In The 931 | OCTOBER 2024 | Local Fall Scene + Halloween Tips/Tricks + Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Check out our latest fall collection, featuring a wide array of new designs for every member of the family. From cozy sweaters to stylish jackets, we have something for everyone.
Don't forget to explore our selection of embroidered accessories, adding a personal touch to your ensemble.
PUBLISHER + OWNER
BRANDY HAM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ROBYN WOODSIDE
COPY EDITORS
TOLLIE ADKINS
IZABEL HERSHEY
PHOTOGRAPHERS
GRACIE FIELDER
LAURA LANE
CHLOE SEXTON
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
JON BRITTON
ROBYN WOODSIDE
GRAPHIC DESIGN
BRANDY HAM
SALES
ROBYN WOODSIDE
BRANDY HAM
In October, we welcome the start of fall activities such as visiting pumpkin patches, shopping for Halloween costumes, and gearing up for the upcoming holiday season. This issue highlights local places to visit with your loved ones to celebrate the beginning of fall. Additionally, we want to raise awareness about Breast Cancer, Domestic Violence, and Pregnancy and Infant Loss by
Editorials
ALL THE FALL FUN
LOCAL FALL SCENE | PG. 9 + 10
HAPPY HALLOWEEN | PG. 11
HALLOWEEN PARTY RECIPES | PG. 12 + 14
SAFE TRICK OR TREATING | PG. 13
NATIONAL AWARENESS MONTH
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH | PG. 35 + 36
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH | PG. 31
FREE RESOURCES FROM CMCSS
CMCSS LEARNING CENTERS | PG. 19
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
OCTOBER IS ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH | PG. 29
MAKE A DOG'S DAY | PG. 30
REMEMBRANCE DAY
PREGNANCY + INFANT LOSS | PG. 23 + 24
SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
MIMI'S GARDENS | PG. 7 + 8
COMMUNITY LEADERS
EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH • J.P. SKEVINGTON | PG. 20
SUPER MOM • KIMBER GAITHER | PG. 17
LOCAL EVENTS
BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL | PG. 21 + 22
MISS LUCILLE'S SIPS + STROLLS | PG. 15 + 16
GOVS CREATIVE ARTS FESTIVAL | PG. 27 + 28
PG. 21
PG. 27
PG. 15
C L A R K S V I L L E P A R K G U I D E
Story by: Brandy Ham
Clarksville is a hidden gem with charming parks and natural beauty. As a proud native of Clarksville and a devoted mother, I am passionate about showcasing the many local parks that often go unnoticed. Whether it's visitors exploring our city or fellow locals seeking new adventures, I love sharing these tranquil oases.
With a lively toddler, I am always on the lookout for parks that offer diverse experiences, from vibrant playgrounds to serene walking trails. As the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, it's the perfect time to embrace the outdoors and take leisurely strolls amidst the breathtaking foliage.
That's why, for this month, we have chosen to shine a spotlight on Weakley Park. This picturesque park not only offers an open space for little ones to play but also boasts a captivating walking trail, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both play and relaxation in the embrace of nature.
W E A K L E Y P A R K
Weakley Park is a 57-acre passive park located in the Sango community in Clarksville, Tennessee. Nestled at 4674 Sango Road, it's a serene and picturesque location that offers a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts a wellmaintained 2.26-mile paved walking trail, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls or invigorating jogs. This makes it a great place for teaching young children how to ride a bike, rollerblade, and engage in various outdoor activities. The park's peaceful walking paths are perfect for those seeking minimal crowds and plenty of shade.
F O R M
F O R M O R E I N F O S C A N T H E Q R C O D E
While there are no permanent bathroom facilities, visitors can utilize the available portable toilets, and dog owners will find poop bags accessible for their convenience. Weakley Park is especially popular for its easy walking paths, pleasant scenery, and tranquil environment, making it a great place for dog walking, jogging, and enjoying activities such as throwing frisbees on the former fairways and greens.
N F O S C A
T H E Q W F O R M O R E I N F O S C A N
Visitors can also take advantage of the park's well-distributed benches, providing ample opportunities to relax and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. With its well-maintained grounds and thoughtful amenities, Weakley Park stands out as a welcoming and enjoyable destination for outdoor recreation in Clarksville, Tennessee. R F O R M O R E I N F O S C T H E Q R C O D E
T H E Q R C O D E
Small Business Spotlight Small Business Spotlight Mimi’ s Gardens Mimi’ s Gardens
As October begins, the leaves change, and the weather cools down, everyone starts to think about all things F.A.L.L. Mimi’s Gardens is your one-stop-shop for beautiful plants and flowers. During the fall season, the business is covered in pumpkins, mums, and beautiful fall greenery.
Melissa James has been surrounded by flowers her whole life. Her mother, Amanda McCord, was a huge flower lover, as well as her Aunt Juanita McKinney and cousin Mary Catherine Robey, who owned a flower shop called Magnolia Flower Shop.
Melissa worked at the shop previously. Her love for all things flowers and plants blossomed throughout her life, leading to the creation of Mimi’s Gardens. Melissa finally opened her own place six years ago, with the wonderful support of her husband, Matt, to help run the business and nurture her love for plants.
The nursery is open year-round and offers a wide variety of plants, flowers, pumpkins, straw, and corn stalks. In recent years, they have added a new greenhouse where they grow their own flowers for purchase. If your kids join you on your visit, they will find several inflatable decorations for their enjoyment, as well as a witch family and painted pumpkins. Their inventory expands and grows each year.
The goal for Mimi’s Gardens is simple: "For the whole family to be able to shop for flowers and plants together. There is truly something for everyone at Mimi’s Gardens."
Shop Small. Shop Local.
Fall Scene Fall Scene L o c a l L o c a l
Story by: Jon Britton
The fall season is a great excuse to go outside and enjoy the colors and scenery of the South without sweating through every piece of clothing you have on.
Here, locally, we have a lot for you and your family to do outside to help welcome fall in.
Pumpkin Patches: There is nothing quite as iconic in fall as the pumpkin patch. Gathering up various-sized and colored pumpkins with the kids or just your significant other is a great stress reliever and can help bring those fall weather vibes to your home.
Located not far from the Sango Walmart, this pumpkin patch not only has pumpkins, but a corn maze, as well, to get lost in! They are open starting October 2nd on Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 am to 6 pm, with the corn maze closing at 5 pm
Honeysuckle Hill Farms, 1765 Martins Chapel Church Road | Springfield, TN 37172
This local farm offers more outdoor opportunities for the family, including hay rides, tractor rides, a petting zoo, treats, and, of course, a pumpkin patch. They have over 40 attractions, as well as multiple shows that everyone in the family can enjoy, and many different food options. This farm is located a few miles outside of Clarksville, in Springfield. Their season begins on September 21st and ends on Halloween.
Tours: Halloween brings the season of ghosts and haunted stories and tours. Find a tour that would bring your interest or scare you.
Port Royal by Lantern, 3300 Old Clarksville Highway | Adams, TN 37010
For those more interested in the old spooky history of the area, Port Royal offers an interactive tour of the park grounds by lantern and stories from the past that helped make the area what it is today. Check their Facebook page for more info.
This 40-acre property includes 16 historic buildings dating from 1840 to 1880. Within a self-guided tour, visitors can experience a building with authentic furnishings for the time period. You can also see a tobacco-drying house, smokehouse, church, wildlife center, and schoolhouse.
Halloween Stores: While places like Wal-Mart and Spirit offer Halloween costumes and decorations, shopping local is always recommended and supportive for our community.
Spooky’s Halloween Store, Austin Square Shopping Center (next to Olive Garden on Wilma Rudolph Boulevard)
Opening for its second season, Spooky’s Halloween Store offers costumes, decorations, and more to celebrate and make your Halloween season one to remember for you and your family.
On top of these local activities, don't forget to take advantage of the scenery on the Clarksville Riverwalk, get some historic education at Fort Defiance, and explore Downtown and the many restaurants! Also, check social media, local churches, and other local businesses for any fall festivals or trunk-or-treat events happening in our area!
H A L L O W E E N
Story by: Jon Britton
Spooky season is upon us, from our favorite classic Disney Halloween specials, to fall colors, and pumpkin carving. Halloween plays a special part in most of our memories growing up. From dressing up as your favorite character (Batman, in my case) or something scary and heading to haunted houses, Halloween is a fun tradition full of trick-or-treaters, lots of candy, trunk-or-treat festivities, and an egged or toilet-papered house, if you find yourself unlucky. How did we get this holiday that showcases scary masks and candy anyway?
Happy
Halloween gets its name from the day before All Saints Day on November 1st, or All Hallows Eve. The tradition started with the Celtic peoples of the British Isles and parts of modern-day France. They celebrated the day that marked the end of Summer and Harvest season and opened to the days of cold and darkness. This day known then as Samhain (Sow–in) was a specific day in which the boundaries between the living and the dead became blurred. What better way to scare away the dead than with carved gourds and costumes of your own!
In current times, Halloween can be celebrated in many different ways, especially in ways that can help you to spend more time with and make memories with your loved ones. Some popular celebrations include:
1. Costume contests
2. Decorate your house with Halloween decorations
3. Ghost or Haunted tours
H A L L O W E E N
As time progressed and the descendants of the peoples came to America, the traditions were brought with them. Over the years, as the Christian church gained more influence, these traditions became simpler, and became more of a festival to celebrate the harvest and to eat treats, like spiced ciders, apple pies, and other fall goodies.
4. Halloween parties
5. Hayride
6. Pumpkin carving
7. Scary movie marathon
8. Trick-or-treating (or Trunk-or-treating)
9. Visiting a haunted house or maze
10. Picking out a pumpkin at a pumpkin patch
So, whether you celebrate Halloween or not, it's still a great time to begin or continue family traditions of togetherness before the days get darker and colder, and to even have some fun dressing as your favorite fantasy person (i.e. Batman).
Ghostly Pudding
F O R H A L L O W E E N M E N U
I N G R E D I E N T S
5 1 oz Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
3 Cups Milk
8 oz Cool Whip
24 Oreo Cookies
Milano Double Chocolate Cookies
Black Frosting or Black Edible Marker
Gummy Worms
I N S T R U C T I O N S
Use black frosting or an edible marker to write "RIP" on each Milano cookie to create a tombstone Set the cookies aside
In a stand mixer, whisk together the pudding mix and milk on medium speed for 2 minutes
Fold in the cool whip until well blended.
Crush the Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor.
Sprinkle 3-4 tablespoons of crumbs into the bottom of 6 clear 9 oz. plastic cups.
Spoon a layer of pudding evenly on top of the crumbs.
Repeat the previous two steps one more time.
End the layers by sprinkling more crumbs on top until they almost reach the lip of the cup.
Firmly insert one cookie tombstone into the center of each pudding cup.
Embellish with gummy worms if desired
Safe Trick – or – Treating
Story by: Jon Britton
Halloween brings a lot of fun activities along with it; one of them for kids and adults alike is trick-or-treating. As towns grow and grow, there are a lot of people who participate in trunk-or-treat activities, because it's safe and, usually, with the people you know. However, for those still keeping it old school and roaming the neighborhood in search of delicious treats, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Trick-Or-Treat Safety Tips:
Safe
Trick – or – Treating
1. Know the rules beforehand: Check if your neighborhood has established rules for trick-or-treating. Some places such as HOAs have rules regarding trick-or-treating, so it is best to understand what those are beforehand. Other areas may have a social media page that talks about when everyone will be handing out candy.
2. Go with your family: Consider trick-or-treating with your family. Not only can this be a fun activity for the whole group and build lifelong memories, but it can also be one of the safest ways to roam around in the dark dressed as a ghost.
3. Safely give and receive candy: Double-check candy for proper sealing and no holes. Make sure that candy and treats aren't tampered with; while it may be unlikely, it is always best to check. You wouldn't want an open bag of Skittles from the store either would you?
4. Wear a proper mask: Visibility is important, especially walking around the streets, and even more so in the dark. Make sure you can see out of the eye holes, and ensure that breathing is an easy task. Consider makeup in place of a mask, if it's possible.
5. Increase visibility: Carry flashlights or glow sticks. Add reflective tape to costumes and bags. Make sure cars can see you and that others can see you, as well, in case a ghost grabs you from the dark!
Mummy Sugar Cookies
F O R H A L L O W E E N P A R T Y
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Ingredients
F O R T H E S U G A R C O O K I E S :
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MISS LUCILLE’S MISS LUCILLE’S MISS LUCILLE’S Sips + Strolls Sips + Strolls
Photography by: Chloe Elizabeth Photography
To celebrate Labor Day, Miss Lucille's hosted an exclusive after-hours shopping experience, offering a sneak peek at the weekend-long Labor Day sales! Shoppers strolled through the Marketplace, enjoyed delicious and unique cocktails, and shopped 'til they dropped! Admission was free for all ages. Miss Lucille's Café was also open during the event for those who wanted to grab a bite to eat. It was a great way to celebrate Labor Day with storewide sales!
M M S U P E R Kimber Gaither
Story by: Robyn Woodside
Kimber Gaither was nominated as our Super Mom for October 2024. Congratulations! Kimber has been married to her husband, Matt Gaither, for ten years. Together, they have three beautiful daughters: Paisley, Presley, and Piper. Their daughters all play different sports, including travel competition sports. Paisley competes in cheerleading and wrestling. Presley plays travel softball. Piper is on the basketball team. Their family also includes a Golden Retriever named Gracie, as well as a Calico Cat named Jolie that the family rescued.
Outside of parenting, Kimber is a realtor for The Kayla Gunter Team at Century 21 Platinum Properties. Kimber shares, “I have worked with Kayla for the last 12 years, and it has been a blessing.” She also spends time coaching her daughter’s softball team. She adds, “I feel like I have [ten] additional daughters as I have watched these girls grow[;] it doesn’t hurt that I get to coach with one of my best friends.” She also enjoys attending church at Salem Community, as well as attending a good theme party.
When asked to share her favorite thing about parenting, Kimber said, “My favorite thing about being a parent is also my least favorite, but it is watching them grow up. I love watching them become their own person, find their hobbies, have their different ways of communicating, having their own fashion style, and trying new things. I enjoy watching them live life, but it also breaks my heart at the same time. Time is a thief, and
while I love all those things, there are days that I wish I could pause it.”
In addition to all of the things we love about being a parent, parenting has many challenges. When asked what the most challenging thing Kimber has dealt with or overcame as a parent, she shared: “Letting them fix their own problems. Specifically entering into the tween and teen stage, I just want to fix those hardships they go through. Knowing I can only give advice and not intervene (unless it’s obviously detrimental to themselves or someone else), but those normal kid interactions that are not always easy to navigate. It’s also challenging to remember that I can’t do it all, and that it takes a village, and it’s okay to ask for help.”
With these positive memories and challenges in mind, Kimber shared some advice for fellow parents: “I would say there is a quote I love and a piece of advice. The quote is, ‘The best thing you can give to your kids is time,’ which is also my piece of advice. Pay attention, be present, and don’t stress about the minuscule things. One day, you won’t have as much laundry to do, as many dishes to wash, messes to clean, schedules to maintain. One day, your children will become parents of their own. And, above all else, pray for your babies. Pray that their hearts always turn to God. Pray for their protection, and pray that they always know they are a Child of God.” Amazing advice from an amazing mom! Congratulations, Kimber Gaither.
o m i n a t e a S u p e r M o m N o m i n a t e a S u p e r M o m
Do you know a mom who goes above + beyond to take care of not only her family but others? Each month we will spotlight a Super Mom in Clarksville!
We would love to hear from you! Just email us at: info@inthe931magazine.com
N O W B O O K I N G
Fall Minis Fall Minis
CMCSS LEARNING CENTERS
Story by: Robyn Woodside
Clarksville-Montgomery County has a Learning Center that is part of the school system. The CMCSS Learning Center offers evidence-based, hands-on instruction to preschool-age children and provides themed learning activities for elementary students. It is available for families of students attending CMCSS schools, as well as students enrolled in the Headstart program and ELL programs. The center provides resources for parents and guardians, including materials, monthly workshops, and consultations. All materials are free to qualified parents.
Some of the resources and support available at the center include tutoring, STEM and Reading Nights, and Preschool classes. The district encourages families to visit the Center, as it has a wealth of resources in its lending library that can be checked out free of charge to support student learning.
To keep up with the latest news and events from the Learning Center, please visit the following link: https://learningcenter.cmcss.net/
CMSSS Learning Center
Address: 343 Pageant Lane | Clarksville, TN 37040
Phone Number: 931-648-5653
Hours (Regular Day): 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Hours (Half Day): 8:00 AM to 11:45 AM
CMCSS Learning Center North
Address: 215 Cunningham Lane | Clarksville, TN 37042
Phone Number: 931-648-5653
Hours (Regular Day): 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Hours (Half Day): 8:00 AM to 11:45 AM
We are a local flower truc a one-stop shop for cut f gardening tools, home goo accessories, and more L here in Clarksville, TN.
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J.P. Skevington has been selected as our October Educator of the Month! J.P. shares, “Teaching P.E. is my dream job…I am excited to help children learn and enjoy healthy habits for a lifetime.” In order to make sure all students can learn and enjoy those healthy habits, Mr. Skevington establishes high expectations: be aware, be engaged, be safe, be teachable. Congratulations J.P. on a much deserved title!
Bu
Butte B u
This year marked the 14th Annual Butterfly Festival, featuring an incredible Butterfly Release! Families were able to enjoy a free educational animal act by Wild World of Animals, a butterfly house, a free zip line, train rides, face painting, balloon art, and so much more! The event took place from 11 am to 4 pm, and at 4 pm, there was a release of 2,000 butterflies - yes, you read that right, 2,000 butterflies!
Lukeysha + ZayLena Williams Layne, Alissa, Lee, + TJ Roberts
On October 15th, we commemorate Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, a day devoted to honoring and remembering the precious lives of babies lost during pregnancy, at birth, or in infancy. This day, established in 2002, serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of pregnancy and infant loss on families and communities.
The loss of a pregnancy, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, or other complications, can have a lasting impact on those involved. Similarly, the loss of an infant due to preterm birth, birth defects, or health conditions is a deeply painful experience that can affect families for a lifetime. It's vital to recognize that unless one has gone through this kind of loss, it's difficult to fully comprehend the emotions and challenges that individuals and families face during such a devastating time.
services that provide crucial support to those navigating the complexities of pregnancy and infant loss. Let your loved ones know that you are there to support them in any way they need.
P R E G N A N C Y A N D
I N F A N T L O S S I N F A N T L
If you want to show support to someone who has experienced this type of loss, consider offering a listening ear, a comforting shoulder, or a tissue for their tears. On October 15th at 7 pm, you can join others in lighting a candle in remembrance and take part in a moment of silence to honor the lives lost. Additionally, consider donating to grief counseling
This day not only serves as a day of remembrance but also as a day of awareness. It's an opportunity to raise awareness about the emotional and physical toll of pregnancy and infant loss and to advocate for better support and resources for those who have experienced such loss. By openly discussing and acknowledging the impact of pregnancy and infant loss, we can help break the silence and stigma surrounding these experiences.
It's important to remember that grief is a personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Everyone copes with loss differently, and it's crucial to offer empathy and understanding without judgment. Whether it's through participating in organized remembrance events, sharing personal stories, or simply being present for those who are grieving, there are many ways to show support and solidarity.
As we honor Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, let's also work towards creating a more compassionate and supportive environment for individuals and families who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant. Together, we can strive to provide comfort, understanding, and resources to those who are navigating the complex emotions and challenges that come with such profound loss.
If you or someone you know is in need of support, please reach out to:
Sharing of Middle Tennessee
• Website: https://sharingmiddletn.org
• Contact sharingofmiddletn@gmail.com or (615) 200- 6098 for group information.
• In person support group meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month. See the website for additional information.
National Share Office
• The National Share office hosts weekly online group chats that are free of charge to their families.
• The online Pregnancy Loss Group (for the loss of baby through miscarriage, still birth or in the first weeks of life) meets every Tuesday from 7:00pm9:00pm CST.
• The 3rd week is dedicated to Pregnancy After Loss (for those pregnant after a loss or trying to become pregnant).
• To connect to the group meeting, go to the website at: https://nationalshare.org/online-support/
The Share office also maintains an active presence on Facebook, with three support groups and Share’s National page. The support groups are closed groups to protect privacy and require approval prior to posting within the page. The National Share page is a public page and posts current information regarding events, pertinent articles, chapter updates, and videos from bereaved families.
• Share Bereaved Families Peer Support (Closed)
• Share Pregnancy After Loss Support (Closed)
• Share Español: Esperanza for Spanish Speaking Families (Closed)
• Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support, Inc. (Public)
To join any of these groups go to: https://www. facebook.com/NationalShare/groups
y at Salon Envi y at Salon Envi
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*Holistic Haircare:* Experience personalized treatments that not only enhance your look but also nourish your scalp and hair from within
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*Relax and Rejuvenate:* Enjoy our tranquil environment where you can unwind and leave feeling refreshed, inside and out
GOVS CREATIVE ARTS FESTIVAL
The Govs Creative Arts Festival hosted a free event featuring dance, theatre, and musical performances by Austin Peay State University students, faculty, and alumni. There was also an activity area with a painting class for all ages, a make-your-own-print experience, an instrument petting zoo, inflatables, and more.
Photography by: Laura Lane Photography
Aiden Hooten, Hallie Ranson, + Michael Chandler
Leonardo Avila, Branden Enoch, + Molly Swardstrom
Lexington Gaines + Tristan Evans Kara Zahn + Tony Morris
Aidan McKinney + Jalin Washington
Victoria Anochili
Emmy Rye, Hallie Ranson, + Tyler Beverly Kristen Sienkiewicz, Andrea Spofford, + Kevin Loveland
Shalom Movement
Zachary Stiles + Evarista L
Abby Krieg + Carson Moore
Alexandra Santa Cruz + Garrett Chance
The Adams Family
The Unbannable Books Project - Luke Warren
Madeline N.
Peyton Ellis
Christina Gonzalez
Christel Payne + Leilani Luther
David Kirkman, Elizabth + Gavin Sinclair
Jordy Rocheleau + Ashlee Knowlton
Stephanie Stafford + Bethany Jerger
Katty Romero
Ariez Sun
Cody Richardson, Chris Powell, + Pam Hoon
Story by: Robyn Woodside
Started in 1981, October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. This celebration began to encourage people to adopt from one of the local shelters or rescues, instead of purchasing new. With almost 700 animal shelters and rescues in the state of Tennessee, there are over 100,000 cats and dogs entered into shelters in our state. I am proud to say that according to Best Friends Save Them All’s website, Tennessee has an almost 84% saving rate for animals in our shelters. We would all love to see this raise quickly to 100%, though.
If you’re thinking about getting a pet, whether it’s your first or third, check out some local shelters and rescues:
1. Humane Society Clarksville-Montgomery County, 940 Tennessee Ave | Clarksville, TN 37040
Humane Society Clarksville-Montgomery County offers multiple services to adopt pets without a home, as well as for current pets:
Adopt A Pet
Donate Supplies To Pets In The Humane Society Animal Fostering Free Vaccines Spay And Neuter Volunteer Opportunities
2. Montgomery County Animal Care and Control, 616 N. Spring Street | Clarksville, TN 73040
Montgomery County Animal Care and Control offers multiple services to adopt pets without a home, as well as for current pets:
Adopt A Pet Animal Fostering Volunteer Opportunities Microchipping
N A T I O N A L M A K E A D O G ’ S D A Y
Story by: Robyn Woodside
On October 22nd, we celebrate National Make a Dog’s Day, a special day dedicated to raising awareness about pet adoption and demonstrating our love and care for dogs. This day was established by Subaru in 2015 in collaboration with the ASPCA. To honor this meaningful occasion, here are some thoughtful ways to participate:
1. Adopt a dog: Consider opening your heart and home to a new furry friend from a local shelter or rescue organization.
2. Donate dog food, toys, or treats to an animal shelter: Help provide comfort and joy to dogs awaiting their forever homes by contributing essential supplies.
3. Spend quality time with shelter animals: Visit a nearby animal shelter and engage in playtime and companionship with the dogs awaiting adoption.
4. Volunteer to walk shelter dogs: Offer your time and energy to take shelter dogs on invigorating walks, providing them with exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction.
Let's also remember to cherish and pamper the dogs who already bring happiness to our lives. Consider surprising them with a new toy from Riley's Pet Market (2550 Madison St Suite A, Clarksville, TN 37043) or a special treat like a pupcup from a local coffee shop to show them how much they are cherished.
Story by: Robyn Woodside
Knowing a loved one is being abused or experiencing abuse yourself can be such a difficult concept to grasp, let alone figure out the best course of action. The National Domestic Violence Hotline defines abuse as being “about power and control, meaning there may be a clear imbalance in the relationship where one partner has or ends up with more power and control over the other.” It is important that everyone understands that leaving an abusive relationship is never just as easy as walking out of the door. There are many factors one may consider when deciding if it’s best to stay or go. Sometimes, someone in an abusive relationship can put themselves in more danger by trying to leave.
If you know of someone in an abusive relationship, the best thing you can do is listen, be understanding, provide support, and, when it is decided that it is time to leave, provide the resources you have available to support them. If you are experiencing an abusive relationship, we are here for you. We are here, and we will help in whatever way you need help and support.
If you or someone you love might be in a domestic violence
org/ for help and resources. You also can call 1-800-799-SAFE or
info@inthe931magazine.com or robyn@inthe931magazine.com
info@inthe931magazine.com or robyn@inthe931magazine.com
O C T O C T
AWARENESS AWARENESS MONTH MONTH
BREAST CANCER BREAST CANCER
Story by: Robyn Woodside
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I’m sure we remember seeing the pink cleats on the football fields or employees at businesses around town wearing pink ribbons. However, how much do we really know about breast cancer and the effect it has on people around us? According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. (NBCF), “In 2024, more than 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer…[However,] [w]hen caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate of breast cancer is 99%.” So, what do we need to know to help save ourselves and our loved ones? The NBCF says: breast cancer basics, signs and symptoms, early detection, healthy living, and support.
“1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime,” according to the NBCF. So, most likely, you know women who will be diagnosed or have been diagnosed with breast cancer. “The lifetime risk of male breast cancer is about 1 in 726,” according to the American Cancer Society. There are steps, though, that can be taken to prevent this cancer diagnosis from becoming a death sentence.
з If breast cancer runs in your family, it is best to get checked.
з The genes that cause an inherited risk of getting breast cancer are still being identified, but that BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the bestknown risk factors.
з Complete monthly breast self-exams and get checked out if you have any signs or symptoms (i.e., changes in appearance, discharge). “For women still menstruating, a breast self-exam should be performed a few days after her period ends. For those who are postmenopausal, a breast self-exam should be performed on the same day of each month, such as the 1st or 15th day of the month.”
з Schedule a regular mammogram.
з If you’re under 40 years of age AND have risk factors for breast cancer, speak with your doctor.
з If you are 40 years of age or older, you should have a mammogram every 1-2 years.
If all of this information sounds confusing, scary, or overwhelming, I’ve recently learned about an amazing tool that can support and help you to keep yourself healthy and informed. Jessica Baladad has an amazing story about how a breast selfexam saved her life after a diagnosis of “Stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma. She underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, 24 rounds of radiation, a hysterectomy, and a 10hour flap reconstruction,” according to feelforyourlife. com. Feel For Your Life is an app that Jessica created to help women just like her. According to their flyer, “The Feel for Your Life app allows you to set monthly reminders, track your changes, and access resources to help you advocate for your breast health. It’s the first of its kind created by a breast cancer patient who found a lump after doing a self-exam.” Not only does it teach you how to do your own breast self-exam, and track your data and any changes, but it also helps to decipher
medical reports from a mammogram or other exam, so you can be well-educated and informed on what is happening in your body.
Whatever way you decide to stay up-todate with your health, please stay informed about your health. If you’d like to support breast cancer research or survivors, check out the National Breast Cancer Foundation to find out all the ways you can show your support and give back.
CALENDAR
OCTOBER 2024
Wednesday, October 16th, The Nashville Zoo is back, and it's time for Zooventures! Get ready for an up-close and personal experience with some of the coolest wildlife around. From exotic creatures to awe-inspiring animals, this is your chance to see them like never before. Bring your curiosity and get ready to go wild with the Nashville Zoo! Zooventures is a partnership with the Nashville Zoo, the Downtown Commons, and YOUR public library.
Thursday, October 17th, Those "despicable" little helpers have taken over your library and we need your help to make sure the mischief stays at a MINIONmal. There'll be games and crafts as we celebrate some of our favorite yellow and blue critters who can't seem to stay out of trouble! You can even dress up and go bananas! There will be mayhem for all ages, so be sure to get here early!
Sunday, October 20th, Join Mochas & Minis for a spooktacular morning of Halloween fun on October 20th from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM! Our Booey Bash is a perfect way to celebrate the season with your little goblins and ghouls. Costumes Encouraged!
Time: 9 am - 11 am | Place: 2325 Madison St, Clarksville, TN 37043
Thursday, October 24th, The Friends of the Library Fall Used Book Sale returns to the Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library. The opening night will be a Friends-only preview. Anyone may join the Friends of the Library for $5.00 at the door or by visiting https://mcgtn.org/ publiclibrary/about/friends.
Saturday, October 26th, Join Rotary Park for the fourth annual Fall Festival, sponsored by Fortera Credit Union. This family-friendly event will include pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, Halloween crafts, interacting with creepy crawlers and much more! Food trucks will be on-site and costumes are encouraged. This event is free and open to the public.
Time: 11 am - 3 pm | Place: 2308 Rotary Park Dr, Clarksville, TN, 37043
Saturday, October 26th, Join Downtown Clarksville for Fright on Franklin as it transforms into a frightfully fun event for the entire family. There will be safe trick-or-treating from more than 50 local businesses and organizations. Dress to impress for the popular costume contest. This contest is open to all ages and registration is required. Spots fill up fast!
Sunday, October 27th, Back by popular demand, it's the Second Annual Multi-Rescue Pet Trunk or Treat & Donation Drive! Join local animal rescues for a Trunk or Treat event for pets and their people. Treats for pets (dogs & cats) and people alike, Donation drive for much-needed pet supplies used by most area rescues and so much fun. Join this amazing cause!
