2014 Spring Magnolia

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FREE

Celebrating the Lives of Local Women

Portraits

Faces of Renewal and Reinvention

Home Sweet Home

Room makeovers create refreshing new spaces

For the Health of It

Tennis serves up social recreation

Women’s Expo

Magnolia partners with N.W. Georgia Women’s Expo

SPRING 2014

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Table of Contents

Editor Charlotte Atkins Design and Layout Heather Koon

Home Sweet Home

From the Porch Swing — Editor’s Message

Page 4

Refreshing room makeovers create special spaces to enjoy

Pages 16-18

Brava

She Said questions

Have you ever reinvented yourself personally or professionally? Page 6 How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are? Page 8 How do you renew and revive yourself physically and mentally? Page 20 If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a large group of people, what would your message be? Page 22 Who or what inspires you? Page 22 How do you refresh and recharge yourself spiritually? Page 24

Banker Vickie Hill also makes quilts, pottery, soap ... Page 19

Minding Her Own Business Carol McCann has reinvented herself through multiple careers

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Photographers and Contributing Writers Charlotte Atkins, Carolyn Grindrod, Tracy Page, Kathy Patrick, Mary Lynn Ritch, Alan Riquelmy, Judith Tutin, Doug Walker and Kristina Wilder Advertising Director Cecilia Crow

Advertising Sales Mandy Welborn, Jennifer Futch, Mary Edwards and Diane Durham Creative Services/ Advertising Design Tona Deaton, manager Lee Field Allison Morris Sharon Chastain Circulation and Distribution R.J. Driskill Printing Rob Broadway

Special Thanks to the following folks who helped us out on this edition: Trey and Julie Smith at Cycle Therapy in Rome for the use of a bicycle for the cover, to Coosa Country Club for letting us shoot on their courts, to Leigh Barba and the Rome Area History Museum for use of the Barron Coca-Cola exhibit as a photo backdrop; and to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and Barnsley Gardens for allowing us to photograph on site. To life coach Judith Tutin and personal chef Kathy Patrick for writing three of our features and lending their expertise; to Debbie Galloway and Luke Chaffin for help with Magnolia of the Past; and to Tracy Page of Babycake Studios for her signature photos once again for our portraits showcase.

Neeve Owens playing tennis in Rome.

30-31 Magnolia Portraits Mary Kate Vick Fuller Nikki Mathis Aimee Harmison Madden Nora Guzman-Reyes Kim Cowart

Page 7 Page 9 Page 15 Page 21 Page 25

50-Plus & Fabulous Get Out of the Post-Divorce Doldrums

Magnolia of the Past Naomi Priscilla Schropshire

Pages 26-27

Page 28

Bon Appetit Y’all

Olive oil and vinegar reimagined: Infused flavors add a twist to these cooking favorites, from dressings to dinner entrees to dessert

To advertise in the next edition of Magnolia, email advertising@NPCo.com or call 706-290-5213. To contact us about Magnolia features, email magnoliaeditor@gmail.com.

Magnolia Moms

Pages 10-11

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Cheers!

Flavored vinegars give cocktails a new kick

About the Cover: Aimee Harmison Madden is the public information officer/social media web manager/special events coordinator for Cedartown. A native of the city, she is an avid photographer and a huge Beatles fan. ”My close friends know this, but I’ve surprised a lot of folks with my expansive (and pretty much worthless) cache of Beatles knowledge. I have to admit, I scare myself sometimes with it. People think because I was born in the 1980s that I have no clue who the Beatles are. I credit my mom’s collection of Beatles LP vinyls. I can pretty much tell you which song is on which album, roundabout the year that it came out and a lot of ‘stories behind the songs.’“ Photographer Tracy Page captured Aimee, in her trademark cute dress and matching heels, at the corner of Main Street and West Avenue in downtown Cedartown with a bicycle from Cycle Therapy in Rome.

Pages 12-13

For the Health of It Tennis builds skills and friendships

Empty nesters say it takes time to readjust their lives and hearts

Page 29

Pages 30-31

News Publishing Co. 305 E. Sixth Ave. Rome, GA 30161 President: Burgett H. Mooney III Vice President of Production: Doug Crow Vice President of Community Relations (and Magnolia head cheerleader): Mary Sib Banks New Media Director: Jim Alred Magnolia is published seasonally by News Publishing Co. and is distributed free at more than 50 locations in the Greater Rome Area. ©2014.

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE

From the Porch Swing Spring is a time of rejuvenation and renewal. After a cold, sometimes snowy winter, spring has finally arrived no doubt to cheers around Northwest Georgia. This seasonal renewal is not just a weather cycle. It can be a personal one too. I am emerging from a particularly challenging season. I lost my father and mother within weeks of one another this winter, both after long journeys with Alzheimer’s and Pick’s Disease. I am at peace that they are at peace. Yes, a broken heart can feel peace. But I know I will come through this personal winter and see growth in ways I likely never imagined. Growth that I will reap from the lessons and characteristics sown by my parents. I am trying to reinvent myself physically after several months of weight loss. From the grip of morbid obesity, I am reclaiming my body, yet it is not returning to an earlier form. No, menopause turned muscles into tofu and I am certain that as I continue to lose fat and re-add muscle that the body that results will not be like any physique I have had before. And I am OK with that. I am aiming for a healthy, fit 50something body not that of a 20something. But it has been an interesting journey watching my body transform along with habits, lifestyle and emotions. That’s something we as women have the power to do – to transform ourselves. Some have done it creatively like Susan Gilbert Harvey over the years going from Junk Woman to author with

numerous personas in between. Check out her DVD “Role Call” to witness it for yourself. Nikki Mathis – known to many at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Rome as Mother Nikki – was for 20 years a licensed social worker before becoming a priest. Add to that at 48 she’s mother to a 1-yearold and you have major reinvention in life. Mary Kate Vick Fuller is one of those women who goes through life with a positive attitude and a smile. Even after cancer derailed her for a bit, this active woman came back stronger than ever committed to her own personal wellness and vitality and is now the picture of health. Kim Cowart once lost a longtime job, but she used that as a catalyst for personal and spiritual growth and a new job. Now facing a major health condition that requires a kidney and pancreas transplant, she is mindful to keep herself renewed as she waits for the organ donation that will recharge and sustain her physically. It is already transforming her into an advocate. Aimee Madden has been a newspaper editor, public relations specialist and is now a municipal public information officer. She does not view her career changes as reinvention, but more of a repurposing of her writing and photography skills. Plus her key to renewal is napping. She “naps like champ.” You’ll see these women and others featured in this edition. Throughout these pages you’ll find many topics that carry our Renew, Refresh and Reinvent theme. It’s perfect for spring. It’s necessary in life.

Many women find cooking a way to refresh their spirit. In Bon Appetit Y’all, personal chef Kathy Patrick shows us how olive oil and vinegar have been reinvented in all sorts of flavors. And when it comes to libations, vinegar is usually a signal that something is past its prime. But there are new trendy drinks that use it for flavor, which is actually revived from days of old. As women, we often like to make over special rooms in our homes to create a refreshing new environment for ourselves and our loved ones. In Home Sweet Home you’ll see how some women did just that. Sometimes reinvention comes at the hand of major life changes like after divorce. In 50-Plus & Fabulous, life coach Judith Tutin shares tips for a fresh start. Carol McCann was once a flight attendant and now she owns two companies centering on travel and business logistics and is in the spotlight in Minding Her Own Business. In Magnolia Moms, empty nesters show how they readjust their lives after their kids head out into the world. Sometimes renewal can come from simply enjoying a sunset or a walk. Others look to spiritual practices for soulful recharge. No matter how and where we find it, it is important to take the time to rest, reflect and rejuvenate. For even in the clutches of grief, I believe it is possible to renew on a very deep level and re-emerge stronger and more vibrant. At least that’s what I am counting on ... Charlotte Atkins, Editor

Let us know what you think about Magnolia magazine. Email your comments to Charlotte Atkins at magnoliaeditor@gmail.com.

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She Said:

Have you ever reinvented yourself personally or professionally? I am periodically reinventing myself. I am probably on my fourth transformation. I feel that we outgrow our old skins, and when life becomes uncomfortable, that’s when we should “molt� and discover that new person struggling to come to the surface. Right now, I need more creativity and opportunities to express my artistic nature. Sheri Henshaw

I had to reinvent myself personally and professionally after I went through a messy divorce. I had been out of trenches for about 7 years so I had to go sell myself into the professional world again to say to the employer, “I have handled three kids, two dogs, a limited income, homelessness, and a car that ran when she wanted to. I was able to supervise this with a smile on my face and a fierce passion for them all.� I was hired as a supervisor for four counties for 6 different programs. I found out during that time the real person I was and who had been missing for the last 20 years, and you know I really liked her a lot! She was witty, resourceful, and could change a tire when needed. I learned I had found “me� in all the “mess.� Dawn Powell Well, yes! I went from traditional Southern Belle in white gloves to the mighty Junk Woman who roamed local scrap yards. When JW burned out, I needed the contemplative Monk Woman for renewal and the Lunatic Moth for humorous balance. After being an artist for 30 years, I became a writer. More recently, I produced a DVD about my artwork. Susan Gilbert Harvey

This edition of Magnolia has been coordinated in conjunction with the Northwest Georgia Women’s Expo on March 22. The magazine was released early at the event to attendees. This sixth-year event returned to the Clarence Brown Conference Center, 5450 State Route 20, in Cartersville. More than 70 exhibitors showcased their products and services for women in areas of health, fashion, beauty, finance and lifestyle. In addition, the event featured free health screenings, samples of products, more than $3,000 in door prizes including $1,000 in cash

prizes and more. The Northwest Georgia Women’s Expo was presented by Coosa Valley Credit Union, WellStar Acworth Health Park along with Magnolia magazine and News Publishing Co., Academy Sports + Outdoors, City Swirl Frozen Yogurt, Merle Norman – Hiram, Spring Place Pottery & Artists’ Gallery and Preferred Vascular Services. For more information on the expo, visit its website at www.nwgawomensexpo.com for a list of exhibitors. Look for photos from the Women’s Expo on the Magnolia Facebook page.

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Photograph by Tracy Page / Babycake Studios

Mary Kate Vick Fuller

“I love to play tennis. It is my favorite way to be with friends,” says Mary Kate Vick Fuller. “Tennis helps me emotionally, mentally and physically.”

Mary Kate Vick Fuller embraces life with enthusiasm, whether it’s exercise, cooking or beating cancer. After a year-long battle with nonHodgkin’s lymphoma, she’s renewed and re-engaged in life full force. “Although this was the scariest thing I’ve ever been through, it definitely ‘reinvented’ my personal life. After chemo, radiation, scans, etc., life changed for the better,” says Mary Kate. “Family became so much more important and cherished. Snow became whiter. Rain became beautiful instead of gloomy. Things in nature became more beautiful like simply watching yellow finches on my bird feeder, looking at the colors of the sky at dusk or staring at the river when I walk.” Mary Kate, 48, was born and raised in Rome but left for a few years. “I reinvented myself professionally when I changed my career path after moving to Atlanta. I was doing special events in Washington, D.C., for charity with senators and congressmen and moved to Atlanta hoping to work for Billy Payne and the Olympics. While I was waiting to interview I substituted at Pace Academy and Holy Innocents Episcopal School and found my heart was in teaching.” She moved back to Rome and attended Shorter for her teaching certificate. “I taught at Elm Street Elementary for 14 years until my daughter Mary Blair was born.” Several days a week she can be found on the tennis courts. Attending Wimbledon is on her wish list. “I also love to walk along the river and listen to music. I like to ride my bike along the river too. I love to duck hunt with my brothers big time! I like to cook the duck too. I like to build a fire outside and cook on the grill with my husband Greg and just sit by the fire and talk. I love mommy-daughter days shopping and getting manicures and pedicures together.” She also cooks, creating meals-to-go for friends. Mary Kate says listening to the choir and music at First Baptist Church renews her spirit. “After cancer, I prayed to God to keep me appreciative of all the things in life that he created and I asked him to keep me humble and always remember this feeling of being cancer-free and thankful. Sometimes I start getting too busy and wrapped up in things that really don’t matter and I just remind myself to slow down and concentrate on the things that do matter like quality time with my family and helping others.” Charlotte Atkins, Editor

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She Said:

How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are? 40 is the perfect age. Your body is still young and not falling apart yet, and you are old enough to know a few more important things about life. Susan Cooley

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Photograph by Tracy Page / Babycake Studios

Nikki Mathis

Nikki Mathis reinvented herself both personally and professionally as a priest and mid-life mom to 1-year-old Ethan.

You could say The Rev. Nikki Mathis, 48, has reinvented herself in a couple of ways. Or perhaps she has just transitioned into who she was meant to be. She’s the new associate rector at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. She came to join longtime friend and seminary colleague John Herring, who is now rector for the Rome congregation. “Being a priest is my second career. I was a licensed clinical social worker, in the profession for nearly 20 years. And now that I am also a new mid-life mom, I have to say that’s also a reinvention both personally and professionally because babies change absolutely everything.” Spring is a time of renewal and Nikki is mindful of her own. “Physically, my favorites are naps (when possible), walks (weather permitting) and hot showers. Mentally, emotionally, and spiritually include these physical activities, along with reading, prayer, journaling, girls’ night in (or out) with friends, hearing good sermons, gospel music and art.” For others looking for spiritual renewal, this priest suggests a retreat. “I also know that there are seasons of life in which getting away can be hard on the schedule and the budget. Starting a regular practice of ‘getting away’ with a book or a journal or simply deep breathing, even if you can only grab 10 minutes, really helps. Also, getting a spiritual director is a good way to have someone help you ‘hear’ what God is saying to you in the moment and to help you be accountable for walking on the path that God is leading.” She notes that resources for spiritual direction can often be found within your worshipping community or online. “The spiritual practice of regular worship at your local church, synagogue or mosque does more to uplift, inform and inspire than one might imagine.” Her most treasured role is mother to her one-year-old Ethan.” It’s the hardest and most fun role I could ever have. “My husband and I are homebodies who are really in love with our family life. I most wanted to be a wife, a priest and a mom, and now that I am, I’m literally living my dreams. It doesn’t mean life is perfect (what fun would that be?). It does mean that I find beauty, holiness and the unexpected in those moments that masquerade as ordinary.” When asked what most folks would be surprised to learn about her, she says, “I play video games, like to make homemade DVD’s and my husband and I are big children’s animated movie fans (and that was waaaay before the baby.)” Sounds like a lot of fun times are ahead for little Ethan ... Charlotte Atkins, Editor

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Bon Appetit Y’all

Olive oil and vinegar reimagined

Infused flavors add twist to these cooking favorites, from dressings to dinner entrees to dessert By Kathy Patrick along with the sip to aerate the oil. Then we rolled the oil across Personal Chef Excellent Ice Cream

As a longtime cook, I’ve loved the taste and health benefits of oils and vinegars. I’ve used them, as I’m sure you have, in salad dressings, marinades, sauces and occasionally for baking. But last summer I had my vinaigrette/marinade routine totally “shaken up” when I attended my first olive oil and vinegar tasting. I was with a group of my fellow personal chefs at our national conference. The front table was set up with several stainless steel fustis, which are squatty containers on legs with a spigot in which olive oil is stored in bulk. One of the fustis contained oil that had been competitively judged to be the fifth best olive oil in the world. Who knows what that cost, but it was incredible! There was also a full parade of square wine-sized bottles on the table, each with a little pouring spout and a label that hinted of the bottle’s delicious content -- labels like Herbs de Provence Olive Oil, Lavender Balsamic Vinegar, Blackberry Ginger Balsamic and Blood Orange Olive Oil. There were some 35 different vinegars and maybe 25 different olive oils. This looked a lot more interesting than grocery store olive oils and plain old balsamic vinegars! Undaunted by the morning hour or the coffee we were just finishing, we chefs leaped at the chance to taste some of these wonderful sounding flavors. Our first sampling was a goat cheese appetizer topped with Ginger Pear Balsamic on crackers (recipe below). Wow! Who’d have thought of that combo? We then proceeded to taste the oils and vinegars, both individually and in combos. Keep in mind this was a group of 14 personal chefs on one side of the table and only two men offering us

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2 scoops vanilla ice cream or your favorite flavor 1 teaspoon Espresso Vinegar (or use equal parts espresso and chocolate vinegars) Strawberries or other fresh fruit

Top the ice cream with sliced fresh fruit then drizzle the espresso vinegar on top. Tastes like decadent chocolate sauce. Slippery Ice Cream

2 scoops vanilla ice cream or your favorite flavor ½ teaspoon Blood Orange or Persian Lime Olive Oil 1 ounce toasted almonds, chopped

Drizzle the olive oil over the ice cream and top with chopped nuts. Experiment with other oils to see what you like. tastes, so the tasting started off about as organized as a litter of kittens in a pillowcase: a bit crazy. But as we learned the proper technique to taste we were then allowed to pour our own samples and take note of our favorites and our favorite combinations. So what is the proper way to taste oils and vinegars? We tasted oils by pouring about a tablespoon into a small cup, snapping on the little lid it comes with, then swirling and rocking the cup in our hands for about 20 seconds to warm the olive oil. Warming the oil releases the aromatics in the oil. We took off the lids and raised the cups to our noses to get our first hint of the oil’s flavor. Some were “big,” meaning heavily fragrant, while others had little fragrance at all. We then tasted the oils by drawing a long loud slurp into our mouths while curling our tongues upward and taking in a big breath of air

our tongues to allow us to identify as many taste aspects as we could. This noisy slurping technique is known as “strepaggio” and it really helps in identifying and tasting the oil’s flavor. After swallowing some of the oils, there were many bursts of coughing -- apparently a strong peppery finish is evidence of a well-made oil. Then we moved on to tasting oil and vinegar combos using the same method of pouring a bit of each into the little cups, swirling to warm, then tasting -- still with the strepaggio technique but with a little less coughing since the oils were diluted a bit. Some of the combos were: Coconut White Balsamic and Lime Olive Oil Chocolate Balsamic with Blood Orange Olive Oil Cranberry Pear Balsamic with Persian Lime Olive Oil Mango Balsamic and Basil Olive Oil Red Apple Balsamic and Mushroom Sage Olive Oil Grapefruit White Balsamic with Herbs de Provence Olive Oil Needless to say there were lots more combos and some folks were mixing two vinegars with one oil and making all sorts of wonderful tastes! These oils and vinegars are great to use as simple salad dressings and marinades, but they’re also great to finish dishes, to use when roasting vegetables, in dips and appetizers and (my new favorite) in desserts. Check out the tasty recipes included here, and plan a trip an oil and vinegar store that are now in vogue. Many stores offer guided tastings, and some have chefs on site who prepare dishes using the store’s CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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products for scheduled tastings, usually for a small fee. The stores offer oils and vinegars in two or three sizes so you can buy bigger quantities of your favorites, and they also have small gift samplers with little bottles. When you go, be sure to save room in your car for a bag, or maybe even a box, full of tasty oils and vinegars!

Delicious Fruit

Serves 4 4 cups fresh berries, sliced (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, or any combo) 2 kiwi, sliced or diced ½ tablespoon balsamic vinegar (plain or try a ginger-fruit flavored vinegar) ½ tablespoon water ½ teaspoon Basil Olive Oil

Serves 8 8 ounces French goat cheese or honey goat cheese, crumbled and drained ¼ cup dried cranberries, chopped ¼ cup pistachios, shelled and chopped 1 teaspoon chives, chopped 1 ½ tablespoon Ginger Pear Vinegar Grated peel from 1 orange Crackers to serve

Serves 4 1/2 cup cut broccoli 1/2 cup cut cauliflower 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup chopped zucchini 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms 1/2 cup julienne red pepper 1/2 cup green beans 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 tablespoons Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar

Put vegetables in a bowl and drizzle to coat well with olive oil. Pour onto baking sheet, drizzle with balsamic and roast at 450 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. Vary quantities and vegetables as desired. Basil Popcorn

1 bag of your favorite microwave popcorn, popped 1⁄8 – 1⁄4 cup Basil Olive Oil 1⁄2 teaspoon Sea Salt, or to taste Black pepper, freshly ground

Place freshly popped popcorn in large bowl. While still warm, drizzle the olive oil over the popcorn, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat evenly. Optional: Add ¼ cup finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano following the olive oil and seasoning, toss to coat evenly. Special Variation: Try White Truffle Oil in place of the Basil Oil for a truly decadent version!

Strawberry and Brie Crostini with Honey and Mint

Preheat oven to 350 F. Very lightly brush some oil on the bottom of the baguette pieces, and place them oil side down on a baking sheet. Top each piece with a slice of Brie Cheese. Place the baking sheet on a middle or lower rack in the oven. Bake the cheese-topped baguette for 5-7 minutes until slightly browned and the cheese is melted. In the meantime, mix the balsamic vinegar and honey together, then pour over the strawberries and mix carefully to not crush/mash the berries. Remove the Crostini from oven the oven. Top with a few pieces of Strawberry, any remaining honey-balsamic mixture, and a scant few slivers of mint or basil. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Roasted Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 400. Place a baking rack on a sheet pan and arrange the bacon in a single layer on the rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon begins to brown. Remove the pan and beware of hot fat in the baking pan! Brush the bacon (top only) with the balsamic vinegar. Return to oven and bake for 3-5 minutes, until the bacon is a golden brown. Remove from oven and transfer to a paper lined plate. Serve warm.

Serves 6 12 slices of French Baguette (cut Baguette diagonally to 1/3 inch thickness) 2 tablespoons Basil Olive Oil 4 ounces Brie cheese, cut into 12 slices to top the Baguette slices 6-8 strawberries, sliced 1 tablespoon Strawberry White Balsamic Vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 2-4 mint leaves, cut into very thin slivers (variation – you may substitute fresh basil for mint)

Ginger Pear Goat Cheese Appetizer

In a mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, cranberries, pistachios and chives, being careful to not over mix. Spread out on a serving platter, drizzle Ginger Pear Vinegar across the cheese mixture then top with the grated orange peel. Serve with crackers.

Serves 4-8 2 tablespoons Red Apple Balsamic Vinegar 1 pound thick-sliced bacon

Slice the fruit and put in a bowl. Combine the vinegar, water and olive oil, along with an optional pinch of sugar, and then pour over the fruit about 30 minutes before serving. Try different combos of oil and vinegar, or just use some really good aged balsamic.

Red Apple Balsamic Glazed Bacon

Filet Mignon with Rich Balsamic Glaze

Serves 2 2 (4 ounce) filet mignon steaks ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Salt to taste ¼ cup balsamic vinegar (Traditional or Dark Chocolate) ¼ cup dry red wine

Sprinkle black pepper and salt over both sides of each steak. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Place steaks in hot pan and cook for 1 minute on each side or until browned. Reduce heat to medium-low and add balsamic vinegar and red wine. Cover and cook for 4 minutes on each side, basting with sauce when you turn the meat over. Remove steaks to two warmed plates, spoon one tablespoon of glaze over each, and serve immediately. Kathy Patrick, owner of Meals on Heels, is a personal chef who prepares meals for daily life and special occasions in Northwest Georgia. She is a member of the U.S. Personal Chefs Association and is president of the Atlanta Chapter of the USPCA. For more information, visit her website at mealsonheelsga.com.

11

Flavored vinegars give cocktails a new KICK By Kathy Patrick Personal Chef

Vinegar has a bit of a bad reputation: there’s the saying about catching more flies with honey rather than with vinegar. Vinegar often is the result of wine spoiling, usually not a good thing for taste buds or pocketbooks. In fact, a definition of vinegar is “a sour-tasting liquid produced usually by oxidation of the alcohol in wine or cider and used as a condiment or food preservative.” But in addition to being a condiment or preservative, vinegar has a long history as a beverage.

Posca was a popular drink in ancient Rome and Greece, made by mixing wine spoiled through poor storage (vinegar) with water and flavoring herbs. It was an everyday drink for the Roman army and the lower classes from around the 2nd century BC, continuing to be used throughout Roman history and into the Byzantine period. Posca

had important dietary advantages like helping to prevent scurvy by providing vitamin C, and its acidity killed harmful bacteria while its flavoring helped to overcome the bad taste of local water supplies. Fast forward to today and our wonderful northwest Georgia water supplies that, fortunately, need no bacteria-killing or taste covering-up. Since we are not dependent on vinegar for its dietary advantages or water safety like the ancient Romans, we can focus on using vinegar for more delectable purposes – like in adult libations! There are many wonderfully flavored vinegars on the market today, sold in both the grocery store as well as specialty oil and vinegar shops. Most are balsamic-based and have wonderful flavors like strawberry, blackberryginger, coconut, cranberry-pear, and even jalapeno! Shop for your favorite flavors, or take a chance on something totally different when looking for vinegars to use in drinks. Flavored or infused vinegars are a way to add great taste to drinks with the added benefit of less calories than some fruit mixers. Plus they’re easy – just open the bottle, measure and pour. “Shrubs” are another delicious way to use vinegar in drinks – a shrub is a sweetened vinegar-based syrup infused with fruit juices, herbs, and/or spices. Shrubs provide a great base for cocktails but are also delicious non-alcoholic drinks (see the recipe below for Blueberry Shrub). Try some of these great drink recipes that feature vinegar as ingredients, or get creative and come up with some recipes of your own — and try to dispel vinegar’s bad reputation! Blueberry Shrub Makes 10 – 12 drinks 4 cups fresh blueberries 2 cups cider vinegar 2 cups sugar Garnish: Skewers of blueberries (optional)

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Place the blueberries in a nonmetallic container. Add the vinegar. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 3 days. Pour the vinegar-marinated blueberries into a sieve over a bowl; press the berries to release all their juice. Discard the solids. Pour the blueberry liquid into a medium saucepan. Add the sugar and boil for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and let cool. Pour the sweetened blueberry liquid into a small container and chill. To make each drink, add 1/4 cup blueberry concentrate to a medium cocktail glass filled with ice and add 1 cup cold water. Garnish, if desired. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Vanilla Fig Balsamic Martini 1-½ oz. Vanilla Vodka ½ oz. Vanilla Fig Balsamic Vinegar ½ oz. simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water boiled together) Combine all ingredients, shake, and pour. Great served with candied or roasted walnuts on the side as a munchie! Peach Balsamic Champagne Cocktail Makes one cocktail Champagne flute, small container for soaking sugar cube Sparkling wine, Champagne or Prosecco 1 brown sugar cube 2 tsp. peach balsamic vinegar

2 packets Truvia sweetener ½ cup crushed ice

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In a tumbler, combine the basil, strawberries, and lime juice. Muddle the mixture to break up the strawberries and release the basil flavor. Add the rum, balsamic, pineapple juice, Truvia, and ice to tumbler. Shake for a few minutes until chilled and well blended. Strain half the mixture; pour half of that in 2 martini glasses, top each with the remaining unstrained mixture.

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Blackberry Ginger Sangria 1 cup brandy 2 bottles strong Spanish red wine, chilled 2 tablespoons sugar ½ cup Blackberry Ginger Balsamic 2 cups fruit: lemons, limes, oranges and blueberries (frozen okay) 2 gallon jar or pitcher

Soak sugar cube in vinegar for about 1 minute, until the cube is saturated but not dissolving. Put cube into champagne flute and pour the wine over it, add one teaspoon of the remaining vinegar.

Cut citrus into slices or chunks and put into container with all the ingredients except for the red wine. Let stand for 2 hours then add wine, mix and serve.

Truvia Strawberry Rouge recipe ½ cup rum 1 teaspoon Balsamic Vinegar 6 strawberries, rinsed and quartered 10 basil leaves, roughly chopped 2â „3 cup pineapple juice 2 tablespoons lime juice

Kathy Patrick, owner of Meals on Heels, is a personal chef who prepares meals for daily life and special occasions in Northwest Georgia. She is a member of the U.S. Personal Chefs Association and is president of the Atlanta Chapter of the USPCA. For more information, visit her website at mealsonheelsga.com.

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Photograph by Tracy Page / Babycake Studios

Aimee Madden

Aimee Harmison Madden is Cedartown’s public information officer and loves its downtown. Even though she was born in the ‘80s, she’s a huge Beatles fan.

When you cross paths with Aimee Harmison Madden, you’re apt to notice her sense of style. She loves to coordinate her outfits and the woman loves shoes. But that has not always been the case. “I was a total tomboy growing up. Nowadays, I love high heels and cute dresses, but when I was younger my favorites were camo pants and my Incredible Hulk T-shirt.” Aimee, 33, is the public information officer and special events coordinator for the city of Cedartown. Before that she was the editor of the Cedartown Standard and a public relations specialist for Shorter University. She’s also a photographer and that’s her passion. “It’s rare for a day to go by when I don’t take a photo. My husband has gotten used to me yelling, ‘Pull the car over!’” says Aimee, who says she doesn’t aim to create a photograph, but rather capture a moment. “I am very much a storyteller. I was trained early in photojournalism, and so that’s what I do. I rarely alter a situation to create a ‘better’ photo. Even in my portrait work I prefer a natural, real laugh or a genuine expression rather than a created one.” She has taken photos all over Floyd and Polk counties. “I’ve lived in Polk County my entire life, so you could say I know the area and the people here very well. I attended college in Rome and also worked there and I’ve made a lot of connections there. So, even though I’ve lived in Cedartown for 33 years, I also feel that in some ways, I am a part of the Rome community, too.” To physically renew, Aimee’s recipe is simple. “I sleep. I’d like to say I get out and run a mile or work out, but that would be a total lie. When I’m exhausted, I nap like a champ.” For mental refreshment she goes on one of her “photo walks.” But God is the true source of renewal for Aimee. “I connect best with God through nature. I’m a preacher’s wife and so I feel like the typical or expected response would be, ‘I pray.’ I pray and I know what prayer can do, but I’ve found that those really intense moments where I stand completely in awe of the Lord is when I am outdoors, experiencing the world that He created.’’ One moment of awe was standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon, which was a part of her bucket list. “I want to visit every National Park in the United States and watch the sun rise and set there. That’s a pretty big task – there are 58. I’ve already been to four. Out of those four, I think the Grand Canyon was the most amazing.’ Charlotte Atkins, Editor

15

Refreshing room makeovers create special spaces to enjoy Home Sweet Home First, they had to pick the furniture. “My friend Lisa Landry at Living & Giving pointed out that she had this new line of furniture that came with custom slipcovers so it was very attractive but also very easy to keep clean. In a house with a teenager and several pets, that was appealing. We chose to upholster the couch, chair and ottomans, and choose slipcovers in different fabrics so that we could change the look of the room. I’m really glad we did that, because it is fun to change it up periodically. Plus, I know that I can remove the slipcovers to clean them and still have a finished look.” The rest of the room is an eclectic mix of pieces of various style and origin, which is representative of Monica and her daughter Ramsey Cook. Von had a shabby chic painted side table in his basement that now stands under a painting of Ramsey created by Monica’s niece Elizabeth Turner. “I had a dictionary stand, my favorite piece in the house, built by Ben Harrison. Later in the project I found a great deal on a beautiful mid-century teak buffet that we use for the TV. Work by Elizabeth’s mother, Sherry Cook, and Rome native Colleen Beyer completes the art collection for the room. Von also had the idea of placing a large mirror over the fireplace and it really opens up the room.” Monica says the living room especially is a haven for her and Ramsey. “When your house is small, every inch matters. This room is a cozy, warm and relaxing spot for us to recover from the day. Interestingly, there is more furniture in the room than before, but by removing the heavy, cluttered wood bookcase and large buffet, and lightening up the colors, it feels larger and less crowded than before. The mirror over the fireplace reflects the evening light through the front of the house, which opens it up even more. The blues and greens help bring nature into the room even more, which creates the soothing and relaxed feel we relish.” Both of Ramsey’s homes are getting new looks. Across town her dad and stepmother Joe and Leanne Cook are making major changes to their household that’s being merged after the two wed this past summer. “We totally revised the downstairs bath and kitchen. We also took in a screened-in porch because the kitchen,

By Charlotte Atkins Editor

When Ashley Fricks and her fiancé Brandon bought their house this fall, they knew they would need to do a major makeover to make it their home. “We had only a short amount of time, so as soon as we left the closing, we went straight to the house and immediately began ripping out carpet,” she said. They approached the house as if it were a blank canvas. “This was the first time I had the opportunity to decorate a house from scratch, so there was definitely a renewing and refreshing feeling in the house as everything came together. I’m absolutely in love with the den. I love all the colors, the design, everything.” But she is also rather fond of her new closet. “I’m a bit of a, I’ll say ‘collector,’ of clothes so being able to add and actually design my own walk-in closet was huge for me.” She and Brandon did a majority of the work themselves with the help of family. “However, I cannot take credit for much manual labor, only the decorating duties. That was definitely my favorite part of this. I even purchased the rug for the den before we had even had a den, actually, before we even closed on the house. They finally started to catch on to where my focus was when they would send me to the store for nails and I would come back with maybe a lamp or some pillows.” Ashley says the majority of their budget went to the actual remodel of the house, so she had a very small budget left for decoration. “I have definitely reaffirmed my bargainfinding talent. Most weekdays during my lunch break, you could find me digging through clearance store boxes or scouring local antique malls.” While Ashley and Brandon converted a new purchase into the haven they want for their family, Monica Sheppard decided that her living space needed a makeover, and she tackled four rooms at one time. “It all started with a terrible set of sliding glass doors that led to my office space. The room was originally a back porch that had been enclosed by the original owners, but they left the sliding doors. It had become a catch-all room that I rarely used, and when I did it was like being outside, but not in a good way.” Her beau, Von Webb of Decatur, had the idea to remove

Contributed photograph

Dana Czekalla Goldberg and her husband Martin converted an outdoor patio into this haven. She says, “We sit in our room and soak up the smell of the cedar beams while reading a book or newspaper.” the doors and open up the room and make it more useful. “Our home is small, so the opportunity to open up more space was enticing. We rent the home from Russell and Stephanie McClanahan, so we first had to make sure it was OK with them.” They all decided to trust Von’s vision. “We decided to make the space a den/office that would feel more comfortable. So, we took the opportunity to move the old couch to the new den, and do a much needed redecorating of the living room, in the process.”

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Contributed photograph

Monica Sheppard and her daughter Ramsey Cook enjoy their new living room space that was part of a four-room makeover in their home.

Ashley Fricks’ new walkin closet.

´

16

Before

´ The Den and After

“I’m absolutely in love with the den. I love all the colors, the design, everything.”

´

“I’m a bit of a, I’ll say ‘collector,’ of clothes so being able to add and actually design my own walk-in closet was huge for me.”

´

Ashley Fricks’ home-buying makeover

Before

´ The fireplace and After

“This was the first time I had the opportunity to decorate a house from scratch.”

Contributed photographs

17

Martin wanted a wood- burning fireplace, and I wanted the stacked stone. Martin wanted big cedar beams incorporated throughout the room. originally built in 1889 when kitchens were tiny, was far too small for a family to live in today,” said The beams came from Canada. There is nothing more refreshing than building a fire after a long Leanne. “And, my adorable husband is a noted day at work. There is something mesmerizing environmentalist, but unfortunately I wasn’t interested in living in what I would call his ‘indoor about watching a fire.” They chose “warm and camping’ kitchen/bath setup. Ah, the joys of inviting” colors. They decided merging households in your 40s!” Their new kitchen is neutral and restful with a not to put a TV in the room color palette of cool grey, blue and silver. “I often since watching the fire and gazing at the view through the sit at the kitchen table to see the sun rise and Dana windows lining the outside read the Rome News-Tribune to start my day, Czekalla which is truly a peaceful beginning. And if I need wall are so enjoyable. “We sit in Goldberg our room and soak up the smell a different kind of refreshment later in the day, a of the cedar beams while reading a book or glass of wine or a chocolate brownie are only a newspaper.” few steps away.” “I really wanted to add a rustic space for my Dana Czekalla Goldberg and her husband Martin decided to enclose and convert an outdoor husband and I to enjoy,” she says, “and I love how it turned out.” patio into a special haven for themselves. “Martin and I designed the room. We wanted Mary Lynn Ritch contributed to this story. it to look elegant and rustic at the same time. CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

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This banker also makes quilts, pottery, soap ... Photographs by Alan Riquelmy

Vickie Hill is a market sales leader with Citizens First Bank. She’s also an artist who regularly sets up a booth at Chiaha.

By Alan Riquelmy Staff Writer

Banker by day, artist by night. It’s a juxtaposition Vickie Hill’s enjoyed for years. A market sales leader with Citizens First Bank in Rome, Hill also is a musician, a potter, a soap maker, a quilt-maker and a seamstress. “I do a lot of things,” Hill smiled as she sat behind her office desk on Broad Street. “I’m a creative person. I’ve always liked to draw or to paint — to have my hands doing something.” Hill’s been in banking for 30 years. She doesn’t see her job and hobby as being in conflict. In fact, her creative side has helped in a career that deals with numbers and percentages. Born and raised in Rome, Hill gained a degree in interior design in 1979 from the University of Georgia. She returned to Rome after graduation and was searching for a job. “Needless to say, I didn’t find a job right away,” she said. She started working for National City Bank, now Wells Fargo, on Broad Street. A stint in loan collections — calling past due customers and dealing with repossessing vehicles — led to the loan department. She served as a loan officer and then a branch manager. Hill wanted a change after the birth of her second child. Branch managers open and close the bank each day, and keep long hours. Hill then transitioned into a mortgage lender.

In 2005 Hill accepted a position with Citizens First, just down the road from her old job. She’s still involved in mortgages, but now has oversight over a larger area that includes Rome, Calhoun, Dalton and Cartersville. “Everybody’s finances, life is different,” Hill said. “I love what I do, because I can be creative. No borrower is exactly the same.” Hill pours that creativity into her job as well as her art. One room of her home is designated for her artwork. That’s where she keeps her supplies. The potter’s wheel is in the basement, where bits of clay and dirty clothes won’t make as big a mess. It’s rare to see Hill without a project in hand when she’s at home. Usually it’s some needlework. She also makes quilts, many times in memory of a loved one or for someone’s child who graduated high school. The quilts are made from a variety of materials. T-shirts are a common ingredient. Despite her own potter’s wheel, Hill finds herself about twice a week at Earthworks Pottery on Second Avenue. She doesn’t yet have her own kiln, which is necessary to fire the clay. Hill has practiced needlework since high school. She’s sewn, painted and drawn since college. Pottery came into the picture about seven years ago. She also enjoys making soap. The process takes about four weeks because the soap must cure. Her garden requires even more time, as does canning and preserving a variety of food such as beans, soups, stews, jellies and jams.

Brava

Hill estimated she and her husband can about 280-300 jars a year. Periodically Hill gathers her creations and sets up a booth at one of the many art fairs throughout the county. She always has a booth at Chiaha Harvest Fair and enjoys setting up shop at the Spring and Winter art markets. Hill’s booth, named “Vickie’s Vintage,” features her canned jams, jellies and relishes, as well as her soap, pottery, purses and aprons. People learn about her quilts by word-of-mouth. “What I do is just to satisfy that need to create,” Hill said. “I love to create for other people.” Anything Hill sells helps cover the cost of her supplies, enabling her to keep making art. When Hill isn’t throwing pots and making quilts, she’s serving as worship leader at Second Avenue Baptist Church. She stepped into the role in November, and leads the worship each Sunday. “I just come from a musical family,” she said. Hill doesn’t anticipate turning her art into a business, though she wouldn’t rule it out once she retires. “When you create something that someone likes, it makes you feel good,” she said. “I do what I like.” Hill is married to Max Hill. They have two children: Casey Meeks, 29, and Christopher Hill, 20.

19

She Said:

How do you renew and revive yourself physically and mentally?

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I go ice skating. At this age, the thought of falling is pretty terrifying. So if I make it through a skating session without getting hurt, I feel invincible for a while. Sue Anderson On the water in my kayak I revive myself mentally and spiritually. I commune with God and nature there. In the gym is where I challenge myself physically three days per week and feel better for it. Robin Holt I hike. I am thankful to live in Northwest Georgia where hiking trails are abundant. Hiking makes my heart stronger, clears my mind and allows me to relax. Karon Mauney

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Nora Guzman-Reyes

Nora Guzman-Reyes’ dream job would be “to be in charge of the Coca-Cola Co.”

When Nora Guzman-Reyes sees a problem, she doesn’t just lament that there’s an issue. She looks for a solution. The community that she grew up in Mexico had all dirt roads, and Nora felt that if it had a paved road that it could renew the town and create opportunities for the community to grow and thrive. “So I set out to raise funds to provide for a paved road for the town and was successful in getting that money raised, and now they have a road that will be there long after I’m gone. It has motivated them to make continuous improvement on their own.” The 26-year-old Shorter MBA student – the first in her family to earn a master’s degree – is just getting started changing the world. She’s been in Floyd County with her family for the past 14 years. She saw a need among the Hispanic community that wasn’t being met. “That need was the lack of education\skills opportunities for nonEnglish speakers and I wanted to figure out a way to fill the gap.” So the self-professed “serial entrepreneur” started a nonprofit called Casa Michoacán. “We are off to a great start by recruiting the college students and young professionals in the community to serve as mentors for younger generations,” says the young executive director. “Our mission is to serve as a liaison between the English and the immigrant community, promoting education as a path to success, while preserving and stimulating intercultural values.” As Nora looks to graduating in June, her professional bucket list includes creating a successful international business and expanding Casa Michoacán to other regions in collaboration with other nonprofits. Her personal agenda is focused on planning her upcoming wedding and to later “visit as many countries in the world as possible.” She may be young and an idealist, but she has wasted no time in putting her plans into action. “What I really get satisfaction out of is helping people. I can’t imagine being in a situation where I wasn’t surrounded by people and the opportunity to help.” And she sees her youth as an advantage. “People always assume that I’m younger than I actually am so they underestimate me. There are times that it is to my advantage.” “I really believe that we should leave the world a better place than when we found it.” Charlotte Atkins, Editor

21

She Said:

If you had the opportunity to get a message across to a large group of people, what would your message be? Invest in children, yours and the neighbors, and volunteer. They are the future and they need expectations, structure and love. They measure love in “time you spend with them.� Teresa Lumsden

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To respect yourself and others. We all have differences in physical features, money in our pockets, or educational attainment. One check mark in a box does not make you better than someone else. It doesn’t give one the right to bully (at any age) another person and if bullying happens have the strength to speak out against it (for yourself and others). Tasha Toy Take advantage of every opportunity and blessing that comes your way. And I love this quote from Voltaire – “By appreciation, we make excellence in others our property.� Jan Fergerson Tolerance for others. I have friends of different colors, creeds, religions and sexual preferences. I don’t care about any of the physical attributes that are unchangeable. I am more interested in who they are, what their actions say about what type of person they are inside. It is not up to us to judge others or to hate any group of people. There are dangerous and bad people in every walk of life, but there are also good and kind people, people who step up in a crisis to help perfect strangers, good Samaritans, unsung heroes, those people who have learned that the greatest joy in life comes in helping others. Gena Agnew

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She Said:

Who or what inspires you?

My husband (Eric Haney), always. He had achieved enough by the age of 40 to rest on his laurels. But then he became a novelist and television producer. Through all of it, he has managed to remain a decent, centered human being. Dianna Edwards Haney People inspire me. Everyone has something different going on (good and bad). When you feel you can no longer be inspired, just take a look around. People can inspire you with their presence alone. Angela James

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Dorothy Day, the founder of the Catholic Worker Movement. She tried to live as if the Gospel mattered when it says, �Whatsoever you do to the least of your brothers, this you do unto Me.� Denise Powers I am inspired by those whose faith, beliefs and perseverance carry them through those valleys we all experience. Judy E. Frink

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June Cleaver. How did she do housework in pearls and heels? Debbie Galloway

Minding Her Own Business

Reinventing herself By Doug Walker Associate Editor

Carol McCann has seen places a young lady from Summerville, Ga., could only dream of. From Summerville to Singapore, with stops like Athens and Rome in between. OK, so the visits to Athens, for college at the University of Georgia, and Rome, which has become her home, might not be so unusual, but McCann’s careers have taken her to a plethora of places most young women from anywhere in Georgia could only imagine. McCann, owner of both Magical Travel and Events as well as The UPS Store in Rome, grew up in Summerville and attended the University of Georgia to become a teacher. That didn’t last so long. She taught senior English for one semester at Tucker High School in metro Atlanta and realized quite quickly that wasn’t what she wanted to do the rest of her life. Then she started working for Delta as a flight attendant, before coming off the line to do public relations for Delta. “Later on I did some tour development for Pan Am, Pan Am Holidays. It was a great job,” McCann said. She was essentially able to do the latter from home, reporting to bosses in New York Her seven years with Delta were full of funny little stories. It started right off the bat with intense physical training. Anyone who knows Carol would probably have of hard time envisioning her hauling heavy fire hoses, but that was part of the regimen. One day she got called in late to substitute for another flight attendant who couldn’t work. She had just washed her hair so she put it up and threw on a wig and went to the airport. “We did an over-the-water flight demonstration, and we had to inflate the vests,” McCann said. “I inflated the vest, and it blew my wig off!” As her young sons Matt and Todd were growing up, McCann, who had become a single mother, decided she needed to work closer to home. Since she loved to travel, it was a perfect fit for her to purchase the old Meredith Travel Agency in Rome in 1992. “It took everything I had,” McCann said. Later that same year, McCann was working on a charity event and happened to go into a Mail Boxes Etc. “For all the wrong reasons I thought we needed that store in Rome,” McCann said. “So I started laminating and faxing.” UPS then became the parent company of Mail Boxes, and she chose to bring UPS to Rome. “The margins became quite less, but the name brought in business. It worked out great for us. We’re the

Photographs by Doug Walker

Carol McCann, owner of Magical Travel and Events (ABOVE) and The UPS Store (BELOW), started her professional life as a teacher, then an airline flight attendant.

No. 3 ranked (UPS) store in the entire Southeast,” McCann said. She has seven employees at The UPS store and four employees at Magical Travel and Events. “I think travel (small local agencies) has come back from the Internet surge. It wasn’t just 9/11,”

McCann said. “I am all about leisure and groups.” One of her leisure groups, out of Ponte Vedra, Fla., led to Carol meeting her new husband, Murray McCann of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. A friend of a friend introduced them, and two years later, after many phones calls, she remarried.

As much as McCann enjoys talking about travel, the success of her two sons brings her the most joy. Todd is an officer in the U.S. Navy and has recently been assigned to a post associated with the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Washington, D.C. Matt is the director of Government Affairs for AGL Resources.

23

She Said:

How do you refresh and recharge yourself spiritually?

THEY GROW UP FAST... BUT THEY AREN’T 21 YET DID YOU KNOW...

I use a Bible study technique called Lectio Divina. Alone or with others, you read a verse in the Bible a few times, and just let it rest between you and God. It amazes me how the Holy Spirit speaks a refreshing word when I am quiet long enough to listen. Rev. Ann Mann

24% of 6th graders agree “it’s easy to get alcohol� 44% of 8th graders agree “it’s easy to get alcohol�2 Youth who consume alcohol are 5 times more likely to become dependent on or abuse alcohol than those who wait until age 21 or older3 Among high school students who consumed alcohol, 82% did so at their home or someone else’s home 4

I get back to nature and see the beauty God created. Carole Hunter

Underage drinking cost the citizens of Georgia $1.4 billion in 2010

Stop what I am doing, breathe and appreciate the world around me ... whether it is the beauty of the sky, the warmth of my home, the issue at work. Just stop and appreciate “being.� Robin Cater

ALCOHOL IS THE MOST COMMONLY USED DRUG AMONG OUR NATION’S YOUNG PEOPLE, SURPASSING TOBACCO AND ILLICIT DRUGS!1

learn more at stopalcoholunder21.org

I go for a walk or sing Psalms or drive to the Conyers monastery and enter that beautiful, inviting silence during a retreat. I read books on prayer by Thomas Merton or like “The Cloud of Unknowing,� written by some anonymous, someone so wise that the heart is rejuvenated. I also cook something like taco soup, bake brownies, or try a new recipe. Carmen Acevedo Butcher

scan the QR code to learn more National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Spotlight on Underage Drinking, No. 22 2010 Georgia Student Health Survey, Georgia Department of Education 3 Hingson RW, Heeren T, Winter MR. Age at drinking onset and alcohol dependence: age at onset, duration, and severity. Pediatrics 2006;160:739–746 4 2009 Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance Survey http://health.state.ga.us/epi/cdiee/studenthealth.asp 1 2

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Kim Cowart

Kim Cowart is awaiting a kidney and pancreas transplant. Until then she advocates for organ donation for all who need them.

Several years ago Kim Cowart lost her job after many years working with the same company. It turned out to be a catalyst for reflection. “I was really down on myself and I took the next couple of years to figure out what was important to me and reevaluate my life. During that time I really learned to trust the Lord and read and study my Bible and I have to say God took care of me and now I have a great job and I love going to work every day.” This executive assistant at Northwest Georgia Public Health in Rome suggests others in a position to reinvent themselves, whether by choice or not, to be decisive. “You have to make a decision of what you want to reinvent and strive to stick to it.” Kim and her family moved to Cartersville when she was just a baby, so she’s pretty much a Bartow County native and loves living there. At 45, she says she’s a “what you see is what you get” kind of gal. She chooses to appreciate the simple things in life. “I love spring and being outside and enjoying the sunshine. It really revives me.” she says. However, trips to Hawaii and Paris would be fun adventures and are on her wish list. Until then, lounging by the pool or on the beach are just fine. Anything outdoors feeds her soul. “I love all the beautiful scenery. In Northwest Georgia, there are some beautiful places with great trees and flowers.” Kim says being a mom is her true passion. “I love being a mother and watching my daughter grow up to become such a great person. So thankful God chose me to be her mother.” But life has a way of throwing us curve balls and for Kim it’s a major health issue. Diabetes has left her needing a kidney and pancreas transplant and, not surprisingly, has transformed her into being an advocate for organ donation. “I really want people to know and understand the importance of being an organ donor. It’s a way to save lives,” says Kim. The organizer of the Northwest Georgia Women’s Expo, Karon Mauney, always makes sure some of the event proceeds go to a worthy cause. This year, Kim is the cause. A recent event, Bartow’s Amazing Race, helped raise money for the anti-rejection medicine Kim needs for the transplant and Expo money went toward that. But while she is waiting on the call that alerts her that life-saving organs are ready for her transplant, Kim lives in gratitude. “I don’t worry a lot. I stay busy and I live in the moment.” Charlotte Atkins, Editor

25

CanStockPhotos.com

50-Plus & Fabulous

Get Out of the Post-Divorce Doldrums By Judith Tutin Life Coach

Spring is a great time for renewal, reinvigoration and reinvention. It’s a time to leave the post-divorce doldrums behind. You can get stuck in the doldrums after any period of stress like divorce, maybe even anytime after you hit the big 5-0. An area near the equator, the doldrums are famous for diabolical transitions from calm to squalls, with, by one definition, “light, baffling winds.” The doldrums can keep a ship stuck. If this sounds like your life, you’re not alone. As any life coach will tell you, anytime is a good time to move forward in your life. With the sun shining a little more and life returning all around us, spring is a really good time to seriously consider taking a few steps to leave the doldrums behind and start smelling the flowers again. Change is different for everyone. Some of my suggestions may float your boat, others may not. Some will trigger thoughts of things you might like to try. To see big changes in your life, you can start by trying something new. Start the change

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now by “actively” reading this column. That is, when you think of something you might like to try, be active; jot it down, circle it, put it in your phone, or do whatever you do to remember things.

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone Whether it’s taking a yoga class, learning to belly dance, biking through Tuscany or enrolling in a financial planning class, do something different. It can be a little different, or a lot different. By definition, stepping outside your comfort zone challenges you in a positive way. It helps jump start the change process. You will tap into courage you probably forgot you had. Courage is good for reinvention.

Expand Your Social Network You’ll notice my suggestions for stepping out of your comfort zone all involve being around new people. New people bring new perspectives. When we’re stuck in the doldrums of divorce, marriage or singledom, important people sometimes drift away from us. Another way to widen your circle is to reconnect with people who’ve drifted out of your life. Choose people who will bring positive energy. They’ll reinvigorate and renew you.

Create Inner Space Inner space is kind of a woo-woo term for anything that helps you think more clearly and creates more acceptance in your life. If you’re on your own for the first time in a long time, you need to be able to think clearly and calmly. All the decision-making is now completely up to you. That can be frightening, but it can also be exhilarating. You will also want to master the art of acceptance post-divorce. Accepting all the things you cannot change, that didn’t go the way you would have liked - and still aren’t - is crucial for moving ahead. Create inner space by meditating, walking in nature, sitting quietly with your herbal tea, pet and a book, through prayer, listening to music or anything else that brings you clarity and peace. Doing things that give you that calm yet energized feeling will help you think more clearly and be more accepting of those baffling winds.

Prioritize Happiness Post-divorce can be a pretty unhappy time, which makes it important to work on happiness. Whenever you’re doing something that brings happiness, it decreases that boatload of CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

unhappiness you’ve been carrying around. Consider what makes you happy. A lot of the things I’ve mentioned already are things that make people happy. While the specifics are different for everyone, the basics are the same. Things that make us happy usually involve some combination of meaningfulness, people and fun. You have to work on your happiness; it doesn’t just drop into your lap. When I ask people what makes them happy, they frequently have to rack their brains to come up with something. This is a great opportunity to figure it out. Singing, dancing, bowling, writing, cleaning? What are the things you like to do that make you smile and give you that satisfied feeling? Part of your reinvention might be to try something new that will bring that feeling.

Carve Out Time To do any of the things I’m suggesting, you must carve out some time for yourself. It’s not selfish; it’s essential. And you know what they say: “If Mama ain’t happy, ain’t no one gonna be happy.� This applies even if you don’t have children. Bouncing back from your divorce affects your parents, siblings, co-workers, friends and the people you encounter at the store. It affects everyone you

interact with. Time is a requirement for renewal, reinvigoration and reinvention.

Accept Challenges You can start with the challenge of getting out of the doldrums. Choose two things you’d like to try this month. Some might be daily things, like journaling or meditating for five minutes. Some might be weekly, like going to a class. Break down things like planning a trip or buying a house into smaller tasks you can schedule. Be relentless in your resolve to dedicate this time to yourself. Use your calendar, your schedule, your phone or a sticky note as a reminder. Challenge yourself to do these two things during the next month. Stick with them, and don’t allow anything to take the wind out of your sails. You will feel yourself getting out of the doldrums. It’s not just a spring thing or a postdivorce thing; it’s always a great time for renewal and reinvention. Judith Tutin, PhD, ACC, is a certified life coach and licensed psychologist in Rome who provides services for post-divorce survival, relationships, work-life balance, wellness, and living a happy and fulfilled life. You can connect with her on her website, www.drjudithtutin.com, where you will also find links to her post-divorce and positive psychology blogs. She is currently working on an e-book about post-divorce adjustment.

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The Old Town Clock Since 1871, thus mused the old town clock, I’ve stood the storms of wind and rain, Have felt the earthquake shock. My house was torn by lightning stroke, Yet my patient hands moved on And not a moment have I lost In all the years agone.

Magnolia of the Past

Many who oft looked in my face, Are scattered far and wide. Others are quietly resting in peace On the hill by the river’s side. Other bright faces still greet me here, Each day in their school hour’s task, And I make new friends year after year And this is all I could ask. To you, my new friends, who look on With eager and laughing eyes, Upon each mind this lesson I’d trace, “Be earnest, be watchful, be wise.” There’s a place in the strenuous battle of life, Which each one must surely fill, The hero’s place can be yours in the strife, Or the sluggard’s place, if you so will. Then choose your place – The voice was hushed – There was silence in the old town clock. The potent spell of the fairy was gone, And nothing was heard but “tick, tock.” Naomi Bale

Naomi Priscilla Schropshire Bale By Charlotte Atkins Editor

Naomi Bale was referred to in a 1972 edition of the Rome NewsTribune as a “revered old-time Roman poet and boardinghouse keeper.” Many knew her by her pen name “Grandma Georgy,” who shared Civil War remembrances. Two such stories included a raid by “Independent Scouts,” who on Sept. 15, 1864, invaded her father’s Dirttown Valley home in Chattooga County and took everything of value. They surely would have hanged him too, right there in their home, if Naomi hadn’t convinced the thieves that the family had no hidden money. Later, after Sherman’s passage through the area in pursuit of Confederate troops, three camp followers again robbed Naomi and her stepsister. However, the men did not follow through on their threat to search them, which turned out to be a good thing. The ladies had their money and jewels hidden in pockets sewn underneath their voluminous hoopskirts.

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Naomi Bale is one of the locals buried in Rome’s famed Myrtle Hill Cemetery that was featured in the fall cemetery tours that portray historical figures. Debbie Galloway portrayed Bale and shared her background. Born in Chattooga County on Oct. 7, 1843, Naomi was the daughter of Wesley and Nancy Swanson Schropshire. The Schropshire family lived on an extensive plantation in the Dirttown Valley area about 15 miles from Rome. Naomi was widely known and loved for her “Grandma Georgy” writings that included letters and poems that have been enjoyed over the years by many. Her stories start with the account of her only brother’s return from the Civil War in 1862, in a coffin, and how her father never quiet recovered from the shock of his only son’s death. She wrote several stories of the Confederate Army’s encampments on their property and the personal relationships formed with men. After the Confederate Army left, in came the Union Army. She recounts the frightening events and pillaging of property that came about

with the arrival of the Union Army. She also tells tales of marauding scouts and the atrocities that were committed. She describes those times as strenuous and perilous. She was also a poet. A favorite of her poems was written about Rome’s famed city clock. The name of the poem is “The Old Town Clock.” In 1866 she wed Captain James A. Bale and relocated to Rome, where she spent the remainder of her life. Together they had seven children, four of whom died in infancy. Naomi kept boarders at her rooming house on Fifth Avenue, where the old Floyd County Court House stands today. She served many past notable Romans. It is said she regularly served 32 gentlemen at her table. Known as a Christian woman, Naomi was a member at Rome First Methodist Church. She died on Dec. 18, 1926, at 83. She was leaving her East First Street home when she fell down the steps of the house and fractured her hip. She died 10 days later. Ironically, her husband had died 26 years earlier in the same manner. On Dec. 5, 1900, Captain Bale tripped and fell, broke his hip and died 10 days later.

Magnolia Moms

Empty nesters say it takes time to readjust their lives and hearts independent. It’s just as hard on them as it is us, Moms spend a lot of time keeping their children’s lives running even though they would smoothly; so what happens when those children begin to leave the never admit it.” Another mom whose nest? Well, mom can be left feeling her house is a bit empty or feeling nest is steadily dwindling, is Jerriann Nelson’s. like she has too much time to fill, and all of these feelings can just Nelson, who lives in add to the hardest part: missing her child. “I felt like something was missing, almost like I was grieving for Rome, had a large nest to start out, and all four are the loss of a loved one,” said Lee Carver of Cedartown, whose boys. Her three oldest, daughter Tylar moved to Athens three years ago. Tylar is Carver’s Andy, Aaron and Mason, only child. Tylar moved to Athens to work on special effects makeup for an all served or are serving in the military. Her independent movie filming there and stayed on. She plans to youngest, Logan, is 14 attend the Georgia Institute of Cosmetology’s Athens location this and still home. spring. “Ha! He is still at Carver said she knew the move was coming ahead of time, so she had time to get prepared, but it didn’t really work out that way. home with mama,” “I knew she was going to leave six months before she did leave, laughed Nelson. “But he Contributed photograph just started freshman so I thought I was ready, but the day she left I cried for hours,” The Nelson family Christmas card from 2012 shows the family across football training, and he Carver admits. the nation and the world. The first frame is Robert the dad, Logan, Because Tylar is a “momma’s girl,” the move was harder on mom. is getting bigger every and Jerriann at their home in Rome, the second frame is Mason and day. I know that time is “We used to spend a lot of mother-daughter time together, his wife Katie, and the third is Aaron. coming.” something special every week,” Carver explained, smiling. “Mostly Nelson has had a shopping.” while to ease into her The mom and daughter do keep in touch with Facebook. They sometimes that is all that keeps me going.” own empty nest syndrome, but that didn’t mean it was easier for call each other, and Carver visits when she can. “I used to drive to This proud military mom thinks it is equally hard for her and her her, she said. visit her a lot more than I do now, because she has a full-time job husband Robert. “Well, when my oldest stepson, Andy, left home, my husband in addition to the freelance work she does for movies and videos,” “I think both of us suffered equally,” she said. “The house is very was in poor health, and I still had three boys to handle, so empty said Carver. “I really love my face time with her, though. I think I empty. I can’t imagine what it will be like when Logan is gone, too.” nest was nowhere to be found,” miss that the most, just seeing Her three oldest sons are now spread across the states, she said. she remembers. “We missed him her every day.” “Andy, the oldest, is 26, and he is attending Columbia University like crazy, but I was still too busy in New York after five years in the Marines,” she said. “Aaron is 22, To fill her free time, Carver to really worry and think about spends a lot of time with her and he is serving in the Army and is stationed at Fort Campbell. it. But then it started.” husband Stacey. She manages to Mason is 20, and he is serving in the Army and is stationed at Fort In January 2011, her son stay busy with work as well and Hood, Texas. But he is deployed now to Jordan. He gave me my first Aaron left for the Army and that daughter-in-law. Mason is married to Katie.” what time that doesn’t fill, she was sad enough for the family, has a hobby. Nelson said she still has a hard time dealing with the boys being but then in July that same year, “I find myself filling empty gone, though. Mason decided to join the Army time by reading,” she said, “and “I really can’t put the sadness and worry I feel into words,” she and left within four weeks after staying in touch with friends and said. “It is hard when they are all in the military. We’ve been he made the decision. my daughter on Facebook.” through three deployments so far, and those times are the hardest. “I was devastated!” Nelson One thing that hasn’t changed Holidays apart are hard, too.” said. “Two more boys gone in six for Carver is a very special place Technology has been a blessing, however. months. I couldn’t even bring in the house. “Thanks to modern technology like cell phones, Facebook myself to go into their “Ty’s room is exactly as she messenger and Skype, we are able to communicate,” she said. “We Contributed photograph bedrooms.” left it,” she said, smiling. can see our boys’ faces even when we can’t be together. Lee Carver says her daughter Tylar is a Things did start to get a little For moms who are getting Nelson’s advice to moms is to make sure you take advantage of “momma’s girl.” better, though. ready to have an empty nest, the time you have. “Eventually I was able to Carver has advice. “My advice to moms is no matter if the kids are leaving change the rooms a little, but I swear, there are still times when I “This is part of them growing up and adapting to real life tomorrow or next year, is to slow down and enjoy your time can open their doors and it takes my breath,” she said. “I had to stay together,” she said. “Make memories now, because it is over before situations without Mom or Dad being there to help,” Carver said. busy and make plans for when we would see each other again, and you know it.” “Trust that you have raised your children to be strong and By Kristina Wilder Staff Writer

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For the Health of It Donna Alford playing tennis in Rome.

TENNIS BUILDS SKILLS AND FRIENDSHIPS By Carolyn Grindrod Staff Writer

When it comes to playing tennis, there are loads of reasons to pick up a racquet and hit a ball around the court. The sport serves up a great mix of mental and strenuous physical exercise for its players and has become a proven pastime for many in the Rome and Northwest Georgia area. But the sport isn’t just about competition or exercise, but is also becoming an activity centered on camaraderie. That strong-founded kinship can be found in the personal accounts of four women as they share their reasons for loving the game. Dottie Taylor of Rome got started playing tennis nearly eight years ago when she was in her mid 40s, after she hadn’t played the sport in years. Taylor said she had learned the basics in college, but she decided to give it another try once she got a bit older and has since fallen in love with the sport. “I had several friends who played tennis,” said Taylor, a former educator and administrator for the Pepperell school district. “I took it in college, but I wouldn’t say I was any good. I got a C for showing up every day, and it had been a really long time before I had picked up a racquet again.” Taylor said her first initial thought to get back in the game started because she wanted a sport that was not only competitive but that would help amp up her physical fitness. “I do burn some calories,” laughed Taylor. “Tennis provides a strenuous workout routine. I love it because I can exercise and get out in the sun. It’s something I can do. It’s something fun I enjoy and something I really look forward to doing. I’m not that great at it, but I enjoy it anyway.”

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But it’s more than just fitness, said Taylor. Tennis opened up a whole new social aspect to Taylor’s life after she retired. “I made a whole new group of friends that I love,” she said. “It’s really about the camaraderie. I’ve made lots of new friends, and we go on trips together, play card games together. Since I retired, I don’t have that ‘work family’ any more ... my tennis group kind of became my ‘work family.’” Even after she suffered from plantar fasciitis, the injury didn’t stop her from her love of the game. “When I came back, I was surprised I could as well as I did,” laughed Taylor. “I’ve got to be careful, but I have orthotics in my shoes now.” To get better at tennis, Taylor said she took several years of lessons to improve her game. She recommends anyone interested in playing should do the same. “A good place to start is really the Rome-Floyd Tennis Center,” she said. “They have beginner groups that start from teenagers all the way up. I know of 90-year-olds who play tennis. It’s just a sport that you can play for as long of a time as you want. I took private lessons for three years. Then after you feel comfortable enough, you can try getting on a league to play competitively.” Taylor said she plays on several teams in leagues. These leagues help feed her competitive side and help her improve her game. “You play against other teams, so it’s an incentive to really up your game,” said Taylor. “It really motivates you to get better. I’ve been on teams that have been on the very bottom, and I’ve been on teams where we’ve been at the top. I’m on a team from the fall that is going to state here in May. But being in a league doesn’t mean that you can’t play just to play. I still play for fun in open play games, and that takes the pressure off.”

For fellow Roman Trisha Sherman, she picked up the sport when her daughter was 5 years old. “She’s 32 now,” laughed Sherman, a hairdresser at J. Jacobs Salon in downtown Rome. “I just really liked it and have been playing ever since.” Sherman said she was attracted to tennis because it was the kind of sport you can play on your own time, and the physical aspect adds to her enjoyment. “It’s about exercise, fellowship and you can just play anytime you want, and it doesn’t take all day, like golf does,” said Sherman. “In tennis, there are a lot of sprints. You do a lot of running. Hitting the ball is good for your arms. Tennis does wonders for your coordination.” And like Taylor, Sherman agrees that tennis is a social sport. “You get to meet people,” said Sherman. “If you have a partner, you really get to know them because you have learn to communicate, for different plays and stuff. And when you finally sit down at a match, you just talk people and get to know them.” Tennis has been a sport that Sherman’s family has also gotten into, she said. “I play mostly with friends, but sometimes I play with family,” added Sherman. “My daughter plays, and she’s really good too. She’s been doing really well.” Sherman said she mainly plays in a 40-and-older league on Saturdays at Coosa Country Club. She notes that women don’t just have to play with other women. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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“We have a mixed league, where you have a guy and girl play together, usually on Saturdays at Coosa Country Club,� she said. “They have some nice courts there that have clay.� And like Taylor, Sherman said lessons should be top priority for beginners. “Take lessons and get a good racquet,� she said. “Lessons teach you good habits from the start. I recommend anyone learns the right way before they learn it wrong and then have to change something.� Cedartown’s Andrea McKelvey agreed with Sherman that lessons were the right way to go for beginners. From those lessons, you can advance into leagues, she added. “Start out with a good drill instructor, so you can start out the right way,� said McKelvey. “From there, the teachers and instructors can get you in a group that’s within your level.� McKelvey, said she got started playing nearly 30 years ago and would — and still does — make trips to Rome to play. “Six or seven of us here in Cedartown started on a 2.5 or beginners team, years ago, and we took lessons and drills at the Rome Tennis Center. We would play back then on Monday nights at Etowah Park and Alto. We just had a lot of fun.� For McKelvey, who retired in 2003 as an educator at Cherokee Elementary School, the draw to tennis came from looking for a lifetime activity. She started playing in leagues, like many of the other women, and believes that’s been the most fun aspect of the sport. “Getting in there and competing with others keeps me on my toes,� said McKelvey. “That’s where you really have fun.�

These days, she spends a good deal of time playing senior tennis, for 55 and older, on the clay courts at Coosa Country Club. “It’s a lifetime sport,� said McKelvey. “It’s something you can do for your whole life. These days I like playing on the clay courts because they are easier on your legs. As long as I can keep playing, well, that’s what I plan to do.� Fellow Cedartown resident Lynne Kuglar, a retired Northside Elementary School educator, said she started playing in the ’70s and has made tennis a primary factor of her life. Kuglar had played tennis in high school and college, but it wasn’t until she moved to Cedartown and made a group of friends who were interested in playing together that she got started. “We would go to Rome on Monday nights and play,� said Kuglar. “That started basically about 35 years ago, and I basically play on three to four teams a year. Take that times it by the number of team mates I’ve had and you can take that and see how many friendships I’ve made over the years.� And those friendships for Kuglar are the largest part of why she still plays. “When you think about the fact that you’re traveling with people and how well you get to know them and how close you get as friends ... it’s almost like family. “They’re my tennis family. And that’s why I do it, I still love my friends so much.� Kuglar said that Rome’s large tennis family can provide excellent help for beginners of the sport. “If you’re interested in playing, you should really visit the Rome Tennis Center,� said Kuglar. “You can pretty much walk in there and say ‘I want to play tennis’ and they will get you started with everything you need. The best way to pick up tennis is to do drills and just play.�

Maggie Cooper (front) and Janette Barker.

Photos by Charlotte Atkins

Bartow Family Health Center Patient-Centered Family Medical Care 775 West Avenue, Suite A, Cartersville, GA 30120

www.ghms-inc.org

470.315.4689

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Lee H. Battle, III, M.D. Board-Certified Family Practice Physician

Lori W. Millsap APRN, FNP-C, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

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