Coffee County Living - September 2016

fall 2016

First Care Clinic

Coffee County

WALK IN’S WELCOME | OFFICE HOURS MON-FRI 8AM TIL 5PM

also...

• EKG • Cardiac Stress Testing • In Office Laboratory • Echocardiography • Carotid Doppler • Venous Doppler • Gallbladder Ultrasound • Liver Ultrasound • Kidney Ultrasound

• In Home Sleep Study Testing • 24 Heart Rhythm Monitoring • Skin Biopsies • Skin Lesion Resections (Mole and Wart Removal) • Health Physicals • Urinary drug screen (UDS) • TB skin test • Minor illness and injury

1100 Ocilla Rd Douglas, GA 31533

912-383-7884

PROVIDERS: STAN SINCLAIR MD & TERESA WILSON NP

Showered With Goodness

• Sprains, strains, and bruises • Laceration repair (Suture OR Dermabond Adhesive Repair) • Minor burns • I.V. therapy • Pap smears • School and Sports physicals • Flu shots

How Bean Tree Soaps is changing your morning routine.

Living Out Loud Kayla Steed and her family learn how having faith can change their life for the better.

In his 40 years of musicianship, Russ has done more than leave a musical legacy.

Field of Dreams This kind of love, generosity, and hard work will restore anyone’s faith in friendship, community, and life!

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

Our Mission:

GROWIN G ALL IN

DIRECTIONS!

Our Vision:

An Equitable and Excellent Education for Every Student

This fall, the Christian’s are welcoming a new family member

AND

Dublin

Our Vision: An Equitable and Excellent Education for Every Student

Jesup

Three New Restaurant Locations Dublin, Jesup & Moultrie

Moultrie

Coffee County Board of Education Douglas, Georgia Adam Lott, Chairman; Jesse Jowers, Vice‐Chairman; Ronnie Johnson, Bryan Preston and Judi Worrell.

Dr. Morris Leis, Superintendent of Schools

www.RancherosFreshGrill.com Douglas • Waycross • Tifton • Coming Soon: Dublin • Jesup • Moultrie More exciting announcements to come ...

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The BEST comprehensive podiatric care for patients in

SOUTHERN GEORGIA

From routine checkups, to the most complex reconstructive surgery cases, Ankle & Foot Associates is equipped to handle all your podiatric needs. Our office provides a wide range of services such as dedicated lower extremity circulation testing, MRI and Physical Therapy.

Experts in diabetic care, we also treat diabetic wounds, infections and along with our local team of medical doctors, educate and emphasize the importance of routine pedal inspections and exams.

Gregory J. Kramer, DPM Board Certified

Nicole E. Wilson, DPM Board Certified

CALL US TODAY OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

912.384.4121 | 204 Westside Drive, Douglas, Georgia 31533 | www.anklesandfeet.com Hometown Living At Its Best

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Our speech therapists are trained and certified to assist children and adults of all ages and with all stages of speech, language, voice and swallowing deficits.

Speech, Language, Voice, and Swallowing Therapy 118 N. Pearl Ave. Douglas, Ga. 31533 (912) 331.0846 Our speech therapists are trained and certified to assist children and adults of all ages and with all stages of speech, language, voice and swallowing deficits.

Our speech therapists areare trained andand certified to to assist Our speech therapists trained certified assistchildren childrenand andadults adultsofofall allages ages and Speech, Language, Voice, withwith all stages of speech, language, voice and all stages of speech, language, voiceand andswallowing swallowingdeficits. deficits.

and Swallowing Therapy 118 N. Pearl Ave. Douglas, Ga. 31533

Speech, Language, Voice, (912) 331.0846 and Swallowing Therapy 118 N. Pearl Ave. Douglas, Ga. 31533 (912) 331.0846

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Nichoos

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CITY OF

707 Van Streat Highway, Nicholls, GA 912.345.2421 Hometown Living At Its Best

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contents 10

Trojan Strong

Katy Lott’s battle against cancer has touched many. A true picture of a community surrounding someone in time of need, her journey can serve as inspiration to those who are also walking through a similar trial.

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Showered with Goodness

How Bean Tree Soaps is changing your morning routine by bringing safe and family-friendly hygiene products to South Georgia.

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Living Out Loud

In his 40 years of musicianship, Russ has done more than leave a musical legacy. He has built lifelong friendships with people he can count on to do the impossible.

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Century Strong

The Douglas Country Club is a club that has been around for 100 years with no plans to go anywhere anytime soon.

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What Faith Can Do

Kayla Steed and her family learn how having faith can change their life for the better. This story is about Jesus and what He will do if you will just wait on Him and have a little faith.

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coffee county magazine

56 About the Cover

Turn to page 56 to read about Presley who is loved, pursued, and protected by the perfect God that knit her together in her mother’s womb.

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Destination Graduation: Mission Accomplished

A true picture of the Coffee County School System’s mission of Destination Graduation: For College, Career, and Life, the Senior Parade is a new tradition that is here to stay.

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Field of Dreams

No matter who you are or what you believe, this kind of love, generosity, and hard work will restore anyone’s faith in friendship, community, and life!

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Growing up Coffee

Lee and Andrea Taylor are known by many for their love for and involvement with the Coffee County community. Both have traveled and lived other places, but are proud to call this place home.

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Celebrating 50 years of Making a Difference

Fifty years ago, members of Douglas First United Methodist Church stepped out on faith and started a Kindergarten program.

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Changing Lives & Hope

The Therapy Tree, a center specializing in communication therapy, treats patients who have speech, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties or impairments.

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Bucking the System

C. Mo’s Kids is helping children with special needs or terminal illness to partake in outdoor adventures.

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Now seeing patients at an additional location.

Now patients anMcRae, additional 280 seeing E. Willow CreekatLn, GAlocation.

31055 280 E. Willow Creek Ln, McRae, GA 31055 229-868-0055 229-868-0055

Caring Caring for for the the Heart Heart

Collins Collins Cardiology Cardiology Dr. Darrel Collins • Tara Spivey, PA-C Dr. Darrel Collins • Tara Spivey, PA-C

Evaluations & Follow-Up Care for Heart Problems Evaluations & Follow-Up Care for Heart Problems Congestive Heart Failure • Pacemaker Checks • High Blood Pressure Congestive Heart Failure • Pacemaker Checks • High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol • High Triglycerides • Chest Pain • Shortness of Breath High Cholesterol • High Triglycerides • Chest Pain • Shortness of Breath

Diagnostic Services Include: Diagnostic Services Include: Cardiac Catheterization • Echocardiogram • Holter Monitoring Cardiac Catheterization • HolterStudies Monitoring Stress Testing • EKG• •Echocardiogram Carotid Artery Doppler Stress Testing • EKG • Carotid Artery Doppler Studies

New Patients Welcomed • No Referral Necessary New Patients Welcomed • No Referral Necessary 1208 Ocilla Road, Douglas, Georgia 31533 • 912.384.6276 1208 Ocilla Road, Douglas, Georgia 31533 • 912.384.6276 2

www.collinscardiologyga.com www.collinscardiologyga.com

Coffee County Magazine

Lindsey & Wills

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ANIMAL HOSPITAL

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From the Publisher

Coffee County magazine

P u b l i s h e r With You In Mind Publications

Jay and Patti Martin C r eat i v e | D e s i g n Elizabeth Beasley

Russ Hutto Eric Love Stacey Nichols Ryan Sichelstiel Mandi Spivey o f f i ce M a n age r Nikki Burkhalter

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ne of the special days that I most enjoy is writing this letter. The reason is that I review all of the articles that are in the issue and it is a reminder of the great people who exist and care about Coffee County. They go about their lives quietly contributing to all of us around them in some way.

Aside from being able to write this letter, this has been a very special week. Patti and I received a number of pictures from our children of our grandchildren. One common theme leapt out at us. Smiles were everywhere. All of the grandkids were happy!! Some of the pictures were recent, some were several years old. Regardless, there was a smile on their faces and a twinkle in their eyes. We caught ourselves smiling and laughing at each photograph. A happy smile is contagious! The grandkids didn’t know we were smiling; they were just loving life. It struck me that whenever we smile and someone else sees us, it generally elicits good feelings.

What would happen if each of us genuinely shared a smile with someone? Take a test - look at Presley on the front cover - see if your day doesn’t become a little better!!! If it does, please thank the sponsors on page 128.

A s s i s ta n t

M a n age r s Kimberly Anderson

June Dixon Makayla Martin P h otog r ap h e r s A Thousand Words Photography

Dawn McDaniel Owens Kelly McDonald LOGIC4DESIGN.COM Robert Preston, Jr.

C ov e r P h oto Presley Steed, taken by

A Thousand Words Photography Sale s Dottie Hicks

Patti Martin Contributing

Writ e rs Jordan Calhoun

Gail Dixon

Kelly McDonald

Jenna Musgrove

“We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do.”

Mother Teresa.

“Children learn to smile from their parents.” Shinichi Suzuki

Blessings,

Jay and Patti Martin Sales: (912) 654-3045 Email: jay@wyimpublications.com www.hometown-living.com 8

Coffee county magazine

Coffee County Magazine© is published semi-annually by With You in Mind Publications. www.hometown-living.com P.O. Box 55 • Glennville, GA 30427 (912) 654-3045 All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

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Katy Lott’s battle against cancer has touched many. A true picture of a community surrounding someone in time of need, her journey can serve as inspiration to those who are also walking through a similar trial.

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Story by Jenna Musgrove Photos by Katy Lott, Collin Jowers, Amy Hughes and Kelly McDonald

Mama, sister, daughter, teacher, coach. Katy Lott is known as each of these things by those who love her.

There is certainly something else Katy is known as: courageous.

Douglas native, Katy Lott, grew up in Coffee County on a farm working in tobacco, gardening, and whatever else needed to be done.

She is the daughter of Freddy and Lou Lott, and according to Katy, “My parents are my roots and taught me so much about life.”

Katy’s mother retired from the Farm Service Agency and her father continues to farm with his brother, David Lott.

Case and Chloe Merritt are the two people who are fortunate enough to call Katy “mama.” Case is a sophomore at Coffee High School, and Chloe is a fourth grader

at Westside Elementary. Katy proudly shares, “They are my heart and soul!”

Becky Lott Morgan and Caroline Lott get to call her “sister.” Katy is the middle of the three girls and explains that they are all as close as ever.

Becky now resides in Griffin, Georgia with her husband and three girls, while Caroline remains in Coffee County, where she owns Red Brick Farm. No strangers to sports, the girls all played basketball and softball for Coffee High. Becky and Katy continued by playing softball at South Georgia State College. The skills learned from years of hard work proved to be helpful

in playing sports. Katy explains, “Our parents were both high school athletes and instilled the love of sports in all three of us. Working summers in the ‘tobacco patch’ taught me the importance of work ethic, responsibility, and morals. As hot and hard as working in tobacco was in the summers, we managed to have fun and I wouldn't trade those years for anything.”

In 1998, Katy began her teaching career at Westside Elementary. As a child, though, Katy did not have aspirations of becoming a teacher.

It was a passion she developed Hometown Living At Its Best

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It is no surprise that Katy considers Westside “home.” She is in her nineteenth year there, and just this year began the new adventure of teaching Health and Physical Education.

“Westside is family to me. I could not ask for a better place to be!”

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later in life, and can be partially credited to the fact that she saw that her sister, Caroline, taught and had the summers off. She earned a general studies degree from what was then South Georgia College. Katy continued her education at Valdosta State University and received her Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education. After she began teaching, she went on to earn her Masters in Reading and later her Education Specialist in Leadership and Administration, both from Valdosta State.

It is no surprise that Katy considers Westside “home.” She is in her nineteenth year there, and just this year began the new adventure of teaching Health and Physical Education.

“Westside is family to me,” Katy remarks, adding, “I could not ask for a better place to be!” Her co-workers and

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students are equally lucky that she is there. Hundreds of students have had the chance to call Katy “teacher” and the saying is true—to teach is to touch lives forever.

It only made sense that with her athletic history and love for teaching that she would eventually move into the realm of coaching. She had previously helped coach her niece’s recreation league softball team. That led to coaching an eleven and twelve year old all-star team. Then, in 2008, Coach Bud Drew asked if she would coach softball for Coffee Middle School. They were just starting the program. She agreed, but admitted she did not know a lot

Coaching grew on her and in the 8 seasons she has coached, Coffee Middle School softball has won four SGAC titles, placed first runner up twice, and ranked third twice. She comments, “I have had the privilege of working with some amazing student athletes, parents, and assistant coaches while at Coffee Middle. Coaching is my passion and I’m so blessed to have had the support of my family to help make it through each softball season with practices, games, teaching full time, and keeping up with Case and Chloe! It takes a village and I have an awesome one!”

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about coaching at the time. She confesses, “I used what I knew from being an athlete, threw in some teaching skills, and called it coaching!” Evidently her approach worked, because that year the team won the conference title.

Coaching grew on her and in the 8 seasons she has coached, Coffee Middle School softball has won four SGAC titles, placed first runner up twice, and ranked third twice.

She comments, “I have had the privilege of working with some amazing student athletes, parents, and assistant coaches while at Coffee Middle. Coaching is my passion and I'm so blessed to have had the support of my family to help make it through each softball season with practices, games, teaching full time, and keeping up with Case and Chloe! It takes a village and I have an awesome one!”

She had no idea at the time that she would need the support of her “village” for more than

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The Journey A great coach, and teacher for that matter, would never neglect the chance to use a situation such as this to inspire others. Katy does just that. Her journey was one of resilience, faith, and community.

just softball season. Katy noticed a seemingly harmless lump in her left glute, but she was busy and was not in pain, so she put off going to see a doctor. When she first noticed the lump, it was about the size of a golf ball. In November 2014, she noticed it had gotten bigger, about the size of a tennis ball. But again, she was busy and it was not causing pain, so she did not have it checked out.

In January 2015 she decided to see a doctor about it, after noticing the lump was larger than before.

Katy shares, “After seeing a few local doctors, I was getting the first MRI done by Tonya Simmons, one of my lifelong friends. She said ‘Katy, this thing is big!’ It was about the size of a large baking potato. It was one of two things: a benign fatty tumor or cancer.” The next two weeks were a blur. She saw a doctor in Waycross, who then referred her to an oncologist in Savannah. The oncologist ordered a biopsy on March 10 and a PET scan on March 17. That put her, her mom, and her sister, 16

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Becky, staying in Savannah on St. Patrick’s Day. The next day, March 18, she was told by Dr. Garber that the tumor was large and its location (behind her glute, between her bladder, ovary, and pelvic bone) was an issue. He then confirmed that it was cancer—myxoid liposarcoma.

Continuing her story with transparency, Katy continues, “I don't remember much more of that day. The diagnosis was numbing. My family came together and did what we had to do, and looking back it’s amazing how everything fell into place.

Coach Neil Graham had sent word to me that he wanted to talk with me when he found out I was diagnosed with sarcoma. We talked several times before I went to Emory; his insight helped me so much! Coach Graham's motivation removed so much fear! We messaged each other several times a week throughout our journeys. I was referred to Emory to meet with my radiologist and the orthopedic surgeon that would remove the tumor.

He turned out to, also, be Coach Graham's surgeon.”

Katy added “fighter” to her resume during her journey. She went through six weeks of radiation.

She and her mom stayed in Griffin with Becky and her family, making the five day-a-week commute to Emory easier. They would return on the weekends.

As far as work went, Katy’s Westside family took care of her class and the other responsibilities that come along with teaching.

Though she did not enjoy the time away from her students, she mentions that missing Case and Chloe was certainly the hardest part.

Another person who was special to Coffee County, Malik Sparkman, received treatments within ten miles of Katy and Coach Graham for several weeks. All three exemplified what it means to be “Trojan strong.” In fact, Katy and Coach Graham would end each text with “#trojanstrong.” Multiple fundraisers were held for Malik, Katy, and Coach Graham throughout their journey. Katy’s softball team really rallied around her and raised funds to ease the burden of the treatments and travel. Sadly, Malik and Coach Graham both passed before Katy’s treatments were over. “Their fight,” she shares, Hometown Living At Its Best

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Looking Back “I feel great. I am cancer free. Looking back on those five months, it was a whirlwind of emotions but my family, friends, co-workers, and community had my back. I am forever grateful for every single visit, meal, gift, card, call, text, and prayer.” She is Trojan Strong.

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Coffee County magazine

“gave me strength and removed the fear.”

After her last treatment, Katy waited three weeks for the burns to heal enough for surgery. On June 8, 2015, the tumor was removed. A second surgery followed on June 20, but she has now been cancer free for over a year. As follow-up, Katy now has new chest scans and a pelvic MRI done every six months. Her last check-up, on July 8th, was clear and she remains free of cancer.

As far as looking back goes, Katy says, “I feel great. I am cancer free. Looking back on those five months, it was a whirlwind of emotions but my family, friends, co-workers, and community had my back. I am forever grateful for every single visit, meal, gift, card, call, text, and prayer.” She is Trojan Strong.

A great coach, and teacher for that matter, would never neglect the chance to use a situation such as this to inspire others. Katy does just that. Her journey was one of resilience, faith, and community.

For those walking through a similar trial, she shares, “Surround yourself with family and friends. Stay positive.

Listen to your body and to your doctors. Let people help you.

They offer in your time of need because they want to. Accept graciously, and say ‘thank you.’ Have alone time to pray--and cry. It is okay to cry, then get up and fight!”  CCM

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Call Center Welcomes Coffee Regional Medical

Joel

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912-384-0600 Ferree, M.D. for an appointment!

1101 Ocilla Road

Douglas, GA 31533

Cardiologist, Joel Ferree, M.D. Call

912-384-0600 has joined the medical staff of CRMC for an appointment!

to provide cardiology services to our community. Dr. Ferree has over thirty years experience in treating patients with heart Cardiologist, Joel Ferree, M.D. disease, including:

has joined the medical staff of CRMC

to provide cardiology services to our ‐ Heart Attack Care community. Dr. Ferree has over thirty years experience in treating patients with heart ‐ Preventive Care disease, including: ‐‐

Congestive Heart Failure Heart Attack Care

‐‐

Preventive Care Blood Pressure Management

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Cardiac Rhythm Problems Blood Pressure Management

‐ ‐

Cardiac Rhythm Problems

‐

Cardiac Catheterization

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Congestive Heart Failure

Cardiac Catheterization

GROWIN G ALL IN

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DIRECTIONS!

This fall, the Christian’s are welcoming a new family member

AND

Dublin

Jesup

Three New Restaurant Locations Dublin, Jesup & Moultrie

Moultrie

www.RancherosFreshGrill.com Douglas • Waycross • Tifton • Coming Soon: Dublin • Jesup • Moultrie More exciting announcements to come ...

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Coffee County magazine

Story by

Jordan Calhoun

Photos by

Kelly McDonald

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that seems to be increasingly steeped in chemicals, it’s no wonder that many people are seeking out more natural ways of living and caring for their families. While many all-natural retailers are found closer to large cities, Bean Tree Soaps based in Coffee County is bringing safe and family-friendly hygiene products to South Georgia.

Shannon Pojedinec, the owner of Bean Tree Soaps, began dabbling in the art of soap making in 1997 when an article in Herb Companion magazine about the art piqued her interest. A selfproclaimed DIY-er, Shannon was undaunted by the task and created her first batch of milk and honey soap. From then on, she was hooked.

Shannon’s passion for suds only grew when she began discovering the harsh chemicals that go into many household cleaners and cosmetics.

After discovering that her dog’s shampoo was not safe for human contact, she made the decision to take her soap-makingto another level.

The business potential for her talent lay unrecognized until a few years later when a friend offered her online cloth diaper company as a platform for Shannon to begin peddling her wares. With the success she received, Bean Tree Soaps was born and soon grew into its own independent company.

As the business expanded, so did Shannon’s need for an adequate space in which to practice her passion.

“At the time, we had just started a little herb farm. When we bought our property, we built a huge shop in the back. My husband graciously gave me a portion of his workshop to create my soaps,” Shannon said of the place where the magic happens.

Bean Tree Soaps specializes in both cold process and glycerin soaps. Cold process soaps are made by combining fat and lye to yield a chemical reaction called saponification. The

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As the soaps are made with allnatural ingredients and essential oils, it’s not surprising that they are often hailed for their holistic properties. While Shannon doesn’t make products to combat specific physical ailments, she recognizes the power of good ingredients to do good for the body.

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process yields a moisture-rich soap that helps skin feel soft and supple even after getting out of the shower. These batches of soap take several hours to make and then require a three-week curing period. Glycerin soaps, while a bit more processed, prove a better medium for creativity on the part of the soap maker. The true showboats of the soap world, glycerin soaps are often laced with fragrance oils and decorated with bright colors and intricate designs.

Currently, Bean Tree Soaps sells its diverse product offerings online as well as in eight retail locations across the country.

“It’s kinda crazy how the wholesale accounts come about. It’s all through interpersonal communication. Sometimes someone will get a bar of soap as a gift and they’ll just happen to own a store and decide to stock it. It happens organically,” Shannon said as she described the soap-to-shelf process.

Along with a wide variety of natural soaps, Bean Tree creates

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and sells a multitude of bath and body products such as sugar scrubs, hand cream, and lotion bars. Keeping with the southern tradition of hospitality, Shannon also has a section on her website dedicated to fun gifts like aromatherapy sets and sports-bag deodorizers.

And like every good Georgia product, Bean Tree Soaps are made with love. Inspired by her daughter Ariadne’s battle with Celiac disease, Shannon carefully crafts her soaps to be entirely gluten free. She is also very accommodating of her customers’ allergies and strives to source the ingredients for her products from Fair Trade Organizations and local suppliers. While some Bean Tree Soaps are considered vegan because they are not made with animal fat, most products utilize beeswax, honey, and goat’s milk in their composition.

As the soaps are made with all-natural ingredients and essential oils, it’s not surprising that they are often hailed for their holistic properties. While Shannon doesn’t make

Along with a wide variety of natural soaps, Bean Tree creates and sells a multitude of bath and body products such as sugar scrubs, hand cream, and lotion bars. Keeping with the southern tradition of hospitality, Shannon also has a section on her website dedicated to fun gifts like aromatherapy sets and sportsbag deodorizers.

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products to combat specific physical ailments, she recognizes the power of good ingredients to do good for the body.

“I get a lot of compliments on the Tea Tree Oatmeal soap. I can’t say that it cures anything, but it is good for faces. I had a teenage boy stop me once and give me a hug,” Shannon laughed as she remembered the time that her soap changed someone’s life.

When asked about her favorite product, Shannon replied, “That’s like asking someone to pick their

favorite child! I’m a sucker for anything citrus.

Anything grapefruit is my favorite. I have like 10 bars of soap in my shower. But I’m working on a line of Georgia soaps right now that I think will be really fun.”

Despite the fact that soap making has become lucrative for Shannon, the process still remains an art form for her.

“I really love getting something in my head and trying to make it a reality. No two batches are ever the same. In the lavender patchouli, they never Hometown Living At Its Best

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ever look the same. It’s always a challenge to get what I see in my head into a bar, “ she explained about her creative process.

When she isn’t hard at work creating products that will please her diverse customer base, Shannon works as a certified tutor for dyslexic children. Spurred on by her 12-year old son Ronin’s diagnosis, she takes her talents of creativity and problem solving into the classroom to help break down walls with dyslexic learners. Shannon uses the Orton-Gillingham method with the kids she tutors and has thus far seen great results.

“I’m very passionate about dyslexia and tackling the stigma that comes with it. Working with these kids… it’s like watching someone blossom. It’s awesome,” she said of her other passion.

Shannon’s small business goals are supported by her husband, Drew, as well as her two children. However, she says she has no intentions of growing to the point of needing employees and becoming a big business.

“My primary responsibility is to my family. I really enjoy doing small batches of soap and still having time to be there for the kids and do my tutoring. I like being small, I like being able to do things with my hands, and I really like being able to give my

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customers personal attention. My goal is to maintain that balance,” Shannon explained.”

As Shannon continues to strike the balance of small-business owner, impassioned tutor, and loving mom, she remains convicted that showers are highly underrated. While most people view their daily washing as a chore to check off, the heart behind Bean Tree Soaps says that bathing should be something to look forward to.

“During the years when my children were very little, the only time I had alone was in the shower. So it became even more important that the act of bathing be something deeply enjoyable and fun,” Shannon shared.

“Soaps that look pleasant or smell like your very favorite scent have a way of transporting you, even for just 15 minutes. High quality soap can elevate that whole experience from a mundane chore to a joyful act of self-care. Sometimes you do not have the time for a trip to the spa but you can have a thoroughly enjoyable 15 minute shower that leaves you refreshed.”

If you would like to learn more about Shannon, or just take the best shower of your life, visit www. beantreesoap.com.  CCM

First Care Clinic

WALK IN’S WELCOME | OFFICE HOURS MON-FRI 8AM TIL 5PM

• EKG • Cardiac Stress Testing • In Office Laboratory • Echocardiography • Carotid Doppler • Venous Doppler • Gallbladder Ultrasound • Liver Ultrasound • Kidney Ultrasound

• In Home Sleep Study Testing • 24 Heart Rhythm Monitoring • Skin Biopsies • Skin Lesion Resections (Mole and Wart Removal) • Health Physicals • Urinary drug screen (UDS) • TB skin test • Minor illness and injury

1100 Ocilla Rd Douglas, GA 31533

912-383-7884

PROVIDERS: STAN SINCLAIR MD & TERESA WILSON NP

• Sprains, strains, and bruises • Laceration repair (Suture OR Dermabond Adhesive Repair) • Minor burns • I.V. therapy • Pap smears • School and Sports physicals • Flu shots

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“What happens at the spa, stays at the spa.”

• botox/dysport • restylane • microneedling • laser/IPL • spider veins • chemical peels

• microdermabrasion • body contouring • pharmaceutical skin care • mineral make up • facials

Gina Williams, RN - Aesthetic Nurse - Senior Laser Practitioner 912.383.0005 office | 229.392.5243 cell | gina@skintasticskin.com

114 N. Peterson Ave. Douglas GA Suite 206, The Atrium

Ansley Moore - Aesthetician/Laser Technician 912-383-0005 office| 912-381-4671 cell |ansley@skintasticskin.com

Douglas Internal Medicine

OFFICE HOURS MON-FRI 8AM TIL 5PM • Ekg • Cardiac Stress Testing • Xray • In Office Laboratory • Echocardiography • Carotid Doppler • Venous Doppler • Gallbladder Ultrasound

• Liver Ultrasound • Kidney Ultrasound • Soft Tissue Ultrasound • In Home Sleep Study Testing For Sleep Apnea • Testing For Peripheral Vascular Disease • 24 Hr Holter Monitoring (Home Heart Rhythm Monitoring)

• Pacemaker And Aicd (Automatic Cardiac Defibrillator) Evaluation • Laceration Repairs • Skin Biopsies • Skin Lesion Resections (Mole & Wart Removal) • Skin Cancer Resection • Vestibular (Dizziness) Testing

306 Westside Drive | Douglas, Ga 31533 | 912-383-7826 Fax 912-383-7299 PROVIDERS: STAN SINCLAIR MD, KEITH BUTLER PA, TERESA WILSON NP, JENNIFER SPIVEY NP, BROOKE MYERS NP 32

Coffee County Magazine

Lasseter Implement Company 912.384.4400 970 SW Bowens Mill Road, Douglas, GA 31534

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In his 40 years of musicianship, Russ has done more than leave a musical legacy. He has built lifelong friendships with people he can count on to do the impossible.

Story by Jordan Calhoun Photos by Kelly McDonald Hometown Living At Its Best

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Although music had long been Russ’s talent and passion, he resigned from playing with Eli and other bands in October of 1984, shortly after the birth of his first son, Stephen. Despite his burning love for performing, Russ somehow knew that the little boy that lay in his arms needed a father more than he needed an idol.

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Every child thinks that their dad is a rock star, but Russ Story’s kids would be right. A devoted husband and father of six, Russ is both the President and Principal at Story Wealth Management in Douglas and a powerhouse musician.

Russ’s passion for music was ignited in the 10th grade, when his band won the Crisp County High School talent show. At the age of 15, he began taking formal guitar lessons that would continue well into his adult years. Despite the many outlets he had to practice music, his talent was truly honed between pews as he spent much of his youth and adult life serving in church choirs and worship bands.

“My mother, Marvlyn Story, was a minister of music for 35 years. Every Easter and Christmas, when they had a special music program I had to be there. Even into adulthood, I would practice and participate. Church music has played a very important role in my music career,” Russ remembered about his greatest musical influences.

Today, Russ is the lead singer and guitarist for Rampage Band and enjoys performing with them regularly. Every venue that they have played thus far has invited them back, and they have inspired a healthy local following. Although Russ has begun working on writing his own music, much of Rampage’s popularity is derived from their fun covers of classic songs.

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Every child thinks that their dad is a rock star, but Russ Story’s kids would be right. A devoted husband and father of six, Russ is both the President and Principal at Story Wealth Management in Douglas and a powerhouse musician.

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A talented vocalist and guitar player, Russ was in and out of different bands such as Paradox, Allied Force, and Eli. As a member of these groups, Russ played for large crowds all across the southeast. His largest show was with Eli when the band played for an audience of about 2,500 on Okaloosa Island. The band played late weeknights, even later weekends, and caught sleep when they could.

“You get done working at three a.m. and sleep half the day the next day. It’s difficult to live a normal existence when you’re in that type of a band and that lends itself to that lifestyle. It’s hard to go to school or work a real job,” Russ remembered about his early days as a musician.

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As a young man on the music scene, Russ encountered his fair share of temptations towards the infamous rock n’ roll lifestyle. Many musicians that he knew struggled with substance abuse issues.

“The popularity and attention that music gives is a very attractive lifestyle when you’re 19 or 20. Just like anything else that you do, you constantly have to make decisions and it’s important to make the right ones,” Russ noted about the wisdom he gained during his early career.

Although music had long been Russ’s talent and passion, he resigned from playing with Eli and other bands in October of 1984, shortly after the birth of his first son, Stephen. Despite his burning love for performing, Russ somehow knew that the little boy that lay in his arms needed a father more than he needed an idol.

“I think I made the best decision for my family. Music is a wonderful gift from God. It gives you an opportunity to communicate with people on a different level. Wonderful, but on a different token, there comes a point in a young man’s life, where he has to decide if he’s going to do the business of taking care of his family,” Russ explained about the difficult decision

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to retire something he loved in favor of something he loved even more- fatherhood.

But all good rock stars have their resurgence. Eight months ago, after more than 30 years of serving his family and growing his career, Russ received the call of a lifetime.

After a day of family fun at Keaton Beach, Russ was loading his boat and herding his kids when he answered his phone to the voice of an old friend. Mike Johnson, a guitar player that Russ had played with in years passed, had called to offer Russ his ticket back into the world of music.

“He said, ‘Russ, we have a band called Rampage. Our lead singer was Scotty Spires and he passed away suddenly. We all had breakfast this morning and we thought about who could be lead singer and play a little guitar and your name came up,’” Russ recalled about the conversation.

Mike went on to invite Russ to jam with the band at his earliest convenience to see if he would be a good fit for the group.

Startled by the sudden opportunity, Russ declined the offer. His hasty response came as quite the surprise to his family who had been listening via speakerphone.

“Julie looked at me and said, ‘Why’d you tell him no?’” Russ said as he described his wife’s reaction to his response.

One day, Russ might teach his kids to master a guitar riff or how to appreciate an old blues song.

But right now, he is teaching them the importance of honoring God, honoring others, and honoring yourself by doing what you love.

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He explained that between managing 800 clients and a big family, he just didn’t have the time to pick up music again. But Julie wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“She told me, ‘Well I think it’d be good for you to do it. It would give you an outlet- something extracurricular. You don’t play golf, you don’t do much for yourself. At least go and jam with them and let me go hear it. That’s a dream come true. I want to hear you play music with the band,’” Russ said gratefully of his wife’s persistence.

At Julie’s urging, Russ reluctantly accepted the offer and made plans for a jam session.

“Three and a half hours later and I’m hooked.”

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He laughed about how well the group connected and how good it felt to be back playing music.

Today, Russ is the lead singer and guitarist for Rampage Band and enjoys performing with them regularly. Every venue that they have played thus far has invited them back, and they have inspired a healthy local following. Although Russ has begun working on writing his own music, much of Rampage’s popularity is derived from their fun covers of classic songs.

In his 40 years of musicianship, Russ has done more than leave a musical legacy- he has built lifelong friendships with people he can count on to do the impossible.

“We were slotted to play a local business owner’s New Year’s Eve party. 4 days before, our lead guitar player, Mike, had a heart attack.

All of a sudden we’re faced with a situation where it looks like I’m going to have to cancel. I didn’t feel right about that so I called my friend Hugh Tyner. He loads up from Rome, Georgia, drives in the pouring rain all the way to Douglas, and helps me out and plays with us. Then he loads up that night around 1:30 and heads back to Rome. An incredibly long day to help an old friend,” Russ laughed as he remembered the wild evening. “Musicians are a strange group.

Nobody appreciates a musician like another musician. I may just have to load up and drive to Rome one day. We try to help each other out.“ In addition to strong friendships forged, his love for music has allowed him to find common ground with his children. According to Russ, he bonds with his daughter Abby over shared music tastes and a mutual admiration of Chris Stapleton and old Southern Rock.

As the popularity of Rampage grows, the band has been faced with contest opportunities that would move the group out of South Georgia, but Russ insists that he isn’t particularly interested in taking his career to the next level.

“I do not see myself growing involved in the industry. I’m enjoying playing with a really nice group of guys and we’re having a lot of fun. But my priorities are the same. Success for me is playing one venue a month where I don’t have to drive very far. My priorities are clarified. First of all it’s my God and my church, second is my family, and third is my clients who I have an obligation to.”

One day, Russ might teach his kids to master a guitar riff or how to appreciate an old blues song. But right now, he is teaching them the importance of honoring God, honoring others, and honoring yourself by doing what you love.  CCM In addition to strong friendships forged, his love for music has allowed him to find common ground with his children. According to Russ, he bonds with his daughter Abby over shared music tastes and a mutual admiration of Chris Stapleton and old Southern Rock.

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Programs Offered at the Wiregrass Coffee Campus:

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The new Allied Health and Public Safety Building and Wiregrass Regional College and Career Academy will open August 2016.

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706 West Baker Highway Douglas, GA

wiregrass.edu

Equal Opportunity Institution A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia

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DEGREE PROGRAMS: Accounting Air Conditioning Technology Business Management Business Technology Criminal Justice Technology Early Childhood Care/Education Industrial Systems Technology Medical Assisting

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Century Strong The Douglas Country Club is a club that has been around for 100 years with no plans to go anywhere anytime soon.

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Story By Kelly McDonald Photos by Kelly McDonald, Robert Preston, Jr. and Douglas Golf and Country Club

Established in 1916, the Douglas Country Club first opened its doors as a men’s social club in an old wooden building located on the back of the property and known as the Cracker Country Club. “That’s where, back in the good ole days, they solved all the world’s problems,” boasted a few of the older generation members. The original charter included plans for a swimming pool, bowling alley and other recreational facilities, but no golf course.

At a later date, some of the members wanted to add a golf course to the club, but the original 56 acres were not large enough for that project. It was not until 1924 that plans were under-way to purchase

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192 additional acres for the golf course. In 1929, the project was complete and Douglas had its first golf club. The Cracker Country Club went under in 1930 and a group of individuals, who formed a corporation named the Douglas Golf Club, bought the golf course. Two years later, they went back and bought the original 56 acres as well.

After completion of the new golf course, members of the private club got the opportunity to play with one of the greats in golf, Mr. Bobby Jones. After his retirement from golf, Mr. Jones had a law practice in Atlanta. He would come down south during quail season to hunt and, while here, would play golf at the Douglas Golf Course. Mr. Jones is also credited with helping design the Augusta National Golf Club and co-founding the Masters Tournament.

As time passed, the club began to change. Some of the founders decided to move the club up to the front of the property in a newer building and play host to tournaments and more family functions. One thing remained the same, the club started out and stayed only a 9-hole course. They all agreed that the only way for the club to survive was to become an

18-hole course. That was much easier said than done. The only way to go was backwards back across a small bridge to the back nine. Between the EPA, Corps of Engineers, planners, and the Board, this was certainly not a simple undertaking. After countless meetings and surveys, plans were finally underway to create the new back half of the course.

Over lunch in the clubhouse, Mr. Curtis Summerlin Hometown Living At Its Best

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The club is located on 175 acres of majestic pine trees along the Seventeen Mile River, and is nationally known as an 18-hole championship golf course. You will also find a clubhouse that features a player’s bar, banquet room for parties, and a family restaurant. For the younger members of the family there is a pool, playground and tennis courts.

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remembers, “It was quite the job to get them to see it our way, but we needed to expand to survive as a competitive club.”

Several decades later, I caught a ride with member Adam Smith across that famous bridge. No matter the age, most members are familiar with the stories and significance of that bridge and the move across it that changed the landscape of the club forever. As soon as we rolled across to the back nine, the scenery changed.

Beautiful Bermuda grass greens are surrounded by large moss covered pines; narrow fairways present a challenge to even the lowest handicap players. A lot of shade and breeze make this section of the course pleasant almost any time of the year, even in South Georgia. Back in the front nine, several signature holes remain. Number 13 is especially interesting with a green surrounded mostly by water. “You have to be on your game on that one!” Mr. Bobby told me with pride. He seemed to know every hole, slope, and sand trap around.

Greg Miller, General Manager, expressed that this is a club that has been around for 100 years with no plans to go anywhere anytime soon. “We are very communityminded and would love to see a new generation of members continue to have pride and dedication here, and maybe even another century of play.�

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After a fire in the 80’s, the club was destroyed but continued to operate out of two trailers during an expansive rebuild. “We have remained open for a century, no matter what came our way,” Adam Smith shared. “We are the only private club in the area that offers a social and golf membership as well as activities for the whole family.”

The club is located on 175 acres of majestic pine trees along the Seventeen Mile River, and is nationally known as an 18-hole championship golf course. You will also find a clubhouse that features a

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player’s bar, banquet room for parties, and a family restaurant.

For the younger members of the family there is a pool, playground and tennis courts.

Inside the club, a little nostalgia still remains. Cabinets feature a trophy cup reading “1929 Tobacco Belt Golf League Winner”. There is also an old black and white image of Bobby Jones himself in front of a train, and another image taken in 1951 that was donated in memory of Judge B.J. Quincey, one of the club’s founding members. Certainly a nod to the past and the members who worked so hard to make the club what it is today.

Greg Miller, General Manager, expressed that this is a club that has been around for 100 years with no plans to go anywhere anytime soon. “We are very community-minded and would love to see a new generation of members continue to have pride and dedication here, and maybe even another century of play.”

Centennial events included golf tournaments, prizes, and a family night dinner. There was also live entertainment by The Revenants.

If you would be interested in joining the Douglas Golf and Country Club, you can reach them at (912) 384-4707.  CCM

If you would be interested in joining the Douglas Golf and Country Club, you can reach them at (912) 384-4707.

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Contact Erin Hodge (Office Manager) to discuss your home care needs.

Owners: Charles & Beth Harper Hometown Living At Its Best

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faith What

Can Do

Kayla Steed and her family learn how having faith can change their life for the better.

STORY BY | Jordan Calhoun PHOTOS FURNISHED BY | A Thousand Words Photography and Kayla Steed

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As a party of 3, the Steed family somehow felt incomplete. Patrick and Kayla Steed, Douglas natives who celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary on June 23rd, were the happy parents of 4-year old Peyton when he began to make an unusual request. While most young boys are satisfied with the newest Xbox game or a trip to Wild Adventures, Peyton Steed wanted something much more permanent: a baby sister.

“Peyton would only say, ‘I want a baby sister. All of my friends have brothers and sisters and I want one too,’” Kayla explained.

Patrick and Kayla shared the same dream as their child, but were met with incredible difficulty when trying to conceive. After going over several options with her doctor, Kayla opted to try six rounds of the fertility medication, Clomid. When the treatment failed to produce a pregnancy, both Patrick and Kayla were tested for infertility but all tests came back normal. The next few years were riddled with crushing anguish and failed attempts at conception. With no diagnoses and no answers, the couple began to lose heart that their dreams of a little 58

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girl would ever be realized.

“It’s very hard for your child to say that all he wanted was a little sister. The only thing he wanted, we couldn’t give to him because we had no control over it,” Kayla said of the heartbreaking process.

The only thing left for the young family was to visit a fertility specialist, but Patrick was reluctant to let his wife put herself through further trauma. As the couple watched people around them become pregnant, they became bitter and resentful toward their own struggle.

“That’s when I began to question God,” Kayla said.

A guiding verse for the Steeds during this time was Matthew 7:7, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

As his parents’ faith was shaken, young Peyton began to knock. And he knocked hard.

Every day, Peyton faithfully prayed to God and asked for a little sister. According to his maternal grandmother, Deloris Gladin, the little boy would ask her if she was still praying when she picked him up from school each day.

“He would say, ‘Mimi, you do know that I still want

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“To hear him thank God for sending us a baby…I just know that Peyton will have a testimony one day about faith,”

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my baby sister, don’t you? Are you still praying?’” Deloris wept as she described her grandson’s faith that the Lord would bring him a sister.

In September of 2013, an evangelist visited Douglas Christian Fellowship where the Steeds attend church and prayed especially for the family to receive the gift of a daughter. The man even went so far as to hold a baby shower for them that evening, asking those who would, to bring gifts for a baby girl because he wanted them to believe that God would answer their prayers.

“One of the hardest things that I have ever done was bring those little clothes home and hang them in what I wanted to be my baby girl’s closet,” Kayla remembered about the night that changed everything.

After the evangelist’s visit, the Steeds began to thank God for their baby girl despite the fact that she had not arrived. As they continued to wait on the Lord, the family clung to the words of “What Faith Can Do” by Kutless and the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:7 and remained hopeful that the fourth Steed was well on her way.

In April 2015, a friend and former coworker of Kayla’s called out of the blue to tell her about a treatment another friend sought for a similar problem. Instead of trying an experimental drug or undergoing fertility treatments, this friend simply went to the chiropractor.

“This was ALL God. He laid it out perfectly,” Kayla said of the sudden phone call and the strange remedy.

Kayla immediately made an appointment with the same chiropractor who had once treated

Peyton for infantile colic and braced herself for the last ditch effort. She chose not to tell anyone where she was going, but instead went to the office accompanied only by her mother.

“We were riding down the road and I looked at her and I said, ‘Kayla, this is gonna work.’ I could feel it. I could feel that it was God’s provision,” Deloris explained excitedly.

Kayla visited the chiropractor four times within a month and received an adjustment during each appointment. On her fifth visit in May of 2015, she was able to give the news that she had been waiting to say for almost four years. By the grace of God, the Steeds were finally pregnant.

Patrick and Kayla told Peyton that he was going to be a big brother on July 1st, following a doctor’s appointment that confirmed the pregnancy and the perfect health of their unborn child.

“To hear him thank God for sending us a baby…I just know that Peyton will have a testimony one day about faith,” Kayla wistfully remembered of the special time for her family.

On her 20-week check-up, Kayla found out she was going to be mama to a little baby girl.

“That was like the ultimate answer. I knew that God heard every single prayer and gave us exactly what we asked for,” she said.

Kristy Moxley of A Thousand Words Photography earns a living capturing special moments, but few as memorable as her maternity shoot with the Steed family. Kristy said that the atmosphere in the family’s home was different and special. She

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knew it was because of their close fellowship with God and the faith that they all had in His provision.

“The peace that was felt… you could just feel that the Lord was in this entire situation. You could feel the Holy Spirit in the home and the peace on the day of the birth.

You could feel the joy. You could feel the prayers being answered and the testimonies being lived,” Kristy said of the family who has now become some of her dear friends.

“It even restored my faith. If the Lord can give them a baby, what can’t he do?”

Presley Kathryn Steed was born happy and healthy on January 28, 2016 at Coffee Regional Medical Center.

Kayla says her daughter is always smiling and is an easy and joyful baby.

“I just look at her and thank God. Sometimes it’s still hard for me to believe that we have her,” the sweet mama said about her baby girl.

Peyton is now a third grader at Indian Creek Elementary. He loves to play baseball, go swimming, and attend Awana on Wednesday nights. Just before

the birth of his little sister, Peyton dedicated his life to Christ. Patrick and Kayla attribute their son’s radical faith and devotion to Jesus in part to praying together and witnessing the answered prayers of a miracle.

The journey to receiving Presley was devastating and difficult, but the Lord was perfect in His timing and faithful in His plan to complete a family. It seems that over the past four years, the Steed family has learned and lived Psalm 37:4, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

As Presley approaches her six-month mark, she is fervently loved by her parents and her big brother. More than that, Presley is desperately loved, radically pursued, and tirelessly protected by the perfect God that knit her together in her mother’s womb.

“This story is not about my daughter, my son-in-law, my grandson, or even my granddaughter,” Grandmother Deloris announced. “This story is about my Jesus and what He will do if you will just wait on Him and have a little faith.”  CCM

“This story is about my Jesus and what He will do if you will just wait on Him and have a little faith.”

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Faith, Fun, Friendship & Family Church Office: (912) 384-0351 www.oneconnection.org

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Destination Graduation Mission Accomplished A true picture of the Coffee County School System’s mission of Destination Graduation: For College, Career, and Life, the Senior Parade is a new tradition that is here to stay. story by JENNA MUSGROVE | photos by LOGIC4DESIGN.COM

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As a kindergartener I remember looking at a sign that read “Class of 2014.” The year 2014 seemed impossibly far away at the time. That year came, and I walked across the stage at Dan A. Jardine Stadium. I was handed a diploma that signified the closing of a chapter of my life that held so many amazing memories. Before doing so, though, my classmates and I had the chance to return to our elementary schools to participate in our school system’s second annual Senior Parade.

The idea of doing a Senior Parade in Coffee County was presented by Coffee High Principal, Dr. Rowland Cummings. He previously worked at Valdosta High School, where their students already participated in the event. He explained how the event would truly be a picture of what our schools are all about and allow the graduates to visit their former schools to receive a special welcome.

The reception from the schools in the Coffee County School System was incredible. The first class to do the Senior Parade, the Class of 2013, gathered in the Cafetorium at Coffee High, dressed in caps and gowns and rode school buses to the elementary school they attended. This past year,

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the parade was extended to include Coffee Middle School, where all graduates who were in the school system as a middle schooler attended.

At the schools, the graduates were welcomed with banners and cheering teachers and students.

It is a humbling and exciting experience for the students at the schools, the graduates who “parade” around the schools, and the teachers and school staff who get to see former students who have achieved Destination Graduation!

The Class of 2016 had a lot to be proud of as they returned to where it all began for them. The class had an impressive eleven Zell Miller Scholars.

There were also fourteen graduates named as AP Scholars. There were students who graduated with thirteen years of perfect attendance, students who got accepted into major colleges, students who decided to go into the United States military, and students who chose to pursue a career in a technical field.

This past May, I visited Indian Creek Elementary during the Class of 2016’s Senior Parade. After the graduates were greeted with clapping and cheers as they walked up and down each hallway, they had time to visit former teachers before a brief reception and video. I walked in one classroom to find a graduate surrounded by first graders asking for her signature. To them, she was a celebrity.

She had “made it.” She was what they all wanted to be. Several graduates also took time to visit the playground and play, for one last time, on the now too-small playground equipment. Tears filled most teachers’ eyes as they hugged former students and congratulated them on such a great accomplishment.

The graduates, too, became emotional. While they are a part of a much larger graduating class than just those at one elementary school, those friends were their first classmates—their first best friends. These friends are the ones they started their educational careers with over a decade earlier. These are the people they have grown up with—learned to read with, learned to play sports with, and learned how to treat others with.

“Destination Graduation: For College, Career, and Life” is more than just a mission statement in the Coffee County School System. It is more than seven words that are displayed on our school system’s logo. It is what drives every decision made.

It is what inspires leaders and administrators as they make important decisions. It is what teachers, Hometown Living At Its Best

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LEFT One of the high-lights of the day seemed to be revisting their old playground where the soon-to-be grads mingled with the current student body.

RIGHT For many seniors and former teachers alike, the parade is an emotional experience.

from Pre-K to 12th grade, keep in mind as they help students develop a love for learning. It is what reminds everyone that education is about more than just a grade. Education is instilling positive character traits in students at a young age. Education is teaching students real-life applications for the concepts they are learning. It is teaching students ways they can become productive members of our community, and of society in general. The Senior Parade is a beautiful depiction of what Destination Graduation looks like. It is graduates who are celebrating a major milestone. It is graduates taking the chance to look back and reflect on where it all began, but also looking forward to what is to come.

For the young students sitting in the hallways clapping and cheering, their graduation year became more real on Senior Parade Day. It became something that seemed attainable, exciting even.

It took our mission statement and put faces to it.

Before they know it, they will be returning to that same school, but this time in cap and gown as a soon-to-be graduate of Coffee High School. ď • CCM Hometown Living At Its Best

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To educate a man is to unfit him To Be A Slave.

- Frederick Douglas

It is a humbling and exciting experience for the students at the schools, the graduates who “parade� around the schools, and the teachers and school staff who get to see former students who have achieved Destination Graduation!

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El 1800 Mexican Restaurant

1600 S Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533

(912) 260-0090

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FITZGERALD FAMILY Eyecare

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Dr. Ellen D. Fitzgerald | Dr. Krista J. Stapleton Optometric Physicians

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“Quality Workmanship Guaranteed” Hometown Living At Its Best

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Field of Dreams

Story by Gail Dixon Photos by Kelly McDonald

No matter who you are or what you believe, this kind of

love, generosity, and hard work will restore anyone's faith in friendship, community, and life!

September is the month set aside to honor and remember children and families affected by the awful beast, aka cancer. Many people may wonder why childhood cancer was given the gold ribbon to represent the cause. The reason is because the gold ribbon, just like a piece of gold, signifies how precious and priceless children are in our lives.

In 2011, the Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County (CCAGCC) was organized and began advocating for children who have been diagnosed with cancer. The mission of this non-profit organization is to provide financial assistance, emotional and spiritual support, and information for families of children with cancer; to provide funding to other childhood cancer research agencies and search for a cure; and to raise public awareness of the disease and advocate on behalf

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of children who are affected in the Coffee County area. This group believes that no child should have to fight for his life; they stand behind their motto, work hard, and make an effort to do everything possible to help. They also know that if they can provide financial assistance to the families, it will ease some of the burden placed upon the family.

The Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County has had an abundance of love and support from the community. One thing that makes this group so unique is the fact that they are all volunteers! They are helping because

The Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County has had an abundance of love and support from the community.

One thing that makes this group so unique is the fact that they are all volunteers!

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it is an important cause to them and they have a “passion” for the children and their families.

The organization’s major drive for funds is done in September each year and the community is always gracious with donations to help. When the CCAGCC heard about Ashton Morgan’s diagnosis three years ago, they were quick to offer their help.

Terry and Tamara Morgan have two sons, Ashton and Lee; they are “brothers by love”. In 2013, on a family vacation at the beach, Ashton, two years old, began vomiting and complaining with a headache after a nap. After several doctor visits, their local pediatrician, Dr. Keith Childers ordered a CT scan at Coffee Regional Hospital.

It was then determined that Ashton had a tumor on his spinal cord. The family was sent to

All of Ashton’s friends showed up to play a simple game of baseball on HIS field. During the Opening Ceremonies, Braves Coach, Greg Walker, presented Ashton with a bat and a Freddy Freeman jersey that was autographed and worn in a Braves game.

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Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital in Atlanta on August 13. On August 16th, Tamara’s birthday, Ashton had a 7-hour surgery to remove the tumor. After the surgery, Ashton had to go through chemotherapy, two bone marrow transplants, and continuous scans.

Ashton was in remission until October 2014. On a routine doctor's visit, a small gray spot was found on Ashton's brain that concerned doctors enough to have him checked again in three months. In January 2015, he started intense chemo treatments and had to make a trip to Atlanta every other week. Terry and Tamara took off

On Saturday, July 23rd, Make-A-Wish, along with several volunteers from the Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County, and the loving community, were able to fulfill Ashton’s “Field of Dreams”. Ashton got his baseball field and slide, along with 155 banners that were made by Ultimate Graphics and sponsored by local businesses and families.

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work and did what they had to do as parents, making a commitment for that year to get Ashton better. In December 2015, Ashton told Tamara, “Please don't make me take anymore of that yucky medicine.”

Terry and Tamara decided to take a break from treatments for a while.

In April (2016), Ashton went back for a followup and the Morgans were told that the tumors had tripled in size and number. All of Ashton's original symptoms had returned and it was determined that 30 rounds of radiation were needed to keep the tumors from growing and multiplying.

Several years ago, Ashton wished for a baseball field and a slide from Make-A-Wish. The Make-AWish Foundation is made up of tens of thousands of volunteers, donors, and supporters whose vision is to grant the wish of every eligible child diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition. In the United States and its territories, on average, a wish is granted every 37 minutes. The foundation believes a wish experience can be a game-changer. This one belief guides them and inspires them to grant wishes that change the lives of the children they serve.

On Saturday, July 23rd, Make-A-Wish, along with several volunteers from the Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County, and the loving community, were able to fulfill Ashton's “Field of Dreams”. Ashton got his baseball field and slide, along with 155 banners that were made by Ultimate Graphics and sponsored by local businesses and families. The dream was also made possible with countless donations, a BBQ food truck, drinks/ice, watermelons, golf carts for parking, a DJ, a sports Hometown Living At Its Best

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announcer, former pro baseball and football players, the high school baseball team, softball players, cheerleaders, JROTC, and the American Legion Post 515. There were hundreds of people in attendance and everyone had a good time. The money raised on this day will go to the Morgan Family.

All of Ashton's friends showed up to play a simple game of baseball on HIS field. During the Opening Ceremonies, Braves Coach, Greg Walker, presented Ashton with a bat and a Freddy Freeman jersey that was autographed and worn in a Braves game. Coach Walker said, “I am so proud of the people of South Georgia and this is why I will always consider this my home.” He told Ashton that before every game, the Braves pound knuckles and say, “Fight the fight”.

Before the game began, Tamara said, “We are so humbled by what has been done for Ashton in six days and we are here today to claim LIFE.” When Ashton was asked if he had anything to say, he walked to the pitcher's mound and responded softly, “Thank you and please pray for me.” Without a dry eye in the house, the players and coaches were announced in

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style as they ran onto the field. Coach Greg Walker and Ashton threw out the first pitch to Lee, Ashton's “brother by love” and catcher for the game.

Ashton, now 5 years old, has medulloblastoma cancer and is facing an incredibly hard road ahead.

The Morgans firmly believe that with their prayers and yours, Ashton will be healed. This family has an unspoken bond, strength, and faith that only watching your baby suffer through cancer, and all the treatments that follow, can bring. Even after everything they have been through, Terry and Tamara said, “God has blessed us through it all.”

The Childhood Cancer Awareness Group of Coffee County will go on to help over 30 families that are devastated by the diagnosis of childhood cancer.

They will do so with kindness and compassion for the families and the children because this is what they set out to do. It was amazing to see what this town and Make-A-Wish did in six days. No matter who you are or what you believe, this kind of love, generosity, and hard work will restore anyone's faith in friendship, community, and life!  CCM

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growing up

coffee

STORY BY | Jenna Musgrove PHOTOS BY | Dawn McDaniel Owens, Susan Barlow and provided by Andrea Taylor

Lee and Andrea Taylor are known by many for their love for and involvement with the Coffee County community. Both have traveled and lived other places, but are proud to call this place home.

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Lee and Andrea Taylor are familiar faces and names for many in Coffee County. The Taylor family truly loves this community, and both Lee and Andrea have worked for years to make it an even better place to work, live, and raise a family. Though both have lived, studied, and worked in other places, they now call Coffee County home.

Lee was born in Montgomery, Alabama to Charles J. “Buck” and Freddie Claire Taylor.

Lee’s father grew up in the small town of West Green. From the time he was born, his family visited Douglas every year to spend time with his father’s family. When he was six years old, he lost his mother to breast cancer. Lee’s father later remarried and they moved to Grayson, Georgia, outside Atlanta. Throughout his childhood, he spent most of his school holidays in Douglas, staying several weeks during the summer each year with his aunt and uncle, Mary Jeanette and W.P. Chaney, and cousins Beverly, Kenneth and Benjamin Pharr.

The small town life was something Lee loved.

He recalls his fondness and adds, “especially going to Harvey’s or Foodland, where you spend an hour talking to people you run into and 10 minutes shopping.” Lee graduated from South Gwinnett High School. After graduation, he attended South Georgia College. His Aunt Mary Jeanette had always wanted him to come to school in Douglas and “find a good south Georgia girl”.

Lee comments, “I enjoyed my time there, served as Student Government Association President, fell in love with the perfect girl, Andrea Dorminey, followed her to VSU and then to Tuscaloosa.” That is where he studied History and Political Science. He then worked with Red Lobster for 12 years, working his way up from server to General Manager. While he later went on to build great relationships with the people of Douglas-Coffee County during his time at Zaxby’s, Taylor jumped at the chance to be part of such an exciting venture when he was offered the position of Human Resources Director with Premium Peanut in November 2015.

“I have a profound respect for the agriculture

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community and what it means to our state. Farming is the backbone of our community and I look forward to working with area farmers, helping to ensure that farming remains viable as a business in South Georgia,” Lee states. His family has a long history of farming in South Georgia. In fact, that history dates back to the 1750’s. He even feels that serving in this role is a way to get back to his roots.

Lee has served and continues to serve in several ways, as he is also Past-President of Douglas Kiwanis Club and continues to be actively involved at Douglas First United Methodist Church. He also serves on the Indian Creek Elementary School Governance Council.

Andrea also serves the community in several ways. She is a founding member of the Boys and Girls Club of Coffee County Region Board of Directors, serves on the Family Connection Board of Directors, is Past-President of the Douglas Lions Club, serves on the Board of Directors for Georgia Chamber of Commerce Executives, and serves on the Douglas First United Methodist Preschool Board of Directors. She also serves on the Georgia Economic Developers Association Board of Directors.

Andrea was born in Douglas to Carlton “Pig” Dorminey and Angela Fussell. She grew up in Ambrose, attended Ambrose Elementary School, and graduated from Coffee High School in 1994. Though she thought she wanted to become a doctor, she went on to attend South Georgia College, where she found that biology and chemistry were not for her. She comments, “I was much more attracted to the Humanities, especially music, literature and art,” and went on to say, “During my freshman year at SGC, I worked as a waitress at Scampi’s in Douglas. There I met a young man named Lee Taylor who was a bartender and amateur oyster-shucker. I had a boyfriend at the time, but as soon as we broke up, Lee asked me out and we have been inseparable ever since.” The two met for their first date in front of Thrash Hall at SGC in 1995. Five years later, Lee asked Andrea to be his wife at that very spot.

They were married at the First Baptist Church in Douglas on June 2, 2001, and had their reception at the AshleySlater House.

Andrea went to Valdosta State University, majored in English, and minored in Art History. Art History became her passion at VSU, where she had an Art History Professor who encouraged her to pursue a Master’s in the subject. After graduating from VSU, Andrea decided to work for a year to decide exactly what she wanted to do. After a year as a desk clerk at the Hampton Inn in Valdosta, she was more than ready to continue her studies.

She began applying to the Master’s programs in Art History, which were few and far between in the south at that time. After receiving an acceptance letter from Hometown Living At Its Best

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Georgia State University in Atlanta, she and Lee visited there and decided she would attend that school. As soon as they made it back to Valdosta, Andrea received a phone call from the Chair of the Department of Art at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. She explains, “He wanted me to come visit and said that UA was prepared to offer me a teaching assistantship. I wasn’t completely sold on GA State – I wasn’t excited about living in Atlanta. So we visited Tuscaloosa and I fell in love with the campus and the people.” Andrea began her Master’s studies in August 1999 and graduated magna cum laude from UA. “While I was a graduate student, I taught undergraduate Art History classes and when I graduated, they offered me a full-time position teaching at UA. There, I taught about 1,000 students per semester. I was also lucky enough to have one of my professors recommend me for the University of Alabama in the Italy Art History program, so for 7 years I took students to study abroad in Italy for five weeks each summer.” Andrea continues, “We found a church that was perfect for us with a minister, Sandy Felkins, who came to Douglas and performed our marriage ceremony in 2001. We loved our life in Tuscaloosa. We lived in the cutest house in downtown Northport, right across the river from Tuscaloosa. During the last week of one of my Italy trips I got really sick and had no idea what was wrong with me. When I returned home, Lee and I found out that we were going to have our first child.”

Grayson was born on January 31, 2008. Andrea took two weeks off work and headed back to the classroom. She 92

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comments, “I loved my new baby, but I also loved lecturing and being with my students. While we loved Tuscaloosa and our friends there, I had always felt that I would move home to Douglas sooner or later. With the arrival of a new baby, we felt like there was no time like the present and decided to make the move. Lee was able to make a move with Red Lobster for a General Manager position at the store in Perry, GA. When I finished the semester, we moved to the place where we both felt ‘at home.’ It was hard at first, especially for me to give up the job I loved so much, but I was one of the first to begin teaching online classes for UA in 2008, and I could do that from my home in South Georgia.”

Soon after they moved back, Lee’s Cousin Beverly Pharr, who he came to visit in Douglas many times when he was growing up, told him she saw an ad for a restaurant job opening in Douglas. Lee did not enjoy the long ride to Perry, so he sent his resume for a job interview and soon after he began working for Danny and Paul DeMersseman with Zaxby’s in Douglas, where he was soon promoted to Regional Manager.

Andrea did not enjoy teaching online because she mainly loved lecturing in the classroom so she began searching for a local job. As it turns out, she saw an ad for a staff writer position at The Douglas Enterprise. She was hired in September 2008. Andrea expresses, “I enjoyed working at the newspaper. I met so many people and loved telling their stories.” When J.R. Charles left the Chamber of Commerce and that position became available, she decided to apply.

So she began working at the Chamber in September 2010.

Soon after, the family grew, once again. They had their daughter, Whitley Claire, in February 2013. Whitley attends Douglas First Methodist Church Preschool. Grayson is now in second grade at Indian Creek Elementary School. The family attends Douglas First United Methodist Church.

Andrea recently assumed the role of Chamber President after JoAnne Lewis’ retirement. She mentions, “I have loved working with JoAnne Lewis. She has taught me so much about good leadership and how to be a team player. I can never repay her for all she has done for me and my family.”

Andrea explains, “We are so blessed to have such a wonderful community with a tradition of great leadership. I am so excited to be a part of that leadership. Bringing jobs and opportunities to our community is my passion because it means more people are able to bring home a paycheck and support their families. It also means that more young people don’t have to leave rural communities in search of a job because they are able to find a job locally.”

This heart for Douglas and Coffee County is evident in both Lee and Andrea, and our community is blessed that they chose to “come home.” CCM Hometown Living At Its Best

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&HOPE Changing Lives

story by

Jordan Calhoun

photos by

Kelly McDonald

The Therapy Tree, a center specializing in communication therapy, treats patients who have speech, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties or impairments.

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Among the rows of cozy houses and well-established businesses along North Pearl Avenue in Douglas, there is a quaint brick building that is quite literally changing lives. The Therapy Tree, a center specializing in communication therapy, treats patients who have speech, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties or impairments. Started in 2007 by Teresa McElroy, The Therapy Tree currently operates four clinics within South Georgia and fills a need that was otherwise overlooked: therapy for autistic children.

According to the Center for Disease Control, 1 in 68 children are diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD. Individuals with ASD can usually be diagnosed by the age of three and are known to struggle with communication, social interaction, and change. The Therapy Tree partners with and

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Today, Daniel is a mischievous 8-year old with big brown eyes and a heart of gold. While he may be reluctant to make eye contact when he first meets a new friend, he is always quick to introduce himself and offer a hug or a smile.

His dearest companions are his teddy bear and his three younger brothers.

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As Coffee County moves towards greater awareness for this difficult diagnosis, children are fighting for their right to live normal and productive lives at The Therapy Tree. There, patients have access to several different therapy rooms that decrease the likelihood of overstimulation as well as the gift of a therapy dog named Maggie that allows them the opportunity to give and receive unspoken affection.

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models their therapy techniques after the Marcus Autism Center in Atlanta, which is recognized as a National Institute of Health Autism Center of Excellence. Because of these powerful techniques and the trainings that The Therapy Tree’s speech-language pathologists undergo, huge breakthroughs are being made and lives like Daniel’s are being radically changed.

Daniel Norman was a little over a year old when his pediatrician recommended testing him for autism. Because he was the first child in his

family, Daniel’s perfectionist tendencies and repetitive behavior did not seem out of the ordinary to his mother, Nikki. After evaluation with a specialist, the pediatrician’s suspicions were confirmed and Daniel was diagnosed with autism.

“That just hit me like a brick wall. I thought, ‘What do you mean? What is wrong with my child? What is autism?’ I didn’t know myself,” Nikki described of the fear that initially followed her son’s diagnosis.

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Children like Daniel add color to Coffee County and joy to the lives of their families and their caregivers.

The Therapy Tree, a center specializing in communication therapy, treats patients who have speech, language, voice, and swallowing difficulties or impairments.

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After working with the Marcus Center to evaluate options, Daniel was routed to The Therapy Tree where he began therapy at just 4-years old. Completely non-verbal, Daniel was locked inside his own mind and unable to communicate the simplest desires or needs to his family.

While Nikki was excited about the prospect of therapy helping her son, she was at first apprehensive about the opportunity.

“I had to look out for my child. I had to do what was best for him. I said, ‘God, if this is what he needs, then we’ll do it,’” Nikki said about making the decision to begin therapy.

According to The Therapy Tree’s Tara Harden, the entire first year of therapy for Daniel was spent trying to soothe him enough to begin working with him.

“They were not productive sessions at all in the beginning. We had to build rapport and allow him to trust us before we were able to work with him,” Tara remembered about the early stages of Daniel’s progress.

During his bi-weekly meetings, Daniel works for 30-45 minutes on a variety of different goals such as responding when his name is called, identifying pictures and facial expressions, and recalling action words.

“We can only hold his attention for so long before he checks out,” Tara explained. “It’s not like doing therapy with a regular patient. You have to teach him in his own way.”

Three years of therapy passed before Daniel, who had never spoken a word in his life, was able to begin imitating

Autism is not devastating. Autism is not crippling. Autistic children can grow up to be productive adults who lead full and rich lives, if only their loved ones take the time to pour into them and provide them with learning opportunities.

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sounds and words. The first unprompted word he offered was “airplane,” which sent the whole office into a tearful celebration of the little boy’s groundbreaking accomplishment. Another year passed and Daniel began to give correct responses and follow one-step commands- a breakthrough that his family and caregivers had only dreamed about.

“It’s just been a blessing. He has come out of his shell. It’s not even the same Daniel. He has progressed so much. It’s amazing,” Nikki shared about her son’s miraculous progress.

As a product of his incredible breakthrough, Daniel is now able to communicate affection to his friends and family. Nikki says that she still gets tickled each time that her son tells her he loves her and was floored when he first wrote his name on a Valentine card.

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“I can’t even explain. I can’t even find the words,” she said as she struggled to communicate the emotion that came with hearing her son say, “I love you.”

Today, Daniel is a mischievous 8-year old with big brown eyes and a heart of gold. While he may be reluctant to make eye contact when he first meets a new friend, he is always quick to introduce himself and offer a hug or a smile. His dearest companions are his teddy bear and his three younger brothers. Truly, it is unbelievable to imagine that five short years ago, Daniel could not form his own name or say hello.

As Coffee County moves towards greater awareness for this difficult diagnosis, children are fighting for their right to live normal and productive lives at The Therapy Tree. There, patients have access to several different

therapy rooms that decrease the likelihood of overstimulation as well as the gift of a therapy dog named Maggie that allows them the opportunity to give and receive unspoken affection.

“Let’s drop the stigmatism. This isn’t a life sentence,” Tara said about the widely held perceptions of autism.

A parent’s greatest fear is to be told that their child is anything less than perfect. Perhaps we need to redefine perfection. Children like Daniel add color to Coffee County and joy to the lives of their families and their caregivers.

“The main thing they need is love and affection,” Nikki explained about the needs of autistic children. “I hope this reaches parents who are ashamed or afraid of this diagnosis. I hope this reaches out and changes hearts. I hope

Daniel will become an inspiration for other children.”

Autism is not devastating. Autism is not crippling. Autistic children can grow up to be productive adults who lead full and rich lives, if only their loved ones take the time to pour into them and provide them with learning opportunities.

“It’s a work in progress. You’ve got to keep at it. I’m still learning.” Nikki laughed.

My all-time favorite part about being a writer is meeting new friends and receiving the honor of telling someone’s story. My life is so much sweeter because I got to know Daniel. If you would like more information on diagnosing autism or advocating for autistic children, please visit www.autismpeaks.org.  CCM

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BUCKING SYSTEM THE

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C. Mo’s Kids is helping children with special needs or terminal illness to partake in outdoor adventures.

STORY BY | Jordan Calhoun PHOTOS BY | Dawn McDaniel Owens and C. Mo’s Kids.

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There is nothing quite like a first hunt; the stillness of the morning, the silence of the blind, and the pride in a father’s eyes when their child kills their first buck. While many kids in South Georgia begin hunting in elementary school, parents of special needs children are often left without the resources or the know-how to provide their child with such a simple rite of passage.

But one group is changing the game. C. Mo’s Kids, a non-profit organization that allows children with special needs or terminal illness to partake in outdoor adventures, began when founder Winston Barlow of Kingsland, Georgia arranged for a young man with cerebral palsy to join him on a hog hunt. Despite the extra effort involved in acquiring special equipment and working around physical limitations, the unique hunt provided the perfect inspiration for C. Mo’s Kids.

The Douglas chapter of C. Mo’s began just three years

ago and boasts a membership of 12 active participants. The group touts a skilled and passionate pro staff and offers unique and diverse experiences, complete with specialized hunting equipment, for special needs children of all ages.

The director of the Douglas chapter, Chad Carver, got involved in the organization after watching a family friend grow up with spina bifida.

“He was so self-sufficient,” Carver said of the young man who is now 19. “This little kid was doing all that he could for himself. I call him my superstar because there is nothing he can’t do.”

Armed with a passion and an outdoorsman spirit, Carver set out to bring the dream that Winston Barlow had made reality to the Coffee County community. What began as a couple of guys going hunting grew into a thriving organization that sponsors hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor experiences for boys and girls alike.

“With boys coming into manhood, having a handicap, they sometimes feel inferior to their classmates. When they bring down a buck, they get to do something their classmates sometimes haven’t even done. Hunting really brings them into manhood.

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“The kids that are handicapped, they like to hunt.” Barlow said of C. Mo’s most popular activity. “With boys coming into manhood, having a handicap, they sometimes feel inferior to their classmates. When they bring down a buck, they get to do something their classmates sometimes haven’t even done. Hunting really brings them into manhood.”

Currently, Barlow is working with a young man in a wheelchair who wants to complete a “grand slam” by killing one of each of the four breeds of turkey that reside in the United States. The journey will be paid for in whole by C. Mo’s and documented by a film crew to possibly appear on television.

However, C. Mo’s knows that hunting isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

“Some special needs kids, they really don’t want to harm an animal but they love to go fishing.” Carver explained.

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“We find whatever these kids like and that’s what we want to try and share. We want to make memories.”

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diverse experiences. On February 6th and 7th, Carver took a group of kids to the Golden Isles Speedway in Brunswick where they experienced the Lucas Oil Super Bowl on dirt. There, the kids got to watch a race from the track and meet some of the drivers.

There is also a lot of room for some girl power in C. Mo’s Kids. While other chapters have taken girls on hunts and fishing trips, the Douglas group is working on publicizing the adventures to young ladies. The first of these adventures was a muchdeserved girly day of manicures and pedicures for a special little girl.

“We find whatever these kids like and that’s what we want to try and share. We want to make memories.”

Carver said of diversifying the C. Mo’s experience.

While the adventures are all about fun and enjoying the outdoors, the organization heaps a great deal of importance on safety, To make their events as safe and comfortable as possible, C. Mo’s makes sure that kids are well versed in safety procedures and are accompanied by at least one parent on any excursions. All volunteers receive background checks before working with the kids and are also heavily trained in hunting protocol.

Commonly mistaken as a faithbased organization, C. Mo’s Kids welcomes children from all backgrounds and religious affiliation.

“We are an organization founded

by Christians but we don’t pour Christianity on everyone. We pray before events, we pray before hunts.

We just try to be an example for the kids.” Barlow explained.

The organization strives to go beyond the outdoor experiences the kids enjoy and provide them with role models. This was the thought process behind creating the character from which the non-profit draws its name, C. Mo Bucks.

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“We wanted a fictitious character, a mascot that kids could relate to. C. Mo is a character that loves the Lord, loves his family, loves his country, loves the outdoors, and he loves these special kids.” Barlow said about their namesake.

C. Mo Bucks is joined in his mission to inspire special needs children by his wife, Barbie Q. Bucks. Barbie has a home-style and game cookbook in the works that will be sold to benefit the organization and fund both adventures and specialized equipment for the kids to use. The fictional duo have two children, Chase N. Bucks and Carrie N. Bucks, as well as a beloved pet bear named Beary Able who further inspires kids to celebrate their differences.

C. Mo’s Kids is operated entirely on the generosity of individual and corporate donors as well as funds raised by special events. Often, the money used to pay for outdoor excursions or special equipment for the kids comes out of 116

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the volunteers’ pockets.

“Our greatest need is financial help. Douglas has a very active chapter and things either come out of our pockets or from the community. ” Carver explained. “Also, we are always looking for volunteers and new C. Mo’s Kids.”

When asked what he wanted the Coffee community to know about C. Mo’s, Carver thought long and hard before he answered.

“These kids need somebody who will open the door for them and we want to be those people. We can’t do it without you.”

If you would like to learn more, donate, or become a volunteer with C. Mo’s kids, please visit their website, cmoskids.org. To connect with the Coffee County chapter on Facebook, please visit www.facebook.com/ cmoskidsdouglas.  CCM

“These kids need somebody who will open the door for them and we want to be those people. We can’t do it without you.”

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2 n

FIRST ACADEMY

L O C AT I O N S :

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Building a Christian Educational Legacy in Coffee County by Teaching, Training, and Developing Christian Leaders for Tomorrow! www. fbcdouglas.com/first-academy

912.720.5961 Enrolling Preschool, Elementary, Middle School

Boutiques and Gifts

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PAINT & BODY

1002 N Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-7464

1206 S Peterson Ave, Douglas, GA 31533 | (912) 384-0414 118

Coffee County Magazine

912.260.1205 211 Irwin Street West Douglas, GA 31533 Al Thomas, Owner

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Miller Chiropractic Clinic

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p O

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Celebrating

50

YEARS

of Making a Difference Fifty years ago, members of Douglas First United Methodist Church stepped out on faith and started a Kindergarten program.

The program has evolved, but the mission remains the same.

STORY BY JENNA MUSGROVE | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ANDREA TAYLOR

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O

On Sunday, April 24th, members of Douglas First United Methodist Church, along with members of the community, gathered to celebrate DFUMC Preschool’s fifty years of ministry. They celebrated the past, and those who made the decision to open the preschool. They celebrated the present, and those who continue to make the preschool great. They looked forward to the future and celebrated the direction in which the Lord is going to take the program.

A quote from Reverend Lawrence Houston’s memoir that was displayed in the church bulletin leading up to the anniversary celebration says it best: “There proved to be a need to provide the community with a Kindergarten, and later a nursery. We had an adequate educational building, which was used only on Sundays. One of our young women, Gwin Carver, was instrumental in developing this program, and it was so successful that we instituted a preschool nursery.

These programs have grown through the years and continue today preparing children for the beginning of their school life.”

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Gwin Carver explained it as a “step out in faith.” She, in an echo of Reverend Houston’s words, shared that there was a need for a Kindergarten program and the church had a nice facility that was unused from Monday to Saturday. Initially, it was what she describes as a “selfish decision.” Her daughter, Jane, was unable to begin school because of a mere seventeen days after a decision to push back the age qualification for beginning school in Georgia. At the time, there was not a public Kindergarten program. She wanted a place for her child, along with others in the community to be able to learn, develop and grow socially, and to be able to do so in a Christian environment.

After a conversation with Reverend Houston who was the Senior Pastor at the time, Gwin was pleased to find that the church leadership was on board with the idea. They began looking at other programs, and in September 1966, the Kindergarten program began.

The plan was to begin small, with twenty-five students.

The first director, who also served the program as lead

teacher, was Sara Betty Cook. Her assistant was Sarah Mixon. The two, along with the support of the church, launched the school year.

Gwin remembers, as a member of the Whitfield Sunday School class, doing whatever was needed to make the program run smoothly and have a successful start. Of course the entire congregation pitched in, but the Whitfield class was especially instrumental as it was a group of individuals in their thirties, and it was their Sunday school class that did some renovations to make a larger space for the children. Although the program was well planned-out, like any new endeavor, Gwin shared that they had to learn as they went. Some of the people who also helped to make the program successful were Lynda Bagwell and Faine Watkins.

The first Kindergarten class, which was well represented at the 50th anniversary celebration, included Libby Crews, Denise Boyd, Laurel Alexander, Jane Carver, Rhonda Davis, Lisa Murphy, Chip Ray, Mike Rose, Dewayne Gillis, Timothy Benton, Leland Mullis, Patricia Bordeauy, Shane Sumner, Dale Goodman, Tommy Watkins, Bill Cohen, Kevin Cook, Anthony Kirkland, Layne Keaton, Walter Hughes Jr., Kerry West, Marc Vickers, and Benny Pharis.

In 1971, the Preschool extended to include classes for three and four year olds. The program continued to meet needs in the late 90’s by growing—a two year old class was added, soon followed by a Mother’s Morning Out. With the option of public kindergarten available, that part of the program was removed.

Today, the Preschool is led by director Clara Hayes. Clara recently took on the role of director after over 37 years of experience teaching at the early childhood level. “I have been very pleased with the program and its delivery of curriculum and God’s word daily,” Clara shares. “The DFUMC Preschool Program is operated as part of the church’s education program in harmony with and in furtherance of the policies of Hometown Living At Its Best

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the United Methodist Church. Our preschool stresses moral and spiritual values. The goal is to help children grow in knowledge of God and His love for all people.�

Children of all faiths are welcome at the preschool. Stories of Jesus and His teachings and Bible stories are used daily. The preschool currently serves children of ages one, two, and three years old. There are two teachers, Karen Suttles and Jaime Anderson, and two assistants, Milyn Roundtree and Kaylee Hursey. The current pastor, Doug Walker, is also involved in the program by taking time to get to know the children and spend time with them as the school’s schedule allows.

A typical day at the preschool includes arrival, daily calendar and morning routines, centers, small groups, large groups, snack, outdoor play, art, movement and music, and chapel.

While the preschool program was more of a babysitting service at its origin, it now consists of more educational

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curriculum. The three year old program even involves a daily structured phonics program. Technology is being incorporated into the program now that the need to know how to use computers starts at such a young age. The preschool has done an amazing job at evolving but also remaining small and true to its foundation.

The anniversary celebration was special, because it was a time to reflect on how the Lord had allowed the program to come to be, how He had blessed the program year after year, and how He has honored the preschool

for their commitment to focusing on His Word.

Coffee County has been blessed to have the DFUMC preschool as an option for their children’s early care and education for five decades now.

Countless children who attended now call Coffee County home. It is where they live, work, and raise a family.

They are leaders in the community— business owners, judges, teachers.

What a foundation Douglas First United Methodist Church Preschool has given, and continues to give, to children and families in our community!  CCM Hometown Living At Its Best

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Coffee County Magazine

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Index of Advertisers

A Thousand Words Photography …………............ 106 All About Kids Early Learning Childcare Center ... 119 All Star Athletic Apparel & Equipment, Inc. …….. 126 Al’s Paint & Body …….................................…….. 118 Amin Mahendra MD Gynecology | Obstetrics …. 106 Ankle & Foot Associates, LLC …………..................... 1 Assured Air ……..........................................…….. 126 Bee Gee Travel Consultants ……….................….. 107 Burger King ………….............................................. 64 Carter Thompson, Inc. Insurance …………........... 126 Century 21 - Sea Mar Realty …….......................... 44 Chiropractic Health Care …………....................... 107 Circle D ………................................................….. 126 City of Nicholls …….........................................…….. 3 Classy 5 Boutique ………................................….. 106 Coffee County Schools ………..….. Inside Front Cover Coffee Hounds ……....................................…….. 126 Coffee Regional Hospital Neurology Group ………. 65 Coffee Regional Hospital Pediatric Group ……….. 95 Coffee Regional Hospital Women’s Center …….... 83 Coffee Regional Medical Center Cardiologist …... 20 Collins Cardiology ……....................................…….. 6 Covenant Church …………..................................... 65 Crawford Jewelers …………................................... 45 Danny’s Pizza ….........................................……….. 55 Doc Hill Farm ……….......................................….. 126 Douglas Home Care, Inc. ……….......................….. 55 Douglas Internal Medicine ……….....................….. 32 Douglas Vascular Center …………......................... 54 Dr. Edward Hellman, M.D. …………........................ 74 Dresses and Dreams …………............................. 126 Edward Jones …......................................……….. 109 El 1800 Mexican Restaurant …………................... 74 Ellianos Coffee Company …….....................…….. 107 Eve Fine Ladies Apparel ….......................……….. 109 Farrar Hennesy & Tanner LLC ……...............…….. 108 First Academy …………........................................ 118 First Care Clinic …………........................................ 31 First Care Clinic …........................……….. Back Cover Fitzgerald Family Eyecare …………........................ 75 Gay’s Plumbing, Inc. …..............................……….. 75

Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center .... 108 Hampton Inn by Hilton …………........................... 94 Holt’s Bakery …….....................................…….. 109 Hungry Howie’s Pizza …………........................... 126 Inn at Still Pond ….....................................……….. 9 Johnny’s New York Style Pizza ………............….. 126 Kentucky Fried Chicken ….....................……….. 118 Krystal ……...............................................…….. 118 Lasseter Implement Company …………............... 33 Lindsey & Willis Animal Hospital …………............. 7 Lotts Diesel Service, Inc. ………...................….. 127 Malcolm’s Drug Store ………..........................….. 85 McCrary Daniels Insurance Agency …………....... 33 Miller Chiropractic Clinic …...................……….. 119 Murphy Eye Center …..............................……….. 85 Northside Automotive Co ………….................... 127 Oasis MedAesthetics …………............................. 45 PostNet ……….............................................….. 119 Quality Health Foods ...........................………….. 95 Ranchero’s Fresh Grill ………..........................….. 21 Ranchero’s Fresh Grill ……..…….. Inside Back Cover Scott Kirkland Jewelers & Repairs ……....…….. 109 Sims Funeral Home …………............................. 107 Skintastic Skin Spa ………............................….. 32 Smile Doctors by Fender & Goggans ………...….. 94 Solid Waste Management Authority ………….... 108 South Georgia Eye Partners …………................... 64 South Georgia State College …………................. 84 Southeastern Orthopaedics Surgery Center …... 84 Stalvey Heating & Cooling ……...................…….. 54 State Farm Insurance ……..........................…….. 83 Strawberry Lizard Children’s Clothing & Gifts ... 127 Tanner Insurance Agency, Inc. ……...........…….. 108 The Bow Shop …………..................................... 119 The Crave Unlimited …..........................……….. 118 The Therapy Tree ………....................................….. 2 The UPS Store …………..................................... 127 Town Square Antique Mall …………................... 127 Ultimate Graphics Plus LLC …………................... 19 VIP Fabricare …………....................................... 127 Wiregrass Georgia Technical College …………..... 44

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

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Our Mission:

GROWIN G ALL IN

DIRECTIONS!

Our Vision:

An Equitable and Excellent Education for Every Student

This fall, the Christian’s are welcoming a new family member

AND

Dublin

Our Vision: An Equitable and Excellent Education for Every Student

Jesup

Three New Restaurant Locations Dublin, Jesup & Moultrie

Moultrie

Coffee County Board of Education Douglas, Georgia Adam Lott, Chairman; Jesse Jowers, Vice‐Chairman; Ronnie Johnson, Bryan Preston and Judi Worrell.

Dr. Morris Leis, Superintendent of Schools

www.RancherosFreshGrill.com Douglas • Waycross • Tifton • Coming Soon: Dublin • Jesup • Moultrie More exciting announcements to come ...

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Coffee County

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How Bean Tree Soaps is changing your morning routine.

Living Out Loud Kayla Steed and her family learn how having faith can change their life for the better.

In his 40 years of musicianship, Russ has done more than leave a musical legacy.

Field of Dreams This kind of love, generosity, and hard work will restore anyone’s faith in friendship, community, and life!

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