H Magazine May/June 2012 by Southern Journal Magazine, LLC

the magazine for and about henry county TM

Strong as a ROCK! left to right Chanley Box, Coleman Smith, Luke Goffi, Savannah Hood

May/June 2012

FEATURES: • Strong Rock leadership • The four pillars of Strong Rock: academics, athletics, fine arts, missions • The heart of Strong Rock - Family

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May / June 2012

features

15 SRCS leadership

It’s been said that an organization is only as strong as its leaders. That adage has proven true at Strong Rock Christian School as its excellent leadership team takes it into its 5th Anniversary. From President David Mann to CEO Pat Stuart; from Athletic Director Phil Roberts to principals Tucker Perkerson and Linda Gregory and the rest of the SRCS team, the leadership at Strong Rock stands ready to carry the school into the future, with the help and by the Grace of God.

35 Coleman SMITH

A firm belief in God and a firm foundation of faith put the “strong” in Strong Rock Christian School. Supporting that foundation are the school’s four pillars: academics, athletics, fine arts and missions. SRCS has made notable strides in all areas: the class of 2012 has been offered over $2.5 million in scholarships thus far; the girls’ basketball team recently had their

100th win; the fine arts program is growing steadily; and all students are held accountable for personal missions, as well as being introduced to the mission field outside the four walls of Strong Rock. Meet Coleman Smith, a graduating senior this year…

49 TAYLOR FAMILY

The mission of Strong Rock Christian School is to glorify God and partner with families in educating and inspiring their children to impact the world for Jesus Christ – The Strong Rock. “One of the key factors in our mission is partnering with families,” says President David Mann. According to David and the other leaders at Strong Rock, parents, grandparents and other family members have been instrumental in carrying the school into its 5th year. Read more about the families of Strong Rock.

the magazine for and about henry county TM

Strong as a ROCK!

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Chanley Box, Coleman Smith, Luke Goffi, Savannah Hood

left to right Chanley Box, Coleman Smith, Luke Goffi, Savannah Hood

May/June 2012

featureS: • Strong rock leaderShip • the four pillarS of Strong rock: academicS, athleticS, fine artS, miSSionS • the heart of Strong rock - family

ON THE COVER

COVER photo: pICTURE THIS STUDIO

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departments

2012

7 publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letter 9 contributors 10 letters to the editor 15 strong rock leadership 19 coach mark miller 23 chanley box 25 luke goffi 31 savannah hood

35 coleman smith 37 business profile: mayor price 39 business profile: sam pagan 41 kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cancer club: ally dudley 47 business profile: edward jones 49 the taylor family

53 business profile: vitas 55 bri dudley 57 business profile: classic landscapes

61 georgia on my mind 65 schh Golf tournament 69 business profile: dr. walraven

73 business profile: pandora palmer 75 operation overseas 81 chaplains corner 83 pasta max: doug zitZ 87 how to subscribe 88 community calendar

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Magazine

publisher/ editorial directoR Editor

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Lisa Kinchen lisa@hmagazine.biz Diane Smith diane.smith@hmagazine.biz Michael Birchall Amanda Fox Troika Studio, Inc. troikastudio.com Darrell Emory Picture This Studio darrellemory@bellsouth.net

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www.hmagazine.biz 678.278.9022

P.O. Box 1390 McDonough, GA 30253

We welcome your company and community news. Please include digital photos with your press release and send to lisa@hmagazine. biz. Forward product samples or press kits to the Publisher. We cannot be responsible for unsolicited product samples. Publisher does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein. H Magazine is published bimonthly by H Magazine, Inc. All content is copyrighted by H Magazine and reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. H magazine reserves liability in the event of an error to a printed correction.

SUBSCRIBE TO A one-year subscription is $12 (6 issues). Mail a check or money order to: H Magazine P.O. Box 1390 McDonough, GA 30253 or visit www.hmagazine.biz

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publisher’s letter

May / June 2012

I Love Henry County!

photo by Picture This Studio pictured L to R Beth Taylor, Heather Jones, Julie Wall, Kimberly Morris, Kim Eldridge, Lisa Kinchen, Carrie Wilder, Courtney Wall, Angie Dudley

nybody who knows me knows that I LOVE Henry County. It is full of wonderful, giving people, whether they are a local business owner, a soccer mom or a community leader. We live in an involved community, and that’s what makes the difference. Here in Henry County, we are blessed with a great lifestyle that is founded on having top-of-theline professional services, dining and entertainment, medical care – and educational systems. The latter includes some wonderful private schools, and in this issue we celebrate with one of the best in the state of Georgia – Strong Rock Christian School in Locust Grove. This year marks Strong Rocks 5th Anniversary – and H Magazine is taking this opportunity to shout out a big CONGRATULATIONS to all of the folks who have made it possible: the school’s amazing leadership, teachers and staff; the dedicated parents and students; and the local community who has supported it from its inception. We also offer our congratulations to the graduating class of 2012. This class of seniors are looking at offers from over 90 top colleges across the nation – representing over $2.5 million in merit scholarship offerings. Join us in this issue of H Magazine as we pay tribute to one of Henry County’s giants, Strong Rock Christian School.

Lisa Kinchen Publisher/Editorial Director lisa@hmagazine.biz

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We live in an involved community, and that’s what makes the difference.

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our contributors

Diane Smith a native of Ohio, has enjoyed living in Henry County for nine years. She is mother to 16-year-old Travis and wife to Pastor George Smith of Solid Rock Church of Jackson, Georgia. Diane works at Noah’s Ark in Locust Grove. Salita Gray earned a Communications degree from GSU. Her mentor, late Author Alex Haley, encouraged her to study TV/Film. After freelance writing for two newspapers in Bermuda, she relocated to California for a career opportunity at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank. Salita and her son, Channing, reside in Henry County. Ciji Fox graduated from Clayton State University in 2009, and has been writing for CSU since 2008. She is the social media expert for the university and also a backup photographer. Some may remember her as an intern with H Magazine in 2009. She is a mother and loves being with her family. Melissa Chapman is the CEO of Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity, where she is on the front lines of building community ties and strengthening families. She is an avid reader and a devoted wife and mother and is most happy when she is “running wide open.”

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Louie Hunter a native of Marion, NC, is a contract lobbyist who has represented clients from multiple interests since 2007. Louie was elected to the Cobb Commission in 1999, and decided to return to politics as COO of InsiderAdvantage (political media) in 2005. We are pleased to welcome him as the new Georgia on My Mind columnist for H Magazine. Debbie Swanson has lived in Henry County since 1986 and is married to Locust Grove’s Assistant Chief Police Ken Swanson. Debbie sits on many non-profit boards, including serving as president of Shining Light Ministries. She has two children and one grandchild. Debbie Swanson’s life philosophy is “Every day is a gift, treat it accordingly.”

contributors

Valerie Baldowski spent five years as a General Assignment Reporter writing for a chain of weekly metro Atlanta suburban newspapers, an additional year as a News Editor for that same newspaper chain, and two years as the Government Reporter for a daily newspaper in Henry County.

Beverly Van Gorder has lived in Henry County with her husband, Jim since 1994. They have five children: James, Seth (both of whom are U.S. Marines), Margaret, Noah and Gabriel. She is the writer of our Operation Overseas and Chaplain’s Corner features. She is a Director with Legal Shield, formerly known as Pre-Paid Legal Services.

Shavonia Frank is also a recent graduate of Clayton State, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in English. She has a special interest in journalism. Shavonia hones her writing skills as a frequent blogger on thecelebritycafe.com. When she is not writing, Shavonia serves as a customer service representative at Publix.

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H Magazine has been like family! From the first day that I meet Debbie Swanson I felt welcomed and loved. H Magazine is a brilliant, vibrant and exciting publication about Henry County. It has helped me grow my practice and helped me get to know my colleagues in Henry County. Thank You, Debbie and H Magazine again, for all that you do for us.

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H Magazine, Lisa Kinchen and her leadership team have set the bar very high with the quality and excellence of their publication.

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have been affected by chronic pain.

Strong Rock Christian School has been blessed by our partnership with H Magazine and our advertisements in the magazine have had a positive impact on the record enrollment that we are experiencing today. It is an honor to be associated with a team that exemplifies integrity and confidently lives out their faith in the marketplace. Congratulations again on your success and thank you for being such outstanding ambassadors for Henry County.

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feature interview

years strong… …and looking to the Future by Shavonia Frank and Diane Smith

H Magazine congratulates Strong Rock Christian School

(SRCS) in Locust Grove as it celebrates its 5th Anniversary in 2012. The school began its journey when an independent board of Christian laymen from local churches began to put together plans for a top quality school which would blend excellent academics with a Biblical world view. President David Mann calls it a “Journey of Miracles.” After spending time with the Strong Rock leadership team, it is clear to see why they have remained successful. They are steadily touching the lives of those around them from the students to the parents to faculty, reaching all the way around the entire Henry County community. If asked, any member of the leadership team would stress that they owe all of their success to the grace of God, who is the only reason why they are able to celebrate their upcoming anniversary. In spite of the faltering economy, Strong Rock Christian School continues to experience steady growth in enrollment. The family atmosphere is one of the most important features of the Strong Rock community. Extracurricular activities throughout the year intentionally

foster family participation; the result is not only more unified families but also a stable and supportive faculty. According to Elementary Principal Lindy Gregory, “There is a heavy emphasis on staff development and growth. Open communication is stressed in order to facilitate a team environment and make sure that every voice is heard and valued in the Strong Rock community.” A visitor to Strong Rock will observe this atmosphere of community and will also feel an undeniable presence of the Spirit of God throughout the building. Each member of the SRCS team, from president to students, believes in the mission statement, “The mission of Strong Rock Christian School is to glorify God and by Picture Thistheir Studiochildren to partner with families in educating photo and inspiring impact the world for Jesus Christ – The Strong Rock.”

photo by Picture This Studio left to right Tommy W. Spinks, Judy Johnston, Steven Davis, Kim Kerce, Tucker Perkerson, Nadine McBrayer, David Mann , Patrick Stuart, Lindy Gregory, Paul McCracken, Jana Kelly, Mike Crawford, Dawn Olender, Phil Roberts

When our students head off to college, both Christian and secular, they find that they are more than equipped and attribute their preparedness to Strong Rock foundations and principles. – High School Principal Tucker Perkerson 15

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Strong Rock is a college-prep institution that sets the goal of college acceptance for each of its students. One hundred percent of its first two graduating classes were able to achieve this. SRCS students have been accepted into more than 90 colleges, from UGA to William and Mary. As of this writing, colleges have offered $2,525,694 in merit scholarships to the 2012 graduating class of 35 seniors. This figure does not include anticipated HOPE Scholarship awards. In addition to a strict college-preparatory rigor, Strong Rock students are instilled with a strong Christian foundation that teaches them to stand firm in defending their faith when encountering real-life situations. However, the emphasis is placed on impact, not isolation. High School Principal Tucker Perkerson shares, “When our students head off to college, both Christian and secular, they find that they are more than equipped and attribute their preparedness to Strong Rock foundations and principles.” Athletic accomplishments for this young school are also impressive. The first year in the GHSA, the softball team placed fifth in state.

The girls’ basketball team recently won their 100th game, and the soccer team went to state for the second time. Each year, the school has added to its athletic offerings, the most recent being an equestrian program. However, Athletic Director Phil Roberts explains, “Our goal now is not to add more sports, but to focus on what we have in place and work toward excellence.” CEO Pat Stuart reports that Strong Rock continues to look to the future and the implementation of Phase 2 of its building plan. Stuart adds, “Being the fastest growing private school in the Atlanta metropolitan area, Strong Rock still expects a 10-15 percent growth per year over the next five years.” With this growth comes an expansion of academic space. But even with the addition of classroom space, Strong Rock will continue to keep class sizes small to ensure personal attention for each of its students. Along with the academic area growth will come a more enhanced Fine Arts program. Perhaps, the best thing for SRCS to do is to continue what it is already doing: teaching students to be both academically accomplished and spiritually prepared to share the word of God with the world. Surely this is their greatest accomplishment yet.

MaY/june 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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feature

Leading by Faith in

Family & Football

by Salita Gray n 1998 Mark Miller was a salesman “making a lot of money” with no idea divine revelations would change his career path. From the outside looking in, no one knew “I was at my lowest of low,” admits Mark. During a sales trip in Mobile, Alabama he found himself in tears during a telephone conversation with his wife and best friend of twenty years, Leigh Ann. Unhappy about time spent on the road away from his family, he recalls Leigh Ann’s words during the telephone conversation, “I know you don’t want to hear this, but you need to give your life to the Lord and do what you’re supposed to do…which is coaching.” From that moment on, he says their life flourished because of faith. He acted on those words and began coaching football. The next revelation came while driving past Strong Rock Christian School while visiting family. Leigh Ann pointed to the school and said, “I feel like God is saying you are going to coach at Strong Rock.” Coach Miller didn’t give much thought to his wife’s words, because he couldn’t imagine leaving a successful coaching career at his alma mater, Woodward Academy. God continued directing the Miller’s steps when they put a contract on a home in Henry County. Relocation was contingent on them selling their College Park home. By faith, Leigh Ann began purchasing furniture for their dream home after telling her husband “that’s our house.” God gave the Millers favor when their house finally sold. They were ready to buy, but the property had been taken off the market. Coach Miller acted on his faith by contacting the home owner about purchasing the property. They again felt God’s blessings when they purchased their new home for less than they had anticipated. Coach Miller was still the varsity head football coach at Woodward Academy when they settled into their Henry County home. Two weeks later, Coach Miller was working out with his wife when he answered a telephone call from Strong Rock CEO Pat Stuart. By the time he hung up the telephone, Coach Miller

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

had a “pinch me” look on his face when he shared the news with Leigh Ann. “Pat Stuart just called and wants to talk to me about the head coach position at Strong Rock.” In that moment they recalled Leigh Ann’s prophetic message about him coaching at Strong Rock. Mark prayed about the coaching position at SRCS. “I struggled with leaving Woodward Academy because of the love and history with the school.” Finally, through prayer he received a confirmation that the offer was not by chance. Today he admits, “I’m at peace,” believing it was all in God’s divine plan for him, Leigh Ann and their four children, Peyton, Bailey, Sydney and son Cole. After accepting the position, Coach asked retired head football coach Tommy Webb from Fayette County High School to be a part of the coaching team at Strong Rock. Both men held a mutual respect for each other on and off the football field. Coach Webb was happy to accept the Defensive Coordinator position with the Patriots. “Tommy is a good Christian man,” said Coach Miller. He believed with Tommy Webb at Strong Rock they could make a greater impact, by applying their Christian values as a teaching tool in football. Mark Miller believed God had placed him at a young school with great students and faculty when he joined Strong Rock Christian School. He loves the Christian foundation at the school. “It’s exciting to be a part of something great that is growing.” The coach’s initial goal for the Patriot’s football team was to make them believe they can win. “Football is 70% of hard work and investment and 30% talent.” He draws a parallel between football and life. “It’s like a deposit in a bank…come game time you make a withdrawal. I believe football can be a vehicle to raise fine young Christian men.” April marked the one year anniversary at Strong Rock Christian for Coach Miller and his family. “I think it would be neat to fast forward 5-10 years and say do you remember when this happened? We have really been able to grow and glorify God.”

Football is 70% of hard work and investment and 30% talent.” He draws a parallel between football and life. “It’s like a deposit in a bank…come game time you make a withdrawal.

( cont’d next page. )

photo by Picture This Studio

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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Chanley Box

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student profile

Meet Chanley Box by diane smith photo by Picture This Studio

The first thing you notice when meeting Chanley Box has got to be the “cute factor.” Sparkling blue eyes, shiny brown hair pulled back with a red ribbon, dimples and the gappedtooth smile of a 7-year old little girl make you want to get down to her level and just play! She and her big sisters, Laney (4th grade) and Anna Claire (7th grade) all attend Strong Rock Christian School – and have since it opened its doors five years ago. As Chanley speaks, she leans against Mom and often looks her in the face, getting affirmation for her words. This is, after all, her very first magazine interview! But she answers every question clearly with just a little prompting. Her mom, Kelly, states that Chanley was very excited about starting school at Strong Rock. She had watched as her sisters headed off to school each morning and was eager to join them. And Mom was glad to have them all in one spot for drop offs and pickups! Kelly recalls, “We attended the first meetings when there was no more than a dirt road leading back to the school property.” She and her husband, Van, saw the models of the school and learned of the goals and mission.

“We jumped in with both feet,” she exclaims. “And we’ve never regretted it.” Chanley, in first grade, clearly agrees. She has very nice teachers and math is her favorite subject. “We’re working on squares right now,” she says very seriously. As she talks, she holds tightly to a soft, brown plush dog. “Who’s that you have with you?” She gives the dog a squeeze and says “It’s Josh – I got him for my birthday.” Josh goes everywhere with Chanley, except to school…but Mom Kelly makes sure he’s there when the small student is finished with her busy school day. “First we do our morning work. Then we do Bible.” With just a little nudge, she recites a memory verse learned a while back, “Come follow me and I will make you fishers of men.” After Bible, the learning continues with lessons about the calendar and about money (counting, bill denomination, etc.) Spelling comes next with tests on Fridays. Kelly interjects, “She does a jam-up job on those!” Projects come next and then lunch. Chanley’s favorite thing for lunch is “Corn.” An avid reader, she enjoys silent reading next (favorite books include the Magic Treehouse and Junie B Jones series), “outside” (recess), and specials like art, music, technology, library and PE finish out the day.

Chanley shares that in art they are doing a contest. The theme is “My favorite memory in the whole world.” That memory for Chanley would be “When I got my dog Walker…” Her love for the energetic lab/pointer puppy is evident when she talks about how he waits for her to come home from school and rushes out to greet her. “He has LOTS of energy,” she says with a smile that shows her two top teeth missing. “We ride in the golf cart and he runs in front of us.” In addition to helping Walker burn off some of that energy, Chanley is involved in recreational softball (“I play first base and pitcher.”) and likes to play on the computer at home. “Are they just fun games or are they educational?” “Just fun,” Chanley replies. Kelly laughs and interjects, “The games are actually educational games - Typing Pal, PBS Kids, Poptropica – but to her, they are ‘just fun.’” About this time, the little girl who had just finished a full day at Strong Rock Christian School, begins to lay her head on Kelly’s lap. Big sister Laney, finishing her SRCS running club activities, joins us. It is time for Chanley to gather up Josh and head for home. After all, Walker is waiting for his little dimpled friend to come home and play.

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

student profile

Coming Home... to Stron by diane smith photo by Picture This Studio

Mark Goffi and his late wife, Robin, were reluctant about putting their two children in public middle school. Their son, Luke, was fast approaching that milestone. So they decided to start checking out private school options. “We went to an open house at Strong Rock Christian School,” Mark relates. “When we began to walk through the school, I thought ‘This feels right.’ It felt like we had come home.” These parents decided that whatever it took for their two children to attend SRCS, they were ready to do it. Mark Goffi continues to honor this decision. “I work in Marietta,” he shares. “If my kids were not enrolled here, we would move there – I spend three hours a day in the car. We stay here so they can go to Strong Rock.” Mark Goffi believes his children are getting the best education for the value. When he checked out tuition, he found that Strong Rock is competitive with other private schools. “Some schools charge double the tuition that I’m paying,” he explains. “But I’m confident the education they offer is not any better.” Having taught at a public school before, he did not want his children exposed to issues prevalent in many public middle schools. How did Luke and his sister, Lydia, feel about the transition? Luke was excited about the idea of “tougher classes.” He was getting bored with many of his classes in public elementary school. Now in 7th grade, he appreciates the order and discipline in the classrooms at Strong Rock. “There are no kids disrupting the class room and keeping others from learning.” Lydia, a 5th grader at SRCS, was excited about the salad bar! Big brother agrees that the lunches are “awesome.” Both students are active in band, Luke on the trumpet and Lydia the clarinet. They perform in SRCS concerts and ensemble performances.

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

In addition to band, Luke favors his technology and science classes. Like most boys his age, he was intrigued with the dissection of an earthworm in science class. “It was pretty cool, and kinda gross…” While Luke appears reticent about sharing his accomplishments in his extracurricular activities, they are definitely noteworthy. He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 162 (Star Rank) and is eagerly awaiting a visit to the grand opening of Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia. He plans to attend the 2013 Jamboree at the new high adventure reserve. He is among the scouts chosen to go from the Flint River Council. “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity,” says Luke. Luke is also involved in gymnastics. He trains at World Xtreme in McDonough and competes at Level 5 in six men’s events – pommel horse, rings, floor, high bar, vault and parallel bars. With some prompting from his father, he reveals that he recently placed at a state meet and was co-champion in the pommel horse event. “I qualified to go to North Carolina to a regional meet to represent Georgia.” Luke’s quiet and mature manner puts one in mind of a “man in a 12-year old’s body.” Then he lets a little of the middle school boy peek out: “My normal pastime is video games. I like the fighter style games.” Game names like the Wii “Super Smash Brothers Brawl” and “Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2” and X-Box 360’s “Soul Calibur V” roll off his tongue like scientific formulas. On a recent field trip to Savannah, he was as excited about getting to play his handheld video games on the bus as he was about seeing the Okefenokee Swamp! This kind of diversity fits with his dad’s philosophy about their enrollment at Strong Rock. “The school offers great academics, preparing the kids for life in the real world. It also offers a Biblical world view. It gives them an opportunity to make up their own minds about their beliefs, and that’s important to me.”

I work in Marietta,” he shares. “If my kids were not enrolled here, we would move there – I spend three hours a day in the car. We stay here so they can go to Strong Rock.

ng Rock! Luke Goffi

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We have so many activities and the teachers and administrators alike really engage us in building relationships and pride in our school!

Savannah Hood

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Seeing by melissa chapman photo by Picture This Studio

by Melissa Chapman

student profile

God’s Plan in Action...

In early 2007, Dr. Kennard Hood, Board Certified Family Physician and Medical Director of Emory at Eagles Landing and his wife, Nichole, a licensed Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and an Associate Professional Counselor with A Growth Place, Inc., made a very important decision for the future of their children’s education. With many choices both inside and outside the county, they decided to take a leap of faith and enroll their daughter, Savannah, and son, Ashton, in the newly established Strong Rock Christian School in Locust Grove. “We had looked at other schools and made the decision that Strong Rock would offer our children the right solution,” says Dr. Hood. Both Savannah and Ashton were enrolled in Strong Rock’s charter year and the school has become an integral part of this family and their life. For that, the Hoods agree that their role in supporting the school and the lessons their children are learning starts at home. “This is a team effort, one that we share with Strong Rock, for the school’s success and Savannah and Ashton’s success,” Nichole Hood explains. “Strong Rock has exceeded our expectations and continues to impress us,” shares Dr. Hood. Early on the Hoods were keen on evaluating the educational rigor of the school’s curriculum, finding that both their children were challenged in ways that brought out their strengths and academically prepared them

for future learning. But it is the spiritual offerings found before, during and after the school day that has served to fortify the Hood’s appreciation. Perched on the sofa next to her father, Savannah’s smile grows as the conversation turns toward the topic of spirituality. “Everyone has their moments in high school,” she smiles. “It’s just that our moments include some pretty spectacular events.” Savannah tells the story of the Joy Prom hosted each year at the school; an event that offers special needs individuals from around the community an opportunity to participate in a prom. “This is an example of how Strong Rock incorporates Christ into our environment, making it a place where we can see God’s plan in action.” When asked to describe the very best part of her experience at Strong Rock, the varsity football cheerleader’s answer pops out with great enthusiasm. “Our school spirit!” she exclaims. “We have so many activities and the teachers and administrators alike really engage us in building relationships and pride in our school!” Strong Rock certainly offers a broad platform of learning avenues for its students, ranging from the highly academic to the dramatics. Savannah and her brother, Ashton, have participated in a wide variety of programs, but have found their niche in a few of their favorites. Savannah has been involved in the fine arts program since the sixth grade and was most recently selected as a finalist for Governor’s Honors for 2012 in dance. She has also ventured into expressionism in art class, spent time studying music fusion and

the wide variety of instruments this program offers, along with playing many diverse roles in drama. Ashton, on the other hand, has charted his own course, playing on the 5th/6th grade football team that went all the way to the conference championships last year. “This is a very nurturing and social environment and we have taken deliberate steps to ensure our children have a strong foundation that they can build upon,” says Nichole. She goes on to explain that, “Strong Rock has afforded us the opportunity to reach a level of educational excellence that we were looking for and, most importantly, it was an answered prayer. The perfect place, at the right time, with the quality education at the right price.” Dr. Hood also describes the benefits of a Strong Rock education by stating, “Don’t underestimate the value of a good Christian education.” He and Nichole remain committed to offering their children exposure to a biblical world view. Strong Rock’s experience in educational excellence and its commitment to serving its students is a picture of mission in action. Savannah Hood is a beautiful example of this action and as we finish our time together, she is busy preparing for her upcoming mission trip to Nicaragua. “Strong Rock gives us constant little reminders of who Christ was and how He impacts our lives today.” It is clear that Strong Rock has made a difference to this Henry County family. Its programs have the capability to change lives, transform communities and serves as a beacon for educational excellence.

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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e here, m a c I l i ood. I unt g l e o r o a h c s s eacher t well in e s h a t o , d rock. hard g k n r I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t o o r w t e to s de me They ma blessed to com y was ver

Coleman Smith

photo by Picture This Studio

May/june 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

student profile

Match Made in Heaven: by valerie baldowski

Graduating Senior Says Strong Rock A Blessing For Him

Despite its young age and a rocky economy, Strong Rock Christian School in Locust Grove is standing strong and celebrating its fifth anniversary. Established in 2007 with 326 students, the school has experienced steady growth. By August 2011 enrollment had grown to 714 students. One of those students is senior Coleman Smith. The 18-year-old Griffin resident, a veteran from day one, is finishing up his fifth year at the school. After so many years there, some of Coleman’s best memories will be the friendships he developed with the staff and teachers. “The people are so welcoming and nice. You can’t find this kind of atmosphere at another school,” he says emphatically. “You make friends with the faculty. I hang out with the principal a lot, and we go duck hunting together. It’s a really cool experience.” While at Strong Rock, Coleman shined academically, athletically and socially. A line backer for the Strong Rock Patriots for all five years, he also managed to fit in basketball, track, tennis and Beta Club activities, all while maintaining a 3.9 GPA. In March he helped out with the school’s Joy Prom for special needs individuals. “We get to chauffeur them, and give them their prom they never had,” says Coleman. “It’s really awesome to see, to give them a night they never get to have.” He also accompanied 15 other students to a week-long mission trip to Nicaragua in late March. During the trip he helped out with various construction projects, mentored other students and spread the gospel. After graduation Coleman hopes to attend either Valdosta State University or LaGrange College and play football. His plans also eventually include medical school to study to be a physician’s assistant. Coleman says the education he received at Strong Rock has shaped him into a wellrounded individual, able to handle any challenges life throws his way. “I didn’t do as well in school until I came

here,” he admits. “They made me work hard, the teachers are good. I was very blessed to come here.” Coleman’s parents, Mark and Karla Smith, became interested in Strong Rock after meeting David Mann, the school’s president and director of missions, and several members of the Adams family, the school’s founders. They both liked what they heard and quickly enrolled Coleman and his older sister Karrington, who graduated in 2010 as the school’s first homecoming queen. “With the Adams’ and David Mann’s vision…we got very excited about it,” Mark says. “Karla and I both graduated from McDonough Christian Academy many years ago and this was an opportunity. Even though there were other schools around, Strong Rock was a natural fit for our family. If a person has an opportunity to send their kid here, they should.” The Smiths, members of First Baptist Church of Griffin, agreed with the school’s vision of a Christian-based education combined with multiple extracurricular activities. “There are so many opportunities here for kids from different backgrounds. What they were offering us fit our belief system as well,” continues Mark. Over the years the school community has become like a second family. “When Coleman left our home in Griffin, he came to his other home here,” Mark adds. “From the CEO to whatever teacher, whatever coach you met, it’s the same vision and thought process – God, kids, family, parents, we’re all in this together.” Strong Rock’s curriculum for all its students dovetails well with values taught at home. Coleman thrived in this type of environment, says Karla. “They’re at school more than they are at home when they play sports. It just reinforces everything we believe in,” she explains. “It was a source of security and it made him more self-confident because he felt so secure,” adds Karla. “It takes a good Christian-based atmosphere to instill lifelong values and a positive and eager outlook into the future. There were so many wonderful people in his life, and it takes a lot of good people to make a well-rounded child. And when they’re happy, you’re happy.” May/june 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Business profile

Meet the Mayor: by Shavonia Frank

photos by Picture This Studio

Magazine was proud to sit down with the recently elected Mayor Robert Price to discuss the future of Locust Grove. Mayor Price and his team plan to keep Locust Grove growing by adding employment opportunities for locals and helping the city look and run at its best with improvements made around the city. Mayor Robert Price began his official post as mayor on January 3, 2012. Before gaining knowledge of the city by serving on the city council for four years, Mayor Price worked for the telephone company in McDonough for 31 years. He has also been a fulltime, local farmer of mixed-breed “commercial cows.” His wife of forty years, Barbara, is retired from the banking industry, and remains active in the Henry County community as a member of several city committees and organizations. They have one son, Weyman, who Mayor Price enjoys refurbishing tractors with in his spare time. The family of volunteers each believes in giving back to the community. The mayor and his team have several new plans in place for the city of Locust Grove. Mayor Price states that one of his main goals is “accommodating residents - helping the city grow inward instead of outward.” The city of Locust Grove has a population of 5,402, and Mayor Price believes in working to make Locust Grove an enjoyable place in which to live. City Clerk Theresa Breedlove pointed out that Locust Grove has received a new, modern marquee sign in front of city hall to help keep residents updated on local news and events. At the time of this article, Locust Grove is converting their old community room to a new official city courtroom. The new courtroom will be more readily accessible, as elevators are being installed. This is a major update for the City Hall building which was constructed in 1890. Mayor Price has developed a new community service program to contribute to the effort of keeping Locust Grove looking its best. This successful program has even generated several volunteers who want to come out and help the city. He is also working with Georgia Power to get 37

MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

8-10 additional streetlights near the railroad as a safety precaution, and for Christmas lights to be strung throughout the city during the holiday season. Perhaps one of the biggest plans that the Mayor is excited about are the current negotiations to get the lease altered for building the trainviewing platform for the railroad. Another important addition to the city of Locust Grove is the Hawk pedestrian light signal that would be based on pedestrian and traffic count. This will help the streets be safer for pedestrians looking to cross. The city of Locust Grove is set to see an enormous amount of new employment opportunities. Tim Young, Locust Grove’s City Manager, indicates that, “As construction is being completed around the city, new businesses indicate commercial growth and significant employment opportunities.” Several new businesses are in place around I-75 as well as a new completed building at the Tanger Outlets. There are also new businesses coming in the Marketplace at Locust Groves Shoppes around Wal-Mart. “Not only will this bring jobs but more shoppers will come and spend money in the city of Locust Grove.” This new revenue can only help the city in its improvement efforts. Theresa Breedlove explained, “Because of the L.O.S.T. (Local Options Sales Tax), a portion of every dollar spent in the county remains locally in the county. For every dollar in sales tax, 65% goes to the county and 35% goes to the cities. This helps take the financial burden off of local residents for city costs. The funds can be used for whatever is deemed most necessary including police, water and to promote tourism.” She and Tim Young also touched on the major improvements which could benefit Locust Grove if voters pass the T-S.P.L.O.S.T. transportation referendum in July. Mayor Robert Price is proud to serve the city of Locust Grove and excited about the new direction that the city is headed. His first commitment is to the city’s residents. He even makes house calls! “If anybody calls with a concern, they were good enough to vote for us so we are good enough to go see them,” Mayor Price says. What more could you ask for in a leader?

“If anybody calls with a concern, they were good enough to vote for us so we are good enough to go see them.”

left to right Mayor Robert Price, his wife Barbara and son Weyman photo by Picture This Studio maY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Business Profile

Cultural Fusion

Discover a Cultural Fusion of Recipes with Chef Sam Pagan Chef Sam Pagan has developed a

reputation in Henry County for creating decadent desserts through his company MasLeon Cakes. (www.masleoncakes. com). Today the renowned chef is part of the reason why upscale culinary seekers find their way to the Southside - for the scrumptious dishes served at The Seasons Bistro in downtown McDonough.

Seasons Bistro’s legacy for “cultural fusion” in creating delicious recipes is the true essence of why people in Henry and Atlanta flock to the restaurant. Chef Pagan’s connection to the community through the kitchen at Seasons Bistro “…shows we are not just good, we are great!” Says the chef about his culinary gifts, “The reason I am great at what I do is because God gave me a gift.” Seasons Bistro owners Chef Trung Pham and wife, Lynn Loggins, met Sam Pagan four years ago when he delivered a tiramisu cheesecake for the couple to try at the restaurant. The couple loved the tiramisu cheesecake and began to order one every week. That led to Lynn placing orders with Chef Pagan to cater a variety of desserts for special events and fundraiser galas. Chef Trung Pham and Lynn developed a respect and appreciation for Chef Pagan. “Food is our passion,” says Lynn.

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Trung and Lynn recruited Sam Pagan to join Seasons Bistro in March of 2012. One of his specialty desserts served there is “Death by Chocolate - five layers of love.” It is a favorite ladies night out dessert. Chef Pagan brings a plethora of international culinary experience to Seasons Bistro with his creed “Life’s short…eat dessert first.” Chef Sam also creates specialty dishes like the shrimp risotto in a rich creamy sauce with prosciutto and butternut squash. He is happy to be a mature presence in the kitchen to inspire a young staff. Synergy used in the kitchen for Chef Pagan is “Americana meets the world!” Chef Pagan’s love for Henry County is what has kept him close to the community. “I am thankful that people have given me the opportunity to show my passion through food,” he states. He appreciates Seasons Bistro’s concept of changing the menu with the season. “As the seasons change we will too, because sometimes you might not want butternut squash in the summertime.” Dr. Elaine Youngblood and husband Dr. Clifton Youngblood agree: “It’s nice to have a local place like Seasons Bistro on the Southside. The restaurant is a welcomed change in the area. We really enjoy the lobster bisque and beautiful paintings on the brick walls.”

by Salita Gray

Seasons Bistro is a perfect location for couples, ladies night out socials, and the after-five professionals who enjoy specialty drinks at the bar with the “secret recipe” spring rolls. Year round, tables line the sidewalk at Seasons Bistro for guests who prefer a view of the park in the square. The Summer Room is an excellent space for events and meetings. The paintings on the brick walls upgrade Seasons Bistro to an art gallery inside an upscale restaurant. An open kitchen window with a view of four chef tables is available for guests who prefer to experience a chef’s table without being seated in the kitchen. Chef Pagan is excited to be a part of why Henry residents choose Seasons Bistro for upscale dining. “It’s important to keep our money local.” Seasons Bistro, located at 41 Griffin Street in McDonough, is open six days a week for lunch and dinner and closed on Sundays. The entire staff at Seasons Bistro will make your dining experience memorable. On Tuesday nights, Seasons Bistro’s house band, Paul & Felton Duo, performs soft rock; Thursday to Saturday the restaurant hosts live bands. The second Thursday of every month Seasons Bistro hosts “ladies night” with various vendors in the Summer Room.

I am thankful that people have given me the opportunity to show my passion through food

photo by julie hunter maY/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Our Stories by Diane Smith

Three young teen girls, sitting on a couch - two blonde, one brunette. You’ve got the braces, the giggles, the crazy socks and the eye rolls. While all this is pretty expected, there is a depth there that’s not so typical. Within these young girls beat the hearts of philanthropists. They are concerned about other kids who are battling cancer, and they are doing something about it. Meet the Kids Cancer Club, created by Skylar Wallace and her friend Jordan Ayers when they were just 8 years old. It started when their school, Unity Grove Elementary, held its annual marathon to help St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. “When we got an update on one of the girls, we found out she died,” remembers Skylar. The death of that child – a stranger - stirred Skylar and her friend Jordan to do more. So they began to collect golf balls from a golf course behind Skylar’s grandparents’ home. They sold the balls and the proceeds went to St. Jude’s. They decided to start a club to involve more of their friends, and the Kids Cancer Club was born. Skylar is now in the 7th grade at Strong Rock Christian School – and she brought the Club with her. She, Ally Dudley and Sarah Smoak served as the Club’s “spokesgirls” to help share the story with H Magazine readers. Club co-founder, Jordan Ayers, is still very active and continues to work on her end while a student at Ola Middle School. This club of young philanthropists is now twelve members strong. Skylar serves as president, Jordan as Vice President. They meet quarterly, and minutes are taken at each meeting. Members ages range from 7-13, and these kids are making an impact. They have a Facebook page (Kids Cancer Club) and a blog, http://www.wix.com/kidscancerclub/kids-cancer-club. In addition to selling golf balls, the Kids Cancer Club added car washes, yard sales, handmade jewelry sales, and even a running a school “store” to their fundraising efforts. Their large yard sale brought in an impressive $1,275 last year (the numbers from this year’s event were not available at the time of this writing). The school store, a cart from which the girls sold school supplies and snacks, brought in $800 – the sale of handmade, quality earrings netted $640. They also sell Kid’s Cancer Club wrist bands and have sold Chick-Fil-A biscuits at the school. To date they’ve raised $5800 for St. Jude’s, and have received tote bags and t-shirts from that organization as small tokens of appreciation. Ally sums it up perfectly. “So many people say they wish they could do something. We do do something!” “We had a lady come to our carwash,” Sarah shares. “When she found out what we were doing, she gave us $400!” Sarah continued, “She said she gave to St. Jude’s regularly and wanted to make her gift through our Club this year. We washed her car really good!” What do these children and teens get out of being a part of the Kids Cancer Club? Ally Dudley describes it as that “high five” feeling. “I think it helps get us closer to the Lord by being His servant,” she states simply. That thought resonates with the other girls’ answers, as well. Sarah expresses it this way: “God has asked us to be kind and help others. It’s our place to help others.” Ally adds, “We are doing what these kids can’t do for themselves because they are weak from the cancer.” Thirteen year-old Skylar Wallace, President and Co-Founder of the Kids Cancer Club concludes the discussion with a heartfelt statement. “I am doing what the Lord called me to do. We are sharing Christ with all we do through the Kids Cancer Club.” Jesus, in the Matthew 25:40, put it this way: “…In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” To help the Kids Cancer Club help the children battling cancer at St. Jude’s, email kidscancerclub@gmail.com and they’ll direct you on where to send your donation. 41

maY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Give Happy. Live Happy...

pictured: back row - L to R Elyse Busbee , Leah Maloney, Sarah Smoak , Skylar Wallace , Jordan Ayers , Grace Baker, Sarah Hughes front row - L to R Caitlyn Hughes, Josh Hughes, Mallory Johnson, Ally Dudley

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Stockbridge

1924 Hudson Bridge Rd. Established 1998

770-507-2258

McDonough

www.ga-pool.com

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1355 McDonough Pkwy.

770-914-7070

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photos by Picture This Studio pictured L to R Kenny Cochran, Macy Moore, Kenny Menchion, McKenzie Washington, Cole Kinchen, Macon Shackleford, Drew Hudgins, Jackson Barton

maY/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

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our stories

Serving Henry County...

By Diane Smith

Edward Jones and its associates believe that long term success is based on faceto-face relationships with investors. Those relationships are built by financial advisors who live in the communities they serve. This issue, Edward Jones is pleased to introduce David Shofman of the Stockbridge office and Jeremy Lange, an advisor in Hampton. “My mission is to serve the individual longterm investor,” David states with enthusiasm. “We like to call it bringing Wall Street to Main Street. My clients are just as likely to run into me in the local grocery as they are here in the office.” Rubbing shoulders daily with the communities they serve holds Edward Jones advisors to a higher standard. “When they do see me in the grocery, I want them to be happy with me!” David Shofman and his wife, Brenda moved to the Henry County community in 1995. While he was in the military in the late 80s, he served at Ft. McPherson – and liked the area well enough to make it home for his family. They have four children, “…three grown, one 16-year old at home.” He serves as current president of both the Kiwanis Club of Henry County and his home owners association and is on the board of the Lake Spivey Community. David, a former high school teacher, talks about the importance of clearing up heavy debts before investment plans can work properly. He is a facilitator for the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University at his church. “People come into my office with big plans for investing for the future. Then we talk, and I learn they

maY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

have tens of thousands of dollars in credit card debt – on top of their mortgage and car loans.” He discovered that he couldn’t reconcile creating an investment and savings plan for people when they have a mountain of debt in the way. So, he began to look for ways to help people retire that debt and discovered Dave Ramsey. Ramsey’s principles and techniques made sense to David, and he saw it as a good fit for improving what he could do for his clients. “It’s like dieting - the fix is a slow and steady process.” Jeremy Lange has been with Edward Jones for ten years, and it’s obvious he enjoys what he is doing. “When I speak to investors, I am educating people in a discipline – this is not instant wealth, it’s not a lottery ticket – there is no silver bullet fix.” Jeremy’s favorite quote should hang in his office, for its appropriateness to his day to day business: A goal without a plan is just a wish. Jeremy explains why Edward Jones being non-proprietary is important to these investors. “We do not have any Edward Jones stock, mutual funds, or insurance. When individuals sit down with me, I ask as many questions of them as they do of me. I want to know their current financial situation, their goals and dreams. We are sitting on the same side of the table, and we build an investment plan that suits them from the best options out there.” He and his wife, JoAnna, and their two children are involved in the Hampton community. He is active in the Navy Reserves and has 18 years of military service. He puts it to work as an instructor in the South East region,

teaching leadership classes for ranks from E-1 to O-6 (Seaman Apprentice to Captain). He is involved in the Hampton Business Merchant’s Association and the McDonough Lion’s Club, as well as the Henry County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee. And we’re not supposed to tell that it was his sneakers that peeked out from the Easter bunny costume during Hampton’s egg hunt... Looking to invest? Find one of the ten Edward Jones offices in Henry County – and let your neighbor give you the proper guidance. David Shofman can be reached at 770-5061994, david.shofman@edwardjones.com. To reach Jeremy Lange in Hampton, (770) 7072390, jeremy.lange@edwardjones.com.

Edward Jones financial advisors

serving Henry County:

John H. Dorminy(McDonough): Logan B. Lowrey(McDonough): David R. Dodd, Jr. (McDonough): Daniel L. Cash(McDonough): Lin Watts (McDonough): David Shofman (Stockbridge): Gerry Simon (Stockbridge): Jeremy Lange (Hampton): Vanessa Conwell (Locust Grove): Paul Rippa (Stockbridge):

770.957.0250 678.583.5090 770.898.1735 770.898.1735 678.583.1325 770.506.1994 770.389.8912 770.707.2390 678.583.5079 770.954.1018

...Edward Jones photo by Picture This Studio MAY/JUNE 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Our Stories

Behind By Ciji Fox

Paul and Beth Taylor’s faith can be easily identified. Their daughters Kristen (15) and Gracie (9) attend Strong Rock Christian School (SRCS). Their son Walker (6) attends Bethlehem Elementary. The family is deeply rooted in a love for Christ. Beth and Paul are committed to raising their children in an environment that is focused on Jesus. “The schools we have chosen for our children give us the small town feeling that we are both accustomed to, having grown up in South Georgia. You had one school for the entire county and everyone knew each other,” Beth Taylor recalls. “Our experiences have been wonderful,” Beth says. It’s such a blessing to know our kids are safe at school; but just as important we have the confidence that they are in a Jesus centered environment. It has been a joy to see the growth of Strong Rock since the first day we toured the facility, which was still under construction. When we think about growth we’re not just talking about the bricks and mortar but also the staff they have put in place to educate our kids. We feel like the teachers at Strong Rock are some of the best in the country.” This Strong Rock mom is also involved with SRCS’s annual Denim and Diamonds fundraiser. “Last year the committee was made up of four women: Julie Paulk, Pam Strickland, Jeannette Stuart and myself,” she recounts. “I was asked to head up the solicitation chair. I was very hesitant at first, but then I embraced it and hit the ground running. I am not originally from this area, so I felt that I didn’t know enough people to ask for donations for the school. However, once I embraced my role I enjoyed it immensely. It

maY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

allowed me to meet people in our community that I might not have met otherwise. The best part of my role was being able to tell everyone about the school. I was amazed as I went out into the community to find that a lot of people had not heard about Strong Rock.” Denim and Diamonds in 2011 was the first fundraiser for the school. The proceeds were designated to be used in SRCS’s Technology Department to buy computers and to update software. Denim and Diamonds of 2012 was also a success. The proceeds will be used in purchasing a bus to use on field trips and sporting events. “There is a lot of work that goes into planning an event like this,” Beth explains. “Strong Rock is unique in regards to parent and student participation. All the students get to help prepare, whether it’s a class basket, setting up and decorations or making precious pieces of art for the auction. Our parents are the best! Moms, dads and grandparents all turn out to help.” This year’s event changed from paper bidding to electronic bidding, enabling early previews of the silent and live auction items and a freedom to fellowship with all the attendees. “The electronic bidding added to the excitement of the auction because it allowed the freedom to bid from your cell phones or iPads.” The Taylor family is committed to the community, and in their free time they enjoy spending time at the lake tubing, wake boarding and just hanging out with family and friends. “Most importantly, Paul and I want to make sure we have a Christ centered home for our children,” Beth asserts. “The Bible says raise up a child in the way they should go and they will not depart from it. We are not perfect but we know that with God all things are possible.”

Most importantly Paul and I want to make sure we have a Christ centered home for our children,

photos by Picture This Studio

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We joined the Family…

because we don’t feel like a number.

The eidsons

Mcdonough, gA

FAMILY MEDICAL OFFERS THE HEALTH CARE YOU EXPECT AND THE QUALITY YOU DESERVE. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

• Primary and Preventative care • identification and Management of ongoing conditions • Fracture Management • Minor emergencies, such as stitches and broken bones

• Procedures, such as mole, cyst and skin cancer removal • school, sports and executive Physicals • Worker's compensation • onsite x-ray, labwork and pharmacy

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY

MCDONOUGH LOCATION 1631 hwy. 20 W Mcdonough, gA 30253 Phone 770.288.2822 Fax 770.692.8177 hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm sat. 9am-7pm • sun. 10am-6pm

LOCUST GROVE LOCATION

3334 hwy. 155 Locust grove, gA 30248 Phone 678.583.0241 Fax 678.538.0261 hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm sat. & sun. closed

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Our Stories

Hospice Volunteers

By Karen Barnes, RN, Patient Care Administrator, VITAS Innovative Hospice Care® of Atlanta Metro

Contribute Caring Hearts and the Desire to Make a Difference

s a hospice nurse, I believe that caring for dying patients and their families is sacred and an honor and that all my colleagues who join me in this work are incredible. Over the years I have learned a lot about my VITAS Innovative Hospice Care coworkers. Each of our patients is cared for by a team that includes a doctor, nurse, hospice aides, social worker, chaplain and volunteers. All share an equal role in providing quality end-of-life care. Am I saying volunteers are as important as doctors at VITAS? Yes—that’s exactly what I’m saying. Our trained volunteers bring heartfelt energy, love, dedication and compassion to the patient’s bedside which adds so much to the professional skills of the entire the team. The patients and families experience end-of-life care in a richer and more profound way because of the contributions of its volunteers. Some volunteers, like Donna Woolbright, of Stockbridge, are drawn to become a hospice volunteer because of a family experience with hospice. Donna helps to prepare and serve meals to VITAS patients in the VITAS inpatient hospice unit (IPU) at Henry County, in Stockbridge. The two-year volunteer enjoys spending time with the patients and their family members. “My sister had hospice care in her last days so I was familiar with the services,” she says. “I’m so impressed with VITAS; the staff has really embraced me and I value the caring and nurturing environment I see at the IPU. “Plus, I get to do what I love – take care of people,” she adds. Trudy Steinbis has also volunteered in the VITAS Henry County IPU for two years. The Jonesboro resident received special training from VITAS to prepare and serve food to IPU patients. Although apprehensive about becoming a hospice volunteer, Trudy now encourages others to join. 53

maY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

“At first, I thought volunteering for hospice might be challenging, after experiencing the death of my husband 16 years ago,” she explains, adding that her strong desire to care for others drew her to hospice. “But it only took one volunteer session – I felt such a sense of accomplishment! Now I try to motivate my friends to become hospice volunteers. It gives you a big appreciation for life.” Volunteer opportunities suit all abilities and interests. VITAS volunteers visit patients in their homes, an IPU, nursing homes or assisted living communities, provide support to veterans at the end of life, cut and style patients’ hair, play a patient’s favorite tune, bring their well-behaved pet for a loving, furry visit, do some household repair, or help in the office, among other jobs. In Need of a Bear “Hug?” VITAS Offers a Comforting Way to Remember a Loved One For children and adults who are dealing with the loss of a loved one, a VITAS

photos by Picture This Studio

“Memory Bear” can offer a sense of security and a soft, comforting memory during a time of grieving. Using a favorite shirt, sweater, robe or other treasured article of the deceased’s clothing, volunteers create a small, stuffed bear to provide family members and friends with a visible, happy memory of their loved one. Whatever their strengths or interests, volunteers find special ways to make patients’ eyes light up, says VITAS General Manager Paula Sanders. “Volunteers bring to the bedside a heartfelt energy, love, dedication and compassion that enhance the professional skills of the rest of the team,” she says. “Hospice is a richer and more profound experience because of the contributions of its volunteers.” For more information about becoming a VITAS Volunteer in Henry County, contact Volunteer Services Manager Beverly Ostrowski at 404.843.6523, via e-mail at beverly. ostrowski@vitas.com, or visit www.vitas.com/ volunteers.

But it only took one volunteer session – I felt such a sense of accomplishment! Now I try to motivate my friends to become hospice volunteers. It gives you a big appreciation for life. – Trudy Steinbis

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

student Profile

It was the bottom of by diane smith photo by Picture This Studio

Bri Dudley

MaY/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

the ninth inning… Bri Dudley, age 15, had her David and Goliath moment during the last game of the girls’ softball season for Strong Rock Christian School. “There was this girl – she

was really tall and towered over most of the other girls,” she recalls, biting her lip just a little. “Her Dad was the batting coach for the Georgia Bulldogs. I was so intimidated by her,” continued the petite blonde. “She hit the ball to me four times…and I caught it all four times!” she finishes with excitement. “That made me feel really good!” Bri’s enthusiasm for the sport (and for life in general) shines from her pretty face. She’s equally enthusiastic about her school. She and her sister, Ally (see related story) have been part of the Strong Rock Christian School student body since it opened its doors in 2007. “See that plaque over there on the wall?” she asks as she points to a handsome one in the school’s family waiting room. “Our family name is on it because we were one of the first families

to come here.” She states it as a simple fact, no swag in her manner. The thing that really got her attention when she came to Strong Rock was… THE FOOD! “It’s SO good…” Bri had played recreational softball when she was much younger. “We won a championship; I still have the trophy,” she remembers. When she came to SRCS in 5th grade, she began to play school softball. She tried other sports in later years – soccer and tennis - but softball seemed to stick. This young athlete played on the junior varsity softball team in 8th grade, and finally made the varsity team in this, her freshmen year. “I finally get my varsity letter!” she enthuses. Her favorite position is outfield, where she has played both right and left fielder. A well-rounded player, she’s also had experience at second base and as short stop. Part of her enthusiasm for the sport can be attributed to Coach Eddie Wise, who Bri says has been her inspiration. According to her, Coach Wise pushed the girls to make them better. “He wanted us to be the best that

we can be. Our first practice was crazy!” She took Coach Wise’s attitude to heart and began to stay after regular practice hours to do batting practice with him. The hard work paid off for Bri Dudley, who received the Most Improved Player award her first varsity year. Part of her admiration for Coach Wise comes from observing him in action. She recalls playing in a tournament game that was not going well. The Coach was feeling a little frustrated, but turned it around by telling the girls,” It’s going to be okay. This is only a game, and we are here to have fun.” While they lost that particular game, they had learned from their coach’s attitude. What does she like most about playing team sports? “I like it when before a game you get this kind of tension – I am so excited to play every game!” The sparkle in her eyes as she shares this leaves no doubt. “We have so much fun together as a team, even in the locker room when we’re getting ready.” In addition to the fun, she also appreciates the Christian philosophy shared by her coach and her teammates. Prayer is offered unashamedly before each game, and while the competitive edge is there that she saw in her recreational softball games, the atmosphere and attitudes are much different. The future looks bright for this young outfielder as she continues her journey as part of the Strong Rock family. Keep an eye on the ball, Bri!

– I am so n o i s n e ind of t gether as a k s i h t t e you ge so much fun to dy. m a g a e n befor game! We have ’re getting rea e h w t i i like every hen we y w a l m p o o o t r locker excited e h t n i ven team, e

MAY/JUNE 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Business Profile

People of integrity expect to be believed and when they are not, they let time prove them right.

photos by Picture This Studio

May/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Classic Landscapes by diane smith

ohn Newman, owner and founder of Classic Landscapes, lays out a full color schematic of a landscape plan. It looks like a piece of art, with architectural drawings of plant placement and individual photos of each kind of plant. Homeowners take a look at it and know exactly what to expect. And something else they have come to expect of Classic Landscapes – quality, integrity and solid experience. John first began his landscape career at Post Properties on the “Daf Team” – a group mostly comprised of college students, assigned to plant 150,000 daffodil bulbs in three weeks. Such a daunting task would have turned many people away from ever wanting to put a spade in the ground again! But not John Newman – something about the process reverberated within him and made him want to make this a lifetime career. When he went to talk to a guidance counselor about it, he was told “You’ll never be able to do that.” His grades were borderline. John’s response was to become resolved and adopt a “Watch while I go do it” attitude. He went to talk with the admissions representative at the University of Georgia. “I’ll sign you up for three classes. You come back to me with two As and a B. If you don’t make those grades, don’t come talk to me again.” John not only achieved the grades, he made the Dean’s list. His “can do” attitude just kept taking him places. Classic Landscape’s first contracted project was chosen to appear on HGTV’s

Groundbreakers. “I kind of hope that guidance counselor saw it,” John says with a grin. It would also be rewarding if the counselor also saw the list of awards that John and Classic Landscape have earned through the years: 2007 Metropolitan Atlanta Landscape and Turf Association Merit Award and Georgia Green Industry Association Grand Award; 2008 and 2009 Metropolitan Atlanta Landscape and Turf Association Merit Award; 2011 Professional Landcare Network Award of Distinction; and the 2011 Urban Agriculture Council Grand Award. One of his points of pride with Classic is the fact that they have gone 100% green in their design and building projects. They are working toward that same goal with their landscape maintenance programs. “We use as many organic materials in our services as we can,” he states. These services include feeding lawns, turf care, tree and shrub care, lighting, deer repellants, top dressing, waterscapes and irrigation. “We install low volume drip irrigation systems which are vital for water conservation.” Another factor that most common homeowners may not be aware of is the need to “feed” the soil in a lawn. Classic Landscapes does this with the use of beneficial microbes. According to John, many chemical lawn care products produce the same effect as overusing antibiotics in the human body. “Pretty soon, the good bacteria in the body is damaged along with the bad bacteria,” he explains. “The same is true when treating the soil in your yard. If you keep killing out all

the micro-organisms with chemical treatments, the soil becomes unhealthy and is unable to reach the right balance to produce a healthy lawn.” “We also use LED landscape lighting. It uses 80% less electricity and the bulbs last ten times longer than incandescent bulbs.” Classic Landscape gained one client simply because they do horticulturally-correct hand pruning of shrubs, bushes and trees. “We don’t sheer everything in to ‘Epcot shapes,’” John laughs. John and his wife, Jill, have been married twenty years and have two children. They are active in the choir at Jonesboro First Baptist Church. He serves on the board of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce and the Community Gardens of Henry County. He is excited about the upcoming Community Gardens’ fundraiser on June 16 at Wesley Way United Methodist Church. It’s called Love and Homegrown Tomatoes,” he enthuses. “It’s a sandwich party, and it will be great family fun. This is our ‘first annual,’ so we hope folks will really come out and support the Community Gardens.” 150,000 daffodil bulbs, several awards, and many fulfilling landscape projects later, John Newman still loves what he does. And he has certainly proven his favorite quote: “People of integrity expect to be believed and when they are not, they let time prove them right.” To learn more about Classic Landscapes and to schedule John to come and turn your lawn into a landscape, call 678-481-3717 or email info@classiclandscapesga.com.

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

january/february 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Member SIPC © Edward Jones, 2011

Have the audacity to believe access to their financial advisor should be a right, not a privilege. It shouldn’t be a crazy notion that your financial advisor actually takes your call. At least not to Edward Jones. Our over 10,000 offices are in neighborhoods where you live, not in giant downtown skyscrapers. And we typically have just one financial advisor per office, so you can enjoy undivided, one-to-one attention. Which is only right. Join the nearly 7 million investors who know. Face time and think time make sense. www.edwardjones.com

David R Dodd Jr Financial Advisor .

220 Jonesboro Rd McDonough, GA 30253 770-898-1735 january/february 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

georgia politics

H Magazine is pleased to introduce a new column from the desk of Georgia lobbyist Louie Hunter. This column is “government 101” and is intended to provide an insight to the (often mysterious and confusing) workings of our Government.

T-SPLOST projects: The regional T-SPLOST, a one-cent sales tax to be levied over a ten-year period, is projected to yield over $7 billion in revenue with $279 million of it generated in Henry County. The direct return to Henry County on already identified road projects is $193 million, plus another $74 million to be returned to Henry’s four cities for transportation improvements, plus $11.8 million for continuation of Henry County’s GRAT Xpress Bus services. That’s a direct return to Henry County of over $278 million. “The Henry County Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the Metro Atlanta Regional Transportation SPLOST referendum to be voted on during the Georgia Primary Election on July 31, 2012,” said HCCC President Kay Pippin, “ for two reasons: the referendum is an opportunity to address Metro Atlanta’s traffic congestion, and pumping $7 billion into needed infrastructure projects over the next 10 years will ignite our recovery from the Great Recession.” The Henry County Chamber continues to host forums on the T-SPLOST, provide details about the referendum in henrycounty.com, the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, and utilizes other Chamber resources to inform its members on the importance of the July 31st referendum. A coalition of community organizations supporting the T-SPLOST will meet at the Chamber in May.

the referendum is an opportunity to address Metro Atlanta’s traffic congestion, and pumping $7 billion into needed infrastructure projects over the next 10 years will ignite our recovery from the Great Recession. - Kay Pippin

Meet Georgia’s Economic Development Commissioner, chris cummiskey:

ommissioner Chris Cummiskey was named by Governor Nathan Deal to the Department of Economic Development in January, 2011. In this position, Commissioner Cummiskey leads the government department that is responsible for recruiting new business and expanding the scope of current ones, thus bringing jobs and investments to the state. Revenues are also enhanced by increasing Georgia’s tourism and entertainment industries, as well as growing international trade and small business and entrepreneur development. Economic development is a topic of interest to all counties in Georgia, especially in times of uncertainty. H Magazine took this opportunity to speak with Commissioner Chris Cummiskey about what he sees for the future of this great state – and for Henry County.

H Magazine: How did you feel when Governor Deal asked you if you were interested in this position? Commissioner: I was very excited and honored to be asked. At the same time, I was very overwhelmed – it came with very short notice! The Governor’s transition team first called me on Friday to ask if I would be interested in serving in this capacity. Then by Tuesday, he called to see if I would accept the position. I knew it was a great opportunity and was proud to accept. H Magazine: Who was the first person you called after you got the call from the Governor? Commissioner: I happened to be on the golf course when he called. As soon as we ended the conversation, I called my wife, Rebecca. The second person I called was Rogers Wade, chairman of the Governor’s transition team, for advice. (Wade is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at the Georgia Public Policy Foundation and winner of the Foundation’s 2011 Freedom Award). H Magazine: How does being Commissioner of Economic Development compare with your former position of Chief of Staff to former House Speaker Glen Richardson? Commissioner: There are similarities. I like to call it “controlled chaos.” In these positions, you have many different balls in the air at one time. It comes down to good time management. H Magazine: How different is it from your time working for U. S. Senator Johnny Isakson? Commissioner: While working on the Federal level is a higher stress atmosphere, it wasn’t as chaotic. It’s busy, but Senator Isakson manages himself very well, and the staff just helped. H Magazine: How many countries have you visited since you’ve been in office, and what is the impact of those visits? Commissioner: I’ve been to around ten countries thus far. Traveling outside photo by: Picture This Studio

of the U.S. has been amazing for me. I’ve found that Georgia is gaining more of a reputation worldwide. Georgia is the logistical hub of the United States. With the deepening of the Panama Canal and the deepening of ports in Savannah, more and bigger ships can be accommodated. And when those ships unload, the cargo is brought to Atlanta for distribution by rail and truck. Our ports are growing an average of 10% per year for the past ten years. Forty-four % of the U.S. market place is in the South - we have Hartsfield Jackson Airport (which is the busiest airport in the world).

H Magazine: Do you think Georgia is poised to draw any large new businesses? Commissioner: We just got Caterpillar in Athens – that’s 1,400 jobs. Certainly Georgia is on the short list of many companies considering relocation. Our ports, our airport, our workforce, Georgia Quick Start, our academic institutions and low operating costs are key advantages we have over other areas. We have what we need; we need to continue to market it in the right way. H Magazine: Henry County was the fifth fastest growing county in the nation. It’s now the highest in foreclosures. What would you like our readers to know about this subject? Commissioner: First, I would tell them they are not alone. So many counties have been hard hit by the housing bubble and now the banking bubble. It will take some time to clean out the housing inventory. Henry County will rebound, and it’s getting there. The good news is: people want to live there! It has easy access to I-75, class A office space, the railroad, industrial presence, and great leadership. Bob White, Economic Development Director, and the county commissioners are doing a great job. On the manufacturing side, Henry County offers competitive costs and the fact that Georgia is a right-to-work state is attractive to many businesses. H Magazine: What can Henry County do to attract the Caterpillars of the world? Commissioner: Keep doing what you’re doing now. Make sure you have land available, be ready for the downline suppliers that are necessary to any big manufacturer. Offer incentives by aggressive marketing to other states. Keep the class A office space upfront. H Magazine: Are there any key problem areas that you see in Henry County and surrounding communities? Commissioner: Traffic problems in your county and throughout the metro Atlanta area must be addressed. I personally believe that the upcoming vote for the regional transportation referendum* (widely known as T-SPLOST - Transportation Special Local Options Sales Tax) is a vote for job growth. Businesses looking to relocate will view any county that is willing to address the burgeoning transportation issues head on as progressive, forward thinking communities. What we’ve been doing is not working – it’s time to try something different. *On July 31, 2012, voters within the metro Atlanta area will decide whether to fund local and regional transportation projects through this referendum. Estimates total revenues from the referendum to be $7.2 billion over a ten-year period. May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

May/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Ladies & Gen t l e m e n …

pictured, left to right: Debbie Swanson, Angie Dudley, Lindsey Sanders, and Cara Welch

Start your golf carts! By Ciji Fox

MaY/JUNE 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

photo by Picture This Studio

Charity Golf

There are several ways that people can participate in the tournament: • • • • •

Become a sponsor Be part of a team and play in the tournament. Support the tournament as a media, promotional, or meal sponsor, providing donated in-kind services and materials to support the tournament and hospitality at the tournament. Consider donating auction or raffle items to be made available to players throughout the day. Volunteer

For more information for the Hard Hat Tournament, email lisa@hmagazine.biz or info@schabitat.org.

Tournament

n May 14th, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. a shot gun start will mark the beginning of the inaugural Hard Hat Golf Tournament to be held at Hickory Hills Golf Course on Biles Road in Jackson, Georgia. The tournament is a joint effort between H Magazine and Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity (SCHFH). There are 36 anticipated teams of four, along with about 25 volunteers, homeowners and staff and a number of sponsor representatives. “The purpose of the tournament is several-fold,” Cara Welch, Chief Development Officer for Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity (SCHFH), says. “First and foremost we are seeking to raise awareness and funds to support the mission of Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity and the work we are currently doing in Henry, Clayton and Fayette counties; as well as the work we are about to embark upon.” She continues, “As an ancillary benefit to raising funds and awareness, we hope to engage our current donors and partners in something slightly different from our normal interactions. This is a fun opportunity for those individuals to swing a golf club with us rather than a hammer and have a good time doing it!” Lisa Kinchen, Publisher and Editorial Director for H Magazine, comments, “We are excited to help sponsor this event. It’s a great opportunity for Henry County to pull together to help one of our own awesome organizations. We’re expecting folks to step up and get involved.” Cara concludes, “Finally, we see this as a stepping stone to engage those who are supportive of our mission and ideals but have not been actively engaged in our mission to take the first step toward getting to know the organization, other supporters, and our homeowner partners and volunteers. We feel confident that given the opportunity to do so we will have committed partners in them, too.” Cara, a former attorney and preservationist, is often asked how she came to be the Chief Development Officer for the Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity. “My answer is always the same. My training (and prior work) are consistently that of advocate,” she says. “I became a lawyer to advocate for historic structures and persuade others to protect them as assets. When you come at it from that perspective, it makes more sense. I believe in the mission of Habitat for Humanity and am a passionate advocate for what we stand for.” Cara looks forward to the future of the annual golf tournament and what it will mean to the community. “The easiest thing you can do to become involved is by sharing this opportunity with friends, family and colleagues,” Cara requests. “Help us to spread the word about SCHFH’s mission to partner with local, working families to provide affordable housing.” Welch hopes that with the golf tournament people will know that Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity is here for the community. “People are confused about who we are and what territory we represent. Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity serves Henry, Clayton and Fayette counties. Historically much of our work has been in Clayton county, and I often hear about Clayton County Habitat.’ There is no such thing. That’s us. It confuses people, but we are the entity that serves Clayton, Henry and Fayette Counties. “We sell houses to homeowner partners who earn the opportunity for a 0% mortgage through investments of their time and work in sweat equity – working on our sites and in our classrooms for the opportunity to become a successful homeowner.” Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity builds new homes; buys and rehabilitates foreclosures for sale to homeowner partners, and invests in existing, private homeowners in deteriorating neighborhoods as part of our Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative. MaY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Planning Today For Tomorrow’s Memories

1200 Keys Ferry Court • McDonough

Investment and Wealth Management

Billy Duke Managing Director

P. Lewis Robinson, CPA Director of Retirement Planning

Corporate Retirement Plan Consulting 1200 Keys Ferry Court McDonough, GA 30253 678.272.7555 • 877.544.3290 www.capsouthpartners.com

Investment advisory services offered through CapSouth Partners, an independent registered Investment Advisor.

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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photos by Picture This Studio

May/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

business profile

by diane smith

e’ve all seen the beach cover-ups and night shirts with the tag which reads “One size fits all.” Some are more honest and admit “One size fits most.” That’s all well and good for clothing, but it’s not a sentiment we want attached to our medical care. We want our physicians to know who we are and to be familiar with our medical backgrounds. Too often we feel like we are sitting before a stranger each time we see our doctors - that we have become just another name on a chart. CorrectMed is working hard to eliminate those kinds of visits. The waiting room is cheerful, as is the staff. The camaraderie between the doctors is evident as they tease each other in passing. That the comfort of the patients is foremost is evident in the televisions mounted in each patient’s room – and a special children’s waiting room. And, following the concepts set forth by founders Dr. Carlo Musso and family nurse practitioner Linda Faulkner – CorrectMed is innovative. The newest member of the medical team, Dr. Jamie Walraven, will attest to this fact. Dr. Walraven joined the CorrectMed staff in January, 2012. Like most

of the team members, her background is in emergency medicine. About five years ago, she began to change her focus to aesthetic and anti-aging medicine. “I practice functional medicine,” the petite blonde doctor explains. “I work with patients in the field of antiaging, hormone replacement, and even nutritional supplements.” Like the rest of the CorrectMed doctors, Dr. Walraven is interested in preventative and integrated medicine, finding the best solutions for each individual patient. “There is no one size fits all when it comes to your health,” she says emphatically. She also believes that offering patients both emergency care and primary care in the same office allows for effective follow through on treatments. “I liked the fact that this practice is open to new ideas. It’s a fascinating time to be in medicine. To work with a group of professionals who have the same philosophies is an ideal situation.” This doc also loves the family atmosphere, and reveals, “Everyone here enjoys coming to work every day. That starts from the top. ” As she talks about the fun relationships between staff, she says with a laugh, “Think Steel Magnolias!”

Family Nurse Practitioner Nancy Rowell Crane agrees. She has worked at CorrectMed part time since May, 2011 – but joined the lively crew full time in March of this year. “We are more patient focused. We look at future preventatives; we take time with each patient.” Nancy concludes with, “We recognize the human factor, especially with children. It’s easy to forget how unnerving a visit to the doctor’s can be for them – we make it less scary.” Dr. Walraven’s typical patients are females, age 40-65. But she explains why it’s advantageous for everyone to begin seeking answers at an earlier age. “There are many toxins in our environment. It all started with plastics, then lawn chemicals – processed foods, added hormones in our foods.” She goes on to explain, “Many toxins are hormone disrupters. I’m seeing hormonal imbalances earlier and earlier in young people. It affects puberty – in men as well as women.” To learn more about Dr. Walraven and the other forward thinking physicians at CorrectMed or to schedule an appointment, call 770-626-5740 or visit them on the web at www.correctmed.com. May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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photos by Picture This Studio

May/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

business profile

Providing a guide through troubled waters by pandora palmer The State of Georgia currently is in the top twenty percent of states with leading divorce rates in the United States, according to the 2009 U.S. Census Bureau. Yet, just ten years ago in 2002, Georgia had one of the lowest divorce rates. Why the increase? Two professionals who see the effects of divorce on a daily basis are Pandora Palmer, a Henry County family law attorney who is a partner with Smith, Welch, Webb, & White, LLC; and Dr. Jane Hayes, who is a psychotherapist in private practice in the Atlanta area. They both cite a failing economy and financial reasons as major factors in the demise of many marriages, with incomes in the South being lower than the national average. Together, they have recently completed writing a book, Divorce Proceedings in Georgia, which is set to be released in mid-May. Have you ever wondered exactly what you need to do to file for divorce in Georgia? Have you struggled over what to tell your children if you are planning to divorce? Divorce Proceedings in Georgia helps to explain in detail each step involved in a divorce case with practical advice to get through one of the most stressful times in one’s life. It is a must-have guide to help you avoid some of the pitfalls of divorce in the State of Georgia along with several 73

May/june 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

sample forms provided. Pandora has litigated family law cases for over eighteen years and has not only appeared before the Georgia Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, but has also served as a guardian ad litem for minor children in Superior Court, Probate Court and Juvenile Court. She explains, “Whether or not you have personally experienced the effects of divorce, you certainly know someone who has gone through a divorce or who is currently going through one and that is the very reason behind this book. I see many clients who are simply overwhelmed by the entire process and they are looking for someone to explain to them each step that they will have to undergo in what is often a truly complicated and confusing area of law. In my practice, we work hard to make sure our clients are fully informed and understand their legal rights and the best option for them, along with quality legal representation.” Jane has worked with children and families for over thirty years in both educational and counseling settings. She has a special interest in helping children, adolescents, and adults adjust to the emotionally traumatic experience of divorce in order to minimize the negative effects on all involved. As Jane explains, “My work with children is focused on

resolving their distress and improving their coping skills. I also assist parents in an effort to decrease their hostilities and conflicts to which the children are exposed, and work towards healthy coparenting relationships.” Jane has not only testified as an expert in family law cases throughout the State of Georgia but she is also a Registered Domestic Relations Mediator with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution and works on resolving issues between parties without all of the hostilities involved that often accompany divorce litigation. Pandora and Jane both dedicate themselves to their clients, their professions, and their communities. They both have a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of the adults and the children when the family is faced with divorce and are excited that they have another opportunity to make a difference with their book. Divorce Proceedings in Georgia is published by Thomson Reuters and will be available mid-May for purchase for $29.95 at www.store.westlaw.com/ aspatore or call 1-866-ASPATORE. For more information, go to www. smithwelchlaw.com or to reach Pandora, you can email her at ppalmer@ smithwelchlaw.com. To reach Jane, you can email her at janehayesphd@ bellsouth.net.

photos by Picture This Studio pictured l-r Pandora Palmer, Dr. Jane Hayes

May/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

operation overseas

The Rest of the Story... photos & article by: beverly van gorder

wo years ago in the May June 2010 issue of H, I shared the story of my son Seth’s friend Wade Oglesby and his decision to become a Marine. In case you missed, “Called to Serve,” here is a brief synopsis: Wade and Seth were buddies from first grade through their graduation in 2008 from Union Grove High School and even now maintain a close friendship. Leaving behind a college football career after a freshman start, Wade enlisted in the Marine Corps a year after Seth did. Prayers offered for Wade during this life changing decision yielded God’s tangible confirmation through the repeated appearance of #47 as he moved onto his new playing field. You see, Wade’s high school football number was 47 and over the years this had become a sort of trademark for him. So, the regular and conspicuous appearance of this specific number during his transition to life as a Marine seemingly served as a personal message--“You are home.” An additional bonus was the blessing of Wade’s first duty station being exactly where Seth was stationed (Cherry Point, NC). Best friends would once again have each other’s back. At the time, that’s where it ended, but now I need to share the ensuing chapter...... As Wade progressed through Marine Combat Training, he was issued a pistol as his side arm. The number: EO 47. Shortly following MCT, tax season loomed and after Wade’s

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

numbers were crunched for this first return reporting his enlistment income, he owed the state---$47.00. Two additional brush strokes on the portrait of Wade’s new life---each one now noticed by the Oglesby family with an oxymoronic expectant surprise. During the first year of Wade’s service he settled into his job as a flight line mechanic on the CH-53 Echo. He also settled into a relationship with Breanna Smith, another 2008 Union Grove graduate. Bre and Wade, friends in high school, spent many evenings at my home along with Seth and their other friends who hung together. But they were never a couple. It wasn’t until Wade graduated from Parris Island that they began looking at their friendship differently. Having received several letters of encouragement from Bre during boot camp, Wade was ready to spend more time with her once he was home. A romance was born and over the course of that year, they came to fall in love with one another. As is the case with all young Marines, little time passes before the first deployment. True to form, the date was set for Wade to ship out in July 2011. Knowing they wanted to be married and realizing the deployment would last at least seven months, Bre and Wade tentatively began planning a June 2011 wedding. But the imperative lesson for military couples to remain flexible was learned early as their plans were interrupted by world events. Libya became a hot spot in the Middle

East and the call came for Wade’s squadron to deploy early---March 2011. This would be a long one as the squadron’s premature departure would effectively add a prelude of four months to the already scheduled July 2011 deployment. No one should harbor any expectations of getting home in seven months. With a disappointing dose of melancholy, Bre and Wade prepared for this separation as well as the waiting to be endured. And with the question looming, though unspoken, of why God allows certain inconveniences to shift the best laid plans. Then, yet again, came that familiar gentle message, “Trust me, you are home.” During the pre-deployment phase, while gearing up to head to the Mediterranean, Wade received his body armor---it was marked: Lot # 0047. Wade’s mother, Lisa, exclaimed, “It is the armor of God, God’s protection over him.” Reflecting back she adds, “It gave me cold chills.” Another tangible sign---God’s comfort spoken, “I will protect and defend; Wade will be home. Trust My timing.” With the arrival of March, 2011, Wade and a small contingent of his squadron (HMH366) in Cherry Point deployed from New River Air Station in Jacksonville, NC with the VMM-263 Thunder Chickens to set sail on the Mediterranean aboard the USS Bataan. Seth, having deployed six months earlier would have been headed home, but due to the same conflict in Libya, his duty was extended. Unbelievably, Seth ended up working a refuel-

ing mission as crew chief on the C130J which refueled a CH53 helicopter from Wade’s ship. Seth took a picture of Wade’s ship from the air as if to say, “I’ve got my eye on you.” Bre concentrated on completing her college education at Georgia Southern and making plans for a wedding with no date. As the year rolled along, she graduated with her Education Degree in December 2011 and learned of a job possibility in New Bern, NC where they would be living once married. She was granted an interview, hired and amazingly began her teaching career at New Bern High School in midJanuary, only one month after receiving her degree---another affirming touch from above. With the prospect of Wade’s return in February 2012, Bre set her sights on March 24th as their wedding date. However, Wade’s Sergeant advised him against a March wedding due to commitments following the squadron’s arrival. The HMH-366 Hammerheads who joined VMM-263 had made a temporary move to New River for the duration of their deployment, and would be relocating back to Cherry Point immediately after the post-deployment block leave. This would require a full month. In frustration, Bre asked aloud this time, “Why is this happening?” Considering April, she set her sights on two possibilities---the 7th and the 14th. While discussing with Lisa, it dawned on Bre that April 7th would be 4-7. With a now familiar smile gracing her face, Lisa concluded, “That’s your wedding date, Bre. No wedding in June and no wedding in March. 4-7 is when you are meant to be married.” What a privilege to share in their joy on April 7, 2012 at Salem Baptist Church in McDonough. Now off to New Bern, NC they have gone to begin life together---living about the same distance apart from Seth and his wife Ashleigh as Wade and Seth were during all those “growing up” years. And now……you know the rest of the story.

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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We joined the Family…

because we don’t feel like a number. THE EIDSONS MCDONOUGH, GA

MCDONOUGH LOCATION 1631 Hwy. 20 W • McDonough, GA 30253 Phone 770.288.2822 • Fax 770.692.8177 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 8am-8pm • Sun. 10am-6pm

LOCUST GROVE LOCATION 3334 Hwy. 155 • Locust Grove, GA 30248 Phone 678.583.0241 • Fax 678.538.0261 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm • Sat. & Sun. Closed

SHINGLES

ALLAN IMES, PA-C, FAMILY MEDICAL

“What the heck is a shingle?” This is often the response I get when I tell a patient they have Shingles. Most people have heard of this disease, but only a few really understand it. The name of this disease is sort of stupid, and leads itself to confusion.

So here is my attempt to explain the disease process we call Shingles. The medical term for Shingles is “Herpes Zoster”. Now, unfortunately when that term is used, people tend to stop listening right after the term “Herpes”. No, I am not talking about that kind of Herpes. See there is a whole family of viral infections that begin with the word “herpes”. Shingles just happens to be in that family. It refers to a painful itching, burning, blistery wicked rash caused by the same virus that causes Chicken Pox, Varicella-Zoster. Once a person gets Chicken Pox, the virus never actually leaves the body. It will travel to an area of your spinal cord called the “dorsal root ganglion” and just sit there. It may never even cause a problem, or can when you least expect it bam rear its ugly head! Shingles will develop along a specific area of skin called a dermatone. A dermatone is an area that is fed by whatever dorsal root ganglion the virus may decide to set up camp. You have thirty one pairs of dorsal root ganglions. Each of these branches out on the left and right side of your body to form specific dermatone. This is why shingles will only attack one side of your body along a specific dermatone at a time. The signs and symptoms of Shingles are often not easily recognized, until the rash develops. Sometimes a patient will complain with burning, itching or tingling pain on one side of the body. The pain can be quite severe. The rash will then appear as painful small blisters or as red patches. Often symptoms include fever, flu like symptoms, headache, and joint pain. Depending on what part of the body, many other symptoms can develop such as headaches, visual problems, and loss of taste.

Shingles is best treated if caught early. Antivirals administered before or soon after the development of the rash may limit the duration of the process. Pain medications are a must, because this bad boy disease can hurt. Often neuropathic medications are used since shingles involves nerve pain. Now all that seems reasonable clear cut, but let me tell you a story. A young patient of mine was brought into the clinic by his Mom with a rash on his leg. The rash was blistered, red and looked like Shingles. Only thing was, the little rascal had no pain.I was pretty sure it was shingles but the history was negative for chicken pox. His mother and I talked, and I decided to treat as a topical dermatitis, but warned her that if it was shingles, this treatment would cause the outbreak to worsen quickly. Well, the very next day my little friend was back with multiple raised vescicles on his extremities, back and in pain. It

was shingles all along, a lesson learned. If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck… it probably is a duck. One more thing, I often get asked if Shingles is contagious? The answer is yes and no. If a person has never had Chicken Pox comes in contact with the open blister or wound of someone with Shingles, the virus can be spread. This is not a common occurrence. However, Shingles is not transmitted by coughing, sneezing or airborne as is Chicken Pox.

Let Our Family Care For Your Family. May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

chaplain’s corner

photos by Picture This Studio

Open the Road and

Hear Them Roar! By Beverly Van Gorder

ne might call them “Kings of the Road.” After all they ride Harley Davidson Road King motorcycles. However, when you meet the officers who make up the Motor Unit of the Henry County Police Department, the humility with which they view their position in this elite group is readily apparent and that title just doesn’t seem to fit. Sergeant Ron Patten is the supervisor of the Motor Unit which also includes Officers Travis Lasiter, John Cunningham, Jesse Turner, and Bruce LaBier. When asked how they feel about their participation in the unit, Cunningham shares, “It is the best job in law enforcement.” And Lasiter states, “I thoroughly enjoy the privilege of being a part of this program.” Turner says, “I love my job,” while LaBier claims, “Other than graduating boot camp at Parris Island, completing motor school has been my proudest moment.” Established in 2007, the Henry County Motor Unit is assigned to the Special Operations Division and works closely with the Henry County COPS (Community Oriented Policing) Unit. It has been an additional tool for: community patrolling; public relations; natural disaster response; traffic enforcement; special event detail such as parades, fundraisers and funerals; as well as serving as escort for local fun runs and benefit rides. Sgt. Patten believes the image they put forth is of utmost importance. “I expect my guys to be clean cut, with hair short, boots shiny, uniforms squared away. I want the chrome on their cycles to shine. We must be found trustworthy, always maintaining integrity, professional in every way and the visual first impressions are a vital step in achieving those goals.” During the five short years of its existence, the Motor Unit has had several opportunities for

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

recognition. One of the most significant honors was the privilege in 2009 of the unit participating in the motorcade tribute to fallen soldier SSgt. John Beale after his return from Afghanistan. But it was especially meaningful for Sgt. Patten personally to have a hand in the planning and implementation of the procession route from Falcon Field to McDonough, the coordination of many police and fire departments along that route, and the collaborative effort on the final edit of Georgia State Representative Steve Davis’ video of SSgt. Beale’s solemn journey home. As a result of this participation, Sgt. Patten was awarded the George Washington Honor Medal at the Broward County Chapter of the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge 2009 National Awards Luncheon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The intent of this award is to exemplify the heroic fiber and allegiance to freedom which fueled the hearts of Washington’s Army and to create that same

passion in the hearts of all Americans today. Though 400 nominations were made, only 10 individuals received the award, making this a most cherished memento for Patten. Other awards include the 2009 Chief’s Citation Award and the 2010 Chief’s Choice Award. Additionally in 2010, the unit was honored with an invitation to attend the National Police Week in Washington, D.C., sponsored by the National Fraternal Order of Police. While in Washington, the Motor Unit rode in motorcades and escorts for the “Family of Fallen Officers.” This was an impressive representation of Henry County Law Enforcement in our nation’s capital. Chaplain Ralph Easterwood believes the motor unit is a huge asset to the department. “I admire them for what they do, for the positions they hold. We need elements like this that project a positive, patriotic, heroic image of the police department. And the Motor Unit is always available for patriotic and civic

Of all the departments in which I have worked, this is the only one with a program like this. I don’t ever want to be without it. – Officer Bruce LaBier

events, often volunteering their time after hours; yet always representing our county and country well. Through the chaplaincy program, I have been blessed to know each one of these guys on a deeper level. They individually have so much to offer our community.” Sgt. Patten gives a shout out for the chaplaincy program in regard to how it allows him an outlet to which he can direct his officers when they have a spiritual or emotional need. “I can attest first hand to the value of having a relationship with Brother Ralph. He and I go way back. When we first met, I was really lost; I had God in a corner locked up. I met my wife Denise and started going to church with her at Glen Haven Baptist where she was a member. Through Brother Ralph’s sermons and his personal interest in me, I let God out of the box. Even though I had been saved as an 18 year old in the Navy, I had come to a dark place and Brother Ralph led me home. And the other

chaplains are great. Brother Rick Statham---he is as good as gold to our motor unit. I do not know what we would do without our chaplains. When officers come to me with issues, I always refer them to the chaplaincy program.” Officer Jesse Turner also shares a personal story of relief found through meeting with the chaplain. “My mother passed away a year ago and Brother Ralph really helped me to deal with my grief. The chaplains are overall a good thing for the department. A lot of officers don’t realize they have someone to talk to right here with counseling experience.” Officer Bruce LaBier is a 26 year veteran of law enforcement and has worked with six different agencies. He expresses how meaningful the chaplaincy program has been in his life. “I went through a divorce and began meeting with the chaplain. Through counseling I dealt with that issue but also found I had unresolved issues relating to the death of my

father from years before. The chaplains are life savers. They lend an ear when you feel lost and bring you back where you need to be. Of all the departments in which I have worked, this is the only one with a program like this. I don’t ever want to be without it.” Because of the Motor Unit within the Henry County Police Department, a lot of community events have been promoted, a lot of recognition has been earned and a lot of lives have been touched. And because the chaplains remain on the ready, the officers who make up this elite band are better equipped to face the challenges that arise while they faithfully ride those Road Kings. Out on the open road, you can hear them roar! Much thanks for all you guys do!! Author’s Note: I would like to recognize Sgt. Ron Patten for the Academic Achievement Award he is receiving from the Public Safety Program at Mercer University. He is at the top of his class. Congratulations!! May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Your Typical Experience:

business profile

Northern Italy on the Square:

PastaaMax fé by Angel Maynard

e are so accustomed to chain restaurants here on the South side of Atlanta, that discovering a family owned and operated established eatery on the McDonough Square can take you by surprise. I had heard about Pasta Max, the little Italian place on the corner of the square on Griffin Street, but had never ventured over there. Now don’t get me wrong, I love anything with a noodle in it, but somehow I’d never gone in to dine until recently.

Pasta Max is located at 50 Griffin Street on the Square in McDonough. It’s a quaint, one room restaurant with charming brick walls and a very romantic, warm atmosphere. I met with the owner and operator Doug Zitz to talk about the restaurant and sample some of the amazing dishes he offers. Doug prepares all his menu items in house and proudly gives his wife Barbara the interior design credit for the restaurant. Pasta Max started in Stockbridge at a location off Highway 138 in 1994 and moved to its current location on the square 5 years ago. With their faithful fan base of customers, Pasta Max has grown in reputation and by word of mouth to an eatery so popular that most evenings the dining room is full and patrons are happy to wait their turn for a table. So, instead of checking off the list of chain restaurants in our area when trying to decide where to go for dinner or your next date, do yourself a favor and drive to the McDonough Square and pull up to a table at Pasta Max. Doug and his staff know how to treat you like the special local you are! Questo cibo e molto buono!

May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Let’s talk pasta! Doug treated me to several of the restaurant’s favorite dishes. Let me just say, Pasta Max now has a new fan. My server for the evening was Carey Tyson and he did an extremely good job of recommending wines that would compliment all these amazing recipes.

Here’s a rundown of the amazing meal he served me... Starters: All tables are served warm garlic rolls that are sprinkled with fresh parmesan. If you are on a date and planning on a goodnight kiss, have some mints in your pocket. These rolls are too good to forego! Brushetta - Vine ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, fresh mozzarella on grilled focaccia bread. Delightfully crisp and light. Most brushettas are heavy and oily, but Pasta Max’s version is a great starter that wasn’t too filling. Calamari - Italian style buttermilk fried calamari, roasted peppers and tomato sauce. The roasted sautéed peppers served with this calamari is what set the taste of this appetizer apart from the usual calamari. It gave it a unique and rich taste without being overpowering. The calamari tasted fresh, not chewy. The breading is light and the tomato sauce is mild. All that together made for a great combination of flavors. Carey’s wine suggestion for these two starters was a glass of Foghead Pinot Noir. A perfectly light and fruity blend for both dishes.

Pastas: For the next two entrees Carey suggested a glass of Red Santi. Another great suggestion! Agnolotti - With prosciutto, spinach, ricotta and parmigiana, served with three sauces: herbed tomato, pesto, and parmigiana cream. This dish is made to look like the Italian national flag. With three distinctive tastes on one plate, this is an absolute must try when you go in Pasta Max next time. Lasagna - With Layers of steamed and grilled vegetables, roasted peppers and herbed tomato sauce. This is certainly not your typical frozen quick lasagna we all throw in the oven for a quick meal. Every bite of this dish melts in your mouth. Doug told me this was a customer favorite, and I completely understand why. This dish tasted like time and much love went into every serving.

The next two entrees were served with a glass of Sterling Chardonnay VS. Perfectly suited for lighter pasta and seafood. Black Pepper Pappardelle - With herb grilled chicken, mushrooms, leeks, herbs and cream. This is Doug’s favorite dish on the menu. It is a rich, wide flat ribbon pasta with an extraordinary flavor. The pasta and the cream alone would be an excellent dish, but coupled with the flavors of the chicken, mushrooms and leeks, it is out-of-this-world good. Take Doug’s suggestion and try this dish. You won’t regret it! Angel Hair with Shrimp and Scallops - Shrimp and scallops served over angel hair pasta in a citrus butter sauce with grilled vegetables. I saved the best for last! This was my favorite dish of the night. The scallops were seared to perfection, the shrimp was plump and tender and the sauce made my taste buds dance with every bite. I honestly did not want to stop eating this selection.

Doug prepares all his menu items in-house and proudly gives his wife Barbara the interior design credit for the restaurant.

Desserts: A trio of Italian Sweets - A cream filled cannoli, chocolate chip cheesecake, Tiramisu. Pasta Max has an in-house German coffee maker; the coffee tastes amazing with any of the above desserts.

photos by Picture This Studio march/april May/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

May/June 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Pictured: Strong Rock Cheerleading and Football Team Photo by: Picture This Studio

january/february 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

maY

community calendar

pictured Back Row - L to R Tori McKissick, Stephen Stuart, Bill Woodruff, David Keener, Johnathan Kitchens, Jessie Adams

Front Row - L to R Zach Moss, Jessie Welch photo by Picture This Studio

• High School Awards Program Strong Rock Christian School 8:30 a.m. • National Day of Prayer • Chamber of Commerce’s “Great $10,000 Give Away” • Merle Manders Conference Center 5:30 p.m.

04 Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine •

Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m. You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown • Strong Rock Christian School 7:00 p.m.

05 • Brooke Butler Memorial 5K Union Grove High School 9:00 a.m. • Miles for Meals Walk Henry County Senior Services You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown • Strong Rock Christian School 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. • Run for the Bun 5K (Pregnancy Resource Center) Bethany Baptist Church 4:00 p.m. • Hampton City Wide Clean Up Statewide Sherman’s Trail Yard Sale City wide in Hampton, starting at Hampton Depot • SCCA Atlanta Regional Solo Atlanta Motor Speedway 06

• Hampton City Wide Clean Up Statewide Sherman’s Trail Yard Sale City wide in Hampton, starting at Hampton Depot • SCCA Atlanta Regional Solo Atlanta Motor Speedway

• Stuntfest 2K12 Atlanta Motor Speedway 11:00 a.m.

11 Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine • Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m.

Ray’s House 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. • Strong Rock Graduation Locust Grove First Baptist Church 10:00 a.m. • Geranium Festival City of McDonough Arts & Crafts Festival Noah’s Ark 11:00 a.m. • • Sounds of Summer Stockbridge City Hall 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

22 • Pre-K Graduation

• Classic Golf and Tennis Tournament Strong Rock Christian School

• St. James Job Seekers 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

• Race to the Finish Line 5K/10K (Speedway Children’s Charities) Atlanta Motor Speedway 7:30 a.m. • Groovin’ in the Grove City of Locust Grove 6:00 p.m • Legends Racing Off Season Race Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:00 p.m.

13 • KMS Drift

Atlanta Motor Speedway

• Academy Awards Program Strong Rock Christian School 8:30 a.m.

17 • Board of Trustees Lunch with Class of 2012

Strong Rock Christian School 11:30 a.m.

18 • Graduates and Grandparents Breakfast Strong Rock Christian School 8:30 a.m. Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine • Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m. • Baccalaureate – Strong Rock Seniors McDonough Christian Church 7:00 p.m. 19

Strong Rock Christian School • Chamber of Commerce tri-county • Business After Hours Atlanta Motor Speedway 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

24 • Last Day of School – Strong Rock

Christian School • St. James Job Seekers 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

25 • Last Day of School – Henry County Public Schools

26 • Peach Stand Road Race .

Gardner’s Farm Peach Stand 8:00 a.m. • Memorial Day 5K (Shepherd’s Clinic SHARE Initiative) Great Escapes Theater 8:00 a.m • Memorial March Merle Manders Conference Center 8:00 a.m.

• 1st Annual Women’s Wellness Experience january/february may/june 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

June

community calendar pictured Back Row - L to R Amber Sundeen Faren Kelly Bailey Shapard Caroline Leslie

Middle Row - L to R Elizabeth Hall Kennedy Rae Brewer Brianna Deraney Liddy Strickland Jaclyn Stewart Front Row - L to R Kennedy Cullen Cayla Doolittle

photo by Picture This Studio

• First day of Friday Market City of Hampton Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine • Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m. • Music in the Grove City of Locust Grove 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Adventure Safari Overnight Camp • Noah’s Ark Fri 7:00 p.m. • Merle Manders Conference Center 5:30 p.m.

02 Adventure Safari Overnight Camp •

Noah’s Ark Sat 11:00 a.m. • Merle Manders Conference Center 5:30 p.m.

• Thursday Thunder Season Opening Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:00 p.m.

08 Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine •

Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m.

• Summer Night Race Series (Ready Set Grow) • McDonough Gezzo’s 7:00 p.m. (After party at Jailhouse Brewery)

maY/June 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

• Community Week Hampton Library

14 Thursday Thunder • Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:00 p.m. • St. James Job Seekers 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. • Community Week Hampton Library 15

• Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m. Adventure Safari Overnight Camp • Noah’s Ark Fri 7:00 p.m.

16 • Old Photo and Crack the Safe Day Historic Hampton Depot 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Arts & Crafts Festival • Adventure Safari Overnight Camp • Noah’s Ark 11:00 a.m. • Love & Home Grown Tomatoes (Community Gardens) Wesley Way United Methodist Church 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

21 • Block Party Smith, Webb, Welch & White 4:30 p.m. • Girl’s Night…in The Grove City of Locust Grove 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Thursday Thunder • Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:00 p.m. 22

• Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m.

• Thursday Thunder Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:00 p.m. • St. James Job Seekers 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. • Henry Players present The Never Ending Story 7:30 pm

• Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine Atlanta Motor Speedway 6:30 p.m. • Henry Players present The Never Ending Story 7:30 pm

• Henry Players present The Never Ending Story 7:30 pm