Albany Living Magazine - Fall 2024

H o m e t oHwonmLei vtio nw g n a t Li it v s iBne g stat i t s 2024

HOPE HOPE PPRROO V IVDIID N IGN G

ALBANY LIVING

TOGRIEVING GRIEVING TO HEARTS HEARTS KATIE SHEFFIELD, KATIE SHEFFIELD, SHARES GOD’S GOODNESS SHARES GOD’S GOODNESS THROUGH THROUGH THE THE RED BIRD MISSION. RED BIRD LOVELOVE MISSION.

FAITH, FA FAITH, FAMILY, FURNITURE FURNI

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5030 Leary Road (Highway 62), Albany, Georgia 31721 | (229) 889-0193 | wynfieldplantation.com

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Albany Living Magazine

Located in the heart of quail country, Wynfield Plantation represents bobwhite quail hunting at its very best.

Featuring 2,000 acres of expertly managed woods, private cabins, gourmet dining and a sporting clays course.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Albany H o m e t o wn L i v i n g at i t s B e st

CONTENTS / FALL 2024

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COVER STORY

Providing Hope to Grieving Hearts

Albany Resident, Katie Sheffield, Shares God’s Goodness through the Red Bird Love Mission.

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Care You Can Trust

The Alzheimer’s Outreach Center exists to help support you and your family when your loved one has Alzheimer’s Disease.

58 Faith, Family, Furniture

Railway Freight Furniture, proudly serves the community for over 50 years through three-generations of family and has grown to include a total of five locations.

48 Redefining the Grieving Journey

Marcia’s journey in building her business reflects a profound personal evolution driven by her own experiences of loss and growth.

ON T H E C O V E R Katie Sheffield BRANDY CARUSO PHOTOGRAPHY

4 FALL 2024 / ALBANY LIVING

FAITH • DIVERSITY • UNITY

Hope City United is a vibrant non-denominational congregation in the heart of our city.

1211 Stuart Ave, Albany, GA 31707 | Sunday Services @10:30 | LIVE on FB and YOUTUBE We are part of the Hillsong Leadership Network and welcome you to join us for worship!

For more information, email hopecityuc@gmail.com or visit www.hopecityuc.com facebook.com/hopecityuc Instagram @hopecityuc Twitter @hopecityuc

Albany H o m e t o wn L i v i n g at i t s B e s t

C ONT E NTS

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Mosby Hill, a third generation Miss Georgia competitor, shares her unique journey that led her to the stage in a way that sets her apart from her counterparts.

Morph Health and Wellness owners, Dr. David Lawrence and his wife Caitlin, are driven by their own weight loss experiences to help you achieve your goals.

Don’t Look Back

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It’s All About Community

Owner Penny Gregorio fosters a philosophy of community at 229 Yoga in Albany.

Simply Healthy

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Scenes of Albany

Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply. Take a look at a few more reasons why we love Albany.

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER JENKINS

6 FALL 2024 / ALBANY LIVING

From the Publisher From the Publisher From the Publisher

albany P u b l i s h e r With You in mind Publications

From the Publisher From the Publisher

E x E C u t iPVuEbEldi si to Jay and martin h errS With You Patti in mind Publications

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CCrreEAt Generated Graphics, LLC Ati vi VeE||DdeEsSi G i Gnn Caffeine robin harrison

mandi spivey relative media and marketing stacey nichols Stacey nichols C r e at i v e | D e s i g n Caffeine Generated Graphics, LLC Ooffffi Ci CeEMmAAnnAG AGeErr nikki lauraBurkhalter mcCullough Stacey Nichols relative media marketing P u b l i s h e r With You In Mindand Publications

Photo by Leslie Hand

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While reading through our cover story, i was reminded

Perhaps the greatest piece of advice i have ever heard was given by dory, courtesty of the disney movie she sang heart just how blessed we Finding are inNemo life when to have thehergift ofouttrue to “Just Keep Swimming.” Seriously, she ran into obstacle after obstacle friendships.

Along with our family, friends andThe it seemed mission was impossible, yet she kept finding the can last her few months have been a true real challenge foroffer us strength to just keep swimming.

encouragement, confidence, the Southeast dueperspective, to the hurricane season.hope In oneand waylove. or another, we all affected negatively.

Obviously, some and i was trulyof overwhelmed when reading these thistruly issue as thepeople two ourwere greatest assets instories this inlife are theme was so clear. not quitting or giving up was the message time much more than others.

For many, life will never be Photo

by Leslie Hand our faith!

Albany full of strong ties andthe strong and again when so manyis of these heroic peoplefriendship suffered huge life same again.

During the tragedies that occurring, devastations and made the ChoiCe to not give up.

Whatwere truly brought me faith!

What a great recipe for success! to tears was the fact that not just one of these heroes were walking among us. stories, but every single oneAthat experienced sort ofrecently trauma, chose to turn their pain thoughts into dear friendsome of ours shared these were giving up theirlifetime, safety, lovePeople and give to othersand from are that place. that is what is all about. so and with usthese about Albany: “the heartbeat oftraveled Albany isfrom strong! many of pages are filled with ourneed. friends and neighbors who turned resources to help others in People love into action.

We’ve many storms and it reminded positioned allWhile overweathered the country to bring aid intogether some form or fashion. reading through our cover story, i was Perhaps the greatest piece of advice i have ever heard was given by dory, relationships matter and is what our hearts are made for. Connection EMT’s worked tirelessly to come and comfort victims. us to stand together even through a tough political climate. courtesty of the disney movie Finding when she sang heart just how blessed arethere inNemo life to have theherafter gift ofouttrue to those around us is our we purpose. are always rainbows rain, to “Just Keep Swimming.”

Seriously,Company sheisran intothe obstacle afterin obstacle Southern were out reestablishing EMC’s and thehope What you see on the case our city. growth after Winter, afternews trial.

We family, getnot the opportunity to choose friendships. our friends and it seemed herAlong mission with was impossible, yet shetrue kept finding the can offer us power as quickly as possible—not just 9 to 5. what we do with every single day.

People are gentle with one another.

We’ve had strength tosmile, just keepthey swimming. encouragement, perspective, confidence, hope and love.

Neighbors came and checked on neighbors.

They sharing these inspirational messages through these pages brings me the enough heartbreak and youthese can sense that nothing is going i was trulyof overwhelmed whengenerators, reading in thistruly issue as thepeople and two ouri am greatest assets instories this life are brought water, andissue. gas.

They brought greatest joy food, and truly honored to present this Please take the theme was so clear. not quitting or giving up was the message timecity. it’s a to incite division.

People are the heart of this time to go through thecut names offallen generous business owners on page 192 our faith!

Albany isofup full of strong ties and strong chainsaws and trees and limbs.

Businesses and again when so many these heroic peoplefriendship suffered huge life that give this community such a gift at no charge. We are so thankful for beautiful community!”

Well said our sweet friend!! devastations and made the ChoiCe to not give up.

What truly brought me stayed open Sundays and without power to provide faith! aon great for success! each oneWhat of our readers and recipe each one of these sponsors. to tears was the fact that not just one of these stories, but every single

whatever goodssome they had.

Some just took IOU’s as oneAthat experienced sort of trauma, chose to turn their pain thoughts into dear friend shared We love you Albany andof weours are so recently honored to be a part of these this incredible love and give to others from that place. that is what life is all about. so payments.

With much love and blessings from our toisyours! family us in the good life city! with about “the heartbeat of family Albany strong! many of these pagesAlbany: are filled with our friends and neighbors who turned It was a horrible time due to the hurricanes!!

When Yes! love into action.

We’ve weathered many storms together and it positioned you think about View our magazines online it, at: thank the Hometown Heroes who relationships matter and is what our hearts are made for. Connection us even tough political climate. sacrificed been. w ito t hstand yaround o utoiustogether nmake mouri npurpose. dit pbetter u bthere l through i than care a talways i ito would nasrainbows . c ohave mafter to those is rain, What youWinter, see hope on the the casetoin our city. growth after afternews trial. Weis getnot the opportunity choose what we do with every single day.

Ephesians 5:25they are gentle with People smile, one another. We’ve had @albany.living.magazine @albanylivingmagazine sharing these inspirational messages through these pages brings me the is going enough heartbreak and you can sense that nothing greatest joy and i am truly honored to present this issue. Please take the to incite division. are the heart of on this city. time to go through the names of generous business owners page 192 it’s a From our family toPeople yours, that give this community such a gift at no charge. We are so thankful for beautiful community!” Well said our sweet friend!! each one of our readers and each one of these sponsors.

Albany Living Magazine Albany Living Magazine With much love and blessings from our family to yours!

We love you Albany and we are so honored to be a part of this incredible

family in theus good city!

Contact atlife(912) 654-3045 Contact us at (912) 403-3004 Contact us at (912) 654-3045

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PAuSbSli iSstA h enrtWendy With Romanesk You in mind Publications A s s i s tA n t m A n AG E r S June dixon Dixon M e r June nikki Burkhalter E x E C u t iPVu EbAEln di AG Jay and Patti martin si to h errS With You in mind Publications o f f i c e M a n ag e r Nikki Guzman landon and mandi spivey P h oto G r A P h E r S Cox Photography P h OtO G r A P h e r s David Parks Photography CCrreEAt Generated Graphics, LLC david Photography Ati vi VeE||DdeEsSi G i Gnn Caffeine robin Parks harrison P h otog r ap h e r s Brandy Caruso Photography evie Carver millie mac Photography mandi spivey relative media and marketing David Parks Photography Perry revell Katie locke Photography relative media and marketing stacey nichols relative media and marketing Stacey nichols Millie Mac Photography millie mac Photography rosemary West Photography Sherry Photography rachel Price shaeClark Foy Photography Ooffffi Ci CeEMmAAnnAG Burkhalter AGeErr nikki laura mcCullough shannan blanchard Photography relative media and marketing Smitts Photography A S S i S tA n tThe shae Foy Studios Photography

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STORY BY WENDY ROMANESK | PHOTOS BY BRANDY CARUSO PHOTOGRAPHY

Hope Grieving Providing

to

Hearts

Albany Resident, Katie Sheffield, Shares God’s Goodness Through the Red Bird Love Mission

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albany living magazine

A

A mission to share the love of Jesus is

the calling Katie Sheffield received in 2022 after experiencing several losses in her life.

It was through these losses and a season of death and grief that God laid the Red Bird Love Mission on her heart to create the Red Bird Boxes to share with those grieving with lost loved ones to provide a ray of hope.

For readers who may not know the historical meaning behind the sighting of a Cardinal (Red Bird), it is believed that the vibrant Red Bird is an uplifting, happy sign that those we have lost will live forever if we keep their memory alive in our hearts. The beautiful Red Bird is simply a reminder that loved ones will never be truly forgotten and when they are near, so are those we have lost, providing hope they are in a much better place.

For Katie, starting this Red Bird Love Mission, which she considers her ministry, has changed every aspect of her life and personally, has provided her with such a purpose that she never imagined or would have been a part of, but she’s thankful that she has this purpose that shares Jesus during a time in people’s lives that they need it the most.

A native of Kennesaw, Georgia, Katie made the move to Albany 14 years ago to attend Darton College, to become a dental hygienist. During her time at Darton, she met her husband, Joe Sheffield, who is a

“Whenever Katie’s name lights up my phone screen, I know it’s another mission request – be it a video, an edit, or some marketing magic – and my answer a swift ‘yes,’” said Laura. “I’ll never turn down a chance to help, not just because I believe in her cause, but because my love for my sister and her dreams knows no bounds.”

native of Leesburg. For the last 12 years,

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Katie has been actively working in her field locally with Dental Partners of Southwest Georgia but has reduced her hours to do this mission and help her father-in-law with the family business, Ace Hardware. She also loves to be a mom to her miracle child, Cooper (5) and a bonus twin mom to her niece and nephew, Lakynn (4) and Grady (3).

She is a member of Grace City Church and knows that all God is doing at the church is a reflection of why she had the courage to do this mission.

Although her move to Albany was one of hesitancy, Katie said that she feels God placed her here for a reason and Red Bird Love Mission is truly at the top of the list.

Her family’s support has been a huge part of the mission, and they are truly one of the reasons that the mission is even a mission.

“I hope that my family has been just as impacted by starting this mission as I am,” said Katie. “I hope they have been able to see God’s goodness, His faithfulness, and just

“This mission isn’t about me, it’s about Jesus,” said Katie. “I’ve just been the obedient heart that God has used to share this mission and I’m so humbled at all He has done through it, and in awe of all the love and support I’ve received. I’m so thankful that the loved ones that we have lost, that their lives are remembered and that they are a part of a Jesus story and I hope and pray whenever the Lord calls me home that He’ll look at me and say, ‘well done, my good and faithful servant.’”

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For Katie, the hardest part of the Red Bird Love Mission is delivering boxes and she said that her heart wrestles with all kinds of emotions every time she delivers, but the reactions, the stories, the testimonies of what these boxes bring to these grieving hearts, makes it all worth it.

maybe if they are ever called to do something, that they think of this mission and ultimately, take that leap of faith to just do it.”

As one of her biggest helpers and as she now calls herself, “cheerleader,” her twin sister, Rebecca Griffin, says, “I am someone who sits back in awe of what Katie does and who she is. She is a crazy red bird girl after the hearts that are grieving, who loves Jesus and trust the plan He has for her life and her mission.

To say I am a proud sister would be an understatement. She is my hero, my inspiration, my best friend, and the best twin I could ever ask for. Just like Hunter Girl’s song, the part that says, ‘Red Bird, Fly,’ I pray that this mission will keep flying and reminding hurting hearts the hope of Heaven that we have from the sacrifice Jesus paid for us all.”

After losing Katie’s husband’s Nana, her family really struggled. She was such a light not just in his life, but to everyone around her. For the first Mother’s Day after her passing, Katie gifted her mother-in-law and her Aunt Patricia a gift similar to the Red Bird Box. At first, what felt like a weird gift to give, became such an impactful gift, not just to her, but to grieving hearts everywhere.

Her mother-in-law, Dana Sheffield, says, “Before her mission started, there was so much death happening around and we were all saddened by it. Not long after, we lost our precious Nana (my mother) to cancer. Then, Katie came to us about her mission and explained the purpose and naturally, we broke down because at this specific time, we were really hurting. Through Katie’s beautiful mission, it has helped me cope with such a great loss and every time I see a red bird, it brings a few tears, but also a smile to my face and lets me know my angel is near. I tell her all the time that God couldn’t have picked a better servant to do this mission for Him.” Katie’s work best friend from Dental Partners, Stacy Goolsby, has witnessed her journey with the Red Box Love Mission from the very beginning, stemming from a loss that she herself experienced with losing her brother in 2020 and a year later, losing her mother.

“I tell Katie all the time that she has been my ‘saving grace’ in all my highs

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and lows and always has the right words to say with so much heart in it all,” said Stacy. “To know that my loss and pain had made her want to bring a sweet assurance and hope to others experiencing the same pain and emptiness, was so humbling. The Red Bird Love Mission doesn’t change the fact that you lost a loved one, but yet assures you that you will see them again. It gives you a peace in knowing that their presence is there, even though they can’t be there in person.”

Stacy said that Katie has such a true love for people and feels their pain and longs to take it away. It is this heart of gold and desire to live like Jesus that inspires Katie to provide this ministry in hopes that others will want to know Jesus the way that she does.

“I thank God every day for putting Katie in my life,” said Stacy. “She makes me want to be the best version of myself.”

Thanks to Katie and her desire to serve God and others, Stacy said that she now sees red birds all around her, which gives her a sense of peace that is so indescribable when she sees

“The Red Bird Mission has made me laugh and cry, and I

them and tells herself that it’s God’s way of

smile when I see all the red birds in my yard,” said Stephanie.

letting her know they are always there looking

“We lost our brilliant son, Jeremiah, in 2022 to a rare form of

over her and that she will see her loved ones

cancer and although we are forever saddened, we all look at the

again someday.

red birds and know that Jeremiah is ok.”

One patient of Katie’s at Dental Partners,

Stephanie says that she is forever grateful that Katie found her

Stephanie Perkins, believes that Katie has

purpose and has touched hundreds with her mission and gift. She

always ministered to her and her family and

credits this gift with helping to soften the pain they feel with the

always greeted them with positive energy and

loss of a family member or friend.

the warmest hugs. It wasn’t just about getting

Perhaps the individual who has been influenced by the Red Bird

their teeth cleaned, but also having their souls

Mission the most is Katie’s mom, Joan Lake. She recalls the day

fed by one of God’s faithful servants. From

she received her first red bird visit from Heaven very vividly and

words of encouragement, or just Katie listening

says that it shifted her perspective on someone dear to her who

to what was going on in their lives, they always

had decided to end their own life and it was in that instant, that

left with a smile on their faces and warm hearts.

she was certain they were in a better place.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Although this person was Joan’s boss, she said this

and Katie have shared moments creating and distributing

person meant more to she and her family and was a

boxes, filming videos, and experiencing both laughter

pillar of support whose generosity transformed their

and tears together. And Katie has dedicated an immense

lives, and that experience of her first encounter with a

amount of time, effort, and emotion to bring comfort to

red bird brought hope to both she and Katie and left a

friends, family, patients, and even strangers.

profound impact.

“At that time, Katie was also grieving, and together,

“It seems that touching just one grieving heart would have been enough for Katie,” said Joan. “The success of

we found solace in these heavenly visits,” said Joan.

her mission doesn’t surprise me because it is driven by

“The sudden presence of red birds all around us

a determined and compassionate individual. Katie has

inspired Katie to embark on her mission.”

been given the chance to share her faith and spread love

Joan says that Katie has always been a remarkable

to so many people and has touched countless lives with

individual, touching the hearts of those fortunate

her blessings and will continue to do so.”

enough to know her and that she possesses a kind soul and heart of gold.

Since the start of the Red Bird Love Mission, Joan

20 albany living magazine

Katie’s mom is especially grateful that Katie’s son, Cooper, recognizes how extraordinary his mom is and as a result, he is learning compassion, care, and love from

After losing Katie’s husband’s Nana, her family really struggled. She was such a light not just in his life, but to everyone around her. For the first Mother’s Day after her passing, Katie gifted her mother-in-law and her Aunt Patricia a gift similar to the Red Bird Box. At first, what felt like a weird gift to give, became such an impactful gift, not just to her, but to grieving hearts everywhere.

her. Katie is also blessed with the unwavering support and love of her two remarkable sisters, who are always there for her, ready and willing to assist.

“Witnessing my daughters’ affection and concern for each other is truly a treasure,” said Joan. “Being their mother is my greatest joy, as seeing my daughters care for and love one another is a true gift.”

Being a talented social media guru, Katie’s sister Laura Adrian, who resides in New Mexico, has helped her to share her Red Bird Love Mission worldwide with the initial video was her suggestion to Katie. Although Katie was hesitant and slightly embarrassed, Laura was certain that the world should witness what she had ways known – Katie’s consistent capability to create an impact.

“There’s this magical aura that surrounds Katie, lighting up everyone in her orbit,” said Laura. “From my earliest memories, I knew that my big sister was a force to be reckoned with and her soul beams with empathy and depth, nurturing hearts in a truly special way.”

After hitting “post” on the video before she jetted back to New Mexico from Albany, Laura says that when the plane touched down, the Red Bird Love Mission had exploded across the Internet, which confirmed what she knew – Katie’s message was a powerhouse of warmth and inspiration from the get-go. Since this time, Laura says that she has witnessed her family and Katie’s flock of Red Bird enthusiasts banding together to turn this dream into a reality, shipping out over 1800 Red Bird Love Boxes, spreading her message far and wide.

“Whenever Katie’s name lights up my phone screen, I know it’s another mission request – be it a video, an edit, or

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Stacy said that Katie has such a true love for people and feels their pain and longs to take it away. It is this heart of gold and desire to live like Jesus that inspires Katie to provide this ministry in hopes that others will want to know Jesus the way that she does.

some marketing magic – and my answer a swift ‘yes,’” said Laura. “I’ll never turn down a chance to help, not just because I believe in her cause, but because my love for my sister and her dreams knows no bounds.”

For Katie, the hardest part of the Red Bird Love Mission is delivering boxes and she said that her heart wrestles with all kinds of emotions every time she delivers, but the reactions, the stories, the testimonies of what these boxes bring to these grieving hearts, makes it all worth it.

“I feel so humbled to be the hands and feet of Jesus whenever I deliver and I have confidence every time I do that,” said Katie. “Jesus is right beside me and I’m fulfilling one of my purposes He has for me.”

When I asked Katie if she thought she would ever expand this mission outside of the Albany community, or if there are plans to expand the ministry even locally, Katie said she’s not a businesswoman and not sure how that plan looks or works, but that she’s always open to sharing this ministry with more people.

support I’ve received. I’m so thankful that the loved ones

When she started this mission, Katie’s intentions were

that we have lost, that their lives are remembered and

for it to be something that she did locally that impacted

that they are a part of a Jesus story and I hope and pray

the Albany/Leesburg community, but she believes God

whenever the Lord calls me home that He’ll look at me

had a different plan and unbelievably, a Red Bird box has

and say, ‘well done, my good and faithful servant.’”

been delivered to a grieving heart in all 50 states of the

From our Albany Living Magazine family to Katie … we

U.S.! She credits the viral video that her sister Laura did

thank you for what you are doing to bring hope to grieving

for her and how it impressed upon everyone who wanted

hearts in the Albany community and beyond! Thank you

to gift the box to a loved one.

for sharing God’s love and being an advocate of faith,

“This mission isn’t about me, it’s about Jesus,” said

hope, and resilience!

Katie. “I’ve just been the obedient heart that God has

For our readers who want to know more about Katie’s

used to share this mission and I’m so humbled at all

ministry and the gifts that she provides to grieving hearts,

He has done through it, and in awe of all the love and

visit her website at www.redbirdlovemission.com. ALM

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Albany Living Magazine

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I

in your pet’s life It was on Valentine’s Day back in 1980 when Westover Animal Hospital first opened its doors to the public. Since then, its mission has always been to provide the highest quality veterinary care within a friendly and relaxed setting. Now the facility is a full-service small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care. It boasts a well-stocked pharmacy, in-house x-ray capabilities, as well as indoor boarding kennels with outdoor walking areas.

Henry Hart, DVM, who actually built the hospital over four decades ago, spent his formative years on a dairy farm. “In addition to the farm, I also loved science in school, so I decided

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With over 100 years of combined experience, the vets at Westover Animal Hospital are committed to providing the very best care to all their furry patients.

to pursue veterinary medicine,” he says. “I really like seeing our patients get better and their owners happy because of it. Our staff truly loves animals, and we work hard to make them and their owners comfortable.”

Like the clinic’s founder, Lois M. Hunkle, DVM also grew up on a dairy farm. “My daily life was surrounded by cows, dogs, cats and horses; thus, my early life consisted of being an animal caretaker,” she explains. Now a medical professional, Lois is proud to “continue to keep up with the latest trends while having over 100 years of experience between our vets.”

“Our clinic is an independently-owned practice, which

means we get to control every aspect of our services and implement the best standards possible, “ explains Katie Cook, DVM. “From the front desk to our kennel and our doctors, you’ll be able to feel the passion everyone has for animals.”

Having worked as veterinary clinic in his youth, Trey Newell, DVM now exemplifies the compassioned he garnered for animals as part of the medical profession that treats them. “I don’t think there’s anything we can’t handle,” he says proudly. “I think that the services we provide, along with our doctors, are really top notch, (but) if we can’t help you with something, we’ll get you to somebody who can.”

In February, the clinic opened a satellite clinic in Dawson to cater to the rural community’s veterinary needs.

“It’s mainly outpatient medicine,” says Dr. Trey, “but if we can’t (treat your pet) there, we’ll get you to our Albany office.” Since its opening, the Dawson location has become an invaluable resource for people in that area. The doctors rotate treatment at the newest location with the same proficiency and care that they provide in Albany.

More than forty years after first opening its doors, Westover Animal Hospital still strives to offer optimal veterinary care for all its clients, thus allowing pet owners the enjoyment of their furry companions for the maximum number of years.

“The most fulfilling thing for me is the fact I can make a real difference in peoples’ lives,” adds Katie Cook, DVM. “We all know how important pets are to our families, and to be able to be a voice for them while keeping them healthy truly provides a great feeling of satisfaction for me. Each day, I am proud of our team for the services we provide to our community and the gratitude that we get from our customers.”

410 N WESTOVER BLVD, ALBANY, GA 31707 FOR AN APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL 229-883-1618 WESTOVERANIMALHOSPITAL.COM

WESTOVER ANIMAL HOSPITAL

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BY ALEXA TEBBEN | PHOTOS BY THE LEVEE STUDIOS

Care You Can

Trust

The Alzheimer’s Outreach Center exists to help support you and your family when your loved one has Alzheimer’s Disease.

D

Discovering your loved one has Alzheimer’s Disease can be a very scary process. Thankfully, you are not alone. The Alzheimer’s Outreach Center exists to help support you and your family navigate this difficult time.

Their adult day care aims to provide individuals battling dementia with professional care five days a week. Their professionalism and enthusiasm provides peace of mind to full-time caregivers to know their loved ones are in good hands.

Executive Director Nancy Goode shares that the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center has been in business for over 35 years. “It started as a mission of the downtown churches,” she reveals. The First Methodist Church

has been one of their main contributors from the beginning. When they started, Nancy says, “We were using a building that belonged to them and we did not pay rent. The pastor is a tremendous supporter of our mission,” she says of the pastor during that time.

Because of the benevolence of the church, its leaders, and other generous donors, they were able to get their own property and build across the street from the First Methodist Church. This change has been pivotal in better equipping them to properly support the community.

While their adult day care is offered five days a week, people can come as intermittently as they

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choose. “Some families choose to bring their loved one only one day a week, some come five,” Nancy says. “It just depends on what the family wants to do.” On any given day, they usually have about 18 people in their care.

“There are eight different kinds of dementia with Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent,” Nancy says. While they accept people with all kinds of dementia into their day care, there are a few requirements they must meet.

They need a confirmed diagnosis, to be able to use the restroom independently or communicate that they need to utilize the facilities, be mobile with a walker or cane, and be able to feed themselves.

The best interest of each individual is their top priority.

As such, Nancy says, they like to create a fun environment that encourages their active participation. “We have a really dynamic director of the activities and she is very creative,” Nancy says of Martha Hale. Martha has created interactive games that fuel the energy and excitement of their day care.

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One game Martha created occurs during football season. For this, she creates a football field, players, and a football that those with a diagnosis use to devise plays and score points. The staff and volunteers help by moving the players according to each play. “They scream, yell, compete and have so much fun doing those games,” Nancy says proudly.

They also have snowman races, bowling games, bingo, and crafts. “Sometimes it gets really loud in here,” Nancy says laughing. The people enjoy the provided activities so thoroughly that they freely express their enjoyment throughout the day. It brings great joy to those at the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center who love providing these creative activities.

Holidays at the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center are a special time of year. “Last fall, [Martha] set up a carnival where they had different booths they went to like a fall festival,” Nancy explains. At Christmas time, they make homemade ornaments with which to

Their additional staff, Marjorie Womack, Nurse and Program Manager, Jeanette Edwards, Virginia Dawson and Darlene Nash Certified Nursing Assistants, and Vicky Henderson, Programs Assistant, Jon DuMond, Accountant, Bonita Lovette and Robert Banks, faithful volunteers and many other volunteers are passionate about the positive impact they have the on the community. No matter the circumstances, they are there to provide support and encouragement to all.

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decorate the Christmas tree. “They’re very much a part of whatever we do,” Nancy says. “We strongly encourage them to participate, but if they can’t or they don’t want to, we don’t force them.”

In addition to daily games and crafts, the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center provides amazing food for their day care. Their nutritious hot meals are cooked and presented with love. However, Nancy admits that they indulge in fun meals like pizza and hamburgers on occasion. And in the summertime, they offer things like watermelon and ice cream after lunch.

“We say the blessing before each meal, and one of them usually says it,” Nancy shares. “After lunch a lot of them will say ‘Thank you, that was good,’ or, ‘I enjoyed my lunch.’ Some will clean up their own space.” Nancy describes them as very kindhearted people who are thankful for the help they receive. “We have one gentleman that insists on cleaning down the counter,” she says.

“He will not leave until he has completed every inch of that counter to make sure it’s clean.”

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The adult day care takes place at their gorgeous property with a screened in porch and a pergola.

“One of our volunteer board members landscapes and keeps that going for us year-round,” Nancy says gratefully. “They enjoy being outside because it’s very pretty. It’s downtown, [so] there’s a lot of activity going on around and they can see that when they go out on the porch.”

Nancy discusses the importance of educating the general public on dementia to properly equip them with the resources and knowledge they might one day need. “We’re open to helping anybody understand the dynamics of dementia because it affects the entire family,” she says. Their open-door policy allows for unlimited support to all who need it.

Unfortunately, statistics reveal that Dougherty County ranks 7th in the nation for Alzheimer’s prevalence in people over 65 years old. In addition to being alarming, Nancy attests that this news is incredibly disheartening. However, the numbers show the community’s need for their services and inspires them to continue making an impact.

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To help the growing number of people affected, they offer support groups for caregivers on the first Wednesday of every month. Twice a year they host Dealing with Dementia, a four-hour workshop designed to equip caregivers close to the disease. Nancy also speaks on the topic at churches and to civic groups throughout the community.

They partner with Sowega Council on Aging, their major funder, to provide these events and resources costfree to caregivers. “We collaborate with them and also the Alzheimer’s Association,” Nancy shares excitedly. “We don’t intermingle funds but we do intermingle when it comes to education.” Together, these organizations offer the general public as much information as they possibly can.

Nancy has an impressive background in the field, and

it shows in her ability to educate others. Initially, a good friend of hers had a father that received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Because Nancy’s friend lived in Atlanta, Nancy stepped in and offered her support where she could. Over time, she found that she loved helping people navigate this difficult diagnosis.

She went on to work for the Alzheimer’s Association for ten years and then the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers for two years before coming on with the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center.

She has been with the company now for 11 years, three of which she has served as the executive director.

Sadly, Nancy shares that her mom also received

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a dementia diagnosis. However, with her personal and professional experience, Nancy was equipped to help her. She hopes to offer the same tools that helped her to other caregivers.

The adult day care takes place at their gorgeous property with a screened in porch and a pergola.

“One of our volunteer board members landscapes and keeps that going for us year-round,” Nancy says gratefully. “They enjoy being outside because it’s very pretty. It’s downtown, [so] there’s a lot of activity going on around and they can see that when they go out on the porch.”

Their additional staff, Marjorie Womack, Nurse and Program Manager, Jeanette Edwards, Virginia Dawson and Darlene Nash Certified Nursing Assistants, and Vicky Henderson, Programs Assistant, Jon DuMond, Accountant, Bonita Lovette and Robert Banks, faithful volunteers and many other volunteers are passionate about the positive impact they have the on the community.

No matter the circumstances, they are there to provide support and encouragement to all. ALM

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albany living magazine

Executive Director Nancy Goode shares that the Alzheimer’s Outreach Center has been in business for over 35 years. “It started as a mission of the downtown churches,” she reveals.

The First Methodist Church has been one of their main contributors from the beginning. When they started, Nancy says, “We were using a building that belonged to them and we did not pay rent. The pastor is a tremendous supporter of our mission,” she says of the pastor during that time.

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good health empowers you.

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REDEFINING THE

grieving journey

Marica’s journey in building her business reflects a profound personal evolution driven by her own experiences of loss and growth

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albany living magazine

Story by JENNIFER DEMARO

| Photos by Brandy Caruso Photography

W

When you have a vision, it serves as a guide to provide a sense of purpose. Marica Floyd has a vision, and she has been applying her professional and personal experiences to making her coaching and consulting business, F.O.C.U.S.E.D, a vital part of the community that she serves in Albany, GA. Marica’s business, founded in October of 2020, is focused on outcomes created to utilize strengths and encourage development. This is how she came up with her business name F.O.C.U.S.E.D. “I knew I wanted to reach and impact others in a new way,” Marica said. Her business reflects her commitment to helping clients achieve meaningful outcomes by leveraging their strengths and fostering personal development. Marica helps people to overcome challenges and create positive change in their lives.

Marica’s journey in building her business reflects a profound personal evolution driven by her own experiences of loss and growth.

Initially intending to focus on areas like anger management, positive thinking, and healthy coparenting, Marica’s path took a transformative turn as she encountered significant losses in her own life, both before and during the pandemic.

Loss indeed shapes who we are, but it’s also how we navigate and process that loss that ultimately defines us. “The first of many losses I have experienced was the death of my grandmother when I was nine years old. My mother just learned last year that I cried every day at school when my grandmother died,” Marica said. Losing someone close to us, especially at a young age, can indeed leave a profound impact on our lives. Marica’s decision to use her personal experiences to help others is both admirable and powerful. She has walked through difficult paths herself and has developed a unique understanding and empathy for others facing similar challenges.

During the pandemic, while working as a contracted therapist and grappling with her own grief, Marica had a pivotal realization about the need to reevaluate her approach to her business.

Recognizing the profound impact of grief on both her and her clients, she made the decision to shift her focus, integrating grief counseling as a principal component of her services. Driven by her newfound vision and commitment, Marica embarked on further education, obtaining certification in Grief and Loss counseling to complement her existing qualifications of a master’s degree in Family and Marriage Therapy.

“The education is great but it’s my life experience that allows me to connect with people,” Marica said.

This dedication to expanding her services underscores her genuine commitment to supporting others through their own grief journeys. Marica understands the importance of addressing grief directly, acknowledging that healing can only begin once the process of grieving is embraced. Her innovative

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approach to grief counseling challenges traditional notions of what grief encompasses.

Expanding the definition of grief beyond the loss of a loved one, Marica recognizes that grief can manifest in response to a wide range of life changes and transitions. Her redefinition of grief encompasses experiences such as the end of a marriage or relationship, the loss of a job, changes in health and mobility, retirement, and the impact of menopause reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of human emotions. “The way we think has a significant impact on the way we feel and behave. When we avoid grief, it throws our entire cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical systems into chaos,” Marica said. In redefining grief beyond its traditional associations, Marica acknowledges that these significant life events can evoke profound feelings of loss, sadness, and adjustment, which warrant compassionate support and guidance.

Marica’s dedication to her counseling work is deeply intertwined with her family’s legacy of service and support. Inspired by the values instilled in her by her family and friends, who have chosen paths to helping others, Marica finds strength and motivation in their collective

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Marica offers a free grief workshop and a workshop on grief education to spread awareness and validate the journey of others.

She also plans to offer additional “Relief” retreats that she facilitates.

The goal of these retreats is to release anything that does not serve us along our grief journey. “I have had two Release Retreats this year and it still feels surreal that they actually took place because I planned it and touched people in such a way,” Marica said.

Through her work, Marica aims to reach and impact others in a new and innovative way, utilizing her expertise and personal journey to guide her clients toward fulfillment and success. “I help people understand the “why to their what” when it comes to grieving and I give people a safe space to do it,” Marica said. With a name like F.O.C.U.S.E.D., she emphasizes the importance of staying centered and purposeful in pursuit of one’s goals and aspirations.

influence. Their shared commitment to service has undoubtedly shaped Marica’s own approach to counseling, emphasizing empathy, understanding, and support for those experiencing grief and loss. “My own grief journey helped me take a closer look at what my clients and other people experience,” Marica said.

In balancing her professional endeavors with her family life, Marica finds solace and rejuvenation, recognizing the importance of self-care and connection in sustaining her passion for helping others. Her commitment to supporting individuals through grief extends beyond her counseling practice, as evidenced by her creative endeavors in writing. With a children’s grief book currently undergoing editing, she recognizes the importance of providing resources to help children navigate the complexities of loss in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner.

In addition to a children’s book, Marica is also in the process of developing a guided grief journal. This journal will serve as a valuable tool for individuals seeking to explore and process their emotions in a structured and reflective way. She is also in the process of developing a workbook designed for community leaders and anyone serving those who have experienced loss.

This workbook will provide practical guidance and resources for individuals working in various capacities to support grieving individuals and families, equipping Hometown Living At Its Best

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albany living magazine

them with the knowledge and skills needed to offer meaningful assistance and care.

Marica has gained valuable insights and skills that have contributed to her success in her business journey.

“Owning a business is certainly not for quitters. You must get up every day striving to do your best and make the most of the 24 hours you are given,” said Marica. Recognizing the power to turn vision into reality is what Marica relies on to help those in need of her services.

Looking ahead, Marica hopes to expand her reach to include more groups such as the medical community to include doctors, nurses, and first responders who are regularly exposed to life and loss in their line of work. By extending her services to these professionals, she aims to provide them with the tools and support they need to navigate their own experiences of grief and trauma. “We are trained to compartmentalize our emotions and keep them in check, but we are also human. Our suicide rate is high in some of these groups for a reason,” Marica said.

Marica also aims to train and educate teachers and parents/caregivers/foster parents about how our children grieve to provide insight into the behaviors associated with grief that are overlooked or

misunderstood. “Training teachers and caregivers to recognize the signs of grief in children and understand how it may manifest behaviorally can lead to more compassionate and effective support both at home and in educational settings,” Marica said.

Marica offers a free grief workshop and a workshop on grief education to spread awareness and validate the journey of others. She also plans to offer additional “Relief” retreats that she facilitates. The goal of these retreats is to release anything that does not serve us along our grief journey. “I have had two Release Retreats this year and it still feels surreal that they actually took place because I planned it and touched people in such a way,” Marica said.

Through her work, Marica aims to reach and impact others in a new and innovative way, utilizing her expertise and personal journey to guide her clients toward fulfillment and success. “I help people understand the “why to their what” when it comes to grieving and I give people a safe space to do it,” Marica said. With a name like F.O.C.U.S.E.D., she emphasizes the importance of staying centered and purposeful in pursuit of one’s goals and aspirations.

Visit her website for more information at https:// focusedcoachingandconsulting.com/  ALM

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Albany Living Magazine

Brandy Caruso

PHOTOGRAPHY

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Story by ALEXA TEBBEN | Photos by David Parks Photography

Faith, Family, Furniture Railway Freight Furniture, Proudly serving the community for over 50 years through three-generations of family and has grown to include a total of five locations.

A

As big corporations sweep through the

nation, there are less and less family-owned

58

store. This included things like building supplies, groceries, furniture, and appliances.

businesses that survive the test of time. That

Kelly Mullins tells me of the store’s

is what makes Railway Freight Furniture so

impressive history and the dedication of the

special. Proudly serving the community for

family behind the business. “My grandfather,

over 50 years, their ownership has extended

WT Neal, had a furniture store in Columbus

through three-generations of family and grown

in the mid 1960’s,” Kelly says. WT Neal

to include a total of five locations in Albany,

was Haywood Neal’s brother. “WT sold his

Americus, Tifton, Cordele, and Columbus.

business in Columbus and joined his brother

Originally named Railway Freight and

in Albany in 1972. With my grandfather’s

Salvage, Haywood Neal opened the store in

experience with furniture, they started leaning

1969. They sold nearly anything they could

towards that more and more until eventually it

salvage off the railway that ran close to the

was only a furniture store.”

albany living magazine

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While in college, Kelly met her husband, Chad Mullins. After college, they went to Atlanta where their daily commute caused them to see taillights almost more than each other. When they were expecting their first child, they began to seriously reconsider their options. “My dad and my uncle had taken over and owned the family business at that point,” Kelly recalls. “I called my dad and asked if there was a place for us there.”

Today, they sell everything you could possibly need to furnish your home, office, or outdoor entertainment space. From living rooms suites for every budget to Tempur-Pedic mattresses, customers are invited to shop their expansive supply to find that perfect missing piece.

At Railway Freight Furniture, they are committed to offering exceptional customer service to enhance your shopping experience. Kelly says, “We treat you like family. We want you to get the best quality furniture while staying within your budget.”

To do this, they carry a large selection from which customers can choose from. They boast an 80,000 sq ft showroom in their Albany location that holds an extensive selection of products. When any of the five locations need something, they can pull directly from any of their store locations to satisfy the needs of their customers.

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Kelly shares her personal journey with Railway Freight Furniture that brought her and her husband Chad here today. Originally,

called my dad and asked if there was a place for us there.”

Several months after the arrival of their son,

Kelly did not intend to carry on with the family

Chad and Kelly moved home to Albany and

business. “I went off to college and majored

have never looked back. Kelly’s father, Steve

in marketing,” she tells me. “I was going to

Neal, and his brother, Jeff Neal, have since

be a big business guru in Atlanta was what I

retired leaving the store in the capable hands

[imagined].”

of their sons-in-law, Chad Mullins and Kevin

While in college, Kelly met her husband, Chad Mullins. After college, they went to

Whaley.

Having a lifelong association with Railway

Atlanta where their daily commute caused them

Freight Furniture, Kelly speaks on the

to see taillights almost more than each other.

atmosphere and culture of the family business.

When they were expecting their first child, they

She describes the environment of the store in a

began to seriously reconsider their options. “My

positive light sharing that the business benefits

dad and my uncle had taken over and owned the

from their unity as a family. At the end of

family business at that point,” Kelly recalls. “I

the day, she says, “We’re family. If you have

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63

differences, you make up and keep going.”

Having a lifelong association with Railway

Kelly speaks of their employees as valuable extensions of their family. Many of their

Freight Furniture, Kelly

employees have been with the company for

speaks on the atmosphere

decades, and their loyalty speaks for itself.

and culture of the family business. She describes the

“They enjoy working with us and then we try to

environment of the store

seek potential and move them up when we can.

in a positive light sharing

We want to see them succeed.”

that the business benefits from their unity as a family.

At the end of the day, she says, “We’re family. If you have differences, you make up and keep going.”

In addition to their excellent customer service, they stand behind the quality of their products.

“Most of our furniture comes with at least a oneyear warranty, but we take it beyond that when we can,” Kelly says. They happily fix products in-house as needed to ensure the continued

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Railway Freight Furniture has hired several men who have completed The Anchorage program. They are happy to provide these men with moral support and a positive working environment while they work on self-improvement. “We have a lot of people who have been through [the program],” Kelly says. As such, these men offer support to incoming employees with a similar background.

good use of their furniture. “We try to do what’s right to make the customer happy.”

Because of the integrity with which they operate their business, Kelly shares that they have many repeat customers.

As they have been in operation for quite some time, they have also seen multi-generational customers whose parents and grandparents also shopped with them. The entire team at Railway Freight Furniture is honored to serve these families with the same friendliness and dedication of decades past.

While they are passionate about providing the community with quality furniture and friendly service, Kelly shares the heart behind everything they do. As Christians, they see their business as a mission field and every customerfacing interaction as an opportunity to share the light of Christ. “We are not just here to sell furniture, but to be the hands and feet of Jesus as much as we can as well,” Kelly says.

They enjoy supporting local causes to further positively impact the

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Kelly Mullins tells me of the store’s impressive history and the dedication of the family behind the business.

“My grandfather, WT Neal, had a furniture store in Columbus in the mid 1960’s,” Kelly says. WT Neal was Haywood Neal’s brother. “WT sold his business in Columbus and joined his brother in Albany in 1972.

With my grandfather’s experience with furniture, they started leaning towards that more and more until eventually it was only a furniture store.”

community. One particular cause they support is The Anchorage, a christian ministry to adult men seeking freedom from alcohol and drug addictions. Former owner Jeff Neal has served on The Anchorage Board for many years, and current owner Chad Mullins does as well.

Railway Freight Furniture has hired several men who have completed The Anchorage program.

They are happy to provide these men with moral support and a positive working environment while they work on self-improvement. “We have a lot of people who have been through [the program],” Kelly says. As such, these men offer support to incoming employees with a similar background.

Overall, they adopt a heart posture of servitude towards their customers and employees alike. In a world with increasing big box stores and online shopping, they are proud to boast over 50 years of family-owned service to the community.

68 albany living magazine

“Everything we do is for our customers,” Kelly says. “It’s hard-earned money that people are spending, and we recognize that. We spend a lot of time and effort picking things out and finding what they might want.”

As big corporations sweep through the nation, there are less and less family-owned businesses that survive the test of time. That is what makes Railway Freight Furniture so special. Proudly serving the community for over 50 years, their ownership has extended through

Railway Freight Furniture has remained

three-generations of family and grown to include

a staple in the community throughout their

a total of five locations in Albany, Americus, Tifton,

existence, and they are proud of their long-

Cordele, and Columbus.

standing presence in the community. They invite everyone to come inside and allow their family to help yours.ALM

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S t o r y b y A l e x a T e b b e n | P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f T h e H i l l F a m i ly

Don’t Look Back

Mosby Hill, a third generation Miss Georgia competitor, shares her unique journey that led her to the stage in a way that sets her apart from her counterparts.

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ALBANY LIVING MAGAZINE

m Many hard-working young ladies shine at the opportunity to represent their community and home state at various levels of The Miss America Organization. With elegance and grace, they compete for titles and advancements to distinguish themselves from one another. Mosby Hill, a third generation Miss Georgia competitor, shares her unique journey that led her to the stage in a way that sets her apart from her counterparts.

Joining the competitive world of pageants was not always part of Mosby’s plan. Prior to this, she participated in cheer and dance finding joy in the activities as well as the social outlet they provided. In April 2020, Mosby was in a golf cart accident that resulted in a severe spinal injury. She suffered a broken arm and required a spinal fusion surgery.

The summer immediately following the accident consisted of reduced mobility, rehabilitation, and a heavy dose of discouragement. Her mother, Melissa, recalls, “It was during her recovery that summer that she fell into a little bit of a slump.”

Understandably, Mosby was dejected by the results of her accident and the changes her injury brought to her life. Mosby had to drop her activities to focus on healing, and she longed to be part of a community of girls her age.

A saying passed down from her grandmother, Gayle Stanley Mosby, a contestant of The Miss Georgia 1967 Pageant states, “A winner never quits, and a quitter never wins.” Mosby finds encouragement from the reminder to keep surging forward. She hopes to inspire others with her story to never look back and never give up on their dreams.

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As a freshman in high school, Mosby decided to participate in the Miss DeerfieldWindsor Pageant. The competition renewed her self-confidence and sparked within her fresh enthusiasm for life. She talks about that first pageant recalling how much she enjoyed showcasing her vocal talents, dressing up, and meeting a plethora of young women her age.

Following the Miss Deerfield-Windsor Pageant, Mosby says, “I went to the Miss Georgia Teen Pageant my first year and it was one of the best experiences of my life. After that first year, I was hooked and kept going back each year.”

The Miss Georgia Teen Pageant, held annually in Columbus each June, will be celebrating their 80th anniversary in 2025.

Pageants are more labor intensive than the average person may realize. In addition to competing on a continual basis, contestants participate in extra-curricular volunteer opportunities, regularly fine tune their skills, travel year-round for events, perform mock interviews, write essays, craft resumes, and help support one another along the way.

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Mosby’s spinal injury launched her into the pageant world which ultimately led her to pursuing a career focused on helping others on their journey to recovery. She is incredibly grateful to have adopted a positive perspective that helped shape the course of her life.

The bond created between the community of contestants is unlike anything else. Mosby describes the Miss Georgia Organization as a respectful entity that values morals and encourages sisterhood among contestants under the leadership of Executive Director Trina Pruitt and her executive board. “I have never seen any girls be bitter about any small or big win during the competition,” Mosby says. “It truly is just a bunch of girls there to have fun and support each other.”

The Miss America Organization upholds an impeccable reputation as one of the most esteemed competitions of its caliber. The number one women’s educational scholarship provider in America, they attract the brightest most genuine young women who are passionate about community and supporting others. They also promote awareness for the American Heart Association with the slogan, ‘Go Red for Women.’ Their contestants are proud to represent the heart of the organization.

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As a freshman in high school, Mosby decided to participate in the Miss Deerfield-Windsor Pageant. The competition renewed her selfconfidence and sparked within her fresh enthusiasm for life. She talks about that first pageant recalling how much she enjoyed showcasing her vocal talents, dressing up, and meeting a plethora of young women her age.

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Mosby has won four different titles over the past several years. She was Miss Middle West Georgia Teen in 2021, Miss Albany Teen in 2022, Miss Middle West Georgia Teen in 2023, and Miss Columbus Teen in 2024. Three out of four years she was in the top 15 semi-finalists, she was the style award winner in 2022, and she was the people’s choice winner in 2023. Mosby accredits the mentorship of local directors Hilary Bailey and Cathy Morey for helping her reach these achievements.

Participating in pageants has improved her public speaking, increased her self-confidence, and given her an elevated poise in how she presents herself. In addition, it has provided her the opportunity to help others. The Miss Georgia Teens develop their own community service initiative (CSI) with which to give back to the community.

Mosby’s CSI #dontlookback aims to encourage and support pediatric spinal patients on the road to recovery.

Mosby describes the pivotal moment that inspired her to advocate for these young patients. It was a few days before Christmas in 2020, and she went to visit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. “I saw this little girl come out of the elevator with her mom. She was about four years old, and she was hooked up to an IV.” Realizing how many young children are hospitalized over the holidays pulled on Mosby’s heart strings. “It really changed my mind set about my experience,” she says. Mosby decided to channel her energy into sharing her story with children to offer them hope for a brighter future.

Through her CSI, Mosby has touched the lives of countless spinal injury patients in need of encouragement. Since starting #dontlookback, she has raised nearly $10,000 through monetary donations and toys. She plans to continue fundraising for this cause.

Her involvement in Miss Georgia Teen has opened the door to more volunteer opportunities. Mosby has had the pleasure of shadowing Parker Douglas, the Philanthropy Officer at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, during many fundraising events. She has even had her own fundraising booth for Children’s Miracle Network.

Mosby has thoroughly enjoyed all the years of fundraising for good causes and spending time with patients. It seemed like the most natural decision, therefore, to pursue a career that would help her further this good work.

She has decided to pursue a public relations degree at Mississippi State University while minoring in nonprofit management. Following college, Mosby dreams of working in philanthropy for a hospital to continue helping others.

Mosby’s spinal injury launched her into the pageant world which ultimately led her to pursuing a career focused on helping others on their journey to recovery. She is incredibly grateful to have adopted a positive perspective that helped shape the course of her life.

Like many young students, Mosby is thrilled to begin her higher education. She plans to focus on the adjustment to college during her freshman year before competing in the Hometown Living At Its Best

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The Miss America Organization upholds an impeccable reputation as one of the most esteemed competitions of its caliber. The number one women’s educational scholarship provider in America, they attract the brightest most genuine young women who are passionate about community and supporting others.

Mississippi system for Miss Starkville her sophomore year and Miss Mississippi State in her junior year.

Though she thoroughly enjoys the glam of the competition, Mosby says, “It’s not about the pictures.

It’s about helping people. I try to stay humble and use the opportunity to help people in our community.”

Acknowledging the diversity of Albany, she hopes that those in need find a sense of comfort from the many nonprofits that exist to support them.

A saying passed down from her grandmother, Gayle Stanley Mosby, a contestant of The Miss Georgia 1967 Pageant states, “A winner never quits, and a quitter never wins.” Mosby finds encouragement from the reminder to keep surging forward. She hopes to inspire others with her story to never look back and never give up on their dreams. ALM

Hometown Living At Its Best 87

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Story by WENDY ROMANESK | Photos by Brandy Caruso Photography

IT’S ALL ABOUT Community Owner Penny Gregorio fosters a philosophy of community at 229Yoga in Albany.

W

When Albany native Penny Gregorio, certified Master Yoga Instructor, launched 229Yoga over a decade ago, her passion for offering a sense of community in a boutique studio setting has evolved into a true revolution of mind and body fusion and most of all, a true sanctuary for every practitioner of Yoga, Pilates, Barre, strength training, as well as full body awareness and discovery.

Gregorio strives to ensure that every individual who comes to 229Yoga feels welcome, comfortable, free to express themselves through classes enriched with fitness and wellness for their mind and body, understanding that everyone is different and has different needs. Her goal is for each person to

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get what they came for each visit, taking in all that each class offers in providing that sense of well-being, and her hopes are that they carry that philosophy back into the community to influence and help others.

“We are not just a brick and mortar,” said Gregorio. “Unlike any other regular gym, we are body centric, with limited machines, encouraging our members to learn their bodies and I want 229Yoga to provide the space to do just that.”

Aside from the sole mindset of bigger, faster, stronger, Gregorio says that as students come and partake in the classes, she wants them to be able to connect with and define their emotional bodies and what they need from that part of

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Essentially, Gregorio’s philosophy of community is more than just providing a workout community yet being that community within the greater Albany community to provide a place of self-discovery, strength and awareness, and seeking to create a better individual to take that philosophy back out into their families, workplaces, and the world.

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themselves, not just the physical. It is this “love language” that resonates with every class that is surrounded by supportive instructors and fellow students.

The additional offerings of 229Yoga after a decade are truly Gregorio’s dream come to fruition.

With new offerings like TRX and Functional Movement, Reformative Pilates, Restorative Yoga, Meditation, and many others, students can discover body, mind, and strength unlike any other fitness experience.

“We don’t want anyone to feel alone in their life journey and fitness,” said Gregorio. “We want to provide a place of hope and strength and I believe that people not only need a place of physical support, but for mental health and strength as well.”

It is this belief that convinced Gregorio she needed to offer students at 229Yoga more mind strengthening to compliment the already body

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strengthening aspects the studio community offers. This is what led to the addition of a Meditation class to the schedule in 2023. Instructor, Major Skinner, certified trauma recovery coach and Yoga/Meditation instructor, is the inspiration behind this class given his need to connect with mind and community himself.

Moving to Albany from the Midwest a few years ago, Skinner expanded this vision to begin an Anxiety and Panic Disorder Support Group in early 2024 that is offered at the studio weekly to teach individuals how to manage anxiety and panic disorder, furthering Gregorio’s passion of those in the community trying to balance body, mind, and spirit in one place and 229Yoga truly provides that conduit.

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Aside from the sole mindset of bigger, faster, stronger, Gregorio says that as students come and partake in the classes, she wants them to be able to connect with and define their emotional bodies and what they need from that part of themselves, not just the physical. It is this “love language” that resonates with every class that is surrounded by supportive instructors and fellow students.

“Penny gives all and more,” said Rouse. “229Yoga has been a wonderful experience allowing me to deal with creating a healthy environment around myself, my family, and my community and has nudged me into the right behaviors subtly and relentlessly to add years of quality to my life. Thinking about Penny reminds me of one of Maya Angelou’s words of wisdom, ‘When you learn, teach. When you get, give.’ I want to thank her and the studio at this important time in the last quarter of my life.”

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“There are so many people hurting and lonely and coming to 229Yoga has helped me to be a part of a community and now, being able to lead this group, I can give back to others,” said Skinner. “My goal with starting the Anxiety and Panic Disorder Support Group was to create a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and successes on the path. Anxiety and panic disorder can be debilitating, which often results in embarrassment and shame. With this group, we provide that safe space to work through the anxiety so that these individuals can have the life they deserve.”

Open to the Albany community with a request for donations, the new support group includes meditation, visualization, affirmation, and behavior modification, followed by a time for open sharing.

Skinner says that different techniques work for different individuals and the group is designed so that everyone can take what works for them and leave the rest.

Long-time 229Yoga Pilates instructor, Lucie Beeley, has believed in Gregorio’s vision for the studio from the time of its opening and says that the small boutique style model she has established works well and allows her and all of the instructors to create a kinship with the clients, which is something she enjoys and finds extremely rewarding.

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“Penny has always had a clear vision about 229Yoga and most of all, she knows her clients and understands who they are,” said Beeley. “She has created an environment for clients and instructors to work hard, build relationships, and look out for each other.”

Gregorio’s sense of community and self-care is clear when talking to the students at 229Yoga. Student, Kirk Rouse, says he cannot thank Penny and the environment she provides enough, especially at a time in his life when he needs to add quality in the care of his mind, body, and life.

“Penny gives all and more,” said Rouse. “229Yoga has been a wonderful experience allowing me to deal with creating a healthy environment around myself, my family, and my community

and has nudged me into the right behaviors subtly and relentlessly to add years of quality to my life. Thinking about Penny reminds me of one of Maya Angelou’s words of wisdom, ‘When you learn, teach. When you get, give.’ I want to thank her and the studio at this important time in the last quarter of my life.”

The “something for everybody” motto really holds true with everything Gregorio designed 229Yoga to embody.

And, this is not just true for the class offerings, but for every individual person, no matter their age, body type, race, gender, abilities or limitations.

“We want all members of our 229Yoga community to understand that they have nothing to prove here,” said Gregorio.

“We often tell our students to listen to

Gregorio strives to ensure that every individual who comes to 229Yoga feels welcome, comfortable, free to express themselves through classes enriched with fitness and wellness for their mind and body, understanding that everyone is different and has different needs. Her goal is for each person to get what they came for each visit, taking in all that each class offers in providing that sense of well-being, and her hopes are that they carry that philosophy back into the community to influence and help others.

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their bodies in class, which means that perhaps, 50 percent effort is sufficient for them, and this allows them to get what they need for their body type and all of our instructors practice this methodology.”

Essentially, Gregorio’s philosophy of community is more than just providing a workout community yet being that community within the greater Albany community to provide a place of self-discovery, strength and awareness, and seeking to create a better individual to take that philosophy back out into their families, workplaces, and the world.

“It’s not about what we teach here, but what you gain in our studio and then, give back to others in this community,” said Gregorio.  ALM

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The additional offerings of 229Yoga after a decade are truly Gregorio’s dream come to fruition. With new offerings like TRX and Functional Movement, Reformative Pilates, Restorative Yoga, Meditation, and many others, students can discover body, mind, and strength unlike any other fitness experience.

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Morph Health and Wellness owners, Dr. David Lawrence and his wife Caitlin, are driven by their own weight loss experiences to help you achieve your goals.

does not have to be overwhelming or stressful.

Morph Health and Wellness owners, Dr. David Lawrence and his wife Caitlin, are driven by their own weight loss experiences to help you achieve your goals.

In September of 2022, the couple turned their

passion into their business when they created Morph Health and Wellness. The modern new age telemedicine company offers weight loss therapy, peptide therapy, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, testosterone therapy, sexual

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wellness and hair restoration.

Their entire team of professionals is passionate about improving the health of their patients. Since starting Morph Health and Wellness, they have produced groundbreaking results that have drastically altered patients’ lives for the better.

While it has grown to help hundreds of people nationwide, Morph Health and Wellness began as a lifestyle change for Dr. Lawrence and Caitlin. “It was never necessarily intended on being a business, we really did it for ourselves and our family,” Caitlin shares.

Through their friends and family, word began to spread on the incredible results this process produced.

Those who witnessed the life changing improvements in Dr. Lawrence and Caitlin’s health encouraged them to pour their knowledge and expertise into a business to help others.

Before long, they were up and running as Morph Health and Wellness.

Dr. Lawrence shares details of his personal health journey that ultimately inspired them

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Dr. Lawrence and Caitlin are thrilled by the number of people whose lives are changing because of these practices. But

to start their practice. An ER doctor by trade, Dr. Lawrence was thrown into action with the rise of COVID-19. For their health and well-

this is just the beginning. They plan to add

being, Caitlin took their baby boy to live with

more providers to their team to meet the

her parents during the height of the pandemic.

growing demand for their business.

“[There was] a lot of pain, suffering, a lot

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tears, as well as a lot of eating and weight gain for everybody across America,” Dr. Lawrence says. While everyone took to the indoors, many people became more sedentary which led to a decline of people’s health. Dr. Lawrence and Caitlin experienced this firsthand.

After a time, Dr. Lawrence decided to regain control of his health. “We needed to get back to ourselves, so I decided that getting healthy [would become] a big part of my life,” he says. Together, the couple set out on a quest to better their health and well-being.

What Dr. Lawrence explains is that today’s medicine in the US is tailored to patching up people’s health problems as opposed to attacking the issue at its core.

“Our healthcare systems are not built to encourage weight loss or preventative medicine,” he says.

“They’re built to fix a problem, but it doesn’t fix the root cause analysis.”

When taking control of his own health, Dr. Lawrence shifted his focus to address the root issue of his weight gain which helped him shed the weight and maintain his health. On weight loss therapy, Dr. Lawrence lost 118 lbs. in eight Along with his genuine customer service, Dr. Lawrence values certain

months and has maintained his

practices proven to prolong health. One of his greatest passions is

weight with continued peptide

the practice of preventative care. “My goal is to get you off your

therapy. These astounding results

medications and feeling the best that you can,” he says.

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catapulted him into the healthier

lifestyle he was seeking, and it is the same

to an 18 to 30-year-old patient in merely six

practice he uses with his patients.

months. With this treatment, their patients

“We’re able to put together medicine

are gaining renewed youthful energy

to handle obesities, bioidentical hormone

alongside the improvement of their overall

replacement therapy, optimize testosterone

health.

levels for each patient, and assist in anti-

When they launched their business, Dr.

aging from the inside out,” he says. They

Lawrence and Caitlin considered the many

treat patients with peptide therapy which

benefits of a virtual practice. In offering

utilizes natural, non-invasive supplements to

telemedicine, they can serve more people

help with healing, promote weight loss, and

nationwide. This has allowed for rapid

assist in anti-aging.

growth in the first year of the practice.

With their advanced sets of lab work,

“We have eight providers on staff, plus Dr.

peptide therapy can adjust the hormone

Lawrence,” Caitlin says. “We’re credentialed

levels of a 60-year-old patient back down

and certified in 33 states and growing,” Dr.

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Lawrence adds. “We’re really taking medicine to the next level.”

Patients love Morph Health and Wellness not only because of the lasting results, but because of the personalized care each provider When taking control of his own health, Dr. Lawrence shifted his

brings to the practice. “Every person on our staff and team cares about you and your goals and accomplishments,” Caitlin says.

focus to address the root issue of

“When David speaks with his patients, he makes them feel like they

his weight gain which helped him

are the only person that he cares about in that time frame, and he

shed the weight and maintain his

does an excellent job making them feel special.”

health. On weight loss therapy, Dr. Lawrence lost 118 lbs. in eight

Dr. Lawrence echoes his wife’s sentiment. “You are not a

months and has maintained his

number, you’re an actual human being and we care about you,” he

weight with continued peptide

says sincerely. Their commitment to providing the best personalized

therapy. These astounding results catapulted him into the healthier lifestyle he was seeking, and it is the same practice he uses with his patients.

care sets them apart from other practices.

Along with his genuine customer service, Dr. Lawrence values certain practices proven to prolong health. One of his greatest passions is the practice of preventative care. “My goal is to get you off your medications and feeling the best that you can,” he says.

In the world of advanced medicine, there seems to be a pill for everything. But this begs an interesting question: Are all the pills worth it?

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Dr. Lawrence offers his professional insight on this topic. “Pills are designed to treat the problem, but they’re not the solution,” he says. “We want to treat people before they ever require the medications that the world is riddled with.”

In doing so, they help patients avoid catastrophic health declines commonly seen among other individuals. This reduces patient’s reliance on pills and helps them maintain an active lifestyle in a natural manner.

Caitlin discusses the importance of patient education. At Morph Health and Wellness, consultations go beyond identifying the problem and finding the fastest solution. They help patients learn how to be the best version of themselves, whether it is through medication or lifestyle and diet change.

Dr. Lawrence and Caitlin are thrilled by the number of people whose lives are changing because of these practices. But this is just the beginning. They plan to add more providers to their team to meet the growing demand for their business.

“We are a testimony to the program,” Caitlin says. “We want others to get the feeling of yourself back and we care to

Through their friends and family, word began to spread on the

make that happen for you.” They have

incredible results this process produced. Those who witnessed

been in your shoes, and they are here to

the life changing improvements in Dr. Lawrence and Caitlin’s

help you attain the life and health that you deserve.  ALM

health encouraged them to pour their knowledge and expertise into a business to help others. Before long, they were up and running as Morph Health and Wellness.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Scenesof Albany Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply. Take a look at a few more reasons

why we love

Albany.

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Photo By | Sgt. Curran Photography

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Photo By | Alex Davis

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Livi & Company the marketplace

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3105 LEDO ROAD | LEESBURG, GA 31763 | (229) 435-0356

Trust The Glass Experts

2 1 9 C E D R I C S T R E E T, L E E S B U R G , G A | ( 2 2 9 ) 4 3 5 - 8 5 7 9

Dougherty

Glass Company

Certified Public Accountants & Advisors

Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, P.C. 406 North Westover Boulevard, Albany, GA 229-435-4611 | www.hcrhcpa.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

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YEARS OF

GEORGIANATIONALFAIR.COM 138

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Le

arn More

!

APPAREL• GIFTS 1 5 4 5 B U S H W Y 1 9 S O U T H | L E E S B U R G G A | ( 2 2 9 ) 4 8 3 - 0 5 0 1 | K N I G H T S A P PA R E L A N D G I F T S . C O M

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PRO OUTDOOR

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT

“Planting deep roots in our community, one landscape at a time.”

229-405-9924 | prooutdoorllc.com

QUALITY. EXPERIENCE. RELIABILITY.

RentalDepot 140

Albany living magazine

We help your day become more magical

229.883.5777 | RENTAL DEPOTONL INE.C OM | 2200 GIL L IONVI LLE RD I N A LBA N Y

Established 1976

Albany|Athens|Atlanta|Macon

Our Services Construction Management Program Management Small Scope Services Interior Design Site Assessments

Contact Us pellicanoconstruction.com

careers@pellicanoconstruction.com

Living & Learning Community Partnership between Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital & Albany Technical College Albany, Ga

Modern, personalized, & convenient dental care for the whole family.

At Longleaf, we believe you shouldn’t ever choose between the comfort of your hometown and the advancements of modern dentistry.

(229)432-6751

longleafdental.com

602 Pointe N Blvd.

Albany, GA 31721 Hometown Living At Its Best

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Sausage Company

L e e s b u r g , G A 2 2 9 . 4 3 2 . M E AT C o r d e l e , G A 2 2 9 . 5 3 5 . M E AT

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719-L N. Westover Blvd | Albany, GA 31707 | 229-405-1644 Hometown Living At Its Best

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Index of Advertisers 229 Yoga .......................................................................... 143 Ivey’s ................................................................................ 122 3 Squares Diner ............................................................... 105

Knight’s Apparel and Gifts ............................................... 139

Adams Exterminators ......................................................... 70 Livi & Company ................................................................ 136 Albany Air Conditioning & Heating ..................................... 93

Locos Grill & Pub ................................................................ 71

Albany Auto Glass ............................................................ 106

Logos Plus, Inc. ............................................................... 143

Albany General Tire .............................................................. 7

Longleaf Dental ................................................................ 141

Albany Internal Medicine ........................................ 46-47, 91 M. Hill Interiors ................................................................ 121 Albany Living Magazine .................................................... 104 Mellow Mushroom ............................................................ 90 Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Georgia .............. 107, Back Cover Morph Health + Wellness ................................................ 119 Art Sign Company, Inc. ............................... Inside Back Cover

Oxford Construction Company ......................................... 138

Austin’s Firegrill & Oyster Bar ............................................. 92 Pearly’s Famous Country Cookin’ ..................................... 108 Big Dan’s Car Wash ............................................................ 74

Pellicano Construction ..................................................... 141

Brandy Caruso Photography ......................................... 54-55 Philema Animal Hospital ................................................. 142 Cindy G. Martins Realtor ............................................... 24-25 Pro Outdoor Landscape Management ............................. 140 Custom Interiors ................................................................ 73

Professional Leak Detection ............................................ 123

D & D Kitchen Center .................................................... 44-45 Promise of Hope .............................................................. 136 David Parks Photography ............................................. 42-43

Pure Tranquility Day Spa & Massage ............................... 109

Deb’s Curbside Cupcakes ................................................ 103

Railway Freight Furniture .................................................... 89

Dougherty County Library System .................................... 121

Renasant Bank ................................................................ 139

Dougherty Glass Company ............................................... 137 Rental Depot .................................................................... 140 First State Bank of Albany ................................................ 122 Sellers Tile .......................................................................... 41 Fleming & Riles Insurance ................................................. 72

SL Sausage Company ...................................................... 142

Flint Community Bank ........................................................ 75 Smallcakes ...................................................................... 118 Georgia Community Bank ............................................. 56-57 Southern Tractor & Outdoors ........................................ 30-31 Georgia National Fair ....................................................... 138

Sugar Mama’s Bakery ...................................................... 143

Georgia Restoration and Protect ...................................... 123 Sunbelt Ford .............................................. Inside Front Cover Hannes Pienaar Productions .............................................. 88 The Lily Pad Sane Center .............................................. 28-29 Harvey Drilling ............................................................... 10-11 The Pharmhouse at Oakland ................................................ 9 Hickory Grove Storage ..................................................... 120

Turner’s Fine Furniture .......................................................... 1

Hope City United ................................................................... 5 Westover Animal Hospital ............................................ 26-27 Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, P.C. .......................... 137 Wynfield Plantation .......................................................... 2-3 Please thank our sponsors for making this publication possible!

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H o m e t oHwonmLei vtio nw g n a t Li it v s iBne g stat i t s 2024

HOPE HOPE PPRROO V IVDIID N IGN G

ALBANY LIVING

TOGRIEVING GRIEVING TO HEARTS HEARTS KATIE SHEFFIELD, KATIE SHEFFIELD, SHARES GOD’S GOODNESS SHARES GOD’S GOODNESS THROUGH THROUGH THE THE RED BIRD MISSION. RED BIRD LOVELOVE MISSION.

FAITH, FA FAITH, FAMILY, FURNITURE FURNI

Railw Railway Freight Furnitu Furniture, proudly serves the community serves the c for ov for over 50 years