H Magazine July/August 2012 by Southern Journal Magazine, LLC

the magazine for and about henry county TM

Henry County’s

Crown of

GLORY

Casting Crowns (L-R) Brian Scoggin, Chris Huffman, Melodee DeVevo, Juan DeVevo, Mark Hall, Megan Garrett, Hector Cervantes

July/August 2012

FEATURES: • Shirley Strang, beautiful artist inside and out • Pink Partini...Let’s get ready to paint this town pink! • Christopher Kinney...going for the Gold in 2016

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

july / august 2012

features

nd a cure

29 pink partini even

a bright celebration for a cu

T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 , 2 0 1 2 5 : 3 0 P M a t Ta n g e r O u t l e t s

M U S I C • F O O D • C O C K TA I L S • R A F F L E • FA S H I All proceeds to benefit the Georgia Breast Cancer C

31 Shirley strang

Shirley Strang considers her art “whimsical and eclectic” – we consider it beautiful and inspiring! This lovely artist not only creates art, but she also teaches others to express their own inner artists in a very unique way. Think “girls night out” with a definitely artsy twist.

83 Pink partini

Join Southern Journal Magazine and Tanger nd names Outlets as we host a Bright Celebration for the

We are proud to join the community in this owCure. open

event to support, fundraise and increase awareness forstore breast cancer. In the past we’ve featured factory Real Men Wear Pink…and now are inviting you to paint the town pink at the Pink Partini Event... ky brand Jeans come join the fun, enjoy the specials and meet the 2012 Henry Heroes!

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bia sportswear

ner fraGrance 3

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

29 christopher kinney

SoutherKinney n Jour Henry County’s own Christopher has nal Magazine & Tanger Outlets are p set his goals high. Breaking hurdling records par tner together with the community to suppor t and has become the norm for this extraordinary athlete. A 2007 graduate of Stockbridge High awareness for breast cancer. Debuting at this event w School and of Georgetown University in 2011, Christopher now has his eyes on World Henr y Heros 2013 Calendar. Championships – and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Read more about our hometown champ... Enjoy food and FUN with us while shopping and s

at Tanger Outlets! Local food vendors and specialty

THE MAGAZINE FOR AND ABOUT HENRY COUNTY TM

Henry County’s will be available. Crown of

GLORY

DOOR pRIzES WILL bECOVER gIvEN AWAy AND RAFFLE T ON THE Casting Crowns (L-R)

Brian Scoggin WILL bE SOLD FOR yOUR CHANCE TO WIN FANTAST Chris Huffman Melodee DeVevo Juan DeVevo Mark Hall Megan Garrett Hector Cervantes

Casting Crowns (L-R) Brian Scoggin, Chris Huffman, Melodee DeVevo, Juan DeVevo, Mark Hall, Megan Garrett, Hector Cervantes

FEATURES: for more inform Please visit www.tangeroutlet.com July/August 2012

• SHIRLEY STRANG, BEAUTIFUL ARTIST INSIDE AND OUT • PINK PARTINI...LET’S GET READY TO PAINT THIS TOWN PINK! • CHRISTOPHER KINNEY...GOING FOR THE GOLD IN 2016

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

july / august 2012

departments

7 publisher’s letter 9 contributors 10 letters to the editor 13 Casting Crowns 25 Tammy hyde 29 chris kinney 25 Tammy hyde 31 shirley strang

35 pastor tim dowdy 43 henry councilfor quality growth

45 business profile: henry radiation oncology services 47 business profile: edward jones 49 southside spinal 55 eagle’s landing skin & vein 57 children’s healthcare of atlanta 61 georgia on my mind

69 denise sowell 71 business profile: vitas 73 operation overseas 75 business profile: Dr. Linda King 81 chaplains corner 83 pink partini 87 gamma awards

43 5

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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TONER FRAUD & A LEASE OPTION YOU’LL REGRET Stephanie Robinson has been the leading copier consultant in Henry County for over 7 years and has made her career with Consolidated for 14. She works closely with all types and sizes of businesses here and her customers say she is one of the friendliest, most honest and professional consultants they have ever had! Q: I’ve been told that you can get a service agreement included with your copier lease payment. It seems like that would be an easy way to keep everything with the copier together. Is it really a good idea? In short- no it’s not! It sounds nice, but most people that join their maintenance and lease together regret it. Companies present it as an easy, attractive pricing option by bundling the payments together into “one easy low payment.” The problem is that you can’t get out of it. Regardless of the quality of service you receive, you are stuck with it and will spend years paying for it. When a company has your money guaranteed, problems arise with slow response, part limits, added surcharges, and more. You’re giving up the freedom to do anything about it by joining your maintenance with the lease. You also will not be able to adjust what you’re paying for volume changes. It is definitely a wiser decision to keep your maintenance agreement separated from your lease. Ben Miller is a Senior Technician and has been a copier service professional since 1997. He has worked at Consolidated Copiers for most of his career and recently won Konica Minolta’s Technician of the Month, a competitive and very honoring award. He has taken care of Henry County for the last 5 years. Q: I’ve had problems with people trying to sell me toner or get information from me that I’m not sure is our dealer. How can I tell who’s legitimate and who’s not? What can I do about these callers? “Toner pirates” are a huge problem. They are fraudulent telemarketers that misrepresent themselves as companies in order to sell supplies at an enormously inflated rate. They may mention a promotion or near future increase to entice you into buying supplies. They often make several calls to your company fishing for information. Ask for their number and if you can return their call. Have one individual responsible for ordering supplies, and do not pay any bills that don’t match your documentation. Know your contract- if you have a maintenance agreement, toner may be included and you shouldn’t have to pay anything. If you have any concerns or questions contact your dealer immediately. If you do order toner from them, refuse acceptance upon delivery. If you are a victim of toner piracy, contact the Office of the Attorney General, Telemarketing Fraud Dept. in Georgia and in the state it was shipped from. Your copier dealer should also be able to give you more information.

1303 Parker Road Suite G Conyers, GA 30094

NAME address city

state

Phone

zip

(770) 760-0887 www.consolidatedcopiers.com

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

july / august 2012

publisher’s letter

Welcome to H Magazine’s 5th Anniversary issue! Y

es, we have been “For and about Henry County” now for five years strong. That’s half a decade of telling YOUR stories to fellow business owners, community leaders and concerned citizens. Some of these stories have been very poignant and have stirred hearts to volunteer and contribute resources. Others have inspired folks to reach past the obstacles in their lives and climb a little higher. Some have helped small businesses improve their client or customer bases and move on to greater success. And still others have awakened the inner artist in someone’s heart. We are making an impact on the community! Imagine our excitement when H Magazine was honored in May with two huge awards from the Magazine Association of the Southeast (MAGS)! MAGS is a professional organization of individuals, corporations and associates involved in the publishing industry in the Southeast. They hold an annual awards conference, and H Magazine was up against the ENTIRE Southeast...Southern Living, NO’ALA, Alabama Magazine, Lake Oconee Magazine, Charlotte Magazine, Veranda, etc. We won the Bronze for our January-February 2011 issue for photography; and we won Honorable Mention for the Best Single Cover for our July-August 2011 issue! It is appropriate for me to say thanks to those who have made this all happen. H Magazine has had incredible writers and wonderful interns and volunteers. Our small staff has moved mountains, always with a great sense of humor. Our photographers are second to none. Our advertisers – our backbone - are faithful and quick to tell us of the response they’ve had to their ads in the magazine. And, as a special treat, Casting Crowns has joined us in this issue as we

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

celebrate this important milestone. The journey has been spectacular, and the view from here as we look to growth in the future is breathtaking. Thank you, Henry County, for embracing us!

Lisa Kinchen Publisher/Editorial Director lisa@hmagazine.biz

the view from here as we look to growth in the future is breathtaking.

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

our contributors

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. 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. Denese Rodgers is the former Director of Social Service for Connecting Henry, Inc, the local branch of the Georgia Family Connection Partnership. She and her husband are moving to the Republic of Panama. Angel Maynard resides in Henry County and is the founder of RedPill Productions www.redpill-productions.com. She is a writer and producer whose work has been showcased at The New York Television Festival as well as California’s Indie Fest. “We apologize for omitting Angel in the May/June issue as a contributing writer.”

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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. 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.

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.

Jennifer Sconyers lives in McDonough, Georgia with her husband and two sons George and Jeremiah. Jennifer volunteers regularly at Flippen Elementary. She is a children’s author, and goes to schools and local libraries sharing her books and the love of reading! 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. 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.

Has Chronic Pain Affected Your Life? Has pain caused you to lose interest or pleasure in doing things?

YES/NO

Does your pain leave you feeling down, depressed, or hopeless?

YES/NO

Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep?

YES/NO

Are you feeling tired or that you have little energy?

YES/NO

Do you feel bad about yourself - or that you have in someway let your family down?

YES/NO

Do you have trouble concentrating or focusing through your pain?

YES/NO

Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity had the unique pleasure of being invited by H Magazine to host our very first Hard Hat Golf Tournament in May 2012. The dedication and professionalism from the ladies of H Magazine surpassed our expectations, which made our event a successful one. Lisa Kinchen is a kind-hearted professional who cares about Henry County and the people who live there. We are very grateful for the support that H Magazine has provided to SCHFH, and for the lasting impact that they continue to make in the community. Thanks “H” for your continued partnership!

Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity

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

Thank you so much for letting me stay in touch by writing the Travel series last year. Not only did

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letters to the editor

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you make me feel like I was able to touch home base every now and then, but it was also really nice to see copies of H Magazine in my care packages from home! And - thank you so much for the broad strokes you use to paint the diversity, legacy, and opportunities in our Community. I simply love having our very own magazine to highlight the best of Henry County...

Denese A. Rodgers

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World-class Urgent Care, That’s Not a World Away. Injuries and illnesses are never convenient. That’s why the Piedmont Outpatient Center Urgent Care is ready to see you at your convenience, no appointment is ever necessary. Below are just some of the things that we can help you with:

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feature interview

Drinking from

THEWELL by Diane Smith

behind the scenes with Casting Crowns

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Henry County is proud to call Casting Crowns internationally known contemporary Christian music giants, our own. Casting Crowns has earned two Billboard Music Awards, two American Music Awards, and 14 Dove Awards and have sold over 8.5 million records worldwide. H Magazine is proud to introduce to you, CASTING CROWNS… Mark Hall’s book, “The Well,” and Casting Crowns’ latest CD, “Come to the Well,” are based on scriptures found in John, Chapter 4 in the Bible. An outcast of a woman comes to the well in the heat of the day after others have already come and gone. At the well, she finds Jesus waiting and she asks Him to help her draw water. It was the opening He was waiting for and He speaks to her about Living Water: “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” (KJV) Mark explains it this way... (continued on next page)

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

feature interview (continued from previous page)

“We make plans for our lives,

hen we ask God to sprinkle some ‘Jesus dust’ on those plans – we think we’ve dug our own well, and we’re asking Him to bless it.” He continues, “What we don’t realize is that our well is just a hole in the ground. Jesus IS the well, only when we turn to Him and ask for direction for HIS plans for us - can He bless our efforts.” Mark Hall speaks from experience. Raised in church, as a child he knew the language, the expectations and the norms of the church. He had learned about Jesus and had been a believer since the age of 9. But, as he grew into a teen, Jesus and the church were just life-enhancements. The teen Mark figured the really important things in life were popularity and…girls. So those became his pursuits, and he finally landed the girl of his dreams. The relationship lasted two years, then she was gone, and Mark was devastated. At this point, Mark began to search. There had to be more to church and God than just a culture or a learned lifestyle. As he began to pray and seek God, he began to realize, “this is real” and he began to seek God in earnest – asking him to “fix this and get me my girl back!” He still hadn’t quite gotten it. But finally, over a period of months, he began to build a relationship – a friendship – with God. He began to ask for the Lord’s direction in his life. “I knew I was supposed to ‘do something in the church,’” he remembers, “but I had no clue what that meant!” As he was searching out direction for his life, he began to notice Melanie Green - a childhood friend – in a different light. They began to date. “I even took a job at the Mall as the Easter Bunny to be near her,” he recalls with a laugh. After three months, they knew they were meant to be together. (“When you’ve known someone 11 years, you already know them.”) Weeks later they married. That’s when life began to fast forward. Mark was 20 and had always lived at home. “We married, moved out on our own, and started going to Baptist College of Florida all at the same time.” But, Mark Hall is the front man for Casting Crowns – so where did the music ministry come in? “I used to sing with Dad, and I sang with Melanie a lot. I majored in music.” Then someone asked if he had ever worked in teen ministry. “No way, that’s not going to happen.” God seems to love to hear those words, and before Mark knew it he was working regularly in youth ministry. 15

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Drinking from

THEWELL

““I even took a job at the Mall as the Easter Bunny to be near her,”” July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

feature interview (continued from previous page)

It was while he was youth pastor at First Baptist Daytona that Mark Hall met Juan and Melodee DeVevo, Chris Huffman and Hector Cervantes. All were part of the praise band that led the church youth group. Then, a call came from Pastor Tim Dowdy of Eagles Landing First Baptist Church asking Mark to come and be the church’s youth pastor. The team had bonded in music and in youth ministry, so when Mark said yes, he brought along some bonuses – Juan, Melodee, Chris and Hector all moved to the Henry County church as well. There they met Megan Garrett, who joined the band as well. Casting Crowns – though they did not know it at this time – was ready to be launched. (Brian Scoggins would come on board at a later date.)

Fast forward:: The youth group at Eagles Landing is growing under Mark’s leadership. The band puts together a CD, featuring a song called “If We Are the Body.” The CD was used as an outreach tool by the youth, as they hand them out to others. A young man named Chase tucks one in his backpack when he goes to a basketball tournament. He meets a guy named Mark Miller. That’s Mark Miller of the renowned band Sawyer Brown. Chase has no idea to whom he’s talking, but when he finds out that Mark Miller “has something to do with music,” he digs the CD out of his backpack and tells him he has to listen to it. Time goes by, and Mark Miller decides to give the CD a listen. He happens to be on vacation with internationally known Christian artist Steven Curtis Chapman and his family. The third family in the group vacationing on the beach is that of Terry Hemmings, who was about to be named the new President and CEO of Provident Music. God stirs the pot, and Mark Hall gets a providential phone call from the beach. He’s on the way to Johnny’s Pizza on Jodeco Road in Henry County to hang out with his youth group, when he gets a message on his phone. “This is Mark Miller from Nashville. I need you to call me as soon as possible.” Mark wonders if this is some kind of test from God to see whether or not he will sacrifice his time with the youth group to return this intriguing phone call. If so, he wants to pass the test, so he waits. “We’re at the pizza place, and I’m not hearing anything anyone says. All I can think about is that phone message.” On the way home, he returns the call and Mark 17

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

When asked to share any upcoming projects by the band, Mark revealed a nice surprise coming up early next year. “We’re working a project that is not like anything we’ve done before.”

Miller tells him that they loved “If We Are the Body” and Terry Hemmings would like to talk to the band about recording for Provident. “I’m sure he expected me to ask about the money or something like that,” Mark Hall reminisces. “But the first words out of my mouth were ‘Can I still be a youth minister?’ I think that surprised them!” When he learned the answer was yes, Casting Crowns was on its way to becoming a household name, and “If We are the Body” quickly hit No. 3 on the Billboard charts and No. 1 in Radio & Records Christian CHR. Casting Crowns began to pour out hit after hit, with Mark Hall and others in the band writing original lyrics and music. The band’s compelling music soon took them national – then international. “When we first went to Europe, we couldn’t believe anyone over there had even heard of us. It was very humbling.” As they sang to sold-out venues, the realization hit home that the songs were bigger than the singers. What about that youth ministry thing, now that fame had hit? “We’re still at our home churches on Sundays and Wednesdays, ministering to the youth. We plan our tours for Thursday through Saturday.” Overseas tours are the exception. When asked to share any upcoming projects by the band, Mark revealed a nice surprise coming up early next year. “We’re working a project that is not like anything we’ve done before.” Looks like it’s about time to line up at the well for some refreshing again...

Drinking from

THEWELL July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

To view more services and possibilities of Classic Landscapes Inc. visit www.ClassicLandscapesGa.com or call 678.481.3717.

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

What better way to celebrate our 5th Anniversary as a successful magazine than to climb to the next level? You’ve known us for half a decade as H Magazine – for and about Henry County. We are pleased and proud to announce that H Magazine is expanding its impact and will evolve into Southern Journal Magazine beginning with our next issue – still for and about Henry County but also celebrating and highlighting collaborative efforts with neighboring communities. Join us on our amazing journey into the future as the Southern Journal Magazine – spread the word, and watch for us on the newsstands starting in September!

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

feature

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Tam m y H y d e

ViSalus Sciences works! By Jennifer Sconyers

ammy greeted me with a beautiful smile and made me feel right at home. I knew we were going to be fast friends! I jumped right in with the interview, “So tell me about yourself.” “I work at ELCA (Eagles Landing Christian Academy) during the day. I manage the uniform store and coffee shop. As for my story...I am a recently divorced mother of two teenagers, 17 & 16. “I got involved with ViSalus (a weight loss and fitness challenge platform) by accident. My friend Dee Dee Cantrell was here visiting at Thanksgiving from PCB. She asked me to come to a tasting. I told her I wasn’t interested in a business and my experience with shakes for meals wasn’t a good one and I didn’t have the money to waste on another fad. She made me promise to just come so that I could see her. I did. “While I was there, I truly believe the Holy Spirit continued nudging me. The shakes tasted really good, but I was still skeptical. The informational video peaked my interest but

caused me to ask a million questions. I left that night ready to explore and ask more questions. “All I could think of was the joke my daddy used to tell about a preacher and a flood. I didn’t want to be like the preacher who drowned and got to heaven to find out that God had given him a helicopter, row boat etc. I knew I needed an extra income. I knew I needed to lose weight. I also knew that I needed a distraction and something to pour my mind into that would be all about me as an individual. “I decided to put a toe in the water at the basic promoter level and signed up for the shape kit, which would allow me one shake a day and my daughter one shake a day. By the end of the first week, I had lost 10 pounds and my daughter had lost 8. God continued to bless and within 45 days, I had signed over 30 customers, 3 promoters, made back my initial investment, lost 18 pounds and been promoted to Rising Star Director and wasn’t paying for my products. I couldn’t believe it! I wasn’t even really trying! “By the end of January, I was able to re-

invest in my business to upgrade to the next level. After 5 months, I have lost 40 pounds, gotten over $1500 in free product, been able to supplement my income to provide extras for my kids, and I am on my way to earning a BMW. I am beyond blessed by God. HE amazes me every day with His provision and faithfulness. I love this business and I love the way the shakes make me feel. I also love the opportunity that I have to see people change their lives for the better physically and financially. It is a lifestyle change, the shakes are nutritious and they boost your metabolism in the morning. When you’re eating well, you feel better, that is the way you were designed. You get out what you put in! Junk in, junk out, you’re going to feel terrible if you’re consuming nothing but junk, but if you are consuming things that are good for you then you’re naturally going to feel better! All I can say is ViSalus has really worked for me!” If you want to know more contact: Tammy Hyde, 678-409-1545. Or You can go to her web site to find out more! http://tammyhyde70.myvi.net/

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Living lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey with

comfort, care and compassion

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feature

Hurdling 20

towards

rio 16 by diane smith photo by Georgetown University

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

“H

urdling chose me,” threetime All American track and field champion Christopher Kinney states with a laugh. “When I was a kid, instead of walking around the couch, I’d hurdle over it…I got scolded a lot!”

Apparently, “Hurdling” chose well – reading press on Christopher Kinney (Stockbridge High School, 2007 and Georgetown University, 2011 graduate) is impressive. From Washington in January, 2011: “Kinney was recognized as the BIG EAST’s best track athlete for the second-consecutive time…” And, later that same month, “Senior… Chris Kinney set a new school record tonight…” February brought more of the same: “It’s an all too familiar story for Hoya fans…senior All American Chris Kinney broke his own record yet again...” The Georgetown Hoya’s bid farewell to Chris in June with these words, “… Chris Kinney competed in his last race for the Blue and Gray today and just like many other days…Kinney walked out onto the track and set a school record.” The surprising news is, Christopher didn’t begin to take track seriously until he went to college. “I ran in track clubs starting in 8th grade,” he recalls. “I started because a friend did – and when he quit, I wanted to, too.” But his parents had glimpsed his talent and encouraged him to stick it out. They were right - Christopher earned a scholarship to Georgetown, and there in his freshmen year he met Coach Sheila Burrell, who ignited a fire in his life. Under her training and instruction, hurdling became more than a “club sport,” it became a passion. Coach Burrell, an Olympic heptathlete, began to push Chris to test his limits. “If she had asked me to hurdle blindfolded and backwards, I’d have done it – she was that inspirational,” the young athlete says emphatically. Under her, he learned Olympic weight lifting and began to follow a good eating plan and take a regiment of vitamins. And he began to break records. His freshmen year he was the youngest on the team to make it to regionals. In his sophomore year he advanced to nationals. After that, he was

In his senior year in the blue and gray uniform, he started smashing indoor records.

photo below by Atlanta Sports Photography Jon Ross

the only male sprinter to make it annually to the NCAA nationals. Chris was also the only sprinter to make it to the USA Nationals from his sophomore year on. “The summer after my sophomore year, Coach Burrell left Georgetown. Coach Mincey was a good coach, but I didn’t progress much, acclimating to the loss of Coach Burrell and training under a new coach.” According to Chris, he hit a plateau and began to stagnate… but still made it to the nationals! Under Coach Mincey, the sprinter began to compete in indoor track and field events. About this time, he hit his stride with the new coach’s style. In his senior year in the blue and gray uniform, he started smashing indoor records. Then, every athlete’s worst fear – an injury. Christopher was running in the last meet at Texas A&M at the NCAA. He hit the last hurdle before the finish line and went down. He had injured his back and couldn’t finish the race. “I was devastated,” he reminisces The injury kept him from beginning the outdoor season his senior year. “It was killing me! I’m very competitive,” Chris exclaims. But the risk of re-injury was too high for a young man with unrealized ambitions. About half way through the season, Christopher Kinney was back. “I had to start from scratch,” he explained. “I wasn’t myself…but I was still able to get my times back.” And, in spite of the setback, he “barely breezed past the regionals and made it to nationals.” And broke his record…again, but missed finals by one spot. So, where does he go from here? “I majored in Japanese in college,” Chris shares. “My grandmother is Japanese.” Coach Burrell used to tease him about it, asking “When are you ever going to use Japanese?!” As it turns out, he attended a job fair and connected with a company called Xebio. Xebio is a sports company, specializing in sports retail and events. Long story, short – this company in Japan hired him, and told him “If you work here, you can keep running,” then set him up with a Japanese national coach. He will get to work out with his training group, while he furthers his career. High school is over…college is behind him. So what is Christopher Kinney training for now? Well, there’s always World Championships – and his ultimate goal of competing in the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016! It wouldn’t surprise us at all if he competed - and broke a record or two…

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

feature

A Passion for Creativity

by Ciji Fox photo by Picture This Studio

hirley Strang can’t remember a time when she didn’t paint, and she has always been passionate about creativity. She recalls the first time her art was recognized. “A large clay coil pot was the first piece of art recognized by my art teacher in high school for a local art fair,” Shirley recalls. After attending a painting class several years ago with a friend, the budding artist thought to herself, “I can do that.” With a background of painting on everything from wood to concrete, Shirley decided to share her ideas about pursuing painting with some friends. She also questioned those that had followed their passions in the business. “With the support and encouragement of my husband and friends, my first party was 31

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

launched in early 2011 by my friend Jacquie Rives. She had just started her own photography business,” Shirley recalls. Jacquie invited several of her friends over for a girls’ night out painting party. “I packed up some canvases and supplies and guided them stepby-step in creating their own masterpiece. Through the old fashion ‘word of mouth’- and later Facebook - my business took off.” Her business involves teaching others how to paint. “My art parties allow guests to participate in the creation of their very own art work,” Shirley explains. Clients are able select a piece of art from her library of ideas on Facebook or she will create a personal theme for them to paint. Once they have made their selection, a group gathers at a host’s home. “I bring the paint, the canvas, and the brushes.”

“I describe my art mostly as whimsical and eclectic,” Shirley declares. ”The art I help others create appeals to their personal tastes and lifestyles. For example, a painting of an abstract heart with stylized text that highlights significant events in their lives, such as weddings, birthdays, or special locations.” The primary materials in her painting process include acrylic paints, brushes, and canvas and shape templates. Shirley admits she admires and enjoys the creativity of all art not just canvas. “Creativity comes from everyday items in our lives, that when painted provide a foundation for creative art.” In the past Shirley’s love for creativity has afforded her opportunities like painting commissioned art for local fund raising events, ranging from schools to hospitals.

Creativity comes from everyday items in our lives, that when painted provide a foundation for creative art. Shirley, who believes in staying active in the community, participates with Habitat for Humanity, her church and volunteering at her 13-year old daughter’s, (Ava) school. Being an advocate for the role art plays in education she says, “Some form of art is used in just about every occupation. Art isn’t just painting a picture but allows for young minds to explore a talent or an interest in the fields of architectural design, mechanical drawing, culinary, fashion or marketing.” In the future, Shirley plans for her business to incorporate painting furniture, with themes ranging from flower designs to comical pieces. “I’m looking forward to consigning my work. I joke that my hobby has turned into a full time job! The McDonough Square Art Fair was the first time I profes-

sionally displayed and sold my art. I have several local stores that have invited me to consign my canvas and furniture pieces and paint personalized consignments.” With the demands of balancing family and her business, spare time can be rare. However, Shirley does enjoy playing tennis - which is how she met her husband of 15 years, Bill. She also enjoys running, gardening, and shopping, “Our family also has a soft spot for animals. We have a rescue dog, Maxx, and two rescue cats, Grayson and Pumpkin.” Shirley would also like to give special thanks to her dear friend Dawn Richardson Gepfer. “Dawn has gone above and beyond helping me with marketing, Thank you!” July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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Art isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just painting a picture but allows for young minds to explore a talent or an interest in the fields of architectural design, mechanical drawing, culinary, fashion or marketing.

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Our Stories

dream?”

“Do you still So query the two opening lines of the Introduction to Pastor Tim Dowdy’s book, “Don’t forget to dream; pursuing a life that matters—shaped by the heart of God.” It is the book that he gives to the graduating class of Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy each year to help guide them as they begin to make adult decisions about their lives. Pastor Dowdy has worked faithfully to achieve the hopes and dreams of Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church of McDonough. He has served as the Senior Pastor since 1989, growing the congregation from “a Baptist mission of 39 members to a Southern Baptist Church of more than six thousand.” In his 23 years the Church has progressed from trying “to survive with a handful of people and impact the community with the gospel,” to the daily implementation of their Purpose: “Eagle’s Landing FBC exists to glorify God by involving people in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.” From humble beginnings near Camp Clayton, the Church built its home on Hwy. 42 near Flippen Road. After taking on Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy in 1994, the facilities experienced steady growth, soon straining their capacity. In April of 2000, the Church moved one mile north on Hwy. 42 where it is currently located, continuing to thrive and grow. The church and school now

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

hope?

“Do you still

By Denese Rodgers

share the 86-acre campus. In what Pastor Dowdy describes as “a great journey” the Church has expanded to include a ministerial staff of 14 and a church staff of 38 (plus 9 interns). The school staff now numbers 156 and accommodates over 1,100 students. This is particularly signiﬁcant after the recent economic challenges, acknowledges the pastor. “Families have made sacriﬁces to keep their children in school.” Notably one member of the ministerial staff is Youth Pastor Mark Hall, lead singer for internationally-known contemporary Christian group Casting Crowns (see feature story in this issue). He and other band members are regularly a part of the 11:00 a.m and 5:00 p.m. contemporary services “that feature a modern, musical approach to praise and worship.” In addition to the contemporary service offerings, ELFBC offers ministries in the areas of Preschool, Children, Students, College & Young Singles, Singles, Women, Men, Legacy 55+, Widows and Widowers, Music, Prayer, Pastoral Care, Global Outreach, Hearing Impaired, Wednesday Evening Meals, and the Eagle’s Landing Foundation. Pastor Dowdy is particularly passionate about one mission-focused outreach, “The Frontier Awaits” initiative. “There are some 7 billion people on the planet, 70% of whom do not know Christ. Our Church is expanding our

vision through ‘church planting’ in Miami, San Diego, Ottawa (Canada), Tolupani (Honduras) and Panama City (Panama).” Tim Dowdy has served for 8 years as Chairman of the Board of Trustees to the North American Mission Board. The planting of churches also requires the coordination of new staff members, volunteers, and interns. In those areas where new Churches cannot afford a full-time pastor, this pastor works to bring recognition to those whose mission is achieved through multi-tasking. In November 2012, he has committed to participate in the 140 mile Flordia Iron Man competition in Panama City – speciﬁcally to honor those dedicated bivocational ministers who must divide their time between the work of the Lord, and the support of their families.

Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church and Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy are co-located at 2400 Hwy. 42 North in McDonough, Georgia. For more information on their many programs and outreach opportunities, their website is www.eagleslanding.org

“Families have made sacriﬁces to keep their children in school.”

Pastor Tim Dowdy

of Eagle’s Landing First Baptist Church

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feature

Building on the Past for a Brighter Future by Valerie Baldowski

he Henry Council for Quality Growth (HCQG), a staple in the development community since 2001, is setting its sights on the future. Through the recent economic downturn it has remained committed to smart growth in Henry County, despite the struggles that everyone in the development community has felt. The council and its board members have their eye on recovery and how the county can benefit from her natural strengths. You may ask yourself, what is HCQG? It is an organization comprised of industry and business leaders with a common goal of working in synergy with elected officials and economic development leaders to help guide sustainable growth and attract quality development for the county. Henry County native Cory Lee joined HCQG in 2007 as a way to keep up with the explosive growth in the county. As a director at Martin Concrete

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz july/august

Construction and co-owner of Trust Realty LLC in Stockbridge, Cory is now serving his second year as chairman of the group’s board of directors. “Like anything, the more you put into something the more you get out of it,” he says. “Being plugged in, being able to work with different types of people, I feel like we’re helping the community and the growth sector.” The 40-year-old McDonough resident has seen his share of development through the years. He acknowledges that growth and change is inevitable, but it must be thoughtfully managed. “The bottom line is, growth is going to happen whether we want it to or not,” says Cory. “I grew up in Henry County, and I used to shoot dove in fields that now have a Kroger in it.” As chairman, he keeps his finger on the pulse of construction in the community. Having an inside track and being able to give input into the direction the county will move is rewarding to him. “Recently, the elected officials have been reaching out to the business leaders for advice and for bringing us into some decision-making, which is exactly what we need,” he says.

Like anything, the more you put into something the more you get out of it. – Henry County native Cory Lee

Although new home construction in Henry County has slowed since the recession hit, Cory says the housing industry is “firming up.” That’s a positive sign the county is on the road to bouncing back. “Henry County took a big hit. In any bubble that happens, the fastestgrowing gets hit the hardest,” he continues. “We’re in the process of building that back. We’re starting to chew through residential inventory at a good rate.” The economic slowdown was an eye-opener for community leaders, explains Cory, and it provided an opportunity for them to reassess their priorities for the future. “It made Henry County realize as a group – business leaders, elected officials and the general public – that we’ve got to come together and focus on going in one direction,” he says. “Before, everybody had their own ideas. Some people didn’t want growth, some people did, and some people wanted a certain kind of growth.” Now that the recession is slowly fading away, HCQG Executive Director Steve Cash says the county has nowhere else to go but up. For

the first four months of this year the county received 57 new building permit applications, compared to 59 last year. On the commercial side the county received 50 new permit applications through April 2012, compared to 52 through April 2011. “While this is a very small number compared to the past, I feel that we have hit the bottom,” Steve says. “Hopefully, we will start to see real gains this spring and summer.” There are plenty of vacant lots throughout the county, and although foreclosures continue popping up they are being sold at deeply reduced prices, he says. “Perhaps the greatest news regarding new and resale homes in Henry County is that the inventory continues to fall each month,” Steve adds. “From April 2011 through April 2012, new home inventory has fallen from 187 to 107. Resales have dropped from 833 to 492 in that same time period. This is the lowest housing inventory Henry County has recognized in the last 20 years.”

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Business profile

ancer care continues to advance in Henry County. In 2012, Henry Medical Center partnered with Piedmont Health System to form Piedmont Henry Hospital (PHH). Cancer patients and their families in and around Henry County are the beneficiaries of even more cancer related resources as a result of the new partnership. Since 2010, Radiation Oncology Services (www.radonc. com) has provided state-of-the-art radiation therapy at Henry Radiation Oncology Center on the campus of the hospital. Today, the PHH Cancer Program with the support of Radiation Oncology Services, PHH surgeons and medical oncologists continues as an American College of Surgeons accredited cancer program. Cutting-edge technology remains the highlight of Henry Radiation Oncology Center. Modern linear accelerator technology ensures the

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most advanced radiation therapy techniques such as intensity modulated radiation therapy, image guided radiation therapy and modulated arc technology. Combined with sophisticated computerized treatment planning capabilities, the radiation oncologist is able to treat a cancer with precision and accuracy while sparing the healthy organs around the cancer. The result is customized radiation therapy for each individual cancer patient. Kim N. Vu, M.D. practices at Henry Radiation Oncology Center where she has been the medical director since the center opened in 2010. Dr. Vu joined Radiation Oncology Services in 2005 after completing residency training at the Medical University of South Carolina. As a board-certified radiation oncologist, Dr. Vu specializes in the safe and effective use of radiation therapy in the treatment of malignant diseases. While recognizing that technology is a key com-

ponent to the successful treatment of cancer patients, Dr. Vu acknowledges that the human component is the critical link between technology and compassionate care. “I find that listening to patients and providing emotional support is sometimes more important to patients than the actual treatment itself,” says Vu. The entire staff takes their direction from Dr. Vu’s caring attitude. Patients find comfort in knowing they will receive top-notch cancer care in a warm, friendly environment. The cancer care team at Henry Radiation Oncology Center understands the complex challenges cancer patients face and provides the support needed by both patients and families.

To learn more about Henry Radiation Oncology Center, the staff or services, please visit www.henryradonc.com or call 678-251-1099.

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

our stories

Building Relationships in Henry County...

By Shavonia Frank

The associates of Edward Jones understand that their business is based on the financial success of each of their clients and on the personal, lifelong relationships built with them over time. Edward Jones is recognized by both employees and clients from J.D. Power & Associates, and Fortune magazine named the firm as one of the best companies to work for in America. To help investors become better informed, H Magazine would like to introduce David Dodd and Lin Watts, advisors located in McDonough, Georgia. David Dodd is proud of his ability to guide and recommend to clients but feels most fulfilled in helping to educate. He wants his clients to be encouraged, but mostly he wants them to understand the basics of long-term savings. “It’s important to have a plan,” says David, “so that clients can be accountable and responsible in their actions.” An investment advisor for fifteen years, David believes in being a good steward and partnering financially with families in longterm advising. “Debt is not a good thing,” David states. So he partners with families to help them become familiar with the investing process and educated enough to have a hand in their own financial future. David works so well with families because he knows the importance of family, having one of his own. Together with a loving wife, Christen, of 16 years, David has two children - Harry, 11-years old (a Strong Rock Christian School attendee) and 9-year old Abby, whose artwork decorates David’s office walls. They have been residents of Griffin, Georgia for 15 years, and David believes wholeheartedly in bridging his community with that of the Henry Community where his business

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has been for the last five years. Not only helping others while making sound financial decisions, David is also actively involved in the community with his own outreach ministry, Impact Racing Ministries. Impact Racing is a non-profit organization that focuses on mentoring at-risk children and helping them reach their full potential despite their circumstances. His work in the community and commitment to his family lays the groundwork for his success at Edward Jones. David appreciates serving the local community and the impact that his work has on the residents of Henry County and as a result, the community as whole. The culture of the firm has a personal and professional impact that teaches investors to invest in themselves. Linn Watts understands that part of the success of the Edward Jones business model is having an office near where people live or work. “Because of this, we approach business differently,” he explains. “We are not just financial advisors or office administrators, but owners in a limited partnership with one of the few remaining limited partnerships in the full-service brokerage industry. It’s not about us,” Lin continues. “It’s always about the client.” Serving Edward Jones since 1999, Lin and his office assistant, Tawana Lee, know that this local office business model holds them accountable in a different way – and that their clients value being able to come into the office for face-to-face conversation about their investments and financial strategies. A deeply rooted family man and pastor, there are few who appreciate personal relationships more than Lin. He and his wife, Mellie, of 34 years have two adult sons - both married - and are expecting their first grandchild. When he is not helping people invest wisely, or visiting his close

family in Mississippi, Lin can be found behind the pulpit on Sundays and hosting a Bible study at his house on Wednesday nights. Founding Pastor of Christ the Redeemer Church, Lin has been involved in the ministry for over 25 years, since 1999 as a volunteer. Here, too, he can help people make sound decisions with the proper direction. In addition to providing spiritual guidance, Lin prides himself on being a teacher and coach, building a partnership with each of his clients. With an office in McDonough since 1999, Lin Watts helps his clients by providing a conservative approach to investing by staying diversified and focusing on high-quality investments. His goal is to implement a long-term buy and hold strategy when possible. “Most people need help planning their future, making investments. They need someone to count on that has their best interests at heart.”

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 July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Business profile Physician profile

By Jennifer Sconyers

SPORTS! What is your favorite to play? Soccer, basketball, golf, tennis, or do you participate in aerobic activities like running? Or maybe you enjoy my personal favorite, dancing. While being active is extremely important for our overall health, risk of injury is there. Sports Injury, just those two words make me wince in pain. No matter how careful athletes are, professional or weekend warriors, injuries still happen! There are two groups of injuries that most people experience. The first, traumatic injury, can happen with a slip, a fall, or collision. This can happen while playing with the kids at home! “Mom, are you alright?” my son asked me with a worried expression on his face. I was leaning over holding my back, “Yes.” I replied with aggravation, “I just pulled something.” When a strain or sprain happens, appropriate attention is needed - especially during the initial stages of an injury - to insure correct healing. A large percentage of traumatic injuries are to the ligaments and are called sprains; or to the muscles or its tendon, which is a strain. The most common places these injuries occur are the ankles, knees and shoulders. When the low back and neck are affected it can become extremely serious. If you’ve sustained an injury, the best course of action is to see a professional.

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Here is something to keep in mind.

PRICE: P Protect injury to prevent additional damage. R Rest the injured area. I Ice injury to abate swelling, bleed- ing, muscle spasm, and pain. C Compress injury with a specifically designed or elastic bandage to support injured tissues. E Elevate the injury, particularly when dealing with ankles and knees.

If left untreated the PRICE will be higher both physically and financially. The second injury we’ll discuss is the repetitive stress or overuse injury. These injuries are more prevalent, especially among people who enjoy sports such as golf, tennis, bowling, and any other activity that necessitates the same repetitive movement. Running, especially on a treadmill, can also be a factor. Knitting and computer games are hobbies but the same repetitive motion can result in injury!

What is happening in layman’s terms is the repeated activity can frequently create a very slight strain to tissues, tendons and muscles. This can accumulate effects of the repetition that cause the more serious problem. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common types of overuse injuries. Over time the muscle or other affected tissue develops changes that no longer allow it to function correctly, resulting in pain, stiffness and disability. Dr. Michelle Klos has years of experience in treating these kinds of cases, she will carefully evaluate your physical condition and set you up with a treatment plan that will put you on a path to healing. Lee Ann McWaters is also an important part in recovery. Deep tissue massage will help release the tightness and stress and even toxins that have built up in the muscles. So be careful, but play on with the confidence that if you do suffer an injury there is someone who’s got your back! Literally! Southside Spinal Center 386 Racetrack Rd. McDonough, GA 30252 Office 678.583.2982 Fax 678.583.2984 www.southsidespinalcenter.com www.kloschiro.com Dr. Michelle Klos Chiropractor Lee Ann McWaters Licensed Massage Therapist

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Camp Horizon Helps Children Cope with Loss Losing a loved one is difficult enough for adults. But imagine how hard it must be for a child... Sponsored by Sacred Journey Hospice Foundation, Camp Horizon is a one-day therapeutic grief camp that helps children and teenagers, ages 6-16, learn to cope with the loss of a loved one. Children are paired with experienced counselors and volunteers and spend the day participating in a variety of age-appropriate activities such as arts, crafts, and outdoor games. Breakfast is provided as well as Shane’s BBQ for lunch. Some activities are centered around the grief process – for instance, participants are encouraged to bring in pictures of their loved ones – and some are just for fun. Counselors recognize that different approaches work for different children; some talk openly about their grief, while others prefer not to. Counselors never push the children into something they’re not ready to do. Camp Horizon was formed when Sacred Journey Hospice management and social workers saw a need to help children cope with loss. Many of the hospice employees volunteer to work at the camp, which is in its fifth year. Thirty children attended the first year. This summer organizers are preparing for 75 participants. Parents and caregivers are also invited to attend a workshop at the camp that teaches how to help children deal with loss. And at the end of the day, participants are sent home with a bag of books and materials that support the healing process. This year’s camp will be held August 25th at Community Bible Church in Stockbridge. For more information, please call 888-478-1110 or visit www.sacredjourneyhospice.org

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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Business Profile

Turning time... back the hands of

Sounds too good to be true, but with Dr. Gayla Sylvain and her professional staff you can experience the most advanced anti-aging, skin enhancement, hair restoration and vein removal programs available today. “I feel that medical care should be a partnership between patient and physician. We should utilize all available techniques to help our patients achieve optimal health, and be the patient’s primary resource to identify and achieve their health goals. Often, patients not only want to feel better, but also want to look better. We help them become their ‘best self’ both inside and out, utilizing the most advanced nonsurgical techniques available,” states Dr. Sylvain. Her anti-aging program takes an integrative approach to wellness. The program combines traditional medical treatment with health coaching, nutritional support, vitamin supplementation, biocompatible hormone replacement, medically supervised weight loss and physician assisted smoking cessation. She utilizes specialty tests for vitamin deficiencies, hormone abnormalities, heart and adrenal function. Her goal is to not only treat disease, but also to treat and optimize your body’s response to natural aging with a combination of medical and scientific interventions so you can enjoy: Increased energy, Reduced body fat, Improved sleep, Improved stress tolerance, Improved memory, Reduced risk of disease, Enhanced immune function, Tighter skin & thicker hair, Restored sexual & emotional health. In addition to internal health, her office also offers ways to help your external aging process. Your skin is the largest organ on your body and too often, it reveals the first signs of aging. It loses its vitality and elasticity. But that doesn’t mean you are destined to suffer from sagging, bagging, crinkling and wrinkling. In fact, there is much you can do to stop or even reverse the damage to your skin. Dr. Sylvain’s skin enhancement program combines today’s most effective technologies, nonsurgical treatments and physician-approved medical skin care products. They now offer two new state-of-the-art procedures: Reaction/Refit™ by Viora and Precision Laser Therapy System for hair restoration.. Reaction™ is a new treatment that uses safe radio frequency energy to heat the lower dermal layers and underlying network of collagen and elastin fibers. This restores your skin’s elasticity, delivering a tighter, firmer appearance with no down-time or anesthesia needed. “I have noticed a significant improvement in the appearance of my droopy, hooded eyelids and the crows-feet are less noticeable. Also, the texture of my skin has

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

significantly improved and my pores seem smaller,” states Debbie Swanson. Precision Laser Therapy for hair restoration is a simple, relatively inexpensive light treatment that actually works. With all the so-called “hair growth” products available today, you’d be smart to be skeptical. However, Precision Laser Therapy is FDA-approved for the growth of hair, is non-invasive, pain-free and requires no down time. In one US study, 93% of patients with hair loss experienced a hair count increase. The science is sound, and the results are real. Her office also offers: Botox®-Fillers(Juvederm®,Radiesse®)Hydrafacial™Microdermabrasion-Fotofacial®- Thermage®-Laser Hair Removal- Spider and Varicose Vein Treatments. Thanks to Dr. Sylvain’s phlebology training and advanced vein removal treatments, she offers a full service vein clinic. Your unsightly and unhealthy veins can be a thing of the past. “It was a wonderful feeling when the pain of my varicose veins went away the very day of the procedure! It was quick and I went to work the next day with very little discomfort,” says Wanda R. Smith who had the VNUS™ procedure earlier this year. The underlying cause of varicose veins and heavy, painful legs can be treated in our office with the VNUS™ closure procedure. This procedure is minimally invasive, offers a fast and mild recovery and is covered by most insurance. We have frequent free vein screenings open to everyone in the community. Dr. Sylvain’s treatment programs are totally personalized to each individual. She does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments and no two programs are alike. A patient since 2007 and a licensed nurse, Linda Miller expresses, “While being treated in the Skin Enhancement Center, Dr. Sylvain noticed some symptoms on me that could be due to vitamin deficiencies. Dr. Sylvain did blood work and found that I was seriously lacking in several different vitamins and was experiencing hormonal changes. Through her extensive exam and effective treatment plan, I have never felt better. She changed my life! My husband was so impressed with my results that he went to her and has been thrilled with his results, too. Dr. Sylvain does it all…Not only does she test you and tailor make a regimen for your health, she can help you look good in the process.” With so much of today’s healthcare focused on the treatment of illness, it’s nice to find a medical doctor that mainly focuses on getting and keeping you healthy!

Dr. Gayla Sylvain

Eagleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Landing Longevity, Skin Enhancement and Hair Restoration 1325 Rock Quarry Rd., Suite 200, Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-389-0566 www.eagleslandinglongevity.com www.eagleslandingskinenhancement.com

Not only does she test you and tailor make a regimen for your health, she can help you look good in the process. Before

After July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

Business Profile

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Brings Henry County Residents Access to Nationally Recognized Pediatric Care

hildren’s Healthcare of Atlanta strives to make children better today and healthier tomorrow. Whether it’s treating a toddler with a heart defect or helping a teen manage asthma, we take our commitment to care for Georgia’s children seriously.

visit to one of our Urgent Care Centers is often quicker and less expensive than an Emergency Department visit, and we accept most insurance plans. We are committed to getting your child home and better faster. We are experts in treating:

With three hospitals and 17 neighborhood locations throughout metro Atlanta, including Marcus Autism Center, Children’s serves all 159 counties in Georgia and cares for more than half a million patients each year. For the past seven years, U.S.News & World Report has ranked Children’s as one of the top pediatric hospitals in the nation. And now, Children’s is bringing access to specialized pediatric care to Henry County families with the opening of a new Urgent Care Center in August 2012. The new facility, located in the Hudson Bridge Crossing shopping center, will provide easy access to care for families from Henry, Clayton, Spalding, Butts, Fayette and surrounding counties. How is Children’s Different? Children are not small adults; their anatomy and physiology, the kinds of illnesses they suffer from and the treatments they need are different. The Children’s pediatric-focused facilities house an environment where patients can receive high quality clinical care in child-friendly surroundings. At Children’s, patients receive model care from doctors, nurses, physician assistants and technicians who care for children every day and are trained to use specialized pediatric medical procedures and equipment. Children’s Urgent Care Centers The new Children’s at Hudson Bridge Urgent Care Center will offer the same care to treat those minor illnesses and injuries when you cannot get to your pediatrician. Unlike retail clinics, Children’s staff members are specially trained to treat children and teens. Our uniquely equipped Urgent Care Centers have a pediatrician on staff, fast track programs to shorten wait and treatment times for children with less serious illnesses or injuries, onsite lab and X-ray services for quick diagnosis, and access to the Children’s network of 1,600 doctors trained in more than 30 pediatric specialties. A

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

• Allergic reactions • Bites and stings • Cold and flu • Coughing and wheezing • Cuts requiring basic stitches • Earaches and ear infections • Fevers (for children older than 2 months) • Minor burns • Minor head injuries • Simple fractures, sprains or strains • Sore throat • Stomachaches, vomiting and diarrhea We are conveniently available: Regular hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Holiday hours (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day) 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Children’s at Hudson Bridge 1510 Hudson Bridge Road Stockbridge, GA 30281 404-785-8660 www.choa.org/urgentcare

July/August 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.hmagazine.biz

John H. Dorminy

Daniel L. Cash 220 Jonesboro Rd. McDonough

130 Eagle Spring Ct, St. B Stockbridge

Gerry Simon

David R. Dodd Jr.

David Shofman

(770) 957-0250

(770) 898-1735

(770) 389-8912

(770) 898-1735

(770) 506-1994

Lin Watts

Jeremy Lange

(678) 583-1325

(770) 707-2390

190 Turner St. McDonough

Vanessa Conwell 4998 Bill Gardner Pkwy. Locust Grove

(678) 583-5079

305 Old Towne Way McDonough

Paul Rippa

5487 North Henry Blvd Stockbridge

(770) 954-1018 59

July/August 2012 • 2012 january/february www.hmagazine.biz • www.hmagazine.biz

102 A Woolsey Rd. Hampton

220 Jonesboro Rd. McDonough

5487 N. Henry Blvd. Stockbridge

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georgia politics

America is the greatest nation on the planet and one of the singular most valuable rights that we possess is the right to vote and have it count.

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by Louie Hunter

Why We Must Vote! I

t’s June and the weather is getting hotter and the humidity is rising. It seems that we are headed for a long hot summer. Our thoughts turn to vacation and getting those things done around the house that seem easier with that little bit of extra day light in the evening. Having said that why on earth should we be concerned with the upcoming elections? The economy is sluggish at best and the prospect of it changing anytime soon seems remote. Why should one think that your vote counts? Because it does! When the July elections roll around you the voter will have the chance to make a statement about how you want the state to proceed with its planning and implementation for the roads in this state for the next ten years. The Transportation SPLOST initiative will be on the ballot. This is your opportunity to vote to add a penny sales tax to your purchases that will be used specifically for road improvements in regions across the state. I won’t tell you how or why you should vote on the tax increase but I will try to briefly give you both sides of the argument and then it’s your constitutional duty and right to go and cast your ballot. First off I think that we can all agree that raising taxes of any kind is not the way most of us would like to see the road problems fixed. The economy is bad and lots of folks are struggling to pay the “still too high” gas prices and that has caused some households to have very little if any discretionary income left over for essentials, not to mention a short vacation or an emergency that might come up. To ask a taxpayer to raise his own taxes would seem to be ludicrous under these conditions.

Why when most of us are just barely making it should we choose to pay more? If you feel this way then you must vote “no” on the T-SPLOST when you head to the polls. There is another side to this equation that needs to be thought through, to be sure that we are thinking long term as well as about the lightness of our wallets. If Henry County and Georgia are to attract the kinds of companies that bring good jobs to this area, one must ask “are the roads handling the traffic now in a way that would convince a corporation to locate here”? When you drive around the county and or to Atlanta do you find yourself sitting in traffic more and more and saying words that would make a sailor blush because of it? If you do then you should vote “yes” for the T-SPLOST because it will generate several billion dollars for the state in new revenue that will ONLY be used for roads. The real issue is, are you going to vote? Usually in the summer elections the voter turnout is very small and this means that a few votes will make the difference. Your vote matters more now than ever! America is the greatest nation on the planet and one of the singular most valuable rights that we possess is the right to vote and have it count. Countries all over the world are waking up to the fact that voting means freedom. They wage wars for that right and we have fought wars to keep it. If you hate taxes and don’t want to pay one more penny for anything, go and vote “NO” and be proud. If you hate traffic and think that the T-SPLOST will help, then go and vote “YES” and be proud. Just be sure and vote. It’s your duty and your right.

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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

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

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Charity Golf

Tournament

THANK YOU Ladies & Gentlem e n … Sponsors Andy McRee’s Plumbing Associated Fuel Children Healthcare of Atlanta Cronic Nissan Edward Jones Henry County Family Medical Center GA Power Henry Council For Quality Growth H Magazine Piedmont Henry Hospital Heritage Bank Home Right Solutions Kiwanis of Henry County Leggett & Platt Nail Heating & Air Peachtree Vascular Specialists ServPro State Farm Super 8 Smith, Welch, Webb & White The Wood Shop Lion’s Den Portable Toilets

In-Kind Sponsors P&D Fresh Air BBQ Bridgestone Chick-fil-A - Jonesboro Dender and Gusto A T-Shirt Company Also, thank you to all of our volunteers who were so generous with their time!

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feature

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of Americans agree they would benefit from having basic financial education and information.1 1

The 2011 Consumer Financial Literacy Survey, The National Foundation for Credit Counseling

Capitol Street by Salita Gray

enise Sowell has been a Certified Financial Planner since 1999 and is a Registered Investment Advisor Representative through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. She advises her clients at Capitol Street Financial Services Group, LLC on financial matters including retirement planning, estate planning, investment planning, employee benefits and risk management. Her goal for clients is to empower individuals, families and businesses to reach financial security effectively. Denise transitioned her McDonough office to Capitol Street Financial Services Group, LLC two years ago and serves over 400 clients. The Macon location of Capitol Street Financial Services opened over eight years ago. A client’s first consultation with Denise involves a fact finding meeting. She explores a client’s thoughts on risk, cash flow needs (budget), their Last Will and Testament, Power of Attorney, children and health. Denise explains that “everyone is different” when it comes to financial planning. Although some financial businesses might use only their own financial products, Capitol Street Financial Services Group has the ability to use different investment vehicles, money managers and insurance products. According to Denise, long gone are the days when investors had to wait until the next business day to reach their investment advisor to discuss their finances. Capitol Street Financial Services Group ensures their clients the advantage of organizing their finances online through the website www.emoneyadvisor.com.

Financial Services

eMoney Advisor is an upscale financial aggregation website offered by Capitol Street Financial Services Group which updates investment balances nightly and allows a client to consolidate financial accounts. Clients are then assigned their own website with 24-hour online access. She explains that eMoney Advisor clients also have access to a vault which allows them to scan legal documents like birth certificates, driver’s licenses and passports. These documents are then available 24/7 at the client’s fingertips. There are tools available on eMoney Advisor which assists in planning for retirement income, including calculators that account for an increase for cost of living. Clients can also see how they are progressing in building their nest egg for retirement. Using Morningstar, Denise also reviews clients’ accounts to show their current allocations and its diversification of U.S stocks, non-U.S. stocks, bonds and cash. Denise has learned over the years that men and women manage finances differently. Women many times are in need of financial services more often than men. Women are more likely to live longer than their husbands, so there is a longer timeline to consider for income planning. “And, women are very generous, so they have a tendency to give financially to their children at a time when the priority should be their own financial security.” Reacting to the daily gyrations of the equity markets, people become torn between facts and emotion. “Investors will more often purchase equities high and sell them low based solely on

emotion.” She continues, “What an investor needs to know is that fear and greed are the two basic emotions that have driven the markets. Since there is so much information being disseminated by the media outlets, people need to be more educated. And, that is where we believe we bring value to the table. Managing the emotions of our clients is very important when helping clients manage their money.” What sets Capitol Street Financial Services Group, LLC, apart from other financial planners is the fact that owner Denise Sowell truly cares about the success of her clients. “We are going to be here for the long term and remain a constant.” said Denise. She is focused on organizing financial plans for clients. Looking to the future, Capitol Street Financial Services Group, LLC continues to establish permanent relationships with clients and their children. Denise Sowell is also actively involved in the Henry County community. Her outreach includes serving as a board member of the Haven House and the Board and Finance Committee for the Chamber of Commerce; she’s a member of the Henry County Rotary Club and founded the Southern Crescent Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association. Denise and her husband Gary reside in McDonough.

Denise G. Sowell, CFP®, CLU, ChFC 21 Sims Street McDonough, GA 30253 (770) 898-0848 Denise.Sowell@cap1tolstreetfinancial.com

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feature

VITAS brings unique care to veterans near the end of life

By Paula Sanders General Manager VITAS Innovative Hospice Care® of Atlanta Metro

“T

om” had such a desire to serve his country during World War II that he hid the existence of a medical condition that would have precluded his service. He enlisted, but a month later the condition made it necessary for him to receive a medical discharge. Because he had served for “only” a month, he was conflicted about his role as a veteran – proud of his service but never feeling fully the part. As he neared the end of life, Tom became a patient of VITAS Innovative Hospice Care of Atlanta Metro. As part of our admission process we do a veteran’s assessment for every patient who served so that we are fully aware of the patient’s military experience. After admission, every VITAS veteran patient here in Georgia receives a customized certificate recognizing his or her service and presented by VITAS Veteran Liaison Larry Robert, M.Div. For Tom, this simple certificate was filled with meaning. “He cried when I gave him the certificate,” recalls Larry. “He had wanted to serve his country so much and he never quite got over being unable to serve for more than a month. Now he was recognized. It meant the world to him.” More than 30 years of experience has taught VITAS that, whether it was 10 years ago or 60, whether they were career military or served briefly, military service can be very meaningful to veterans with a limited time to live.

VITAS strives daily to honor veterans’ preferences for care at the end of life and to provide them with respect, comfort and compassion. VITAS provides staff and volunteers with specialized training on the unique needs of veterans and how their military experience may affect their end-oflife journey. We work with the Veterans Administration (VA), Medicare, Medicaid and local organizations to help veterans near the end of life access benefits and resources. VITAS Veterans Liaison Larry Robert, who himself served for 13 years as a Navy chaplain, 71

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uses that first veteran’s assessment to determine the level of support the patient needs.

just listening, veteran volunteers support their brothers and sisters in arms.

“Many veterans are eligible for benefits from the VA, but they are unaware of it,” says Larry, who also is an accredited claims agent with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “I can file claims for them directly.”

With all the support and care VITAS provides to veterans, we’ve learned that the most important thing for many veterans is recognition.

VITAS supports other organizations that honor and support vets, including Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive, the Tuskegee Airmen and Honor Flight. Larry also works with state and local veterans groups and organizations to advocate for veterans at the end of life. VITAS also participates in the Veterans History Project, which seeks to record and document stories of veterans which are then sent to the Library of Congress to be kept as living legacy. And VITAS recruits veterans as volunteers. Whether driving patients to the doctor, helping to replace lost military medals, planning memorial services for veterans or

“They just want someone to recognize their service and sacrifice,” says Larry. “It may not seem like much, but people need to make peace with their military experience. “We find that as they near the end of life, our veterans can be almost fixated on their military history – no matter how much time they spent in,” he adds. “That’s how impactful going into combat, serving our country is for our vets. At the end of life they want to know that they are appreciated and not forgotten.”

For more information on VITAS veterans programs, call Larry Robert at 404.250.1806 or visit www.vitas.com.

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operation overseas

I got to see a lot of things not reported in the news; things that should be. Like the fact that our guys are spending 16-20 hours a day working to train Afghan soldiers how to fly; how to fight; how to control their country; how to find water; how to use electricity so that they can liberate their country.

Jammin’ in the Sand... article by: beverly van gorder

enry County musician Barry Michael was featured here in Operation Overseas in the Jan Feb 2011 issue after the release of his inspiring military tribute “Heroes and Angels.” Since that time, he has enjoyed dynamic growth of his musical career. One of his most notable recent achievements has been moving from the 189th spot on the Music Row country music chart in December 2011 to the 66th spot in late May 2012. Barry Michael is carving his own way amidst the big names in the country music industry, yet maintains an admirable humility as he continues to support our troops with his talent. Recently, Barry was able to fulfill a longtime desire to perform for the troops on deployment. After having submitted his name for consideration, Armed Forces Entertainment in Washington, DC at the Pentagon (the organization responsible for planning and implementing show schedules for troops around the globe) extended Barry an invitation to take a ten day trip to the Middle East to

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

perform for troops in Kuwait and Afghanistan. Barry could not have been more excited. On April 10, 2012 Barry left the states with guitar player Jamey Davis in tow. Together they flew from Washington, DC to Kuwait and met up with Chuck Yeager (WWII hero and aviation icon) and his wife Victoria. Barry and General Yeager spent the next ten days traveling throughout Kuwait and Afghanistan performing a total of twelve shows for U.S. troops at the various bases. Barry comments on his remembrance of their first show in Kuwait, “Gen. Yeager began the show with a 45 minute talk and video presentation; I was to finish the show with a 45 minute music concert. When Yeager completed his speech, he went to another area to set up for photographs and autographs. Almost everyone followed him, leaving me with about ten servicemen in the audience. I did my concert, but en route to our next event, I convinced his wife, Victoria to let me open the shows for the remainder of the tour. I told her General Yeager is not to be followed!” When asked what stood out most to him

about his time in a war zone, Barry says, “I got to see a lot of things not reported in the news; things that should be. Like the fact that our guys are spending 16-20 hours a day working to train Afghan soldiers how to fly; how to fight; how to control their country; how to find water; how to use electricity so that they can liberate their country. And that they are being successful; making an incredible difference in these peoples’ lives.” Another realization Barry had while touring was, “I have no idea how anyone lives over there---there are regular sand storms, no trees, no grass, just desert as far as the eye can see. You get up and think it is a hazy morning and in actuality it is just the sand hanging in the air. I have so much more respect for our troops who spend countless months in those conditions. The beds are not great for the long-term and the bathing facilities are less than pleasant. It makes me all the more grateful for the home I have here in the United States.” The tour was well-received by all of the troops. In fact, Armed Services Entertainment

received so many positive e-mails regarding Barry’s shows that they have asked him to go on tour again. By the time this hits newsstands, Barry will be on his way to Hawaii to follow with stops in Baltimore, MD; Greenland; Curacao; Ecuador; and Panama. He is looking forward to these additional opportunities to perform for the troops. His entire show has been written and developed with the sole purpose of encouraging and honoring our servicemen and women. Though the sands of Afghanistan may have presented a few challenges, Barry is undaunted in his desire to continue jamming with the troops to provide a break in the rigors of their life while on duty. “Bon Voyage” Barry, as you set off again!

Author’s Note: Visit www.barrymichaelmusic. com to learn more about Barry and his music; you can also find him on Facebook and Twitter. Music downloads are available on I-Tunes.

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Business Profile

10 Commandments for a

Beautiful Smile M by Diane Smith

ost people looking for a special purchase – a gown for an upcoming memorable event, a crystal vase, or even top of the line tires – don’t go to the local mega-giant chain retail store and pick up something off the clearance rack. Those looking for quality car repairs or home improvements don’t just randomly pick a name from a phone book – they find an expert best suited to meet their needs.

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

Dentistry is not a commodity

Shouldn’t the same be true about choosing our dentist? We get one set of adult teeth to last us for a lifetime. So when it comes to taking care of our teeth, shouldn’t we look for an expert in creating beautiful smiles?

Well, that search can end right here in Henry County. Dr. Linda King in Locust Grove is that Beautiful Smile Expert! In a state that requires dentists to have 40 hours continuing education per year, this passionate dentist accumulates an estimated 300 hours. Dr. King belongs to study groups and works hand in hand with specialists to make sure she meets her patients’ goals. “Dentistry is not a commodity,” she emphasizes. “In my practice, we are in the business to transform fear and embarrassment to confidence and joy.” In addition to her dental expertise, she and her capable staff also specialize in making patients feel at ease. “We entertain them,” Dr. King says with a laugh. “I call my assistants Thing 1 (Lindsey York) and Thing 2 (Denise Collum)! We keep our patients laughing.” Add to that a warm blanket, headphones, and calm reassurance – and that scary dental procedure suddenly doesn’t seem so bad. “All laughing aside, dentistry is serious business, and we want nothing but the best for our patients.” Dr. King’s best advice is to call and set up a consultation with the Beautiful Smiles Expert. This expert helps those in need of transformation to see the vision of a beautiful smile and the steps to receive it. Just ask Maria Ray, who has worked at Dr. King’s office for two years. Maria recently had a restorative procedure completed at the office.

“There was no pain – I didn’t even feel the shot she gave me to numb my mouth,” she recalls. “She never makes you feel ashamed about your teeth or how you’ve taken care of them. Denise assisted her, and the two of them make you laugh – even with your mouth wide open!” She concluded by saying she wasn’t sore at all following the procedure. Other team members – hygienist Melissa Jackson, who has also been with the practice two years; hygienist Jennifer Kelly; and Jessica Howard, on maternity leave at the time of this writing – round out the team at Dr. Linda King’s office. The rapport between team members adds to the family atmosphere at the practice that looks and feels like the house next door. So - whether you need emergency dental assistance; routine dental cleaning and care; or have always wanted to enhance your smile to build self esteem and boost your confidence – it’s time to call the Beautiful Smiles Expert!

As an expert, Dr. King wanted to share with the readers of H Magazine her “Ten Commandments” for keeping their smiles beautiful. Many are just good common sense, but all are vital to good dental health:

Don’t use your teeth as tools. They are not made to pry things open or to crack nuts! Also avoid biting hard objects like bones and ice.

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Brush your teeth gently yet thoroughly whether you have eaten or not; use a fluoridated toothpaste with low abrasiveness. Floss daily – ask your dental hygienist to show you the correct procedure. Pay attention to your nutrition – it affects your teeth. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables; drink pure, fresh water. Avoid candies, mints and cough drops melting in your mouth. Avoid sipping on acidic, sugary or staining liquids. Don’t use tobacco products

To make an appointment or for more information, visit www.lindakingdds.com or call 770-898-8872. Use your smart phone to access our website here:

Don’t rely on insurance companies to take care of all your needs. Work with a dentist who can provide payment options to fit your budget.

9 10

Avoid contact sports without protective mouthpieces. Take your teeth to an Expert who cares about your long term dental health! Choose a qualified, licensed, honest dentist to take care of small problems before they get big; have teeth professionally cleaned at least twice per year; have a complete series of X-rays performed on a regular basis.

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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JEANS & A T-SHIRT Danielle Eidson Marketing Manager and Patient

alk through the doors at Family Medical and everything seems normal. You’re greeted by friendly smiling faces and asked to fill out the usual packet of questions. You wait patiently in the waiting room listening for your name to be called. The next round of smiling faces comes to escort you back to an exam room and you prepare to spend the next hour staring at the 2007 issue of Better Home and Gardens. This is about the time you may notice something is different about this medical office. The traditional boring medical posters about drugs and the typical stale pictures have been replaced with photos of patients, themed rooms, and all sorts of non medical nic knacks. Before you can read how to plant a summer garden, in walks a man who is known by patients as Mr. Allan. He’s wearing jeans and a t-shirt. He reminds you of the guy next door. Your son’s baseball coach. Your old friend from college. He’s proudly sporting his prized Georgia Tech jersey. You quietly ask yourself if this is the provider or has a patient wandered into your room. Allan Imes was raised in a patriotic home in Spalding County where the love of God, Family and Country were priority. His father, LTC Allan Imes, is a 20 plus year veteran of the United States Army where he served in the special forces and attained the highest honors as an Air Borne Ranger and Green Beret.

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Allan Imes, PA-C, Family Medical

He instilled in Allan Jr. at an early age the importance of public service. Allan’s mother was a stay at home mom who passed on her compassion for people. Allan attended Griﬃn High School and felt the love of public service at an early age. He served on active duty in the Army and Army National Guard as a scout for the infantry. Allan still considers these ten years some of the best and proudest of his life. In 1985, Allan met and fell in love with the girl of his dreams on their senior trip to Florida. Lorrie Imes has been by his side and

the most important person in his life ever since the day they met at 17 years of age. Returning home from active duty, Allan wanted to continue his path in public service and began his ﬁrst steps into the medical ﬁeld attending school to become a registered nurse. That's where Allan found his second love, medicine. After many years as a registered nurse, specializing in Emergency Medicine, Allan wanted to further his career. He then entered the Physician Assistant program at Medical College of Georgia where he graduated Suma

Cum Laude. As a physician assistant, Allan has devoted his training and experience to the areas of emergency medicine, cardiology, orthopedics, and urgent care with a true love of family practice. With Allan’s and Lorrie’s careers firmly set, albeit late in life by some standards, they decided it was time to start a family. Lorrie became pregnant at the age of 39 and both Allan and Lorrie were overwhelmed with joy. The excitement of a new little one was short lived as Lorrie and Allan were faced with the unfortunate devastation of a miscarriage. After realizing that they would not conceive again, they considered fertility but quickly decided that adoption would be where both of them felt the most passion. After researching the different options between domestic and international adoption, Lorrie and Allan kept finding themselves looking at the beautiful little faces from Guatemala. Lorrie and Allan wanted to give a loving home to one of those little faces and that's where their Guat Tot came into the picture. Lorrie moved to Guatemala to be with their new Guatemalan princess while Allan stayed back in the States to support the family. After a very tough year, they were able to bring little Miss Ava Grace Imes home. The Imes’ Family just began a new chapter of their life with the finding of a new church home at Momentum Christian Church in McDonough. The Lead Pastor, Bart Stone, and Allan have developed a kinship and have decided to partner together and take their gift of helping people to Haiti. Allan and Bart are planning a mission trip in September to bring medical and spiritual aid to the people still suffering in Haiti. Family Medical patients will tell you that Allan Imes is a different kind of provider. And it’s on purpose. When

why you have that prescription in Allan Imes decided to start Family Medical, he wanted to do something your hand and what you need to do next. Primary care of your family unique. After working over 15 years should be a proactive process and in the healthcare field, Allan saw you should feel comfortable and several needs that were not being met. Allan wanted to build a practice informed about your family’s health. Family Medical believes that from the perspective of the patient. His primary goal was to create an healthcare costs should be kept as environment where patients were low as possible and still provide comfortable. That’s where the slogan quality care. There is a conscience effort here at Family Medical to keep “come join the family” began. He wants you to feel like you’re a part of prices to the private pay patients as well as insurance companies as low the family. (There’s no stuffiness as possible and still remain here, hence the jeans and t-shirt.) profitable. The focus is the patient, Allan also wanted to take the their needs, and their wellbeing. headache out of health When Family Clinic does something, management. He wanted to create whether it be a test, a procedure, an one place where all aspects of your office visit, a consult, or simply family’s health could be managed. And all under one roof. Everything writing a prescription, it’s done with from stitches and dehydration to one simple thing in mind … Is it the hypertension and diabetes right thing to do for the patient? Come join the Family! There are management. Family Medical has convenient locations to serve you combined primary healthcare with the care of minor emergencies. There with more coming! Be sure to look is ON-SITE x-rays, labs, and pharmacy. out for “Mr. Allan” You can almost always find him here wandering the Family Medical knows you’re busy halls, even on his day off. and life doesn’t just happen from 9 to 5. That’s why you can walk in anytime from 8 to 8 during the week, 9-7 on Saturdays and 10-6 on Sundays. Family Medical is here for your family. Family Medical also believes in taking a holistic approach to healthcare. The providers believe in overall health and look at every patient individually. You will never feel like just a number at Family Medical. The providers holistic approach encompasses the multiple dimensions of a person including the spiritual, cultural, MCDONOUGH LOCATION psychological, social, and biological 1631 Hwy. 20 W • McDonough, GA 30253 components that make up a person. Phone 770.288.2822 • Fax 770.692.8177 When you visit Family Medical, your Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm provider will take the time to sit Sat. 9am-7pm • Sun. 10am-6pm down and listen. Every patient has a voice and plays a vital role in their LOCUST GROVE LOCATION 3334 Hwy. 155 • Locust Grove, GA 30248 own healthcare. Family Medical takes Phone 678.583.0241 • Fax 678.538.0261 the time to educate each patient. You Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-8pm will leave Family Medical knowing Sat. & Sun. Closed

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

chaplain’s corner

ne extremely active division of the Henry County Police Department is the COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) Unit, led by Sgt. Jason Duffey. Within this division falls the School Crossing Guard. Brother Ralph Easterwood believes, “The Crossing Guards are the unsung heroes of law enforcement. I do not think people realize the intensity of their job. It is stressful, but without these dedicated individuals, we would have utter chaos.” Twenty-seven civilians make up the guard covering the 42 schools in the Henry County and City of Stockbridge school systems. Applicants must undergo a criminal background check to prove they have no felonies, no crimes against children, no license suspensions, and any misdemeanors must be greater than 10 years old. Character and work references are required as is a drug screening. These individuals receive three weeks of training: two weeks of one-on-one instruction and one week of on-site instruction with an experienced guard or police officer. They learn: hand signals; how to stop traffic; where to stand; the importance of eye contact with drivers, among other nuances of the job. They

July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

are each issued: whistles; LED stop signs; and reflector vests. Sgt. Jason Duffey says, “Our command staff is very supportive of the crossing guards. We need them. It frees our officers to do all of the other things which require so much of our time. The guards perform a tremendous service for our citizens. They are vitally important; so very necessary for maintaining order on the roadways outside our schools.” Head Crossing Guard Frank Murphy is the pinch hitter in the game. “If someone is sick, I get the phone call. I adapt the guards’ schedules to the changes so that all schools are covered,” he shares. Murphy directed Stockbridge Elementary traffic before relocating to Unity Grove due to that school’s regular guard Glen Sneed being hit by a car in March of this year. “It was right after the time change so it was still very dark when traffic first began entering the school zone. The car just didn’t see him and knocked him down breaking several of his ribs. But he recovered and will be back for 2012-2013,” Murphy explains. “I want parents and other drivers to realize the dangers inherent to the school zone. Please be careful and take your time. We are not an enemy; we want to get you in and out as

quickly and safely as possible.” Loretta Swofford, guard for Cotton Indian Elementary, knows first-hand the danger of working in a school zone. Back in 2006 she was directing traffic in front of Stockbridge High School in the misting rain. A parent hit her, knocking her stop sign in one direction while rolling her into a ditch in the opposite direction. She suffered a broken hip and a concussion. It took seven staples to close the wound on her head. Nonetheless, she was back in force for the 2007-2008 school year. When asked what made her want to return after such a traumatic experience, she emphatically announces, “I love what I do and besides,” she adds coyly while casting a glance in Sgt. Duffey’s direction, “we have the best boss in Henry County!” Every year, the Police Department gives out awards to guards who have excelled at their task. For 2011-2012, Susan Hamlin, guard for Flippen Elementary and Eagle’s Landing Middle Schools, was named “School Crossing Guard of the Year.” Areas observed when considering a guard for this award are: traffic direction skill; stress management on the job; compliments received from drivers; and lack of absenteeism. Hamlin’s work ethic was established well before receiving this award. She delivered a baby two

years in a row, working up through Friday each time before undergoing a scheduled C-section the following Monday morning. When asked what she likes best about her job, Hamlin says, “I appreciate the flexibility and hours---with young children, this fits my schedule and we are paid really well.” As for what she would like our readers to know, “It is so important for the drivers to communicate their intentions. Use your headlights, get your turn signal on early---and keep the light bulbs in working order. Most importantly, get off your phone; that is one of our biggest hazards!” “Rookie of the Year” is another award given. This year’s recipient is Michael Levins, guard for Mount Carmel Elementary. He shares, “I love it. It is too much fun. I was with the airlines for 34 years directing airplanes. Now that I am retired, I just direct different traffic.” His message to the public, “If you see flashing yellow lights and a ‘school’ sign, please slow down. If you are running late for work---still, slow down!” Levins was trained by Frank Murphy. “I told Levins that things would change on a daily basis and he would learn how to adapt. But honestly, things can change on an hourly basis due to traffic and weather conditions.” Sgt.

Duffey adds in regard to Levins, “Mike does a great job. He didn’t start work until March and he caught on real quick.” The Locust Grove Middle School guard, Lucretia (Lucy) Lambert was this year’s recipient of the “Most Outstanding Achievement Award.” She encountered a disgruntled parent one morning who became rather confrontational. Lambert was holding traffic so that 30 buses could exit the school parking lot. She was blowing her whistle but one car kept coming, refusing to stop. A bus driver finally pulled her bus between the guard and the upset parent. Lambert relates, “The parent made a u-turn and stopped to yell at me and call me every name in the book. 911 was called and although the driver originally left the scene, she returned to let me have it some more. The driver was charged with three violations.” Duffey states, “Lucy handled the situation very professionally and simply did not react. We teach the guards not to get into a confrontation, but this particular incident could have really gotten out of hand. She is very deserving of this award.” Sam Cox, one of the officers working with Sgt. Duffey in the COPS unit, says, “Some of the most stressful work you can

do in law enforcement is to direct traffic.” With a grin he adds, “I am so grateful for the crossing guards because that means I don’t have to be out there.” Brother Ralph Easterwood is host at Glen Haven Baptist Church each year for the annual awards banquet. He conveys, “Without these brave guards, I would not be able to get to my office at the church. With three schools on East Lake Road, I appreciate them all the more every time I try to get through the traffic.” He emphasizes, “The chaplains are on call for the guards just as we are for the police. We are available when someone is hurt or sick or if it is just a counseling need.” As each of us continue to enter the school zone from the safety of our driver’s seat, we need to remember our crossing guards will continue to stand in the line of fire on our behalf and that of our children. Let’s show them our gratitude by showing our respect!

Author’s Note: Police Dept. is now accepting applications for the Citizen’s Police Academy Sept. 11- Nov. 20, 2012 Tuesdays 6-8 PM. Free for Henry County Residents. Visit www.co.henry.ga.us for app. Enrollment limited to 30. July/August 2012 • www.hmagazine.biz

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