The Kids & Pets Issue
EDUCATION
UTOPIAN ACADEMY FOR THE ARTS IN TRILITH
Monica McGowan, FNP-BC
Zwade Marshall, MD, MBA
KeEra Price, FNP-BC
Jennifer Xiong, MD
2025 RAM 1500 Delivers
Power and Prestige at
Cronic Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM is excited about the 2025 RAM 1500 truck, and it’s likely that you will be as well.
“With a V-6 twin turbo Hurricane motor, it gets 5-10 more miles per gallon than the older models with Hemi engines – but with more horsepower and torque,” said Cronic General Manager Tom Swygert. “That makes a big difference on the road, at the pump and in your wallet.”
With new technology and new towing capability, it combines a rugged exterior with a luxurious interior. You can go off-road or haul a camper or trailer while traveling in style, with passengers watching their favorite television shows on the in-dash screen.
And you don’t even need a key to get in and start it up. “With the RAM digital key, you can use your Apple Watch or your iPhone to have total access,” said Swygert.
Once inside, keeping those phones charged is not a problem for the driver or passenger. The new RAM 1500 is equipped with dual wireless charging pads, which means no one is fighting over the charging cord or untangling it after digging it out from between the seats.
Five people can ride comfortably, with an optional bench seat available for the front of the cab. There are five different drive modes, which include towing and snow sport, with hands-free active driving assist.
“You can literally set your speed and at a
safe distance from the vehicles ahead with the sensors, the cameras and the radar that they have that is hooked up,” said Swygert. “It will literally just center you within the lanes and keep you driving without you having to do all that.”
At Cronic, the RAM 1500 is available in several different colors and as many as two dozen are in stock. Schedule a test drive by calling 770.227.4271. Or stop by the new Cronic Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM showroom in Griffin and check it out for yourself.
Wanda Cronic Howell, President and Dealer at Cronic Automotive Group in Griffin
The 2025 RAM 1500 combines power, performance, and luxury. Get yours at Cronic.
Now I Get It
My mother used to tell me, "Jenny, you will never know how much love you can have for another human being until you're a mother." I watched her with my nieces and nephews, kissing their faces and snuggling and cuddling with them, just like she wanted to keep doing with me, but I was in my early 20s and had no use for snuggling. I used to think, "Good grief, Mom, let them get in the door already, before you start squeezing and hug ging them, sheesh!" The eye rolling was palpable. I also remember thinking to myself, "I never want to know that kind of love." That kind of love scared me to death. That kind of love seemed radical and unprecedented... life-giving and life-sacrificing... like, to a level I never, ever, wanted to know, until... I had Abby.
Oh my goodness, seeing that face when I held her for the first time, I was done. DONE! Nothing had ever impacted me like that. In an instant, I understood what my mother was talking about. I understood that kind of love that I never wanted to know, and you know what? That fear I had of that kind of love? That fear disappeared. I couldn't believe it! I was so caught up in the love I had for her that there was no room for fear. I had no idea what I was in for, but I didn't care. All that mattered to me was Abby's care, Abby's joy, Abby's future, Abby's heart, Abby's life.
Now I'm the one smooching my poor girl's face til she can't breathe. (I mean, look at her face, how can I not?!) Now I'm the one who wants to hold every baby and snuggle their little cuteness. I wish my mom was still here so I could tell her, "You were right, Mom. Now I get it."
This month's issue is all about Kids & Pets and we are excited to feature people in our community doing great things to care for our family members, either with fur or without. Enjoy the read and have an amazing August!
Blessings,
JENNIFER CONFORTI, PUBLISHER @FAYETTECOUNTYLIFESTYLE
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Conforti | jennifer.conforti@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Byron Pugh | byron.pugh@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Tiffany Ostertag | tiffany.ostertag@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Pam Reid, Sydney Kate Lewis, Pauli Reep, Susan Walworth
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
South Atlanta Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
Utopian
FUN IN THE SUN Doesn’t Have to Stop When You’re Expecting!
FAYETTE’S LEADING
Obstetrics & Gynecology Practice
Comprehensive, Compassionate Health Care for Women of All Ages
• Prenatal Care
• Family Planning
• In-Office Surgical Procedures
• Fertility Treatment
• High-Risk Pregnancies
• Gynecological/Urogynecological Surgery
Marlo Carter, M.D. OB/GYN
Matthew Ralsten, M.D. OB/GYN
Nicole E. Quinn, M.D. OB/GYN
Yvonne Conaway, N.P.
Nykia Burke-Bray, M.D. OB/GYN
William T. Cook, M.D. Gynecologist
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Dick and Jan Allis present scholarships to volunteers who served the highest number of hours. 2: Nonprofit Thrift Shop student volunteers earn college scholarships by volunteering in the store. 3: Folks gathered to celebrate the opening of Fayette C.A.R.E. Clinic's new location in Fayetteville! 4: Judge David Moore celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Peachtree Law Group with the Chamber and community! 5: Fayette Chamber of Commerce at the grand opening of Peachtree Detox. 6: Judge David Moore (fun tie!) celebrated 40 years as owner of Peachtree Law Group with family and friends. 7: Fire safety fun at the Ruck Race held by Camp Southern Ground.
MANDI BEVERLY
CLOTHES LESS TRAVELED
FAYETTE CARE CLINIC
CLOTHES LESS TRAVELED
MANDI BEVERLY
FAYETTE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
8: Rotaract members hosted a service project at the Peachtree City Dog Park. 9: Rotary Club of Fayetteville members Dine Around at Millers Ale House. 10: A great evening of fun, food, family and friendship at the Rotary end-of-year family picnic! 11: Kiwanis Club of Peachtree City volunteered at Bloom Closet in Fayetteville. 12: The kids and staff at The Forest School are ready for summer! 13: The ladies at Scholar & Scribe in Trilith hosted a book signing with Mary Kay Andrews! 14: Mary Kay Andrews entertained guests with a reading at Scholar & Scribe.
ROTARACT CLUB OF PEACHTREE CITY
ROTARY CLUB OF FAYETTEVILLE
ROTARY CLUB OF PEACHTREE CITY
SCHOLAR & SCRIBE
SCHOLAR & SCRIBE
KIWANIS CLUB OF PEACHTREE CITY
THE FOREST SCHOOL
HOPE IS
seeing a cancer specialist in as little as 24 hours
© 2024 City of Hope
Dr. Beomjune B. Kim Head and Neck and Microvascular Reconstructive Surgeon
Dr. Kristin Higgins Chief Clinical O icer
Dr. Anita Johnson Breast Surgical Oncologist
business monthly
New Owners at Minuteman Press
We are excited to introduce you to this charming couple, Luke and Melissa Caraccioli, the new owners at Minuteman Press in Fayetteville! From conventional print such as business cards and marketing materials to wide-format products such as posters, banners, banner stands, stickers, labels, and even custom wall coverings, they've got you covered! Work with a local company to create fun and exciting products that promote, commemorate, and entertain. Call Melissa or Luke at 770-719-8424 today!
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Free Bicycles for Kids
Honoring Frances Meaders with the Rotary Club of Peachtree City's “Free Bicycles for Kids” campaign, Rotary members, Judge David Moore (red shirt) and Dick Allis (green shirt), gifted five bikes to children who are in need. This initiative is ongoing throughout the year! If you have a bicycle you'd like to donate to Free Bicycles for Kids, email Dick Allis at allisrj@juno.com.
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New Nature Boardwalk
Coming soon to Southwest Christian Care, Schisler's Crossing, a boardwalk that will join the campus to nature trails is in the works! Southwest Christian Care provides loving and quality healthcare for those facing end of life in our Hospice, nurturing intervention, education, and respite care for medically fragile children at Hope House, and supportive comfort to Seniors. For more information and to donate to the Boardwalk fund, go to www.swchristiancare.org or call 770-969-8354.
Artwork at Premier Blinds and Designs
Calling all art lovers! Premier Blinds and Designs in Peachtree City is now featuring the extraordinary artwork of Nancy Shaw, owner of NJOY Art Studio. If you're in the area, stop by and see one of her beautiful works hanging on the walls of the storefront. Premier Blinds is located at 361 GA-74 next to The Alchemist.
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Pink Sneaker Bling Ball
Shine Through Me, Inc., a nonprofit organization that brings awareness for self-breast examinations and advocates for excellent women's health is having its Pink Sneaker Bling Ball!
Details: Saturday, September 28, 7:00 PM, at the Georgia International Convention Center. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at shineorganization.org For more information about the breast cancer support and advocacy that Shine Through Me offers, go to shineorganization.org or email shineorganization2020@gmail.com.
New Business In PTC
Havilah Hair Restoration is a premium hair restoration center founded by Dr. Nancy Echefu, M.D., FACP. Havilah Hair is dedicated to providing advanced and effective solutions for individuals seeking to restore their hair and confidence. Their mission is to empower their clients through personalized, state-of-theart hair restoration services. Their goal is to enhance natural appearances and improve the quality of life for individuals seeking to restore their hair and confidence. Go to www.hh-restorations.com for more info.
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Design With Families In Mind
VALENCIA MARIEROSE CREATES
ISLANDS OF OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILIES AND FUTURE HOMEOWNERS.
For Valencia Marierose, owner of VM Realty, Renovations & Designs, the goal is clear: to empower people into home ownership and to serve families, providing them with a foundation for a better future. Focused and committed to transforming houses into homes and helping families achieve their dreams, Valencia highlights, “My team and I are fully engaged in the real estate business, offering comprehensive services including complete renovations—from bringing houses up to full standard to ensuring optimal functionality for families.”
Unless the property is turnkey - meaning it is move-in ready, fully functional, and does not require any immediate repairs, renovations, or upgrades - there is often still work to be done. Valencia attests that a well-designed home can significantly improve a family’s quality of life, and she has the skills to make a house a home.
A recent kitchen renovation transformed the space for a busy family of five, including three school-aged boys, allowing for a higher degree of functionality and engagement in their daily activities. Valencia opened up the kitchen, creating a large island that serves as a hub for the family. “This open space allows everyone to be connected whether they are cooking, doing homework, watching TV, or chatting in the living room.
Valencia’s signature design often features a 9-foot or larger island that stands out and serves as a focal point for the home. “I love a good kitchen island and all the benefits it offers - a larger workspace, more storage, additional seating, and aesthetic appeal. Many potential homebuyers consider a functional kitchen island a significant selling point for the home.”
At the core of VM Realty is Valencia’s servant’s heart. “My spiritual gift is the gift of hospitality. It always has been in every line of work I’ve done, which connects naturally to customer service.” This commitment to service drives Valencia to help clients understand what they are getting into and support them in reaching their goals. “We accept opportunities that are considered challenging in the current market, and work tirelessly to find solutions and improve our clients’ potential for success.”
Valencia’s gift of service includes holding a special place in her heart for young adults. She is dedicated to helping them become homeowners and entrepreneurs. By building a team of young professionals and providing them with the tools and knowledge they need, Valencia aims to foster a new generation of homebuyers and real estate professionals.
Clients’ specific needs and preferences are Valencia’s top priority, supported by an experienced and skilled team to achieve the desired outcome. Whether it’s renovating space or helping a prospective client understand the complexities of real estate, Valencia is committed to educating her clients. “We offer monthly workshops on mortgage lending, new construction, and more; partnering with local lenders and builders in the South Georgia area. These workshops are free and open to all, providing valuable insights and resources to prospective homebuyers and investors.”
Valencia’s dedication to her clients is evident in every interaction. A notable example is a client who attended one of her workshops tailored for Spanishspeaking participants. At the time of the workshop, the client needed to improve their credit to qualify for a mortgage. Trusting Valencia’s guidance, the client worked with her and a lender to achieve their goal. “Clients are willing to stay the course with me, knowing I will walk alongside them every step of the way.”
“My team and I are fully engaged in the real estate business, offering comprehensive services including complete renovations—from bringing houses up to full standard to ensuring optimal functionality for families.”
“I love a good kitchen island and all the benefits it offers - a larger workspace, more storage, additional seating, and aesthetic appeal. Plus, many potential homebuyers consider a functional kitchen island a significant selling point for the home.”
VM Realty, Renovations & Designs will host its next workshop on August 24th in Peachtree City. These workshops are typically held on the last Saturday of the month and include light refreshments, drawings, fellowship, and a Q&A session. Learn more about their services and upcoming events at vmrealty.net.
Valencia is humbled by the trust placed in her by clients, especially those with language barriers and cultural differences. ”My mission is to build long-lasting relationships with my clients.” Lenders often refer clients to Valencia, confident in the level of service and care she provides. “The referral source is probably the greatest source,” she notes, emphasizing that her success is built on the trust and satisfaction of her clients. “At VM Realty, Renovations & Designs, we are dedicated to building homes and building hope, one family at a time.”
CREATIVELY EDUCATING
Utopian Academy for the Arts is here and Dr. Artesius Miller is at the helm.
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOUTH ATLANTA PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED
There is nothing sweeter than a dream transforming into reality and Dr. Artesius Miller can testify to this. With a B.A. in Economics from Morehouse College, an M.A. in Education Leadership from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Policy from the University of Georgia, Dr.
“Utopian offers an innovative and creative solution to students across all grades with an emphasis on the creative media and performing arts.”
Miller recognized the need to pursue the desire for creative learning, so he proposed and executed a solution. After relocating to Atlanta, he opted to abandon his professional career in financial services and embrace his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for education by petitioning Clayton County Schools to open a charter school that offered a rigorous academic and fine arts curriculum. With the intent to stray from conventional learning to emphasize creativity, Dr. Miller founded the Utopian Academy for the Arts in 2014, a charter school that “offers an innovative and creative solution to students across all grades with an emphasis on the creative media and performing arts.”
Ten years following its creation, the Utopian Academy expands with the establishment of its third location in the Town of Trilith. Located where the former Georgia Military College was and less than a mile from Trilith Studios, “Utopian at Trilith was birthed from the idea to create an educational and economic intersection that
would create a pipeline for students to be introduced to careers in a growing $6.7+ billion entertainment industry.” This notion empowers students to excel not only in their present studies but also to set them up for success in their future careers and endeavors.
As a charter school, the curriculum aligns with the Georgia standards, but this acts only as a baseline for Utopian. The school’s core curriculum is supplemented with creative pathways allowing students to exercise and implement their creativity in a manner often considered suppressed by conventional schooling. While public schools are substantially effective in allowing children to excel in their studies, Utopian considers the children who struggle with traditional test-taking scenarios.The Utopian Academy enables its learners to embrace their creative abilities in the following areas; audio and visual production, film and television, animation, digital art, coding and game design, and more.
Photo by South Atlanta Photography
Dr. Miller’s dream expands beyond simply creatively educating students in the arts. The teachers and staff at the Utopian Academy mean to develop the student’s potential educationally, professionally, and personally. This can be seen in the motto emblazoned on the academy’s emblem. It features a banner along the bottom reading, “abeunt studia in mores,” a Latin phrase that translates to “studies pass on into character.” By including this phrase in their emblem, Utopian seeks to constantly remind and reinforce to students that studies passionately pursued become habits that pass on into one’s character, shaping them into the person they wish to become. Through the focus on the importance and influence of studying creatively, Utopian Academy allows students to be influential amongst their peers and within their field, expanding from digital media and beyond.
Utopian Academy’s partnership with the movie industry is aimed at the goal of aligning with the state of Georgia’s focus on creating a workforce of talent here in our own backyard. More specifically, the students gain access and exposure to not only the film and television industry but also are offered the opportunity to network with those who are a part of the largest studios in the country. Established connections in the entertainment industry, such as Trilith Studios, the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation, Alliance Theatre, Ludacris Foundation, and Kennesaw State University, allow students to receive visits from professionals. These may include on-camera talent, directors, or any roles above and below the line, to expose and
Utopian at Trilith was birthed from the idea to create an educational and economical intersection that would create a pipeline for students to be introduced to careers in a growing $6.7+ billion entertainment industry.
educate the students in the ways of the digital arts. These partnerships will also lend access to sound stages and equipment, when available, to be used for their school projects, allowing them to further develop as students and creatives alike. “Our relationships have afforded our students to have careers directly from the classroom.”
While the Trilith campus currently includes grades sixth through eighth, they plan to
expand to high school in the future. For those who graduate from the Trilith campus, a team is in place to collaborate with every student and parent and provide individual guidance in the selection process to further their education. Seats are still available for sixth and seventh grade. To apply, you can either go to the website, www.utopiantrilith.com, or email enrollment.trilith@utopianacademy.com to inquire about the enrollment process.
After School Yummies...
ARTICLE BY PAULI
| PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED FOR THEIR HUNGRY TUMMIES!
REEP
Who says you need to use dairy or gluten to get the yummy snacks everyone else seems to enjoy? Freeze some bananas and pineapple today and you will have what you need tomorrow. Here are two ultra-easy and truly scrumptious snacks to have on hand for healthy dairy and gluten-free alternatives to suit everyone’s taste. Make sure your kids jump in and help create their snacks for some after-school fun too!
PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN ENERGY BITES
ingredients
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (or substitute almond butter)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup protein powder of choice
• 1/3 cup flaxseed meal
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon mini, vegan chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
directions
In the bowl of a food processor, add the peanut butter, honey, vanilla, protein powder, flaxseed meal, oats, cinnamon, and chia seeds. Pulse together until well combined. Add in chocolate chips and coconut (if using) and pulse a few more times. Use a medium cookie scoop or your hands to grab the dough and roll into 1.5" balls. Place in an airtight container. To make without a food processor: add wet ingredients to a medium bowl and mix to combine. Add in dry ingredients and mix together until combined. You may need to use your hands to mix and work with the dough. At this point, you should be able to form balls that stick together. Because all peanut butter/nut butter consistencies are different and depending on what protein powder you use, you may need to add in more nut butter or honey to help the balls stay together.
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week, or the freezer for up to 2 months.
ingredients
• 2 large frozen bananas
• Chunks of one pineapple, frozen
• 3 tbsp real maple syrup (if the ripe sweet bananas are enough sweet for you, you can leave out the syrup)
• Optional: 1 tsp turmeric (for the extra kick!)
directions
Put all the ingredients in your blender until creamy and nice. Eat it right quick!
A Bookish Fellowship
A LOCAL INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
EMBARKS ON THE ENDEAVOR OF EMPOWERING YOUNG READERS
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCHOLAR & SCRIBE
Owners Shelly Brown, Tela Kayne, and Carmen Coe Kids story time
What started as a simple conversation between friends led to something much more than they ever expected. The Town of Trilith has become known as a community of creatives, where makers live, create, and inspire the world. Residents Shelly Brown, Carmen Coe, and Tela Kayne wondered “How is it that a town driven by storytelling did not have a repository for the stories themselves?”
Yes, Trilith Studios is across the street, but the heart of the stories that so often inspire these larger formats frequently has a much humbler beginning. So, these three friends embarked on something that seemed unthinkable in the digital age. These neighbors opted to contribute to their town by creating Scholar & Scribe Bookstore.
An independent bookstore located down the paseo off Trilith Parkway, Scholar & Scribe reiterates the importance of the art of storytelling and the power of the written word. Moreover, to build a fellowship amongst readers and writers alike, this bookshop strives to build a continued community instead of one-time encounters. “There is something so powerful about doing life together that is missing in today’s world,” Carmen Coe, one of the owners, said. Tela Kayne, another owner, remarked, “I feel like there’s an intimacy to a local bookstore that allows you to connect more than in a bigger environment.” This viewpoint allows them to pay attention, to see the patterns in customers, and to know how best to serve their community. With events recognizing both local authors, such as Taber Cheo and Michael Albanese, and
more well-known authors, such as Mary Kay Andrews and Latasha Morrison, Scholar & Scribe aspires to draw those who bond over the written word together.
Driven not only by their passion for books, the three owners craved to create a place that fosters literacy to the benefit of not only the thirteen children shared between them but also the many kids who live and play in the community. They recognize the influence books have on a person’s character and strive to curate a collection that will enrich the lives of customers of all ages.
Through storytime programs occurring on Tuesdays at 10 AM, author visitations, such as one from Bob Goff; “Stuffy Sleepovers,” where kids can drop off their stuffed animals for a night, and an extensive kids’ section within the bookstore, they aim to inspire children to find identity in the characters within their stories and in themselves while concurrently instilling a love for reading. Carmen said reading “makes children feel very accomplished in finishing something.” This notion proves factual time and time again as children continue to grow empowered in their knowledge, their abilities, and their achievements.
When asked about their favorite children’s book, Tela stated hers is Goodnight Moon , a simple and poetic work that lends a new layer to unravel with every read, while Carmen said hers are the What Was…? books, which enable a whole new perspective on the subjects.
To learn more about events, exclusive memberships for both adults and children, and all things Scholar & Scribe, visit their website, scholarandscribe.com
“I feel like there’s an intimacy to a local bookstore that allows you to connect more than in a bigger environment.”
Carmen said reading “makes children feel very accomplished in finishing something.”
This notion proves factual time and time again as children continue to grow empowered in their knowledge, their abilities, and their achievements.
ARTICLE BY CHAN SUTO | PHOTOGRAPHY
FAYETTE PHILHARMONIC YOUTH ORCHESTRA WORKS TO CONVEY ALL THE EMOTION, DRAMA, CONTRAST, AND SHAPE OF THE MUSIC.
Conductor James Hagberg
BEAUTIFUL MUSIC
BY SALINA KORN
On Monday nights you will find the Fayette Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (FPYO) rehearsing with Conductor James Hagberg. A retired high school orchestra director, Hagberg sends his baton flourishing in the air with rhythmic beats, push-
“HONESTLY,
Growing up in Sioux City, Iowa, Hagberg spent hours at a music store with row after row of conductor scores. Later, when he listened to the radio at home, he realized that he had seen the same music at the store. He could identify the symphony being played as well
I CAN’T IDENTIFY WHAT ALL THAT MAGIC IS.”
ing and pulling puffs of air as a wizard might with his magical wand, drawing out harmonizing sounds from his young musicians to make the music come alive.
On stage, he is an authority figure with a certain mystique. Hagberg is self-effacing, “Honestly, I can’t identify what all that magic is,” but conceded that, “Some conductors have that special charisma, and I don’t think that you can teach that. It’s just natural.”
During FPYO rehearsals, Hagberg is goal-focused, preferring to zero in on a few sections that are musically challenging rather than technically challenging. AÂ passage that is difficult to play can be surmounted by intentional practice with applied techniques, but a musically challenging passage requires careful attention to the flow and phrasing of the music, which often trips up the younger players.
as when each section of the orchestra would come in next.
Before coming to teach in Peachtree City, James Hagberg was known as Maestro Hagberg for 21 seasons as the conductor and co-founder of the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra in Lake Jackson, TX. His passion for conducting began in junior high when he felt an intense calling to follow a career path that would connect him to musicians, composers, and audiences for a lifetime.
After earning his Bachelor of Music in violin performance from Morningside College, he completed his Master of Music from Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. His teacher and mentor, Samuel Jones, “taught me more about music than I thought possible, and instilled in me that ability that sets me off from other conductors.” Jones counseled Hagberg to not listen
CONTINUED >
to the recordings of other people’s performances when he was learning how to conduct a music piece.
As Hagberg regales his many experiences in conducting, one can’t help but admire his gusto for the art. It is shaped by the conductor’s understanding and interpretation of the composer’s work. The selection of music pieces to perform is an important consideration because the capabilities of an ensemble have to be assessed to offer a successful performance.
Hagberg is also a composer writing anthems for his church, Christ Our Shepherd Lutheran Church (site of FPYO rehearsals and concerts). The composition that is most dear to him is Elegy, a piece he wrote in memory of his sister, Susan, who passed away in 1996. After her death, Hagberg kept hearing a melody with a specific harmony over and over again in his head. In 2001, he was able to finally pen the score and performed it at his last concert with the Brazosport Symphony Orchestra.
In 2010, Hagberg’s McIntosh High School advanced string orchestra was invited to perform at Carnegie Hall. In addition to showcasing the string version of Elegy, Hagberg chose Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings. Tchaikovsky conducted it for the Hall’s inaugural concert in 1891. Attendees to the FPYO spring concert in April were treated to a performance of Elegy
Visit FPYO.org for more information and future concert dates!
LOCAL TRAINER TURNS DOGS INTO PEOPLE’S BEST BUDDIES.
My Best Buddy
ARTICLE BY SUSAN WALWORTH | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Assistant dog trainer, Becky Hall, with her beautiful therapy dog, Libby.
Dog lover, trainer, and owner, Robin Sockness with some of her best buddies.
I fell in love with him and took him home to foster.
KaeJae was a mess of a dog. Turbocharged, constantly barking, resource guarding, reactive to other dogs, door dashing –-this scruffy, black and white Jack Russell Terrier mix was adopted and surrendered five times by owners who couldn’t deal with his bad habits. Everyone had given up on him. He was only 11 months old. Fortunately, a Humane Society event reversed this sassy pup’s grim fate. There, he met Robin Sockness, who had decided to become a foster after her dog passed away. She changed his life and he changed hers.
“I fell in love with him and took him home to foster,” Robin said. Despite his issues, she adopted him three days later. Dog trainer Anne Hudson, who owned FunPups in Peachtree City, invited Robin to bring KaeJae to puppy classes. These classes introduced Robin to science-based, force-free dog training. Using clickers instead of choke chains and punishments intrigued Robin, and Anne mentored her for the next two years while Robin studied canine behavior. When Anne retired, she passed the business to Robin who named it My Best Buddy Dog Training.
Learning with Robin, the once-incorrigible Kaejae, who lived to 17 1/2, became a dog that visited nursing homes and was a role model for other dogs. “He turned out to be a great little dog,” Robin said. “This dog showed me that I had a gift. He’s the reason I became a dog trainer.”
Starting her 19th year as owner of My Best Buddy, Robin serves clients in Coweta and Fayette County. With her assistant Becky Hall, Robin teaches three classes per week for puppies less than 20 weeks old and provides private lessons for older dogs. She also
leads a Hounds Around Town group, part of canine good citizen training.
A people trainer more than a dog trainer, Robin calls herself a canine life coach. “Science tells us that dogs take two years of training before behavior becomes reliable,” she said. “We work on having a relationship with people and their pets. They can reach out to me any time of the day seven days a week. The relationship doesn’t end after formal classes or private lessons. I’m there to support them along the way.”
Robin said one of the biggest mistakes dog owners make is setting their expectations too high. “They expect too much too soon, and they’re not willing to take the time to get the results they need.” And gone are the days of whacking dogs with the newspaper. “I would love for people to understand that you do not have to use fear, pain, and intimidation to train your dog,” she said. “Dogs are so much more intelligent than we realize. They have feelings and emotions and can sense feelings and emotions in humans.”
Robin’s training methods are proactive instead of reactive—teaching dogs the right way to do something instead of punishing them for doing something wrong. “Dogs don’t have a concept of right or wrong, they just do what works for them,” she said. “It’s about building a relationship with your dog instead of thinking of them as something you have to dominate. It changes the way you think, and the dog’s going to respond much better.”
For more information about Robin or My Best Buddy Dog Training visit www.mybestbuddydogtraining.com
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EVERY 1ST AND 3RD TUESDAY
Rotary Club of Fayetteville
Fayetteville City Hall, 210 Stonewall Avenue West | 11:00 AM
Join our regular club meetings at Fayetteville City Hall. Rotary members believe that we share 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.
Team Trivia Night
Your Pie, 2015 Hwy 54 W, Unit 115, Peachtree City | 7:00 PM
Every Wednesday Night is Team Trivia hosted by quizmaster Brian Green of Greenie's Pit. Nightly prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Follow Your Pie (PTC)Â on Facebook and IG and stay connected to upcoming Trivia Tournaments. It's FREE to play! Enjoy our $1.50Â beer specials! Bring your team and win!
SATURDAY, AUGUST 3RD, 10TH, 17TH & 24TH
Fitness in the Park powered by Ultimate Fitness
City Center Park, 210 Stonewall Ave, Fayetteville | 9:00 AM
Start each Saturday in August off strong with exercise. Ultimate Fitness will be joining the City of Fayetteville to lead the class. Bring your water bottle and sneakers and get ready for an Ultimate workout. Visit www.fayetteville-ga.gov and search events.
When
Irene A. Omotoso, MD
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AUGUST 4TH
Silent Book Club
Scholar & Scribe Bookshop, 305 Trilith Pkwy, Suite 330, Fayetteville | 7:00 PM
Save your seat at our Silent Book Club on Sunday, August 4th at 7 pm for only $5! Books, beverages & snacks will be available for purchase. Pick up a new book at Scholar and Scribe, a tasty snack at Woodstone, and relish some peaceful reading time among fellow book lovers. For more info visit scholarandscribe.com and search events.
AUGUST 7TH
Cheese Please with Sweetgrass Dairy
Trilith Guesthouse, 350 Trilith Parkway, Fayetteville | 6:30 PM
Get ready to indulge in a cheesy extravaganza! Enjoy a delectable menu featuring cheeses sourced from Sweet Grass Dairy. Whether you crave sharpness or creaminess, nuttiness or butteriness, saltiness or smokiness, our multicourse dinner promises to delight. Complemented by wine pairings from the Stoller Family Estate. Tickets at eventbrite.com - search Cheese Please.
AUGUST 10TH
Kick'n Rhythm Festival
City Center Park, 210 Stonewall Ave., Fayetteville | 4:00 PM
Soccer + Music + Food + Fun - City Center Park will become soccer central as Main Street Fayetteville hosts live bands, unforgettable soccer experiences, and an epic laser show. This free event will feature soccer-themed inflatables, games, and an arcade of foosball tables, plus food and beverages, shopping, and more! For more info visit downtownfayetteville.org/events.
AUGUST 10TH
Special Needs EXPO by Southside Support
Southside Church, 1821 GA-34, Newnan | 1:00 PM
Join us at the LARGEST Special Needs EXPO on the Southside of Atlanta! 3 incredible speakers, 30 Resource Vendors, Giveaways, Complimentary Concessions. Saturday Afternoon to accommodate working parents, and, it's FREE! Register to attend at southsidesupport.org /symposium-2024
AUGUST 15TH
Lifesouth Blood Drive
The Avenue Peachtree City, 239 City Circle | 11:00 AM
There is an emergency need for blood donations. Please join The Avenue and LifeSouth to help save lives in our community! All successful donors will receive a $20 eGift card, free recognition item, and cholesterol screening. The LifeSouth donation bus will be located at the roundabout near Central Park. Walk-ups welcome but appointments are recommended. For more info visit lifesouth.org
AUGUST 15TH
Food Truck Frenzy
Kiwanis Park, 980 Redwine Rd, Fayetteville | 5:00 PM
Walton Fayetteville
Mark your calendars for dinner and join us at our Food Truck Frenzy! Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable foodie experience. There's something for everyone!
AUGUST 16TH
Night Market
Drake Field, 201 Willow Bend Rd, Peachtree City | 5:00 PM
Night Market returns for a fun night out at Drake Field. Enjoy local vendors and food trucks. Scheduled entertainment includes The Southside Band and Water to Wine. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets! For more info visit nightmarketptc.com
J. Andrew’s Bridal will make certain that your dream dress is the perfect reflection of YOU.
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AUGUST 17TH
Building Wealth Through Real Estate Planning
Keller Williams Realty, 1200 Commerce Drive, PTC | 10:00 AM
Come to our FREE "Building Wealth Through Real Estate Planning & 1031 Exchange" seminar! Learn how to build and protect wealth in real estate while mitigating taxes. Brunch will be provided. To register, go to bit.ly/81724a or call The Byrd Group at (770) 823-5786.
AUGUST 23RD
Movie in the Park - Jumanji!
City Center Park, 210 Stonewall Ave., Fayetteville | 7:00 PM
Join Main Street Fayetteville and Brightmoor Healthcare for Movie in the Park. Enjoy a family night out watching a cinema classic - Jumanji! Bring a lawn chair, a blanket, and your Hoverboard! Food and beverages are available from the nearby restaurants. For more info visit downtownfayetteville.org/events.
AUGUST 24TH
Greekfest Fayette
The Shipyard at Trilith, 125A Shepperton Way, Fayetteville | 6:00 PM
Join us for a night in Greece! Proceeds benefit local non-profits. Tickets include an all-you-can-eat Greek buffet, open bar, live music, Greek dancing, & more! Visit www.greekfestfayette.com for more info.
AUGUST 24TH
Authors Event
jandrewsbridal.com
1100 Commerce Drive Suite C
Peachtree City, GA
Scholar & Scribe Bookshop, 305 Trilith Pkwy, Suite 330, Fayetteville | 11:00 AM
Join us for a children's story time! We will be reading Zion Learns to See. The authors, Terrance Lester and Zion Lester will be at the bookshop and available to sign a copy of the book. Free with book purchase! For more info visit scholarandscribe.com and search events.
