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School's Out for Summer The school year has finally come to an end and summer is here. I'm so happy to have my daughter, Sydney, home for a few months. She enjoyed her first year of college, but she's also thankful for a little break from the daily grind. What are your plans for summer vacation? Are you taking a trip to the beach, having a "staycation" or visiting friends and family out of town? Whatever your plans, I hope you have time to relax and take care of yourself. In This Issue Our cover feature this month is Newnan, Ga., resident, Cynthia Jenkins. Cynthia is a member of the Newnan City Council and Mayor Pro Tempore of Newnan. An incredibly intelligent woman, Cynthia graduated with a degree in architecture from the Georgia Institute of Technology. Along with her service to the City of Newnan, Cynthia is the CEO of Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity. Read more about Cynthia and how she is helping revitalize her hometown of Newnan on page 10. Would you like a chance to win one of three VISA gift cards and help us improve West Georgia Woman magazine? Please complete our short reader survey on page 22. One lucky reader will win a $100 VISA gift card and two more readers Photo by Zachary Dailey will win a $50 VISA gift card. Please give us your honest feedback. We want to know what you think! If you don't want to mail the survey, please go to our website, www.westgeorgiawoman.com, and complete the survey online to be entered into the drawing. Better hurry, the deadline for submissions is June 15. Thank you so much for your help! Do you experience debilitating anxiety? Do you know the difference between healthy and unhealthy anxiety? Find out more about this condition and what you can do to manage it on page 27. Twelve years ago, Connie Lloyd Hannah had a dream of starting her own bridal and formalwear business. With the help of her mother, Nancy Arthur Lloyd, she was able to make that dream a reality. They opened Simple Elegance Bridal and Formalwear on June 7, 2007, and brides from all over West Georgia and beyond visit their boutique for the perfect wedding dress, bridesmaid gowns, tuxedos and more. Find out more about Connie and Nancy and help us celebrate Connie's success on page 35. We look forward to providing this complimentary publication for you every month, but we can't do this without our valuable advertising partners. Please do business with our advertisers and tell them how much you appreciate them supporting all of our publications so we can continue providing you with West Georgia Woman magazine. Thank you for reading! See you next month,
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Volume 4 • Issue 8 June 2019
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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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By Janet Flanigan 10 by Mark Steffey Photos
Building Bridges
Councilwoman and Mayor Pro Tempore Cynthia Jenkins is Working to Revitalize Her Community in Newnan, Ga. 11
M
ost-13-year-old girls do not keep their own day planner to organize a busy schedule, but Cynthia Jenkins was no ordinary 13-year-old. Her schedule was packed with academic and extracurricular activities in elementary and middle school, and she began keeping a planner on the advice of her mother, Annie Pearl. “My mother basically gave me a planner and told me I was in charge of keeping my schedule," she explains. "She did this because she wanted me to keep myself organized, but also to teach me personal responsibility." As CEO of Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity, a Newnan City Councilwoman and Newnan’s Mayor Pro Tempore, she continues to put those early learned organizational skills to good use on a daily basis.
Deep Roots in Coweta County Cynthia says her parents were exceptional role models for her and her sister, Angelyn. She learned early on that personal success is important, but a life lived in service to others should be the ultimate goal. "My sister and I were so lucky to be born into our family," she shares. "We had a very stable home life, with supportive parents." Her parents were both raised in Newnan; Curtis was born in the Chalk Level neighborhood, but grew up on Turkey Creek Road, and Annie grew up on Lower Fayetteville Road. They graduated from Newnan’s Central High School, which opened
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in 1954 and served black students in Coweta County. In 1970, Central and Newnan High School integrated to become united as Newnan High School. “My dad's parents moved back to Chalk Level in the 1960s, and visiting them in that community my whole life has influenced the direction I decided to take,” she says. Cynthia purchased her grandparents' home and lives in Chalk Level today. Sadly, her sister, Angelyn, passed away much too early. "When she developed colon cancer in the early 2000s, my entire family was there for her treatment," she shares. “My parents, and my mother in particular, were my sister’s caregivers during her cancer until her death in 2003. I know first-hand the benefits of a loving, stable family and positive community experience. In modeling my parents, I seek to help others reach for the same goals.”
Career Goals
Cynthia, right, with her mom, Annie Pearl Jenkins. Photo: Facebook
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East Coweta High School is Cynthia's alma mater – she graduated in 1993 – and as a student she rode to school each day with her father. “That driving time together was special," she relates. "It gave us time to talk about my hopes for my future."
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"I know first-hand the benefits of a loving, stable family and positive community experience. In modeling my parents, I seek to help others reach for the same goals."
Georgia Tech, and made plans to go there. In fact, Mr. Headley took me on my only other college tour to Auburn. He took me, along with his youngest son, Luke, and another student, Drew Cronic. Mr. Headley showed faith in both of us and we appreciated it, but I knew Tech was where I wanted to go.
College Life After graduating high school, Cynthia majored in architecture at Georgia Tech and participated as a Yellow Jackets cheerleader. She was also a recipient of the Hope Scholarship in the first year of its availability to Georgia residents. “I loved architecture at Tech and did several internships while there, which helped me formulate a starting plan of where I wanted to go with my career,” she says. Her internships included Harrison Architects in Newnan; Dana, Larson and Roubal and Associates in Kansas; and R.L. Brown and Associates in Decatur, Ga. “My internship for the summer and first semester of my senior year was with R.L. Brown and Associates," she says. "Mr. Brown was a real mentor to me, and he has a real mind for business. Their firm is a mid-sized one, focusing primarily on school design.” Near the end of her senior year, Cynthia took classes for the city planning portion of her program. “I visited different neighborhoods in Atlanta and for
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the first time, I learned about gentrification and revitalization of neighborhoods," she says. Gentrification is the process of renovating and improving a house or district so that it conforms to middle-class taste. "I started thinking of my own community and where my parents and grandparents lived and how this could affect where they live. I suddenly realized, 'This is where I am meant to be, helping revitalize communities.'" For her final senior project, Cynthia worked with the Tyler Place Community Development organization on a community development project for the Vine City neighborhood in Atlanta. “My plan should have been done in a quarter," she exclaims. "I got so involved with it, I ended up working on it for a year!” Rather than seeking gentrification that may price current residents out of their neighborhoods, Tyler Place is a non-profit organization that uses grants, HUD loans and other funds raised to purchase blighted or vacant homes and lots in specific neighborhoods for redevelopment. The locals are offered low-interest home loans, which helps keep existing residents in their neighborhoods, provides pride of place and potential community development opportunities. Upon graduation from college, Cynthia was offered a position as a fellow with the Atlanta Neighborhood Development Partnership to work on the Reynoldstown Revitalization Corporation. Fellows and fellowships are generally short-term work experiences, designed to focus on the professional development of the fellow and are sponsored by specific organizations to expand leadership in their field. “As a Fellow, I was fortunate to work with Mr. Young Hughley, who is very well respected in the Atlanta neighborhood development community," she relates. "I feel like all of these opportunities eventually led me to Habitat for Humanity and running for City Council. But, as much as anything, I think my parents were instrumental to my success, as well as much prayer for guidance."
Bringing it Home After working with Tyler Place, Cynthia had a desire to reinvest in her own community of Newnan. Her initial inclination was to start a non-
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profit similar to Tyler Place. “I looked around my own neighborhood and saw people who needed help,” she says. “I realized that while the plan was good, we did not have the financial resources to carry it out. Everything had to go through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs instead of HUD, and that meant that our program was also competing with every other non-profit redevelopment project in the state.” In 2007, Cynthia started her own construction company focusing on architectural design, project management and flat work, that includes pavement, concrete floors, sidewalks and driveways. “I applied for and received the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification," she shares. The primary goal and objective of the DBE is to level the playing field by providing small businesses that are owned and operated by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals the opportunity to fairly compete for federally funded contracts. She was in business for about 10 years, and during that time she was continually educated to the myriad needs in the community. In 2017, Cynthia was interested in returning to the nonprofit sector and closed her business to search for opportunities in that field. She soon began working as CEO of Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity in Jonesboro, Ga.
Delving into Politics Near Cynthia's home, there is a public housing development, and many of the residents have to walk around town. “Every day, I looked in front of my house and saw mothers pushing strollers in the street," she recalls. "People were carrying groceries, walking in the roadway rather than on a sidewalk, because there were no sidewalks. I decided to attend the next public City Council meeting. I met the city manager there, and that was the beginning." Thanks to Cynthia's efforts, the City Council added sidewalks for her neighborhood to the budget. With her community development experience, she was tapped to be on the Steering Committee for the proposed Coweta campus for the Central Education Center (CEC). The CEC is Georgia's model for seamless integration of high school and technical college to ensure a viable workforce for the 21st Century. “My aunt was also participating and was asked to be a neighborhood representative," she shares. "She passed away unexpectedly, and later, I was asked to take her place and was put on the buildings
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623 DIXIE STREET – CARROLLTON, GA and grounds committee. I had input on the physical structures, but also recommended the campus maintain the green space out front. The plan was approved to build wings off the side and back to maintain the grassy area in the front. "That was great, but it was also so gratifying to meet so many citizens who know and respect my parents," she relates. In 2004, Cynthia decided to run for an open seat on the City Council. For help with running her campaign, Cynthia turned to a local veteran of the political scene. “Loula Davenport was the longtime constituent coordinator for then congressmen, Newt Gingrich and Johnny Isakson," she relates. "She knew how to get things done and had known me since I was a little girl. She graciously agreed to serve as my campaign manager." Cynthia also had a large group of volunteers who knocked on doors to obtain votes. In the next election, she was elected District C city councilwoman.
Her Work As a city council member, Cynthia has championed youth participation in the governing process by spearheading the formation of the Newnan Youth City Council; worked to enroll
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Newnan as a participant in the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing, which led to the creation of the Urban Redevelopment Plan that will facilitate more opportunities for affordable housing in Newnan; and assisted the Chalk Level Community with a property purchase to build a community recreation center for citizens on Newnan’s Women’s Auto Clinic. East side. Women’s Concierge Service. "The Howard Warner Community Center took 14 years of hard work but was worth it,” she 770.832.9465 exclaims. One of her proudest accomplishments in 134 Bankhead Ave., Carrollton public service has been www.lamberttirecompany.com her leadership in last year’s unity events that were held in response to a public gathering held by Neo-Nazis from out of state. Newnan’s government did not have the legal authority to deny their application, so there was a question of how the city and county government would respond. Cynthia, along with other members of the community, was instrumental in the organization of a weekend of events that brought the community together to send a message of love, unity and acceptance.
Mayor Keith Brady, Cynthia and other Newnan City Council Members address a constituent during a City Council meeting.
A Friday afternoon community block party around the square was organized by Newnan’s downtown merchants; “Newnan Strong” t-shirts and other items were distributed over the weekend; Kingdom Connected Ministries International and Ignite the Fire (Summit Ministries) organized two community prayer services, including one at Greenville Street Park on Friday night – the location where the NeoNazi’s were to hold their Saturday gathering; and Backstreet Arts gave chalk to the public to create chalk art on the hard surfaces of the park. Hearts, rainbows, peace signs and crosses covered the park concrete and brick, signifying unity and Newnan's determination to fight hate and promote love, and many members of the community joined Cynthia for the Saturday unity service she organized. "Cliff Fisher, who was a member of the Newnan Youth Council in 2017 and is a current student at Clark Atlanta University, organized a counter protest," she says. "He had a very organized plan that taught protesters what to do when going through the checkpoints, how to respond to law enforcement requests, and he led the chants. He did a wonderful job." Her work as CEO with Southern Crescent Habitat for Humanity utilizes her past experience with construction, architecture, planning, neighborhood revitalization and home ownership in underserved communities. She has plans to move Southern Crescent firmly into the future with a strong vision and Eleven graduating senior members of the Newnan Youth City Council rebranding for the chapter. were recognized during the City Council meeting on April 23. Many people are aware of Habitat Photo: City of Newnan.
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pest control; decorating on a budget; cooking classes; computer classes and internet safety; back to school safety; record keeping and paper management; wills and estate planning and more. Cynthia has seen Habitat change lives. “At Southern Crescent, we have a homeowner who, as a single mother, raised her children while working for Christian City for years and cleaning the Habitat facility," she shares. "She taught her children personal growth and goalsetting. We were thrilled to recently celebrate with her when one of her daughters was inducted to the Georgia Bar Association as a lawyer. That is why I do it.” As if Cynthia’s participation on the City Council and her work with Southern Crescent were not enough, she also serves as Newnan’s Mayor Pro Tempore. The Mayor Pro Tempore serves as acting mayor for any events or document signings should the Mayor be unavailable. She also completed her master's degree in management and leadership from Western Governor's University last month, completing the two-year program in only nine months.“I chose Western Governor’s University for my advanced degree,” she says. “I researched lots of schools and first heard about Western Governor's in an article
in ‘Forbes Magazine.' It offered me the flexibility to complete the degree on my time and I was allowed to test out of certain requirements based on work experience. Tuition is calculated by semester rather than by the number of classes so it was more affordable as I could take more classes per semester to finish early.” Cynthia does enjoy activities outside of her work and civic responsibilities. “One hobby that surprises a lot of people is that I love to shoot sporting clays," she says. "Since I didn’t have any brothers and I’m really a country girl, my dad taught me how to shoot a shotgun. However, he is still an old school gentleman and he will not take me hunting." She enjoys action and superhero movies as well as reading and listening to audio books while driving in her car. She is very active in her church, St. Smyrna Baptist, and carves out prayer time each day. “In the car on the way to work, I pray specifically for the work day ahead, for the staff and for our homeowners," she shares. "At night, I pray for personal concerns on my mind.”
Photo: Facebook
Last month, Cynthia completed her master's degree in management and leadership from Western Governor's University. She completed the two-year master's program in only nine months.
Community Admiration
Future Plans
She rounds out her accomplishments with accolades from numerous professional and community organizations. In 2001, she was named ‘Professional Woman of the Year’ by the Coweta Chapter of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc.; the ‘Unsung Hero’ recipient by the Coweta Press Club in 2003; ‘Coweta Citizen of the Year’ in 2004 by Omega Phi Psi Fraternity; was selected by U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson to lead the African American Leadership Summit in 2006; named to Leadership Georgia class of 2007; and named ‘Coweta Woman of the Year’ in 2018 by the Coweta Community Foundation.
Though she's never been married, Cynthia has decided the time is right for her to start a family and has begun the adoption process. “I am ready for children, and even though I don’t have a husband, I hope I will be a good mother," she relates. "I would like to adopt two boys – an infant and an older brother." She explains that she would prefer to adopt black boys because there are so many who need a loving home and, statistically, they are harder to place. She is certainly open to finding a loving partner to share her life with in the future but is not waiting on that to create the life she wants now. However the future unfolds for Cynthia, she knows she is right where she is meant to be in her hometown of Newnan. Her unique ability to see the greatest needs and set plans into action to meet those needs means her community can continue to grow and improve, revitalized and rejuvenated. WGW
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To learn more about Cynthia Jenkins, call 678.953.7451, email her at cjenkins@cityofnewnan.org or visit the City of Newnan website at www.cityofnewnan.org 21
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Daily Fare With
e s o R f e Ch
Chef photos by Keith May.
Rose Isaacs is a native of Carroll County and lives in Carrollton with her husband Shawn. 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.
24Recipe photos by Mark Steffey.
�Make use of all the wonderful blueberries blossoming into season this month with a very rich but fresh-tasting pound cake.�
Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Ingredients
3 sticks butter, room temperature 8-ounce cream cheese, room temperature 3 cups sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon lemon extract 6 eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 dash of salt Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries For the glaze 1 cup powdered sugar 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Preparation Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a bundt pan and set
aside. With a stand or handheld electric mixer, cream the butter and cream cheese for 2 to 3 minutes on medium speed. Gradually add sugar and mix until fully combined. Add salt, lemon zest, lemon and vanilla extracts and mix well, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally. Alternately add eggs and flour in batches, ending with flour. In a separate bowl, toss blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour, then fold into pound cake batter. Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and bake 1 to 2 hours or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before applying glaze.
For the glaze Mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until the consistency is pourable. Drizzle glaze over cooled cake. Serves 8 to 10.
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This steak is great inside tacos and "pairs well with grilled corn or a fresh salad. Dad will love being treated to a nice juicy steak for Father s day.
'
"
Coffee Marinated Skirt Steak
Ingredients
1 small shallot, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 cup strong coffee, room temperature 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed) 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1 1/2 pounds skirt steak 26
Kosher salt
Preparation
In a medium bowl, whisk together shallot, garlic, coffee, vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, oil and pepper. Pour marinade into a resealable bag and add steak. Allow steak to marinate 1 hour to overnight in the refrigerator. Heat a grill to medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade, season with salt and pepper and grill 8 to 10 minutes for medium rare. Allow steak to rest 10 minutes before slicing into thin slices. Serves 4. WGW
Why Worry? How to Deal With Anxiety
A
nxiety is a feeling of nervousness, fear or worry about a situation or event. A normal reaction to stressful situations, anxiety can actually help you stay alert so you can cope with challenging events, such as experiencing a difficult situation in the workplace, maintaining your focus during an important presentation or speech and helping you study for exams. It is normal to have bouts of healthy anxiety to help you cope. But if it interferes with your normal, day-to-day activities or your life outside of those stressful situations, anxiety can be disabling. Dreading nonthreatening activities such as talking to your neighbor, going to the grocery store, walking your kids to the bus stop, talking to your coworker or experiencing sudden bouts of dread, terror or panic when there is no obvious threat are all examples of non-healthy anxiety. It is also common to experience physical symptoms of anxiety, such as upset stomach, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, rapid heart rate, hot flashes, sweating, shaking, chest pain, restlessness or nausea. Although every anxiety disorder has different symptoms, they all involve dread or fear about what may happen now or in the
future. Long-term anxiety can increase the risk of devoloping chronic medical conditions and can have an affect on other common physical health issues in women.
Health Issues Affected by Anxiety • Depression. Anxiety disorders often go hand-in-hand with depression. A combination of treatments may be required, such as medication and counseling. • Asthma. Studies have shown that asthma has been linked to anxiety disorders. Anxiety or stress can trigger an asthma attack, and the wheezing and shortness of breath from an asthma attack can cause anxiety. • Chronic Pain. Women who suffer from certain diseases that cause chronic pain, such as migraines, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, are often diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). People who suffer from IBS are often diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. IBS symptoms are common with people who have an anxiety
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disorder. Excessive worry makes IBS symptoms such as gas or an upset stomach worse, and the stress caused by IBS symptoms can, in return, make the anxiety symptoms worse. It is important to treat both of these conditions, although some treatments for IBS do seem to help with the treatment of anxiety. • Cardiovascular Disease. Anxiety has been shown to impede recovery from a stroke or heart attack, and anxiety and depression increase the risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the number one cause of death for women in the U.S. Anxiety disorders are diagnosed if the anxiety has lasted six months or longer, if it interferes with work, family, social or other aspects of day-to-day life or when dread or fear becomes uncontrollable and is present during nonthreatening situations. Treatment for anxiety disorders depends on your personal health problems, the type of anxiety disorder you have and your personal history of abuse or violence. Anxiety is highly treatable. Treatment often includes medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. All medications have risks involved, so you should talk with your healthcare provider to discuss the benefits and risks.
Medications that Treat Anxiety • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). People who take MAOIs must avoid certain drinks and foods that contain the amino acid, tyramine such as red wine, cheddar or Parmesan cheese. Eating these foods while taking an MAOI can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure levels. Women who take MAOIs must also avoid certain medications, such as some types of pain relievers, birth control pills and allergy and cold medications. • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs increase the amount of serotonin in the brain to help brain cells communicate with one another. The most common side effects of SSRIs include lack of sexual desire, insomnia, stomach issues or sedation. • Tricyclics. Tricylics work like SSRIs, but they can cause more side effects. Tricyclics may cause weight gain, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation or dry mouth. • Beta blockers. These medications can help
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prevent the physical symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as sweating, shaking or trembling. • Antianxiety (benzodiazepines). These medications are very addictive and are normally prescribed for only short periods of time. Withdrawal symptoms can occur when discontinuing this medication too quickly.
Just Want to Feel Better? You’re Not Alone.
Alternative Treatment Options • Meditation. Regular meditation may help symptoms of anxiety by boosting the activity in the part of your brain that is responsible for feelings of happiness and serenity. • Psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy commonly used for anxiety disorders. CBT helps you change your thinking patterns around your fears, and may help change how you react to stressful situations that create anxiety. Some CBT strategies include problem solving and relaxation therapy. You can speak with a counselor, psychiatrist, social worker or psychologist. • Physical Exercise. Multiple studies have shown that all types of regular, physical activity can help minimize anxiety, because it raises the level of brain chemicals that control mood and affect depression and anxiety. Even Tai Chi and yoga are effective at reducing anxiety. • Cannabidiol (CBD) oil. This is a derivative of the cannabis, or marijuana plant. CBD oil does not contain the chemical THC that causes a "high," unlike other forms of marijuana. CBD
Individual Therapy • Family Therapy Group Therapy
678.754.5840 Cheryl A. Francis LPC, CPCS Certified MHFA Instructor
5000 Austell Powder Springs Rd Suite 222 • Austell, Ga.
cheryl@heartmatterswellness.com oil is easily available and does not require a prescription, but it does have an adverse affect on some medications. Preliminary studies suggest that CBD oil has a significant capability to reduce the symptoms of panic and anxiety. • Caring for Pets. The benefits of owning a pet can be great for people suffering from anxiety. Pets offer support, companionship and unconditional love, and spending time with animals can also reduce stress and anxiety that is associated with traumatic experiences. It seems that pets don't have to be furry for people to receive the benefits, either. A 2015 study on geriatric depression showed that elderly people who were asked to care for crickets for eight weeks experienced a positive effect in cognitive function and depression.
Always consult with your doctor about any treatment options you may be considering. Although CBD oil is a derivative of the marijuana plant, it does not Although the fear of the unknown can be scary, contain the chemical, THC, that is responsible for causing a "high." you don't have to allow anxiety to control your CBD oil is easily available and does not require a prescription, but life. Anxiety disorders often respond very well to it does have an adverse affect on some medications. Preliminary treatment, and the majority of people who receive studies suggest that CBD oil has a significant capability to reduce treatment are able to recover well and enjoy a the symptoms of panic and anxiety. good quality of life again. WGW Photo taken at Spa 3:16 in Bremen, Ga. Photo by Zachary Dailey.
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Womentality
Inspiring quotes by extraordinary women
Photo by Thomas Engstrom/Gamma Liaison
“I have only to break into the tightness of a strawberry, and I see summer – its dust and lowering skies.”
– Toni Morrison
“Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August.” – Jenny Han
“I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where it was always June.” – L. M. Montgomery
“Summer bachelors, like summer breezes, are never as cool as they pretend to be.” – Nora Ephron
“Summer, after all, is a time when wonderful things can happen to quiet people. For
those few months, you're not required to be who everyone thinks you are, and that cut-grass smell in the air and the chance to dive into the deep end of a pool give you a courage you don't have the rest of the year. You can be grateful and easy, with no eyes on you, and no past. Summer just opens the door and lets you out.” – Deb Caletti 30
Local Happenings
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 WellStar Douglas Hospital, 8954 Hospital Dr. in Douglasville, in the Sycamore Room from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. This program is open to all girls ages 10 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
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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.
Carroll EMC Spring Agribusiness Seminar Focuses on Veteran Therapy
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.
GriefShare at Tabernacle Baptist Church Utilizing a video seminar, support group and workbook, each of the 13 weekly GriefShare meetings center around a topic important to the grief recovery process. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., and the meetings run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. each evening. Meetings are held at 150 Tabernacle Drive, Room 256, Carrollton, Ga. Classes are free. Participation workbooks are $15. For more information on GriefShare, call or text John Pearson at 404.368.2746.
DivorceCare at Tabernacle Baptist Church Utilizing a video seminar, support group, and workbook, each of the 13 weekly DivorceCare meetings center around a topic important to your recovery process. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., and the meetings run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. each evening. Meetings are held at 150 Tabernacle Drive, Room 260, Carrollton, Ga. Classes are free. Participation workbooks are $15. For more information on DivorceCare, call or text John Pearson at 404.368.2746.
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U.S. Army Veteran Jon Jackson was the keynote speaker at the 2019 Spring Ag Seminar. Photo by Carroll EMC.
Carroll EMC hosted its spring Agribusiness Seminar April 8 at City Station. The bi-annual seminar is known for bringing together individuals and groups in the agricultural community from across the state. More than 200 farmers, National FFA Organization students, associations, business leaders and elected officials were represented and in attendance at the spring event. U.S. Army Veteran, Jon Jackson was the featured speaker. After serving two combat tours in Iraq and four in Afghanistan, Jackson was released from service due to combat injuries and came back now battling depression. He then developed the idea of using farming to help him and other military veterans recover from the trauma of combat. “You can actually take your trauma and do good. You can take your trauma and be better than you were before,” said Jackson. “Our growth is on the other side of comfort. That’s the message to our vets.” Jackson created Comfort Farms located in Milledgeville, Ga. The farm prepares veterans and students for careers in sustainable food production that integrates economic profitability, environmental stewardship and healing through the use of Agritherapy and time-tested natural approaches. Comfort Farms has educated and assisted more than 3,000 veterans since 2016. “The military conditions civilians to be soldiers and the farm conditions soldiers back to being civilians,” said Jackson. 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 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.
NG Turf Farm Day Hosts Over 500 Local Students
City of Carrollton Proclaims Art Takeover Day
On May 14, more than 500 pre-K through second grade students joined NG Turf in Whitesburg, Ga., for their 2019 Farm Day. Students from Whitesburg and Roopville Elementary Schools in Carroll County learned about several aspects of farming, including how cows are used for more than just milk and food. The UGA Cooperative Extension brought two calves for the students to touch and volunteers from Carroll EMC taught electricity safety and showed students how Carroll EMC works to help keep farm workers safe. NG Turf President Mark McWhorter showed the students how NG Turf grows and harvests sod and how they keep their grass green and healthy. Currently, only two schools take part in NG Turf Farm Day, but the goal is to grow the program to accomodate several more in the future. For more information on NG Turf's Annual Farm Day, contact Kim MacColeman, marketing director, at 770.832.8608 Ext. 204 or email kim@ngturf.com.
On May 6, the Carrollton Mayor and City Council issued Resolution 11-2019 declaring the last Thursday of March of each year to be recognized as “Art Takeover Day” in the City of Carrollton. Michael and Andrea Stone received the resolution on behalf of the Art Takeover Committee. The Stones' vision for this event began in 2016 and has led to the success of this event today. Michael, local business owner of Milestone Investment Management LLC, wanted to promote businesses in the Downtown Carrollton Main Street program. Andrea is a retired art educator who wanted to engage and connect local Carrollton Artist Guild members and artists from the University of West Georgia. This year, over 35 host locations in and around Adamson Square featured artists and musicians during a festive evening celebrating the arts and the uniqueness of Carrollton’s downtown business district. “Your Art Takeover has captured hearts and minds," Pauline Gagnon, dean of the UWG College of Arts and Humanities (COAH) is quoted as saying to the Stones. "It has become truly the quintessential Carrollton and COAH event. It captures what is so, so great about our wonderful town: our square, its history, the merchants and the myriad of superb artists we nurture.”
The UGA Cooperative Extension brought two calves for the students to touch at NG Turf Farm Day. Photo by NG Turf.
Volunteers from Carroll EMC taught electricity safety and showed students how Carroll EMC works to help keep farm workers safe. Photo by NG Turf.
Michael and Andrea Stone received Resolution 11-2019 from the City of Carrollton on behalf of the Art Takeover Committee. The Stones' vision for this event began in 2016 and has led to its success today. Photo by Zachary Dailey.
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Country superstar Craig Morgan will perform at the West Georgia Technical College Foundation’s annual Black Tie and Boots event on Saturday, Aug. 3. Photo by Christopher T. Martin.
Craig Morgan Appearing at Black Tie and Boots 2019 The West Georgia Technical College Foundation has announced that country music superstar and Army veteran Craig Morgan will perform at its annual Black Tie & Boots concert Aug. 3, 2019 at the WGTC Murphy Campus in Waco. Craig Morgan joins the long and star-studded list of country music performers who have graced the Murphy Campus stage, including Blake Shelton, Little Big Town, Wynonna & the Big Noise and last year’s performer, Lonestar. Craig Morgan, a multi-faceted entertainer, has made a name for himself as a country music icon, TV personality, celebrated outdoorsman and patriotic U.S. Army veteran. Morgan has chartered 25 songs on Billboard and thrills massive crowds with signature hits including “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “International Harvester,” “This Ole Boy,” “Wake Up Loving You,” and fourweek number one hit, “That’s What I Love About Sunday.” Besides boasting a talented headliner, Black Tie & Boots offers guests the opportunity to support WGTC Foundation while enjoying dinner, drinks and dancing. All proceeds of the event benefit WGTC Foundation’s mission that includes providing for its gap funding program, need-based student scholarships and general support to West Georgia Technical College. Opportunities for partnership, some of which include reserved tables and a VIP Meet & Greet reception with Craig Morgan, are now available. WGTC President Dr. Scott Rule said he’s thankful for the continued support that has made Black Tie & Boots a community favorite over the past 17 years. Last year was the most profitable Black Tie & Boots event to date, with over $60,000 in support provided
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to the WGTC Foundation. “West Georgia Tech is so fortunate to have such influential community and business leaders as advocates and supporters,” Rule said. “We work every day to ensure we are preparing tomorrow’s skilled employees to meet the needs of these businesses and industries. Black Tie & Boots, our signature annual gala, is one way for us to recognize and thank them for that support. With food, music, and fellowship, it’s a great time for everyone.” For more information about the event, please contact WGTC Foundation Executive Director Kelsey Jones at kelsey.jones@westgatech.edu or 404.807.2038. More information is available online at www.westgatech.edu/black-tie-boots.
West Georgia Technical College, with campuses in Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Haralson and Troup counties and class sites in Heard and Meriwether counties, offers more than 120 associate degree, diploma and technical certificate programs of study. A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, West Georgia Tech is the third-largest of the state’s 22 technical colleges. For more information, please visit westgatech.edu. Craig Morgan is a proud member of the Grand Ole Opry, a recipient of the Army’s Outstanding Civilian Service Medal, an Army veteran with 17 years of service, a multi-faceted artist with 25 songs charted on Billboard, and the owner of The Gallery at Morgan Farms in his hometown of Dickson, TN. For more information, please visit www.craigmorgan.com.
Carroll County Child Advocacy Center Surpasses Goal
The Carroll County Child Advocacy Center was recognized for training 10 percent of Carroll County's adult population through their Darkness to Light Stewards of Children training program.
The Carroll County Child Advocacy Center is part of a statewide network whose goal is to teach adults how to prevent, recognize and appropriately respond to child sexual abuse through their Darkness to Light Stewards of Children training program (D2L SOC). The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy in Atlanta heads this initiative for the state of Georgia. The initial goal is for each county in Georgia to train 5 percent of their adult population. Carroll County surpassed the initial goal and met the next level by training 10 percent of the adult population. Carroll County is the third and largest populated county in Georgia to reach this goal. For more information, or to schedule a D2L SOC training session for yourself, your business or employees, visit www.cc-cac.org. These training sessions are provided free of charge to adults in Carroll, Haralson and Heard Counties.
Est. 2007
Celebrate
Photos by Zachary Dailey
HER SUCCESS 35
S
ometimes there’s more to a family than birthday celebrations, graduations and Thanksgiving dinner. And just sometimes, a family can unite in such a way that they create a legacy they never expected. That’s what Connie Lloyd Hannah and her mother, Nancy Arthur Lloyd, have done over the last 12 years with their business, Simple Elegance Bridal and Formalwear in Bowdon, Ga.
Fulfilling a Dream A Bowdon native and a graduate of the University of West Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in criminology, Connie is married to Neal Hannah and has two children, Brody, 11, and Lillian, 5. While Connie worked as a victim advocate at the Carroll County District Attorney's office and raised her family, Nancy played an integral part in helping her daughter fulfill her dream of owning a full-service bridal salon. “Since we opened the shop, my mom has always said this was my dream and she is living it,” Connie says. “My mom is the reason we are still open 12 years later. She has managed the day to day
Connie, left, with her mother, Nancy.
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operations, the accounting and more. I was able to be there on the weekends and some evenings, but I could have never kept it going without my Mom.” They opened Simple Elegance in the historic district in her hometown of Bowdon on June 7, 2007. “I love being close to home and being able to work in the community I live in. Small town life is the best,” she exclaims. “I am also a Bowdon Main Street board member. This gives me an opportunity to help Bowdon grow and strengthen the relationships between business owners and the community." When they opened the shop, they had an initial inventory of 50 bridal gowns. Nancy worked parttime and helped manage the shop during the week while Connie worked full-time. Two years later, Nancy left her job to manage Simple Elegance fulltime. “My parents have always been my support system and my biggest fans,” she shares. “I couldn’t have done this without them. From my mom who is at the shop with me and is always helping with my children or anything else I ask of her, to my dad, David Lloyd, who does countless errands for the shop and is always there when I need him. Over the
Wishing a Very Happy Father’s Day to All Dads in West Georgia – Biological, Foster and Adoptive, or Just Filling the Role of a Father.
Dedicated Healthcare When You Need It Most • 770.832.9689 past 12 years he has been right there to help Simple Elegance grow. "He has met customers at the shop to pick up tuxes when mom and I were not able and has delivered tuxes and dresses to wedding venues. Until I left my full-time job, he picked up my daughter from preschool every day and took her to dance once a week.” The shop has grown exponentially, and they now offer four bridal lines, two bridesmaid lines with hundreds of bridal gowns, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses in their inventory to choose from. Simple Elegance is a full-service bridal boutique and, in addition to dresses, they offer tuxedos, veils, shoes, other bridal accessories and wedding gown preservation. Nancy is still an active partner, but Connie left the District Attorney’s office in April of 2018 and took the helm of the day-to-day operation of the business.
Secrets of Success Only about 30 percent of small businesses will survive their 10th year in business, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Celebrating their 12th anniversary this month, Connie believes two factors
have had the most impact on the success of her business: Providing exceptional personal service and showing genuine care for all of their customers. “We love what we do and want our customers to have a wonderful experience each time they come in our shop,” she smiles. “Our brides are like family to us, and we want them to feel special.” Simple Elegance stays on the cutting edge of bridal fashion and has won several awards, including the Casablanca Bridal Gold and Silver awards of excellence. They have been honored to receive the bronze award from Tuxedo Central every year. Their window displays are lovely year-round, and each year they have received high accolades from the City of Bowdon for their Christmas window displays.
Her Advice Although many people believe owning a bridal boutique is fun and exciting, Connie cautions that although it is fun, it also takes much hard work and dedication – just like any other business. She suggests researching a business like hers completely before jumping in with both feet, and says she wishes she had done more research before starting Simple Elegance.
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Time management is a challenge for her because she finds it difficult to separate the business from her personal life. “When you own your own business, you really never have a day off,” she exclaims. “I find it challenging to not constantly work. It is hard to not check emails, return phone calls and texts or go to the shop even when we are not open. I don’t have a lot of time for hobbies. Neal and I enjoy going to concerts and taking vacations to the beach with our children.”
I love being able to do something that makes me happy, and I love being able to do it with my mom. Not everyone is fortunate enough to do something they are passionate about. I know that I am very blessed to be able to call this a job.
Her Extended Family
Many of Connie and Nancy’s customers have been buying formalwear from them for years, and they feel as if these young women are a part of their extended family. They’ve enjoyed watching them grow up over the years, from buying prom dresses – they offered prom dresses the first seven years they were in business – to eventually buying gowns for their own weddings and dressing
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Alliance Spine & Pain Centers Invested in West Georgia
Beata Grochowska, MD and Myrlynn Delille, MD of Alliance Spine and Pain Centers offer West Georgia the most comprehensive and innovative treatments for individuals with chronic pain. Both board-certified physicians provide rehabilitative care as well as non-surgical procedures for effective pain management. Dr. Grochowska and Dr. Delille compassionately serve patients in the West Georgia area at Alliance’s Carrollton and Douglasville locations, both open five days a week.
22 Board Certified Physicians State of the Art Accredited Surgery Centers
Beata Grochowska, MD | Myrlynn Delille, MD 812 South Park St, Suite 5, Carrollton, GA 30117 3400 Chapel Hill Road, Ste 101, Douglasville, GA 30135 | 770.929.9033
Learn more at www.spinepains.com 38
L i fe . Star ts . He re .
W. E. BROOKS LAW FIRM Immigration Attorney Abogado William E. Brooks Abogado de Inmigración • Family Petitions • Refugees/Asylum • Permanent Residence • Citizenship • Adjustment of Status • Investment/Employment Visas • Immigration Detention
• Peticiones familiares • Refugio/Asilo • Residencia Permanente • Ciudadania y Naturalización • Ajuste de Estatus • Visa de inversionista/Visas de Trabajo • Detencíon por Inmigración
Helping Immigrants Live the American Dream! Ayudando a los Inmigrantes a vivir el sueño americano
1.800.903.7344 Correo Electrónico: infohou@webrookslaw.com
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W. E. Brooks Law Firm
Se habla español Payment plans available/Planes de pago disponibles
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their own bridal parties. One of those young ladies and her mom, Crystin and Candace Wise, have been patrons of Simple Elegance from the very beginning – growing pains and all. “Crystin was one of our first customers,” she shares. “The prom dress she fell in love with had a broken zipper, so we ordered her another one. When the new dress came in, it had a stain on the front, so we had a seamstress take the zipper out of the new dress and put it in the original dress. When she came back to try on the dress, the new zipper broke! It was at that point I looked at her and her mom and said, ‘You can choose any other dress in this store and it is yours!’ They were so kind and understanding and we were so appreciative of that. We were a new business and that was the first time anything like that had happened.” Today, the Wise women – including Crystin’s younger sister Caitlin – continue to buy their formalwear from Connie. “They bought every prom dress from us while they were in high school,” she says. “Crystin got married a little over a year ago,
"I love being able to work with a bride to create her dream dress, seeing the smile on her face and, sometimes, the happy tears when she puts on her dress for the first time. Being a part of the process from beginning to end is just an amazing experience. We love that we have an opportunity to be a small part of their big day." Bride: Ashley Toole, Roopville, Ga.
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and we were so fortunate to be able to dress her entire wedding party. Now Caitlin is getting married this August, and we are dressing her wedding party also. They have become family over the past 12 years.” Connie is grateful for the extensive support she receives from her husband, her children and her amazing mother-in-law who has helped many times with childcare when Connie and Neal have had to work evenings or weekends. “I have the most awesome support group,” she relates. “Neal has always encouraged me to go for my dream. He’s endured many years of listening to me talk about wedding dresses and other wedding related things, and my children sometimes had to take a backseat so I could run the business.” She and Nancy also have a very special friend, Gena Batten, who is there to help anytime they need her. “She even ran the business when Lillian was born so my mom could be with me,” she shares. “I can say I have had a very blessed life! Of course, I have had difficulties and situations that haven’t been
Simple Elegance is a a full service bridal boutique that offers bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, flower girl dresses, veils, shoes, wedding gown preservation and other bridal accessories.
easy, but I’ve always had a great support system to get me through.”
Managing the Business A typical day for Connie and Nancy includes assisting brides with selecting their gowns, bridesmaid dresses and the groom’s attire, ordering inventory, inquiring about pending orders, steaming dresses, creating window displays and rearranging the inventory in the boutique. “My mom and I constantly discuss everything about this shop,” she relates. “We also have some very knowledgeable people we have met over the years who have given us very good advice about our business.” Their favorite part of the business by far is assisting the brides. “My mom and I love working with brides. One of our bridal gown designers offers customizations. I love being able to work with a bride to create her dream dress, seeing the smile on her face and, sometimes, the happy tears when she puts on her dress for the first time. Being a part of the process from beginning to end is just an amazing experience. We love that we have an opportunity to be a small part of their big day.”
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Happy Father’s Day From Our Family To Yours
Bremen • Carrollton • Douglasville 770.537.2375 • 770.836.1466 • 770.489.2818
www.hightowerfamilyfuneralhomes.com
Community Outreach
Connie and Nancy's favorite part of the business is assisting brides in choosing the wedding dress of their dreams.
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Connie and Nancy know how important it is to support others in their community. When they offered prom dresses in their shop, they donated dresses to local high schools and to JOY Prom, a prom held specifically for special needs individuals. They also donate bridal gowns to Wrapped in Angels Wings, a non-profit organization made up of volunteers who transform donated bridal and formalwear into infant gowns for families who have experienced infant loss. They are also a drop off location for people who wish to donate their formal gowns to this cause. She especially remembers a heartwarming time when she had the opportunity to participate in the Make-A-Wish
Foundation, an organization that helps grant wishes to children who have been diagnosed with a critical illness. “A young couple was getting married, the groom had been diagnosed with cancer and his wish was a wedding,” she recalls. “The bride chose our shop to assist her with her wedding gown. It was just a special and memorable time for her, and for us.” Connie and Nancy also have a soft spot for the four-legged and furry species. They have a bridal line named, “Lillian G,” named after Connie’s daughter. A portion of each gown sold from the line is donated to a local animal rescue organization. Their most recent donation was to West Georgia
Pet Rescue in Bowdon. “We are huge animal lovers,” she exclaims. “Between my family and my mom and dad, we have eight cats and five dogs. We would love to have more, but with our busy schedules, it is hard to find the time to take care of more animals. "My family also recently fostered three puppies who needed a loving and temporary home while they were waiting to be transported to New York to find their forever homes. One of those sweet puppies is now the newest member of the Hannah family.” Connie is certain she and her mom made the right decision 12 years ago when they said “I do” to Simple Elegance Bridal and Formalwear, but she doesn’t take her success for granted. ”I love being able to do something that makes me happy, and I love being able to do it with my mom,” she smiles. “Not everyone is fortunate enough to do something they are passionate about. I know that I am very blessed to be able to call this a job, and I am hopeful that Simple Elegance will continue to grow and be successful for many years to come.” WGW
To learn more about Connie Hannah, Nancy Lloyd and Simple Elegance Bridal and Formalwear, call 770.258.0494, or email simpleelegance10@gmail.com. Visit them on Facebook @SimpleEleganceBridalandFormalwearBowdon, Instagram @seformalwear or visit the website at
www.simpleelegancebridalandformalwear.com 43
Kids Korner
By Charlene Brooks Photos by Zachary Dailey
Groovy Father's Day Office Supply Holder
T
his groovy Father's Day office supply holder is a super cool addition to dad's desk and is sure to bring a smile to his face. Young children will need help with this activity as the bowl and record will be extremely hot to the touch. Always supervise older children when using the oven. Show Dad how much you love him with this "Nuts About You" photo frame that he'll be proud to display on his desk or in his office. Always supervise young children when using a hot glue gun.
Instructions
Materials 1 record album (we bought ours at a local thrift store) 1 medium-sized glass bowl – must be oven safe Wooden spoon
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place the glass bowl in the oven. Place the record album on top of the glass bowl. The album will gradually soften in the oven. After a few minutes in the oven, use the wooden spoon to push the softened album down into the glass bowl. Continue to push the album into the bowl creating the shape you desire. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Remove cooled album from the bowl and fill with your dad's favorite office supplies.
Nuts About You Father's Day Frame Materials Photo frame of your choice (we bought ours at a local dollar store) Marker Hex nuts, various sizes Hot glue gun
Instructions Using the marker, write your message for Dad on the picture frame. Glue nuts of various sizes to the frame. Insert your dad's favorite photo of you. WGW
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Happy Father's Day Word Search
Word Bank
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Daddy Love Kindness Father Doting Strength Fun Provider Understanding Role Model Patient Loyal Gentle Papa Wise Dear Paternal Giving Protector Special
Word search created at puzzle-maker.com
Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Creating Beautiful Smiles For Over 16 years!
M. Dawn Harvey, DMD, PC
Family Dentistry and Complete Facial Esthetics 105 Dallas Rd, Villa Rica, GA 30180 • 770.459.5778 www.drharveysmiles.com
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THE ALL NEW XT6
JOHN THORNTON CADILLAC
1492 N Park St. (Hwy 27) Carrollton GA 30117 • 770.832.9602 www.johnthorntoncadillac.com
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