April 2025

Page 1


Photo by Zachary Dailey

Spring has Sprung

Well, spring is officially here, and I couldn't be happier. There's just something about the beautiful experience of watching nature's rebirth after a long winter. If only the pollen didn't come with it! Plus, longer days and warmer weather allows me more time to take my grandchildren outside to play – my favorite thing to do!

In This Issue

Our feature this month is 17-year-old Bremen High School senior Ellie McGill. In 2019, Ellie and her Girl Scout troop were some of the first girls to join Scouts BSA (formerly known as Boy Scouts of America) once the organization allowed girls into the program. Once she joined, Ellie knew she wanted to go all the way and achieve Eagle Scout. But her path wasn't without challenges. Becoming an Eagle Scout is a rare achievement – only about 6% of eligible Scouts meet that goal.

On page 10, learn more about Ellie, her journey to achieve Eagle Scout and how she's building bridges in her community.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, you'll learn about the big and small things you can do for your community, Ken Denney shares an informative article about the story behind the death of William McIntosh on May 1, 1825, Sandy Bolan shares a recap of the University of West Georgia's Women Empowering Women business leader panel discussion and, of course, Chef Rose Isaacs offers two delicious recipes. We've also included the third article of our cancer support series written by Patrick Yuran. Have you signed up for our 5th annual women's event? The date is set for Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to noon at City Station in Carrollton, Ga. This event is free to the community. Scan the code at the bottom of this page to reserve your spot! Vendor booths are $75, first-come, first-served, and sponsorships are available. Contact Sydney@westgeorgiawoman.com to register as a sponsor or vendor.

All of us at West Georgia Woman look forward to seeing you May 10!

Happy Easter,

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Volume 10 • Issue 6 April 2025

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Building Bridges

Ellie McGill's Journey to Eagle Scout and Beyond
Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography.

When you think of an Eagle Scout, you might picture a young man braving the wilderness or completing a challenging project to earn the prestigious title. But Ellie McGill, a 17-year-old senior at Bremen High School, is breaking that mold in a powerful way. Ellie’s journey into the world of Scouting has been one of perseverance, leadership and, most notably, redefining what it means to be a Scout – especially for young women.

Ellie was familiar with Scouts BSA, formerly known as the Boy Scouts, because her older brother, Price, was a Scout – he also earned the Eagle Scout rank. “I became a Girl Scout when I was 5,” Ellie reflects. ‘It was a great organization to begin my journey in, but I’ll admit, watching my brother do survival campouts, 15-mile hikes, and intense mountain climbing while I was in cookie sales meetings wasn’t my dream,” Ellie reflects.

In 2019, Scouts BSA opened their doors to girls as well as boys, and Ellie – along with her entire Girl Scout troop – jumped at the opportunity to join the organization.

Becoming a Trailblazer

Ellie and her family have lived in Bremen most of her life, and she says she felt their support and encouragement to pursue her dreams from a young age. “I have been blessed with an amazing support system,” she admits. “I live with my mom, an elementary school principal in Carroll County; my dad, a retired school teacher; and my dogs, a Maltipoo and a toy poodle. My older brother, Price, is currently attending Kennesaw State

University. He graduated from Bremen High School and is also an Eagle Scout. My parents pushed us both to be the best versions of ourselves possible.” She stays active with school activities, including the Literary and Mock Trial teams, marching band, One Act play and the spring musical performance. In addition, she takes high-level AP classes and works part-time at Jersey Mike’s, as her brother also did before her. “I have made many friends from these activities, and all of them played a role in deciding my future,” she relates. “However, the activity that played the most formative role for me would have to be my experience in Scouting.”

Although Ellie shares that her parents urged her and Price to find and pursue individual paths that made both of them happy, they ended up participating in several activities together. Eventually, that included Scouting. “We were always taught to be unique individuals, as long as those individuals were hardworking, kind and considerate of others,” she shares. “I strongly believe that those ideas are what supported us in our development and success in each endeavor we took on.”

Ellie’s mother, Ashley, remembers weighing the pros and cons of moving Ellie from Girl Scouts to Scouts BSA. “Her Girl Scout troop was something special –great girls and strong leaders,” she says.

“The leader was also a parent volunteer for the local Boy Scout Troop (Troop 259), and Price was in this troop. When Boy Scouts became Scouts BSA, we had a decision to make. Our leader felt like Scouts BSA was a better fit for her and the girls in the troop.

“At the end of the

In 2019, Scouts BSA opened their doors to girls as well as boys, and Ellie – along with her entire Girl Scout troop – jumped at the opportunity to join the organization.

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day, we decided to leave the final decision up to Ellie. When Ellie told me she wanted to make the switch and be a Scout, I was excited and incredibly proud. I knew Scouting would offer her invaluable life skills, leadership opportunities and unforgettable experiences. I also understood the commitment it would take, and suspected that she was up for the challenge. Seeing her enthusiasm and determination from the start made it clear that this was something she truly wanted to pursue.”

The path to Eagle Scout wasn’t without additional challenges. As part of the first group of girls in Scouts BSA in 2019, Ellie experienced some pushback, but she handled it with grace and determination, knowing change can be difficult. She decided to be part of the change in a positive way.

Ellie says she and the other girls in the troop heard many negative comments directed their way that first year of summer camp, often made by the male Scouts.

“It was difficult to handle as a young kid,” she says. “I never wanted to feel like I didn’t belong where I was. No one should ever have to feel that way. Even then, however, I knew that a Scout was meant to be reverent and kind to others, as stated in the Scout Law. I understood this fact about those

situations: the people who chose to go against the promise we all made as Scouts when we each began our journey did not get to tell me that I was invalid as a person or as a Scout.

“I always knew that I was not any less of a Scout than those boys were just because of my gender; I did not say hateful things to others, and that was true no matter if I was a boy or a girl. People outside of Scouting also took issue with our presence, but it never really bothered me. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and I always felt that as long as I was respectful to those who disagreed with our inclusion, they would not have any reason to try to challenge my troop further.”

She says that although her first summer camp experience wasn’t perfect because not everyone was happy to have girls included, the experience made her fall in love with Scouting.

“It has completely changed the way I feel about life,” she shares. “The rules of Scouting have deeply influenced me to be more patient, determined and intentional in my daily life, but they have also made me appreciate the little things.

“Everybody knows that running water, food and roofs over our heads are major privileges, but we frequently do not appreciate just how lucky we are.

Jill Pierce

After committing myself to service work for a full weekend with very little food, spending full weeks without washing clothes that have been walked in for 10 miles a day, and having to sleep on the ground in late November with a thin sleeping bag to keep warm and comfortable; it all becomes much more apparent. When I began to notice that Scouting made me more grateful and conscious of my circumstances, I knew I had to continue all the way through Eagle.”

The Road to Eagle

Becoming an Eagle Scout is a rare achievement – only about 6% of eligible Scouts meet that goal. It normally takes up to six years to complete the extensive requirements, including serving in a leadership position at the Life Scout rank and earning 21 merit badges showing mastery across various topics such as personal fitness, emergency preparedness and citizenship, as well as options that fit in more with the Scout’s interests, such as archery,

aviation or dog care.

With two children who earned the Eagle rank, Ashley is well aware of how difficult it is to achieve. “Scouting is definitely a big commitment, but we approached it as a family effort,” she explains. “We made a plan early on to set aside time for merit badges, service projects and leadership responsibilities. It wasn’t always easy balancing school, extracurriculars and life in general, but we prioritized Scouting because we knew the experiences and lessons were worth it.”

Ashley adds that she relies on Ellie to plan her schedule to juggle her many school and work commitments. “I am truly in awe of how she is able to balance all these, take every AP class she can register for at BHS, and still have time to work the occasional shift at Jersey Mike’s Sandwich Shop in Bremen. It continues to be all about finding a balance and making sure she enjoys the journey along the way. I always tell her that if she needs to scale back or let go of something that she doesn’t ‘love,’ that we will support her. She finishes what she

starts, and when she commits, she gives it 110%. She inspires me, and I’m so proud of her.”

The first step in planning an Eagle Scout project is deciding what that project should be. Many Scouts build outdoor public spaces, like benches around a fire pit near a popular camping location. Ellie settled on building a Rainbow Bridge – a small bridge near a dog park in Bremen designed to help pet owners who have lost their beloved furry friends mourn that loss and celebrate the years of joy they shared.

The idea of a Rainbow Bridge comes from a well-known story dating back from the 1950s that

says when a pet dies, it crosses a Rainbow Bridge to a beautiful meadow, where it is restored to its full health. It stays in the meadow, happily playing with other pets, awaiting the day its beloved owner passes away – the pet senses it as its owner begins her own journey over the Rainbow Bridge, and runs excitedly to be reunited with her once again.

“Eagle Scout projects require determination and perseverance, not only through grueling hands-on work days, but also through tedious paperwork days,” Ellie shares. “Scouts must learn the importance of doing things themselves, as well as serving their community in any way that they can.

“The Rainbow Bridge idea was inspired by the original Rainbow Bridge in North Carolina paired with my love for animals. When I began drawing up ideas for my Eagle Scout Project, I couldn’t help but think about my dog Murphy, who had at the time recently passed away. I knew I had to do something to honor her as she was my first dog, and I had her for over 10 years. When I saw a video of Rainbow Bridge in Lake Lure, N.C., I knew that's what I wanted to do for my community.”

Ellie set out to create a peaceful space where people could honor the animals who had been so much a part of their lives. The bridge became a way to channel that love and grief into something positive for the community.

She and Ashley agree that the biggest challenge was finding the right spot for the bridge. “We originally wanted to place it next to the dog park at Bremen City Schools’ Blue Devil Family Park, but the school board had a different vision for the project,” Ellie recalls. “It seemed they wanted a private space to grieve, and I saw it much more as a celebration of life.”

“She was met with some resistance and was temporarily discouraged,” Ashley remembers. “She came to me with an update, and I asked if

she wanted to look for another location for the project. She considered it, but it just made sense to have the pet memorial bridge by the dog park. So, she leaned on the Board of Education who, in the end, came through for her. This delay added a few months to the project, but she was determined to make it work. Hearing her speak to the adults involved with the project with grace, respect and determination without becoming frustrated, defensive or even angry reminded me of what effective communication looks like.”

Ellie remains confident in her decision to place the bridge near the dog park, even though it meant stepping outside her comfort zone to convince the Board of Education her plan was the best one. “The whole experience highlighted for me that perseverance and determination were the best qualities to have,” she shares. “If something is difficult, it probably means that it will be worth even more than one would think.”

Once they finalized the location, Ellie continued with the planning process, which was no easy feat. Ellie had to navigate everything from fundraising to recruiting volunteers to working with landscape designers. With the support of her family, friends and fellow Scouts, she brought the Rainbow Bridge

to life in Bremen City Schools’ Blue Devil Family Park, where it was dubbed “Best Friends' Bridge” to coincide with the preexisting “Best Friends Dog Park” at the same location.

“I got to work alongside Mrs. Shirley Easterwood, a local landscape designer, and many other amazing volunteer workers,” she relates. “I had tons of help on the project, and I felt like building the community into the project made it much easier to build the project into the community.”

Ashley relates that it was a joy watching Ellie blossom as a leader through her Eagle Scout

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Ruby Hightower, Certified Therapy Dog and Grief Counselor.
Ellie, with her dog Murphy. The loss of Murphy was the inspiration behind Ellie's Eagle Scout project.

project journey. “She overcame the challenges by staying organized, communicating effectively and problemsolving throughout the entire project. Ellie learned to delegate tasks, trust her team and remain flexible when changes were needed. Most importantly, she didn’t let setbacks discourage her. She stayed focused on the goal, adjusted as necessary and saw the project through to completion.

Family, friends and community members attended the dedication of the Best Friends' Bridge in December 2024. Since its completion, the Rainbow Bridge has become a space for the community to mourn the loss of their pets and honor their memories. People add their pets’ collars to the bridge, creating a growing tribute to the animals who have left an indelible mark on their families’ hearts.

“Watching her take charge and grow as a leader through this experience was incredible. I continue to look back on this experience with the deepest love and respect to Ellie – she is a role model to me, showing me how to keep a positive attitude and a focus on what needs to be done to reach your goals!”

Ellie worked on the project for about a year, from

the initial planning phase in January 2024 until she unveiled the completed bridge in December 2024. In addition to the planning and building, she had to complete Eagle Scout workbooks, with essaystyle updates required at every project milestone. During this time, she continued to juggle school, extracurriculars and work.

“From January to December of 2024, I had eight classes at Bremen High School, five of which were AP courses,” she remembers. “I also participated in the spring musical, tennis, Mock Trial Empire and State Competitions, One Act, marching band and I worked at Jersey Mike’s in Bremen during that time as well. Needless to say, it was not easy, but I had to work to build the skill of allocating my attention to one thing at a time.”

She worked with the designers on her team to ensure the bridge was thoughtfully designed with the future in mind, ensuring it could be a space of comfort for the community for years to come.

“Finally finishing the project was one of my greatest accomplishments. It was a long, hard road, but it was worth it,” she says. “Since our designer was so experienced, she was able to provide us with materials and concepts that required little to no maintenance. We chose plants that did not need to be pruned, and we leveled the stepping stones with the ground so the maintenance team for Blue Devil Family Park could mow right over them whenever it was needed.”

loss of their pets and honor their memories. People add their pets’ collars to the bridge, creating a growing tribute to the animals who have left an indelible mark on their families’ hearts.

Soaring Toward the Future

Since its completion, the Rainbow Bridge has become a space for the community to mourn the

The feedback Ellie has received from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. “I hope the bridge at some point will be so covered in collars that you won’t be able to see the railing,” she shares. “I know it’s hard to lose an animal.

When my sweet Murph passed, I had a huge hole in my heart where she used to live. I hope the bridge provides a sense of community to those who grieve for their animals so they know they are not alone in grieving. I hope it provides a space to appreciate the animals that did so much for us while they were around, and to honor their memory when they can’t be here anymore.”

“The impact of the project for the community is so exciting, and our hope is that it remains a place of

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peace and celebration of life for those ‘best friends’ who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge,” Ashley says.

Ashley says she couldn’t be prouder of how Ellie poured her heart and soul into the Eagle Scout project, in spite of the challenges. “There have been so many proud moments, but if I had to choose one, it would be watching Ellie lead her Eagle Scout project. Seeing her take charge, coordinate with volunteers and problem-solve in real time was inspiring. It was a moment where all the skills she had learned – leadership, resilience and teamwork –came together.”

Beyond the bridge, Ellie’s dedication to her community and her Scouting journey has made her a role model for others. Her mom expresses immense pride in her daughter’s accomplishments. “I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how Ellie is able to mentor young scouts during meetings, working on merit badges, volunteering and camping. She is patient, inclusive and accepting to all scouts. Her ability to find the best in others and encourage them to do their best is inspiring. For this I am also very proud!”

Moving forward, Ellie is ready to practice her new skills at the University of Georgia, where she’s been accepted for the fall of 2025. She plans to major in

English and pursue a law career. When she shared that goal with the Eagle Scout board of review members at the project’s inception, she told them how that career fit with the Scout Oath. “I explained to them that as an Eagle Scout, I have a duty to God and to my country, and because of that, I will pursue a career that protects the rights of the American people,” she relates. “While at UGA, I hope to be a model Scout and to do my best to be kind to those around me. I know that as long as I stick to the promises I made as a young Scout, which I have done thus far, life cannot fail me, and I cannot fail myself.” WGW

Bloodshed on the Chattahoochee:

The Death of William McIntosh

In the pre-dawn darkness of May 1, 1825 – two centuries ago – a large number of heavily armed men crept through the brambles surrounding a plantation on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, close to what is now Whitesburg.

These men were known as Law Menders, a combination police force and militia for the Creek Indian national government located in Alabama. They had been sent to mend a Creek law broken by William McIntosh, owner of the plantation. Their method of correction was direct: they were going to kill him.

It was a stark irony, considering McIntosh's own complex and often controversial position within the Creek Nation – not to mention he was head of the Law Menders.

The Crime

The crime that brought the Law Menders to McIntosh’s doorstep was the Second Treaty of Indian Springs, signed in February 1825, at McIntosh’s other plantation, a resort hotel located in modernday Butts County.

This treaty, which McIntosh had negotiated without the approval of the Creek National Council, amounted to the illegal cession of a significant portion of remaining Creek lands in Georgia to the state. Ever since the First Treaty of Indian Springs, which McIntosh had fostered in 1821, the Creek Council had decreed that any Council member who approved further land sales should be put to death. McIntosh himself had agreed to that law.

McIntosh’s motivations for signing the treaty were complex, likely driven by a combination of personal financial gain and a belief that removal was ultimately inevitable.

William McIntosh (Creek: Tustunnuggee Hutkee), was born around 1778 near Butts County in Coweta, principal town of the Lower Creeks. He was the son of Captain William McIntosh, a Scottish trader and British soldier, and Senoya, a Creek mother from the influential Wind Clan. This biracial heritage uniquely positioned him within both white Southern society and Creek culture, allowing him to navigate both realms.

McIntosh had a notable military career, serving as a major of a Creek regiment fighting alongside American forces against the Red Sticks at Horseshoe Bend during the Creek War of 1813-1814, and later fighting with the United States in the First Seminole War. He was given the rank of general for his service with the Creek war.

McIntosh – Negus portrait: The only known likeness of William McIntosh, this painting was commissioned by him and done at his Indian Springs resort in 1821 by painters Nathan and Joseph Negus. (Courtesy Alabama Department of Archives and History).

All these factors, along with his family relationships, gave him significant stature in the Creek Nation. His leadership abilities depended on these connections, but while he had authority –especially among the Lower Creeks – he didn’t have absolute authority.

With the first treaty, McIntosh received $40,000 (over $1 million today) and a large tract of land. With the second treaty, he received an immediate payment of $10,000, with $190,000 to be paid over the next 14 years. More significantly for the Creeks, the treaty purported to transfer almost all of the Creek holdings in Georgia (6,700 square miles), with the only exceptions being for those lands “improved” by McIntosh and some of his supporters. McIntosh retained much of the land he personally controlled, including the “reserved” portion at his plantation on the Chattahoochee.

McIntosh has sometimes been seen as a dupe of unscrupulous Americans, or as a conniving betrayer of his own people – or even, as the Daughters of the American Revolution did in 1921 – a “distinguished and patriotic son of Georgia” who “sacrificed his life for his patriotism.”

In fact, McIntosh was a man of two worlds. He had strong ties to the white community, was a slave owner and a wealthy planter, and perhaps saw the treaty as a way to secure benefits for himself and like-minded micos (Creek language for leaders) who favored assimilation into America, or removal to its territories.

The U.S. government did not so much sanction the agreement as accepted it as an appeasement to Gov. George Troup (McIntosh’s cousin), who had run on a platform of gaining all Indian territory in the state, and who had been a persistent thorn in the side of the president and Congress.

But McIntosh’s actions were seen by a large segment of the Creek Nation, particularly the Upper Creeks and traditionalists, as a grave betrayal of their interests and a dangerous precedent that threatened their very existence on their ancestral lands.

The Execution

When they learned of the controversial treaty, Creek leaders convened a secret council where they formally decreed a death sentence for McIntosh and other chiefs who had signed the second Indian Springs agreement. A force of Law Menders, which had been led by McIntosh, was authorized to carry out the sentence.

Accounts vary slightly, but it's estimated this

force consisted of between 100-170 Law Menders, and included prominent figures like Menawa, who, like McIntosh, had gained fame at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. They were dispatched to McIntosh’s plantation, Lockchau Talofau (LOCKchow TAH-low-fow), located at the modern site of McIntosh Reserve Park.

They gathered in the woods near the plantation on the evening of April 30, 1825, and laid low. Then sometime around 3 a.m., on Sunday, May 1, the Law Menders surrounded McIntosh’s residence and quickly set it ablaze. Other outbuildings were also lit on fire.

McIntosh, who was in the second story of his house, was told to come down, but he refused. As the fire intensified, members of his family were allowed to leave the burning structure. In a final act of defiance, McIntosh reportedly tried to fire his musket at the attackers, but the weapon only misfired, causing a flash of powder, and he was immediately hit with a volley of shots, and, as witnesses said, “literally blown to pieces.”

His body fell down the staircase and was dragged outside the house, then left lying a few feet from the burning building.

Tommie Tustenuggee, an elderly and respected Continued on

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Chief of the Coweta towns, was in the same room as McIntosh and also killed.

White American travelers, who had been staying at the plantation, were left alone. Chilly McIntosh, William’s son and future Creek leader, along with a young Indian named Kennard, were in the same room as the travelers. They managed to walk away initially without being recognized but they were later spotted by a scouting party and fired upon.

Both evaded capture. Sam Hawkins, complicit in the treaty and McIntosh’s son-in-law, also fled, but was later captured and hanged somewhere near modern Carrollton.

After the shooting stopped, witnesses said, the raiders spent the day destroying everything of value on the property. They either captured or drove off the 100 or so enslaved people on the farm, as well as the livestock. The once thriving plantation had been reduced to ashes. The property loss to McIntosh’s survivors was estimated at $40,000 –almost $1.3 million today.

The Aftermath

The execution of William McIntosh sent shockwaves through the Creek Nation, further exacerbating existing divisions and fueling anger. The Creek Confederation had long been split into the Upper Creeks and Lower Creeks, with the Lower Creeks having far more interaction with settlers of European descent.

Troup, Georgia’s governor, thought that the slaying would precipitate an Indian war. But these emotional reactions quickly died down with the need

to face the practical reality of the Treaty of Indian Springs – which had been ratified by the U.S. Senate over the loud objections of the Creeks.

A quiet consensus determined that McIntosh was lawfully executed by the Law Menders. The Niles Weekly Register – the national newspaper of its day – reported as an established fact that McIntosh “was not murdered,” but was punished in accord with a Creek law he himself had endorsed and rigorously supported.

Despite the controversy and violence surrounding the Treaty of Indian Springs, the State of Georgia remained steadfast in its commitment to the removal of the Creek Indians. Gov. Troup essentially ignored the controversy, and on June 9, 1825, – two months after McIntosh died – the state Legislature carved up the Creek land into five unnamed sections; the northernmost portion contained the land that would become Carroll County.

The Creeks continued to protest, so President John Quincy Adams decided to negotiate a new treaty. A group of Creek leaders, empowered by their government to make agreements, then traveled to Washington, D.C., where a new agreement, the Treaty of Washington, was signed on Jan. 24, 1826. Although the treaty voided the

This familiar image of McIntosh may not be him, but rather one of his sons. “McIntosh, a Creek Chief” is a lithograph done in 1836 that appeared in a book of American Indian portraits by Charles Bird King. (Courtesy Alabama Department of Archives and History).

Treaty of Indian Springs, it basically did the same thing as the agreement McIntosh had made. All the Creek lands on the east side of the Chattahoochee would be ceded for a one-time payment of $217,600 and a yearly annuity of $20,000. Allowances were also made for an eventual relocation of the Creeks to territories west of the Mississippi.

Unfortunately, this new treaty differed with the Georgia Legislature on where the western border should be. A surveyor named Bright had set the Washington Treaty border some distance east of where the Alabama line is, effectively placing the land that’s now Bowdon on the Alabama side.

Illustration shows the original triangular shape of the former Creek territory that would be called Carroll County in 1826. The county would be reshaped to its current boundaries over the next decade. (Illustration by Ken Denney).

the land west of Bright’s line. Eager to start carving the territory into lots, Troup sent surveyors into the area to start the process.

Creek Indians who lived in that area resented the surveyor’s intrusion on what they considered their land. They began to harass them and requested more help from Washington. Adams responded with a threat to send federal marshals into the area until the dispute could be hammered out.

Troup went ballistic at the implied threat. He called out the state militia and made his own threat to repel by force the “hostile invasion” by federal forces.

Troup, who had ignored the proceedings in Washington, simply did not care what the federal government thought. He was determined to stick with the Indian Springs border, which included all

However, any threat of a full-fledged shooting war between Georgia and the United States ended when Adams backed down. On Nov. 15, 1827, a final treaty was negotiated with the Creek Indians, which set the western border exactly where the voided Treaty of Indian Springs said it should be.

Conclusion

McIntosh was killed for illegally ceding Creek lands to Georgia. Yet that reason was rendered moot when the Treaty of Washington and the subsequent border treaty accomplished all that he, and his cousin the governor, had sought. The only difference was that McIntosh never lived to benefit from any of it.

Eventually, the Creek Indians vacated the territory and on Dec. 14, 1826, the state got around to naming the five counties it had carved from the land. Carroll County was one of them, and though its borders have shifted over the past 200 years, the site of McIntosh’s plantation remains on its southeastern border.

McIntosh is still there too, buried very close to the spot where his riddled body was dragged out of his burning house. A replica of that house, along with the gravesite, is the center of a peaceful recreational park that sees thousands of visitors a year.

It’s hard to reconcile the natural beauty with the violent history of the place. Yet that clash of cultures, personalities, and destinies gave birth to the county that, next year, celebrate its bicentennial. WGW

Daily Fare

Chef Rose With

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.

She is a personal chef who offers cooking lessons, baby food prep, date night dinners for two and more. Learn more about Chef Rose at www.chefrosecooks.com.

Chef Rose photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography, daileylifephotography@gmail.com

Recipe photos by Andrew Agresta, Agresta Photography, www.agrestaphotography.com

Spring Roll Bowls with Chicken and Peanut Sauce

“The

abundance of fresh and vibrant flavors make a fabulous light lunch or dinner.”

Ingredients

8 oz rice noodles

2 chicken breasts, cooked and thinly sliced

1 cucumber, julienned

1 red bell pepper, julienned

1 carrot, julienned

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

2 tablespoons green onion, sliced

1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

For the peanut sauce:

1/4 cup smooth peanut butter

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

1 to 2 tablespoons warm water to thin the sauce

Preparation

Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.

Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

To prepare the peanut sauce, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic and ginger in a bowl.

Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

In each bowl, layer the rice noodles, cucumber, bell pepper, carrot and sliced chicken.

Drizzle peanut sauce over the top.

Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions and roasted peanuts. Serves 4.

Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender, finely chopped

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

Cream 1 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.

Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped dried lavender, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until well incorporated.

Gradually, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.

Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Makes 24 cookies. WGW

“Notes of lavender and lemon make this cookie the perfect taste of spring.”

Holding On and Letting Go:

A Story of Love, Life and Loss

Lesson #3: Navigating the sea of unknowns

After Marie’s diagnosis of non-curable metastatic stage-four breast cancer and the realization that our purpose had shifted, we found ourselves standing at the edge of an open sea with a vast, uncharted expanse stretching beyond the horizon. The life we had carefully charted together, with all its familiar ports and predictable tides, was suddenly swallowed by a rising storm. Giving ourselves permission to grieve and finding a renewed sense of purpose were critical steps in this journey. However, the hardest part of setting sail into the unknown – uncertain of where the currents would take us – came next.

For most of my life, I’ve found comfort in calm waters with steady routines, predictable outcomes and the security of a well-planned course. I was a captain who knew how to navigate through life’s storms by following a clear map. But cancer doesn’t follow any map. It tears up the charts, shifts the winds and leaves you drifting in unfamiliar waters.

No matter how tightly I gripped the wheel, no matter how hard I tried to steer us toward safety, I quickly realized that some things were beyond my control. There were days when the weight of that truth threatened to pull me under, and the fear of what lay beneath the surface made it hard to breathe. Through those dark and uncertain nights, I discovered the power of surrender, and that was truly an unexpected gift.

Letting go of the need to control the tides wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. I learned that fighting the current only left me exhausted. But when I loosened my grip and let the waves carry us, I discovered that the ocean had a rhythm of its own and possessed a quiet strength beneath the chaos. It wasn’t about giving up, but instead, it was about learning to trust the waters beneath us and finding peace in the drift.

We stopped obsessing over the destination and began to focus on the journey itself. Some days were filled with calm seas and the warmth of sunlight on our faces. Other days were rough, the waves crashing hard against us, leaving us tired and worn. But we learned to take each day as it came and to adjust our sails instead of fighting the wind. The future no longer felt like something to fear and instead, it became an open horizon full of possibility.

One of the most unexpected gifts of this journey has been learning to appreciate the quiet stretches of water between the storms. The “in-between moments” have become the most precious parts of our lives. A quiet morning together on the back porch of our cabin watching the sun rise over the treetops, a shared laugh after a long day and the

“Carrollton’s Prescription Headquarters”

821 Dixie

Drive Thru Service • Gifts • Free Delivery

way Marie’s hand fits perfectly in mine during an afternoon hike in the mountains are some of the greatest blessings. These are the treasures we once sailed past, too focused on the destination to notice the beauty of the open sea. Now, the discovery of these small moments of connection are the anchors that hold us steady.

Through this experience, I’ve learned that navigating the unknown doesn’t mean drifting without direction; it means trusting that the ocean will carry you where you’re meant to go. It’s about understanding that the horizon may shift, and the tides may change, but the strength you’ve built together will always guide you. Even when the path ahead disappears into the fog, the steady presence of love is enough to keep you afloat.

Cancer has taught us that life’s most beautiful moments are not always found on the distant shore, but often hidden in the quiet rocking of the boat, in the calm between the storms. And while we may not know what tomorrow’s tide will bring, we know that we are facing it together, hand in hand, with courage and love.

So, as you face the uncertain waters of your own life, remember this … the unknown is not something to fear. Instead, it is a place where strength, love and grace can thrive if you allow them. You may not always see the shore, but you are never truly lost.

Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is let go of the map, trust the sea beneath you, and allow the current to carry you toward something greater than you ever imagined. WGW

Patrick Yuran is an educator, artist and entrepreneur. He currently serves as the Head of School at Oak Mountain Academy, is the founder and Artistic Director of The REAL Theatre and is the President of PJY Consulting.
Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography.

Showing Up and Giving Back

Big and Small Ways to Help Your Community

In 2023, Georgia’s 1.5 million volunteers provided $2.39 billion worth of work to organizations that may have otherwise not been able to operate, according to IVolunteer International. Volunteers enabled these organizations, big and small, to deploy their ever-shrinking financial resources to boots-on-the-ground work, versus staffing and administrative tasks, making their impact in their communities even greater.

For the volunteer, the reward wasn’t a fat paycheck at the end of the week, but knowing she may have helped someone improve her life.

When it comes to people re-entering the workforce, or students getting their first jobs, studies show hiring managers are 82% more likely to pick a candidate with volunteer experience over someone without any.

Volunteering is a great way for people to share their vast wealth of knowledge and skills with others, as well as learn a new thing or two. Many nonprofit organizations operate with a skeleton crew, meaning many tasks get delegated to whoever is around and willing to pitch in. So even though you may be providing accounting skills on Thursday, on Tuesday you might be helping install new flooring for someone in need.

Small Acts, Big Benefits

Between work and family, there typically isn’t much time left over at the end of the day for people to volunteer for causes near and dear to their hearts. But you can make some of the biggest impacts with the smallest sacrifices.

For example, the medical community needs more than 38,000 daily blood donations to help not only trauma victims, but cancer patients who may require blood transfusions during chemotherapy treatments. In less than 40 minutes, a person can donate one pint of blood, which can help upwards of three lives. Donations can be made every eight weeks (56 days). Unfortunately, not everyone can donate – only 38% of Americans are eligible, yet only 2% of those people ever roll up their sleeves. The reasons many people can't donate blood can be temporary or permanent. If you have a cold or other temporary illness, you shouldn't donate blood until all your symptoms are gone. Also, you should wait at least 6 weeks after giving birth.

Some medications knock you out of donation contention, as can certain health issues, including some cancers and heart issues.

Travel to certain areas of the world might cause your donation to be deferred, and please don't try to donate if you've ever tested positive for HIV. To find out if you're eligible to donate blood, call the American Red Cross Donor Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276.

If this cause speaks to you but you can't donate, you can still help by hosting a blood drive or volunteering your time as a blood donor ambassador, where you work at a blood drive to greet donors, answer their questions and provide refreshments to them after their donation.

Other ways you can help that won't take much time include sorting and repacking food at local pantries, walking dogs and cleaning out cat litter boxes at your local animal shelter, taking part in your town’s annual clean up events or lending a helping hand to a neighbor.

There are a number of organizations that pair adults with youths based on shared interests, goals, educational needs or career development, so becoming a mentor might be right for you. Research

shows mentees have increased confidence and improved behavior – including getting along better with their peers – and their grades go up. If you want a more personal versus professionalstyle relationship with a younger person, perhaps being a Big Brother or Sister is for you. A “Big” hangs out with a “Little” two to three times a month doing ordinary things like going to the movies or sporting events, having dinner out or helping with homework.

Share Your Passion, Find Your Joy

Some people who dedicate themselves to a cause go all-in, such as mission organizations, which quite often require people to serve in another state or country. Along with promoting their faith, missionaries help communities with education, social justice issues and economic development.

However, not all work abroad is faith-based and mission-led. Many organizations require volunteers in the medical, educational and construction fields to help with disaster relief or aid third-world countries. If there’s a cause you’re passionate about,

become one of its greatest advocates. If your strength is getting people to write big checks, then utilize that skill for an organization or cause you believe in. Perhaps you’re better at public speaking and educating – make that your not-for-profit superpower.

Bigger Commitments, Bigger Rewards

Aiding a cause isn’t the only way to volunteer. Some people are more enthusiastic about their hobbies than their day job and want to share that passion with others, so they teach. Whether it's glassblowing, woodworking, visual arts like painting or sketching, cooking, baking, quilting or dancing, many volunteers teach the skills for free just because they love it.

No matter if you're working with an organization or just helping out a senior neighbor, giving up a few hours of your time volunteering can create a ripple effect that may result in everything from social or policy change, building a stronger community or perhaps even inspiring someone else to get involved. WGW

LocaL Happenings

Domestic Violence Support Group

There is Hope is a support group for women survivors who have dealt with, or are currently dealing with, domestic violence.

This is a private group where women survivors come together and share their personal stories of experience, strength and hope.

This group meets on the first Thursday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at a private location. A ZOOM option is available.

There will be guidance for help and resources available as needed. At times there will also be guest speakers.

Contact hopefulone807@gmail.com for more information and to obtain the privacy contract with the physical address or ZOOM meeting ID and passcode.

Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Groups

Has your life been impacted by the loss of a friend or loved one to suicide? You are not alone. These groups offer peer support for anyone who has been affected by suicide loss. There is no cost to attend.

Group meetings in Carrollton are the third

Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 306A Bradley Street.

For more information, contact Ivey Rollins at iveyrollins@gmail.com or call 470.729.0909.

Group meetings in Douglasville are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 6167 Priestley Mill Rd., Room 226.

For more information, contact Terri Johnson at chose2live@aol.com or 770.765.2181.

Group meetings in Newnan are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Crossroads Church, 2564 Hwy 154.

For more information, contact Lynn Bradley at 770.301.4890 or email nbll.bradley170@gmail.com, or contact Nancy Bradley at 770.251.6216.

PFLAG Carrollton Support Group

PFLAG Carrollton provides a free monthly peer facilitated support group for adult members (ages 18+) of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as their family, friends and allies, as a resource for families struggling with acceptance of their LGBTQ+ loved ones.

The goal is to meet people where they are and lead with love. PFLAG’s mission of support, education and advocacy from a place of love can

help struggling families, as well as the community at large.

Support group meetings (for adults 18+) are led by a PFLAG trained facilitator and held on the second Thursday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Grace Lutheran Church, 101 Somerset Place in Carrollton.

Confidentiality and safety are top priorities. Contact Julia Houser, pflagcarrollton@gmail.com for more information.

Spa 3:16 Recognized Among Top 100 MedSpa Trailblazers in America by RepeatMD

Spa 3:16 is proud to announce its inclusion in RepeatMD's prestigious "Top 100 Trailblazers of 2024" list, securing the impressive rank of number 11. This accolade highlights Spa 3:16's commitment to excellence and innovation in the aesthetic and wellness industry.

RepeatMD, a leading software provider for aesthetic and wellness practices, compiles this annual list to honor medspas that have redefined the patient experience and set new industry standards. The 2024 Trailblazers were recognized for their

record-breaking sales, strategic promotions and exceptional patient engagement during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

“This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional patient experiences while leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionize aesthetic and wellness services,” said Erika Smith, PA-C, Co-Founder and Spa Director of Spa 3:16. “With a strong focus on innovation, we have embraced digital advancements to enhance customer interactions, streamline services, and drive remarkable growth. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to refining our approach, embracing new technologies, and expanding services to meet the evolving needs of our clients.” Ranking #11 out of more than 4,000 medspas

Photo: Allison Key, M.D. left, with Erika Smith, PA-C.

nationwide is a significant milestone for Spa 3:16. The recognition solidifies Spa 3:16’s position as an industry pioneer, reflecting the spa's commitment to delivering outstanding patient experiences, advancing technology and continuously improving services. With this award, Spa 3:16 is ready to continue setting new standards for the future of medspas, while maintaining a focus on growth and providing the highest quality care to its clients.

Spa 3:16 offers a comprehensive range of services, including injectables, skin services, massages and body treatments, all designed to promote the ultimate wellness experience. With locations in Bremen and Carrollton, Spa 3:16 continues to set the standard for excellence in the region.

For more information about Spa 3:16 and its services, please visit spa316.us.

Tanner Medical Center/ Villa Rica Honored for Excellence in Specialty Care by Healthgrades

Tanner Health announced that Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica has achieved accolades for clinical excellence from Healthgrades, the #1 site Americans use when searching for a doctor or hospital. Among the hospital’s distinctions are: two Five Star 2025 Awards, one for Coronary Interventional Procedures and one for Treatment of Heart Attack; and a Coronary Intervention Excellence Award for 2025.

“We are proud to accept these awards, which reflect the quality of care we provide to our coronary patients,” said Loy Howard, president and CEO of Tanner Health. “These awards place Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica in the upper echelon of hospitals for coronary care nationwide and reflect Tanner Health’s system-wide commitment to exceptional cardiovascular care.”

Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica’s achievements are based solely on what matters most: patient outcomes. As part of its 2025 hospital assessment, Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates for over 30 of the most common conditions and procedures at approximately 4,500 hospitals nationwide to determine the top performers in specialty care. By offering easy access to objective performance measures, Healthgrades helps consumers find and select a hospital that excels in providing the care they need.

“These awards validate our approach to interventional cardiovascular care at Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica,” said Shazib Khawaja, M.D., a

board-certified interventional cardiologist and endovascular specialist with Tanner Heart & Vascular Specialists, chief of interventional cardiology, and medical operations leader for Tanner Heart Care. “It also acknowledges the hard work and dedication of our cardiovascular team members in delivering exceptional care to every patient.”

Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica is a 53-bed acute care hospital located in Villa Rica, Ga., serving the residents of Carroll, Douglas and Paulding counties and beyond. Tanner Heart Center, located inside the hospital, is an accredited chest pain center and certified primary stroke center, offering interventional cardiology, and a wide variety of cardiac tests and procedures. Learn more at tanner.org/heart-care.

“Healthgrades commends Tanner Medical Center/ Villa Rica for their clear commitment to delivering consistently superior patient outcomes in critical service areas, including Five Star 2025 Awards for Coronary Interventional Procedures, and Treatment of Heart Attack; and a Coronary Intervention Excellence Award for 2025,” said Brad Bowman, M.D., chief medical officer and head of data science at Healthgrades. “Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica’s leadership, expertise and unwavering dedication to clinical excellence set a high mark for specialty care in Georgia and nationwide.”

Consumers can visit healthgrades.com to learn more about how Healthgrades measures hospital quality and access a patient-friendly overview of how we rate and why hospital quality matters.

Tanner Health staff gathered in Villa Rica to celebrate the three Healthgrades awards won by Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica, including two Five Star 2025 Awards – one for Coronary Interventional Procedures and one for Treatment of Heart Attack – and a 2025 Coronary Intervention Excellence Award. Pictured, left to right, with the awards are: Jerry Morris, MHA, administrator of Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica; Kay Ervin, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, CENP, CEN, nurse executive; Barbara Partridge, ED unit secretary; LaQuinta Grizzard, MSN, RN, vice president of cardiovascular services for Tanner Health; Aimee King, ED nurse manager; Vivian Cheng, MD, interventional cardiologist with Tanner Heart & Vascular Specialists; Rebecca Henry, RN, med-surg/acute cardiac care unit manager; Adecia Pierce, RN, cath lab; Jessalyn Hutchins, RN, cath lab; Jennifer Lankford, RT(R), cath lab special procedures tech; Tim Dollar, RT(R), cath lab special procedures tech; Shazib Khawaja, MD, interventional cardiologist and endovascular specialist with Tanner Heart & Vascular Specialists, chief of interventional cardiology and medical operations leader for Tanner Heart Care; Christopher Arant, MD, interventional cardiologist with Tanner Heart & Vascular Specialists; and (not pictured) Toby Holloman, manager of the Villa Rica cath lab.

SATURDAY, MAY 3

9AM-3PM DOWNTOWN CARROLLTON

CARROLLTONGA.COM/MAYFEST

Join us for an altogether crafty festival full of fun! Browse handmade arts and crafts by hundreds of vendors, located all around our vibrant downtown. Enjoy tasty local eats and explore our unique specialty shops. Stop by The Amp for family-friendly entertainment throughout the day. Mayfest is Carrollton’s most popular festival – come find out why!

You Won’t Get It if You Don’t Ask for It

Female business leaders share advice during panel discussion at University of West Georgia Women Empowering Women Event

Be willing to pivot, be an expert in everything and believe in yourself. Above all, “You won’t get it if you don’t ask for it.” These were the key messages panelists offered the crowd of about 50 female students, recent graduates and entrepreneurs during this year’s Women Empowering Women Symposium, held last month at the University of West Georgia Campus Ballroom in Carrollton, Ga.

The annual event began in 2016 to highlight women’s impact in business, and among this year’s panelists was Jasmine Jones, founder of The Organized Collective. The Atlanta native never set out to become an entrepreneur, and before doing so, she admits to floundering and feeling like a failure – she had three different majors at three different colleges. “I was all over the place," she shared. "I had absolutely no idea what I was

doing. I thought I was going to be in international business. I ended up in journalism. I tried to do (public relations). I didn’t love it. … I thought, what am I doing? I pretty much never wanted to be an entrepreneur, but I just couldn’t hold space in corporate (America). As an African American woman, it just didn’t work for me, and so I had to figure out another path.”

It wasn’t an epiphany or even a mentor who helped Jasmine find her path, but the belief other people had in her. In particular, it was one of her regular customers at Waffle House where she worked as a server while trying to figure out her career path.

“I very vividly remember a customer of mine, her name was Tanya, and she would come in every weekend with her husband," she recalled. "They would order an egg white omelet and BLT."

Photo: University of West Georgia

When Jasmine got her first contract offer, it was for $70,000. She thought that was a lot of money and was eager to sign on the dotted line. But Tanya told her to go back and ask for more. "Honestly, I didn’t even know I could negotiate, so I had nothing to be afraid of at that point," she explained. When she went back for negotiations, the company ended up offering her $90,000. ”I thought, 'If you guys were going to give me $90,000 in the first place, why are we here,'" she said.

Be Ready to Pivot

April Ross, owner of BeeTV33, always thought she would be in front of the camera reporting the news. After graduating from Alabama State University, she worked at a television station, but behind the camera as a production assistant. Not to be dissuaded, April went to work every day in her threepiece suit, hoping for her big break.

She was even mentored by one of the station’s on-air anchors so when a spot in front of the camera became available, she’d be ready. An on-air job did open up, but April was told to stay behind the camera. Instead, she quit and started using her beat-up iPhone 6 to livestream local news events on Facebook.

April gained a large following, and one contact led to another. “Now they’re not laughing because I didn’t work on television – I own it.” she exclaimed. April is the first Black woman to own a television station in the state of Georgia.

Jasmine and April weren’t the only panelists to unexpectedly change course. Tanner Health's Vice President of Marketing, Strategy and Planning Kelly Meigs started in graphic design and initially took a job she thought would be perfect for her. After a week, she realized it was anything but, so she left and found herself at Tanner Health System – where she has devoted the last 23 years.

Southwire’s Inclusion Manager Paige Watterson also made a hard pivot after realizing her dream job of being a television sports reporter wasn’t for her.

Angela Brooks Dailey planned on spending her entire professional career in the banking industry until one day, after devoting 15 years of her life to the company, she was told to pack up her desk and leave. The single mother left that day knowing she still had two kids to support, no job and no health insurance for herself or her children.

It took her nine months to find a job making half of what she was making before. During those nine months of constantly looking for employment, she fell into a deep depression.

Thinking back on the vindictive people who set her up and caused her to lose her job, she vowed she would never devote her life to a corporation again – unless it was her own company. This led her to create West Georgia Woman magazine a decade ago. “I didn’t see it then, but now I know that was the best thing that could have ever happened to me,” she recalled. "No matter how hard you work, sometimes things might happen to you that aren't your fault. Never give up. The best revenge is a life well-lived."

The very qualities Kelsey Matthews was hired for would be the very same reasons she’d get in “trouble.” While in the communications department of the University of West Georgia, she was taught to push the envelope. But in corporate America, despite being initially lauded for pushing boundaries “Now, you’re the outcast … (and) you’re not being celebrated for it,” Kelsey noted. She has since moved on and founded Kelsey & Company.

When the panel was asked if there was one thing they would tell their younger selves, Jasmine summed it up this way: “You did it. … (the path) may not look like you think, but it was exactly what it was supposed to be … (and) you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.” WGW

Kids Korner

Chick Party Hat

Materials

Yellow construction paper

Glue stick or stapler

Scissors (not pictured)

Feather

Black and orange marker

Instructions

Roll a piece of construction paper into a cone. Next, glue or staple it together.

Trim the bottom edge to make it even so it can rest on a flat surface.

Glue a feather to the top of the hat. Decorate as desired.

Optional: Glue or staple each side of a cut rubber band to the inside of the hat on both sides to hold hat in place.

Jordan Dailey
Craft photos by Zachary Dailey

Flower Hand Magnet

Materials

Construction paper (colors of your choice)

Clothespin

Popsicle stick

Glue stick

Green marker or paint

Scissors (not pictured)

Magnet

Instructions

Paint the popsicle stick and the clothespin green.

Allow to dry.

Glue the popsicle stick to one side of a clothespin.

Draw an outline of your child's hand on the construction paper and cut it out.

Cut leaves out of green construction paper.

Glue the the hand cutout to the top of the popsicle stick. Glue the leaves in the desired location.

Glue a magnet to the back. WGW

Please Help Us Build a Memorial Bench for Dr. Fred Richards

Sculptor Kevin Shunn will be creating a bronze memorial statue of Fred with a bench.

The Carrollton Fraternal Order of Police is collecting donations through its Barry Carroll Foundation for this project.

If you wish to donate to Fred's legacy project, please make your check payable to the Barry Carroll Foundation, with "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the memo line.

Checks can be dropped off at the City of Carrollton Police Department or mailed to:

Barry Carroll Foundation c/o Chief Joel Richards, 115 W. Center St., Carrollton, Ga. 30117.

Or, you may donate through PayPal or Venmo using the QR codes on the left. Please reference the "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the "for" section.

Spring Word Search

Join Tanner Health Where Care Meets

Career!

At Tanner Health — one of the largest employers in west Georgia and east Alabama — we’re committed to empowering our team of more than 4,500 professionals to grow, thrive and make a lasting impact on patients' lives. Whether you're just starting your career or ready for the next step, we’re the place where you can achieve both personal and professional success.

We have openings across a variety of roles, including:

• Nursing (RN, LPN, CMA)

• Respiratory therapy

• Radiology

• Housekeeping

• Food and nutrition services

• Safety and security

• Information technology

• Behavioral health

• Physical and occupation therapy

• And more!

Why Choose Tanner Health?

• Work-life balance

• 401(k) with employer match

• Career planning and development

• Leadership support

• Relocation bonuses

Make a Difference. Build Your Career.

Come find a place where your skills, dedication and compassion are valued. Ready to take the next step in your career?

Visit careers.tanner.org to apply and #ExperienceTanner for yourself.

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