Houston County Living November 2017

Winter 2017

Brand New LUXURY SWIM COMMUNITY

also...

Gymnastic Girls Five out of the six best gymnasts in Georgia all came from Houston County.

From Veteran to Veterinarian After a full career in the military, the opportunity to attend veterinary school and continue to serve her community came forward.

1/4 MILE WEST OF I-75 AT EXIT 134 – PERRY BLVD LAUREN SLAUGHTER

478.955.3176

ThePreserveAtAgVillage.com

Retired Work Local veteran, Chuck Norton, works to help fellow soldiers.

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

1101 Washington Street Perry, GA 31069 Residential (478) 987-0763 Commercial (478) 218-2600

1271 S. Houston Lake Road Warner Robins, GA 31088 (478) 218-8052 Residential (478) 218-2600 Commercial

Residential

Commercial

New Construction

If you are currently in Real Estate and looking for a change or considering a career in Real Estate, I would like an opportunity to talk with you.

Our new, competitive commission schedule is worth a look!

478-988-8442 rentals@richardsonfreerentals.

Richardson Free Realty is a full service property management company since 1984.

• Online & In Person Classes • •

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• All courses are approved by the Georgia Real

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• Active Duty, retired and honorably discharged

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Estate Commission

veteran—Ask for your $100 discount on licensing courses!

1271 S. Houston Lake Rd. Warner Robins, GA 31088

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Relocation Services

information@robbinsfree.com

Ricki Free School Administrator & Instructor 478-955-5986 rickifree@robbinsfree.com

Pre-license

Lots

Scott Free, Broker / Owner Coldwell Banker Robbins & Free Realty Email: scottfree@robbinsfree.com Office: 478-218-2600 Cell: 478-951-3333

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• 75 Hour Salesperson

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Tenant Screening Real Time Owner / Tenant Portal Direct Deposit / Online Payments All vendors are licensed and insured Routine Inspections 24 hour emergency line Management fee is tax deductible Monthly / yearly financial reports

1271 S. Houston Lake Rd.Warner Robins, GA 31088

www.richardsonfreerealty.com

J. Don Spillers, Jr., DMD, MS | Adam Gordon, DMD Known for our friendly, well-trained team, begin! we offer Spillers Orthodontics is where great smiles Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen®, Smartclip™ Known for our friendly, well-trained team, wemetal offer and clear self-ligating braces, and much more. Our office Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen®, SmartClip™ metal uses the most advanced technologies, including digital and clear self-ligating braces, and much more. radiography, 3D imaging and intra-oral scanning to Our office uses the most advanced technology, ensure that every patient achieves a healthy and including digital beautiful smile.radiography, 3D imaging and intraoral scanning to ensure that every patient Now with offices in Macon and Warner Robins, we are achieves a healthy and beautiful smile. better able to serve our patients.

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SHORT TERM REHABILITATION LifeSpring delivers in-patient specialized, short-term rehabilitation services for those recovering from a hospital stay or needing to gain strength and skills following a surgical procedure. LifeSpring rehabilitation empowers residents to “spring back to the life they love.”

• State-of-the-art Rehabilitation Facilities • In-patient and Out-patient Rehabilitative Therapies • Cardio-Pulmonary Procedure Recovery • Orthopedic Surgery Recovery • Post-Stroke/Neurological Recovery • Dysphagia Therapy • Wound Care • New Private Rooms with Private Baths • Private Dining Room

2017

BRONZE

www.medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare

FB.com/ChurchHomeLifeSpring

2470 US Hwy 41 N, Fort Valley, GA 31030 | (478) 987-1239 | www.ChurchHomeLifeSpring.com

6 miles north of Perry on US Hwy 41 near GA 96 2

houston county living

LONG TERM CARE For that time when nursing home care is required for safety and quality of life, Church Home delivers the highest quality skilled nursing care and therapy for long term residents.

• 5 Stars Overall Rating by CMS • Caring for Seniors in Middle Georgia for over 75 years!

• Health Monitoring and Medication Management • Physical, Occupational, Speech, and Restorative Therapies • Nutrition Monitoring and Management • Activities/Social Programming

HOSPICE/RESPITE CARE Church Home partners with area hospice care providers for those in need of hospice or respite care services for care and compassion at the Church Home.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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contents 12

Making Memories

Cory Allen Jones hopes his hard work will bring attention to downtown Perry.

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From Veteran to Veterinarian

After a full career in the military, she said it was a God-send that she was given the opportunity to attend veterinary school and continue to serve her community.

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Grand Southern Tradition Marshallville’s Grand Magnolia house is a beautiful venue for Southern weddings.

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Coach Jack

Coach Jack and Cherokee Pines provide a beautiful example of how the game of golf can be used as a method to enhance the vibrancy of a community.

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Embracing the Journey

MOPS encourages and equips moms of young children to realize their potential as mothers, women and leaders in a relationship with Jesus and in partnership with the local church.

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12 About the Cover The photo was taken by Mark Williams of a little girl while at PWAP. Turn to page 94 to read more about this wonderful cause.

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A FEW KEYS

TO A SUCCESSFUL HOME BUYING PROCESS

CHANGING JOBS

CREDIT CHECKS

Changing jobs may delay your your ability to close on time.

Checking your credit will need an explanation.

LARGE DEPOSITS

TRANSFER LARGE SUMS OF MONEY

Making a large deposit will need to be documented.

Making sure to document any transfers between banking or investment accounts.

JODI BOWMAN NMLS #493633

MAKE A BIG PURCHASE

MISS PAYMENTS

Making big purchases like an automobile, furniture, or appliances is best done aaer you close.

CO-SIGN

Co-signing on a loan for anyone else may disqualify you.

Falling behind on any bill may prevent you from qualifying.

EXCESSIVE CARD USE Keeping balances at 30% or less of your card’s limit helps.

MICHELLE HOLDER NMLS#493633

NMLS #486851

DUBLIN GORDON GRAY HOUSTON COUNTY

(888) 272-5202 www.morris.bank Hometown Living At Its Best

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Lights…Camera…Floss!

How dentistry and the theatre come to life here in Houston County.

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Once Upon a Time

Miranda Bryant finds a fairy tale career in Princesses With a Purpose.

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Retired Work

Local veteran, Chuck Norton, works to help fellow soldiers.

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Gymnastic Girls

The fact that five out of the six best gymnasts in Georgia all came from Houston County is just incredible.

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Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Featuring homes of varying eras and styles, the tour gives attendees the chance to experience the beauty of the Vineville neighborhood while supporting the efforts of the Historic Vineville Neighborhood Association.

The Fine Art Society promotes art in the heart of Georgia.

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Blessing from a Tragedy

Growing the Future of America FFA is an organization that teaches young people life skills and responsibility, and Houston County does it well.

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Living the Good Life

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Threads of Love

“Loving God, loving people and loving the world on the journey to life change,” is the motto that drives everything Southside Baptist Church does.

After waiting years for a liver transplant she needed to survive, Lisa Boire received a miracle from an unexpected place.

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From the Publisher

Houston County Living

P u b l i s h e r With You In Mind Publications Jay and Patti Martin

e d i to r Renee Corwine C reat i v e | D e s i g n Robin T. Poole Stacey Nichols Mandi Spivey o f f i ce M a n ager Nikki Burkhalter

W

Whenever we have a publisher’s letter, we try to highlight the people that make each area a special place to live. I am going to deviate a little with this letter. I am going to tell you the main reason my life is so special. In a word it is Patti! As you read this, Patti and I will have just celebrated 37 years of marriage. The first thing that you notice about her is that she is BEAUTIFUL!! If you have ever met her, the second thing you notice is that she is a genuinely caring person. She looks at you, not through you. If you have ever spent an hour with her you will know that her best friend is God. Patti freely shares His love through her actions, not just her words.

In 37 years of marriage, I have never once doubted her love for me or that she had my back every second of every day.

We have 2 biological children, 3 adopted children and we’ve been foster parents to numerous children for 18 years. Not one of these children did not feel the reality of a mother’s love through Patti.

I am so blessed that I have been married to the Proverbs 31 woman and will be for the rest of my life here on earth!

Blessings, Proverbs 31

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

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A s s i s ta n t

M a n ager s June Dixon Julie Braly

P h otograp h er s Ann Lester

Captured in Time Photography Jessica Martie Photography Kelly McDonald Photography Mark Williams Nancy Lott Photography Outside the Lens Photography

C ov er P h oto Taken by Mark Williams Sale s Dorothy Sichelstiel Dottie Hicks Landon Spivey Patti Martin

Contributing

Wri te r s Evan Lasseter

Gail Dixon Hilary Hilgers Jackie Raburn Kelly McDonald Maureen McCullough Pastor Roger Cook Sherri Martin

Houston County Living© is published semi-annually by With You in Mind Publications. withyouinmindpublications.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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Treating Future

THE

Dr. Bhasin brings his years of experience to the families of middle Georgia.

D

Dr. Vinamra Bhasin, better known as “Vin� to his friends and family, was born in Delhi, India. However, he has roots both in India and the United States. His grandfather had lived in Columbia, SC for years when Vin made the decision to move to the United States in 1998 after finishing first in his class at Dental School in Mumbai, India. Vin is a third-generation physician in both his maternal and paternal families. His main inspiration is his parents, who are both physicians in India.

Dr. Bhasin completed a 2-year program at the University of Pennsylvania, again first in his class, to acquire his Doctorate of Dental Medicine. He spent a year in Philadelphia at the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic learning about advanced general dentistry and another year of general practice residency. He then completed a 3-year residency in periodontics and dental implants at the Medical University of South Carolina. Presently, he is the only board-certified periodontist in Middle

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Georgia. Dr. Bhasin started his implant education in 2004 as a periodontal resident at the Medical University of South Carolina.

(Implantology is not a stand-alone dental specialty, but has now become a required part of a residency in periodontics). He placed over 180 implants as a resident and has successfully placed over 2500 more since coming to Warner Robins.

In 2007, Dr. Russell Eyman recruited Dr. Bhasin into his practice. He became a full partner in 1998 and added a new dimension to the long-established practice. He and Dr. Eyman spent ten years providing the latest dental services for their Warner Robins, Georgia patients. Dr. Bhasin is the practice’s guru; his motivation led to the acquisition of the ICAT in office CT scanner (which has now become the standard of care in periodontics and dental implants) and the Millennium LANAP laser. The state of the art services offered include: dental implants, gum disease treatment, In-Office CT Scans, soft tissue grafts, socket preservation, bone grafts, nonsurgical care and surgical dental procedures.

Most recently, the office “guru” has added TRIOS, an intra oral scanner for taking molds without the gooey material and X Navigation as a “GPS” roadmap of the bone levels and nerves for the safest, most precise placement of dental implants.

Dr. Bhasin and his wife, Deepti, a boardcertified adult, child, adolescent and forensic psychiatrist, live in Macon, GA. They have been married 17 years and have two beautiful children, daughter Mia (ten years old) and son Vyom (five years old). The Bhasin family loves spending their precious moments of free time traveling to the great outdoors and hiking some of the renowned sites known for the beauty and challenge. Dr. Bhasin is a “foodie” who loves to travel so that he can try new cuisines. He loves golf and watching football…the Atlanta Falcons and Georgia Bulldogs are two of his favorite teams. The Bhasin’s decided to move to middle Georgia as they felt it would be a good place to raise their children.

225 Carl Vinson Pkwy, Warner Robins, GA 31088 (478) 923-0232 | centralgaimplants.com Hometown Living At Its Best

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Story and Photos by Kelly McDonald

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Snow, garland, ornaments and ribbon are just a few of Cory Jones’ favorite things. Since childhood, an annual family trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, was the high point of his year. In the neighboring city of Pigeon Forge, there was one store dedicated to Christmas everything, and Cory went every day.

He would soak in the decorations and atmosphere so they would live all year long in his mind. “My mom used to have a tree in every room,” he said. “Christmas was magical to me as a child.”

When Cory’s mom, Faye, married renowned barbecue pitmaster Myron Mixon, Cory quickly learned how to combine his passion for Christmas with a strong business ethic. “He taught me to do whatever it takes to get things done – in life and in business,” Cory said. While Cory’s work ethic might have come from Myron, his Hometown Living At Its Best

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creative side can be attributed to his mom. Faye worked for a florist in downtown Unadilla when Corey was younger. He would go to the shop and play with the flower scraps. Sometimes Cory’s scrap designs turned out as nice as the ones they sold.

In 2006, Cory graduated from Dooly County High School and went to Valdosta State University.

Traditional studies didn’t mix well with his constant creative urge. Cory’s mind was constantly designing.

“I just see things a different way,” he said.

His first trip to AmericasMart in Atlanta proved to be overwhelming, with the best home décor products lined floor to ceiling. Inspired, Cory decided to sell a few Christmas wreathes at the next Mistletoe Market in Perry. He designed and took 47 Christmas wreathes – and sold out in three hours. He stayed up all night to make more and restock for the next day.

The following years, Cory was asked to design the main tree for the market. That one tree sparked an entire new business of decorating clients’ personal

His store on Carroll Street, now Nine Hundred Ten by Jones and Company, pleases all the senses from the moment you enter its beautiful green doors. The candle collections alone are incredible. Here, Cory offers high-end home decor and gifts that are unique but affordable.

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trees at their homes. Cory began with a few clients and now has a waiting list, with clients ranging from North Macon to Tifton.

In 2007, Cory decided to branch out to a brick and mortar storefront. In an effort to revitalize downtown Unadilla, Cory was to become part of a market-type store that would include his designs. When his partners backed out, Cory opened the home and gift boutique anyway.

Eight years later, Cory had the opportunity to move into the historic 900 block on Carroll Street in downtown Perry.

He jumped at the chance and moved Jones and Company to a “new” old building that suited his style and home decor perfectly.

“Most of my clients lived in Perry, so it made sense to move this way,” he said.

His store on Carroll Street, now Nine Hundred Ten by Jones and Company, pleases all the senses from the moment you enter its beautiful green doors. The candle collections alone are incredible. Here, Cory offers high-end home decor and gifts that are unique but affordable.

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It didn’t take long for Cory to become involved in the Perry community, serving for a time as president of the Perry Downtown Merchant’s Association. Some of the association’s events include Sweets & Treats at Halloween, Small Business Saturday after Thanksgiving and the annual Wine Tasting every summer. Cory loves his new store home and street, and his window designs have become quite the event all by themselves.

In early 2017, Cory took office as the 18

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District 1 Representative for the Dooly County School System’s Board of Education. Cory originally thought there was no way he had time to devote to such a big position. His client list was growing quickly, he was part of the Merchant’s Association and his store was shaping up to be a success as well. But, growing up in Dooly County schools, it was very important to him. Cory qualified, ran unopposed and is now on the school board.

“We have played a major role in restoring the school system’s accreditation,” Cory said. “We have definitely made progress, but we have so much left to do.”

If that wasn’t enough, Cory is also the executive director of the “Breakfast with Santa” event hosted by Memory Making Meals, an organization started with friends to serve the community. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the event, which is being held at the Retreat of Southern Bridle Farms.

Tickets usually sell out in days for a chance to eat breakfast with Santa, and all proceeds go to local families in need. Cory could easily just write a check and let other volunteers do the work, but that wouldn’t be in his nature. You’re likely to find Cory waiting in Black Friday shopping lines to get the hottest new toys.

“I want these kids to have those hard-to-get toys that every other kid wants,” he said. “I went to Target last year for three nights in a row to get Hatchimals! I ended up with eight that I could wrap and give away.”

Not only is Cory making kids’ Christmas wishes come true, but he’s working to inspire adults as well. Cory is now recognized as an industry professional for Christmas design, and if you have ever seen one of his trees, then you know he deserves the title.

“Although we put immense time and effort into Christmas, our best kept secret is Halloween,” Cory said. From the hanging creepy crates and the pumpkin spice candles to the spooky guy hanging in the front window, if it’s worth doing, Cory believes it’s worth doing well.

And if you’re just now pulling out your Christmas decor, you should know that Cory

has been planning his Christmas designs since last year. “This year, we will be the only store in the whole state to have certain Christmas items,” he said.

Cory prides himself on his attention to detail, so much so that he also shops at the Dallas Market Center in Texas to be different, and suppliers now rely on his choices to set their own best-seller lists for their customers. He hopes his hard work will bring attention to downtown Perry.

“My vision is that one day Perry will be a destination city, one that could support a fulltime Christmas store just like that one I remember from my childhood,” he said.  HCL

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205Abilene S. Pleasant Hill Road Warner Robins GA 478.922.5845 www.magnoliaparkcemetery.com Living Magazine

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Story by Gail Dixon Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

Laurel LeGoullon’s life began in Gardena, California. Her mom, Lucille, was an artist and owned several art galleries. Lucille then became a selftaught cartoonist, drawing cartoons for various magazines, accumulating more than 20,000 cartoons throughout her lifetime. Her dad, Thomas, served in WWII as a medic in the Navy. After the war ended, Thomas attended the University of California at Berkeley and went on to work at Hughes Aircraft Company as an engineer. Laurel was the youngest of six children, with five brothers, all of whom are musicians.

At age 12, Laurel and her family moved to Iran for two and a half years

because of her dad’s engineering job.

While there, she attended an American school for her seventh, eighth and ninth grade years, along with a few hundred other American children. The combination of American and Iranian cultures in Laurel’s formative years had a lasting impact on her appreciation of other cultures and people.

While in Iran, Laurel’s parents experienced Iranian culture whenever they had the opportunity. They would often drive their Volkswagen Beetle

through the countryside, stopping at various villages and sights, getting to know the people and the language.

On one occasion, they stumbled upon a wedding, befriending a nomadic Gashgoi family, with whom they remained friends for years to come.

Laurel spent time in their village, hours from electricity or running water, all the while learning to value the beauty of the Iranian people and their culture.

Laurel’s family lived outside the American-populated area, opting instead

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for a home on the outskirts of town with gorgeous gardens, fruit orchards and running streams. She spent a lot of time tending to her cat, dog and horses, and she and her friends could be found riding through the nearby villages. Laurel was involved with many of her school’s activities. She participated in plays, competed in sports such as soccer, volleyball and cross country, and took field trips to amazing sights such as the ruins of Persepolis, interesting bazaars and beautiful Persian gardens.

Laurel said the first time she considered becoming a veterinarian was when she and her parents were on one of those drives through the Iranian countryside. Her parents asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. She replied that she didn’t really know. Knowing how much she loved animals, they asked her about becoming a veterinarian. At the time, she didn’t even know what a veterinarian was! Once they explained the career to her, she thought she just might want to do that one day.

After living in Iran, the family moved back home to Redondo

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Now that Laurel has graduated from UGA, she is an associate with Westmoreland and Slappey as a general practice veterinarian.

She provides examinations, vaccinations, surgery and emergency care to her patients to ensure they receive the best possible care, and their owners receive education and information about their pets’ wellness.

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Throughout her veterinary school journey, Laurel said she had an amazing support system in the form of her husband and co-workers. She said John’s encouragement was unparalleled.

His positive attitude gave her the strength she needed to endure the countless hours of studying, the intense course load and the long hours during her clinical rotations. She said the veterinarians and staff at Westmoreland and Slappey were always cheering her on, letting her know they were behind her and her endeavors!

Beach, California. Laurel graduated from Aviation High School and earned her associate’s degree from El Camino College in Southern California. After that, she moved to Davis, California, and attended the University of California for one year to study zoology.

While there, she met several friends who were serving in the Air Force.

She had never given the military any thought, but the idea of being able to travel the world, meet new people and experience different cultures enticed her to join.

In 1985, Laurel began her military career in the Air Force. Her first assignment was to Travis Air Force Base, California, where she was stationed for the next six years. During that time, she served as an aircraft mechanic, also known as a crew chief, on the largest cargo aircraft of its time, the C-5A. Her duties included performing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, inspections and preparing the aircraft for launch.

While at Travis Air Force Base, Laurel began working on her bachelor’s

degree in Industrial Technology from Southern Illinois UniversityCarbondale. After completing her prerequisites, she spent every other weekend, for the next 16 months, taking courses toward her degree while fulfilling her full-time duties in the Air Force. The program was designed to accommodate military members and enable them to continue serving while concurrently attending classes. The university would send professors to the base, and students had to condense and complete the required semester

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coursework over two to three weeks and weekends. In 1991, after earning her degree, Laurel was commissioned as a Bioenvironmental Engineer, which means she would serve in a senior management position, commanding all of the enlisted military under her.

The Air Force Bioenvironmental Engineer (BEE) is responsible for providing occupational health evaluations and monitoring to ensure the protection of workers, both military and civilian. Hazards can include chemical, radiological, noise or any other hazard that a work center may present. Once a hazard is identified, the BEE monitors for exposure to individuals and makes appropriate recommendations for 30

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protective equipment to an occupational health committee, and ultimately to the work center in which the health hazard exists. In addition to occupational health hazards, the BEE is responsible for water quality on base, environmental monitoring, as well as providing medical and occupational health coordination for service members on base and during their deployments.

Laurel served as BEE at McChord Air Force Base, Washington; a remote tour to Osan Air Base, Korea; and McClellan Air Force Base, California. Following those assignments, she served as the Health and Wellness Center Director at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea and Moody Air Force Base in Georgia.

Her primary duty was to ensure base personnel annually met military fitness standards. If they did not, her office provided training and education for personnel to attain satisfactory fitness levels. In addition, her office offered courses in nutrition, fitness and tobacco cessation to assist military members in reaching their fitness goals.

Prior to 9/11, Laurel was pulled back to her primary job as a BEE. She continued this role while stationed at Moody Air Force Base in Georgia, Kadena Air Base in Japan, and her final assignment at Robins Air Force Base, where she served as the Air Force Reserve Command Bioenvironmental Engineer.

In summer 2009, Laurel deployed to Suriname, in South America, on a humanitarian mission. While there, she had the opportunity to spend time working with the Army veterinarian who provided vaccinations, parasite control and education to animal owners. Whether wading through muddy pastures filled with cattle or maneuvering through flocks of chickens, more than 1,000 patients were served throughout this mission. It was during this time that Laurel realized she still felt passionate about working with animals.

In January 2010, after 24 and a half years in the Air Force, Laurel retired from active duty. She said she loved serving her country and often misses the camaraderie built while serving alongside her fellow Airmen. As she approached retirement, she was uncertain about what she wanted to do, but knew that she wanted it to include working with animals.

Initially, she began volunteering at Westmoreland and Slappey Animal Hospital in Perry, and was soon hired into a veterinary technician position.

During this time, she began taking courses at Fort Valley State University to become a licensed veterinary technician. One day, there was a career fair on campus, and a representative from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine was there.

After talking to the veterinary school representative, Laurel was motivated and encouraged to visit UGA. It was at this moment that she realized becoming a veterinarian could truly become a reality.

Laurel and her husband, John, went to UGA to learn more about the program. She met with academic affairs representatives and was very impressed with the veterinary school and the program. She changed her course of study and began taking the prerequisite courses needed to apply to UGA’s veterinary school. After three years of completing courses in chemistry, genetics, physics and more,

she prepared the lengthy application and was accepted. Laurel describes it as a “surreal moment,” when her joy and excitement were overwhelming.

After a full career in the military, she said it was a God-send that she was given the opportunity to attend veterinary school and continue to serve her community. For the first two summers of veterinary school, Laurel continued to maintain her skills while working as a veterinary technician at Westmoreland and Slappey.

Throughout her veterinary school journey, Laurel said she had an amazing support system in the form of her husband and co-workers. She said John’s encouragement was unparalleled.

His positive attitude gave her the strength she needed to endure the countless hours of studying, the intense course load and the long hours during her clinical rotations. She said the veterinarians and staff at Westmoreland

and Slappey were always cheering her on, letting her know they were behind her and her endeavors!

Now that Laurel has graduated from UGA, she is an associate with Westmoreland and Slappey as a general practice veterinarian. She provides examinations, vaccinations, surgery and emergency care to her patients to ensure they receive the best possible care, and their owners receive education and information about their pets’ wellness.

Laurel’s husband, John, also retired from the Air Force in 2011. He is now an aircraft analyst at Robins Air Force Base. They have four children and three grandchildren. They also have three dogs (Henry, Emma and Cooper) and two cats (Micio and Ellie). They live in Warner Robins and enjoy traveling, spending time with friends and family, and participating in outdoor activities.  HCL

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Dedicated to Excellent Cardiovascular Care to the Residents of Middle Georgia for 20 Years!

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Coronary Angiogram, Transesophageal Echocardiogram, Cardioversion, Peripheral Angiogram/Interventions, Pacemaker/Cardiac Defibrillator Monitoring

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933 Carroll Street

Perry, Georgia 31069

The

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D M D A

elivering

iracles

t Houston Medical Center, we are committed to quality and delivering miracles daily—in fact, we average more than 2,100 miracles a year!

We celebrate each miracle, and consider it a privilege and a blessing to care for them and their families.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Physicians on staff at Houston Medical Center: Chinenye Adimora, MD Mark A. Lafferty, MD, FACOG Tan-Loc Nguyen, MD David Stephen Quang, DO Thekkepat G. Sekhar, MD, FACOG Manoj H. Shah, MD, FACOG Sarah Stanescu, MD Susan Ann Thomas, MD Vijaya Vella, MD, MRCOG, DGO Alison Wright, MD, FRCS

We are proud of our state-of-the-art maternity center and the personal attention that our staff gives to each family.

T

he Women’s Center is a great place to start a family...

Offering... h Highly trained staff h Spacious birthing suites h Advanced technology h Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery h Childbirth and Breastfeeding education classes

For more information on our physicians, please call HealthSource at 923-9771 or visit the online physician directory at www.hhc.org/physician-directory.

The Women’s Center www.hhc.org

aily

1601 Watson BoulevardWarner Robins, GA 31093

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Story and photos by Kelly McDonald

Every little girl dreams of her wedding day: the dress, the first dance and the amazing place it will happen. Those dreams used to include a big church, organs and formal flower arrangements.

Now grown up, she’s dreaming of beautiful outdoor venues that put a natural and romantic spin on tradition.

The Grand Magnolia House, owned

by Bruce and Tamara Joiner, and nestled between bamboo and magnolia trees along a country highway in Marshallville, fits the bill to perfection. A step back in time through the front screen doors, the Grand Magnolia features a wrap-around porch filled with rocking chairs, plus claw foot tubs, old pine floors, a backyard tree swing, and an amazing moss-covered gazebo. The house has the charm of yesteryear but also the conveniences that modern brides want.

A step back in time through the front screen doors, the Grand Magnolia features a wraparound porch filled with rocking chairs, plus claw foot tubs, old pine floors, a backyard tree swing, and an amazing moss-covered gazebo.

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The desire to foster hospitality came early for Tamara.

She grew up in a military family where the moving was so frequent that the neighbors became your family.

When it came time for celebrations, everyone was invited. From a young age, Tamara developed a desire to love others by welcoming them into her home. In this, she met a kindred spirit in Bruce Joiner. The two married in 1991, and shared the dream of one day doing something more. Bruce works at Robins Air Force Base and Tamara works at Geico, but, as Tamara said, she has “always enjoyed organizing and coordinating events.”

One day, something wonderful happened. “It was on December 23, 2014, when Bruce was on his way home

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from a duck hunt when he first saw this Southern home with inviting red doors,” Tamara said.

Bruce hurried home to tell Tamara about the property, which was for sale, and went online to check it out. “For years we had looked and looked at properties and continued to dream about finding something eventually, but this day was different,” she said.

They quickly made an appointment to view the home and property, and it didn’t take long for them to fall in love with it. Built in the 1860s, with 6,400 square feet and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it was just the answer they were

The Grand Magnolia House recently celebrated its second anniversary.

Tamara has expanded her team roster to include a list of the most talented event professionals in the local area – from photographers to cake decorators – to ensure the kind of onestop shopping needed by a busy bride or wedding planner.

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The home has become known as a colonial heirloom in this quiet farming community. Each person who has trusted Tamara to host an occasion has truly become part of the Grand Magnolia family. “Our desire is to continue to host memorable events for our guests and have them enjoy that Southern hospitality and charm we can provide for them here at the Grand Magnolia,� she said.

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looking for. Together with their church family they prayed, asking if it was God’s will that they should have the property.

Tamara and Bruce both consider themselves business-minded people, but have never owned their own businesses. They did research, put together a small plan, and that’s when God gave them a verse: “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart,” (Psalm 35:9). “We continued to pray and on April 1, 2015, joy filled our hearts when we became the proud new owners of the Grand Magnolia House,” Tamara said.

The Joiners immediately got to work on making their dreams a reality. They wanted the home to be a venue for all occasions, not just weddings. “We are so excited to share it with everyone,” Tamara said. The first celebration came on Easter 2015 when they gathered to enjoy the blessing the Lord gave us in His son, Jesus. A few days later, they had a grand opening, followed by a college graduation party and an evening birthday celebration. They hosted their first wedding in October 2015.

The couple ended the year by hosting families and children for a chance to take pictures and write a letter with Santa. The families also were treated to hot chocolate, Christmas carols, piano playing and a chance to hear the “real” Christmas story. “What a year!” Tamara said.

Situated on three acres of stunning 100-year-old magnolia and pecan trees, the fully restored 153-year-old home is the perfect place for that intimate Southern wedding, retreat, shower or reunion.

The venue includes accommodations for overnight stays and is great for multi-day programs, out of town wedding guests, bridal parties or the most romantic honeymoon night.

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The Grand Magnolia House recently celebrated its second anniversary. Tamara has expanded her team roster to include a list of the most talented event professionals in the local area – from photographers to cake decorators – to ensure the kind of one-stop shopping needed by a busy bride or wedding planner.

Situated on three acres of stunning 100-yearold magnolia and pecan trees, the fully restored 153-year-old home is the perfect place for that intimate Southern wedding, retreat, shower or reunion. The venue includes accommodations for overnight stays and is great for multi-day programs, out of town wedding guests, bridal parties or the most romantic honeymoon night. The home also offers a private bridal suite on the first floor perfect for makeup, hair and getting into your dress. The groom and groomsmen can take advantage of the second floor bedrooms to get ready for the big day.

A complete kitchen, dining room, veranda and two beautifully decorated front parlors complete the Southern feel of this amazing venue.

The home has become known as a colonial heirloom in this quiet farming community. Each person who has trusted Tamara to host an occasion has truly become part of the Grand Magnolia family. “Our desire is to continue to host memorable events for our guests and have them enjoy that Southern hospitality and charm we can provide for them here at the Grand Magnolia,” she said.  HCL

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C

ornerstone Medical Associates is a multi-specialty group of physicians organized to offer quality management, medical billing, administrative and compliance services for its members.

With these essential elements of a medical practice centralized and administered by employees with years of experience, our physicians are available to offer quality medical services to their patients.

PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES 116 South Houston Road Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-923-0131

PEDIATRICS 1024 Keith Drive Perry, GA 31069 478-987-3445

Kim T. Blevens, MD, FAAP Helen-Louise Moore, MD, FAAP, FACP Amer AI-Rafati, MD Debbie West, MD Monica Evans, CPNP

Larry D. Stewart, Jr. MD, FAAP Cathy Tedder, FNP-C Sally Velasquez, FNP-C

PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES- SOUTH 1275 S. Houston Lake Road Suites 1 & 2 Warner Robins, Georgia 31088 478-987-1100 Helen-Louise Moore, MD, FAAP, FACP Amer AI-Rafati, MD Elaine Caraway, NP-C Stephanie Gibbs, PNP-C INTERNAL MEDICINE 1023 Keith Drive Perry, GA 31069 478-988-1100

CORNERSTONE MEDICAL ASSOCIATES, LLC

Gerald K. Brantley, MD Terry E. Ham, MD Crystal Belflower, NP-C

FAMILY PRACTICE 200 South Houston Road Suite B Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-953-1800 Titus A. Taube, MD Crystal Roberts, NP-C WELLSTON BEHAVIORAL MEDICINE 404 Corder Road Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-322-1113 Sallyanne Pyle, DO Richard E. Ellis, MD Christopher Pyle, LCSW Karen Richardson, LPC Chrystal Wasden, LPC CENTRAL BUSINESS OFFICE 300 Margie Drive Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-751-2580

Please visit our new website at www.cstonemed.com

WELCOME TO

Warner Robins RANDY TOMS, MAYOR

478.302.5515 | www.wrga.gov | 700 Watson Boulevard | Warner Robins, GA 31093

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478-987-2423

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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478.745.4206

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Hand Foot & & Ankle Ankle Hand •• Spine Spine •• Sports Sports Medicine Medicine •• Foot Walk in Orthopaedic Urgent Care Center • Diagnostic Center • Physical Occupational Therapy Walk in Orthopaedic Urgent Care Center • Diagnostic Center • Physical & & Occupational Therapy Todd E. Kinnebrew, M.D.

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www.orthoga.org Macon 1600 Forsyth St 478.745.4206 Griffin 717 S 8th St 770.227.4600

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Warner Robins Hometown Living At Its Best 301 Margie Drive 478.971.1153 Dublin 109 Fairview Park Dr Suite B, 478.745.4206

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COMING SOON to the City of Centerville

ENTER PARK

AT CENTERVILLE

EXPECTED AMENITIES • Splash Pad • Playground • Gazebo • Fountain • Ampitheater

• Multi-use Trails • Farmer’s Market • Performance Lawn • Concerts & Events • Food Truck Friday

facebook.com/CenterParkatCenterville 103 East Church Street | Centerville, GA

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Perry has become a county hub for small businesses and entrepreneurship. The downtown area showcases an abundance of locally owned shops that thrive in the community. A short five-minute drive from downtown, on Country Club Road, sits a resurging business in Cherokee Pines Golf and Fitness Club. Owned by businessman Marty Myers, Cherokee Pines has added a fitness center and reopened its pool year-round, which has generated new membership and revenue.

Along with Myers, the success of Cherokee Pines’ new additions can be credited to the strong leadership of general manager Lori Blanchard. The fitness center, pool and golf course have made a stellar combination that provides a sense of community and fun for Perry area residents.

While the club has thrived since its new additions, the one constant – the golf course – has not lacked either. Managed by PGA professional Jack Dean, the

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Through business and fellowship, the establishment has proven it is a premier spot, not just in Perry, but also in Houston County as a whole. Keep your eyes open for one of the county’s hidden gems and the good things to come.

Cherokee Pines is a spot you don’t want to miss.

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golf department of Cherokee Pines is continuing to make strides, molding itself into a source of fellowship, business and fun for members of the community. A major catalyst in the growth of the club was Dean’s starting of the PGA Junior League at Cherokee Pines. The league is an opportunity for young kids to be introduced to and immersed in the game of golf.

While the PGA Junior League has been a successful addition to Cherokee Pines, it did not happen overnight.

Dean’s journey to this point provides an inspirational story that deserves to be shared.

From early childhood, Dean, now known as “Coach Jack” by many, was influenced by golf. Growing up in a golf family, his dad was a local legend in their hometown in Texas, and Jack developed a passion and a love for the game that came naturally. This passion followed him into adulthood, leading him into golfing as a profession. Coach Jack went through immense schooling to become a certified PGA professional.

It was this schooling that led him to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, often regarded as a golf mecca. In Hilton Head, Coach Jack was able to

From early childhood, Dean, now known as “Coach Jack” by many, was influenced by golf. Growing up in a golf family, his dad was a local legend in their hometown in Texas, and Jack developed a passion and a love for the game that came naturally.

This passion followed him into adulthood, leading him into golfing as a profession. Coach Jack went through immense schooling to become a certified PGA professional.

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pursue his passion as a career, working at a few clubs until he landed at a highly renowned golf academy, which drew students from around the world.

Here is where Coach Jack’s history of impacting young people through golf takes root. While the golf academy provided an incredible opportunity for all involved, it eventually closed and Coach Jack was without a job. At this point, Coach Jack knew it was time to go back home to rural Dublin.

Quite the opposite of Hilton Head, Dublin presented a predicament for a qualified PGA professional.

Throughout the stress and turmoil of losing a job

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and moving into a new phase of life, Coach Jack could not run from his love of golf and his desire to share the game with young people.

After hearing about the PGA Junior League, Coach Jack found his next calling. Traveling to six different counties around Dublin, he worked endlessly to create a full league. A testament to diligence and hard work, he was able to create a league with numerous participating clubs – a league which he ran as a coach entirely on his own. Finally, through an abundance of prayer, miles of travel and hours of work, Coach Jack was once again impacting young people in a positive way.

Ultimately, Coach Jack’s journey landed him in Perry at Cherokee Pines, a place he now calls his second home. Coach Jack has been able to maintain his teams in Dublin, as well as create a new one at Cherokee Pines. Here, he has helped cultivate a community of members and families through golf, as well as propelling the county’s best-kept secret for golf as a business.

Throughout his career, Coach Jack was able to make his mark on numerous lives, even saving one of his students from suicide through his Junior League and coaching.

Coach Jack’s story provides a testament to the influence that coaches, teachers and mentors can have on youth and just how far that influence can go.

Ultimately, Coach Jack’s journey landed him in Perry at Cherokee Pines, a place he now calls his second home. Coach Jack has been able to maintain his teams in Dublin, as well as create a new one at Cherokee Pines.

Here, he has helped cultivate a community of members and families through golf, as well as propelling the county’s best-kept secret for golf as a business.

Like their journey to this point, Coach Jack and Cherokee Pines are sure not to stay stagnant. The team continues to build on the momentum of the PGA Junior League and

looks to grow the business through more creative avenues that surround golf. The jump-up game on the weekends, as well as the Thirsty Thursday scramble, are golf events that create excellent business for the club while also expanding and strengthening the sense of fellowship and community at Cherokee Pines. Even the employees at Perry’s own golf course are a close-knit and dedicated group of individuals.

Coach Jack and Cherokee Pines provide a beautiful example of how the game of golf can be used as a method to enhance the vibrancy of a community. Through business and fellowship, the establishment has proven it is a premier spot, not just in Perry, but also in Houston County as a whole.

Keep your eyes open for one of the county’s hidden gems and the good things to come.

Cherokee Pines is a spot you don’t want to miss.  HCL

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Summerhill Senior Community 500 Stanley Street, Perry, GA | 1.478.987.3100

O

tho Pirkle was born at home in Flowery Branch, Georgia. His wife, Carolyn, was born at home about 1,000 miles away – in Clinton, Oklahoma. When Otho was 2, his folks moved to Georgia. Now a retired Baptist minister, Otho said when he was younger he wanted to go to school, but had to quit during his ninth grade year to help on the family farm in Turner County. Growing up in the country, Otho said he never had a pastor with an education, which was why he wanted both. But before he was able to accomplish that, Otho joined the service.

Putting his education on hold turned out to be a blessing in disguise as Otho met Carolyn during his time in the service, when he went to Carolyn’s father’s Baptist church. Carolyn, now a retired teacher, swore she would never marry a Baptist minister, but the Lord had other plans.

After returning from a tour of duty overseas, Otho came home and the pair were married. The Pirkles moved to the small town of Norman Park, Georgia, where Otho attended a junior college. While he was completing his education, Otho began pastoring at four area churches.

Once he graduated from college, the couple moved to Macon where they both found work as school teachers. During this time, Otho also became pastor of Cedar Valley Baptist Church in Montezuma, to which the couple drove twice a week for nearly 14 years.

Soon, Carolyn got pregnant and took a break from teaching to raise their two children. With a master’s degree in library science, Carolyn returned to a local high school to become the school’s head librarian. She worked in education for 34 years. The couple retired in 1978, after Otho served as the principal of Jessie Rice Elementary School in Lanier.

After 71 years of marriage, Otho and Carolyn’s daughter is now 68 and lives in Bonaire with her husband. Their son, 65, lives with his wife halfway between Perry and Macon. They have two grandsons, two great-grandsons and two great-granddaughters.

Short-Term Rehabilitation Comprehensive Long-Term Care Specialized Memory Care Senior Independent Living

About four years ago, Otho and Carolyn moved to Carlyle Place in Macon. It was close to their church, and they knew everybody in Macon – having lived there for more than 60 years. When Otho’s Alzheimer’s began affecting him, the couple looked into moving to Summerhill Senior Living.

However, Summerhill only had availability for Otho in the Memory Care Unit. After seven decades of marriage, Carolyn didn’t want to be separated from her husband! The Lord quickly sorted things out, and Carolyn got the call saying there was space available for them both.

Living happily at Summerhill, Carolyn said she would recommend Summerhill to anyone.

“The team is very good and they take excellent care of Otho. I don’t have any complaints – other than they feed Otho too much,” she said with a laugh. “He’s gained a little weight in the time he’s been here!”

Since 1998, Summerhill Senior Living has been offering professional healthcare and comfortable living in a community atmosphere. Summerhill offers short-term rehab, long-term skilled nursing care, as well as a personal care home with available healthcare and support services.

Our traditional values are founded on more than 30 years of experience in the healthcare field.

Summerhill has a place for everyone – from active seniors on the go, to those needing assistance with daily living, and even those who need specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Our unique continuum of care allows residents to maintain dignity while maximizing independence and receiving appropriate care as needed. Having the availability of different levels of healthcare at a central location assures the residents of Summerhill that a change in healthcare needs will not necessarily mean a change in address. This creates a secure, accommodating and loving environment for residents, like the Pirkles, and your loved ones as well.

Like us on Facebook!

summerhillseniorcommunity.com

Dr. Jeffrey Easom, DO; Dr. Derrick Phillips, MD; Dr. William Wiley, MD Dr. Daxes Banit, MD; Dr. Scott Malone, MD; Dr. David Wiley, MD

Introducing: Jonathan Harris, MD

The mission of Middle Georgia Orthopaedics is to provide quality healthcare for each individual patient. We are dedicated to providing the most advanced technology and effective services for all orthopaedic, surgical, diagnostic and rehabilitative needs.

It is our goal to effectively support and care for all patients as they strive to maintain a healthy quality of life.

Committed to Excellence in Patient Care

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Call Us At (478) 953-4563 or 953-4611 For More Information Go To: www.mgo.md

Schedule an Appointment at one of Our Locations: 3051 Watson Boulevard 1013 Main Street Warner Robins, GA 31093 Perry, GA 31069 60

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IONAL T P E C X E rs e ff o Georgia Southern grams. ro p n o ti a c u d e S and RIGOROU my unique d d a to d e id c e d Impressed, I DERS and A E L f o re tu ix m personality to the the University. t a S R E G N A H WORLD-C nderson (’16)

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Ed.S. Instructional Technology Add-on Certification in School Library Media Online Teaching and Learning Endorsement HENDERSON SERVED as a classroom teacher for six years before accepting her first job as a media specialist. Georgia Southern University’s College of Education provided her with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in new realms of education. Combing a passion for reading education and emerging technologies, Henderson is now able to achieve her goals of helping fellow teachers with technology needs and instilling these skills in students as she enters her third year as a media specialist at Westside Elementary School in Warner Robins, Georgia.

Dog

Where Every Has Its Day

Canine Clubhouse features regular kennels to luxury suites • An indoor and outdoor play area • Canine Adventure Land (3.5 acre fenced in play area) • Outdoor dock pool • Indoor training pool • Petzi Treat Cam in luxury suites • Tiny Town (special area just for small dogs)

Canine Clubhouse

606 Ball Street Perry, GA | www.CanineClubhousePerry.com | 478-224-2640

Good luck to your team… from my team When it comes to retirement and investments, you need a good game plan. I represent a team of professionals that listens to your goals, and can introduce you to products and services that will help you meet those goals. I know that planning for your future can seem overwhelming, but something this important deserves attention. Start with simple steps today.

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MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers and believes that incubating hearts can change the course of history.

They connect moms all over the world to a community of women, in their own neighborhoods, who meet together to laugh, cry, and embrace the journey of motherhood.

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Story by

Gail Dixon

Photos by

Amanda Storie & Kelly McDonald Photography Hometown Living At Its Best

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What is MOPS? According to Wikipedia, MOPS International, headquartered in Denver, Colorado, is a grassroots movement that believes moms are world influencers.

MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers and believes that incubating hearts can change the course of history. They connect moms all over the world to a community of women, in their own neighborhoods, who meet together to laugh, cry, and embrace the journey of motherhood. MOPS groups are rallying women to be more honest, to feel more equipped, and to find their identity by journeying alongside one another. There are more than 3900 MOPS groups meeting across the United States and in 35 countries around the world.

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MOPS encourages mothers of young children, who are adjusting to the joys and challenges of motherhood. It is about celebrating motherhood, meeting needs, making connections, and experiencing God’s love.

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Besides the scheduled meetings, MOPS plans monthly play dates for the children around town. One outing might be to see the inner-workings of a real live firehouse and another outing may be to a park or to experience how ice cream is made.

They also have a monthly “Mom’s Night Out” where no children are allowed!

These nights out are so much fun and are a fantastic way to meet new friends. They usually involve dinner at a local restaurant or a potluck, and lots of laughing!

Amanda Storie, a member of the Warner Robins Chapter of MOPS Leadership Team, says, “It is a Christian-based organization that welcomes all moms with children from birth through kindergarten. It is very unique because it allows moms to relax and restore so that they can “pour back” into their families. It’s a great place to breathe and recharge.” MOPS encourages mothers of young children, who are adjusting to the joys and challenges of motherhood. It is about celebrating motherhood, meeting needs, making connections, and experiencing God’s love.

This year’s theme, Starry Eyed, has challenged MOPS to live fully in both sunlight and moonlight. “Life can be light and dark. We have hope and fear.

God is always with us in all of it. We, as mothers, can ban together!” explains Amanda. “We want to be the ones that bring ‘warmth and light’ and we want to be ‘a powerful force of kindness to the world.’ I don't know about you, but I have seen that word, kindness, a lot lately. Maybe it's the time of year or the fact that it has been a monumental election year. Or maybe it's because kindness is needed, maybe now more than ever. It’s interesting how this theme was planned a year or so ago...One thing is for sure, we have had no shortage of kindness among our group. You ladies,

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my sisters, have been beams of light to our community. Personally, I have been inspired and even brought to tears by your generosity. THIS is why MOPS exists. Yes, we all need coffee and conversation, play dates, and we most certainly need a well-deserved break from our children. But MOPS is really so much more.”

You may ask, what are MOPS meetings like? Amanda says, “The meetings begin by dropping off our children, aka MOPPETS, in their assigned room at 9:15 AM. (MOPPETS is the program our children participate in during our meetings.) We’re fortunate to have wonderful childcare workers!

The children experience love and play in a pre-school like setting.”

“Once the children are dropped off, the moms get together for coffee and brunch. Each meeting begins with announcements, then we segue into a craft, games, or we listen to a guest speaker or one of our wonderful steering

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team leaders. There’s always time for socializing, and time for moms to take a deep breath and feel rejuvenated.”

Besides the scheduled meetings, MOPS plans monthly play dates for the children around town. One outing might be to see the inner-workings of a real live firehouse and another outing may be to a park or to experience how ice cream is made. They also have a monthly “Mom’s Night Out” where no children are allowed! These nights out are so much fun and are a fantastic way to meet new friends. They usually involve dinner at a local restaurant or a potluck, and lots of laughing!

“We need support. We need inspiration. We need kindness...just like the rest of the world. The wonderful news is...we all have the capacity to give these things to each other,” writes Amanda in a recent MOPS blogpost. “In the past couple of months, MOPS has not only spread kindness to each other,

Bring Your Friends The MOPS Leadership Team has been working hard to plan even more fun. They hope all the “regulars” will continue to join them and many more will join for the first time. Don’t forget your friends!

If you have friends who are free Wednesday mornings, invite them to join you because MOPS loves to see new faces. Whether you’re a stay-at-home, working, city, country, adoptive, special-needs, single, or married mom, MOPS is for you!

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but to our community in several ways: you have donated school supplies to three teachers in two different school districts, you have donated items to two needy families, and you have donated items to Operation Christmas Child to reach children and families in third world countries. God tells us to ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’ In fact, He says it is part of the greatest commandment, coming only second to loving Him. So I applaud you, MOPS, for loving your neighbors, showing kindness, and more importantly, He applauds you!”

The MOPS Leadership Team has been working hard to plan even more fun. They

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hope all the “regulars” will continue to join them and many more will join for the first time.

Don't forget your friends! If you have friends who are free Wednesday mornings, invite them to join you because MOPS loves to see new faces. Whether you're a stay-at-home, working, city, country, adoptive, special-needs, single, or married mom, MOPS is for you! If you are interested in joining MOPS in Warner Robins, please check out warnerrobinsmops.blogspot. com for more information. MOPS is supported by a local church, Southside Baptist Church, and meets twice a month on Wednesdays from 9:3011:30 AM.  HCL

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located in the Historic Muse Theatre Downtown Perry: 806 Commerce Street | Perry, GA 478.224.MUSE (6873) Tuesday- Saturday 10am to 6pm Sunday 1pm to 5pm ANTIQUES, FURNITURE, ARTWORK, CHINA, BOOKS & MORE

Perry

ARTS CENTER

www.perryantiquetheatre.com

The Muse Theatre Foundation, Inc., which includes the Perry Arts Group, promotes opportunities and events for both visual and performing arts in our community.

Arts Center use provided by Perry Arts Commision.

UPCOMING CALENDAR EVENTS AT PERRY ARTS CENTER:

Student Art Show- February 17-18, 2018 Art in the Armory- April 20-22, 2018 The Photography Show- July 20-22, 2018 Georgia Big Band (now part of Perry Music Festival)- September 15, 2018

For complete details, email MuseTheatreFoundation@gmail.com

Left to Right Front Row: Andrew Fogal, Parrish Jenkins, Bob McCullough, Marlon Rhodes and Skip Malcom Left to Right Back Row: Erica Moses, (BOA), Tina Johnson (Sr. BOA), Kathy Duke (Sr. BOA), Katherine Moore (BOA), Nedra Webster (BOA) and Megan Vaughn (BOA)

Investing is about more than money.

At Edward Jones, we stop to ask you the question: “What’s Important to you?”

Without that insight and a real understanding of your goals, investing holds little meaning.

Call or visit any of our Edward Jones financial advisors in Houston County for a one-on-one appointment to discuss what’s really important: your goals.

Andrew Fogal

Financial Advisor 4993 Russell Pkwy Suite 500 Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-953-0687

Marlon D. Rhodes Financial Advisor 913 Main Street Perry, GA 31069 478-988-7915

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Parrish S. Jenkins

Financial Advisor 104 Bluff Chase Suite C Bonaire, GA 31005 478-333-2699

Skip Malcom, AAMS ®

Financial Advisor 402 Corder Road Suite 300 Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-922-4206

Bob McCullough, AAMS ® Financial Advisor 213 Wes Park Drive Perry, GA 31069 478-987-0801

Member SIPC www.edwardjones.com

Salon Fusion 405 Hwy 96 Suite 900 | Bonaire, GA 31005 | salonfusionspa.com

1080 hwy 96 | Warner Robins Ga 31088 | essentialbodyskin.com

1080 hwy 96 | Warner Robins Ga 31088 | Wildorganicsjuice.com

Leave The

Cleaning To Us

Residential & Commercial Cleaning Dry Carpet Cleaning Low & High Pressure Washing Pest Control Floor Care Property Management

5797 Houston Road Suite H |Macon, GA 31216 | Phone: 478.254.4977

Realty

Taking Real Estate in a New Direction 180HomeRealty@gmail.com

www.180HomeRealty.com Sylvia Moore Myers Broker/Owner

478-923-SOLD Turning Real Estate Sales & Investments the Right Direction

Jan Hutto Associate Broker

180º Home Realty is Turning Real Estate around (“180º degrees”) and doing whatever it takes to put your home sale, purchase or investment on the right track and heading in the right direction.”

Adam Myers Owner/REALTOR®

Dawn Melden Associate Broker

“We’ll Fix Your Fixer Upper! Don’t Be Shy Ask Us Why! Find out How, Call us Now! 478-923-SOLD (7653)”

• Remodel • Repair • Market • Stage • Flip

327 Margie Dr., Second Floor, Warner Robins, GA 31088

• Fix • Paint • Sell • Clean • Invest

Laura Griffin REALTOR®

Michael Dooley REALTOR®

FEATURED ON

Warner Robins Property Management 478-923-0023

Middle Georgia’s FULL SERVICE Property Management Team

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Story By Hilary Hilgers | Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

Lights…Camera…Floss!

How Dentistry and the Theatre Come to Life Here in Houston County

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When you think of “the movies”, you think of flashing lights, glamorous lifestyles, and celebrities glittering the streets of California. When daydreaming about the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, most people would not envision experiencing it while sitting in a dental chair in Perry, Georgia. If you visit Michael Kinsley, D.M.D. at Dentistry at Houston Lake, that is exactly what you will find. Kinsley, a native to Houston County, along with his wife, Diane, has found a way to blend his passion for theatre and Hollywood memorabilia with his dental practice.

Since 1987, Michael has been practicing dentistry in Houston County. Services offered include cosmetic, family, and sedation dentistry as well as dentures. Michael

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An Idea Is Formed Ten years ago, Diane and Michael ate dinner at a New Orleans themed restaurant in Atlanta. The fun ambience and exciting dĂŠcor got the two thinking about bringing this same sort of energy to his dental practice.

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A Tribute To The Movies A classic movie theme was created for each room – from Star Wars to superheroes and cowboys to Gone with the Wind, the offices are sure to please the eye of any and all ages!

decided to “create a new experience with no fear” for his patients. Instead of sterile walls in the waiting room, or an impersonal welcome by signing in on a clipboard, Michael has worked diligently on the atmosphere of his office.

Ten years ago, Diane and Michael ate dinner at a New Orleans themed restaurant in Atlanta. The fun ambience and exciting décor got the two thinking about bringing this same sort of energy to his dental practice.

And this is where Michael’s “Everyone Can Be a Star” slogan was born. With the idea in mind of giving the community a new experience, Michael moved to a new office in Perry and created a cinematic themed world for his clients to enjoy.

The star treatment at Dentistry on Houston Lake, begins in the parking lot where each parking spot is adorned with a star. Upon walking through the

beautiful front doors, patients are greeted with the “Everyone Can Be a Star” slogan on the wall as well as the alluring aroma of fresh popcorn, for what would the movies be without a popcorn machine?

Each dental room has carpeted walls which has two purposes; it adds to the movie theatre feel and it subdues the noises of the dental equipment in an attempt to comfort nervous patients. A classic movie theme was created for each room – from Star Wars to superheroes and cowboys to Gone with the Wind, the offices are sure to please the eye of any and all ages!

Michael has heard many guests saying “this is the coolest dental office in the world!” when gawking at a custom-made Spiderman statue, oohing and ahhing at autographs of Clark Gable and Ingrid Bergman, and amazed by coveted costumes from movie sets. Since “Everyone Can Be a Star”, between the autographs

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and movie set pieces, pictures on the walls include local neighbors, favorite restaurant owners, and Little League baseball coaches. Michael believes it is important to highlight the wonderful people of this community, for they are stars as well. Diane smiles as she praised, “Every room is so amazing, I’m so proud of him! Michael has found a way to re-awaken the world of Golden-Age Hollywood and says he feels so happy to have this slam dunk in his life.”

Michael’s passion for theatre extends far beyond the dentist chair, and is a huge part of his marriage and relationship with Diane. With a background and degree in theatre, Diane created the Adult Drama Ministry in their church in 2006. Diane would pick a play to have the group perform, while Michael would doctor the scripts up. As they created more performances, Diane and Michael created the Center Stage for Christ. Their goal is to create performances that show Christians getting themselves into ridiculous situations modeled after the innocent humor of the 1960s and stage them into modern settings. Their objective is to reach all audiences and be non-denominational, “we want people to come and laugh – not be intimated by

A passion for the theatre Michael’s passion for theatre extends far beyond the dentist chair, and is a huge part of his marriage and relationship with Diane. With a background and degree in theatre, Diane created the Adult Drama Ministry in their church in 2006.

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God’s grace. We can all laugh at ourselves,” said Diane.

Although Diane has a strong passion and drive for Center Stage for Christ, it did not come easy at first.

“When we first started doing this and I needed to find actors and a stage crew, I would grab just about anybody who was breathing…and it got to the point that they would start ducking behind the benches when they saw me coming,” Diane laughs. Through the years of involving the community and writing one successful script after another, Michael and Diane have watched their dream of Center Stage for Christ turn into an impactful part of not only their lives, but the lives of the community. “The great thing is, eleven years later, we still have people seeking us out and asking, ‘can we be a part of what you have going on?’” To date Michael has written 24 plays that have made the audiences of Houston County belly laugh in their seats and feel the love that this organization has brought to the community through their passion for Christ. Not only do Michael and Diane impact their community with laughter and love, but all profits from the performances goes towards local charities and missions. With about 1000 people seeing the two shows they perform each year, Center Stage for Christ raises about $7,000 to $10,000 per show all of which goes back to the people who need it most.

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A Love For Houston County In the theatre or in the dental office, “Team Kinsley”, as Diane calls them, work very hard for this community. Their faces light up as they talk about Houston County. “I love being Southern…

I love Perry because of its small-town feel… it’s a beautiful place to live,” Diane beamed.

Michael is honored to support his wife and her work in the theatre, and hopes to one day be able to show this same support to fellow dentists in his office. “I’ve got an office with two empty desks ready!” he exclaims as he lights up at the idea of getting an opportunity to teach new, young dentists here at his office. Part of Michael’s mission as a dentist is to not only help people in the community with their dental problems, but also be able to teach and mentor new dentists.

“Education doesn’t stop after four years of dental school, and I want to be a part of that.” He loves the idea of people shadowing him, even for just a day, for there is so much one can learn about dentistry inside a real office. Whether you are a John Wayne fan or wish you 86

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were a Jedi, Michael’s office sounds like an amazing place to learn (maybe snacking on some popcorn while you take notes from the doctor)!

In the theatre or in the dental office, “Team Kinsley”, as Diane calls them, work very hard for this community. Their faces light up as they talk about Houston County. “I love being Southern… I love Perry because of its small-town feel… it’s a beautiful place to live,” Diane beamed.

Michael warmly added “I would like to thank the community for helping us…it’s only right to give back in turn.” Their hearts beat for the Houston County community and we are forever thankful for that. Although “Everyone Can Be a Star”, the stars of Michael and Diane Kinsley shine bright here in Houston County.  HCL Hometown Living At Its Best

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Building Warner Robins

SUPPLY CO. Since 1947

Your One Stop Headquarters for all your Building Needs!

wrsupply.com

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Canine Clubhouse

Has Moved!

606 Ball Street Perry, GA

Their former location is now the new home of the FOPAS

Friends Of Perry Animal Shelter

FOPAS is proudly supported by: Canine Clubhouse, Myers Construction Company, Forest Hill Park, Myers Industrial Construction, Events at Cherokee Pines, Myers City Florist, Occasions at Lake Joy, Cherokee Pines Fitness Center, Antique Theatre, and Strong Backs and a Truck

www.fopas.org | 478-988-7854 | Now at 204 Kellwood Drive Perry, GA 31069

Thursday, November 30th 6:30 pm Georgia National Fairgrounds Miller, Murphy, Howard $250 per table of eight or $40 per ticket

(478)987-1234 • PerryGAChamber.com

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bolandpoc.com

Warner Robins - 478-953-2922 Macon - 478-449-4244

STEVEN MOODIE CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER NOT A CERTIFIED HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

MOODIE’S ON SITE

Using specialized strength training & stretching techniques along with biomechanics, I help to improve range of motion and overall fitness level.

FITNESS-FLEXIBILITY CONSULTING | 478.335.6019 NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR HEALTHCARE

s. michael loden, dmd & amy s. loden, s. michael loden, dmd dmd

LODEN DENTAL ASSOCIATES 路 General & Restorative Dentistry 路

We are a team of health care professionals dedicated to improving the lives of our patients by establishing relationships based on trust, compassion, and commitment.

Our goal is to become a partner with our patients to help them achieve and maintain optimum health, beauty, and comfort for a lifetime.

478.923.0253

1267 Russell Parkway, Warner Robins 路 www.lodendental.com 路 Office Hours by Appointment Hometown Living At Its Best

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Story by Kelly McDonald

Photos by Outside the Lens Photography and Mark Williams

Once upon a time in a land not so far away, there lived a little girl who dreamed of one day becoming a princess. Well, she really wanted to be Captain Jack Sparrow. Miranda Bryant was only in seventh grade when she handmade her first costume and turned herself into the pirate.

Our story begins as Miranda bounced into the kitchen one day, extremely proud of herself, and showed the costume to her mom. “Great job ... you turned yourself into a boy,” her mom said, admitting she was a little unsure how to react. Little did Mom know just how that petite pirate would turn her idea into a successful business – one that also has a charitable purpose.

Our story continues several years later, in 2010, when Miranda was cast at Belle in the Blakely County High School production of “Beauty and the Beast.” It was Miranda’s senior year in

Miranda said her business helped her overcome depression and gave purpose to her life: “Doing this saved me. …

It’s my dream come true to make dreams come true.” Now 24, this young entrepreneur still has visions of growth for her business. The smiles she and her fellow characters bring to each child stay with her long after the visit is complete.

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Miranda and her team take great effort to make sure each character is perfect – from their hair, makeup and costume down to their attitude. She said the interaction with the kids is the most important part. These princesses get out of their cars completely in character and do not break it until they are driving away.

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Miranda met a pageant friend, Kaci Pedersen, and shared her dream with Kaci. Kaci and Miranda discussed their love of volunteering and the characters they portrayed. “Why have one princess when you can have two,� said Miranda. They talked about how to become a business but also how to give back to children in need. They both decided that visiting sick children in local hospitals would be a great way to start.

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Princesses With a Purpose has gone from two princesses to almost 50 characters portrayed by almost 25 people. “It has taken us a while to get where we are now,” Miranda said about their growth. Each actor goes through casting calls, auditions, video recordings and character training. “We want people whose hearts are in the right place,” she said.

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high school. She fell in love with acting and planned to go to a college in New York City to follow her dreams of being an actress. When that fell through, Miranda found herself struggling in a real bout of depression.

All her friends had moved away to college and she felt alone and unfulfilled. She knew what she loved and decided to begin her journey one way or another.

Miranda met a pageant friend, Kaci Pedersen, and shared her dream with Kaci. Kaci and Miranda discussed their love of volunteering and the characters they portrayed. “Why have one princess when you can have two,” said Miranda. They talked about how to become a business but also how to give back to

children in need. They both decided that visiting sick children in local hospitals would be a great way to start. In 2011, Princesses With a Purpose was born.

Miranda said her “ah-ha moment” came in 2011 from a little girl named Callie Cheer. Miranda got a call from Callie’s mom asking her to come visit the 3-year-old in Egleston hospital. Callie was a leukemia patient and treatment had caused her to lose all her hair. Miranda immediately said yes and began her transformation into Rapunzel, who was Callie’s favorite princess. Two days before the big visit, Callie’s mom called with news that Callie was officially in remission and had been sent home Hometown Living At Its Best

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Recalling her first encounter with the girl who would become Alice and Tinkerbell, Miranda said, “Sometimes you just find the perfect person somehow.”

– but still wanted desperately to meet Rapunzel.

Miranda, dressed as Rapunzel, drove up to Callie’s home and got out of the car. She saw a beautiful, little bald head peer out from around the corner.

Rapunzel fell to her knees with opened arms as Callie managed the courage to run into them. After a few moments of hugs, Callie whispered, “Do you know why you are my favorite?” “No, Princess Callie. Please tell me why,” Rapunzel replied. Callie said, “Because you gave me the courage to give up my hair, too.”

Miranda knew then and there that this was her purpose.

Princesses With a Purpose has gone

from two princesses to almost 50 characters portrayed by almost 25 people. “It has taken us a while to get where we are now,” Miranda said about their growth. Each actor goes through casting calls, auditions, video recordings and character training. “We want people whose hearts are in the right place,” she said.

Miranda and her team take great effort to make sure each character is perfect – from their hair, makeup and costume down to their attitude. She said the interaction with the kids is the most important part. These princesses get out of their cars completely in character and do not break it until they are driving away.

Recalling her first encounter with the girl who would become Alice and Tinkerbell, Miranda said, “Sometimes you just find the perfect person somehow.” Miranda was giving feedback for an old high school teacher who was casting a play, when she laid eyes on a small, beautiful girl cast in the ensemble. Miranda approached her and offered her a job right on the spot.

Princesses With a Purpose offers almost any princess or action hero – even the new ones – for birthday parties all over Middle Georgia. Spiderman Hometown Living At Its Best

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was the first guy available for parties, and since then, they’ve added Captain America, Superman, Joker and, of course, Captain Jack Sparrow. Princesses include all the Disney favorites plus Super Girl, Wonder Woman, Harley Quinn, fairies and mermaids.

“I have traveled the world because of this job and it has become my life,” Miranda said about turning her dream into a reality. The company does events all year long, including the Enchanted Serenity Ball, preemie parties in local hospitals and fundraisers. They also continue to visit hospitals in Middle Georgia and Atlanta.

Miranda said her business helped her overcome depression and gave purpose to her life: “Doing this saved me. … It’s my dream come true to make dreams come true.” Now 24, this young entrepreneur still has visions of growth for her business. The smiles she and her fellow characters bring to each child stay with her long after the visit is complete.

The last time Miranda talked to her, Callie was still completely in remission and doing well. While Callie is getting older and may not want princesses at her birthday parties forever, let’s hope she never stops believing in their power to help heal or at least make it better – even if just for a day.  HCL

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“I have traveled the world because of this job and it has become my life,� Miranda said about turning her dream into a reality. The company does events all year long, including the Enchanted Serenity Ball, preemie parties in local hospitals and fundraisers. They also continue to visit hospitals in Middle Georgia and Atlanta.

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THAT STORE

MID CENTURY & MORE

4088 Watson Blvd. Suite 100 | Warner Robins, Georgia | 478) 333-3836 106

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Meeting The Health Care Needs of Our Community With a dedicated staff offering all of the services you and your family may need: Behavioral Health & Psychiatry Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Labs Emergency Department Electronic Intensive Care Unit (eICU) Inpatient & Outpatient Laboratory Inpatient & Outpatient Surgery Inpatient Hospice & Palliative Care Unit Inpatient Transitional Care Level II Neonatal ICU - Neuro-Sleep Center Pain Management - Pediatrics Radiology & Diagnostic Imaging Services Sleep Lab - The Women’s Center With locations designed to fit your needs: Houston Heart Institute The Surgery Center - Pavilion Diagnostic Center Pavilion Family Medicine Center Pavilion Rehab Center Houston Lake Rehab - Houston Lake Med-Stop Lake Joy Med-Stop - Pavilion Med-Stop Health Connections Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Physician Referral & Health Information Houston Medical Center1601 Watson Boulevard, Warner Robins, GA478-922-4281 Perry Hospital1120 Morningside Drive, Perry, GA478-987-3600

www.hhc.org

Myers Local Event Venues

Forest Hill Park is a privately owned wedding and event venue located right off Main Street going east out of Perry, Georgia. Its beautiful scenery and unique features make it ideal for: Weddings • Kid’s Birthday Parties • Family Reunions • Anniversary Parties Company Parties • Church Events & More

1251 FOREST HILL DR. | PERRY, GA | 478.662.2568 | FORESTHILLPARKOFPERRY.COM

Occasions at Lake Joy is a 7,000 sq. ft. wedding and event venue that accommodates 2 banquet rooms, and bridal dressing rooms. The facility is ideal for weddings, receptions, showers, parties, corporate meetings, family reunions, and more!

334 Lake Joy Rd. | Perry, GA | 478-662-2568 www.OccasionsatLakeJoy.com

Cherokee Pines specializes in everything from weddings, graduations, anniversaries, and corporate events to family reunions, and pool parties. Our banquet facility is 1400 square foot and can accommodate up to 120 people. Rent by the day or by the hour. Beautiful outdoor ceremony options available.

1000 Country Club Rd. | Perry, GA | 478-224-GOLF (4653) | www.CherokeePines.com

Great Smiles, Amazing Faces 1721 Russell Pkwy Warner Robins, GA 31088 (478) 328-7049 drpoolortho.com Miss America 2016 Betty Cantrell

Georgia Driving School is the recipient of the Georgia Drivers Education Grant/ Scholarship.

Georgia Driving School Inc. offers a class to fit every need!

We provide DUI & Risk Reduction, Defensive Driving, Joshua’s Law & Behind the Wheel Drivers Education, Senior Citizen Drivers Education & Evaluations classes.

Georgia Driving School CALL 478-755-8888 MACON & GRIFFIN

Find out how your teen can get a scholorship for Joshua’s Law on our website www.georgiadrivingschool.com

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Fringe salon

Warner Robins Rehabilitation Center

1601 Elberta Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31093 | (478) 922-2241

1806 Russell Pkwy # 500, Warner Robins, GA 31088 | (478) 225-9946 | fringesalonwarnerrobins.com

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Jackie White Jackie White Jackie W

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FDIC

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1021 North Houston Road, Warner Robins, GA 31093 We accept most insurances including Medicaid & Tricare.

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Retired WORK

Story and Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

Local veteran works to help fellow soldiers

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For most people, retirement means traveling, fishing and enjoying all the things you never had time to do while working. Some people find relaxing hobbies to fill their new-found time. There are a rare few, like retired Chief Master Sgt. Chuck Norton, who devote their days and nights to helping others.

Born and raised in South Carolina, Norton joined the United States Air Force straight out of high school in 1957. He retired honorably after 23 years of service.

During that time, Norton had tours that included Morocco, North Africa, Korea,

Vietnam, Thailand, England and Spain. He worked in five different fields and is proud to say that he served in special operations during part of his military career.

While serving in North Africa, he met and married Dovie, now his wife of 57 years. Dovie graduated from Perry High School and was a farmer’s daughter. She herself was on a “tour” in North Africa, working civil service when the two met. They were married in Africa and eventually returned to the states and had two children, Chuck, Jr. and Trina.

After serving for 10 years, Norton got

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the call to report to Vietnam. The war had begun and he knew he had to go. He had come from a military background, with a father who served in World War II and the Korean War. “I remember the helicopter landing at night in the middle of fire, not knowing what to expect – but it was my duty,” he said. After that landing, he was now “boots on the ground,” a phrase that may not mean much to most people, but to Vietnam veterans, it means everything. These veterans distinguish themselves clearly as having put their actual boots on the ground in country. Norton said it was a tough tour and an even tougher homecoming. Norton and thousands more were exposed to Agent Orange, a chemical weapon of warfare that has had lasting and devastating effects. After returning home, Norton spent the rest of his military career on other tours of

duty and being with his family, retiring for the first time in 1980.

After that, Norton promptly went to work right back at Robins Air Force Base as a civilian. “I didn’t even tell anyone that I was a veteran. I was going to show up early, stay late and out-work them all to prove myself,” he said.

While working his way up the civil service ladder, he started having some major medical issues. Norton was diagnosed with cancer in his left hip as a result of his exposure to Agent Orange. He eventually had to have his left hip, pelvis and leg removed. Norton also suffers from Type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney failure and has had heart surgery – all a direct result from his exposure. He has now been classified 100 percent disabled by the Veterans Administration (VA), and has retired for the second time.

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Time to finally relax? Of course not!

Norton has now voluntarily become a VA accredited claims agent, helping every veteran and veteran’s widow that he can. To become an agent, he had to take a comprehensive written examination administered at the VA regional office in Atlanta. After passing the written portion, he attended legal courses in Atlanta. He is obligated to complete the accreditation process every two years in order to keep his agent status.

“I do not, nor ever have, worked for the VA. I decided to do this on my own so I could effectively help fellow veterans and widows obtain the VA benefits they are entitled to,” Norton said.

Norton also has served as service officer for the VFW Post 6077 in Hawkinsville for more than 20 years. Meeting other veterans and hearing about their trouble filing claims gave Norton even more purpose. Prior to meeting Norton, Bo Gregory, a boots-onthe-ground Army veteran, had no success in several claims filed with the VA. “I was involved with service representatives who treated me unfairly and never really helped.

After meeting Chuck, I had a friend and the best ally. He fought for me and has even represented me in Atlanta in front of a BVA judge so I can have my benefits,” Gregory said.

Norton said most veterans are not aware they are entitled to benefits, much less how to start the paperwork to receive them. “I am the only lawyer or agent in the country who does not charge anyone for assistance.

I have declined payment on every claim I have ever won,” Norton said.

“He is one of the best and most knowledgeable men I have ever met,” said Ronnie K. Smith, also a boots-on-theground Army veteran.

Smith was drafted in 1968 and served in Vietnam from 1969-1970. Norton and Smith used to be neighbors, and Norton always told him to call if he ever needed help. Smith had begun to file a claim in 1980, but quit after becoming frustrated 116

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with the process. Smith also is suffering from Type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and a skin disease resulting from exposure to Agent Orange. Norton sent all the forms to Smith and helped him get them submitted to the VA. “He has people from all over the country who ask for his help,” Smith said. “I don’t know where I would be without him.”

Norton is once again eligible for retirement but presses on.

He now offers briefings about VA benefits at Robins and at the veterans building off base. For the past 11 years, he has tried to educate veterans and to provide quality assistance with filing VA claims.

“I am willing to assist any honorably discharged veteran or widow. I will work to stay accredited by the VA and will continue to provide briefings as long as I believe my mind is still working,” he said. With his

HELPING THOSE IN NEED Norton has now voluntarily become a VA accredited claims agent, helping every veteran and veteran’s widow that he can. To become an agent, he had to take a comprehensive written examination administered at the VA regional office in Atlanta. After passing the written portion, he attended legal courses in Atlanta. He is obligated to complete the accreditation process every two years in order to keep his agent status.

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KEEPING UP THE PACE Norton is once again eligible for retirement but presses on. He now offers briefings about VA benefits at Robins and at the veterans building off base. For the past 11 years, he has tried to educate veterans and to provide quality assistance with filing VA claims.

mission – to help as many fellow veterans as he can – in full force, it doesn’t sound like anyone will be throwing him a retirement party any time soon.

If you are a veteran or a veteran’s widow in need of Norton’s help, email him at ammochief22@hotmail.com and put “VA assistance” in the subject line.  HCL 118

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210 Valley Drive Perry, GA 478-987-1584 www. MyMobley .com

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Tangerines Tanning & Oxygen Bar UV Tanning | Sunless Tanning | Teeth Whitening | Microblading | Red Light Therapy | Oxygen Bar 1114 GA-96, Kathleen, GA 31047 | 151 S. Houston Lake Rd., Warner Robins, GA | (478) 988-4036 120

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PERRY DRUG COMPANY Ben and Von Bartlett, Owners

Ask us about how you can order your refills using your smartphone.

478.988.1144 | 1036 A Macon Road | Perry, GA 31069 www.PerryDrugCompany.com

My wife Dorothy of 37 years aids me in our business. I am a retired teacher and Navy instrumentman chief 21 years.

I served my country and the public with pride, integrity and quality services I have been doing clock repair making home service calls for 47 years on grandfather/wall/mantel/ cuckoo/400 day anniversary/battery/ electric clocks A huge inventory of parts, also I restore broken cases. All overhauls will have a 1 year warranty on repairs.

Many local middle, GA business, jewelry, antiques and furniture store recognize me for fair reasonable prices and service.

OSBORNE’S

CLOCK REPAIR Please contact me by phone 478-956-4839 or drop by 31 Pine Dr, Byron, GA 31008 Hometown Living At Its Best

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GROW Spirit IN THE

Jesus says, I am the way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father except by me (John 14:6). At Green Acres Baptist Church we are convinced that the only way to true life, contented life, and eternal life is through forgiveness and salvation offered by the cross of Jesus Christ.

SUNDAY 9:15 AM – Sunday School/Bible Study 10:30 AM – Family Worship 10:30 AM – Children’s Church (4 y/o – 4th grade) 5:45 PM – Awana WEDNESDAY 6:15 PM – Wednesday Night Life

901 Elberta Road, Warner Robins, GA 31093 | 478.923.1995 | greenacresbc.com

Gas Appliances Logs & Grills Appliance Conversions New Appliance Installations Gas Checks Pilot Lighting Services Above/Underground Tank Installation

149 Macon West Drive | Macon GA 31210 | (478) 476-4558 - 331 S Houston Lake Road | Warner Robins GA 31088 | (478) 953-0302 | EverGreenPropane.com 122

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FRICKS BOHAN, LLC

REAL ESTATE LAW | CLOSINGS

466 S Houston Lake Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31088 | (478) 333-6502 | fricksbohan.com

We love having you here!

102 Hampton Ct, Perry, GA 31069 | (478) 987-7681 | www.hilton.com/Hampton_Inn/Perry Hometown Living At Its Best

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Story & Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

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Every four years, a new group of little girls falls in love with the Olympics. From Mary Lou Retton to Simone Biles, Olympic gymnasts have become national icons. Many young girls dream of standing on that podium, wearing a gold medal and listening to the National Anthem. Few realize all the hours, hard work and sacrifice it takes to get there.

Every four years, a new group of little girls falls in love with the Olympics. From Mary Lou Retton to Simone Biles, Olympic gymnasts have become national icons. Many young girls dream of standing on that podium, wearing a gold medal and listening to the National Anthem. Few realize all the hours, hard work and sacrifice it takes to get there.

All the work has definitely paid off for the girls on the local Xcel Bronze teams. These 8- and 9-year-old girls practice three to four days a week, for three hours a day, almost year-round. The first goal of all that practice is to qualify to compete at the state level. Any gymnast who scores a 32.00 All Around at competition will qualify to compete at state.

Gymnasts are scored individually on four events: vault, floor, beam and bars. They are able to place in each event separately, and then scores are combined for an All Around placement.

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This past spring, Rose Bolden from PunchFront Gymnastics and Cheer in Bonaire scored a prefect 10 on bars at the Courtney Kupets “Pink Gymnastics” Invitational in Savannah. “Rose is a natural. She has the dedication it takes to compete at a higher level,” said Chrystie Mcilwain, owner of PunchFront. “Rose completely takes correction and applies it instantly.”

This past spring, Rose Bolden from PunchFront Gymnastics and Cheer in Bonaire scored a prefect 10 on bars at the Courtney Kupets “Pink Gymnastics” Invitational in Savannah. “Rose is a natural. She has the dedication it takes to compete at a higher level,” said Chrystie Mcilwain, owner of PunchFront. “Rose completely takes correction and applies it instantly.”

PunchFront has only been open for two years and already has become a force in the competitive world of gymnastics. “We are so fortunate to have the best in our families and community. And also, excited to see what the future holds for our athletes; they all work very hard.

We are just getting started,” Chrystie said.

In addition to Rose, Leah Bermudez and Julie Carver, both 8, and Ryleigh Collins, Jazlyn Jackson, Peyton Peaster and Izzy Ross, all 9, from Precision South Gymnastics Academy in Warner Robins all qualified to compete in the state meet. “I am so proud of what these young girls have accomplished,” said Precision South coach Jessica Aragon. “This was the first year of competition for all six of these girls. What a phenomenal first season for these young athletes.”

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The USA Gymnastics Georgia Xcel State Championship was held April 22, 2017, at LakePoint Sporting Community in Emerson. Jessica said the Precision girls all were so nervous because it was the first time they were split up to compete at different times according to their ages. “They still managed to earn some of their highest individual scores of the season,” said Joni Ross, the mother of Izzy Ross, who scored an impressive 9.875 on uneven bars. Nerves did not get the best of these girls as they went on to earn a total team score of 118.075, becoming the new Xcel Bronze State Champions.

“Their remarkable success is a direct reflection of

the hard work and dedication they poured into every practice and competition,” said Jessica.

In May, the six gymnasts with the highest scores from the state competition represented Georgia at the regional competition held at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center in South Carolina. Out of those six amazingly talented girls, five were from right here in Houston County: Leah, Jazlyn, Peyton and Izzy from Precision, and Rose from PunchFront.

This new team of six representing Georgia would have to come together to do their best against teams from Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

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“While not being able to spend too much time together as a new team, these girls pulled out a second-place finish against the best from eight states. We are so proud of them,” said Joni. Jessica added, “We are extremely proud of these athletes’ accomplishments this past season in the sport that they love.”

The fact that five out of the six best gymnasts in Georgia all came from Houston County is just incredible. This year proves what dedication and hard work can do in the expert hands of the coaches

A gymnast’s season never really ends. The girls each completed the competitive season and went straight into summer workouts. This summer, they trained four days a week, for four hours a day. At ages 8 and 9, they are only at the beginning stages of their gymnastics careers and already are champions. Only time will tell if one day we can turn on the television and see one of our local favorites atop the Olympic podium, wearing a medal and realizing a dream.

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In addition to Rose, Leah Bermudez and Julie Carver, both 8, and Ryleigh Collins, Jazlyn Jackson, Peyton Peaster and Izzy Ross, all 9, from Precision South Gymnastics Academy in Warner Robins all qualified to compete in the state meet. “I am so proud of what these young girls have accomplished,” said Precision South coach Jessica Aragon. “This was the first year of competition for all six of these girls. What a phenomenal first season for these young athletes.”

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This year proves what dedication and hard work can do in the expert hands of the coaches from these two gyms.

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All the work has definitely paid off for the girls on the local Xcel Bronze teams. These 8- and 9-yearold girls practice three to four days a week, for three hours a day, almost year-round. The first goal of all that practice is to qualify to compete at the state level. Any gymnast who scores a 32.00 All Around at competition will qualify to compete at state. Gymnasts are scored individually on four events: vault, floor, beam and bars. They are able to place in each event separately, and then scores are combined for an All Around placement.

from these two gyms. “Excitement is in the air at PSGA as we begin to train for the upcoming 2018 season,” Jessica said. Chrystie added, “We are looking forward to this next competitive season with enthusiasm for how far we can go in 2018.”

A gymnast’s season never really ends. The girls each completed the competitive season and went straight into summer workouts. This summer, they trained four days a week, for four hours a day. At ages 8 and 9, they are only at the beginning stages of their gymnastics careers and already are champions. Only time will tell if one day we can turn on the television and see one of our local favorites atop the Olympic podium, wearing a medal and realizing a dream.  HCL

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CONNECT TO YOUR CAREER 200+ Programs of Study

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Home & Garden • Inside & Out

1026 Macon Rd • Perry, GA. 31069 | 478.542.1768 • Facebook: Kerri Moore Interiors

• Casserole Ministry • Camp W.I.N.G.S for Kids • Free Counseling • My Story Program • And more heartofgahospice.org |478-953-5161 Hometown Living At Its Best

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Most Wonderful Time

of the year Story by Maureen McCullough

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Photos by Nancy Lott Photography

Macon’s first suburb and the historic home of the Allman Brothers Band will play host to the 2017 Historic Vineville Christmas Tour of Homes on December 2-3. Featuring homes of varying eras and styles, the tour gives attendees the chance to experience the beauty of the Vineville neighborhood while supporting the efforts of the Historic Vineville Neighborhood Association.

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Either by walking or taking the provided trolley, visitors will get the chance to tour homes decked out for the holiday season, as well as visit The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House. As part of this year’s tour, the Back Burner, a neighborhood restaurant and a local favorite, is offering a lunch special on the Saturday of the tour. The restaurant is located in a 1940s cottage on Ingleside Avenue.

Visitors on the tour will get to know the sprawling and diverse neighborhood just north of downtown Macon, which was known as Macon’s first suburb. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981, the district includes a wide variety of architectural designs from the 1830s to the 1930s. The eclectic neighborhood features homes from the Plantation Plain, Victorian, Neoclassical,

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English Tudor, Italian Renaissance, Federal Georgian and Jacobean styles, with a large number of Craftsman style bungalows. And while the area is known for architecture dating mostly from the late 19th century through the period between the World Wars, there are several Antebellum homes that remain from when the area was farmland.

While by today’s standards the Vineville neighborhood is just a short drive from downtown Macon, it was once a separate village, complete with its own train station to provide service to the plantations. One of the early residents, Judge Christopher Strong, is credited with the name Vineville, after combining the name for his home, “Villa,” with “vineyard,” after the large vineyard on his property. Others began to plant vineyards on their own properties, and the name stuck.

Henry Solomon built the first home on his 50 acres in 1823. The home was in the Early Republic style and constructed with hand-hewn boards, handmade bricks and pegs. The home has been continually maintained as a residence and is located at 2619 Vineville Avenue.

While there are still many homes that face Vineville Avenue, several of the early 1800s plantation homes were turned to face the side streets, which were created in the early 1900s as the large farmland was sold and redeveloped. One large antebellum home

Visitors on the tour will get to know the sprawling and diverse neighborhood just north of downtown Macon, which was known as Macon’s first suburb. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981, the district includes a wide variety of architectural designs from the 1830s to the 1930s.

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Either by walking or taking the provided trolley, visitors will get the chance to tour homes decked out for the holiday season, as well as visit The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House. As part of this year’s tour, the Back Burner, a neighborhood restaurant and a local favorite, is offering a lunch special on the Saturday of the tour. The restaurant is located in a 1940s cottage on Ingleside Avenue.

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was lifted onto logs and turned by a team of mules. Several houses that could not be moved had rooms and porches added to create new entrances. Two of these homes now face one another on Rogers Avenue.

As the suburb began to develop starting in 1900, the architectural prestige of the neighborhood grew. Neel Reid, a renowned architect from Macon, designed several of the homes in the Vineville area. Reid was known for his beautiful Neoclassical residences, and from his practice in Atlanta, he and his firm were instrumental in designing many of the homes in Atlanta’s Buckhead area. The home at 114 Buford Place is a notable example of Reid’s work.

Vineville was also the home to Pio Nono College, built in 1874 and named for Pope Pius IX. The college’s name was changed to St. Stanislaus College, and after it burned in 1921, the area was redeveloped into residences. It is now the home of Stanislaus Circle, the first planned subdivision in Macon. This neighborhood-within-a-neighborhood has its own unique identity, with a wide variety of remarkable residences, including an Italian villa constructed by artisans brought to the area from Europe. The sidewalks and island parks make Stanislaus Circle a picturesque place for a stroll.

Visitors to the neighborhood cannot miss the live oak trees in the yard of 2437 Vineville Ave. These oaks, planted

by Bishop George Pierce, the first president of Wesleyan College, have looked out over Vineville Avenue for 180 years. They are thought to be the oldest trees in Macon. They’ve outlasted generations of residents and have listened to horses clop by while pulling jolting wagons, trolley cars clanging,

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One of the early residents, Judge Christopher Strong, is credited with the name Vineville, after combining the name for his home, “Villa,” with “vineyard,” after the large vineyard on his property. Others began to plant vineyards on their own properties, and the name stuck.

and now the noise of engines as cars and trucks speed past.

Just a block away is the Tudor style home known as the Big House. This is where members of The Allman Brothers Band – as well as their roadies, friends and families – lived during the 1970s. It was the focal point of gatherings in those early years when the band’s magic was just taking shape. The Big House is now a museum filled with memorabilia and the early history of what became known as Southern rock. This spring it played home to band member Gregg Allman’s memorial concert, which closed the four-lane Vineville Avenue and became a joyous celebration of the rocker’s legacy for neighborhood residents – and famous attendees such as Cher – to enjoy.

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Tickets for the tour of homes can be purchased online at vineville.org. Proceeds will fund the efforts of the Historic Vineville Neighborhood Association, which works to maintain the integrity of the area’s history through projects, programs and events.

Rounding out the neighborhood is Ingleside Village Shopping Center. Built on the eastern boundary of the area during the 1940s and ‘50s, it is still a vibrant shopping area with an eclectic array of local merchants. Ingleside Village Pizza, Tropical Flava, Joe D’s Sandwich Shop and the Back Burner offer a variety of culinary delights, while the shopping center features antique shops, art galleries, a local hardware store and a farm-to-table market.

Tickets for the tour of homes can be purchased online at vineville.org. Proceeds will fund the efforts of the Historic Vineville Neighborhood Association, which works to maintain the integrity of the area’s history through projects, programs and events. The association provides funds for the façade loan program, which offers neighborhood members the opportunity to take out low-interest loans for exterior home improvements. The association is also the proud partner in developing Oak Haven Park, and significant funds will help build walking paths, benches and a play structure in what was once a blighted vacant lot. The park already has played host to pop-up dinner parties, movie nights and an Easter egg hunt.

Experience the 2017 Historic Vineville Christmas Home Tour from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

December 2 and 1-6 p.m. December 3.

Advance tickets are $20; day-of tickets are $25. Tickets include a tour of the historic homes as well as The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House. Get tickets online at vineville.org.  HCL

Experience the 2017 Historic Vineville Christmas Home Tour from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

December 2 and 1-6 p.m. December 3. Advance tickets are $20; day-of tickets are $25.

Tickets include a tour of the historic homes as well as The Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House. Get tickets online at vineville.org.

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Belk, Belk Men’s Store, JCPenney, Sears, Galleria Cinemas, and more than 45 specialty shops are here for your shopping & entertainment needs.

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Women’s Specialty Care has been providing Middle Georgia with the highest gynecological and obstetrical care since 1990.

Gynecology | Obstetrics | Office Procedures

682 Hemlock St # 300, Macon, GA 31201 (478) 744-9683 | wscmacon.com 6084 Lakeview Road, Warner Robins, GA 31088 Physicians: John Slocumb, Paul Evans, Aubrey Harper, Ernest Carlton and Lauren Fried.

Nurse Practitioners: Lindsay Rozier and Elizabeth Whitaker

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Story by Jackie Raburn Photos furnished by The Fine Art Society of Middle GA & Kelly McDonald Photography

W

Warner Robins was growing in the year 2000. People were moving in, not only because of Robins Air Force Base, but also because of other industries and businesses that appreciated the wonderful atmosphere and benefits of living in this small, cosmopolitan city. People were raising families here, retiring here and settling down to live the good life in Warner Robins.

Part of that good life got a little better in 2000, when a group of artists created the Fine Art Society of Middle Georgia. They realized that with the growing community, an organization was needed that would enhance and encourage artists in the area to become better artists, and to share their talents throughout the community. The FAS has more than 100 members across eight counties, and now has an official home, after many years of being without one.

Aaron Brown

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Part of that good life got a little better in 2000, when a group of artists created the Fine Art Society of Middle Georgia. They realized that with the growing community, an organization was needed that would enhance and encourage artists in the area to become better artists, and to share their talents throughout the community. The FAS has more than 100 members across eight counties, and now has an official home, after many years of being without one.

Marlin Adams

Don Wendland

Yoko Hancock

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Sally Spires

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Aaron Brown

In the gallery, FAS artists display their works for sale, gather to take and to teach classes, have receptions and enjoy the camaraderie of other local artists. The FAS hosted a children’s art camp this summer at the gallery, along with art shows, portrait painting and classes for the public. The gallery is available to rent for private parties, luncheons and receptions.

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SHOWN President, Jackie Raburn, with oriental inpsired journal by artist Joy Ranor.

In January, the FAS Gallery opened at 149 S. Commercial Circle as an anchor for the coming redevelopment of downtown Warner Robins. The gallery is home to some of the most beautiful artwork you will ever see. Since Warner Robins is nicknamed the “International City,” the gallery features artists who have lived all over the world before moving to Warner Robins. The caliber of these artists is unmatched in other small, Southern cities.

“It is such an honor to have the Fine Arts Society located on Commercial Circle here in Warner Robins,” said Warner Robins Mayor Randy Toms. “They have had the opportunity to really showcase the talent of citizens in our wonderful city, as The Gallery is for the community, and offers a full range of adult classes, including free sketching each week. The Fine Art Society sponsors an annual Houston County student art show and gives two college scholarship awards to local high school Seniors. Fine Art Society meets the 4th Monday of each month, 7pm, at Flint Energies Bldg. on 96 in Warner Robins.

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Karla Hunt

well as teach others who have dreams of being great artists. They are an asset to our downtown area and I am glad they chose Warner Robins as their home.”

In the gallery, FAS artists display their works for sale, gather to take and to teach classes, have receptions and enjoy the camaraderie of other local artists. The FAS hosted a children’s art camp this summer at the gallery, along with art shows, portrait painting and classes for the public. The gallery is available to rent for private parties, luncheons and receptions.

Mark your calendar now for Christmas on the Circle, sponsored by the Fine Art Society in support Mark your calendar now for Christmas on the Circle, sponsored by the Fine Art Society in support of the gallery.

The November 10-12 art market will showcase unique gifts made by local and regional artists. The three-day event will include a reception Friday night, demonstrations, decorated Christmas trees, baked goods and live music.

The family-friendly event will have activities for kids and also will support local animal shelters.

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of the gallery. The November 10-12 art market will showcase unique gifts made by local and regional artists. The three-day event will include a reception Friday night, demonstrations, decorated Christmas trees, baked goods and live music. The family-friendly event will have activities for kids and also will support local animal shelters.

Stop by and support your local artists by visiting their new home. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see this beautiful gallery in Warner Robins. To learn more about the Fine Art Society of Middle Georgia, visit fasmidga.org, visit www. fasmidga.org and www.facebook.com/ fasmidga, or call FAS Gallery at 478449-8240.  HCL

Steve Lee

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Dr. Ryan Davis and our friendly team of dental professionals are delighted to provide adult and children’s dentistry for patients in the Warner Robins and Macon area. We always want you and your loved ones to have a comfortable and pleasant experience with us!

We Accept Care Credit.

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200 Corporate Pointe • Warner Robins, GA 31088 | 478.922.5882 | davisdentalcarega.com 158

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SBA lending solutions you can build on.

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family taking care of family

Elegant Senior Living

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Flooring and Cabinetry Professionals in Middle Georgia

We have more than 30 years of experience designing, installing and selling custom cabinets and flooring in Warner Robins and the surrounding areas.

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Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker, LLC Certified Public Accountants and Consultants

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Blessing from a

Tragedy

After waiting years for a liver transplant she needed to survive, Lisa Boire received a miracle from an unexpected place

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Story and Photos by Kelly McDonald

A

A simple stomachache that wouldn’t go away was all Lisa Boire thought she was dealing with in high school. Lisa had a bad feeling about her persistent tummy troubles and finally went to the doctor. As a high school student, she only wanted to worry about clothes, cars and boys. Lisa would soon realize that she had more to deal with than most girls her age.

In 1993, Lisa was initially diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, which is an inflammatory bowel disease that prevents the absorption of nutrients into the body. She was having severe stomach pain and losing a lot of weight because of the lack of nutrients, but medication seemed to make her feel better. Lisa

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went through periods of remission and flare-ups all through high school and college. During her many trips to the doctor’s office, they noted that she had elevated liver enzyme levels. Even as her condition fluctuated, her liver levels remained high.

In college, Lisa met and married David. The couple was excited to find out they were expecting a baby girl. At 22, Lisa had an incredibly tough pregnancy due to the ulcerative colitis and elevated liver enzymes. “I lost 30 pounds my first trimester because of the stress on my body,” she said.

However, Lisa and David said they knew this baby would be worth whatever they had to go through to have her. Madison was born healthy and Lisa now had a new, perfect reason to feel better.

In 2001, when baby Madison was only a few weeks old, Lisa was still having problems that took her to the doctor’s office yet again. This time, the diagnosis was an autoimmune liver disease called primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

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Everyone involved seemed stunned about the findings. “PSC is rare and usually is found in men over 40, not a 20-something young mother,” she said.

“Doctors weren’t even looking for it because of my age and gender.”

David and Lisa vowed to take care of their baby and handle whatever Lisa needed as well. Madison was 3 months old when the news came that Lisa would need a liver transplant in the near future. “I was scared to death!

I had a baby to take care of,” Lisa said. “My husband helped take care of me. He was wonderful.” She said she remembers sitting with David before going back to work for the first time in years. “He held my hand and said to me, ‘We will get through this.’ That’s when we first went to Emory in Atlanta for a regular consultation and I ended up in the ICU due to excessive blood loss.” Lisa credits her parents, her siblings, her husband’s parents and a few close friends for coming together to create a plan so David could be with her in Atlanta and someone could take care of Madison.

After the ICU visit and blood transfusions, the hospital still did not classify her as “sick enough” to be on the liver transplant waiting list.

Lisa came home and attempted to get back to the work of being a wife and mother. She still was dealing with her symptoms on a daily basis and her liver enzymes were still high.

Lisa got into UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, and was added to their liver transplant waiting list.

After a few bad experiences there, the couple decided to make the change to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Finally, with her name on a second list, Lisa felt they had made the right move. “Waiting on that phone to ring was torture. We had it with us at all times,” she said. “Our bags remained packed by the door. We waited every day for it to ring.”

Lisa refused to continue to sit

The Diagnosis In 2001, when baby Madison was only a few weeks old, Lisa was still having problems that took her to the doctor’s office yet again. This time, the diagnosis was an autoimmune liver disease called primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

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A Difficult Separation After a year of teaching eighth grade science, her doctors advised her to move closer to Jacksonville so that when the phone finally rang, she could get to the hospital fast. In July 2005, Lisa and David made the agonizing decision to separate their family once again, as Lisa moved to St. Mary’s, Florida.

at home waiting for the phone to ring, so she made the decision to live her life. She returned to college and graduated from Mercer University with a degree in education. “I had times where I felt pretty good and days that I felt awful,” she said. Somehow, she got through graduation. Her eyes were yellow, and her feet and belly were so swollen that some thought she was pregnant again.

“I looked so sick,” Lisa said.

After a year of teaching eighth grade science, her doctors advised her to move closer to Jacksonville so that when the phone finally rang, she could get to the hospital fast.

In July 2005, Lisa and David made the agonizing decision to separate their family once again, as Lisa moved to St. Mary’s, Florida.

She was offered a room rent-free with her friend’s parents. Although grateful to have a place to stay, Madison was about to start pre-K and Lisa was going to miss it all. “I needed to go get help. I was sick, confused and desperately needed a new liver,” she said. But her heart Hometown Living At Its Best

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A Special Gift

Lisa was rolled into surgery to receive the new liver. Normally a patient would have no idea where the organ came from, but Lisa learned through a family friend that this donor was young – too young to die. It was someone who had grown up within 20 miles of her. Someone who knew from her family in those hospital hallway visits that she needed a liver to survive.

broke knowing her baby girl would start school without her mommy by her side. Madison had a difficult time, too. She would become very upset at night, and was too young to really understand why. After three months with no phone call about a new liver, Lisa moved back home.

Then, out of the blue, the phone rang. They had a liver. Lisa traveled to the hospital, went through surgery prep and anxiously waited to see her surgeon. When the doctor walked in, Lisa knew something was wrong. He explained the liver was bad. So once again, Lisa packed up and went back home.

The second time the phone rang, Lisa was

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very hopeful, but it wouldn’t be a match this time either. “I was scared, but even from the beginning, I knew God would heal me,” she said. “I knew God would either heal my liver or find me a new one.”

In 2006, her condition worsened and the swelling was so bad that they admitted her into the medical center for two weeks. During visitation times, her family got to know another family down the hall. They would meet in the hallway and exchange hospital stories and wish each other the best. Lisa was then transferred back to the Mayo Clinic by ambulance and was told that there was nothing else they could do. She was

reactivated on the waiting list.

With no other options, Lisa prepared to go home again. As her dad pushed her in a wheel chair around the hospital, it happened. The phone rang.

The calls began to pour in quickly as news spread around her hometown. People everywhere were praying for her. She had a liver. It was a match.

Someone had asked specifically that Lisa get that liver – a direct donation.

In shock, Lisa was rolled into surgery to receive the new liver. Normally a patient would have no idea where the organ came from, but Lisa learned through a family friend that this donor was young – too young to die. It was someone who had grown

up within 20 miles of her. Someone who knew from her family in those hospital hallway visits that she needed a liver to survive.

Lisa was grateful but found it so hard to come to terms with all she had learned. She went into the operating room for what was supposed to be a seven-hour surgery and came out in a little more than three hours. Lisa said, “I remember my surgeon walking in and telling me that he had never seen a more perfect fit in all of his career.”

“Within 24 hours the swelling was gone, my eyes were no longer yellow, and I was up and walking,” she said. And for the first time in decades, her liver enzyme levels were normal. She

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was in the hospital for about four days and then moved to a hotel close by before going home. Lisa waited about six months, and then one day sat down to write a difficult letter. She enclosed a picture of Madison and said “thank you” the best way she could.

Lisa went back to teaching the following year.

Madison is now in high school and has an interest in photography. David is an aircraft instructor at Central Georgia Technical College. It has been 11 years since the last time that phone rang. Lisa is happy and healthy. She knows beyond a doubt that her husband meant those vows – in sickness and in health. She now spends her days soaking in everything she can with her daughter before she goes off to college.

Despite all the happiness in her life, she said she has had a difficult time dealing with the knowledge of where her new liver came from and the circumstances that led her to receive it. She knew God would heal her, but didn’t know this would be the way. “I came to finally understand that God did not pick one of us over the other,” she said. “He just choose to bless me from a tragedy.”  HCL 170

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Story By Sherri Martin | Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography

future Growing the

of America

FFA is an organization that teaches young people life skills and responsibility, and Houston County does it well.

I

In its earliest days, the Future Farmers of America organization, or FFA, was often considered a “farm boy” club.

The idea was that young men in school who wanted to stay on the farm could learn and practice skills that would help them do just that.

Now, FFA is so much more. In fact, only a very small percentage of members will become full-time farmers.

However, many will go on to have careers in the field of agriculture in some capacity. In addition, many more will use the skills they gain through participation in FFA to find success in whatever they do in life.

Georgia’s FFA program ranks third in the nation, only

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behind California and Texas. Many of the FFA programs in Houston County are known as some of the state’s top chapters. Their success is due to the hard work and dedication of the agriculture teachers and FFA advisors, the commitment of the students, parents and administration, and the support of the community.

During the past 37 years, the FFA program in Houston County has grown from just being at Perry High School and Perry Junior High, to being in all five high schools in the county and all eight middle schools. Dr. Argene Claxton, former Perry High ag teacher and FFA advisor, said that the growth of FFA can be traced to its roots, when

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Cohen Walker was the first FFA advisor in the county, and to the many who followed him, such as Earl Cheek, Hervia Ingram, Jake Redmon and Bill Eaves. “Lots of men and women helped plant the seeds that those of us who are teaching here are now harvesting,” Claxton said.

The program also benefits from having the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter located in Houston County. It provides easy access for livestock shows; both the countywide livestock show and the state livestock show are held there each February. In addition, FFA students participate in a wide variety of projects in the Georgia National Fair each year.

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The Program FFA offers a variety of programs, from horticulture and ag mechanics to forestry and animal science.

Livestock judging is a popular activity, as well as nursery landscaping, floriculture and meats evaluation.

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“Lots of men and women helped plant the seeds that those of us who are teaching here are now harvesting,” - Dr. Argene Claxton

FFA offers a variety of programs, from horticulture and ag mechanics to forestry and animal science. Livestock judging is a popular activity, as well as nursery landscaping, floriculture and meats evaluation. Students can raise and show livestock – from rabbits at Bonaire Middle School and chickens at Warner Robins High School, to dairy cows at Houston County High School and goats, beef cows and hogs at other schools. Each high school has its own farm, where livestock is raised, and each middle school either has a farm or has access to the nearest high school farm. Most schools also have greenhouses on their campuses.

Exposing students to agriculture is a key component of FFA. Claxton explained that FFA portrays to the students the importance of agriculture to America and to the world. “You need a good military and good agriculture, so you can feed yourself and protect yourself,” he said.

“FFA is an organization that teaches students about Hometown Living At Its Best

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agriculture. Only about 3 in 300 students will actually become farmers, but they will be voters, and they will be consumers. They need to understand ag.”

Ashley Denton, ag teacher at Perry High, agreed. “It gives an awareness of where your food comes from,” she said. “We all have to eat. Without ag, we would be starving, naked and homeless.”

Dr. Phil Gentry, Houston County’s Young Farmer Program coordinator, said that FFA exposes students to agriculture-related fields beyond farming. “It’s amazing how many careers are formed from FFA, from vets to ag communication to agribusiness,” he said. “We give them a lot of opportunities to look at a lot of different careers.”

The Young Farmer Program is a state education program that keeps the work of FFA continuing to adults. It currently has about 100 members in Houston County who meet once a month.

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However, FFA goes beyond just ag education. Its value is more intrinsic, far reaching and long lasting.

“It’s authentic living to me, the essence of America, the work ethic that established America,” said Veterans High School Principal Chris Brown. “What these kids are being taught in the classroom – the work, the responsibility they learn from taking care of an animal – it’s just impressive.”

Jeff Wilson is an ag teacher at Veterans High. He is a Perry High graduate who was in FFA while in high school. He said FFA gives students “the opportunity to compete and display their skills on a bigger level than just school. It gives the kids a great opportunity to shine at the community, state and national level.”

After having a “whole different career” before teaching ag at Veterans High, Dr. Clay Walker said his job now is “the most rewarding thing I have done. To me, it’s the kids and the values that are the salt of the

earth. That’s what makes every day tick.”

Tripp Tolleson had a career in forestry planned, but decided during his senior year of college to switch gears and become an ag teacher. He was able to start the ag program and FFA at Warner Robins Middle School. “If you’re not an ag teacher, you don’t have the best job in the world,” he said.

He marvels about what the program is doing in the local community. “We have a hog farm sitting on Russell Parkway,” he said. “We have a 10,000-squarefoot garden, and we give all the produce away to the community.”

He says that when a student chooses to show a livestock animal, it is a big investment for the families, but added, “The first time a kid gets to touch an animal, it is a life-changing moment.”

James Judson, ag teacher at Feagin Mill Middle School, said that their students can show pigs or rabbits, with rabbits being less of a monetary investment. He says that Houston County is very supportive of FFA, and in return FFA benefits the community. “For all of the livestock projects, they have to buy feed for the animals,” he said. “All of that money stays in the county.”

The students in the ag program also have much to say about it.

Several students were interviewed at the countywide livestock show in February. At that point, Mossy Creek Middle eighth grader Jake Carver was in his third season showing animals. “I like being involved with all of the career development events and getting to meet new people,” he said. “I like getting to work with the animals.

I want to become a wildlife biologist.”

Teaching The Salt Of The Earth After having a “whole different career” before teaching ag at Veterans High, Dr. Clay Walker said his job now is “the most rewarding thing I have done. To me, it’s the kids and the values that are the salt of the earth. That’s what makes every day tick.”

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“The first time a kid gets to touch an animal, it is a life-changing moment.”

- Tripp Tolleson

Emily Booth, then a senior at Perry High, began showing pigs as a freshman. She said she hopes to study veterinary science for large animals. “It teaches you a lot about how to manage and take care of animals and also teaches patience,” she said. “You gain a lot of different friends. There is nothing like it.”

“I enjoy working with other people and getting to know your livestock,” said Garrett Hogsett, then a Mossy Creek eighth grader. “It’s good getting to know your pig and working with it every day, and doing what you’re supposed to do.”

Northside High graduate Olivia Duckworth judged poultry and showed cows and pigs throughout her career in FFA. She also was captain of the varsity cheer squad. “It is a big time commitment,” she said about FFA. “It teaches a lot of responsibility. Because you’re not only showing to win; at the end of the season, your animal is either going to market or to breed. My whole family is involved. We do this as a family, and spend a lot of time out there working together. It’s definitely a family project.

I have a sister who shows goats and pigs in middle school. I am going to help her through her career.”

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Parents of FFA students also see how the program is impacting their children. Jake Carver’s father, Richard, who was also in FFA as a student, said, “It has really helped Jake with all of his other classes and academics, and in areas like filling out paperwork and how to speak to people.”

Mom Carnie Foulks says about her daughter, Desiree, then an eighth grader at Warner Robins Middle, “It’s changed her completely. Before FFA, she wanted to go to Harvard to be a lawyer and go back and get a doctorate. Now she wants to be an ag teacher, and go to Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. It’s just amazing how much they learn. She’s just growing into a well-rounded young lady.”

FFA is a life-impacting organization, one that continues to reach many students in Houston County.

“The experiences they get in FFA are like no other,” said Walker, the Veterans High ag teacher. “The sky’s the limit.”

Denton, the Perry High ag teacher, added, “We’re raising kids for our county’s future and our nation’s future.”  HCL

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The senior volunteers at Southside Baptist call their group “Threads of Love” because every stitch that is sewn is made with love for these children. The Bible said of David that he cared for his people with a true heart and led them with skillful hands. And so, these ladies care for children with their hearts, and use their hands to cut out the patterns, stitch the bears, paint the faces, and stuff and trim them. According to the group leader, the whole process takes about 45 minutes to make one bear. They use a little bit of a production line to keep things going, and take advantage of some of the ladies’ individual skills. With every bear goes a prayer for the recipient and everyone impacted by the crisis at hand.

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Story by Gail Dixon & Pastor Roger Cook Photos by Kelly McDonald and Pastor Roger Cook

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Every day in Middle Georgia and beyond, little children face trauma – from accidents, family issues, health emergencies, crime and other circumstances of life. Through no fault of their own they face pain, fear and great emotional upset. A group of ladies at Southside Baptist Church in Warner Robins has come together to help the children and the families of Houston County who are caught up in these types of difficult situations.

“Loving God, loving people and loving the world on the journey to life change,” is the motto that drives everything Southside Baptist Church does.

This includes all of its members – from children through senior adults. It is the reason for the church’s programming, preaching, discipleship classes, life groups, community outreach and mission trips.

Because of limited energy, health or care-giving responsibilities, those who have lovingly labored in church for many years sometimes find themselves

searching for new ways to serve the Lord. Seniors have so much to offer in the way of experience, wisdom and compassion. These are wonderful tools to use in God’s service, and they are continually seeking new ways to use these talents.

Last summer, Roger Cook and his wife, Konnie, made the decision to move to Warner Robins from Taylor, Michigan, (the Detroit area) to join the staff of Southside Baptist as Pastor to the Seniors. Roger had known Head Pastor Jerry Walls for many years and Roger’s son Drew Cook has served as Children’s Pastor there for almost 10 years. Having served as the administrator of a K-12 Christian school and on the staff of the Gilead Baptist Church of Taylor for 42 years, it was now time to work with folks in the later season of life.

Among Pastor Roger’s dreams was a desire to help seniors continue the lifelong process of learning and growing their faith, and to seek out

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opportunities to serve their world. One of these opportunities he brought with him from Michigan was something called the Bear Ministry. This was a ministry driven by a group of ladies who made stuffed bears to be given to “hurting” children in emergency or extenuating circumstances. It was a lovingly effective way of calming and comforting children in distress.

Pastor Roger presented this ministry idea to a group of his senior ladies and they got excited about being able to bring comfort to children in crisis situations. He contacted the group in Michigan and they graciously provided special patterns, detailed instructions, and even supplies to get them started. The ladies gathered donated materials and went to work. Soon, those little love gifts rolled off their assembly line.

The senior volunteers at Southside Baptist call their group “Threads of Love” because every stitch

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that is sewn is made with love for these children.

The Bible said of David that he cared for his people with a true heart and led them with skillful hands.

And so, these ladies care for children with their hearts, and use their hands to cut out the patterns, stitch the bears, paint the faces, and stuff and trim them. According to the group leader, the whole process takes about 45 minutes to make one bear.

They use a little bit of a production line to keep things going, and take advantage of some of the ladies’ individual skills. With every bear goes a prayer for the recipient and everyone impacted by the crisis at hand.

“The senior ladies who work on these comfort bears are not able to do everything they did years ago, but they are, by no means, ready to quit serving the Lord,” Pastor Roger said. “They have skills they have learned in life and they love the idea of helping children in need. They are

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The very first bear was delivered in March to a 2-yearold named Jorgie Mae at Houston Medical Center, where she was dealing with pneumonia. What a thrill it was to see the joy on her face when she received her bear – such a “little” thing, but one with an amazing impact. It is so like the Lord to use cloth, fiber filler and a group of ladies with willing hearts to bless and to comfort one of his little children.

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grandmothers and great-grandmothers who learned through the ups and downs of life, that serving the Lord and others is the greatest calling. Some might look at their efforts and think what they do is easy, but after a few bloody fingers they would probably have a lot more respect for needle work.”

Once the group had a good stock of bears, it was time for some legwork. They needed places to take these bears so that God could use them when the need arose. So, the ladies made contact with police departments, fire departments and other first responders. They also are provided to emergency rooms at hospitals and in wings serving sick children.

The very first bear was delivered in March to a 2-year-old named Jorgie Mae at Houston Medical Center, where she was dealing with pneumonia.

What a thrill it was to see the joy on her face when she received her bear – such a “little” thing, but

one with an amazing impact. It is so like the Lord to use cloth, fiber filler and a group of ladies with willing hearts to bless and to comfort one of his little children.

In a recent development, Pastor Roger met with 78th Air Base Wing Chaplain Rolf Holmquist, who is the wing chaplain at Robins Air Force Base, to discuss an opportunity to provide comfort bears to military chaplains for use in their work with military personnel and their families. His enthusiastic approval was received, and the ladies went to work to supply the bears needed. Some of the little bears were made of camouflage material and wore military caps. They also made a few stuffed footballs. Looking back, they have been blessed to make more than 300 items in the seven months since they began the “Threads of Love” ministry in January.

But their story does not end within the

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“We are really blessed to see our bears be of comfort far beyond the borders of Houston County. Having served children my whole life, I have seen how small acts of loving kindness can make a real difference in a child’s life,” said Pastor Roger. “The Bible calls ‘giving a cup of cold water in my name’ something that will be blessed. It blesses not only the receiver, but also the giver. The graceful seeds of love these wonderful ladies are sowing through the bear ministry will undoubtedly produce fruit long after they have laid down their needle and thread.”

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boundaries of Houston County – or even within the borders of Georgia. In July, the ministry expanded in a way the group had never imagined. The bears were sent to a place thousands of miles away from Georgia, when Southside church members on a mission trip took comfort bears to Buenos Aires, Argentina, to an orphanage ministry. The children there, who have very few belongings, absolutely loved them. The ladies are now exploring other opportunities for helping mission groups around the world.

“We are really blessed to see our bears be of comfort

far beyond the borders of Houston County. Having served children my whole life, I have seen how small acts of loving kindness can make a real difference in a child’s life,” said Pastor Roger.

“The Bible calls ‘giving a cup of cold water in my name’ something that will be blessed. It blesses not only the receiver, but also the giver. The graceful seeds of love these wonderful ladies are sowing through the bear ministry will undoubtedly produce fruit long after they have laid down their needle and thread.”  HCL

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10 Cent Title Pawn ……................................................................ 203 180o Home Realty …..................................................................…. 79 Abreannes ……............................................................................ 206 AgGeorgia Farm Credit ………........................................................ 73 Allen’s Tree Service ……............................................................... 177 Antique Theatre ………................................................................... 75 Bamboo Nails & Spa …...........................................................…. 191 Blossom’s Grooming Salon ….................................................…. 191 Bob White Self Storage ….......................................................…. 204 Bobo’s Dance Supply …..........................................................…. 189 Bodega Brew ……........................................................................ 189 Boland Prosthetic & Orthotic Center ……....................................... 91 Brannen Outfitters ………............................................................... 23 Bridals by Gilbert …….................................................................. 119 Canine Clubhouse ………............................................................... 62 Captured In Time Photography ……............................................. 161 Carlyle Place Navicent Health …..............................................…. 158 Carmel W. Sanders P.C. ……........................................................ 132 CB&T Bank of Middle Georgia ….............................................…. 159 Central GA Periodontics & Dental Implants ……....................... 10-11 Central Georgia Heart Institute, LLC ……….................................... 32 Central Georgia Technical College ….......................................…. 136 Church Home LifeSpring ……….................................................... 2-3 City of Centerville …..............................................................…….. 49 City of Warner Robins ……….......................................................... 45 Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker, LLC ……............................... 161 Colony Bank ……......................................................................... 110 Computers ETC ……..................................................................... 206 Cornerstone Medical Associates, LLC …...............................…….. 44 Country Financial - Shawn Buchanan, MBA ………........................ 63 Davis Dental Care ……................................................................. 158 Dermatologic Surgery Specialists, PC …….................................. 136 Do It Best Houston Hardware & Garden Center ……..................... 176 Dorothy Sichelstiel …..............................................................…. 204 Edward Jones - Andrew Fogal …….................................................. 76 Edward Jones - Bob McCullough, AAMS ……................................. 76 Edward Jones - Marlon D. Rhodes …..........................................…. 76 Edward Jones - Parrish S. Jenkins …..........................................…. 76 Edward Jones - Skip Malcom, AAMS ……....................................... 76 Essential Body Organic Skincare …...........................................…. 77 Events at Cherokee Pines …....................................................…. 108 Evergreen Propane ……............................................................... 122 Family Dental Associates ….....................................................…. 146 Flint Energies …….......................................................................….. 9 Floor Pro ..............................................................................……. 207 FOPAS …….................................................................................... 89 Forest Hill Park ……..................................................................... 108 Fricks Bohan, LLC ……................................................................. 123 Fringe Salon ….........................................................................…. 110 G.G.’s Walk In Closet …...........................................................…. 202 Genesis Weight Loss & Body Sculpting ……................................. 149 Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center ……......................... 174 Georgia Driving School …........................................................…. 109 Georgia Southern University ………................................................ 61 Golden Key - Amanda Fiebig ................................................……. 190 Green Acres Baptist Church …….................................................. 122 Hampton Inn by Hilton ….........................................................…. 123 Heart of Georgia Hospice ……...................................................... 137 Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory ……...................... 33 Houston County Galleria …......................................................…. 147 Houston County Living ….........................................................…. 189 Houston Healthcare ……..................................................….. 35, 107 Houston Lake Country Club …….................................................. 187 J Andrews Salon …..................................................................…. 206 JWS Construction ……................................................................. 204 Kerri Moore Interiors ……............................................................. 137 Lashley Insurance Agency, Inc. - Allstate …….............................. 135 Lassetter Implement Company ……............................................. 147 Loden Dental Associates ….......................................................…. 93 Logic4Design ….......................................................................…. 176 Magnolia Park Cemetery & Mausoleum ……….............................. 21 McCalls Tastes to Remember …..............................................…. 207 McCullough Funeral Home & Crematory ………............................. 20 Meme’s Boutique …................................................................…. 191 Microtel Inn & Suites …............................................................... 188 Middle Georgia Orthopaedics ..............................................…….. 60

Mike’s Tree & Landscaping …….................................................. 148 Mobley Furniture & Bedding ….......................................…. 119, 175 Moodie’s on Site ..….................................................................…. 92 Moore Insurance Agency ….....................................................…. 190 Morris Bank …….........................................................................….. 5 Mossy Creek Natural ……............................................................ 135 My Father’s Place …................................................................…. 172 My Grandma’s Empanadas …….................................................. 190 Obsession Bows ……............................................. Inside Back Cover Occasions at Lake Joy …..........................................................…. 108 OdoBan ………............................................................................... 58 Oil Lamp Restaurant ……............................................................. 174 OrthoGeorgia Orthopaedic Specialists ………............................... 48 Osborne’s Clock Repair ……........................................................ 121 Parrish Construction Group …….................................................. 187 Paul Anderson Youth Home ….................................................…. 172 Pearson Farms ………...................................................................... 7 Pellicano Construction ……......................................................... 134 Perry Chamber of Commerce ……................................................. 90 Perry Drug Company …............................................................…. 121 Perry Ford …..........................................................................…….. 22 Perry Memorial Gardens ………...................................................... 74 Perry Spine & Wellness ….....................................................…... 202 Pet Stop ……............................................................................... 146 Phillips Furniture …….................................................................. 111 Physicians for Women, PC …….................................................... 111 Planters First Bank …..............................................................…. 148 Pool Orthodontics …...............................................................…. 109 Primary Pediatrics ……................................................................ 177 Raccoon Stone and Tile Works ……............................................. 132 Rescare Homecare …..............................................................…. 207 Robbins & Free Realty …...................................…. Inside Front Cover Sakari & Company …........................…....................................... 207 Salon Fusion ……........................................................................... 77 Scales Exotic Pets ……................................................................ 203 Shell’s Seafood Restaurant ……................................................. 205 Sheridan Soloman & Associates, LLC Realtors …...................…. 203 Smith Animal Hospital …........................................................…. 204 South Georgia State College ……................................................ 159 South Houston Internal Medicine LLC …….................................. 202 Southeast Mortgage …............................................................…. 171 Southern Dynamic Realty ……..................................................... 205 Southern Lighting …................................................................…. 120 Southwood Animal Hospital ……................................................. 133 Spillers Orthodontics ……..........................................................….. 1 Spotless Cleaning Service Inc. …..............................................…. 78 St. Peter Claver Catholic School ……........................................... 171 Sugar Plum Tree ……................................................................... 191 Summerhill Senior Living Community ………................................. 59 Summers Landing ……................................................................ 160 Tangerines Tanning & Oxygen Bar ….......................................…. 120 That Store ……............................................................................. 106 The Bank of Perry ……................................................................. 205 The Butcher Shop …................................................................…. 134 The Casserole Shop & Bakery ….............................................…. 188 The Floor Store Warehouse & Showroom …................................. 160 The Local Marketplace …................................................…. 206-207 The Muse Theatre Foundation, Inc. - Perry Arts ….....................…. 75 The Preserve at Agricultural Village ................................. Back Cover The Rustic Bistro ….................................................................…. 203 The Swanson …….....................................................................….. 34 The Westfield School …...........................................................…. 173 Upshaw General Construction ….............................................…. 207 Vision Savers ….......................................................................…. 202 Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services ……............................ 205 Walker-Rhodes Tractor Company ……......................................... 190 Warner Robins Building Supply Co. ….......................................…. 88 Warner Robins E.N.T. Associates ….........................................…. 133 Warner Robins Property Mgmt …..............................................…. 79 Warner Robins Rehabilitation Center …..................................…. 175 Watson-Hunt Funeral Home ……..............................................….. 46 We Care Heating & Air ….........................................................…. 207 Westmoreland & Slappey Animal Hospital ……........................... 173 Wild Organics Juice …...............................................................…. 77 Women’s Health Care …............................................................…. 47 Women’s Specialty Care …......................................................…. 149

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

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houston county living

1101 Washington Street Perry, GA 31069 Residential (478) 987-0763 Commercial (478) 218-2600

1271 S. Houston Lake Road Warner Robins, GA 31088 (478) 218-8052 Residential (478) 218-2600 Commercial

Residential

Commercial

New Construction

If you are currently in Real Estate and looking for a change or considering a career in Real Estate, I would like an opportunity to talk with you.

Our new, competitive commission schedule is worth a look!

478-988-8442 rentals@richardsonfreerentals.

Richardson Free Realty is a full service property management company since 1984.

• Online & In Person Classes • •

• Post license / CE

•

• All courses are approved by the Georgia Real

•

• Active Duty, retired and honorably discharged

•

Estate Commission

veteran—Ask for your $100 discount on licensing courses!

1271 S. Houston Lake Rd. Warner Robins, GA 31088

http://donaldfreerealestateschool.com

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information@robbinsfree.com

Ricki Free School Administrator & Instructor 478-955-5986 rickifree@robbinsfree.com

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Scott Free, Broker / Owner Coldwell Banker Robbins & Free Realty Email: scottfree@robbinsfree.com Office: 478-218-2600 Cell: 478-951-3333

www.robbinsfree.com

• 75 Hour Salesperson

Land

• • •

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1271 S. Houston Lake Rd.Warner Robins, GA 31088

www.richardsonfreerealty.com

Winter 2017

Brand New LUXURY SWIM COMMUNITY

also...

Gymnastic Girls Five out of the six best gymnasts in Georgia all came from Houston County.

From Veteran to Veterinarian After a full career in the military, the opportunity to attend veterinary school and continue to serve her community came forward.

1/4 MILE WEST OF I-75 AT EXIT 134 – PERRY BLVD LAUREN SLAUGHTER

478.955.3176

ThePreserveAtAgVillage.com

Retired Work Local veteran, Chuck Norton, works to help fellow soldiers.

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