We Are Henry - Summer Issue 2023

PUBLISHER & PHOTOGRAPHER

Michie Turpin

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Michelle Nunnally EDITOR

Monroe Roark

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Scott Tredeau

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mike Boylan

Trea Brinson

Ruth Hildreth

Erin Lopez

Terry McAfee

Michelle Nunnally

Arolue Flemmen Prater

Monroe Roark

J.M. Sylver

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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We would like to thank Thomas and Tara Strickland for providing this lovely floral bouquet. Be sure to visit and create your very own hand-picked bouquet at Strickland Farms- Farm Fresh Flowers and Vegetables, located in Locust Grove.

DISC GOLF, ANYONE?

J.P. Moseley Park is a destination for a rapidly growing sport.

by MONROE ROARK

People from near and far are interrupting their travels on I-75 and stopping in Henry County for a new sporting adventure. What started as an ordinary recreational offering for local residents is rapidly growing into something much bigger. J.P. Moseley Park has become a destination of choice for many aficionados of disc golf, one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States.

The park now has a 37-hole layout that gives players the option of choosing whether to play nine, 18 or all of them in one day. The more recently developed holes are especially challenging, and the officials would like to see the park in the future become a host for national tournaments featuring top players.

Here is what happened just in April, according to the UDisc app, which is used by players to record their activities. A total of 548 rounds were recorded during the month by 247 different players, of whom 55 visited the course for the first time. Fifty-six players came from more than 30 miles away, 25 from more than 150 miles away and 20 from more than 300 miles away. Players from 15 states visited the course, including disc golfers from Georgia, North Carolina, Florida, Colorado, Indiana, Tennessee, Washington, Wisconsin, Illinois, Kentucky, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and West Virginia.

The course was initially developed in 2003 as a much simpler concept than what sits on the eastern edge of Stockbridge today.

“The county bought some baskets, as municipalities will do, and just stuck them in the ground with no idea of the concept of designing a course where you try to get the players to utilize different throws,” said Mike Haney, who has been involved in the course’s activities for a number of years.

“When Moseley was first established, the county basically bought 18 baskets placing them with a sewer line running down the middle of the course,” explains Haney. “Then there was another way back, basically put in a line. You just throw 250 feet, put it in the basket, throw again, throw it again.”

Most of today’s disc golf competitors are more serious than that. They can carry up to 20 different discs in their bags, with a specific disc for each throw, just like various clubs used for

“ You can choose to be a casual weekend recreation player or you can make a living doing this.”

Mike Haney

(L

TO R) JOHNNY WALKER, MIKE HANEY, ARCHER WALKER, JON HUNTER, ROB ABBOTT

traditional golf. Some are designed to go left or right. A driver has a sharp edge so it will keep going if it hits a tree. A putter is rounded off so as not to smash through the chains surrounding a basket, which is the “hole” in disc golf. The goal is the same: get to the hole, or the basket, in the fewest number of attempts.

You can go to pdga.com, the official website of the Professional Disc Golf Association, and search for courses in your state or region. There are nearly 150 Georgia courses in that database; Haney said disc golf is the second fastest-growing sport behind only pickleball.

Not only that, but people are making a living at this sport. A few top players earned more than $100,000 in prize money in 2022, on top of what they make from equipment manufacturers in the sport for using their discs and other items.

The PDGA is based in Appling, near Augusta. It is the sport’s major governing body, setting rules and approving tournaments just like traditional golf. Players are ranked using a point system, similar to several professional sports. Fans can watch events online via the Disc Golf Network, a paid streaming service.

Henry County Commissioner Vivian Thomas, whose district includes J.P. Moseley Park, has shown interest of late in seeing the sport continue to grow and having Henry County attract national events. This is part of the reason for recent upgrades at Moseley.

A separate course was installed in McDonough in 2021. There is also a nine-hole beginner course at Salem Baptist Church.

There are big plans in the works at J.P. Moseley Park for August 5, which is National Disc Golf Day. There will be a large carnivaltype event to celebrate 20 years of the sport in Henry County.

According to the Henry County Disc Golf page on Facebook, the Georgia Club Championships are scheduled for September 23 at the J.P. Moseley Park course. That social media page, maintained by the Henry County Disc Golf Club, is a useful tool for keeping track of league play in the area as well as major tournaments.

It looks like things will get busier and busier for local players in the years to come.

“For me, the big thing is that you’re outside, you’re getting some exercise, you’re getting people off the couch,” said Haney. “It’s great to see families out playing together and you can take it to whatever level you want. You can choose to be a casual weekend recreation player or you can make a living doing this.”

CHARGING INTO THE FUTURE

Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy Celebrates Academic Signing Day.

by MIKE BOYLAN

National Signing Day for athletes announcing their intentions to attend and play sports for a certain college has grown in popularity over the years. So much so that television networks like ESPN sometimes cover the moment an athlete announces his or her decision. Several years ago, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy decided to recognize the students who were making their decision based on academics. Some students added moments of suspense similar to the athletic event, choosing one school’s hat over another or revealing a t-shirt beneath a jacket, but for most it was just a moment for the students to celebrate each other as their high school careers came to an end.

The Class of 2023 at Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy had 81 members earning over $50 million in academic, arts, and athletic scholarships and grants. That achievement is one that makes the entire faculty and administration at the school happy, as well as parents looking at four years of college tuition. For the students, that large sum represents potential freedom from lots of student loans and a world of choices.

(L TO R) KATHERINE SPENCE, SAHIL TRIVEDI, MILLER DOERR AND LILY WU

Lily Wu, the school’s valedictorian this year and a Presidential Scholar, chose Northwestern University. Wu plans on majoring in data science and is excited to live in Chicago.

“I really like the city and feel like there are a lot of opportunities there,” said Wu, who was President of the Student Government Association, captain of the varsity soccer team, and a member of the mock trial team.

Wu was not specifically focused on earning the title of valedictorian, but always did her best. She stated her best class was math, but that AP government was also fun. In addition to receiving the Georgia Certificate of Merit, Wu was also named Most Outstanding Freshman and Sophomore at the school, created an annual fund and raised donations for books and equipment for a school in Jiangsu, China. She was a co-founder of Taste of ELCA and COO, Co-founder, and 15 percent shareholder in The Six Capital Incorporation, which focused on foreign exchange market trading.

Miller Doerr, the school’s salutatorian, is heading to Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va., with a plan to study film production. A four-year member of the cross-country team, president of Mu Alpha Theta (math society), and member of the mock trial team, Doerr felt blessed to be a part of academic signing day after being a viewer in the past.

“It was kind of bittersweet. It was great to see my friends getting their scholarships, but a little tough to think that it will be a while before I see some of them again,” said Doerr. “I will always remember a lot of the things I did in school, but I will remember the people I did them with more.”

Doerr was a National Merit Finalist this year and also got an All-Star Cast medal with his co-stars at the One Act Play state championships this year.

“Signing day was great because it was fun to see my peers go off to the next step and have a nice moment together.”

Katherine Spence

Sahil Trivedi selected Georgia Tech at the Academic Signing Day event this year. He is planning on majoring in business as a pre-med student and attending medical school after college. Trivedi is interested in exploring either cardiology or dermatology as a career. For many of his friends, his announcement at signing day was the first they heard of his intent. He had been looking into attending Mercer University, but his sister had attended Georgia Tech and it felt like the best fit. Trivedi has been very interested in business, finance and economics in high school. He has published papers on a Keynesian response to a recession, provided analysis on the stock market in newsletters and briefings, and believes that a business degree makes him well-rounded and provides a good back-up if medicine doesn’t work out.

“I’m excited to start college and have some more independence, but it’s kind of crazy this part of my life is coming to an end,” said Trivedi. “I’ve known some of these kids, like Lily and Miller, since elementary school.”

Trivedi was a member of the mock trial team and the chess team. He entered the state science fair in 11th grade, won first honors for environmental engineering, and received an award from National Geographic.

Like Trivedi, Katherine Spence has a goal of becoming a doctor as well. She selected the University of Georgia with a plan to go pre-med and become an OB-GYN. Among the many accolades she has received, Spence was the winner of the DAR Good Citizen Award and the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. She was also a varsity cheer captain and Vice President of Internal Affairs for the Student Government Association.

“Signing day was great because it was fun to see my peers go off to the next step and have a nice moment together,” said Spence. “We were a very close-knit class.”

Spence also recognized the impact of her AP Calculus and AP Physics teacher, Ms. Burer, for making senior year special.

“She taught two of the hardest classes and was always willing to help,” said Spence. “She was also our Senior Mom, really down to earth, and definitely made a big difference.”

If the accolades earned by the Class of 2023 at Eagle’s Landing Christian is any indication, these students will make a big difference in the world too.

“I’m excited to start college and have some more independence, but it’s kind of crazy this part of my life is coming to an end.”

Sahil Trivedi

Get Moving Again

Hands of Hope Physical Therapy & Wellness Opens in McDonough

A new facility in McDonough is now open to help people with their physical therapy needs. Hands of Hope Physical Therapy & Wellness, a company based in the Northeastern United States – mainly in New York City – has partnered with Total Athlete Sports Complex on McDonough Parkway to open a dedicated sports rehabilitation facility, although other rehab services are available there as well.

“We see anybody who is in need or seeking service, from post-operation to pre-surgery strengthening, any type of pain and any range of people starting from a young age all the way to older adults,” says Shiv Patel, DPT.

Hands of Hope has 15 locations, but this is the first one outside the five boroughs of New York City.

“Hands of Hope is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients, and we believe that incorporating state-of-the-art technologies is an essential part of achieving that goal,” says company CEO Motaz Ebeido. “We invest in the latest equipment and software to ensure that our patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available. We are passionate about helping our patients achieve their goals and restore their quality of life, and we believe that technology is a key component in making that happen.”

Patients need physical therapy for a variety of reasons, from sports injuries to car accidents, to getting in better shape before surgery, or to rehabilitate the body after an operation. Through the partnership with Total Athlete, there is assistance with conditioning and rehab to get athletes back into playing shape after on-field or off-field injuries.

Dr. Patel typically creates a care plan of 6–8 weeks, although it can be extended to a few months depending on the situation.

“ We are passionate about helping our patients achieve their goals and restore their quality of life.”

Motaz Ebeido

CEO Hands of Hope Physical Therapy & Wellness

A standard physical therapy session begins with a warm-up to get the blood flowing and some stretching to loosen tight muscles and prevent further injury. This is followed by different kinds of exercises that are constantly modified, so they are not too easy or too challenging.

“A big part of our practice involves manual therapy, which is anything that deals with joint mobilization, soft tissue massage – putting our hands on the area that is bothersome for patients to let them know we are trying to physically address what is going on,” explains Dr. Patel.

A number of technologically advanced features are available for patients to use including a virtual reality system which helps with coordination and balance problems, as well as analyzing and correcting walking patterns. Neufit technology uses electrical stimulation and heat therapy to reduce pain, improve muscle function and promote healing. Compression pants are

available for athletes to help with muscle recovery and avoid fatigue and soreness.

The facility takes walk-in clients as well as those referred by a physician, and a number of insurance options are accepted.

Hands of Hope is the official rehabilitation partner of the NFL Alumni Academy! This exciting partnership allows us to provide top-notch care to athletes and expand our reach in the world of sports rehabilitation.

(L TO R) TARA, TRINITY, SUMMER AND THOMAS STRICKLAND

Strickland Farms

Cultivating Beauty, Resilience, and Tradition in Locust Grove.

by RUTH HILDRETH

In the heart of Locust Grove, a blossoming paradise awaits those seeking vibrant colors, fresh scents, and a deep-rooted connection to the land.

Strickland Farms, owned by Thomas and Tara Strickland, is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of a dream. What began as a personal journey of healing has grown into a beloved community treasure, where flowers and vegetables flourish in harmony.

Thomas Strickland’s life took an unexpected turn when he endured a life-altering accident that left him with a broken back. This transformative experience ignited a profound desire within him to create something meaningful for his wife, Tara, and their two daughters, Trinity and Summer in the agricultural world. With an unwavering determination, Thomas set out on a mission to establish a farm that would not only sustain his family but also foster a connection to nature and the community they cherished.

In the fall of 2021, the Strickland family began their labor of love. With dedication and sheer grit, they set aside a 1.5-acre

portion of the farm as a haven of over 100 types of flowers, each delicately nurtured to radiate their full splendor. The farm also boasts a u-pick vegetable patch, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the joy of harvesting their own fresh produce.

The picking season at Strickland Farms typically extends from late May to November, its duration influenced by the whims of nature. As the weather unfolds its symphony, guests can witness the evolving beauty of the farm throughout the year, from the vibrant hues of spring blooms to the rich autumnal tapestry that signals the approaching harvest.

Beyond the bountiful fields, Strickland Farms holds a profound historical significance. The Strickland family’s connection to the Locust Grove area stretches back to the 1700s, and the land upon which the farm stands has been lovingly passed down through three generations. This deep-rooted heritage lends an extra layer of meaning to the farm, as it becomes a living testament to the enduring legacy of the Strickland family and their commitment to their community.

In the heart of Locust Grove, Thomas and Tara Strickland’s vision has taken root, blossoming into a place where love, resilience, and a passion for nature intertwine. Whether you come to pick flowers, harvest vegetables, or simply bask in the serenity of the surroundings, a visit to Strickland Farms is an invitation to be part of a timeless journey of growth and beauty.

Strickland Farms

333 Luella Rd.

Locust Grove, GA 30248

stricklandfarmsga.com

stricklandfarms@gmail.com

facebook.com/stricklandFarmsga

“With dedication and sheer grit, they set aside a 1.5-acre portion of the farm as a haven of over 100 types of flowers, each delicately nurtured to radiate their full splendor.”

Strickland Farms

Tasty Tuesdays

Stockbridge’s Summer Food Truck Night Out Returns.

by TERRY MCAFEE

There’s just something very special and intriguing about fellowship, good food and good music. Stockbridge’s Tasty Tuesdays Food Truck summer tradition brings all these together, making for a wonderful evening in Henry County.

Come to Clark Community Park, located at 111 Davis Road in Stockbridge, on Tasty Tuesdays and see for yourself. That’s right, the city of Stockbridge has opened the lower parking area from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for some great, hot food, socializing and relaxation each Tuesday from now until August 29.

This is a family event so make plans to attend one or more of the Tasty Tuesdays through the summer months. Bring a blanket and chairs or eat at the large pavilion next to the parking lot and enjoy the succulent aromas of freshly cooked food, the music filling the air and people of all ages coming together to enjoy an evening of savory delights.

Remember, because this is an outdoor event, bad weather can always be a factor. So, it’s always a good idea to check with the City of Stockbridge to get current updates or changes that may impact the scheduled events.

You can visit the city’s dedicated Tasty Tuesdays Food Truck Facebook page for the latest information on each week’s event or call 770-389-7900. facebook.com/StockbridgeTastyTuesdays

LITTLE PIE CES of ONE'S SELF

Local artist’s work on display at The Georgian Gallery.

by ERIN LOPEZ

Though she has had her work exhibited throughout the United States and internationally, local artist Alea Hurst is thrilled to have her work featured in a gallery close to home. Hurst currently has several paintings on display at The Georgian Gallery in McDonough.

A graduate of the University of Georgia and the Savannah College of Art and Design, she has worked to hone her artistic skillset over the years and produces artwork that is both vibrant and compelling.

A full-time professional studio artist, Hurst, along with her canine art critic Leo – short for Leonardo ‘Dog’ Vinci – spends much of her time in her studio working on her newest paintings. Along with painting, Hurst has experience in drawings, printmaking, and murals.

Most of Hurst’s art uses symbolism and encourages viewers to see familiar personalities, feelings, or ideas in her work.

“Looking at it at first, you may or may not get the symbols or meanings behind my paintings and I’m okay with that as long as you get something from it,” said Hurst.

She is currently working on a painted mask series, focusing on archetypes, inviting viewers to see figures in their lives within the subjects featured in her paintings.

“When you look at the people portrayed in these portraits, I want you to be able to think, ‘I may not know who this exact person is, but do I know that type of person. That person is my best friend or my mom,’” said Hurst. “I want to connect with the viewers in that way.”

For Hurst, art is not only a profession but a way for others to get a glimpse of who she is as a person.

“Art is my way of creating and putting myself out in the world,” said Hurst. “I’m very introverted. My art is the way that I put my thoughts and feelings out in front of everyone. That’s how I communicate with the world and how I put a little piece of me out for everyone to see.”

Hurst has hopes of expanding the appreciation of art locally.

“I’m really excited to become more involved in the McDonough art scene and see how we can all help it to grow,” said Hurst.

For more on Alea Hurst, visit www.aleahurst.com.

“Art is my way of creating and putting myself out in the world.”

Alea Hurst

A LABOR OR LOVE

Historic Hampton House Renovation.

by J.M. SYLVER

She thought this house project would be done in six months. But she was up against problem after problem which caused delay after delay. “The stakes were so high, you cannot mess this up,” says Sutherland.

One of the problems was termite damage, but she was not aware how bad it was until the decision was made to lift the house after she had already spent a year working on the home. It was then the real damage from the termites could be assessed and Sutherland learned there was significant work needed which would require starting the renovation over.

“I am so happy we chose to lift it,” says Sutherland. “Now we can start to fix the house.”

Starting over may be frustrating for some, but not for Sutherland, who believes it’s a blessing in disguise.

A part of Henry County history is coming back to life.

“So much history, so much beauty! A gem of Hampton,” says Kendra Sutherland, the woman taking on the task of a historic fixer-upper. Now this big city girl is calling Hampton home after falling in love with a house, originally built in 1900, that needed renovations. Much needed renovations.

Her Hampton house journey has taken her from fixer upper to a complete redo. Even though people may have thought she bit a little more than she could chew. It didn’t matter because this house meant something to her.

“She’ll make you fall in love with her. This is a once in a lifetime property. This house has given me an anchoring point,” says Sutherland.

“I do feel like we’re doing right by the house,” says Sutherland. As the work continues, sometimes humor helps. “I joke, I married the house. I joke, this place is a gold mine or a money pit,” says Sutherland. But one thing she doesn’t joke about is how she feels about the town she now calls home.

“I feel indebted to the town. The community has been super supportive,” says Sutherland. “Everyone gets it when they walk in [the house].”

Sutherland has given up on timelines. “We have a good plan, but we have to run the race. We have a long road ahead of us, but we are hopeful that the future of this home is bright and look forward to keeping it in the Hampton community for many generations to come.”

“I do feel like we’re doing right by the house.”

Kendra Sutherland

RANDY TERPSTRA AND KENDRA PAUSE FOR A PICTURE BEFORE GETTING DIRTY.

Beautiful Legacy

Remembering Greg Horton.

Greg Horton was not the type of person to seek the spotlight. Somehow, though, it found him. Not in a flashy way, but in the steady way he quietly stepped up to fill the needs he saw in his community.

After years of selling his barnwood products on consignment and at craft fairs, he and his partner Roger Custin decided to put down roots and open a storefront in Stockbridge. They took an old restaurant in Historic Downtown Stockbridge and turned it into BarnBeautitul, a showpiece and a destination for the downtown district.

It did not take long after opening for them to make a wider impact in their community. Greg joined the Stockbridge Main Street Board, formed close relationships with other Stockbridge small businesses and constructed several Little Free Libraries, which he also painted and maintained. He also partnered with Visit Henry County, GA on several custom projects that dramatically enhanced their presence across the state.

Soon after opening the shop, he and Roger realized there was a lack of gallery space and so many incredibly talented local artists without a space to display and sell their art. Greg opened the “The Gallery” as a space for these artists and amassed an incredible collection of art representing a wide variety of mediums.

In 2019, he became the first chair of the Henry County Arts Consortium. While he may not have been enthusiastic about being in front of the crowd, he knew how to practice servant leadership. Through his tenure as chair of the Consortium, he built, coordinated the painting of and personally installed almost all 31 squirrel tables on the Bushy Tail Art Trail. He became both mentor and cheerleader for the larger Henry County arts community.

His ability to see what needed to be done and his willingness to show up and make it happen is a lesson for all of us who wish for better things for their community. Sometimes making a difference is just about being willing to do what needs to be done and letting those around you shine.

His passing has been felt far and wide by the people and projects he did quietly throughout the community. However, his legacy will continue to live on in the store he and Roger created, BarnBeautiful.

Stop by not just for a custom piece of art, jewelry, or woodwork… but stay and let the hollowed space inspire you to add something beautiful to the community.

Thank you, Greg, for your honesty, advocacy, leadership and friendship.

“His ability to see what needed to be done and his willingness to show up and make it happen is a lesson for all of us who wish for better things for their community.”

GET YOUR LEGS SUMMER READY

SIMPLE PROCEDURES AVAILABLE

Varicose veins can be painful, unsightly, and decrease your quality of life. They occur because of damage to valves and veins called venous reflux, making it hard for blood to circulate out of the legs. Varicose veins tend to develop because of risk factors such as genetics, weight gain, and pregnancy. They can cause the legs to feel swollen or “heavy” and may result in skin discoloration, skin thickening, and hair loss.

“Varicose veins can be easily treated with minimally invasive [office based] procedures that remove varicose veins and stop them from recurring,” said David Allison, M.D., a vascular interventionalist at South Atlanta Vascular Institute. “Most patients return to work the next day, with minimal pain, and begin to see results right away. They will see even more improvement over the next few weeks and months.”

The physicians at South Atlanta Vascular Institute use three basic types of procedures: heat-based techniques, medicalgrade adhesive techniques, and foam-based techniques. Heat-based treatment uses lasers or radiofrequency devices to close off veins. Another treatment option is VenaSeal™, which uses medical-grade adhesives to close off veins. The last method is sclerotherapy, which uses medical-grade pharmaceuticals to close off smaller veins. These procedures are simple within the hands of South Atlanta Vascular Institute, and will have patients returning to normal function within a short time.

“One of the differences between the two procedures is that the heat-based procedures require numbing of the legs,” said vascular interventionalist David Penn, M.D. “Both procedures are quick, and can be done in the office, typically in 30 minutes or less.”

South Atlanta Vascular Institute performs procedures throughout the year, but appointments can fill up with the summer weather approaching. The physicians at South Atlanta Vascular Institute find that many patients want to get their legs “summer ready.” “Varicose veins won’t go away on their own,” said vascular surgeon Paul Jones, M.D. “But relief is only an office visit away.”

To schedule an appointment or find additional information, visit southatlantavascular.com or call 770-919-5238.

Varicose veins can be easily treated with minimally invasive procedures.

Begin to Heal

Local nonprofit has national impact in supporting grieving families.

by ERIN LOPEZ

made during that time of crisis when you have to make some very permanent decisions.”

As a result, Blaney decided to become the support so many needed during such a tragic time in their lives. She founded the nonprofit Rachel’s Gift in 2008, offering a bereavement program to those who experience infant loss due to a miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death.

Blaney explains the organization was created to “be a source of guidance during the time of crisis and a soft place to land afterwards.”

Rachel’s Gift offers comfort and free resources to families and provides hospital staff nationally accredited training to be able to give bereavement care to heartbroken families.

Along with immediate bedside care through trained hospital staff, Rachel’s Gift provides families with memory boxes, which include items such as a handmade blanket, a small teddy bear, ink and clay molds for hand and footprints, burial gowns and wraps, small diapers, brochures, resources, and even age-appropriate ‘sibling packs’ to assist siblings in coping with grief and loss.

The nonprofit has grown by word of mouth from the two local hospitals where it began, Piedmont Henry and Piedmont Newton, to 82 hospitals in 24 states, as of this article.

In 2006, at eight months pregnant, Lori Beth Blaney was in a head-on automobile accident resulting in the loss of her daughter Rachel.

In the aftermath, Blaney began to look for others online who experienced loss and researched how to begin to heal. During her search, a few similarities stood out to her from those who shared their own experiences.

“There were two things that came through in every single conversation that everyone struggled with,” said Blaney. “Those two things were a sense of avoidance by family members, friends or the medical staff about the loss, and the other was the amount of regret over things done or not done, decisions

“Currently, we’re serving about 1,800 patients per year,” said Blaney. “We’ve expanded a lot which, to me, confirms that hospitals have a need for this resource.”

Blaney is currently working to integrate the training into college nursing programs nationwide. She wants to reach future medical staff early in their education before their first time comforting a family experiencing loss.

“We have developed a college course,” said Blaney. “One of our big goals is to get that course published so we can make it available to any nursing college or university in the country.”

For more on Rachel’s Gift, visit www.rachelsgift.org.

DAVID DODD HIGH FIVING AN ANGEL DASH FINISHER

(L TO R) LEA ANN KELLEY, JESSICA WOODALL AND LORI BETH BLANEY

JOE LAMP’L WITH HIS DAILY HARVEST

Ready, Set, Grow! Symposium

Henry County Master Gardeners to host September Event.

by AROLUE FLEMMEN PRATER

Henry County Master Gardeners are busy planning their annual county symposium. Since 2017, with the exception of 2020, Henry County Master Gardeners have held the event in the extension office located on Lake Dow Road. The symposiums are hosted for the purpose of educating the public in horticultural matters and to establish relationships in the community.

This year’s theme is “Ready, Set, Grow!” and will feature four speakers for the September 9 event. The keynote speaker, Joe Lamp’l, is one of the country’s most recognized and trusted personalities in gardening and green-living. He produces and hosts a popular gardening podcast, The Joe Gardener Show, and has also founded a website and digital media platform which broadcasts environmentally responsible gardening and sustainable outdoor living. Mr. Lamp’l’s topic will be entitled “Digging Deeper-Ecological Gardening for Beauty and Biodiversity.” His newest book The Vegetable Gardening Book: Your Complete Guide to Growing an Edible Organic Garden from Seed to Harvest will be available for purchase during the symposium.

A second speaker, Henry County Master Gardener Kayla Tucker, will explain what vermicomposting is and present the value of vermicomposting in gardening for plant fertilizer and growth. A native of Jesup, Ga., she will state how her interest in this type of organic and useful composting began, and she will demonstrate how to set up and maintain a worm composting system.

Connie Gray, the third speaker, has been a plant professional in Georgia for nearly 50 years. Studying native plants and the impacts of current development and landscaping methods on our natural ecosystems, she has worked for government agencies, nonprofits, and private businesses. Having taught

plant identification, sustainable gardening methods, and the problems of invasive plants, Connie’s topic will be “Plant Invaders: What’s the Big Deal and What Should We Do About Them?” This talk will explore why some plants become environmental problems and the specific ways they damage natural ecosystems. Georgia invasive and non-invasive plants will be highlighted and how to recognize them; guidance will also be given on how to control their growth spread.

The last speaker for the symposium will feature Sheri Dorn who serves as Extension Specialist for Consumer Ornamentals and State Coordinator for the Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program Coordinator at the University of Georgia. Sheri’s topic, “Ten Plants for the Home Garden,” will give advice on popular landscape plants and where to plant them so that there will be success in home landscape beautification. In addition to these four speaker presentations, there will be a discussion of soil importance from a representative from Super-Sod Soil3.

During the day-long symposium, attendees will have an opportunity to bid on silent auction items, enjoy a catered lunch and perhaps be lucky enough to win a door prize.

Tickets are on sale now for $40 and can be purchased at the Henry County Extension Office located on 97 Lake Dow Road in McDonough or by calling the Extension Office at 770-288-8421 to purchase by credit card. Seats are limited. Proceeds support the educational projects of the Henry County Master Gardeners, including college scholarships.

Henry County Master Gardeners

“Educating the public in horticultural matters”

SCOOP. PASS. CRADLE. SCORE.

Lacrosse is Growing in Henry County.

by MICHELLE NUNNALLY

It’s the sport you’ve probably heard of, but know little to nothing about - lacrosse - and it’s growing here in Henry County.

Currently there are four schools in the county fielding boys’ lacrosse teams: Ola High School, Union Grove High School, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy and Strong Rock Christian School. Numerous coaches and players from these teams began playing lacrosse on a Henry Youth Lacrosse (HYL) team.

“The first youth lacrosse offering in Henry County was part of a multi-sport sampler the YMCA offered in 2007,” recalls Jeremy Porter, head coach of the Union Grove High School boys’ lacrosse team. “I volunteered on the spot after seeing a sign on the side of the road that said ‘lacrosse.’”

Porter, who played club lacrosse at Utica College in upstate New York, has been coaching youth lacrosse ever since. He currently is director of Henry Youth Lacrosse and began coaching

the Union Grove High School’s boy’s lacrosse team this year. Henry Youth Lacrosse offers children in the area the opportunity to play on lacrosse teams during the spring and holds camps each summer to introduce the sport to children in kindergarten through 8th grade. HYL is the only local youth lacrosse program in Henry County. For many of the high school student’s playing today, it’s where they learned to love the game.

“Lacrosse has been such a great pathway for me to create relationships and has been a huge part of my life,” says Owen McCarthy, Union Grove High School. “It’s important for people to help in growing the game.”

McCarthy, who began playing lacrosse on a Henry Youth Lacrosse team at the age of 10, had an incredible Spring 2023 season as goalie with the Union Grove High School boy's lacrosse team.

Like McCarthy, Ben Miller got his start in lacrosse playing for a HYL team at the age of 9. Miller just wrapped up his senior season at Strong Rock Christian School where he dominated on offense, setting single-game school records in goals, assists, and points as well as setting numerous single-season records and career school records.

“Ben spends hours on his own improving his game,” says Scott Parrish, head coach for Strong Rock Christian School’s boy’s lacrosse team. “He can score from anywhere.”

Miller’s father, Joel Miller, volunteered as an assistant coach for Henry Youth Lacrosse when his son took interest in the sport. The enjoyment the father and son found in the game of lacrosse along with recognizing the need to grow and elevate the competition for the youth playing, Joel partnered with others to start the ATLSouth Lacrosse Club in 2019.

“We started ATLSouth as a way to give talented players a competitive club close to home,” explains Joel. “We now have players from all over the state and the country play with our club, but our focus on growing lacrosse in Henry County has not changed.”

As a way to recognize the young men who are paving the way for the sport of lacrosse in Henry County, the lacrosse coaches of Ola, Union Grove, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy, and Strong Rock Christian School came together this year to name an All-County Lacrosse team for the first time.

“Lacrosse is growing south of Atlanta and we thought it was definitely time to recognize these athletes,” says Joel. “Many of them are All-Area and All-State, but there has never been an All-County team.”

Earning the honor of being named to the first Henry County All-County Lacrosse team are:

STANDING LEFT TO RIGHT

Rhett Steele

Attack, Union Grove High School

Isaiah Zovlonsky

Defense/Long Stick Midfielder, Union Grove High School

Bennett Jones

Midfielder, Strong Rock Christian School

Carson Schuerman

Defense/Long Stick Midfielder, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy

Ben Miller

Attack, Strong Rock Christian School

Jamie Gibson

Defense/Long Stick Midfielder, Strong Rock Christian School

Jay Holcombe

Defense/Long Stick Midfielder, Union Grove High School

Devin Kelly

Midfield, Ola High School

SITTING LEFT TO RIGHT

Jackson Manley

Face-off, Union Grove High School

Luke Sanders

Midfield, Eagle’s Landing Christian Academy

Luke Greer

Attack, Union Grove High School

Owen McCarthy

Goalie, Union Grove High School

Candler Irby

Attack, Strong Rock Christian School

Each of these 13 young men brings an impressive skillset to the game and is considered a leader on the field. Among them McCarthy was named All-County Defensive Player of the Year and Miller was recognized as All-County Offensive Player of the Year. Several of the players will go on to play lacrosse in college on school teams or school club teams.

Ola High School boys’ lacrosse coach Richard Hudnut believes lacrosse will grow significantly in the area over the next few years. “With the four schools offering a boys’ program and more offering girls’ lacrosse, I would like to see all the high schools have both a girls and boys lacrosse team by 2026.”

With the growth of lacrosse comes the need for officials who know the game. Jackson Manley of Union Grove recognized there was a shortage of officials and has spent his time on the field both playing lacrosse and officiating games.

Metro Atlanta is seeing lots of activity in recruiting lacrosse players for NCAA D1 schools, according to Porter. “It’s only a matter of time before lacrosse really takes off in Henry County, and the young players involved in our programs today will have both advantages and opportunities in the years to come,” says Porter.

“ When you consider there are thousands of students in our area, but only a few hundred lacrosse players, there is a lot of room for growth.”

Jeremy Porter

FOSTERING CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT

Stepping forward with The City of McDonough

By embracing transparency, the city is fostering trust and enabling residents to actively participate in shaping the future of City of McDonough.

Citizen engagement plays a pivotal role in the growth and prosperity of any city. It strengthens the bond between local authorities and residents, enhances decision-making processes, and fosters a sense of ownership and pride within the community. In the City of McDonough, this concept has taken center stage as the Mayor and Council work diligently to cultivate greater engagement among its citizens. Recognizing its importance, City of McDonough’s leadership is actively seeking to create an inclusive environment that empowers residents to contribute their ideas, concerns, and aspirations.

The Mayor and Council of City of McDonough understand that effective governance extends beyond political mandates; it involves a collaborative approach that harnesses the collective wisdom and energy of its citizens.

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of citizen engagement. City of McDonough’s Mayor and Council are committed to providing residents with easy access to information, ensuring that decisions and processes are open and understandable to all. Regular town hall meetings, public forums, and digital platforms are being established to encourage dialogue between citizens, their elected representatives, and staff.

The Mayor and Council of City of McDonough recognize that true community development is driven by the initiatives and efforts of its residents. They have been instrumental in creating initiatives that enable individuals, neighborhood associations, faith-based and civic organizations to propose and implement projects that align with the city’s vision; “A caring and thriving community that embraces our collective historic past while fostering a vibrant, safe and sustainable future”. By empowering local initiatives, the City of McDonough is tapping into the wealth of talent and creativity within its citizenry, resulting in vibrant and inclusive community-driven projects. The importance of citizen engagement cannot be overstated, and the Mayor and Council of City of McDonough are demonstrating their unwavering commitment to developing a culture of active participation. By fostering transparency, accountability, and collaboration, they are creating an environment where residents feel valued and empowered. This approach ensures that City of McDonough thrives as a community that cherishes the input of its citizens, embraces diversity, and works collectively towards a shared vision of a prosperous and inclusive future. The efforts made by the Mayor and Council of City of McDonough serve as an inspiration for other cities working to strengthen citizen engagement and build a stronger bond between government and its residents.

Steamed Mussels

A favorite among diners at Pasta Max Cafe, Owner and Chef Douglas Zitz shares the recipe for his Steamed Mussels.

Ingredients

• 20 Fresh mussels

• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh garlic

• 4oz dry white wine

• 2oz heavy cream

• 2oz whole butter

• Pinch of salt & fresh ground pepper

• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil

• 1 teaspoon chopped Italian parsley

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients except herbs in a saucepan.

2. Cover and cook on high heat until mussels open.

3. Remove from heat.

4. Add fresh herbs.

5. Serve immediately.

“I chose the Steamed Mussels recipe because it has been on our menu forever. Customers really like it and it’s easy to prepare.”

Pasta Max Cafe, Owner and Chef Douglas Zitz

PATRICK, SHANNON, DOUG AND BARBARA ZITZ

TIPS FOR

Protect your child from Snakes and Poisonous Plants this summer

Many people are afraid of snakes, especially venomous ones, and that’s OK. It’s normal to feel fearful of creatures that could cause harm. But the best thing you can do to prevent snake bites is learn about snakes in your area and, most importantly, leave them alone.

Our top tips to prevent snake bites:

• Supervise kids and pets outdoors. Keep a close eye on what’s happening outside. This way, if a bite should occur, you’ll know what kind of critter was involved.

• Wear closed-toed shoes. When your family is in the yard, on a walk or on a hike, wear closed-toe shoes. If someone is bitten, the bite is less likely to cause injury if everyone is wearing proper footwear.

• Avoid tall brush and overgrown plants. Snakes love to take cover under plants, such as English ivy and monkey grass. Avoid these areas while you’re out and about, and keep these areas trimmed if you have a yard.

• Clear play areas. Keep outdoor play areas free of debris, rocks and leaves. These are also popular hangouts for snakes.

• Teach kids to respect wildlife. Most snake bites occur when people try to handle or harm the animal. If you come across a slithery friend, the best thing you can do is leave it alone. In fact, many snakes, such as king snakes and rat snakes, are good to have around as they control rodent populations.

• Learn about common snakes in your area. The more you know about wildlife in your area, the better. But it’s especially important to know about venomous snakes. Learning how to identify them can ease some fears. You can even test your knowledge by joining snake ID groups on social media.

New Parenting Podcast for Georgia Families

Did you know Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta launched a parenting podcast for Georgia parents? The Hope and Will Parenting Podcast features harrowing stories from Georgia parents, complemented by insight from Children’s pediatric specialists, each episode serves up valuable firsthand insight you can listen to while on the go or multitasking. The first season, which explore topics from accidental drowning to cyber stalking to depression and suicide, can be found in any streaming platform by searching “Hope and Will parenting” or at choa.org/ podcast. The chart-topping podcast seeks to make the journey from diapers to diplomas a little less scary—helping Georgia families raise healthier, more resilient kids along the way.

GRACE & TRUTH

Designed to Love

Christ’s Love empowers Us to Love Others.

by TREA BRINSON

Love is a funny concept. In our culture, we say we love everything, from sports and food to our spouses and kids.

I was browsing through a student’s Instagram page and noticed something strange in their bio. Under their profile picture, they had four emojis listed in this order: a heart, a cross, a taco, and a girl who was identified by his girlfriend’s name in parentheses. Honestly, I did not know what to think about this. On one hand, I thought, “He’s a winner! He prioritized loving tacos over loving his girlfriend.” But on the other hand, I thought, “How sad that he would actually admit it.”

We could easily sit back and poke fun at a high school student’s misplaced priority, but if we were to turn the mirror in on ourselves, I bet we would see that we have a twisted view of love, too. Generally speaking, we think we are loving people. But what if I were to ask you these questions: Do you love your enemies? Do you love the people who have hurt you or even betrayed you? How would you answer these questions?

The Bible teaches an important truth: we are designed to love.

1 John 4:11 says, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” The word ought means something deeper than mere moral obligation. It is a word of design. We were created to love. Much like a fish was created for water and ought to swim, and birds were created for the air and ought to fly, we were created to love.

Since we were created to love, the real question is, what should our love look like? Remember what John said:

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” John connects the way we ought to love with the way God loves us. God calls us to emulate His love.

Loving people who love you back is easy. It is difficult to love people who do not deserve it.

The most amazing thing about the cross is that Jesus was not only dying for His friends who admired Him but also His enemies who despised Him. Through his death, he offered forgiveness to friend and enemy alike. If we are honest, we do not love the way Jesus loved because we are not willing to forgive the way Jesus forgives. Unforgiveness will corrupt every relationship we have. In fact, it is impossible to love others and simultaneously hold a grudge. If we want to love like Christ, we must be willing to forgive. This kind of love drives us to the cross. The grace of the cross is not just for our forgiveness—it is for our power! The cross does not only remove our guilt and shame, it also comforts us to know that the God who is love now lives in us and by His love empowers us to love others in the same way He has loved us. Through Christ, you can love the unlovable. It’s how you’re designed. Who do you need to love?

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”

1 John 4:11