Fayette County, GA August 2023

Kids, Families, & Pets

Hole In One Wins Silverado From

Justin Hopper – a McDonough firefighter – won a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado for making a hole in one in the Helpful Heroes golf tournament and decided on the spot to give his prize to his own “hero,” his father Jack Hopper.

“I called my mother while I was still on the course and told her I had just won my father a truck,” Hopper recalled. “She didn’t even know I was playing golf that day.”

Hopper said he tries to play golf two or three times a week but that this “was the first time I ever made a hole in one.”

Married with two children, Hopper is a firefighter and EMT for the City of McDonough Fire Department. Hopper lives

in a house he and his father built. He said he decided to give the truck he won to his father because “he has helped me so much. He is my hero.”

The vehicle – a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ – was donated by Cronic Chevrolet Buick GMC which often sponsors the top prize for holes in one in area golf tournaments. The tournament, sponsored by the Spalding County Fire Department, was played at Sun City Peachtree course and the hole in one was on Hole Seven.

“I am not a golfer, but I know it is not easy

to make a hole in one,” said Dealer Wanda Cronic Howell. “Everyone at the dealership was excited when Justin won.”

The Cronic Automotive Group – which also includes Cronic Nissan and Cronic Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM – is located 25 minutes from Fayetteville or Peachtree City. In addition to new vehicles, it offers more than 300 pre-owned vehicles, and a full service and parts department. Shop online at www.croniccars.com, call 770-228-1326, or go to the showroom in person at 2676 North Expressway in Griffin, Georgia.

Howell, President and Dealer at Cronic Automotive Group in Griffin

Cronic Chevrolet Buick GMC sponsored the new 2023 Chevy Silverado LTZ for the Hole In One Winner Justin Hopper (Right) with his father Jake and mother Leann.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Once a Horse Lover, Always a Horse Lover

I was 8 years old and wanted a horse…like, bad. I asked my mother for a horse every day for weeks and every day she would answer, “Pray about it and see what God does. You may not get the answer you want, but you will get an answer.” That fall we went to visit our community stable where folks could board their horses and even take riding lessons. They gave us a tour of the stable and we discussed the possibility of lessons for me. When they told us how much lessons cost, my heart sank. $100 for 10 lessons. That was a lot of money for an 8-year-old in 1976. But once again, my mother said, “Pray about it and see what God does. Ask Him to provide the money. He will answer you in the best way for YOU. And, if you can raise the first $100 for your first 10 lessons and you like it, your father and I will pay for the rest.”

And so I prayed. I told everyone in my family that I did not want presents for Christmas that year, only cold, hard cash. I did odd jobs around the house and my parents paid me a few dollars here and there to add to my horseback riding lesson fund. My grandparents sent me money. My aunts and uncles sent me $5 here and $10 there and by 12/31/76, I had saved exactly $100. That following week we called Horseman Stables in Palatine, IL, and scheduled my first of 10 lessons, starting the week after my 9th birthday. You may have seen a little girl back then floating by on cloud 9, I was never so excited! That was the beginning of five years of riding lessons, which my parents paid for. During that time I learned that owning a horse took over your life! My mother and her prayer-warrior self taught me how to deal with anything and everything in my life, good, bad, happy, and sad, and pray about it. God knew that lessons were the best answer for me.

I still have a deep love for these beautiful creatures and I'm so excited to share our cover story this year about a family who has immersed themselves in their daughter's love for horses! I hope you enjoy reading our Families, Kids, & Pets 2023 issue.

Blessings,

JENNIFER CONFORTI, PUBLISHER @FAYETTECOUNTYLIFESTYLE

Correction: In the article, "Another Gem in Peachtree City", in the July 2023 issue, we listed the incorrect phone number for Payton Peoples and the website for Laurel Brooke Homes. Payton's business number is 404-909-9951 and the correct website is www.livelaurelbrooke.com

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August 2023

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Conforti | jennifer.conforti@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Byron Pugh | byron.pugh@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Susan Walworth, Pam Reid, Amie Kok

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Steven Wilson

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own

city scene

1: Music mogul, Rick Ross, donated over $30K to Fayette C.A.R.E. Clinic! 2: Vickie Butler, immediate past president of the Rotary Club of Fayetteville wins the 2023 Sheffield Award! 3: The Peachtree City Moms hosted a Women's Wellness Summit! 4: Dr. Karyn Staples of ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates presented at the Women’s Wellness Summit. 5: Enjoying a day connecting with Wellness Providers and the Yoga, Meditation, and Sound Bath experience! 6: Immediate past president JD Holmes passes the gavel to Amy Benton, President, Rotary Club PTC! 7: Dist. 68 State Rep, Derrick Jackson selfies with friends at the City of Fayetteville Bicentennial!

DERRICK JACKSON

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

8: Mayor of the City of Fayetteville Ed Johnson and Joe Domaleski enjoying the bicentennial celebrations. 9: Fireworks capped off a full day of bicentennial celebrating! 10: The Whitewater High School Jazz Catz had a blast performing for the Fayetteville Bicentennial Celebration! 11: Atlanta Drum Academy entertained the Bicentennial crowd! 12: Even Freddie Falcon was on hand to help celebrate Fayetteville's 200th birthday! 13: Shade was a precious commodity at the bicentennial celebration! 14: Lots of vendors were on hand at the Bicentennial Celebration.

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

WHITEWATER HIGH SCHOOL BANDS

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

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15: The Fayetteville Splash Pad was operating all day at full capacity! 16: Clothes Less Traveled recently donated to BullyWag, an organization dedicated to restoring the pit-bull image. 17: Sweet Tea Yoga hosted Yoga in the Park in partnership with Southern Conservation Land Trust. 18: Over $91,000 was raised for Wellspring Living during their Summer Supper at Vinewood Stables Newnan! 19: Mayor Johnson kicks off the Juneteenth celebration at the Old Courthouse in Fayetteville. 20: The Fayetteville Juneteenth celebration was well attended! 21: PTC joined forces with Peachtree City Running Club for the Grand Opening of Riley Track.

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

DEONTA SISTRUNK

SOUTHERN CONSERVATION TRUST

CLOTHES LESS TRAVELED

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

MAINSTREET FAYETTEVILLE

PEACHTREE CITY GOV

L I V I N G L A U R E L B R O O K E

Jason Morris & Dan Bonner, co-founders of Redwood Homes, are thrilled to bring their talents to those ready to call Peachtree City home With Redwood's extensive attention to detail, each client receives a curated home building experience rooted in customer service, superior craftsmanship, and integrity The team’s commitment to sustainability and creating unique living spaces continues to redefine the new homes industry.

With a reputation steeped in excellence, Redwood Home Builders is continually recognized as a top luxury custom home builder throughout the Greater Atlanta area The expert team has won numerous OBIE Awards, representing excellence in home building, presented by the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association

Payton Peoples, REALTOR® is proud to represent Redwood Homes in Laurel Brooke Contact us today for the latest information and available homes

Jason Morris & Dan Bonner, co-founders of Redwood Homes

Laurel Brooke is tucked away off Floy Farr Parkway (GA-54) and has quickly become the talk of the town The planned Laurel Brooke community emulates the picturesque North Cove neighborhood with narrow streets, brick sidewalks, lush landscaping and charming Savannah-style homes and squares

business monthly

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Southside Speech Therapy Now Open in Fayette

Southside Speech Therapy provides individualized speech therapy in-person or virtually. Our sessions are designed to address your individual needs, as well as provide carry-over strategies to improve communication and learning outside of the therapy setting. Lauren Sorrell, an ASHA-certified Speech and Language Therapist, has been serving diverse populations with a variety of disorders since 2013. For more information, email Lauren at speech@southsidespeechtherapy.com or call her at 404-585-8181.

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Additional Location for Women's Specialists

To serve the community even better, The Women's Specialists of Fayette are expanding their footprint and opening the doors in their new Peachtree City location! With several doctors and amazing staff, they are looking forward to being able to provide the best level of care for Fayette County. Their new, second location is 403 Westpark Ct., Suite 205, PTC. For more information go to wsfayette.com or call 770-632-9900.

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PTC Rotary Dragon Boat Race

The Dragon Boat Festival is an annual community event sponsored by the Rotary Club of Peachtree City.  The objective is to celebrate cultural diversity and increase interest in international commerce through interaction with community. Join us at Drake Field on Saturday, September 23rd to enjoy some great food, entertainment, kid's activities, and more while you cheer for your favorite Dragon Boat Race Team! For more info or to register a team, go to ptcdragonboats.org

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William T. Cook, M.D. Marlo Carter, M.D. Matthew Ralsten, M.D.

Nicole E. Quinn, M.D. Yvonne Conaway, N.P. Nykia Burke-Bray, M.D.

New Food Pantry in Fayetteville

Fayetteville welcomes Compassion Ministries Food Pantry at 193 Johnson Ave. Under the guidance of Director Diana Galloway and in collaboration with Pastor Wanda Hawkins of 11th Hour Ministries, this pantry aims to combat food insecurity in the community. By providing essential nourishment and support, they hope to make an impact in addressing the pressing issue of hunger. Together, they strive to create a more resilient and compassionate community. For more information, call Diana at 678-357-7025.

A Night Out for The Forest School in Trilith!

Join the folks at The Forest School for a great night of music and comedy and help raise funds so they can Raise the Roof on their new building! There will be cocktails, food, an auction, and lots of fun! Clay Cook from the Zac Brown Band and comedian, Cocoa Brown, are performing.  The event takes place Friday, August 25th at the Town Stage at Trilith. For info and to purchase tickets, go to givebutter.com/ANightOut .

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New President at the Rotary Club of Fayetteville

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A Caring Place

ARTICLE BY SUSAN WALWORTH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

FAYETTE C.A.R.E.

CLINIC PROVIDES FREE HEALTHCARE FOR THOSE WITHOUT INSURANCE.

When you’re sick and have no insurance, it’s easy to fall through the cracks in health care. Fortunately, one local organization is standing by with a safety net held with Compassion And Respect for Everyone.

Open since 2005, Fayette Care Clinic in Fayetteville provides free health care for uninsured, lower-income residents 18 and older. With help from volunteer healthcare providers and partner agencies including Piedmont Fayette and Northside hospitals, the clinic provides a wide range of services—primary medical, chiropractic, podiatry, cardiology, physical therapy, dental, vision, mental health, mammography, lab testing, and imaging.

“Hypertension and diabetes are probably two of the biggest problems we see,” clinic executive director Geneva Weaver said. For Weaver, who had served on the clinic’s board for three years, becoming director last year was a natural transition.  “I have a love for the clinic,” she said, describing the staff as a ‘good group of caring, loving people.’  “I know what they do and how hard they work.”

While children in low-income families can get PeachCare for Kids, low-income adults have a harder time getting medical care. Fayette Care Clinic patients are vetted using federal guidelines that place them below the poverty level and patients must verify their income with tax or wage documents.

Although patient stories are as unique as the patients themselves, Weaver said clinic patients are often

Executive Director, Geneva Weaver

Ready for the Open Wide Open Golf Tournament

Dr. Linkous and Dr. Mahaffey welcome golfers to the Open Wide Open Golf Tournament

down on their luck or too sick to maintain a job. Others can’t work because they’re primary caregivers.

For many, even if they have a job, the co-pays needed for insurance provided through The Affordable Care Act are out of reach and often it’s difficult to find local doctors who accept the insurance, Weaver said.

The clinic is a benefit to the community as well as its patients. Treating those who are sick often prevents the spread of illness and since those without insurance usually wind up in the emergency room creating long waits, the clinic, Weaver said, frees up emergency room time. There were about 2,000 patient visits to Fayette Care Clinic last year.

“They are so grateful,” Weaver said of the patients, adding that the clinic also educates patients on diet and exercise and other ways to improve their health. Weaver remembers a former patient who was so thankful for the clinic’s help when he was down on his luck that when he got back on his feet, he hosted an extravagant fundraiser for several years to show his appreciation.

As a 501(c)3 organization, the clinic’s funds come from grants and private donations, which are tax deductible. After several moves, one of the clinic’s greatest needs is a permanent location.

Upcoming fundraisers include KAPLOWEY Palooza, a combination of capture the flag and paintball, on Saturday, Aug. 5, at Kiwanis Park in Fayetteville, and the Mahaffey Linkous Orthodontics Open Wide Open Golf Tournament on October 6, at Braelinn Golf Club in Peachtree City. “Working with Mike Mahaffey on our golf tournament fundraiser has been a dream! He and his team plan the event and all proceeds go to the clinic. They are some of the most generous and caring people in our community. We are so blessed.”

“We help a lot of people,” Weaver said. “Nothing is too severe. We don’t take an ambulance at our back door— that has to go to the hospital. But if

you can walk through that front door, we can treat you. If we can’t, then we refer you to someone who can. As a patient, you would feel valued and have hope for the next day, all for free. It’s such a blessing.”

For more information about Fayette Care Clinic, to donate, or for tickets to upcoming fundraising events, visit www.fayettecareclinic.com .

“As a patient, you would feel valued and have hope for the next day, all for free. It’s such a blessing.”

Folks lined up for the Open Wide Open golf tourny

Nurse Practitioner, Toni Guzi

Open Wide Open golf tournaments raises over $30,000!

MEET THE VANZANTS

ARTICLE BY PAM REID PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Vanzants have lived in Fayette County for the past 25 years, and while it was happenstance that Fayette County became their landing place, Jameson, Hope, and Ella Vanzant couldn’t be happier. Hope grew up in Marietta and while in college decided to purchase her first home in Fayette County. She finished design school and then started her design business, as well as her cabinet business in Fayette County. Hope’s business, HMS Designs, has

Interior design, custom closets, and equestrian dreams blend beautifully to create an enriching family life.

The Vanzants on a recent family trip to Greece

two facets. As a full-scale interior designer, she does a significant number of kitchen and bath remodeling and new construction.

Jameson, originally from North Carolina, created Custom Closets of Georgia soon after he and Hope married in 2009. According to her, “It was a perfect transition from the cabinet side to the closet side. It is not unusual for the two businesses to share clients. I might get a call for a master bathroom remodel,

and when I go meet with the client about the design and the cabinetry, it then turns into, ‘Oh, well we need a custom closet as well.’” The same is true in the event someone needs a kitchen remodel and they also need a custom pantry and laundry room. “It really does fit hand-in-hand.”

With locally owned and operated businesses, both Hope and Jameson are immersed in the community and enjoy

A Custom Closets of GA design... closet perfection

highlighting other local businesses through their work and interests. They partner with local companies like DeBeer Granite & Marble, Ferguson, and Southside Lighting. “We’ve aligned ourselves with other companies in Fayette County to allow them to showcase their products in our showroom as well.”

What distinguishes HMS Designs from other design companies is Hope. “My design business is me, so when somebody calls HMS Designs they are going to work with me directly on the project from start to finish. My expertise, my interior design background, and the extensive amount of work I’ve done in this area, I have a huge following with my clientele.” Hope loves what she does. “There are some clients who know exactly what they want and I am happy to provide them with exactly what they are looking for.” She also enjoys clients who need a lot more direction and assistance with their vision. A designer at heart, Hope shares her creativity, passion and expertise with every client she works with.

Jameson’s company is in the business of, “Organizing Your Life”. Custom Closets of Georgia is independent and family-owned. They stock materials and pride themselves on being price-competitive in the market. The resources and materials they have available make it feasible to provide a quick turnaround for clients, which is difficult post-COVID. “It doesn’t happen very often that you can meet with someone and have a closet installed the next day.” The company has invested in a solid infrastructure as it relates to materials and labor. Through Custom Closets of Georgia you can expect a lifetime warranty on the product.

The youngest member of the Vanzant family has a passion of her own. According to Hope, “Ella loves to ride horses and she is very serious about it.” From the moment she went to horse camp in 2021, the family never looked back. Three months into lessons, mom and dad realized Ella had a real talent for riding. Her trainer suggested it was time to get Ella a horse, and it wasn’t long before Malibu, her first pony, was introduced. They did a few shows together before Malibu got hurt. Malibu is still with the family and they have Cookie now (cover ). “Ella has really grown as a rider on Cookie. She’s gained a lot of confidence and does extremely well at the shows. Ella has moved up from regular schooling shows to A-rated shows. Every time she competes she wins either reserve champion or grand champion on Cookie. Now it is time for her to move on to a horse that can take her to the next level.”

“There’s no other place Ella would rather be, and that’s where we enjoy being as a family to support her equestrian dreams.”

Ella and her new competition pony, Clue, getting to know each other with hugs

It’s been two years since 10-year old Ella began riding. “I’ve always loved horses since I was little. I’d always wanted a horse, and horses have always been my thing. It feels like it’s meant for me. I really like it.” Disney’s Fort Wilderness was Ella’s first introduction to horses, where she had the opportunity to ride the retired ponies. Her parents agree, “Ella just glowed when she was riding the ponies.” Horse camp at 8 years old really perpetuated her desire to ride. Hope feels certain, “One of the very first words Ella ever spoke was ‘horse’.”

Riding well is hard work and takes a great deal of effort. Ella’s advice for young people interested in riding, “It’s definitely an emotional sport. You will have your good and

bad days. In every rider’s career, they will fall off. They will get hurt. But it’s worth it. You create an emotional bond with the horses.”

The Vanzant family is blessed and they have support to balance their busy lifestyle. They spare no expense of time when it comes to encouraging and supporting Ella, who takes riding seriously while running very successful businesses. Ella’s favorite time is when the entire family spends time at the barn — her favorite place to be just about every day of the week. “There’s no other place Ella would rather be, and that’s where we enjoy being as a family to support her and encourage her and guide her through her equestrian dreams.”

Ella's first competition pony, Malibu

ARTICLE BY SUSAN WALWORTH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Heroes of THE FOREST

Just as trees in a forest need different conditions to grow and thrive, the same is true of children. Recognizing that, The Forest School at Trilith offers an educational environment that allows children to flourish.

Long-time middle school teacher Dr. Caleb Collier had a growing sense over the years that his job was becoming more about managing behaviors instead of teaching.  “Not much responsibility was being given to the learners themselves,” he said.  As he researched alternative forms of education, Collier learned about the work of Dr. Tyler Thigpen, founder of the Institute for SelfDirected Learning. The two educators co-founded The Forest School in 2018.

Resembling the one-room schoolhouse of yesteryear, The Forest School builds on pillars: Children learning who they are—their passions, interests, and purpose; learning to teach themselves; learning to build and produce; and learning to live together.

But you won’t find students or teachers, or classrooms here. Learners are heroes who work in studios and their leaders are guides who help them apply what they learn through participation in projects and by solving real-world problems. Projects have included designing a golf-cart path system for Fayetteville and a roller coaster for Fun Spot America Amusement Park.  This allows

The Forest School at Trilith helps learners flourish in a unique educational environment.

Heroes at The Forest School earn badges when they master skills.

Belonging is an important part of learning at The Forest School.

Heroes at The Forest School are given opportunities to move and discover.

Many heroes at The Forest School participate in apprenticeships.

Many of the heroes at The Forest School receive scholarships.

Heroes aren't segregated by age at The Forest School.

The Forest School has a basketball team and a volleyball team is planned.

Heroes at the Forest School are given responsibility for their learning.

heroes to utilize all the basics they’ve learned—reading, math, and science—and eliminates the dreaded question, “Why do I have to learn this?”

Collier said The Forest School works up from the individual learner’s interests and passions, instead of starting with the curriculum and drilling it into the learner. Learning is self-paced and self-directed. Many heroes also participate in apprenticeships.

“Most kids are spending eight hours a day sitting at a desk following rules they didn’t make, and listening to grown-ups answer questions they didn’t ask,” Collier said. “At no point in that process is the kid the starting point. They don’t have much power over their own learning. It’s all coming from the top down. Either they stick with the program and make it through, or they don’t.”

Brooke Cook, who is joining the faculty as the wellness guide and is involved with school fundraising, believes The Forest School has been a good fit for her sons who are 4 and 6.

“A lot of boys tend to feel left behind,” she said. “It was important to find a space that allowed them to be physical the way they needed to for their age while also honing in on the different gifts that each child has. They’re creating fully-realized human beings that are sensitive and emotionally intelligent and selfaware rather than just being in a building where they go and learn a specified list of academics.”

With an enrollment of about 150 and an additional 40 heroes worldwide who attend online, The Forest School has no attendance policy if work and responsibilities are covered. Family trips are encouraged.

A sense of belonging and getting to know who’s in the studio is emphasized and parents share their family stories—backgrounds, heritage, and celebrations. “We’ve lost the art of learning how to live together, so we encourage the diversity of voices and diversity of opinions,” Collier said.

Heroes don’t receive grades at The Forest School. Mastery of skills earns them badges and they must prove what they have learned through practicals. Both include self and peer assessment. Although many Forest School graduates have received college acceptance and scholarships, that’s not the sole focus since others enter the workforce or trades, start a business, or join the military. “The days of being able to major in something, step into, and be in a career your whole life, are over,” Collier said. “You have to adapt.”

For more information about The Forest School, visit theforest.school .

Children are encouraged to get comfortable as they learn.

Learning begins with the child at The Forest School

Heroes at The Forest School learn by participating in projects and solving real-world problems.

BULLY FOR YOU!

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAM REID

Sammi is a six-month-old American Bully — a relatively new breed recognized by the United Kennel Club. She’s the newest member of my family, and an emotional support animal (ESA) as well. This time last year, in the August 2022 issue, Fayette County Lifestyle highlighted Tails of Hope - an organization that provides service dog training for disabled individuals, special needs children, wounded veterans, and first responders. Less than a year later, we see mental health data that highlights the growing need for another type of animal — the ESA.

More than 45% of U.S. households own dogs, and every dog owner knows there are many benefits to having a dog - from getting out for exercise to receiving loyal companionship, and lots of tail-waggin’, doggy-lovin’ in between. Research studies reveal that 74% of dog owners in the United States believe their mental health improved after getting a pet and that owning a dog has been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease by 36%.

Social interaction between people and their dogs releases powerful hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin that help us relax and lower our blood pressure. More than 85 million American families have pets and with such powerful research data, the number of individuals and families acquiring pets in the wake of COVID has skyrocketed. A recent Forbes Advisor survey found that

in an overwhelming majority of pet owners, 78% acquired pets during the pandemic.

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, released an advisory report declaring loneliness a new public health epidemic in the United States. The findings show that loneliness is as bad as smoking and has profound effects on mental health, increasing the risks of heart disease, stroke, and dementia.

People struggling with mental illness have found that having an ESA decreases their anxiety and helps them fight feelings of loneliness. The surgeon general report indicates a decline in social connections—especially among young people—and shows that half of adults are lonely. The mental health benefits of having an ESA extend beyond the boost in feel-good hormones. ESAs have been found to reduce loneliness with their ability to respond to their owners intuitively.

The approval for an ESA can be requested for any type of animal, though it is most commonly a dog. There are online services that help people with mental health disorders get an ESA letter for their pet - a document with specific language that a therapist provides on their letterhead. Some common mental health conditions that qualify someone for an ESA are anxiety, depression, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, chronic stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

It’s important to know that ESAs do not have the same access as service animals. There are places where ESA’s cannot go, like restaurants or malls as service animals can. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require any training. Service animals are specially trained to perform a function to help their owners like leading a blind person or detecting seizures. Service animals may provide some emotional support as well, but they have been trained to perform other tasks that ESAs have not. Service animals are also fully protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) while ESAs are not.

Although she was acquired to support one member of my family, Sammi has had a profound effect on each member. Oxytocin and serotonin levels have hit an all-time high in our household. I’m not sure what we’ll do when this fur baby heads off to school with our youngest. Perhaps it will be time to get one of our own.

For more information, review full research reports from Psychology Today, SAGE Journals, Alliance of Therapy Pets, and the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute.

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF THE BEATLES MUSIC

and performer for decades. It was like a dream come true with four guys, with decades of experience, playing this music.

THIS LOCAL BAND MAKES THE MUSIC OF THE FAB FOUR SHINE!

“I created BeaTogether with Friends out of a love for the music that changed the world in so many ways,” says George Stamm, the producer of his amazing project. George has performed as John Lennon with many bands that featured music by The Beatles for decades, but this time, he wanted to tell a more intimate story of the music.

George’s story is a fairytale-like parallel of how the original Beatles came together over 60 years ago and how his new band formed. First, there was John Lennon (in this case, George). Then John asked Paul McCartney to join the band, like how George asked his partner, Don McBroom, an outstanding keyboard and bass guitar player, to join him on this journey. Then George met Casey Hooper, a stellar lead guitar player, and singer, to join. Finally, Don invited Bryan Holmes, a longtime friend and an amazing drummer to join, similar to how Ringo joined the band, with a reputation of being the best drummer around, and so too is Bryan’s history as a recording artist

“Our first rehearsal session together was unreal... like we’ve been playing together for years. The chemistry was like magic. I felt that I finally found my Beatles musical soulmates,” George relates.  “I decided to name the project, not so much the band, “BeaTogether with Friends” to highlight how this music brings people “together” both on stage, as bandmates, but also off stage as well, like “Friends” of the Beatles in the audiences, because virtually everyone loves the music of the Beatles.”

BeaTogether with Friends not only performs the Beatles’ greatest hits but also performs several songs the Beatles wrote and gave to their friends, that is, other musicians they knew, such as The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, Peter and Gordon, The Byrds, and The Hollies. For example, Lennon and McCartney wrote the song, “I Wanna Be Your Man”, and gave it to the Rolling Stones, which helped them get a recording contract. Peter and Gordon recorded “A World Without Love” written by Lennon-McCartney as well. “This is what friends do to help each other.”

So, why the Beatles?

“A guy I invited to join me a few years ago but couldn’t, Mike Pacelli, a real Beatles aficionado, stated on YouTube a few years back, ‘Every post1969 rock song is a son of Beatles songs.’ Mike is right,” says George. “Virtually all serious musicians and recording artists readily admit, the Beatles were their greatest influence. And it’s no surprise the Beatles gave birth to BeaTogether with Friends.”

George Stamm ready to perform

“Our show includes many backstories between the songs. I did not want this project to be just another Beatles tribute band trying to look and act like the Beatles on stage, although I admit I still love those hairdos back then. Rather, I wanted the stories of the songs to come through loud and clear. And I like using rare period piece film clips and videos to take audiences back in time to feel the era when songs were simple and sweet and touched everyone’s hearts. In this way, we as BeaTogether with Friends honor the Beatles and their “Friends” by faithfully replicating their sounds and the feel of their live performances on stage. I also love composers like Mozart from centuries ago. Amadeus was like a rock star in his day. And in some ways, I feel like we live in a time when four Mozart composers came together and formed the greatest band in history, The Beatles. I consider BeaTogether with Friends a true celebration of the music of the Beatles and their Friends. I plan to celebrate these 60 years of the music of the Beatles as long as I can.”

For information and to buy tickets to their next performance, go to beatogetherwithfriends.com .

DOG gone GOOD

Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

Directions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Rotary Club of Fayetteville

FAYETTEVILLE CITY HALL, 210 STONEWALL AVE WEST | 11:00 AM

Join our regular club meetings at Fayetteville City Hall. Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional and community leaders. We'd love to meet you! Info at rotary6900.org

Peachtree City Farmers Market

ABERDEEN VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER, 215 NORTHLAKE DRIVE, PTC | 9:00 AM

Food, Fun, Gifts, Music... Saturday’s market brings approximately 60 vendors offering a variety of fresh produce, poultry, beef and pork, bread, sweet treats, honey, eggs, prepared foods, and so much more. Whether you’re looking to create a feast or simply don’t want to cook at all, we have you covered. 9 AM - 1 PM.

Yoga in the Park: Morgan Grove Nature Area

MORGAN GROVE NATURE AREA, 181 MORGAN RD, FAYETTEVILLE | 9:00 AM

Sweet Tea Yoga is hosting this free program benefiting the Southern Conservation Trust. This 60-minute yoga class is for all levels, from new to experienced yogis! Register today to experience yoga surrounded by nature!  Please bring a water bottle and a yoga mat or beach towel.  For more information contact Caroline Creel at caroline@sctlandtrust.org

Sunset Sounds

DRAKE FIELD, 155 WILLOWBEND RD, PTC | 7:00 PM

Sunset Sounds in August features musician Matt Pudas! Join us for a free evening of music at Drake Field. Don't forget to B.Y.O.C (Bring Your Own Chair) and grab some dinner and your spot to sing and dance to some great music under the stars.  For more info please visit peachtree-city.org/

Rockin the Square: Celebrating Hip Hop’s 50th Anniversary!

OLD COURTHOUSE LAWN, DOWNTOWN FAYETTEVILLE | 6:00 PM

The night features a DJ playing the best of old school Hip Hop, food trucks + Gremlin Growlers will be serving up beverages. To add to the evening, there will be 60 unique vendors. Bring your blankets & lawn chairs! Sponsored by Main Street Fayetteville. For more info visit downtownfayetteville.org/events/

Trails for Troops benefitting The Eden Project & Ruck 770

THE RIDGE NATURE AREA, 415 BURCH RD, FAYETTEVILLE | 10:00 AM

Community Members, Veterans, and First-Responders are invited to join us for our Second Annual Trails for Troops. A 3-4-mile hike beginning at The Ridge Nature Area, participation is Free! Following the hike, participants will receive a Trails for Troops patch and enjoy a cookout hosted by The Eden Project. For more information contact Caroline Creel at caroline@sctlandtrust.org

Get That Summer Smile Shining Bright!

AUGUST 17TH

Third Thursdays, Live Music

Series: The Southside Band

THE AVENUE PEACHTREE CITY, 239 CITY CIRCLE | 7:00 PM

Join us for an adult night out after work. Get some fresh air while enjoying live music by The Southside Band. Yard games and food and drink specials. The first 50 guests receive a free drink, compliments of The Avenue Peachtree City. For more info visit  avenuepeachtreecity.com/ event/Third-Thursday/2145570512

AUGUST 18TH Line Dance Party

KIWANIS CENTER, 980 REDWINE ROAD, FAYETTEVILLE | 7:30 PM

Join the Fayette County Parks and Rec Department for a great Line Dance Party! Line dancing builds confidence, improves strength and muscle tone, and improves cardiovascular health! You will enjoy a friendly and social atmosphere and more! $5 (non-student) $7.50 (non-resident) 16 & older. For more info visit  fayettecountyga.gov/ Calendar.php

AUGUST 19TH

Bringing Happiness 5k Run/Walk

MCINTOSH TRAIL RECREATION

COMPLEX - 191 MCINTOSH TRAIL PTC | 5:00 PM

Join us for our 1st Bringing Happiness 5k fun run/walk. You won't want to miss out on this exciting opportunity to take a cruise through the beautiful Peachtree City scenery, across serene lakes, and over bridges, all while enjoying the calm environment around us. For information, please contact the event organizer at mariasuarez@ bringinghappiness.org

AUGUST 22ND

Business Women

of Fayette

and Coweta - The Connect

CROSSTOWN GRILLE, 620

CROSSTOWN DRIVE, PTC | 5:00 PM

The Connect for August will feature speaker, writer and community activist Pam Reid. Pam will be asking –What’s your mindset? At our Connect events, you’ll make new connections

and share experiences with other successful local women. Guests may attend two events before joining as a member. Info at bwfcc.org

AUGUST 25TH

REEL Friday at Trilith: "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle"

TOWN AT TRILITH, 305

TRILITH PARKWAY, FAYETTEVILLE | 7:00 PM

It’s showtime at Trilith! Join us to watch this magical feature film on the 25-foot permanent screen on the green. Bring a chair or blanket, kick back and enjoy family-friendly films. Before and after the movie, check out our curated shops and restaurants including a bakery, gelato shop, grocery store, doughnut shop and more. Weather permitting.

AUGUST 26TH

Arts & Crafts Fair by Peachtree City Christian Church

PEACHTREE CITY CHRISTIAN CHURCH, 500 KEDRON DR, PTC | 10:00 AM

PTC3 Arts & Crafts Fair features local vendors, food trucks, crafts, candles, jewelry and more.  For more information visit facebook.com/ peachtreecitychristianchurch

AUGUST 26TH

Reflections Ball... A Senior "Citizen" Prom

WHITEWATER CREEK

COUNTRY CLUB, 175 BIRKDALE DR, FAYETTEVILLE | 6:00 PM

Rotary Club of Fayetteville is excited to bring back the Senior "Citizen" Prom!!!!! Our inaugural event in 2019 was amazing and we are back and better than ever! Open to all Senior Citizens of Fayette County, it's Free to attend. For information contact vickiebutler.rotary@gmail.com

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KID-WISE PACKING TIPS

As a mom of three, and a chronic procrastinator, a trip-packing plan is a must.

Packing up your children’s bags for a family vacation can be a daunting task, but if you employ these three tips, hopefully it will help make your pre-trip pack-up a little easier.

1. Individual Bags for Outfits

Sorting through and matching outfits is the last thing I want to do on vacation. I put every outfit for each day in a bag; undies, socks, and clothes. It makes getting dressed easy on the kids and is one less thing for me to do when we arrive.

2. Pack Each Kid A “Trash” Bag

I pack each kid a kitchen trash bag for them to store their soiled clothes. This hack keeps dirty clothes from clean clothes when returning home. Side note: Sure each kid has their

own toothpaste, but we do not take 5 toothpaste tubes on vacation with us. Think about what you and the kids can share to keep packing to a minimum.

3. Give Responsibility

If you have kids that are a little older, let them carry a book bag or carry on with their special items. My daughter can’t sleep without her stuffed animal so I never pack it in a checked bag. She is old enough now to carry some of her own belongings and she can pack a few things that are just for her. Win-Win.

Hi! I'm Amie Kok and I love Fayette County. I'm a counselor at Arise Counseling and your local IG over-poster. My husband and I live in PTC with our three children.

@amiekokblog