We Are Henry - 2024 The Winter Issue

2024

MAGAZINE

the

WINTER issue

PUBLISHER & PHOTOGRAPHER

Michie Turpin

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Michelle Nunnally EDITOR

Monroe Roark GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Scott Tredeau

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

FEATURES

10 Revs Soccer Aims to Produce Successful Characterized Players 14 It’s Never Too Late to Try Something New

COMMUNITY

22 Much More Than a Garden 28 Continuing to Make a Difference 30 A Life-Saving Heart Check-Up

DEPARTMENTS 44 Nonprofit 50 Food 60 Safety Tips 64 Spiritual

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PROFILES

34 Pivotal Moments 36 Musical High Note

ON THE COVER

Special Thanks to Drip-Thru Coffee for the delicious beverage. Drive by this winter and be sure to ask for a little cinnamon.

Michael Boylan Gilbert Fields Michelle Floyd Diane Harris Ruth Hildreth Erin Lopez Arolue Flemmen Prater Monroe Roark J.M. Sylver

We Are Henry Magazine is published quarterly. All contents are copyrighted by We Are Henry, LLC. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. We Are Henry, LLC. reserves liability in error to a printed correction. We want to hear from you—call or click today. 678-770-0731, michieturpin@gmail.com facebook.com/wearehenry instagram.com/wearehenry

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The digital edition includes an assortment of stories–new and old–plus fun tips and tidbits.

F E AT U R E S

“I like the fitness level - it tests you as an athlete physically and mentally, and it’s like a community with friends.”

Markus Porter

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REVS SOCCER AIMS TO PRODUCE SUCCESSFUL, CHARACTERIZED PLAYERS Georgia Revolution FC – McDonough’s soccer club.

by MICHELLE FLOYD

Soccer coach Tim Gilbert wants his players to move on to become college — and maybe even professional — athletes one day, but more importantly, he wants them to go on to be great human beings.

Since he was young, he’s helped coach his brother, then later his son and hosts of other kids over the years. He admits that he was not the best role model to his younger brother while he was in high school and college, and eventually lost his brother.

“Why I am working this hard for these kids is that I don’t want them doing in front of their little brothers what I did; I don’t want them to go down that same path,” says Gilbert, who played soccer and basketball as a child, later moving on to be a musician. “I hope I am making a slight difference, and one day I will look at what they did and maybe I had a little something to do with it in some small way.”

In 2012, Gilbert introduced his son Joseph, who is named after his late brother, to the sport of soccer. His son kept it up, so in 2015, Gilbert started a team in the Lake Country area that helped families get into the sport more affordably than some other teams and also recruited students who may not have fit into other teams.

“Some teams can cost thousands of dollars,” admits Gilbert.

The next year, he took some of the students to a game of the Georgia Revolution — or the Revs — a soccer club based in McDonough that hosts elementary kids to adults on teams.

Eventually in 2018, his team became an affiliate of the Revs and in 2021, he started coaching with the team.

One of the topics that kept coming up was getting high school students placed on college teams with resources in place, having the students get interested in college sports and making connections to colleges early on in their youth.

2024 Winter Issue 11

F E AT U R E S KASEY NEWMAN

Now, Gilbert is the Revs’ college recruiting coordinator while also serving as a coach for a couple of Revs teams, as well as still working in Lake Country.

Over the years, he’s had students research colleges that they would be interested in attending for academics and soccer, made connections with college soccer coaches and set up clinics, showcase events and coach visits with his players, as well as scheduled college visits.

“They can see their campus, sometimes go to lunch and play with the team and the coach can see if they’re coachable,” says Gilbert, adding that only a percentage of many college soccer teams are local, with another percentage coming from out of state and another portion coming from overseas. “This is a serious thing. You’ve got to be the best of the best out there or form a relationship with the coaches early on.”

Recently, Revs students have signed on to play at Thomas University in Thomasville, Andrew College in Cuthbert, Georgia Military College in Milledgeville and Young Harris College.

“I switched to the Revs (in the 2021–2022 season) because I thought it would be a better career decision,” says Kasey Newman, who graduated from Locust Grove High School in 2023 and now plays for Andrew College while studying agribusiness. “I had an idea that I wanted to play college soccer but no idea that I was late in the process.”

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MARKUS PORTER

Both he and Revs teammate Markus Porter admit playing college soccer is more intense but they plan to stick with it during their time in college and are grateful to the Revs for helping advance their careers. They also plan to participate in Revs’ summer training sessions and also play on the adult teams.

“I like the fitness level – it tests you as an athlete physically and mentally, and it’s like a community with friends,” explains Porter, who graduated from Union Grove High School in 2023 and now plays at Thomas University while studying exercise science.

Porter, like many of the Revs players, earned scholarships and grants to play on the post-secondary teams.

“I walk them through the money part and try to help them make good decisions. I don’t want them having that devastating debt,” says Gilbert, who attended college on a small soccer scholarship himself. “It can be debilitating to these kids.”

Next year, students, including Gilbert’s son, are expected to sign at colleges like Toccoa Falls, Thomas University, Andrew College and Young Harris College, among others.

“I want to show them character, integrity and respect - they are going to go on to be fathers, teachers, preachers, politicians,” explains Gilbert. “They’re not troublemakers, but they will make mistakes, but even if they do, they own it and make adjustments to improve. You have to show you have character, not that you are a character.”

F E AT U R E S

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW Stockbridge woman becomes a self-published author.

by MONROE ROARK

For decades, Amy Iketani toyed with the idea of being a writer.

In her early fifties she decided to just go for it. The passing of her mother and a trip back to her hometown in Pennsylvania gave her the final motivation she needed, and in September of 2023 she officially became a published author.

“I started dabbling in writing probably 20 years ago but didn’t have any training and didn’t really know what I was doing,” she said. “At least it felt that way.”

She found an eight-hour writing course sold on Etsy by an established author, and it opened her eyes to what was possible.

“I listened, I took notes, and it was mind-blowing how simple she broke it down. It just made sense to me,” she said. “I had an idea stirring already, and I thought, ‘This is doable.’”

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Her attendance at a reunion in the Pennsylvania town of Erie, where she has not lived for 30 years, led her to formulate the plot for COMING HOME, a story of a successful doctor in New York who, on the night her boyfriend proposes marriage, gets a call that her mother is in a coma. She returns to Erie and, over the next few weeks, faces questions about her old relationships and whether small-town life is more desirable now than it was when she left.

Iketani recognized how difficult and expensive it can be for a new writer to get published in the traditional sense. But she did her homework and learned that self-publishing can be much simpler and less costly than most people might think.

“I was really surprised,” she said of the process that resulted in her book now being available in print and electronic formats.

The various online platforms were very user-friendly and walked her through the process from start to finish as she completed the layout and even designed the cover for her book.

“I’m really excited,” she said. “This is the way to go.”

Large retailers have been unwilling to stock the book because it is in a print-on-demand format, but she has reached out to independent bookstores beginning in McDonough and Conyers, and even up in Erie since that is the book’s setting.

That process can also take some time.

“It’s a waiting game,” she acknowledged. “As a self-published author, I am also my own publicity director.”

As far as the actual writing, Iketani credits the online course she took with giving her the knowhow to tackle what for many people would seem like an insurmountable task.

“I say go for it. Life is too short to not do what you love.”

Amy Iketani

“In the seminar I took, she explained that you keep it in your head for as long as possible. You have your setting, your characters, you know what they are going to do and say, and you know how it is going to end,” she said.

Forming an outline was a key step in organizing what would eventually be an 80,000-word story and breaking it down into bite-sized pieces.

“In Chapter 1 you want to get from Point A to Point B, so you just sit down and focus on Chapter 1,” she said. “By the time you get to Chapter 40, it is already laid out for you.”

Iketani and her family have been Henry County residents for more than 20 years, having moved from Orlando to Stockbridge just after 9/11. She spent a dozen years as a stay-at-home mom and then another dozen years in the food service industry before her mother’s death, when she knew it was time for a change.

“When my mom passed away, I wondered, ‘What now?’ Then everything just happened in the right order,” she said. “I got this idea, I went to my reunion, I took this seminar, and I thought, ‘Why not?’”

She hasn’t stopped with her inaugural book. She has recently been preparing to publish her second novel, THE LAST WISH, and it should be available now. Set in Jekyll Island, it is the story of a family in which the wife and mother wanted to spend her last days at their beach house. After her passing, the widowed father and 17-year-old son wait for some time before deciding to go back to the house.

“It talks about grief and life, how to go forward and to love again,” said Iketani.

Publishing both of these books is a dream come true for her, and her only regret is that her mother, who was her biggest supporter, was not able to see it happen.

Having made this significant career move at the age of 54, Iketani has some straightforward advice for those who want to attempt to write or do anything else the heart desires.

“I say go for it. Life is too short to not do what you love,” she said. “It’s never too late if there’s something you always wanted to do. It costs little or nothing to self-publish, and it’s something that is always going to be there. Even if 100 people read my book, it is still something I feel I accomplished.”

Check out @AmyIketaniWrites on Instagram for more information about Iketani and her writing.

2024 Winter Issue 15

ADVERTORIAL

What is the story?

The beauty of black and white photography.

by PETO FALLAS

As an eye doctor, daily I educate my patients on rods and cones.

Both are photoreceptors present in the retina, but cones are the ones that allow us to distinguish colors. Cones are a little slower, as they have more detail to process from different wavelengths.

Cones are also the main photoreceptors of our central vision.

So, let’s ask ourselves - what if we take away the heavy stuff in a photo for our cones to process? Let’s take away color and have our central vision process an image that is easier to digest. Let’s make it more simplistic, the way our lives should be, and make the photographer and the observer be more creative. As there are less

distractions, then we can focus more on the mood of the photo, and translate a better sentiment. A better story can be told.

Why do we look back at photos? To remember, to recreate a feeling of a times past and bring us into the present. Making the image timeless. Easier for the brain to digest, putting more emphasis on emotions.

Photography and nostalgia go hand in hand, and nothing will do that better than monochromatic photography.

Please enjoy some street photos from my latest trip to Montreal, Canada and ask yourself - what do you see? What is the story?

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: PETO FALLAS

COMMUNITY

M U C H T H A N

A

M O R E G A R D E N

Working towards sustainable, less expensive living.

by RUTH HILDRETH

Just a stone’s throw away from the heart of McDonough’s town square, nestled in a quaint neighborhood, lies a special place, Acorn Land Labs – a garden that embodies the essence of home, transcending the confines of mere four walls. A vision built by the team of Kemble Hildreth, Joe Hildreth and Ben Morse.

Home signifies safety, where family resides, your treasured belongings find their place, and the refuge you seek after a day’s toil in the bustling world. It’s where a faithful dog or cat eagerly awaits your return, where gardens flourish with your care, and where the laughter of children fills the air before they drift off to sleep. Home is where your spouse’s warm embrace greets you after a challenging day.

However, in the year 2023, many people who aspire to carve out their own haven face a daunting financial hurdle to homeownership. Believing a transformation is essential - a revival of houses, reimagined and reclaimed - the Hildreths and Morse built Acorn Land Labs. The land labs provide an innovative

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2024 Winter Issue 23

COMMUNITY

“The best part about it is how easily obtainable it can be with the right information!”

Kemble Hildreth blueprint that redefines the essence of home, rooted in tranquility, mindful pacing, and an intimate bond with nature. The land labs are designed to rejuvenate well-being, restore financial stability, cultivate inner peace, and are committed to creating homes of tomorrow, spaces that prioritize vitality and holistic well-being.

Step into the realm of land labs, where the worlds of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics converge with hands-on outdoor learning. Land labs, also known as outdoor classrooms, school gardens, community plots, and even homesteads, are designated areas on school, private, or community grounds used to teach a range of topics, from organic agriculture to solar energy and much more.

With the desire to cultivate understanding and explain all the options available to live with less dependence on modern day utilities and food sources, Acorn Land Labs is expanding its reach through its Live Oak education platform. Through projects like organic agriculture, composting, rainwater collection, ecological studies, methane digesters, solar energy, biochar production, and aquaponics, younger generations deepen their understanding of how science and technology can address real-world challenges while promoting sustainability in five basic areas including fresh water, local food, clean energy, sustainable shelter and green sanitation.

Beyond the educational benefits, land labs cultivate essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. By collaborating to design, build, and maintain a land lab, students develop a sense of ownership and pride in their community.

Land labs are a valuable catalyst for advancing education and fostering sustainability. By providing a hands-on, outdoor learning environment, land labs inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and environmentalists to make a positive impact on the world. Through the off-grid simulator, they demonstrate that living off-grid can be not only affordable and sustainable but also empowering, proving that the possibilities are endless! shop.liveoakcs.com Instagram - @acorn_land_labs Youtube - @acornlandlabs TikTok - @acorn_land_labs

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2024 Winter Issue 25

ADVERTORIAL

Discover a New Era of Wellness at Hands of Hope in Stockbridge!

Experience the next level of physical therapy and wellness.

Upgraded Location Alert! Say goodbye to the ordinary and hello to the extraordinary! Hands of Hope for Physical Therapy and Wellness has relocated to a stunning new facility in Stockbridge. Step into a realm of modern elegance right in the heart of the county’s medical hub, conveniently located near Piedmont Henry Hospital.

Prime Location, Exceptional Convenience! Nestled off Country Club Drive, our new facility offers more than just therapy – it’s an experience. With a panoramic view of the golf course, our state-of-the-art rehab equipment paves your journey toward wellness. Operations manager Chris Bohannon raves, “It’s conveniently located, providing easy access for an outstanding physical therapy experience in a vibrant and accessible area.”

Physician-Preferred and Patient-Centric! At Hands of Hope, we understand the importance of proximity. Dr. Shiv Patel, our lead physical therapist, notes, “Physicians refer most of our patients. Our move places us closer to the medical community, ensuring streamlined care and a faster path to recovery.”

Tailored Care for Every Stage of Recovery! Whether you’re post-joint replacement or seeking relief from neck or back pain, our expert team is here for you. Explore our 2,400-square-foot haven equipped with NordicTrack treadmills, elliptical machines, exercise bikes, and more.

Virtual Reality: Where Therapy Meets Fun! Immerse yourself in a virtual world that feels like a game but delivers practical results. The virtual reality simulator tackles balance and coordination issues with picking up an apple or reaching for a gallon of milk. It’s not just therapy; it’s a journey back to normalcy.

Your family, Your wellness! This is where you belong. Step into a world where Hands of Hope becomes your family, guiding you towards a path of wellness. Don’t miss the chance to redefine your wellness journey with compassionate care and modern physical therapy at Hands of Hope in Stockbridge!

“Call us today to schedule your transformative experience!”

Embrace the New Standard in Wellness Because Your Journey Matters.

Cutting-Edge Treatments Await You! Dr. Patel reveals, “Our treatments include therapeutic exercises, hands-on therapy, and innovative options like virtual reality simulations for balance and coordination challenges. It’s not just therapy; it’s transformation.”

BOOK NOW 827 Fairways Court 678-685-3830 www.handsofhopeny.com

“They love it because it shows better translation into the normal world.”

Dr. Shiv Patel

COMMUNITY

(L TO R) BACK ROW: JENNIFER BROWN, MARY LOU KANE, CATHY FREEMAN, RITA WIELAND, JUDY COKER, EVELYN FLORIN, SHARON WILDER, LYNN HESTER, JILL WILCOX, LUCILLE HAUGHABOOK, RITA PITNER, CAROL KELLY, JEANNE GLOVER, LIBBY GRISWELL, SHARON GRAINGER, SUSAN MURPHY, CHERRY ESKEW, JUDY NEAL FRONT ROW: BEVERLY MCKENNA, KAY DREYER, SHERRY MCGEE, PAM KETNER, HELEN BYARS, MARY LOYD, BETTY CAMPBELL, DENISE SOWELL, GLORIA EASLER, MARGARET GILBERT, JERITA WALKER, SHELBE GOSDIN

“A Vision and a Task.”

McDonough Woman’s Club Motto

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CONTINUING TO MAKE A

Difference The McDonough Woman’s Club.

by DIANE HARRIS

Over 107 years have passed since the McDonough Woman’s Club was founded and it remains as active, involved, and vibrant today as in 1916 when 38 women began meeting in homes – socializing, supporting one another, and performing acts of charity and kindness within their Henry County community.

One of the earlier projects this group took on was to begin a local library. Those pioneering ladies donated the first books from their own collections, and subsequently enlisted friends and others to donate books bringing the number of books in their “library” to 1,065 by its third year in existence and continuing to grow thereafter. Building on that success, they initiated a fund drive in 1971 for the building of a library in McDonough. That year the Club sponsored a “Tour of Homes” which raised more than $2,500 for the new library. They followed the fundraiser by holding a countywide tea to raise additional needed funds for the library in 1973. Such were the humble beginnings of the library system we now enjoy in Henry County. Still today, the Woman’s Club continues its support of the Henry County Library System.

These women also actively and patriotically engaged in efforts at home to support our country during World Wars I and II by making bandages, buying and selling war bonds and stamps, fostering the Red Cross, sponsoring a war orphan and contributing to various relief funds. Their work fulfills the club’s motto, “A Vision and a Task.”

Members of the Woman’s Club also took special interest in beautifying the McDonough city square as well as the city cemetery. Multiple fundraisers, the production of plays, and hosting bazaars where cakes, cookies and candies were sold were all efforts

undertaken by the women to help make possible the building of the stone wall that surrounds the park in the city square and to plant shrubs and flowers in both the square and the cemetery.

Through the years the club has contributed in a variety of ways to multiple projects including one that was part of bringing Henry General Hospital (now Piedmont Henry Hospital) to our community.

Today the club and its members contribute financially and in other ways to 13 local charities within Henry County, including: Henry County Scholastic Foundation, Henry County Meals on Wheels, Henry County Library System, A Friend’s House, Helping in His Name Food Pantry, Ferst Readers of Henry County, Hands of Hope Clinic, Connecting Henry, Heritage Park Veterans Museum, Our World at HOPE Park, Veterans Support Group, Haven House and Gigi’s House.

The women no longer need to meet in the homes of members. Thanks to the City of McDonough, much fundraising, and the generous donations of others, they have enjoyed meeting in a clubhouse since 1957. Their current clubhouse is located at 199 Turner Street.

The McDonough Woman’s Club holds monthly meetings September through June on second Tuesdays at 2 p.m. to conduct business, enjoy an educational guest speaker, share refreshments, and socialize. In late September 2023, the ladies hosted a lovely afternoon fall tea in honor of the 200th birthday of the City of McDonough.

For more information, visit McDonough Woman’s Club on Facebook.

2024 Winter Issue 29

COMMUNITY

30 We Are Henry

A Life-Saving Heart Check-Up Back to living life after bypass surgery.

by MICHAEL BOYLAN

McDonough resident Nelson Camilo, 79, felt great. He was a happy guy working the 60 acres on his daughter’s property, whether he was trimming trees, mowing the lawn, or cleaning the pool. He didn’t realize he had five blockages in his blood vessels until his cardiologist, Meryl Lynn Braunstein with Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C. scheduled him for a heart catheterization.

“She was surprised I wasn’t feeling bad,” said Camilo. “I got scheduled for bypass surgery and was told to do nothing while I waited for the surgery.”

The surgery at Piedmont Atlanta took place in May and it was a success. Camilo healed over the summer and was excited

when he was told he could get back to being active. He was prescribed three months of cardiac rehabilitation at Piedmont Henry Hospital. The gregarious fellow quickly made friends with his classmates and the staff members tasked with helping students build back their strength and stamina.

“They are all so helpful,” said Camilo. “They really give you a warm welcome. I think they would roll out a red carpet if they could.”

Three days a week, Camilo visits the cardiac rehab gym in the morning and works out under supervision. There are treadmills, weights, and exercise equipment. Camilo enjoys keeping busy and living life to the fullest.

A native of Chile, Camilo moved to California in 1969 and worked as an aircraft mechanic for Lockheed before working for the airlines. He ended up working for Delta and moving to the Atlanta area. He has lived in Henry County since 2019.

Camilo had a heart attack in 2001 but had felt fit and in good health after that. He encourages everyone to establish a good relationship and rapport with their doctors.

“I love my doctors. They take care of me,” Camilo said.

“You should always ask questions and do what the doctor says.”

Camilo’s doctor told him to participate in cardiac rehabilitation and he couldn’t be happier.

To learn more about cardiovascular services at Piedmont, visit piedmont.org/heart.

“We get to know people in cardiac rehab as they are with us a minimum of 12 weeks. I love seeing the progress made in that time.”

Owen Knowles, RN 2024 Winter Issue 31

PROFILES

“I definitely think [my art] it’s a gift.”

Dr. Zerric Clinton

34 We Are Henry

PIVOTAL MOMENTS The life of a local artist.

by J.M. SYLVER

Pivotal moments are what one Henry County artist credits with shaping his life. Dr. Zerric Clinton, a local teacher and one of the resident artists at The Gallery at Hood Street in McDonough, takes a look back at some of the key influencers in his life and his art.

“I’ve been creating art pretty much my whole life,” shares Dr. Clinton, but it was through drawing contests that he gained attention. “I used to win art shows.”

As a teenager, Dr. Clinton experienced one of his first pivotal moments with one of his high school teachers, Dorothy Pope, who he says would become an instrumental influence in his life.

“She has always supported me and we have a lifelong bond,” says Dr. Clinton.

In fact, he would later attend the same college his teacher had gone to and would continue his schooling, earning a Ph.D. in Art Education.

His art evolved while he was in college and he attributes another pivotal moment to one of his college professors.

“When I went to college, I was a realist artist,” explains Dr. Clinton. But, one day in class, Dr. Clinton remembers how Professor Harry Ally put him to the test. “I was in his drawing class. He took all my pencils,” says Dr. Clinton.

At first, Dr. Clinton was lost, not knowing what to do without his artistic tools, only to later realize this lesson would end up teaching him so much about his art. “He is the main reason I became an abstract artist,” acknowledges Dr. Clinton, referring to Professor Ally as a prolific artist.

As life continued, Dr. Clinton encountered his next pivotal moment within the local art community – a chance meeting with a fellow artist by the name of Kevin Cole. An invitation to Cole’s art show opened Dr. Clinton to the idea of settling in the Henry County area.

Dr. Clinton has been teaching for 29 years and was named Georgia Art Educator of the year in 2015. Along with being an artist, Dr. Clinton has also written a book. He calls Henry County home with his wife and children. Dr. Clinton says his wife, a teacher, is an artist in the making. And his thoughts on Henry County, “I like this place, it’s laid back. I’m from a small town and I like the small-town feel,” says Dr. Clinton. And what he thinks about his art, “I definitely think it’s a gift.”

2024 Winter Issue 35

PROFILES

Music al High Note

ELCA student named to Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony.

by J.M. SYLVER

The day came when Molly Corso found out she’d made it. This Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy student got the news she had been waiting for. “My heart was beating out of my chest,” says Corso. She was selected for the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony.

But how did music become such a big part of her life?

“I started with piano lessons,” says Corso. Then she joined her school band and transferred into percussion.

Music runs deep in this percussionist’s family. Corso’s parents were clarinet players when they were in school. And Corso’s brother Jesse, a euphonium player for The University of Georgia, is how Corso learned about the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony.

He was selected to be part of the symphony previously.

“I got inspired by my brother. I owe a lot to him. How it [the symphony] grew him as a musician, it really influenced me,” says Corso.

Corso had other influencers who she feels impacted her musical life as well. One is her band director, Derrick Rock.

“He has been teaching me since I was in sixth grade. He really has been a game changer. He really connects with the students and has always supported me and Jesse,” says Corso.

Rock is not the only person who has made an impact on Corso’s musical journey. The other person is her worship pastor, Matt Duren.

“He helped me become more confident in playing on stage,” says Corso.

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2024 Winter Issue 37

PROFILES

With Corso’s achievements in music, her mom, Mandy, says, “It has been a really cool experience to watch. It has been a lot of hard work, but Molly has always worked hard with whatever she has been tasked with.”

As for her daughter becoming a part of the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony, she adds, “I’m really happy for her. This is a group you audition for, with concerts throughout the year, and guest performers who will play with the group.”

While Corso is quite busy with all of her musical endeavors, she makes time for other interests including being involved in her local church and preparing for college.

“My schedule is very busy. Rehearsals every Monday. Preparing for All-State,” explains Corso. “I am very grateful.”

What does Corso’s mom think about her musical children taking after her and her husband? “It’s nice because they’re much better than we ever were.”

Corso plans to join her brother in attending college at UGA.

“This is a group you audition for, with concerts throughout the year, and guest performers who will play with the group.”

Mandy Corso

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ADVERTORIAL

Meeting the Heart Needs of a Community Atlanta Heart opens new location in Henry County.

More than three decades ago, the idea of bringing personalized and compassionate heart care to the southside of Atlanta became a reality. Gopal Rao, M.D., F.A.C.C. opened his first cardiology practice in Riverdale before joining two other cardiologists in 1992 to establish Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C.

GOPAL RAO M.D. , CEO ATLANTA HEART ASSOCIATES

(AHA). Today Atlanta Heart is the largest, independent cardiovascular practice in the metro Atlanta area with 200 employees, 30 providers, and multiple locations including the newest location at 3333 Jodeco Road in Stockbridge.

“Our success at Atlanta Heart is due to providing the best health care and concern for our patients’ satisfaction whether we see them in our offices or in a hospital,” says Dr. Rao, managing partner and CEO of Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C. With great success has come the challenge to meet patient expectations in delivering timely, quality care to an evergrowing community. Recognizing the need to expand, Atlanta Heart Associates began building a new, all-encompassing, state-of-the-art facility. The new Atlanta Heart Associates office opened in March 2023, offering improved accessibility and shorter wait times, thanks to doubling of parking spaces and patient exam rooms compared to the previous location on Country Club Drive.

“The new building stands as a beacon of enhanced healthcare accessibility and community well-being. Strategically situated to cater to the needs of a diverse population, the office’s centralized and easily accessible location ensures that community members can promptly seek cardiovascular care,” explains invasive cardiologist Andrew Doughan, M.D., F.A.C.C. “This expansion fosters

LOGAN LAYFIELD P.A. APPLYING A COMPRESSION WRAP

KENNETH MENCHION M.D. PERFORMING AN IN OFFICE VASCULAR PROCEDURE

DHRUV CHAWLA M.D. AND GABY, C.C.T. PERFORMING AN IN OFFICE ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY PROCEDURE

HOMAYOUN AMIN M.D. AND BRANDI, RMA

ADVERTORIAL

KENNETH MENCHION M.D. AND LOGAN LAYFIELD P.A. VASCULAR TEAM

JAYA, RCS PERFORMING AN ECHOCARDIOGRAM

SHIV AGARWAL M.D.

ANDREW DOUGHAN M.D.

DHRUV CHAWLA M.D., TREVOR ARMSTRONG N.P., AKSHAY GUPTA M.D. ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY TEAM

a sense of community health awareness while the modern infrastructure, coupled with a team of skilled cardiologists and healthcare professionals, underscores our commitment to advancing cardiac care standards.”

Understanding when a visit to the cardiologist is needed is important. If you have high blood pressure, a family history of heart disease, diabetes or high cholesterol levels, these are all conditions one should discuss with a cardiologist.

“It’s important to note that these conditions can have varying degrees of severity and may require different approaches to treatment and management,” explains Dr. Doughan.

Atlanta Heart Associates offers a range of onsite testing and diagnostic services to evaluate heart health, including electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), echocardiogram, stress testing, nuclear cardiology, blood tests, and vascular ultrasound. Patients seeking cardiovascular care at the new Jodeco Road office will be pleased to find onsite services also include a lipid clinic, telemetry monitoring, coumadin clinic, and pacemaker evaluations.

“Atlanta Heart has been a staple in the community for years.”

Kenneth Menchion, M.D., Vascular Surgeon

For electrophysiologist Akshay Gupta, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.H.R.S., a cardiologist who treats heart rhythm related issues, the new location offers the option to now perform certain procedures in office. He explains that patients with heart rhythm disorders where the specific abnormality in the heart rhythm has not been determined can now come to the Jodeco Road location of AHA and have a loop recorder implanted. “The very small device is inserted under the skin and is able to continuously monitor the patient’s heart rhythm for several years,” says Dr. Gupta.

“This procedure is extremely simple, safe and brief.”

The convenience of care in one location is important to each of the providers.

Vascular surgeon Kenneth Menchion, M.D states “the new office allows my patients who may have mobility concerns to receive comfortable, convenient, timely, efficient care in one area.” There is no longer the need to move throughout the building to receive complete care.

“Ultimately, the new cardiology clinic serves as a vital hub for promoting heart health, preventing cardiovascular diseases, and providing top-tier medical care to the community it proudly serves,” says Dr. Doughan.

Dr. Rao, a longtime Henry County resident himself, adds the new Jodeco Road location of Atlanta Heart “is dedicated to the people of the community. It’s an exceptional place to come and receive comprehensive cardiovascular care.”

NONPROFIT

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CONNECTING HENRY EXCITED FOR GROWTH AND [POSITIVE] CHANGE New year, new opportunities.

by ERIN LOPEZ

Heading into its 28th anniversary in 2024, Connecting Henry is “readjusting and refocusing” to allow for new opportunities to support the Henry County community.

Connecting Henry has undergone some recent changes, including becoming the Health and Human Services Department for the City of McDonough and moving to a new address, 162 Keys Ferry Street in McDonough.

“We’re still here and are still committed to helping children and families in Henry County,” said Barbara Coleman, executive director of Connecting Henry.

The organization remains a nonprofit as well as a member of the Georgia Family Connection Partnership with a mission to connect local families to resources in the community.

Although Connecting Henry still offers very limited rent, mortgage, and utility assistance to qualifying Henry County residents, the organization stresses their assistance is not long-term nor is it their sole area of focus.

Women’s health and wellbeing is a primary focus of Connecting Henry, as women play a pivotal role in the household.

“We want to help families to get on the road to self-sufficiency and it starts with the women in the household,” said Coleman.

“Women, we are the backbone of the community, we are the backbone of the family, and when the woman in the household is sick, the whole household can be impacted.”

A primary target of Connecting Henry, Kaiser Permanente, and the Georgia Family Connection Partnership is the low birthweight rates being seen statewide and, specifically, in the region including Henry County.

“Our numbers exceed the state average and the regional average,” said Coleman. “It has become such an issue that we have to address it. If you have a child with a low birthweight, the complications and health issues can be lifelong for the child and it can impact the whole family.”

Coleman hopes that their new focus in educating families on best practices for health and wellness will positively impact the community. They are also working to promote literacy at an early age.

Connecting Henry is looking forward to hosting a walk at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in the spring of 2024 to bring awareness to women’s health.

The nonprofit is also excited to continue with its 18th Annual Community Cares Toy Shop this winter, providing donated toys to Henry County families and children in need this holiday season.

Coleman expressed that she is excited to see what the new year holds and is eager to see how these new changes will help Henry County families utilize local resources to thrive.

“We’re still here and are still committed to helping children and families in Henry County.”

Barbara Coleman, Executive Director of Connecting Henry 2024 Winter Issue 45

NONPROFIT

Serving a

G R E AT E R P U R P O S E Local logistics company PEI gives back to its community.

by AROLUE FLEMMEN PRATER

“Never underestimate the power of a woman!”

This quote by Archie Andrews actually applies to not one, but two local women who founded a nonprofit philanthropic company from a desire to fulfill community needs through their logistics company. Victoria Sparks and Michele Wilson envisioned a charity which focused on children and women issues in Henry County as well as surrounding counties and eventually some worldwide organizations.

With Sparks’ and Wilson’s determination to overcome the male dominated logistics industry, the company, PEI (Premier Expediters Inc.), was born in 1992 out of faith and determination. This parent company has expanded into four distinct affiliations with revenues of $41 million per year. One of these four entities, Paradise Empowers (www.paradiseempowers.org), was founded in 2004. This privately funded 501c3 company provides funding to such charitable establishments as Charity Water, Doctors Without Borders, Mercy Ships, Alzheimer’s Association, Sloan Kettering, Toys for Tots, Make a Wish, and Special Olympics.

Local charity organizations also provided funding based on employee sponsored need and criteria, or customer requested support. Art Reach 180, Henry for Music, Operation Lunch Box, Communities in Schools, Christian Women’s Center, Rachel’s Gift, Angel Tree, 2 Sparrows, A Friend’s House, and Meansville Women’s Program are such recipients of the Paradise Empowers’ discretionary funding.

The belief and strong desire to give back to the community and to the world has enabled this worthwhile company to increase gifting yearly. Over $1.5 million has been granted

46 We Are Henry

to agencies during Paradise Empowers’ 19-year existence.

According to Executive Director Daran Paden, a special gift of more than $50,000 has recently been given to three relief organizations in Israel.

Quite a blessing to many and various organizations that are in need! All through the power of two ambitious and faith-based women whose mission is to serve the customer, empower the employee, support the vendors and give back to the community.

For more information on PEI check www.ShipPei.com.

“We felt the saying to whom much is given, much is expected and we made it our life’s work to share the love.”

“We have been very blessed and we feel that it is our duty to share that blessing with our community that supports us.”

Victoria Sparks

Michele Wilson

(L TO R) DARAN PADEN, VICKY SPARKS, DAVE NEWMAN, MICHELE WILSON

2024 Winter Issue 47

FOOD

TINY, BUT MIGHTY Drip-Thru Coffee celebrates seven years in Stockbridge.

by MIKE BOYLAN

Christy Deen had been in the food and beverage industry for 20 years, including stints with Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks, when inspiration struck. She had traveled out to the Pacific Northwest with her husband, Martin, and saw drive thru coffee stands throughout the area.

“These were small, had a tiny footprint, and I could manage starting one on my own,” said Deen. “It took some time to get it started because it wasn’t a prevalent concept in the Southeast, but after explaining it to the county and state, it got approved.”

Located at 50 Hwy 138 West, Drip-Thru prides itself on serving a high-quality cup of coffee, fast, and with exemplary customer service.

“We are tiny, but mighty,” said Deen. “Our focus is on a person getting a cup of coffee, maybe a grab and go pastry, and being in and out in under two minutes. We’re a part of people’s daily commute and we have a lot of regulars.”

The coffee is organically grown in Guatemala, roasted by Café Campesino coffee roasters in Americus, Georgia, and ground to brew at Drip-Thru.

“We have the freshest cup of coffee in a drive-thru, hands down,” said Deen.

The stand is operated by two staff members during rush times and drivers order at either window of the two-sided drive thru.

The menu is streamlined, but features many of the typical

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2024 Winter Issue 51

FOOD

“We have the freshest cup of coffee in a drive-thru, hands down.”

Christy Deen

offerings of a coffee shop. In addition to serving items from Holey Sweet Donuts in Stockbridge and other items from Engelman’s Bakery in Atlanta, Drip-Thru also offers grab and go items like oatmeal that can fit in your cup holder. While speed is of the essence, customer service does not suffer.

“It’s important for us to get customer service right 100 percent of the time,” said Deen. “We encourage our customers to take a sip before they drive off so that they can make sure it’s perfect.”

Deen, a native of Jonesboro wanted to open a store in Stockbridge because it was the site of her first job.

“It was important to me to bring business back to where I started,” said Deen.

There is now an additional Drip-Thru location in College Park near Woodward Academy, and Deen hopes to open more locations in the future.

“It has been wonderful to see all of the support we have received and hear all the good word of mouth,” said Deen. “We really value that connection and couldn’t do what we do without it.”

For more information on Drip-Thru Coffee, visit dripthrucoffee.com.

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FOOD

54 We Are Henry

FAR EAST MEETS SOUTH

Sweet Auburn BBQ brings Asian flavor to favorite dishes.

by MIKE BOYLAN

OWNER'S HOWARD HSU AND DAVID MAIOLO

Sweet Auburn BBQ started with a trailer in Atlanta and kept growing in popularity to now have two restaurants, one on North Highland Avenue in Atlanta and one at 1828 Jonesboro Road in McDonough. The McDonough location, co-owned by David Maiolo, celebrated its one-year anniversary in December and is building a solid reputation among area foodies and BBQ aficionados.

“We take traditional pit BBQ cooking and combine it with a little Asian fire,” said Maiolo. “It’s the perfect pairing.”

When Maiolo talks about “fire,” he doesn’t mean overpowering heat, but rather flavor. The Nam Jim Jaew sauce, featured on items like the Brisket Tostadas, is a chili dipping sauce with a pesto-like consistency. It has made the item one of the most popular on the menu and complements the star of the show, Maiolo’s brisket.

“I’ve been working on my brisket cooking process for about 10 years,” said Maiolo, who has a dedicated smokehouse on the premises with two offset smokers and a traditional smoker.

“We start with a daily trimming process, followed by eight to ten hours of smoking, and three or four hours of rest before serving. I love the entire cooking process, from the fire management to the season rubs.”

Maiolo finishes each brisket, ensuring quality control and the right temperatures. He has hired a full-time Pitmaster and is training a few others on the smoking process. He needs all the

“We take traditional pit BBQ cooking and combine it with a little Asian fire.”

David Maiolo 2024 Winter Issue 55

FOOD

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help he can get because he has to cook two briskets a week just for the restaurant’s top seller – the Brisket Egg Rolls. Brisket is also featured in several sandwiches, including a Wagyu Brisket Burger and the Crying Tiger Brisket Sandwich.

Sweet Auburn BBQ made its way to McDonough after Maiolo met Howard Hsu in 2020. Maiolo was looking for a food truck to operate and a friend introduced him to the Atlanta restaurateur. Maiolo began working with Hsu at Atlanta Curb Market and a year later the pair partnered on bringing Sweet Auburn BBQ to Maiolo’s home county.

“I moved here from Rome, New York in 1993 and really wanted to bring something I felt was needed to the community,” said Maiolo. “It was a big project. We started renovating in April of 2022 and opened on my daughter’s birthday in December.”

Prior to opening the restaurant, Maiolo worked in cable television and IT. He also owned a landscaping business but sold it when the restaurant got serious. In addition to working with his daughter, Erin, and her boyfriend, Maiolo also works

with his head chef, Maria. The group works hard and Maiolo is at Sweet Auburn BBQ every day, even though the restaurant is closed on Mondays.

“We have a really great atmosphere that people seem to enjoy,” said Maiolo, adding that they have entertainment on Friday nights, a full bar, and a selection of local craft beers that always provide diners something new to discover.

Sweet Auburn BBQ also has numerous catering options including full service, drop off, or bringing out a private Pitmaster for your event or party.

Maiolo has big plans for the future of the restaurant, including a Ramen Night and the addition of a Char Siu Pork Belly Bowl.

While both of those items are exciting, the brisket, and the Beef Short Rib, described as a slow smoked dinosaur bone, will always be the dishes that get people talking and spreading the word.

For more information on Sweet Auburn BBQ, visit sweetauburnbbq.com or call 470-885-5004.

2024 Winter Issue 57

SAFTY TIPS

TIPS FOR

How to Keep Your Athlete Safe from the Cold Preventing cold weather injuries in kids and teens.

In cold weather, bodies lose heat faster than they can produce it, which can lead to serious health problems like hypothermia or frostbite. Child and teen athletes who participate in or attend cold-weather sports may be at risk for these and other coldrelated illnesses or injuries.

“While anyone practicing or competing in cold temperatures is at risk for cold-related illness and injury, there are some groups who need to be particularly careful out in the elements,” says Children’s Athletic Trainer Tiffany Swales. “Young athletes are at greater risk for cold-weather injuries because they are genetically predisposed. Extra precautions should be taken by these athletes when playing outdoors.”

The key to preventing cold weather illnesses and injuries is being properly prepared for the elements. Growing athletes who play and compete in the cold should: • Wear layers to make it easy to remove or add clothing as conditions and exertion levels change.

• Wear technical fabrics that wick moisture and sweat, which can help your teen stay dry, close to the body.

• Stay hydrated with water or a sports drink.

• Maintain a well-balanced diet.

• Bring extra shoes, socks, clothes and gloves to replace any item that gets wet.

To learn more about the sports medicine program at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, please visit www.choa.org/medical-services/sports-medicine.

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Insight above provided by Tiffany Swales, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Pediatric Athletic Trainer and Supervisor.

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.

SPIRITUAL

GRACE & TRUTH

Personal Investments Impact your community by investing in it.

by PASTOR GILBERT FIELDS

In the process of building financial portfolios, where and how we invest our resources is of great importance. If one is to gain dividends, wise investments are crucial. One thing is sure: if there is no investment, then any potential gains never exist.

The risk-reward determination has to be made for a confident commitment to a positive return.

Likewise, if you are to make a difference in the lives in your community, dedicated action must be taken to be a positive influence and add value to the lives of others. This saying in the Christian faith rings true: “Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4) The highest level of return that one can achieve in their community is their personal investment. The first place to begin is at home. It is no secret that our homes need to be the center of a strong community. But, the impact on your investment also grows when you touch the lives of others at work and in your local community. This is the “where” of making personal investments. The “how” is recognizing the importance of God even in our contemporary culture.

As Peter Kreeft has written, “Only God is ever young, and only the Book he inspired never grows old.” If we are to invest in others around us, it is faith in God that is a necessary component. The meaning of life, success in relationships,

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and unity within a diverse society can only be answered by a sure understanding and word from God. By taking the truth and investing it in the lives of classmates, coworkers, and friends around us, our community will find a great gain and legacy.

Both our present and future depend upon this type of personal investment.

Invest words that bring fulfillment in life. Let us make God known to others because His words are life.

No matter what may deter you in the risk-reward category, be willing to personally invest in the lives of those around you.

In doing this, you will pave the way for impact in the very community you live in despite the cost.

Christ Fellowship Baptist - Hampton, GA ChristFellowshpBC.org christfellowshipbc@gmail.com

“Do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.”

(Philippians 2:4)

2024 Winter Issue 65