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When Your Mental Health Can’t Wait
Willowbrooke Urgent Care for Mental Health and Substance Use is now open.
• Walk-in, no appointment necessary
• Serves children, adolescents, adults and seniors
• Provides immediate support for depression, anxiety, stress, post-partum issues, substance use disorders and more
To learn more or for a complete list of conditions we treat, visit WillowbrookeUrgentCare.org.
Note: If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911, or visit the nearest ER. Immediate help is also available for suicidal thoughts by dialing 988. If you need support for non-emergent mental health issues, call 770-812-3266 for a free screening and to establish care with a counselor, therapist or psychiatrist. 20 Herrell Road, Suite 1 | Villa Rica, Georgia
Another Goodbye
Last month, we had to say goodbye to one of Dan's family members. His dad, Tom Keever, passed away June 19 and was laid to rest June 22. My heart breaks for Dan as he deals with the aftermath, and all the feelings and pain that come with losing a loved one.
We have included Tom's photo and obituary on page 22. I know he will be dearly missed by many. Please say a prayer for Dan and his siblings, as well as Tom's wife Johnnie, and the rest of the family as they go through the grieving process.
In This Issue
Our feature this month is Dr. Amy Eubanks. After losing her 44-year-old father to a heart attack and one of her college roommates to cancer, she made it her mission to become a medical doctor so she could help others when they needed it most. Dr. Eubanks really came through on that promise. As the medical director and co-chairman of the board of the Rapha Clinic in Temple, Ga., she has made it her mission to help the uninsured receive medical and dental care throughout West Georgia.
On page 10, learn more about Dr. Eubanks and her heart for healing the West Georgia community.
As you flip through the pages of this issue, you'll learn how the local networking group Hello Culture helps female business owners discover their full potential, Sandy Bolan shares how and why you should write your memoir and how you can achieve the title Neighbor of the Year and, of course, Chef Rose Isaacs offers two delicious recipes. We've also included the sixth article of our cancer support series written by Patrick Yuran.
Are you planning on going to the City of Carrollton 4th of July parade? As always, we'll be there in our float with lots of fun things to give away, including some awesome candy for the kiddos. I want to give a shoutout to Eddie LeBlanc, owner of CMB Rentals, for allowing us to use his truck and trailer this year. Also, it's never too late to give thanks for something, right? I forgot to thank our dear friend Mark Foster with Auto Gallery Chevy GMC for allowing us to use his truck to pull Eddie's trailer last year. Thanks to both of these wonderful friends for helping us out during the 4th!
We hope to see you at the parade! Have a safe and happy 4th of July.
Take care,
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Finding our voice. Knowing our value.
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A Heart for Healing
By Shala Rathke
Doctor Amy Eubanks Builds Healthier Communities in West Georgia
Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography. Family photos provided by Dr. Amy Eubanks.
On a typical day, Dr. Amy Eubanks might find herself managing complex medical cases as an internal medicine physician at Primary Care of Bremen, mentoring young premed students, coordinating volunteers at a free clinic or picking up her bass guitar for a weekend performance with her praise band. It’s a rhythm she’s been fine-tuning for nearly two decades in West Georgia, finding harmony in medicine, mentorship, music and her mission.
Whether she’s helping uninsured patients manage chronic illness or collaborating with local leaders on community health initiatives, her approach to medicine and her commitment to the community is deeply personal.
Inspired by Loss
Born in Decatur, Ga., and raised in Lithonia, Amy found early love of science and people, encouraged by her parents. “I always had an interest in science, but I also enjoyed getting to know people from all different backgrounds and building relationships.,” Amy relates. “Medicine had appeal as it allowed the love of science with the relationship building with patients.”
Her mother was a University of Georgia graduate who stayed home with Amy and her brother Wylly. Her father, who was raised on a farm in Bartow, Ga., stayed true to his roots by majoring in agriculture at UGA. He ultimately taught himself computer programming and decided on that as an eventual career path.
Although she had thought about medicine as a
career from a young age, a devastating family loss pushed her from scientific interest to a calling. When Amy was 12 years old, her father died unexpectedly. He had been having some chest pain, but when he saw his doctor, he was told to seek emergency treatment if the pain got worse. He died within days of that doctor’s visit.
“I was a daddy’s girl,” she recalls. “My world was shattered when he died suddenly of a heart attack at 44. I think that’s when the idea of medicine changed for me. It became more than science. It became a mission to help keep other families from going through what we did.”
She would go on to graduate as valedictorian of Lithonia High School and earn a degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from UGA.
Her commitment to medicine was cemented in college when she watched one of her college roommates battling cancer. Although her roommate ultimately passed away, Amy saw what a positive effect doctors can have on a person’s emotional and spiritual well-being. She knew she wanted to be a doctor who made a difference in that way.
“I did my medical school and my internal medicine residency at the Medical College of Georgia, and I subsequently did a chief resident year,” she recalls. “I remained one additional year as an associate professor of medicine, chief hospitalist and the medical director at Select Specialty Long Term Acute Care facility while waiting for my husband to complete his residency in pediatrics.”
In 2006, she and her husband, pediatrician Dr.
Amy's family, L-R: Wylly T. Jordan, III (brother), Wylly T. Jordan, Jr. (father), Beth Mcmichael Jordan – now Beth Jordan Brown (mother) and Amy.
Bremen • Carrollton • Douglasville
770.537.2375 • 770.836.1466 • 770.489.2818 www.hightowerfamilyfuneralhomes.com Happy Independence Day From Our Family (and Ruby) to Yours! Ruby Hightower, Certified Therapy Dog and Grief Counselor.
Steven A. Eubanks, Jr., moved to West Georgia to join the Tanner Health System (now Tanner Health).
She and Steven, who met as students at UGA and married in 1997, have three children. Lexi, 25, is a professional musician in Detroit with dual master's degrees in flute performance and chamber music. Trey, 21, is a senior at UGA preparing to apply to medical school. Emily, 17, a talented artist and jazz saxophonist, is entering her senior year of high school. She hopes to attend UGA, planning to major in graphic design.
While medicine fills her science bucket, Amy embraces her creative side as well, a side she clearly passed on to her children. She plays bass, acoustic guitar and piano, and is part of several local bands, including McPherson Street and the Red Dirt Divas. She also plays in the praise band at First Methodist Church of Bremen.
Medicine as a Ministry
For Amy, medicine isn’t just a profession; it’s a deeply held calling.
“I feel like God guided me every step of the way of my path into the medical field, and I
hope that by doing community outreach, I am able to shine His light and love in the community,” she explains.
Her current practice focuses on adult primary care with an emphasis on chronic disease management. These are the slow-burning fires of modern medicine, conditions that require persistence,
Dr. Amy Eubanks with her family, L-R: Trey, Amy, Lexi, Dr. Steven A. Eubanks, Jr. and Emily.
Providing insurance to families, farmers and businesses for 100 years
empathy and education. And that’s exactly what she offers.
As an internal medicine physician, she offers primary care for medically complex patients, as well as preventative and acute care for patients ages 18 and up.
“My typical patient has numerous chronic problems such as diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, depression or chronic kidney disease,” she shares. “I help manage these issues on an ongoing basis while also trying to educate them and give them resources to help them better take care of themselves. I enjoy the long-term management and the relationships that come with seeing the same patients over the years.”
In addition to her full-time practice, Amy has consistently donated her time, serving in several community-focused positions such as chair of the Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Committee for Tanner’s Get Healthy, Live Well coalition.
“I personally believe that physicians have the privilege and responsibility of helping keep our overall community healthy,” Amy explains. “Yes, we see patients in the clinic, but a healthy community is beneficial for everyone that lives in it. Our time is limited in a regular office visit, so it is important to build resources
that our patients and community members can access to help themselves be healthier. These programs give them a deeper understanding of how to manage their illnesses while also giving them ongoing support and resources when they have questions.”
A Lifeline for the Uninsured
That same servant’s heart fuels her work at the Rapha Clinic of West Georgia, where she has served for over a decade, first as chief of staff and now as medical director and co-chairman of the board.
The Rapha Clinic is a non-profit, faith-based clinic that provides free medical and dental care to adults without insurance who live at or below 200% of the federal poverty line in Carroll, Douglas, Haralson, Heard and Paulding counties. Patients must have been denied Medicaid and cannot have private insurance. For many, it’s their only access to consistent, quality healthcare.
In 2025, the federal poverty line for a family of four is $32,150, which makes any family of four who earns $64,300 or less fall under the 200% mark.
According to the most recent Census data, at least 31% of families in Georgia live below 200% of the federal poverty line.
Amy was introduced to the Rapha Clinic through her pastor at the time, Wayne Monroe, who knew of founder Sue Brockman’s mission and sensed it would resonate with Amy.
“ As an Investment Advisor Representative with Milestone Investment Management, I am held to a fiduciary standard, meaning that we are committed to placing clients interests ahead of our own. ”
– Michael Stone, AAMS®, PPC®, AIF®,
Wealth Manager, Founder and CEO .
“I had been through several losses of people I cared about and had a child struggling with some emotional issues,” she remembers. “I was struggling myself at that time, and Rapha gave me something I cared about to focus on and bring me through those times. I felt like God just knew what I needed and steered me there.”
What she found was a community in need, but also a community willing to rise up and help their neighbors. The clinic exists only because people are willing to donate their time, expertise and money to keep the project afloat.
The clinic improves the well-being of hundreds of people each year, and Amy knows the value in helping people manage and take control of their health. Although the clinic offers many services, Amy uses their diabetes management program as an example of how Rapha positively impacts the community.
“We had a grant and were able to provide diabetic testing supplies, classes about diabetes management and individual intensive follow up of their sugars,” she says. “We saw so many of our patients finally get their A1C under control, lose weight, and get their blood pressure and lipids controlled as well. It was just ongoing proof to me that patients ultimately will do what it takes to be healthy if someone just gives them the knowledge, tools and support to do so. These were the same patients who were frequently going to the ER for blood pressure and sugar issues, and data in our early years showed our services definitely decreased traffic in the local ERs.”
The Rapha Clinic added dental services to their list of offerings, and demand has been high. Amy remembers a young lady who had lost several teeth because she didn’t have proper access to dental care. Her care at the Rapha Clinic was transformative – not just physically, but also emotionally and socially. “Until she got the care she needed, she
770.834.3393 623 DIXIE STREET – CARROLLTON, GA
talked about never wanting to smile in front of people,” Amy recalls. “Now she smiles all of the time.”
Amy says the clinic offers management of chronic medical conditions and some acute care treatment for established patients. “We did add dental services, and, frankly, dental services are in very high demand. Access to dental care in West Georgia is very limited according to a community needs assessment we did as part of the Healthy Haralson grant Tanner was involved with a few years ago.
“Dental health plays strongly into overall health, so it is a crucial need. And, just like the patient
I am “Big opportunities in a community that makes me feel right at home.”
mentioned above, poor dentition also affects selfconfidence and, if we are honest, employability.”
Meeting Needs, Facing Challenges
The clinic, while effective, has its challenges. As a non-profit, the organization relies on grants and community donations to maintain operations. It also requires a strong base of qualified volunteers willing to donate their time and talent to the goal of better community health.
“There are numerous grants that will supply equipment or support a specific position such as dental hygienist,” Amy relates. “However, there are very few grants that cover operational costs. For this, we depend on individual and business donations from the community.”
Amy admits these donations often dip during election years and times of financial uncertainty, like this year.
“Monthly donations are helpful as they provide more consistent flow. In the early years, we depended entirely on volunteers, but it became quickly obvious that for consistency, we needed some paid staff to avoid medical issues falling through the cracks. We are still very blessed to
have community volunteers, but the day-to-day functioning of the clinic requires paid staff.
“We also anticipate increased need for our services if changes happen to the system that lead to people losing Medicaid coverage or access to private insurance. We would like to be able to expand the number of days patients are seen, but to do that, we need increased financial donations as well.”
Volunteers are also key. The clinic has been blessed with many physicians, dentists and students, but more are always needed, especially in dental care, where the waiting list can be long.
“Our volunteers are frequently people in the community who reach out,” Amy shares. “We often have students planning to go into a medical field reach out to volunteer as well to get clinical experience before applying to medical school. We also have high school students at times volunteer. We are always open to volunteers. Even if they don’t have medical experience, there are typically things like front office work or handing out flyers in the community that can be helpful.”
The clinic finds another need in the tech gap. Being on an integrated system like Epic would streamline communication and patient tracking, especially with local hospitals, but the costs are currently out of reach.
Amy says one of their biggest challenges is finding ways to get patients to their next level of care, such as sending them for additional tests that can’t be performed at the clinic, or finding the right subspecialty care group moving forward.
“Thankfully, the majority of patients that qualify for our services also
Services at the Rapha Clinic
Who’s Eligible: Adults 18+ who live in Carroll, Douglas, Haralson, Heard or Paulding counties, have been denied Medicaid, have no private insurance and earn under 200% of the federal poverty level.
Services Offered:
• Chronic disease management
• Acute care for established patients
• Access to low- or no-cost medications
• Diabetes supplies
• Limited dental care
Clinic Hours:
• Financial Screenings: Mondays
• Medical Appointments: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Dental Appointments: Fridays (depending on dentist availability)
qualify for indigent programs in the surrounding hospital systems, so we are able to help them apply for these to get further testing done,” she says. “Having been in West Georgia for 19 years, I also have established relationships with the local subspecialists. I am frequently able to engage these colleagues to see patients when additional care is needed.
“We are also excited to have Dr. Chris Arant and his cardiology colleagues who will be doing exercise stress tests at the clinic. Dr. Arant generously donated the equipment, and we are going to start testing high-risk patients.”
A Sound Investment in Health
Outside the exam room, Amy brings creativity and music into the fold, and she uses that to help fuel a fun-filled fundraiser for the Rapha Clinic.
The clinic recently held its 10th annual Sound of Medicine, an annual fundraiser featuring musical
performances by groups that include healthcare professionals – physicians, nurses and therapists who moonlight as musicians. There’s also a silent auction, and all proceeds go to the clinic.
“Many of my medical colleagues, like myself, are musicians in their life outside of medicine,” she explains. “I think it is a way to help us relax and use the ‘other half’ of our brains. So many of my colleagues are supportive of the clinic through donations, volunteer hours or following up with patients in their personal clinics, but the fundraiser lets them use their other talents to help support the clinic as well.”
Amy says if she could share one message with people, it’s that they should consider taking care of themselves physically, mentally and spiritually as a worthy investment. “People often feel guilty to take time for themselves, but investing in your health also allows you to be better able to be there for the things in your life that are important to you, such as family, work and faith life. I frequently tell patients that you can’t give from an empty well. Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of those that you love.”
To donate, volunteer or learn more, visit raphaclinic.org or call 770-562-4501. WGW
In Loving Memory of Charles Tommy Keever November 16, 1942 –
CJune 19, 2025
harles Tommy Keever, age 82, of Bremen, passed away on June 19, 2025, at his residence. He was born on November 16, 1942, in Bremen, the son of the late Charles Minor Keever and Ira Leo Mangham Keever. He served in the United States Army and the Alabama National Guard, where he retired after 24-plus years of service. He worked as a corrections officer for 12 years, 10 of those for the Georgia Department of Corrections. He worked for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice (GDJJ) in transportation, where he retired at the rank of Lieutenant. After retiring from the GDJJ, he served as a Lieutenant with the Haralson County Sheriff’s Office. He worked as a project manager for the Carrollton Police Department for 10 years. He was a member of Journey Fellowship Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Caroline Keever; a brother, Larry Keever; and a sister-inlaw, Ann R. Hamilton Keever.
Survivors include his wife, Johnnie Byrd Keever; his children, Ira Jane Keever Bailey of Kennesaw, Cynthia Darlene Keever Jones of Woodstock, Kimberly Louise Keever Doss of Carrollton, Daniel Thomas Keever II of Carrollton, Randy Hollingsworth (Kim), Richard Byrd of South Carolina, Bonnie Rayburn (Ricky) of Bremen, and Joseph Byrd III (Gina) of Buchanan; 18 grandchildren, and 29 great-grandchildren.
Services were held on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at 3:00 pm at the Chapel of Hightower Funeral Home in Bremen with Bro. Ricky Rayburn and Rev. John Lemmings officiating. Jamie Bailey, Clayton Bailey, Daniel Keever III, Wesley Hosey, Kin Brooks and Larry Dobbs served as pallbearers.
Interment followed in the Carrollton City Cemetery.
Share your thoughts and memories in our guestbook at www.hightowerfuneralhome.com.
Hightower Funeral Home of Bremen was in charge of the arrangements.
Beyond Traditional Networking
trio creates a community of connection and support
By Shala Hainer
Owning your own business is the American dream, but it comes with a robust set of challenges. Networking is a must, and a group of West Georgia women have a unique spin on how to build a professional community.
A professional community is an essential thing –much more important than many people think. The Entrepreneur Burnout Report of 2024 shares that:
• 46% of entrepreneurs struggle with feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• 31% of entrepreneurs experience burnout due to lack of support from friends and family.
• 39% of entrepreneurs feel like they have no one to talk to about their stress.
Megan Johnson, Chastity Diamond and Cathye Dowda Cota met through their real estate connections, and they shared a vision fueled by their
own needs for collaboration and support. “Even with some success, Megan and I both felt a sense of loneliness in the business,” Chastity remembers.
“Carrollton’s Prescription Headquarters”
Local
Photos: Hello Culture
“We shared a desire to create something meaningful, something that brought real connection and support. Hello Culture aligned perfectly with the mission we had been discussing. Megan and I also knew that if we were going to lead a chapter well, we needed Cathye. She was a boss babe and the kind of powerhouse we needed on our team.”
Together, the three ladies started the Hello Culture chapter to empower and support women entrepreneurs in West Georgia by offering a safe space to collaborate, learn, share and build relationships in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
“Hello Culture is built on the foundation of ‘you can sit with us,’” Cathye shares. “Whether you’ve been in business 10 years or 10 minutes, there’s a seat for you at our table. We don’t just network; we brainstorm, collaborate, cry sometimes and cheer each other on, always. We talk about family, balance, burnout, branding and everything in between.”
“We share the ideal of ‘iron sharpens iron,’ which is simple – you give support and take support,” Megan relates. “There’s nothing better as a woman than your girl gang. One that supports you and your business, encourages you, pushes you and makes you feel welcome.”
Chastity agrees, saying, “To me, this means that people grow stronger and better through connection, collaboration and challenge. Our Hello Culture ladies are some of the best in business. We are always sharpening our character, skills and
mindset by surrounding ourselves with others who challenge and inspire us.”
For Cathye, the idea fosters growth. “For me, it means surrounding myself with other powerful, purpose-driven women who challenge me to level up, not by tearing me down, but by building me up.”
Hello Culture meets two to three times a month at various locations around West Georgia. The events rotate between coworking sessions, creative content days, workshops and fun casual gatherings, and members pay a monthly fee of $100.
“While there may be other networking groups, most do not focus on building true connections,” Chastity states. “We have regular in-person events and the members of our group have built meaningful relationships.”
A group favorite event,
The Hello Culture creators, left to right: Chastity Diamond, Cathye Dowda Cota and Megan Johnson.
Content Day, helps the women silence their inner critic and step in front of the camera with confidence as they take advantage of a professional photographer and the video skills of the other members.
“We know that it is sometimes a challenge to film content – after all, most of us are not content creators,” Chastity says. “We have taken something that may be intimidating and turned it into a collaboration session for our members. At Content Day, it’s not uncommon to see members cheering each other on, sharing tips, helping film reels, swapping strategies and even introducing each other to new tools or trends. It’s more than a content session – it’s a sisterhood built on support, creativity, and growth.”
The trio mention several other exciting events coming up, including recurring Coffee & Coworker sessions, a Back-to-School Bash poolside content shoot and cookout, Friendsgiving and the end-ofthe-year Flannel and Favorites
Cathye says balance is key to making their group successful. “We know women are multilayered. We’re CEOs and chauffeurs, visionaries and volunteers. Our events are designed for both the business builder and the human being. Some days, we’re learning new social media tricks or branding strategies. Other days, we’re venting about mom guilt or life stress. Both matter. And we make room for both, always.”
Megan agrees, adding, “We hope each woman can take away encouragement and community at our events. We want everyone to feel like they belong in our space and like they are benefitting from being there.”
To learn more or get involved, visit connectwestga.com WGW
Daily Fare
Chef Rose With
Chef Rose Isaacs is a native of Carroll County and lives in Carrollton with her husband, Shawn and their son, Sebastian. She graduated from West Georgia Technical College in 2013 with a degree in Culinary Arts.
She is a personal chef who offers cooking lessons, baby food prep, date night dinners for two and more. Learn more about Chef Rose at www.chefrosecooks.com.
Chef Rose photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography, daileylifephotography@gmail.com
Recipe photos by Andrew Agresta, Agresta Photography, www.agrestaphotography.com
Elote Corn Pasta Salad
“This salad gets even tastier after chilling in the fridge. Perfect for summer parties and potlucks!”
Ingredients
1 bag fire roasted corn, cooked per instructions
1 box (1 pound) small pasta shells
1/2 medium red onion, diced small
2 jalapeños, seeds removed, diced
1 bunch cilantro, chopped
1 cup Cotija cheese, grated
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup mayonnaise
1-2 limes, juiced
2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Cotija cheese, tajin and cilantro
Preparation
Cook 1 box of small pasta shells according to instructions on the box.
Strain and cool under cold water.
Place in large mixing bowl.
Add fire roasted corn, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro and Cotija cheese to the pasta and mix well.
In a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Pour prepared dressing over the pasta and corn mixture.
Top with additional Cotija cheese, tajin and cilantro. Serves 12.
Chocolate Zucchini Muffins
Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1¾ cups grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, unpeeled)
½ cup mini chocolate chips, plus more for topping
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners, or lightly grease the cups.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Fold in the grated zucchini.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Stir in the chocolate chips.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups. If desired, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top of each.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Makes 12 muffins. WGW
“These muffins freeze beautifully and make a fantastic breakfast!”
Holding On and Letting Go:
A Story of Love, Life and Loss
By Patrick Yuran
When life breaks you open, you begin to see what really holds you together. For us, that clarity came in the midst of pain. Marie’s cancer diagnosis shattered the rhythm of our lives, but as we began to rebuild, something surprising emerged for us. We discovered not just a new way of coping, but instead a new way of living. A way of life rooted in intention. We began to make the conscious choice to invest deeply in what matters most to us – our relationships.
A stage four, non-curable cancer diagnosis is like walking through fire. When you walk through the fire, you stop taking connection for granted. The people who show up for you and how you show up for them, suddenly become sacred. We realized quickly that we couldn’t do everything, go everywhere, or say yes to every request, but we could choose how to love, lead and nurture the relationships that meant the most to us. The ones that lifted, shaped and helped us remember who we were when everything felt unsteady. So, for us, intentionality became the bridge between survival and purpose.
We began to rethink everything, especially in how we related to others, both personally and professionally. We stopped defaulting to old patterns and became honest about which relationships felt life-giving verses the ones that
left us depleted. We started asking the hard questions. Where are we investing our time? Who do we want to grow with? What kind of community are we building? It wasn’t always easy, and some relationships drifted while others deepened. However, the beauty of living with intention is that even when something ends, it’s not without meaning. Nothing is wasted when you’re paying attention.
There’s something powerful about choosing your people on purpose and nurturing the relationships that call you back to your best self. Marie and I began prioritizing conversations that fed us, invitations that reflected our values, and collaborations that felt mutual, not transactional.
The more intentional we became, the more energy we had to pour into the relationships that mattered the most to us. Some of those relationships were life-long friends who stood by us when we had nothing to give in return. Others were newly formed in unexpected places, born out of shared vulnerability, courage and truth-telling. Many were colleagues who had witnessed our work evolve and responded with curiosity, encouragement and grace.
We started hosting more gatherings in our home, not grand affairs, but simple evenings where true,
Lesson #6: The Gift of Intentionality – By Design, Not Default
meaningful connection could occur. We began sending voice notes and text messages instead of emails. We reached out when people crossed our minds, even if we didn’t have the “perfect” thing to say. We chose longer slower conversations instead of transactional exchanges. In every relationship, both personal and professional, we began leading with the same question, “What would it look like to show up with our full selves here?” Showing us as our vulnerable, authentic self, not the polished version with the professional mask, but the honest, wholehearted version. The version that had known heartbreak and healing and still choosing hope. That one question changed everything. We stopped waiting for special occasions to connect. We stopped assuming people knew how we felt. We told our friends we loved them. We thanked our colleagues for the unseen ways they made space for us and others. We celebrated people’s wins and tried to sit with them in their losses. We stopped showing up halfway and started showing up on purpose. Intentionality doesn’t mean you have to do more, it simply means you do what matters more often, and the ripple effect is real. As we invested more fully in our relationships, we saw others begin to do the same. Our conversations deepened, trust grew, work became more collaborative, and
friendships became more restorative. We both experienced less burnout and more belonging, and less pretending and more presence.
We still face hard days, but the relationships we’ve built with intention have become our anchors. They remind us of who we are and who we’re becoming. They remind us that we don’t have to navigate the unknown alone, and there is a kind of magic in living this way.
So, wherever you are in your journey, this is your invitation to invest with intention. I urge you to invest in the relationships that help you grow, in the ones that hold you gently and in the ones where your soul can exhale. Don’t wait for a wake-up call to start living this way. Do it now … on purpose … with purpose … for the people who matter most ... and for YOU! WGW
Patrick Yuran is an educator, artist and entrepreneur. He currently serves as the Head of School at Oak Mountain Academy, is the founder and Artistic Director of The REAL Theatre and is the President of PJY Consulting. Photo on p. 34 by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography.
Iyour neighbor in the produce department of Kroger, would you recognize her, and if you did, would you know her name? What about the names of her children and pets? Knowing those things doesn’t make you a nosy neighbor; it just shows you care about your community.
Everyone has those days, even weeks when as soon as you get home, all you want to do is head directly inside, lock the door, close all the blinds, put on your comfiest clothes and binge-watch Netflix. At this point in the day, you don’t even have the mental capacity to cook dinner, so a bowl of cereal it is.
When you do this, it tells your neighbors to “approach with caution” and “leave me alone.” However, your neighbors are just as important as the actual home you live in, so try to make an effort, even if it’s just a quick “hello” or a nod of the head before you barricade yourself inside.
What You Do Affects Your Neighbors
Just because you’re an early riser and have a full day of chores ahead of you doesn’t mean you can fire up the lawn mower at the crack of dawn. Some municipalities have noise bylaws, but common courtesy should prevail.
If your neighborhood is buzzing at 8 a.m., then, by all means, fire up the power tools. It’s also equally important to know when to shut things down. No matter how much you want to work through the night to get the project done, don’t.
If you have kids or dogs, don’t shoo them out
Ways You Can Be More Neighborly
Being a good neighbor is more than just offering a passing wave
By Sandra Bolan
the door first thing in the morning because their playful squeals and barks are giving you a headache. Now they’ll just tick off the neighbors. How would you feel if things were reversed, and your neighbors let their kids take part in noisy play all day long or leave their barking dogs outside all day or all night? Don’t be that neighbor. When it comes to having your dog join you in the front yard while you weed the flower beds, keep it contained on the front porch or a lead. No one wants to walk by your house and be chased by a loose dog, no matter how harmless you think yours is. When taking your dog out for a walk, keep it on a leash, and don’t let it do its business on anyone’s
Ready to break free from that tiny backyard, scary wallpaper or questionable neighbor?
Let freedom (and equity) ring this 4th of July! Selling? Buying? Just need a place with better fireworks views?
Let’s talk! I’ll bring the red, white and real estate.
HEATING • COOLING • PLUMBING
front lawn. If your pet does happen to leave a gift, pick the mess up immediately.
Ensure your backyard fencing is escape-proof. Having a neighbor return your dog to you, more than once, is not the best way to get to know each other.
Keep the Front of Your Home Tidy
Keep your garbage bins in the back or at the side of your home and only bring them to the curb the night before collection. Then, pull them back in as soon as they’ve been emptied.
Park your vehicles in your garage, driveway or assigned parking spot, not on the street, as it not only creates blind spots for pedestrians and drivers but also impedes ambulances and fire
trucks from quickly responding to emergencies. Don’t keep 10 cars on your property when you only have room for three, and don’t fill your front yard with broken-down vehicles. An unkept home not only affects your property value but can also reduce your neighbor’s home value.
Be aware of how bright your outdoor lighting is and where your flood lights are directed. You don’t want them shining into your neighbor’s bedroom.
Not everyone has a green thumb, so it’s very tempting to hire a groundskeeping service. However, doing your own yard work makes you more visible and approachable. People will also notice your hard work, even if your lawn isn’t golf course green, and compliment you. Being outside also enables you to notice what’s happening in the neighborhood and be more aware of things that aren’t quite right, such as a strange, slow-moving vehicle or not seeing your elderly neighbors for a few days.
When you buy a home, your neighborhood becomes your large, extended family. You say hello to each other while walking your dog, check on the elders and bring in those Amazon packages when someone goes on vacation. When neighbors take care of each other, it’s just a nicer place to live. WGW
LocaL Happenings
Domestic Violence Support Group
There is Hope is a support group for women survivors who have dealt with, or are currently dealing with, domestic violence.
This is a private group where women survivors come together and share their personal stories of experience, strength and hope.
This group meets on the first Thursday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at a private location. A ZOOM option is available.
There will be guidance for help and resources available as needed. At times there will also be guest speakers.
Contact hopefulone807@gmail.com for more information and to obtain the privacy contract with the physical address or ZOOM meeting ID and passcode.
Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Groups
Has your life been impacted by the loss of a friend or loved one to suicide? You are not alone.
These groups offer peer support for anyone who has been affected by suicide loss.
There is no cost to attend.
Group meetings in Carrollton are the third
Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 306A Bradley Street.
For more information, contact Ivey Rollins at iveyrollins@gmail.com or call 470.729.0909.
Group meetings in Douglasville are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 6167 Priestley Mill Rd., Room 226.
For more information, contact Terri Johnson at chose2live@aol.com or 770.765.2181.
Group meetings in Newnan are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Crossroads Church, 2564 Hwy 154.
For more information, contact Lynn Bradley at 770.301.4890 or email nbll.bradley170@gmail.com, or contact Nancy Bradley at 770.251.6216.
PFLAG Carrollton Support Group
PFLAG Carrollton provides a free monthly peer facilitated support group for adult members (ages 18+) of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as their family, friends and allies, as a resource for families struggling with acceptance of their LGBTQ+ loved ones.
The goal is to meet people where they are and lead with love. PFLAG’s mission of support, education and advocacy from a place of love can
770.462.5005
help struggling families, as well as the community at large.
Support group meetings (for adults 18+) are led by a PFLAG trained facilitator and held on the second Thursday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Grace Lutheran Church, 101 Somerset Place in Carrollton.
Confidentiality and safety are top priorities. Contact Julia Houser, pflagcarrollton@gmail.com for more information.
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon family groups provides support for families and friends who have been affected by an alcoholic or drug addict. Members have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others who have faced similar problems.
There are several weekly meetings in the Carrollton, Douglasville and Newnan areas.
There is no cost to attend. If you'd like to find a group near you, visit al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings, click on find an al-anon meeting and enter your ZIP code for the complete directory in your area.
Carroll EMC Blood Drive
Carroll EMC will host a blood drive Tuesday, July 8, in the Robert D. Tisinger Community Center at the Carrollton office from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. If you'd like to sign up for an appointment, please call (770) 832-3552 or visit redcross.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Carroll EMC Offices Closed for Independence Day
All Carroll EMC offices will be closed Friday, July 4, for Independence Day. During this time, make payments at the kiosks, through the automated phone payment
system (770-832-3552), online at carrollemc.com or via the free Carroll EMC mobile app. To report a power outage, call 770-832-3552 (Option 1) or report it online at carrollemc.com or on the Outage Pal app.
Kim Gilmer Receives Linda Pickelsimer Administrative Assistant of the Year Award
The Carroll County Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a luncheon to recognize the outstanding contributions of administrative professionals who keep local businesses running efficiently and effectively.
The Linda Pickelsimer Administrative Assistant of the Year Award, sponsored by Fred O’Neal, was presented to Kim Gilmer, Executive Assistant to the President and CEO of Tanner Health, Loy Howard. Gilmer has served in her role for nearly three decades, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership behind the scenes at one of Carroll County’s largest healthcare institutions.
For more information about Chamber programs and events, visit carroll-ga.org or call (770) 832-2446.
The Linda Pickelsimer Administrative Assistant of the Year Award was presented to Kim Gilmer, Executive Assistant to the President and CEO of Tanner Health, Loy Howard. L-R: Loy Howard, Kim Gilmer, Rhyne Owenby and Fred O'Neal. Photo courtesy of Young Design Co.
Writing Your Memoir
Passing down gifts to grandchildren? Not all gifts are gold, silver or jewelry.
By Sandra Bolan
Everyone has a story to tell. Some are filled with tragedy and heartbreak or more twists and turns than Gone Girl, but unlike psychological thriller fiction, your story is all true. Even if you’ve lived a relatively charmed life, you’ll have unique stories to share – your childhood on the farm or in the city, your first love and subsequent heartache, adventures you’ve taken, regrets and glass ceilings you may not have broken but cracked. Despite all of your accomplishments, there might be one thing you still have to check off your bucket list – published author. So why not write a memoir?
Why a memoir and not an autobiography? If you’re doing this to leave a legacy for your family, shouldn’t you write about your whole life? Autobiographies, no matter how fascinating, can be quite dry because of their glorified chronology of a person's life. A memoir, on the other hand, focuses on a certain point in time or event that changed the trajectory of a person’s life. To quote memoir coach Marion Roach Smith: “It’s not what you did in your life but what you did with it that makes for an interesting story.”
Before you write
Before you agonize over your book’s opening line, you need to organize your thoughts and memories.
Write down all of your life’s big moments – the good and bad. This will serve as your initial outline.
Now, write about each of those events. Think of each situation as a separate chapter in your book. Leave no details out. You’ll have ample opportunity to edit later on. Depending on your life story, this may be emotionally difficult. Try to push through, and think of it as therapy.
Once you’re done writing, take a break – at least 24 to 48 hours. Then go back and read what you’ve written, this time look for recurring themes such as overcoming challenges, healing from tragedy or situations when you should have known better.
Next, pretend you’re being interviewed by Oprah or Barbara Walters. Ask yourself introspective questions about each of those key life moments, such as: Why did you react the way you did? How did your choices affect the rest of your life? If you could go back and do things differently, would you?
Be honest when you answer these questions. Once you’ve emotionally recovered from all of this introspection, dig through your notes for something that will grab a reader's attention. Keep in mind that it has to say something about you, your character, your triumphs and failures, and how it made you who you are today. This becomes your hook/lead/ first sentence.
Now, you get to rewrite your story and include all of that introspection you subjected yourself to, but
don’t lose sight of your theme as the throughline. Because you’re telling your own story, you can decide how personal you want to get, which means you can leave out the worst of the worst. But no matter which stories you include, they no doubt involve other people. How will you include them? Will you change their names? It’s a good idea to get their permission beforehand and oblige any requests they have.
Remember, if five people were involved in an event that greatly impacted you, all five of you may remember it very differently. There is value in including the other viewpoints as they paint a fuller picture of the situation.
Now that you've finished writing about your life, it’s time to edit your work. You may want to hire a professional editor if you are super critical of yourself. Whether you self-edit or hire a professional, plan on rewriting your memoir numerous times. Send it to everyone who's mentioned for their feedback. The purpose of editing your work is to ensure you’ve written the most cohesive, interesting and readable memoir possible.
Writing a memoir is a meaningful way to share your life’s journey, impart your wisdom and lessons learned. You'll also leave a lasting legacy your family can pass down to future generations. WGW
Please Help Us Build a Memorial Bench for Dr. Fred Richards
Sculptor Kevin Shunn will be creating a bronze memorial statue of Fred with a bench.
The Carrollton Fraternal Order of Police is collecting donations through its Barry Carroll Foundation for this project.
If you wish to donate to Fred's legacy project, please make your check payable to the Barry Carroll Foundation, with "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the memo line.
Checks can be dropped off at the City of Carrollton Police Department or mailed to: Barry Carroll Foundation c/o Chief Joel Richards, 115 W. Center St., Carrollton, Ga. 30117.
Or, you may donate through PayPal or Venmo using the QR codes on the left. Please reference the "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the "for" section.
Kids Korner
By
Firework Stamp
Materials
Toilet tissue roll
Scissors
Red, white and blue paint
Paper
Instructions
Cut slits halfway up one end of a toilet tissue roll to make a fringe.
Gently fan out the fringe so it spreads into a firework shape.
Pour red, white and blue paint onto a paper plate. Dip the fringe end of the roll into the paint, then stamp it onto a sheet of white paper.
Repeat the stamping process with different colors and angles to create a layered firework effect. Let the artwork dry completely before displaying.
Jordan Dailey
Craft photos by Zachary Dailey
Garden Veggie Lattice
Green
Instructions
Cut out carrot and radish shapes from the colored construction paper.
Glue four craft sticks together to make a square frame.
Weave green ribbon back and forth across the frame to resemble a garden trellis.
Tuck the paper vegetables behind the ribbon so they look like they're growing.
Allow to dry and display your mini garden. WGW
Independence Day Word Search
Get the care you need when you need it.
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Treatment Options
No appointment necessary! Simply walk in during our hours of operation to be seen by one of our experienced providers.
Find an appointment that fits your busy schedule! By booking ahead, you’ll minimize wait times and ensure prompt care at a time that’s convenient for you.
Schedule an appointment by visiting your Tanner MyChart app or scanning the QR code.
Tanner Urgent Care
If you can’t make it in person, Tanner Urgent Care now offers virtual visits. Connect with a provider from your phone, tablet or computer and receive expert care virtually.
Schedule a virtual visit today by scanning the QR code.
We’re here for you and your family when you need us most.
Your health matters, and we’re here to make care easy with locations in Bremen, Carrollton and Villa Rica. Open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
