West Georgia Woman Magazine April 2020

Woman

Complimentary

April 2020

West Georgia

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An Open Book Local Authors Keep Pages Turning in Community

Carrollton Writers Guild Members Eleanor Hoomes, Stephanie Baldi and Beverly Bruemmer

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These accomplished authors share their love for writing through the Carrollton Writers Guild.

Page 10.

Photo by Zachary Dailey

What’s inside ...

10

An Open Book

40

Supper Superhero

21

A Stranger in Need

43

Fun Things to Explore While Staying Home

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Feel Good Fuel

In Every Issue:

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Daily Fare

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Local Happenings

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Womentality

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Uncertain Times What an unpredictable few weeks we've had! I hope you are safe and enjoying this unexpected time at home with your families. I wish I could help so many people in West Georgia who have experienced the loss of a job, the closing of a small business, those in need of essentials or those who are just really afraid of what the future holds.

These are certainly troubling times, but I know that we will all get through this. As my daughter, Sydney, would say, "Just be a good human."

I want to let you know that I am here for you. If you are in an atrisk group such as older, disabled or shut-in due to health conditions and find yourself in need of something essential, please reach out to me personally at 404.502.0251. I will do my best to help you, safely deliver necessities to you or find resources for you.

You've probably noticed the magazine looks a bit different this month. We had to reduce the weight of the paper for mailing during this time. Because most medical and retail offices are closed, we will only be distributing copies to our racks in grocery stores and through the mail until further notice.

In This Issue

Photo by Zachary Dailey

We feature three very talented authors this month. Seventeen years ago, former schoolteacher Beverly Bruemmer wanted to write a children's book after retirement, but didn't know where to begin.

After searching for a local writers' group and discovering the only one that Carrollton, Ga., had was no longer active, Beverly wanted to revive it and reached out to a few writer friends. The first meeting of the Carrollton Writers Guild consisted of four writers, and now the group has around 50 members. Read more about Beverly, suspense writer Stephanie Baldi, poet Eleanor Hoomes and their accomplishments on page 10.

I found myself in a difficult position last month when I was stranded with a flat tire. Read about the lovely couple I met, Nick and Patty, who helped me get back on the road and restored my faith in human beings during a low point in my life on page 21.

Are you experiencing more than usual stress and anxiety due to the coronavirus pandemic? Our new editorial contributor Sandra Bolan explores ways you can calm yourself naturally on page 29.

Now that most of us are staying home more and only going out for necessities, many of you are most likely cooking for your families more. Become a supper superhero and learn about the importance of food safety on page 40.

Since the kids have been home from school for awhile, I imagine there have been a few meltdowns from sheer boredom in your home. On page 43, we've included a list of fun, virtual tours of themeparks, zoos, aquariums and museums the entire family will enjoy. Don't forget about our crafts section for the kids on page 44. Jordan Coffman and Zachary Dailey show us how to make adorable sock Easter bunnies and pinecone Easter eggs.

Never miss an issue. Visit us online at www.westgeorgiawoman.com to get the free digital issue of West Georgia Woman sent directly to your inbox each month. Please remember to do virtual (online, phone, social media, delivery) business with our valuable community partners included in this publication if you are able, and please be sure to tell them you saw their advertisements in West Georgia Woman magazine. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you as we experience these trying times.

Take care and much love,

Publisher

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Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference.

TM

West Georgia Woman is a voice for and about the women who live and work in West Georgia.

Our mission is to engage, inspire, and cultivate a cohesive community for all women in West Georgia by sharing our hopes, our dreams and our lives.

This magazine would not be possible without the inclusion of our advertisers. Please be sure to show your support by doing business with these VIP’s (very important partners) so we will be able to continue to share with you our stories about amazing West Georgia women!

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We welcome your comments and suggestions.

Contact us: (404) 502-0251 Online: www.westgeorgiawoman.com

Woman

Volume 5 • Issue 6 April 2020

Publisher/Editor Need a copy?

available. West Georgia Woman reserves the right to reject or edit any submissions that are not in compliance with our editorial policy. If you wish to have your submission returned, please include a self addressed stamped envelope along with your submission.

West Georgia Woman is a monthly publication of Angel Media, LLC. All contents of this issue are copyright 2019. West Georgia Woman magazine, its logo and “Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference.” are trademarks of Angel Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

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West Georgia

This publication is dedicated in loving memory of Tristan Alexander Brooks May 15, 1993 – September 17, 2015

Angela Dailey angela@westgeorgiawoman.com

Copy Editor Editorial Contributor

Shala Hainer shala@westgeorgiawoman.com

Photographer for cover Zachary Dailey

Editorial Contributors

Sandra Bolan, Jordan Coffman, Zachary Dailey and Rose Isaacs

Advertising Sales

Zachary@westgeorgiawoman.com Angela Brooks Dailey, owner and publisher of West Georgia Woman magazine, has lived in West Georgia most of her life and has a deep love and appreciation for the area.

She received her B.B.A in management from The University of West Georgia in Carrollton, Ga., and is a Civil and Domestic Relations mediator and arbitrator registered with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution. She lives in Carrollton, and has two wonderful children, Zachary and Sydney Dailey.

Angela enjoys reading, spending time with her children and extended family and loves to watch Sydney play soccer.

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An Open Book

By Sandra Bolan 10 by Zachary Dailey Photos

Carrollton Writers Guild Members Keep Pages Turning in Community 11

F

or a writer, there is nothing worse than having an editor’s red pen go dry on the very pages you’ve poured your soul onto for months, even years.

But for a group of Carrollton writers, they look forward to having fellow wordsmiths go through their work with a fine-tooth comb.

Twice a month, the Carrollton Writers Guild (CWG), which is composed of poets and prose writers, meet at the Carrollton Cultural Arts Center to share story ideas and edit each other’s works in progress.

Beverly Bruemmer The CWG got its start 17 years ago when Buchanan, Ga., native Beverly Bruemmer decided it was time for her to write a book.

The former schoolteacher had spent her first four years of retirement doing everything she always wanted to do but never had time for while she taught. Only then was she ready to write a book. “I had a story I wanted to tell. It was just supposed to be one,” she says.

Beverly wanted to immortalize the grandfather/ son relationship between her father, J.B. Morgan, her then 8-year-old son, Morgan, and their trips to the Atlanta Farmers’ Market over the span of several summers. “They had such a wonderful relationship,”

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she shares. The result was her 2007 book, To Market, To Market in The Big Red Truck.

Before she could publish the book, Beverly wanted to join a writer’s group. “I knew absolutely nothing,” she relates. In 2003, Beverly headed to the Carrollton Cultural Arts Center for information on local writing groups.

To her surprise, there weren’t any. She was told there once was a writer’s group but it disbanded.

She decided to Former schoolteacher and Buchanan, Ga., native Beverly Bruemmer revived the Carrollton Writers Guild revive it.

17 years ago. There are now approximately 50 members who range from award-winning authors to writers Beverly told a figuring out how to get their ideas on the page.

12

few friends about the new group and upcoming meeting.

The CWG’s inaugural session had four writers.

It has grown steadily ever since.

The group’s purpose was and remains Beverly's book is also available on a CD that read-andincludes an original sing-along song and activities. There is also an accompanying activity critique, book that can be purchased to give children a using what hands-on experience.

Beverly calls the “hamburger effect.” When critiquing, start with something good (the base). Then point out something that can be fixed. Top it off with a positive comment.

From day one, 77-year-old Beverly says the CWG members have been gracious, kind and honest. “We enjoyed the adventure every time we met," she shares. "You would go home uplifted and want to write."

To Market, To Market in The Big Red Truck is available on a CD that includes an original sing-along song and activities. There is also an accompanying activity book that can be purchased to give children a hands-on experience.

members who range from award-winning authors to writers figuring out how to get their ideas on the page.

The only requirement for new members is they be enthusiastic about writing. There is a $25 annual membership fee.

Stephanie Baldi After Stephanie Baldi graduated high school, the New York state native went to community college – when tuition was free – for creative writing. She completed one year before the free tuition program was cancelled.

The daughter of a single mother, Stephanie couldn’t afford to continue going to college and got on with her life.

She married Nick, a former New York state corrections officer, and the couple moved to Pennsylvania, where Stephanie was able to start work on her first novel. That was in the 1990s. But

The Carrollton Writers Guild As the CWG grew, it became apparent bylaws and formal membership dues were required. To this day, the guild has only had two presidents – Eleanor Hoomes (2012 2015) and Bob Covel (2015 - present).

With a growing number of writers in the guild, there was not only interest in prose (novels, short stories, fiction and non-fiction) but also poetry. The guild created two subgroups in 2013 – one for poetry and another for prose. Each group meets separately twice a month.

There are approximately 50 CWG

Stephanie Baldi.

13

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curriculum to make life, once again, learning fun and got in the way and interesting for the Stephanie put the students. She taught book on hold. The the same gifted couple moved south, students for many to Lawrenceville, in years.

2002, to be closer to “A regular family. classroom teacher After decades as can teach the same a Realtor, Stephanie materials year after retired five years year," she explains. "I ago. That is when wrote long teaching she was finally able units that challenged to concentrate on students to be the book. Stephanie creative while they and Nick also wanted Two books from Stephanie Baldi's trilogy. Redemption garnered were learning." a quieter life and her a 2018 nomination for Georgia Author of the Year.

Among the 18 moved into a Villa educational books she published was the CreateRica lake home they share with their two cats.

A-Story series. Its 10 volumes have been utilized The suspense writer recalls the first time she not only in American schools, but also in Australian, brought draft pages from her first novel into a readSouth African, British and Canadian schools. and-critique meeting at the CWG. The room was One of those books is about how to write poetry. filled with people she calls great writers. “It was Eleanor recalls how difficult it was for her to get nerve-wracking,” says the 67-year-old grandmother permission from poets to reprint their work in her of three. “I thought, 'This is one way to find out – book. It was Eleanor’s publisher who suggested she do I have a story or not?'” She did. Her first book, write the book’s poems herself.

Redemption was published in 2018.

It was so successful, Stephanie has written two follow-up books to round out the trilogy. The book also garnered Stephanie a 2018 nomination for Georgia Author of the Year.

The trilogy tells the continuing story of a hitman who defies his drug lord boss to rescue the woman he loves and pursue the peace they both desire.

Eleanor Hoomes When Eleanor began her teaching career at age 21, she says she began adapting the

Eleanor Hoomes, Ph.D.

15

“This was the anyone to read a hardest of all to poem (of mine) and write, and I’m still not know what it not happy with it,” meant.” admits the 78-yearold grandmother.

Publish or Despite its difficulty, Self-Publish Eleanor realized she loved writing poetry.

Beverly has So, upon retiring, released seven the Alabama farm books, all of which girl began writing were self-published. poems.

When she was She published ready to produce To her first book in Market, To Market in 2005 – Bread and The Big Red Truck, Roses, Too, which Among the 18 educational books Eleanor Hoomes published was the she opted to not she calls "soft core Create-a-Story series. Its 10 volumes have been utilized not only in Amerseek out a publisher. ican schools, but also in Australian, South African, British and Canadian feminism." schools.

She says the Create-a-Poem book was the hardest one to write, Although selfWhile some of her and she still isn't happy with it.

Eleanor published her first book in 2005, publishing was an poems fall into the Bread and Roses, Too, which she calls "soft core feminism." unconventional typical categories route in 2007, she of rhyming and knew it was best for sonnets, for the most part, Eleanor’s work leans her so she could maintain control over her work. towards poetic prose. “My primary purpose is Beverly learned the business side of publishing by they’re understandable,” she says. “I don’t want working with the director of the University of West Georgia (UWG) Small Business Development Center.

“You need to know how your business operates,” she says. She has her own LLC. “I knew I would never be on the best-seller’s list, but that’s OK," she says. "I did what I wanted to do.

I feel very successful with what I did."

Eleanor and Stephanie opted to seek out publishers.

Stephanie received 79 rejection letters. One publisher told her no one would want to read about the horror her female protagonist undergoes at the onset of the book. Another wanted Stephanie to totally change all the characters. “It just didn’t feel PERSONALIZED, FAST AND FRIENDLY SERVICE right,” she explains.

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Woman

Complimentary

April 2020

West Georgia

TM

An Open Book Local Authors Keep Pages Turning in Community

Carrollton Writers Guild Members Eleanor Hoomes, Stephanie Baldi and Beverly Bruemmer

Ease Anxiety and Stress While Coping with Fears Surrounding The Coronavirus 1

Staying Home?

Subscribe to our free digital issue

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June.

What makes Stephanie’s belief in her work all that much sweeter is that a screenplay is currently being written for Redemption, for possible adaptation into a movie or mini-series. “It’s really exciting,” says Stephanie. "The screenwriter and I have the same vision."

What's Next When Stephanie is done with the trilogy, she hopes to start work on another book, which is about a young man who aspires to be a big deal in the mob but has an ex-girlfriend who is now a former FBI agent.

Eleanor is currently working on a book that delves into her relationship with her husband Wendell, his illness and subsequent death in 2018. She says Wendell was one of three people who started Carroll Tech, now West Georgia Technical College, in 1968.

She says she also has enough short stories – based on overheard conversations – for an additional book. “I listen," she admits. "You hear some fantastic stuff. Then I make up some of the stuff." She also has a half-finished novel sitting on a shelf. “I got bogged down in it,” she explains.

Beverly is returning to a project she started almost 20 years ago. It’s 51 children’s travel books – each of which is about a single American state and the District of Columbia.

She and illustrator Seth Fitts are releasing The Moose Family Celebrates Christmas this fall. It is a complete re-do of her 2009 book, The Moose Who Lost Christmas. Beverly met Seth, a 2013 Boston Globe Horn Book award nominee, through the Carrollton Arts Center. The West Georgia artist and illustrator graduated from UWG in 2003 with a bachelor of fine arts concentrating in painting.

Beverly hopes to release two other Moose Family books, The Moose Family Celebrates Halloween and The Moose Family Celebrates Thanksgiving, around the same time.

Beverly and her husband of 54 years, Bob, moved to Carrollton 43 years ago and live with their inside cats Marmalade, Misty Lou and Smokey, along with a few outdoor friends: Sunshine, Tiger and Callie, some koi fish and five chickens. “Those chickens lay green and brown eggs," she says. "Of course, green eggs are a Dr. Suess wonder."

Maybe they should be the subject of Beverly’s next book. WGW

To learn more about the Carrollton Writers Guild visit the website at www.carrolltonwritersguild.org Stephanie Baldi can be found at www.stephaniebaldi2.com or on Facebook @stephanie.baldi.92, Instagram @stephanie.baldi or Twitter @sbauthor7 Beverly Bruemmer can be found at www.bevbruemmerbooks.com or on Facebook @beverly.bruemmer Eleanor Hoomes can be found on Facebook @eleanor.hoomes 19

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A Stranger in Need

By Angela Dailey

21

M

y car had a flat tire last month while delivering some toilet tissue, children's wipes, disinfectant wipes and facial tissues to a local organization that gives extra food, formula and diapers to local families in need. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to donate much because of the (shocking) shortage of these items in local stores.

That first weekend after all hell broke loose in Carrollton – and in the entire country – Dan and I were discussing the madness we had witnessed at our local grocery store a few days earlier; bare, metal shelving stood where bread, toilet tissue, disinfectant sprays and wipes should have been; empty meat counters and dairy coolers; and a produce section with not a single orange or banana to be found. The scene before us had been, in one word, scary.

I knew at that moment that there would be many vulnerable people in our community who would suffer dearly from the coronavirus pandemic that has swept our nation.

So, he and I spent Sunday afternoon attempting to collect enough of these items to give small care packages to those in need – taking care to not deplete the supplies in any one location. At first, it was tough. The first few stores we visited had absolutely nothing on the shelves, and we were beginning to think our mission was a lost cause.

Many of you can probably relate; just trying to find some of these items for your own families is difficult right now.

Imagine being disabled or elderly and not having the strength or the means to go all over town trying to find basic necessities. I never thought I would ever find myself looking for something as simple as toilet tissue with such desperation, yet, there we were.

Then, we received a small miracle that bolstered our spirits. As we were walking through our local WalMart in the sporting goods section, I spotted one, solitary, 4-roll package of Charmin® bath tissue sitting on top of some boxes in the middle of the aisle. We couldn't believe our eyes!

We looked around to see if someone had placed it there temporarily, but there was no one around except a lone man with a shopping cart who wasn't even looking our way. Dan quickly grabbed the tissue and we laughed with excitement as we walked to the opposite end of the store to see if we could find more. Once we reached the toilet tissue aisle, we realized our luck had ran out. There were only empty shelves.

22

We had parked near the auto care center, so we made our way back to the other end of the store.

As we were walking by the sporting goods section again, we had another stroke of luck. Dan's sharp eyes found some stock sitting in the middle of the aisle with boxes that read, 2-ply camping and RV toilet tissue. What a find! We grabbed some, checked out and continued on our quest with high spirits. After visits to several other stores, we had acquired a nice, albeit limited, supply of items we could use for the care packages.

We've been trying to ration these meager supplies we've collected so we can give them to senior citizens, those who have health problems such as asthma, the disabled and others who are shut-ins or afraid to go out in public. Which brings me back to the flat tire.

I've had my car for close to five years now, and I've never had to change a tire on this model. Normally, I would have called Lambert Tire Company in Carrollton to come help because they will pick you up and get you back on the road quickly. But it was late in the afternoon and they were closed.

I quickly moved on to plan B – I called Dan. I was a bit discouraged to hear a recording stating that he was unavailable to take my call.

Time for plan C. I was going to have to change this tire myself. I had been delivering those supplies in the Provincial Park Subdivision in Carrollton when I realized I had a flat, so I was in a safe place, thankfully.

I pulled up the emergency brake, placed the open owner's manual on the back glass of my car and began to pull everything out of the trunk I would need for the task.

The first order of business would be to jack up the car. I removed the jack and the little handle, and quickly realized I had no idea how this thing worked.

I studied the owner's manual for a good five minutes trying to learn where I should place the jack so I wouldn't damage my car, or hurt myself in the process.

As I stood there, about 50 cars drove past me, coming in and out of the subdivision. Each time a car drove by I thought, "Surely someone will stop and ask if I'm all right or need help." Sadly, that never happened. I tried to explain to myself the reasons behind their lack of compassion. There was a pandemic taking place after all. No time to help a stranger (who might possibly be infected) on the side of the road.

Then, about 100 feet behind me, I heard a woman's voice. "Hi. I wanted to let you know we're

not sneaking up on you," she said. She explained that she and her husband lived in the neighborhood.

They were taking a walk together when they saw me on the side of the road. They were older than me, but very energetic and friendly, and stepped right in to help.

I could tell from their accents that they weren't Georgia natives. I learned they had previously lived in Pennsylvania, and then in Florida for several years.

They had moved to Carrollton only a month earlier to be closer to family.

I felt a tinge of embarrassment as I thought of the empty shelves in the grocery stores where it seemed as if everyone was only thinking of themselves.

I wondered what they must think of this new community in which they found themselves.

As the man and I were removing the heavy spare tire from my trunk, he told me to stop calling him, "Sir." "That's my father," he said. "My name is Nick." I laughed and told him I was sorry. We all made introductions and I learned that her name was Patty. "People say "sir," and "ma'am," a lot here," she said. "I don't say it, but sometimes I feel like I should, because people say it so much around here."

I smiled and nodded in agreement.

I felt guilty as this older couple worked earnestly to get the car jacked up.

I told Patty I should be doing this since it was my car. She brushed away my concerns, telling me she was having fun learning how to use the jack.

The three of us were amazed as we discovered how to remove the nut caps off of the wheel with this neat little contraption that came with my tire changing kit.

Nick showed me Women’s Auto Clinic. how to get the lug Women’s Concierge Service. nuts loosened in the beginning by putting one foot on the lug wrench and putting 770.832.9465 weight on it to loosen the nuts.

There was also a nifty 134 Bankhead Ave., Carrollton little screwdriver that www.lamberttirecompany.com helped loosen the lug

nuts the rest of the way.

In the meantime, Dan called me back and said he was on his way to help. By the time he pulled up, we had the spare on the car. Nick was impressed that I knew the proper way to tighten the lug nuts. I told him my dad had taught me that a long time ago.

After introducing them to Dan, we all stood and admired the shiny new spare on my car. I thanked them for helping me and told them how many people had driven by me before they stepped in to help."I think people are just afraid right now," I explained.

As they were about to walk away, I gave them a few copies of West Georgia Woman magazine.

I thanked them again and they continued on their walk around the neighborhood. I wish I had thought to ask them their last name and address so I could send them something in repayment for their generosity. But it was clear they are not the type of people who desire repayment for good deeds.

During this pandemic, I have witnessed the best and the worst in people. I have been saddened and disappointed by some, and encouraged and uplifted by many others. Brynda Knott, mediation coordinator at the Carroll County Mediation Center, generously donated a very large amount of toilet tissue for our efforts with helping senior citizens and others.

Sarah Bearden, owner of Dreamscapes Landscaping and Outdoor Play, has been a driving force behind a program we have put in place to help local, small businesses who have been impacted by our current situation. Rhyne Owenby, director of member engagement for the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, has been sharing tons of information on a new Facebook page, "Think Carroll First," to try and help others through this difficult time. Rhyne has such a kind and generous spirit, and is a dear person.

Jwyanda Norman, owner of Need it Most HomeCare, and Linda Rice Stiles, a long-standing member of our community, are still doing what they always do to help families in need through the Friends of Carrollton Head Start program.

There have been many others who have answered the call to help those in need in West Georgia, and I wish I could list them all. Thanks to all of you for your efforts and generosity.

Most of all, I want to thank Nick and Patty, that kind couple who helped a stranger change her flat tire a few weeks ago. I hope you're reading this message to you right now. Thanks for restoring my faith in humanity during a low point in my life. And welcome to Carrollton. We need more people like you in our town. WGW

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Daily Fare With

e s o R f e Ch

Photos by Zachary Dailey

26

Chef Rose Isaacs is a native of Carroll County and lives in Carrollton with her husband Shawn and their son, Sebastian.

She graduated from West Georgia Technical College in 2013 with a degree in Culinary Arts.

After graduation, she began her career as a chef at the Carrollton Kroger Marketplace where she works in the bistro.

”

This bruschetta comes together quickly for a delicious Easter Day brunch everyone will enjoy.” enjoy. ”

Fruit and Ricotta Bruschetta Ingredients 1 loaf crusty French bread 1 pound ricotta cheese 1/3 cup honey

Topping suggestions:

Preparation Cut the loaf of crusty French bread

into 3/4 inch thick slices.

Toast or grill the slices of bread.

Top each slice with 2 tablespoons of

Nectarine slices and almonds

ricotta cheese.

Strawberries and basil

combinations and drizzle with honey.

Blueberries and lemon zest

Pears or apples with pistachios

Top each with your choice of fruit Serves 6 to 8.

27

Pan Fried Cod with Oven Fries

” Slice fish into 1/2-inch thick sticks

Ingredients 24 ounces or about 4 cod Filets 2 teaspoons salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 cup flour 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon dill weed, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried dill weed Canola oil for frying

For the fries:

4 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch thick sticks 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 to 2 tablespoons canola oil

Preparation Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt over cod about 20 minutes before cooking.

28

instead of whole filets for a kid friendly fish stick dinner. ”

Season flour with 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder and set aside.

Put beaten eggs into shallow dish and set aside.

Combine panko and dill weed together in shallow dish and set aside.

Dredge cod in seasoned flour mixture, coating throughly. Transfer to egg, coating throughly. Finally, transfer to dill-seasoned panko.

Heat just enough canola oil to coat the bottom of a skillet on medium-high heat.

When a piece of panko is dropped into the oil it should instantly bubble.

Fry fish for about 3 minutes per side.

Serve with oven-baked fries.

Preparing the fries: Preheat oven to 375° Fahrenheit Evenly coat baking sheet with canola oil.

Blanch potatoes in boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes.

Drain potatoes in colander and season with salt, pepper and smoked paprika.

Spread evenly on prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 20 minutes.

Serves 4. WGW

Feel Good Fuel

By Sandra Bolan

Reduce Anxiety and Stress Naturally During Uncertain Times

29

I

n the past few weeks, we’ve gone from being more diligent about washing our hands, to scrubbing every surface we brush up against; from social distancing to self-isolation, and having the places where we regularly congregate – churches, gyms, restaurants, playgrounds and movie theaters – locking their doors until further notice.

COVID-19 has brought out the best in people (helping neighbors, local businesses and the elderly in need) and the worst (hoarding toilet tissue, selling hand sanitizer and masks for 10 times the normal retail value and more).

Businesses, big and small, are closed, leaving many people to wonder how they are going to pay the rent and put food on the table as their services are no longer required. These people don’t even know if they will have a job when this crisis ends.

Perhaps the biggest unknown with COVID-19 is how long the pandemic will last and how many more drastic measures will be taken in order to flatten the curve.

All these unknowns, along with social distancing and self-isolating, are taking a toll on us mentally, physically and emotionally.

The very things that calm us, such as surrounding ourselves with family and friends, are extremely limited, or no longer possible.

One thing you can do to help boost your mood and feel a bit more in control, is to increase your

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endorphins – the feel good or happy hormones.

Endorphins are naturally occurring chemicals produced by the body that fight pain, enhance COVID-19 has brought pleasure and relieve stress. out the best in people Right (helping neighbors, about now, you’re likely local businesses and the knee-deep in elderly in need) and the stress eating.

Nothing worst (hoarding toilet makes us feel tissue, selling hand better than a plate of sanitizer and masks for French fries, 10 times the normal that bag of chips, a bowl retail value and more). of mac and cheese or how about some cake or ice cream?

Yes, they all

boost our mood and make us feel great, for a short time. What inevitably happens is the energy crash, which is followed by another round of feel-good food, then, another crash.

To help keep yourself mentally and physically healthy, try swapping out the comfort foods with these healthy endorphin-boosting eats.

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• Dark chocolate. Perhaps the most popular mood booster is chocolate. But to get those endorphins rushing through you, it must be dark chocolate, with 70 percent or more cocoa. A little goes a long way, so don’t eat that king-sized bar all in one sitting. One small square two or three times a week is enough.

• Red wine. This pairs wonderfully with chocolate. The American Heart Association recommends less than or equal to one fourounce drink per day for women.

• Spicy foods. If you like your food with a little heat, then you’re in luck. The fieriness of spicy foods, such as chilies, release endorphins to act as natural painkillers.

• Oranges. Oranges are packed with vitamin

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C, which can help boost the release of endorphins. Other citrus and brightly colored fruits, along with dark, leafy green vegetables will also help improve your mood.

• Bananas and brown rice. Let’s hear it for the Bs! Bananas contain vitamin C as well as B vitamins, in particular B6. Vitamin B6 helps stabilize blood sugar levels, which in turn, regulates your mood. Brown rice contains vitamins B6, B1 and B3, all of which help keep our nervous system from going into overdrive.

• Healthy fats. Yes, some fat is good for you.

Eicosanoids, which are similar to hormones,

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More Ways to Reduce Anxiety and Stress 1. Be kind to yourself. COVID-19 is not your fault. Neither is your economic situation.

2. Give. Many organizations need volunteers to bring food to those in need or run errands for the elderly or immunecompromised. Donate blood, fill up local community food pantries or offer to foster a shelter pet from your local animal shelter.

3. Do yoga or meditate. Both are proven stress relievers. There are many free apps to help get you started.

4. Exercise. You don’t need gym equipment to get your heart pumping and feel that “runner’s high.” Burpees, push-ups, situps, jumping jacks and more, can all be turned into effective workouts. There are numerous free apps to guide you through at-home workouts.

5. Sleep. You may be tossing and turning all night, worrying about how your life has been turned upside down. If possible,

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try to get seven to eight hours of sleep a night – this will help boost your mood and outlook on a situation we are all struggling to deal with.

6. Smell vanilla and lavender. Lavender is a scent that gives you a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. For some it’s bacon, for me – freshly baked bread. The scent of vanilla, not freshly baked bread or bacon, has been shown to reduce anxiety. Light some vanilla scented candles, add an essential oil to your bathwater or use it in a diffuser.

In addition to promoting wellness and helping you stay calm, some believe Lavender helps to reduce anxiety, stress and even mild pain. Lavender can also be utilized in a diffuser. You can dab it on your wrist or put it on wool dryer balls.

Place the scented balls in the dryer with your bed sheets and pajamas to help you feel more calm all night long. can be found in nuts, hummus, seeds, avocados and oily fish. These help with the production of dopamine, endorphins and serotonin. People who have a high intake of healthy fats may experience less anxiety, depression and stress.

• Ginseng. A spot of tea in the afternoon, while sitting on your back porch and soaking up some natural vitamin D, is another great mood booster. Ginseng also helps improve mental performance.

Bottom line, we have no control over life's external circumstances. But we do have control over how we respond to difficult and frightening situations.

Besides taking care of yourself, share some kindness with others as well.

You can help other people by respecting those who have different ways of coping with their fears, attempting to understand others and their unique circumstances, and by not imposing a strict model of behavior based on how you believe someone should react to stressful situations. Showing kindness, compassion and helping others are all great ways to boost your mood and may help take your mind off your own fears and concerns. WGW

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33

Womentality

Inspiring quotes by extraordinary women “Each person must live their life as a model for others.”

– Rosa Parks Photo: Schlesinger Library, RIAS, Harvard University

“I want a courageous heart, a heart that does the right thing even when it's afraid.”

– Lauren Gaskill

“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.”

– Marie Curie

“Fear has a large shadow, but he himself is small.”

– Ruth Gendler

“I am pretty fearless, and you know why? Because I don’t handle fear very well; I’m not a good terrified person. I learned that a long time ago. You know when you walk into your house and there’s nobody there and all the lights are out, it’s like I just fearlessly go into the dark, because I know if I start creepin’ out that it’ll get me. So I just try not to ever be afraid of anything. I just go, ‘Well, if the earthquake happens, I’ve got my steel-toed shoes and some rope, and we’ll get down a mountain.’ Or you’ll be up there in a helicopter waving at us. I believe that we will just about get through anything.”

– Stevie Nicks 34

Local Happenings

Due to our country's current health situation, please call or email the organizations included in our local events section to inquire about virtual meetings.

West Georgia Mental Health Professionals Wellness Meetup Group

This group meets the last Saturday of every month in Douglasville or Austell. For more information, contact Cheryl at theheartmatters@gmail.com or 678.754.5840.

Learn more at www.heartmatterswellness.com.

Hope For The Journey This group meets the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the board room at the Tracy Stallings Community Center at 118 South White St. in Carrollton.

These events are free to breast cancer survivors or those currently battling breast cancer.

Learn more at www.hopeforthejourneywestga.org, email execdirector@hopeforthejourneywestga.org or call 770.214.1491.

Rare Pearls Mentoring and Leadership Program

Rare Pearls mission is to enrich and empower the lives of young girls and women. This group meets the third Saturday of each month at Heritage Baptist Church in Douglasville, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

This program is open to all girls ages 7 to 17.

For more information, call 770.947.8210, email rarepearls2015@gmail.com or visit the website at www.rarepearlsmentoringandleadership.org.

Nursing From The Heart Breastfeeding Support Group This group meets the third Monday of each month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 500 Old Bremen Road in Carrollton.

These events are free to pregnant women and moms looking for breastfeeding support. Free

35

weight checks for your baby will be available. Come and share your breastfeeding journey with us.

Please check our website for meeting and event updates at www.nursingfromtheheart.com.

Gertrude's House Breast Cancer Support Group This group meets the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Lithia Springs Family Chiropractic at 1758 Lee Rd in Lithia Springs.

This group is open to all survivors, caregivers, supporters, friends, family and those fighting breast cancer.

Visit their Facebook page @GertrudesHouse or email them at GertrudesHouse@yahoo.com.

This program will celebrate the successes of women who currently own businesses and seek to inspire other passionate women to open businesses.

Educational resources will be provided for aspiring business owners with the support of LiftFund, USDA, SBA, SCORE and ACE. These organizations will provide information and meet with attendees on a one-on-one basis.

The cost is $45 to attend.

Follow Resource Exchange Consulting Group on Facebook for more information or call 706.573.6826.

Visit www.eventbrite.com to purchase tickets.

Gill Receives Lifetime Service Awards

Cancer Support Group at Tabernacle Baptist Church Has your life been impacted by cancer – whether your own or someone you know?

Tabernacle Baptist Church hosts a faith-based cancer support group providing spiritual and emotional support to those diagnosed, currently undergoing treatment, those in remission and caregivers.

Meetings run from 6 to 7:15 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. Meetings are held at 150 Tabernacle Drive, Carrollton, Ga. For more information, call 770.832.7063 or visit the website at tabernacle.org.

Women of West Central Georgia Luncheon Celebrating Women in Business Resource Exchange Consulting Group is presenting this luncheon to honor West Central Georgia female business owners.

This event will be held on Thursday, May 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Del'avant Event Center, 141 Main St., LaGrange.

Keynote speaker will be Corrine Hodges, CEO of the Association of Women's Business Centers in Washington, D.C.

36

Jim Gill, left, with Phil Wilkins.

James A. Gill (Jim) has been honored by the Carroll County and Carrollton Evening Sertoma (Service To Mankind) Clubs, along with the Southeastern Region for Sertoma, with Lifetime Service Awards for 2019. The awards recognize Gill’s more than 50 years of commitment to the programs, people and communities served by Sertoma.

Gill has been an active member with Sertoma International since 1970, including serving as club president in Columbus, Ga., during 1973, governor for the state of Georgia during 1975 and International President during 1982. He helped found the Carroll County Sertoma club by 1986 in addition to eight other clubs in northwestern Georgia during a 35-year span. Gill was honored with a Lifetime Service Award by Sertoma International during 1992 and an Outstanding Achievement Award by the Sertoma International Foundation by 2001. He and his wife, Cheryl, are

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Life Patrons for the Sertoma International Foundation and created an endowment for local programs of the Carroll County Sertoma Club.

“Being able to recognize Jim at the local level and the regional level at one event was such a treat for everyone,” said Chad Houck, president of the Carroll County Sertoma Club. “This recognition is usually reserved for Sertoma International, but everyone was on-board to get this done. I can’t think of anyone who has served more selflessly on behalf of this community.”

Gill was recognized at a banquet during the fall of 2019 hosted by both the Carroll County Sertoma Club and Carrollton Evening Club. Presenting the awards were members of the local clubs along with the late Regional Director and Past Governor, LTC (Ret) Steve Brodie of Thomaston, Ga., and Walter “Bud” Osborn, Regional Director from Inverness, FL. Also in attendance were past Governors Phil Wilkins and Michael Keefe along with past Sertoma International Presidents Pat Myer (Macon) and Woodrow Hudson (Carroll County). It is rare to have three international past presidents at a single, local event.

“Growing up in Sertoma taught my sister, Shannon, and me about service to our community,” said Jay Gill, past president of the Carroll County Sertoma Club and son of Jim Gill. “From early childhood we watched our father be passionate about many things bigger than himself. To give so much time, energy and financial support to helping others without expecting a personal benefit is a great lesson for all of us.”

Sertoma (Service to Mankind) was established in 1912 as the Cooperative Club in Kansas City, Mo. Now, Sertoma clubs can be found throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Historically, the organization has focused on speech and hearing health problems, particularly in children, but has since adopted programs targeting drug-use education and projects promoting freedom and democracy to school-aged children. Local Sertoma clubs also sponsor and support teen and collegiate clubs in area schools.

38Back l to r: Pat Myer, Woodrow Hudson & Jim Gill with spouses.

Carroll EMC Earns 6th Top-Workplace Honor

Carroll EMC President and CEO, Tim Martin (far left), attended the AJC Top Workplaces award banquet at the Georgia Aquarium alongside (from second-left to right) Kelly Hester, Communications and Corporate Events Coordinator; Janet Fruin, CIS Administrator; and Jeremy Houp, Network Architect/IT Supervisor.

Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative has been awarded a Top Workplaces honor by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for the 6th consecutive year during an awards banquet Wednesday, Feb. 26.

The criteria is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered

by Energage, LLC. Carroll EMC employees participated in the anonymous survey which uniquely measures 15 drivers of engaged cultures that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution and connection to name a few.

“It is an honor to be recognized as one of Atlanta’s Top Workplaces for 2020,” said Tim Martin, President and CEO for Carroll EMC. “Our familyoriented work culture is a place where employees are encouraged to succeed. We want our employees to enjoy their work.”

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is in its 10th year of administering the Top Workplaces contest that invites more than 2,900 companies in metropolitan Atlanta to participate.

“Establishing a continuous conversation with employees so you have a deep understanding of your unique culture is proven to help achieve higher referral rates, lower employee turnover, and double the employee engagement levels,” said Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage. “No longer is recognition simply a much-deserved cause for celebration, but it’s fast becoming mission-critical to establish a competitive advantage for recruitment and retention.”

Carroll EMC is a Member-owned cooperative providing electricity to approximately 50,000 homes and businesses.

The co-op serves Members in Carroll, Haralson, Heard, Paulding, Polk, Floyd and Troup counties. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. For more information visit the cooperative’s website at carrollemc. com or follow Carroll EMC on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and LinkedIn. Carroll EMC: Community Built. Community Builder.

LOVE OUR LOCALS RAFFLE!

WIN up to

$1,000 CASH!

Order Online, Delivery, Purchase Gift Cards and More!

Purchase any product or service of at least $25 value from any of THE participating businesses BELOW and be entered to win up to $1,000 cash!

spend more for more chances to win! purchase $25 = 1 entry • $50 = 2 entries • $75 = 3 entries • $100 or more = 4 entries

we are not encouraging anyone to be unsafe. there are many ways to support local businesses without leaving your home through online, ordering by phone and more.

HOW TO ENTER: 1. PURCHASE AT LEAST $25 IN PRODUCTS OR SERVICES FROM A PARTICIPATING BUSINESS 2. FILL OUT THE RAFFLE SLIP YOU ARE GIVEN AT TIME OF PURCHASE 3. Take A PHOTO OF YOUR RECEIPT AND RAFFLE SLIP 4. email photo TO CARROLLTONRAFFLE@GMAIL.COM if purchases are made online, contact selling merchant to obtain your raffle slip.

participating businesses CARROLLTON: Sweet peas boutique • dreamscapes landscaping and outdoor play • kidney office products jill duncan state farm • citymedspa • lambert tire company • SPA 3:16 • terraMar wellness center Merle norman • feathers & twigs • adam and sons furniture store • anchor fITNESS • SARAH LITTLEJOHN MASSAGE & YOGA • CLASSICAL PHOTOGRAPHY • cheers fine wine & spirits • WILDFLOWERS ON MAPLE SALON STITCHN’ TEES • FEVER PERFORMING ARTS • NEED IT MOST HOMECARE • LIME BISCUIT CREATIVE • BETTER TOGETHER FITNESS • FRONTIER AUTO SALES • the nest • CAM LAW • KREATIONS ART FACTORY • SMITH BROTHERS SUPPLY SOCIETY LUXERY HAIR CARE • AIR LOGIC HEATING & AIR • THE CLASSY CRICKET • JASTESA 3D IMAGING • bakery 27 PERFECT PEACE BOUTIQUE, • FAR OUT THREADS • VISION REALTY & MANAGEMENT • BRUSHSTROKES MOBILE ART STUDIO Shuckers • FRUITFUL PRINT COMPANY • main street boutique. • UNDERGROUND BOOKS • Shot spot • travelmation RACE TO GRACE RACE SERIES • RODAN + FIELDS, JACQUELINE DOST • irish bred pub • PAMPERED CHEF, MINDY BANKS subway, northwinds blvd., • Your American maid, llc. • rdw lawn care BOWDON: smokin’ pig barbecue • BRETT’S GUIDING LIGHT HOMECARE VILLA RICA: MERLE NORMAN temple: avon, carolyn williams contest is open through april 30. prize winner will be drawn at random and announced may 1. IF THERE ARE 250 OR FEWER PARTICIPANTS, GRAND PRIZE WILL BE $250 CASH; 251-500 PARTICIPANTS, PRIZE WILL BE $500 CASH; 501-750 PARTICIPANTS, GRAND PRIZE WILL BE $750 CASH; 1,000 OR MORE PARTICIPANTS, GRAND PRIZE WILL BE $1,000 CASH. there will be no recourse and no refunds from the financial sponsors of this community raffle for any products, services or gift cards. contact selling merchant directly with any and all inquiries.

39

Supper Superhero Keep Your Family Safe When Preparing Meals

N

ow that most of West Georgia is staying home in an attempt to flatten the curve of the devastating coronavirus, more of us may be preparing meals for our families ourselves.

Preparing and handling foods safely can help prevent your family from becoming seriously ill.

Food safety is more than just throwing out expired items and washing your vegetables and fruits.

Avoid these common food safety errors to protect your household.

40

• Not practicing proper handwashing.

Bacteria that causes illness can live a long time, including on your hands. Wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds with warm water and soap before handling any food.

• Thawing frozen foods on your counter.

Food should never be left on the counter to thaw. Dangerous foodborne pathogens can quickly multiply when foods are between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Thaw food in cold water, the microwave or in the refrigerator only.

• Not sanitizing or replacing dishcloths and kitchen sponges. These two items can be the most dangerous ones in your kitchen if they

41

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aren't sanitized or replaced properly. Sanitize these at least every other day and replace your sponge once a week to protect against harmful foodborne pathogens.

Trying foods that are questionable to see if they're still edible. Tasting even a small amount of food that is contaminated can cause you to become seriously ill. It is impossible to see, smell or taste all of the bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Be sure to throw away all expired food.

Undercooking seafood, eggs, poultry or meat. Food must be cooked at a high enough eternal temperature to kill bacteria. A food thermometer is the only way to know if the cooked food is safe to eat.

Marinating raw seafood or meat on the counter or reusing the marinade on cooked foods. You should always marinate your meat, seafood or poultry in the refrigerator to avoid harmful bacteria. If you want to reuse your marinade, you must bring it to a boil before using on the cooked food.

Washing poultry and meats. Meat and poultry should never be washed before cooking. Washing them can spread bacteria all

over your countertops, sink and other surfaces.

The only raw things you should wash are your fruits and vegetables.

• Placing cooked foods on dishes that originally contained raw meat. Use separate serving dishes, utensils or cutting boards to keep raw poultry, seafood or meats away from ready-to-eat or cooked foods.

• Leaving food out for long periods of time.

Food should not be left out of the refrigerator for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is over 90 degrees outdoors.

• Eating raw foods that contain uncooked flour and eggs, such as cookie dough. Raw eggs may contain Salmonella or other harmful foodborne pathogens. Raw flour can also contain E. coli that could cause you or your family to become ill.

As the family's cook, you are the gatekeeper for your loved ones' health. Harmful foodborne bacteria can cause serious illness, and the proper precautions should be taken when preparing meals for your family. This is especially important for family members who are children, elderly or pregnant women. WGW

Fun Things to Explore While Staying Home Museums • The Louvre museum, the world's largest art museum and historic monument in Paris, offers free virtual tours of Egyptian collections, the remains of the Louvre's moat, artwork from Rembrandt, Tintoretto and Delacroix and more. www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne#tabs • The Vatican museum houses the Sistine Chapel, Raphael's Room, St. Peter's Basilica and more. www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/ en/collezioni/musei/tour-virtuali-elenco.html • Atlanta's High Museum of Art has wonderful online exhibits from photos of the civil rights movement to how Iris van Herpen transformed fashion. artsandculture.google.com/partner/ high-museum-of-art

Zoos and Aquariums • The Atlanta Zoo's live PandaCam brings you up close and personal with their adorable panda bears. www.zooatlanta.org/panda-cam/ • The Georgia Aquarium has eight live webcams that capture sea lions, jellyfish, beluga whales

and piranhas. www.georgiaaquarium.org/webcam/beluga-whale-webcam/ • Visit the Georgia Aquarium's Cold Water Quest page to see pictures and learn more about habitats and characteristics of the world's coldest ocean animals. www.georgiaaquarium.org/gallery/cold-water-quest/#gallery-fauna • The San Diego Zoo has 11 live cameras that capture everything from elephants to apes and koala bears to penguins. www.kids.sandiegozoo.org/ videos

Theme Parks • Take a virtual tour of Walt Disney World® and check out the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom and more. disneyparks.disney. go.com/blog/2018/03/disney-parks-launchesfirst-ever-360-degree-panoramas-on-googlestreet-view/ • Visit Orlando has a virtual tour of SeaWorld® that gives you an option to "ride" Orlando's tallest roller coaster Mako. www.visitorlando.com/ en/things-to-do/virtual-tours/seaworld-orlando WGW

43

Kids Korner

T

By Jordan Coffman Photos by Zachary Dailey

Adorable Sock Easter Bunnies

hese super cute sock bunnies are a great activity for kids to make and require only a few materials you probably have lying around.

Even the youngest child can make these easy and fun Easter egg pinecones, and these are a great alternative for egg hunting. Hang multiple pinecones on tree branches with fishing line or hide them for a fun Easter egg hunt anytime you want!

Instructions

Materials Two pairs of colored socks 1 pair of white socks Googly eyes 1 1/2 small bags of rice (2 bunnies) Ribbon in two colors Glue gun Glue sticks Scissors

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Fill 3/4 of the sock with rice and tie off at the top.

Using your hand, squeeze the sock 1/4 of the way from the top.

Shape a lemon-sized head and tie off with the ribbon.

Untie the top and cut vertically from the top of the bunny down to 1-inch above the head.

Tie the two cut ends from the top of the sock to form the ears.

Cut the nose, belly and teeth of rabbit from the colored sock scraps and the white socks.

Glue the googly eyes, nose and teeth to the head.

Glue the bunny's belly to the front of the bottom part of the sock.

Pinecone Easter Eggs

Materials

Pinecones Paint Paintbrushes

Instructions Paint the pinecones with different patterns to resemble decorated Easter eggs.

Hide and hunt the pinecones with your family.

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Word Bank

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Bible Lamb Sunday Eggs Basket Easter Celebration Risen Bunny Family Communion Bonnet Service Candy Eucharist Church Hunt Dinner Sunrise Chicks

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