Effingham Magazine Shop Local December/January 2021

SHOP LOCAL ISSUE

Joyce Williams Breast Cancer Survivor Finds Her Passion for Helping Other Women Weather Their Own Storms

December/January 2021

You Can Financially Support the Growth of Healthcare in Effingham—at No Cost!

Help us transform healthcare in our community by contributing to Effingham Health System through the Georgia HEART rural hospital tax credit opportunity!

100% STATE INCOME TAX CREDIT

CONTRIBUTION LIMITS LIFTED AS OF JULY 1 FOR 2020: � Limits for individual and married filing joint taxpayers are waived so long as you have the tax liability to support the contribution! � Limits for pass-through entity owners are waived so long as you have the tax liability – related to your pass-through ownership – to support the contribution!

� At any time during the year, a “C” Corporation or trust shall be allowed a 100% Georgia income tax credit for contributions to rural hospital organizations equal to the amount of the contribution, or 75% of the corporation or trust’s income tax liability, whichever is less.

Learn more and submit your short HEART Tax Credit Form at: GeorgiaHeart.org Or contact Georgia HEART staff at: heart@georgiaheart.org.

EffinghamHealth.org/TaxCredit

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IN THIS ISSUE

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

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26 ABOUT THE COVER Joyce Williams is a breast cancer survivor who founded Keepers of the Flame: Breast Cancer Resource Center, which features resources including free podcasts, classes, and support for women going through breast cancer treatment. Cover photo by Tonya Perry.

Features

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{

We want to hear from you!

Please send your comments, questions and stories ideas to Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com.

}

Don’t forget to check out EffinghamMagazine.com for more content, more photos and more information about events and happenings around Effingham County.

4 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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Joyce Williams Breast Cancer Survivor Finds her Passion for Helping Other Women Weather Their Own Storms

Shop Local Shopping locally helps you, your neighbors, and your community. Learn how, then turn the page to see some of the wonderful products Effingham businesses have to offer this Holiday season.

Casting a Lifeline for Veterans Guyton Man Helps Fellow Disabled Vets Calm Turbulent Waters Through Fishing Group

Community Counts Andy Cripps and the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce Reflect on Their Community.

Holiday Recipes

Find delicious new recipes to try this holiday season.

Departments

7 33 36

Publisher’s Thoughts Habit Healing Transformations Recreation Spotlight

Your Community Website EffinghamMagazine.com now includes MORE community information, MORE events and happenings and MORE great stories about the people, places and happenings from Your Community Magazine.

EffinghamMagazine.com THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS:

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 5

MEET THE TEAM Jami Brannen

Cindy Reid is a graduate of Mills College

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

is originally from Effingham County and now resides in Pembroke. Jami is a busy mom to two teenage girls and two fur babies. She has been the owner of A Shot in Time Photography since 2009 where she specializes in engagements, weddings, events, families, and her favorite subjects of all— children. In her spare time she loves to hang out with her girls, travel and attend drag racing events with her dad.

Katrice Williams

Michelle Holloway

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

They have two beautiful children in their family.

Laura Zielinski

Tonya Perry

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

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

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

Steve Prudhomme

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

Jan Southern, DPA

Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

Tonya Perry

Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com

6 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

Tiffany Yearwood Intern

Penny Redmond Distribution

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

SHOP LOCAL ISSUE JAN SOUTHERN Owner/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com TONYA PERRY Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com PENNY REDMOND Distribution TIFFANY YEARWOOD Intern LAURA ZIELINSKI Design

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 more than 250 locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at EffinghamMagazine.com.

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

As we head into the holidays, I am extremely grateful to be able to continue sharing the wonderful stories of the people and organizations in our local communities.

At a time when good news is overshadowed by stories of strife and struggle, we can turn to many stories of triumph and joy within the pages of Your Community Magazine.

We are excited to bring you the Annual Shop Local issue. The Shop Local campaign is vital to our community. Keeping resources in our local neighborhoods benefits everyone.

Shopping locally produces jobs and creates stability—not to mention that the sales taxes that are locally generated, help to improve all Jan Southern of Effingham County.

With the coronavirus pandemic affecting so many small businesses, it is now more important than ever to frequent the local restaurants, stores, and service businesses. Many of these businesses have pivoted to offer more online options as well. You can shop locally without even leaving your home!

If you would like to see what some of these businesses have to offer, see page 18 in this issue. We have highlighted some pretty great items from local shops.

So, as you go about your busy day buying necessities or thinking about the holidays being just around the corner, please consider choosing a local option or purchasing a local gift card. And please don’t forget the non profit organizations that could use a little extra aid in order to help those in need this season.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays and a very Merry Christmas!

Owner/Publisher Effingham Magazine Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

WANT MO R

E?

Go to Effi nghamMa gazine.co for the ca m lendar of events, photos an d more!

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 7

Your donations to Habitat for Humanity of Effingham County not only help to build homes­— they help to build families, communities, and hope.

Help Habitat make the #CostofHome something we all can afford.

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JOYCE WILLIAMS “Together We Weather the Storm”

Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Michelle Holloway

10 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

J

oyce Williams is a breast cancer survivor whose passion is helping others who are going through what she experienced. She is the founder of the Keepers of the Flame: Breast Cancer Resource Center, where “Together We Weather the Storm,” and the mission is “to shine light into the darkness, empowering women, and our communities, to weather breast cancer.”

Joyce says that the idea of a lighthouse initially came to her after her mastectomy. “I saw my scars in the mirror for the first time and I didn’t recognize myself. I looked down and saw a lighthouse charm on my bracelet, and it clicked that I wasn’t the only one. Afterwards I spoke with other women who had survived and made it to the other side of their own storms, and they became my lighthouses.”

“Together, we wanted to shine that light for others, so we participated in a 60 mile walk to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. Because the original lighthouse had flames, the idea became Keepers of the Flame, and Together We Weather.”

After the event, Joyce wanted to take the support and outreach even further, and thus founded Keepers of the Flame.

Six Pillars of Resilience “I am really excited to be in Effingham Magazine right now because my YouTube channel just went live, and I want women to know about this free support,” says Joyce. “On the channel I present The Six

She stresses that the classes are totally free and available to anyone. Joyce says each class is only 10 to 15 minutes long because “people dealing with breast cancer have too much on their plate to sit for an hour class.”

The classes range from the first “Finding Resilience After Breast Cancer” to the last two ’practical classes:’ “Emotional Resilience,” with information from Building Blocks Family Counseling in Pooler, and “Physical Resilience,” which includes practical information on yoga and mindfulness from Mary at The Barre and Yoga Room in Rincon.

“I am not grateful for cancer, but I now have a mission to help anyone else by exposing my hurt and my healing to other women in order to provide information and support.”

Pillars of Resilience, which is a researchbased curriculum consisting of ten short classes (YouTube videos). In it I talk about support, resources, resilience, and simple strategies that people can do each day to strengthen their own resilience and to help the breast cancer survivor weather their own storm.”

Podcast Before the YouTube channel, Joyce created a podcast series of educational and support episodes for those fighting breast cancer.

“Every Wednesday I interviewed an expert, usually medical experts, on breast cancer topics,” says Joyce. In May 2020 she celebrated the one year mark for episodes.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 11

LEARN MORE: YouTube Channel: Keepers of the Flame: Breast Cancer Support | www.togetherweweather.org Podcasts available via website, iTunes, and Google Podcast |

12 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

togetherweweather |

#togetherweweatherthisstorm

The podcast topics include: • Working with Grief & Traumatic Loss • Breast Cancer Basics with Breast Surgeon, Dr. William Burak • Radiation Oncology with Dr. Michael Hasselle • 3D nipple and areola tattooing with professional medical tattoo artist, Renee Maschinot • Chemotherapy with Vanessa Brink (NP in medical oncology) • Lymphedema with Expert Corie Turley, and other medical topics.

The podcast is available on iTunes and Google Podcasts, and through the Keepers of the Flame website.

Joyce’s Story “I grew up a Navy brat and my husband Bryan grew up an Army brat. We went to high school together in Virginia but were just friends back then. We met up after college and ended up in Colorado together and then to Georgia. He is an aerospace engineer at Gulfstream. My college degree is in Biology and I was a biology teacher at South Effingham High School.”

Joyce remembers, “I was teaching biology and one day I was talking about chromosomal inheritance, and thought ’hmm, maybe I should look into that for colon cancer, because it ran in my family.’”

Forward a few years later to 2017 and Joyce was now a stayat-home mother to their two little girls, Leona, 4, and Sage, 5. She was at her OBGYN for a routine checkup and decided to finally get that colon cancer genetic screening. She says she filled out the questionnaire for colon cancer and the BRCA2 test was simply an “add on.”

people (about one in 400, or 0.25% of the population) carry mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. A BRCA mutation occurs when the DNA that makes up the gene becomes damaged in some way. (www. nationalbreastcancer.org/what-is-brca) The Tests Come Back Joyce’s test results came back negative for the colon cancer mutation but positive for BRCA2.

“It was a complete shock to me and my doctor because there was absolutely no history of breast cancer in my family,” says Joyce, “but this meant the risk of me developing breast cancer was 84% chance in my lifetime.”

Joyce had a mammogram, and it was negative. Six months later she had an MRI and they found three masses in the same breast. “Within ten months I had a bilateral mastectomy, reconstruction breast surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and a complete hysterectomy, because BRCA2 means an elevated risk for ovarian cancer.”

She was 36 years old.

of being ripped away from this world sooner than I wanted. I didn’t have much control over when my time would come, none of us do.”

“As I listened to the song, the lines, “I guess it’s not what you take when you leave this world behind you, it’s what you leave behind you when you go,” sunk in.

I was terrified of dying, and it bugged me immensely that I didn’t have control over that. But then it hit me, I could control HOW I lived while I was here; and I started to wonder: what do I want to leave behind?”

“That’s when a quote that I love so much, first came to my mind. ’If acts of kindness were like snowflakes, unique in their own beauty, then when we’d increase these acts, we’d see snow.’ That’s it! I wanted to leave behind metaphorical ’snow.’ I might not be able to control when my time comes, but each day that I am here, I can work on making another snowflake. I can be kind. I can show up for people.”

This is the second year Joyce and her girls are creating a Snowflake Project.

Last year, Leona and Sage did chores around the house to help pay for purchasing eight new stuffed animals to donate to their local police department to be given to children experiencing a traumatic event.

This year they will use the funds they raise through baking to fund a scholarship for the Building Blocks Family Counseling class “Making Lemonade: How to Make Lemonade When Cancer Keeps Giving You Lemons” online course. Joyce urges everyone to make their own “snowflakes” of compassion and love—“let’s let it snow!”

“I might not be able to control when my time comes, but each day that I am here, I can...be kind. I can show up for people”

What Is BRCA? The name “BRCA” is an abbreviation for “BReast CAncer gene.” BRCA1 and BRCA2 are two different genes that have been found to impact a person’s chances of developing breast cancer.

Every human has both the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Despite what their names might suggest, BRCA genes do not cause breast cancer. In fact, these genes normally play a big role in preventing breast cancer.

They help repair DNA breaks that can lead to cancer and the uncontrolled growth of tumors. Because of this, the BRCA genes are known as tumor suppressor genes.

However, in some people these tumor suppression genes do not work properly.

When a gene becomes altered or broken, it doesn’t function correctly. This is called a gene mutation. A small percentage of

Joyce says “Biology is, by definition, the study of life; and my study of biology actually ended up saving my life. I am not grateful for cancer, but I now have a mission to help anyone else by exposing my hurt and my healing to other women in order to provide information and support.”

In addition to her many activities through Keepers of the Flame, Joyce is a Survivor Ambassador volunteer at Susan G Komen Coastal Georgia, part of the Survivorship Committee at Memorial, recently participated in the virtual Race for the Cure, and organized an annual SwimA-Thon fundraiser in her neighborhood with her daughters.

Snowflake Project Close to her heart is the Snowflake Project, which came about in a very personal way. As Joyce tells it, “On a chilly December day back in 2017, when I was overcome with turmoil, I put my hands together to pray. Within seconds, I heard Randy Travis’s song, Three Wooden Crosses, play on the radio. I was afraid of dying, of not being there for my children,

Family Life The Williams enjoy spending time together with family bike rides and family game nights. Today Joyce is doing well and says that “we must live our lives. We are changed from our experiences, but these experiences don’t have to define us.”

She plans on continuing her work with those fighting breast cancer and says, “I may not have control over my cancer, my BRCA2 mutation, or even whether or not I passed that gene onto my children; but I do have control (in part) over the kind of world that I want to leave for my children.”

“I know from personal experience just how rough a cancer diagnosis and treatments can be, and I promise you that you don’t have to do this alone. I am happy to tell anybody my story because I don’t want anyone to feel they are the only one.

We may have to be the ones to walk the walk, but we don’t have to do it alone.” n

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 13

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WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO

Shop Local

There are countless ways that shopping locally benefits our community, but are you aware of how it helps you?

1. Shopping Local is Better for the Environment: It’s no secret that shopping locally helps to boost the local economy. Local purchases help reduce carbon footprints and require less transportation of goods. Less pollution is always a good thing, right?

2. Local Businesses Donate More to Their Communities: Did you know that local businesses tend to donate more to local causes than other bigger businesses? These business owners are your neighbors and friends, so they care about the local community just as much as you do. That little league team or local charitable organization benefits greatly from healthy local businesses who want to give back to their neighbors. Keeping your business close to home is just another way that you can give back to your community.

3. Shopping Local Creates More Local Jobs: Local businesses means more local ownership. These businesses are huge contributors to local jobs. Supporting a local business also supports the local workforce.

4. Shopping Local Creates a Domino Effect Locally: When you shop locally, it creates a “domino effect” within the community. Many locally owned businesses purchase from other locally owned businesses.

So How Does Local Shopping Benefit you Personally?

Small businesses are invested in their success, so they tend to offer more personalized services. Generally, they cater to their customers in a way that larger "chain" businesses do not. Small businesses depend on customer satisfaction to bring customers back again and again.

Local shops undoubtedly bring a unique flair to our communities with unique products and services, enhancing your neighborhood experience.

A robust local economy affects you directly. Money you spend shopping locally is put right back into your community.

How Can you Support Local Businesses?

Buy locally. Consider checking out a local shop before buying online or shopping at a big box store.

Share the support by purchasing gift cards from local shops to help introduce friends and family to the local places where you enjoy shopping.

SHARE! SHARE! SHARE! Almost all local businesses have social media accounts on pages such as Facebook and Instagram.

Share their posts and help them get noticed.

Finally, help build good reviews for the local businesses within your community. A quick word about your great experience can go a long way for helping others decide on whether or not to try out their products or services.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 17

Local

SHOP

This holiday season, SHOP LOCAL and support the wonderful shops and vendors in Effingham. From books to furniture to candles to fill your loved ones’ stockings, you can find it all in Effingham!

1

1. For a great little book to educate, empower, or use as an ELA and health unit, get Iris Beats the Virus, by local author Catherine Falzone. Available on Amazon. cathyfalzone@ gmail.com 2.

A beautifully functional & funky piece of art from Muse by Tracy, this box is paint on wood under resin and finished in a Honey stain. $30. www.musebytracy.com.

3. Stop into Gnann’s Fix-It Shop for a STIHL BGA-57 Blower. Includes battery and charger. Sales price $179.95 (regular price $199.99), good through December 18. www.gnannsfixitshop.com 4. Wright Wicks Candle Co. offers hand-poured small batch candles with a blend of soy and coconut wax, with a clean burning, fragrant experience. www. wrightwicks.com

8

5. A giftcard from Wanderings Design & Decor, allows your friends and loved to make their house a home. www. wanderingsdesigndecor.com 6. Delicious Rusty Pig BBQ sauces make a perfect gift! $5.99 for one bottle or 2 for $10. BBQ sauce is available at Rincon and Glennville and always online and can be shipped anywhere in the USA. www.rustypigbbq.com 7. A one-of-a-kind stunning evergreen cabinet. $75 (does not include decór) from Sunflower Home Market. www.sunflower-home-market.business.site 8. Pick up a soft, festive Christmas pillow from QuickRX. $35.99. www.quickrxdrugs.com 9. These 16oz insulated tumblers from Paddles Coffee & Cafe will keep your coffee, hot chocolate, or tea hot (or cold!) this winter. $14-$16. www.paddlescoffee.com

9

18 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 19

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His influence goes beyond our area through his involvement as a Shriner and a Mason. Shriner Hospitals for children never charge for their services, a blessing that is the result of the work of Darrell and many others. The Children’s Home in Macon is an outgrowth of his volunteer work as well.

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CASTING a LIFELINE for VETERANS Guyton Man Helps Fellow Disabled Vets Calm Turbulent Waters Through Fishing Group Story by Stephen Prudhomme Photos by Jami Brannen

D

isabled veterans returning home often have difficulty readjusting to civilian life as they battle physical, mental and emotional issues. A number of them, unfortunately, are unable to cope and commit suicide.

One of their own is casting a lifeline through a sport he loves and has helped provide healing in his own life.

Kevin Edwards, 56, is a resident of Guyton who works as a technical specialist and writer in Gulfstream’s Technical Operations Department. He’s also a disabled veteran who served in aviation in the Air Force and as a forward observer and infantryman in the Army National Guard during a 14-year military career. As a result of being an infantryman late in his career, Edwards developed degenerative disc disease and was medically discharged right before he was scheduled for deployment to Kuwait.

Returning home, Edwards struggled to regain a sense of normalcy as he endured debilitating pain from his neck to his legs and went through three surgeries. He

22 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

found solace in fishing, an avocation he had pursued for much of his life, reveling in the calming effects of being out in nature and on the water in his boat. Catching the big one was a bonus.

Spreading his Net Earlier this year, Edwards spread his fishing net, so to speak, starting Casting For a Cause Disabled Veterans Foundation, a nonprofit group designed to help disabled veterans and hopefully reduce the number of daily suicides that currently stands at 22.

“I want to promote awareness of the suicide problem among veterans while also providing opportunities for healing, regardless of what their disability may be,” Edwards said. “Fishing can be an outlet for them, an opportunity to drop their guard, share private conversations and make sure they know we’re an extended service for them.”

Edwards is executive director/CEO and one of seven board members for the organization. His wife, Vicki, is executive

assistant and maintains the group’s website.

He said Covid has affected them a lot in terms of holding fundraisers. Noting they’ve raised $3,500 this year, Edwards said he’s made up the difference in the annual $13,500 operating costs. Tournament fishing, which requires additional funding, allows disabled veteran members an opportunity to reach the podium and be recognized with top competitors. Any prize money earned covers additional expenses, with the remaining balance split between the competing member and the organization.

“Gulfstream pays me well,” said Edwards, who has competed in a number of tournaments with some of the veterans and puts any prize money back into his organization.

Finding Camaraderie with a Line The veterans, most of whom are disabled and include an Army major who lost his leg in Iraq, go out most weekends in a boat Edwards bought last year.

They fish mostly inshore in saltwater marshes and other waterways between Richmond Hill and Hilton Head Island.

“Even if we don’t catch fish, which is rare, we have a blast,” said Edwards, who submitted the application for 501-3C status in late October following a lengthy vetting process. “The camaraderie is almost like being back in the military.”

Edwards’ love of fishing is so great he’ll go fishing despite experiencing shooting pain and numbness in his legs; the organization recognizes that battles do not always end on the battlefield and uses the time fishing to mitigate the struggles many of the veterans are experiencing. The veterans are often battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although he doesn’t have PTSD, Edwards faces challenges in making the transition from military to civilian life in what remains an ongoing process.

“We’re conditioned to clear our minds for battle and forget family,” Edwards said.

“After many years, it’s hard to bring that out. I feel a level of responsibility to help my military brothers and sisters, some of whom struggle to show affection toward their own families. Fishing is therapeutic for both the veterans and me.”

Jared Russell has gone on two fishing trips with Edwards. A resident of Pooler, he retired from the Army in 2016 following a 26-year career and suffers from PTSD and a degenerative spine condition.

Joining him on one of the outings was Ben Oravetz, a fellow Army retiree and longtime friend who, like Russell, is 100 percent disabled.

Russell said they fished on the Bull River and around Little Tybee Island for six to eight hours; it’s the first time he had fished since 1995, after growing up with the pastime. Adding to the experience was the playing of patriotic songs as they embarked on their fishing trip.

“We had our own water parade,” said Russell, who works as a realtor and, despite his disability status, is able to get around and considers himself fortunate compared to some other veterans. “Within minutes, Ben and I were cutting up and picking up from our days in the Army.

We even caught some fish. It was a great experience. Kevin’s a real nice dude.”

Along with rediscovering a lifelong passion, Russell benefited from the freedom of being out on the water.

“It takes your mind off everything and puts you into the moment,” he said.

“You’re out there with guys who have been there and done that. It takes a lot of weight off you. It’s very therapeutic. It’s like the Christian prayer counseling I’m involved with but more fun. It’s also like going out to a bar with your buddies, minus the drinking.”

Being 100 percent disabled, membership is free for Oravetz. Nevertheless, he gave Edwards $100 toward his trip.

“There are people in lot worse shape than I am,” said Oravetz, who plans on going on a second trip. “I’m paying it forward with the $100.”

Expanding the Mission Edwards said his goal is to have three boats, including a pontoon that could accommodate wheelchairs, and have a disabled veteran run the boats and maintain them and raise money for veterans and other groups. Although Casting For a Cause consists entirely of veterans at the moment, Edwards said it’s open to nonmilitary as well.

The annual membership fee is $150 for civilians and $75 for veterans. The fee is waived for veterans who are 100 percent disabled.

For Edwards, the fishing trips offer a higher purpose as well; with his wife having lung issues, they haven’t attended church during the pandemic.

“That boat is my church,” said Edwards, noting the group is connected to a number of military chaplains. “It’s my ministry. We don’t shove our beliefs down their throats or thump the Bible. It’s about spending time with God and living a life that drives others to ask the right questions. I’m thankful for the Christian parents and grandparents who required us to read the Bible and learn how to lead others to Christ.”

As the organization continues to grow and gain a foothold in the community, Edwards sees an opportunity to expand to other areas across the country.

“We will continue our fundraising efforts and look for the growth required to make that happen,” said Edwards, who recently connected with the GA Veterans Outdoor Ministries to expand their footprint in Georgia. n

“I feel a level of responsibility to help my military brothers and sisters, some of whom struggle to show affection toward their own families. Fishing is therapeutic for both the veterans and me.”

“From a PTSD standpoint, you put everything aside and catch your breath,” he said. “Just casting a line in the water is therapeutic. It’s just relaxing. It also helps support the brothers.”

One of those brothers is Oravetz, a resident of Estill, S.C. The two men were stationed together at Fort Stewart and have remained friends for 26 years.

Oravetz retired from the Army on a medical discharge following a 13-year career and uses a cane and metal braces on occasion to help him contend with back and knee problems.

His outing with Russell was the first time he had fished in three years.

“It was a blast,” said Oravetz, who grew up in the Pacific Northwest and had fished all his life. “I didn’t always catch a keeper.

I took home only one fish, a flounder, and gave it to Jared after filleting it.”

Even if he didn’t bring in a record haul, Oravetz could revel in getting together with an old friend and talking about issues to which they could closely relate.

For information on membership, volunteering or donations, go to www.castingforacause.net.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 23

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SHE HOLDS MEMBERSHIPS IN THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY—HEAD & NECK SURGERY AS WELL AS THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF OTOLARYNGIC ALLERGY. Dr. Miles is originally from the Atlanta area. She and her husband are happily living in downtown Savannah along with their son. In her spare time, she enjoys running and spending time with their miniature schnauzer.

DR. MILES WELCOMES PATIENTS OF ALL AGES, ESPECIALLY PEDIATRIC PATIENTS.

Learn more about ENT Associates of Savannah at www.entsavannah.com 24 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

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The Springfield Merchants Association (SMA) is a local non-profit organization made up of small and medium size businesses in the city of Springfield, Ga. If you are a local business, consider joining SMA and support their mission to help existing businesses increase revenue and to promote new businesses in the downtown district.

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“

I

’m really excited to see the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Effingham,” stated Andy Cripps, Effingham County Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer.

The Effingham Andy Cripps community has certainly seen a vast amount of growth and change over the past decade. Even during this pandemic, its citizens and businesses have shown remarkable strength and admirable resilience.

Andy Cripps, alongside the entire Effingham Chamber of Commerce, has been diligently seeking to support local businesses, helping them adjust to ongoing changes while maintaining a necessary connection with consumers.

“We’ve been very impressed with our business community and how they have adapted in unusual circumstances. Some businesses were hurt more than others; however, in general, our business community has come through very strong. It’s not that they haven’t been affected, but they’ve adapted and managed,” Andy stated.

Andy has been Effingham’s Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer since mid-January. He, along with his wife Diane, a history museum curator, and their son Matthew, are New Jersey natives. Andy relocated to Effingham from Virginia, where he was also a part of the Isle of Wight County Chamber of Commerce in Smithfield. In fact, Andy has done chamber work since 1999.

Since moving to the area, Andy has noticed how very unique the Effingham community truly is: close-knit, inviting and hospitable. He is happy to call Effingham his home.

“It’s a wonderful place to be. The community couldn’t have been more welcoming to me. They’re tremendously supportive of the chamber and local businesses. It’s very exciting. I’m also excited about working with local businesses to see what we can do to make Effingham even more attractive,” he said.

Whether new home decor venues, antique shops and clothing stores in downtown Springfield, or an old-style barbershop in Guyton, small businesses have been doing just that—making the community an even more attractive place to live.

“If you drive down Laurel Street in Springfield, you see new shops opening up there; new businesses are also starting up in Rincon and Guyton. It’s all about community-based shops. They’re popping up and servicing the needs in the community,” he said.

26 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Laurel Street, Downtown Springfield. photo by Tonya Perry

Andy Cripps & The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce:

COMMUNITY COUNTS Story by Katrice Williams

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 27

“Three-fourths of all jobs are created by small businesses. Supporting local businesses keep funds within your local community, allowing them to circulate and multiply; it supports your neighbors and their families. Local businesses contribute to local charities, local churches and local schools.�

28 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Photos left to right: the iconic Effingham County Courthouse; Steel Bridge Landing on the Ogeechee River in Guyton; a beautiful home in downtown Guyton

Andy mentions a little bakery that just support of local businesses and residents,” recently opened up in Rincon. For its grand he asserted. opening, a line of customers were waiting Andy, alongside the Effingham Chamber, to support the new business and kindly strives to help entrepreneurs succeed and welcome it to the area. “You just don’t see “overcome the challenges of running a that everywhere,” he added. small business.”

He, too, is familiar with the story of a Andy knows that such prosperity local hair salon that was compelled to shut is achievable by having open lines of its doors when COVID-19 hit; however, communication between the businesses, after overcoming the odds, it has been citizens and the chamber. In fact, some able to re-open for its customers. Andy of his biggest goals are to “connect knows that there are several stories of such businesses to consumers through better strength and fortitude among Effingham’s overall communication and to build the businesses. chamber’s ’voice for business’ among local Further, he has long known how vital it is government officials.” for citizens to Andy support local encourages commerce.

Effingham When citizens to residents continue to decide to support localshop within area businesses. the county, During a entrepreneurs time when thrive. big business 912. 754.3301 | www.effinghamcounty.com In addition, conglomerates 520 West Third Street, Springfield, GA 31329 “new jobs are often created and overwhelm the beneficial relationships are established marketplace and online shopping is while tax dollars are able to be kept commonplace, there is little comparable within the community; citizens are able to to the warm service, personal touch and maintain a vested interest in the overall quality experience that comes with visiting welfare of their local area.” a nice, local establishment.

“Three-fourths of all jobs are created Consumers have a great opportunity by small businesses. Supporting local to support local venues during ​Small businesses keep funds within your local Business Saturday​on Saturday, November community, allowing them to circulate and 28th. Normally occurring the Saturday multiply; it supports your neighbors and after Thanksgiving, the shopping their families. Local businesses contribute holiday was initially launched to “inspire to local charities, local churches and local consumers to shop within their own schools; this is an area that very strongly communities during the holiday season...it supports their schools. As a result, we have reminds them that they play a key role in outstanding schools that attract people helping the small businesses within their from other areas who want opportunities community thrive.” n for their kids. All of this is because of the www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 29

More than a Salon. We are Brave.

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Wanderings Design & Decór owner and creator Tiffany Siegmund says, “We are a unique upscale home decor store. We aren’t stuffy and we aren’t a shop you visit once or twice. We are the fun, imaginative shop you visit often because something new is always coming in.” Not just an exceptional shopping experience, Wanderings offers home decór, instructional classes, and design services.

“My decór has always been a little vintage, a little new and always eclectic. I pick pieces that speak to me. I have never followed the trends,” says Tiffany. “I am happy to help people decorate their homes in the way they love, not generic ‘rustic farmhouse’ or ‘coastal.’ We can work together to make your house a haven you will love for years to come.”

Tiffany and her husband James are a retired military family who chose Springfield as their hometown. After traveling up the east coast last year with the Vintage Market Days, they purchased a 1940’s building in downtown Springfield that they spent nine months remodeling to create Wanderings, which opened in July.

Home Decór “Home decorating is happening now because people are spending more time inside and they want to create a happy and inviting space.” Tiffany says changes can be simple and small.

“Bring in pictures of your rooms and I will be happy to help you choose items to refresh and add to your existing decor.”

Fall and winter means holiday entertaining, so check out the serving dishes with inspirational quotes, the upmarket trays, galvanized tin chargers and white terra cotta bowls and trays.

Unique frames, nested copper pots and stands, copper faceted glass vases, tear drop lantern sets and rustic hand carved mango wood candlesticks can highlight your table and mantle. Stay cozy with rugs, textile hangings, placemats, and tassel throw blankets.

Holiday Decor & Gifts Wanderings hosted “Jolly Santa’s Open House” and Tiffany looks forward to welcoming customers to the store over the holidays. “Come see our fabulous decorations, including huge nutcrackers, the large antique sled and all our festive trees.”

While you’re there, shop their curated collection of ornaments and decor, and find uniquely lovely gifts like Teacher Stem Vases, NC Willow Hill soaps, and handmade jewelry. And don’t forget family fun items such as Smore’s Sticks, Marshmallow Roasting Sticks, and the Tartan cookie plate set!

Tiffany says she prefers to support small businesses and tries to carry “Made in USA” merchandise as much as possible. She considers the vendors she works with as friends. This is all in keeping with Wanderings focus on the personal touch, as she says, “I am not a big box store! I am here to talk to you about your needs for your home.”

Come by and enjoy Wanderings Design & Decór’s holiday decorations and you just might go home with a few pieces of inspired home decor for your own cozy nest!

HOURS: Tues. - Sat.: 11am - 5pm • Sun. & Mon.: Closed

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F

Thankful

all—the leaves are turning, it is sometimes cooler, and the holidays are just around the corner. In the United States, Fall is the season of Thanksgiving. As we approach Thanksgiving, many of us will gather around a table and give thanks. I will be giving thanks for my daughter and granddaughter’s love, having met the man who is my soulmate, my new friends Lena, Sharon Hathaway Mary, Lanier and Michael. I will express appreciation for the tried and true friendships of Jan, Joyce, Kim, Diane and Alicia.

Then there is the gratitude for my life and its many blessings; my good health, the love of family and friends, the joy I receive from writing and coaching others on their life’s journey.

Giving thanks and having gratitude can have a profound impact on your life. When my mother passed away in June, I was able to use gratitude to help me through the grief. I was thankful I had the means to travel to see her. I was grateful I was able to spend a week with her before she passed away. I was grateful she was no longer in pain, and I was grateful for the relaxed COVID restrictions so I could be with her and my sister.

Gratitude is a noun defined as the quality of being thankful.

Thankful is an adjective defined as conscious of the benefit received. As you approach this season of Thanksgiving and into the December holidays, I am suggesting that this is the perfect time to start your gratitude practice.

A daily practice of gratitude is beneficial to our mental and physical health. If you are sad, take a moment to give thanks. It The Science of Gratitud e is almost impossible to simultaneously be sad and thankful. When we are appreciated, we feel closer to those who express appreciation. When we have gratitude for the basics of food, water and shelter, we feel safe. When we express gratitude for the love in our lives, we are moved by the connection to those we love. Of course, we know this in our gut but if you need science to validate this perception, here it is: https://ggsc.berkeley.edu/ images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Gratitude-FINAL.pdf A white paper prepared for the John Temple by the Greater ton Founda Good Science tion Center at UC Berkeley

May 2018

Written by

Summer Allen,

Ph.D.

ggsc.berkeley.e du greatergood.b erkeley.edu

I have had a practice of keeping a journal for most of my life.

Of course, I didn’t always include gratitude in my daily writing.

My first exposure to the concept was Sara Ban Breathnach’s Simple Abundance Journal. Now of course there are thousands of journals available. It is not necessary to purchase one of these journals. All you need is somewhere to write down what you appreciate today.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all. I appreciate this opportunity to share my perspective.

Sharon Hathaway Certified Health and Life Coach.

Sharon@habitgems.com

GUIDELINES FOR KEEPING A GRATITUDE JOURNAL 1. BE CONSISTENT. Make time in your morning or evening routine to write daily.

2. KEEP A HANDWRITTEN JOURNAL FOR THIS PRACTICE. There is much science to support writing as a connection we need to process and absorb information. (www. clearvuehealth.com/writingtyping) 3. HAVING TROUBLE GETTING STARTED? USE PROMPTS OR CATEGORIES. What is one thing I appreciate about, my spouse, my coworkers, the weather, my health etc.

4. USE “I AM” STATEMENTS. I am grateful for...

5. ONCE YOU ESTABLISH THIS PRACTICE, DELVE DEEPER. Feeling the experience and connecting with yourself is the goal.

6. BE POSITIVE. No matter how difficult your circumstances we can find something to appreciate.

Sharon Hathaway is a Certified Health and Life Coach specializing in weight loss, stress reduction and lifestyle changes. She 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, email Sharon@habitgems.com.

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 33

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More than an agent—

A NEIGHBOR What makes an insurance agent special? A passion for helping others and a commitment to the community he or she serves. That is how Ashley Boyette—State Farm agent views her role. She is a small business owner and State Farm agent serving all of Effingham County.

Ashley Boyette and her team understand that their clients need to find the best and most affordable insurance and financial services possible. Specializing in all types of insurance and financial planning, they treat every customer like they would treat their own families.

They let the needs of the customer guide the recommendations and advice they provide. They strive to protect families and help them plan for the future.

Ashley says, “I love this community because it is very welcoming. We are also made up of organizations that want to help others. Whether it is children’s sports programs or the Manna House, we all come together to help each other. I am very proud to be part of this great community.”

Ashley also loves spending time with her own family. She has two little boys and loves watching them learn karate. She also loves the outdoors and even doing yard work!

If you need insurance, financial planning advice or just a friendly face, stop by Ashley Boyette’s office. You will be glad you did.

912-826-1029 www.RinconGaInsurance.com www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 35

T

he official grand opening for Effingham County’s new state-ofthe-art recreation gym was held November 1. The gym is in the Clarence E. Morgan Central Recreation Complex in Springfield, Ga. A ribbon cutting event was held at the nearly 30,000 square foot building that houses almost 18,000 square feet of playing surface. Clarence E. Morgan, the Director of Effingham County Recreation and Parks Department, says, “This is something tremendous for the residents of Effingham county to enjoy for many years to come. The new gym is at the level of a new high school or college-level facility.

It’s not even close to what is standard in a county recreational park. I don’t think we could have comprehended what we were going to get until we saw it completed.”

The new gym has everything needed in a modern sports center. Designed

by Hussey Gay Bell, there are two fullcourt basketball courts, with synthetic vinyl flooring, which are divided by a curtain that can be raised and lowered electronically. The curtain can be taken away and the basketball courts can be transitioned into three volleyball courts.

There are two basketball goals on each side of the full courts so there are four baskets in each section or eight baskets all together. There is seating for 250-300 onlookers in each section.

Full locker and dressing room facilities are in the back of the gym. In addition, there is extra storage space, large bathrooms, a work area, and office space as well as new concession stands. In a nice touch, one section of the gym is highlighted in Effingham County High

School’s team color blue and the other section highlighted in South Effingham High School’s maroon.

The new gym facility is in addition to the six athletic fields, the Josh Reddick Stadium (an artificial-surfaced field built for specialneeds children), the ADA playground, and the batting cages already built and in use.

The entire complex sits on a 120-acre parcel of land owned by the county.

Funding through SPLOST The Industrial Development Authority issued bonds for the construction of the $4.5 million gym and the bonds were repaid through a voter-approved, penny-per-dollar Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), which is a special-purpose localoption sales tax used for funding capital outlay projects in Georgia. It is an optional 1% sales tax levied by any county for the purpose of funding the building of parks, roads, and other public facilities.

Mr. Morgan says, “SPLOST is why we have a great facility.” He also stresses that the county Board of Commissioners played a huge role in making this happen. Morgan says residents can “thank the Board of Commissioners because starting in 2014, past commissioners Wendell Kessler and Vera Jones, as well as commissioners Reggie Loper, Jamie DeLoach, Phil Kieffer and Forrest Floyd and then Roger Burdette and Wesley Corbitt in 2016-2018, did a lot to get it off the ground, along with the commissioners presently serving the county and County Manager Tim Callanan. Without them none of this would have happened.”

In addition to the SPLOST funds, several large donations contributed to the facility.

The Josh Reddick Stadium was funded by a $1 million donation from county native Josh Reddick, a professional baseball

player with the Houston Astros. The six scoreboards at the athletic fields and the four indoor scoreboards were donated by the Coca Cola Company and paper products and dispensers were donated by Georgia Pacific.

Residents Reactions “People say this was years coming, and they wish we had it years ago,” says Morgan, “but they are glad the grandkids have it now.”

Approximately 250 people attended the grand opening of the new gym and Morgan says Effingham residents are both proud and amazed at the high quality of the fields and the gym.

Clarence Morgan’s Legacy “I don’t know why or how it happened,” says Mr. Morgan regarding the facility carrying his name. “I see it, but I prefer to give recognition instead of receiving recognition.” Mr. Morgan has devoted decades of service to Effingham county and it is indeed a well-deserved honor.

But he says, “This complex was built for the recreational use for the people of Effingham county and any recognition of me takes a back seat to the work done here. I don’t love any praise, that’s not what’s important, the people here in Effingham county have a world class facility to use and be proud of­—that’s what’s important.”

A Facility for Everyone The Clarence E. Morgan Central Recreation Complex is being used by many residents already. Summer and spring baseball season were played at the fields, Monday through Friday for six weeks, and the complex has hosted district and state tournaments. The Effingham Navigators

GRAND OPENING of the RECREATIONAL GYM Story by Cindy Reid | Photos by Tonya Perry

36 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

(a special needs sports organization) play sports most Thursday nights—basketball in the winter, and in the spring and fall they will be outside playing baseball.

The numbers for recreational activities are up, and more are predicted to participate in recreation sports and activities in the spring. Morgan says socialization plays a big part in athletics and every family needs to consider what’s best for their children. Regarding Covid-19 issues he says, “If your heart says play, then let your child play. If your heart says not now, then let your child sit out a season.

You must be happy with your season, it doesn’t matter what I think, it matters what you as a family think.”

Fall sports have been extremely busy—the county doubled the numbers in volleyball and the basketball program participation is up 15-18%. Morgan says, “I think they saw the new gym and really wanted to use it and be part of it. Indoor sports participation is way up.”

always has an extremely high level of participants.”

Morgan attributes some of the population increase to the great local school system and of course the recreation department. “They are a couple of good reasons the county has grown—we produce a good program and contribute to the quality of life here. We built the athletic fields for the people of Effingham and we built the gym for the people of Effingham.”

The work continues. The complex started as a 10year project and is in year 5 now. Morgan said there are plans for four to five more baseball fields and four to six soccer/lacrosse fields. Always looking ahead, he says “Pickleball has been on my radar since the 90s,” so look for pickleball coming soon!

In the meantime, come out and visit the new gym and all the wonderful facilities at Effingham’s pride and joy, the Clarence E Morgan Complex. n

“The new gym is at the level of a new high school or college-level facility.

It’s not even close to what is standard in a county recreational park.”

He also notes that the county population is growing and that the increase in population means that they will have more teams to accommodate the new residents. But he says, “Our level of participation has always been extraordinarily strong. Of course, a great facility is nice, but Effingham County

EFFINGHAM REC SPORTS REGISTRATIONS

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BASEBALL & SOFTBALL

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REGISTRATION DATES: 12/27 – 1/18 LEAGUES: Boys 14 and under, Boys 12 and under; Girls 15 and under AGE CONTROL DATE Sept. 1, 2021

REGISTRATION DATES: 1/2 – 2/1 LEAGUES: Boys and girls ages 3 above: boys up to age 17 and under: girls up to age 16 and under; AGE CONTROL DATE Sept. 1, 2021

REGISTRATION DATES: 1/28 – 2/18 LEAGUES: Youth track, ages 7-14 AGE CONTROL DATE Dec. 31, 2021

Register online or in office. QUESTIONS? 912-754-6339 | effinghamrec.org www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 37

YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY FAMILY

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6014 Hwy. 21 South, Rincon

We carry Simply Southern merchandise in store.

Medical Concierge Services Available

PROVIDE THEM WITH A HOME GIVE TODAY LET US HELP WITH...

Transport to appointments, documentation of visit details/instructions, coordination of follow up/resources

912-655-3603

goldenhoursseniorservices.com | Open 24 hours 38 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Your gifts to the United Way Community Fund help families in need of a new place to live and thrive. Last year, United Way partnered with local churches in Effingham County to provide families with emergency aid.

Proudly Supported By:

uwce.org

“We are proud that many of our product lines are American Made!”

COASTAL FLOOR COVERING

Solid Reputation, New Innovations Coastal Floor Covering has been a stable name in this area for many years. Now that name has new owners with big plans.

Tony Sapp and Dean Hinely, the new owners of Coastal Floor Covering, are looking forward to building on the company’s solid reputation while expanding into innovative new territories. Tony says, “The company has a great reputation, and is known for its quality of materials and workmanship. We will continue the tradition of offering the same high quality products and superior customer service while bringing a few new services that will enhance the overall customer experience.”

One of the new expansions will be home remodeling, offering custom kitchens and bathrooms. Dean has a solid reputation of these services, and he and Tony are excited to offer that as a new facet of their business.

“This will enable our customers to have the opportunity to completely remodel their home and transform it into the home they always wanted. We will be in every phase of remodeling and new construction, from designing your new rooms to installing every phase of the new products,” adds Tony.

Tony and Dean are from this area. Both men grew up in Effingham County and still live here today. With Dean’s vast knowledge of construction and Tony’s business background, this duo has big plans of bringing Coastal Floor Covering into Effingham County.

Tony says, “We both have deep roots in our community and we are really excited to be able to bring this business to new heights in this area and be able to offer great products at great prices to our family and friends,” says Tony.

Coastal Floor Covering has been in the flooring business since 1971. When it comes to selecting the best flooring solution for a particular application, their experience will save you time and money. The professionals at Coastal Floor Covering will work with you to design the optimal look and practical choices for your home. Eve-rything they do is customized for every customer.

Choices available for flooring include: Laminate—an extremely popular choice, laminate has the distinct look of hardwood flooring and is affordable, resistant to stains, moisture and fading, and exceptionally durable.

Hardwood—Hardwood floors have an elegant high-end look. They bring warmth and beauty and never go out of style.

Carpet—Carpet is soft, warm, and comfortable, and it provides a huge number of texture and color choices.

Tile—tile floors can really enhance the overall look of your home and is usually the first choice for bathrooms, utility, and laundry rooms.

LVT & Vinyl—Luxury Vinyl Tile gives the look and feel of rich and natural materials while being very resilient. A good practical choice for many homes.

Professional Flooring Installation Coastal Floor Covering will handle the professional installation of your new flooring. Their professional staff will measure your floors and determine exactly how much flooring you need to buy. Whether it be carpet installation, tile flooring installation, hardwood flooring installation, luxury vinyl plank installation, or laminate floor installation, they’ve got you covered.

Give Coastal Floor Covering a call or stop by the showroom and see what they can do for your home!

(912) 925-1040 | www.coastalfloorcovering.com | 6011 Ogeechee Road, Savannah, GA www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 39

FREE Estimates

We Treat Your Yard Like Our Own. Grass Cutting, Hedge Trimming Mulching and Straw, Flowers Planted, Fertilizer Year-Round Service

ar St ed 5 at R

Beau Dossey, Owner 912.272.7973 | Beaudossey@gmail.com BeauDosseyRoofing.com

Thank you for reading your Community Magazine

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL LICENSED & INSURED

LON HARDEN, OWNER Harlawnservices@gmail.com 912.344.8976

401 N. Laurel Street Springfield, GA 40 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

Be sure to check our calendar of events at

EffinghamMagazine.com

912.407.0721

www.PaddlesCoffee.com

Please consider adopting!

EFFINGHAM COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER 912.754.2109 | www.ecas.petfinder.com

SPRINGFIELD

912.754.6444 504 North Laurel St Springfield, GA

RINCON

912-826-6008 100 Goshen Rd Rincon, GA

Locations with drive thrus in Springfield, Rincon, Pooler, Garden City, Savannah and Whitemarsh. Boutiques at Springfield & Savannah.

www.quickrxdrugs.com

912.754.6503

www.wrightwicks.com 105 N. Laurel St, Suite A, Springfield GA

WrightWicks @wrightwickscandleco www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 41

Recipes for this Holiday Season RUTH’S CHRIS SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE Makes 10 servings.

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS Crust: 1 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup flour 1 cup chopped pecans 1/3 cup butter, melted

STANDING RIB ROAST (PRIME RIB)

Sweet Potato Mixture: 3-4 large sweet potatoes (3 cups), cooked & mashed 1 cup sugar ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 eggs, well beaten 1/2 cup butter, melted,

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a medium-size casserole dish with nonstick spray. For the crust: Combine brown sugar, flour, nuts and butter in mixing bowl. Chill until ready to use. For sweet potato mixture: Combine sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, vanilla, eggs and butter in a large mixing bowl. Beat thoroughly for 3-4 minutes. Add a splash of milk if needed and mix. Pour into the 2 quart baking dish and bake for 25 minutes*. Sprinkle the top of the sweet potato mixture evenly with the crust mixture and return to oven for 10-20 minutes or until crumble is browned. Allow to set at least 30 minutes before serving. *NOTE: To make ahead, cook the sweet potato mixture but do not add the crust. Then cover the dish and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to complete the dish, reheat the potatoes for 10-20 minutes before adding the crust.

BAKED MAC & CHEESE Makes 6 servings.

INGREDIENTS Macaroni: 8 oz macaroni 1 tbsp unsalted butter (or 2 tsp oil) Sauce: 4 tbsp unsalted butter 1/3 cup all purpose flour 3 cups milk, warmed 2 cups fresh Gruyere shredded (substitute: cheddar or Colby) 1 cup shredded mozzarella 3/4 tsp salt

Topping: 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1/4 tsp salt Seasonings (optional): 1 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp mustard powder

INSTRUCTIONS PASTA: Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Add macaroni and cook per packet directions MINUS 1 minute. Drain, return pasta to pot, add butter and toss. Set aside to cool. TOPPING: Mix together topping. Set aside. SAUCE: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.

Add about 1 cup of the milk and whisk to dissolve the paste into the milk. Then add remaining milk and whisk until lump free. Mix in salt and seasonings. Cook, whisking regularly, for 5-8 minutes until thickened to a cream consistency. When the sauce coats the back of a wooden spoon, you should be able to draw a path with your finger. Remove from stove, add cheese and stir—cheese doesn’t need to melt. Adjust salt to taste.

ASSEMBLING: Pour sauce into pot with macaroni. Stir quickly, then pour back into a baking dish. Sprinkle with breadcrumb topping. Bake for 25 minutes or until top is light golden. Serve immediately.

42 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

5 lb standing rib roast/prime rib, bone in.

1 onion, unpeeled, quartered 1 head of garlic, unpeeled, halved horizontally 5 sprigs thyme 3 sprigs rosemary Red Wine Sauce: 1.5 cups beef broth/stock, low salt 2.5 cups dry red wine 1 tbsp cornflour/cornstarch

Garlic Herb Butter: 10 tbsp unsalted butter, softened 5 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried) 2 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried) 2 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS BEEF: Take beef out of the fridge 2-3 hours before cooking to bring to room temp. Pat dry with paper towel. Preheat oven to 460°F (standard) or 430°F (fan/convection) with shelf in the middle position. Mix garlic herb butter ingredients together. Place onion, garlic and herbs in a roasting pan. Spread a thin layer of butter on the underside of the beef (bone side). Place beef on onions, etc, butter side down. Spread most of the rest of the butter on the top and sides (reserve a bit for 1 baste). Roast 20 minutes. Remove, spread over remaining butter. Turn oven down to 250°F (s) or 212°F (f/c). Roast for 1.5 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the juices in the pan, until the internal temperature is 118°F in the center.

Start checking the internal temp early. Transfer beef to plate, cover loosely with foil and rest for 20-30 minutes. Internal temperature will rise to 125°F (medium rare). Slice beef and serve with sauce!

RED WINE SAUCE: Place skillet with onion and garlic left in it on the stove over high heat. Add wine and beef stock, rapidly simmer for 10 minutes until it reduces by 2/3 or so, down to 1.5 cups of liquid. Lower heat to medium. Mix cornflour with 2 tbsp water. Drizzle in half and stir. Sauce will thicken. Add more cornflour water mixture if you want it thicker. Strain into bowl, pour into sauce jug.

WATERGATE SALAD Makes 10 servings.

INGREDIENTS 3.4 oz pistachio Jell-O instant pudding mix 20 oz can crushed pineapple 1 cup miniature marshmallows 1/2 cup chopped nuts (your favorite) 8 oz container Cool Whip, thawed

INSTRUCTIONS Combine pudding mix, pineapple (with juice), marshmallows and nuts in a large bowl and mix well. Blend in Cool Whip and chill for 1 hour or until ready to serve.

Hospice Savannah

THRIFT SHOPPE

Where vintage is the new brand new

Tuesday-Friday: 10am–6pm Saturday: 9am–4pm

Hospice Savannah Thrift Shoppe @HospiceSavannahInc

912.629.1122 | Fortune Plaza, 331 US Highway 80 East, Pooler

My Sassy Sister

Consignment Boutique

(912) 295-5491

135 Goshen Rd. Ext. Suite 165 | Rincon, GA

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Give a DeliciousGift this Holiday Season

This holiday, share delicious food with your loved ones near and far with Brunswick stew, BBQ sauces, rubs, and gift boxes from the Rusty Pig BBQ. WE SHIP ANYWHERE IN THE USA! 600 N. Veterans Blvd Glennville, GA 30427

www.rustypigbbq.com 360 S. Columbia Ave Rincon, GA 31326 www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 43

‘Tis the Season for Scoops of Happiness The holidays are here: you plan the party, we’ll bring the ice cream cart!

Holiday gift pickup available at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport where we validate parking up to one hour.

Cele

brating Over 100 Year

Savan

s

leopoldsicecream.com 912.234.4442

na h, Georgia

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday!

Pediatric speech, occupational and physical therapists providing quality therapy to help children reach their full potential

912.988.1526 | chatterboxpeds.com 110 Pipemakers Circle, Suite 115, Pooler, 912.988.1526 | 2453G US Highway 17, Richmond Hill, 912.445.5612 44 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

A

sk anybody in Effingham County where to get your lawn equipment repaired—they will all tell you Gnann’s Fix-It Shop in Springfield.

Gnann’s Fix-It Shop has been repairing things for people in this community since 1964. The 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 have not shifted in the least in these past 55

Shop Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 5:30pm

years. Clarence and Charlie Gnann, sons of Bowers Gnann, both run the company 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.

Gnann’s Fix-It Shop 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 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, you will find it at Gnann’s Fix-It Shop.

912-754-3745

www.gnannsfixitshop.com

www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com | December/January 2021 45

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Please thank these advertisers for contributing to our community and making this publication possible. If you want to be part of this list, email Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com or call 912.295.5406.

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Animal Hospital at Rice Hope Farmers Home Furniture Mo’ Southern Coffee Rincon Recovery Resources, LLC 21 South Mini Storage.................................................38 Bank of Newington......................................................48 Brave Salon....................................................................30 Beau Dossey Roofing..................................................40 B&M Pool Spa & Patio.................................................32 Burns Outboard Service.............................................. 21 Carter’s Pharmacy, Inc................................................34 Chatterbox.....................................................................44 Coastal Floor Covering...............................................39 Coldwell Banker InterCoastal Realty.......................... 3 Dozier Law..................................................................... 16 Ear Nose & Throat Associates of Savannah............24 Effingham County Animal Shelter............................ 41 Effingham County Victim-Witness........................... 21 Assistance Program, Inc Effingham Health System............................................. 2 Effingham Recreation & Sports................................. 37 El Real Mexican Restaurant........................................32 Emily Pigman Realtor.................................................. 14 Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union..................... 9 Gnann’s Fix It Shop......................................................45 Golden Hour Senior Services, LLC...........................38

46 December/January 2021 | www.EFFINGHAMMAGAZINE.com

South Fork Provisions State Farm Cindy Clark Total Services Heating and Air

Habitat For Humanity.................................................... 8 Habitat Healing Transformations..............................33 Harlwan Yard Services.................................................40 Hospice Savannah Thrift Store..................................43 Leopold’s Ice Cream....................................................44 Lost Plantation Golf Club........................................... 16 Michelle Edwards, Coldwell Banker Realtor...........30 Miller’s Coin & Currency............................................. 21 My Sassy Sister Consignment Boutique..................43 Pineora Handi House.................................................. 16 Quick Rx Drugs............................................................. 41 Ricky Eilerman, Realtor...............................................47 Riggs Funeral Home.................................................... 14 Rincon Chevrolet......................................................... 14 Rusty Pig BBQ...............................................................43 Paddle’s Coffee.............................................................40 Pappy’s Pressure Washing.......................................... 16 S&P Automotive Specialist.........................................32 State Farm Agent, Ashley Boyette.............................35 State Farm Agent, Clay Clark..................................... 14 Street & Sons Tire and Auto Repair..........................20 South Fork Provisions..................................................24 Springfield Merchants Association...........................25 The Hive Repertory Theatre, LLC..............................34 Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home......... 16 The Salon at McCall, LLC............................................35 Towne Pharmacy..........................................................38 United Way of the Coastal Empire...........................38 VIP Office Furniture & Supplies.................................34 Yates-Astro Termite & Pest Control......................... 21 Wandering’s Design & Decor..................................... 31 Wiley’s Home Center................................................... 15 Wright Wicks Candle Company.................................. 4

RICKY EILERMAN REALTOR | rickysellsgeorgia.com

Realtor Ricky Eilerman has been serving end I want others since he was a teenager. As an Army to see all my Sergeant he was stationed at Ft. Stewart, Ga, and clients safely served at the Pentagon only days after 9/11. He planted in their continued to serve his country while deployed to new homes.”

Afghanistan and Iraq.

As a Certified Military Relocation Specialist, After military service Ricky became an EMT, Ricky uses his military experience and expertise Paramedic and Firefighter for Palm Coast Fire with VA loans to help his clients. He is also an Department in Florida before being recruited to active member of the Home Builders Association the Savannah Fire Department. and the Disabled American Veterans Still striving to serve families, in Network and has won several awards 2016 Ricky became a licensed and recognition for Volume and realtor. But two demanding Customer Service, including Best careers meant sacrificing of Google and Best of the time spent with his family, Coastal Empire. so in 2018 he became a fulltime realtor. It was the right Sherman & Hemstreet choice for him because, as Recently, Ricky joined he says, “Real estate is really the team at Sherman & about helping people”. And Hemstreet. He says, “They rickysellsga@gmail.com it has clearly been a great fit are one of the region’s because he has consistently leading real estate firms been recognized as being in and are also a hometown “I want my clients to the Top 5 % of Realtors in the realty company that cares county. have the home and the about each sale. I love their presence and what they life they want, and I will are doing in downtown Doing What’s Best for his Clients Being part of work hard every day to Springfield.

Ricky says, “My job is to Sherman and Hemstreet help you achieve your means I have the freedom to achieve what’s best for the client. It is their life, their help more people.” dreams.” money, their future. I will always work to get you the Family best deal because I don’t just Ricky says it was his wife accept no as an answer. Whether I am representing Ivy, who is the Branch Manager and Licensed the buyer or the seller,“no” is not the end all be all. I Mortgage Advisor at Angel Oak Home Loans, who will always work to get you more, from closing cost got him into real estate. They reside in Guyton with to add-ons.” their children Caden, Grace and Cody. They enjoy “Transparency. Honesty. Speed,” says Ricky. entertaining, gathering with friends, and playing “These are the three traits I am known for guitar around a fire. He says, “Effingham is great and these are the qualities I use to my clients for that lifestyle. I want my clients to have the advantage.” In addition to experienced buyers and home and the life they want, and I will work hard sellers, Ricky says, “I genuinely enjoy working with every day to help you achieve your dreams.” first time home buyers, especially families. In the