But when you’ve got friends who are like family in another country – you find a way to visit them.

“Air fare is really all it cost,” she said. She has stayed with the families of each of her exchange students, and yes, she was treated just like family. “I never traveled before, but now I’ve been to Germany, Mexico, Jamaica, Panama, Portugal and France. I plan on doing that in Spain this coming year, so that gives me another country to visit.”

Through the organization: International Experience (iE-USA), high school students from around the world are placed with carefully vetted host families while attending local, private or public high schools for a semester or a full academic year. Moore has become iE-USA’s local coordinator for Effingham County.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 29

For more information about iE International Experience: Pamella Moore p.moore@international-experience.net www.iE-usa.org (888) 266-2921

THOMAS C. STRICKLAND AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES

These students originate from many countries around the world including Germany, Thailand, Serbia, Montenegro, Italy, Poland, Finland, Spain, Colombia, Iceland, Austria, Switzerland, France, Russia, Myanmar and China! “It’s a great way to learn about another culture,” Moore says.

Students provide their own spending money for all their personal expenses including school and sports fees, personal entertainment, clothes and souvenirs. Host families provide a safe, caring home, three meals a day and a private or shared bedroom (with a host sibling of the same gender).

The students seem to adapt well in school. “We encourage them to participate in school sports and clubs, as 90% of their schools do not have school sports, only club sports,” says Moore, “and they like the school spirit.” On the downside, they love the culinary arts, which our schools don’t teach, and the humidity takes some getting used to for those who participate in sports.

But they love being with their new friends, and many write to each other when they return home. Some even come back for a visit.

Anyone interested in becoming a host family can complete an easy online application at iE-USA.org. Every effort is made to pair host families with students who will be compatible.

An online application will ask for information about your community, home, family and special interests. Is your family active? Sporty? Musical? This information will be used to help suggest several students who will be a great fit with your family.

“You can apply any time of the year, but Effingham County only takes exchange students at the beginning of the school year,” says Moore. “I always host, so I get mine (her application) in by June 1, which is the deadline.” iE-USA also has a program for American students who want to experience another culture. This summer they offer a three week homestay program in Germany during June - August.

Students will stay with a carefully screened and selected German host family. Students must be between the ages of 15-18 and be able to travel solo. The cost is $1,000 (airfare excluded), and full scholarships are available for iE host siblings.

With an organization like iE-USA, the world doesn’t seem like such a huge place, and with the special relationships that are formed, people may find out that even though we live in countries that are far apart, that we are more the same than different.

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Everyone deserves the opportunity to build a better life.

Donate or volunteer at habitatec.org.

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Invest in Your Community...

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…

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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

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 31

The attorney with the experience and insight you need to get the results you deserve.

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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

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Appointments Available In: Springfield, Pooler, Bluffton & Savannah

32 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Around Town

Happenings in Effingham County

Mavis Tire Open House –July 20

Habitat for Humanity - Wall Raising

Back to School Blowout - Ready2Connect Event at ECHS

AT&T Ribbon Cutting in Rincon

South End Auto Body restoring Mayberry Police car for Effingham County Sheriff's office. Stay tuned for the transformation!

El Real Mexican Restaurant

Do you want to have your event or photo appear in our "Around Town" section? Send your pictures to: Lea@JDelSURMarketing.com.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 33

L

YOUR COLLISION SPECIALISTS At Harold’s, we are dedicated to customer satisfaction by maintaining a high level of consistent, quality collision repair.

From precision paint matching to full structural body repair, our superior workmanship is second to none in the industry.

We stand behind this quality workmanship with a Lifetime Warranty on every major repair we do.

Harold’s Auto Paint & Body Shop 5500 McCall Road, Rincon GA 31326 O (912) 826-2457 • F (912) 826-2460 www.haroldsbodyshop.com

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34 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Effingham...Where Dreams Come True

(912) 826-0927 www.RinconColdwellBanker.com 5805 Highway 21 South, Rincon Georgia www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 35

HOME is where the

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www.RinconColdwellBanker.com 36 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAM MAGAZINE.com

Office Staff Available 7 Days A Week 5805 Hwy 21 S. • Rincon, GA 31326 912-826-0927 • 877-826-0926

INDEX

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Pioneer Homes and Development currently building in Blandford Crossing.

Blandford Crossing is a beautiful, quiet neighborhood centrally located in Effingham County with much sought after amenities! Amenities include 4 ponds, pool and pavilion. Pioneer Homes offers a variety of plans to choose from to make Blandford Crossing your new home!

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SITE AGENTS: Michelle Edwards: (912) 667-9147 Danielle Kirkland: (912) 667-6405

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 37

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38 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Listing Showcase

143 Magnolia – Pooler Need a large home? This beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath, 3216 square foot home is waiting for your family! Lots of living space downstairs, with all bedrooms and a loft area upstairs. The deck in back is huge and compliments the private, fenced yard. Listed at $299,900, this home has been well maintained, inside and out!

Judy Quinney (912) 657-6195 judyquinney@yahoo.co,

945 Honey Ridge Road There aren't enough words... Let's start with the brick paver driveway that welcomes you to this beauty on 5 acres in beautiful Honey Ridge! 20' high foyer with 7 piece crown moldings introduces you to the formal dining and library that features a cat walk overlook. From there, continue to the gourmet kitchen with blue pearl granite counters, a six burner gas stove with brick surround, tons of cabinetry, and open to the great room with full masonry fire place that soars in the cathedral ceiling.

Brick accents continue into eat in area with columns and a built in study area or work space. There is also an office off of the master bedroom that flows into this one of a kind bath. Double arched columned entrance with travertine flooring, and infinite counter space. Two staircases that lead to an additional master suite with balcony and two other bedrooms, theatre room and bonus. Inground pool with brick fencing, 24 x 26 workshop and a 12 zone sprinkler system. $925,000

Beautiful executive home located in well-established neighborhood. This home boasts 4 Bedrooms and 3 full baths with a split floor plan. A tier leveled great room looks out over the beautiful backyard and the inviting in ground swimming pool - a perfect area for entertaining. Gorgeous master bedroom and bath with Jacuzzi tub and separate shower. This home has all the upgrades plus more! $359,900

Carmen Cribbs (912) 663-6683 carmencrbbs@gmail.com

Julie Hales

((912) 657-4120 jhales346@winwindstream.net www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 39

Big Hill Rd. - 1.02 acres Garden City, $34,900

Blandford Rd. - 2 acres Rincon, $49,900

Laurel St. Commercial Springfield, $36,000

2 Dorset Ct. 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath Savannah, $384,900

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4th St. W 5 Bed, 3 Bath Springfield, $196,000

11 Hidden Creek Dr. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Guyton, $179,900

11 Magnolia Cove Rd. NE 4 Bed, 2 Bath Ludowici, $150,000

20 Hickory Dr. 2 Bed, 1 Bath Garden City, $290,000

38 Hasty Point Rd. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Port Wentworth, $175,000

51 Central Blvd.

Commercial Guyton, $310,000

96 Moore Dr. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Port Wentworth, $400,000

102 Annie Dr. 5 Bed, 3 Bath Guyton, $274,900

102 Treutlen Ct. 5 Bed, 3 Bath Rincon, $397,500

103 Cornerstone Dr. 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath Springfield, $329,900

104 Laguna Way 5 Bed, 3 Bath Savannah, $282,600

104 Old School Circle 4 Bed, 3.5 Bath Guyton, $330,100

40 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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110 Tackhouse Ct. 5 Bed, 3.5 Bath Guyton, $349,900

111 Hillside Dr. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Rincon, $240,000

114 Sweet Bailey Cove 3 Bed, 3.5 Bath Savannah, $424,900

116 Gabrielle Dr. 4 Bed, 2 Bath Guyton, $213,000

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117 Annie Dr. 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath Guyton, $249,100

120 Forest Haven Dr. 4 Bed, 3 Bath Rincon, $379,900

126 Biltmore Dr. .69 acres Guyton, $70,000

128 Blandford Crossing 5 Bed, 3.5 Bath Rincon, $324,900

132 Blandford Crossing 5 Bed, 2.5 Bath Rincon, $314,900

136 Blandford Crossing 4 Bed, 3 Bath Rincon $299,900

180 Beckley Dr. 5 Bed, 3 Bath Richmond Hill, $348,700

184 Saddleclub Way 5 Bed, 4 Bath Guyton $312,100

187 Huger St. 4 Bed, 2 Bath Rincon, $179,900

205 Freedom Trail 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath Guyton, $174,900

205 Lynn Bonds Ave. Commercial Guyton, $168,800

205 Stag Rd. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Springfield, $137,900

42 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

211 Tideland Dr. 2 Bed, 2.5 Bath Midway, $279,900

213 Candleberry Way 4 Bed, 2 Bath Guyton, $224,900

214 Cypress Creek Lane 4 Bed, 2 Bath Guyton, $230,000

233 Clearwater Circle 4 Bed, 3 Bath Port Wentworth, $209,900

(912) 826-0927 5805 Highway 21 South Rincon Ga 31326 www.RinconColdwellBanker.com

284 Ackerman Rd. 1.39 acres Rincon, $100,000

303 Coconut Dr. 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath Bloomingdale, $242,100

308 Village Green Circle 2 Bed, 2.5 Bath Pooler, $199,800

317 Coconut Dr. 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath Bloomingdale, $250,100

334 Coconut Dr. 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath Bloomingdale, $243,100

339 Westminister Dr. 5 Bed, 2.5 Bath Guyton, $231,883

356 Winchester Dr. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Pooler, $178,000

338 Quinn Lane 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath Hinesville, $274,900

529 Braves Field Dr. 4 Bed, 2 Bath Guyton, $249,900

600 Bledsoe Dr. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Guyton, $249,900

604 Montgomery Rd. E 3 Bed, 1 Bath Savannah, $129,900

615 Dresler Rd. 5 Bed, 4 Bath Rincon, $289,900

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 43

617 Bledsoe Dr. 5 Bath, 3 Bath Guyton, $257,469

840 Laurel St. S Commercial Springfield, $199,900

863 Flora Ellen St. 3 bed, 2.5 Bath Hinesville, $219,900

945 Honey Ridge Rd. 5 Bed, 4.5 Bath Guyton $925,000

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1406 Jones Ave. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Tybee Island, $429,900

1854 Hodgeville Rd. 5 Bed, 4.5 Bath Rincon, $499,900

1929 Mills B. Lane Blvd.

3 Bed, 2 Bath Savannah, $129,900

2062 Old Augusta Rd 4 Bed, 2 Bath Clyo $390,000

2104 W. Waters Lane 4 Bed, 3 Bath Statesboro, $205,000

2191 Ebenezer Rd. 6 Bed, 4.5 Bath Rincon, $499,999

2354 Low Ground Rd. 4 Bed, 3 Bath and 3 Half Bath Guyton, $485,000

2388 Hwy 80 US 3 Bed, 3 Bath Bloomingdale, $1,170,000

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2720 Hwy 21 Commercial Rincon, $395,000

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6973 Clyo Kildaire Rd. 3 Bed, 2 Bath Newington, $29,000

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9 WAYS TO HELP YOU SLEEP I

t's back to school time. Kids up, dressed and fed, backpacks ready and off to school before heading to a day of work. After work we have sports, dance, and homework.

Add that to “What’s for dinner?” And you are stressed. A shortage of sleep is the number one casualty of the modern lifestyle. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) seven hours of sleep is needed for optimum health). 2016 statistics indicate 35% of Americans are getting less than seven hours of sleep a night.

Less than seven hours of sleep is associated with: Drastically increased risk of weight gain and obesity in both children and adults; impaired brain and memory function and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. It also cause prediabetes in healthy adults in as little as six days. It has a strong link to Type 2 diabetes, depression, a lowered immune function and inflammatory diseases. It may even cause a reduced ability to recognize people’s emotional expressions.

So what can you do?

These 9 things can make it easier to go to sleep

1 Practice regular sleep rhythms—go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.

2

Get regular exposure to daylight for at least 20 minutes daily. Sunlight triggers your brain to release specific chemicals and hormones like melatonin vital to healthy sleep, mood and aging.

3

Eat no later than two hours before bed—eating a heavy meal prior to bed will impede the body’s overnight detoxification process.

least out of reach so you aren’t tempted to look at it. Listen to relaxing music, white noise or ocean sounds to relax you. Write down any worries and make plans for what you can do the next day to reduce your worry. It will free up your mind and energy to move into deep and restful sleep.

7 Warm your tummy with a hot water

bottle, which raises your core temperature and helps trigger the proper chemistry for sleep.

8

5

Use an essential oil such as Lavender.

You can rub a few drops on your stomach, back of your neck or bottoms of your feet. (see what works best for you). Or, use it in a diffuser. Add 3-5 drops depending on the size. Diffuse it during your power down hour and let it run while you sleep.

6

Don’t get overwhelmed. It is not an all or nothing scenario, take baby steps, be consistent. Change one thing and add new ones in every seven days until that habit is a part of your routine.

4 Avoid alcohol—it may aid sleep but

makes your sleep interrupted and of poor quality.

Create an aesthetic environment in your bedroom that encourages sleep (ie, serene, restful colors and no clutter).

Create total darkness and quiet—consider using eyeshades and earplugs.

Create a power down hour. One hour before bed turn off all electronic devices.

This includes your phone. Use Do Not Disturb and move it out of your room or at

Juliana Palmer and her Frenchie, Remix

9

Sharon Hathaway is a Certified Health and Life Coach specializing in weight loss, stress reduction and lifestyle changes. Sharon uses a habit healing method of curated information, empowerment and support to inspire her clients to successfully make lasting changes in their lives.

For more information or to schedule an Individual Discover Session or group event visit habithealingtransformations.com or email If you would like to share a photo, please email it to sharon@habithealingtransformation.com.

Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 47

48 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Story by Katrice Williams | Photos by Shelia Scott

MORRIS SOUTHERN

Aiming High & Enjoying the Journey M

orris “Mo” Southern, an Eastman, Georgia native, is currently an operations manager at Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation. Morris has lived in Effingham since 2017, as he long had his sights set on the area after being privileged to travel all around the world for most of his life. Actually, Morris retired from the US Air Force (USAF) as a highly decorated Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO), along with being a Production Superintendent and Line Chief of the Thunderbirds, the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, an elite honor encompassing true renown.

What’s more, of the various options Morris was afforded upon graduating high school, including an opportunity to play college sports, Morris’ heart was steadfastly set on military enlistment; he also knew, hands-down, that the USAF was the branch for him.

“I wanted to make my way as a man and make my parents proud; I loved the level of discipline and attention to detail that was characteristic of the US Air Force. I also wanted to be able to see what was in this beautiful planet that God created for us,” Morris stated.

After enlisting, Morris’ orders landed him in San Antonio, Texas at Lackland Air Force Base (AFB) for USAF Basic Training.

Following basic training, Morris aspired to begin a career as a tactical aircraft maintenance specialist, though he knew he had never before even “touched an airplane.”

Morris was later assigned to Clark AFB in the Philippines after completing Tactical Air School for fighter jet maintenance;

the young man attained invaluable experience and training during his tenure there. Afterwards, his assignment took him to Lackland AFB in Texas, where he completed the remainder of his first military term. Hence, Morris re-enlisted as he eagerly sought an international assignment--“Europe or anywhere [abroad].”

To his delight, he was assigned to Ramstein AB in Germany where he spent

four years and “loved it” before returning to the states. Later, Morris was briefly assigned to MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida, which was another “dream assignment” before he was off to Pope AFB Airfield in Fayetteville, North Carolina with the 82nd Air Battalion. Over the following

years, Morris had postings in various places, including: Kunsan AB in South Korea, along with Shaw AFB in Sumter, South Carolina as well as “tours to Turkey and Saudi Arabia,” along with time in Spain, Japan, Guam, Alaska and Hawaii.

One of Morris’ greatest accomplishments, however, was still ahead of him. With an array of noteworthy experience as an “aircraft maintenance specialist on fighter jets,” Morris sought to achieve one of his biggest goals and dreams thus far: to become a USAF Thunderbird. “Created in 1953, the Thunderbirds, ‘a formal flying aerobatic team,’ are assigned to the 57th Wing and are based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.” The reputation of the Thunderbirds is held in the highest esteem in the USAF, as the application and selection processes entail utter rigor and a high degree of selectivity.

“The Thunderbirds are hard-working airmen who voluntarily serve America and defend freedom; they recruit and build confidence in the military. If you are in the Air Force, there is no higher posting,” Morris stated. In addition, Morris is proud that one of the squadron’s most notable attributes is to “spread goodwill through their pride, dedication and professionalism.”

Due to a phenomenal military record, including various awards and accommodations, Morris was also “written a letter of recommendation by a colonel at Shaw AFB” who was a Thunderbird himself. Throughout the process, Morris’ phenomenal work ethic was obvious as he combated the challenges of it all, including long hours every day of the week for a

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 49

few weeks. A short time following the extensively detailed selection process, Morris received the information that he had been yearning to hear…he had been accepted.

“It was a grueling process. By this time, I was a Senior NCO. I became caught up in the culture and the team and was awarded my patch in the patching ceremony,” Morris mentioned. The Thunderbird Patch itself is held in the utmost regard; in fact, there is a plethora of “history and tradition” behind it and the entire Thunderbird Squadron.

By his third year with the Thunderbirds (2003), Morris accomplished one of his biggest feats yet by attaining the role of Product Superintendent and Line Chief. He took enormous pride in his position and how crucial it was to the entire squadron, consistently striving to embody and exemplify the principles that had long been characteristic of the unit.

Interestingly enough, among a variety of other responsibilities, Morris was “responsible for the final walk-around for each aircraft before a show”; he was keenly aware of how each pilot “preferred their instruments set in the cockpit” prior to shows.

"It pulled 9-g's, and I didn't even blink."

“That year, we never once left an aircraft behind due to maintenance…never cancelled a show due to maintenance.” he said.

In lieu of Morris’ perseverance and valiant efforts, he was asked to continue with the Thunderbirds for a fourth year; the tenure normally does not exceed three years, which revealed the real value that

50 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Morris added to the entire team. His time working with the Thunderbirds was truly the “pinnacle” of his military career.

“I spent 22 ½ years in the Air Force; I always recommend the Air Force to anyone thinking about military service. Serving in the Thunderbirds was the highlight of my USAF career. It is an intense experience, as you are representing our Air Force and our country all the time,” he stated.

Morris recalls several of his most memorable moments. He was honored to be selected as “NCO of the Year for his unit at Ramstein AFB in West Germany and as Senior NCO Maintenance Professional of the Year for two consecutive years” while with the Thunderbirds. Additionally, Morris felt very honored to have the opportunity to meet former US President George H.W. Bush on two separate occasions. He also pridefully remembers a time in 2002 that “he led the night shift maintenance team. It was the first time in many years that the team left no aircraft at a show site until they were all repaired”; all planes went home on schedule.

serving your “ By country, you develop a pride in something bigger than yourself.

“

Moreover, he mentions a thrilling “flight in the backseat of an F-16 Fighting Falcon, ‘a supersonic, multirole fighter aircraft’ flown by a Thunderbird Pilot.”

However, two of his most meaningful memories involve a time when the Thunderbirds had a particular show at Warner Robbins AFB--“his brothers were able to see him perform.” Also, Morris’ family “attended his retirement ceremony on March 10, 2006, at Langley AFB,” which proved to be the experience of a lifetime. At that time, he remembered his father’s last words to him before he left home for basic training.

“Son, go become a man. You can always come home.” Reflecting back on all his successful years of service, Morris knew he had done just that.

Since his Air Force service days, Morris has obtained priceless professional experience, namely via Boeing Corporation and Honda Jet, prior to beginning his present career at Gulfstream Aerospace. Morris’ fascinating service record certainly contributed to each opportunity. He, too, feels that Gulfstream is unequivocally one of the best aviation companies to be a part of.

“Gulfstream is the best aviation experience possible. They also take pride in hiring former military,” he remarked.

Morris appreciates all the love and support given to him by his family, especially his wife Jeannette, who he enjoys spending his spare time with. Further, he sincerely treasures the moments that he is able to spend with his three children–son Morris Jr. and two daughters, Maeracle and Bella. Though they live out-of-state, he “loves all of the time he has with them during visits.”

Morris and Jan are very “proud to call Effingham home.” Being from a small town and coming from a large, close-knit family has allowed Morris to appreciate the little things in life, as they can truly mean so much. Over the years, Morris has come to love the “laid-back, serene” lifestyle that the Effingham community offers.

Living in Effingham is reminiscent of his life growing up back in Eastman.

“I am a homebody. I like being on the back porch with my cigar watching the birds in the lagoon; I love to sit with my wife Jeannette, and watch the hummingbirds,” he said.

Morris is looking forward to bright days ahead. He is ever so thankful for all of the many opportunities that he has been blessed with over the years. www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | August/September 2019 51

El Real Mexican Restaurant: Where Story by Katrice Williams • Photos by Shelia Scott

E

l Real Mexican Restaurant has been a popular presence in Effingham for a long time now.

Actually, it will celebrate its 17year anniversary on November 1st, and co-owners Salvador and Javier Figueroa could not be prouder. The two brothers, natives of Mexico, both wanted to pursue a career in the restaurant industry for some time prior to opening El Real, as they had a variety of experience in the field. Salvador admits that he “always wanted a restaurant” while Javier explains that he “learned everything” about the business while being employed at other establishments. Hence, the two decided to combine their various talents and resources in order to open their own restaurant in 2002.

Since then, El Real has been known for its quality service, delectable food and welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere.

Salvador and Javier know who the real assets are, as they sincerely feel that the restaurant’s success is largely due to the phenomenal team at El Real.

“We have an awesome team. Everybody that works here treats the business like it’s theirs. They treat the customers well,” Salvador stated.

That said, the El Real team wants customers to feel like family from the moment they enter the door until the time they exit, so the brothers have long strived to establish a warm, homey and friendly environment for all their customers. They both feel that having that overall type of atmosphere, along with providing superb customer service, “makes the difference,” consistently differentiating the restaurant from a host of others.

The great food has certainly made a lasting mark over the years, and the brothers are proud that they have never sought to compromise the authenticity or overall quality of all their dishes.

Salvador and Javier know that such

important differences truly distinguish El Real from other Mexican restaurants, both locally and abroad. Interestingly enough, every recipe is bona fide right “down to the rice and beans.”

“Others have similarities, but we’re more authentic,” Javier said.

Other than a few additions, the menu has not changed very much over the years. The brothers know what their customers really seem to like and want to make sure that those items are continuously offered to their delight.

“We have incorporated a few new dishes over the years, but we try to keep the same consistency,” Salvador mentioned.

While offering a variety of enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, dips, quesos, grilled platters, soups, salads and even some delicious desserts, the extensive menu makes it difficult for even the pickiest of eaters to leave unsatisfied. There should be something for almost anyone to enjoy—something flavorful, that is.

A few fan favorites include: Fajita Real Platter, a tender portion of “chicken or beef, either mild or spicy, covered with sautéed mushrooms, onions, peppers, cilantro and special El Real Sauce,” Pechuga Real Platter, “a grilled chicken breast filled with shrimp, spinach and white cheese all topped with vegetables sautéed in butter, wine and garlic sauce,” Pescado Real Platter, “grilled fish topped with a

creamy shrimp and mushroom sauce,” and Fajita Avocado (a real hit), “a lightly breaded and deep fried avocado stuffed with fajita beef or chicken and cheese” alongside an enchilada or taco.

Other menu items include: Enchilada Verdes, “a chicken breast topped with tomatillo and cilantro sauce, white cheese and sour cream (enchiladas are served with Mexican rice and refried beans),” Burrito Poblano, “a chicken fajita burrito topped with cheese dip, poblano pepper sauce with creamy mushrooms and onions (burritos include beans inside and are topped with cheese and beef gravy,

Locally-Owned

52 August/September 2019 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Great Food & Family Come Together all served with rice and sour cream),” Ranchero Chicken Chimichanga, made with well-seasoned Ranchero Chicken and select veggie blends “(chimichangas are served with rice, refried beans and sour cream),” El Real Plate, which includes a “soft beef or chicken taco, beef enchilada and chicken flauta (all plates are served with Mexican rice, refried beans, lettuce and tomatoes)” and Los Diablos Platter, which includes “6 jumbo grilled shrimp wrapped with bacon and jalapenos (platters normally include rice and Pico de Gallo).” Customers also have a variety of a la carte items and side orders to choose from.

In addition to a variety of beverages, if there is a real sweet tooth that needs to be satisfied, El Real offers some scrumptious treats, including: “fried ice-cream, cheesecake, flan and sopapillas.”

Salvador and Javier both share the same professional goal going forward: to continue to provide high levels of customer satisfaction and service.

“I want to try to be the best and be successful at giving 100% to my customers,” Salvador asserted.

The brothers aspire to one day obtain another more spacious establishment with the capacity to accommodate even more customers as their business continually grows. Meanwhile, the two are certainly content with the direction their business is heading and will continue to offer customers a place to visit where great food and family come together.

El

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