HIGHLAND MAY 2021
LIVING
Cover photo courtesy of Sara Arnold HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 1
2 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
PUBLICATION TEAM
PUBLISHER | Ida Durand ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE | Halee Yates CONTENT COORDINATOR | Sharon McMillan DESIGNER | Marshall Zak
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CONTACT | Ida Durand | 706.523.1497 idurand@bestversionmedia.com CONTACT | Halee Yates | 706.302.1533 hyates@bestversionmedia.com
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Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 1st of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: idurand@bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
May
Dear Residents,
My name is Ida Solomon Durand, Publisher of Highland Living Magazine. I am the fifth generation in my family to proudly call LaGrange my home. My roots run deep all along the Lower Chattahoochee Valley region. May is a month of renewal, and at Highland, we join you in celebrating Mother’s Day and the powerful women who make up our community. We also congratulate all graduating seniors and celebrate both their current and future accomplishments. Highland Living Magazine Is a high gloss community publication that reaches thousands of homeowners in dozens of neighborhoods along West Point Lake & throughout Lower Chattahoochee Valley in a fun, truly uplifting manner. We are honored to share the stories of each family we feature on our covers and introduce them to our community. In addition, we highlight local art & cultural events, music venues, youth sports, businesses, and charities. My mission is to connect businesses to local residents with a family friendly community magazine. I would love the opportunity to talk with you about becoming a part of my publication. I am happy to connect with you about content marketing or advertising opportunities in Highland Living Magazine. Please reach out to me by phone or text @ (706)523-1497 or by emailing me @ idurand@bestversionmedia.com
Ida Durand
Katie Strickland | Turkey Creek Tents & Events • Event Rentals • Custom Event Decor • Event Planning and Management
We specialize in events of all sizes and occasions, including weddings, corporate events, and family parties.
678-378-3403 HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 3
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at idurand@bestversionmedia.com or 706-523-1497.
Dermatology Specialists of Georgia
Watts Furniture
Myles S. Jerdan, MD (706) 882-5119 1605 Whitesville Street LaGrange, GA 30240
Ryan Watts (706) 882-0004 212 Commerce Ave LaGrange, GA 30241 http://WattsFurniture.com
Ida Durand Design
Go Realty Angie Cotton Jones
Ida Durand (706) 523-1497 idurand@bestversionmedia.com
Angie Cotton Jones (706) 884-3882 angie@gorealtyteam.com www.angiecotton-Jones.com
Alex Brown State Farm
Tim Ellen & Associates
Alex Brown (706) 416-3190 alexbrown@sfveteran.com http://SFveteran.com
Tim Ellen (706) 845-8449 tim@timellen.com www.TimEllen.com
Kia of LaGrange
Statewide Mortgage
Todd Parrish (706) 298-5024 aking@kiaoflagrange.com www.KiaofLagrange.com
(706) 443-5010 316 S Lewis Street LaGrange, GA 30240 www.statewidemortgagega.com
Southern Life Insurance
Childress Dental Center
Crystal Poe (706) 594-9204 crystalgcotton@yahoo.com
George Childress (706) 882-1888 candy@drchildress.com www.Childressdentalcenter.com
Sweet Tea’s Antique & Vintage Reclaimed Junk Boutique
Thrive, Mind, Body & Soul
Mia Cosper (706) 333-6249 1737 Whitesville Rd LaGrange, Ga 30240
Sweet Pea’s Floral Designs of Distinction Mechelle Whells (706) 882-5800
4 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
Selina Dominguez (706) 885-2985 301 W Broome St. Suite 200 LaGrange, Georgia Thrive-mindbodysoul.com
Aspinwall Chiropractic Clinic (706) 884-8360 302 S Greenwood St. LaGrange, GA aspinwallclinic.com
LaGrange Coach Matt Napier on Leadership: “Love First” By Ida Durand | Photos by Matt Napier When Matt Napier was named the new head coach of LaGrange High football, Granger fans had reason to celebrate. Following two back-to-back 2-8 seasons (that came hot on the heels of a winless 0-10 season in 2017), the Grangers managed to nab the offensive mastermind behind Callaway High’s powerful repeat championship runs. But the question remained: could Napier manage to elevate the Granger football program to its former glory? LaGrange fans didn’t have to wait long to find out. As his first season with the Grangers came to a close, Napier’s team boasted an 8-4 (6-2 region) record— the program’s first winning record in more than half a decade. The startling rebound saw an energized LaGrange offense surprise opponents all season and further padded Napier’s already impressive resume. Though LaGrange often made its success look easy, increased effort was put in behind the scenes. This started at the top, as Napier led the Grangers to rejuvenating the program. And when it comes to being a leader, Napier knows a thing or two. “I think being a good leader basically boils down to two things,” he said. “You just love first. I think you have to truly care about the people that you work with and the kids that you coach every day.” It’s a lesson, he says, that he learned from his father. “Growing up, I watched my dad’s love for his players,” said Napier. “He put them at the front, and he just loved them.” For Napier, these relationships are about more than the scoreboard.
For Napier, this impact means enabling each player to reach his full potential on and off the field. “We just love the kids, and we truly want the best for them—whatever that may be,” he said. “That’s a big deal to me.” For Napier, the football program is an opportunity to teach about life. “Growing up and going through the football program—that teaches about life,” he said. “Sometimes life’s not going to go the way you want it to. You’re going to lose people that you care about, and you’re going to have to get up the next day and go to work. You have to get the motivation to be successful in life.” Already, he said, the program has several players possessing these qualities. “As coaches, we’re trying to make an impact on them for them to be better people,” he said. “At the end of the day, we want to be bigger, faster, and stronger, and we’re going to push them to work to get there, but it’s more important that they go away from here better young men.” Ultimately, Napier hopes each player knows that they’ll forever be part of a larger Granger family. “We want this to be a place where they’d come back and be twenty-five years old and still feel like part of the family,” he said. “We want them to still feel like part of the family and still have people feel like they can come in the door and be able to see their coach and know he’s going to hug their neck and that he still misses him.” “That’s a relationship,” he said. “That’s a strength. That’s the bond.”
“Building these relationships is more important than winning or losing,” he said. “You do things genuinely from the heart, and hopefully it comes across the way you intended it.” Such authenticity proves paramount to establishing a relationship with players and coaches. “I think if you try to force things outside of your personality, it won’t come across as genuine or heartfelt,” Napier said. “Any time we can get away and just play football and just have good camaraderie and put these kids, all from different backgrounds, in the room and find a way to build our team, develop a bond, and develop a positive atmosphere that the kids can embrace, that’s important to us.” Using LaGrange’s stunning record as evidence, it’s not hard to see the impact such camaraderie has on the field, but Napier emphasized that he hopes to have an even more important impact on his players. “[We want them to know that] whatever they’ve got going on, they can come here and know that they have a family that loves and cares about them,” he said. “If I can create a culture that provides all the things I just mentioned, then hopefully I can have the impact that you’re talking about on the young men.”
HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 5
Meet the Shumates By Ida Durand | Photos by Sara Arnold For Troup County School System Superintendent Dr. Brian Shumate, consistency is key. This proves true in all phases of Dr. Shumate’s life: he and his wife Dana will celebrate thirty-five years of marriage in December, he received Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees all from the University of Louisville, and he’s worked as an educator for over thirty years.
force. They got busy—including community members and parents— on how to reopen schools. We executed the plan in mid-July, and we opened schools on August 17th. That part I’m proud of.” Shumate recognized that TCSS’s success in reopening is due to many individuals.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Dr. Shumate married his wife, and high school sweetheart at her childhood church, The Church of the Incarnation in Louisville. After marriage, the couple enjoyed careers that largely seemed to run on parallel tracks in education. Dana too received her Batchelor’s degree from University of Louisville. Soon after graduating she worked as an elementary school teacher for eight years then later moved into a resource teacher job. “It parlayed into several other jobs in the last parts of our career.”
When Dr. Shumate moved to Troup County in 2019, he brought with him decades of experience. “I was a high school math teacher and football, wrestling, and track coach from 1987-1994,” he said of the beginning of his career in education. “Then, I was a high school assistant principal from 1994-2001, a high school principal from 2001-2006, a high school liaison from 2007-2012, and an assistant superintendent from 2012-2014.”
Since then, they have raised two successful children: Kaitlin Gordon M.D., who is now a physician in Louisville, and Colin Shumate, who will be attending law school in the fall. Kaitlin and Colin are both married—Kaitlin to Brian Gordon, and Colin to Elise Shumate. Since 2019, Dr. Shumate has worked to bring greater consistency to all areas of the Troup County School System—and thankfully so. Shumate’s steady hand has helped TCSS weather the COVID-19 pandemic during a period of unusual disruption. It’s also helped direct the school system toward greater success with an emphasis on a community-based approach of leadership. “We all came back to work at the District Office on June 3rd,” he said. “We had a task 6 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
“I would not be able to lead with courage if I didn’t have a Board behind me, lot of community leaders ’support, and many, many parents,” he said.
This experience all came in the Jefferson County Public School System in Louisville, Kentucky. In 2014, the Shumates would go cross country, as the family patriarch secured a new position— one that directly primed him for his current role in Troup County. “I served as the Superintendent of the Medford School District in Medford, Oregon from 2014- 2019,” said Shumate. “This job came on my radar randomly at a conference, and I started researching, and I realized what a gem it is here. I look at the community, and there are a lot of community assets that we love. We were already somewhat familiar with Georgia and its culture as our daughter attended college at UGA.” Shumate believes the Troup County School System is among the top assets found in LaGrange. “Troup County School System is the one
F EA TURE
entity that touches every part of this county,” he said. “From West Point all the way to Pine Mountain, from Rosemont to downtown LaGrange, from Hogansville to the lake—our reach is far.”
“So my fun has been revolving around helping a lot with the children and the grandchildren,” said Dana. “Ive spent a lot of time in Kentucky because daycare was shut down, and they had to work.”
This reach extends even to LaGrange’s business sector.
Meanwhile, “Colin and Elise were in Chicago right before the the world shut down, they got furloughed briefly so Dad says “Come down here and live with us. So it’s been a lot of fun. It’s been really good to have your adult children around and we hang out.”
“The school district is probably the fabric that holds many things together,” said Shumate. “Even when we delayed school a few weeks ago, I got texts from people in major corporations asking what our plans were because if we closed for two hours or even a day, it affects manufacturing in this town.” Part of Shumate’s philosophy as Superintendent has been to place more emphasis on the relationships found within the school system.
“We have become close with our next-door neighbors, the Eilands,” he said. “They have three kids in our school system. They are awesome kids and keep us all grounded and informed.” In their spare time, the Shumates share a number of interests. “We are all public school graduates and all love sports and outdoor activities,” said Shumate. Some of these activities include hiking, mountain biking, and boating. The Shumates share another strong interest: college athletics. “I am a huge college football and college basketball fan,” said Shumate, adding “Our entire family follows the University of Louisville.” When it comes to vacations, their interests vary—but only slightly. “We like all kinds of different places, but beaches and warm and sunny climates are our favorite,” Shumate noted. Most of the time, however, the Shumates can be found working—largely to the benefit of Troup County. They wouldn’t have it any other way. “We are industrious people,” said Shumate. “We get up and go every day!” As the superintendent, Dr. Shumate oversees one of the largest community organizations in the county. Still, he remains keenly aware of each individual involved in making Troup County schools what they are. “Kids ought to be able to mold their own educational experience,” he said. “Because we have enough resources here to create options for people.”
“I try to build positive relationships with all these communities to help us do business,” he said. “We work together to get things done.” This community-based approach is something found in the Shumates ’personal lives as well. “I belong to the Rotary club and the Troup County Strategic Planning Board,” he said. “I attend many community events and have become involved in many aspects of Troup County. Dana serves on the United Way board.” As the COVID-19 pandemic passes, the Shumates look to become even more involved with their community. “We recently moved to the Foxcroft subdivision this past summer and live on the lake,” said Dr. Shumate. “Our neighbors have been great; however, we have not met everyone properly due to the pandemic ... Once this pandemic lifts, we look forward to many social opportunities that we have missed this past year.” Because of the pandemic, Dana was often often found in Louisville, helping to take care for the couples ’two grandchildren, Miles (3) and Andi (1), as their parents, Katlin and Brian Gordon, both M.D.s, had to work. HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 7
EX P ERT
C O N TRI BU T O R
New York Life Finds Southerners Are Feeling Hopeful, Eager To Adapt To The Next Normaland Ready To Take Action On Their Finances By Tim Ellen, CLTC, LUTCF – Agent, New York Life Insurance Co. In order to better understand how people in the U.S. are experiencing the emotional and financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, New York Life asked 2,200 adults in late March 2020 and again in early and late April, a range of questions about how their emotions connect to their financial outlook. Data was broken out by a number of demographics, including region, revealing some key findings about how people are responding here in the South. Despite ongoing uncertainty, hopefulness in the South is rising The coronavirus pandemic has hit the South hard in many ways. But New York Life data shows Southerners are demonstrating positivity, becoming more hopeful and eager to start looking ahead. Although worry is still the prevalent emotion in the South, felt by 62% of respondents in the region in late April, this percentage has fallen marginally since late March – and is now matched by a rising percentage of respondents who say they feel hopeful (up from 55% in late March to 61% in late April). The proportion of Southerners that say they feel scared or sad has also fallen since March. However, restlessness is on the rise – with 59% of Southerners now eager to get out and do more of their normal day-to-day activities. Graphic: How Southerners are feeling compared to the rest of the US WAVE
HOPEFUL
RESTLESS
SAD
SCARED
WORRIED
South Late March
55%
52%
57%
54%
68%
SouthEarly April
55%
57%
51%
53%
68%
SouthLate April
61%
59%
47%
46%
62%
Whole of US Late April
57%
60%
50%
46%
53%
Source: New York Life, 2020
Financial confidence is rising – but retirement concerns remain Positivity among Southerners related to the impact of the pandemic on their financial strategy is also growing. In late March, 33% said they felt less confident in the status of their savings than they did a month prior. This proportion rose to 38% in early April but dropped to 28% by late April. Further, the proportion of Southerners who feel their financial strategy has prepared them for the current environment nearly doubled between late March and late April to 40%. 8 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
Despite this positive data, retirement planning concerns remain. In each of the three surveys, more than half of Southerners said they don’t feel confident that their retirement savings will last them the rest of their lives. Around one-third say the pandemic is leading them to increase their prioritization of retirement and about one-quarter say that it’s made them more likely to save for retirement – suggesting that Southerners are thinking about retirement planning with new urgency as a result of the virus. Caring for aging relatives is also a growing focus The long-term well-being and care of family members is another major focus for people in the region. About two-thirds of Southerners in each survey wave said they are increasing prioritization of their families as a result of the coronavirus. Looking after older family members is a particular concern. The proportion of Southerners who feel it’s now more likely they’ll need to care for an aging parent at some point has grown in recent weeks, from 26% in late March to 32% in late April. The proportion that say they feel confident about caring for an aging parent has also grown modestly but it still only stands at 36% in late April. This suggests some additional planning will be beneficial for families to cope with the impact of the virus on more vulnerable family members. Southerners ready to reassess their financial strategy The Southerners that we surveyed generally feel they are on the right track when it comes to their finances, but that doesn’t mean they’re resting on their laurels. The proportion that said the coronavirus pandemic is making them more likely to create or update their financial strategies grew from an already-promising 53% in late March to 63% in late April. In addition, more than half consistently said they’re thinking about their finances more often. As Southerners eagerly look ahead to what will become the next normal, a sound financial strategies, created with the support of a local financial professional, can bolster the region’s growing readiness to take action and offer greater peace of mind in these uncertain times. This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy by Tim Ellen, CLTC, LUTCF - Agent, New York Life Insurance Company. To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact Tim at (706) 845-8449 or visit his website at www.timellen.com. SMRU # 1859152 - EXPIRATION DATE OF 12/31/2021
C OMMUN I TY
Youth Opening Day
CREATIVE LEGACY GROUP LIFE INSURANCE | MEDICARE PLANS RETIREMENT PLANNING | HOSPITAL INDEMNITY
By Ida Durand Like father, like daughter. It took 14-year-old Emily Jackson just one shot to down this turkey on Youth Opening Day. A day in the woods well spent with her daddy!
KAMI ADAMS Retirement Income Specialist
404.918.6446 Creativelegacygroup@gmail.com WRITE YOUR LEGACY. www.creativelegacygroup.com
We’ll help show you the way to financial security. No map necessary.
FPO
T: 11
S: 10.5
B: 11.25
Contact me to make a plan that lets
Contact me to make a plan that lets you focus on being good at life. you focus on being good at life. Tim Ellen & Associates, Inc.
Tim Ellen & Associates, Inc. is not owned or
Name, Agent, New York Life Insurance Company Approved DBA title, [DBA Company]* P.O. Box 2887 LaGrange, GA 30241 Address 706-845-8449 Phone #; Email
CA/AR Insurance Lic # (if applicable) operated by NYLIFE Securities, LLC or its affiliates *[DBA] is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its DƯOLDWHV Registered Representative offering securities through 6058 ([S ©2018 New York Life Insurance Company, NYLIFE Securities, LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC) 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010
tim@timellen.com www.timellen.com
Proud to Offer
Tim & DBAEllen Company Associates, Inc. Name here
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S: 8 T: 8.5 B: 8.75
HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 9
CA L E N D AR
O F
E VE N T S
MAY 2021
SAT. MAY 15 14th Annual Picnic in the Garden @Hills & Dales Estate 1916 Hills & Dales Drive, LaGrange Time: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS Live Music @Nutwood Winery 1339 Upper Big Springs Rd., LaGrange Time: 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.
SAT. MAY 1 Run Katie Run @Pure Life Studios 206 Clark Street, LaGrange Time: 7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
SAT. MAY 15 The Great West Georgia Duck Derby @Highland Pines Resort and Marina 1000 Seminole Road, LaGrange Time: 10:00 a.m.
SUNDAYS Live Music @Beacon Brewing Co. 700 Lincoln Street, LaGrange
FRI. MAY 7 The Little Mermaid, Jr. @Franklin Road Baptist Church 1424 New Franklin Road, LaGrange Time: 7:00 p.m.
SAT. MAY 15 Grand Opening @Turkey Creek Tents and Events 257 S Smith Road, LaGrange Time: 6:00 p.m.
THUR. MAY 6 - 16 Hairspray the Musical @Troup High School 1920 Hamilton Road, LaGrange Time: 5:00 p.m.
SAT. MAY 15 CMS Chorus Presents: I Want My MTV! @Hogansville Elementary School 611 E Main Street, Hogansville Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
FRI. MAY 14 - 16 Callaway Wellness Weekend Retreat: Healthy & Happy @Callaway Gardens Lodge and Spa 4500 Southern Pine Drive, Pine Mountain Time: 5:00 p.m. (Fri.) - 11:00 a.m. (Sun.)
FRI. MAY 28 An Intimate Evening of Songs and Stories with John Berry @Pure Life Studios 206 Clark Street, LaGrange Time: 7:30 p.m.
MONDAYS Kids Night @Your Pie 124 Bull Street, LaGrange Kids Eat for $1.99 w/adult purchase Balloon Artist – Brett Whaley Time: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. TUESDAYS Nacho Tuesdays @Rhodes Sports Bar 1604 Whitesville St. LaGrange Time: 12 noon - 8 p.m.
706-884-8360 | aspinwallclinic.com 302 S Greenwood Street LaGrange, Georgia | www.aspinwallclinic.com 10 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 11
COM M U N I TY
Protecting Our Youth By Andy Carpenter Preventing youth from experiencing harm and trauma is every parent’s mission. This past year has been historically transformative in how our cultures operate. Those institutions that ran smoothly fifteen months ago, schools, businesses, family get-togethers, vacations, visiting places of faith, going to the grocery store, social events, came to a grinding and painful halt. How has America coped? In my household, we have provided every resource we could patch together for our three-year-old and maintained connections with grandparents and cousins by hosting Zoom birthday parties, socially distant meals in the beds of our pick-up trucks, and drive by front-yard family meetings. I know, as a parent of a three year old, my wife and I have it easy. I feel for parents of middle-school, high-school, and college students. The youth (and parents) in these categories face unique challenges and certainly suffer in ways we don’t see. While we can bank on the inherent resiliency of youth, we also must do more to help mitigate isolation, stress, and other disruptions in their lives. This is where prevention comes in. What can the communities in Troup County do to assist youth to maintain, rebound, and move forward in their development? These questions also apply to post COVID-19, keeping in mind, the purpose of parenting is to protect, teach, and prepare kids to become healthy, responsible, purposeful adults. One way parents can help kids achieve these milestones is to not provide alcohol to youth; not you’re own, and not other children. I understand that there is a mindset that providing alcohol to minors in your presence offers a level of supervision, containment, awareness, and for all intents and purposes, is an attempt to keep kids safe. This can be a significant mistake. As Prom season appears on the immediate horizon, it is time to be especially vigilant about youth safety, play your part; don’t provide alcohol thinking that it’s safe and you have it handled. There is so much to celebrate about life, to look forward to; let’s do our best to make sure our kids know that, and they can experience all the world has to offer, without alcohol and other drugs. Have a conversation with your spouse, your kids, and their parents. Work collectively to promote safety, and fun. When balancing safety versus risk, having fun can certainly still be the priority.
Sec. 6-452. - Prohibited activities and duties of a social host. (a) No social host shall allow a gathering to occur or continue if an underage person at the gathering obtains, possesses, or consumes any alcoholic beverage and the social host knows or reasonably should know that an underage person has obtained, possesses, or is consuming alcoholic beverages at the gathering. The passing of this ordinance makes social hosting a ticketing (civil charge) offense. To support this Social Host Ordinance, the Prevention Team at Twin Cedars, Youth and Family Services, Inc., through our Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Project, is promoting the Parents Who Host, Lose the Most campaign. We encourage families to visit https://www.twincedars.org/ program/alcohol-prevention-initiative/ and download, print, and sign the Parents Who Host, Lose the Most pledge (pledging to only host alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free events). Please sign our guest book; let’s see which schools and ZIP codes get the most pledges (positive peer-pressure)!
Over the coming months, you might notice Parents Who Host, Lose the Most, yard signs appearing around Troup County and our campaign in restaurants. Talk to your kids about the campaign. Explain that the purpose is to reinforce everyone’s responsibility to promote healthy choices in your community. Its key message reminds parents that it is unsafe, unhealthy, and unacceptable—and, in many communities, illegal—to provide alcohol to underage youth. It decreases young people’s access to alcohol by reducing the number of parents willing to provide alcohol for young people. Over time, it reduces the likelihood teens will drink alcohol and suffer the health effects that come from underage drinking.” (https://preventionactionalliance.org/). An essential component of this line of thinking is that alcohol is classified as a Central Nervous System depressant. During periods of acute and/or prolonged stress, actively depressing the central nervous system so much that it results in impairment such as slurred speech, unsteady movement, disturbed perceptions, and an inability to react quickly, is especially dangerous to youth. This is all about the safety of our kids! Questions, please email Andy Carpenter @ acarpenter@twincedars.org
In 2014, the Troup County City Council passed a Social Host Ordinance (Troup County Code 6), part of which follows:
Results LaGrange
Rob Upchurch
Owner, Broker A HouseSold Name
Office Phone: 706-845-7000 Cell Phone: 706-523-0014 Email: robupchurch@hotmail.com | robupchurchsells.com 12 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
EX PER T
CO N TRI BUTOR
What you need to know about Medicare Health Insurance and how I can help. By Crystal Poe
1.
If you are new to Medicare or getting ready to retire, I can help you apply for Medicare and educate you on how it works. Being a former teacher of 11 years and helping clients with Medicare for several years, gives me the skill set to help you understand how Medicare can work best for you. Medicare can be confusing and overwhelming without a knowledgeable person to help you navigate the process; let me help you.
2.
Not all agents are the same. I am able to help my clients with every product available in our zip code. I am able to help my clients with Medicare Supplement Plans, Medicare Advantage Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. Medicare options are so individualized. Plans are based on your needs, your doctors, your prescriptions, and your preferred pharmacy. The plan your best friend or spouse may have; may not be the best plan for you. Call me for a free consultation.
3.
I will make sure that you are receiving all additional benefits that you may be entitled to based on income and help you apply for these benefits. Additional benefits are not just given to enrollees; you have to apply for them. Some people are eligible for extra help with prescription costs, Medicare premiums, and doctor bills.
4.
I can explain the difference between Medicare Supplement Plans and Medicare Advantage Plans and help you choose which option is best for you. They work differently and you need to understand how both work.
5.
If you currently have a Medicare Supplement Plan, I can save you money by shopping for you. You can change Medicare Supplement Plans any time of the year. If you have not priced your Medicare Supplement Plan in over two years, you are paying too much. Call me for a free review.
6.
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, let me review it. I want to make sure you are getting the best prices for your prescriptions and copayments. Call me for a free review.
7.
It is wise to shop for Prescription Drug Plans once a year. You want to make sure you are using a preferred prescription drug plan that works well with your pharmacy. Shopping a drug plan can save you thousands of dollars a year.
8.
I have helped so many people save money with their Medicare Options and receive additional benefits. Please do not talk to people you do not know over the phone about your Medicare. Call me for a free consolation at 706-594-9204 or come see me at my office located behind Walgreens; 210 West Broome St.
HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 13
CH A R I TY
SP O TL I G H T
Overcoming Obstacles: New Ventures, Inc. Provides New Employment Opportunities By Ida Durand | Photos by Anabeth Ivey New Ventures, Inc. has been breaking barriers since 1971. The non-profit enterprise strives to ensure that all citizens have equal employment access by offering work-based training opportunities to citizens with disabilities. Founded by parents of adult children with disabilities, New Ventures is now under the leadership of CEO Mike Wilson. Wilson’s journey into the non-profit world was a long, but ultimately rewarding, one. “I have been with New Ventures since 2011 and CEO/President since 2019,” said Wilson. “After working in the ‘For Profit’ world for twenty-seven years, I felt the nudge to do something that gave back to others.” Through his friendship with the former CEO of New Ventures Dave Miller, Wilson first got involved in the organization. Nearly a decade later, Wilson still firmly believes in the organization’s philosophy—that all citizens deserve the right to work a job and earn a living. “Seeing someone who has never worked before find a meaningful job and realize that they can provide for their family and enjoy what they’re doing is my biggest inspiration,” he said.
He also remains an advocate for those helped by New Ventures. “As business partners, I hope that you will consider hiring a person with a disability to fill open roles,” he said. “You will have a loyal employee and someone who meets the soft skill criteria that so many industries are looking for these days.” While New Ventures provides serious training, those involved do find time for fun as well. “Cabriel Bruce works with New Ventures and has been blind since age 11,” said Wilson. “We were working on a project that required some Saturday work, and I came in and worked alongside him. We were folding boxes for a packaging project, and I challenged him to a race to see who could fold 50 boxes the fastest.” Wilson, thinking he could trick Gabriel, soon found that such a feat was harder than he thought. 14 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
“As we completed the task, I folded a box and told him I WON,” he said. “He informed me that I did not win because I had only folded about twelve boxes and that he had heard each one that I folded. I never tried to trick him again.” Bruce noted he tries to form relationships with all employees and workers at New Ventures. “It just makes work more fun,” he said. In addition to New Ventures, Wilson remains active in the LaGrange community. He and his wife Denise Roberts Wilson are members of LaGrange First United Methodist Church—where he is the coordinator for Church on the Hootch— and Wilson also serves as Chairman of the LaGrange Troup County Homeless Coalition, Commissioner for the Board of Commissioners for the LaGrange Housing Authority, and Advancement Chairman for Boy Scouts of America Yellow Jacket District. The couple has two children—Robert, who is married to his wife Jessica, and who has the couple’s first granddaughter; and Brian, who recently moved back to LaGrange.
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Skin Cancer:
What You Need to Know By Dermatology Specialists What are the most common types of skin cancer? Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer and accounts for more than 80% of all non-melanoma skin cancers. This type of skin cancer typically presents as an open sore that does not heal, a reddish patch or irritated area, a shiny nodule, a small pink growth and/ or a scar-like area. These cancers tend to occur in areas that receive the most exposure to the sun, like the face, ears and neck. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common form of skin cancer, accounts for nearly 20% of all non-melanoma skin cancers. This type of skin cancer is commonly found where the skin reveals signs of sun damage such as the face, scalp and hands. It can appear as scaly red patches, open sores, rough, thickened or wart-like skin, or raised growths with a central depression. At times, SCCs may crust over, itch or bleed. Which is the most dangerous skin cancer? Melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer. In 2021, it is estimated that there will be 106,110 new cases of melanoma in the U.S. and 7,180 deaths from the disease. Melanoma is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells and can appear on the skin suddenly without warning or develop from an existing mole. The warning signs of melanoma include the ABCDEs (see illustration for details). Unlike other forms of skin cancer, melanoma may develop in parts of the body not normally exposed to sunlight. It may also form in the eye. Quick Fact: Bob Marley, undoubtedly the most iconic reggae artist of all time, died from malignant melanoma underneath a toe nail. Who is at risk for skin cancer? Everyone is at risk for skin cancer but those individuals with fair-skin, freckles, blue or green eyes, and/or blond, red, or light brown hair are at a higher risk. Skin cancer is also more prevalent among those who have significant contact with UV light and/or have a family history of melanoma. Quick Fact: Skin cancers are less prevalent in nonwhite racial ethnic groups, but when they occur, they tend to be diagnosed at a later stage and, as a result, have a worse prognosis. Can you prevent skin cancer? Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. yet it is largely preventable, and, if caught early, is usually treatable. Your best defense is to avoid exposure to ultraviolet radiation, both from the sun and other sources, which is known to cause about 90% of skin cancers. If you can’t avoid UV rays, you should wear protective clothing and SPF30 sunscreen daily. Avoid tanning beds all together. Quick Fact: One ounce of sunscreen, enough to fill a shot glass, is considered the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body. When to see a dermatologist? If you notice any new spots on your skin, spots that are different from others, or spots that are changing, itching or bleeding, make an appointment for a comprehensive skin screening by calling Dermatology Specialists of Georgia at 706-882-5119. 16 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
114 Calumet Center Rd., LaGrange
706-882-1888
601 E. Main St., Hogansville
706-637-6125
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1201 Lafayette Pkwy. LaGrange, Georgia | 706-884-8785 HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 17
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GNMS Volleyball By Ida Durand
The Gardner Newman Middle School volleyball team enjoyed a great year. Every player tried her best and contributed to the team’s success this season!
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18 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
“I want to earn your business” - Mark Hubbard
Children's Clothing
Boutique Sizes Newborn - 14/16
www.shopkreative.com Downtown LaGrange | Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm
706-668-7253
Matt Orr, Agent 14 North Lafayette Square LaGrange, GA 30240 Bus: 706-882-0046 www.mattorr.com State Farm, Bloomington, IL 2001739
HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 19
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Aligning Your Mind, Body Connection By Ida Durand LaGrange’s best-kept secret, the Thrive studio! Located on the second floor of the Hammett Building on Broome Street, Thrive offers relaxing, therapeutic massages and so much more to promote personal well-being. The well-being studio boasts the optimal relaxation experience in one of the most calming atmospheres in town. Customers are welcomed with a sense of peace, relaxation, and serenity as their journey begins. They are encouraged to slow down, soak in the gentle sounds and energy, take a deep breath and unwind. After an impressive hot-stone Synergy massage by one of the most talented and experienced massage therapists around, clients can enjoy a beverage.
yourselves, reserve a few hours or a full day at Thrive. Everyone in your group will enjoy a customized massage and release the stresses of life. All the while, eat, drink, and enjoy and unwind with friends—which falls in line with Thrive’s ongoing mission: health, healing, and rejuvenation. “I truly believe that everyone deserves the time to restore themselves and the opportunity to create and live their best life, which requires an extraordinary place to experience it,” said Dominguez.
Thrive founder Selina Dominguez says the idea for the well-being studio stemmed from a 20-year vision. “I created THRIVE based on a 20-year ‘calling’ to be more of a servant leader, advocate, and guiding light to those who had lost their voice, health, and even lost their way,” she said. “All of which, I have experienced and have worked really hard to find my way back to a healthy mind, body, and soul connection.” Now, Dominguez is guiding others to do the same through Thrive. “I now use my training, experiences, and expertise to help guide clients to achieve their goals and dreams, restore their health and vitality, and create and live their best version,” she said. To do so, Thrive Mind, Body, & Soul operates with a clear vision of transforming and healing the world, one person, and one community at a time. Thrive’s rejuvenating studio applies a whole-person approach to health, healing, and well-being, using a proven, step-by-step process. Aligning the mind and body connection offers the following benefits:
Experience Peace & Relaxation Massage & Wellness Studio
706-885-2985 Thrive-mindbodysoul.com
By Appointment Only
• Lower anxiety • Improve sleep • Reduce emotional and physical stress • Alleviate muscle pain and headaches • Enhance overall well-being The Thrive Studio is also available for parties or group events. The next time you and your friends are looking to relax, restore, and take time for
20 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
301 W. Broome Street Suite 200 LaGrange, Georgia
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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GRADUATE, DOTTIE DURAND!
Photo by Sara Arnold HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 21
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HANEY’S IMPROVEMENT & REMODELING, CO. Don’t Let Your Remodeling be a Nightmare, Call Us to Get the Job Done!
HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES Flooring • Painting • Tile • Decks • And So Much More!
Momma’s Brownies By Chef Donna Arndt, Supper at Home Y’all
One of my fondest childhood memories was arriving home from school and seeing the metal brownie pan on the kitchen counter. Momma had made brownies! Pure love!
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Connecting electricity, quality and service.
We lost Momma in 2003, but she is always with me, even more so each time I bake these decadent squares of comfort topped with a rich shiny glaze.
Momma’s Brownies
Brownie icing
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• One cup of self-rising flour
• 1/3 cup of melted butter
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon vanilla 1/3
• One stick of butter melted
• Well brownies cool with icing ingredients together well pour over cold brownies it will set up as it cools
• Two eggs well beaten • 1 cup chopped pecans • Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl and pour into a 9 x 9 greeted pan • Bake at 3:50 for 25 minutes
22 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
• Licensed & Insured • Residential & Commercial • New Construction, Remodels, Rewires • Service Work
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Alex Brown
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706-416-3190
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Decorating with Vintage Charm By Mia Cosper Just starting out on your first apartment, house, or want to decorate a get-a-way? I had friends who built their first home, but little was left in the budget for furnishings or artwork. Lucky for them, they were given some great pieces of furniture by a grandmother, and we used those for inspiration! They started by collecting pictures of things they liked.
• Use texture in fabric, art and plants
Here are some ideas if you’re wanting to add a little vintage charm to your personal space:
• Trunks to use as a coffee table, at the foot of a bed, to hold blankets, games etc.
• Use vintage fabrics for pillows on a bed or sofa
• Vintage linens in the kitchen and on the beds or make a pillow cover
• Old quilts thrown over the back of a sofa or the foot of a bed; even as a wall hanging
• Display dishes on a shelf in the kitchen or colored bottles in a window
• An old door used as a pantry door or laundry door • Repaint old tables, buffets, armoires and headboards • Hang an old piece of architecture over the bed instead of using a traditional headboard • Use pitchers for vases of flowers and to hold utensils in the kitchen • Use baskets for blankets, towels and magazines
• Use candles; repurpose old brass or wooden ones with paint • Make a hanging light fixture from a basket or bottles • Birdcages and lanterns; either empty or holding plants & candles
• Vintage clocks • Use wooden corbels as bookends • Use a burlap shade on a lamp or make your own lampshade from ribbon and lace • Display collectibles in groups of 3 or 5 and change periodically • Frame old book illustrations as artwork
• Use an old gate, window or mirror on the wall or over a mantel
• Mirrors to make small areas look larger; mix a variety of small ones together
• Wicker chairs either repainted some vibrant colors or left distressed
• Make a display from old kitchen utensils
• Old chairs of any kind; reupholstered or painted
• Waterproof an old dented pail to hold flowers or line to hold towels
• Hang game boards as art; Monopoly, Chinese Checkers, Scrabble etc.
Keep in touch with us on FaceBook @ Sweet Tea’s Antique and Reclaimed Junk Antiques for more decorating and repurposing ideas for your home!
• Use small rugs on a hardwood floor
24 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
Emberglow specializes in "all things handmade" & handcrafted by local artisans. A unique, eclectic & high-quality product with character, is our focus. Our mission is to help inspired artisans give life to their goods by establishing and growing successful businesses and products.
808 New Franklin Road LaGrange, Georgia
706-882-0033 www.fryerstire.com
www.emberglowhandmade.shop 130 Bull Street, Suite C LaGrange, GA 30240
@emberglowhandmade
706.443.5900
@emberglowhandmade
Ressa's Unique Boutique
Women's Clothing Sizes Small-3XL
706-668-6068 www.ressasuniqueboutique.com @ressas unique boutique 10 N Lafayette Square LaGrange, Georgia
Lyle Daniel DIRECTOR OF WEST GEORGIA OPERATIONS
Employee Owned. Customer Driven.
100 Mooty Bridge Road LaGrange, Georgia
Since 1947 SHERIDANCONSTRUCTION.COM
706-881-6505 HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 25
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Downtown LaGrange Festivities By Ida Durand
Barbie Watts with Downtown Development in LaGrange organized a fantastic Easter egg scavenger hunt for the children for the month of April. Each store window downtown had golden eggs to find! We love our community and appreciate all that Barbie and her team do to make each holiday and event extra special for all the families in town to enjoy!
C OMMUN I TY
Waverly at Sweet Roast Cafe By Ida Durand Artist Amber Leah Stidham’s new downtown mural is a popular new attraction for citizens of all ages. The beautiful mural was commissioned by Jessica Brown for her new coffee shop Sweet Roast Café Bull Street. “This makes me so happy,” said Brown. “I love seeing everyone having fun with it. Sweet Roast Cafe on Bull Street downtown. We will be open next month!” Nichole Spivey’s young daughter, pictured here, also enjoyed the mural. “It’s so realistic she kept touching it trying to figure it out,” said Spivey.
26 | MAY 2021 | HIGHLAND LIVING
Local:
(706) 882-5800 www.sweetpeasflorist.net
609 GREENVILLE ST. LAGRANGE, GA. 30241
New Inventory In Stock! Visit our brand new website & design center! www.wattsfurniture.com HIGHLAND LIVING | MAY 2021 | 27
3627
Serving LaGrange for three generations
Travis L. Strickland Jr. Strickland Tax and Accounting
Open all year to help with your small business needs
706-884-0001 | 422 South Greenwood Street LaGrange, Georgia
Proudly serving LaGrange & surrounding areas Landscape design, Irrigation, Lawn Care, Hardscaping, Retaining Walls
706-302-8754