We Are Henry - 2023 Winter Issue

PUBLISHER & PHOTOGRAPHER

Michie Turpin

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Michelle Nunnally

EDITOR

Monroe Roark

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Scott Tredeau

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Boylan

Mia Broder

Pastor John Dewberry

Erin Lopez

Terry McAfee

Michelle Nunnally

Arolue Flemmen Prater

Monroe Roark

We Are Henry Magazine is published quarterly. All contents are copyrighted by We Are Henry, LLC. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. We Are Henry, LLC. reserves liability in error to a printed correction. We want to hear from you—call or click today. 678·770·0731, michieturpin@gmail.com

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What comes to mind when you think of Winter? What brings you warmth and comfort on a cold night? Maybe a cup of hot tea, a burning candle or sharing time with loved ones. Whatever it is, we hope the New Year brings you all of this and more. Thank you to our great community for your continued support and Happy New Year from We Are Henry Magazine.

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

Jay Connelly makes a difference through service.

by MICHAEL BOYLAN

Never underestimate the influence a parent can have on a child.

Jay Connelly, Piedmont Henry Hospital’s Director of Stroke and Trauma, grew up in Forest Park and watched his parents give their time and energy to the community. He knew that he would follow in their footsteps. Connelly’s father, Joseph, served in the United States Army for 40 years and is now a tour guide at the Heritage Park Veterans Museum in McDonough. He is also the namesake for the Jay Connelly Library at the museum. His mother, Mary Ann, was the director of the Mary Ann Connelly Senior Center in Forest Park, before passing away in 2016.

“Growing up, my family didn’t know anything but service,” said Connelly. “Seeing my parents give back to the community, I knew it was important for me and my family to do the same.”

Connelly got his start helping others by coaching the Special Olympics basketball team in middle school. In high school, he found an interest in healthcare, after seeing doctors and nurses make an impact in the life of his friend following a bad accident.

“I didn’t know what making a difference in someone’s life meant at that point,” said Connelly. “But I watched what they did and saw all that went into his care and recovery. I was hooked.”

Connelly graduated from Forest Park High School and the University of Georgia. He began his medical career at Southern Regional Medical Center and served as the director of the emergency department for 10 years before coming to Henry County to serve as the director of the emergency department during the hospital’s transition from Henry Medical Center to Piedmont Henry. During this time, he also started to focus on care for chest pain, stroke, and trauma.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP FRIEND TAKING IN HAWKS PISTON GAME

JAY AND TIERA HAMMOND AT HOMECOMING JAY, LILY HENSON MD (FORMER FERST READER) AND JUSTIN CONNELLY - ER NURSE AT HENRY

“Caring for patients suffering from heart attack, stroke, or trauma can make a significant difference in someone’s life,” Connelly said, adding that outcomes are often greatly affected by how quickly care can be provided. “The key is delivering the care safely in a timely manner. That’s why Piedmont Henry’s recent efforts to become a Level III Trauma Center are so valuable to the residents of this community, as well as those just passing through.”

Piedmont Henry’s journey toward a Level III Trauma Center designation began prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hospital had its state visit to evaluate the program in November and hopes to have its full designation in early 2023. In preparing for the evaluation, the hospital has already seen massive improvements in the care of patients experiencing trauma and significant events. Connelly knows that the changes that have been implemented have saved people’s lives.

“Piedmont Henry is perfectly located to provide this level of care,” said Connelly. “We are over an hour away from a trauma center in Macon and what could be 40 minutes, or one hour and 40 minutes, away from a trauma center in Atlanta, depending on traffic. If we can provide care, we can stabilize patients and provide treatment during what is considered the golden hour, 60 minutes from the source of trauma.”

Connelly has been at the center of Piedmont Henry’s efforts to earn the designation. He has also been instrumental in providing support to patients after they have been discharged. He formed a support group for stroke patients and their caregivers and has seen it make a positive difference for both since its inception.

“The patient and the caregiver are learning to live with a new normal,” said Connelly. “It can be challenging, but they aren’t the first or last person to face those challenges. The group shows that someone has already faced those struggles and may be able to provide advice or support to others.”

Connelly’s work with the stroke support group led him to being named an AJC Nurse of the Year in 2020. He took one

of the support group members, a young man in his 30s named Chante’, to an Atlanta Hawks game to see his favorite team, the Detroit Pistons. By working with Piedmont’s PR department, Connelly was able to bring him to the court to meet his favorite players and get photos. It was an incredible night for all involved and it brought a huge smile to Chante’s face.

Connelly spends a lot of time at the hospital, but he is just as active in the community with his family. He volunteers with the Gladiator football program, which his wife, Lynne, formed to give special needs players an opportunity to play football. He caddied for his son Justin, also a nurse, as he pursued a professional golf career, and followed his son Nathan’s collegiate tennis career as well. This fall, he raised awareness and funds for the Ferst Readers of Henry County program by dressing as Captain Jack Sparrow in their annual costume contest. It was the largest campaign for the group, raising $22,000 to provide books to young readers. Connelly also serves as the president of the Georgia Stroke Professional Alliance.

“I’m always moving and anything that gets my adrenaline going is a bit of a draw,” Connelly said. That means playing or coaching sports (anything with a ball), driving his Corvette or motorcycle, and, of course, working in one of the busiest emergency departments in metro Atlanta. When he does slow down, it is to enjoy his photography hobby or work with some of his wife’s students. One of his proudest moments was escorting a student to her homecoming game and dance.

Connelly is often very busy and he has never been busier than during the final stretch of Piedmont Henry’s push to become a Level III Trauma Center. He encourages others with his tireless energy because he knows how important it is.

“This isn’t just going to save people’s lives,” Connelly said. “It is going to help our sister hospitals in the system, and it is also going to make recovery better for patients and their caregivers because it keeps care close to home.”

Connelly has provided service and care close to home for nearly all of his life. Not only is he following in his parents’ footsteps, but he is leaving footprints for his family to follow as well.

“Caring for patients suffering from heart attack, stroke, or trauma can make a significant difference in someone’s life.”

Jay Connelly

(L TO R) YAJAIRA GALAN RN, ANDREA FOSSIER RN, KAZIAH HALL RN, DR. MILES MEDINA DO.

TEE-RIFIC PLAYING EARNS LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER MAJOR WINS

Rusty Strawn wins two major golf tournaments back-to-back.

by ERIN LOPEZ

McDonough native Rusty Strawn is continuing to make a name for himself in the world of amateur golf.

Known locally as the CEO of Strawn and Co., Insurance, Strawn continues to earn recognition nationally and internationally after winning two major amateur golf competitions back-to-back.

Strawn competed at The Kittansett Club in Marion, Massachusetts from August 27th to September 1st, winning the 68th U.S. Senior Amateur Championship after days of challenging gameplay.

He states that this win took a lot of focus and dedication leading up to the event. “I intentionally developed a national schedule in 2022 that would prepare me to get ready for the National Championship in Marion and ended up winning two national events. I won the Florida Senior Azalea Senior Amateur Championship in Palatka, Florida in March and then I went to Dallas, Texas and won the Trans-Miss Senior Invitational in May. So those two wins gave me a lot of confidence moving forward. I knew that my game was in really good shape.

“Still, no matter how well you play, you never know,” said Strawn. “You can get beat. The fields are so deep and the competition is so strong, you can play really well and get beat. But fortunately for me, I played well and ended up winning.”

Less than a week after winning in the United States, Strawn traveled to Alberta, Canada to compete against over 150 male golfers and won the Canadian Men’s Senior Championship at Red Deer Golf & Country Club that took place from September 5th to 9th.

“I was exhausted but I had a lot of confidence and momentum and I ended up playing really well and ended up winning that tournament by three strokes,” said Strawn.

This is the first international championship that he has won. He is one of two golfers who have ever won both championships back-to-back. “For me to do it, it was just as mind boggling as winning the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship. I couldn’t believe it,” said Strawn. “All the hard work and all the preparation that you put in, the time, the money, the energy, it pays off. That’s what’s so fulfilling about it.”

Strawn states that the wins are attributed to many hours of practice and dedication to the game of golf.

“Winning the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship is the pinnacle. That’s the ultimate for any golfer. To win an U.S. Golf Association Title, it is the ultimate,” said Strawn. “That’s why we practice. It’s a lot of time on the driving range hitting balls and working on your putting and chipping, and short game. And you do it for all these years, just wanting to have that opportunity to win and then it finally happens and you’re like, ‘wow.’”

Strawn has been working on his golf game since he was seven years old.

His father, Norman Strawn, taught him how to play the game of golf at Green Valley Golf Club.

“It was a great opportunity for us to spend time together and introduce me to a great game,” said Strawn. “I went to the driving range and putting green and just had fun.”

Strawn competed in many junior golf tournaments with the Atlanta Junior Golf Association and Georgia State Golf Association in his teenage years, further working to develop his golf game.

“You do it for all these years, just wanting to have that opportunity to win and then it finally happens and you’re like, ‘wow.’”

Rusty Strawn

PHOTOS COURTESY OF USGA GOLF

“I got a lot of exposure playing in tournament golf at a very early age,” said Strawn.

He also played golf in high school at McDonough Christian Academy.

After playing golf at Central Alabama Community College, he then received a scholarship to play golf at Georgia Southern University. “I really enjoyed my time at Georgia Southern. My golf game developed,” said Strawn. “I ended up making the Transatlantic All Conference my junior and senior years.”

Strawn states he never had his sights set on professional golf, but instead enjoyed working on his game and competing in more state, local and national amateur golf events, in many of which he was a finalist or won.

“After graduating from college, I did not have, what I thought, the game to play professionally,” said Strawn. “I wanted to continue playing amateur golf.”

After graduating college, working at the family business, and taking a number of years to focus on raising his family, he finally returned to the game of golf and has competed regularly since.

He is grateful for the game of golf in allowing him these opportunities to compete nationally and internationally as well as giving him friendships from all over the world.

“I’ve had so many people in my life that have taken interest in my game, to help me develop my game,” said Strawn. “The real trophy for me is all the wonderful relationships I have built. I am very fortunate to have friends all over the country and all over the world that I share a common game with and I stay in constant contact with them today.”

His wife has also played an instrumental role in his amateur golf career, even stepping in to be his caddy when needed, but mostly by being with him nearly every step of the way on his golf trips and competitions, providing support and encouragement.

“Rusty is very disciplined in all aspects of his life and golf is no exception. He puts countless hours into developing his game and preparing for tournaments,” said his wife, Jennifer Strawn. “It’s exciting to see his hard work pay off! I could not be prouder of him!”

Strawn plans to continue to play the game of golf and compete in local, national, and international competitions when he is able.

“We want to take them from negative expressions of behavior to positive ones.”

Donise Mathis

Tomorrow is a New Day

Guiding troubled youth to a better future.

by MONROE ROARK

never seen their name on a birthday cake,” said Mathis of the incarcerated youth. “Although they are in there for mistakes they made, we want them to know that God has not forgotten them and neither have we.”

For two years in an all-girls facility in Macon, Crosswalk piloted a program which encouraged participation in the arts –visual arts, writing music, poetry, and other creative writing. The feedback was most encouraging, as behavior within the facility improved immensely.

Through that experience, ArtReach 180 was born. This is a free after-school program in Henry County serving ages 13–17 through the arts. It includes visual arts, drama and photography. Groups meet on Tuesday and Thursday at two locations when school is in session. Young people are referred from Juvenile Court as well as school counselors and community stakeholders.

It can be lonely for a young person who is locked up.

Many incarcerated juveniles have never had the support and direction they needed growing up that might have kept them out of the trouble they are in. That is why local organizations exist to help these troubled teens and also work to prevent others from ever getting in the same situation.

Crosswalk Ministries is one of those organizations at work in Henry County. As executive director Donise Mathis describes it, “Crosswalk exists to reduce juvenile crime and address its underlying causes by providing preventive and aftercare programs for youth at risk and juvenile offenders.”

Visiting local juvenile detention centers, participants share music and skits among other things with the young people and even throw birthday parties. “It’s sad, but many of them have

“It’s just a safe place for them to come and master new skills and give back to the community,” said Mathis. “A safe place for them to process those pains they might have gone through. We want to take them from negative expressions of behavior to positive ones.”

A new SportsReach 180 program has also been formed.

Crosswalk is always happy to receive donations as well as new volunteers. As Mathis pointed out, for every dollar Crosswalk spends on prevention, the state of Georgia spends $300-plus to incarcerate a young person. So, money given to this cause is well spent.

Contact the organization at 770-957-7153 or visit, www.crosswalkusa.org.

HANS BRODER from Banker to Author

Unveils Painful Chapter in Henry County’s History in New Book

by MIA BRODER

The story was tragic and the judgment swift, though justice never really showed up for those who needed it most. For those who lived in Henry County in the 1970s, Jerry Banks, a local African American man, was the name on everyone’s tongue. He was convicted for the brutal murders of Marvin King, a Jonesboro High School band director, and Melanie Ann Hartsfield, a college student. Both were white. Their bodies were found off Rock Quarry Road by Jerry Banks. Within one hundred and seven days, Banks was sentenced to death with no motive and little evidence.

A lifelong Henry Countian, Hans Broder tells Banks’ story in his new book “May All of You and God Forgive Me.” During the time of these events, Broder was a young CEO at First State Bank, a prominent bank in Henry County. Due to his position, he knew many people, even detectives and lawyers, had to bank somewhere. One of the greatest skills Broder ever learned was how to listen. In later years, he would get to know Virginia Banks, Jerry’s wife, and the Banks family who were seeking financial assistance.

Broder’s professional position wasn’t the only link he had to the Banks family. Although Hans lived in Henry County most of his life, he spent his first five years in Switzerland. The Broders immigrated to the United States in the early 1950s to develop a dairy farm (Horseshoe Farm) that up until recently was on Flippen Road.

In the beginning there was a mutual curiosity between the German-speaking Broders and the Banks family. However, trust and respect grew quickly and the Broder Farm frequently hired members of the Banks family to help on the farm.

The Jerry Banks saga seemed to end in 1981 with Jerry’s release from prison due to the courageous work of local defenders. However, the mystery surrounding the King and Hartsfield murders remains to this date. Throughout the years since, Broder always knew he wanted to retell this incredible

story. In writing this book he was able to weave local Henry County history, the political climate of the time, and Jerry’s story, through the eyes and ears of those who were involved and who Broder knew – his friends, classmates, and customers.

“May All of You and God Forgive Me” by Hans Broder is available through hansbroder.com, Story on the Square, Birdsong Books, BarnBeautiful, Amazon, Apple and Barnes and Noble websites.

“Within one hundred and seven days, Banks was sentenced to death with no motive and little evidence.”

Hans Broder

ALL IN A DAY'S W RK

Meet officer Powell and his K9 partner Erin.

by MICHELLE NUNNALLY

Serving and protecting Henry County is the business of Officer Todd Powell and his K9 partner, Erin. Officer Powell has been in law enforcement in Henry County for 13 years and a member of the Henry County Police Department since July 2021.

Officer Powell first met and began training with his K9 partner when she was just 14-months-old. Erin was born in Hungary nearly six years ago – even has a Hungarian passportwhere she received special law enforcement training from birth. Erin is an Explosive Ordnance Detection K9 (EOD K9).

“She is certified on 27 different odors,” explains Officer Powell. “Her skills enable her to detect explosive compounds, including ammunition and firearms.”

Work days for Officer Powell and Erin may include investigating suspicious packages, making sure areas are safe after a bomb threat is received, or locating weapons used in a crime.

“Erin has located the murder weapon in six murders so far in her career,” says Officer Powell.

“Erin has located the murder weapon in six murders so far in her career.”

Officer Todd Powell

Both Officer Powell and Erin are certified through the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA). They frequently train with K9 teams throughout the state and respond to calls across Georgia. “Some of these are emergency situations, while others are more routine in nature such as sweeping the Israeli Embassy in Atlanta,” explains Officer Powell.

Among the highlights of the K9 team’s career has been working the Masters and an SEC Championship game. But Officer Powell says he and Erin’s top assignment was working alongside the FBI and Secret Service to ensure a venue was secure for a presidential candidate.

In order to keep Erin ready for whatever situation arises, Officer Powell knows training is his job as her handler. “Erin must be in good physical shape for the demands of the job. She must constantly be exposed to training scenarios so that she continues to recognize the explosives odors,” says Officer Powell. It’s also important that Erin is non-aggressive to strangers and can behave passively as she often works around people.

When off-duty, Erin is a member of Officer Powell’s family. Both Officer Powell and his wife were born and raised in Henry County and have two grown children.

A Dash of Brilliance

One man’s portrait of love for his community.

Jeff, Henry County was your canvas, and with each brushstroke, you covered us in your warm spirit, your giving heart, and brilliant shades of your love.

You brought us connection and inspiration. You were our teacher. A professor of both Art and of Living.

You often quoted from the poem “The Dash,” gently reminding us of the importance of the Dash representing the time between the day we’re born and the day we die. You chose to spend that time “between” welcoming and encouraging folks of all ages and all walks of life. Giving your time and talent to our charities. Building the art community. Supporting our businesses. Making each of us feel like the most important person in the room. You saw beauty in everything and loved fiercely.

The void your loss leaves in our community reinforces that you got it right. You lived in love.

It has been the greatest honor and the grandest adventure having you as our friend.

Thank you, Jeff, for sharing your Dash with us.

All our love, Your Community (Henry County)

Jeff Hunter 1964–2022

“Just start painting. Your courage will be rewarded because art is a blessing to be shared.”

Jeff Hunter

“When you work somewhere for 19 years, you develop relationships with people. I’ll miss that.”

Tim Coley

End of an Era

Tim Coley retires from Henry County Parks & Recreation

by MONROE ROARK

With his retirement in December 2022, Tim Coley marked nearly half-a-century of involvement with the Henry County Parks and Recreation Department.

He started working for longtime director Charles Bledsoe while he was attending Henry County High School. “He had one office in the old county administration building,” said Coley. “He was the only full-time employee. All the rest [of us] were high school kids.”

After college Coley went to work in two other locations in Georgia before returning to Henry County in the summer of 2003. He succeeded the retiring Bledsoe to become director, making Coley only the second director of this county department in 46 years.

Since Coley took the helm the parks and recreation scene has undergone explosive growth both in facilities and personnel. Coley has about 60 full-time employees plus 100 or so seasonal and part-time staff. At least a dozen key people in the administrative section of the department have been working for the county as long as he has.

Two decades ago, the only real indoor recreation facility was an old building at Windy Hill Park that is now used for fire department training. Today, in all parts of the county, there are multiple recreation centers and event centers, as well as newer parks and outdoor amenities, all of which were developed or acquired with Coley’s input and leadership.

“We built a lot of parks and a lot of buildings,” he said. “I’ve seen a lot of kids who were playing ball when I first got here and, now, they are coaching their kids.”

Coley still lives in the Hampton area, near where he grew up. His father, R.W. Coley, was mayor of Hampton for several years until his passing in 2013.

For the most part, he is looking forward to having some flexibility to travel outside the county or the state and leaving the day-to-day duties behind for others to take up. But it will be different.

“There are pluses but also minuses,” he said. “When you work somewhere for 19 years, you develop relationships with people. I’ll miss that.”

Healthy Living. Healthy Heart.

Heart doctor follows his own tips for good heart health

by MICHELLE NUNNALLY

Since 1950 heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fortunately, many of the risk factors associated with heart disease can be reduced by choosing to live a healthier lifestyle.

Shiv Agarwal, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.S.C.A.I. with Atlanta Heart Associates, P.C. believes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, staying active, not smoking, screening for risk factors, avoiding stress, and maintaining good sleeping habits are all important to achieving the best heart health.

“In today’s hectic lifestyle, eating healthy is one vital thing everyone should do,” says Dr. Agarwal. He stresses the need to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat in one’s daily diet while avoiding saturated and trans fats. These fats can lead to an increased blood cholesterol level which could cause plaque to build up in blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Agarwal explains that the heart is essentially a muscle that benefits from exercise. “As the heart rate goes up,” says Dr. Agarwal, “the heart beats stronger and pumps out more blood, keeping the heart strong.”

The American Heart Association recommends adults get 150-minutes of moderate activity or 75-minutes of vigorous activity every week. Dr. Agarwal agrees. “The benefits of exercise in managing hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, and mental health cannot be overstated.”

In his own life, Dr. Agarwal finds it easier to stick to a workout plan by choosing activities you love like walking briskly, running, biking, swimming, high intensity training or any other activity that gets you up and moving. He recommends including family and friends in the activities to make it successful.

“My wife is my workout partner,” says Dr. Agarwal. “On weekends we do family workout time at the gym or spend time hiking, biking, and playing at the park. Engaging in physical activity as a family affair has helped me stick to a routine.”

Staying active isn’t just about exercise. Dr. Agarwal recommends not sitting in one place for long. This helps prevent the formation of blood clots in deep veins. He also suggests parking your car farther out in parking lots so you can walk more and using standing workstations.

“Most of our staff at Atlanta Heart Associates stand while reviewing charts in an effort to promote an active lifestyle culture in our offices,” says Dr. Agarwal.

The CDC lists smoking among its risk factors for heart disease. If you are a smoker, quit smoking. “It can be challenging, but it’s never too late to seek help,” encourages Dr. Agarwal. If you have a partner or friend who smokes, Dr. Agarwal suggests trying to quit together so you can support each other. He recommends talking to your doctor or calling the CDC’s free initiative at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. If you aren’t a smoker, Dr. Agarwal says it’s important to avoid secondhand smoke.

Living healthier is a big part of heart health, but it’s also vital to make and keep annual check-up appointments with your doctor. “These days, I see a lot of young people in their 20s and 30s with significant heart disease with no family history or established risk factors,” says Dr. Agarwal. “I cannot stress enough the importance of timely annual screenings.” High blood pressure and diabetes – known as the silent killers - can remain undiagnosed for years, manifesting as a life-threatening heart attack or stroke. With annual physicals, diseases may be discovered early and treated.

Dr. Agarwal understands the challenges of incorporating heart healthy habits in our busy lifestyles but making a few changes and sticking to them can be lifesaving.

“You must incorporate the heart healthy habits as a part of your routine for it to be successful.”

Shiv Agarwal, M.D.

“My passion is to bring the community together and bring more awareness to the importance of spay/neuter.”

Jenifer Evans

EDU C ATION IS THE KEY

Local nonprofit educates community on TNR.

by ERIN LOPEZ

Jenifer Evans has loved all animals for as long as she can remember. As a young child, she helped her mother and Papaw Thornburg rescue orphaned and injured animals.

“Kitties were picked up from the alleyways of Charlotte and Kings Mountain, dogs from Foote Mineral Mine where Papaw worked, and squirrels and opossums from Papaw’s property,” said Evans.

Through the years, her immense love for animals never faded. In 2007, she began to volunteer for the local humane society with her family. “I wanted them to experience my compassion for animals in need,” said Evans.

In her 15 years of working as an animal advocate, she has worked with various rescue organizations, including Ruff Dog Rescue, through which she currently fosters guinea pigs.

In 2019, Evans began her own nonprofit organization called The Henry County Animal Initiative (HCAI). The goal of the program is “to address the overpopulation of animals in Henry County through Education, Spay/Neuter and our TNR (trapping, spaying/neutering, and releasing) program for residents and businesses in our community.”

The organization is not a rescue, but instead educates the community on what can be done to prevent animal overpopulation, mainly through the efforts of TNR.

With TNR, feral or semi-feral cats are placed back into the environment where they were trapped and HCAI volunteers provide the community education on the importance of TNR as well as providing humane traps, allowing community members to trap other semi-feral and feral cats to get spayed or neutered.

“My passion is to bring the community together and bring more awareness to the importance of spay/neuter,” said Evans.

Evans stresses the importance of spay/neuter to also prevent diseases in pets that would arise without the pets being spayed/ neutered. “It’s very important for the overall wellbeing of the health of the pet,” said Evans.

Through outreach, HCAI is able to target areas that may have a severe overpopulation of animals and assist with dog and cat food as well as pay for the cost of animals to be spayed/ neutered, when funding is available.

“Low-income areas feel like they don’t have any options and they don’t want to spay and neuter their pets when they can barely afford to feed their families, so outreach is 80% of what we do,” explains Evans.

The most important part of HCAI, Evans states, is the participation of volunteers. Without volunteers, HCAI could not successfully conduct TNR in the community and grow the efforts of the organization.

Donations are also instrumental in the operation of HCAI, as they use the funding to purchase pet food, assist with small vet bills, as well as the cost to spay/neuter animals.

Evans is hoping to expand HCAI to work with after school programs in Henry County to implement a humane education class to teach students about proper pet care.

BRINGING THE WORLD TO HENRY COUNTY

International student program launched at Creekside Christian.

by MIKE BOYLAN

Dr. Rodney “Rocky” Clark, the head of school at Creekside Christian Academy, and his wife Becky have launched an international student program at the school this year. They launched similar programs at two other schools and have been preparing this launch for several years. There are currently three international students enrolled at Creekside Christian: Ummi, a 10th-grader from Kenya; Cedric, a 10th-grader from Sweden; and Paul, a 12th-grader from France.

“We intentionally started small for this first year,” said Rodney. “We wanted to make sure we could meet the needs of the students and let our teachers adjust.”

The main goals for the program are for it to be an enhancement for the school and students and for the international students to receive a Christian education and be able to spread the Gospel upon their return home.

The students all live with host families for the duration of the school year and have been engaging in various activities and trips with their host families and newfound friends.

“All three students got involved right away,” said Becky. “They all attended the homecoming dance and there have been different trips throughout Atlanta, as well as to Disney World and Universal Studios.”

“The students are all doing well academically and we are giving them an All-American opportunity.”

Rocky Clark

Paul, the senior, has even gone on some college trips and hopes to stay in the United States for his secondary education. International students can be found in a number of different ways. Sometimes there is a personal connection, where someone knows a high school aged student in another country who is looking for an opportunity like this. Other times there are agencies or government programs looking to connect students with schools. Once a student is selected, the school looks for families within the school or at local churches willing to take the student. The host family receives a stipend to provide food and experiences and the student is basically part of the family for the year.

The international student program at Creekside Christian Academy will continue to grow and the Clarks are excited for how it will enrich both the international students and the ones from Georgia.

“The lowly earthworm is a remarkable and amazing creature that can increase soil fertility and aerate soil with its movement.”

WHAT IS VERMICOMPOSTING?

How to Set Up and Maintain a Worm Composting System.

by AROLUE FLEMMEN PRATER

Composting – the process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps into soil improvement and enrichment for plant growth. There is another type of composting called Vermicomposting. What is this odd sounding kind of composting, and how is it different from using organic material for soil betterment?

Vermicompost is the product of the decomposition process using various worm species to create a mixture of decomposing vegetable or food waste, plant fragments, bedding, and other material. This waste is converted into nutrient-dense compost called worm castings or worm manure. These worm castings enrich garden or plant soil.

Kayla Tucker of Hampton became interested in using this type of composting after reading about it while taking classes for Master Gardener certification. With her love of gardening, she researched further this concept which subsequently led to her implementing the vermicomposting for her own outdoor home garden.

Interest in pursuing a vermicomposting system? Storage, bedding, worm type, and food should be considered. While wooden worm bins can be built, a plastic storage container can be readily purchased and used for worm propagation. Drilled holes are necessary for worm oxygen. This container or worm bin can be stored indoors, outdoors, or in a garage but with care taken for a warm and comfortable temperature.

Bedding material of proper moisture content should include peat moss, coconut fiber, wood chips, black ink shredded newspaper and cardboard, dry leaves, and some garden soil. There are different worm group species; those that are the most satisfactory for home vermicomposting are the Redworms or “red wrigglers.” Some fishermen also use these for bait. Ordering can be done online or through commercial earthworm growers who advertise in gardening or fishing magazines. Digging up earthworms from the garden is not desirable as those worm types are not suitable for vermicomposting.

What can the worms eat? Any vegetable waste generated during food preparation can be used, even plate scrapings of

macaroni, gravy, vegetables, or potatoes! A container can be used to store the worm “food,” and spoiled refrigerated foods, coffee grounds and tea bags can go into the worm bin as well. Crushed egg shells make calcium carbonate more readily available to the microorganisms and other decomposers in the bin, and later to plants in the garden. Citrus peelings and rinds should be used in very small amounts as excess quantities will kill the worms. Very salty foods will pull moisture from the worm bodies and can also kill the food waste eaters. Nonbiodegradables such as rubber bands, aluminum foil, plastic bags and bottle caps have no place in a worm bin.

The contents of the holding container can be emptied about twice weekly into the worm bin, being careful not to overload. Every two or three months the worm castings or vermicompost can be harvested by sorting and dividing the contents of the bin and placing fresh bedding in the bin. This harvested “black gold” can then be sprinkled in seed beds, in transplanting, or in sprinkling around the base of plants. The worm castings are rich in nitrogen, phosphates, and potash, making a high-grade fertilizer.

What are the benefits of vermicomposting? There is reduction of landfill and food waste, better plant growth, garden-ready compost, and less fertilizer need.

The lowly earthworm is a remarkable and amazing creature that can increase soil fertility and aerate soil with its movement. Through this “worm worker,” kitchen scraps and leftovers can be transformed into a rich and valuable commodity for any gardener.

Having earthworms for “pets” requires virtually no maintenance and they prefer little disturbance. Given the proper environment and nutrition, these organisms provide enormous gardening benefits. Try vermicomposting and reap the rewards of these workers and gain a better appreciation of the intricate balance and interdependencies in nature.

Acknowledgment and appreciation to Kayla Tucker, Master Gardener, for her Vermicomposting notes and collaboration in the writing of this article.

Keep Out the Cold

by MAKAYLA SHIRLEY, PHARMD PHARMACIST IN CHARGE- MOYE’S LOCUST GROVE

It is the most wonderful time of the year. Winter is almost here, meaning many holiday celebrations and time well spent with family and friends is upon us.

In the midst of the fast-paced winter holiday season, do not forget to spend time taking care of yourself, too. Beyond all of the joys that winter brings, it also brings the common cold, the flu, and other respiratory infections that are not as wonderful. Helpful items to stock at home are tissues, humidifiers or vaporizers, fluids (water and Bioltye), cough, cold and flu medications, cough drops and/or throat lozenges, pain relievers, and decongestants.

Additionally, following these tips will lessen your risk of receiving the gift of illness:

Eat healthy and exercise. Consume appropriate amounts of immune boosting vitamins, whether it be from foods or vitamin supplements. Be up to date on all vaccines. Cover your coughs and sneezes. Lastly, wash your hands and avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.

If these don’t prove to be enough and you still find yourself feeling under the weather, drop into one of our local Moye’s Pharmacy locations for testing, a large over the counter section, any prescription needs, and a one-on-one consultation with any of our experienced pharmacists to find the best plan to get you back happy and healthy this holiday season!

To find a location near you, visit us at MoyesPharmacy.com.

Keeping you and your family healthy this winter season.

THE GROOVY ZOO

Metal Yard Art

by TERRY MCAFEE

Planning a trip to the North Georgia Mountains is never a bad idea for a weekend adventure or even a day trip. One thing is certain; there’s plenty to see and do. There is a place you don’t want to miss that is well worth exploring.

The Zoo… Groovy Metal Yard Art (The Groovy Zoo) in Mineral Bluff is just a stone’s throw from Blue Ridge and a must-see attraction. Owners Steve and Wanda Wile have made yard art an adventurous and mystical experience. The Groovy Zoo consists of metal art creatures from very small handheld figures to ultra-enormous elephants, giraffes and dinosaurs that easily tower over all the other figures on the property.

“Our business actually started in Morganton on a half-acre tract of land and was focused on wood cutouts and designs. Our plan was to use yard art as an eye catcher for the business,” says Steve.

Almost immediately, it was clear the main attraction was the yard art, as it easily caught the attention from passersby and was more of an impulse type of purchase.

Steve and Wanda’s business savvy to go with what works led them to quickly change gears and make metal yard art primary. It would prove to be a home run decision.

Soon it became apparent the location in Morganton wouldn’t support the growth of their business and sent them searching for a much larger tract of land. As fate would have it, a sevenacre site in Mineral Bluff became available and was perfect for The Groovy Zoo vision.

“Our plan was to use yard art as an eye catcher for the business”

Steve Wile

General manager Seth Shelton and lead employee Ivy Mooney are a vital part of the success The Groovy Zoo vision has had. They understand the importance of interaction with guests and rolling up their sleeves to keep everything running smoothly.

“We are truly blessed to have such a great TEAM in place,” says Steve and Wanda.

The Groovy Zoo is always changing as new metal animals and figures arrive regularly. New ideas, additions and expansions keep The Groovy Zoo new and exciting. In addition, the new location has given Wanda room to expand her wood cut-out workshop and she is ready, willing and able to design something special and unique for anyone.

The vision the Wiles have for The Groovy Zoo may take twists and turns, but remains focused on keeping it fun, adventitious and educational.

Much like a traditional zoo there are signs describing the animals, making it a great place for a field trip, a birthday party and fundraisers. Regardless of your reason to visit The Groovy Zoo, the staff is committed to making your visit enjoyable.

Visit www.thegroovyzoo.com or call 706-374-3441 for more information. You can also check the zoo on Facebook at The Zoo Groovy Yard Art.

LOADED POTATO SOUP

Rutabaga’s Market and Cafe

In the Winter it’s so good to warm up with a delicious bowl of soup. Rutabaga’s Market and Cafe in Hampton shares their delightful Loaded Potato Soup for the perfect meal on a cold day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound of red potatoes

• 2 cups shredded cheese

• 1/2 gallon of whole milk

• 2 tbsp of Ranch Seasoning

• 1 Cup of sour cream

• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

1. Simmer potatoes for 20 to 30 minutes, or until tender.

2. Add milk and stir continuously to keep from sticking. Add ranch seasoning, sour cream, shredded cheese, and salt and pepper.

3. In a cup or bowl, add two tablespoons of flour or cornstarch. Mix with 1 cup of milk and pour into soup to thicken.

4. Top soup with bacon and serve.

“In the Winter it’s so good to warm up with a delicious bowl of soup.”

TIPS FOR

Does a heart murmur mean my child has a heart problem?

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta pediatric cardiologists have found that there is a lot of misinformation about heart murmurs and what it means for a child who has one.

In the simplest terms, a “murmur” is just a sound. For heart murmurs, that sound is the noise of blood flowing through the heart chambers, valves and arteries.

If your child’s heart murmur is the sound of normal blood flow, the murmur is referred to as an innocent murmur and is considered normal. Innocent heart murmurs are very common in children, and most heart murmurs are indeed innocent.

On the other hand, some heart murmurs may be the first sign of underlying heart disease, such as a hole in the heart, blocked valve, leaky valve, a heart muscle problem or a blood vessel problem. In that case, the heart murmur will sound different to the cardiologist’s ears, and further testing may be required.

Evaluation of a heart murmur may include a:

• Detailed family history

• Patient history

• Physical exam

• Resting electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Chest X-ray or an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)

If there is any concern that your child’s heart murmur is serious, it is critical that your child sees a pediatric cardiologist who has special training and equipment to care for small and growing hearts.

To learn more, visit www.choa.org/parent-resources/ heart/heart-murmurs-in-children.

Insight above provided by Dr. Matthew Oster, Director of the Program to Evaluate and Advance Cardiovascular Health at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

The Whitten Family Celebrates 55 YEARS IN BUSINESS

by SCB VIDEO TV MARKETING

Making a trip to the doctor’s office or passing a big rig at a weighting station; industrial/commercial scales are in more places than you realize. From the baggage check-in at the airport to the zoo and even trains delivering your favorite products, the Whitten family is proud to provide exceptional service to many industries over the past 55 years through their family business, Atlanta Scales.

Atlanta Scales is a local Henry County-based business who is honored to have two generations working to provide exceptional service. Alongside new sales and rentals, Atlanta Scales also provides 24-hour maintenance and repair to commercial and industrials scales.

HERE’S

A LITTLE HISTORY ABOUT ATLANTA SCALES.

In 1967 Atlanta Scales, Inc. was incorporated as a small service company to repair industrial scales and weighing equipment. A. E. Whitten, Sr. soon started as an employee cleaning levers and weighbridge steel with a blow torch. By September of 1968, Al had saved enough money to buy his first 11 shares of ASI stock; and by July of 1984, he had managed to buy out all partners to become the sole owner of Atlanta Scales. He managed this all while continuing to work out in the field.

At that point Al transitioned into sales and in 1986 his son, Mark Whitten, started as a service technician. By January 2002, Al retired full time and Mark started managing the daily operations of ASI as the new owner alongside his wife, Victoria Whitten. Today, the ASI family continues to grow through its hardworking employees and greatly appreciated customer base.

“When I think about 55 years in business, it’s a great feeling to carry on something that my dad started… the relationships, the dedication to our customers and employees, you just can’t beat it.” Mark proudly states.

On April 1, 2021, AAA Scales & Systems in Gainesville, GA became part of the Atlanta Scales, Inc. family. Together, they work to operate as one united company providing the best possible service and solutions to their customers.

“I’m proud of what my father-in-law started and what my husband has continued to build and grow upon. To know that the 3rd generation is here and on the scene; and they are learning, and they are waiting for their chance to excel when it’s time for Mark and I to step back. I am excited to see what they do.” stated Victoria Whitten Mark and Victoria work daily with their children, Jonah and Noah, and look forward to the future of Atlanta Scales.

ATLANTA SCALES

1933 GA-155 S McDonough, GA 30253 Phone: 770-477-7052

Fax: 770-477-7054

GAINESVILLE LOCATION

Address: 2491-C Monroe Dr. Gainesville, GA 30507 Phone: 770-532-2316

24/7 SERVICE

Phone Number for Emergency Service: 770-853-6964

Disruption Brings Spiritual Change

Coming out of the COVID pandemic.

by PASTOR JOHN DEWBERRY

One of the most powerful times in the church has just taken place. The COVID pandemic has changed the entire narrative of how we do church in America. We have been forced to come up with innovative ways of doing ministry as well as doing evangelism with a whole new philosophy.

What the pandemic has done is it has interrupted your ministry or it has disrupted your ministry. Either way you look at it, one of those two situations has happened to ministry.

If the pandemic has just been an interruption to your ministry and you feel that is all that it has do ne, you are in trouble. An interruption means you can continue doing what you were doing without changing anything. An interruption is when you’re on the phone and you place someone on hold and then pick up right where you left off in the conversation as if nothing has happened. That’s not what the pandemic did to our ministries. The pandemic did not stop us for a moment for us to return back to doing the same old same old. The pandemic was

a disruption to our ministries. God used the pandemic to force the church to get uncomfortable and to become more about winning the lost for the kingdom of heaven.

If you’re seeing the pandemic as an interruption, you have missed God’s hand. The pandemic was a disruption to force God’s people to be about His business in the world. The blessing of the pandemic was it gave the church exposure to do great things for people in need. So, let’s be about God’s business and allow this disruption to help us become all that God wants us to be.

“Let’s be about God’s business and allow this disruption to help us become all that God wants us to be.”

Pastor John Dewberry