Pooler Magazine July/August 2021

VETERANS

ISSUE

HONORING OUR MILITARY, VETERANS & FIRST RESPONDERS July/August 2021

In every transformational journey, there comes a time where change necessitates a renewed perspective—a new visual identity that embodies the future of the Effingham Health System.

Quality Healthcare Close to Home.

Members of our MILITARY, VETERANS, and FIRST RESPONDERS have worked and sacrificed so much for our community and our country.

Pooler Magazine is proud to tell their stories on the following pages and to feature businesses and services that support our veterans. To our friends and neighbors who have served— THANK YOU!

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 3

MEET THE TEAM Tonya Perry is a married mother of

Katrice Williams is a married mother

Steve Prudhomme is a freelance writer

Laura Zielinski is a freelance graphic

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Jan Southern, DPA

Necol Ronda

Administrative Assistant

4

Tonya Perry

CEO/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com

Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com

Megan Ganci Sales Assistant/Marketing

Penny Redmond Distribution

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

Mabel & Carter Morale Officers

Your Community Website PoolerMagazine.com now includes

MORE community information, MORE events and happenings and MORE great stories about the people, places and happenings from Your Community Magazine.

PoolerMagazine.com THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS:

POOLER

CLAY COPELAND

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 5

IN THIS ISSUE

JULY/AUGUST 2021

10

22

16

35 ABOUT THE COVER The men, woman, and dog who grace our cover have each given so much to help those around them, whether through military service or as a first responder.

We are so proud to feature these brave individuals. Photos by Tonya Perry.

Features

10

Meet The Amazing Veterans And First Responders From Our Cover

Learn about the people and animal who graced our cover this issue

16

Getting Down to Business

22

32

{ 6

We want to hear from you!

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

}

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

35

Georgia Nonprofit Agency Helps Veterans Become Their Own Bosses

Cindy Kelley & The Tiny House Project Project Provides Small, Affordable Homes for Chronically Homeless Veterans With at Least One Disability

Still Providing a Lift Former Blackhawk Crew Chief Gives Back to Veterans’ Groups

South Georgia Pets Find Tips, Resources and Stories About the Furry Friends Who Fill Our Days with Love

Departments

7 47 48

Publisher’s Thoughts Pooler Events Pooler Happenings

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

VETERANS ISSUE JAN SOUTHERN CEO/Publisher Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com TONYA PERRY Operations Manager Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com LAURA ZIELINSKI Design NECOL RONDA Administrative Assistant MEGAN GANCI Sales Assistant/Marketing PENNY REDMOND Distribution

Pooler Magazine is proudly produced by:

135 Goshen Rd Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406 PoolerMagazine.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write to us and tell us what you think. Pooler 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 Pooler Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea or photo essay you would like to share, please submit ideas and material by emailing 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 the Pooler area will be considered.

Amidst the pandemic in 2020, Pooler Magazine decided to switch up our issues and publish our first ever Military/First Responder issue. We were all on edge but likely feeling very grateful for the men and women protecting us, healing us and helping us feel safe during uncertain times.

Now one year later, our hearts feel even more gratitude for our military, veterans and first responders. I don’t know about you, but I know my respect for our veterans grows daily as does my admiration for the medical community who have been through so much this past year and a half.

Jan Southern

Having respect for our military and veterans cannot be a partisan issue.

We owe them all so much. Honoring our veterans is very dear to my heart because it is also close to home. My husband Morris is a retired Air Force Thunderbird and I have many other veterans I call family. Whether on the battlefield or in the air, the sacrifices military members make are often difficult to fathom.

I am so pleased to share just a few of the stories and images of those in the Pooler community that serve or have served our country, who heal the sick, or who dedicate their careers to helping others. It is one of the reasons I am proud to bring you Pooler Magazine.

CEO/Publisher Pooler Magazine

FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

Check Out SOUTH GEORGIA PETS on p.35

CIRCULATION: Pooler 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 PoolerMagazine.com.

Views expressed in editorial or advertising do not imply endorsement by J. DelSUR Marketing Group.

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

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 7

NOW IN POOLER (ON BENTON BLVD, 1.5 MILES FROM TANGER OUTLETS)

Order online for curbside pick up!

®

The Ice Cream Stop “The Best Ice Cream Parlor In Your State” - USA TODAY, July 31, 2019

LOCATIONS: 13300 Highway 144, Richmond Hill, Ga. 912.727.3355 920 Morgans Corner Rd., G Pooler, Ga.

912.200.7914

912.450.1049

KIRKLANDSFLOORING.COM POOLER LOCATION: 1775 BENTON BLVD, SAVANNAH

www.theicecreamstop.com Pooler-Quarter-Page-Nov-Dec-2019.pdf

Want to learn more about Medicare plans?

1

10/8/19

Are You Ready for the Best Health of Your Life?

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

Doc Rick C

M

Y

Improve and achieve a better quality of life— without relying on drugs or surgery.

Find and maintain your best health using Natural Whole Body Solutions.

Holiday time is the best time for you to: • Eliminate gas, bloating and indigestion • Restore your digestive balance • Avoid holiday weight gain Call Advanced Alternative Medicine Center

Your True Healthcare Provider

CM

Listen to

MY

CY

CMY

“When Your Health Matters” Every Saturday 9-10pm WTKS 97.7FM & 1290AM

K

Serving the Savannah Metro Area 138 Canal Street Building 400 Suite 404 Pooler, GA 31322

912.667.3949 | www.magicinsurance.net 8

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

9:13 AM

Spineboy.com cell: 845.561.2225

RICKY & IVY EILERMAN: Here for Veterans Serving his country—and serving fellow veterans—is Ricky Eilerman’s passion and calling. After his service in the U.S. Army and as a first responder, Ricky chose a career in real estate, helping families buy and sell homes with integrity and honesty. Currently a realtor with Sherman & Hemstreet, Ricky was recently named to the Top 20 Under 40 list for Effingham County.

Ricky is a Certified Military Relocation Specialist and utilizes his military experiences and real estate expertise to help others achieve their home ownership dreams. He understands where veterans are coming from and what they have been through. He says not all jobs are easy and not all jobs fall into the stereotype of the movies when it comes to the military. “I was in the 3rd ID, SGT in the 293rd MP Co. We went to the Pentagon, Afghanistan, and Iraq. We supported Stryker and the 2nd ID.,” says Ricky. He says he saw families and close friends stressed and torn apart because serving and returning home are not easy or simple transitions.

Upon leaving military service, veterans can be inundated with offers from ‘big box’ companies. Locally owned real estate companies and mortgage offices can do more for veterans than those big brand name companies who don’t see the client as an individual. The VA loan process need not be intimidating when you have an experienced local realtor and mortgage broker working with you. Ricky says it’s really a myth that VA loans are difficult. If you are in a multiple offer situation, he will fight for the veteran because most VA buyers are given more leniency in underwriting and the default rate is lower when it comes to veterans repaying their mortgage. Even when it comes to a tough underwriting situation, VA will usually side with the veteran in order to make the loan work.

Teamwork Once a client chooses a home, Ricky works to achieve the best deal possible for the client because he doesn’t accept no as an answer. Together with his wife Ivy Eilerman, Branch Manager and Licensed Mortgage Advisor at Angel Oak Home Loans, they are able to help many clients close on a home when they have been told no elsewhere. Ivy, from a multi-generational Savannah family, has 20 years lending experience. Ivy says her team works with VA, FHA, USDA, Conventional, Jumbo, and even has in-house loan programs.

They reside in Guyton with their children Caden, Grace and Cody. Ivy is an accomplished singer and songwriter and they both enjoy entertaining, gathering with friends, and playing guitar around a fire.

Being there for veterans is more than real estate to Ricky. “I would like to say that even if it’s not real estate related, I am here to help any veteran,” He says, “PTSD is real, and if you are suffering or have questions about help, I can help steer you in the right direction as others have helped me do the same.

Reach out because I am here to help. “

Ivy Eilerman, Angel Oak Home Loans Branch Manager & Licensed Mortgage Advisor Office: 912.348.9481 Cell: 912.656.3524 ivy.eilerman@angeloakhomeloans.com

Ricky Eilerman Office: 912-754-0786 Cell: 912-657-2957 rickysellsga@gmail.com www.rickysellsgeorgia.com

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 9

GET TO KNOW THE AMAZING STARS Photos by Tonya Perry

MAURICE GILLIARD,

Owner/ Partner Chocolate Martini Bar, Pooler How long have you been in your industry? How long were you in the service?

I’ve been in my industry for 3 years (7 years total investment of time). I spent 12 years in the Army as a Black Hawk Helicopter Pilot What has your experience in the military meant to you personally and professionally?

My experience in the military meant service to my country and selfless sacrifice. I followed in the footsteps of my father (retired Army) as well as the lineage of my extended family as a whole—as we have many generations of service. Professionally, my military service gave me self-discipline and focus and a “never accept defeat” mentality that translated well to my entrepreneurial endeavors and remaining confident on a path that isn’t guaranteed.

Why do you love what you do?

I make people in our community happy! I share in the moments of celebration for others and their special occasions, I work among a staff of highly professional and skilled people and overall I provide the sweetest and tastiest experience in our city! I dreamed about days like these for so long—and through perseverance and God's grace it’s now a reality!

DAVID PENCE MAURICE GILLIARD JENNIFER GARCIA

10

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

FROM OUR COVER JENNIFER GARCIA,

Staff Registered Nurse, Surgical Services, SJCHS—Pooler Surgery Center How long have you been in your career?

I have been in nursing for 12 years and I’ve been with SJCHS for 3 years.

What has a career in nursing meant to you?

I take great pride in my nursing profession. It has given me the opportunity to help people in their most vulnerable times and unexpected moments. Everyday brings a new challenge, remains interesting, and empowering to know I help make a difference in people’s lives no matter what their circumstances may be.

DAVID PENCE,

Allstate Insurance - Pence Family Agency, Owner - Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming Tell us about your business and career.

I've been in the insurance industry 30 years and I purchased Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming this year. I love the insurance business because it allows me to serve my community and protect what matters most to them. I enjoy the pet industry because our pets bring us joy and enrich our lives. Pet owners are the happiest people I interact with everyday.

How did you serve your country?

I spent seven and a half years between active duty Air Force and then USAF Reserves. I am a Desert Shield/Desert Storm Vet, Sharjah UAE How has your military service impacted your career?

I come from a military family so it was natural for me to serve. The military taught me teamwork, the importance of doing your individual job and attention to detail. This concept relates well in leadership in the civilian community. When all of us do our collective part to make our community or company better, we succeed as a whole. Great teams are built from enthusiastic and engaged people.

SD POPPY FLANDERS

D

D

Proud service dog to Dad and handler Christopher Nock, 22 years in US Army. Poppy is affiliated through is SD Gunner Fund (see article p. 40) Do you like your job, Poppy?

My experience in the service dog industry, providing the necessary duties for my human Dad gives me great joy. I know that I'm a comfort to him knowing that I always have his back.

I pick up all the things he drops and I bring him things that he needs.

POPPY FLANDERS

I alert him to take his medications when he needs it, and to redirect him when he can't focus properly.

I'm his best friend and I am with him 24/7.

I love what I do because I know I'm making my Dad's life better and allow him to do things he wouldn’t do otherwise.

We are an inseparable team! www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 11

ALIGNMENT

SPECIAL

90

$

Veteran-Owned, USA Proud.

Professional Cleaning Services Residential/Commercial Serving Bryan, Chatham & Effingham Counties

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Specializing in custom vehicle alignments, starting at $120.

www.streetsandsonstireandauto.com 912.349.6594 | 5555 Export Blvd, Savannah, GA

Munchies by Moe Joe was started by Dawn and David Kirchinger to help their beloved dog Moe Joe. Dawn says, “Moe Joe kept breaking out into hives. After having skin tests done, we learned Moe Joe had a lot of severe allergies, including artificial color, Florida grass, beef, dairy, rice, and white potatoes.

Dog food without any of these ingredients was difficult to find and treats without fillers was even harder.”

After extensive research Dawn decided to create her own. “I tried and discarded many ideas,” she says, “and finally created our own winning recipe.”

Munchies by Moe Joe are 100% all natural dog treats with absolutely no artificial colors or flavors.

C.B.O (Chief Baking Officer) Dawn works closely with her two trusty canine companions—Official Taste Tester Moe Joe and Editor in Cheese Savannah—to create and develop new products. “Both are helping me out by sleeping on the couch

(727) 642-1646 munchiesbymoejoe.com 12

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

(912) 441-8679 buenoscleaningservices.com @buenoscleaningservice

and keeping me company” she said recently, “They are always on the job!”

Helping find happy homes for rescue dogs is also very important to Munchies by Moe Joe. They donate 10% of their profits to rescue organizations and feature shelters and adoptable dogs on their website on a rotating basis. Their products Susie’s Hope (Gluten Free), Buster’s Bacon & Cheese, Charlie’s Fruit Bowl and Savannah Rock Star are all named after rescue dogs who have found a home and a new life.

One of the most popular products is the Radar’s WoofLCake —a waffle-like treat. Made especially for those pets who like something crunchy and time consuming that also helps with teeth cleaning, it is easily broken into four quarters so you can save some for later. This product has been registered and now carries the Patent Pending seal. It is available in several (always all natural) flavors, including Radar’s Honey Bacon and Radar’s Peanut Butter and Strawberry. There is even a new flavor: WoofLCake Dice’s ChickN WoofLCake!

All their products are sold on their website and in 22 local retailers in Georgia and South Carolina.

@munchiesbymoejoe @munchiesbymoejoesav

i9sports.com i9sports.com

i9sports.com ONLINE AT: i9sports.com

i9sports.com

Register Early!

SIGN UP ONLINE AT:

AGE-APPROPRIATE PROGRAMS THAT ARE FUN FOR KIDS & CONVENIENT FOR PARENTS!

OR CALL:

FALL

The Way Youth Sports Should Be

®

• Organized programs, ages 3-16!

• Age appropriate instruction!

i9sports.com

912-220-2719

NOW

REGISTER DEADLINE: DEC/00/17

• All skill levels welcome! No tryouts!

• Trained officials at every game!

DEADLINE: JUN/18/21

• Sportsmanship lessons taught each week!

• Flag Football, Basketball, Soccer, T-Ball Now!

It's more fun with friends!

• No fundraisers!

After you register, be sure to invite your friends to sign up too!

Summer Season Begins

Make a buddy request to be on the same team!

JUL/17/21

Call or text for PROMO CODES available!

FOLLOW THE FUN: /i9sports.comIS416

Sign ups are open in Chatham, Bryan, and Effingham Counties!

/i9sports416

FALL FALL

Let’s Play Ball! Programs Starting: Save the date! Or Sign Up Now!

® THE WAY YOUTH SPORTS SHOULD BE®

SEP/18/2021

Discounts for military, first responders, healthcare providers, and multi-child registrations!

Each location independently owned and operated.

THE WAY YOUTH SPORTS SHOULD BE®®

Each location independently owned and operated.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 13

STAY TUNED FOR A NEW PODCAST!

The It's ALL Marketing podcast will be hosted by J. DelSUR Marketing Group. Join us as we chat with business owners, managers and entrepreneurs about the exciting and sometimes challenging issues in owning and operating a small business. In each episode we also offer listeners the best in business and marketing tips and strategies to help them grow their own businesses.

(912) 441-8679

PrettyPassionB.com buenoscleaningservices.com (843) 636-8920 | 105@buenoscleaningservice Read St, Pooler GA

Grow Your Legacy with Great Oaks Bank Meet Katharine Miller

Mortgage Loan Originator at our Savannah Quarters office kmiller@greatoaks.bank | 912-450-6124 Like the great oaks that grace our landscape, Great Oaks Bank has deep roots in the communities we serve. We provide warm, friendly, responsive customer service, banking products designed to meet the needs of small businesses and families, and true relationship banking supported by best-in-class technology. Call or stop by our Savannah Quarters office to discover what authentic community banking is all about.

NMLSR#512258 MLO#1375699

14

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

GreatOaks.Bank | 2100 Pooler Parkway, Savannah GA 31322

DOWN HOME CROSSFIT DOWN HOME CROSSFIT is the fitness home to people who welcome the intensity, the energy, the vitality, the reward associated with CrossFit training, which includes many military veterans and first responders— individuals who understand, first-hand, the benefits of the program. Below are two of their stories.

COACHING CROSSFIT HELPS A VETERAN GIVE BACK

FIREFIGHTER FINDS COMMUNITY AT DOWN HOME

Mike Brown, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, has been a faithful member of Down Home Crossfit for about six years and has coached there for five years. The Marine veteran knows that the rigorous CrossFit training itself “goes hand-in-hand with military service needs.” Mike feels that the strengths needed to prevail in his workouts are similar to what was needed to succeed as a Marine—the relentless drive, determination, and overall physical and mental stamina.

“I wouldn’t be the person I am today without Down Home.

It’s good training for uncomfortable situations, wherein lies the biggest growth—in the discomfort. You get through it, and at the end, you’ve accomplished something monumental. There is a correlation—a shared intensity and need for flexibility and continuous improvement,” he said.

Mike has been honored to coach at Down Home, allowing him to share the benefits of CrossFit with others.

“For me, it’s the opportunity to give back,” he commented.

Mike has consistently supported several charitable events while at Down Home Crossfit, including the Murph Event—a highly intense workout, usually done on Memorial Day, in honor of Lieutenant Michael Murphy, a U.S. Navy Seal who was killed by Taliban fighters while on a mission in Afghanistan.

This Memorial Day, more than 100 people came to Down Home Crossfit to participate.

Mike is proud to be a part of his thriving Down Home community. “The relationships and bonds you make last a long time. We’ve grown into a family more than anything,” he stated.

Cameron Conner, Fire Apparatus Operator (FAO) with Pooler Fire-Rescue, has been part of Down Home for three years while coaching CrossFit there for a year. Cameron assists in the training of Pooler Fire-Rescue’s new recruits, allowing him to determine their physical aptitude. He, too, helps orchestrate workouts for his regular shift, promoting health and fitness throughout his team.

“I feel good. CrossFit has become part of my day; it gets my day started right. With our line of work, it’s really important that we stay healthy and active.”

CrossFit is a comprehensive fitness plan, encompassing strengthening, flexibility, and cardio workouts.

“Cardiac issues are the number one thing that’s killing firefighters, so CrossFit is a hot topic with firefighters right now,” Cameron said. And CrossFit is gaining popularity in the department. “We’re trending in that direction. We’re getting ourselves in a place where we’re not compromised, and we’re staying healthy,” he added.

Cameron has also participated in various charitable causes throughout the years. One dear to him is the 200 Club.

“It’s the gold standard for first responders, supporting families of fallen first responders. I’ve seen its impact on the local level,” he said. The fund has supported many families, covering expenses associated with mortgages or even college tuitions.

Cameron knows that the Down Home CrossFit team plays a vital role in his life. “It’s a great community. It’s like a family,” he said.

912.667.0554

DownHomeCrossfit.com 118 Pipemakers Circle, Suite 102, Pooler GA

TRY A FREE CLASS WHEN YOU MENTION THIS ARTICLE

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 15

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS Georgia Nonprofit Agency Helps Veterans Become Their Own Bosses

By Stephen Prudhomme

O

stensibly, veterans make great business owners, possessing qualities such as leadership, discipline, performance under pressure, willingness to sacrifice and working as a team. Due to various economic and social challenges, however, the number of veteran-owned businesses has dropped dramatically in the past 20 years.

In Georgia, a nonprofit agency— Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC)—is helping veterans become their own bosses and doing its part to, perhaps, return the country to the halcyon days of post World War II for veteran-owned businesses.

Fresh off a winning campaign, World War II veterans returned home and eventually made up nearly half of the nation’s business owners. Veterans from Sept. 11, 2001 to the present, numbering some 3.6 million, own only 4.5 percent of the country’s businesses. The precipitous decline is attributed to drastic changes in the economy and the loss of manufacturing jobs that previously served as a bridge between the military and civilian sectors; fewer resources, such as the World War II GI Bill that provided access to low-interest loans; and, due to the lack of veteran owned businesses, fewer employment and networking opportunities.

Enter the Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center, which was established by the state to help veterans and their families through career counseling, educational coaching, and workforce training. Funded by the state, it’s the only one of its kind in the country and attracts students worldwide and officials from across the country interested in opening a similar facility in their home states.

The VECTR Center’s services include helping to translate military and civilian transcripts toward certificates, diplomas and degrees and offering accelerated training programs, via Central Georgia Technical College, in high-demand careers at little or no cost for Georgia residents or those transitioning from active duty.

Three years ago, VBOC for Georgia and South Carolina opened in the Georgia VECTR Center and provides one-on-one counseling, start-up assistance and Small Business

Boots To Business Success Stories Army Veteran Relizes Dream of Private Chef Business Among those who have benefited from the veterans’ programs in Warner Robins is Scottie Johnson. A 27-year Army veteran who served as a cannon crew member in a field artillery unit and had five deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and Bosnia, Johnson is an award-winning chef and author who has a private chef business—Blessed and Highly Flavored.

A key ingredient in Johnson’s recipe for success was the Boots to Business program.

16

“The class helped me figure out my product services cost and how to make it valuable in the market,” said the Warner Robins resident. “If it’s not of value, it will not sell. I learned that business ownership carries a lot of responsibility and hard work. Since there are many other similar type businesses out there, you have to set yourself apart while at the same time giving people who you are—a brand.”

Retired Marine Opens Community Art Studio Keisha Renee Dennis is an artist and owner of K Dennis Art Studio in Fort Valley, Ga. She served on active duty in the Marines from 2004 to 2015 and in the reserves from 2015 to 2018. During her last tour she worked as administrative chief and

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

legal chief for the 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, Ca. Although she had talent, Renee Dennis didn’t truly pursue art until 2016, when she and her children painted flowers for Mother’s Day. Soon, the neighborhood children got involved with creating themed paintings for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, and the idea to open a community art studio was born.

Calling on her service ties, Renee Dennis took the Boots to Business program in 2018 and said it helped make her art studio a success.

Administration (SBA) resource partner referrals for veterans seeking to get down to the business of entrepreneurship.

Boots to Business The director of the VBOC is Tim Craig, who retired from the Air Force following a 20-year career in project management and personnel administration. Craig heads up a four-person team that visits 14 military installations in Georgia and South Carolina on a periodic basis to teach the SBA’s Boots to Business program—free, two-day classes on business ownership.

The classes are divided into eight modules: 1. Military skills and how they can be applied in the civilian sector 2. The business idea and its demand and viability 3. Marketing and working with, among others, government contractors 4. Profit margins 5. Legal issues and the need to set up a business the right way by employing a banker, accountant, insurance agent and lawyer 6. Finances, highlighting that 60 to 70 percent of the funding comes from the business owner 7. Putting a business plan on paper 8. Calling on partners and friends to provide support in making the business successful

“I feel like I gained a deeper understanding on how the whole entrepreneurial system worked,” Renee Dennis said. “At first I thought it meant doing a lot of things on your own to get started, but the Boots to Business’ explanation of the BAIL team, I think, is what has stuck with me the most.

Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Veteran Realizes Dream of Owning his Own Food Business Hank Howard also discovered his meal ticket through the veterans’ center. A threeyear Army veteran, Howard worked as a civil servant and contractor after leaving the military in 1977. In the meantime, he said he harbored the dream of owning his own food business. When a friend suggested he take the Boots to Business course at VBOC in the fall of 2019, Howard saw an opportunity to fulfill his longtime ambition.

For the past year or so, due to the pandemic, the classes were virtual.

Starting in July, they’ll go back to holding the classes in person. For individuals who don’t have access to a military base, they can take Reboot classes at various locations, one of which is at the VBOC in Warner Robins.

“We have quite a few individuals who want to start businesses,” Craig said.

“We’ve had well over 700 calls this year.

We help them understand the resources at their disposal and not grasp at straws. We want them to know they’re not alone and they have support.”

Through the Central Technical College of Georgia, which serves as administrative host for the Georgia VETRC and has 11 locations in central Georgia, veterans can take a number of accelerated training programs that include HVAC, CDL, welding, electrical construction, industrial management, and cybersecurity.

A Passion for Serving and Helping Craig’s interest in the military started in high school, after some friends joined the Army, Navy and Marines. Six months after graduation, he decided to take a different flight path from his buddies and signed up with the Air Force.

“I didn’t like wearing green, I didn’t want to be on a ship, and at six-three, 140 pounds didn’t have the body to be in the Marines,” Craig said. “The Air Force was a great experience. I made the right choice.”

The move paid off last year with Howard opening up his restaurant at a flea market in Macon and bringing in a food truck. He credits the classes at the vet center as being key to opening his own business.

“They presented some good information I needed for having the right people in my corner—insurance agent, banker, lawyer —people I didn’t think about,” Howard said. “Tim (Craig) followed up with me after I took the classes and attended my grand opening. That made me feel good that he took an interest in my business and wanted to help me.”

Through the VBOC program, Howard learned not only about marketing, funding and devising a business plan, but he also received confirmation that he was on the right track toward business ownership and just needed a support system that’s geared to helping veterans become successful entrepreneurs.

Following retirement from the Air Force in 2003, Craig pursued a number of vocations including owning a real estate company with his wife, mortgage financing, teaching adult education at the Technical College System of Georgia, and working as a substitute teacher in the Houston County School System.

In 2018, he applied for his current position and was subsequently hired.

“I needed a change from teaching,” Craig said. “This job allows me to use my military, project manager and teaching skills. They’re all being employed now.”

Just as the Air Force was a good choice, so, too, was the job of center director.

“I have a passion for serving and helping,” Craig said. “I want to help veterans identify and grow their passion.

My team and I have the same goal—service to veterans and their spouses.” n

info@gavectr.org www.gavectr.org/vboc

“They were really helpful,” Howard said. “They gave me other resources to tap into. It’s just a good program that I recommend to veterans who want to own their own business.”

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 17

POOLER

748-5776

P

www.PoolerRec.com Join Us On Facebook

poolerrecreation@pooler-ga.gov

Seeking Volunteers For Coaching

Recreation Department & Leisure Services

POOLER RECREATION COMPLEX 200 PRESTON STOKES DRIVE

5 Baseball Fields 2 Soccer/Football Fields Batting Cages and Playground

SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER (Sangrena Woods)

Daily Activities

Quilting • Billiards Room • Line Dancing • Jewelry Classes • Crafts • Day Trips • Meals • Exercise Transportation Provided If Necessary • Games •

• Baseball 5-14 • Softball 7-12 • T-Ball (Girls 4-6, Boys 4) • Spring Soccer 4-12 • Fall Soccer 4-12 • Youth Basketball 5-13 • Summer Basketball 9-13 • Adult Sports • Tumbling 3+ $45 • Dance 3+ $50/$60

POOLER PARK

900 SOUTH • ROGERS STREET • Administrative Office • Gymnasium • 5 Ball Diamonds • Batting Cages • Playgrounds • Outside Basketball

Community Center

1400 square foot dining area, kitchen with complete stoves, ample room for outdoor activities, $100 per day rental.

Seeking Sponsorships For Our Youth Teams

Saturday September 18, 2021 - 12:00pm-5:00pm Join us for Food, Fun & Festivities, Our Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, and Health & Wellness Sessions.

Medical Pedicures

Whole body Cryotherapy

InfraRed Therapy

Lymphatic Massage

Ozone Steam Sauna

www.mybellis.com 1024 US Hwy 80, Ste 206, Pooler, GA 31322 18

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

Here in Effingham, we take relaxation to a new level. From brim, crappie and bass fishing on the Savannah and Ogeechee rivers, to birdwatching, hiking, and boating, share the freedom of a carefree day in nature. Connect to your best self and your best friends, embraced by natural beauty, compelling history, and warm southern hospitality.

All just an easy drive from home.

While you’re here, explore our inviting downtown areas, wineries, and farms. Effingham County has one-of-a-kind shops, and restaurants to suit any taste.

As always, we welcome you as one of our own to ensure your experience

feels like home.

(912) 754-3301 www.EffinghamCounty.com

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 19

WE DELIVER TO

Now accepting new patients • Botox therapy available

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY 912.499.1133 • iheartdental.com 135 Goshen Rd Ext, Suite 205, Rincon, GA

warehouse | industrial | office

(912) 355-5966 | www.horizonstaffing.com 7722 Waters Avenue | Savannah, GA 31406

TRINITY UNITED METHODIST PRESCHOOL Enrolling for the 2021-22 School Year

Rick Spinks

912-748-4410

www.trinitypooler.org/preschool 320 Benton Dr., Pooler, GA 31322

912-352-1271 geico.com/savannah-spinks 7601 Waters Avenue Savannah

Need Help Finding Insurance?

Individuals | Self-Employed | Business Owners | Families

Lucie Garner,

Licensed Health Insurance Agent

(805) 501-4151

Lucie.Garner@ushadvisors.com www.ushagent.com/luciegarner Insurance underwritten by Freedom Life Insurance Company of America.

All products not available in all states.

Exclusions and limitations apply.

Please see a licensed agent for details.

20

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

Limitations apply. See geico.com for more details. GEICO & affiliates. Washington, DC 20076 © 2020 GEICO

Wayne Chambers Art Show August 15-21 at the Salon de Baile, Pooler GA. Opening Reception: August 15 from 1:00-6:00pm Savannah artist Wayne Chambers is having a new gallery show in August. “It’s a one man show and will run for a week, with an opening artist’s reception on the first day,” Wayne says.

He adds that the show came about because, “I have been painting more than ever—and that’s after 59 years of painting!”

The show will feature new work and classic favorites, originals, prints, cards, and both framed and unframed art. At the show will be paintings of Savannah homes, cityscapes, city garden squares, Savannah penthouse views and the outlying marshes. Wayne says, “I just love Savannah because everywhere I look is a painting.”

Wayne’s other great love is the tropics, from Key West through the Caribbean. Art depicting tropical motifs will be available at the show, including his latest painting of a Caribbean jungle scene.

He says, “I will also have several paintings of birds—Great Egret, toucans, cranes, parrots, flamingos and even a peacock.”

Historical Homes Well known for his painting of the famous Mercer House, (from the book and movie “The Garden of Good and Evil”), Wayne says it came about in a serendipitous way. “In 2000 I came to Savannah on a three week visit and painted many houses and scenes. On my last day I was painting the Mercer House from the street, met the owners and was fortunate enough to land a contract with them. I have since sold over 500 lithographs of the Mercer house all over the USA and Europe, even in Malaysia.”

Many of Wayne’s paintings depict the iconic houses of Savannah—homes he has been painting for many years. “I was commissioned to design and paint the ‘Tour of Homes’ program cover for 12 years” he says. Artwork available at the show will include depictions of the Critz House, the Hamilton Turner House, the Keho House, the Pink House, the Ducan House and the Owen Thomas Home.

Virginia to Savannah Wayne was born and raised in Crewe, VA, and had a 31-year career with Phillip Morris in Richmond, VA. After retirement, he moved to Savannah and became a full time artist, devoting himself to painting. As a young boy drawing came easily to him and he remembers drawing in the fields and forest on his family’s small tobacco farm. He has studied art at the New York Arts Students League and VA Commonwealth University, and he himself has taught art through the Georgia Southern Continuing Education program, as well as privately.

Wayne says, “I have a passion for teaching painting. I have taught people who are complete novices, and with instruction they totally bloom.” Currently he offers private group and individual lessons. Interested in all the arts, Wayne is an accomplished ballroom dancer and also plays the piano. He is looking forward to launching a new venture as an entertainer in the Savannah area while continuing to paint “this majestic city.”

www.chambersartist.com |

/WayneChambersArt | 912-644-9292 www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 21

Cindy Kelley & The Tiny House Project:

A FOUNDATION

for a Stable Life Story by Katrice Williams | Photos by Tonya Perry

22

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

W

hen traveling in the vicinity of 75 Dundee Street in Savannah, passers-by can see quite a “charming little housing community” with a look all its own. The community currently consists of a village of 23 tiny houses—homes provided for some of the most deserving of citizens—U.S. military veterans. The unique village is part of the Tiny House Project: “Georgia’s effort to reduce veteran homelessness by providing a community of permanent, affordable, tiny homes.”

Cindy Kelley, executive director of Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless (CSAH), explained, “The project provides small, affordable homes for people in desperate need of them. This is the first Tiny Homes Project approved in the state of Georgia. This particular project serves chronically homeless veterans with at least one disability.” The concept for the local project stems back to 2015.

Having a heart for service for most of her life, Cindy has served as the CSAH executive director for seven years. She could not be prouder of the project. She understands that homelessness is a terrible misfortune that has plagued a portion of the veteran community at alarming rates in this country for many years. It does not discriminate and is often not easily remedied. Cindy, though, has seen the world of good that is being done through the Tiny House Project.

Too often, a comfortable chair to relax in after an exhausting day or just the privilege of getting a good night’s sleep can be taken for granted. For these homeless veterans, a place of privacy and solace is exactly what they need. “Vets can have a place to go in and just lock the door. They value having their own place. It is essential to their quality of life,” Cindy said.

The Savannah community consists of four Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant units that are 144 sq. ft., while the remaining units are 128 sq. ft. Single residents are responsible for the low monthly rental fee of $240, which includes utilities. Couples pay $350 due to the difference in higher monthly utility usage. Even more, the community has a medical center and clubhouse, which includes washers and dryers; outdoor grills and picnic tables are also onsite. CSAH provides an array of health/wellness services and educational workshops to benefit their residents.

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 23

24

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

“

This is truly a communityfunded project—churches, individuals, civic groups—they made this success possible.

“

A Community For Veterans Many residents also appreciate being in a community made up of fellow veterans.

Whether socializing in the clubhouse while exchanging old military stories or just discovering all of the things they have in common, the village itself is a home all their own.

Cindy has even noticed that the village is now a home for a few furry friends; a few residents have welcomed in their pets—four dogs and one cat at present. Several of the veterans greatly value the extraordinary companionship that the animals provide.

“We offer a menu of optional services,” Cindy said. These include Bible studies, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, nutrition programs, and even financial management training. Also, each veteran receives the advantage of having ongoing case management services.

Marchese Construction is the building contractor for the homes. CSAH is diligently moving forward with the final phases of construction in the community, which includes 11 additional homes now and a final 12 homes being built by the early next year, though there is no exact timeline placed on the completion of the last 12 units.

“We are just moving to build the next village,” Cindy said. She is looking forward to wrapping up the project, making available even more homes to those who have gone without for so long.

Besides the construction company, a host of volunteers have helped make the Tiny House Project a success. Volunteers are especially helpful in areas like furniture and appliance collection, overall cleanup, and other small tasks. There is no task that is done that is insignificant to Cindy, and she is grateful for all that the volunteers do for the Tiny House Project.

A Community-Funded Project The Tiny House Project receives no government funding—generous donors have contributed to making it a tremendous success.

“This is truly a community-funded project—churches, individuals, civic groups—they made this success possible.

I would like to thank the donors. It would not have been possible without their gifts,” Cindy said.

Cindy also wholeheartedly appreciates the many gifts and talents exhibited by the team she has been privileged to work with. “I think our staff is really committed to serving the homeless population and cares a great deal about their work.

I feel really fortunate to have led an organization over these past seven years that has such a great staff.”

Moving Forward CSAH is currently working with the City of Savannah regarding an abandoned home project in which abandoned homes

may be purchased and renovated to provide yet another form of housing for homeless residents who will be able to rent them. The first home of the project—a twostory house that needs significant work—is near the Tiny House community.

“I’m really excited about the project,” Cindy said, as she and her team welcome the challenge and are looking forward to the results.

While the Tiny House Project is dear to Cindy, she plans to retire in December.

However, she knows the organization will be left in good hands. She will continue to assist with the housing arena for a while to help make the transition as smooth as possible for all involved.

Cindy plans to do nonprofit consulting, an area she has over 20 years of experience in. “I really care about the nonprofit community. A high-functioning nonprofit community—organizations that are strong and nimble with the ability to adjust to changing times—benefits those who they serve so much,” she said. n

(612) 703-7716 homelessauthority.org

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 25

West Chatham Chapel

THE PREMIER 24/7 FITNESS CENTER IN POOLER

901 Highway 80 West, Pooler

(912) 748-2444

www.stricklandandsonsfuneralhome.com

YOGA MEMBERSHIPS Unlimited Membership $75 • 10 Classes $45 • Day Pass $15

912.349.7115 | Follow Us: /DiamondCCFC www.diamondcarpetandtextileservices.com

Sofitgympooler.com | 912.348.2014 1212 US Highway 80 E, Pooler Ga.

Melissa Simpson Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS and GRMA #681488

A Freight Broker You Can Trust.

Providing transportation solutions for moving commodities from destination A to destination B, Kelley & Kelley is proud to be a certified Woman–Owned Business.

TEE KELLEY Freight Broker, CEO

800-606-0082 kelleyandkelleylogistics.com

26

SERVICES INCLUDE: • Dry Van • Drayage • Flatbed • Reefer 135 Goshen Road Ext, Suite 203C, Rincon GA 31326

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

912.659.9987 | CloseWithMelissa.com

Thank you for reading Your Community Magazine

Melissa McBride Stille of Still-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC

“I work for my clients, not the insurance company.”

When it comes to her work, Melissa McBride Stille would rather talk about helping clients than herself. She has been an independent insurance agent for three years and has been in the health insurance industry for 13 years with specific expertise in Medicare. As a health insurance broker, she is passionate about matching her clients with the best health care options available. She says, “I love my job and I love helping people!”

It all started when she was working for a company and realized her position was essentially a dead end job. “I had two young children so when I had the opportunity to be Regional Broker Manager for Coventry Healthcare, I went for it,” she said. Melissa got the job but had to get her Georgia Life and Health License. “I absolutely had to pass so I studied hard and passed with flying colors. Next, I had to learn the business.” Her job was to recruit and train agents and keep them compliant within the many regulations.

“I was very successful, and I enjoyed my work. In 2017, I remarried and traveling for my work had become a challenge. Supervising agents spread across 23 counties in Georgia meant I was on the road a lot.” When the opportunity became available to manage the health department at DeWitt Insurance, Melissa was excited for the new chapter.

Melissa made the decision to purchase the agency’s health department in 2019 and she became the sole proprietor of Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage in 2020.

“DeWitt Insurance Agency has been in business since 1956. People in the community know the name, so I incorporated it into my agency name to keep the continuity within the community. I was very fortunate to have DeWayne Ladner, the owner of the agency, mentor me as he had been mentored by Lenda DeWitt (Crosby), when he purchased the agency in 2002.”

Customer Service Customer service is a main focus for the agency. Melissa doesn't want her clients to feel as if they are just a number. “I care about each and every one of them and I do a review of everyone’s health policies every year because there are so many changes annually,” she says. She gives every client her cell number—it is even in all of her advertising so that every client, even future clients, can feel comfortable reaching out to her. She says, “I work for my clients, not the insurance company.”

“Saving money is very important to most clients so I present multiple options enabling them to make educated decisions.” As a specialist in Medicare, Melissa works with Medicare recipients over and under 65, including those who have Medicare through Social Security Disability and also with people utilizing Affordable Care Act Marketplace insurance, and some group insurances.

Client Daylon Barnard says, “Before working with Melissa, I was paying $1800-$2100 every 3 months for my insulin. Melissa took my medication list, shopped the available plans for me and found a plan that covered my insulin better. Now I pay less than $200 every 3 months.”

If you have a question regarding Medicare or other health insurance options, give Melissa a call!

Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC Cell (912) 239-7119 | www.StilleYourAgent.com Melissa@StilleYourAgent.com | 5877 Hwy 21 South, Rincon www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 27

28

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union is one of the oldest locally owned financial institutions in the Savannah area. Their mission is making a positive difference for their members and the communities they serve. As a not-for-profit organization, they can—and do—put members first. They strive to maintain a one-on-one relationship with their members while providing them with a full line of financial resources. As stewards of our community, they work to promote and assist in its growth each and every day.

As we celebrate veterans in this issue of Pooler Magazine, we would like to introduce you to Tim Beeson, Vice President of Information Technology at Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union and a proud veteran of the United States Navy.

Growing up, Tim experienced living in many different parts of the country. He says, “My father was a very successful grocery warehouse distribution manager for Safeway Stores Inc. They transferred our family around the US about every five years. We lived in Washington State, Oklahoma, California, and Virginia. I graduated from high school in Chesterfield, Virginia.”

Tim joined the US Navy in 1980, and in addition to playing soccer for the Navy all over the world, he was a Legalman—the term for the Navy’s paralegals for military attorneys and judges. In his first two years as a Legalman, he performed paralegal duties, such as recording courts martial, administrative discharges, legal research, and assistance to commands in regard to legal administration.

One of his best experiences in the Navy was writing his first computer program. This made him realize how computers can improve our lives. This motivated Tim to change his career path to information technology. His military training and experience gave him a broad understanding of all areas of computer concepts. After his Naval career, Tim completed his Information Technology degree.

In 1989 he found his next passion working in the credit union industry.

He credits the Navy for fostering an environment of camaraderie that also carried over into his work in the private sector. Today, he is the Vice President of Information Technology at Georgia Heritage.

Tim says he would like people to know that Georgia Heritage FCU has been in existence for over 80 years and is financially strong and secure.

“Our mission is making a positive difference for our members and the communities we serve. We deploy smart and secure technology that helps provide excellent service to our members,” he says. “It’s a great place to work. Apply for employment and join our team!”

Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union is an Equal Housing Lender (NMLS ID# 446248).

Tim Beeson, Vice President of Information Technology at GHFCU.

LOCATIONS: Lathrop Branch & Main Office: 1085 West Lathrop Ave, Savannah Stephenson Branch: 200 Stephenson Ave., Suite 100, Savannah Pooler Branch: 102 Park Ave., Pooler Rincon Branch: 5745 Hwy 21 South, Rincon Georgetown Centre (ATM ONLY),: 1040 King George Blvd. Savannah

(912) 236-4400 | (800) 442-8877 | www.gaheritagefcu.org www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 29

Bundle up for savings

+ When you choose Allstate to protect what matters most, you get an expert agent who will make it easy for you to save. Like with bundling your insurance. It’s the simplest way for you to save time and money, while getting protection for the things that matter most.

Stop by or call today and let’s get you bundled up.

David Pence 912-961-9617

51 W. Fairmont Avenue, Suite 100 Savannah, GA 31406 davidpence@allstate.com

110 Pipemakers Circle, Ste 115 Pooler, GA 31322 2453 G Hwy 17 South Richmond Hill, GA 31324

How Muscle Strengthening Affects Fine Motor Skills There are several aspects of child development that many of us take for granted. Some children develop right on time as they should, where others seem to struggle to keep up.

Fine motor skills is a term we use to refer to the ability to make movements using the small muscles in our hands, wrists, fingers, feet, toes, lips and tongue. These skills are are required to master activities such as using scissors or pencils, building with lego or duplo blocks and even dressing (zippers, fasteners, buttons, tying shoes, etc) For children to have good fine motor control, they must have a good base of support. In occupational therapy, we often use the phrase “proximal stability for distal mobility.” This means that the larger joints and muscles must be stable to provide a good solid base for precise movements at the joints further away from the body like the hands and fingers.

For example, if you observe your child sticking their elbow out when coloring or cutting, this could be a sign of weakness in the shoulder girdle that is affecting their fine motor skills. Difficulties with shoulder stability may also be seen with problems with tying

shoes, manipulating small objects, using two hands during play, or handwriting difficulties.

Here are a few ways to help build strength at home to improve fine motor skills: • Do animal walks, wheelbarrow walks, pushing/pulling weighted objects, monkey bars, or chin ups/pull ups • Practice writing, coloring, or crafts on a vertical surface.

This allows the force of gravity to help strengthen shoulder muscles as well as improving wrist stability.

• Complete activities on your belly like watching a movie, reading, or playing games. This promotes weight bearing through the upper extremities and help develop strength.

• Tossing a balloon or beach ball and hitting it back either with hands or a racket.

Please contact Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy if you feel like your child is struggling at home or school to complete these tasks.

Our Occupational Therapists will evaluate your child and provide the necessary recommendations your child needs to succeed.

FOR MORE INFORMATION related to your child’s fine motor development, please check out our FREE developmental checklist using the QR code below

www.chatterboxpeds.com

912-988-1526 www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 31

STILL PROVIDING A LIFT

Former Blackhawk Crew Chief Gives Back to Veterans’ Groups Story by Stephen Prudhomme

32

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

A

s one of two crew chiefs on a Blackhawk flight during combat, Joe Higgins was charged with protecting the crew by manning the guns.

During peace times, he helped transport military leaders and VIPs. The Pooler resident left the Army 16 years ago, but he remains connected to the military through his involvement with a number of service organizations.

Higgins said he took fire on occasion and lost six friends after their aircraft went down during the battle of Karbala Gap. Higgins and his crew finally arrived at Baghdad airport and the first person they saw was TV anchor Ted Koppel, who was doing an interview. “It was crazy to see him there,” Higgins said.

Once American tanks secured the city, Higgins and his flight crew remained busy.

Along with resupplying the troops and flying leaders around, they dropped leaflets from the air that advised Iraqi citizens to stay indoors because the Americans had arrived and they weren’t there to hurt them.

Higgins said it was really hot in the day and cold at night. Though surrounded by danger, he said instincts replaced the fear once he boarded his aircraft and he discovered all his training had paid off.

“My No. 1 priority was the crew and two pilots,” Higgins said. “If I kept the two pilots alive, they would keep me alive.”

Military Career Higgins, 47, is a native of Chicago who joined the Army in 1993 right after graduating from high school.

“My grandfather served during World War II,” Higgins said. “He was a retired senator who was larger than life. I wanted to be just like him.”

Higgins said he scored pretty high on the military aptitude test and, following a suggestion from his recruiter, signed up to be a Blackhawk crew chief. and basketball teams his son played on in “I had never flown before,” Higgins middle school and high school as well as at said, “but it sounded like a cool job.”

Re-Entering Civilian Life the recreational level.

After training at Fort Eustis, VA, Nearly a year after his deployment had In 2016, with his family life going where he learned everything about the begun—having contributed to a successful well and working as a salesman for LKQ, Blackhawk as a maintainer, Higgins invasion,—Higgins received orders to Higgins attended an American Legion embarked on a flight odyssey that included return home. With almost 10 years in the barbecue in Thunderbolt. That led to deployments to Kuwait, Bosnia and Iraq.

Army, he decided not to reenlist. him joining Post 184 and subsequently As it turned out, Iraq would be his becoming an executive board last deployment and one of his most member and commander elect. challenging.

Higgins didn’t stop there. He is These organizations all share Higgins was sent to Kuwait the youngest ever elected chairman in August 2002 for a six-month the same thing—veterans who of the Veterans Council of Chatham deployment. Initially, he helped take County, serves as chaplain of VFW put on a uniform and fought for military commanders and celebrities Post 4392 and Sons of the American to different camps. On Christmas their country.It gives you the Legion Squadron 184, and is a Day, he recalled, his passengers were member of the Society of 40/8, 8th camaraderie back. I love it. taking part in a USO tour. All was Air Force Historical Society and the not peaceful and festive behind the Society of the 3rd Infantry Division. scenes, however. Higgins said he He also was named delegate for the noticed troop movement that included the “The last deployment really affected Veterans Council through the American arrival of the entire 3rd Infantry Division my son,” Higgins said. “I didn’t know how Legion. from Fort Stewart. many more times I’d be deployed. It was On Memorial Day, at the Museum of “You could see the buildup,” Higgins time to leave active duty.” the Mighty 8th Air Force Museum, he said.

Higgins made the smoothest of helped put up 26,000 American flags to The increase in military culminated transitions by getting a job as an Army honor those who died from the Mighty 8th with a push toward Baghdad that started contractor doing aircraft maintenance at and was one of four volunteers reading off March 20, 2003, one month after Higgins Hunter Army Airfield. “I was working on their names during a ceremony that lasted was slated to come back home. Instead of the same aircraft in the same hangar as four hours. returning to his home base of Hunter Army when I was in the Army,” Higgins said.

“These organizations all share the same Airfield and Alpha Company, 2-3 Aviation He also had the opportunity to make thing—veterans who put on a uniform and Regiment, Higgins and his crew—a day up for lost time with his son by coaching fought for their country,” Higgins said. after the start of the invasion—were his son’s football team at the Pooler “It gives you the camaraderie back. I love evacuating casualties, transporting injured Recreation Center but had to initially keep it. Although I’m dealing with PTSD from Iraqi citizens to hospitals, flying division his distance. “He’d have a panic attack what I saw and did, I’ve got all my limbs. I and brigade commanders around so they when he saw me,” Higgins said. “He had to enjoy leading the organizations and taking could coordinate troop movement and get used to me being around again.” them forward, providing veterans with a resupplying tank units with food, water The “reintegration with family” support system.” n and ammo. continued as Higgins coached football

“

“

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 33

Providing the Very Best in Pet Care!

• Stylish Essentials • Plush & Tough Toys • Collars & Leashes • Full-Service Grooming • Healthy Pet Foods • Gourmet Baked Treats

Locally & Veteran Owned Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Pooler

100 Blue Moon Xing, Pooler, GA 31322 • (912) 450-6600

South Georgia Pets Your Community Resource For Your Furry Friends

Front & Center: Medusa, 2; Back Row left to right: Zeus, 5, Apollo, 2, Kronos, 2, and Athena 4.

FROM THE EDITOR Can you believe it? We are already on our second Issue of South Georgia Pets. We bring you this special insert in every issue of Pooler Magazine and Effingham Magazine, sharing useful tips, resources and great pet stories to put a smile on your face.

And let’s face it, we also support pet rescues so maybe you will be inspired to adopt one of the deserving pets in the adoption section! Each week, I have the honor to go to Effingham Animal Shelter and take photos of the animals there so that they can be featured and hopefully find their forever homes.

We had a blast with this edition and took some really fun photos as well. We had the opportunity to photograph some friendly giants, including our favorite service dog from iHeart Dental—Apollo. Apollo is one of five bulldogs owned

by Dr. Misty Seale and her husband Erich Perez—Zues & Athena, the mom and dad to Medusa, Kronos and of course, Apollo. We had an amazing, silly, crazy time trying to photograph all these beauties at once. Check out some of our funny outtakes (below) and the cover.

We hope you continue to enjoy the South Georgia Pets insert as much as we love producing it. If you have suggestions for an upcoming edition, let me know—Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com Thank you, Tonya Perry

36

www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

WHERE WE DONATE: Coastal Pet Rescue 912.228.3538 One Love Animal Rescue 912.351.6750 Effingham County Animal Shelter 912.754.2109

Dogs in History A Long Journey Home

by Gregg Sekscienski, (reprinted with permission, BocaDog Magazine 2008)

N

early a century ago, one animal’s journey captured the country’s hearts and still remains the idealized and oft-cited example of the dogged determination of canines.

Bobbie, a Collie, was a family pet of the Brazier family and lived on their farm in Silverton, Oregon. During a summer vacation, the Brazier’s were in Indiana when the family and the dog became separated­—Bobbie was last seen running from a group of dogs in Wolcott, Indiana.

The family spent time checking the area, but to no avail and sadly the family left, starting their journey home to Oregon.

According to historical accounts from sources such as the Oregon Historical Society and Ripley’s “Believe It or Not,” Bobbie was also starting a journey back home.

The result is one of the longest journeys by a domestic dog. Of course, many wild animals migrate over vast distances every year, covering thousands of miles, but few, it seems, have ever been documented to do this to find a lost family.

The best estimates are that Bobbie traveled more than 2,500 miles, maybe much more. Obviously rivers were crossed and hazards both natural and man-made were encountered and conquered, later reports surfaced that Bobbi,

or a dog matching his description, was seen in many of the states between Indiana and Oregon.

Six months to the day, a bedraggled dog matching Bobbie’s description was spotted by Nova Brazier, one of the family’s daughters, walking the streets of Silverton. It was indeed Bobbie, identified by the family through some unique scars on the dog.

Soon the story spread around the country and the world as articles about Bobbie’s journey appeared in newspapers. Bobbie became a celebrity. He was awarded a medal by the Oregon Humane Society and later went on to star in Bobbie the Wonder Dog, a silent movie released in the mid-1920s. When Bobbie died a few years later, hundreds of peo-

ple attended his funeral including, reportedly, the most famous animal movie star of the time, Rin Tin Tin. Bobbie’s grave is located at the Oregon Humane Society’s Portland, Oregon animal cemetery.

How Bobbie found his way home is a mystery. Research on animal extra-sensory perception or some sort of sixth sense has been explored. Wild animals are thought to use Earth’s magnetic field, phases of the moon and starlight, for example to aid migration and other movement. The heart-warming view that Bobbie just wanted to get home may very well be the best explanation. It’s one we can all understand.

More on Bobbie can be found at The Oregon Humane Society www.Oregonhumane.org. h

Lost Pet Tips & Resources A lost dog is a dread we hope we never face. The Humane Society of the United States offers a number of suggestions for finding your dog if he or she is lost.

• Contact local animal shelters and animal control agencies • Search the neighborhood • Advertise • Be wary of pet-recovery scams • Don’t give up your search All dogs have a better chance of being returned if they always – even in doors – wear a collar and an ID tag with our name, address and telephone number. Ask your veterinarian or local animal shelter about permanent methods of identification such as a microchip www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

37

National Spay Alliance Savannah

A

s the newest addition to affordable pet care in the area, we believe wholeheartedly in the saying “spay one, save a ton.” We are grateful to be part of a community that works together to participate in keeping pets healthy, making a dent in pet overpopulation and, hopefully, reducing euthanasia in area shelters as a result of targeted spay and neuter.

What began as a mobile outreach spay & neuter program for rural areas from Colorado to New York and a few states in between has found its home for the last six years in Georgia.

Our newest location, at 11 Gateway Blvd, South, opened in Savannah in March 2020. Our history is long and winding but our final stop here in Savannah seems like a perfect fit.

Our timing was a little off as we opened just as the pandemic hit, but we managed to stay open and keep both staff and clients safe while working to build a reputation of a strong work ethic, compassion for our patients and an understanding of the financial limitations sometimes affecting access to care for pet owners.

We recently completed a 4,300 square foot build out in what used to be the old Carter’s store at the Shoppes of Savannah Retail Center. Having the clinic built by local contractors was a must for us. Embracing and becoming part of the community is our goal both in spirit and grassroots engagement.

We are thankful for all those that helped us bring low cost pet care to the area. We originally visited the area thanks to a request from One Love Animal Rescue for our mobile services.

The History of National Spay Alliance Savannah We started in May 2013, and to date we have accomplished more than 33,000 surgeries in 5 different states.

Over that time we have been able— through our non-profit Foundation arm— to bring subsidized services in the form of Grants to our clients. This has enabled many owners to seek an end to the cycle of unwanted litters due to finances.

38

This year alone we have been able to offer assistance through several different grants ranging from PetSmart Charities to smaller personal donors.

In December of 2020 we were able to financially provide over $10,000 in pet care for veterans & first responders.

We have also worked in conjunction with the homeless population with the assistance of Renegade Paws Rescue to provide free care for their pets. We’ve offered multiple grants for Chatham, Liberty, Bryan and Effingham residents that reduced their co-pay for spay/neuter services to as little as $30. We are proud to be a service provider for Islands Feral Cat Program as well as several other area rescues.

About the Clinic The Savannah clinic is open to anyone and has no restrictions on geographical location, income or other criteria.

However, we do not offer any emergency care or hospitalization overnight.

Our clinic is open four days each week on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. We offer walk-in vaccine hours from 9:00am - 12:00pm and again from 2:30 - 5:30pm.

We do ask that full exams by Doctor be scheduled in advance by emailing us at info.nsasavannah@gmail.com. We invite you to join us in our endeavor to reduce euthanasia and create a pet friendly community we can all be proud of.

Kim Ott, vice president and director of finance for the organization believes that spaying and neutering is a vital step in reducing the number of unplanned or unwanted animals that are being born every year. Ott shares the passion for animals that led founder and president Pam Pierce into the industry decades ago.

Pierce began working in animal welfare and facilities management in the 1980s, first at a 600-horse boarding operation, later as a receptionist in California, in practice management in New York, and eventually in Longmont, Colorado, where she and Ott crossed paths.

Ott began working as a veterinary technician 30 years ago before rising to management positions in both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. After spending 13 years in the animal sheltering industry and watching thousands of situa-

www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

info.nsasavannah@gmail.com www.nationalspayalliancesavannah.com

tions in which pets were euthanized due to lack of homes, she decided to work toward providing alternative solutions.

In 2014, Ott joined Pierce in her dream of growing a low cost, high quality spay/neuter mobile practice in the southeast. That dream has since evolved into a more focused commitment to areas of Northwest Georgia and the Savannah communities.

National Spay Alliance Savannah is a specialty practice in high volume spay/ neuter surgery, at times performing 2025 surgeries daily, following a model developed by the ASPCA & Humane Alliance programs. h

CARTER’S CORNER

ADVICE FROM A DOG’S PERSPECTIVE QUESTIONABLE TAILS Dear Carter, I’m a Great Dane. I’ve heard my humans say that having me is like having a child in the house. They’ve had to move everything out of the reach of my tail.

Now, I haven’t noticed any little humans with tails. But I have noticed two of my friends at the dog park don’t have tails. They just have little stubs that wiggle, like mine wags. I’ve asked them why they don’t have tails but they don’t know. Do you?

– Merlin, Decatur, GA Dear Merlin, For some dog breeds, humans often “clip” or “dock” the tails. While there is some debate about the severity of pain this may cause us—most tails are docked when pups are just a few days old—the procedure is best left under a veterinarian’s supervision. Traditionally there are a number of breeds—Terriers, Spaniels, Boxers, Schnauzers, Poodles, Rottweilers, Pinschers and others—whose tails are docked. Many humans also feel that a docked dog tail helps keep the dog from repeatedly injuring the tail later in their lives,especially in working dogs.

Meanwhile, a tail is one of our most unique features.

Since humans don’t have one, most of them have little understanding of what the tail really does and means.

Tails can offer a strong indication of our confidence and moods. It also signals whether we are feeling dominant or submissive. Generally the higher a tail is held the more confident we are feeling, while a tail held low or between our legs means we’re feeling a bit less secure at the moment. We all know that when we are truly happy (getting a good chest scratch or expecting a treat) our tails seem to take on a life of their own, wagging quickly.

A slower, careful wag usually means we are trying to figure our situation out.

Dogs with docked tails may have more difficulty in communicating their feelings to other dogs (and people). Some studies have shown that some of these breeds actually compensate by wagging their entire behind. Just remember to celebrate tail diversity. Be proud of whatever tail you have. Many doggie park get-togethers and pooch parties offer prizes for longest tails, curliest tail and hairiest tail.

ALPHA CHALLENGES Dear Carter, I recently visited my cousins in Oklahoma—a Yorkie named Peepers and a larger (everything is larger than Yorkie, it seems) mixed breed named Bella. But Peepers was always bossing Bella around. He bit at her every time they started playing. He ate before anyone else. He tried to grab any toy Bella was playing with. I stayed in my crate or next door a lot of the time but when I did go over to play, Peepers was all over me, biting and yapping and chasing. I mean he was really kind of a pest. I’m a pretty dominant girl, if I do say so myself, but he really challenged me on everything.

What’s up with that? Doesn’t my being bigger and older count for anything? I was looking for some respect and never got it. What gives?

– Kiva, Boca Raton, FL Dear Kiva, If you are an “alpha” yourself, you know the rules. In any group of dogs, we all try to find our place—figure out the hierarchy. It sounds like you walked into a situation in which the hierarchy is still being figured out.

Since most of us, as with most people, like to be social and interact with other dogs (and people—that’s what makes our bonds with humans so special!), we figure out ways to be around other dogs. We enjoy playing and roughhousing whenever we are around each other.

The traditional thinking about us—dogs—says we are figuring and refiguring dominance and submission in our social groups.

There is often an ongoing “battle” to be the alpha or top dog in a group of dogs and even between two dogs.

Smaller dogs often exhibit aggression and signs of dominance over larger dogs. The alpha position is one that must be earned, so the behavior to establish it will most likely continue between Bella and Peepers.

While humans often get a chuckle out of a little dog hanging onto the cheek of a larger dog (I’ve had a few do that to me), there is a message in that use of teeth. But even I’m not completely sure of what it means. So you just “hang” in there.

WONDERING WHAT MAKES YOUR PET TICK? Carter is an expert! Email your questions to Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com. www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

39

SD Gunner Fund & Jessie the Service Dog Story by Cindy Reid

40

www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

E

leven-month-old rescue dog Jessie is in training for her new life as a service dog. Once considered a “throwaway,” she was found on the roadside by Scott Freeman, a good Samaritan & military veteran. Now the SD Gunner Fund is actively seeking to pair Jessie with a new owner, one who needs a service dog.

Disability is defined by the ADA as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including people with history of such an impairment, and people perceived by others as having such an impairment.

at the handler’s side in public, and remaining under control in a variety of settings.

Jessie has already started her service dog training and it is very important that the new owner trains with Jesse as soon as possible. Typically training starts anytime from eight weeks old up until Service Dog 18 months old. After that, the ‘work life’ The role of service dogs has greatexpectancy diminishes because the dog SD Gunner Fund ly expanded over the years. They were essentially gets an approximately 1-2 The SD Gunner Fund (a 5013c nontraditionally seeing eye dogs, and strictly years of training and then has an average profit organization) has a mission to asGerman Shepherds, for many generaworking life of 8-10 years until they are sist veterans, children living with disabiltions. Now there are so many different retired from active duty and transition to ities, and first responders while inspiring tasks they can be trained for, and breeds beloved pet. disability awareness through public eduthat can be trained, that the very definiElena Kelly-Nock says, “When the cation and advocacy. tion of service dog has changed. What’s owner bonds with their dog in training The SD Gunner Fund was founded important is that they continue to assist mode, they make a better team, and the in 2014 by Britnee Kinard. Britnee graddisabled individuals. owner becomes a better handler. The uated from MTSU in 2005 with a degree A service dog is trained to take a spedog will be trained to look to their owner. in recording industry business and encific action whenever required to assist a We can’t fine tune Jessie’s’ training untertainment law. She left her high properson with their disability. The task the til she is matched with her new person.” file career in business to become a fulldog performs is directly related to their And once Jessie is out of training, her time caregiver to her husband, Hamilton person’s disability, either emotional and/ new owner will be encouraged to conKinard, after he suffered life-altertinue her training and take part in ing injuries while serving our coungroup sessions with other service try in Operation Iraqi Freedom. dogs and their owners to keep their Service dogs are more than pets, The SD Gunner Fund gets its name skills sharp. from Hamilton’s first service dog, a and more than companions. The Great Pyrenees named Gunner.

Cause for Paws important work they do improves After seeing firsthand how exA Savannah news station has traordinarily difficult it is to get a been featuring Jessie on the “Paws the everyday lives of thousands service dog through the VA system, for a Cause” segment hosted by Britnee founded SD Gunner Fund reporter Ashley Garrett. Recently of people across the country. to help others obtain a service dog she highlighted a video of Jessie more easily. and her trainer working on “holdElena Kelly-Nock, President of ing with distractions” was featured. the Board of Directors and Training Dior physical reasons.

The SD Gunner Fund is very grateful rector says, “The SD Gunner Fund is a The SD Gunner service dogs are not for the publicity as it helps get the word strong organization that has chosen to trained for people who need service out and reaches a wide audience of grow in the right way. We have a Board dogs for seizures, diabetes, or for peopotential owner applicants. Jessie will of Directors and being all female and all ple who are fully blind or deaf. They are go to her new owner completely free volunteer, we are very proud of the work trained for assistance with mobility, staof charge, but any donations received we’ve accomplished together.” bility, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, just from WJCL viewers are gratefully acto name a few tasks. They often perform cepted and will be used to help cover Ready for Applications retrieval functions—retrieving things Jessie’s board and training fees.

The SD Gunner Fund is now taking their owner may need or has dropped applications and filtering the applications on the floor, such as keys, glasses, medHow to Apply so Jessie can go to her new owner in ication bottles etc.

To apply to be matched with Jessie, September. If you’re a veteran in need of The dogs the SD Gunner Fund placvisit the SD Gunner Fund Facebook page, a service dog, please reach out! There is es are certified Urban through the AKC, and send a private message indicating absolutely no cost to the new owner beAmerican Kennel Club. That means they you are interested in applying for Jessie. cause SD Gunner Fund is absorbing the show they can function with their owner You will be contacted and given an applicost through donations and fundraising. in all kinds of situations, such as using an cation to fill out and return. If you know a The average cost of a fully-trained serelevator, ignoring loud noises, and being veteran who might benefit from a service vice dog runs from $8,000 to $25,000. on a ferry. As part of their training, service dog, reach out and let’s find Jessie her Applicants have to meet the Americans dogs are taught public access skills, such new home! h with Disability Act (ADA) requirements. as ignoring dropped food, settling quietly

“

“

www.sdgunner.org | www.facebook.com/SDGunner www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

41

Dee

Cupcake & Twinkie

ADOPTABLE PETS

Glee (F)

Trix

Egypt (F)

Please consider adopting!

912.754.2109 | www.ecas.petfinder.com Bando (M)

Betty (F) Galileo

Blue (M)

Iris

Millard

Chip (M) Panther (F)

Hermy (M)

Maddie (F)

Mia (F)

Guy (M)

Twilight (F)

Where Pets are Family Otis (M)

Paxtin (M)

Teddy (M)

Butterbean (M)

We accept donation items (pet food, blankets, towels, etc.) for Coastal Pet Rescue in our hospital lobby.

www.animalhospitalatricehope.com 912-965-0330 | 7512 GA Hwy 21, Port Wentworth, GA 42

www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

EXPERT TIPS FOR WELCOMING A KITTEN

Whether you’re fostering or adopting a kitten, learn how to give your kitten proper care during her first weeks and months with you.

F

ostering kittens and cats has risen in popularity during these unprecedented times, and many pet lovers are becoming fosters to help overcrowded animal shelters. Fostering a kitten can be a fun and exciting time, but it may also come with a learning curve.

Among the 43% of respondents to a Royal Canin survey, who have fostered a pet, 6 in 10 have “foster failed” and permanently adopted the pet they were fostering. Most pet owners who responded also agree the first year of pet ownership is the most important, but 64% believe it is the most difficult, as well.

Whether you’re fostering or adopting a kitten, learn how to give your kitten proper care during her first weeks and months with you with this advice from the experts at Royal Canin.

Arriving Home The new sights, sounds and smells in your home, and the separation from her mother, may make your kitten feel stressed. Keeping the environment calm and quiet can ease the transition.

When you arrive home, put the cat carrier in the room you’ve prepared for the kitten with the kitten still inside, allowing her to get acclimated before opening the door. Then allow the kitten to explore a closed-off area. Resist the

urge to cuddle your kitten right away.

As your kitten gains confidence in its new surroundings, she will want to explore more. Make sure the environment is prepared with electrical wires and outlets covered; windows, balconies and stairs secured; and small or sharp objects put away so she can safely explore with your supervision. If there are possible hazards, a designated room with windows and plenty of social contact for the first few weeks may be better.

Creating a Safe Place Kittens can tire easily. After a little exploration time, give your kitten access to a bed in a cozy, quiet place with access to water, food and a litter box.

Turning out the light helps establish sleep patterns, but on the first night you might want to leave a night light on to help with the adjustment.

Provide somewhere quiet to eat. This should be somewhere your kitten feels secure, away from where you and any other pets eat. Cats don’t like to eat too near their litter boxes and should always have fresh water available.

As kittens grow rapidly, their digestive and immune systems develop slowly and they have specific nutritional needs that are different from adult cats. Any sudden changes in your kitten’s diet can cause

digestive trouble, so for the first few days, keep the same feeding routine as the previous caretaker. You can slowly switch to a different routine, if you choose, and transition to kitten food suitable for the appropriate growth stage. For example, Royal Canin Kitten formulas are tailormade with optimal vitamins and minerals to support healthy development.

Ongoing Care Your kitten should see a veterinarian as soon as possible. In addition to a general health check, your vet can help you create a vaccination schedule and give advice on deworming, nutrition and more. Always use a carrier to transport your kitten safely while in the car and into the vet’s office.

Gradually introducing your kitten to new experiences can help with socialization. New sounds can startle a kitten, so be ready to offer plenty of reassurance. You may also need to introduce new terrain like stairs or unfamiliar surfaces. Gentle play and careful handling can help your kitten become more comfortable with being touched.

Learn more about proper cat nutrition and how to create a welcoming home at royalcanin.com. h

www.PoolerMagazine.com | South Georgia Pets

43

BREWER LAND SURVEYING Brewer Land Surveying is a fullservice land surveying firm located in Pooler and licensed for operation in Georgia and South Carolina. Owner J. Craig Brewer is a licensed Land Surveyor with over 14 years of professional experience. Experience, attention to detail and customer service are the keys to the success of Brewer Land Surveying.

Although the company has grown over its 10 years in business, their focus remains on the individual customer.

Craig says “We serve everyone, from the homeowner who needs a residential survey, to commercial developers and design professionals. We work with architects, engineers, attorneys, real estate professionals and mortgage companies. No job is too small for us.”

Their areas of focus include Commercial and Residential Land Surveys, Topographic and As-Built Base Map creation, ALTA-NSPS Land Title Surveys, as well as FEMA Flood Elevation Certificates, Boundary Surveys,

Foundation Surveys, Subdivision Plats, GPS Control Points, Route Surveys, Wetland and Marsh Jurisdiction Line Mapping and Aerial Photography Control.

“Every survey is unique to the property and environmental factors surrounding the property,” says Craig, “and because we have the experience, we know what to look for and how to manage complex issues.”

FUN FACT- Three of the four U.S. Presidents on Mount Rushmore were land surveyors. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln surveyed colonial or frontier territories prior to serving office.

Craig and his team at Brewer Land Surveying are ready to work with you on your project, residential or commercial.

“Please contact us to discuss your needs.

There is no charge for estimates,” says Craig, “We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and provide you with the best service in the industry.”

J. CRAIG BREWER Craig is licensed as a Professional Land Surveyor in the states of Georgia and South Carolina.

Craig has over fifteen years of experience as a land surveyor. His areas of focus include Commercial and Residential Land Surveys, Topographic and As-Built Base Map creation, Construction and Industrial surveys, and ALTA-ACSM Land Title Surveys.

Craig has also written product reviews for Professional Surveyor Magazine.

Brewer Land Surveying 604 US Highway 80 W, Pooler, GA 31322 (912) 856-2205 info@brewersurvey.com

BREWER LAND SURVEYING Brewer Land Surveying is a full-service, fully-automated land surveying and mapping firm licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. Residential and Commercial.

J. Craig Brewer, Licensed Professional Land Surveyor

Some of the services we offer are: • FEMA Flood Elevation • ALTA/ACSM Land Title Certificates Surveys • Boundary Surveys • Subdivision Plats • Topographical Surveys • GPS Control Points • Foundation Surveys • Mapping GIS infrastructure • As-built Surveys • Aerial Photography • Route Surveys Control Targeting Estimates are free, so call us today. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and provide you with the best service in the industry— high quality surveying and mapping services in a timely manner at a reasonable cost.

912-856-2205 info@brewersurvey.com www.brewersurvey.com 44

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

THIS IS Y.

For healthy lifestyles, childcare, youth programs, community and smiling faces.

PLUS, JOIN NOW AND PAY NO JOINER’S FEE www.ymcaofcoastalga.org Financial Assistance is available.

Offer valid at all YMCA of Coastal Georgia locations.

It’s OUR business to grow YOUR business.

BRANDING | MARKETING | ADVERTISING | DIGITAL | SOCIAL MEDIA | STRATEGY

JDelSURMarketing.com | 912-295-5406 135 Goshen Road Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

POOLER EVENTS

July 2021 Sunday

Monday

4

Tuesday

5

Wednesday

6

Thursday

7

Friday

Saturday

1

2

3

8

9

10

7/1: Sunset Shopping in the Park

7/2-7/5: Savannah Stars & Stripes July 4th Weekend

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

19

20

21

22

23

24

Plant Riverside District

7/3: Independence Day Weekend Block Party

18

4:00 - 8:00pm 305 W. Collins Street, Pooler

12:00 - 2:00pm | Tanger Outlets

7/4: Freedom Floats Savannah

3:00 - 5:00pm | Savannah Waterfront

7/6 & 7/20: Outdoor Storytime

25

26

27

28

30

29

31

10:30 - 11:00am | Pooler Library

7/24: Desoto Street Market

11:00am - 6:00pm 2418 De Soto Avenue, Savannah

7/31: Back to School Bash

August 2021 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

1

2

3

4

8

9

10

11

15

16

17

18

Thursday

8/6: Virtual Bike Ride Friday

5

4:00pm | Bloomingdale History Museum

Saturday

6

7

12

13

14

19

20

21

10:00am -1:00pm | Bike Walk Savannah

8/28: Craft & Vendor Show By This & That

11:00am - 5:00pm | Tanger Outlets

PLUS *Every Sat.: Forsyth Farmer’s Market 9:00am-1:00pm | Forsyth Park

*Every Tues.: Fleet Feet Running Club Group Runs 6:30-7:30pm | West Chatham YMCA 22

23

24

25

26

27

28

*Every Thurs.: Fleet Feet Running Club Group Runs 6:30-7:30pm | Tom Triplett Community Park

29

30

31

Find more events and happenings at PoolerMagazine.com.

To submit your events to the calendar, email Tonya@JDelSURMarketing.com.

POOLER

LIL JIL held their ribbon cutting with the help of the Greater Pooler Chamber of Commerce on Friday, June 18.

m

FAZOLI’S held their ribbon cutting with the help of the Greater Pooler Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, June 8.

48

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

FOOD TRUCK AND MARKETPLACE FESTIVAL – GREATER POOLER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Photos Left to Right: Super Heroes, Princesses, and more were at the Food Truck & Marketplace Festival, thanks to Character Pros; the Kona Ice Truck; The Horne Law Firm raised and donated $779 for Gilliard & Co charity during the Food Truck and Marketplace Festival.

POP UP SHOPPING Join us on the First Thursday of Every Month for a great shopping experience!

Enjoy a variety of great items from our Marketplace Vendors, and Food Trucks will be on site for this event.

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force honored the 26,000 fallen airmen of the 8AF in World War II with 26,000 flags on Memorial Day. www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 49

Please consider adopting!

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

Welcomes DR. JENNIFER MILES to our practice.

JENNIFER R. MILES, MD recently joined ENT Associates.

Dr. Miles completed her residency at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, in June of this year after obtaining her MD status at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta.

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 50

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

The Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce

CELEBRATES AND HONORS

the VETERANS, MILITARY & FIRST RESPONDERS in our Community

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THESE GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS SUNSET SHOPPING IN THE PARK First Thursday of Every Month, Beginning July 1 | 4:00 - 8:00pm Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce, 305 W. Collins St. Pooler

POOLER PATRIOT WEEKEND CELEBRATION September 10-12, 2021 Food Trucks, Marketplace, Events, Live Music, and Fireworks Visit our website www.poolerchamber.com or call 912-748-0110

UPCOMING BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30-7:30pm for all dates July 22: Legacy at Savannah Quarters, 101 Shepherd Way Sept. 23: Savannah Quarters Club House, Palladian Way Nov. 18: Hospice Savannah, 328 US Hwy 80 East

Serving Savannah for all your precious metal needs

Come see us today for a free appraisal!

THINGS WE BUY: • Estate coin collections • Rare coins • Gold & silver bullion • Old paper money millerscoins@gmail.com eBay store: Jandc-coinandjewelry

• Estate jewelry • Gold jewelry - any condition • Sterling Silver • Vintage or high end watches

US Hwy 80W, Savannah, GA 31322

(912) 330-9919

millerscoins.net millerscoins

WHAT’S BETTER THAN

Chocolate & Coffee ?

Local chocolate and small batch roasted coffee available at MoSouthernCollection.com or Ellen Claire Soapery MoSouthernCollection.com (3130 Highway 80, Suite B | Bloomingdale, Ga.) 52

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

THE RESULTS ARE IN! A Great Day on the Course Supports Pooler Lions Club

T

he Pooler Lions Club held their 6th Annual “Chipping for Charity” Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 1, at Crosswinds Golf Club. All proceeds from the tournament will fund the Pooler Lions Club Charity Fund and support their work helping the blind and visually impaired.

Thanks to all our golfers who came to enjoy this beautiful day on the course.

Tournament Winners The first place team was Mark Zipperer, Darrell Harris, Derrick Arthur and Jeff Martin. Second place team was Bob Barker, Matthew Barker, Pete Jeron and Bai Jeron.

The third place team was George Schnurr, Ken Strati, Mike Lemire and Jeff South.

Fourth place team was Ronald Nantz, Lee Anderson, Merv McCoy, and Dave Williamson. Runner-up team was Joe Macchia, Roger Logston, Greg Kingery and John Imrornoni. The Top Scoring Public Safety Team Award went to Lou Manuel, Kenny Deloach, Ken Leidy and Matt Hewett.

Longest Drive went to Bai Jeron and Closest to the Pin at 3’ 2” went to Derrick Arthur.

The Top Performance Award with the closest to the $1,000 cash prize for a Holein-One went to Jeff Wichman.

Thank You To Our Sponsors Thank you to all our sponsors for their generous donations.

Eagle Sponsors: The Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce, Gastroenterology Consultants of Savannah, and Mitsubishi Power.

Birdie Sponsors: Georgia Eye Institute-Judith Piros, MD, Georgia Eye Institute-William Degenhart, MD, Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union, and Michael’s Roofing Company, Inc. Hole Plus Sponsors: Ameris Bank, Bank of Newington, CFG Wealth Management, LLC, Christ Presbyterian Church, Coldwell Banker-Marie Houben Realtor, David Saba Realty Team, Georgia Ports Authority, Harbor Mortgage Company, Landmark24 Homes & RealtyLuann Zorn-Zipperer, Lighthouse Financial Group, Port City Animal Hospital, State Farm Insurance-Pat Parker Agency, Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Tracy E. Durham, DDS, Dentistry at Godley Station, VIP Office Furniture & Supply, Inc. and World of Beer Pooler.

Hole Sponsors: All American Pressure Cleaning, Atlantic HVAC, Atlantic Packaging Corp, BJ's Beverages, Bee Green Pest Solutions, LLC, Coach's Corner, CocaCola Savannah, Country Financial-Jerry Bogus Agency, Dairy Queen of Pooler, Dasher Reprographics, Dean Custom Air, Direct Tools, DNA Computerworks, Downtime Fleet Management Services, Inc., Edward Jones-Veronica Voisine, Firehouse Subs Pooler, Freedom Boat Club, Godley Station Animal Hospital, Godley Station Dental, Great American Cookie, Great Dane, Heitmann &

Associates, LLC, IHOP of Pooler, Lawrence F. Zottoli, Jr. MD, Low Country Eye Care, OASIS Irrigation and Lighting, Parkway Salon, Penny Rafferty Realty, Snazzy Nails, SouthCoast HEALTH Russell Sliker, MD, Suzanne & Dr. Hank Croci, The Taco Stache, Towne Lake Dental Group.

Double Team Sponsor: Country Financial-Jerry Bogus Agency.

Official Event Sponsors: Beverage Sponsor: Coca-Cola; Breakfast Sponsor: Waffle House; and Golf Towel Sponsor: Southern Charm Embroidery.

Advertising Supporters: Pooler Magazine and Effingham Magazine, The Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce and Adams Outdoor Advertising.

We also appreciate advertising by Crosswinds Golf Club, WTOC Morning Break, Savannah Morning Newspaper and Savannah Master Calendar.

About the Pooler Lions Club The Pooler Lions Club is a non-profit service organization that helps those in need and makes a positive difference in their lives. The club meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00pm at Lovezzola’s Restaurant, 320 Hwy. 80 East.

Visitors are welcome and suggestions for service projects are appreciated. The Lions Club motto is “We Serve.”

Save the Date for the 7TH ANNUAL

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021 53

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 Badcock & More Home Furniture | EMPWR Solar, Clay Copeland J. DelSur Marketing | JDH Decks & Fences | Mo’ Southern Pinspiration Pooler | Savannah Christian Preparatory School Southern Motors Acura | Trisha Cook Realty Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Advanced Alternative Medicine Center................. 8 Allstate, David Pence............................................... 30 Angel Oak Home Loans, Ivy Eilerman................... 9 Animal Hospital at Rice Hope................................ 42 Bellis Health and Wellness Spa...............................18 Benchmark Mortgage............................................. 26 Brewer Land Surveying........................................... 44 Bueno’s Cleaning Services, LLC.............................12 Chatterbox Pediatric Therapy, LLC........................31 Diamond Carpet & Textile Services...................... 26 Down Home Crossfit................................................15 Effingham Chamber of Commerce......................19 Effingham Health System..........................................2 ENT Associates of Savannah.................................. 50 Geico, Rick Spinks.................................................... 20 Georgia Heritage Federal Credit Union............... 29 Georgia Tech Savannah.......................................... 55 Great Oaks Bank........................................................14 Greater Pooler Area Chamber................................51 of Commerce Horizon Staffing........................................................ 20 i9 Sports......................................................................13 iHeart Dental............................................................. 20 JDelSUR Marketing.................................................. 46

54

www.PoolerMagazine.com | July/August 2021

Kirkland’s Flooring...................................................... 8 Kelley & Kelley Logistics, LLC................................. 26 Magic Insurance Agency ......................................... 8 Melissa McBride Stiller, ........................................... 27 Stille-DeWitt Health Brokerage, LLC Miller’s Coins & Currency....................................... 52 Mo’ Southern............................................................. 52 Munchies By Moe Joe..............................................12 Pooler Recreation Department..............................18 Pretty Passion Boutique...........................................14 Queensborough National Bank & Trust............... 47 Sherman & Hemstreet Real Estate,......................... 9 Ricky Eilerman So Fit Gym................................................................. 26 Streets & Sons Tire and Auto Repair......................12 The Ice Cream Stop................................................... 8 The Salt Table............................................................ 28 Thomas C Strickland & Sons Funeral Home...... 26 Trinity Pooler Church & Preschool....................... 20 Trisha Cook Realty....................................................19 US Health Advisors, Lucie Garner......................... 20 Wayne Chambers, Artist..........................................21 West Chatham YMCA.............................................. 45 Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming........................... 34

BRINGING T H E W O R L D TO S AVA N N A H Georgia Tech Savannah focuses on shaping the vision for the coastal region.

Through engaging the community and industry, our curriculum provides education for its current and future workers. Georgia Tech Savannah is at the forefront in providing world class educational resources for the southeast.

savannah.gatech.edu

YOUR

Q

MMUNITY BANK

They go way beyond when it comes to local business.

Queensborough takes pride in being a local resource for financial services.

But we’re more than just a bank.

We live, work, and invest our time and resources right here 24/7. Your success is our reward and giving back has been part of our DNA since 1902. We are your Qmmunity bank.

Keith Latture Owner, Sandfly BBQ and Sundown Lodge Customer Since 2019

G E O R G I A’ S C O M M U N I T Y B A N K since 1 9 0 2 www.QNBTRUST.bank QUEE-21012CR