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ON THE COVER
Fall is in full swing. The trees have turned to glorious shades of yellow, orange, and red. The evening air is crisper and even a bit chilly. It's a great season for watching football, having cookouts with family and friends, and enjoying the latest issue of We are Henry while relaxing outdoors.
50 YEARS STRONG
Bennett’s success made from hard work, faith and family.
by MONROE ROARK
The story of what is now known as the Bennett Family of Companies is the prototypical American success story. It is about how a half-century of hard work combined with an exceptional emphasis on faith and family led to the existence of one of the most successful private companies in Henry County.
The full Bennett story could not fit in this space, or even this entire publication. Here is a snapshot.
Marcia Taylor moved to Georgia as a 19-year-old mother of three with the promise of a job in the transportation industry. The man who hired her soon became her husband, and in 1974 they purchased George Bennett Truck Lines with a $150,000 line of credit, 15 trucks, 30 trailers and 2 small contracts. They then changed the name to George Bennett Motor Express.
“The day we bought Bennett, we had $500 to our name,” said Taylor. “But I had faith in God and His plans.”
The eight employees of that initial operation included her mother as well as Regina Auletta, who remains with the company to this day and whom Taylor counts as her best friend. Within a few short years, the company grew significantly.
After moving to its current location and changing the name to Bennett Motor Express, things were going well with the company when, suddenly, Taylor’s husband died in 1981. With the help of family and employees, the company continued to move forward.
“Over the years God has been so faithful,” she said. “Things have not always been easy, but I always knew that God had his hand on me, my family, and this company during those times and he would see us through no matter what the outcome.”
Today there are 14 operating companies under the Bennett umbrella, employing more than 1,100 people at various locations around the United States. Roughly 350 of those employees work at the home office in McDonough. More than 4,000 drivers – company drivers and owner-operators – work with Bennett.
The Bennett influence is seen and felt throughout Henry County, and the list of local affiliations is impressive. Taylor helped get A Friend’s House up and running more than a quarter-century ago. Her name graces the Women’s Center at Piedmont Henry
(L TO R) DAVID LOWRY (ELDEST SON), DOROTHY WHITLOCK (MOTHER), LYNETTE (LOWRY) MATHIS (DAUGHTER), MARCIA (GARRISON) TAYLOR, DANNY LOWRY (YOUNGEST SON), J.D. GARRISON (HUSBAND), 1970’S
(BACK)
BILL FORD, TOM DAVIDSON, DAVID LOWRY; (MIDDLE) BRENDA HUNT, WILLENE DANIELS, MARTHA ANN TURNER, REGINA (FOSTER) AULETTA, DOROTHY WHITLOCK; (FRONT) MARSHA NUT, BARBARA PHILLIPS, MARCIA (GARRISON) TAYLOR, AND KRISTI, 1983
J.D. GARRISON WITH SOME OF THE ORIGINAL TRAILERS PURCHASED FOR GEORGE BENNETT MOTOR EXPRESS, 1970’S.
Hospital, which houses the labor and delivery unit. (Bennett’s home office includes a separate building dedicated to nursing mothers.) Other initiatives with her fingerprints include assistance for Haven House, Connecting Henry, and various back-to-school drives and Christmas campaigns for local students.
Through the Taylor Family Foundation, 50 young people are sent to a Christian summer camp in northern Florida, where the emphasis is on fun, fellowship, and creating a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is called Camp Bennett. This year it happened the second week of July, with six campers being baptized at the end of the week.
The foundation was established in 2012 by Taylor and her husband Mike. Its stated mission is to support and provide grants
“geared toward family values, senior citizen care, and community initiatives.” Taylor and Mike are joined on the foundation’s board by their children and grandchildren, making it a true family endeavor. Among other things, the foundation matches up to $10,000 each year in employee contributions toward Bennett’s driver relief fund.
In 2010 the Outstanding Georgia Business Award went to Bennett, and in 2015 the Henry County Chamber of Commerce named the company its Business of the Year.
Taylor was named Entrepreneur of the Year by EY (formerly known as Ernst & Young) back in 1988, and in 2022 she received the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Taylor is a member of the Georgia Motor Carrier Association (GMCA) and she is a former trustee of the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation.
MARCIA TAYLOR, LYNETTE MATHIS, DANNY LOWRY, DAVID LOWRY, 1990’S
MARCIA TAYLOR, WITH GREAT-GRANDSON JONAH FOULKS, 2018
With all of the outside community involvement, Taylor remains very plugged in as far as the day-to-day operation of the business is concerned. Her three children grew up around the company, and now she is pleased to see her grandchildren involved.
“For me it has never been about the work although I enjoyed almost every minute of it,” said Taylor. “It was always about getting to work with my family and all the incredible, talented people whose stories make up the fabric of who we are as a company today. It was about seeing my children – David, Danny and Lynette – grow in the business and become such an important part of the Bennett story.”
In addition to her own family, Taylor cites a number of other second- and third-generation employees among the ranks. Bennett is one of the few family-owned businesses still standing in the trucking industry, and one of her top priorities is to continue the current success and pass it on to the next generation.
“Bennett is not just a company or a place to work,” said Taylor. “We take pride in remaining a faith-based, patriotic, woman-owned company that recognizes the value of standing strong in our beliefs. I am thankful to God for 50 years in business and trust that He will lead Bennett in the next 50 years. I am very excited for what’s to come.”
“We take pride in remaining a faith-based, patriotic, woman-owned company that recognizes the value of standing strong in our beliefs.”
Marcia Taylor
CARING FOR THE WHOLE PERSON
Medical and emotional care provided to Piedmont Henry Hospital oncology patients.
by MICHAEL BOYLAN
The American Cancer Society estimated that there were 1.9 million new cancer cases diagnosed in the United States in 2022. That is almost 5,250 people a day who hear the news and then have to navigate through diagnostic testing, various forms of treatment, and numerous other appointments. The oncology services team at Piedmont Henry Hospital, from staff members in imaging or radiation oncology, to nurses, physicians, surgeons, medical oncologists, and more, helps people every step of the way.
“Everyone with Piedmont was very comforting,” said Denise Neikirk, a Stage 0 breast cancer patient from Thomaston who completed her radiation treatment at Piedmont Henry’s radiation oncology office in Griffin in July. “They held my hand the whole way through. They were like family.”
Neikirk went for her routine annual mammogram in March and felt fine. There were no areas of concern, so she assumed all was well. Later, she was asked to come back for additional imaging and then a biopsy to examine some unusual looking cells. The news came soon after. It was Ductal Carcinoma in situ, one of three possible types of Stage 0 breast cancer.
“I was shocked,” said Neikirk. “There were no lumps or bumps. There was no discharge. It was upsetting at first, but I walked on faith. I knew God didn’t bring me here to not get me through it. I knew I was bigger than this diagnosis.”
Stage 0 breast cancer is when cancer cells are present in one or more of the breast ducts but have not spread to other areas of the breast, lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Although stage 0 breast cancer is considered non-invasive or pre-invasive, patients still need to obtain treatment to prevent the cancer from becoming invasive.
DENISE NEIKIRK
“As always, women are urged to perform self-exams and report any changes or irregularities to their doctor, but with stage 0 there would likely be no palpable lump,” said Ashwin Sheelvanth, M.D., a medical oncologist at Piedmont Henry. “That’s why it’s important for women to have routine mammograms performed annually.”
Neikirk was told her cancer was caught very early. It was all located within the duct milk gland and there was no need for a mastectomy. She had surgery in May and then began 20 fractions of radiation therapy in Griffin soon after. The location of the office couldn’t have been more convenient as it was only a short ride away from Neikirk’s home.
“They went above and beyond for me from the very beginning,” said Neikirk.” They handled my insurance, making sure I had a letter if needed. They were always so sweet and reassuring. I brought candy and cookies for them.”
Nearly two-thirds of patients diagnosed with cancer are candidates for radiation therapy, which is the careful use of high-energy radiation to target tumors or diseased areas of the body. Radiation can be used in a definitive setting with or without chemotherapy, in the pre-operative setting to shrink the cancer to optimize surgery, or in the post-operative setting to prevent recurrence of the cancer. Recently, the Stockbridge location added a new linear accelerator and a 4D CT with
respiratory gating and breath hold technology, which allows them to offer a treatment for left-sided breast cancer that can reduce the risk of heart issues later in life.
“Deep inspiration breath hold, or respiratory gating, allows the treatment to match the patient’s breathing cycle, so that the linear accelerator only delivers treatment during a specified phase of respiration,” said Kim Neisler, M.D., medical director of radiation oncology at Piedmont Henry. “This is just one way we can design treatment for each patient individually.”
CHANTAL WYNN, RADIATION THERAPIST (R.T.T.)
KIM NEISLER, M.D.
CHRISTOPHER JEAN-LOUIS, DO
Franchell Thomas, a Henry County resident, was diagnosed with left breast cancer last September. After surgery performed by Christopher Jean-Louis, DO, a breast surgical oncologist at Piedmont Henry, Thomas had chemotherapy and radiation therapy before beginning immunotherapy treatments.
“It was scary at first, because I didn’t know what to expect. I wondered if it would hurt or if I would burn,” said Thomas. “But I was excited too because every step along the way is a milestone to being close to the end and fully healed.”
Thomas also talked about the support she received from the Harbor of Hope monthly support group meeting in Piedmont Henry’s education building (second Thursdays of each month at 6:30 p.m.).
“The members of the group share advice and encouragement because they have gone through many of the same things,” said Thomas. “I believe that positivity is the best medicine. It will get you through anything. It’s important to remember to never give up, because every day is worth it.”
Piedmont Henry Hospital’s oncology program recently launched its first-ever oncology support group for patients with a cancer diagnosis. The group is facilitated by Danielle
Neal-Jones, LMSW, the outpatient oncology social worker at Piedmont Henry.
“This group aims to provide a way for someone to get what they need, whether that’s advice, answers, encouragement, or just someone to listen,” said Neal-Jones. “The members of the group will often lead discussions, providing terrific insight and support.”
By not dividing the group based on a cancer diagnosis, members will find commonalities in their journeys and gain a better understanding of oncology.
“When you are receiving treatment or recovering from cancer, there is a lot of information coming at you from all directions,” said Dr. Sheelvanth. “Having peers to help you navigate through this challenging time is very important. This group can be a sounding board, a safe space to process complicated emotions, and a resource to find answers to questions you may have.”
The Piedmont Henry Oncology Support Group will meet from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of every month in the Education Building on the hospital campus.
For more information about oncology services at Piedmont Henry, visit piedmont.org/cancer.
“It’s important to remember to never give up, because every day is worth it.”
Franchell Thomas
Feeling Renewed
Finding Joy in Unexpected Ways
by PETO FALLAS
On our recent trip to Costa Rica, my wife and I were eager to escape the daily grind and immerse ourselves in the beauty of my native country. We’d spent the past few days exploring rainforests, relaxing on sandy beaches, and indulging in the local cuisine. But, despite the stunning scenery, the everyday stresses of life back home still lingered in my mind.
The morning we were leaving, we decided to take a walk on the beach. We spotted something unusual among the sunrise joggers and people doing yoga. There, weaving his way through, was a man impersonating none other than Captain Jack Sparrow. His sentences were a bit incoherent, and he was selling mushrooms (not sure what kind). His walking style resembled someone who was still finding his sea legs.
Beside him trotted a small dog just happy to be next to pseudo-Captain Jack Sparrow. The dog’s name was FlechaSpanish for “arrow” - a fitting name for such a lively companion. Together, they looked like they’d just sailed off a movie set and washed up on the Costa Rican shore.
“Jack” approached us with the dramatic flair of a seasoned performer, his exaggerated stagger accentuated by the occasional spin or flourish. “Pura Vida!” he called, raising his hand as though tipping an imaginary hat. “Ye be lookin’ a little lost, like a ship without a compass. Do you all know where did the rum go?” he asked. My wife and I exchanged amused glances, as we both burst out laughing.
Next to us was an abandoned boat from the city of Puntarenas, Costa Rica, stagnant and close to shore.
“Fear not,” Jack continued, slurring his words in perfect imitation of the famous pirate, “for Captain Jack Sparrow and his trusty crew be here to save ye from the doldrums of daily life!”
He wobbled forward, pretending to size us up like we were potential recruits for his imaginary ship. He then climbed onto the abandoned boat with Flecha, who meanwhile, wagged his tail so fast it was a blur, occasionally letting out a playful bark that sounded more like a joyful exclamation than anything else.
Jack then pulled out an invisible compass, squinting at it as if it held the secrets to the universe. “Aye, it points to what ye seek most,” he said, his eyes darting between us and Flecha. “And today, it seems to point… to laughter!”
At that, Jack spun around, tripped over his own feet in a slapstick fall, and landed perfectly on his knees with a dramatic flourish, his arms outstretched. Flecha jumped on his back, barking triumphantly, his little chest puffed out like he was the fiercest pirate on the beach.
We were laughing so hard that tears streamed down our faces. It wasn’t just that Jack was funny — it was the sheer joy and ridiculousness of the moment. In those few minutes, the weight of work deadlines, emails, complicated ocular cases, and all the little worries that had followed us on vacation faded away. My wife’s laughter was pure and unrestrained, and I hadn’t seen her smile like that in weeks.
Captain Jack Sparrow, with his mismatched costume and mischievous dog, had managed to do something that no amount of beautiful scenery or relaxation could - he made us forget everything but the here and now.
Before he left, Jack gave a grand bow, Flecha following suit with a playful leap into the air. “Remember, mates,” Jack said with a wink, “laughter be the finest treasure. Guard it well.”
As Jack and Flecha strolled down the beach, our laughing continued. That simple encounter had turned our day, and maybe even our whole trip, into something more than just a vacation.
As usual I was able to capture the moment with a photograph. It was a reminder of the power of laughter - a brief, joyful escape from the world that leaves everything feeling a little bit lighter.
We walked away with a newfound appreciation for the moment, knowing that sometimes, all it takes is a man pretending to be a pirate and his spirited little dog to remind us of what’s truly important. Laughter, after all, is the simplest, most powerful gift we can give each other - and it doesn’t cost a thing.
Above the Net’s impact on the youth tennis community.
by SAVANNAH SCHOFIELD
When one thinks about sports their family and friends could participate in, a litany of ideas come to mind. However, individuals overlook many sports due to the lack of exposure to them, either in the media or in real life. One of these underrated sports is tennis.
Above the Net is a program that aims to expand youth participation in the sport and further popularize it among local communities. Brenda Gant, one of the founders of Above the Net, explains that although many other sports are promoted to children, there has been a lack of attention towards tennis.
Gant states there is an exceptional amount of college scholarship funding available for tennis players, and one of the main goals of Above the Net is to expand local youth participation in the sport. Playing tennis, according to Gant, can also provide good practice for children to learn healthy lifestyle habits.
Above the Net has achieved many goals since its founding; Gant is proud of everything the program has accomplished thus far. In 2023, Above the Net was named Member Association of the Year by the Georgia branch of the United States Tennis Association. Recently, Above the Net started conducting “pop-up tennis” events in partnership with venues such as Tanger Outlets in Locust Grove. Above the Net received an innovation grant in order to run this event; the goal of “popup tennis” is to provide families with quick and easy access to tennis practice. By setting up tennis courts in areas where parents bring their children, Above the Net is able to encourage kids to give the sport a try.
Gant explains that Above the Net is also partnered with the Shaquille O’Neal Boys and Girls Club, which allows the organization to offer free tennis practice to the children within that program. If parents are interested in signing their children up for this program but have any concerns about transportation, Above the Net is able to work with family members to provide ways for children to attend practices.
Brenda Gant and the other founders, Caniece Hollywood and Monica Johnson, have worked diligently to ensure the sport of tennis reaches as many children in this community as possible. Above the Net will continue to work hard to promote tennis and provide access to this fantastic sport to as many individuals as possible.
Visit abovethenettennis.org for more information on how to get your child involved.
“Learning tennis as a youth sets the foundation for many life lessons such as, relationship-building, sportsmanship, problem-solving, and overall enjoyment.”
Monica Johnson
STAYING ACTIVE
Tony Carder Launches TruNorth Pest Control.
by MIKE BOYLAN
Tony Carder is well-known in Henry County. He got his start with Active Pest Control when his father launched the business in 1985, has served as the CEO of Clean Earth Sanitation, and opened several businesses on the McDonough square, including Crust & Craft. In 2019, Carder sold Active Pest Control and focused more on his businesses in McDonough. In June, he got back into the pest control business, serving as the CEO of TruNorth and working with his children, Cody, 24, and Kayleigh, 22.
“They grew up in the business, like I did, and wanted to get involved,” said Carder. “They like working with our customers and building relationships.”
Pest control is not a business for the squeamish, but Carder and his kids aren’t bothered by any of the critters they encounter. TruNorth focuses on integrated pest management techniques, meaning that their approach combines prevention, monitoring, and targeted approaches to dealing with insects, rodents, or wildlife.
“Our goal is to find long-term solutions,” said Carder. “We also aspire to have minimal impact on the environment.”
TONY CARDER
The products TruNorth uses are environmentally friendly and safe to be around household pets. In addition to handling rodents or wildlife, TruNorth can help manage termite infestation, as well as termite, mosquito, and tick control.
As the weather gets colder, wildlife and rodents will start looking for ways inside to get warm. Carder urges folks to call for a visual inspection of the property and stresses that Saturday appointments are available. Among the services provided are crawl space encapsulation, pest essentials, which covers pest control for up to a half-acre, and a superhero package that is all inclusive and covers everything from bedbugs and carpenter bees to silverfish, cockroaches, mice, and more.
For Carder, serving the community comes down to a desire to treat residents in the community like family.
“It’s important for us to view the community like a tribe, where we all take care of each other and look out for each other,” said Carder. This idea has led him and his family to be very civic oriented and community minded. He is excited to be able to care for his friends and neighbors this way.
Carder served the community for 34 years with Active Pest Control and he knows that TruNorth will bring the same best practices and culture that made them successful for such a long time. The secret to success is building those relationships and strengthening them over time with outstanding customer service and care. The staff of TruNorth knows the importance of ensuring that the root of the problem is addressed effectively to prevent future infestations.
When an uninvited, creepy crawly guest enters your home, Carder urges you not to panic and simply pick up the phone and call 678-325-7770 or go online and visit trunorthpest.com.
“Whatever it is you are dealing with, we’ll take care of it one hundred percent,” said Carder. “We may have a new name, but we are not new to the business or the community.”
“Whatever it is you are dealing with; we’ll take care of it one hundred percent.”
Tony Carder
REWARDING POSITIVITY
Making an impact on and off the field.
by MICHELLE FLOYD
Athletes are often faced with intense competitions, losing games and stressful situations, and one organization wants to recognize students who can shine outside of that.
“About 98 percent of kids who play high school sports won’t go on to play in college, but they all will go on to be productive members of society,” says Ryan Pederson, vice president of Positive Athlete, an organization started by him and his father Scott more than 10 years ago to recognize students for their character. “Most athletes retire by age 35, so what are you bringing to society after that — what are you doing in the world after that?”
The Positive Athlete organization named its Regional Award Winners for the South Atlanta Region earlier this year, recognizing nearly 30 students in boys and girls high school sports, as well as two coaches and Ola High School, as the Most Positive in their categories. Of those, 13 students are from Henry County.
“Henry County is one of the most supportive school systems,” Pederson said, adding that they received 6,800 nominations from 400 schools across the state. “They have adopted it and decided that it’s something they want to celebrate.”
Ola High School in McDonough was named the Most Positive High School in the region after multiple nominations.
“Our coaches work consistently to instill these character traits in our student athletes and not simply athletic skills. They then take the time to recognize and honor our athletes when they exemplify these traits,” says Beau Edwards, athletic director at
Ola High School, which has been honored the last two years. “By celebrating those who maintain a positive attitude, support their teammates, and uphold the values of respect and perseverance, this award reinforces the importance of personal integrity in sports. It encourages all students to strive for excellence both on and off the field, fostering a culture of positivity and inclusivity within the school community.”
Hampton High School Tennis coach Erica O’Neal nominated senior Travis Swain Jr. for the award.
“He’s a natural leader — everyone looks to him like he’s a little hero, helping them out if they’re struggling,” she says, adding that he also will set up group chats and often shuts down teasing. “He always finds something positive to say to people on the team, even to parents, and even when we lose, he finds a way to say or do something positive.”
Swain started playing tennis his freshman year after not being a very athletic child and struggled at first, but he attended daily practices, came early and stayed late, asked questions and enlisted outside help to gain better skills.
“(The award) is a testament to the work I put in,” says Swain, who works at Chick-fil-A in McDonough and also is the drum major. “I definitely want to go out with a bang and leave a good impact on some younger students, showing them that no matter what it is, you can achieve virtually anything if you put in the work and have the work ethic.”
“By celebrating those who maintain a positive attitude, support their teammates, and uphold the values of respect and perseverance, this award reinforces the importance of personal integrity in sports.”
Beau Edwards
Cooper Nunnally, a senior at Strong Rock Christian School who was nominated for boys Lacrosse by his school’s athletic trainer, is a natural competitor, also playing football since he was 4-years-old. He says it’s easy to get down when the team is losing but knows he has to keep his head up to keep moving forward.
“It makes it a lot easier when you’re on the field with your friends,” notes Nunnally, who has played sports with many of his teammates since he was younger and likes to go out to eat with them after practices and games.
The application window for the Positive Athlete Award opens each September and usually runs through the beginning of April. Adults like coaches, teachers and parents can nominate students in public and private schools for free.
“Our goal is to recognize who they are as people, whether they are giving back to the community or overcoming difficult circumstances or just being a really great kid,” Pederson explains. “They could be one of the best players or they could just be one of the participants.”
KEENAN GRAY
DELANEY GOSART
TRAVIS SWAIN
COOPER NUNNALLY, PHOTO CREDIT: EMILIETPHOTOGRAPHY
A MYSTERY of LOVE
Letters sent to the Heritage Park Veterans Museum.
by TERRY MCAFEE
From its conception, the Veterans Museum at Heritage Park in McDonough has been the home and showplace for veterans and their loved ones – given the opportunity to share memorabilia and personal belongings in an effort to establish a larger than life personal and meaningful connection with the museum.
Veterans Museum curator Jim Joyce shared an interesting story of sealed cards and flowers being left each Memorial Day over the past 8+ years in remembrance of Sgt. Soltow. The envelopes have the handwritten words “My Precious Daddy” and remain sealed to this day.
“Not knowing the words written on the cards inside will remain the mystery,” says Jim. The death of a soldier killed in action is indeed a sacred and somber event. The soldier gets deployed to a place far away and is going to be placed in immediate danger. His family is left behind to deal with the anxiety of the life they now have apart from one another. This emotional rollercoaster suddenly turns to the hardened truth that their life has been permanently altered by the words ‘killed in action’… and this loss of life will be full of what could have and should have been if only this hadn’t happened. The Soltow family tree will be forever altered and future generations will be challenged.
It certainly makes sense these cards are from his daughter, who only knew him for a short while, or perhaps not at all, before he was killed in action November 17, 1965. Perhaps the message inside is simply a thank you for being her daddy and love for the life she has because of him. His blood will flow in some measure for generations to come. A simple reminder to her precious daddy that he is still with her every day and always. It is moments like this that help us understand more clearly the value of honor, pride, devotion, sacrifice and endless love.
Veterans Museum
Heritage Park 101 Lake Dow Rd
McDonough, Ga 30252
“Not knowing the words written on the cards inside will remain the mystery.”
Jim Joyce
Mr. Richard Storer
A time-honored craftsman.
by AROLUE FLEMMEN PRATER
Remember the vintage Timex commercial adage of “It takes a licking and keeps on ticking”?
The same can be said of 90-year-old clock repairman/maker Richard Storer, who lives in Hampton with his daughter. Like the 1960s commercial, this experienced repairman/maker “keeps on ticking” by servicing hundreds of clocks and watches with meticulous care. Once owning and operating a small shop in Jonesboro, Storer now does his handiwork in the upstairs attic of his home.
Storer grew up in Kansas and served in the Navy from 1952 until 1974. While stationed at the Naval Air Station in New Orleans he became interested in clocks through a friend who was also stationed with him and who collected clocks. Later, while stationed in California working on jet engines and ejection seats, he saw a magazine advertisement for a watch repair course. Through this correspondence course, Storer was taught how to repair watches.
Through the last 60 years, this experienced clockmaker has lost count of just how many clocks he has made and has recently begun numbering them; he is presently working on number 37. Number 36 can be seen in Gray’s Jewelers and Optical Workshop near the McDonough town square, and it is an excellent display of Storer’s talent in making clock cases. Besides working and servicing local customers’ and relatives’ clocks, he has also built cases for them.
“Older clocks are better constructed, need less repair, and last much longer than those clocks that are presently built.”
Richard Storer
Storer states that older clocks are better constructed, need less repair, and last much longer than those clocks that are presently built. For those needing repair, however, he is quite adept at making unavailable parts for these old clocks. In his shop, there are various machines and tools that are used to make these old clock parts. The oldest clock he has cleaned and oiled was built in 1737.
There is a distinction between clocks - those that have no chime or strike are called timepieces; those that chime and strike are called clocks. Clocks that are weight-driven are more accurate than spring-driven models.
He believes the American-made pocket watches are a work of art and that they were the best ever made. These timepieces were worn particularly by the railroad workers for precise time-keeping.
But with the introduction of the wristwatch in the years leading up to World War I, pocket watch usage waned.
Eager to pass along to others his knowledge of this unique and needed clock repair/making business, Storer meets with a group of men who desire to be clock makers as well. Every Wednesday this small assembly meets at Storer’s residence to discuss problems arising in dealing with old clocks. On the last Thursday of every month others with similar interests also meet in Fayetteville.
Storer’s love for one of the oldest mechanical devices known is evident throughout his home. At present, seven of the time pieces are proudly displayed. Four of these were crafted by this master which exhibit his love for making and repairing these treasured pieces.
There are few expert clock technicians who diligently and carefully apply their knowledge and love to this special repair art. Such qualities are found in Storer. The community is indeed fortunate to have such a clock and watch repairman. It is hoped that this master clock repairman keeps on ticking for quite a while longer!
ADVENTURES IN Authorship
The story of Dr. Andrea Carter’s “Pretty Pops” book series.
by MONROE ROARK
Dr. Andrea Carter may have settled into her retirement home in Henry County, but she is far from being retired.
The career educator has embarked on a new venture in recent years that allows her to “stay in the conversation,” as she put it, on a topic that is near and dear to her heart – student literacy.
“We have had students who have issues with literacy as long as I’ve been in education, which is more than 30 years,” she said. “I wanted to stay in the conversation not by being in the classroom, but by providing tools that can be used in the classroom.”
In 2017 she authored and published her first “Pretty Pops” book, aimed at elementary students. The title character is an 8-year-old girl, and the name came from the nickname Dr. Carter gave her youngest daughter, now 22, when she was a child.
Dr. Carter’s storytelling is complemented by plenty of colorful illustrations that help young readers imagine themselves in Pretty Pops’ shoes. Relatability, inclusivity and diversity are among the things that make these books different, according to Dr. Carter.
There are currently eight books in the Pretty Pops series, and the writer plans to expand her repertoire to include books aimed at other ages from middle school students through young adults. The goal is to get young people to read and enjoy it.
“The biggest thing is that students need to have texts they are interested in,” she said. “Our reading scores have dropped to a 30-year low, and we have yet to get back to pre-COVID levels.
School leaders are trying to figure out what to do because students were out of the classroom for a couple of years. They have never seen this before.”
Having been an award-winning teacher as well as a school administrator, and taken part in boards and committees that decide which books an entire school district will make available, Dr. Carter has exactly the kind of experience that allows her to stay in the game when it comes to helping young people read. She started her own publishing company and plans to take her books across the United States.
For more information about Dr. Andrea Carter and her body of work, visit prettypopsworld.com.
“I wanted to stay in the conversation not by being in the classroom, but by providing tools that can be used in the classroom.”
Dr. Andrea Carter
“My main inspiration is the beauty found in everyday objects.”
Yasna Grainger
An Affinity for Acrylics
Yasna Grainger’s newfound passion for creating paintings.
by SAVANNAH SCHOFIELD
Creating art is something that does not come naturally to everyone, but sometimes, the urge to get creative can bring forward beautiful results. McDonough resident Yasna Grainger has not been an artist her entire life, but she has found a calling in working with acrylic paint. Acrylic, according to Grainger, is “her favorite medium due to its forgiving nature.” Grainger does not only paint with acrylics, however; she also creates mixed media art pieces, junk journals, and works with watercolors. When speaking with Grainger, she stated that she was shocked to be contacted for this article, since she did not consider herself an artist. However, Grainger has proven that “art” can mean whatever you want it to mean. Last year, Grainger began posting her works of art on her personal Facebook page. Although none of the posts had detailed descriptions, many individuals contacted her wanting to
purchase her work. People are able to connect personally with Grainger’s art and attach sentimental meaning to every painting she puts out.
In July 2023, Grainger began posting her works online. By the end of the year, she had already sold one hundred paintings. This explosive growth goes to show that one should not doubt their own artistic ability; there will always be someone in the world who will relate to your artwork. Grainger states that her main inspiration is “the beauty found in everyday objects –from the texture of old papers to the delicate elegance of dried flowers, and the vibrant hues that can transform a blank canvas into a magical piece of art.”
Grainger’s most popular works have been done around Christmas Time. During this season, Grainger creates many paintings of cardinal birds. She says that these birds are one of her favorite things to paint because of their spiritual meaning: “When people see [cardinals] it is a divine message. They remind people of loved ones that they have lost.” Whether people are buying these paintings for themselves or as gifts for people they know, their emotional connection to her work is incredibly special for Grainger. She explains that her artistic journey is “rooted in her family’s artistic legacy,” especially influenced by the matriarchs who have painted through each generation. Now, being able to pass on her work to other families is extremely special.
Yasna Grainger’s beautiful paintings range from canvases as small as two inches wide to larger, 5"x7" canvases. If you or anyone you know would like to view or purchase one of Grainger’s unique pieces of art, she can be found on Facebook at YG Studio.
AN OPTIMAL OPTICAL MISSION
Carson Wicks and his family’s missionary story.
by SAVANNAH SCHOFIELD
Summer break provides plentiful time for students to rest before the upcoming school year. While this is a common occurrence for children in our country, many children and families around the globe aren’t able to relax in the same ways we are. Through the work of missionaries who take trips around the world, help is available to many different communities.
Carson Wicks, an eighth-grade student at Creekside Christian Academy, participated in an extremely helpful missionary trip
over his summer break. In a village near Lima, Peru, Wicks and his family, along with other missionaries, provided free medical and optical services to people in the community. Individuals were given eye exams in the optical clinic in order to receive a new pair of glasses which were fitted on the patients to ensure they were perfectly comfortable. Wicks explains that they were able to accomplish this by partnering with a local church.
During the trip, lasting just ten days, care was provided to 2,861 patients, according to Wicks. Five of the days were spent in the medical and optical clinics, and Wicks states, “the other days were spent traveling, setting up and preparing for the clinics, and visiting some local sites.” This kind of care is crucial, and being able to provide individuals with optical care that they would not otherwise be able to receive is an amazing accomplishment.
When asked about what he learned during his mission trip, Wicks says, “I learned there are very needy people in this world who don’t get to have what we have in America.” While helping people get their prescriptions and new pairs of glasses, Wicks was greatly impacted by the joy and gratitude of every patient. He explains that this experience helped him recognize he should be grateful for everything he has.
Wicks provided some photos from his time on his mission trip, showcasing the new, strong connections he made during his time in the village. As summer comes to a close and the holiday season begins, we should all keep Carson Wicks and his family’s story in mind, and strive to give back to those in need.
“It was great to see how grateful the patients were after they received their glasses because they needed them so much.”
Carson Wicks
“It is a good way to help provide leadership in the community.”
Gavin Bradley
LEARNING LEADERSHIP SKILLS IN YOUTH
Gavin Bradley’s work within the Stockbridge Youth Council.
by MONROE ROARK
Gavin Bradley is taking advantage of numerous local leadership opportunities while still in high school.
The Community Christian School junior excels in the classroom and takes part in the school’s sports program in addition to being active at his church. A year ago, he added another activity to his resume with his selection to the Stockbridge Youth Council.
An initiative spearheaded by Stockbridge officials at City Hall, the Youth Council is described on the city’s website this way: “The Youth Council is a dynamic team that amplifies the voices and experiences of young people and leverages their expertise, energy, and ideas to promote Stockbridge’s vibrancy and diversity. The Youth Council will provide advice to and actively engage with the city officials and the local community.”
Gavin, 16, has been at CCS since preschool. He saw the Youth Council as an excellent way to expand his community involvement.
“I just thought it would look really good on my college applications, and a good way to be more of a leader and an example,” he said.
He was nominated by his school counselor, and he got two recommendations from a teacher and his youth pastor. From there, he went with other applicants to City Hall to be interviewed by members of the Stockbridge City Council.
“I was surprised and happy that he was able to get recommendations for the council,” said Trisha Bradley, Gavin’s mother. “When we went into the interview, there were a number of candidates. It was not something he was guaranteed to get because quite a few people went through the process.”
His tenure on the Youth Council began in August of 2023 and he can remain a member until he graduates from high school. The group meets at City Hall once a month to discuss upcoming events and ways to help young people in the city.
Events are typically scheduled every month. One recent example was a book bag drive that took place just before school started in which a variety of school supplies were given to attendees.
A section of Tye Street in Stockbridge has been adopted by the Youth Council for beautification purposes, and the members meet one Saturday each month to pitch in and clean it up.
Recently the Youth Council participated in a government symposium in downtown Atlanta, where they interacted with peers from a number of other cities in Georgia.
Gavin does not have to look for ways to stay busy. He is taking two dual enrollment classes through Middle Georgia and Truett McConnell in addition to several Advanced Placement classes. After school, he takes the field with the CCS football team in the fall and the soccer team in the spring. He also serves on the student ministry leadership team at Community Bible Church.
He heartily recommends that interested students take a look at the Youth Council. “It is a good way to help provide leadership in the community.”
Digital edition
Teen seeks to mentor local youth
Malachi Project fostering community.
by ERIN LOPEZ
When asked his favorite things to do, Austin Dennard is quick to answer with basketball, gaming, and praying for others.
A freshman at McDonough High School, he is a leader both on the basketball court and off.
Austin spends much of his time reaching out to the youth in the community and encouraging them to join him at the Malachi Project, a local faith-based youth program.
Describing himself as a “man of God,” Austin states he would rather be spending time with others at the Malachi Project if he knows he is “changing lives.”
Established in 2015 by Pastor Terrell Scott and his wife Brandy, the Malachi Project serves the youth in the McDonough area, elementary to high school, by offering a safe place for them to meet after school hours. The program provides attendees a healthy snack and dinner, focused homework time, tutoring, recreational time to play games or sports, and fellowship.
“We’re fathering a generation,” said Pastor Terrell. “On a weekly basis, we impact steadily 50 children or more. Over the years we’ve seen kids get saved, changed, receive help, and then whole families have been changed because of that. As we impact the kids, then they go impact their families.”
Having been involved in the program since elementary school, Austin is now focused on being a mentor to others.
“I want to mentor the youth and help them make better decisions and life choices,” said Austin. “Just knowing the youth look up to me just helps me make greater choices and not fall into the wrong.”
Pastor Terrell stated he has seen tremendous growth in Austin over the years and feels he is already making an impact as a leader and mentor.
(L TO R) BRANDY SCOTT, TERRELL SCOTT, BROOKLYN DENNARD, SHAWANDA DENNARD AND AUSTIN DENNARD
“We teach that you can’t be a good mentor unless you are a good student first, unless you’re a good follower,” said Pastor Terrell. “Austin started to really follow and be mentored and now we’re seeing a transition where he’s becoming a mentor and being a leader, not only to our younger kids but also to the peers his age at school, and on the basketball court.”
Shawanda Dennard, Austin’s mother, shared that she has noticed Austin grow in confidence, compassion, and love for others.
“He’s my ‘Awesome Austin,’” said Shawanda. “Austin has the type of heart where he’s always rooting for the underdog. He’s always there to help people who are in need. He’s just an awesome kid.”
She expressed that The Malachi Project was everything she was looking for in a program for her children years ago and is grateful for the impact it has made in the local community.
“The Malachi Project instills faith in our kids. The program teaches self-love, self-forgiveness, self-worth and, in addition, they teach the youth how to love one another,” said Shawanda. “For me, that’s everything because it means a better tomorrow and hope for the youth and their future. The Malachi Project wants to change lives for the better. They want to be that village for the youth.”
Austin hopes to one day play in the NBA, but stated he will plan to always be actively involved in The Malachi Project, the organization that has helped shape him into the young man he is today.
“When I go to the NBA, I want to help this program even more,” said Austin. “I want to give back to the community.”
The Malachi Project has big plans Fall 2024, with the opening of The Malachi House, located at 312 Rogers Street in McDonough, allowing them to impact a greater number of youths in the community.
“Austin has the type of heart where he’s always rooting for the underdog.”
Shawanda Dennard
WHAT’S COOKING
Italian Cream Cake
Mystery surrounds its origin, but it remains a dessert favorite.
Recipe by AMY WATKINS
Despite its name, the Italian Cream Cake may have roots in Texas… or is it Canada?
It is said that the first record of the Italian Cream Cake is in 1913 in Canada, while the first known publication of the recipe is the Plano News in Texas. It’s believed to be the creation of an Italian baker who moved to the United States. Whatever the story, the Italian Cream Cake is a classic.
Here, Amy Watkins, known for her tasty sweet treats at her Daisy Mae Bakery inside Thompson’s Market in McDonough, shares her version of the classic Italian Cream Cake – a favorite among her customers who buy countless slices each month.
Ingredients
• ½ cup vegetable shortening
• 2 cups sugar
• 5 large eggs, at room temperature, separated
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans
Cake Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Grease three 9-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
In large bowl, mix vegetable shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each yolk addition. Scrape down the bottom and sides of the bowl.
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and the baking soda.
Add to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Add the vanilla, coconut, and pecans.
In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites to form a firm peak but not beaten dry.
Fold the egg whites into the cake batter.
Divide the batter evenly among the three cake pans.
Bake for 24 to 27 minutes.
Remove cakes from the oven and let cool in the pans for 10 to 15 minutes.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
• 1 stick butter, softened
• 2 8-ounce blocks of cream cheese, softened
• 4–5 cups sifted powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and cream cheese, mixing well.
Add in the powdered sugar in small amounts at a time, scraping down the bottom and sides of the bowl once or twice between additions.
Add vanilla and beat well.
Cream Cheese Frosting Directions
Spread onto layers and sides of cake one layer at a time, stacking cakes on top of each other as you go.
Top with chopped pecans and coconut.
Store in refrigerator.
The Preferred VASCULAR GROUP
It’s Not Limb Sparing… It’s Life Sparing:
One patients encouraging journey with Preferred Vascular
by MONROE ROARK
Vivian Farrington was told by a number of people, including some medical professionals, that leg amputation was the only solution to what ailed her.
She refused to settle for that. Thanks to The Preferred Vascular Group, she received treatment that solved the problem and allowed her to keep her legs.
Farrington’s difficulties began with an injury two years ago. Her podiatrist, wanting to make sure her legs would heal rapidly and completely, recommended a screening that she said is similar to an ultrasound.
That was performed by Dr. Shrenik Shah at Preferred Vascular’s Southwest Atlanta location. After looking at the results, he invited Dr. Victor Njoku to do the same. Dr. Njoku believed that he had a procedure that could help.
“He performed a procedure where he actually went into my veins and dissolved the blockages, which increased the blood flow to my legs and my feet so I would not end up with amputation,” said Farrington.
The procedure was done twice, once for each leg. The first one was in 2023 and the second one was earlier this year.
“The areas that needed to be healed are healed now to the point that I am not in danger of having amputations anymore,” she said. “They are healing completely and I can get around.”
Before the procedures, Farrington was in a great deal of pain. Part of her lack of mobility was due to the fact that she previously lost her Achilles’ tendon in one leg. She was told there was nothing which could be done for her long-term health except amputation.
“But I chose not to go that way because I wanted somebody to try to fix it,” she said.
The 71-year-old Fulton County resident is currently still in a wheelchair, but expects to improve upon that in the near future. She can use a walker now and her goal is at some point to be able to walk with a cane.
“Up until my left leg healed, I wasn’t able to walk at all,” she said. “My podiatrist, Suzette Clements, DPM said I could not walk without an Achilles’ tendon, but we would see how the leg heals and if it works out great, I would be able to get up and move around.”
Either way, she has proven to herself that it is not necessary to have either of her legs amputated and spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.
“It was my pleasure taking care of Ms. Farrington using the latest advanced endovascular techniques. Wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.”
Victor Njoku, M.D. Vascular Surgeon
The leg procedures are completed, but Farrington is still under Preferred Vascular Group’s care. She is a regular dialysis patient, and Dr. Njoku inserted an artificial vein in her arm for dialysis purposes. She returns to PVG’s offices whenever she has a problem with it as well as for regular checkups every three or four months.
Not surprisingly, she is thrilled at the success of her recent medical treatment and what it has prevented.
“I had friends and even other doctors say that once somebody tells you that you need an amputation it is very hard not to get one,” she said. “You just have to have the right support. I think the right support comes from doctors who will tell you what can be done besides the one thing everybody else says.”
JOHN T. PERRY, MD CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER MEDICAL DIRECTOR NORTHWEST ATLANTA
Preferred Vascular Group has four locations in the metro Atlanta area – northeast, northwest, southeast and southwest –as well as one in Macon. Their areas of expertise include arterial disease, dialysis access care, fibroid care, venous disease, endovenous laser treatment, stents and embolization, vascular access management, vein ablation, and vein mapping.
For more information, visit preferredvasculargroup.com.
SHRENIK SHAH, MD MEDICAL DIRECTOR SOUTHWEST ATLANTA
MD, PHD MEDICAL DIRECTOR NORTHEAST ATLANTA
DENISE SMITH,
TIPS
FOR Supporting Young Athletes in Non-Traditional Sports
How to ensure safety in dance, gymnastics, and other unique sports.
When it comes to athletic training, the demands of sports like football or basketball are well-known. However, there are other sports, often less traditional, where young athletes push their bodies to the limit, requiring certified athletic trainers (ATs) to adopt specialized approaches.
Dance and gymnastics are prime examples of such unique sports. These activities demand not only extensive training hours, but also physical capabilities that far exceed those required by traditional sports, placing distinctive stress on young athletes' developing bodies.
Pediatric athletic trainers at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, design programs tailored to the specific activities child and teen athletes are engaged in. It's crucial for parents to play an active role in ensuring their child adheres to these programs, as consistency is key to both performance enhancement and injury prevention. Encouraging children to stick to their prescribed routines and avoid any activities that could impede their recovery or development is essential.
Safety is a top priority in any sport, but it's especially critical in sports like dance and gymnastics, where the risks can be higher due to the physical demands and complexity of the movements. ATs often conduct pre-screening tests to assess whether a child is physically ready to advance in their sport. These screenings are essential in preventing overuse injuries and ensuring that children progress at a pace that is safe for their body.
“The support for athletic trainers in these specialized environments is not just valuable, it’s essential for the health and safety of young athletes,” said Children’s Certified Athletic Trainer Heather Prahl. “Our expertise ensure that athletes are not only able to perform at their best but also do so with the highest standards of care and injury prevention in place.”
Insight above provided by Heather Prahl, Athletic Training in the Sports Medicine Program at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Disclaimer: This content is general information and is not specific medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the health of a child. In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911.
GRACE & TRUTH
How to be Happy
A pastor’s perspective on happiness.
by PASTOR JEFF DAWS
As the pastor of my church for almost 30 years and having talked with hundreds of people, the number one comment I hear people say is, “I just want to be happy.” I have seen people try to achieve happiness in so many destructive ways. I have watched many achieve the goals they thought would bring happiness, but in the end, they felt empty. I myself have fallen prey to this kind of thinking in earlier seasons of my life. What I have found is happiness is not a destination; it is a constant choice.
So, the question is, how do you constantly choose happiness? After all I have been through in my life and experienced in the lives of so many others, it all comes down to three words. It may surprise you that they are not Money, Power, Pleasure, or Popularity.
These three words are found in the Bible: 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 NIV “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Did you catch those three doable things that will bring greater happiness? If you missed them, here they are again: Rejoice, Pray, and Give Thanks.
Rejoice
Rejoicing happens when you choose to remember and talk about the good things that have happened in your life. Many people are unhappy because they only talk about all the bad things that have happened. If you don’t like how you are feeling, watch what you say. So, stop complaining and start rejoicing. Did you know complaining is like bad breath? You only notice it when it comes out of someone else’s mouth.
Pray
Study after study shows that people who pray have more peace. Having more peace increases our sense of happiness. When we say a prayer, it makes us aware that God is there. This awareness of God’s presence gives us more peace, which leads to happiness. If you want to increase happiness, stop talking to yourself so much and talk more to God.
Thanks
Gratitude will change your attitude and how you feel about yourself and others, lifting you up when things have tried to bring you down.
If you really want to be happy, be grateful. The people who feel the greatest happiness are those who are grateful. The highest level of happiness comes from not just feeling grateful, but from expressing gratitude; that is why the Bible says to give thanks. I was meeting with a man one day when he shared something with me that got my attention. He said, “Pastor, I have been divorced twice. I didn’t want either of them.” He said that both wives told him, “I divorced you not because you did anything wrong, I just didn’t feel you loved me.” He said it shook him after he heard both of them say that.
“I love both of them very much but I never express my love or gratitude,” he said. “My silence of gratitude destroyed both of my marriages.”
Now, he is happily married because he learned from his failure to express gratitude. It is hard to be perceived as hateful when you are grateful.
One of the things that I enjoy about being a pastor in this community for so long is I get to pastor multigenerational. Many of the children have grown up and have children of their own. It never fails when I approach a mom or dad holding a baby from three months to a year old. If the baby is holding something and it falls, I will pick it up to hand it back to the child when the child puts its fingers around to hold it again. The parent always looks at the child and says, “What do you say?” The child is only three to six months old. The child can’t say anything, but the parent will say, “What do you say?” Then the parent will say, “Thank you.”
Let me ask you, what do you say when you were almost in that wreck? What do you say when everyone in your department is laid off and a new job opportunity arises? What do you say when you had a loved one very sick, and you prayed, and they got better? You say, “Thank you, God.”
Do not wait until Thanksgiving to be grateful; be grateful every day by expressing gratitude. So, what do you say? “Thank you.”
“Happiness is not a destination; it is a constant choice.”