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
ON THE COVER
Spring
GREAT EXPECTATIONS
Piedmont Henry’s new tower set to open before summer.
by MICHAEL BOYLAN
Construction began on Piedmont Henry Hospital’s new patient tower in April of 2024. Since the day that CEO David Kent rode into the groundbreaking event on a front loader, over 400 men and women have worked on the massive expansion and renovation project and kept it on budget and ahead of schedule.
The original date for the first patient to be in the new tower was scheduled to be in August 2026, but it is now expected to be in June. Crews will spend the next few months equipping the rooms and getting the tower ready to be populated.
The $212 million project increases Piedmont Henry’s bed capacity by 112 beds. The hospital’s license is now for 355 beds. In addition to expanding surface parking, three additional operating rooms were constructed to provide more access with shorter wait times for complex surgical procedures, while the electrophysiology lab at the hospital was renovated to be able to offer ablation procedures to treat atrial fibrillation.
“I believe what we pride ourselves on as a project team is putting the patients first. We always begin with the end in mind. It’s not about what we do, but why we do it,” said Joshua Williams, Manager, Program Management for Meadows and
Ohly, a comprehensive real estate services firm that serves the healthcare industry. “There’s no greater feeling than seeing that first patient. We’re not doctors or nurses, but if we can create spaces to help them save lives, all the hard work is worth it.”
The design process for the new patient tower started in 2017 and changed a bit after Covid-19 to include more space and equipment for patients requiring more complex care close to home. One example of this is the installation of a 9,000-gallon tank for oxygen, which will be able to equip this tower and the next. Piedmont Henry will also have 52 beds across two intensive care units.
“The Piedmont Henry staff and the Henry County community truly were an integral part in making this project happen. Without their countless sacrifices and willingness to adjust, none of this would be possible.” Williams said. “I’m excited about this project because I know the work we are doing will impact this community for decades to come.”
Visitors to Piedmont Henry will see one of the biggest changes in the cafeteria. The new dining area and kitchen will be in the new tower and is considerably larger than the existing space. In addition to a mini-market and a space with a pizza
“I believe what we pride ourselves on as a project team is putting the patients first. We always begin with the end in mind. It’s not about what we do, but why we do it”
Joshua Williams
THE CAFETERIA, DINING AREA, AND KITCHEN ARE JUST SOME OF THE MANY AREAS UPGRADED IN PIEDMONT HENRY’S NEW TOWER.
(L-R) PIEDMONT HENRY’S COO JAMES ATKINS AND CEO DAVID KENT
JOSHUA WILLIAMS, PROJECT MANAGER WITH MEADOWS AND OHLY
oven, visitors and guests will be able to enjoy indoor or outdoor seating in this beautiful new space. The new tower has a brand-new chapel area for patients, visitors, and staff to use.
While work continued on the new building, Kent and his leadership team were working on the growth of the staff. There were initiatives to improve communication with patients, to improve emergency department wait times, and to expand the trauma services and critical care provided at the hospital. Piedmont Henry saw their scores improve nearly everywhere. They earned two consecutive ‘A’ grades from The Leapfrog Group; an independent organization focused on patient safety and earned a bronze-level Beacon Award for Excellence on the intensive care unit. The hospital also became a Level III Trauma Center and a Level III Pediatric Readiness Center during the construction project.
“We keep the patient at the center of all we do, and we focus on finding ways to consistently improve,” said Kent. “To quote the construction team, ‘this project is bigger than just bricks and sticks,’ it is about doing what’s best for the community we serve and always having an eye on the future.”
Hospital administrators often joke that the minute a project of this magnitude is finished, the next one must begin. There are no official plans for another tower just yet, but the discussions might start up again soon.
The Bag Full of Rocks
Something awakens me and tells me to write. So here it goes.
by PETO FALLAS
Prior to reading this story, do yourself a favor. If you still have the gift of being able to sit down with your father and listen to his stories, do so. One day you will wish you could have just one more conversation with him.
It was April of 1977. A humble 61-year-old man named Ricardo Hampton Calvo, a mechanic by profession, was working as a security guard at a farm in Costa Rica known as “Finca La Caja.”
One day, two brothers with the last name Madrigal broke onto the property intending to cause damage. Doing his job, Hampton Calvo confronted them. When the brothers attacked him, he defended himself with the only thing he had, his firearm. Both brothers lost their lives from the gunshots.
Terrified, with no criminal record and unsure of what would happen to him, Hampton Calvo fled into the wilderness on April 30, 1977, hiding among the forests and rivers of Costa Rica.
Almost immediately, the national press began to demonize him, calling him a monster, an animal, and a man who had murdered two “innocent brothers” in cold blood.
A massive national search began.
During this storm of public judgment, a young, untested criminal lawyer named Humberto Fallas Cordero made a bold and compassionate decision. He published a message in the newspaper offering to represent Hampton Calvo for free if he surrendered.
Hampton’s sister saw the article and delivered the message. Sometime around May of 1977, after surviving for days with almost no food, injured, frightened, and exhausted, Hampton surrendered to the authorities with that young lawyer by his side.
The media continued to paint him as a savage criminal. The public had already condemned him.
But when the trial began, Fallas Cordero chose a strategy almost unheard of in Costa Rica at the time: self-defense.
It seemed like an impossible task. The courtroom was shaped by public outrage, and the young lawyer was still trying to build a name for himself and provide for his wife and small children.
Yet Fallas Cordero meticulously showed the truth.
Hampton Calvo was a humble, honest 61-year-old man simply doing his job, attacked by two men who had broken onto the property to commit a crime.
During his closing argument, Fallas Cordero opened his shirt, struck his chest, and declared:
“I am a man of the wild.”
It was the same gesture one of the Madrigal brothers had used to threaten Hampton during the attack. The symbolism resonated deeply. At that time, opening your shirt and striking your chest with your fist was a preview of an upcoming physical assault.
Against all odds, Hampton Calvo was acquitted.
A young lawyer, principled, determined, and courageous, had achieved the impossible. And he did it exactly as promised, free of charge.
After being released, Hampton Calvo visited the lawyer who had saved him. In his hands he carried a small gift: a bag full of rocks he had collected while hiding in the wild.
He told the young lawyer that he wanted him to keep them as a symbol of gratitude for restoring his freedom and his dignity.
Those rocks still sit in my parents’ home today, a symbol of justice, humility, courage, and the kind of man my father was.
And the story did not end in tragedy.
Hampton Calvo lived the rest of his life a free man. He died of old age at 92 years old, on December 27, 2008, not as the “monster” the press tried to create, but as an innocent man defended by the truth.
As my brother, my sister, and I continue to mourn the loss of our father, one truth becomes clearer every day: Individually or together, none of us can match the figure of our dad.
The world was a better place with his presence.
We will see you again, Dad. But not yet.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: PETO FALLAS
“Those rocks still sit in my parents’ home today, a symbol of justice, humility, courage, and the kind of man my father was.”
Peto Fallas
FROM Task TO Patient
How a cancer survivor became the nurse she needed.
by BRIAN BIGGERS
On a quiet afternoon near the end of chemotherapy, a nurse named Melissa paused at Caroline Mason’s chair and asked a deceptively simple question: “So, Caroline…what’s next?” Caroline didn’t have an answer, at least not right away. The question lingered through the beeps and hushed corridor noise until it settled somewhere deep, amid months of fighting and fatigue. What had made her happiest before everything changed? Caring for other people. That truth rose to the surface. “I’ve always wanted to be a nurse,” she finally said— a whisper that would become a life she hadn’t yet dared to imagine. In March 2021, the single mother of two learned she had an aggressive cancer, a diagnosis that launched her into chemo, two surgeries, and a year of biologic infusions. The journey reordered everything: her time, her body, her faith, and the way she thinks about care— what it is, what it isn’t, and who it’s for.
“From task to patient.” That’s the phrase she returns to repeatedly. Too many people with life-altering diagnoses feel like checklists—vitals, meds, discharge—when what they need most is to be seen. Education is the throughline of her approach: equip people to understand their diagnosis, their choices, and their power. When knowledge lands, fear loosens. When care is personalized, dignity rises.
“I want to be a nurse.”
Caroline Mason
The Decision to Begin Again
Once Caroline said the words out loud—I want to be a nurse— she moved quickly. She enrolled at Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC), navigating the logistics of returning to school 25 years later while still wrestling with lingering chemo brain and the very modern challenge of learning in an online world. Scholarships aimed at non-traditional students and hands-on help from SCTC staff made the leap financially and practically possible. The program was grueling—accelerated content, exacting standards, and clinical rotations that started early and ended late. When a first cardiac pharmacology exam rattled her confidence, a classmate, Jaden Speaks, became her study partner and steadying force. They built a system—resources, practice, early-morning meetups—that carried them both forward.
The Moment Purpose Clicked
One clinical at Piedmont Henry Hospital sealed it. Caroline was assigned to a woman living with the same post-surgical pain Caroline had endured after cancer. Medications weren’t helping.
But Caroline recognized the pain and shared a few specific, lived-in strategies that had brought her relief. It worked. “It’s the first time in over a year I’ve felt relief,” the woman said. In that instant, Caroline’s own suffering found purpose.
GOAL Winner. Advocate. Voice.
In January 2025, SCTC named Caroline its GOAL (Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership) Student of the Year, selecting her from a strong field to represent the college through the regional and state rounds. The GOAL program, run by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), elevates outstanding technical education students statewide; after each college winner is chosen, regional judging narrows the field to nine state finalists who compete in Atlanta for Student of the Year.
Caroline didn’t just stand at a podium; she stood for something personal, urging audiences to see what technical education can unlock—at any age, in any season, especially for people starting over.
From
Patient to RN—And Right Back to the Bedside Today, Caroline serves as an RN at Piedmont Henry Hospital, where the work is real, fast, and never routine. She still pinches herself: four years ago, she was a patient; now she’s part of the team entrusted with lives. Mentors like Oshell Stone helped her bridge the gap from orientation to independent practice, and a culture of teamwork among nurses and PCTs steadied those first months when every decision felt heavy because it mattered. Her north star hasn’t shifted: education first, person first. She translates medical language into human language. She looks for the specific— what this person is worried about, what this family needs to hear, what this diagnosis means for this life.
“Anytime I can connect on a personal level and offer the compassionate care I received,” she says, “my pain has a purpose.” Caroline was also invited into the shared governance board at Piedmont Henry, where bedside nurses help shape practice across the hospital. Though new to the profession, she soon realized that her fresh perspective and lived experience as both a recent graduate and former patient allowed her to contribute meaningfully and advocate for stronger support for new nurses and truly patient-centered care.
A Family’s Full-Circle Moment
This story isn’t just Caroline’s. When she enrolled at SCTC, her son soon followed, and her daughter began dual enrollment. Mother and son completed their associate degrees at the same time—and in a moment no one will forget, Caroline handed him his diploma on stage. She is most proud of them—of what they saw in her: a woman who faced down fear, asked for help, learned new tools, kept going, and turned the hardest chapter of her life into service for someone else’s hardest day.
What Sustains Her
Caroline is frank about the hard parts: as a new RN, tasks can take longer; the workload can be overwhelming; self-care can slide. Four months past orientation, she can measure the growth and feel momentum building. She credits her church community and faith for grounding her through cancer, through school, and now through the intensity of nursing. She is already aiming ahead— chemotherapy certification, medical missions, maybe a master’s one day, and a long-range dream to return to Southern Crescent Technical College as an instructor, shaping the next generation the way her mentors shaped her.
The Care She Practices—and Teaches
Ask Caroline what she hopes patients remember after a hospital stay and she won’t mention a perfect IV start or an expertly timed med pass. She’ll say she hopes they felt seen, cared for, and empowered—because someone took the time to teach them, to listen, and to personalize a plan for their life, not just their chart. That’s the difference between “task” and “patient.” And that is Caroline Mason’s work.
MINI SOCCER PITCH
Big fun on McDonough’s tiniest soccer field.
by MICHELLE FLOYD
Local and state community organizations, businesses and leaders came together to make soccer more accessible to Henry County residents of all ages.
“Growing up in Henry County there was nowhere to just play soccer — we had to hop fences and find random fields,” admits Sam Morrison, now director of operations for Georgia Revolution FC, a professionally managed soccer club in McDonough. He and his brother Alec grew up playing soccer since they were toddlers. They played on teams and at their schools, but if they wanted to go out on a Saturday afternoon to play a quick fun soccer game with their friends, they were limited.
“Growing up a military brat, I went to 13 different schools — some places we played soccer at were excellent but some weren’t as welcoming,” recalls Alec Morrison, general manager for Georgia Revolution. “I wanted to create something that feels like home. I want to be as welcoming as possible.”
In September 2025, a mini soccer pitch — a smaller version of a regulation-size soccer field — opened at Alexander Park in McDonough to help create that outlet.
“If you want to just go play with your buddies, there’s no boundaries to playing,” explains Alec Morrison, who uses the field himself with his friends for a quick pickup game from time to time. “This is creating access for people to play soccer. We’re trying to find as many opportunities as we can for any player.”
Around 2022, Sam Morrison started working on the mini soccer pitch project, collaborating with then-Mayor Sandra Vincent to find a location, which in the past was a city swimming pool, as well as completing the application process and fundraising.
“The community was wonderful and very giving,” explains his dad Eric Morrison, president of the Southern Crescent Soccer Foundation for which Georgia Revolution is the academy.
“We did all the fundraising. It was from a combination of people and corporations with donations from $5 to $25,000.”
Atlanta United helped fund the 17th pitch of its kind in the state through its GA 100 project, part of the Atlanta United Community Fund, which plans to help build 100 soccer pitches across the state by providing a matching grant of $100,000 to help develop them. Other pitches also are found in Gainesville, Loganville, Augusta and Decatur with more to come in underserved communities.
The McDonough field cost about $300,000 to build. The city provided $75,000 and Kaiser Permanente provided $35,000.
“We staff it during the week and it’s open on weekends,” explains Eric Morrison of the pitch, which is open to the public and offers free or cheap areas of play, clinics and programming for residents of any age. “It’s great for community events — and even on a random Wednesday night you can see people just lined up along the fence. It’s open all year — when the weather is nice, it’s packed.”
Photos By: Alyssa Hearn
“This is creating access for people to play soccer. We’re trying to find as many opportunities as we can for any player.”
Alec Morrison
(L-R) KENNETH HEARN, SAM MORRISON, ALEC MORRISON, ERIC MORRISON
YOUTH CLINIC PARTICIPANTS
LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS
JESSICA GAY, LOCUST GROVE HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR, WELDING PATHWAY
JUSTIN CHANG, DUTCHTOWN HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR, WELDING PATHWAY
NURTURING BRIGHT FUTURES
The transformative power of Henry County Schools’ CTAE program.
by NICOLA KELLY
Access to the education, training, and experiences that prepare students for the workforce is typically associated with college classrooms rather than high school campuses. However, in Henry County Schools, students develop these competencies long before they receive a diploma.
HCS’ mission is to empower all students with exceptional opportunities and access that lead to success in a global society, and its Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program does just that through rigorous programming rooted in real-world applications.
As early as sixth grade, students explore careers, including automotive technology, cybersecurity, engineering, entrepreneurship, information technology, and robotics.
An innovative curriculum, 50 diverse pathways, high-quality instruction, and proven student outcomes have elevated the district’s CTAE program to the fifth-largest in Georgia, earning recognition as a Program of Excellence from State School Superintendent Richard Woods.
The program’s scale is notable, but its impact lies in intentional connections between coursework and professional settings. Students gain advantages, not from theory or simulation, but from impactful, hands-on experience.
The connections are most visible through Work-Based Learning. Industry partners, including Henry County Police Department, Piedmont Henry Hospital, and Southern Crescent Technical College, offer internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, and opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized credentials.
Students benefit from an unparalleled educational experience, and in any classroom, on any given day, they have a clear vision of where their skills can take them.
Stephen Sanders’ welding students are self-assured and communicate a sense of certainty about what lies ahead. Down the hall, students in Angela Forrest’s phlebotomy class are attentive, driven, and already see themselves succeeding as health care professionals.
STEPHEN SANDERS WITH STUDENTS
“I love health care, and I’ll be using this pathway as a stepping stone,” said McDonough High School senior phlebotomy student Darius Scott. “Having this opportunity as a high schooler is a blessing, and to be an 18-year-old with this qualification is pretty amazing.”
In an ever-changing global economy, the district’s focus on relevance ensures responsive instruction that motivates and awakens purpose. As classrooms transform into labs, workshops, and studios, HCS is redefining how it prepares students for college, career, and life.
Students aren’t merely training for jobs; they are learning to think critically, solve problems, and develop a strong work ethic, reflected in employment and contract opportunities before graduation. As a junior, recent Luella High School graduate Lailah Metallo redesigned the Henry County Police Department’s official seal, which now appears on all HCPD assets. Metallo also designed the challenge coin for the City of New York’s Transportation Bureau and contributed to the design of other city branding.
Jessica Gay, a senior automotive technology student, received a job offer from United States Cold Storage in McDonough after participating in an industry tour. Dutchtown High School senior Taryn Williamson designed a 3D-printed thermostat cover, now installed in more than 150 HCS buildings.
Impactful CTAE instruction supports the promise that “bright futures begin in HCS.” Career readiness isn’t abstract; it is learned, practiced, and applied, so that future is undoubtedly taking shape in middle and high school classrooms across the district.
UNION GROVE HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR NICHOLE MILLER BEGINS “LIVE STICKS” TRAINING WITH STUDENTRECRUITED PATIENTS, INCLUDING HER FATHER, WHO VOLUNTEERED TO BE HER PHLEBOTOMY PATIENT.
DHRUV CHAWLA, M.D.
GREGORY PETRO, M.D.
ABHISHEK THANDRA, M.D.
WE ARE ALL HEART
Atlanta Heart Associates keeps advanced technology and treatments close to home.
by MICHAEL BOYLAN
While February is recognized as American Heart Month, the cardiologists at Atlanta Heart Associates encourage their patients, and all members of the community to focus on heart health year-round. Recently recognized as Best of the Best in Cardiology for the Griffin area by Griffin Daily News, there are five additional Atlanta Heart locations around South Metro Atlanta providing high-quality cardiology care with state-of-the-art technology.
“It’s important to be able to give our patients the option to get the latest treatments close to home,” said Dr. Dhruv Chawla, an electrophysiologist who specializes in treating arrhythmias which can give one the sensation of their heart beating too fast, irregular, or too slow. He further notes that “The technology to treat arrhythmias has really advanced over the past few years. Patients recover faster, often don’t need to use long term medications, and are usually home the same day they have the procedure.”
Recently, Piedmont Henry Hospital upgraded their electrophysiology lab to be able to perform ablations to treat atrial fibrillation. Dr. Chawla works closely with his cardiology colleagues to help improve his patient’s heart health and overall well-being.
Arrhythmias often give one the sensation of their heart beating too fast or too slow. Dr. Chawla stated that arrythmias may become more common as people age, but that some people are genetically predisposed to them.
Cardiologist Gregory Petro, M.D. urges people to focus on preventative measures to reduce risk factors for heart disease.
“The number one thing people can do is eat a better diet,” said Dr. Petro. “What you put in your body matters, so eating less sugar and more fruits and vegetables is a good way to start.”
Dr. Petro, medical director of the Congestive Heart Failure Program and the Chairman of the Prescription and Therapeutic Board at Piedmont Henry, has been with Atlanta Heart for 12 years. Recently named a Top Doc by Atlanta Magazine, he works on the diagnostic side of things, helping patients identify what’s wrong and get them to the right subspecialist. Forms of diagnostic testing include echocardiograms (EKGs), stress tests, cardiac calcium scoring, and CT and PET scans among others.
PET imaging can look at the strength of flow and function in the heart. Advances in this form of imaging have reduced the time of the test and use a smaller amount of radiation than in the past. The procedure takes place inside the office in McDonough and only lasts about 30 minutes.
While there are many things that can make the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases easier, the most important thing, according to interventional cardiologist Abhishek Thandra, M.D., is not waiting to get checked out when problems arise and being compliant with medications if issues are identified.
“Hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes are very common, but if they are left untreated, they can lead to heart failure and dialysis,” said Dr. Thandra. “It is important to exercise for 30 minutes a day, five days a week and to eat more fruits and vegetables. Losing five to 10 pounds can make a significant impact.”
To learn more about the team at Atlanta Heart Associates and its six locations, visit atlantaheartassociates.com or call 770-692-4000.
A Legacy in STEAM
Some call it innovation, Dr. Eric Watson calls it stewardship.
by KRISTINA MURPHY
For more than three decades he has stood at the front of classrooms, the sidelines of football fields, and behind the quiet decisions that shape education. He discovered his passion for education in college and began teaching and coaching at the age of 22, “I felt I could have a positive impact on students’ lives.”
Dr. Watson forged an inspiring path through his education career that included years of teaching and coaching to working as an assistant principal, principal and onto administration. He recognized a need for STEAM programs in Henry County schools and embarked on creating the first program of its kind at Stockbridge High School called the STEAM Academy -Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Funds were granted to create recording studios at the school and provided an opportunity for students to express their creativity while learning the technological aspects of running a recording studio, tv broadcast, etc. The program would only grow from there.
Dr Watson continued his path and earned his Doctorate from Liberty University in Educational Leadership, he and his wife are both ministers now. “I’m incredibly proud of this” he said. While he did retire from the school district, a colleague from Eagles Landing Christian Academy asked him to sub one Bible class. However, being back in the classroom made clear his work was not finished. “The Lord led me there, after praying on it, I began teaching three Bible classes.” He also began collaborating with ELCA on starting their own STEAM Program.
A STEAM Academy at ELCA would provide students with a comprehensive academic program that integrates challenging content with artistic expression, mathematical knowledge and religious development. This program will follow students from kindergarten through high school.
“Today’s students grow up in a world shaped by rapid technological change, complex challenges, and constant innovation. Preparing them equips them to thrive in unpredictable careers, work in teams, make responsible decisions, and develop
innovative solutions. It requires adaptability, collaboration, ethical discernment, and creative thinking.”
“STEAM education develops these competencies through hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. It connects ideas to real-world applications. At ELCA, learning is intentionally grounded in biblical truth. Students are encouraged to ask deeper questions: How does God’s design shape the natural world? How should technology be used responsibly? How can innovation serve human flourishing rather than self-interest? These questions move learning beyond technical skill and into spiritual formation.”
ELCA is already incorporating STEAM into its annual live Christmas Program that the students put together on their own. The production goes beyond singing, acting and music, they also create the sets, props, and learn how to work the stage lighting and sound. The show is also recorded and produced into a film that the students also do on their own. They are learning how an entire theatrical program is made and how many different jobs contribute to the final picture. STEAM Academy will enhance this for students and provide an incredible learning experience while seeing how important cooperation and collaboration is. Dr. Watson explained “It will provide students the opportunity to reflect on what had to happen for this to be successful?”
“Education at Eagles Landing Christian Academy involves more than learning subject matter because it focuses on developing students’ hearts and minds and their life purpose. The STEAM Academy at ELCA follows a purposeful educational plan that prepares students for their future success. The Academy develops students to think critically while they learn to work together and solve problems, which will help them succeed in an evolving world through their combination of wisdom, creative thinking, and religious faith.” The STEAM Academy will fully launch in Fall 2027.
“I felt I could have a positive impact on students’ lives.”
Dr. Eric Watson
BEYOND BUSINESS
Creekside FBLA is building the future.
The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter at Creekside Christian Academy may be young, but its vision is anything but small. In just its second year, the chapter is redefining what it means to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly evolving world. Under the direction of Anne Dammel, Creekside’s Director of Marketing and lead FBLA advisor, the focus extends far beyond competitions and business fundamentals.
“Our goal isn’t just to prepare students for their future careers,” Dammel explains. “It’s to help them discover who they are, identify their God-given gifts, and step confidently into leadership. If I can help mold the next leader through FBLA, whether it’s with a Fortune 500 company or a small nonprofit, I’m all for it.”
At Creekside, FBLA is built on a future-ready mindset. Students don’t just learn how business works, they learn how
to think, adapt, communicate, and lead with integrity in any environment. Creekside FBLA’s Co-advisor and Creekside’s STEAM Director, Stacy Wright, says, “In STEAM, we teach students how to build solutions. In FBLA, they learn how to present them, fund them, and lead them. When you combine innovation with leadership, you prepare students for industries that don’t even exist yet.”
Monthly meetings go beyond competition prep. Students engage with local entrepreneurs, executives, nonprofit leaders, and innovators in info sessions that expose them to real-world insight. Topics range from benefits in networking and customer experience to personal branding, presentation skills, and executive presence.
“We want them practicing real leadership now,” Dammel says. “Whether it’s crafting an elevator pitch, navigating challenges, or presenting an idea with clarity and confidence,
“Our goal isn’t just to prepare students for their future careers. It’s to help them discover who they are, identify their Godgiven gifts, and step confidently into leadership.”
Anne Dammel
EDUCATION EMIE KOZERSKI, MS PRESIDENT 7TH GRADE; LEILANI COBLE, MS VICE PRESIDENT,7TH GRADE ; SOPHIA VERNON, HS VICE PRESIDENT, 7TH GRADE; ALEX BROWN, 7TH GRADE; ARTHUR DUKE, 11TH GRADE; DAVID WILLIAMS, HS PRESIDENT, 10TH GRADE; AALIYAH MELTON, 7TH GRADE; ANNE DAMMEL, LEAD ADVISOR; STACY WRIGHT, ADVISOR; ELIZABETH MAY, 7TH GRADE; OLIVIA MERRIWEATHER, 7TH GRADE; RYLEIGH WILLIAMS, 7TH GRADE; JORDAN GREENE, 7TH GRADE; JOANNA ST.AIME, 8TH GRADE; ASPEN ZIMBELMAN, 8TH GRADE;JORDAN HUNTER, 7TH GRADE
these are life skills that they will need for the future. The earlier they develop them, the more prepared they are to lead.”
The results are already evident. Guest speakers frequently comment on the students’ professionalism, thoughtful questions, and polished presentation skills, evidence that leadership training through Creekside’s FBLA program is taking root.
Creekside’s chapter also operates with a distinctive, collaborative model. Middle and high school students work side by side, creating a mentorship culture where older students coach and encourage younger members. What began with six high school students in its first year has expanded to 56 students; a sign that the vision is resonating.
“It’s powerful to see leadership modeled in real time... not only by the local business leaders involved in the program, but also through the tremendous leadership and vast expertise of Anne Dammel and Stacy Wright, their advisors,” says Janna Szeto,
Creekside’s Director of Advancement. “Younger students are also inspired by the older ones and older students become mentors... it’s the kind of culture that builds confidence and character.”
Equally important is service. Leadership at Creekside is never detached from responsibility. Each Creekside FBLA student commits to at least 10 hours of volunteer service to the school annually, reinforcing that influence and impact go hand in hand.
“Creekside FBLA is more than a club. It is a leadership incubator, shaping bold thinkers, ethical decision-makers, and spiritually grounded innovators ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow,” says Dammel.
The future doesn’t just need business leaders. It demands more than strategy and success. It calls for courage, character, and leaders who serve first ... and that’s the legacy Creekside FBLA is creating.
BUILDING COLLEGE CONFIDENCE FIRST
Helping students find their path in life.
by KEMBLE HILDRETH
Community Christian School’s college prep culture is easy to describe on paper. Students explore multiple post-high school pathways, from four-year universities to military service, two-year programs, and trade schools. Families are included. Courses are matched to student interests. Scholarships and outcomes are celebrated.
But the real engine behind that culture is a person.
After nearly a decade at Community Christian School, Dr. Cindy Balsam has become the kind of counselor students look for in the hallway, the kind of educator parents call years after graduation, and the kind of steady presence that helps a teenager stop counting themselves out.
“It all begins with trust,” Balsam said. “Trust and developing relationships are a key foundation to helping students feel confident enough to attempt rigorous coursework.”
That trust shows up in Community Christian’s open-access mindset. Instead of reserving advanced courses for a tiny group of top performers, Balsam and the CCS faculty encourage students to stretch into honors, AP, and dual enrollment when they are willing to try. “Nothing’s too big or too small,” she said. “As long as you have a plan, I’m all for it.”
Balsam’s path to Henry County was anything but linear, and that’s part of why students connect with her. Born in New York and raised in New Jersey, she started in forensic psychology and
“ Trust and developing relationships are a key foundation to helping students feel confident enough to attempt rigorous coursework.”
Dr. Cindy Balsam
spent years working in intensive behavioral health, including inpatient settings. “I have a big passion for not only education, but mental health,” she said.
After moving to Georgia about 16 years ago, Henry County became home. In fact, she used to drive by Community Christian School thinking, “One day I’ll put my kids in there.” Today, both of her children attend CCS.
Her work in education began as a diversity recruiter, traveling across North Georgia and working closely with school counselors. Over time, she noticed burnout and a pattern of attention going only to the students already headed toward college. That sparked a pivot back into the K–12 world. When she saw an opening at CCS, she applied. Then she went back to earn her school counseling certification while on the job, later completing a PhD through Mercer University. “I’m a lifelong learner,” she said. “I want to show the kids that you never stop.”
At CCS, Balsam is the only school counselor for grades 6 through 12, and she also teaches AP Psychology. She is an adjunct professor through Middle Georgia State University and Truett McConnell University, supporting dual enrollment opportunities alongside other college partners. It is a rare blend: counseling, classroom teaching, and a deep familiarity with what colleges actually expect.
That blend matters because families are often overwhelmed. The college process has changed dramatically, and many parents are unsure where to begin. CCS addresses that by partnering with families early and often, making planning a shared effort rather than a last-minute panic. Students get multiple opportunities to explore careers, campuses, and alternatives to the four-year track. Balsam even encourages students to visit campuses they are unsure about, because clarity often comes through exposure. “You think you want to go somewhere,” she said, “but then when you’re actually there, you’re like, ‘Wait, this isn’t what I thought.’”
The results speak loudly. CCS students are enrolling in top-choice schools, pushing one another academically, and recently set a class goal to exceed $7 million in scholarship offers, a milestone the school is proud to say they reached.
Still, Balsam measures success differently.
“I love seeing the kids step away from relying on our support,” she said. “The ultimate goal is: can you advocate for yourself? Can you believe in yourself?”
That may be the real story of Community Christian School’s college prep culture. Not just readiness for college, but readiness for life.
A PASSION FOR SPACE TAKES FLIGHT
One Student’s Faith, Perseverance, and Determination to Reach the Heavens
by JOSIE EVANS
Growing up in Florida, Sara McCracken saw a lot of rocket launches. She knew from an early age she loved space, and she loved to read.
“I didn’t know a lot of kids who went to the space section of Barnes & Noble before they went to the fun section,” she said with a laugh.
By her teen years, McCracken and her family had moved to Georgia, where she attended Strong Rock Christian School in Locust Grove. Along with a few classmates who shared her interest in space, she often spent lunch periods in her science teacher’s classroom, asking to watch videos of rocket launches.
In 2018, that teacher, Nadine Hoenes, learned about the Student Astronaut Challenge and immediately saw its potential. “My mouth dropped open,” Hoenes recalled. “I thought, this is incredible—we’ve got to do this.”
The Student Astronaut Challenge is an aerospace-focused STEM competition for students in grades 6–12. Held annually at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the competition features four challenges: design, engineering, landing, and space flight simulation. “Using a computer program, the kids can simulate flying in real-time, like an actual astronaut,” explained Hoenes.
The competition draws students from across the United States and Europe, but Strong Rock is currently the only school in Georgia offering this unique program. Strong Rock students train nearly year-round, and their dedication has paid off with
multiple competition wins. In fact, Strong Rock just secured another first place victory in February 2026.
For McCracken, the Student Astronaut Challenge not only reinforced her passion for space but also taught her an essential life skill: teamwork. “It’s such a team-building exercise because you have to rely on each other.” She said the program also emphasizes the importance of taking initiative and actively seeking solutions.
Student Astronaut participants present their work before a panel of judges, often including engineers from NASA and Blue Origin. “The students’ eyes really open when they go to this competition,” Hoenes said. “Many of them go on to pursue engineering or space-related fields because it shows them, ‘I can do hard things, and I can achieve this’.”
That was certainly true in McCracken’s case. She graduated from Strong Rock in 2021 and is now a second lieutenant in the United States Space Force. Space Force is our country’s newest military branch, designed to help manage and protect our country’s essential satellites and space technology.
Reflecting on her journey, McCracken said both the Student Astronaut Challenge and the Space Force came into her life at exactly the right time. “I don’t think God gives you passions for you not to use them,” she said. She encourages young people to pursue their dreams with faith and determination. “You’re the only one who can convince yourself you can’t do something.”
“I didn’t know a lot of kids who went to the space section of Barnes & Noble before they went to the fun section.”
Sara McCracken
A LEGACY OF CARE
One Henry County family’s commitment to community wellness.
by SHANNON COURSEY
When Isabel Castro began her career with Aylo Health at the front desk in McDonough, she didn’t imagine her role would lead her to the clinical side. At the time, her work supported clinic operations behind the scenes. It wasn’t until she was offered the opportunity to join a medical assistant training program through Aylo Health that she began to consider a more hands-on role, caring for people in a new way.
“It wasn’t something I originally had in mind,” Isabel said. “But it felt right, and having my mom as a medical assistant really encouraged me to take that step.”
That encouragement came from someone deeply familiar with Henry County’s healthcare community. Isabel’s mother, Billie, has worked as a medical assistant since the same year her daughter was born. For more than two decades, she has worked in clinics throughout Henry County, building long-standing relationships with patients and colleagues alike. Today, Billie serves as the lead medical assistant at Aylo Health’s Stockbridge clinic.
Growing up, Isabel said doctor’s visits never felt intimidating. Through her mother’s experiences and stories, she learned early that health care isn’t just about procedures or paperwork. It’s about helping people feel safe, cared for and informed.
“She really painted the picture that the healthcare field is here to help people,” Isabel continued. “It’s about keeping people healthy, and when they do get sick, making sure there’s someone to take care of them.”
ISABEL CASTRO WITH MOM, BILLIE CASTRO
“Aylo Health gave me an opportunity I didn’t know I needed.”
Isabel Castro
When Isabel began the three-month medical assistant training program, she felt anxious about the demands of the role. With steady encouragement and support from her mother and team, she completed the program with confidence in her abilities and a clear sense that she was exactly where she belonged.
Now as a medical assistant, her daily responsibilities include taking blood work, assisting with EKGs and supporting providers during patient visits. She has also taken advantage of opportunities to assist with minor procedures, which has helped her grow both professionally and personally.
“There’s always something new to learn,” Isabel said. “I’ve learned a lot already, and I really enjoy being in a collaborative environment where people teach and learn from each other.”
The importance of patient-centered care is the most impactful lesson that Bille has left with her daughter. Both agree that making patients feel heard, comfortable and respected is central to their work. Billie said the two often talk outside of work about ways they can better serve patients and make a positive impact in their community.
“I guess I did something right when she was growing up,” Billie said. “It’s been amazing to watch her follow in my footsteps and to know we share the same passion for helping people.”
Mexican Fusion
Breakfast tacos where they make you feel like family.
by MICHELLE FLOYD
A Houston native is bringing a Mexican-American breakfast fusion to Henry County. We really don’t have anything like this around here — we’ve become the Mexican IHOP,” jokes Locust Grove resident Marina Del-Cielo Fisher, owner of Café del Cielo (pronounced dehl-SYEH-loh).
The café, whose name means “Of Heaven,” and Fisher’s middle name, opened in October 2025 on Racetrack Road. The name pays tribute to Fisher’s late aunt, Marina, whom she was named after. Since opening, Café del Cielo has been serving breakfast all day alongside brunch and lunch favorites, including their popular lunch café bowls and aguas frescas like Horchata, Pineapple, and Hibiscus water.
Customers have quickly embraced traditional Tex-Mex staples like chilaquiles and migas — fried tortillas scrambled with eggs — as well as breakfast skillets, breakfast quesadillas, and breakfast tacos made with authentic handmade flour tortillas prepared by Fisher’s mother, Carolyn Ortiz. Fisher says her earliest memories in the kitchen were alongside her mom, making the café a full-circle moment for them.
She credits her diverse menu to years spent working at a Mexican restaurant and the well-known breakfast chain IHOP during her teenage years. The influence shows on the menu, which features everything from the Big Tex Steak Omelet to pancakes, waffles, French toast and a customer favorite, the Dutch Baby skillet pancake topped with fresh fruit.
MARINA DEL CIELO FISHER
“It’s kind of our thing to go every weekend,” says McDonough resident Madeline Kroner, who enjoys dishes like Huevos a la Mexicana and the breakfast taco plates. “I saw her on social media, and we went the first time — “it was so good that we went back the next weekend. There’s never been any Mexican or Tex-Mex style breakfast place — we’ve waited forever for this,” admits Kroner, a California native.
Crystal Cates, a Henry County government employee, says the welcoming atmosphere keeps her coming back.
“The staff is so friendly, and they have great customer service,” she says. “I go every day for lunch. I haven’t found anything that I haven’t liked.”
Since opening, Fisher says one of her favorite parts of owning Café del Cielo has been connecting with customers — sitting down to hear their stories, gathering feedback and making them feel like part of the restaurant’s extended family, all while maintaining a warm, family-friendly environment.
Cafe del Cielo
232 Racetrack Rd
McDonough, GA 30252
470-507-0229
Breakfast and lunch 7 days a week from 7AM-3PM.
“My love for food and the industry comes from my mom.”
Marina Del-Cielo Fisher
On the Move
Empson’s Deli and Café relocating to larger space.
by MIKE BOYLAN
If you wandered Southlake Mall in the early 1980s, you know there was a restaurant called Subs, Salads, and Soups. Owned and operated by Empson Fogle and his son, the restaurant eventually left the mall and became Fogle’s. When they moved to Rock Quarry Rd. in 2006, the name changed to Empson’s Deli
as a tribute to the founder. The popular deli is on the move this spring to The Bridges at Jodeco plaza, located at Chen Parkway in McDonough. Empson’s Deli will now have more space –3,000 square feet – and will be able to offer more of the items that have been popular with their customers for over 40 years.
“Space was a big reason for the move,” said Jess Fogle. “It’s going to be so epic. We can do more, operate longer hours, and really grow here.”
One thing that has Fogle very excited is the ability to have a six-burner stove, which means being able to offer more of all kinds of soups. The seafood bisque, prepared by her father for every Friday’s meal services, is a staple for regular customers.
The larger kitchen and the ability to have more equipment also means that the deli will be able to offer more hot sandwiches, like meatball subs and Cubans, as well as double batches of items like the always-popular seafood salad.
“Right now, we are sometimes sold out of the seafood salad before the doors are even open,” Fogle said. “People know they are getting fresh, real ingredients. Real shrimp, crab, and lobster.”
“If you’re having a bad day, come to your favorite place and we’ll turn it around for you.”
Jess Fogle
(L-R) NOVA, PAM, BRAD, JESS, ASANDRIA AND MOLLIE
Empson’s was hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and temporarily closed their store for several months between 2021 and 2022. When they re-opened, regular customers who became like members of the family rejoiced. Not only were they getting some of their favorite dishes back, but they were also reuniting with friends who never missed an opportunity to show them that they cared.
“The other day we had a customer come in and she was clearly having a bad day,” Fogle recalled. “I took some time to talk with her and found out her husband was sick in the hospital. I think she just needed someone to show that they cared.”
The new location will be Tuscan-themed with wood beams. Fogle wants the atmosphere to be warm and inviting.
“I want it to feel like we’re giving you a hug when you walk in,” Fogle said. “If you’re having a bad day, come to your favorite place and we’ll turn it around for you.”
Fogle gets choked up when she thinks about all the people who have made the deli a special place to be over the years.
“The original location opened before I was even born, so some of these folks have known me for my entire life,” Fogle said. “I don’t know how to tell everyone how much they all mean to me.”
By serving comfort food with the freshest ingredients, and a side of love for the community, it is very likely that the customers at Empson’s Deli know exactly how she feels.
Empson’s Deli
1040 Chen Pkwy Suite N Stockbridge, GA 30281 770-389-5824
A family legacy of Mexican and Italian cuisine finds a home in Henry County.
by KEMBLE HILDRETH
If you have driven through Hampton lately and noticed a new local spot drawing attention, that is likely Via 14 Restaurant, a family-rooted concept blending Mexican, Italian, and American favorites under one roof.
Owner Sandra Palacios brings more than 30 years of restaurant experience to Henry County. Born in Michoacán and raised in Mexico City, Sandra grew up in a family deeply involved in the restaurant industry across Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. Some relatives operate Mexican restaurants, while others specialize in Italian cuisine. Via 14 reflects that heritage, offering a thoughtful fusion that feels both authentic and welcoming.
Sandra has lived in McDonough for more than two decades so when the opportunity came to open a new concept in Hampton, it felt like the right fit. She appreciates the town’s character and wanted to create a place where families, friends, and neighbors could gather around food that offers something for everyone.
The menu at Via 14 is intentionally wide-ranging. Guests can enjoy authentic Mexican dishes such as street tacos, birria tacos, and steak tacos alongside Italian staples like lasagna and spaghetti Bolognese. You will also find burgers, wings, fish plates, sandwiches including ribeye and steak options with the breakfast menu offering American classics as well as Mexican favorites. Morning guests can choose from hearty plates like steak and eggs, shrimp and grits, eggs Benedict, or a classic Hampton Special
“Born in Michoacán and raised in Mexico City, Sandra grew up in a family deeply involved in the restaurant industry across Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama.”
SANDRA PALACIOS
with eggs, meat, grits or home fries, and a biscuit. Mexican-inspired breakfast dishes such as huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, and chorizo burritos sit comfortably beside omelets, pancakes, waffles, and French toast combinations. Lighter choices like avocado toast and granola bowls round out the selection, making breakfast just as diverse as the lunch and dinner menus. The goal is simple: no one leaves without finding something they love.
That variety makes Via 14 an easy choice whether you are meeting friends for breakfast, lunch or even grabbing dinner with the family, Via 14 can satisfy different tastes at the same table.
Sandra’s hope is straightforward. She wants more people in Henry County to discover Via 14 and make it part of their regular dining rotation. With deep roots in the community and decades of culinary experience behind it, this Hampton restaurant is ready to welcome you in.
Via 14 Restaurant
14 E Main St N Hampton, GA 30228 470-332-3955 www.via14.com
Sunday - Thursday 8am - 9pm Friday and Sat 8am - 10pm
ZADE OUR HERO
A legacy of water safety and hope.
by DELANEY KIRBY
Zade was a charismatic three-year-old who was all boy, wanted to be outside with his brothers, was the comedian of the family, and loved his toys. When his life was suddenly and tragically cut short when he drowned on a spring day in 2024 at a friend’s house, his parents, Michelle and Tyler Rachels, felt they needed to do something that would assist in not letting this tragedy happen to someone else. They wanted to spread awareness about teaching children to swim and water safety.
They planned and had their first event not long after his death, “A Day for Zade,” to raise awareness at the same pool where the tragedy occurred. They offered CPR lessons and had a swim instructor, Jamie Childers, sign kids up for swim lessons. They then decided to start scholarships for swim lessons given by Jamie, water safety and CPR education, and gift pool alarms to families. This has helped focus their grief on something good coming from such a tragedy.
The name “Zade Our Hero” came to them from Zade’s love of the show Paw Patrol, where the characters in the show are all community heroes, like Zade is for this cause.
“Sometimes we feel like we got the coolest blessing because we have his identical twin.”
Michelle and Tyler Rachels
While Michelle and Tyler are busy planning the two upcoming fundraising events, the second annual golf tournament at Georgia National and the third annual “Day for Zade,” they always have their sweet boy on their minds and are honoring his short but impactful life. Last summer, their efforts afforded them the opportunity to give forty-one children swim lessons. All money raised at events goes toward this wonderful mission.
Zade has an older brother, Brighton, and a twin brother, Zeke, and they were his best friends too. Although Michelle and Tyler will always grieve the loss of Zade, “Sometimes we feel like we got the coolest blessing because we have his identical twin, and obviously sometimes it hurts, but how cool that we got Zeke, that is almost the spitting image of Zade, his other half.”
Michelle and Tyler’s faith, family, and friends have helped carry them through this unimaginable tragedy. They hope Zade’s brothers will “carry this legacy of continuing to share the importance of water safety in honor of their brother, and to know that we are trying to honor him and that we didn’t give up in trying to make a difference and that we love Zade and them so very much.”
If you would like to donate to this wonderful and needed non profit to honor Zade, or know a child in need of financial assistance for swim lessons, visit www.zadeourhero.com or their facebook page, facebook.com/p/zade-our-hero-61558386339929
TIPS FOR
Energy Drinks and Teen Heart Health
What parents should know.
by ERIKA RICHARDS
Energy drinks may seem like a quick fix for tired kids and teens, but the health risks can outweigh the benefits. According to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Electrophysiologist Dr. Robert Whitehill, the high levels of caffeine and other stimulants commonly found in these beverages can cause significant stress on a child’s heart.
Energy drinks are designed to stimulate the nervous system, and that stimulation can lead to cardiovascular effects, especially in teens who may already be sensitive to caffeine or have underlying heart conditions.
Dr. Whitehill would like parents to understand the potential risks, which may include:
• Rapid or irregular heart rate
• Increased blood pressure
• Heart palpitations or chest discomfort
• Anxiety, jitteriness or dizziness
• Dehydration, especially during sports or exercise
Many energy drinks also contain high amounts of sugar, and when combined with caffeine, these stimulants can amplify their effects with other negative impacts on overall nutrition. For teens with known or undiagnosed heart issues, this combination can be dangerous.
Families are encouraged to focus more on healthier ways to boost energy, like getting enough sleep each night, staying well hydrated, eating balanced and nutrient-rich meals, and maintaining regular physical activity.
If your teen is experiencing symptoms like fainting, chest pain or a racing heart after consuming an energy drink, discontinue use immediately and contact a healthcare provider.
Insight above is provided by Dr. Robert Whitehill, Medical Director of the Electrophysiology 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.
“Energy drinks may seem like a quick fix for tired kids and teens, but the health risks can outweigh the benefits.”
Dr. Robert Whitehill
GRACE & TRUTH
Lifelong Learning Through Faith and Community
Grace Faith and Love
by REV. JIM HANCOCK
Talking about myself doesn’t come naturally, because my focus has always been on the people God places around me and the work happening through the church. But my journey helps explain why lifelong spiritual learning has become such a central part of my ministry.
I was born in Wisconsin and raised mostly in Mississippi, and I first sensed God calling me into ministry as a teenager when I was given the chance to preach at age fifteen. Even so, my path wasn’t straight. For many years I worked in business and technology in places like Nashville, Boston, and Phoenix, gaining insight into the real pressures families face—balancing work, finances, parenting, and faith. Eventually, though, God led me back into full-time ministry, and today I serve as Senior Pastor of Bethel Methodist Church in Stockbridge, Georgia. At Bethel, our mission centers on helping people grow in faith not just on Sundays, but throughout their entire lives. Education is a key part of that. We believe learning doesn’t stop after childhood or even after someone becomes a Christian. Faith grows as people continue asking questions, studying Scripture, and applying God’s truth to everyday life. That’s why we invest heavily in teaching opportunities for both children and adults—Sunday school, Bible studies, youth and children’s programs, and practical teaching that helps people live out their faith at home, at work, and in the community.
Our church itself has experienced seasons of learning and change. After walking through denominational transition in recent years, we’ve emerged with renewed clarity about why we exist: to help people encounter Christ and grow in faith together. That growth happens best when churches become places where people of every age feel welcomed to learn, ask questions, and grow spiritually. Personally, my own struggles and life experiences have reinforced how important lifelong learning really is. None of us ever “arrive.” We’re all still growing, still learning, and still dependent on God’s grace. That understanding shapes how I teach and lead. My goal is not simply to preach sermons, but to help people develop a faith that matures over time. What matters most to me is faith in Jesus, my family, and helping others know they are loved by God and have a place where they belong and can grow. When churches help both children and adults become lifelong learners in faith, families grow stronger, communities grow healthier, and people discover hope that carries them through every season of life. That’s why at Bethel we say, “Grace is real. Faith is growing. Everyone is welcome.” It’s more than a slogan—it’s the heart behind everything we do as we continue learning and growing together at every stage of life. There’s always a place for you at Bethel. Visit us online at BethelMethodist.church or join us in person at 245 Fairview Road, Stockbridge, GA.
“At Bethel, our mission centers on helping people grow in faith not just on Sundays, but throughout their entire lives.”
