We Are Henry - The Spring Issue (2023)

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PUBLISHER & PHOTOGRAPHER

Michie Turpin

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Michelle Nunnally

EDITOR

Monroe Roark

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Scott Tredeau

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Boylan

Laura Garrett

Ruth Hildreth

Pastor Brady Howard

Delaney T. Kirby

Erin Lopez

Laura Luker

Terry McAfee

Michelle Nunnally

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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ON THE COVER

Spring has sprung! The mornings are cool and crisp, the porch is dusted with yellow pollen, the farmers markets are increasing in abundance, and there is a sense of renewal in the air.

A special thank you to the Hildreth family of McDonough. We are so excited to include farm fresh eggs from their own chickens on the cover of We Are Henry’s spring issue.

PROGRAM MANAGER KEVINA LOVE FRANKLIN

DESTINY FRANCIS

JOYCEE FRITZ

VENUS PARKER

SHARING THE LOVE OF MUSIC

Henry for Music partners with local schools.

by MONROE ROARK

Students in Henry County are getting an exceptional opportunity to pursue their interest in music, thanks to a collaboration between the county’s public schools and a local nonprofit organization.

The fruit of this partnership was seen on a fairly large scale in late January, when some 900 students filled Henry County Schools’ Fairview Performing Arts Center for a morning concert. The musicians who participated were a combination of professional artists, local volunteers and even a few students who have benefited over several years from the efforts of Henry for Music to provide an outlet for their participation.

Another unique aspect of this event is that it was organized entirely by Henry for Music. A 2022 concert in cooperation with the Piatigorsky Foundation had a similar turnout, but the foundation could not take part this year because of scheduling issues. So, the very small army of volunteers at Henry for Music took the ball and ran with it.

“We are a very small group, so I’ve been pushing an initiative – and we have it underway – to recruit additional volunteers,” said Kim Cloutman, a board member who spearheaded the efforts to organize this event. “I’d say we overachieve as an organization as far as events and after-school programs because we’ve only got a handful of folks in a board position.”

The team searched throughout metro Atlanta to find professionals such as a jazz pianist, a trombonist and a violinist to enhance the young people’s listening experience.

“Our effort here was to get the students to better understand different musical instruments, to make them more aware of participating in band or orchestra if they wanted to, or maybe keep them doing what they’re doing in band and orchestra,” said Jerry Hesselink, the founder and CEO of Henry for Music.

A vital part of the mission of Henry for Music is its instructional programs in local schools. Brooke Alford, the violinist who took part in the concert, currently teaches violin after school at Fairview Elementary and Cotton Indian Elementary. Another teacher does the same thing at Red Oak Elementary. These teachers are paid by Henry for Music and the students can participate at no cost.

But just acquiring a violin or some other instrument can be an expensive proposition. This is another way Henry for Music steps up to help. The organization has collected musical instruments for several years and has an inventory of about 150 of them, unused and waiting for a young person to reach out and show interest, which is done through an application on the organization’s website.

“Our effort here was to get the students to better understand different musical instruments, to make them more aware of participating in band or orchestra…”

Jerry Hesselink

Hesselink said the instruments are essentially loaned, but “as long as the student continues to stay in the band or orchestra, they can retain that instrument – up through graduation and beyond if they need it.”

Kevina Franklin, another board member, has been playing flute for more than 30 years and also took part in the recent concert. She played with two of Henry for Music’s alumni students, Joycee Fritz and Destiny Francis, who have played with the youth orchestra program for some time and now serve as mentors in the after-school program, where Franklin also lends a hand as an instructor. Another homegrown musician who has served as a mentor is Brittni Leigh, a Union Grove High School and Florida State University graduate who is now a professional cellist.

The program began in 2018 and worked through the COVID-19 pandemic with virtual instruction before getting back to normal over the last year or two.

“We connected originally with Communities in Schools when they were actively involved with the middle school structure in the county. They had contracts with about seven or eight middle schools,” said Hesselink. “They located 25 kids over in McDonough Middle School that couldn’t get in the band even

though they wanted to, because the school district didn’t have the instruments to give them. And the families really couldn’t afford to rent or buy them. So, we connected with them and we provided most of those 25 instruments. And of course, things kept moving.”

The next big event on the calendar is expected to showcase the students’ progress in a major way. Plans are in the works to bring together the 40 or so violin students from the three elementary schools for a joint concert the evening of May 16 at the Merle Manders Conference Center in Stockbridge.

Also on the drawing board is a summer camp that students in the after-school enrichment program can attend. “That’s a really exciting project because this will be their first main project as a student advisory council with Henry for Music,” said Franklin. “And it’ll be the first opportunity that the orchestra students have to participate in a music camp.”

Henry for Music, a 501-c-3 nonprofit, is a member of the Henry Arts Alliance and is partnered with several local and regional organizations. For more information about its offerings and how you can contribute or be involved, visit www.henryformusic.org.

FOCUS ON EDUCATION TO GROW, STRENGTHEN WORKFORCE

Piedmont Henry Hospital creates new pathway to a career in nursing.

by MICHAEL BOYLAN

Paula Butts, the Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Piedmont Henry Hospital, got her start as a nurse in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Georgia Baptist Medical Center, which later became Atlanta Medical Center. Her experience in critical care includes trauma and open heart, cardiology, neurology and medical/surgical among others. Her extensive career has given her good insight on what it takes to recruit and retain nurses and the answer often starts with education.

Butts joined Piedmont Henry as the CNO in 2017 and immediately began to strengthen partnerships with nursing programs at colleges, as well as local high schools who had students just starting to explore careers in healthcare. Over time, Butts placed a focus on continuing a nurse’s education at the hospital. This includes creating learning opportunities for international nurses who quickly learned Piedmont’s culture as well as the United States of America’s unique culture.

“It is important for us to create a welcoming environment for nursing students in college who do their clinical rotations

at Piedmont Henry,” said Butts. “Many of the students we work with are from the area and we want them to come work for us upon graduation.”

In addition to providing an excellent place to do clinical rotations, Piedmont Henry provides clinical instructors for area colleges. The hospital has also made two floors a Dedicated Education Unit (DEU). The floors that make up the DEU have staff members trained to help with education and provide an opportunity for nursing students to experience the day-to-day role of a nurse, including charting within the electronic medical record. Students working in the DEU really get a feel for what it’s like to be a nurse, specifically at Piedmont, and are often hired as nurses in the Piedmont system.

High school students in Henry County Schools also have an opportunity to come to Piedmont Henry to learn. The students in allied health courses get to shadow staff members and get exposed to various departments throughout the hospital. With different certifications available, these students can often start

working at the hospital while they go to college pursuing careers in nursing or healthcare in general.

Recently, Piedmont Henry signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Henry County Schools and Gordon State College (GSC) to form the Community Innovation Partnership regarding a nursing pathway program for Henry County dual-enrollment students. The hospital’s medical executive committee donated $100,000 to the Gordon State College Foundation for nursing scholarships.

The mission behind the partnership is to provide a comprehensive approach to solving both educational and economic developmental needs. The education partners will jointly benefit from increased student attainment and therefore increase graduation rates, student satisfaction and engagement. Under the agreement, the dual-enrollment students will complete up to 60 credits towards their associate degree during their freshman through senior years through a combination of dual credit courses taken at one of the Henry County School District high

schools and GSC. Program participants completing the program should finish their Associate of Science degree parallel with the completion of their high school diploma. Up to five Henry County dual-enrollment students who complete the program and meet the admission criteria will gain guaranteed admittance to GSC Bachelor of Science in nursing degree program.

“We are excited to play a significant role in this program and help shepherd the next generation of nurses into healthcare careers,” said Butts.

Piedmont Henry also hopes to do more with Henry County Schools around their work-based learning program.

In addition to creating a pipeline of nurses from close to home, Piedmont Henry continues their recruitment of

international nurses. The initiative began before the COVID-19 pandemic but the first nurse in the program didn’t start at the hospital until July of 2021. Since then, nearly 80 nurses have been added with a goal of reaching 115 total.

The nurses come from many different countries (Kenya, Ghana, Philippines, Bahamas, among others) and each one has at least five years of service as a nurse in their home country. The nurses work in departments throughout the hospital including surgical services, med/surg, critical care, and the cath lab.

Butts and other Piedmont officials have worked with the staff of several government officials in an effort to help make the VISA process quicker and to expand National Board of Nursing testing sites. Everyone has been receptive, as this program addresses a nursing shortage during a critical time by bringing in experienced and enthusiastic nurses.

“The orientation of our nurses coming to the U.S. is similar to bringing in a new graduate nurse, however many of our international nurses are incredibly skilled and hit the ground running,” said Butts. “They are outstanding members of the team.”

For nurses, learning never stops. This is especially true at Piedmont Henry where unit-based educators and preceptors keep training nurses on best practices. The hospital also has a state-of-the-art simulation lab that allows nursing students and new nurses to practice handling some urgent situations outside of the heat of the moment.

“The lab elevates patient care by simulating real life scenarios, including urgent situations. It provides a realistic experience using specialty mannequins that simulate a patient’s need for treatment,” said Butts. “Care providers and students respond to various real-world situations and practice their skills in a non-threatening environment.”

The Simulation and Training Lab has been a priority for Piedmont Henry as hospital leaders know there is always a demand for experienced healthcare workers. The project was supported by many engaged stakeholders in the community, particularly Marcia G. Taylor and The Taylor Foundation.

Piedmont’s purpose is to make a positive difference in every life they touch and Piedmont Henry touches the lives of many new nurses through a commitment to education.

“ We are excited to play a significant role in this program and help shepherd the next generation of nurses into healthcare careers.”

Paula Butts

“Overall chickens are very easy to take care of and maintain. With the amazing reward of fresh eggs daily!”

Ruth Hildreth

RAISING SPRING CHICKENS

Tips on Getting Started.

by RUTH HILDRETH

Raising chickens for backyard, free range eggs is a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. Not only do you get to enjoy fresh eggs every day, but you also get the added benefit of having a backyard pet that is easy to care for. In this article, I will share my experience raising chickens and provide tips on how to get started.

I live in McDonough and I have been raising backyard chickens for the past four years. To get started you need to decide how you will house your chickens when they are fully grown. Whether that is building your own coop from the ground up, converting a shed or purchasing one from a local store. I highly recommend building your own or doing a conversion of a shed or small building.

The internet is full of inspired ideas you can pull from. A good coop should be well-ventilated and have a secure door to keep predators out. Chickens also need a secure, fenced area to roam during the day, known as a run. This will give them the opportunity to forage for bugs and grass, which is a natural and healthy diet for them.

The next step is researching the breeds you want and where to buy them. My favorite place to buy baby chicks from is Swint’s Feed & Garden Supply store in Jonesboro. Swint’s has a wide selection of breeds to choose from. Then comes setting up the brooder box for the chicks. They need a small space with chick starter feed, water and a heat lamp. They must be kept at a warm temperature until they feather all the way out. At about six weeks of age, they can be moved into their larger coop. It takes an average of six months for chickens to lay their first eggs. They will be kept on chick starter feed until closer to six months of age and then you switch them onto a layers feed. One of my favorite things is feeding them all the scraps from my kitchen. They are omnivorous so they can eat almost anything.

Overall chickens are very easy to take care of and maintain. With the amazing reward of fresh eggs daily! But, be warned, “Chicken Math” is a real phenomenon that has you adding to your flock beyond what you originally planned. Therefore, I recommend starting with six to eight chicks. Trust me, you will fall in love and want to add more!

FOR YOUR CUSTOM HOME AND REMODELING NEEDS

Ready to tackle any part of your home.

If you need a house built in a subdivision to particular specifications, Life Built Homes can get the job done for you.

Life Built Homes has experience building homes from the starter level to well over a million dollars.

The Locust Grove-based company can also handle a wide assortment of jobs that involve existing homes. They remodel basements and bathrooms, build additions, and install new kitchens or even new roofs.

“If you’re looking to have new deck boards installed along with new handrails, we can do that,” Said Clif Harrison “We’ve also done bathroom remodels that cost $100,000-plus. We’ve done it all.”

In addition to handling all facets of construction, the company’s experienced professionals can help clients make decisions on what they want in their house that fit their wants, needs and budget.

“Very few people we come in contact with know exactly what they want to do,” said Harrison. “We give a lot of guidance. We have the ability to point people in the right direction to make sure they understand what they’re getting and can obtain the end result they are looking for.”

Life Built Homes was founded in the fall of 2010, just a few years after Harrison built his first house. They are well known in Henry County for building custom homes, but not as many people are aware of the other kinds of work they do. They even provide in-house financing for some remodeling projects.

“We are really a one-stop shop for somebody needing an addition, wanting to build a new home or get their remodeling done,” said Harrison.

The company has excellent relationships with Henry County’s various municipal building departments and other government agencies involved in the construction process. Their employees know what can be built in the county and how it is done correctly.

More importantly, Life Built Homes is fully licensed. This is rare on the southside of Atlanta, as evidenced by a recent client who informed them that she had three previous contacts regarding her basement remodeling but all were turned down by her financing company because they were not licensed.

“That’s a big deal for a lot of people,” said Harrison. “We want to make sure that they understand we are a fully licensed general contracting company, and we can pretty much handle any type of work.”

Harrison grew up in McDonough. His family has lived in Henry County for nearly two centuries, having been involved in the county’s growth and owned businesses here since the 1800s.

“That means something to me,” he said. “We have been part of this community for a long time.”

“… I love Henry. It’s easy to share and be enthusiastic about what I love.”

Cynthia Crawford

TO R) EMMETT SHACKLEFORD, REVEREND VIV SHACKLEFORD, EMMANUELLA BELZINCE, CYNTHIA CRAWFORD AND BRIAN JOHNSON

ROCHELLE RANDLE

CYNTHIA CRAWFORD, LAURA LUKER AND EMMANUELLA BELZINCE

Serving with Hospitality

Local volunteers help tourists enjoy all Henry County offers.

by LAURA LUKER

Service to your community can be demonstrated in a variety of ways. For a group of Henry County residents, that means serving as volunteers, known as Local Explorers, with Visit Henry County, GA. This group works alongside Visit Henry County, GA and their new Mobile Visitors Center to share things to do, places to eat and other information about the area with visitors.

As a Realtor, Cynthia Crawford is constantly selling Henry County. She joined the Local Explorers to deepen her knowledge in order to better serve her clients. “I realized there was a lot I did not know [about Henry County],” said Crawford. “Realtors love to grow and know the communities that we live and work in. Knowing more will make us all better Realtors.”

Viv Shackleford jumped at the opportunity to learn more about Henry County and to serve in the community.

“I thought it would be a good way to meet new people and share with them facts about Henry County,” said Shackleford. “I am a people person.” Her husband Emmett, fellow Explorer, has found he has learned more of Henry County’s history and expanded his knowledge of restaurants and shopsinformation he personally enjoys as much as he enjoys sharing it with guests.

“As a professional and a business owner, I think it’s important to be aware of what Henry offers…to those who visit and ultimately consider relocating to Henry from all across the country,” said Real Estate Consultant Emmanuella Belizince. While business knowledge is important, it is not her only reason for wanting to volunteer. “As a mother of young boys, I’m intentional about making experiences where they live.”

Each Local Explorer brings their own energy and excitement to the events where they volunteer. A restaurant recommendation for a couple in town for the night or a tip to parents for places the kids can work off some energy are all important parts of the job. With each recommendation, volunteers help support local businesses. When guests eat at a local restaurant or stay an extra day to visit a recommended attraction, more money is generated for the businesses, the hospitality employees, the county, and schools; all of which ultimately build a stronger county.

When asked her secret for sharing her love of Henry County with visitors, Crawford responds, “My secret is that I love Henry. It’s easy to share and be enthusiastic about what I love.” As the official tourism marketing organization for Henry County, Visit Henry County, GA hopes Crawford’s enthusiasm and that of her fellow Explorers translate into new visitors to the community.

BEING A PART OF The Magic

Finding joy in a student’s success.

by MICHELLE

The moment when the “light bulb” comes on and you know a child has “gotten” the lesson you are teaching him/her. These are the moments that Anna Johnson loves about being a teacher.

“You can’t buy that excitement in a student’s eyes,” explains Johnson. “You just have to be a part of the magic!”

Johnson is a gifted teacher at Bethlehem Elementary School in Locust Grove where she also teaches accelerated math. Years ago, while working as a bank teller, someone came in to make a deposit. The person placed an “X” on the back of the check where their signature should go. Johnson learned then that this is how a person who can’t write their name signs a check. She also witnessed bank customers who could not count money. These experiences led Johnson to become a teacher.

“One year I was teaching a group of students how to count money,” recalls Johnson. “I remember a little girl saying ‘Oh, I get it’ and then she turned to help her friend understand the lesson” – a “light bulb” moment.

Johnson shares another favorite story about a lesson on pollution in the ocean and its impact on sea turtles. She had

a scientist at the turtle rehabilitation on Jekyll Island speak to her students. “When the students made the connection to how what they did here in Henry County affected the sea turtles, it was amazing! Again, it was that ‘light bulb’ moment!”

Johnson’s passion for teaching earned her the great honor of being named Bethlehem Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year for the 2022–2023 school year. It’s a humbling recognition as she believes so many of her fellow teachers are truly amazing, dedicated and deserving of the honor as well.

Many family members and friends of Johnson have played a role in her success as a teacher. She credits her parents with encouraging her to go to college. Her mother-in-law for being an awesome example of a great teacher and her father-in-law who has shared stories of his own school experiences. Her husband and three children for the countless tasks and inspiring ideas they have helped her with over the years. Her teaching mentors and friends for their support and help with projects.

For Johnson, it all comes back to being a part of that magic moment when the “light bulb” comes on and a child “gets it.”

“There is nothing like it! Just knowing that the little time we are a part of a student’s life can greatly impact their whole life is amazing.”

Anna Johnson

NUNNALLY

“For me there really isn’t a plan B. I will accomplish what I set my heart to.”

Akhenaten Mswia

The Sky’s the Limit

Journey of a Future Engineer.

by LAURA GARRETT

Before moving to Georgia in 2014, Akhenaten Mswia lived in Brooklyn, New York, and Reisterstown, Maryland. Mswia’s mother is originally from Tanzania, so he was able to travel between the U.S. and Africa frequently during his childhood, becoming fluent in Swahili in the process. Over the past several years, Mswia, a student at Strong Rock Christian School in Locust Grove, has accomplished impressive feats in both aviation, his hobby, and engineering, his career aspiration. With his father and brother both pilots before him, Mswia explains that his family’s willingness and openness to support him in all his endeavors was something that allowed him to discover his passion for engineering.

Following in his brother’s footsteps, Mswia joined the Civil Air Patrol – a voluntary auxiliary of the United States Air Force serving local communities, the state, and the nation through emergency services, aerospace education, and cadet programs. As an active participant in his local squadron, serving in a staff position, Mswia demonstrated aerospace and leadership knowledge and passed a physical fitness test to earn the rank of Cadet 2nd Lieutenant. His roles included flight commander, emergency services officer, communications officer, and operations officer. Mswia participated in four search and rescue missions with the Civil Air Patrol, one of which as team lead. Mswia completed his flight training after school at Falcon Field in Peachtree City. At age 16, his first solo flight came after passing the written test for his private pilot’s license and 20 months of flight training with an instructor. “The first time I really took in that I was flying thousands of feet above the ground by myself was on my first solo cross-country flight

to Columbus,” recalls Mswia. “It was the first time I had a chance to fly in a straight line and take it all in.”

At 17, Mswia obtained his private pilot’s license after passing the oral and practical test at Tri-Cities Regional Airport.

In July 2022, Mswia spent a week at the EAA AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, as an attendee of the Blue Beret training school. In conjunction with attendance at leadership training sessions from figures such as United States Air Force chief of staff General Charles Q. Brown Jr., Mswia’s duties included supporting the event staff and ensuring a safe environment, controlling crowds, guiding aircraft on and off the runway, logging tail numbers to keep track of all aircraft on the ground, and disabling emergency locator transmitters.

Mswia’s affinity for motorsports began after playing his brother’s old racing games and tagging along with him karting with friends. Mswia placed third in a six-hour endurance kart race at Atlanta Motorsports Park.

In 2019 he attended the Petit Le Mans race at Road Atlanta. After assisting the Lexus team by helping push a broken-down car back into the garage, Mswia encountered someone analyzing data and inquired as to his job. “I’m a mechanical engineer,” the man responded. At that moment, Mswia knew what he wanted to do. He aspires to work as a mechanical engineer in series such as the International Motor Sports Association, National Auto Sport Association, and World Endurance Challenge, as well as become a driver in Gridlife and Sports Car Club of America.

“For me there really isn’t a plan B. I will accomplish what I set my heart to,” declares Mswia.

“…So when tomorrow starts without me Do not think we’re apart For every time you think of me Remember I’m right here in your heart”

As the grueling morning of Sunday, February 13, 2022, arrived, the fear of the morning after kicked in. How will I fell tomorrow, Monday, when he is no longer here to wake me up, and greet me? I dreaded the moment of having to signal the Veterinarian to go ahead and push that IV that will make his heart stop. He was only four years of age, and cancer had destroyed him.

Two months earlier on the week prior to Christmas, the University of Georgia Veterinary Hospital had given us the news of his Lymphoma, giving him three months at the most to live. I made him three promises which I was able to fulfill. The promise of no more doctors’ visits, the promise of not letting him suffer, and the hardest of all… the promise of being with him until the last breath he would take. Promises were fulfilled, but not without a shattered heart.

As I dropped on my knees crying from the inability to reverse the course of nature, even as a member of the medical community, the only comfort was knowing he no longer was in pain. Likely the most guilt a human can feel… deciding to end a life of the

most loyal kind of friend. It was me who signaled when his heart would stop beating. It was me who ended his life, and that decision was irreversible.

The guilt and pain likely will haunt me for the rest of my life, but it was time to make a positive from a negative.

To the city of McDonough, and to all those who have loved, and received that beautiful love from a simpler species, we dedicate this memorial. For each tag that is hanged, some comfort, and peace is reached, while simultaneously, the love is remembered.

We love you Ace Fallas.

A DAUGHTER’S INSPIRATION TO HELP VETERANS

Honoring My Father.

by TERRY MCAFEE

Contrary to popular belief, there is a real and ongoing challenge to meet the needs of our disabled military veterans. A growing number of these veterans and their families are struggling to remain independent and many have already fallen into our homeless population. No one is more aware of this critical issue than Master Sergeant (Retired) Patricia Baisden, CEO of Southern Crescent Veteran Services, Inc.

No stranger to the plight of so many military veterans, Baisden recalls her own father, a veteran, and his struggles with adequate housing and homelessness. “These memories were what inspired me to do all I can do to help other veterans from enduring the same fate”, says Baisden.

Veterans have served the country in every imaginable situation all over the world. They have come home with visible and invisible wounds that will be with them the rest of their lives. These men and women who have given their best to protect this country deserve the best in return, but so many times they are under served or ignored.

Southern Crescent Veterans Services, Inc. and Master Sergeant (Ret) Baisden are a perfect match for one another. The mission, “Provide supportive services for the welfare of Veterans”. A simple statement, but very complex requiring many moving parts to be effective.

Southern Crescent Veteran Services, Inc. partners with other local nonprofits to assist with an array of services to help veterans in need of assistance. Services include providing housing assistance, employment assistance to veterans and family members, assisting with employment related services and many issues related to the Veterans Administration.

In addition to reaching out to other nonprofit donors, Southern Crescent Veterans Services, Inc. invites anyone with a generous heart and a desire to help veterans in need with clothing or other comfort items as well as temporary lodging and cash donations to contact the organization as it is much appreciated. In nearly every case, veterans are never looking for a hand out, but a hand up.

“The Make:able Challenge is so important because it gives back to others and helps improve a life.”

Stacy Wright

IAN WRIGHT, MASON STECK, ZACHARY SIMMONS, MARKSON FRASER, BLESSING KWAZEMA

FUTURE LEADERS

Students at Creekside Christian Academy Showcase Their Skills and Win Competitions.

by MIKE BOYLAN

Stacy Wright, the STEM teacher at Creekside Christian Academy in Hampton, knows that educational material connects better with students when they can tie it in with a project. Over the past year, she has seen several students put what they have learned into practice and achieve great success.

Zach Simmons, a senior, was named a Cyberstart Scholar with Honors. Simmons competed for a top score against thousands of high school students across the nation by solving real-world cybersecurity problems. Over 45,000 students nationwide sought to qualify for a National Cyber Scholarship; with just two percent meeting the requirements.

In recognition of his achievement, Simmons earned an invitation to participate in the Cyber Foundations Academy – a multi-week online program based on the nationally-recognized SANS Foundations training course and certification – valued at more than $3,000, where he earned his first entry-level cybersecurity certification.

CyberStart America is a free national program for high school students, aiming to uncover hidden cyber talents, and identify and develop the next generation of cyber superstars.

“I’ll be looking into this field more in the future,” said Simmons, who is hoping to study at Georgia Tech. “It is a field that is constantly changing and requires constant diligence and enthusiasm to stay competitive.”

Blessing Kwazema, Ian Wright, and Markson Fraser won first place in the Best Customization 14–18 category of the Make:able Challenge. The students used 3D printing to help a fellow student with a need.

Kylie Hanslip, a fifth-grader at Creekside Christian, requested a prosthetic device to help her play basketball. Kwazema, Wright and Fraser worked together on designing options using CAD software and created a device for Hanslip to wear to help her better grip a basketball.

“It was fun to bounce ideas off of each other,” said Fraser. “Each person created a design and we took different aspects of each one to work together.”

Wright was proud of the students for how well they collaborated.

“We each had different roles to make sure that we worked efficiently from start to finish,” said Kwazema, who served as the team’s creative design manager. “We’re looking forward to entering the competition again.”

For this group of students, winning first place was icing on the cake because they know they created something special that was truly useful in making a difference in a person’s life. Their design won the school a 3D scanner and they have already been approached by students and faculty members with ideas for their next project

pouring into her students

Amanda Malette is named Henry County’s Teacher of the Year.

by

Amanda Malette always knew she wanted to be a teacher; there was never any question. This is her 21st year as a first-grade teacher (well, one year was in second grade), starting at Pate’s Creek Elementary and now at East Lake Elementary in McDonough. Her students are known as “Malette’s Munchkins” and they carry that with them beyond the year they spend in her classroom.

All of this dedication and love has played a part in Malette’s selection first as East Lake Elementary’s Teacher of the Year and then earning the title of Henry County Schools’ Teacher of the Year. So how did she earn this title, you ask?

Each school in Henry County names its own Teacher of The Year. These teachers then submit an application to be selected as the countywide Teacher of the Year. Six teachers are chosen from the applicants as semi-finalists. Each of these six semifinalists are interviewed and observed in their classroom and then one high school, one middle school, and one elementary teacher is chosen as a finalist for the county’s Teacher of the Year award.

“Amanda truly does portray a love of her students. They learn in her class but they also get grace and kindness.”

Former Parent of a Student

DELANEY T. KIRBY

“The teacher they observed is who I am all year long for 21 years,” says Malette. “They witnessed what I do every day.”

When she was given the top award at the Henry County Teacher of the Year ceremony, in her acceptance speech she thanked her Heavenly Father first and foremost for everything He has given to her. While Malette can’t talk about God and her faith in the classroom, she hopes her students “see Jesus in me and reflect on him as I love these children. You don’t have to say it to show it.”

Malette loves teaching first grade and has her favorite subject, which is reading. “I love the growth that happens in first grade reading. Seeing the kids thinking of themselves as not a reader at the beginning of the year to being able to pick up anything and read it by the end of the year is pretty amazing,” she explains.

Malette’s students love “read aloud” time just as much as her. She started reading The Magic Treehouse books years ago, and each year she gets the privilege to see each student, each class,

listen and sit in awe and fall in love with books. “It opens other doors and builds confidence and it’s great to see that,” shares Malette. “I think even as an adult, getting lost in a book is one of the best things.”

Malette’s love for her “Malette’s munchkins” leaves a lasting impact. A former student, Olivia, remembers the kindness and love she received in Malette’s classroom, while a former parent recalls how Malette “truly does portray a love of her students. They learn in her class but they also get grace and kindness.”

Still young, Malette can retire in less than ten years. She says she sees herself retiring from the classroom rather than moving into administration. For her, the kids are why she does what she does. It’s this passion to be in the classroom that gave her pause in submitting her application to be considered for Georgia’s Teacher of The Year. If selected, Malette would be out of the classroom for one year with speaking events, meetings, and other administrative events. She should learn soon whether she is the state’s top teacher.

Malette grew up in Stockbridge and still lives there with her husband, John, of 20 years, and two children, Drake and Lexi. As a family, their favorite pastimes are bicycling, Disney World, and being with extended family.

Welcome to Spring!

by DAVID OWIREDU, PHARMD PHARMACIST IN CHARGE- MOYE’S STOCKBRIDGE

Spring not only brings about the blooming of fresh flowers and later evenings full of sunshine. Spring also brings about pollination and the production of local honey. The wide spread transfer of pollen ignites sinus issues and allergies for several people, but who knew that also the making of honey could help remedy these seasonal symptoms many of us suffer from.

Not much research was initially made on the connection between honey and allergic rhinitis, which is often referred to as AR. But recent research conducted by National Institute of Health found when subjects with AR have a family history of seasonal allergies as well as a medical history of asthma were given high doses of honey in addition to standard medication, a reduction of symptoms were found. Studies showed when research subjects ingested the honey, once antihistamine was withdrawn from their medication regime, symptoms of sneezing and nasal itchiness seized. Research also found that with the use of honey, subjects symptoms stopped for 0 to 4 weeks at a time. Scientists discovered the usage of honey was just as effective as the medication loratadine (Asha’ari 2013).

In conclusion, when those who suffer from seasonal allergies introduce their immune system directly to the aeroallergens through the honey, the body builds up a tolerance of the allergens, which decreases the overwhelming immune response. It’s fair to say that bees not only initiate the blooming of flowers, but also create nature’s medicine so we are able to truly enjoy the fresh air of spring.

Reference:

Asha’ari, Zamzil Amin, et. al. 2013. “Ingestion of honey improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis: evidence from a randomized placebo-controlled trial in the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia”: National Institute of Health

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

HAPPINESS AND HOMEMADE GOODNESS

Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee NOW in Hampton and Locust Grove.

by MICHELLE NUNNALLY

The smell of freshly made waffle cones and a warm “Welcome Home” greets each person who enters Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee. Whether you visit the original location along East Main Street in Hampton or the new store in Locust Grove’s Ingle’s shopping center, you are sure to find a tasty, homemade treat.

Creating a “happy” business was co-owners Devlin Cleveland and Lakeisha Gantt’s inspiration for Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee. So, the pair went to ice cream and coffee school and spent one year planning and prepping to build a business in the community that would bring happiness to their customers.

“If you would’ve told me 10 years ago that instead of being a full-time lawyer, I would be scooping ice cream, making specialty coffee drinks, and baking, I would’ve laughed and asked you to leave my office,” says Gantt. “But, as you get older, you realize your sanity, happiness, and your peace is important.”

Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee is a labor of love for both owners. Cleveland is the ice cream maker while Gantt bakes the pastries. “We stir, we sift flour, we cook bacon and crunch it up, we make the Key Lime pies, and we peel the peaches and apples we get from local farms,” explains Gantt.

The unique experience about Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee is the ever-changing ice cream flavors and desserts. You could stop by at lunch and enjoy Candied Maple Bacon ice cream and return later in the day to find Double Chocolate Cheesecake or Lavender ice cream has replaced the sold-out Candied Maple Bacon.

“ We wanted a happy business.”

Devlin Cleveland

Stop by Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee in Hampton or Locust Grove and grab a delicious homemade goodie. Whether it’s a yummy scoop of Cleveland’s award-winning Banana Pudding ice cream or Gantt’s delightful Peach Cobbler, you won’t be disappointed.

And, you may just find your flavor on the menu next time you stop in as Cleveland and Gantt are always interested in hearing their customers’ suggestions for new ice cream flavors as well as desserts.

If you’re looking for a great way to celebrate a special event or birthday, Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee offers ice cream making classes, numerous birthday packages, and you can even

have a Slumber Party in the ice cream shop. Welcome Home Creamery and Coffee also caters and takes orders for holidays or other special occasions.

Welcomehomecc.com

info@welcomehomecc.com

404-272-3069

Facebook: Welcome Home Creamery & Coffee Hampton, GA

Welcome Home Creamery & Coffee Locust Grove, GA

Instagram: welcomehomecc

A ‘PIZZA’ HENRY HISTORY

Patrick and Katie McHugh have been in the pizza business for 19 years, but their restaurant has ties that stretch back far longer. It was originally 14th St. Pizza when they purchased it in January of 2004. The Henry County restaurant moved from Hudson Bridge Road to Jodeco Road in 2010 and then to its current location on Jonesboro Road in October of 2022.

“We are the oldest continuously run pizza restaurant in Henry County,” said Patrick. “I think we’ve been successful because of our core values: Family, Honesty, Outstanding Service, and Community.”

15th St. Pizza & Pub is a family-owned and operated business. Both Patrick and Katie have long histories in the hospitality industry and they love working in restaurants and kitchens. Patrick got his start busing tables in a pancake restaurant at the age of 14, worked at Schlotzky’s in high school, and worked in the kitchen of Steak and Ale while in college at Florida State University. He briefly worked in hotels, but he and his wife soon found their way back to restaurants. In November of 2003 they were helping at 14th St. Pizza and by January of 2004, they owned it.

Owning a pizza place presented the couple with a bit of a learning curve, but they went to PizzaExpo in Las Vegas, learned the science behind pizza and got a better understanding of how to cook pizza and how much fun they could have. Just a quick glance at the menu shows the possibilities are endless when it comes to making pizza. For instance, the Wine and Cheese Pizza, an Explore Georgia award winner, has a wine and cheese sauce base, grilled chicken, provolone cheese, and bacon. It gets topped with fresh tomato and lettuce after baking. Patrons are also fans of the Pickle Pizza, which features a creamy garlic base, pickle slices, mozzarella cheese, and a dusting of dill weed.

“Both of those pizzas came from our Pizza Madness promotion, which coincides with March Madness every year,” said Patrick. “We offer 16, off the wall pizzas, people vote for their favorites on social media, and the winner of our tournament makes it on the menu for a year. Some, like the Pickle, or the Texan, are so popular they’ve become permanent fixtures.”

Is it the crazy combinations that are such a draw? Patrick feels the draw is the freshness of the ingredients. The restaurant has a one door freezer and is only for items like French fries, tater tots,

15th St. Pizza & Pub has a new location, same commitment to community.

by MIKE BOYLAN

“Our customers expect a good meal and we provide it.”

Patrick McHugh

and pretzels. The vegetables are all hand-selected by Patrick and Katie at the state farmers market in Forest Park twice a week. The sauces are made in house and Patrick is hoping all of the bread and desserts will be made in house by the end of the year.

“The ingredients are fresh and as local as possible,” said Patrick. “Our customers expect a good meal and we provide it.”

The menu for 15th St. Pizza & Pub is extensive and offers something for everyone. “A family may come in with one person wanting a salad, another wanting a burger or sandwich, and the kids wanting to split a pizza,” said Patrick. “They can all leave satisfied.”

Guests of 15th St. Pizza & Pub are also satisfied with the outstanding craft beer selection. Patrick and Katie wanted the restaurant to be “the craft beer bar” of Henry County and worked to establish good relationships with the vendors to make it happen. They try to spotlight local breweries as often as they can, while also introducing patrons to some of the top selections from out of state.

“I believe we are the best craft beer bar south of I-20,” said Patrick. “Our relationships with different breweries and vendors allow us to get some exclusive, and very limited, products. We update our beer menu regularly so people can see what we’re pouring.”

The new location for 15th St. Pizza & Pub has allowed the restaurant to have better parking, a fantastic, dog-friendly patio, and, most importantly, a Pizza Master oven that can cook

80–90 pizzas an hour, as opposed to the 24 an hour their last oven could cook. The new oven will also make it possible for some new creations to be cooked, including breads, desserts, and dishes like Braised Short Rib Pasta.

Patrick and Katie are proud of their restaurant and the many regulars they feel fortunate enough to call their friends.

“We believe it is our responsibility to give back and take care of those who take care of us,” said Patrick. “When we see an opportunity to give back to our community, especially when it strengthens our neighbors and their families, we make every effort to do so.”

The list of local nonprofits and charities that 15th St. Pizza & Pub has supported is long. Some examples are donating food to A Friends House, feeding kids every Thanksgiving and stocking pantries and refrigerators when they can, sponsoring numerous golf tournaments and events that raise money for schools, camps, medical research, equipment purchases for police, and more.

Patrick, Katie, and the entire staff of 15th St. Pizza & Pub (32 people at last count) are thrilled with their new location and are offering the same top-notch quality and outstanding service they have prided themselves on since the beginning. Patrick knows that they will only keep improving as he learns all his new oven can do and he keeps concocting fun recipes with fresh ingredients.

“Anything can be a pizza,” proclaimed Patrick. His customers tend to agree.

TRAVEL TO THE MEDITERRANEAN WITHOUT LEAVING MCDONOUGH

Local restaurant offers worldly dining experience.

by ERIN LOPEZ

Since its opening in 2013, Fusion Restaurant and Bar has seen increasing popularity in the Henry County community.

It is located off Highway 155 in McDonough and Owner and Operator Sherif Riad cautions for looks not to be deceiving, as Fusion Restaurant and Bar is attached to a gas station. “That was the hardest thing in the beginning. We had to convince people to come, since the parking lot was a gas station,” said Riad. “But as soon as they walk in, they see something completely different.”

Upon entering the restaurant, guests are treated to a quintessential Mediterranean experience. “I put a lot of touch in the restaurant to offer something unique,” said Riad. “As soon as you walk inside, you feel that it is a different atmosphere.”

Serving Mediterranean cuisine from the Middle East, Egypt, Lebanon, Spain, Greece, and Italy, guests can treat their taste buds to a menu they cannot easily get south of Atlanta.

“I decided to come up with an idea to put something that would add to the community,” said Riad. “I tried to get a variety of Mediterranean cuisine to satisfy different palettes. We get the people to go to different countries without leaving McDonough.”

“I put a lot of touch in the restaurant to offer something unique.”

Sherif Riad

For those that are a little hesitant to try a new cuisine, Riad says they work to make their guests comfortable and educate them on the countries the various menu items are from and the types of dishes they serve at the restaurant.

Every dish at Fusion Restaurant and Bar is made to order from scratch with fresh ingredients. Some menu items are even Riad’s family recipes from Egypt. “I had to contact my mom and she had the recipes for certain dishes that we have on the menu,” said Riad. “I had to follow [her recipes] to continue giving the same taste that I was used to as a kid.”

Riad personally reviews the menu every few months, making sure guests regularly see new and interesting menu items. “I try to make it exciting,” said Riad. “I always add items to the menu every time I review the menu to provide new items that people can enjoy.”

Guests are encouraged to relax, stay for a while and disconnect from the daily rush of life. “I try not to rush guests. I try to encourage them to stay, enjoy, and talk,” said Riad. “Some of them want to stay a lot longer and enjoy. After dinner, they have coffee and dessert and they stay for a longer period of time.”

Riad hopes the true Mediterranean dining culture is embraced by guests as he caters the environment of Fusion Restaurant and Bar to create a memorable experience. Additionally, for those that enjoy the outdoor dining experience, Fusion Restaurant and Bar is excited to offer year-round outdoor dining with a new patio space, fans, and heaters.

Riad is grateful for the support of the local community and plans to continue to offer a unique, authentic Mediterranean dining experience for all to enjoy.

STRICKLAND SMOTHERED STEAK FAMILY RECIPE

Angie Dixon has been enjoying her family’s smothered steak ever since she was a little girl and her mother came up with the delicious recipe. It quickly became a favorite that had everyone rushing to the dinner table.

“When I married, it became a staple on my dinner table,” shares Dixon. “Raising two sons, believe me, there were no leftovers. If so, it was a midnight snack for one of them.”

With both boys now grown, Dixon recalls how one son would get requests from his college roommates to make his family’s smothered steak recipe. While her oldest son is now making it for his own children.

Thankfully, Dixon is not keeping her family’s recipe a secret. In fact, copies of the recipe are available at T&T Meats and are posted on the T&T Meats website. She adds… “should there be any leftovers, it’s fantastic on a biscuit with a little of the gravy dripping off of it.”

Ingredients

• Cube Steak (from T&T Meats, of course)

• All Purpose Flour

• Salt and pepper

• Little bit of oil (Vegetable or canola)

• Campbell’s French Onion Soup

• Hot water

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°

2. Put oil in frying pan. Just enough to cover bottom liberally. Get oil hot.

3. Salt and pepper your steak and flour it really well.

4. Place in pan of hot oil and brown on both sides. Doesn’t take long. After browning remove steak and place in baking dish.

5. Once you have browned all the cube steak, dispose of the oil… leaving only a little with the drippings.

6. Open one can of Campbell’s French Onion soup and place in frying pan on high heat. Add one can of hot water. Let come to a boil as you stir. Let it boil for a minute then remove and pour over steak in baking dish.

7. Cover with aluminum foil and cook at 350° for 1 1/2 hours.

8. This recipe is for up to six pieces of cube steak. Any more than that use two cans of Campbell’s French Onion soup and two cans of hot water.

9. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes or bread.

T&T Meats shares a favorite family recipe that’s also popular with customers.

“It became a staple on my dinner table. Raising two sons, believe me, there were no leftovers. If so, it was a midnight snack for one of them.”

Angie Dixon

TIPS FOR

Help Growing Athletes Avoid Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps can occur anywhere on the body but typically target the lower extremities like calves or feet. In a growing athlete, muscle cramps are often the result of dehydration and improper stretching or warmups.

“Muscle cramps are involuntary contractions of the muscles that can occur at any time, interrupting a workout or game in the blink of an eye,” says Lindsey Ream, MEd, LAT, ATC, Athletic Training Manager in the Children’s Sports Medicine Program. “They may also be caused by extended periods of exercise, general overuse or fatigue, dehydration or muscle strain.”

These tips from the sports medicine team at Children’s can help your child stop that muscle cramp before it starts.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Pre-hydrate: Thirty minutes before any sports activity, kids should drink water until they are no longer thirsty and then drink another 8 ounces.

• Stretch those muscles every day and before every activity. We know it’s hard to get kids to stretch and warm up before they hit the field for practice or a game, but a proper warmup is an important key to muscle health.

• Don’t suddenly increase activity or the amount of exercise. Increase any activity over time. Encourage children to take their time as they learn a new sport.

If your child does get a muscle cramp, stretching and massaging the area can help alleviate pain. Most cramps subside within a few seconds, if not a minute. If a muscle cramp gets too painful, your athlete can take an over-the-counter medication, such as Tylenol or ibuprofen. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions for the athlete’s age and weight.

If the muscle cramp doesn’t go away, it is recommended to follow up with your child’s pediatrician. Typically, muscle cramps are not an emergency, but if they persist, it wouldn’t hurt to check with your child’s doctor to make sure there’s not an underlying issue.

Insight above provided by Lindsey Ream, Athletic Training Manager in the Sports Medicine Program at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Disclaimer: This content is general information and is not specific medical advice. Always consult with a doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the health of a child. In case of an urgent concern or emergency, call 911.

UNITED STEEL STORAGE

With over 40 years of experience, United Steel Storage has established itself as a reliable and trusted partner for businesses looking for durable and efficient storage solutions. The company’s products are designed to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring that they get the most cost-effective solution possible. United Steel Storage is committed to providing excellent customer service, timely delivery, and competitive pricing to ensure customer satisfaction.

We’ve all ordered furniture online or gone into one of the large furniture showrooms to pick out pieces that make our homes unique to us. We select the piece and it comes to our door, without a second thought of how it arrived. Where does all this furniture come from? Where is it stored? How is it sorted? Enter USSI.

United Steel Storage is a leading provider of storage solutions for the furniture retail industry. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality storage shelves, racks, and carts that are built to last. You may recognize some of the companies they have built distribution centers for; Woodstock Furniture Outlet, Georgia Furniture Mart, City Furniture, and Ashley Home Furniture to name a few.

This year USSI celebrates 40 years in business! Founded in 1983, by Bill Lindler Sr., the company has grown from a start-up warehouse solutions provider to now being one of the largest builders of distributions centers around the country. Bill graduated from Georgia Tech in 1976 with a degree in Civil Engineering. He was proudly accepted in the Air Force Academy. Mr. Lindler was the founder, owner, and CEO of USSI, and was known to be a visionary in his career. When Bill Lindler Sr. passed away last year, the reigns were handed over to his son Billy Lindler Jr, a Georgia Tech graduate, and his daughter Elissa Lindler, who will continue his legacy. With Billy and Elissa at the helm, USSI is set to continue its excellence for another forty years.

EMAIL

United Steel Storage, Inc. (USSI) addressed the specific needs of clients in the retail furniture industry. Our products and services encompass Warehouse/ Distribution and Material Handling Systems. see what their clients are saying

ussi@ussipartners.com www.ussipartners.com

GRACE & TRUTH

Moments in Time

Where God Meets Us.

by PASTOR BRADY HOWARD

One of my favorite Greek words is kairos. It means the opportune moment or the ultimate moment. The English translation of this word is “opportunity.”

Maybe you are unfamiliar with the word kairos, but you may be familiar with another Greek word: chronos, which refers to a broader span of time. This is where we get our English word “chronological.”

The Bible tells us that God has numbered our days (Job 14:5), and while the span of chronos appointed to each of us is different, our lives are filled with these very significant kairos moments.

So far, I have spent the chronos of my life as a resident of Henry County. This is my home. These are my people. This is my community. In God’s kindness, He has given me some extraordinary kairos moments here in Henry County.

I learned to rollerblade here.

I played in my first high school football game here.

I met my wife here.

Our first child was born here.

We bought our first home here.

I lost a dear friend here.

God called me into ministry here.

Now I have the honor of pastoring my home church here.

But the greatest day here was the day I met Jesus.

Each of these moments - while seemingly disconnected from the next - together has led up to the moment we stand in today. From the highest mountain to the lowest valley, God has been so faithful and so good. He has provided fresh water in the desert places (Psalm 104:10).

Some days I wish I could know how many tomorrows I have left, but God has yet to reveal that to me. So instead, I have learned to thank him for today!

Two thousand years ago, the darkest day in history led to the best day in history on resurrection Sunday. And because of the love of Christ, God continues to meet us in the midst of our chronos with these kairos moments to reveal His love to us. Today I pray you know God sees you in your kairos moments and He desires to meet you there!

“And because of the love of ChristGod continues to meet us in the midst of our chronos with these kairos moments to reveal His love to us.”

Pastor Brady Howard