Ardsley Park is home to a remarkable couple, Jim and Venessa Shields, who bring a unique blend of talents and experiences to this charming neighborhood. Originally from sunny San Diego, California, they have been proud Ardsley residents for two enriching years.

Jim is a retired Army veteran with 23 years of dedicated service. Jim, Venessa, and their four children lived for six of those years (2006-2012) stationed at both Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield. They fell in love with the history and beauty of Savannah and developed a particular interest in Ardsley Park as a "dream neighborhood" where they envisioned settling for their long-term future.

While stationed at Hunter Army Airfield, Jim found a home for his life-long love for singing in the Savannah Philharmonic Chorus. Now having returned in retirement, his melodious voice once again contributes to the vibrant musical tapestry of the city. Meanwhile, Venessa, with a heart for children, has returned to her love for full-time teaching and dedicates her days to molding young minds.

Jim's journey to settling in Ardsley Park is a tale of valor, dedication, and a lot of patience! His military career is nothing short of remarkable. As a Sergeant First Class in the Army, he served for an impressive 23 years, 4 months, and 3 days, according to his DD-214 (discharge papers). His role as a linguist in Army intelligence led him to master languages like Russian and Arabic at the Defense Language Institute in California. Not only did he learn these languages, but he also took on the role of an instructor, passing on his knowledge to others.

Jim's service included deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, including two tours in Iraq (2003 and 2007-2008) and one in Afghanistan (2011-2012). His dedication to duty and his country is a source of immense pride and sense of calling for his whole family.

Apart from their musical pursuits and delightful life in Ardsley, Jim and Venessa share a passion for adventure. Their trusty Airstream trailer becomes their gateway to exploration, leading them to the enchanting landscapes of the north Georgia mountains and the Great Smokies. Occasionally, their wanderlust takes them all the way back to their California roots, where they reconnect with relatives and friends.

In addition to their festive musical contributions during the holiday season, the Shields illuminate their yard with dazzling Christmas decor, turning their home into a sparkling beacon of cheer.

The Shields are more than just a family; they're a harmony of experiences, passions, and traditions. Whether through their musical talents, their love for travel, or their cherished RV adventures, they've added a special note to the Ardsley Park community. So, the next time you see Jim and Venessa Shields on one of their charming neighborhood strolls, don't hesitate to strike up a conversation about their military journey, music, travels, or the joy of coming home to Ardsley.