West Georgia Woman Magazine Issue May 2024

Photo by Zachary Dailey

A Tremendous Loss

Many of you know, Dr. Fred Richards passed away on March 27, 2024. I cannot adequately convey the deep grief I feel over the loss of such an important person in my life.

Fred was my mentor, friend, life and business coach and a loving father figure. I could tell Fred anything, without blame, without fear or shame. He was so wise. How could he not have such wisdom? He had seen and heard it all through his 46 years as a psychotherapist. Fred held onto the secrets of thousands of people he helped over the years, without judgement. He welcomed each person he encountered with open arms, just as they were.

My family and I were so fortunate to have Fred in our lives. I know there are many others out there who feel the same. That was the wonderful and unique thing about Fred. When you were around him, you felt like you were the most important person in the world. That was the magic of Fred. There will never be another one like him.

I love and miss my dear friend and father. To be a part of Fred's life and to be loved by him was an incredible gift, and I am so very thankful for that.

In This Issue

We included Fred's obituary in this issue, along with some photos, beginning on page 10. The day Fred passed away, Bruce Guthrie, former editor of a local newspaper, reached out to me and told me he wanted to write a tribute for Fred. Of course, I told him if he wrote it, I would print it. You can read his tribute to Fred on page 13.

Our feature this month is Wendy Busch. Her son, Matthew, now 36, was diagnosed with a terminal, degenerative disease 30 years ago, and she’s spent three decades making sure he lived his life to the fullest every day.

Matthew has beaten the odds and lived well beyond his life expectancy, but he needs your help. Matthew needs a safe, dependable accessible van that can accomodate his wheelchair and medical equipment. The van they have currently is not large enough for all the medical equipment he now needs, and there is no wheelchair lift. It is also old, and has broken down at a main intersection with Matthew inside.

On page 14, learn more about Wendy and Matthew, their commitment to choose positivity in the face of his terminal disease and how you can help.

I'm happy to announce my friend Michael Stone, founder and CEO of Milestone Investment Management in Carrollton, recently earned the 2024 Women’s Choice Award for providing exemplary financial services to women. Michael has been a steadfast supporter of West Georgia Woman, and we're all thankful for his commitment to the women of West Georgia and beyond. Did I mention he's also my personal financial advisor? On page 22, learn more about Michael and how he earned this prestigious award.

Our other features in this issue include kid-approved summer learning, the truth about mom shaming and how to stop doing it, when it's time to move parents to assisted living, Chef Rose Isaacs' delicious recipes and much more. Thank you for reading West Georgia Woman

We hope to see you May 18 at our fourth annual women's extravaganza from 9 a.m. to noon at City Station in Carrollton. Check out page 47 for more information. Come join us!

Happy Mother's Day,

Publisher

Photo by Dr. Anne Richards

Finding our voice. Knowing our value.

Making a difference. TM

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In Loving Memory of Fred Richards,

Ph.D.

January 12, 1939 – March 27, 2024

Fred Richards, 85, passed away on March 27, 2024. He was born Jan. 12, 1939 in Baltimore, MD, the son of Ezlin Black Richards and Alfred L. Richards, Sr.

As Fred put it on several occasions, he “lived many lives:” as a young Baptist preacher, seminary student, English Professor, Psychology Professor, Merchant Seaman, carpenter, psychotherapist, artist, author, the Easter Bunny, Freddie the Rabbit, a great friend of Santa Claus, a clown, an actor in Community Theatre, and an auctioneer.

A member of the Carrollton Kiwanis Club (with perfect attendance for 45 years), he was wellknown for his entertaining introductions of guests at club meetings, as well as his engaging and heartwarming service as the emcee of numerous talent shows, nursing home pageants, fun dog shows and fundraising activities.

He was a loyal supporter of the University of West Georgia, who could be heard singing and howling his signature wolf cheers at university football games. He was also widely known by many for the years he drove a distinctive ‘72 Dodge pickup truck covered with bumper stickers and for the colorful and quirky hats he wore when undergoing treatment for cancer.

In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by his sister, Joan Armpriester; step-sisters Marion Dean and Bertha Bergen; step-brother, Gene Richards; and sister-in-law, Frances Cohen. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years (Anne Richards), and extended family members (Alan Cohen and Eva Marie Carney, Elise Cohen, Brett Cohen and Sarah Cuellar, Marshall Cohen and Emily Diamond); a step-sister (Carol Brown); numerous nieces and nephews; and countless persons he cherished as friends, colleagues and clients.

A psychotherapist for 46 years, he was a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC),

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). He authored or co-authored nine books and numerous articles in professional counseling and educational publications as well as in the Times-Georgian, Star News and West Georgia Woman magazine. His artwork has been selected for the covers of four books.

His talents and potential were recognized early through a nomination for a Woodrow Wilson fellowship by the English Department at Stetson University, where he earned his BA degree. He also earned a Master’s degree in English at Stetson, a second Master’s degree (M.Ed.) from the University of Florida in Psychological Foundations of Education, a Ph.D. in Psychology from the Union Institute and University in 1972,

Photo by Keith May

Drs. Fred and Anne Richards' 50th anniversary photo, 2019.

Photo by Diana Head

and an Ed.S. from the University of West Georgia in Guidance & Counseling in 1979.

Fred was the recipient of many awards for distinguished service during his lifetime. During his 49 years in Carrollton, he earned awards for this service from the Carrollton Kiwanis Club, the Sertoma Club, the Rotary Club, the University of West Georgia and the Licensed Professional Counselor Association of Georgia. He was the recipient of a Caring award from Senior Citizens of the Carroll County area, as well as awards from the Early Childhood Center, the Carrollton Housing Authority and the Responsible Sexuality Committee at the University of West Georgia. He was named a Board Member Emeritus of the Community Children’s Home Foundation (Alice’s House), received a Founders Award from the University of West Georgia (for his work as co-chair with his wife of the Centennial Celebration Committee) and the Dora Byron Citizenship Award from the Carrollton/ Carroll County League of Women Voters (also shared with his wife). In 2021, he was honored by the Carroll County Mental Health Advocates at their annual masquerade ball for his 43 years of recurrent contributions to mental health, locally and statewide.

May 7, 2018, the office of the mayor of the City of Carrollton presented him with a proclamation of appreciation as a legendary character in the area, citing his irrepressible presence, oversized personality, quick wit and characteristic acts of kindness and compassion throughout the county and the West Georgia area. He was considered to have unofficial status as a Good Will ambassador in

Carrollton. And he was well-known for helping people understand, cooperate and communicate more effectively with one another.

Dr. Fred Richards was well-known for helping people understand, cooperate and communicate more effectively with one another. Being a real, human and candid person was central to his way of living life. He saw himself as a flawed human being, but one committed to the work of becoming a better one.

Being a real, human and candid person was central to his way of living life. He saw himself as a flawed human being, but one committed to the work of becoming a better one. Christian and Buddhist teachings informed his understanding of what constitutes a good person and what enables persons to come to terms with the suffering that is an inevitable part of human lives. A bumper sticker he created sums up his spirit and the essence of his decision to leave the world a better place than the way he initially encountered it. It read: “Happiness is becoming the adult I wish I had known as a child.”

Wherever he went, Fred brought cheer, life, joy, hope and support in a world he knew could be difficult to deal with at times. He will be dearly missed by all who had the good fortune to cross paths with him.

A memorial celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 150 Tabernacle Dr., Carrollton, Ga. 30117.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in his memory to:

The Kiwanis Club of Carrollton

Alice’s House

The SOS Fund at the University of West Georgia Agape Hospice Care

Messages of condolence may be expressed online at www.almonfuneralhome.com. WGW

In 2021, Dr. Fred Richards was honored by the Carroll County Mental Health Advocates at their annual masquerade ball for his 43 years of recurrent contributions to mental health, locally and statewide.

A Tribute to Dr. Fred Richards

By Bruce Guthrie

Moving from state to state can be a bit unnerving.

In August 2021, I made that move from Arkansas to Carrollton with a bit of anxiety and trepidation, but also excitement. I love “new.”

I came here knowing no one. Every person I came across at that time was a first-time meeting.

The first time I met Fred Richards is an experience I will never forget.

It was my first week on the job at a local newspaper, and my coworker, Dan Minish, wanted to take me to the local Kiwanis Club meeting.

I quickly found out how important that group really is to the Carrollton community. I met so many people there and developed life-long connections.

But one – as he is so prone to do – stood out.

His first approach was for information about me so he could properly introduce me to the club as a visitor. He got the pertinent information, and when he got to me, proceeded not only to convey the information I gave him, but add in his own hilarious quips.

I remember one time, he said in his intro that I “looked like a professional wrestler.”

My comeback was only if he was in my corner as a manager.

The stories about Fred are endless, many of which I cannot print in this space. But I know for sure that Fred was dearly loved, simply by those who paid tribute to him at the time of his death.

One of the things that will always stay with me is how he would pull me aside occasionally and just give me a hug because he knew my heartbreak.

He gave me books to read to help in my grief over the loss of my son, which is what really brought me here.

Fred was funny. Fred was kind. Fred was “Fred.”

He was a Carrollton institution. He was a counselor. He was a true friend to so many of us, and it didn’t matter what we looked like, or where we came from. If Fred loved you, he did it 100 percent.

I will miss seeing him at Z6. I will miss hearing his boisterous voice, his contagious laugh and how he made others laugh, but I am grateful that he isn’t fighting and suffering any longer.

We are suffering now from his enormous loss.

WGW

Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. He has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications in his nearly 20-year career. He and his wife, Dana, live in Carrollton, Ga. He can be reached at bgbruceguthrie@ gmail.com

By Shala Hainer

Photos by Zachary Dailey

Live the Life You Have

Carrollton family chooses positivity in the face of a terminal disease

The joy parents find in seeing their newborn baby for the first time is unmatched by anything else in life. Moms feel the baby growing and developing, and they begin daydreaming of the life their child might have and how bright their futures might be.

For some parents, however, one moment changes the rest of their lives – and their visions of the future – in an instant. Wendy Busch is one of those parents. Her son, Matthew, now 36, was diagnosed with a terminal, degenerative disease 30 years ago, and she’s spent three decades making sure he lived his life to the fullest every day.

“When Matthew was born, there weren’t any health concerns,” she says. “Before he was diagnosed, there were two specific times I noticed something physically with him. At the time, I didn’t think too much of it. One was when he was playing in an indoor McDonald’s playground and got stuck, and he was extremely upset by that. The other time was when he wanted me to play kickball with him and the neighbors. He wanted to quit playing right after we started because he was tired. I just thought he just didn’t really like being very physical.”

Not long after those incidents, Matthew’s kindergarten teachers brought up some concerns to Wendy. They noticed Matthew was struggling to keep up with other children on the playground. Wendy took the concerns seriously and consulted with Matthew’s pediatrician. After referrals to a

pediatric orthopedist and neurologist, Wendy received the devastating news.

“The neurologist told me that he thought he had Duchenne or another form of muscular dystrophy, and they ran a blood test,” she recalls. “The blood test confirmed what would now be our reality, and then other tests confirmed it as well.”

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder caused by issues with a protein that the body uses to keep muscle cells intact. It affects about one in 3,500 to 5,000 people, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Symptoms can appear as early as age 2, with the first signs often in the lower body, affecting the child’s ability to run, jump or walk. Most children with Duchenne require a wheelchair by age 12. As the disease progresses, it affects the upper body, then the heart and respiratory muscles. It’s most common in boys, and it’s rarely seen in girls.

Life expectancy for people living with Duchenne is usually up to the early 20s, but healthcare advancements in respiratory and cardiac care help extend that life expectancy for people like Matthew – although even then, it’s usually extended only to the early 30s. He has already beaten those odds.

“I was really in shock and devastated to learn that it was fatal as early as the teens,” Wendy relates. “From the time I learned I was expecting, I loved him so much. To look at Matthew then, he seemed healthy. It really set in when I could visibly see even more signs and symptoms of the disease. This was difficult to face. The only way I have made it is through my faith in God. I thought if God can give his son for our sins, then I would find a way to face this life.”

Seeing the Signs

Wendy, 54, was born and raised in Carrollton. After graduating from Mt. Zion High School, she attended what was then West Georgia College and West Georgia Technical College. She works part-time as a licensed esthetician. When Matthew was 18, Wendy married her

Wendy, with her son Matthew. Matthew was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy when he was a little boy. Symptoms can appear as early as age 2, with the first signs often in the lower body, affecting the child’s ability to run, jump or walk. Most children with Duchenne require a wheelchair by age 12. As the disease progresses, it affects the upper body, then the heart and respiratory muscles. It’s most common in boys, and it’s rarely seen in girls.

husband, Mike, and gained two stepchildren and four grandchildren.

“Mike just wanted to get to know me and support me with what I was facing in my life with Matthew. He has been there to support us in many ways. He provides support before I even realize he is already on the task of what we need. He has always been adamant about Matthew having something to do that he enjoys, as well as myself.”

Wendy remembers when Matthew was little, before Mike was in their lives. When Matthew was in elementary school, she started slowly noticing issues with Matthew’s coordination and motor skills. The signs often were subtle, but she felt moments of dread whenever a new symptom appeared. She knew how imperative it was for her to support his mental health as well as his physical health. As a result, Matthew had the most positive outlook possible.

day he fell and couldn’t get back up again. He was 9 years old at that time.”

She recalls certain restrictions that hit Matthew hard emotionally. Middle school is an emotionally difficult time for most kids as they transition from a child to a more independent teen, but it was especially hard for Matthew as he watched other children develop physically in a way he never could. Then, in high school, he saw other students achieving the freedom that comes along with getting a driver’s license – he struggled to process his emotions then, knowing that driving wasn’t in the cards for him. While other teens were out driving, he was forced to focus more on the growing medical care required to save his life daily.

“Matthew was a joy for me as a child,” she remembers. “He loved visiting all the local parks in Carrollton and feeding the ducks at Lake Carroll. He was adorable, and he loved characters from kid movies as a young child.

“He would fall often and skin his knees before he used a wheelchair, but he really didn’t complain. However, it became difficult for him once the disease started progressing more, and it could be very frustrating for him. It was heartbreaking for me.”

As the disease visibly progressed, Wendy made major changes to their home and lives to accommodate Matthew’s growing needs. They prepared the home with projects like adding a wheelchair ramp and modifying the shower for additional safety.

“At home, we had to get ready for a wheelchair,” she recalls. “He was walking one day, and the next

“He became sick in the 10th grade, and we all made the decision for him to take a break and change to having a study/rest break at school,” she shares. “He attended graduation in the 12th grade under special services. Then he immediately took his GED and passed that as well. He also attended a program through Vocational Rehabilitation to understand how to help manage his life. He played wheelchair soccer for about three years and helped coach a team locally along with me and my husband."

Matthew can no longer speak on his own, so he operates a computer with his eyes to communicate. ”I actually do not remember being told about my diagnosis as a child,” Matthew says. “I started realizing what Duchenne muscular dystrophy completely meant when I was 14. I read everything about my disease, and it didn’t really affect me because I didn’t believe the part that said I would die in my teens. I had too much faith in God. Here I sit at 36 years old, blessed to still be here.”

Wendy relates that she and Matthew talked about moving forward with positivity – they chose not to focus on the disease, and instead to focus

Wendy and Matthew with Wendy's husband, Mike Busch. Mike has spent nearly two decades helping her with Matthew’s care, and he has been a huge source of support for both of them over the years.

on having the best day possible every day, with the fewest number of restrictions on his activities. They continue to maintain a positive attitude, despite the growing need for medical care and equipment.

“As an adult, I feel that he has dealt with his disease very well,” Wendy shares. “He has an old soul and does the best he can. This disease can come with sadness and anxiety. He has had to deal with that sometimes. We made it a priority for him to understand his care and make sure that he gets the best care possible.”

The Growing Need for Care

Wendy’s husband Mike has spent nearly two decades helping her with Matthew’s care, and Wendy says she is grateful for his support, and that of other family, through this journey. “Matthew's grandparents, as well as many other family members, have been a great blessing to us,” Wendy shares. “His grandparents have such a great connection, and my dad has helped with caregiving when he could.”

While Wendy takes on the bulk of Matthew’s care, taking a look into their day-to-day lives explains why she needs help, including part-time paid assistance

for days Wendy goes to work or needs to run household errands.

“A normal day for Matthew and me starts out with getting him ready for the day by physically assisting him with his routine for bathing, dressing, wheelchair transfer, respiratory therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy (most days), medicines, checking all respiratory equipment for any problems, check on or set up his enteral feeding and tube, provide tracheostomy care and other daily needs,” she says.

It’s essential to check the medical machines, such as the respiratory equipment, several times a day to ensure it is connected and running properly. Without this equipment, Matthew can’t breathe or receive his respiratory therapy, which he needs several times per day.

While Wendy and Mike manage his care, Matthew enjoys playing video games, checking current events, socializing on social media and spending time with his dogs.

“Then in the evening, we have respiratory therapy and medicines and transfer him back to his bed, and we make sure all medical needs are in proper order for the night and working,” Wendy relates. “He is monitored through the night by me every night, but

he has medical alarms that typically let me know if there is a problem.”

Caring for Matthew is a full-time responsibility – one Matthew recognizes and appreciates. Living with such extensive needs takes a toll on him emotionally, though – it’s challenging for someone who developed a strong sense of independence at a young age. He uses hobbies and his interests to help keep himself mentally centered during the day.

“To deal with stress from Duchenne, I play and stream video games,” Matthew explains. “My dogs help a lot because if I’m feeling stressed, I interact with them, and that makes me feel better. I like watching comedy movies, which definitely relieves stress by making me laugh. I enjoy going outside when the weather is nice -- just being in nature helps. I also like to go to sporting events when I can with friends or family. My mom helps me get a bath, get dressed, brush my teeth, wash my hair, with enteral feedings, respiratory therapy and medicines. My stepdad helps watch me sometimes and helps support our needs.”

An Additional Challenge: Transportation

Matthew has lived years longer than his original prognosis projected, and his family continues to live by the mantra that every day is a blessing. They believe Matthew should have the ability to live his life to the fullest extent possible every day. This includes being able to venture outside the home, such as to parks, sporting events and visiting family and friends. His extensive medical needs make that complicated, however – he can’t just hop in a car and go. Instead, he requires a van that can fit his wheelchair and his medical

equipment, which must stay connected at all times, including while riding in a vehicle.

In addition to needing transportation to recreational activities, Matthew needs it to get to his doctor visits. Without safe transportation, he’s limited to cost-prohibitive ambulance rides. The family has a van, but it’s older and has already broken down at a main intersection while Matthew was in the vehicle. It’s also not large enough for all the medical equipment he now needs, and there is no wheelchair lift.

“We have come to a point where his transportation is an issue,” Wendy explains. “We need a full-size van with a wheelchair lift. One reason is because Matthew has lost much of his motor strength to control driving his chair on an inclined ramp, and he’s unable to turn his head to see to back out. This means he could slide down the ramp because of the loss of control. I have to try to hold the chair and get it backed out. It’s about 300 pounds with him in it.”

A larger van also gives them the ability to ensure there is room for his medical equipment, like his respiratory ventilator and feeding tube, to remain connected securely during the trip, without risking that they could become disconnected in transit.

“In reality, just going out for any reason requires several pieces of equipment, and an emergency bag is set up to keep in transport,” Wendy shares. “One big thing for Matthew has always been to be independent as possible, and to operate his own power wheelchair is one of the main things left he can do on flat to very low-incline spots. He has the

Without safe transportation, Matthew is limited to cost-prohibitive ambulance rides. The family has a van, but it’s older and has already broken down at a main intersection while Matthew was in the vehicle. It’s also not large enough for all the medical equipment he now needs, and there is no electric wheelchair lift. The manual wheelchair ramp they have currently is becoming more difficult for Wendy to manage as she gets older. Matthew's wheelchair with him in it weighs close to 300 pounds. Matthew has lost much of his motor strength to control driving his chair on an inclined ramp, and he’s unable to turn his head to see to back out. This means he could slide down the ramp because of the loss of control.

ability to wiggle his toes and wiggle his fingers, and that’s about it. Still, he strives to be independent and operates a computer with his eyes by eye gaze. Appropriate transportation has always been a big challenge for his needs.”

Vans appropriate for Matthew’s needs come with a hefty price tag. The family reached out to the Jett Foundation, which was founded by a family affected by Duchenne. The Foundation focuses on direct service programming for families impacted by Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular disorders. The Foundation is able to help the family by providing half the funds for the new van, but the family has to raise the other half.

“We reached out to them to help us with transportation as they help families affected by Duchenne with partial purchasing of a wheelchair van,” Wendy relates. “So, they have accepted our family into the Giving Vehicle Fund. They have agreed to fund $32,500 toward a van purchase once we raise at least $32,500.

“We have raised about $10,000. We had an online sale, yard sale, raffles and a Spa Facial Day fundraiser. So, next we have planned a gun raffle and another yard sale. We are working on another event that we plan to have when we get close to our 75% goal.”

Matthew Needs Your Help!

If you would like to donate to his van fund, scan the QR code below or visit the Jett Foundation at

https://www.jettfoundation.org/fundrecipient/busch-family/

Donations are tax deductible.

When the family hits their goal of raising $32,500, the Jett Foundation will purchase the van for the family.

“This is such a relief to have help with transportation,” she shares. “When we reach the total goal and get the wheelchair lift van, it will help ensure Matthew has appropriate and safe transportation for himself and all of his equipment. It’s great having a foundation that knows and understands the needs of this disease and has the knowledge to purchase appropriate and safe transportation for someone who has the progression involved with this disease that has taken almost all of my son’s movement. We are extremely grateful to the Jett Foundation and for everyone that has donated to this fundraiser.”

Matthew echoes his mom’s sentiment. “A safe and appropriate handicapped accessible van would help because we need a full-size van to fit all my medical equipment,” he explains. “This would allow me to visit family, go to doctors and maybe on vacation. I would also be able to go to sporting events. I wish people knew that Duchenne doesn’t define me and that just because you have an illness, it doesn’t mean you can’t live the life you have!” WGW

Founder and CEO of Milestone Investment Management, LLC, Michael L. Stone Earns 2024 Women’s Choice Award for Providing Exemplary Financial Services to Women

Michael L. Stone, AAMS®, PPC®, AIF®, CPFA®, has earned the 2024 Women’s Choice Award, demonstrating a strong commitment to providing exemplary services for female clientele. WomenCertified Inc., home of the Women’s Choice Award, identifies financial advisors based on rigorous research focused on 17 points of objective criteria, extensive background checks and references of validation from the advisor’s peers and superiors.

The Women’s Choice Award is the only recognition program identifying well-qualified advisors and firms who understand and appreciate the importance of women’s financial power in

today’s economy by providing the necessary services and experiences to assist her through different life stages. Achieving this award reaffirms the commitment Milestone Investment Management, LLC, has to extraordinary service in addressing the financial needs of women and their families.

Two important areas that concern women are being prepared for retirement and the effects caregiving responsibilities has on her finances.

A recent Fidelity Investments® Study, "Women Tapping Into Their Financial Superpowers to Gain Ground with Their Money," shows 48% of women don’t feel knowledgeable about how to invest their savings so they are prepared for retirement. According to a Fidelity Women and Investing study, two-thirds (67%) of women are investing outside their retirement accounts and emergency funds at earlier ages, but 70% of women admitted they need more education on investing. More than threequarters (77%) agreed that having an advisor would help them feel more confident about their financial future.

Almost half of the women in the Fidelity Investments® Study (44%) are caregivers to children and family and shared that their caregiving responsibility impacts their finances, with one in four (27%) saying they are not able to save as much in

their savings and 22% are not able to save as much for retirement.

Delia Passi, founder of the Women’s Choice Award says, “Women value financial security, and yet they struggle with whom they can trust with their finances. Our goal is to simplify her life, and with the Women’s Choice Award, women and couples have a starting point to find advisors they can trust. We also take pride in helping advisors and firms who have gone above and beyond to provide a superior experience to their female clientele. We applaud Milestone Investment Management, LLC, and the efforts they put forth to provide women with the service and financial education they want, need and deserve.”

As a leading advocate for female consumers and former group publisher of Working Woman and Working Mother magazines, Passi created the Women’s Choice Award for Financial Advisors in an effort to help women identify those advisors who are committed to providing quality service. The award allows this outstanding group of advisors to showcase their commitment to the women’s market, while giving potential clients a starting point for entrusting their finances to an advisor.

For more information or to schedule your complimentary wealth management consultation, visit milestoneinvestmentsllc.com, call 770.830.0063 or email jennifer@yourfinancialfamily.com.

WGW

Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services offered through Milestone Investment Management, LLC, or CES Insurance Agency.

2024 Women's Choice Award, created by Women Certified Inc. Presented on a rolling basis based on data as of Dec. 31, annually. 32 advisors were considered, 27 advisors were recognized. Advisors pay a fee to hold out marketing materials. Not indicative of advisor's future performance. Your experience may vary. For more award information, https://womenschoiceaward. com/financial-advisors. The Women’s Choice Award Financial Advisor Program is based

on 17 objective criteria associated with providing quality service to women clients such as credentials, experience and a favorable regulatory history, among other factors. Financial advisors do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final list of Women’s Choice Award® financial advisors, though they may have paid a fee to participate in the Women’s Choice Award Financial Advisor Marketing Program. WomenCertified Inc., home to the Women’s Choice Award, awards businesses, brands and services based on high recommendation ratings by female consumers. The Women’s Choice Award represents the collective voice of women so they can help each other identify businesses that deserve their loyalty and referrals.

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and

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Ceo of Milestone Investment Management, LLC, Michael L. Stone, AAMS®, PPC®, AIF®, CPFA®, has earned the 2024 Women’s Choice Award, demonstrating a strong commitment to providing exemplary services for female clientele. L to r: Director of Operations and Client Services Jennifer Sauls, Director of Marketing Andrea Stone and Michael L. Stone.

Altogether Vibrant

By Sandra Bolan

Kid-approved Activities

The school bell will ring later this month, signaling the end of classes and homework and ushering in days filled with nothing but fun, fun and more fun.

Time off during the summer break is important for kids and parents to recharge. But numerous studies show all play and no work results in cognitive decline equal to missing an entire month of in-class education. This is especially true when it comes to math and reading. Studies also reveal students who don’t participate in any form of summer learning are less physically active and more likely to watch television, play video games and eat junk food all day, compared to a child with some structured summer learning.

Adults and children – especially children – thrive when their world is structured and filled with routine. So it's important to maintain your child’s regular sleep schedule and mealtimes. You don’t necessarily want to replicate the classroom at home or enroll your child in summer school – unless it’s necessary or something they want to do – so how can you maintain their math and reading skills, while still giving them a vacation from the rigors of school? By keeping it fun, so they don't feel as if they're still slogging away with required learning. Kids really look forward to their summer vacation, so it's important to make their activities as fun as possible.

Reading

Take advantage of local libraries, which host reading challenges throughout the summer. Ask your child's teacher if she provides summer reading lists. Reading is key, but you also want to ensure kids comprehend what they’re reading. It’s summer, so don’t make them write a book report. Instead, talk to them about the books in a casual and more conversational way versus a Q & A session.

Feel free to read the same books as your children, as it sets a great example, and you'll know what content is approved or not in your household. You might even enjoy them.

Board Games

Look at rainy days as opportunities to play board games that work on spelling in a sneaky way – think Boggle, Scrabble or Scattegories. The same goes for math skills, with games like Monopoly or Yatzee. If she needs to work on her math and spelling

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during the summer, take her outside and let her use sidewalk chalk, which is a fun alternative to staying indoors and studying flash cards.

Cook Together

Another way to encourage a child to flex her math and reading skills is to have her cook and bake with you. Let her read the recipe aloud to you, discuss what the task means (comprehension) and do it. Your child steps up her math and measuring skills by figuring out what a half, third or quarter cup are in relation to each other. Cooking and baking engages her fine motor skills through stirring, folding, kneading and pouring. Cooking activities also help with her social skills because she's working on a project that requires teamwork with you and perhaps her siblings and friends.

Let food serve as an introduction to various countries' culture and traditions. Look up the country on a globe or atlas to see where it is in the world, or explore the country and its traditions online so she can learn some social studies skills in the process. Teaching children to cook and bake at a young age fosters a skill they’ll have for the rest of their lives, and they’ll appreciate the value of eating nutritious, scratch-made meals.

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Travel

Going on vacation, even if it’s just to the beach, is another fun and not-so-obvious learning opportunity. You can do beach-themed scavenger hunts (problem solving, teamwork), build sandcastles (engineering), as well as visit museums (history) and zoos (animal behavior).

On the way to your destination, ask her to help you figure out how many miles it will take you to get there. She can also learn about the price of gas and how much fuel it will take to reach the vacation spot.

Camps

Sometimes adults need a vacation, too, which is where day or sleep-away camp can be helpful. The camp experience introduces children to new skills as well as broadens their social circle.

Summer learning loss is real, but it doesn’t have to happen. Doing something every day, even something like counting change from a store purchase or making up games to play outside, can reap big rewards. Just remember, it is summer vacation, so while trying to add a bit of learning to your child’s daily activities, keep it fun and avoid anything that resembles a test. WGW

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

Grilled Coconut Lime Shrimp

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 cup coconut milk

Zest and juice of 1 lime

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Lime wedges, for serving

Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt and pepper. Add the shrimp to the marinade, making sure they are evenly coated.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Brush the grill with a bit of oil to prevent sticking, then place the shrimp skewers on the grill.

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Once cooked, remove the shrimp skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.

Garnish the coconut lime shrimp with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired, and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp.

Serves 4 WGW

Shredded Coconut and Diced Mango Rice

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice

1 cup coconut milk

1 cup water

1 ripe mango, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon coconut oil

1 tablespoon honey

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons shredded coconut, toasted (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro or mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

In a saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, coconut oil and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.

Simmer the rice for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

While the rice is cooking, peel and dice the ripe mango into small cubes.

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.

After the steaming period, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

Add the diced mango and honey to the rice, and gently fold it in until evenly distributed.

Transfer the mango coconut rice to a serving dish.

Sprinkle toasted shredded coconut and cilantro on top for garnish.

Serves 4 WGW.

“Serve the mango coconut rice warm as a side dish to accompany your favorite main courses, such as grilled chicken or shrimp”

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MOVE OVER

Mom Shamers!

By Sandra Bolan

It was just a generation ago when the old adage of “it takes a village to raise a child” was really how children were raised. Parents never feared asking for help from their neighbors, friends or family, and none of them shamed a mother for asking.

Today, many mothers have a sense of isolation, feeling as if no matter what they do for their children – or how they do it – someone will have something negative to say about it. Sleep train a child? Well, that just means you value your own sleep over your child’s needs and wants. Your child’s not on a sleep schedule? You have no control over her. The decision to not return to work often can be met with a sarcastic “must be nice,” while going back to work is akin to abandoning your child at the fire station.

Mom shaming has been around forever, but thanks to social media and people being far too comfortable imparting their unsolicited wisdom, moms feel criticized more than ever for every choice they make.

According to a recent study on mothers with kids under the age of 5 conducted by the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital at the University of Michigan, 61 percent of mothers have been shamed, with firsttime moms being attacked the most. The worst offenders are their own family members, followed by friends, other mothers, strangers and social media trolls. Other prolific mom-shamers, believe it or not, were healthcare and childcare professionals, according to other studies.

Mom-shamers may genuinely believe they’re helping. After all, they’ve raised superior children, so they believe their way is the best, right and only way to raise a child. Others may criticize other moms because they’re insecure and feel the need to put others down to boost their own self worth.

Parenting has also morphed from a team sport into an individual competition. Who has the cleanest home, the most expensive stroller, the most fashionable clothes, the smartest kids or whose children have reached their developmental milestones the quickest? There’s no such thing as perfect parenting, yet mothers are typically expected to get every decision right.

If you find yourself wanting to momshame, try these tips so you can be helpful and not a hinderance to the new mom in your life.

• Be supportive, not judgemental. Remember what it was like when you were a new mother and how you felt when

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you received all that “helpful” unsolicited advice? Yeah. That mom is feeling the same way you did right about now.

• Before you offer advice, think: Is this child in actual danger? Give the mom in your life the benefit of the doubt. If the child isn't in danger, then let her be.

• Don’t offer advice unless you're asked for it. If you are asked to share your wisdom, be kind with your words.

• Remember, the goal of parenting is to meet the child’s needs. Is the child being fed? Does she have clothes? Does she have a safe place to live, and is she surrounded by people who love her? Having the newest model of stroller or designer onesies are not mandatory to raise a happy and healthy child.

• Tell mom she's doing a great job. If she looks like a hot mess, there are toys strewn all over the living room floor, the laundry isn’t perfectly folded and there’s a pile of dirty dishes in the sink, tell her she’s doing a great job anyway.

• Roll up your sleeves and help her, for goodness' sake. Instead of sharing your wisdom with her, lead by example. You remember what it was like to take care of a baby all day, praying all the while that you

might get lucky and have five minutes of free time to take a shower. Watch the baby while she showers. Fold the laundry for her, take care of the dishes or pick up the toys. Moms feel overwhelmed enough already, and sometimes they are afraid to ask for what they need the most.

If you’re the one being mom-shamed, set clear boundaries with those well-meaning people – no matter who they are. This may be challenging, especially if they’re family, but it's necessary for your own mental health. Surround yourself with only supportive people, and don’t compare yourself to others. If that means taking a sabbatical from social media and avoiding certain other mothers at the playground, then do it. Take care of yourself.

Whether it’s about childbirth, breastfeeding, being a stay-at-home mom or opting to return to work, education and discipline, everyone has an opinion on how to do it the "right way." Just because a mom is raising her children differently than you did doesn’t make it wrong. Most moms are working toward the same goal of raising happy and healthy children. They may just be choosing a different route. Just remember the route they choose will still get them to the same finish line. WGW

LocaL Happenings

Nursing From The Heart Breastfeeding Support Group

This group meets the third Thursday of each month from 11:00 to noon at the Villa Rica Library located at 869 Dallas Highway, Villa Rica, Ga.

These events are free to pregnant women and moms looking for breastfeeding support. Weight checks for your baby will be available at no cost. Come and share your breastfeeding journey with us.

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

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.

Pregnancy Resource Center 2024 Fall Fundraising Dinner

The Pregnancy Resource Center for Carroll, Haralson and Heard Counties will be hosting its 2024 fall fundraising dinner featuring special musical guest Allie Kennedy, speakers Al and Lisa Robertson and live artist Laura Ashley. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit www.pregnancyrc.com.

Notice of Last Date to Claim

Carroll Electric Membership Corporation Capital Credits Refunded in 2018

In compliance with O.C.G.A. § 44-12-236 of The Disposition of Unclaimed Property Act, Carroll Electric Membership Corporation (“Carroll EMC”) is attempting to locate former members whose capital credit checks were issued in 2018, but which have been returned by the U. S. Post Office as “undeliverable” or have otherwise been unclaimed.

A current list of these members, and a list of their last known addresses and instructions for claiming

these funds, is posted on Carroll EMC’s website at http://www.carrollemc.com.

The last possible date to claim these funds is Oct. 4, 2024. Funds which are not claimed by this date will be used for economic development, education or donated for charitable uses, as permitted by O.C.G.A. § 44-12-236.

To claim a refund or submit any questions about this notice or the list, please contact 770-832-3552.

Ranger Nick Attracts Crowd at Carroll EMC Ag Seminar

Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative (EMC) was the place to be the evening of April 11. Wild animals captivated an audience of both children and adults at the co-op’s biannual agribusiness seminar as “Ranger Nick” Fuhrman of the University of Georgia (UGA) brought out some cold-bloods that get a bad rap – reptiles and amphibians.

Farmers are in a near-constant struggle with wildlife that can damage crops, disrupt livestock or pose other challenges to their farming operations. While some are real threats, others are simply misunderstood. Ranger Nick, professor

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of Environmental Education in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at UGA, is known for using animals as ambassadors, and his friends Sharon, Snowy and Sanford made special appearances during the keynote. The three-legged Eastern box turtle, albino corn snake and smiling salamander may seem of little value to the common person, but Ranger Nick knows they serve a niche role in their ecosystems and even help with public speaking anxiety.

“They have helped many, many students at UGA overcome their fear of speaking in front of an audience,” said Ranger Nick. “I’ve seen a linebacker stand in front of a classroom holding Sharon with shaking hands, but by the end of the presentation, they had relaxed a bit.”

His tactics were proven true as farmers, students, educators, business leaders and elected officials alike shared smiles and laughs as Ranger Nick told stories of how he came to adopt his “assistants.” He also offered simple reminders of safety to leave all snakes alone if unsure of their species and to check grassy areas for turtles before mowing.

“This is so special to me,” he concludes. “All these animals and their stories, they are a part of my life. It’s what I do and what I love talking about. I am so thankful to talk about things I love and hopefully

inspire folks to do something to help them.”

The cooperative will host another seminar in the fall centering on agricultural education. It is free of charge and open to the agricultural community and cooperative stakeholders. Details for registration will be shared later in the year.

Carroll EMC is a Member-owned cooperative providing electricity to approximately 54,000 homes and businesses. The co-op serves Members in Carroll, Haralson, Heard, Paulding, Polk, Floyd and Troup counties. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. For more information visit the cooperative’s website at carrollemc. com or follow Carroll EMC on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube. Carroll EMC: Community Built. Community Builder.

Photos: Carroll EMC

When it's Time to Move Parents to Assisted Living

By Sandra Bolan

It's human nature for children to believe their parents will be forever strong and healthy. But as they age, parents can become frail, have more health problems and suffer from mental decline.

To help care for aging parents, some families rely on professional home visits, while others move their parents in with them.

Some elderly adults require a lot of medical care, making a nursing home a more appropriate care

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choice. Other seniors may still be quite capable of living primarily independent, so an assisted living facility may be more suitable.

There’s no one magic age that indicates it’s time to change living arrangements. Instead, the senior and her children need to ask themselves a series of questions about daily life, health, functional abilities and care needs now and in the future.

Is your parent eating healthy, well-balanced meals? Is she eating at all? Some seniors may forget to eat.

Can she get around safely and independently? Look for bruises or other minor injuries, as they may be signs of falls. Is she able to drive safely, or is she getting into more and more fender-benders?

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Is she keeping herself clean – wearing freshly laundered clothes, bathing herself and brushing her teeth and hair?

Is the inside of her home neat and tidy, or are there dirty dishes and take-out containers strewn all over the kitchen counters? Is the yard overgrown?

Is she taking her medications and doing so

correctly? Are there health issues that require routine monitoring by a professional? Can she safely operate household appliances? For example, does she remember to turn the oven off once she's finished cooking? Is she paying her bills on time? Is she grossly overtipping the delivery person without realizing it? Does she have friends and participate in social

activities? Does she have any hobbies? Or does she stare blankly at the TV all day? Depending on the answers, it may be time to move your parent to some sort of senior residence.

Talk First

It’s emotional leaving a place someone has called home for decades. She may feel abandoned and betrayed by her family for even suggesting taking her somewhere else.

If possible, have the moving discussion early,

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before her health declines and there are no other options. You don't want to make the decision to move your parent into a facility while under emotional distress or when you’re in a hurry and panicking. This can often be the case following a medical episode that has led to a hospitalization resulting in compromised physical or cognitive abilities. Having the conversation early helps her adjust to the idea. It may take weeks or months for her to accept this as the best decision for her growing needs.

Some children plow ahead and make all kinds of decisions for their parents without considering what they actually want.

Don’t be that child. Talk to your mom about why you think this is good for her. Provide a number of well-researched options so she is comfortable with this new chapter in her life, and so she'll have a part in choosing her new home.

Thoroughly vet the facilities you find. Read reviews, and ask friends and family or others in the community about their recommendations.

Assisted Living/Nursing Home

There are almost 1 million seniors living in roughly 29,000 facilities throughout the United States, according to National Care for Assisted Living.

The main purpose of an assisted living residence or nursing home is to keep older adults safe as well as engaged socially, mentally and physically.

Assisted Living. This is a senior residential setting with various housing options ranging from fully equipped apartments in a seniors-only building to smaller rooms without any cooking facilities but communal dining.

The buildings typically offer a common room for

group activities, as well as access to transportation to the mall and grocery shopping.

Assisted living is a good option for seniors who need no or very little help with things such as daily grooming; those who want a maintenance-free home; those who may have no transportation; and those who want to remain socially active and make new friends.

Assisted living facilities are not cheap. In 2019, the average monthly cost was $4,051, according to A Place for Mom.

Nursing Home. Nursing homes are for seniors who require 24-hour care.

A typical resident suffers from severe to debilitating physical or cognitive conditions and can’t be left unsupervised.

Moving into a nursing home requires a prescription from a medical doctor as well as a physical exam. A nursing home can provide ongoing palliative and preventive long-term care; assistance with laundry, housekeeping as well as bathing. Nursing home staff also manages all medications. These facilities provide specialized rehabilitation services such as speech, physical, respiratory and cognitive. Meals meet the unique daily nutritional needs of each resident.

Living in a nursing home costs about $247 per day or $7,512 per month. There are not-for-profit homes that can be paid for with government assistance for lower income people, according to A Place for Mom.

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Visit as much as possible in the first few weeks to help her with the transition. This helps her understand that you are, and will continue, to be there for her.

Give her time to adjust. Acknowledge any concerns she has with her living arrangements.

Surround her with personal items such as photos, her favorite books, blanket, pillow and coffee cup. Don’t overwhelm her with too many new things, especially technology. Ask the facility if she can bring her own phone, TV and remote, as well as her coffee

Mothers Day Flowers

Materials

Green paint and paint brush, or marker

Green tissue paper

Gift bows (we got ours at the local dollar store)

Glue gun and glue sticks

Large craft sticks

Scissors

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Instructions

Paint the craft sticks green.

Make small cuts on one side of the green tissue paper to resemble grass.

Glue the two craft sticks together in the center to form an "x" shape.

Glue the the tissue paper grass to the bottom of the craft sticks.

Glue the gift bows to the top of the craft sticks to create a bouquet of flowers.

Craft photos by Zachary Dailey

Darling Dragonfly

Materials

Hot glue gun

Clothespins (14)

Paint and paint brush

Red, green and orange paint

Instructions

Paint clothespins as desired. Assemble two clothespins for the dragonfly's body.

Attach two clothespins to the ends of one clothespin. Do this three more times to create the wings.

Glue clothespins to the body.

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Catbird

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