Coldwell Banker Southern Coast commemorated its 40th anniversary, a milestone celebration held on the evening of February 24.
The event, hosted by Leigh Smiley, the company’s broker/ owner and for the City of Flemington council member, honored its storied history, growth, and commitment to the community and military families.
Founded in 1984 by George and Babs Holtzman, Coldwell Banker Southern Coast (originally Coldwell Banker Holtzman, Realtors) has grown into a premier real estate firm, known for its dedication to service, integrity, and excellence.
Under Smiley’s ownership since 2014, the company has flourished, expanding to include 52 active agents, three real estate teams, and five dedicated staff members. The anniversary event highlighted the company’s contributions, including the launch of a college and technical school scholarship program for local seniors, reflecting Coldwell Banker Southern Coast’s commitment to education and the future of the community.
Furthermore, the property management division, Southern Coast Properties, was celebrated for managing over 1,100 properties, showcasing the company’s expansive reach and expertise. During the celebration, Coldwell Banker Southern Coast recognized the outstanding achievements of its top-performing agents and teams. Among the award winners were Jimmy Shanken, Brigitte Shanken, Amanda Ybarra, Sosa Brown, and Nikki Gaskin with the Shanken Team, who received the International President’s Circle Award and were ranked No. 3 Large Team in Georgia, as well as Jimmy Shanken honored with the Circle of Excellence Bronze Level for commercial sales. Skyler Bone, Payton Tatum, Karoline Davis, Cori McFann-Levesque, Brittney Landon, Elizabeth John, and Ernie Ontano with SL Realty Group were honored with the International Sterling Society Award and achieved the No. 4 Large Team ranking in Georgia. Jennifer Driggers, Marilyn Knowles, Courtney Goode, and Samantha Kipke of the Driggers Group earned the International President’s Circle Award and secured the No. 1 Small Team position in the state.
Individual recognitions included Jeanne Evans with the International Diamond Society Award, David Gardner with the International Sterling Society Award, Dagmar Madden, also awarded the International Sterling Society Award, and Ella Causey with Outstanding Sales Achievement Award. These remarkable professionals exemplify Coldwell Banker Southern Coast’s commitment to excellence and outstanding service in the real estate industry. Dignitaries and speakers, including former Hinesville Mayor Allen Brown, former CBSC owner George Holtzman, and former Hinesville Area Board of Realtors president, Danny Norman reflected on the past four decades in the real estate industry and Liberty County, and Coldwell Banker Corp. President Jason Waugh praised the company’s growth, community involvement, and the positive impact it has made over the past 40 years.
Chairman Donald Lovette of the Liberty County Board of Commissioners lauded the company as “game changers” under Smiley’s leadership, offering a blessing for continued success and impact. He also talked about the future growth of Liberty County, expressing optimism about future economic development and prosperity.
The celebration also emphasized Coldwell Banker Southern Coast’s company foundation built on faith and extensive community engagement, from the Hinesville Rotary Club to the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce, among other organizations. The event underscored the company’s philosophy of building a better society through real estate and beyond, with a focus on service, contribution, and making a lasting impact. Coldwell Banker Southern Coast’s 40th anniversary not only commemorates its past achievements but also sets the stage for future growth, innovation, and continued excellence in serving its clients, community, support for local businesses, and military families. The company remains dedicated to its mission of building lifetime relationships and making a significant, positive difference in the communities it serves. “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our valued clients, dedicated community partners, visionary leaders, and everyone who has contributed to our company’s success,” Smiley said. “Your support has been instrumental, and we cherish the relationships we’ve built. As we celebrate our achievements, we eagerly anticipate the journey ahead. Here’s to many more years of exceptional service and growth. I am thrilled to witness the exciting possibilities that the next 40 years hold for our company.”
Other notable dignitaries in attendance were Congressman Buddy Carter, Liberty County Sheriff Will Bowman, Chief Deputy Al Hagan, Flemington City Council member Larry Logan, Flemington City Council member Hasit Patel, Brynn Grant, incoming CEO Liberty County Development Authority, Melissa Carter Ray, vice chairwoman of the LCDA, Leah Poole, president and CEO of the Liberty County Chamber and CVB, and Brianne Felton, president Hinesville Area Board of Realtors.
