My cook magazine september 2017

My...

Lifestyle • After Hours Farm Life • Worship Fashion • Home Décor

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A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E ADEL NEWS TRIBUNE 1 3 1 S . H U T C H I N S O N AV E .

ADEL, GA 31620 General Manager

September

Maria Hardman Editor Charles Shiver Advertising

Contents 5

Tasha Bagley

Deborah Farmer Graphics & Composition Brandi Sellars Carmen Statham

18

Sparks will fly

6-7

My Lifestyle

My Farm Life Life on the farm

19

Local Artist Ms. Tessier paints canvases at home

8-9

Family Remembers Veteran who served in three wars

20-21 My Worship Captured images of prayer around the Cook County Community

10-11 Marianne Talley Darby Sewing the fabric of our community

12

Facing storms in life while lifting others up

My After Hours Cook County after hours

13

22-23 Coach Steve 24

Fashion inspirations

Angi Fulp McClain CMS Teacher of the Year

25

16-17 The Goodyear Garden Elise’s Yard of Curiosities

My Home DĂŠcor Showcasing interior designs

14-15 Candace Horne Leads with Style & Grace

My Fashion

26

Dr. Mac State of Dentistry 2017

Sparks will fly: Tasha Bagley builds her own jewelry design business Tasha Bagley is a jewelry designer and small business owner. She is the daughter of Tony and Linda Bagley of Sparks, Ga. Tasha worked for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources from 2007 to 2016. She was an Environmental Specialist in water quality. She worked for the Department of Natural Re-

sources/Environmental Protection Division/ Watershed Protection Branch/ Ambient Monitoring Unit out of Tifton.

“We monitored the watersheds in South Georgia for water quality, including lakes, rivers, and streams,” she said.

Tasha has made jewelry for as long as she can remember; it has definitely evolved over time. She began hand stamping in late 2013 and totally fell in love with the infinite design possibilities that the craft provided.

Toshie Designs was formed in 2014.

The name is in remembrance of her childhood neighbors (Mr. Earl and Mrs. Ruth Spires). Mr. Earl never called her “tASHa” - He always called her tOSHie. They were like grandparents to her, and she wanted to honor them in this small way.

In April 2015, Tasha began selling her handcrafted jewelry on Etsy (a selling platform for handmade businesses). By the end of 2015, she had made over 460 sales! Her designs can be found on Etsy and Facebook, and in many boutiques throughout South Georgia, including the Nest right here in Adel. She hopes to launch a website and complete her Handmade at Amazon shop by the end of the year.

Working two full-time jobs was beginning to be more than Tasha could handle,

so she chose the career that made her the happiest. In July 2016, she made a hard decision to leave her position with the State of Georgia to be a full-time small business owner. It’s a decision she has never regretted.

“I make personalized jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and anklets), and much more, including keychains, fishing lure tags, bottle openers, medical I.D. tags, and pet I.D. tags. Basically, something for everyone in the family, gifts for men, women, and children,” Tasha said.

Tasha’s mother helps her with the family business operated at home.

Tasha grew up in Cook County and was a 2002 graduate of Cook High School. She received her Associate’s Degree (Agribusiness) from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton in 2004 and Bachelor’s Degree in Agriscience and Environmental Systems in 2006 from the University of Georgia.

Last November, Tasha moved back to Cook County and has loved being back “home.”

Cook County has helped to make Tasha the person she is today, thanks to the many FFA and 4-H projects, community activities, and scholarship opportunities that were a huge part of her youth.

You can find Tasha’s jewelry on Etsy (www.toshiedesigns.etsy.com), Facebook (www.facebook.com/toshiedesigns), and Pinterest (Toshie Designs).

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My Cook 5

My Lifestyle Firefighters vs Law Enforcement Baseball Game Pictured above, L-R: Lane Huckaby and Harper Wynne at First T Ball Game Left, L-R: Kaitlin Sellers, Summer Nava, and Cassie Nava

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Firefighters vs Law Enforcement Baseball Game Pictured below, L-R: Jvon Crittenden, Albert Thomas, Michael Johnson, Loretta Robinson, John Crittenden, Leon Anderson, Sara Crittenden, Sandra Green, Albert Hutchison

Pictured above: Tarayana Greene enjoying the edge of the pond at Nana & Poppa’s house.

Right, L-R: Brantlee Davis, Tia King, Adriana King, Payj Tucker, Harmony Mixon, Clay King

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Shown above: SMSgt Charles E. (Chuck) Brewington This shadow box holds the numerous medals that SMSgt Brewington earned during more than two dozen years of service with the U.S. Army Air Corps and U.S. Air Force.

Brewington’s medals and awards include Republic Vietnam Campaign, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship, Air Force Longevity Service award with four clusters, Vietnam Service, Humane Action, Army Occupation with Berlin Airlift device, WWII Victory, Good Conduct (Army), Air Force Good Conduct with silver clasp, and Air Force Commendation with two stars.

Brewington loved Germany, but noted the many buildings destroyed by bombs during the war, his wife said.

Mrs. Brewington recalled that her husband helped get supplies to American troops in Vietnam. “He would send us little audio casette tapes as messages in the mail, but he couldn’t tell us where he was at” on classified missions, she said.

Brewington had the privilege of serving with Gen. Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr. (the leader of the Tuskegee Airmen) in Taiwan and with Gen. Paul

W. Tibbets Jr. (the pilot of the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima) at Hunter AFB, Ga. Brewington retired from the Air Force on Jan. 1, 1971, with 24 years, seven months, and one day. “He never did talk about his service, but he loved the military,” Mrs. Brewington said.

He and his wife moved to Adel, where her mother Edna Brannon lived (Mrs. Brewington’s father was Byron Brannon).

Brewington started his own air conditioning business and retired after 22 years. He serviced air conditioners for all of John L. Williams’ properties. “Somebody told me that they had found his book on the air conditioning business, which told how he did it so well,” Mrs. Brewington said.

She added that most people probably remember Brewington as always wearing blue coveralls when on his air conditioning job.

Brewington was very active at the Adel First

Assembly of God Church. He served on the deacon board, taught Junior Boys Sunday School, was the leader of the Boys Royal Rangers, and was later leader of a men’s Sunday School class.

Brewington loved his God, family, and country. He passed away on Dec. 16, 2011, and was buried with full military honors.

Frank McHann, Brewington’s son-in-law and Yoni McHann’s husband, was going to Clemson University on a football scholarship, but then decided to join the U.S. Navy.

During the Korean War, enemy forces shot down a plane on which McHann was a passenger. A South Korean fisherman picked up McHann and another American serviceman, and they were saved. However, the downed plane and its pilot were never found.

Born and raised in Albany, McHann later worked with the U.S. Post Office as a career. He passed away on Dec. 27, 2010.

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Allie Galifianakis, Mrs. Darby’s youngest granddaughter, stands in a christening dress designed by Mrs. Darby and sewn using French Hand Sewing techniques. The fabric is Swiss batiste, lace insertion applied with entredeux, pintucks, ruffles, and satin ribbons.

Marianne Talley Darby: Veteran teacher has excelled in sewing the fabric of our community Marianne is a native of Adel and has resided here all her life. She attended Cook County schools and graduated from Cook High School in 1955. During her high school years, she was an honor student, a cheerleader, and the first Homecoming Queen for Cook High School. She was the valedictorian and also received the medal for highest scholastic average in the school.

She attended Emory University in Atlanta and was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and inducted into Alpha Epsilon Upsilon, a scholastic honorary. She received a BS degree in Early Childhood Education from Valdosta State University, where she was a member of Alpha Chi scholastic honorary and graduated with a 4.0 grade point average.

Marianne feels fortunate to have met the love of her life, Roy Darby, at age 13 while attending a Ballroom Dance Class. They married on April 2, 1958,

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and will celebrate 60 years next April.

The Darbys were blessed with three talented daughters, Susan, Leslie, and Allison, and two wonderful sons-in-law, Kenny Young and Timmy Davis. The Darbys are grandparents of three “amazing” granddaughters, Mary Elizabeth and Darby Davis and Allie Galifianakis.

Marianne considers her family be her greatest blessing and outstanding joy! Marianne has been an active member of Adel United Methodist Church for 65 years.

She has taught Sunday school and with one other member organized a weekly program for children, “The Lord’s Army.” She is a member of the “Christian Joys” circle and a weekly Bible study group. She was president of the Adel unit of United Methodist Women and held the office of Membership, Nurture, and Outreach for the Valdosta District.

She sewed the Altar Cloths for the pulpit in church and is quick to carry meals to the sick and to volunteer for the Angel Tree and other needs.

Pictured top right: Some of the pocketbooks that Mrs. Darby designed, sewed, and sold at Red Door Interiors in Atlanta.

Below: The former Marianne Talley was crowned as Cook High School’s first Homecoming Queen in 1954. The handsome football player escorting her is her future husband Roy Darby. The Darbys will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary in April 2018. Mrs. Darby recalled that the community didn’t have a Homecoming Parade that year, but she rode on the hood of a 1954 Ford car (which had just changed styles) around the football field.

Marianne strives to exhibit the “Fruit of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23.

In 1973, Marianne began her teaching career at Adel Elementary School and taught first grade for 25 years until her retirement. She loved the children and had great rapport with the students and parents. During the summer, she voluntarily tutored children who needed extra help.

Marianne always knew that a child was the parent’s most valuable gift and she treated each one as if he/she were her own.

Marianne was an active member of Alpha Delta Kappa and was named “Teacher of the Year” for Cook Primary School in 1998. She was included in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and Who’s Who of American Women. Although these were distinct honors, no accolade means as much as the hugs and comments from former students who she meets almost every day.

Marianne began making clothes for her daughters in 1964. Sewing became her passion as she sewed not only for her family but for friends. She was often hemming or altering an outfit for a friend. After teaching, she would cut out and sew an outfit for one of her daughters before school the next morning. This sewing clothes for her daughters continued through her college years and then followed with the granddaughters.

Marianne received training from Martha Pullen Sewing School and began French Hand Sewing by Machine. One of her christening gowns was featured in a Sew Blessed advertisement in the Valdosta Magazine. Marianne also designed and sewed fabric pocketbooks and diaper bags that were sold at Red Door Interiors in Atlanta. She still loves to sew and makes applique children’s clothes, draperies, and home accessories.

Marianne is grateful for all her blessings: A beautiful, loving family; a strong, supportive church; and a wonderful, caring community.

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My After Hours

Nikki Wynne and Rachel Huckaby at Horse Creek Winery

Bess Byrd, Crystal Howell, Kala Hobbs, Kathryn Surrency, Rebecca Taylor

Back, L-R: Jessica Wilson, Shamika Rountree Lawson, Middle: Veronica DeBerry-Sharpe, Candace Horne, Markia Weaver, Katonia Williams, Shamika Turner, Front: Tierra DeBerry, Ebony Scruggs, Brandei DeBerry, Katavia Fuller, Maria Hardman and Kenya Williams

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Angi Fulp McClain: CMS Teacher of the Year shapes lives of students for the better

at CMS. She said she has great coworkers. She was Certification in 2016. As of the 2016-17 school year, very grateful and deeply touched to be honored as her experience included two years in second grade Teacher of the Year. as a paraprofessional, and, as a teacher, seven years

By Charles Shiver Angi has been employed by the Cook County in third grade, all subjects; seven years in ESOL, Angi Fulp McClain, who is Cook Middle School Board of Education for 20 years, 18 years as a grades K-8; and three years in math, grade 7. “I am (CMS) and Cook County Teacher of the Year for teacher. excited to begin new accelerated math,” 2017, builds positive relationships not only with her She earned an Associate of Angi said.

Angi coworkers, but with her students as well.

Arts (A.A.) Degree in Business “Although any teacher follows this saying Her dedication to her job as a teacher and her Administration and Jouraims for great test scores, I own children helps build the future of our commu- nalism from ABAC in like to teach students that as guidance in her life: nity.

1997; a Bachelor of Scilife is more than a test,” “The best part is when a former student can re- ence Degree (BS Ed.) in Angi added. “Memories call something I taught them or describe an experi- Early Childhood Educaand experiences create ence they enjoyed,” Angi said. tion from Valdosta State our future.”

Joy Folsom, Cook County Schools’ PK-12 Cur- University (VSU) in Angi serves as the riculum/Testing Coordinator, recently presented the 2000; English to Speakdriving force behind field plaque for Cook County Teacher of the Year to ers of Other Languages trips and dances at CMS. Angi. The announcement of the School System’s (ESOL) certification in 2006; She writes grants for free ad- Anonymous Teacher of the Year was made at the Adel-Cook Master’s Degree (M. Ed.) in mission to the Georgia AquarCounty Chamber of Commerce’s Back to School Special Education, Interrelated, ium in Atlanta and has solicited Breakfast on Monday, Aug. 7, 2017, with hundreds from VSU in 2007; certification in Middle assistance from Pike Creek Turf and the in attendance in the CMS cafeteria.

Grades Language Arts in 2008; certification in Mid- Cook County Farm Bureau to offset the costs of Angi teaches math and works on Team 7 Black dle Grades Math and Reading in 2010; and Gifted Flint Riverquarium trips. She also created the annual Costume Party dance with prizes.

Following the worst natural disaster in Cook County’s history on Jan. 22, 2017, Angi coordinated volunteer groups from CMS to work at the tornado relief warehouse and the Second Harvest Food Bank.

She recently organized the Miss CMS Pageant, on Saturday, Sept. 9. Angi said her favorite CMS activity is making signs and winning the spirit stick at pep rallies. Angi volunteers with the Hahira Lions Club. The daughter of Toney and Judy Fulp and Vicky Hayes, Angi likes to joke that she has her own classroom at home with her daughters Stella, 8; Angi McClain with students who worked as a tornado relief group after Lucy, 7; and Milly, 5. the worst natural disaster in Cook County’s history on Jan. 22, 2017.

“All the world is a dance floor.

Don’t be a wall flower.”

September 2017 •

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Candace Horne, featured on the front cover of My Cook Magazine, is a community leader who has a wonderful learning center for children, and she is a great role model.

“She is a beautiful wife and mother, and leads with style and grace,” said her friend and admirer Anna Carter.

“Follow your passion, be prepared to work hard and sacrifice, and, above all, don’t let anyone limit your dreams.” Candace, owner and operator of Candy Cane’s Learning Center and Candy Cane’s Day Care Center, has invoked this motto as her inspiration for dreaming big and diligently working to make her dreams come true!

(The business name, “Candy Cane,” of course, is built on the nickname “Candy” for Candace.)

“I am using my gifts to better my community,” Candace said.

To know Candace is to love her, especially because she is deeply concerned about educational and social issues that children are facing.

“Statistics show that black children in particular are really suffering across Georgia,” she said. The crucial ages for children to read at the developmentally appropriate grade levels so they become successful later in life are between 5 and 8. “If a parent will read to a child two to three times a day, it will make a difference,” she said.

“Read to your children. That is so important.”

Candace said she would like to see more programs and activities available for children in Adel and Cook County. Staying busy involved in positive activities will help keep them off the streets and out of trouble, she said. “We as a community need to do a better job of letting them know we care.”

As an 11-year veteran owner and operator of Candy Cane’s Day Care Center, a 3 Star, Bright from the Start Quality Rated center and the first NAEYC, nationally accredited child care center in Cook County (accredited in 2012), Candace dreamed of one day opening a full fledged child care center that could further address the child care needs of Cook County. She had started the Day Care Center in her home in May 2006.

As Candace committed to her dream, so did Chris Horne, her husband of 11 years, by assisting her in cultivating a dream into a reality. The Hornes moved a doctor’s office from Jacksonville, Fla., to Adel and remodeled it for her business expansion. On Feb. 27, 2017, Candace and Chris officially opened Candy Cane’s Learning Center.

A Quality Rated Child Care Center is an indication to prospective parents that the center has successfully met the stringent evaluations of the Georgia Department of Early Learning – Bright from the Start. The highest rating being a 3 Star indicates that the owner and staff have committed themselves to excellence in service by providing a safe, healthy, and caring environment that embraces developmentally appropriate instruction guided by a curriculum that prepares children for their next step on the educational stage.

The new center provides a developmentally appropriate program of activities that support children ages 6 weeks through 12 years of age through weekly child care, Summer Camps, Family Engagement Programs, and much, much more. Candy Cane’s Learning Center is located across the street from Candy Cane’s Day Care Center at 404 S. MLK, Jr., Drive in Adel.

“We are committed to getting children on track in their earliest years and consequently, helping parents to become their best teachers,” Candace said.

“By partnering with a lot of other local organizations, we are able to layer together programs and leverage funding so that we can offer truly high-quality services,” she said.

During the school year, Candy Cane’s Learning Center distributes a limited number of scholarships at little to no cost to parents for child care. The center offers enrollment to about 40 children whose parents are seeking a safe and reliable place for their children to learn.

“These components include a reasonable student-teacher ratio, engaged children, and one-on-one interactions between students and teachers,” Candace said.

Candy Cane’s Learning Center promotes parental involvement through various programs, such as Doughnuts with Dads, Muffins with Moms, and, most recently, the painting of rocks for the rock hiding game that is sweeping the community. “I am amazed at how many folks show up for these events,” she said.

Candace remarked that the Learning Center is successful as the result of her staff members’ efforts as well. “I did not do all this by myself,” she said. Her staff includes Joyce Durden (her mom), Ranata Johnson, Miyoki Howard, Dinna Carter, and Ella Cusack.

Candace also would like to give special thanks to her business coach/mentor Alma Barnes (National Institution for Child Care Advancement).

Candace is a 1999 graduate of Cook High School. During her time as a student in Cook County Schools, she played basketball for the Cook Middle Stingers and softball for the Adel-Cook Recreation Department. She played the clarinet for the Middle School Stingers and then was a member of the Marching Hornets’ color guard. She was the band captain during her junior and senior years in high school.

She went on to earn an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Care from Moultrie Technical College and a Business Office Technology Degree from Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.

Her community involvement has included serving as a cheer coach for the Wildcats/Rams (Recreation Department) from 2006 to 2009. Her business is a member of the Adel-Cook County Chamber of Commerce. She has promoted literacy through her work with Cook County Family Connection and CCFC Executive Director Zoe Myers.

Candace gives out books to children in the community.

By special invitation, more than 200 community leaders from across Georgia gathered at Georgia College, Milledgeville, in June for the Governor’s Inaugural Summit on Early Language and Literacy.

Five partners of Cook County Family Con-

nection represented Cook County - Candace with Candy Cane’s Learning Center, Zoe Myers and Jennifer Lovett (Cook County Family Connection), Lauren Mitchell (Cook Elementary School), and Jill O’Meara (Early Education Empowerment Zone).

The two-day summit featured state and national keynote speakers with expertise in language, literacy, and education; and there was a special keynote address from Governor Nathan Deal and Mrs. Sandra Deal during the closing luncheon.

The Cook County team had the opportunity to visit with children’s author Carmen Agra Deedy who presented them with autographed copies of her newest book “The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet”. Team members also visited with Governor Deal to express appreciation for his support of literacy efforts and Family Connection work across the state.

At the closing of the summit, Governor Deal hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Georgia Center for Early Language and Literacy housed on the campus of Georgia College.

Candace is one of the biggest Hornet football fans and part of the Touchdown Club. She also strongly supports the wrestling program.

Candace is the daughter of Joyce and Otis Durden and Melvin Williams. Her husband Chris has worked as general foreman at J-M Eagle Manufacturing for 18 years. Her stepson Keshawn Horne has competed on the wrestling team and played football at Cook Middle School. Chris is the son of George and Louise Horne. Mr. George is the pastor of Holy Community Church, where Candace and her family are members.

Candace and her family stay busy, but on the rare occasions they have any off time, they love to spend the weekend in Destin, Fla. Candace expressed appreciation to everyone who liked the Adel News’ post on her and voted for her to be the face of this issue of My Cook Magazine.

In order to enroll a child or to get more information about Candy Cane’s Learning Center, families may visit their website at www.candycane-learning.com.

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The Goodyear Garden les

By Char

Shiver,

Editor

Elise’s yard of curiosities... olks may consider Elise Sturdivant’s yard on Brushy Creek Road, Sparks, to be a mystery of kitsch as enigmatic as Stonehenge or the Easter Island statues. Over the last four years, Ms. Sturdivant, a soon-to-be greatgrandmother, has filled her yard with dozens of tires painted in various colors and used as planters for several different kinds of flowers, ranging from daylilies to blooming vines. The lines of tires follow a pattern, a design, known only to her.

Some of the painted tires hang on ropes from tree branches, as if awaiting small children to swing on them, while others have been filled in with circles of wood for smiling faces to be etched on them or shaped like round beetles.

“Swimming” out of the earth on two sides of her front yard are standing half-tires that resemble lines of humps rising out of the ocean and with big, dirty-faced Barbie doll heads in the lead. Either mermaids or sea monsters, take your pick.

Mrs. Sturdivant has even made “snowmen” with smaller tires and two different sizes of teeter-totters for kids. She has taken plates owned by her

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mother, painted designs on them, and put them out as part of the tire decor.

Ms. Sturdivant has planted her spring garden inside tires; she grows healthy potatoes, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and jalapenos.

Joining the profusion of tires and flowers on the more than five acres of Ms. Sturdivant’s property are many other art projects, three windmills; gourds hanging for martin nests; bird feeders, individual and clusters of figurines including solid cement angels from Nashville, Tenn., donkeys, pigs, snakes, Santa Claus, the Holy Family, and Disney characters; and a striped lighthouse with a working bulb atop it for night at the center. More figurines stand guard at different points around a pond in the back. She has used paint for her projects from Dr. Russell Acree, who calls her “the paint lady.” She puts up lights around her glorious mess of a yard for Christmastime.

When a reporter came by to visit and take photos the other day, Mrs. Sturdivant had just finished cooling off in her pool after doing some yard work. Her darkly tanned face broke into an easy smile to display her happiness that the community has noticed her handiwork. Of course, passing motorists are always dropping by after taking a second look and asking to take photos. She gladly consents.

Ms. Sturdivant said she has collected used tires from tractors, trucks, cars, 4-wheelers, and lawnmowers, but curiously no motorcycles. She has gotten tires from Adel businessman Rocky Ray and several friends, who have just pulled up to drop them off.

Ms. Sturdivant said she got the idea for the yard plan from seeing a single painted tire on a property in Moultrie. “Not me, I can’t stop at one,” she said.

She noted that planting flowers inside tires keeps her from running them over with her lawnmower. The tires don’t hold water because she fills them in with topsoil and potting soil from Hood Landscaping.

She plans to clean out the woods behind her house and start another tire project soon.

“Tires are hard to cut into” as a result of the metal threads in them, Ms. Sturdivant said, pointing to her outdoor workshop by a gazebo she bought at an auction in Doerun. The black smoke produced from cutting tires can mess up your hands and your lungs.

Ms. Sturdivant’s daughter Dottie Morrison, a teacher in Moultrie, shares ideas for tire designs that she sees on the Internet. “I don’t see how they do all that with all the metal in tires,” Ms. Sturdivant said.

“A guy in Australia made an alligator with tires. I tried to do that. Mine didn’t look good, so I cut it up.”

Daughter of the late Peggy Spencer, Ms. Sturdivant was born in Detroit, Mich., and raised in Nashville, Tenn. She has a

son, B.J. Bennett; seven grandsons; and three granddaughters. Her first greatgrandchild was born in August.

Ms. Sturdivant has lived in the area for the past 40 years and on her current land for 25 years. Previously, it was a cornfield. Maybe she has seen the Kevin Costner baseball movie where the benevolent ghosts of old heroes say, “Build it, and they will come.”

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My Farm Life Pictured top right: Eddie Johnson from Cook County in his garden of Jubilee Watermelons Bottom right: Chloe Sexton and her pig at Cook Livestock Show

Stella Joiner riding Susie on Pa Pa’s Farm

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FAITH, HOPE, UNITY

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My Worship

Cook County Strong

GATHERED BY GRACE

Facing page images: Top, Second Row: Community Prayer Service Second Row, Right: VBS 2017 at Holy Community Church Third Row: Prayer Circle at Courthouse Fourth Row: Childhood Cancer Prayer Top Left: Prayer at Firefighters vs Law Enforcement Baseball Game Second Row: Alexis Livingston Service Third Row, Left: Steve Meders at Childhood Cancer Prayer Gathering Third Row, Right: First Responders pray at Sunshine Acres Mobile Home Park, where seven passed away during the January 22, 2017 tornado.

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The FBC Adel Youth Pastor position gave him the opportunity to serve as chaplain for the Cook High Hornets football team. In that capacity, he has ministered to young men since 2003. “I get to talk to the football players before every Friday night game that I can,” he said.

Steve, along with a local group, was instrumental in forming the local chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). He served as the co-chair, along with Darvin Eason, for the first few years and helped arrange annual FCA banquets. The funds raised by the community have helped send Cook County students to summer FCA camps in North Carolina and Florida. The camps have not only helped with athletics but also have spiritual training.

Steve has served as chairman of entertainment for the Cook County chapter of the American Cancer Society (ASC). He, along with others, has coordinated the All Night Gospel Sing to raise money for ACS. Steve sings at church and has performed gospel songs with noted groups, such as the Chuck and Greg Day brothers.

After leaving Cook DFCS, Steve went to work with the Governor’s Office System of Care program, made possible by a grant that was written by Zoe Myers with Cook County Family Connection. “I had the honor to work with Cook High School students for almost three years,” he said.

During that time, he served on the Adel-Cook County Chamber of Commerce Board and in the Kiwanis Club. He was asked to chair and organize the Cook County Sports Hall of Fame selection committee, which worked in conjunction with the Boys and Girls Club of the Greater Cook County Area as a fundraiser. “I worked with the City of Lenox through Family Connection on a grant to put in a new playground,” he said. “I am currently serving on the Cook County DFCS Board, which is a great honor for me also.”

Steve’s favorite sport to play is basketball. He has coached youth sports in the area, including basketball, baseball, softball, and fast-pitch softball, for the past 35 years, and has mentored some girls who won state recreation championships.

Steve helped start the CHAOS (Christ Honored and Others Served) girls’ softball league many years ago. “This was a way to instill leadership, sportsmanship, and God into the lives of our community, youths, and families,” said Kathy Spires, a friend of Steve and his family. “CHAOS has touched so many, not only in our community, but has spread throughout the state of Georgia and has even reached those in surrounding states. Not only has he been a leader in his family, he has become family to those of us who call the dirt diamond our second home.” Several girls who have competed in CHAOS have gone on to play for the Cook High Lady Hornets and other highly successful high school softball teams. Many of the CHAOS players have gone on to play college ball, even a National Champion. But all of the first group have developed successful careers.

Steve also helped start the Youth Power Camp, which includes baseball, softball, and soccer for children to come out and learn the sports’ fundamentals, but “most of all to come together and to spread his love for the Lord,” Kathy said. Kids enjoyed the 19th year of Power Camp in July.

In addition, Steve has served as a referee for basketball and umpire for recreation softball.

Steve also helped to organize “The Gathering,” in which 20 to 30 churches came together to participate in the prayer walk for all local students, faculty members, staff,

and administrators before the start of the school year.

On top of all his other activities, Steve serves as sports writer for the Adel News and covers all the school, youth, and recreation games. He was very pleased to see the Adel-Cook 14U Girls and Adel-Cook 17U Girls win state championships this summer.

“I can go on and on about what he means and has done for those he knows and loves,” Kathy Spires said. “It’s what he has done for those he has never met before that sets him aside from the rest. He never meets a stranger, will never pass you without speaking, and probably has got into trouble many times for making it home late for all those reasons.

“I have known him and his family now around 20 years. He coached my older two girls when CHAOS first started and has coached my youngest daughter in CHAOS. The gap between them is 12 years.

“These are just a few reasons why this man deserves to be recognized for all he does and continues to do for our youth. The joy he brings to those he meets is a lasting memory. No matter what storms he faces in life, he never lets it break his love for God, his family, his friends, or his community. The way you know someone is helping people for the right reasons is when they do it quietly and without announcement.”

The Wednesday before Easter of this year, Steve learned about his diagnosis of cancer, the results of a physical he had gotten in an attempt to obtain life insurance benefits for his family. His PSA was one of the highest that the doctors had ever seen, at 1,585, with the normal reading under 9.

Steve told Danny Young, who got Steve in contact with Wilton Miles, an 81-yearold man of God in Hazlehurst. Mr. Miles prayed for healing with Steve. After the prayer session, Mr. Miles looked at Steve and said, “Brother Meders, don’t ask God to heal you any more. From here on out, you thank Him for healing. If you ask him again to heal you, it’s a lack of faith on your part.”

Since then, Steve and his wife Janet have read a healing creed and have done communion each morning. “I have felt better every day,” he said. “The doctors have been amazed that I’m not in pain. … I feel good. I feel God has been healing me.”

Steve hasn’t taken medication for nausea from chemotherapy or sleeplessness, because he hasn’t had those issues.

Steve underwent several rounds of chemo. He rescheduled one treatment so it wouldn’t interfere with his helping coach the 12-and-Under Girls Adel-Cook Recreation Department softball team in the state tournament in Adel. “It was an honor for me to be there with them,” he said.

Steve wrote in his nomination remarks for 2006 Man of the Year: “We are placed on this Earth to serve. I am reminded of what a preacher said one time, ‘We are placed here as parents to train our children to look like God.’ We should point towards training our youth to be better people, to look like God. “We are not guaranteed any amount of time here on Earth, and my hope is that I seize every opportunity I have to make a difference.”

Steve’s and Janet’s children are Shaye Meders; Tai Weeks and her husband Ronnie Weeks, who has two children, Cohen Timothy and Cailee Tai Weeks; and Tate Meders and his wife Marki, who have four children, Louleigh Gail, Henry Steven, Rubi Ann and Renna Tate (twins born in January).

Steve with Antioch Church youth group when serving as youth pastor.

September 2017 •

My Cook 23

My Fashion Pictured left: Andi Rountree, daughter of Brooke & Luke Rountree MIddle: Anna-Leigh McCartney Right: Emilee Betts

Jack W. Carter

Frank H. Carter

• Adoption • Deeds • Legitimation • Wills / Probate Estate • Divorce • Personal Injury • Name Change • Workers’ Compensation • Bankruptcy Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 • Social Security Disability • Traffic and DUI

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When you need help with legal issues, we are here for you.”

309 N. Parrish Ave. • Adel, GA. • 229-896-4513 www.callcarterlaw.com

24 My Cook

• September 2017

Anna-Marié Carter

My Home Décor Jaimz Green of Cecil likes to create texture by putting fabric on walls to create a focal wall, using different patterns, colors, and height in accent pillows and pieces. Above: Living Room is pictured.

Arrangement by Cathy Walker for the new home of Jessica & Scott Walker

Craig and Kacey Myers’ kitchen, Everett’s Masonry of Moultrie did the brick and stone work.

September 2017 •

My Cook 25

Dr. Mac's Take on State of Dentistry 2017

By Dr. Michael McCartney, Jr., DMD, FAGD Adel Dental Associates

O

ver these last 25, yes I said 25, years of dental practice I have encountered numerous and rapid changes in dentistry. The advent of cosmetic dentistry, improved/durable ceramics/materials, lasers, painless/sedation/implant dentistry, streamlined management and operations have all helped make dental care and it's delivery easier, safer, predictable, more comfortable, more affordable, and just better for the patients than in years past. It's been a blessing, honor and a pleasure taking care of the Smiles of South Georgia.

Still the most important aspect of dentistry, that in our practice will NEVER BE COMPROMISED, is the DOCTOR-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP. It is sacred. It is built on trust and rapport. It is special. Our patients can be assured that their opinions and desires for their care, comfort and treatment outcomes will be addressed and met. They will never be judged by the state of their dental health, their fears, or ability to afford care. My team and I simply view our practice as a ministry, much like Jesus does all of us. We simply meet you where you are at in your journey towards dental health and try our best to get you where you wish to go, hopefully a beautiful, healthy smile.

Thankfully, in this day and age, medicine and dentistry are coming together, acknowledging that the oral cavity is, indeed, a CONNECTED part of the body, and that dental health/disease DIRECTLY affects overall body health. The term "WELLNESS" has come to the forefront of this mindset to have TOTAL BODY HEALTH. I have seen it countless times where someone is struggling with some "medical" ailment, i.e. diabetes( blood sugar/A1c), cardiovascular disease, arthritis, etc, once dental health is restored, those medical issues improve dramatically, and/or are managed much more easily. In fact, there is testing now available to show if folks are more at risk for dental problems which can/will lead to medical problems.

There is no "cookie cutter" for dentistry. Our smiles and bites are as individual as our fingerprints, even among twin siblings. So your treatment plan is customized for you based on what problems you may have that have been identified and what the best, long term/lifetime solutions are to manage/correct them. Some are quick fixes and some take longer, but the point is to be understanding and patient that treatment is accomplished in the proper sequences so that success, comfort, health and beauty are the results. Short cuts in dentistry lead to failure and further problems.

I want to encourage everyone to make an effort to make dental health a priority for you and your family. God wants us to have life and live it more abundantly, and you can't do that with dental diseases/disabilities. You can't show joy if you can't smile. You can't enjoy a wonderful meal if you can't chew properly. You can't perform in the classroom, workplace, athletic competition if you are in dental pain.

Take that step. We would love for you to join our family of patients.

We look forward to that meeting and that relationship. May God Bless you all!!! Give us a call at 229-896-7679 or check us out online www.adeldental.com

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About our Team

Customer Satisfaction

We are celebrating our 22nd year serving the smiles of Cook County and all of South Georgia. We have worked hard to expand and improve our level of services to make Adel Dental Associates your ONE STOP SHOP for ALL your Family’s Dental Needs. We have added dental implants, clear correct orthodontic aligners, under armor athletic mouth guards, to name a few.

Check us out online @ www.adeldental.com or on Facebook for specials/special events/contests that we do to keep things fun and informative.

Yours for Better Dental Health, Dr. Mac & Team

Our Treatments Adel Dental Associates offers a wide variety of dental procedures and treatments, including: All-on-4® Dental Implants Cosmetic Dentistry Dental Implants Full Mouth Reconstruction Implant-supported Bridges Implant-supported Dentures Smile Makeover Tooth-colored Fillings Laser Dentistry Same Day Dentistry

Bone Grafting Dental Bridges Dentures Porcelain Veneers Lumineers® Sedation Dentistry Teeth Whitening Gum Contouring Root Canals Children’s Dentistry

229-896-7679 www.adeldental.com