WGL March-April 2014 by Times-Georgian

West Georgia

Li V ing March/April 2014

Life . Art . Music . People

A Happier Tune After cancer, traumatic year, Rowell has new outlook. Page 31

Braves legend Bream coming to Villa Rica for Beast Feast. Page 34

Touch oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ireland

Irish Bred pubs combine classic and community feel. Page 21 $3.95

Vol. 4/Issue 2

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

West Georgia

Li V ing Volume 4 . Issue 2 March/April 2014 Publisher Marvin Enderle publisher@times-georgian.com

Editor Mitch Sneed msneed@douglascountysentinel.com

Advertising Melissa Wilson melissa@times-georgian.com

Photographer Ricky Stilley ricky@times-georgian.com

Contributors Christine Keefe Joe Garrett Ken Denney T.L. Gray Winston Jones Rob Duve Marilyn Van Pelt

From the Editor For a writer, I have to admit that I’m a very picky reader. Sounds crazy, but for me to get past the first few paragraphs, a piece has to grab my attention, make me think it will make me smarter or tell me something that I didn’t already know. It may be the ADHD in me, but it’s the way it is. With that in mind, as we set out to create this issue of West Georgia Living, I feel like we found a treasure trove of those kind of stories. Take Ken Denney’s pieces on the Carrollton Livestock Sales Barn, the 1924 Draketown Murder and the Irish Bred Pubs in Douglasville and Carrollton. Each tells readers something they didn’t know. We have all driven by the cattle auction building as some point and thought about what went on there. Read this story and you will know all about the cast of characters that is the regional hub of livestock sales. The Draketown Murder is the stuff that legends are made of, and Denney tells the tale in detail. To see the unique approach and business plan that is shared by the two local pubs is enlightening to say the least. Throw in the incredible photography of Ricky Stilley and you are in for a treat.

Have you ever had a bad day or wonder what else can go wrong? If so, then the story of the year that Jason Rowell endured is one that will show that there is hope even when the darkest of clouds is overhead. Rowell, a singer, a former sheriff’s deputy and current investigator for the Douglas County Public Defender’s Office, had a year where he was given a 50-50 chance of surviving throat cancer, battled through treatment and the fallout that follows, saw his baby girl born and suddenly lost a beloved family member. But today, Rowell is still standing, sometimes on stage and singing again with his smiling daughter in the crowd. Inspiring stuff. We talk to Braves legend Sid Bream, who will be at Midway Church for Beast Feast, look at how spices can add a special flare to recipes, introduce you to a new author and his work, and the local Master Gardeners tell us all about Lenton Roses. So enjoy this issue, tell us what you think and keep those ideas and questions coming. We want to know what you would like to see. Sincerely, Mitch Sneed

To advertise in West Georgia Living, call Melissa Wilson at 770-834-6631. West Georgia Living is a publication of the Times-Georgian. West Georgia Living is published bi-monthly. Submissions, photography and ideas may be submitted to Mitch Sneed c/o The Times-Georgian, 901 Hays Mill Rd., Carrollton, GA 30117. Submissions will not be returned unless requested and accompanied with a self-addressed, stamped envelope. West Georgia Living reserves the right to edit any submission. Direct mail subscriptions to West Georgia Living are available for $24 a year. Copyright 2013 by the Times-Georgian

Marvin Enderle is Publisher of West Georgia Living, the Times-Georgian and the Douglas County Sentinel.

Melissa Wilson is the Advertising Director for West Georgia Living and the Times-Georgian.

Ricky Stilley is the Photographer for West Georgia Living and IT Director for the Times-Georgian.

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Contents

Features 21

Photos and Cover Art by Ricky Stilley. On the Cover: Investigator / musician Jason Rowell and his family survived a tough year and look forward to big things in 2014. Story, page 31

A touch of Irish: Two area pubs combine community, tradition.

Post cancer, Rowell has something to sing about.

Braves legend Sid Bream talks faith at the “Beast Feast.”

Draketown murder tale lives 90 years later

Meet a wizard with wood in our Artist’s Corner

A talk with WGTC’s Pat Hannon

Departments Cinema

Must-see movies of 2014

Food

Take 5

Meet Sen. Mike Dugan

Book Beat ‘A Chatterstrip at the end

Garden

the Lenten Rose

of Civilization’

Events

What’s happening in West Georgia

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Spices create special touch 26

blockbuster?

CINEMA

The next

Highlighting the most anticipated films of 2014

2014

is going to have to step it up to beat last year’s amazing output of quality movies. Luckily, fans of mainstream fare and those with more independent tastes both have reason to be optimistic. Here are 10 of the many films I’m looking forward to in the coming months, along with a brief explanation about why you should get excited.

“The Grand Budapest Hotel” (March 7) I’m not the biggest Wes Anderson fan, but I adored “The Fantastic Mr. Fox” and “Moonrise Kingdom.” His latest is an eccentric screwball comedy with a jaw-dropping cast led by Ralph Fiennes. Look at the list of names on the film’s IMDb page and tell me you’re not intrigued at the thought of all those actors working together. As with most of Anderson’s films, the visuals promise to be oddly beautiful and childlike.

BRYAN CRANSTON AND AARON TAYLOR-JOHNSON IN GODZILLA .

“Godzilla” (May 16)

The last time Hollywood tried an American version of the legendary monster, it didn’t One of the most famous stories in the Bible, go well (that’s putting it gently). However, as told by acclaimed filmmaker Darren the trailer for Gareth Edwards’ take looks Aronofsky? That’s all I need to know. I’m much more promising. The tone is approstill not completely sold on the idea of Ruspriately somber, the creature is cloaked in sell Crowe as the titular ark-builder, but the mystery — aside from brief glimpses of supporting cast — including Jennifer Connelly, Anthony Hopkins, Emma Watson and his size and the destruction he leaves in his wake — and Edwards wisely casts actors Logan Lerman — is intriguing. I’ve heard this one gets weird, which is to be expected like Bryan Cranston, Aaron Taylor-Johnif you’ve spent time in the book of Genesis. son, Elizabeth Olsen and David Strathairn It’s not exactly the bedtime story you prob- to elevate the material. The kid in me is bouncing off the walls. ably remember.

“Noah” (March 28)

“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” (July 11) “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” was a surprise hit, in terms of both quality and financial success, but the franchise reboot also had the benefit of almost zero expectations. That won’t be the case this time around. Andy Serkis’ motion-capture performance as Caesar was astonishing, and now the character is tasked with leading his simian brethren in an all-out war against the human survivors of the plague that ended the last flick. Throw in director Matt Reeves (who helmed the excellent American remake of “Let the Right One In”), and I can’t wait to see how this turns out.

BY JOSH SEWELL March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

CINEMA “Guardians of the Galaxy” (Aug. 1) When it comes to Marvel Studio’s latest gamble, I’m intrigued for a number of reasons. First, the sci-fi adventure is the company’s first film to tackle the non-superhero side of its comic book world. I’m curious how audiences will respond. I’m also excited because it’s poised to make Chris Pratt (hilarious on NBC’s “Parks and Recreation,” compelling in films like “Moneyball,” “Zero Dark Thirty” and “Her”) a household name. The guy’s a great actor who has totally earned mainstream success. Not to mention his character is part of a team that also includes a sentient tree (Vin Diesel) and a gun-toting raccoon (Bradley Cooper). Frankly, I need to see that projected on a screen before I can believe it exists.

“Gone Girl” (Oct. 3) Gillian Flynn’s twisted thriller isn’t exactly sophisticated literature, but that didn’t keep me from devouring the novel in a couple of marathon reading sessions. The story of a woman who goes missing on her wedding anniversary and the husband who’s immediately blamed for her disappearance is cynical, darkly funny stuff, full of unreliable narrators and loathsome characters. If anyone can make the material work on the big screen, it’s director David Fincher. He’s got a promising cast (including Ben Affleck as the husband, Rosamund Pike as the missing wife and Neil Patrick Harris as her sleazy ex-boyfriend) and I’m curious how Flynn (who wrote the screenplay) reshapes her narrative to fit cinematic conventions.

Caine, David Oyelowo and John Lithgow. After seeing the brief teaser trailer, essentially a tone poem narrated by McConaughey’s laconic Texas drawl, that’s all I need. Ticket sold.

“Boyhood” (TBD) Richard Linklater has proven adept at longterm storytelling before (if you haven’t seen his wondrous “Before” series, do so immediately), but this film’s ambitious history makes it a must-see. The writerdirector has been working on it for 12 years, crafting the story of a young boy’s life between the ages of 6 and 18 in real time. Linklater got together with actors Ellar Coltrane, Patricia Arquette and Ethan Hawke for a few days every year since 2002 to shoot what turned out to be an almost three-hour epic on an intimate scale.

“The Skeleton Twins” (TBD) Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader both rose to prominence on “Saturday Night Live,” but my impressions of their time there couldn’t be more different. The format was perfect for a chameleon like Hader, but Wiig never really clicked for me because of her obnox-

iously over-the-top characters. She’s great in movies though, particularly her dialeddown work in “Whip It” and “Friends with Kids.” Now the two “SNL” alumni get to showcase their dramatic chops as estranged twins who coincidentally avoid death on the same day, causing them to reconnect and try to put their lives back together.

“Whiplash” (TBD) I’ve been a fan of Miles Teller since the “Footloose” remake, in which he took a clichéd sidekick role and crafted it into an actual character. But he truly shined in last year’s “The Spectacular Now” as a teenage alcoholic struggling to move beyond high school and realizing he’s an anchor dragging down his girlfriend’s life. So I’m excited to see him go toe-to-toe with J.K. Simmons, one of my favorite character actors, in this drama about a promising drummer struggling to exceed his dictatorial instructor’s expectations. The film’s reception at Sundance was rapturous. You can reach Sewell at joshsewell81@gmail. com by email, or follow him on Twitter: @joshsewell81 or on Facebook: facebook.com/josh8199

“Interstellar” (Nov. 7) Christopher Nolan’s next big-budget project is shrouded in secrecy. We know it’s sci-fi and deals with conquering the vast distances involved in space travel. We also know it stars Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael 6

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

BILL HADER AND KRISTEN WIIG STAR IN "THE SKELETON TWINS."

Come By and Visit Us!

HOW DOES YOUR LAWN AND GARDEN GROW? Let’s make it better, WE CAN HELP…….

Spring is upon us, the days are getting longer, the soil is getting warmer and Easter, a gardener’s point of reference, is much later this year. That does not mean you should wait too long to get growing. Whether you are working in the garden, the yard, or on your lawn, you should know your PH levels. It’s step one to saving you time, money, and improving your overall results. Lime, fertilizer, compost, weed control, and insect prevention are basics to enhancing garden yields and the appearance of your yard and lawn. We carry what you need to make the job easier and the results even better. When it comes to lawn care, here are 10 basic points to a healthy lawn: 1. Get a soil test or test on your own – the ideal PH for most grasses in Georgia is 6.5. If the PH is low, add lime. This will enhance root growth and good worms. If PH is high, add sulfur. 2. Top dress with compost; most soils are lacking organic matter needed for cycling nutrients, and helping to hold moisture. 3. Over seed liberally – most lawns never get the chance to go to seed due to frequent mowing, lawns get old, tired and thin providing the perfect opportunity for weeds to take over. 4. Water responsibly – over watering can cause root rot, most grasses can survive on less water 4 er at one time, water more frequently, monitor the amount, ideally 1/2 inch each time, at least 1 inch per week. 5. Mow high – depending on your type of grass, set the mower higher than lower. Cutting low 5 causes lots of problems. 6. Aerate – an annual aeration reduces compaction; increases air, water and nutrient infiltration 6 n in to the soil. Aerating, then seeding, then top dressing is the trifecta of having a great lawn. Don’t forget to water – small amounts frequently. 7. Weeds – take care of weeds early before they germinate. Pre-‐emergent herbicides, weed and feeds or organic-‐corn gluten meal are safe around children and pets. 8. Mulch lawn clippings and leaves – mulching has two benefits – adds organic matter back to 8 o the soil and saves time and money by not bagging or hauling away. 9. Seeding – know your soil, know the setting and select what will be best for your region. 9 10. Alternatives – if grass just won’t grow, consider ground cover plants – there are many more 10 options to consider for tough growing areas. We invite you to come by and visit our ever-‐expanding Lawn & Garden Center. Talk with our knowledgeable staff – Cathy, Lyle, Janet, Angelia, and our newest member Carl Brack (known by many). They are all eager to help you with your lawn and garden ideas and questions. We carry a wide selection of garden seeds and Burpee garden plants. Our indoor and outdoor assortments continue to grow along with our gardening, lawn care and pond care products from names you know and trust including Miracle-‐Gro, High Yield, Fertilome, Espoma, Scotts and many more. In addition, we are now your local Southern States brand dealer carrying a full line of lime, fertilizers, grass seeds, and pest control products and supplies for your home, farm or ranch. Come on by, new plants and products are arriving daily. If we don’t have what you are looking for, tell us, we will do our best to find it for you! The newness of Spring is happening here! We hope to see you soon. Your friends at Southern Home & Ranch…………

Southern Home & Ranch Center

1110 NORTH PARK STREET • CARROLLTON, GEORGIA • 770-832-0114 HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 8AM-7PM • SUNDAY 12PM-5PM VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: WWW.SHRCENTER.COM

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

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West Georgia Living

AGRICULTURE

griculture in ction

Buyers and sellers fill the arena at the Carroll County Livestock Sales Barn.

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Carroll County Livestock Sales Barn a hub for beef producers

very Monday, at exactly noon, a little reminder of west Georgia’s agricultural past gets underway under the roof of a big green building on Highway 166, just outside of Carrollton. That’s when the auction begins at the Carroll County Livestock Sales Barn; when hundreds of heads of cattle (and other livestock) are bought and sold in a peculiar mix of theater and strictly business. And although the place is located in and named for Carroll County, in truth there are sellers from more than 30 counties who travel here every week and buyers who come further still. Ricky Stilley/WGL This sale has been going on for more Auctioneer Barry Robinson is the barn manager than 60 years, even as the region has at the Carroll County Livestock Sales Barn. BY KEN DENNEY • Livestock Sales Barn 10

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

slowly shifted from an agriculture-based economy to one of retail and manufacturing. And although most people in the region now get their beef from the grocery store instead of the family farm, there are still acres of rolling countryside where herd after herd of cattle peacefully graze. And of course these bovines are not raised to make pretty, bucolic pictures for tourists, nor are they pets for the farmers who raise them from calf to adult. It’s a business, and the sales barn is where cattle producers become businessmen. Georgia’s beef industry contributes $2 billion each year to the state’s economy, and across Georgia, in some

AGRICULTURE

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Prospective cattlemen Tucker Hendrix and Nate Butler look over the cattle prior to auction.

two-dozen sales venues like this one, cattle producers take in annual cash receipts of $262 million. That, the Georgia Cattlemen Association says, makes these four-footed moneymakers the state’s sixth largest cash crop. Most of the cattle in Georgia – 56 percent – are raised by just 13 percent (3,300) of the producers. But that only means that the majority of the state’s cattlemen are just like the farmers who take their beef to market in Carrollton, those who own less than 100 head of cattle. They carry all the risks involved in raising cattle that the big producers do, but with far less resources. Their profit margin is thin and shaved thinner by forces they cannot control, not the least of which is the ups and downs of the livestock market.

Bringing Buyers and Sellers Together Cattle farmers start bringing their stock to the Sales Barn on the weekend, but the place really gets busy on Monday morning. Beginning early in the day, right up almost until sales time, there is a steady procession of pickup trucks hauling cattle trailers to the rear of the barn, where the animals are checked in and tagged with an oval sticker with an identifying number. After that, drovers send the cattle into a maze of some 100 numbered pens that are spread across the vastness of the barn. Some of the pens hold only one or two animals – a cow and her calves, for example. Other pens are packed. According to Cattlemen Association statistics, most of the calves in these pens will be sold to buyers who will, in

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Lowell Custard, a cattle buyer from Alabama, is an agent for three different cattle producers. March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

AGRICULTURE turn, feed them until they reach finish weight for beef. Less than a third are purebred cattle that will be sold to breeders. The remainder will be sold to stockers; those who buy calves, add weight to them and then sell them to feedlots, many of which are out west. After their cattle are tagged and penned, the farmers will bide their time before the sale by getting a cup of hot coffee or sitting down to an early lunch at the on-site restaurant. Many will congregate in the theater-like arena or walk along the catwalks above the pens. All the while, the barn is full of moos and morose bellows. Inside the office, Barry Robinson, barn manager, is working with his staff Ricky Stilley/WGL An Angus cow and her calf are among some 800 head of cattle up for auction. to prepare for the auction. The Sales Barn has been in business Wednesday morning; get ’em gone. So, The Business of Beef since the 1950s, Robinson said, when you can give a little too much for one One of those buyers is Lowell Cusit used to conduct sales inside the City tard, who has been in the business more if it’s the right kind and keep it fresh, of Carrollton. The current sales barn, rather than buying one and keeping it a than 50 years. week.” located out on the Bankhead Highway, Custard raises cattle himself, but at Buyers like Custard use the terms has been in place since the mid 1970s. the Sales Barn he is representing three “fresh” and “stale” to describe cattle The Sales Barn is a co-op, owned by different buyers, two from Alabama which have entered the market stream. the cattlemen it serves – but fewer and and one from south Georgia. All are big The less time the livestock are in transifewer of them are actually from Carbuyers, and all have different orders for tion from farm to market to new farm, roll County. As old-time family farms Custard to fill. the “fresher” they are; the more time have disappeared, Robinson has had to “Some of them will call for all they are in the sales process, the “staler” reach out to counties far beyond west blacks (Angus); some of ’em will call they become; more stressed and more Georgia. for blacks and Charolais, and some of prone to disease, which adds veterinary “We’ve been getting (sellers) from ’em will be for plain cattle,” he says. It costs to the back end of a sale. the other side of Anniston, Ala., Piedall depends on what the buyer needs; Custard says that over the years, he mont, Cave Spring, up that way … whether to build his stock or to produce has seen cattle producers in west GeorManchester, Calhoun, Wedowee, Ala.” meat for the market.” gia breeding a much better quality of Robinson’s job is to bring buyers Custard goes to three sales a week, animal than when he began in the busiand cattlemen together, and despite the beginning here in Carrollton. There’s ness. That, he says, makes west Georgia local shift away from agriculture, he pressure on him to get these deals beef a favorite among buyers, espehas seen increasing numbers of both. closed quick and the cattle shipped to cially out west. Georgia cattlemen have “We have a big selection of buyers the buyers. learned how to breed cattle that will for the farmers to bring their cattle,” he “There’s not much room for error. withstand the hot summer sun, graze said. “Used to, there weren’t any buyAnd health is one of the main things. aggressively and calve healthy babies ers, and now we average in 800 head a (These buyers) that I’m talking about, – all the while, of course, producing week. So there’s plenty of cattle to go they want you to buy on Monday and the superior, well-marbled beef that the Tuesday and ship em Tuesday night or market demands. around, and more buyers are coming.” 12

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

AGRICULTURE As the auction begins, folks take their places inside the sales arena, which consists of steep, theater-style seating that looks down on a small, hay-filled ring. Robinson and his staff take their places in a counter that sits high above the ring. On either side, drovers stand ready to open the two doors – one for the cattle to enter the ring, the other for them to be driven out. With more than 800 head to be sold during a single day, the sale moves

pretty fast. Almost as fast as Robinson’s sing-song auction chant. Sitting in the front row is Custard and his fellow buyers. Robinson’s eye is constantly on them as the sale proceeds, picking up the subtle gestures that the buyers make to indicate their bid. As individual animals, heifers or bull calves are brought into the ring, its tag number and weight appear on big-screen TVs mounted above. When Robinson pronounces the animal “sold,” the price is also displayed.

In the stands, the spectators watch the sale, sipping coffee or leaning toward their neighbor for a short chat. They are old hands at this. But among them are one or two children who have been brought in by fathers and grandfathers – mothers and grandmothers, too – and look on with some excitement. Raising cattle is a hard life, but it is clear that there are new generations waiting in the wings to continue the legacy of west Georgia’s agribusiness, through many Mondays to come.

These pens hold the cattle prior to the auction. Producers from 30 counties fill the pens to near-capacity every Monday.

March/April 2014

Ricky Stilley/WGL

West Georgia Living

TAKE 5 Senator Mike Dugan, a Republican from Carrollton, was elected to the State Senate for Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 30th District in early 2013. Sen. Dugan represents portions of Carroll, Douglas and Paulding counties.

ike Dugan is the vice-chairman of the Governmental Oversight Committee and Secretary of the State Institutions and Property Committee. He is also a member of the Economic Development and the Veterans, Military and Homeland Security committees. Prior to being elected Senator, Sen. Dugan was President of the Carrollton Kiwanis Club, served on the Executive Board of the Carrollton Housing Authority and West Georgia Athletic Foundation Executive Committee. Dugan enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating from college the first time. He was later commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry. He became an Army Ranger and a Master Paratrooper and is proud to have spent more than 20 years in the Army before retiring 14

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2008. During his career, he deployed to more than 32 countries, including combat deployments in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. Dugan is now a local contractor at the Carrollton branch of RA LIN and Associates. Dugan attended Bowdon High School, where he played football and ran track. He graduated from the University of West Georgia (UWG) with a Bachelors Degree in History. He also earned a Masters Degree in Organizational Development from UWG. He is married to Missy and they have two children; daughter, Meghan and son, Beau. The Duganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are members of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Carrollton.

TAKE 5

Talk about dirty work, Sen. Mike Dugan said he once had a job that had him paddling in sewage all day.

Sen. Mike Dugan said most people would never guess now that he once had a full head of thick, brown hair.

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TAKE 5

. Most people would never guess I...used to have a full head of thick brown hair. . My parents always taught me....work hard, honor your word and respect others. That was in addition to study hard, no job is too small to put forth a full effort and never ever quit. . My first job was... I was 11, and I worked for a landscaping company. I did all of the dirty jobs that no one else wanted to do. When I get that letter we get every so often from the Social Security Office showing your work history, I still point that out to my kids. I think they are tired of seeing it.The messiest job I ever had was changing out pipes in the sewage treatment plant during a facility renovation. It was a summer job when I was in college. After a summer of paddling a boat through raw sewage my grades improved dramatically. . My favorite historical character is.... I have more than one. Teddy Roosevelt is one because I admire his courage and tenacity. Take any of the Founding Fathers and they would be on the list. Talk about laying everything you have, your wealth, your freedom and your lives, on the line without hesitation – that takes extreme courage. George Marshall, Chief of Staff of the United States Army, would be another. He served his nation during some of our most trying times and did so with class and honor. When his wife died he was ready to retire but his country needed him so he stayed. When World War II was over his mission was complete, and 16

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Sen. Mike Dugan said he always wanted to be a soldier and made that dream come, rising to the rank of colonel before retiring. Now he is in a different kind of service, serving in the state senate.

he could have gone home but his nation needed him, and he stayed. I admire how he always put his interest behind those of the greater cause. . When I was a kid I wanted to be a soldier. Some of the earliest pictures of me are wearing an Army uniform complete with my own little helmet. At

that age I couldn’t have told you about what it means to serve but being a soldier seemed to be the greatest job in the world. Fortunately I got to fulfill my dream. I got to be a teacher, a student, a coach, a team member and a friend to hundreds of great people just trying to do good by serving. I wouldn’t trade that part of my life for anything in the world.

Beautiful‘babies’

GARDEN

The Lenten Rose is a perfect plant for the season

There are several varieties of helenten Roses are easy to grow and bloom now leboris, many of which can be grown in late January through late March-April easily here. The variety helleboris niger depending on the changeable west Georgia weather. You will love them, and they are not hard is most common and will bloom from December through early spring in Zone 7. to grow. In fact, a friend of mine and huge Lenten In climates with a later spring they will not Rose lover calls them the “perfect plant.” bloom as long. They are lovely as a year You can purchase them from nurseries with round ground cover under trees and tall websites, just Google either Lenten Rose or shrubbery. I recently saw them planted in their Latin name, helleboris. They can be found front of shrubs along a garden wall – a intermittently at your local nurseries and big box charming and graceful way to exhibit stores. They are also sometimes referred to as their shape and what a surprise the Christmas Rose (not to be confused with the to see them blooming in Christmas cactus). They are not inexpensive but they are worth every penny because they will NOT mid-winter. Another variety, die, and they make many baby plants from their commonly called bear’s flower seeds. foot helleboris or helleboris My front yard is a testament to that last statefoetidus is a standout in any ment. My mother, not a gardener, planted them in red fill dirt and as usual, did nothing. Now, 30-plus garden. Regardless of its unfortunate name it does not stink. I have years later there are maybe 20 times as many as 15-20 planted by my patio and they are when she planted them, and there are small new lovely right now with 30-inch stalks plants everywhere. They have tolerated horribly of pale, pale green blooms. The stalk dry summers, when no one watered them. They rises 4-5 inches above have received no fertilizer, ever. the main plant and is They perk up hopefully after They are not in these bloom each rain and bloom beautifully inexpensive but they covered clusters. The foliage is breathand reliably every January with are worth every taking in winter when nothing else the pink, green and ruby blooms lasting through March. I dug some penny because they is blooming. The leaves are finely and deeply divided in numerous small plants last year and wrapped will NOT die and blades unlike the helleboris niger their roots in wet paper towels and they make many with its fatter palmate-like leaves. plastic bags and shipped them to a Bear’s foot can also be used as a friend in Virginia. She was thrilled baby plants from ground cover or to fill a bed due to and reports they are thriving in her their flower seeds. its evergreen nature. A good dose garden. of sun If you plant them in pretty good with afternoon shade soil, and as you can see, that can mean just dirt Come By suits this variety as well. that will grow a tree, you will be successful. An and Visit Us! Hellebores are part annual dose of regular lawn fertilizer or 10-10-10 of the ranunculus famwill help them get established. They like sun but ily, which includes the some afternoon shade is much appreciated. Mine have been mulched with pine straw, not leaves, and familiar clematis and the buttercup. They the numerous tiny plants that have resulted can be are found all across transplanted or allowed to grow where they are. A Europe and are spreadfriend was marveling at the number of “babies” in ing rapidly in America my yard and lamented that she had none. We deSouthern Home & Ranch Garden Center due to curious gardeners duced that her heavy leaf mulch prevented the tiny 1110 NORTH PARK STREET • CARROLLTON, GEORGIA • 770-832-0114 happy to have found the plants from getting through to the light in contrast HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 8AM-7PM • SUNDAY 12PM-5PM “perfect plant”. to the tiny spaces between pine needles. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: WWW.SHRCENTER.COM

BY KITTY BARR • Master Gardener Extension Volunteer March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

AT THE UNIVERSIT Y OF WEST GEORGIA , THAT’S OUR PRIMARY MISSION. As a comprehensive public university, we’re focused ﬁrmly on student success, but we also recognize our role as an active, innovative partner in our region, both in terms of economic development and of community engagement. We’re proud of our record (and growing) enrollment, $ 300 million in new and renovated facilities, and SACS level VI accreditation, but also of our annual regional impact of $442 million. We are committed to prioritizing and developing relevant academic programs to address current and evolving educational and workforce needs, and to providing experiential learning opportunities for our students with the primar y goal of preparing them for successful careers and contributing to a more educated and competitive Georgia. We’re constantly looking for new ways to cultivate research and business partnerships, offer a broad array of continuing education and cultural opportunities to improve quality of life, and seek innovative exchanges with other educational institutions to enhance opportunities for all learners. Visit uwgperspective.com for stories of innovation, exploration, and success. You’ll soon see why we say that amazing things happen when you Go West.

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March/April 2014

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West Georgia Living

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March/April 2014

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LIFE

a touch of

irish Pubs play off a concept, but keep community in mind

hen you think of a “pub” you probably think about a smoky saloon in the U.K. where grizzled men talk about Manchester United into the night. But that’s far from the fact. The word “pub” is short for “public house,” which means a place open to the public – as opposed to the private houses that once existed for the elite. CommuniRicky Stilley/WGL ties were built around the public house, Irish Bred Pub and Restaurant of Carrollton owner Chad Houck talks about how the restaurant chain helps to contribute to the revitalization of downtown areas. and it was there that people of all ages and both sexes would socialize, sing, relax and just generally have a good time. It’s that kind of convivial atmosphere that the Irish Bred Pub & Restaurant chain is trying to recreate in several cities across Georgia and Alabama, including its two locations in west Georgia: Douglasville and Carrollton. At the same time, this very successful business concept has been building those communities they serve, revitalizing the downtown areas and returning locally-owned retail to the central cities. The Douglasville restaurant is located in the heart of the historic downtown district, at 6682 Broad St. The Carrollton location is at 210 Adamson Square, Ricky Stilley/WGL Neil Jenkins, owner of the Irish Bred Pub & Restaurant in Douglasville, at his upstairs bar. which is the southeastern quadrant of BY KEN DENNEY March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

LIFE the Square, beside Bradley Street. Both are located in fine old historic buildings that, despite extensive renovations, retain the iconic facades that have identified them for generations. The Irish Bred chain is very unusual from a communitybuilding standpoint. Although they all have a leprechaun in their logo and have traditional Irish food items on the menu (fish & chips, corned beef and shepherd’s pie), the company’s headquarters in Fayetteville leaves it up to individual franchise owners to adapt and change their restaurants to suit the local tastes of the community. When Chad Houck bought the Carrollton location in 2007, the building was decorated to resemble a traditional Irish pub in Dublin (Ireland, not Georgia.) There were no TVs to watch college or pro football, and the only music coming over the speaker system was a continual selection of traditional Irish music. But it turned out that a traditional Irish pub simply did not translate well in a small, suburban Southern community. So Houck quickly adapted. He added some TV screens without turning the place into a sports bar, while adding a mix of top 100 and other types of music. It must have worked, because the Irish Bred pub has thrived for seven years in Carrollton, a town where most restaurants open and close very quickly. ‘That’s the key to any busi22

West Georgia Living

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Randy and Renee Hayes look over their menus at the Irish Bred Pub in Douglasville.

ness, you have your core concept in place, but you have to play to the strengths of the community to make sure the customer is happy,” said Houck. So while the Irish Bred restaurants are a chain, it is a kind of a “loose” chain,

March/April 2014

in which every location is owned by a franchisor who is free to adapt and change their restaurants as is needed, while maintaining the corporate theme of being a community builder. The chain is managed by The Irish Bred Pub Concepts

Co. and headquartered in Fayetteville, where it is run by president Paul Marmol and vice president Joe Garofalo. Along with the two restaurants in Douglasville and Carrollton, there are also locations in Gainesville, Hapeville, West Point, Rex,

all in Georgia; and Montgomery and Opelika in Alabama. Whenever possible, Houck said, these locations are located in the heart of the city, as close to downtown as possible. “A lot of people say a strong downtown is kind of the heartbeat of the city, and if you have a strong downtown you’re going to have a strong city,” said Houck. “Property values usually stay consistent in downtowns. This building has been here since 1892, so these properties aren’t going anywhere.” The Carrollton restaurant is located in a building that started out as a general store and has been in consistent and hard use for 122 years. Most of that time, the building housed hardware and merchandise outlets, including a 14-year run as an auto parts store. And even though it has also been a succession of restaurants, the building was in poor shape when Houck bought the franchise. But one of the advantages of buying a franchise is that you have help from the corporate level. The main company provides a great deal of assistance to those who pay the $20,000 franchise fee, including real estate, design and construction; building relationships with vendors; recruiting and training staff; providing quality and control; and advertising and marketing. While each restaurant is adapted to suit their communities, there are still common denominators. Both the Douglasville and Carrollton locations are notable for their deep, rich wood interiors and exposed brick walls. The interior décor is designed to evoke the theme of an old-style public house, with a warm and cozy atmosphere.

photos by Ricky Stilley/WGL

Top: Caroline Crow, Tina Denney, and Landria Cash, from left, peruse their menus at the Carrollton Irish Bred Pub & Restaurant. Center: Waitress Kasey Hutton delivers an order in Carrollton. Bottom: Greg Gardere, a waiter at the Pub in Dougalsville, punches in a lunch order.

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Alcohol sales are an important part of each location, but because the theme of “community” runs strong in the corporate philosophy, each franchisor strives to make their restaurant family friendly. Both west Georgia restaurants also have upstairs rooms which can be opened to private parties or serve as meeting locales for corporate functions. And in keeping with the community theme, the restaurants strive to play an integral role within the community, especially among other retailers. Although it was a cold January day when we visited Houck in the Carrollton restaurant, he was already planning the annual St. Patrick’s Day event, something you might expect an Irish-themed restaurant would make a big deal out of. Each year, the restaurant closes down its quadrant of the

Square and adds outdoor seating and a live band. But Houck’s annual celebration of the event has inspired other merchants on Carrollton’s Square to hold special events of their own, so that often during the spring and summer the entire Square resembles a street party. And those festivities are further enhanced whenever there is a concert at the nearby Amphitheater. All together, these events on the Square have the effect of drawing more and more people downtown, where they shop and eat at all the retail establishments, not just the Irish Bred. “Anytime you got a lot of things going on downtown is always good,” said Houck. “It’s good for the people coming to the events, and it’s good for the city as well.”

The bar upstairs at the Carrollton Irish Bred Pub & Restaurant has an unusual feature — 23,000 pennies under acrylic, all face-up for good luck. – photo by Ricky Stilley/WGL

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

LIFE

"An Old Irish Curse" is one of the many flourishes to evoke the feel of an old Irish pub.

Ricky Stilley/WGL

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West Georgia Living

Se ason

R emember

Spices can create a special taste and signature touch

aving a kitchen stocked with quality ingredients will get you a long way on the road of culinary accomplishments. However, a serious arsenal of spices and seasonings is a great second step. One can use a two-pound pork loin and create a down home classic that comes with mashed potatoes and gravy, then, minutes later, make tacos that will have people talking for weeks. Capturing the flavor of a region or a meal that you

had that just set you back on your heels begins with the base of locally grown ingredients from that region, but it was also followed by the seasonings and spices that have been used in those foods for as long as their cooks can remember. Beyond this, there is also the realm of “personal preference” that allows you to shift or replace one ingredient for another to capture that flavor you’re trying to get people to understand. I asked a local restaurateur what seasoning they

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Applewood smoked salt, Hawaiian black lava salt, coarse sea salt and Pink Himalayan salt were all used, in addition to the spices.

BY ROB DUVE 26

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

used on their steak. His answer was “We just allow the chef to make his own, whatever that may be”. That says a lot, since cooks and chefs alike are terribly competitive and there are probably as many versions of steak seasoning floating around out there as there are colors in the rainbow, but it also speaks to what each cook and chef is trying to convey to the eater. This is one of a thousand examples of culinary diversity that can be captured with the right seasonings.

Base I call this mix Base because it is the base of a great many of my spice mixes. From this Base, you can build numerous spice blends. It is the base ingredient I use for grilling everything. Chicken, pork, lamb, and of course, steak. I tend to make my Base batches by the pound as I use a great deal of it.

1 cup fine sea salt 1 cup organic, evaporated cane juice sugar ½ cup granulated garlic ½ cup granulated onion ½ cup fresh ground pepper (finely ground) ¼ cup smoked paprika For this blend, it’s not only about the flavors but there’s a little bit of science in here as well. Salt, as we know, will pull moisture from anything to put it on, however, sugar is an acid and does the same thing. This excess moisture will helps the flavors in the granulated onion and garlic bloom (both granulated onion and garlic are notorious for the extra time it tastes for their flavors to fully develop) and forms a bit of a glaze on the meat. When this hits the grill, it immediately sears and creates a crust on the outside of whatever you’re grilling, helping to keep it moist. A quick and easy expansion of Base is BBQ Rub. Just add the following to one cup of Base: ½ cup smoked paprika 1 tsp dry mustard 1 tsp chili powder ½ tsp

ground ginger ½ tsp finely ground lemon peel Please note that this mixture works very well on the grill, however, can be a bit tricky in a skillet. This mixture is designed to char and crust and, if not using the proper cookware, it can become a crispy, burnt mess.

Cajun Seasoning This mix is a great example of regional flavors in that it uses most of the base flavors that are commonly found along the Gulf Coast. You will find that is has a great floral component and just the right amount of heat to make any Cajun dish sing out loud. As a bit of a side note, I took this recipe to my friends in New Orleans and they loved it... except that they claimed it didn’t have enough salt. I prefer to add salt as needed but feel free to bump this recipe in any direction you like 1 cup smoked paprika ¼ cup fine sea salt 2 tbsp fresh ground black pepper, finely ground 2 tbsp white pepper, finely ground 2 tbsp granulated garlic 2 tbsp granulated onion 1 tbsp ground cayenne pepper 1 tbsp crushed oregano (Mexican oregano works best) 1 tbsp crushed thyme 1 tbsp crushed basil 1 tsp dry mustard

The shrimp being sauteed in the spices. Ricky Stilley/WGL

In the past few editions of WGL, you will have noticed Cajun recipes popping up in my presentations. This is the seasoning that I use for all of those recipes and stands as the second most used blend in my kitchen. One of the great recipes that I love to do for visitors and uses this blend is barbequed shrimp. Barbequed Shrimp The term barbequed shrimp is a bit odd in that the shrimp never get close to a grill and there isn’t anything resembling barbeque sauce involved. It is, however, a very rich and flavorful dish...emphasis on rich! 15 large Gulf shrimp, headed and peeled, save the heads and peels 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning ¼ cup finely diced white onions ¼ cup finely diced celery 3-4 tbsp bacon drippings 1 cup dry white wine 1 cup heavy cream Sea salt and pepper to taste Chopped green onions for garnish Toss peeled and headed shrimp in Cajun Seasoning and set aside in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. Place the heads and peels in a small sauce pan with 2-3 cups of water and a pinch of sea salt and boil for about 20 minutes. Remove heads and peels and reduce down to about ½ cup. In a large skillet, add onions, celery, and bacon drippings and sauté over medium heat until the edges are just brown and barely caramelized then add shrimp stock and white wine with an added pinch of Seasoning. Reduce over medium high heat until a reduced to about ½ cup and to the consistency of a medium syrup. Add shrimp while constantly stirring until the shrimp just begin to change color. Add heavy cream, stir well, and bring to a boil. As soon as it boils, remove from heat and serve either in a bowl with crusty baguette on over a fine pasta such as angel hair or thin spaghetti and garnish with chopped green onions. March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

A Quick Word About Salt We all add salt to dishes in varying amounts. Most people do this without a thought as to what kind of salt they are adding. Common iodized salt is fine for most, but, just as there are a wide variety of spices in this world, there are a ton of different salts to choose from. For general seasoning, you will notice that I always use Sea Salt. I do this because of the added minerals and slightly different taste that it provides. I also have no need for the added iodine from processed salt since my shellfish intake is quite high. Beyond the general seasoning that salt provides, there are also a great many salts for finishing a dish, and their individual tastes can make all the difference. Pink Himalayan Salt Conventional table salt is a miracle of industrial science. It is about 98% sodium chloride with the remaining content being iodine, drying agents, and stabilizers. Natural salts, and pink himalayan salt especially, have minerals that have health benefits that range from natural water distribution throughout the body to preventing cramps and regulating the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pH level in a very natural way. Beyond that, it has an exceptionally clean flavor

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

without being excessively harsh. Most people that I know who live naturally are huge consumers of Pink Himalayan Salt Black Lava Salt Occurring in volcanic regions, Black Lava Salt not only has the health benefits that a Sea Salt will have, but the black nature of it means it has a high carbon content. Carbon is a natural palette cleanser and, for any dish that has numerous complex flavors, finishing it with Black Lava Salt will allow each of the flavor components to come through individually. It also gives lighter-colored dishes a very interesting appearance with its contrast. Smoked Salt Smoked salt is very interesting in that the producers have large cauldrons of

seawater that literally have a chimney running through it. The process of evaporation is accomplished by the heat of the smoking, which also leaves behind the drawn components from the smoke behind. The flavors are only limited by the types of flavorful smoking woods there are, and most smoked salts can be found in applewood, pecan, hickory, alder and many more flavors. A great use for smoked salts would be simply sautĂŠed green beans with a pinch of pepper and finished with smoked salt All of the examples I have provided here are just samples of things you can accomplish by doing some light reading about base ingredients and some trial and error in your own kitchen. However, if it tastes good, how can it be an error? Enjoy!

Ricky Stilley/WGL

This is the completed main dish.

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Local doctor returns to her roots D

r. Gwyn Goodwin is a Carrollton native, having been born and raised head Chiropractic as an associate. Love ensued and before long Gwyn right here in our community. She is the daughter of W.C. Goodwin, married Clyde in 2005 and moved away to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where an Associate Professor at West Georgia College (now University of West the newlyweds ran a practice together, the Mind Spine Connection ChiroGeorgia), and 7th-grade English teacher, Beverly Goodwin, who taught practic Center, had two lovely children and lived happily as a family for for many years at Central Middle School. the next nine years. Gwyn graduated in 1990 from Oak Mountain Academy before leavAs with all of us, life has a way of throwing things out of alignment ing Carrollton at age 17 to attend the North Carolina and forcing us to make adjustments in the plans we’ve School of the Arts in pursuit of her passion for becommade. In 2011, having learned that her widowed mother “Our vision is to ing a ballet dancer. Her dreams of the arts soon led her stage 4 colon cancer, Gwyn packed up her family and help our patients on had to Indianapolis to earn a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) at returned once again to her childhood home. Her mother their journey Butler University, before then moving to Denver for two passed away in 2012, and Gwyn and Clyde opened Inteyears to dance with the Colorado Ballet. grative Body Health (IBH) in August 2013. toward a healthier Discovering a passion to help injured dancers, Gwyn In a twist of fate, Dr. Goodwin’s children now live in and pain-free life.” returned home to Carrollton, where she took her prerequithe home where she grew up, in the community which site courses at the University of West Georgia from 1997— Dr. Gwyn Goodwin she’s loved her whole life and attend the same school she 1998, and then moved away to Marietta to earn her D.C. attended as a child. (Doctorate of Chiropractic) at Life University in 2002. When I asked Dr. Goodwin what her concept or viShe also became board certified through the National Board of Chiroprac- sion was for IBH, she responded, “Our vision is to help our patients on tic Examiners. their journey toward a healthier and pain-free life.” Between her studies, she met Clyde Navarro, who received his D.C. Carrollton is blessed to have this lovely family as part of our commuin 2001, also from Life University, as she worked in Villa Rica at Banknity and look forward to seeing them among us for a long time to come. 30

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

I omething D to sing LIFE

about

o see Jason Rowell on the stage singing with Southern Komfort or in the courtroom for the Douglas County Public Defender's Office – you would never know the battle that he fought over the last year. You see, Rowell was given a coin flip's chance of living after doctors found that the normally unflappable investigator and musician had Stage 4 throat cancer last March 15. Battling cancer is a plate full on its own. With that, Rowell said he cried, got mad, wanted to fight somebody, thought about quitting and had days where he couldn’t get out of bed. On top of cancer and all that goes with it, Rowell and Amy welcomed their daughter, Ava Rose, and were rocked by the sudden death of Amy's mom, Nancy McElroy, just before Christmas. So when Rowell and the band were on the stage of the Irish Bred Pub in Douglasville on New Mitch Sneed / WGL Year’s Eve, he was happy to say goodIt's hard to imagine a year filled with more ups and down than what 2013 brought to Jason Rowell bye to 2013. and his family. He said the one thing all the trials and tribulations have shown him is that life is precious and he will make the most out of every second.

BY MITCH SNEED March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

LIFE

“It was an unbelievable year,” Rowell said. “People ask you ‘how did you get through all that?’ I tell them I didn't have a choice. Fighting it all and dealing with so much, it was tough, but it sure beats the alternative.” Good point. But there were times when experts didn’t give him a whole lot of reason for optimism. On March 15, he knew he had been having pain in his jaw and inner ear and had tried two or three things that doctors had ordered, most feeling it was some sort of middle-ear issue. So it was off to another doctor to see if they could get to the root of the pain. The band had a gig that night, playing the outdoor stage at the Irish Pub in Douglasville. So on the ride, the songs were more on his mind than what he would soon hear. “In one breath they told me that I had Stage 4 throat cancer and that it was 50-50 that I’d be alive in five years,” Rowell said. “They didn’t even take a breath. There it was. I don't remember much of what was said after that. I started looking for a trash can because I thought I was going to throw up. I got dizzy, and honestly I thought I was going to pass out.” “It was like the world stopped right then. I know I drove home, but I don't remember it.” He said that he had always heard about the whole range of emotions that is felt at the moment of diagnosis. He said nothing can prepare a person for that kind of news. After talking with family and friends and Amy, who is a nurse, he said he got mad and was ready to fight. Jason and Amy pose when Rowell was at his worst, more than 40 pounds down in the midst of treatment for throat cancer. Contributed photo

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

“Amy said 'we'll get through this so what do you want to do right now,’” Rowell said. “Throat cancer? I told her I was going to do this gig. I didn't know how much longer I’d be able to sing, so I better make the most of it while I can.” If you saw him on the stage that night, you would have never known, as be belted out “Wagon Wheel,” the Commodores’ classic “Easy” and other tunes by Jake Owen and Jason Aldean – he sang like it was the last time. He said it was an escape. The pictures on these pages are from that night. But after the spotlight was out and the last amp was loaded, it was back to reality. Why me? He never smoked, but had played smoky bars more times than he could count on all his fingers and toes. What's next? A 50-50 chance, really? But he said in reality, none of that mattered. “After that first couple of days, you just kind of start thinking, well let’s do this,” Rowell said. “We talked to the doctors, and they got us to some others and they had a plan in place. Down to the treatment number and the day, it was exactly what they said it would be, but I thought I was tougher than all that. I was like after the first few treatments, I was thinking ‘this ain’t so bad.’ Then it hit me. Another treatment, and I was about to tell them to just quit and let me die.” Food was replaced by a feeding tube. Fentanyl patches for pain is all that gave him any relief, and when those wore off he was zapped and unable to move. He dropped 36 pounds and by the time his last treatment came on May 28, he admitted that he looked more like an extra from 'the Walking Dead,’ than me.“ But he was alive and thought the worst was behind him. But the pain medication had taken a toll. He switched from the patch to morphine. That helped the pain, but took a toll on him physically and mentally. A man who had seen it all in his career in law enforcement, he recognized the signs of being hooked. “I mean Amy was eight months pregnant, and I just looked at myself and said ‘I got to quit this,’” Rowell said. “I started cutting it back and took it day-by-day. I’m convinced if I hadn’t done it like I did, I wouldn’t have made it back like I have. They say if it doesn’t kill you ... I thought it was for awhile there.”

Mitch Sneed / WGL

Jason Rowell sings on the outdoor stage at the Irish Bred Pub in Douglasville on the day doctors told him that he had throat cancer. He said the emotions that hit him that day went from wanting to throw up to enjoying every minute of what time he had left.

But on Aug. 2, they welcomed Ava Rose to the family, and he had a clear head and mending body when he held her in his arms for the first time. In the fall he was back at work, helping the attorney at the public defender’s office prepare for trial. He said getting back into the routine has been the biggest help. He said time on his hands is not a good thing. “I couldn’t have done this without all the people who were there for me,” Rowell said. “My family, my friends, the folks at work. There was never a time when we needed anything that there wasn't someone there to help. You know how lucky you are at a time like that. They say you find out who your friends are. I never knew I had so many.” He’s back on stage, slowly getting back into the routine. He picks gigs where there’s not so much smoke and his bandmates say they are happy to have him back. Southern Komfort is based in Bremen, but plays all over the region. From Southern rock classics to country to even a Prince party song or two, they do it all and have a good time doing it. Chris Keaton, Bonnie and John Sanders, Kevin Clark and Corey Simpson, who filled in while Jason was in treatment, never sounded so good.

“He gave us a scare, but we sure are glad to have him back up here with us,” Bonnie said on stage. Monica Myles, Jasons’s boss at the Douglas County Public Defender’s Office, said that his diagnosis and successful battle against cancer changed the entire office. “It was a huge shock to find out someone so young and apparently healthy was facing such a significant illness,” Myles said. “It was wake up call to all of us. We are a small close knit office and to have any of us facing such a frightening diagnosis was like having a family member fall ill. Jason’s strength and humor as he fought his battle against cancer inspired all of us. Each test and pet scan drew everyone into my office to hear the latest results. When it became clear that he was cancer free it was a tremendous relief and celebration.” Like Jason said, it’s good to be anywhere. “You’ve heard people say they've been to hell and back,” Rowell said. “I understand it now. But the best thing about that it makes you appreciate everything more than you ever imagined. It makes every day seem like a blessing, every meal seems like Thanksgiving Day. It makes every song you sing sound even better. It makes you glad to be alive.” March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

PEOPLE

Atlanta’s Sid Bream, top, is hugged at home plate by teammate Dave Justice (left on ground) after scoring the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning in Game 7 of the NLCS on Oct. 14, 1992, in Atlanta. The Braves’ Ron Gant is rushing to celebrate with Bream. The Braves beat the Pirates, 3-2 AP Photo/John Swart.

Here comes Bream Hero of Braves’ magical moment to speak at Midway Church's Beast Feast

f you listen closely, you can still hear the voice of the late Skip Carey and his call of what might be the most memorable moment in Braves baseball history. “The 2-1. Swung, line drive, left field! One run is in! Here comes Bream! Throw to the plate! He is ... safe! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win! Braves win!” You can say “when Sid slid” to just about anyone in the Southeast and, if they're old enough, they'll know exactly what you're talking about. Sid Bream, the man who sent the 1992 Braves to the World Series with his world famous slide into home plate, is still remembered fondly

by fans more than two decades later. On March 20, Bream will return to Georgia with an appearance at Midway Church’s Beast Feast, a dinner and speaking event aimed at bringing new people to the church. Bream, a graduate of Liberty University, will speak on baseball, the outdoors and faith in the Villa Rica church’s sanctuary, which can seat up to 1,000. Dinner is $15 and begins at 6:30, and Bream’s speech, a separate event, costs $10 to enter and begins at 7 p.m. The Braves, of course, did not play very well during the 1980s and finished the 1990 season in last place.

BY HAISTEN WILLIS 34

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Courtesy of Atlanta Braves

Sid Bream has remained close with the Braves family and captained a team at the annual Legends Game last summer. He may live in Pittsburgh now, but he will always live in the hearts of Braves fans.

Luckily for Bream, he arrived just in time to experience the magical 1991 “worst to first” season, jumping from a division winner in Pittsburgh to a division winner in Atlanta, and played in both the ‘91 and ‘92 World Series after beating his old team in the NLCS. Ironically, Bream lives in Pittsburgh today, the home of the Pirates team he sunk with his famous slide. To the superstitious, the slide meant even more than a heartbreaking loss, it cursed the team to two decades of losing. After they dropped that fateful game, Pittsburgh didn’t have another winning season until 2013. “I hear every day that I’m out in my area, somebody will come up and let me know that I hurt them considerably,” he said. No surprise, he was glad to see the 2013 season. “I'm thankful that after 21 years the Pirates finally broke through and got into a playoff situation,” said Bream. “That kind of alleviated a little bit of the pressure.” After beginning his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Bream also played for the Houston Astros in addition to the

Braves and Pirates. He left Atlanta in 1993 for Houston, and retired during the baseball strike of 1994. Sid Bream and Sid’s Slide are always intertwined in the public eye. But it’s something he is extremely grateful for. In fact, he says he might not be doing public speeches without it. “I think it’s all because of that play,” said Bream, now 53. “It’s not something I desired to do in the whole truthfulness. I’m not a Zig Zigler or John Maxwell that just loves getting in front of people and talking. I think all this has stemmed from that slide.” Whatever it is, it has worked out very well. Bream serves as the spokesman for Christian Sports International, a 501(c)(3) faith-based charity based in Pittsburgh. He estimates he speaks at between 35 and 40 events a year, and he loves sharing his story with the world and helping people in their faith walks. The Beast Feast event is in its third year. Last year, Midway landed Duck Dynasty’s Willie and Korie Robertson just as the reality TV stars’ careers headed for the stratosphere. A standing-room-only crowd of 1,200 saw the Robertson’s speak about March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Sid Bream stands with fellow Braves great Marty "Taco" Perez as the team honors the 1992 championship team and all the Braves legends during their annual alumni softball game at Turner Field on June 10, 2012. 36

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Photo courtesy Atlanta Braves

“Faith, Family and Ducks.” This year, sports fans will be eager to hear Bream's words on stage. “We wanted to get somebody recognizable,” said Midway Communications Specialist TJ Kelley. “We may not be able to top last year’s event, but we wanted to get somebody who would be able to deliver a Christian message and be recognizable in this area. Sid Bream is very famous for the Braves. He turned out to be the perfect guy to bring in.” While those who attended last year's Beast Feast might expect a different sort of speech from Bream than the big-bearded Robertson, the two actually have a lot in common. There is of course their sports background, with Robertson’s father playing college football at Louisiana Tech (ahead of Terry Bradshaw, whom you may have heard about). But on the flip side, you won't be hardpressed to find Bream talking about his love of hunting. “I’m an outdoorsman,” he said. “I love bow hunting. I could sit down for hours and hours listening to peoples’ hunting stories. For me to be in this type of a venue and be able to again share what comes to my heart, love, God's creation, but then at the same time to try and challenge dads, grandmas, grandpas and kids as to what’s important, that is basically what I’m going to be sharing. I’ll be talking about what my dad instilled upon me.” Beast Feast is organized by Midway Church volunteer Mike Lee. A majority of the proceeds

PEOPLE

Sid Bream throws the ceremonial first pitch following the annual alumni softball game at Turner Field on June 10, 2012. Bream now makes faith-based inspirational talks across the country, saying it is his way of sharing what has made a difference in his life. Photo by Pouya Dianat/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images

from the event go toward a donation to the West Georgia Technical College Foundation and help cover the cost of the school’s adult GED program. “We want to open up these events to the public to allow them to come in and experience Midway,” said Kelley. “While they are not experiencing a worship service, they get to experience the people here. They come in, have a good time, hear a good message and eat some good food. This helps get people connected so hopefully they will check us out on a Sunday or during the week.” Midway Macedonia Baptist Church was founded in 1947 and is celebrating its 167th anniversary this year. The church began transitioning toward a contemporary service in 2005 and today is fully contemporary with services at 8:15, 9:45 and 11:15 on Sunday mornings in addition to other church events during the week. Todd Wright has been the lead pastor since 1996 and led the church's transition toward a contemporary feel. “The Beast Feast is a good and inspiring way to add value to our community through the donation to the GED program,

while at the same time sharing the truth of Jesus Christ to a broad audience,” said Wright. Kelley was unwavering in his praise for Wright. “He’s a visionary type of leader,” said Kelley. “He has a passion for leading the community and reaching younger people.” Wright has his own website, ToddWright.com. If you’re interested in seeing Sid’s speech, visit MidwayChurch.com.

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West Georgia Living

BOOK BEAT

A look at

'A Chatterstrip at The End of Civilization' by Jay Michael Jones

wenty years of living in Greater Metropolitan Roopville taught Truman Fable all he needed to know about the South: that 20 years was barely a toehold in time to a true Southerner. In this light, lively tale Truman manages to out-maneuver his social gaffes with the help of his friendly attorney Jim Dimity, sexy Judge Butler, Jim's hot-tempered sister Sally, social icons Junior and Daphne Butterswing (of THE Butterswings of Wett Lake Drive), Pastor Joe Otis Jackson, appealing Nancy Sweetanall and Truman's nemesis, serial bride Mrs. Viola Hassendoodle. Toss in a few playful goats, mix well with a dash of hometown events and add the occasional small town ode and you, too, will know what it takes to live in the rural South. Greater Metropolitan Roopville may not be the end of the world, but there is a strong argument for it as the “A Chatterstrip at the End of Civilization.” REVIEW: The first time I ever heard Jay Michael Jones read at one of the regular meetings of the Carrollton Creative Writer's Club, I nearly fell out of my chair laughing. The humor this author is able to capture in their stories is astounding. But, what’s even more appealing is the way Jones is able to capture the feel, the taste,

Author Jay Michael Jones

the altruistic sensation of the southern lifestyle. This author not only captures the voice of the deep south of West Georgia, but exemplifies it and teases just about every sensory memory a southern listener has when reading their work. That’s how it is when reading “A Chatterstrip at the End of Civilization.” While reading this humorous tale, I know and recognize the culture, the scenery, the innuendos, and the settings because it’s all around me every day in Carrollton, or better known in this hilarious tale as the Greater Metropolitan Roopville. There was something I learned over the years while moving from town to town in my childhood, you meet the same 10 people everywhere you go. Only the names and faces change, but those 10 personalities are prevalent in every town, every city and in every culture across the south. Jones is able to capture those familiar characters chapter after chapter throughout “A Chatterstrip at the BY T.L. GRAY

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Publisher: Vabella Publishing Of Carrollton, Georgia Release Date: August 25, 2013 Genre: Humor *Available where books are sold, local bookstores, Amazon, Barnes & Noble.

Edge of Civilization” in colorful characters such as Truman Fable, Sally and Jim Dimity, Judge Butler, Nancy Sweetenall, Viola Hassendoodle and company. The author doesn't have to add much description to them because my imagination fills them in for me so beautifully, as I'm sure it will do the same for any other reader. There’s one particular chapter that had me reeling in laughter in light of our recent Snowpocalpse 2014. “Winter in Greater Metropolitan Roopville is usually on a Thursday and will ruin your entire weekend, which naturally, you had something planned to do outdoors at the time. Black ice, what they call clear icy on an asphalt road, is hard to identify until you and your car are spinning out of control across all the lanes on the bypass. Perhaps the most odious sign of inclement winter weather is the condition known as a Bread Casserole Run. All it takes is a single phrase from a weatherman or the sighting of a single snowflake and there will be long lines at the Piggly-Wiggly with people anxious to buy enough milk and bread to last until the roads are clear.” There are many wonderful southern elements in this story – everything from popular hangouts like O’Paddy’s, Fable’s Feed and Seed, and the popular Mayday, but it wouldn't be complete without the goats. Every story, every southern nuances had me laughing out loud and really coming to appreciate some of the beauty and wonder of the South. This is a book every true southerner will absolutely love and every true northerner will want to experience for themselves, whether they admit it or not.

Mini-interview with author Jay Michael Jones:

Q: What do you want readers to take away most after reading “ A Chatter strip at the End of Civilization? A: I truly want people to be entertaine d. I want them to laugh. I want them to remember my characters and feel a part of my stories. If I’ve done tha t, I consider that a huge success. Q: What is coming up next for you? A: Well, after writing 26 books in my sci-fi series, a romantic comedy, dark literary, western and a memoir, I can just about write anything. But, I'd have to say I’m leaning more toward writing another romantic comedy. Tha t’s my favorite genre. Q: Where do you see yourself profess ionally in five years? A: As I listed above, I can write just about any genre, but I’d really like to see myself being able to write full tim e and see just how many people I can entertain. Q: Are your characters in Chatterstri p based on real people in your life? A: Each character could be someone in any community. They may be based on real live people or just from my imagination, which draws from influences of real live people I know. You never know, but I can guarantee that every reader will be able to match a character with someone they know. Q: Is there any character in Chatterstri p that you would consider based on yourself? A: There’s a little bit of me in every character, but if I had to choose one that was most like me it would be Tru man Fable. I have more similarities with him than with any of the others. Till next time, T.L. Gray

About the reviewer: T.L Gray is a local Carrollton author. She bides her time when not reading, writing, editing and running her literary agency by being outdoors, running, socializing with friends and family. At this time she is concentrating her writing efforts in the high fantasy genre, and you can look forward to more exciting works from her in the near future. http://www.tlgray.blogspot.com

T.L GRAY

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

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West Georgia Living

Murder in

Draketown

90 years later – ‘The Raiding Parson’s’ tale lives on he “Raiding Parson of Draketown” had been asking for it. His meddlesome sermons against bootlegging had been bad enough, but when he started destroying moonshine stills himself, the boys who cooked the mash in the backwoods decided they would teach him a lesson. On the night of Nov. 13, 1924, they acted. But things did not turn out the way they expected. Before the night was over, blood had been spilled in an act so dramatic that newspapers across the South reported it on the front page; and in the months that followed, the small town of Draketown became the focus of national attention. All that happened 90 years ago – but today, hardly anyone knows about this epic crime. All that remains is a marble column that the citizens of Draketown put up at the site of the event. It has become the target of vandals; damaged and neglected.

Front page of the Atlanta Constitution on Nov. 16, 1924.

BY KEN DENNEY 42

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

HISTORY

Front page of the Haralson County Tribune on Nov. 20, 1924.

Moonshine on the Tallapoosa In 1924, national Prohibition had been in effect four years. But in Georgia, legislators had banned the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in 1907. The law had a particularly hard effect in Haralson County, where wine production had been one of major industries in what was mainly an economy of small farms and dirt-poor farmers. The other cash crop, cotton, was threatened by the boll weevil and rock bottom prices at the market. Years before the start of the Great Depression, Haralson farmers were desperate for money. For some, the only way to earn

cash was to turn to moonshining. In the hidden valleys and hills of Haralson and Paulding counties, otherwise respectable members of the community produced high-proof, distilled liquor in secret locations. They found a ready market for their liquor among other farmers, who paid for the ’shine with money needed by their hungry families. The Reverend Robert Stewart found this sinful and an abomination. He had been a Methodist minister since 1915 and had been appointed to ride the circuit in Haralson County. One of his churches was the District Line United Methodist Church on Morgan Road. Nearby, in Draketown, Stewart lived with his wife, Alice, and their two young

daughters. He was a short, thin man but he had a powerful voice, and he blasted the moonshiners from his pulpit in weekly sermons. And he was brave beyond his size. Not content with Sunday preaching, he spent the other six days of the week ranging into the hills, wearing a pistol slung from a cartridge-filled belt, to smash stills and do whatever he could to break up the moonshine gangs. Sometimes, according to Haralson County historian Allen Wilburn, that meant hitching the stills to Stewart’s car and dragging the apparatus out of the woods with a rope. Stewart, 37, quickly gained the nickname of “The Raiding Parson,” and March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

he became a hero to many for putting his morals into concrete action. But he was not popular with everyone. He naturally attracted the attention of the moonshiners themselves, and they deeply resented his form of vigilante justice. On at least two separate occasions they sent him the same message: he could preach against them all he wanted, but leave the busting of stills to law enforcement. “If the sheriff catches us, that’s his job,” Stewart was told. “It is not a preacher’s work.” But Stewart defied the bootleggers and continued his sermons and his raids. By November 1924, the moonshiners had enough. They were going to do something. They had decided Stewart had raided his last still. Dr. Allen Wilburn stands in front of the 15-foot tall monument that the citizens of Draketown put over the exact spot where Alice Stewart was gunned down on Nov. 13, 1924. Ricky Stilley/WGL

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Gunfire in the Moon Shine The night of Nov. 13, 1924, was lit by a waning full moon. Like everyone else in Draketown, the Stewart family had gone to bed after dark, so no one was ever really sure what time it was when the two carloads of bootleggers drove up to the reverend’s house. What happened that night is confusing, but according to historian Wilburn and newspaper reports, when Stewart opened his door the men told him that they wanted him to accompany them on a liquor raid. Stewart dressed, went outside and started talking to the men in one car while those in the second vehicle sat waiting. Stewart either refused to go along because he was suspicious of the men, or the men standing around him suddenly made their move. In any event, Stewart found himself grabbed and being shoved inside the first car. “Damn you,” one of the abductors shouted, “you have made your last raid!” The struggle raised a ruckus that seemingly was heard by everyone in the community, but only one person came to the reverend’s aid: his wife, Alice. Still clad in her nightgown, the preacher’s 35-year-old wife picked up a firearm (most say it was a pistol) and ran out into the front yard to make a dramatic stand against the bootleggers. She ran toward the scuffle and fired two shots, either as a warning or deliberately toward the lead vehicle, depending on the historical record.

HISTORY What happened next, howa mob of vigilantes and a couraever, is beyond dispute. Someone geous woman making a stand to in the second car fired a shot that defend her family. From the Conripped into Mrs. Stewart’s arm, stitution, the story spread along causing her to fall to the ground the news telegraph wires where still gripping the weapon. Then it was published in papers across came another shot that struck the the South. Tiny Draketown was helpless woman in her upper back, suddenly the center of world atshattering her spine and instantly tention. paralyzing her. In the meantime, Sheriff The bootleggers now panRichards and his deputies were icked and struggled to get away in at work. Eventually, the lawtheir vehicles. Stewart broke away men made 10 arrests, but at a from his would-be abductors and preliminary hearing charges ran to his wife’s side, where he were dropped against half the picked up the weapon and fired men, while the other five suswildly at the cars as they roared pects were bound over to a grand away. Those in the vehicles fired jury. The prosecutor, Edward S. two more shots as they disapGriffith, 62, decided to put the peared into the dark. men on trial separately, and in The entire small community early February 1925, citizens and of Draketown had been roused by news reporters crowded into the this time, and folks rushed to the courthouse in Buchanan for the site where Mrs. Stewart lay bleedfirst trial. Ricky Stilley/WGL ing in the moonlight. Dr. William But the trial of Jeff HenHogue, who lived across from the Close up of the detail on the monument notes that Mrs. Stewart derson did not go well. Despite was "assassinated" by "rum-runners." Stewarts, arrived at the scene; so the deathbed statements of Mrs. did Dr. Benjamin Franklin Eaves. Stewart and the key testimony of who she had recognized among the crowd The doctors saw that the only hope for the Rev. Stewart himself, Henderson’s legal of her husband’s would-be abductors. Even paralyzed woman would be found at the team produced evidence that he was not as newspapers across the county picked hands of more experienced surgeons, so involved in the crime; that he was, in fact, up the story of her courageous stand in dethey loaded Mrs. Stewart into a car and at home when Mrs. Stewart was gunned fense of her husband, Alice Stewart began headed out over 60 miles of rough road to down. The defense rested its case at noon to succumb to her injuries. She died the a hospital in Atlanta now known as Emory. on Feb. 4. The next morning, the jury, morning of Nov. 15. By that time, Sheriff George Richafter deliberating 1 hour and 20 minutes, ards had gotten to the site and quickly returned a verdict of not guilty. organized a group of about 40 men as a After this defeat, according to histoNo Justice for Mrs. Stewart posse to go after the assailants. One group rian Wilburn, the prosecutor took his time That same afternoon, The Atlanta went after the bootleggers by car, travelin bringing the other four defendants to ing all the way to Alabama and back again Constitution hit the streets with a banner trial. Eventually, all the charges were distwo-deck headline, using the size of type missed and the accused men walked free. without result. Meanwhile, another group went out by foot and picked up a couple of normally reserved for declarations of No one else was ever tried for the war: “Pastor’s Wife Fatally Shot by Rum suspicious men, one of whom was found murder of Mrs. Stewart. No one was ever Runners Who Made Attempt to Abduct in bed fully clothed. convicted of the crime. Her Husband.” Mrs. Stewart lived for two days after The Reverend Stewart never stopped The event had all the elements for a the shooting – even giving statements to preaching against moonshiners. But he sensational story – a crusading preacher; never went out on another raid. law enforcement about the incident and March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

HISTORY The Unknown Memorial Eaves Drive is a narrow strip of road that loops through the southeastern intersection of highways 113 and 120. Alongside the road, a visitor discovers something which looks out of place amid the quiet neighborhood: a 15-foot tall marble column, flanked by two small benches. It seems difficult to imagine now, but on June 6, 1925, a crowd of some 5,000 people – more than who lived in Haralson County at the time – gathered around the monument to see it unveiled by Alice Stewart’s youngest daughter. It marks the exact spot where Mrs. Stewart was hit by her assailant’s bullets. And while the Stewarts’ house is long gone, the monument remains. The ceramic photo of Mrs. Stewart

has been shot away by vandals, leaving only an incised oval in its place. But there is also this inscription: “Alice Wildie Adams, wife of Rev. Robert Stewart, Born May 10, 1888, assassinated Nov. 13, 1924, by rum runners at this place and died at Wesley Memorial Hospital, Nov. 15, 1924. She was a kind and affectionate wife, a fond mother and a friend to all.” Then there are two verses from Proverbs, intended to teach a lesson about the wages of sin wrought from the evils of drink: “At the last it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder.” Those few who stop and look at the monument, now nearly a century after the event, must wonder at the inscribed words and wonder about how such a thing came to be in such a place. When Mrs. Stewart was killed, the focus of the entire nation was on Drake-

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town and the story of the brave woman who stood up against the forces of lawlessness. Her death meant something to people then, because it said something about the era in which she lived. It meant something to the many people who chipped in to buy the monument, and to the thousands who came to see it dedicated. Allen Wilburn, whose published account of the killing of Alice Stewart was the basis of most of this article, says that although vandals have defaced the monument and many people in Haralson have forgotten about its story, he believes what happened here is worth remembering. “I just love for stories like this to be told, because it gets people an interest where we are,” said the former history teacher. “They realize there’s history here too, in Haralson County, that’s important.”

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ebruary is known as the month of love, mainly because it houses the ever popular Valentine’s Day. But sweetheart love isn’t all that fuels the West Georgia area. This tight-knit community has a love for one another that is portrayed in various ways. One in particular is the love and respect given and received by those associated with a certain Carrollton native, Mike “Big Boy” Barnes. While I’m sure Mr. Barnes shared a special Valentine with his wife, Elaine, his Walker family shared a special moment on Wednesday, February 26, 2014, which marked the 20th anniversary of his service at Walker Cadillac Buick GMC, Inc. off Highway 27 in Carrollton. Having lived a life serving the community, Mike Barnes slipped his salesman’s shoes on and hit the car lot running. He’s often referred to as “Give-A-Way Barnes” because he’s always giving away great deals to his faithful customers. “When I was 16, I’d come to visit Mike Barnes after school just because I loved hanging out with him. After I graduated, Mr. Walker hired me. Mike then introduced me to his brother-inlaw, a chairman of an automotive

curriculum at a private business college in Midland, Mich. Mike saw my passion for the industry and wanted me to succeed, and that one introduction changed the course of my life and brought me to where I am today,” says Mark A. Foster – General Manager of Walker Cadillac Buick GMC, Inc. I watched Mr. Barnes’ face light up when he talked about his Walker family. “I love the people …all of them. Not just the ones up here, but the boys in back, too. They make me feel like family. I can’t imagine being anywhere else.” Barnes had me laughing and feeling like part of the family within seconds after shaking his hand. Mike, as his associates, Mark Foster and Todd Rupp, shared several funny stories with me as I sat in their office, and I could see the love and respect these co-workers had for one another. I can clearly see why Mike Barnes was voted the Times-Georgian #1 Readers’ Choice Automobile Sales Person three times out of the four it’s been given. I’m sure it won’t be the last. March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

izard ith ood

From bowls to birdhouses, from fine furniture to this perfect replica of the 4 Way Lunch in Cartersville, Eugene Turner said he pictures something in his mind and then lets his hands do the rest.

Craftsman has knack for visualizing art in raw form ugene Turner is a Renaissance man, but he would prefer jack of all trades. There isn’t a thing that he sets his mind to that he can’t master. He can fix anything and build anything from bird houses to furniture that looks like it came from a showroom floor. When it comes to wood, Turner is a wizard. Turner, 80, retired as the city of Douglasville’s Director of Maintenance in 2001 after a life filled with making cabinets and helping craft city hall, he didn’t slow down a bit, just changed directions.

After taking a trip to Paris and Amsterdam with his wife Sue, he got busy with his other passion – wood. Turner’s shop is his studio, his saws and tools are his brushes and wood is his canvas. Turner makes art from scrap wood, tree trunks and whatever he can find. His latest obsession is making incredible wooden bowls on a lathe that he has taught himself how to use. “I don’t know if you would call it art, but I sure do enjoy it,” Turner said. “When you pick up a piece of wood and start to imagine how it could look – that PHOTOS AND STORY BY MITCH SNEED

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

tells me where to start and I just take off. It may take me a minute, and it might not be until I’m driving down the road and it hits me. Then I get in this ol’ shop and just make it happen.” Turner, with Sue often watching or supervising as he calls it, starts with a slice of a tree. Looks at it and feels it to make sure of the texture and grain – then he goes to work. He turns the wood to get it in round and then uses a knives of different sizes and shapes to begin hollowing out the wood to for the bowl. The spa? Well, that is up to the wood itself.

“Every piece of wood is different, but the greener the wood, the better is responds,” Turner said. “I know it may sound crazy, but I like to see a piece that has a knot or a spot. Some people might think that is a flaw and would leave it alone, but I think that’s what gives it character. The little things, knots, or wide grain, that is what makes each one – one of a kind.” Turner read up on the lathe, but said most of what he does is by feel or trial and error. Sue said there haven’t been many errors with Eugene. Each of his kids and grandkids got to pick out a bowl for Christmas. He said that seeing them hold it, study it and smile makes it all worthwhile. The care that he takes with each piece is incredible, from sharpening the knives to eyeing the wood at each turn – rubbing it with his hands to spot burrs shows his love for what he does. There is no rush because “the wood will tell you when it is done.” Turner’s shop is filled with art. There is the perfect replica of the 4 Way Lunch in his hometown of Cartersville that he built. It is exact down to the paper boxes out front and the number of shingles on the roof.

Eugene Turner said he makes a wooden bowl by feel, letting the character of the wood determine what to do next as well as the final shape.

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Sparks fly as Eugene Turner sharpens the knife used to craft bowls on his wood lathe. He said a sharp knife is key to a smooth finish, especially on hard woods

There’s a table that is fit with tongue and groove wood that makes a pattern. Each piece has a story – where the wood came from, who inspired him to make it

and how he “studied“ how to pull it off. “People will see something and ask me, ‘hey can you make me this or make me that.’” Turner said. “Half the time

I don’t even know what they are talking about, but if they describe it – I will figure it out. They always seem to like it, so I guess I’m doing OK.”

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West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Eugene Turner said that every piece of wood is different, but he said that what some people see as flaws are the things that he tried to keep – adding character to the pieces he crafts.

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West Georgia Living

Legendary

Photo by Rich Pedroncelli

Merle Haggard poses at his ranch at Palo Cedro, Calif., in this 2007 photo. Haggard, a 76-year-old country music legend, will play Villa Rica's V-Plex on Saturday night, April 26 at 8 p.m.

Merle Haggard concert April 26 at V-Plex

he “Okie from Muskogee” is coming to Villa Rica. County music legend Merle Haggard will perform at V-Plex on Highway 61 in the spring, with a tentative date set for

April 26. Preliminary acts take the stage at 6:30 p.m. with Haggard set to begin at 8 p.m. J. Collins, Villa Rica mayor, said he is ecstatic to have Haggard coming to west BY HAISTEN WILLIS

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Georgia. “I am a big fan of Merle Haggard,” he said. “His songs are reflective of the life the working man lives. People can relate to him. Those kinds of songs are not

MERLE HAGGARD

something you can just write. The songs he writes are real-life situations. He’s an American icon and we're really excited to have him play in Villa Rica.” Haggard became a star in the 1960s for his brand of “outlaw country” and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994. He's recorded 34 No.1 country hits as a solo artist, such as “I'm a Lonesome Fugitive,” “Kentucky Gambler” and “Okie from Muskogee,” the latter an anti-hippie anthem and perhaps his bestknown tune. “Villa Rica’s a place where even squares can have a ball,” Collins said, referencing the song. Haggard is known for his real-life outlaw lifestyle, spending time in jail on mul-

tiple occasions during his younger days and hitchhiking. After turning his life around, Haggard helped establish what’s known in country music as the “Bakersfield sound.” Carroll County Commissioner Tommy Lee's Southern Moon Productions is putting on the concert. Lee’s cousin is a good friend of the Haggard camp and the two have been working on bringing the star to Carroll County for about four months. “We are proud to be a part of bringing a legend here to Carroll County,” Lee said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime deal. Merle’s getting up there in age, I don't know how many more years he will tour. This is something we worked hard to put together.” Luke Bryan, a country superstar from

a younger generation, played the V-Plex, off Highway 61 in Villa Rica, this fall and in 2012. Collins said those concerts were a success for the city both financially and in the excitement they generated, and led to Haggard securing a date. Lee said he hopes to bring two or three big concerts a year to Carroll County in the future. “We want people to know where Carroll County is,” he said. “Ticket sales are going well and we hope to fill the place up. He’s a legend and to have him here in Villa Rica is exciting for us.” Ticket prices are $48.61 for general admissions and $61.75 for reserved seating. To purchase tickets go to http://southernmoonproductions.com March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

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Maternity, Modern Specialized maternity care is close to home in Carroll, Douglas and Paulding counties In 2003, a new level of care came to residents in Carroll, Douglas and Paulding counties with the opening of the new Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica. The new facility replaced the community’s older hospital, which had served the area since the 1950s. The modern 40-bed hospital featured an advanced, new intensive care unit, 24-hour emergency services, medical/surgical care — and a new, state-of-the-art maternity center. The Maternity Center at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica remains a regional destination for mothers-to-be, delivering about 600 babies each year in specialized labor and delivery suites with a team of experienced nurses and board-certified obstetricians. “You can’t take for granted that every hospital offers maternity care,” said Stacey A. Anderson, MD, a board-certified obstetrics and gynecology specialist with Villa Rica OB/GYN, part of Tanner Medical Group. “There are entire counties in our region that don’t have maternity services available, so having a center close by — especially one that’s as modern and wellappointed as those at Tanner — is an important asset for this area.” There are many advantages to choosing a hospital that’s close to home for your delivery, according to Dr. Anderson. “Often, your obstetrician’s practice will be reasonably close to the hospital, so it makes it easier to make it to your prenatal appointments before you deliver,” said Dr. Anderson. “Keeping those appointments is critical in helping us ensure a safe delivery with a healthy baby. It also means you are going somewhere you trust, with a patient care team that knows you, if you have complications or when it’s time to deliver.” The Maternity Center at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica features spacious labor and delivery suites, with home-like ammenities and plenty of room for family and visitors. Each suite offers an adjacent private waiting room for families, so mothers can easily control how involved the family is

in the delivery without making loved ones feel excluded. Should complications arise during delivery, a surgical suite is available on the unit for fast caesarean procedures. The hospital itself has received national recognition for quality and outstanding patient experience. The labor and delivery nurses at Tanner stay current on modern trends in delivery, including the importance of skin-to-skin contact for mother and baby immediately following birth, innovative pain management techniques during labor and internationally certified lactation consultants to help get breastfeeding off to a great start. After delivery, mothers and their new arrivals can recover on the hospital’s specialized OB/GYN floor, with room-in options for baby and nursery services to give mothers a chance to rest. A staff of board-certified pediatricians is also available to help provide care for the newborn. Leading up to delivery, the hospital provides a number of special education classes on a wide range of subjects, from preparing for childbirth to caring for newborns — even one to help future big brother and big sisters get ready for their role in the growing family. “We take a team approach to caring for new mothers,” said Dr. Anderson. “The mother is part of that team. We want to know her expectations for delivery, and the physicians and nurses work together to pull that off. Tours of the Maternity Center at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica — as well as the W. Steve Worthy Maternity Center at Tanner Medical Center/ Carrollton, which also features a team of experienced obstetrics specialists and many amenities to ensure the comfort and privacy of new mothers and families — are available by calling 770.214.CARE (2273). Referrals to an obstetrics specialist that delivers at Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton or Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica also are available at 770.214.CARE. To learn more about the maternity services available through Tanner, click “Explore Our Services” at www.tanner.org. March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Right Man Right Place Right Time Cliff Williams/Times-Georgian

WGTC Interim President Pat Hannon.

Hannon rocks at WGTC

n unexpected sound fills the office of the interim president of West Georgia Technical College: classic rock ’n’ roll. Interim President Pat Hannon, who’s served WGTC for nearly three decades in varying positions, does most of the work in his Adamson Square office to the tune of hits by bands like Journey, Foreigner and Chicago. “I love it,” Hannon said of the

music, which he pipes in through a Pandora online radio station. “It keeps things loose and helps me work better.” Hannon took the reins of the sixcampus college at the beginning of the year, taking the place of the departing Dr. Skip Sullivan, who left his post as president for the same position at a New York college. Hannon was appointed in early December to serve in BY COLTON CAMPBELL

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

the interim until a new president can be named by the Technical College System of Georgia. But it’s not all about the rock tunes in his office. Hannon said the idea that an interim leader is just going to keep things on auto-pilot couldn’t be further from the truth in his case. Already, he made the tough decision to put the brakes on starting a football program at WGTC.

“I’m planning to do just the opposite of resting on our laurels,”said the 58-year-old father of two and grandfather of four. “We just have so much momentum going for us right now, and we don’t need to lose that. There’s no reason for us to slow down or to just coast until a new president is named.” A search committee has been assembled by and the process could last several months. Could Hannon be the man? Right now, he’s just happy to be leading the college he’s served for 27 years. “Being at the helm is truly humbling, and it means a lot that [TCSG commissioner Ron Jackson] has the confidence in me to do this job well,” he said. “But I have the pleasure of working with an awfully talented group of people, and they make my job so much easier.” Hannon’s most recent position at the college was vice president of academic affairs. He said those duties are now being deftly handled by an associate who he trained to take his place during this interim time. Hannon has served in several leadership positions at WGTC over the last 27 years. After a stint in private industry, he was hired in 1987 to oversee the business operations of what was then Carroll Technical Institute. He served as the vice president for administrative services for 11 years and was also the college’s vice president of student affairs before being named vice president of academic affairs. In that role, Hannon oversaw program and curriculum issues, faculty and divisional staff, libraries, academic support services and the student advising center. The interim president hopes for one characteristic above all others in the upcoming president: integrity. “He or she should have good character above all else,” he said. “A good listener, approachable. A visionary who sees all the possibilities we have here and how to build on the successes we’ve made.” Hannon knows that, through his interim presidency and into the next president’s tenure, the college will continue its focus on workforce development. The average student at the college, which has five brick-and-mortar campuses

and a Virtual Learning Campus, is 26 years old, which he said is a “bit older” than other colleges that provide the opportunities afforded by WGTC. “Our responsibility is to the students and the communities we serve,” he said. “What we do as a college is vitally important, supplying a competently trained workforce to both new and existing industries. And at the same time, we provide an opportunity to help real people change their lives for the better.” To facilitate those life changes, WGTC and the University of West Georgia entered into a groundbreaking articulation agreement late last year that will allow students who complete an associate’s degree in the criminal justice program at WGTC to enter UWG’s criminology program, as long as they meet UWG admission requirements. Hannon wants to see the number of these transfer agreements rise, with a total of 27 such possibilities allowed between the University System of Georgia and the TCSG. “I just think it’s a wonderful opportunity that could help out a countless number of students,” he said. “I am extremely proud of the work our college has done to break down the silos within higher education. The agreements allow our students to transfer course credits and degrees without having to revalidate knowledge and training that they have already received. That saves students time and money, and it makes education in Georgia more and more seamless.” No matter what decisions he makes as leader of WGTC for the time being, Hannon said he will have students at the forefront of his mind. “We attempt to bathe every decision we make in the determination of what’s in the best interest of students,” he said. “We are a provider of choice, and we know that if we aren’t there and competitive, students have the option to go and spend their money somewhere else. But we want to prevent that and bring them to us — because we know how special it is here.” Hannon holds an M.B.A. from the University of West Georgia and resides with his wife, Sue, in Bowdon. The couple enjoys spending time outdoors and reading. March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

A variety of seeds are available for growing your own organic vegetables.

PLAN before

planting

Preparation is the key to successful gardening

here is nothing quite like a home garden to supply you and your family with a variety of nutritious vegetables that can be enjoyed fresh or preserved for

later use. When space is limited, a plentiful supply of crops such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and okra can be grown with a few properly cared-for plants.

Site: Try to select a site that receives at least 8 to 10 hours of sunlight a day. Select a location that is conveniently located near the house and a water supply. The soil should have a good texture and be well-drained. Avoid sites that have a history of hard-to-control weeds, such as nutsedge and bermudagrass.

BY ROBERT WESTERFIELD and DAVID LINVILL • Georgia Cooperative Extension Service 58

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Ricky Stilley/WGL

GARDEN

Ricky Stilley/WGL

Rotary cultivators, such as these found at Burson's Feed and Seed, really turn the soil for your garden.

Make a Plan: Plan your garden out on paper first before ordering seed. For small areas, select those crops that you like best and consider using dwarf compact varieties that will produce an adequate supply on a few plants. Also, plan to use the space continuously by planting another in-season crop soon after the last harvest is completed. Plant tall-growing plants together on the north or west side of the garden so they will not shade lower-growing plants. Make a map and keep it current so that the vegetables can be rotated within the garden from year to year. Remember to plan for space between rows to walk down to harvest the crop and maintain the bed. Varieties, Seed and Plants: Be sure to select recommended varieties for your main planting. Many other varieties are available, and new varieties are being introduced each year. Try a few new varieties on a small scale to determine their worth in your area. Varieties listed

in the Vegetable Planting Chart at http://www.caes.uga. edu/extension/ represent a few of the proven varieties. Always buy good quality seed from a reputable company. Do not save your own seed unless it is a unique, unavailable variety. When buying plants, purchase fresh, stocky plants that are free of diseases and insects. Lime and Fertilizer: Run a soil test through your local county Extension office several months prior to planting to determine lime and fertilizer needs. If the pH is low (acidic soil), apply the recommended amount of lime before preparing the soil so it can be mixed with the soil during land preparation. A pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is recommended for all vegetables except Irish potatoes, which require a pH of 5.0 to 6.0. Vegetables are classified as light, medium or heavy feeders, based on their fertilizer recommendations for each group. March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

GARDEN

Big leafy lettuce originates in a very small package.

Soil Preparation: Soil preparation can begin in the fall by chopping litter and spading or turning deeply to bury the litter. The process can continue through the winter. Add other organic matter such as compost, leaf mold or wellrotted sawdust or manure as soon as possible. Planting the Garden: Information on cultivars, planting dates and spacing is given in the planting chart. Several vegetables can be successively planted to lengthen the harvesting season. Cultivation: Cultivate or hoe the garden as often as needed to control weeds and grasses. Do not cultivate or hoe too deeply, or root injury will result. Cultivating too often will also result in the soil drying out excessively. Mulch: A mulch of straw, leaves, compost or pine straw will help conserve moisture, control weeds and reduce cultivation. Apply enough mulch to have 2 to 4 inches after settling. Newspaper can also be applied as a mulch two to three layers thick around plants. Apply 3 inches of straw or compost on top of the paper. Watering: Water the garden as often as needed to maintain a uniform moisture supply. In the absence of rain, a good soaking once a week will probably be adequate for 60

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Ricky Stilley/WGL

heavier soils. Light, sandy soils might require an application more frequently. Water early in the morning so foliage will dry off quickly, which helps prevent diseases. Use soaker hoses or irrigation tape if possible to prevent foliage from getting wet and help prevent disease. Control Insects, Diseases and Nematodes: Serious losses can occur from insects, diseases and nematodes. If nematodes are present, control measures must be taken before the crop is planted. Preventive control measures can be used for insects and diseases, or can be started as soon as problems are spotted. Contact your local county Extension agent for assistance in pest identification and recommended control measures. Harvesting: Harvest vegetables as soon as they are ripe. Leaving them on the vine too long will lead to disease and insect problems and will cause crops such as beans, okra, squash and cucumbers to be over-mature and terminate or stop producing. Any surplus production should be canned or frozen as soon as possible after harvesting. Information on canning and freezing is available at your local county Extension office. For more information visit: http://www. caes.uga.edu/extension/

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West Georgia Living

M arch / A pri l M arch MARCH 1

Doors open at 8 a.m. for the Sisters in Christ Women’s Conference at Mt. Holly Church on Hwy. 27 in Carrollton. The conference’s mission is to minister to women of all denominations in the hope that they are empowered and inspired to create loving Christian homes and to live Christcentered, abundant lives. The event is free but registration is recommended. For information or to register, visit sistersinchrist.com/ conference.cfm . The fifth annual A Taste of Chocolate benefit for the Haralson County Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy will be from 1-3 p.m. in the Cherry Blossom Room at Sewell Mill, 126 Hamilton Avenue in Bremen. Cost for the event, hosted by the GFWC Bremen Junior Woman’s Club, is $10. For information, contact Gail at 77062

West Georgia Living

537-4761 or Pat at 770-562-5000. Congressional High School Art Competition Opening Reception is 10 a.m.-noon at the Old Courthouse Museum, 6754 Broad Street in Douglasville. The event is free and open to the public, and the exhibit will be on display through March 28. For information, contact Cultural Arts Council at 770-949-2787 or cultureom@earthlink.net . MARCH 4

A free, drop-in reception for opening night of the Youth Art Month exhibit of student art from the schools of Douglas County will be from 4:30-6 p.m. on the third floor of the Douglas County Courthouse. Light refreshments will be served. The art will be on display through March 27. For more information, contact Wes Tallon at 770-920-7593 or wtallon@ co.douglas.ga.us .

March/April 2014

MARCH 6

MARCH 8

MOMS Club of Villa Rica will meet from 10 a.m.-noon at Fullerville Baptist Church, 423 Old Town Road in Villa Rica. Serving the Bremen, Carrollton, Temple and Villa Rica areas of West Georgia, the MOMS club plans a monthly calendar for moms and their children, including park play days, field trips, tours, crafts, book club and a monthly moms night out. For information, visit momsclubofvillarica.org .

The seventh annual Black Diamond Race will be from 9-11 a.m. at New Manchester Elementary School, 2242 Old Lower River Road in Douglasville. All ages are welcome. Cost is $12 and includes a tee shirt. For information, visit http://newmanchester.dce. schoolinsites.com or contact Jessica Cantrell at 770-651-4478 or jessica. cantrell@douglas.k12.ga.us .

MARCH 7

Westside Phenomz 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament will be from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Hawthorne Center at Jessie Davis Park, 7775 Malone Street in Douglasville. The event will be a fundraiser for the Westside Phenomz AAU boys basketball team. Businesses are asked to supply three to five players to compete in two divisions, 18-34 and 35-older. The tournament will cost $100 per team and you must have your own jersey, such as a

MARCH / APRIL 2014 company tee shirt to participate. All proceeds are tax deductible and go to our youth AAU program. Mail registration and payment to Vineyard Streetball Classic, Inc., P.O. Box 372, Douglasville,GA 30133. For information, contact Omar Daniel at 678458-5548 or omardaniel@westsidephenomz.com . Beyond the Front Porch, a non-profit organization which provides educational field trips to school-aged youth in Douglas County and surrounding areas, will travel to the Center for Puppetry Arts. Participants will will see a performance, participate in a puppet-building workshop and visit the museum. This is one of the few puppet museums in the world. Fee for activities, transportation and lunch is $25. Register online at www.beyondthefrontporch.org, email info@beyondthefrontporch.org or call Kascia Lipford at 404-408-6448. Mill Town Music Hall in Bremen will host Kansas at 8 p.m. The band has produced eight gold albums, three sextuple-Platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, Best of KANSAS), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and a million-selling gold single, ‘Dust in the Wind.’ KANSAS appeared on the Billboard charts for over 200 weeks throughout the ‘70's and ‘80's and played to sold-out arenas and stadiums throughout North America, Europe and Japan. In fact, ‘Carry On Wayward Son’ was the #2 most Played Track on classic rock radio in 1995 and went to #1 in 1997. Tickets are $50 Premium Reserved (Rows A-N), $40 Reserved (Rows O-X) and $40 General Admission (behind Row X). Ticket prices increase by $5 each at the door. For information, contact the Milltown box office at 770.537.MILL (6455). As part of the Sertoma Series, The Cleverlys will perform at Copeland Hall in Bowdon at 7 p.m. A return appearance by this hilarious comedy troupe is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. You will enjoy their musical wizardry in a show that will have you laughing and dancing in your seat. For information, contact the Townsend Center box office at boxoff@westga.edu or 678-839-4722. MARCH 14

Mill Town Music Hall in Bremen will host Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 Premium Reserved (Rows A-N), $25 Reserved (Rows O-X) and $25 General Admission (behind Row X). Ticket prices increase by $5 each at the door. For information, contact the Milltown box office at 770.537.MILL (6455).

MARCH 15

Quartetto Gelato will perform at 7:30 p.m. in the Richard Dangle Theater at the University of West Georgia’s Townsend Center in Carrollton. For nearly two decades, this dazzling ensemble has enchanted audiences and critics worldwide with their exotic blend of musical virtuosity, artistic passion and humor. Classical in training – eclectic by design – QG not only thrills its audiences with its multi-instrument mastery, but also offers the bonus of a brilliant operatic tenor. With a performance repertoire that spans the globe including classical masterworks, operatic arias, the sizzling energy of tangos, gypsy and folk songs, the group’s theatrical stage presence and relaxed humor establishes an intimate rapport with audiences worldwide. Tickets start at $22 with discounts available. For information, contact the Townsend Center box office at boxoff@westga.edu or 678-839-4722. “Boogie Down at the Playground,” a 25th anniversary celebration of the Junior League of Douglas County, will be from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Clinton Nature Preserve, 8720 Ephesus Church Road in Villa Rica. The free, family-friendly event will include refreshments, Dr. Seuss story time and bounce houses. The group also will hold a Botanical Boogie 5K and one-mile Fun Run at 11:30 a.m. For information, contact Tiffany Smith at 770-715-3581 or smith.tiffany@yahoo.com . Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club, 8000 Capps Ferry Road in Douglasville, will host the Denim and Diamonds Ball, an event sponsored by the Denim and Diamond Charities of Douglas County, Inc. The non-profit organization raises money for children's charities in Douglas County. Tickets are $100 and entertainment will be provided by Mike Brookshire and DJ Brandon Winn. Dinner will be provided by Low Country BBQ. Proceeds will benefit A Children's Voice: CASA and The Douglas County Boys and Girls Club. For more information, visit www.denimanddiamondsofdouglascounty. org or contact Stephanie Bleakley at 770-853-1408 or Denimanddiamondcharites@gmail.com . MARCH 17

Douglas County Commission Chairman Tom Worthan will host “Chat With the Chairman” from 6-7 p.m. at Fire Station No. 3, Kilroy Lane, Bill Arp. The event, which will provide one-on-one conversations with Worthan on any topic, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Worthan at 770-920-7269 or tworthan@co.douglas. ga.us . West Georgia Shutterbugs will meet from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Neva Lomason Memorial Library, 710

Rome Street in Carrollton. The group welcomes all digital and film photographers, from beginner to professional, and meets on the third Monday of each month with a focus on sharing knowledge and educating, encouraging and expanding the photographic knowledge and capabilities of its members. For information, visit www. wgshutterbugs.org . MARCH 20

The Burson Center, 500 Old Bremen Road, will hold “Start a Business” Class from 3-6 p.m. Small Small Business training covers business planning, finance, marketing and legal issues. Cost is $69. For more information or to register, call 678-839-5082. The Carroll County Tea Party will hold its monthly meeting from 7-8 p.m. at the Stallings Community Center, 118 South White Street in Carrollton. For information, call 770-668-4942. MARCH 21

The University of West Georgia’s Townsend Center in Carrollton will host Houston Ballet II at 7:30 p.m. Houston Ballet II is Houston Ballet's second company and part of Houston Ballet Academy. Under the direction of Stanton Welch and Shelly Power, Houston Ballet II travels the world with fresh choreography in a wide array of dance works: stunning contemporary pieces by Welch and other leading choreographers, and excerpts from The Sleeping Beauty and Welch’s neoclassical work, A Dance in the Garden of Mirth, performed by a stellar ensemble of artists. Tickets starting at $38 with discounts available. For information, contact the Townsend Center box office at boxoff@westga. edu or 678-839-4722. Douglas County High School's Theatre Department will present its spring musical comedy, "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown,” at 7 p.m. at the school’s Mashburn Theater, 8705 Campbellton Street in Douglasville. Additional show dates and times are Friday, March 28 and Saturday, March 29 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 30 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door or in advance by phone (770651-6574) or email (dchsdrama@gmail.com ). For information, contact Kim Schroer at 770-942-1183 or timkimschroer@bellsouth.net . March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

MARCH / APRIL 2014

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A free, drop-in reception for opening night of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Primary Colors" exhibit of student art from the elementary schools of Douglas County will be from 4:30-6 p.m. on the third floor of the Douglas County Courthouse. Light refreshments will be served as visitors view student pieces selected by art teachers. For more information, contact Wes Tallon at 770920-7593 or wtallon@co.douglas.ga.us .

APRIL 3

APRIL 5

Coffee and Conversation with District 1 Douglas County Commissioner Henry Mitchell III will begin at 10 a.m. at Greater Mt Olive Overcoming Church of God, 8125 Carten Street in Douglasville. Commissioner Mitchell provides the coffee; you provide the conversation on any topic. The event is free and open to the public. For information, contact Mitchell at 770-920-7266 or hmitchell@co.douglas.ga.us .

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MARCH / APRIL 2014 APRIL 8

APRIL 10

APRIL 12

Community Organizing Resources for Excellence (CORE) Monthly Forum will be at 9:45 a.m. at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 7167 So Sweetwater Road in Lithia Springs. CORE is a collaborative group of non-profits and government services working to coordinate programs and services. For information, contact Executive Director Amanda Bryant at 770-9207438 or abryant@co.douglas.ga.us .

Award-winning bluegrass band Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver will perform at 7 p.m. at Copeland Hall in Bowdon. Reserved seat tickets are $25. For information, contact the Townsend Center box office at 678839-4722.

Downtown Tallapoosa will host its annual Dogwood Festival and 5K Run beginning at 8 a.m. The festival offers a variety of handmade crafts as well as demonstrations by local artisans. The 5K Walk/Run begins at 8:30 a.m. with a parade at 2 p.m. For information, call 678-378-3795 or 770-574-2345.

The University of West Georgia Music Department will perform a choral concert at the Townsend Center on UWGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Carrollton campus at 8:15 p.m. The concert will feature the Concert Choir and the Chamber Singers. For information, contact the Townsend Center box office at boxoff@westga.edu or 678-8394722.

The Charlie Daniels Band with special guest Bonner Black will perform at Mill Town Music Hall in Bremen at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $55 Premium Reserved (Rows A-N), $45 Reserved (Rows O-X) and $45 General Admission (behind Row X). All ticket prices increase by $5 at the door. For information, contact the Mill Town box office at 770-537-MILL (6455). APRIL 16

APRIL 11

The Carroll County Community Chorus, conducted by Jack Gantt, will present â&#x20AC;&#x153;American Iconsâ&#x20AC;? at 7:30 p.m. at the Carrollton Cultural Arts Center. The group will perform two more shows Saturday, April 12 at 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. For information, contact Penny Lewis at 770-838-1083 or vog. ag-notllorrac@siwelp .

Beyond the Front Porch, a non-profit organization which provides educational field trips to school-aged youth in Douglas County and surrounding areas, will travel to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. Cost is $25 until April 5 and $30 after, which includes activity, transportation and lunch. For information, email info@ beyondthefrontporch.org or call 404-408-6448.

Attorney Amy Velasquez will present BSL: Immigration Law Impacts on Your Business at the Burson Center, 500 Old Bremen Road in Carrollton, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Velasquez will share how new state and federal immigration laws will affect the way employers do business and deal with employees. Reservations are $10 for members and $15 for non-members and must be made online at www.carroll-ga.org or by calling 770-832-2446.

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West Georgia Living

MARCH / APRIL 2014 APRIL 17

The Carroll County Tea Party will meet from 7-8 p.m. at the Stallings Community Center, 118 South White Street in Carrollton. For information, call 770-668-4942. APRIL 18

A Cruise-In will be held from 5-9 p.m. at Bojangles, 750 Hwy. 61 in Villa Rica. Cars, trucks and motorcycles are welcome at the event, which will feature music and food.Cruise-Ins are held the first and third Fridays of each month. For information, call 770-459-5624. The University of West Georgia’s Townsend Center in Carrollton will host the 29th Annual Sunbelt Jazz Festival with T.S. Monk at 7:30 p.m. on UWG’s Carrollton campus. The event will feature the late Thelonious Monk’s jazz sextet. Tickets start at $15 with discounts available. For information, contact the Townsend Center box office at boxoff@westga.edu or 678-839-4722. APRIL 19

Georgia’s State Art Collection will open at the Dogwood City Art Gallery, 14 West Alabama

Street in Tallapoosa. Tallapoosa was one of nine Georgia communities selected to host the state’s first traveling art exhibit, featuring 28 pieces from Georgia’s art collection. The exhibit will remain until May 27. For information, email ljmarquit@dogwoodcityartgallery.com or call 770-574-2822.

Tedeschi Trucks Band and has worked with musical legends such as B.B. King, Carlos Santana, the Allman Brothers Band, Solomon Burke and Herbie Hancock. For information, call 770-832-6901.

Oak Grove Montessori School, 180 Oak Grove Road in Carrollton, will hold its 5K Tortoise Run and Earth Day Fair with the 5K beginning at 8 a.m. a one-mile Fun Run at 9:15 a.m. and a Tot Run at 9:45 a.m. The fair will take place from 9 a.m.-noon, featuring a bounce house and free yoga classes. To register for the 5K, visit www.active.com/carrollton-ga/ running/distance-running-races/oak-grovemontessori-tortoise-run-2014 . For information, call the school at 770-214-0112.

Douglas County Commission Chairman Tom Worthan will host “Chat With the Chairman” from 6-7 p.m. at Fire Station No. 4, Highway 166 in Fairplay. The event, which will provide one-on-one conversations with Worthan on any topic, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Worthan at 770-920-7269 or tworthan@co.douglas.ga.us .

A free concert picnic featuring Grammy Award-winning blues artist Mike Mattison with special guest The Motorboats will be from 12:30-2 p.m. at The AMP, Adamson Square in Carrollton. Bring your lunch or pick up something on the square, bring a blanket or chair and enjoy this family-friendly show. Mattison has won Best Blues Album Grammys with both the Derek Trucks Band and the

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APRIL 21

West Georgia Shutterbugs will meet from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Neva Lomason Memorial Library, 710 Rome Street in Carrollton. The group welcomes all digital and film photographers, from beginner to professional, and meets on the third Monday of each month with a focus on sharing knowledge and educating, encouraging and expanding the photographic knowledge and capabilities of its members. For information, visit www.wgshutterbugs.org . APRIL 25

Mill Town Music Hall in Bremen will host An Evening with Loretta Lynn with special guest Mama’s Blue Dress at 8 p.m. Tickets are $60 Premium Reserved (Rows A-N), $50 Reserved (Rows O-X) and $50 General Admission (behind Row X). For information, contact the Milltown box office at 770.537. MILL (6455). APRIL 26

Subscribe for convenient home-delivery for as little as $10 per month! Offer valid in established home-delivery area, only. Please call for details.

Call 770.214.2285 today! 66

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Aga Boom will perform on the main stage at the Townsend Center on the University of West Georgia’s Carrollton campus at 3 p.m. Created by veteran of Cirque Du Soleil Dimitri Bogatirev, Aga-Boom was nominated for the Ovation Award for best touring show alongside such shows as The Producers, 42nd Street, Lily Tomlin and Elaine Stritch. Aga-Boom is an interactive mayhem that carries audiences to the other side of the funhouse mirror, with outrageous zaniness and unrestrained laughter. This 75-minute explosion of pure family fun, for children and adults alike is high energy, and nothing you have ever seen before. Tickets start at $25 with discounts available. For information, boxoff@westga.edu or 678-839-4722.

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West Georgia Living

The Importance Importance of Exams for for Adults Adults The of Annual Annual Physical Physical Exams Annual physical exams are an important part of preventative medicine for children and adults. Parents make sure their children receive annual exams, but fail to do the same for themselves! Physical exams are an important way for health care providers to keep abreast of signs and symptoms that could lead to serious illness, but they also provide a time where you as the patient can ask questions and get educated about your health. I recommend playing an active role by talking to your health care provider about any questions or conMandi C. Del Pozo, cerns regarding your health Physicians Assistant no matter how minor they 2002 C. Magna CumPhysicians Laude Graduate, Mandi Del Pozo, Assistant may seem. Even if you Medical of Georgia 2002 Magna College Cum Laude Graduate, Medical College of Georgia think you are healthy, an 68 West Georgia Living March/April 2014

annual visit with a health care provider is recommended and covered by most health insurance with no expense to you. During your annual exam, you can expect to be screened for diseases based on your medical and family history. Future medical problems will also be assessed and discussed. Your provider will update vaccinations and encourage an overall healthy lifestyle. By visiting your health care provider annually, you will also maintain a relationship and records with your providerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office which can prove invaluable in case of future illness. Annual exams along with a healthy lifestyle are important and effective preventative measures that you can control. So make the resolution to start the New Year off right and schedule your annual physical exam today! Mandi Pozo, PA-C MandiC.C.Del Del Pozo, PA-C Primary Care Group of Georgia Primary Care GroupWest of West Georgia 770-834-3341

770-834-3341

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Ask the Ex ert What every West Georgian should know about...

Buying HUD Homes

Orthodontic Care

Britt Duffey/ Duffey Realty ..........................70 Long Orthodontics .....................................75

Reducing the Risk for Leasing an Automobile Complications During Pregnancy Tanner Health System.................................71

Oak Mountain Academy Oak Mountain Academy ...........................72

Weight Gain & How It Affects Your Spine

Walker Cadillac, Buick, GMC, Inc. ............76

Conscious Sedation Techniques for Children My Kidz Dentist. ...........................................77

Insurance

Integrative Body Health..............................73 Nationwide/ Michelle Allen Agency .........78

Funeral& Cremation Specialist

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NG Turf ........................................................79 Ellen Wynn McBrayer/ Jones Wynn Funeral Home ..........................................................74 March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

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What every West Georgian should know about... Buying HUD Homes

Ask the Ex ert

Q A

Q A Britt Duffey REALTOR ÂŽ Duffey Realty

Britt has been a RealtorÂŽ since 2002. As a life-long resident of Carroll County, he knows the West Georgia market as well as anyone. Britt has been a recipient of The Top Producers Award for the past 10 years. In addition, he is a recipient of the Phoenix Award from the West Metro Board of Realtors in 2012 in recognition as a Top Producer for 10 consecutive years. Britt is a licensed RealtorÂŽ in Georgia and Alabama.

Q A

What is a HUD home? HUD stands for Department of Housing and Urban Development, a Federal agency that oversees and is responsible for a number of Federal housing agencies including FHA(Federal Housing Administration). A HUD home is a property that was purchased through an FHA insured loan that was foreclosed upon through normal procedures.

What is the advantage of purchasing a HUD home? The main advantage to purchasing a HUD home is that these properties are generally for sale at a value that is far below the Fair Market Value. In addition there are some financing incentives given to purchasers of HUD homes. For example: On a typical FHA loan a buyer is required to pay a 3.5% down payment...on the purchase of a HUD home the FHA down payment is only $100 and HUD provides the appraisal.

Q A

What are the risks or disadvantages associated with the purchase of a HUD home? A HUD home is sold â&#x20AC;&#x153;AS-ISâ&#x20AC;?. This means that HUD will not make any repairs to the property, including any repairs that a seller might normally make as a result of conventional sale. Some HUD homes are in poor condition. As a result not all HUD homes are a good deal for all buyers.

Can I inspect an HUD home? You are allowed a specified period of time to conduct any inspections you desire on a HUD home. If you find anything during the inspection that makes you change your mind about the purchase you can usually terminate the contract and your earnest money is returned to you. NOTE: There are no utilities available at a HUD home. It is the BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S responsibility to have all utilities activated at their expense in order to facilitate an inspection.

How do I make an offer on a HUD home? A HUD home is a little different from a normal sale in this respect. A HUD home is available for any OWNER OCCUPANT to bid on during an initial bid period. There are no limits to how many buyers can bid during this period, and there is no way of knowing what the amounts of those bids are. I advise HUD buyers to make their â&#x20AC;&#x153;BESTâ&#x20AC;? offer up front because in most cases you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a second chance. Bottom line... Contact a REALTORÂŽ, and ask them if they are a HUD registered agent, and they will walk you through the process. LEARN MORE: I love to work with Buyers in the purchase of HUD homes!!! Please call me at 770.354.0120 or email me at Britt.Duffey@Duffeyrealty.com, and let me get to work for you.

Duffey Realty

Â Â? Â Â? Â? Â? Â? Â Â

Britt Duffey

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

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Stacey A. Anderson, MD, FACOG Board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology Villa Rica OB/GYN, part of Tanner Medical Group

What every West Georgian should know about... Reducing Risk for Complications During Pregnancy

How common are complications during pregnancy?

Risks are part of any pregnancy, but some health issues or lifestyle choices can raise the odds of complications. Speak with your doctor before you get pregnant to learn how to keep risks to a minimum. If you face special challenges, you may need to work closely with your patient care team to make sure you—and your baby— remain healthy.

What can increase my risk of complications?

There are some factors in a pregnancy that you can control, and others that you cannot. Among the issues that can increase the risk for complications during pregnancy are: • Having a chronic medical condition, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer or even gum disease • Carrying more than one baby • Problems experienced in previous pregnancies • Being older than 35 • Being a teenager • Being overweight, obese or underweight • Using tobacco • Drinking alcohol • Using illegal drugs or abusing prescription drugs

Qualifications Dr. Anderson is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. She earned her medical degree from the New Jersey Medical School at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark, N.J., where she also completed her internship. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the West Virginia University School of Medicine in Charleston, W.V.

can develop during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia (marked by high blood pressure) or gestational diabetes.

What can complications mean for my pregnancy?

Complications during pregnancy can include preterm delivery, low birthweight or health problems for your baby.

What can I do to lower my risk for complications?

Make arrangements to see an obstetrics specialist as soon as you learn you are pregnant. Receiving adequate prenatal care throughout your pregnancy ensures that we can catch potential problems with the pregnancy early and intervene to better ensure delivery of a healthy baby. Be open and candid with your patient care team; knowing about your current lifestyle and past medical history will help your physician better serve you.

Some health problems that raise the risk of complications

If choosing a new obstetrics specialist, take into account the physician’s experience, practice hours and the hospital where the physician delivers; you’ll want someone who’s close and accessible in case complications should arise, and so you won’t have far to travel when your new baby is ready to arrive.

LEARN MORE: www.VillaRicaOBGYN.org | 770.456.3850

Exceptional Care requires Exceptional Physicians

Stacey A. Anderson, MD

Tanner Medical Group welcomes

Stacey A. Anderson, MD, FACOG, to Villa Rica OB/GYN.

Greater access to expert, experienced gynecologic and obstetric care has come to Carroll, Douglas and Paulding counties as Stacey A. Anderson, MD, FACOG, joins the patient care team at Villa Rica OB/GYN. Dr. Anderson is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. She comes to Villa Rica from Martinsburg, W.V., where she served as a hospital staff physician, a physician in private practice and as medical director of a prenatal care resource center. Dr. Anderson earned her medical degree from the New Jersey Medical School at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark, N.J., where she also completed her internship. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the West Virginia University School of Medicine in Charleston, W.V. At Tanner, Dr. Anderson joins Sheri Campbell, MD, FACOG, and the patient care team at Villa Rica OB/GYN. As part of Tanner Medical Group, Villa Rica OB/GYN has access to all the resources of Tanner Medical Center/ Villa Rica, including the hospital’s state-of-the-art maternity center, minimally invasive surgical services and an OB/GYN inpatient care unit. For more information or to make an appointment, call 770.456.3850.

690 Dallas Highway, Suite 301 Villa Rica, GA 30180 Located in the VillaWest medical office building, adjacent to Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica www.VillaRicaOBGYN.org March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Ask the Ex ert

What every west Georgian should know about... Oak Mountain Academy

Q A

Paula Gillispie

Head of school, Oak Mountain Academy, Carroll County’s only independent, college preparatory, faith based, day school.

Qualifications

A life-time educator, Paula Gillispie taught in the public schools for twenty-five years, twelve of those in neighboring Fayette County. Earning her graduate degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University in Washington, DC, she began working in independent schools in Virginia. In 2010, she returned home to Georgia to begin her tenure as Head of School at Oak Mountain Academy. Additionally, Paula chairs school accreditation teams for the Southern Association of Independent Schools and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, a division of AdvancED.

Q A

instruction, and more. Currently, in the midst of the campaign, 100% of faculty, administrators, and the Board of Trustees have contributed, with the total of parents closing in on 90% with a goal of 100% here as well! This is extraordinary and a testament to the commitment by all stakeholders to academic excellence at Oak Mountain Academy.

As a non-profit, 501 C-3, how does Oak Mountain Academy generate the funds needed to provide a quality, college preparatory education? Oak Mountain Academy is a tuition-driven school, meaning that the ultimate source of income for the Academy is tuition. No additional federal or state funds are received. Providing a college-preparatory education, the learning experience at the Academy is rigorous and challenging. From Pre-kindergarten to grade twelve, students receive instruction in the Core Standards and beyond to include AP classes, the arts, athletics, technology, foreign language, music, physical education, and a multitude of extra-curricular activities. However, tuition income provides just over 80% of the funds needed to educate each child at the Academy.

How does Oak Mountain Academy bridge the gap between the cost of educating its students and the actual income generated from tuition? As is the case in the majority of independent schools in the United States, bridging the gap is an ongoing effort. One of the most significant ways to generate additional funds is through the Annual Fund. Each year, a major fundraising drive is held with solicitations sent to current and past parents, grandparents, faculty and administration, the Board of Trustees, alumni and friends. Donations may be earmarked for certain projects or areas of growth such as technology, professional development,

Q A

What additional avenues are available for raising funds for educating students at Oak Mountain Academy? In addition to Annual Fund gifts, fundraising events such as the annual Golf Tournament are held. Additionally, each year Oak Mountain Academy holds an Auction/Gala to further bridge the gap. This year’s Gala will be on March 22 with tickets on sale now. All are welcome! Capital campaigns are held to raise certain amounts of money in a specific time period to build new buildings or to cover large expenses. Schools also ask for gifts to endowments, encourage long-range, planned giving, and write grants for special projects. Raising funds is essential in independent schools to support current operations, as well as to ensure financial sustainability in the future.

LEARN MORE www.oakmountain.us 770-834-6651 paulagillispie@oakmountain.us

Where do our students go when they leave the Mountain? ��! ��i�� ! � n � d �� st�� to � e � s �� Cla � c�� a e � P

ANYWHERE THEY WANT. STOP BY ANYTIME FOR A VISIT Please visit us on the Mountain to learn how we help our students make the most of their potential.

NOW ACCEPTING CLASS RESERVATIONS FOR THE 2013—2014 SCHOOL YEAR.

Financial Aid Available

Find out more about OMA by scanning this QR code.

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March/April 2014

222 Cross Plains Road Carrollton, GA 30116 770-834-6651 www.oakmountain.us

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What every West Georgian should know about... Weight Gain and How It Affects Your Spine

Q A

Gwyn Goodwin Doctor of Chiropractic

Qualifications

Gwyn Goodwin has been a Doctor of Chiropractic since 2002. She is a graduate of Oak Mountain Academy, Butler University, and Life University. Dr. Gwyn has practiced in San Juan, Puerto Rico for the past ten years. Recently she and her husband, Dr. Clyde Navarro, have opened Integrative Body Health in Carrollton. Dr. Gwyn has a fellowship in pregnancy care and pediatrics through the ICPA. She and the team at IBH offer a new approach to chiropractic by utilizing Chiropractic Biophysics technique and protocols.

Q A

other health problems. Many obese patients have extensive degeneration viewable on a quality x-ray. The unfortunate part for the patient is that once degeneration begins it cannot be reversed. Fortunately, the degeneration can be stopped from progressing. Stopping it involves weight loss, rehabilitation, and corrective spinal care.

Why are so many chiropractors incorporating weight loss into their clinic programs? Honestly, we started working with weight loss in 2010. We were very frustrated for so many of our patients who carried around unwanted weight. These are the patients that limit your outcomes as a practitioner because it is really hard to reduce symptoms and nerve interference when excess weight and gravity are working against you. Instead of telling someone, “Go lose 40 pounds and come back in several months because chiropractic cannot help you right now,” we are able to say “How about trying a program that can reduce your inflammation and the way your body responds to stress?” This re-educates a person by showing him or her that the weight is creating a state of dysfunction and disease.

What kinds of problems arise from excess weight gain and how much is too much? We all know that obesity is on the rise and may cause many illnesses. Heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer are among the most severe and obvious side-effects of weight gain. A weight gain or loss of as little as ten pounds can affect the way you sleep, stand, sit, or walk. The heavier body is weakened by its new state, and this weakness may cause spinal misalignments. These misalignments can produce pain, organ dysfunction, fatigue, and numerous

What should someone look for in a weight loss program?

I would look for a program that targets fat loss and spares muscle mass. So many diets out there target losing pounds and eating fewer calories. In this kind of diet, you end up losing lots of water and muscle. It is very important to eat the right amount of protein to maintain muscle. (That is NOT to be confused with HIGH PROTEIN DIETS, such as Atkins) I feel having a supervised diet program is valuable because it holds the dieters accountable for their intake. Suggestions can be made and behaviors modified on an individual basis. It is very rewarding for a dieter to see their progress in a measurable and scientific manner. Another important concept is that a diet should be a ketogenic diet. This means that burning fat is the key component to the weight loss. Our diet utilizes an alkalinebased protocol and this provides a less than ideal environment for cancer growth. Finally, a diet program should have a maintenance program that is easy to follow, and doesn’t restrict indulgences. Otherwise, how likely would it be for a person to keep the pounds off for good?

Learn More: www.integrativebodyhealth.com (770)832-1640 or (770)832-1645

“A Different Approach to Chiropractic”

775 South Park St. Ste. 102 Carrollton, GA 30117

((770) 77 832-1640 OR (770) 832-1645 Se Habla Español www.integr ativebodyhealth.com ww

Changes... Results... Optimal Health March/April 2014

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What every West Georgian should know about... Cremation, burial and funeral planning

Q A Ellen Wynn McBrayer

Jones-Wynn Funeral Home & Crematory and Meadowbrook Memory Gardens As always, we remain “A Family Serving Families®....Since 1950”

Qualifications

Jones-Wynn Funeral Home & Crematory has been in business for over 64 years and is now three generations strong with the same loving family, offering the highest quality service with the most affordable funeral & cremation packages. Ken Duncan, Vice President, has been part of the Jones-Wynn Family for 32 years. Some Recent Distinctions for Jones-Wynn Funeral Home & Crematory: National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Pursuit of Excellence winner for 11 years (2003-2013) The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Pursuit of Excellence Winner of Best of the Best Award (One of only three in the Country 2007), 2010 Georgia Family Business of the Year Award, 2009 Ellen Wynn McBrayer named to Georgia Trend Magazine’s “40 under 40”, 2004 Dana Wynn was nominated top 5 Funeral Service Person of the year in the Country. Ellen McBrayer has been interviewed on Fox Business about funeral service on the show – “Where the Jobs Are” and also featured in the NFDA Nationwide Consumer Education Video about funeral and cremation service.

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Why is having a place to visit so important? Providing an actual location or focal point that represents your loved ones is an important process in memorializing their lives. A very natural human need is to remember and to be remembered. There are many examples throughout our history that show significance in creating a memorialization of our loved ones who have passed away. Some of the examples are the Tomb of the Unknowns, Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C., and the 9/11 Memorial. Psychologists say that the remembrance process of going from the funeral or memorial service to permanent memorialization serves as an important emotional connection and function for the survivors. These emotionally difficult steps provide significance and meaning by providing a start to the healing process and helping to bring closure to the long grief journey. It also provides a place to visit, because in life we are active in the lives of those we love. I remember my mom saying, “I can’t take care of him anymore, but I find peace in knowing I can still take him flowers like he did for me all those years.” Our love needs a place to go and still feel connected, and ‘having a place’ helps provide that connection.

Other than ground burial, what options do I have?

Besides ground burial, some cemeteries offer interment or entombment in mausoleums. Mausoleums are above ground structures that provide an alternative to traditional ground burial.

What if we want Cremation? What are some of our Cremation Memorial options?

With cremation, you have many different options. Some options (but not limited to): Columbarium Niche, Urn Garden, Cremation Urns, Keepsake Options, the Scattering

Garden, Scattering or Burial at Sea. The Columbarium Niche is an indoor or outdoor wall containing niches. Niches come in many sizes with a selection of fronts such as glass, marble, or granite. Some columbarium niches are designed for specific size urns, while others may contain a double size space for two urns or even larger niches for multiple urns. Some clear glass fronted niches allow meaningful memorabilia to be placed inside along with the urn. Urn Gardens are places in some cemeteries or memorial parks that have an area designated specifically for the interment of cremated remains. Cremation urns are permanent containment of cremated remains that come in a variety of sizes and can be kept or placed in a permanent memorial space. Keepsake options are options of remembering your loved one by using items like keepsake urns, cremation jewelry, memorial diamonds, and many more products that most funeral directors can help you with. In recent years some cemeteries have opened areas to scatter cremated remains that are called Scattering Gardens. They provide choices for personal memorialization within the dedicated property. One cemetery in our area with a scattering Garden is Meadowbrook Memory Gardens. In some areas you can scatter or bury cremated remains at sea. (It would always be advisable to check for local regulations regarding scattering of cremated remains.) One company we work with will create a permanent living legacy that memorializes a loved one with a memorial reef. The reef is placed on the ocean floor and the memorial reef is designed of environmentally-safe cast concrete that is used to create new marine habitats for fish and other forms of sea life. To submit a question about Funeral or Cremation Service: email ellen@jones-wynn.net or send a message to JonesWynn Funeral Home & Crematory Facebook page.

James Long, DMD Long Orthodontics

Qualifications

Dr. Long received his DMD degree from the University Of Louisville, and was named Alpha Omega Honor for outstanding scholastic achievement in Dentistry, graduating fi rst in his class. He graduated from Emory University in Orthodontics and Maxillo Facial Orthodontics in 1976. Dr. Long is a fellow in the National Academy of Dental Science, and a Diplomate in the World Federation of Orthodontics. He has practiced on the southside of Atlanta for over 30 years. Dr. Long has offices in Douglasville, Newnan and Peachtree City.

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What every West Georgian should uld know about...

Orthodontics

Are braces for all ages?

The Orthodontic Specialist is armed at treating any age patient. More things can be done today with a growing child than ever before as growth can be instituted with treatment. This is what defines the specialist from a General Dentist and depending on the practitioner, the Orthodontist will decide when is best to begin therapy. A common misunderstanding is that Orthodontics is an in and out procedure. It takes time and understanding of how teeth move as a group or independently with one another. This concept is not taught in dental school but in the speciality school of Orthodontics.

Learn more at www.LongOnSmiles.com

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Please mention this ad offer when making your appointment!

Everyone is approved for our interest-free, in-house financing! Offer not valid with any other discounts.

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

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What every West Georgian should know about... Leasing an Automobile

Q A

Shannon Cheatwood

What is the #1 reason people lease? With a lease you are only paying for the use of the vehicle while you have it. Sometimes you end up with a much lower monthly payment. Often, this allows people to buy more vehicle than they otherwise would be able to afford. Some people who want a new vehicle more often use leasing as a way to trade sooner.

Q A Q A

Finance Manager

Qualifications Shannon, a local Carroll County native, has been in the automotive industry for 13 years and has also been a small business owner. He joined the team at Walker Cadillac Buick GMC, Inc in late 2013.

Q A

Can I buy my car at lease end? Yes! On the lease contract, the lease end purchase price is printed so the lessee knows how much it will cost at end of lease. That amount can then be refinanced if necessary.

Does a lease require a down payment? It depends on the lessee’s residency and the terms of that specific lease. Many leases are available with nothing or just the first month’s payment due at signing.

How many miles can I drive per year? As few or as much as you need. Low mileage leases start at 10,000 miles per year and a standard lease is 15,000 miles per year. Ally, our leasing company, allows customers to buy more miles up front if they know they will need more.

LEARN MORE www.walkergmauto.com• 770.832.9602

www.walkergmauto.com

770-832-9602

Highway 27 N Park St (HWY 27) • Carrollton

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

Ask the Ex ert Q A

Dr. Lona D. Bibbs Pediatric Dentist

Qualifications

Dr. Bibbs earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Bibbs is a Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Northern District Dental Society, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Georgia Dental Society, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She is currently on staff at Piedmont Hospital--Newnan, Georgia. Dr. Bibbs has been in private practice since 2005 and has offices in Newnan and Carrollton, Georgia.

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What every West Georgian should know about... Conscious Sedation Techniques for Children. What can the dentist do if my child becomes anxious and won’t sit long enough for the treatment? My Kidz Dentist may suggest “conscious sedation” medicine to help relax your child. Your child will be able to respond to voices or stimulation and will maintain his or her protective reflexes. As a board certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Bibbs is trained and experienced in utilizing the various levels of in-office sedation. At My Kidz Dentist the sedation protocols meet or exceed the requirements of both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Georgia State Board of Dental Examiners.

How is “conscious sedation” given?

Conscious sedation may be given in several ways, including: 1. Inhaling a gas. 2. Swallowing medicine in the form of a syrup or a pill. 3. Medicine through a vein (intravenously).

How safe is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is also known as laughing gas. It is often used for children who are mildly or moderately anxious or nervous. It relaxes your child by easing their fears. Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen and delivered through a small mask over the nose. Your child will be asked to breathe through the nose – and not through the mouth. As the gas begins to work, the child remains awake and becomes less agitated and nervous. This form of sedation is safe and quickly eliminated from the body. When the gas is turned off, the effects wear off quickly. Your child is given oxygen a few minutes after treatment to help flush the remaining gas from your child’s body. Concerns with this form of sedation include: Your child may reject wearing the mask, the gas may make your child feel nauseous, and if your child is congested - breathing through the nose may be difficult. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on what your child should or shouldn’t eat or drink before any treatment.

LEARN MORE: www.mykidzdentistry.com | (770)253-4488

Loving your child's smile, like our very own! www.mykidzdentistry.com

1741 Newnan Crossing Blvd. Newnan, GA 30265 P: 770.253.4488 F: 770.253.4498

Two Locations To Serve You!

2 1109 South Park 6W Suite 203 Carollton, GA 30 P: 770.253.4488 F: 770.253.4498 March/April 2014 West Georgia Living 77

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What every West Georgian should know about... INSURANCE

Q A

Michelle Allen (770) 841-5060 allenm48@nationwide.com Qualifications

What items would be covered under an Inland Marine policy? Nationwide offers additional coverage with an Inland Marine policy to protect your important items, such as: â&#x20AC;˘ Jewelry, Watches, Furs* â&#x20AC;˘ Cameras (film, digital, video)*

â&#x20AC;˘ Tools â&#x20AC;˘ Home Computers* â&#x20AC;˘ Musical Instruments* â&#x20AC;˘ Golf Equipment* â&#x20AC;˘ Money, Rare Coins, Gift Cards/ Certificates* â&#x20AC;˘ Stamp Collections *worldwide coverage

Q A

How do I know if this coverage is right for me? Our policies for valuable personal property are broad and flexible to meet your needs. You may increase the coverage limit or schedule your valuables in order to cover the full value of your property, including losses away from your home. Give call today at 770-841-5060 to learn more about how you can customize coverage to meet your needs.

â&#x20AC;˘ Silverware, Goldware, Pewterware* â&#x20AC;˘ Fine Arts â&#x20AC;˘ Guns Call the Michelle Allen Agency for help in protecting what matters most to you! 770.841.5060

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condo insurance, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just give you the partial value of things that have been stolen or destroyed, we help you replace them with the latest versions. We SM

put our members ďŹ rst, because we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have shareholders .

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Michelle Allen has 13 years in the financial services industry where insurance was integrated. Â She began by offering credit insurance on loans. Â From there she went on to helping families with life insurance and annuities. Â Opening her agency and working with Property and Casualty insurance was her way of being able to offer more to her clients. The Michelle Allen Agency is 2013 On Your Side Certified which is an award given to agencies that have a proven track record of excellent customer service. Â Her agency operates daily on the principal of putting people first and building true relationships with every member. Â

Q A

What is the Benefit of an Inland Marine Policy? Most homeowner, condominium or renter policies have coverage limitations for certain valuable personal property items. The dollar limitations typically apply in the event of theft, and sometimes any type of loss. For example, it is common for these policies to have a $1,000 limit on jewelry for theft losses. Coverage is typically limited to only certain named perils; such as fire, wind, theft. In addition, coverage away from premises may also be limited.

West Georgia Living

Join me in Villa Rica. Michelle Allen Michelle Allen Agency (770)841-5060 allenm48@nationwide.com www.facebook.com/michelleallenagency

March/April 2014

Ask the Ex ert

What every west Georgian should know about... INSTALLING SOD

Q A

Spring is typically considered to be the best time to install turf of any warm season variety, however with proper soil preparation, installation and continued maintenance they can be installed year round with minimal risk. During the dormant season avoid installing turf when the ground is frozen. Installing turf in periods of extreme heat drastically increases the amount of water needed for survival. Cool season grasses like Fescue do best when installed in fall or early spring. This gives the Fescue time to establish a deep root system before summer.

When does sod go into dormancy?

The first frost will begin to send warm season turfs into dormancy and they will be completely dormant after a hard freeze. It is important to remember that dormant turfs can still uptake nutrients and herbicides so always follow pesticide labels even during the dormant season which is usually from November to April.

How do I go about selecting the right variety of sod for my lawn?

Turf is divided into two categories either cool season or warm season. Cool season turfs such as Fescue

Aaron McWhorter President Qualifications

Aaron grew up in Heard County, Georgia working on the family dairy farm. In 1969 Aaron graduated from The University of West Georgia with a BA in history and took a teaching position in Barnesville. In 1985 he started his turfgrass company, North Georgia Turf, Inc.. Starting with only 25 acres of certified bermudagrass, NG Turf has grown to approximately 2000 acres with 10 different varieties of turfgrasses in 6 locations across Georgia. NG Turf has established itself as an industry leader throughout the Southeast in providing high quality products and superior service. In December 1991, Aaron started another company, Sports Turf Company, Inc. to meet the growing athletic field construction business in Georgia. Sports Turf has grown into an organization that is recognized as the preferred contractor for high quality construction projects for colleges and universities, city and county municipalities, and public school systems throughout the Southeast.

What is the best time of year to lay sod?

and Bluegrass tend to be green year round where as warm season turfs such as Bermuda, Zoysia and Centipede are dormant during the winter months. Some varieties can handle some levels of shade while others need full sun. Some require heavy irrigation during hot periods whereas others are more drought tolerant. Turfs respond to and recover from traffic differently from each other so it is important to consider what the lawn is going to be used for. After determining a sod that best fits your environment you can begin to look for a supplier. When comparing sod suppliers be sure to ask if the sod is blue tag certified, turf certification programs are used to ensure genetic purity of certain varieties. The consumer is assured the variety of turf they purchase today will be the same ten years from now in terms of color, texture as well as weed levels present in the sod at the time of harvest. NG Turf offers 10 varieties of certified and non certified turf. Many of our salespersons are Certified Turfgrass Professionals and would be happy to assist with any questions regarding selecting the proper turf, installation guidelines and maintenance tips or you can visit our website at ngturf.com for additional information.

LEARN MORE www.NGTurf.com 770-832-8608

March/April 2014

West Georgia Living

Tanner Urgent Care is here for you. Your presentation to clients is Monday—but it’s Sunday, and you can’t shake that fever and cough. Fortunately, Tanner Urgent Care is open weekends and evenings, so you can see a doctor even when your doctor’s office is closed. Walk-in for treatment of: Fevers Burns and rashes Cold and flu Cuts and scrapes Sprains and strains And more

www.TannerUrgentCare.org 770.836.9445

TANNER IMMEDIATE CARE/CARROLLTON Across from Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 80

West Georgia Living

March/April 2014

TANNER IMMEDIATE CARE/VILLA RICA Near Publix at Mirror Lake Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TANNER URGENT CARE/BREMEN Adjacent to Ingles on Business 27 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.