West Georgia Woman Magazine April 2016

Woman Complimentary

April 2016

West Georgia TM

Stressed Out? How to Cope

Karen Vance Facing the Music

Family Time Fun Activities Close to Home

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This publication is dedicated in loving memory of

Tristan Alexander Brooks

May 15, 1993 - September 1 7, 2015

He will remain forever in our hearts...

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Clinical Management of Obesity Lindsey B. Roenigk M.D. Board Certifications in Pulmonary Medicine Critical Care Medicine Internal Medicine

Shawna Berg NP-C Member Obesity Medicine Association and Obesity Action Coalition

100 PROFESSIONAL PARK, STE. 204, CARROLLTON 4

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What’s inside...

Music for the Soul Power of the Purse

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20

How to Manage the Effects of Stress

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22 30

The Winning Bid Reflections On Grief

In Every Issue:

24 36 40 44 6

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10 16

She’s Got Game Daily Fare Local Happenings Celebrate Her Success

53 59 50 51 56

Fun Things to Do With The Kids Stop That Bully in Her Tracks Why We Love Our Pets Wedding Trends Kidz Korner

Womentality Ever After Resources for Women

Spring is here, and YOU’RE INVITED to come and visit Southern Home & Ranch Garden Center!

The waiting is over, it’s time to get serious about working in the yard and garden, and we can help! When it comes to maintaining, improving, problem solving or creating your idea of a wonderful yard or garden, Southern Home & Ranch is your kind of place. We have a wide and varied assortment of healthy, well-maintained shrubs, trees, perennials, annuals, in-home tropicals, edibles, and of course your favorite garden vegetable plants. The majority of our plants are from nearby local nurseries and growers, acclimated to this growing area – our way of helping make sure your selection has the best possible chance for long-term success.

Whether you are working on your lawn, in your garden, revitalizing your flower or shrubbery beds, putting out fertilizer, or fighting off pests and stubborn diseases, we can help. We carry a complete selection of all the right products to help you keep your lawn and garden in the best possible shape and looking good. Be sure to come by and check our NEW Bonide Analysis Center, bring in a sample of your pest or plant problem, we will give it a close look and hopefully find a solution.

Our friendly and knowledgeable Garden Center staff, including our own local expert, Carl Brack, are ready to help you find the perfect plant or to try to help solve a problem. If we don’t have what you are looking for, let us know and we will do our best to find it for you.

For those of you with even bigger yards, fields or pastures, we are your local SOUTHERN STATES BRAND dealer, carrying feed, seed, fertilizer, animal health products and field and farm products.

At Southern Home & Ranch, you will find our Outdoor Living area has expanded to include even more pottery, plants, fountains, furniture, benches, swings, rockers, statuary, chimes, bird baths, fire pits, our made in America PRIMO ceramic grills and smokers and much more. We are all about outdoor living and entertaining.

Inside Southern Home & Ranch we are full of surprises with something new most every day. We are constantly sourcing new and interesting products to make your home and gift giving fun and the talk of the town. Our selection includes Carhartt and Wrangler clothing and jeans, shoes and boots from Born shoes for men and women, Twisted Boots, Georgia Boots, and Thorogood work boots.

Look over our jewelry case, featuring hand-made one-of-a-kind pieces, fragrant Trapp candles, beautiful White River design Lifetime candles, and our locally produced Clyde Cook honey, Olivia Marie fresh preserves, Georgia Farms olive oil, Kinloch Pecan oil, Cooke’s Tavern soups along with other special delights and treats.

The list can go on, but instead of telling you more, why not just come on by and see for yourself!

Our sales folks are friendly and eager to help you find what you need and help you with your project or problem.

Southern Home & Ranch, your one stop shopping for most anything and everything you might need, locally owned and operated, easy to get to, a fun place to visit, with help from folks you might even know. If you haven’t been here, you really do need to come on by! Hope to see you soon ...

Southern Home & Ranch

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Family Time For many of us, the month of April holds that really exciting week-long respite from work and school – Spring Break. I don’t know about you, but I am ready to take a week off to spend some quality time with those who matter most to me. The most difficult challenge I face on a daily basis is balancing my work and family, and I’m embarrassed to tell you that I usually fail miserably at this. I will inevitably think of something that must be done for West Georgia Woman, and if I’m not careful, I usually end up working all day and all night. While my family and I are relaxing this Spring Break, I am going to try very hard to be mindful of what is really important in my life. Wish me luck!

Whatever you do during your time off, whether it’s a trip to the beach or a “stay-cation” with day trips to the zoo, ziplines, mini-golf, bowling or just camping out in the back yard, I hope you will also take the time to re-charge your mind, body and spirit and connect with your loved ones by creating fantastic memories together. I wish you a very relaxing and fulfilling Spring Break.

I am pleased to have the very talented Karen Vance on our cover this month. Not only is Karen a musician who enriches the lives of others through her music, but she is also a cancer patient advocate, a triathlete and a golden retriever animal rescuer, among other things. I think we could have written an entire book about Karen and not even scratched the surface of this interesting woman! Please take the time to read about Karen on page 10. Have you been dealing with some serious stress lately? Read page 20 to find out the effects of stress on your body and ways to cope. Also, if you’re taking some time off this month take a look at page 32 and read about fun things you can do to make the most of the time you have with your family.

As always, we appreciate you letting our advertisers know that you read about them in West Georgia Woman magazine. Without our valuable advertisers, we would not be able to bring you these amazing stories about the women of West Georgia! Please do business with our advertisers and let them know you read about them in West Georgia Woman!

To Womanhood!

Publisher

Publisher Angela Dailey with her children, Zachary and Sydney

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

TM

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

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

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

Please be sure to tell them we sent you!

We welcome your comments and suggestions

Woman

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Inspiring women wanted.

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West Georgia Woman is a monthly publication of Angel Media, LLC. All contents of this issue are copyright 2016. West Georgia Woman magazine, its logo and “Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference.” are trademarks of Angel Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

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West Georgia

TM

Volume 1 • Issue 6 April 2016

Publisher/Editor

Angela Dailey angela@westgeorgiawoman.com

Copy Editor Editorial Contributor

Shala Hainer shala@westgeorgiawoman.com

Photographer for Cover and Pages 2,3 & 8 Rachel Dobson

Editorial Contributors

Charlene Brooks, Julie Culpepper Sydney Dailey, Cheryl A. Francis, L.P.C. and Mary Ellen Trahan, Ph.D.

Angela Brooks Dailey, Publisher of West Georgia Woman, 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, Georgia and is also a Civil and Domestic Relations mediator and arbitrator registered with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution. She lives in Carrollton, Georgia and has two wonderful children, Zachary and Sydney Dailey. She is engaged to Dan Keever, also a Carrollton resident. Angela enjoys reading, spending time with her children and extended family and loves to watch her daughter play soccer.

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Music for

Sharing Her Talents Makes the Community Stronger

By Shala Hainer

Cancer doesn’t just affect the patient. Parents worry. Children have questions. Siblings start sensing their own mortality. It’s terrifying for everyone involved.

Karen Vance recognizes how desperately these families need a shoulder, so she gives them one. She works at the Tanner Cancer Center, where she’s been since 1997, serving as a part-time patient advocate and educator. Although she’s well-versed in what’s involved with much of the cancer care, she offers a non-medical perspective the families and patients can relate to.

“I’m hands on, and the ‘let me be there for you’ type of person at work,” Karen explains. “I help not with medical advice, but more the school of hard knocks, the nuts and bolts. I try to share the coping skills that will take them through the process, whether the outcome is poor or a reason for celebration.”

At Tanner, patients ring a special bell when they finish their treatment – it’s a joyous sound to hear that bell. “I’m there when so many of them ring the celebration bell,” she says.

“Sadly, I’m also there when it’s time to go to hospice care.”

Karen might help one family plan an end-of-treatment celebration and help another family plan a funeral, all in the same day.

She is no stranger to this type of family support. She

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spent 15 years working with Camp Sunshine, which is a camp program for children with cancer. “I had lots of hands-on training with many terminally ill children,” she says. “Not just anybody can come do hand-holding – my past training and experience helps me guide the families.”

While with Camp Sunshine, Karen wrote two books, donating all the profits to the camp. “I received tons of training in pediatric oncology when I was with Camp Sunshine,” she explains. “I felt like Camp Sunshine was a good fit for me, and I could do the work asked of me there. I took those skills about how to work with the loved ones, and I use it with families now. Doctors and nurses all take care of the patient. I’ve got the parent, sister, mother or spouse asking me whether their loved one should have surgery or how to handle the chemotherapy sickness. Mine is much more of a personal guide dog for the entire family.”

Karen likes that the job keeps her moving, letting her spread her time around several areas of the Cancer Center. In one day, she might start at radiation oncology, move on to the chemotherapy area, spend time at the main hospital, the go across the street to the infusion center. “I roam a lot,” she says.

“Sometimes I take patients to different stations or walk with them to their next appointment. That’s one reason I’m affectionately known as people’s guide dog, or the go-to girl.”

She also tries to spread the word about the importance of early diagnosis, serving as a community liaison encouraging people to have regular tests such as mammograms and prostate checks.

the Soul

Photos by Rachel Dobson

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Karen at one of her many performances.

Finding Her Outlet When you deal with life and death nearly every day, the weight of it can crush your spirits quickly if you don’t find the right outlet that helps you cleanse your soul. For Karen, that’s music.

Making music wasn’t always her passion, but after hearing Jerry Rodgers from Bowdon perform, Karen knew she wanted to learn. “I love how Jerry sings and plays, and his energy,” she says. “I hired him to do my birthday party where I wanted dancing and singing. Then I hired him to be my teacher. He had never taught anybody – I told him I’d be an ambitious student. He taught me to play the keyboard, and I still take lessons from him.”

Karen is a keyboard vocalist, playing the keyboard and singing songs familiar to most people across several generations. Her repertoire includes everything from old gospel to Frank Sinatra to Jimmy Buffet to country to Motown.

Although it takes a huge amount of practice, Karen loves it.

Because of her connection to Tanner Health

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System, Karen became interested in the Harmony for Healing program. The program provides music in the Carrollton hospital’s Atrium to help patients and families deal with the stress serious illness creates in everyone involved. After making it through the Tanner auditions, different types of musicians donate their time, from playing a flute or violin to someone playing Tanner’s grand piano.

“I eventually gathered my nerve and tried out for Tanner’s Harmony for Healing program,” she remembers. “You have to audition. If you’re chosen, they add you to the schedule for the month. I tried out and was accepted into the program.”

Karen says she performs during a late afternoon shift once or twice a month, and this is her fourth year working with the program. She keeps the music soft and respectful, such as old gospel or a gentle dinner club style.

“Some people walk on by, and some stay the whole time,” she says. “One time I had five wheelchairs circled around me like a campfire. Sometimes people make requests. I often have dancing – it’s sweet.”

Karen has countless stories of families who shared how they were touched by her music as part of the Harmony for Healing program, but one story sticks out in her mind.

“I was playing in the Atrium, and a family was waiting near me,” she recalls. “It was obvious they had someone in the ICU, and they got the word the loved one passed. She was elderly, and it was an expected passing. I was playing old gospel such as ‘Old Rugged Cross’ and ‘Precious Lord Take My Hand.’”

She says the entire family came over and told her since they were all together, they wanted to go ahead and do her funeral service. They kindly asked if she would play for them.

“They named about six or seven songs, all old gospel. It was about a dozen people, and they read out of the Bible, talked about her, and we did the funeral right there. I closed with ‘Amazing Grace.’

They tried to pay me, but I said it was my pleasure.”

When Karen packed up to leave that day, she thought it had been a delightful performance, even amid the sadness of the moment – she was able to bring much-needed comfort to a family. “I just happened to be there, and it was much appreciated by the family,” she says.

Karen stays busy with her performances. She’s been hired to work at many types of events including rodeos, car shows, birthday parties, cocktail parties and tractor shows, and she plays for churches, the Chamber of Commerce and civic clubs.

“One of the most fun performances was when I played on a riverboat cruise in Savannah,” she recalls. “It was out for one hour, and back for one hour, with dinner and dancing.”

She takes pride in making sure the guests at her paid performances always have a good time. “I’m high energy and fun,” she says. “I’m very fortunate – I perform about 70 gigs a year. The largest was probably a pancake breakfast for 800 people.”

Although most of Karen’s performances are paid gigs, it’s important to her to give back to groups that are close to her heart. She plays frequently at area senior centers, who provide a small stipend for her time. “They always feed me,” she says. “The smaller the town, the better the food, I joke with them.”

In addition to her time with Harmony for Healing, she donates her time to a few groups, including the Veterans Village and the Training Center for Mentally Challenged Adults, both in Carrollton.

“I’m honored to play for the veterans regularly,” she admits. “They pick and choose who they bring in.” More than 30 veterans, age 99 and younger, live in the Veterans Village.

She also enjoys sharing her talents with the Training Center for Mentally Challenged Adults for an hour every other month. “I’ve been playing for

Tommy and Karen relaxing at a Birmingham Triathlon.

Just a few of Karen and Tommy’s many triathlon medals.

them since I got into music,” she says. “We sing, we dance, line dance, we do the Hokey Pokey, we limbo – it’s such a joy to see even the people in wheelchairs going under the limbo pole. I have more than 70 people in that group. They are so well behaved and courteous, but man, do they love the music. When I walk down that hall, I feel like Elvis.

They call me the music lady.”

Overcoming Adversity Just by doing the job she chose, Karen proves every day she is a strong and determined woman.

But that determination shows through even more when she competes in triathlons – she and her husband Tommy, an attorney in Carrollton, have competed in more than 100 triathlons.

Being in such peak physical shape helped save Tommy’s life on Sept. 8, 2010.

He was flying in a small plane to a deposition when the plane crashed. The pilot was killed in the crash, and Tommy suffered serious injuries including two broken legs, a broken elbow, seven broken

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ribs, a broken back, a torn rotator cuff and cuts requiring 80 stitches.

“When you see the pictures, you wonder how anyone got out of the plane alive,” Karen says.

“After a few weeks in the hospital, they transferred him to the Shepherd Center. He had to start all over, including learning to sit and walk again. The plane crashed on a Wednesday – the Sunday before, we had both competed in a triathlon, and he won for his age group. His being in above-par shape saved him from the shock, trauma and bleeding.”

Karen says she learned first-hand the importance of patients having someone there to look out for them and be their advocates. “I kept a journal every day. I was there every bit of the way. My being a patient advocate served me well. I’ve been invited to speak several times about what it’s like to take care of someone who’s been in a catastrophic accident.”

She remembers that his physical therapy at the Shepherd Center was like throwing Tommy into the briar patch. “They said to do 20 leg lifts, and he’d do 30,” she recalls. “After he got home, he plugged into therapy here in Carrollton – he was their star student. Eleven months later, he participated in a triathlon. He placed second in his age group, and he earned the Comeback Award. We brought 50 people from our hometown to see him.”

They wrote a book, “Up and Running,” about the experience with the plane crash and his journey

Karen with Lucky 5.

back to health. It’s available at Horton’s bookstore in Carrollton, and they donate the proceeds to the Shepherd Center.

Karen says they both compete in about five triathlons per season. Tommy, who is 69, still practices law.

Helping More Than People Karen has a soft heart for people in emotionally sensitive situations, but her heart still has room for more. She participates in the Adopt a Golden program, adopting senior golden retrievers. “I usually get the old girls that are heading for their rainbow years,” she says.

She has rescued five dogs so far, keeping them in a loving, safe home until they pass away. Then she adopts another. “These older dogs have been turned into the shelter or were lost – somebody didn’t want them.”

She does, however, and loves them so much she even commissioned a portrait of Lucky 2.

“I name them all Lucky,” she says. “But I’m the lucky one.” WGW To hear samples of Karen’s music, search on YouTube for “Music You Love – Karen Vance.”

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R E W O P OF THE

PURSE

Power of the Purse Gives Women Special Opportunities for Giving

G

iving seems to be a trait that women naturally and instinctively possess. Working together at gatherings or women’s “circles” such as church circles or quilting circles have been around for centuries.

Combining giving and working together, Power of the Purse is a “giving circle” formed by the Community Foundation of West Georgia.

Specifically for women of Carroll, Haralson and Heard counties, Power of the Purse offers donors the opportunity to join others in donating funds and deciding where the money will be used in support of women’s and children’s initiatives in the three-county area.

“Women have gained strides in their finances,

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wealth and philanthropy, and we appreciate how we can make tremendous impacts in our community,” said Kim Jones, President, Community Foundation of West Georgia, “Power of the Purse members are about making a difference and spending time with friends, as well as making new ones, as we work with the strength of a common focus and vision that are based on specific needs of women and children here.”

Anyone Can Be a Member Anyone can be a member of the Power of the Purse with an annual membership of $100 as they join in making a commitment to our community.

Throughout the year, Power of the Purse sponsors opportunities for members to meet to learn more about philanthropic opportunities in the West Georgia region. Members are invited to annual spring luncheons as well as other events in the late summer which are focused on fundraising.

This year’s spring luncheon will be on April 20. For more information about attending the luncheon, Power of the Purse or how to join, call the Community Foundation at 770-832-1462 or see its Web site, www.cfwg.net/pop/. Power of the Purse is on Facebook, too, at Power of the Purse by the Community Foundation of West Georgia.

community, they also provide local audiences with entertaining nights of local theater.

The first play, Steel Magnolias, in 2011 featured four sellout performances. That was followed by the The Dixie Swim Club, about five women who met as members of a college swim team and reunite every August in a North Carolina beach cottage. Then in 2013, audiences were introduced to the Futrelle sisters of Fayro, Texas – Frankie, Honey Raye and Twink - in Dearly Beloved, followed by the next two plays in the trilogy, Christmas Belles and Southern Hospitality. Another play is planned for this August, which will be announced in the coming weeks.

This Fundraising is Fun

$49,400 Has Been Donated

In addition to membership pledges, the Power of the Purse Fund raises funds by sponsoring an event annually designed to raise money and to be fun for members and participants, such as plays presented for local audiences. Productions have raised as much as $20,000 each summer. These plays not only raise funds and create awareness of needs in the

A committee composed of fund members meets annually to assess needs of women and children in the community and the allocation of the Power of the Purse monies to meet those needs.

Organizations that are a 501(c) (3), faith based, or other charitable entities may apply for grants via an online grant application. Individuals are not eligible

This dramatic scene from “Steel Magnolias” featured Rebekah Carpenter as Shelby, seated, and Susan Stone Martin as Annelle, Marilyn Hubbard as Clairee, Susan Fleck as M’Lynn and Cindy Denney as Truvy. The play also starred Stephanie Turner as Ouiser.

The play featured four sold-out performances and raised $21,000 for the Power of the Purse Fund.

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Organizations receiving grants are:

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Carroll County CASA

•

Carroll County Child Advocacy

• Carroll County Center for Family Visitation

Communities in Schools, a nonprofit organization working with schools to increase graduation rates of at-risk students, received a Power of the Purse grant for a Girls’ Self-Empowerment Group targeting female students who have become parents and parents to-be to assist them in learning about childrearing. “We have worked with at-risk female students to build their self-esteem and life-skills to prepare them for their independence. The Power of the Purse grant made this possible,” said Cynthia H. Langley, Executive Director of Communities in Schools of Carrollton/Carroll County.

to apply. This summer, $12,000 will be issued following a review of grant requests. Since 2009, Power of the Purse has issued grants totaling $49,400 to nonprofit organizations supporting women’s and children’s initiatives in Carroll, Haralson and Heard counties.

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•

Carroll County Council on Aging

• Carroll County Emergency Shelter

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Carroll County Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy

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Carrollton High School

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Carrollton Presbyterian Church

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Communities in Schools

• Darkness to Light Stewards of Children

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Haralson County Family Connection

In 2013 the Power of the Purse opened a hilarious trilogy of plays featuring the Futrelle sisters of Fayro, Texas.

Appearing in the production were, left to right, Amanda Camp, Stephanie Turner, Barry Oxford, Susan Greer, Dan Lewis, Andy Davis, Rebekah Carpenter, Georgia Carter, and not pictured, Annabelle Bearden, Scottie Jennings and Tim Reeves.

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Hope for the Journey

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Literacy is for Today and Tomorrow

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Mt. Zion Legacy Council

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Pregnancy Resource Center

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Rapha Clinic of West Georgia

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SCRAP Bin

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St. Margaret’s Community Outreach

Temple Senior Center

•

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University of West Georgia, College of Education

West Georgia Regional Library

•

In the 2013 production of Dearly Beloved, Rebekah Carpenter as Geneva, the florist/bus station attendant/wedding coordinator, got the attention of the inept Fayro Deputy John Curtis, played by Andy Davis.

WGW

As a recipient of a Power of the Purse grant, the Rapha Clinic of West Georgia is improving lives in the community as it provides health care and dental care to people who otherwise would have no access to such care.

First 3 Legacy Council High School Graduates with their mentors. Power of the Purse has issued grants to the Legacy Council - Path for Success, which prepares girls for post high school life from Mt. Zion High School. Teacher and founder of the program, Liz McDill, pictured below 4th from the left, introduced the mentoring program for high school girls that was born out of a practical need for extended support in preparing students to transition successfully into a life of independence after high school.

For more information visit www.cfwg.net/pop/

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HOW TO THE OF

We all have stress in our lives. Work, kids, spouse, housework, pets, aging parents, grown children, the list is endless, and there is never enough time in one day to deal with everything that is required of us. Stress can affect every aspect of a person’s life, including health, behavior, emotions and thought processes, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Many people are so used to being stressed they don’t even realize that stress is wreaking havoc on their bodies. Stress seems to be the new “normal” for many people.

It’s Not Healthy It’s well known that stress that goes unchecked can do some serious damage to a person’s health and well-being. Health problems attributed to stress are obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease, just to name a few. Being able to recognize the symptoms of stress on the body can give a person a leg up on being able to manage them. According

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MANAGE EFFECTS

to the Mayo Clinic, the physical symptoms of stress can be anything from chest pain, rapid heartbeat, difficulty swallowing, headaches, grinding teeth, lack of energy, clenched jaw, low libido, dry mouth, experiencing ringing in the ear, difficulty sleeping, shaking and nervousness, and sweaty or cold feet or hands.

Emotional Effects of Stress Stress affects much more than just the body; it also greatly affects a person’s mind and spirit as well. Sadness, irritability, depression, anger, anxiety, lack of motivation, restlessness and lack of focus are some of the side effects of stress on a person’s mood. Trying to cope with stress often leads to negative behavior choices.

Some people deal with stress by smoking, drinking heavily, abusing drugs, and undereating or overeating, withdrawing from social situations or acting out in anger, either at home toward family members or in public toward strangers.

For some overly stressed people, even the smallest irritation can set them off, for example the “exact change lady” you’re unlucky enough to get behind in the checkout line at the grocery store, that person who cuts you off while you’re driving home from work or the crazy neighbor next door who complains every time a leaf from one of your trees lands in his yard (he’s probably stressed, too).

How to Cope One of the best ways to cope with stress is to avoid excessive drinking and drugs altogether, suggests the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although these things may seem to help with stress in the beginning, they could be extremely damaging in the long run.

Taking a break from the stressful person or event in your life can also help manage the stress.

Sometimes talking with others, like a close friend or family member, counselor, pastor or even your doctor can lighten the burden. When you share how you’re feeling with others they may be able to help you think of potential solutions, or just having

Physical Symptoms of Stress Include: Chest pain/Rapid heartbeat Difficulty swallowing Headaches/Grinding teeth Lack of energy/Clenched jaw Dry Mouth/Ringing in the ear Difficulty Sleeping/Low libido Sweaty or cold feet or hands Nervousness/Shaking someone listen to you while you share your burdens is enough to get you over the hump.

Taking care of yourself mentally and physically can get you on the right track - getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, exercising daily or every other day and giving yourself a break when you need it can also calm your nerves and make you feel more centered.

How to Help Your Children Cope Adults aren’t the only ones experiencing stress in today’s world. Children and adolescents are also feeling the effects of stress. There are several ways parents or caretakers can help their children feel safer after a scary or stressful event happens in their lives, according to the CDC. • Talk to your children and encourage them to talk to you. Really listen to what they have to say and encourage open communication without punishing or judging.

• Continue your normal daily routines.

• Be aware of signs of stress in your children.

Are they getting enough sleep, withdrawing from friends or family or reverting to old childlike behaviors like bed wetting? Any changes in normal behavior can be a sign that your child is experiencing stress and may need support.

• Reassure your children about their safety.

Let them know the steps you are taking as a parent to keep them safe and healthy.

• Talk to other adults who are involved in the child’s life. Other parents, teachers and health professionals can offer your child much needed support so you and your child don’t have to go through this alone. WGW

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The Winning Bid: How to Make Your Offer Stand Out When You’re House Hunting

By Shala Hainer The weather is warming up, and so is the housing market! Buyers are out in full force shopping for homes, but in most areas, inventory still remains low. That means that several buyers might end up wanting the same house at the same time, resulting in a multiple-offer situation.

Multiple offers are wonderful if you’re the seller, but if you’re the buyer, the situation can be nervewracking. Most Realtors won’t share the existing bids, so you’re providing your best offer without knowing anything about your competition. If you’re serious about getting the house, try a few strategies to make your offer more attractive over the others.

• Get pre-approved by a lender. If you can include your pre-approval letter with your offer, the seller knows you can afford the home and have already started the process with the lender. That means you’re a better risk than someone else who doesn’t have proof of funds.

• Go conventional if you can. Many buyers choose loan programs such as FHA, VA or USDA for various reasons, including reduced down payments and flexible lending requirements. However, these loans also come with more restrictions than a conventional loan, making them more likely to fall through.

For example, they might require certain repairs on the home before the loan can close, while a conventional loan wouldn’t make that requirement. Most lenders offer conventional loans with down payments as low as 5 percent of the sales price, so if that’s a possibility for

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you, choose a conventional loan to make your offer more competitive.

• Remove contingencies when you can. You might not be able to get rid of the financing contingency, which says you can back out of the deal if your financing falls through, but you can reduce the timeframe for approval – talk to your lender to find out how quickly you can get your approval. They might be able to do it in as few as 21 days after you sign the contract, which could make your offer more attractive to the seller. If you don’t have a home to sell before you buy a new one, that also makes you a stronger buyer, for example. Another option is to shorten the due diligence period, during which you get the home inspection. While an inspection is a key part of buying a home, keeping the time frame short helps the seller know you’re serious about moving forward.

• Up your earnest money. Most buyers put $1,000 or $1,500 down as earnest money on a house when they get a binding contract.

Offering more gives the seller more security in the contract – if you back out outside of one of the contingency periods, the seller gets to keep the money. You get the money credited back to you at closing when you buy the home, so you don’t lose it, as long as the deal goes through like it should. Offer to pay $2,500 or more in earnest money to make your offer more attractive.

• Ask about the seller’s needs. Does the

seller need to close on a certain date because she’s being transferred out of state? Or, maybe she wants to go ahead and close but rent the house back from you until the end of the school year so she doesn’t have to commute her children back and forth. If you know a little bit about the seller’s situation, you can go ahead and work some special stipulations into your offer so the seller knows you will accommodate her needs.

• Don’t ask for closing costs. When it comes down to it, most sellers focus on the bottom line. Anything they have to pay in closing costs lowers their profit from the sale. If you don’t ask the seller to pay anything toward closing costs, your offer might be more competitive than the others.

• Offer asking price or higher. In a multipleoffer situation, many buyers offer at least a little more than asking price – this is pretty much a must if you’re asking the seller to pay some of your closing costs. Once again, the seller wants to get as much in her bottom line as possible. Ask your Realtor to help you come up with the right amount to bid – offering more than asking price gives you an edge, but only if the house will appraise for

that amount. You don’t want the deal to fall through later because it wouldn’t appraise properly.

When you find yourself in a multiple-offer situation, you might get a response back from the seller asking for your “highest and best.” That means they are giving you one last chance to produce your best offer. They aren’t getting in a bidding war, and they still usually keep the other bids secret, but they want to know exactly how much each buyer is willing to offer for the home. If you lowballed a bit with your first offer thinking you would be able to negotiate, now is the time to up it to the highest amount you’re comfortable offering.

Sellers tend to strictly enforce the deadline on highest and best requests, so send in your new offer as quickly as possible for it to be included in the seller’s consideration.

If you don’t win the contract in a multiple-offer situation, just know that more homes are listed every day. Be patient, and move fast when you find a house you like to try to get your bid in before you end up competing with other offers. WGW

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SHE’S GOT

GAME Giving It All She’s Photo by Michael and Melia Seniors

A dedicated, determined, team-oriented conservationist, 17-year-old Calli Pollard is an exceptional senior basketball shooting guard for Oak Mountain Academy in Carrollton, Ga. Calli has called Ranburne, Ala. home her entire life and attended school in Ranburne through the 9th grade.

She began playing basketball at the age of four and after years of training and sacrifice, made the high school varsity basketball team in the 7th grade and was a starter for the team her 8th grade year.

Being an 8th grade starter on the varsity team wasn’t easy for Calli. She experienced degradation and bullying from the older basketball players because of her talent at a young age, and at the end of the 9th grade, she and her family made the decision to move her from Ranburne High School to Oak Mountain Academy to begin her sophomore year. One of the main reasons for the move was because she wanted to be challenged more academically. Calli has flourished at Oak Mountain as a basketball player, volleyball player and a student, and her only regret is that she didn’t make the move her freshman year.

She has received numerous accolades and awards for her basketball and academic performance and she is the founder and president of the Environmental Club at Oak Mountain. The club recycles paper, plastic bottles, and glass bottles for Keep Carroll Beautiful. Calli is also a member of the Key Club and is involved in helping her community

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GOT

with the club and as a volunteer with her church.

Calli still lives in Ranburne with her parents Donnie and Sherrie Pollard. Calli’s younger sister, Christian, 14, also attends Oak Mountain Academy and is on the varsity basketball team. She has two older siblings: Colton,19, attends Auburn University and Candi Harris, 31. Candi has three children and Calli adores her niece Camryn and nephews, Jentzen and John Robert.

Her favorite activities are playing AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) basketball, organizing and cleaning, watching Grey’s Anatomy, and hanging out with her friends and family. Calli is a middle hitter volleyball player and assisted the team with winning the State Championship this year.

Although Calli was heavily courted by eight Division II teams and one Division I team – one college coach in Texas even sent her his personal family Christmas card – she has decided to go to college closer to home and she is looking forward to moving on to a new chapter in her life, to play basketball for LaGrange College.

West Georgia Woman: Tell me what you love about basketball.

Calli Pollard: I just love the game of basketball and everything that comes with it. I love the feeling of the adrenaline pumping before big games and the feeling of accomplishment after winning. I love the feeling I get when I run out of the locker room

Photo by Michael and Melia Seniors

onto the court and everyone cheers for me, all the lessons that the game has taught me and how strong I have become, mentally and physically. I love how it has shaped me into the person I am today and how I am a better, more encouraging, well-respected young lady because of it. I love the feeling I get when I win an award, watching the expression on the younger girls faces when I pass them the ball and they make the shot, the unity that we have as a team and the bonds that we develop. I love the fact that the younger girls look up to me. All the exhausting practices are worth it in the long run because you can look back and say, “I gave it my all.

I left everything on the court,” and there is no better feeling than that.

WGW: What did it take to get to this point in your life as a player?

CP: It has taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get to this point in my basketball career. I have spent countless hours in the gym shooting the ball on the shooting gun, and with personal trainers and taking private lessons so I could get better. Team practices aren’t enough to be an exceptional player; you have to practice when nobody is watching. It’s the hours spent outside in the freezing cold and the rain shooting and dribbling the ball that has gotten

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Photo by Michael and Melia Seniors

me to where I am today. It’s the extra hard work and dedication that has given me the opportunity to play college basketball. I started playing AAU basketball in the fourth grade. I have played and practiced basketball all year, non-stop since then.

School basketball season started in November and went through March, so during that time I would be practicing with my team as well as going to the gym on the weekends to put up extra shots. Then AAU basketball would start in late March and go until August. During that time I was practicing with my AAU team three days a week for two to three hours. It was in a non air-conditioned gym during the hot summer. I was also doing private lessons with a former WNBA player on the days that we didn’t have AAU practice. Then in August, volleyball started but I still continued with private lessons and shooting on my own. Basketball is all I have ever known and I love it.

WGW: Who has invested in you as a player?

CP: My parents. I have had some amazing coaches that have helped me and worked with me but nothing like my parents have. They have invested their time and money in my basketball career. They have paid for me to have private lessons and private trainers. They have taken me to these lessons and driven me all over every state to AAU tournaments and games.

They haven’t missed a basketball game in my whole life. They are always so supportive and encouraging. They have always wanted the very best for me, and they have given me the opportunity to be successful at basketball and I took that offer.

They have done so much for me and I have no idea how I could ever thank them enough. I hope one day I can repay them for all they have invested in me.

WGW: What keeps you motivated?

CP: My younger sister

and teammates keep me motivated. They push me to get better. I am an excessively competitive person. My younger sister is an exceptional basketball player, but I refuse to let her get better than me. Some nights she has more points than me but I constantly remind her that I am the one giving her the ball so that she can score.

WGW: What is your training regimen?

CP: My training regimen has always consisted of a lot of shooting. During the months of March through August, I would be playing AAU basketball. I would come in an hour before practicing and work with a shooting and dribbling coach before practice. Then, we would practice three days a week for two to three hours a day. We would stretch, warm up, and go over plays of offense and defense for an hour.

We would condition and do speed and agility drills for an hour. Then we would scrimmage for about 30 minutes and do scrimmaging drills. Then we would shoot, run, and stretch for the last 30 minutes.

Then on the days we didn’t have practice, I would shoot outside. We would have a tournament every weekend. We would play up to seven games in a weekend. Then, during high school basketball, we would have team practice everyday after school and I would shoot in the gym on the weekends.

WGW: How do you prepare the day of a game mentally and physically?

CP: I prepare mentally by focusing just on my team, the game I am about to play, and what I need to do to win the game.

I get dressed and listen to music while preparing physically.

I do an abundance of stretches and exercises to get loose before I play. I get my mind focused completely on basketball and nothing else. I talk to my teammates about the game, the game plan, and the other teams best players and how

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we are going to stop them. I believe it’s important to be serious and completely focused on the game.

WGW: What do you like most about playing?

CP: I like the competition the most about the game. I love proving myself to people, competing against other teams and the feeling I get when all the hard work has paid off.

WGW: What do you like least about playing?

CP: All of the injuries I have encountered. Even though they have made me stronger, taught me lessons, and allowed me to know what it is like to overcome obstacles and adversity, they have also kept me from playing in games, and if there is one thing I hate, it is missing games. I’ve played with torn tendons, torn ligaments, dislocated knees, sprained ankles, and countless other injuries simply because I wanted to play. I didn’t want my hard work to go to waste. If I was going to work that hard to compete, I was going to compete in that game no matter what. Injuries are painful and can be a setback, but I have taken my setbacks and turned them into major comebacks.

WGW: Who has had the most influence in your life at school?

CP: All of my teachers have an impact on me at school. Every single one of them strives to make sure I have the knowledge I need going into college.

WGW: Who has had the most influence in your personal life?

CP: My mom has the most influence in my personal life. She is not only my mom; she is my best friend, my rock, my motivator, and my everything.

She is always there for me and loves me no matter what. She does everything for me and she always makes sure I have what I want and need.

WGW: Tell me what goes through your mind when you’re out there competing. What do you Photo by Kay Horton think about? How does playing make you feel physically and mentally?

CP: When I am competing in a basketball game, I daily asthma medication. It has kept me strong and healthy. am constantly thinking about the next play. As soon WGW: Tell me about your success stories as I miss a shot or mess up, I do not dwell on it, I academically, and in sports. immediately think about the next play and picture CP: Academically, I am an all A student. I’m myself making the next shot. I think about what I taking two AP classes this year. I am in the National need to do to help my team win the game, what Honors Society at Oak Mountain Academy. Tenth shots I need to take, when to pass the ball at the and eleventh grade I was on the Head of School right time, and what I can say to my teammates to List. I won the Spanish Excellence Award, Bible encourage them. Mentally, basketball makes me Excellence Award, and I was Honorable Mention on stronger. It has allowed me to overcome adversity the National Spanish Exam in tenth and eleventh and build bonds while having fun. It has made me grade. Athletically, I have received the Varsity think about the future and it has taught me not Basketball Three Point Award in seventh, eighth, to dwell on the past. Physically, basketball is an and ninth grade. I also received All Area in the ninth exhausting sport; however, it has helped me build grade along with MVP in the tenth and eleventh up my lungs and it has helped me come off of my

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grade. I was All-Region and All-State my tenth and eleventh grade year and I have also already received All-Region this year. I was MVP of the Furtah Christmas Tournament in eleventh grade. I received my 1000 Points award at the end of my eleventh grade year. I have gotten AAU Basketball MVP in many tournaments since the fourth grade. Also, the students in my school voted me Homecoming Queen this year. It was an honor and a privilege to represent my school.

WGW: Will you be attending college, where, and any scholarships?

CP: I have just recently decided to attend LaGrange College to play basketball. I received eight Division II offers for full athletic scholarships, but I didn’t feel like that is where God wanted me. I felt a connection with LaGrange. It felt like home. I have received several academic scholarships there.

WGW: What do you do to help other girls on the team who are younger than you?

CP: I encourage the younger girls on my team a lot. I was the only senior this year so all of the girls on the team were younger than me. In the past, my role on the team has been to score. This past year, I felt like my role was to give the ball to the younger girls and to let them score. Nothing is more encouraging than scoring points during the basketball game. Nothing makes me happier than to see their faces light up when I pass them the ball and they score. It makes me so happy to know that I have encouraged someone.

WGW: How old were you when you started playing? What was that first game experience like for you?

CP: I was 4 years old when I started playing basketball. I don’t remember any games up until my first varsity basketball game in the seventh grade. That first game experience was like no other experience I have had in my life. I have never been so nervous in all of my life. It was like electricity running all throughout my body. I had been training and waiting for that day ever since I was little and I remember thinking, “I can’t believe the time is finally here.” It was an amazing experience.

WGW: How do you balance basketball and your other activities along with your schoolwork?

CP: Balancing school, basketball, and extracurricular activities is extremely tough. You really have to be strong mentally and physically. I have managed to keep all A’s all throughout my high school career, play basketball all year, participate in church activities, spend time with my family, and have somewhat of a social life. My social life has been set aside for many years. I have always

concentrated on basketball and school. God and my family are the most important things in my life, so they come first. Then school and then basketball.

My parents have raised me to have my priorities straight and to manage my time wisely. Having a social life is important, but all of those other things are more important. I have sacrificed many sleepovers and birthday parties so that I could get all of my homework done before basketball practice or my tournament that weekend. Many times at tournaments or games, I have had to do homework before games or in-between games and definitely after games on the car ride home. I have managed to do and accomplish everything I have wanted to do since I was little. I live a busy and hectic life, but I always seem to balance everything out.

WGW: Who is your biggest fan?

CP: My dad is by far my biggest fan. He has a passion almost stronger than mine for the game of basketball. He loves me as his child and he loves the fact that I love basketball. He has never missed a single one of my basketball games. He loves me and he wants the best for me. He wants to make sure I reach my highest potential.

WGW: Tell me about your support network at home. What do they do for you to help you succeed?

CP: I have an exceptionally strong support system.

My parents and all of my siblings support me and want the best for me. I couldn’t ask for a better support system. They encourage me, uplift me, pray for me, practice with me and do whatever else they can to make me a better basketball player and a better person.

WGW: If you could give a freshman advice what would you tell her?

CP: I would tell her to practice like she plays and to play with her heart, to train and play to her highest potential. I would tell her to leave it all on the court every single game so when she graduates she can have no regrets and honestly say that she gave it her all. I would tell her to enjoy every single minute because it goes by faster than you think.

WGW: Do you see yourself playing basketball the rest of your life?

CP: Unfortunately, I do not see myself playing basketball past college.

WGW: What do you want to do for a career after high school?

CP: I want to major in exercise science at Lagrange College. I want to be a clinical exercise physiologist and work with a physical therapist.

WGW

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Reflections on

Grief

Exploring the Myth of the 5 Stages

By Mary Ellen Trahan

S

everal weeks ago, Angela and I discussed the possibility of including my reflections on grief in West Georgia Woman from time to time. While the magazine is surely full of joy in its celebration of women and life, honest acknowledgement of loss as an inescapable element in every human life appears regularly. And, each issue is dedicated to Angela’s nephew, Tristan, who passed last September just as Angela was embarking on her journey as a publisher.

Most of us are deeply aware that there is no life without loss and, thus, no life without grief. At my age – nearly 64 – loss, in all its varieties, on small and large scales, is no surprise guest. I’ve witnessed the range and reality of aging, illness, suffering and death. I’ve attended many, many funerals for family members and friends. However, on April 16, 2012, my particular experience of loss and grief intensified in ways I could never have imagined.

My sister, Rose, a full-time mom and part-time personal trainer, and her family, husband Bob, chief financial officer for a public school system, 19-yearold son Tucker, 17-year-old twin sons, Salvatore (Tore) and Tanner, and 8-year-old daughter Isabella, had lived for years in a quiet community outside Detroit. Soon after he started high school, Tucker

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began a downward slide into drugs and small skirmishes with the law. By the time he was 18, he was quite out of control and continued to rebuff all of Rose and Bob’s ongoing, intense efforts to help him.

On that fateful day, he had been living outside the family home for some time with kids who were kindred spirits – all of them drifting and doing drugs.

He and an accomplice hatched a plan three weeks prior to murder Rose, Bob and all the kids. At 3 a.m.,

Grief Recovery Dr. Glen Davidson, professor of psychiatry and thanatology at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine studied 1,200 grieving people. The study showed the average recovery time for the mourners was 18 - 24 months, according to the National Funeral Directors Association.

they broke into the house and, armed with baseball bats, launched their attack.

They killed Bob; Rose and Tore were severely brain injured, hanging on to life by a thread for two weeks. We – all of us in my very large family – lived at the hospital 14 hours a day waiting, wondering, praying and hoping. Tanner, fortunately, chose not to jump into the fight the night of Tucker’s attack; he managed to hide and call 911. He stilled his breath and tried to make himself invisible even as Tucker went looking for him and came about a foot from his hiding place. Isabella was not physically injured – the police arrived in time – but witnessed the whole event.

Rose and Tore survived and, as incredibly determined people, they have, small step by small step walked a path of recovery, never really knowing exactly where they’re headed. They’ve endured brain rehab facilities, physical therapy, ongoing medical, neurological, and chiropractic interventions.

The consequences of Tucker’s attack unfold endlessly.

Living Through the Stages Some days I still can’t believe the events of April 16, 2012, really happened; other days, it’s all too real and, in every fiber of my being, I wish they hadn’t happened. The shock waves don’t bowl me over quite as often, but the chronic heartache and tightness in my chest are never far away. Some days my body is leaden, while other days, I’m agitated.

The idea of progressing through predictable stages doesn’t remotely capture the texture of life since the day my world fell apart.

The idea that grief progresses through linear stages became part of our collective story over 30 years ago. The road map that promises a successful end to the pain of grief has us initially responding with denial, then raging against reality (anger), sliding toward bargaining, falling into depression and finally resting in acceptance. This map points to real aspects of the experience, but it doesn’t capture the jumbled complexity and actual overwhelming disorientation of grief.

The disorientation, the sense of being uprooted from ordinary life, the feeling of being a lonely spectator as others go about their daily lives, the bone-crunching sadness, the search for comfort, the bewilderment; for me, there’s nothing neat or progressive or predictable. Grief is more like “a long, winding valley where any bend may reveal a totally new landscape ... or, the same sort of country you thought you had left behind miles ago.” (C.S. Lewis) I’ve learned that tears are grief’s lubricant – let them flow freely! – and that laughter, especially the laughter of shared humanity, can be soothing. When I find my body constricting and my chest tightening, sometimes it’s helpful to breathe slowly and deeply; other times it’s better to move – walk, run, dance or whatever quickens your physical energy.

When I’m feeling hopeless and bewildered, a walk in nature or hanging out under the stars and moon at night can lift my spirits. Music of all kinds is often a source of comfort. Turning to friends and family for support and validation is essential.

There’s no right way or wrong way to grieve, and grief that lasts longer than two months is not a disease. It’s a process. WGW

Mary Ellen Trahan, Ph.D. is a local therapist and author of the book, Living Well, Living Wise: Thriving Beyond Our Fashionable Stories. She grew up in Michigan, earned her Ph.D. from the University of Virginia, and has made her home in Georgia for the past 30 years. To find out more about her and her work, visit her website, livingwelllivingwise.com, or her professional Facebook page, Mary Ellen Trahan, Ph.D.

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Fun Things to do

With the Kids Close to Home

N

o time to go anywhere for Spring Break this year? Did you resolve to stay at home this year to save money, your sanity or whatever reason? Relax. That’s the whole point of a “break” right? We’ve got you covered on the best places to go have fun with the kids that are close to home, won’t break the bank and will have you back home in your pj’s before nightfall.

1. Downtown Senoia, Ga. Are you and your family fans of “The Walking Dead”? Visit the town of Senoia where filming of the popular show takes place. Take a tour of “The Walking Dead” museum in the basement below the Woodbury Shoppe, the official Walking Dead store. Inside you’ll find an authentic prison cell from the series as well as Daryl’s motorcycle and other props used in the popular television show.

The best part? The tour of the museum is free.

Open Sunday 1-5 p.m., Monday-Friday 11-5 p.m. www.woodburyshoppe.com 770.727.9394

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2. Historic Banning Mills, Whitesburg, Ga. Does your family like adventure? Visit Historic Banning Mills in Whitesburg for the thrill of a lifetime. Banning Mills is the home of the largest zipline, the Screaming Eagle, and is verified by Guiness World Records. Not that adventurous?

Explore the Old Ghost Town or the old ruins of the paper mill.

Prices vary. Call for details: 770.834.9149 www.historicbanningmills.com

3. Sweetwater Creek, Lithia Springs, Ga. If you’re into nature, Sweetwater Creek in Lithia Springs has everything you’re looking for with 2,549 acres, a 215 acre lake, picnic areas, tent campsites, yurts, a visitor’s center, museum and a gift shop. $5 to park. Park hours: 7 a.m. to dark. 770.732.5871 www.gastateparks.org/SweetwaterCreek

4. Bud Jones Taxidermy Wildlife Museum, Tallapoosa, Ga. If your family is into animals, well, the stuffed and mounted kind, look no further than Bud Jones Taxidermy Wildlife Museum in Tallapoosa.

Here you will find a large collection of fossils and exotic animal mounts. There is also a large collection of western decorative art. Take the self guided tour and visit the gift shop. Admission and parking is free. Parking is mobility-impaired accessible.

Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat. 9-12, Closed Sunday. www.bjonestaxidermy.com 770.574.7480

5. John Tanner Park, Carrollton, Ga. If you’re looking for a nice sand beach close to home, visit John Tanner Park in Carrollton. There is a beach and a lake, horseshoes, mini golf, paddle boats, picnic areas, walking trails and a playground.

A daily park pass is $5. Activities are an additional fee.

Open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. www.carrollcountyga.com 770.830.2222

6. McIntosh Reserve Park, Whitesburg, Ga. If your family is into history and nature, McIntosh Reserve Park in Whitesburg, Ga. is the place to go.

The park is 527 acres that contains land that was the home of Chief William McIntosh Jr., of the Lower Creeks. His gravesite, along with an 1840’s style log cabin replica of the home he lived in is on site.

Amenities include bike trails, equestrian trails, a splash water park, picnic and camping areas. This park is extremely popular with hikers and equestrian riders, and is located along the Chattahoochee River.

Open year round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Winter hours 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Summer hours 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Prices vary. Call for details: 770.830.5879 www.carrollcountyga.com

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Stop That

W

In Her Tracks

hen we hear the word bullying, images of a kid being picked on at the playground, or someone consistently being called a name and made to feel inferior comes to mind. Sometimes we may even hear someone say, “he or she is bullying me...” What really is bullying? Bullying many times involves the victim’s perception. However, for a behavior to be considered bullying, there has to be aggressive and unwanted behavior involving an imbalance of power; and the behavior is done repeatedly. The central theme in all bullying behaviors is to inflict hurt, create fear and impose a sense of discomfort to the individual being bullied.

There are different types of bullying behaviors that can be sorted under three major categories: verbal, physical, and relationship bullying. In verbal bullying, the individual is teased, called a name, taunted, insulted, threatened, or have inappropriate comments made in her presence to or about her. When someone is being physically bullied, the following behavior is evident: pushing, pinching, kicking, being tripped, spit on, or have personal possessions taken away aggressively.

With relationship bullying, the person’s character is being defamed. It may involve gossiping about the person, being shunned or left out, being told she does not belong in a certain group and that others should not befriend the individual being bullied.

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By Cheryl A. Francis

There is no unique factor that predisposes someone to being bullied. However, those who are usually bullied are considered “different.” “Different” could possess any label. “Different” could constitute type of clothing worn, being the new person in the environment, race, height, size, a disability, or just not considered to be a good fit for the crowd doing the bullying. Other factors that might lead to bullying are the victim may not be popular, have few friends, is unable to defend herself, or presents with low selfesteem. Individuals who are lesbian, gay, disabled, or socially isolated may be at increased risk of being bullied.

So why do people bully? Oftentimes, the offender or the person who bullies is doing so from a place of insecurity. Therefore, bullying someone helps that individual feel better. There are times when the offender is being offended as well. So, the natural response is to offend someone whom they consider to be weaker, or less able to help themselves. There are times when the offender is having problems in her life. I recalled watching “The Bridge to Terabithia” where, at the end, the story shows the bully was being beaten at home; her response was to pick on the younger and smaller sized kids at school. She not only gained notoriety and attention, but was feared by the entire playground, all the while, feeling lonely and hurt herself. The offender may have learned that the only way to have her way is to beat on or

hurt others. Many times, bullying behaviors results from peer pressure, or the person was bullied as a child and became a bully to feel a sense of empowerment.

Bullying behaviors occur in many areas of life. Individuals are bullied on the job where an individual is forced to do something they do not want to do. Sometimes it is at home where they are physically punished. We see a lot of bullying behaviors at school, and now more widely on the internet.

Internet bullying is called cyberbullying.

Cyberbullying occurs through electronic technology such as cell phones, computers, or tablets, and is usually done on social media sites, text messages, chats and websites. Many times cyber bullying involves spreading gossip, fabricating a story about a person, or posting embarrassing pictures of someone, some of which are artificially doctored.

Cyberbullying also involve creating bogus profiles and posting inappropriate videos about an

individual. Cyberbullying is difficult to eliminate as once a post is made, it is a challenge to trace.

Another problem with cyberbullying is that a post can become viral quickly, and attempting to delete it becomes an arduous task.

There are some steps that may help in quickly resolving all types of bullying behaviors. It is important to not respond to or forward bullying messages posted on social sites. Recording incidences of bullying is key. This will assist in holding the offender accountable. It is OK to block the person who is bullying. Ignoring the bully and not making eye contact often helps. The bully instills fear. Someone once told me, “Don’t ever let them see you sweat!” Every behavior is

purposeful. A bully’s purpose is to see you afraid and feeling insignificant. Stand up to the bully, or be an “upstander” by speaking up for the person who is being bullied. Agreeing with the bully takes away the sting the bully is attempting to impose on you.

When you give the bully the opposite of what she is expecting, it throws her off guard and oftentimes stumps her.

It is important to talk to someone you trust or feel comfortable with when you are being bullied.

Many times those who are being bullied keep it to themselves when speaking to someone about it may have provided intervention and eventually stop the behavior. WGW Cheryl A. Francis, Licensed Professional Counselor, is the owner of The Heart Matters Wellness Services LLC, a full-service counseling agency. She is certified as a Mental Health First Aid Adult trainer and regularly provides seminars and trainings to the community on various mental health issues. She currently works as a school-based mental health counselor, and has partnered with the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy to train individuals in the prevention of childhood sexual abuse. Visit heartmatterswellness.com for more information about Cheryl and her work.

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Daily Fare ”Adapt these recipes to your tastes and your lifestyle. That’s what I want you to feel the freedom to do with my recipes. You are more talented and creative than you give yourself credit for!”

Julie Culpepper Julie Culpepper is a Georgia native living in Carrollton for the past 26 years with her husband Alan and their adult children. She became a personal chef after graduating culinary school in 2012 and loves working with two companies that she incorporates into her style of cooking- Branch and Vine in Newnan and Doterra, an online source for essential oils located in Utah. For further information about contacting Julie or these companies, please feel free to contact her at : jculpep4@gmail.com or culpepperoilsolutions@mydoterra.org

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or go online to: branchandvineonline.org

A Taste of the Orient

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sian flavors are very complex and exciting.

There are multiple layers of flavor from cooked and raw foods served together, which means differing textures that are very pleasing to the palate. Asian foods tend to have a great balance within the five sensory regions on the tongue – sweet, salty, bitter, sour and savory. These are also known as tasting zones. With all these things going on, you could consider an Asian meal a small “mouth party” that will definitely be fun!

This beef recipe is a creative way to utilize leftover smoked brisket from a good barbeque joint, but pork can be used just as easily. A crispy baked store-bought waffle can serve as a substitute for the pancakes, which often can only be found in specialty stores, and if you cannot obtain the tangerine balsamic (that’s a definite loss), then use some plain balsamic and squeeze in some fresh tangerine or orange juice (or a tablespoon of frozen concentrate).

If you use a substitute for the tangerine balsamic, it will take a little longer to reduce to a thicker sauce.

Add any number of your favorite vegetables, just make sure to add the veggies that need to cook longer in the beginning.

The Asian Noodle Soup-Pho (pronounced F-uuh) is an absolutely addictive Asian comfort food. Any protein can be added such as beef, chicken, shrimp, scallops or fish. I’m also including a long list of additions at the end – you can choose all or just a few of them depending on your tastes. This soup might just become a new family favorite as it has mine!

Photos by Michelle Horsley

Tangerine Beef on Onion Pancake Ingredients 1/3 pound sliced smoked brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces with most of the fat removed

3 green onions, roughly chopped ½ cup finely chopped cilantro ¼ cup tangerine balsamic vinegar or plain balsamic vinegar

3 Tablespoons olive oil 1 Tablespoon garlic paste 1 Asian onion pancake per person

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Instructions For Pancake:

Place 1 teaspoon olive oil into a frying pan and

heat to a medium high temperature. Fry on both sides until browned, about 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Keep warm.

For Stir Fry:

Heat the remaining oil on medium heat and add

the meat, onions, cilantro, and garlic and stir until combined and warmed through, about 3 minutes.

Adjust the heat to medium high and add the bal-

samic. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes. Spoon over the pancake and serve immediately.

Serves 1

Asian Noodle Soup-Pho Ingredients

For the soup broth:

2 quarts low sodium beef stock (chicken stock could be used as well)

2 Tablespoons fish sauce 3 Tablespoons soy sauce

1-2 Tablespoons Asian soup stock flavoring (a

mixture of spices and herbs) or your favorite spices such as onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, anise, cinnamon, ginger)

1 Tablespoon lime juice

Additional fresh garlic and ginger paste

according to taste once you combine the

broth.

About 12 ounces protein of your choice- I used thinly sliced beef sirloin and small chunks of trout.

Rice Noodles

Instructions

Have a recipe you’d like to share with West Georgia Woman?

Send it to: features@westgeorgiawoman.com 38

Mix all ingredients. Simmer slowly on medium heat approximately 30 minutes, covered and stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasonings to your preference. The main thing to avoid is getting it too salty because many of the ingredients contain sodium. When you are ready to serve, add rice noodles to the broth – one serving per person according to package directions. Cook on a low boil just until done. Serve immediately because the noodles will continue to soak up broth and expand. This usually takes no longer than 5 minutes. Place into a large bowl for each person and add as desired from fresh garnishes such as cilantro, jalapeno, basil leaves, red onion (thinly sliced), green onion, bean sprouts, chopped red or yellow grape tomatoes, thinly sliced white mushrooms, hoisin sauce, sriracha Sauce. They should be washed, chopped, and presented together on a platter for the taking.

Serves 4

Tips from Julie: If you have never tried to make some of your pantry staples at home, maybe you should! Many times they are more nutritious and less expensive, taste fresher and do not contain all the preservatives found in items that can survive on shelves for months or even years.

Just do a quick internet search to find different recipe ideas. Pick the one that intrigues you the most and have fun trying something new. Make small batches that will be used quickly (usually within a month) because remember, you are not adding chemicals that will preserve them forever in time - or in your body!

• Condiments: Like ketchup and mayonnaise. There’s even an easy mayo version that can be quickly accomplished using an immersion blender.

• Nut Butters: Made with a sturdy food processor. Just when you think you’ve failed, something magical happens (after about five minutes) and you get silky smooth delicious nut butter. Try peanuts, almonds, cashews, or even hazelnuts for the “nutella” version!

• Stocks: Such as chicken, beef, vegetable, fish, and mushroom.

These contain much less sodium and can be frozen in small bags to pull out and use whenever you need them • Vanilla Extract: People are always amazed upon learning I make my own, and I’m amazed that anyone would pay the astronomical price at the store when it is so simple to make. All you need is a good neutral vodka and one or two fresh vanilla beans.

• Whipped Cream: This can be done with an energetic arm or a mixer.

Real heavy whipping cream, sugar, and some of your homemade vanilla extract is all you need. Homemade whipped cream totally blows away the store-bought versions that are mostly made with oil.

These are just the beginning of ideas for you to try. The new and exciting discoveries are there waiting for you to try and enjoy!

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Local Happenings

From left: Charlene Brooks, Michelle Morgan and Publisher Angela Dailey at Michelle’s Coffee and Conversation event held on Feb. 21 at Neva Lomason Library.

Healers and Helpers Wellness Group This group meets the last Saturday of every month in Douglasville. For more information, contact Cheryl at theheartmatters@gmail.com or learn more at www.heartmatterswellness.com.

Mommy’s Day Out Barbecue

Coffee and Conversation Sunday, February 21, 2016 Michelle Morgan, District 4 Commissioner, hosted a coffee and conversation event for her constituents at the Neva Lomason Library in Carrollton, Ga. Michelle hosts these events because she looks forward to meeting her constituents and is interested in hearing their input on current issues involving the community.

Thursday, April 7, 2016, 6 to 7 p.m. in Carrollton Come join us for a fun filled hour of BBQ and fellowship! Moms will enjoy a wonderful barbecue dinner and play fun games. Contact us for more details!

Call 678.739.1740 for details and to register.

Refer a Mom Contest Refer a mom to Mommy’s Day Out by having them call Jwyanda Norman at 678.739.1740 and RSVP for the Mommy’s Day Out Barbecue by April 4, 2016, and receive a entry into our drawing to win a $25 gift card to any Carrollton Small Business of your choice!

Remember to Shop Carroll!

Michelle with her constituent Mr. John Crosby.

Need It Most Each Mommy’s Day Out event is from 6 to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month. Locations vary, please contact Jwyanda at 678.739.1740 for the location. These are free events for new mothers, mothers with children 0-12 months, and mothers suffering from Postpartum Depression.

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Dita and Red Jones, retired local radio personality, with Michelle.

Michelle with Roni Tewksbury, Director of West Georgia Regional Library.

Michelle with library supporters Dottie Hamrick and Dondra Trawick.

Michelle with Jarrel Howard. Jarrel brought all of the flowers for the event.

Michelle with Kristi Galloway, co-owner of 4am Roasters – local, organic, fair trade delicious coffee.

Mommy’s Day Out – Need It Most First Annual Postpartum Depression Awareness Event – Saturday, February 20, 2016

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Why We Love Our Pets W

e love our pets. Sometimes we will go to great lengths to make sure they are cared for, healthy and happy, making sure they have their daily walks, favorite toys, the best food and grooming. The list is endless. But why do we do these things for our furry friends?

The answer may be purely psychological, suggests Martin Siegel, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Most human beings treat their pets like their family members, nurturing and loving them as if they are their own children. Humans often consider it to be a very rewarding experience to take care of an animal that is entirely dependent on us.

“Essentially, it means that we derive psychological comfort and satisfaction from being

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perceived positively by others, and especially, from being perceived the way we perceive ourselves,” says Dr. Siegel.

The human experience, which involves deep, emotional relationships, is often based on “conditional” love for one another, with the exception most likely being the love of a parent for a child. Taking parental love for their children out of the equation, human beings’ love for each other can often change from one day to the next, or perhaps completely disappear forever depending upon the experiences we have with one another, our values and the choices we make.

Our pets, on the other hand, almost always have a deep and loyal unconditional love for us that doesn’t go away based on circumstances or the environment. Animals simply don’t care what clothes we wear or how we look on a particular day, nor do they care about

The average cost to own a small dog in the first year is $1,580 and a cat costs $1,035, according to the ASPCA. (We think it’s worth it.)

decrease blood pressure and releases a relaxation hormone from your body. Stress level hormones in your body are greatly reduced as well, suggests WebMD. Even babies receive the benefits of pet ownership. Some studies have shown that babies are not as likely to get common allergies or asthma, and often have fewer ear infections or colds if exposed to pets before the age of six months old. Studies have also shown that pets seem to help autistic children interact easier with other children in a classroom setting, according to WebMD. Whatever our reasons may be for pet ownership, the benefits definitely outweigh the costs and the time that we must spend making sure our fur babies are healthy, safe and happy. WGW

any personal flaws we may have that might make other humans cringe and think badly of us, or worse, stop loving us altogether.

The Benefits There have been numerous studies on the health benefits of pet ownership, and it’s no surprise that people feel better after hanging out with their pets.

Having pets can greatly decrease blood pressure, feelings of loneliness and isolation, cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels, according to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. Just petting an animal can

Proud Supporter and Printer of 925 Pacific Avenue Bremen, Ga. 30110 770.537.4329 www.gatewayprint.com

Woman Magazine West Georgia

TM

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Celebrate HER SUCCESS

Gifted Hands Local Beauty Salon Owner Has Unique Style of Her Own

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all, lovely, soft-spoken, full of grace and always willing to share a ready smile, Christy Johnson is so much more than her job description. She is a loving mother to her four children, a source of unwavering support for her husband and a dear friend to many in the community.

Christy is the owner of Hair Emporium, a full-service beauty salon in Bremen, Ga., and she has quite a following with the locals. Just walk into her salon and you will almost always see several people waiting to have their hair cut and styled by Christy. Many of the patrons will only let her cut or style their hair and don’t mind waiting an hour to let her do just that, because when the clients visit Christy, they get much more than just a cut and a style. Good conversation, compassionate advice and the sharing of personal stories and relationships abound inside these walls.

She has been married to John for 28 years. He is an investigator for the Haralson County Sheriff’s Department, and is her high school sweetheart.

They have four children, Joshua, 21, Megan, 19, Mattie, 11 and Claire, 6. Joshua and Megan both attend the University of West Georgia. Joshua is a wide-receiver on the West Georgia Wolves football team and Megan is in her first year and is on the Dean’s List. Megan also started her own online business last summer.

The Beginning Christy has spent her entire life in West Georgia, in Carrollton and Bremen, and graduated from Bremen High School in 1992.

Christy’s mother, Diane Sharp, is a hair stylist and it was only natural for Christy to step right into the family business. “My mother has been a hair stylist for over 30 years, so I grew up in a hair salon. I always enjoyed meeting people in the salon,” she relates.

Diane opened the Hair Emporium on Dec. 19, 1987 and began building the legacy her daughter would eventually take over responsibility of in 2015.

Christy shares what the experience was like in the early years of Hair Emporium and how she began her career as a hair stylist. “I started as a shampoo girl/receptionist/shop keeper at 14 years old, but with hard work, determination and the help of my mother, I got to where I am today.”

She began cutting hair in 1989 and has been a hair stylist for 27 years, although she barely looks any older than 27. She obtained her license through an apprenticeship working directly under her mother.

In an apprenticeship, you have to obtain more hours and the stylist has to take the State Board test to be licensed to cut hair.

Christy accomplished something that is very rare in the hair styling business. She passed the State Board test with her first attempt, and that is an accomplishment she is very proud of, but it’s no secret that Christy credits her mother Diane for being where she is today. She is quick to tell you that her mother is her mentor. Diane has always been available to give Christy advice on running the business, and Christy says all good hairdressers help one another. She never has to look far to find a source of support and be that support for other women in the industry.

Left, Christy with Brandy Harper, another stylist at Hair Emporium.

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Small Town Life Christy loves living in the small city of Bremen where everyone seems to know everyone. She has always been involved in her children’s activities and sporting events and loves working close to their school and her home. She really enjoys taking care of the clients who live in the same community in which she lives. Her greatest challenge as a business owner is time management with trying to fit all of those clients into her busy schedule.

Giving Back Not only does Christy style hair for clients four days a week at the Hair Emporium, she also gives back to her community by cutting and styling hair for nursing home residents. “I do hair at two local nursing homes every week, so trying to fit all of my clients into four days is challenging at times, but I enjoy it!,” she says with a warm smile, “I’m blessed every day. It’s just my way of trying to give back.

I have plenty of work at the shop, but it’s good therapy for them, and for me too.”

With Christy’s sweet and kind nature, genuine

“My husband and my four children have endured

the late nights and quick dinners, not to mention

late homework, but as a

family we manage to get it

46

sincere compassion and interest for others, it’s no wonder she can’t fit all of her clients into her schedule, but that’s a challenge she welcomes and feels very grateful to have. She is looking forward to expanding the business, and she currently has spaces available for two hair dressers/stylists, one space for a massage therapist, as well as one space for a nail technician.

Time To Be A Mom With four children, Christy is no stranger to trying to balance her busy career with her personal schedule. She credits her husband John and her two older children, Joshua and Megan with helping her achieve that balance.

“My husband and two oldest children help me balance all there is to do by pitching in and helping take care of the younger two. Even with their busy schedules, they help with homework, practice, laundry, even bath time. The Johnson household learned a long time ago, with six people living in a house, it takes everyone pitching in to get it all done,” she says with laughter.

In Christy’s line of work, the late hours can be brutal. Working every weekend is tough, especially with all of the activities her children are involved with, but somehow they all make it work. It’s her intense love for her family that motivates Christy to come to the salon every day, even

“

“

Christy’s family from left: Mattie, Claire, Christy, Joshua, John and Megan.

done together.”

though the hours spent on her feet all day and on weekends are less than desirable. “My husband and my four children definitely have had the most impact on my personal life. They all have endured the late nights and quick dinners, not to mention late homework, but as a family we manage to get it done together,” she relates.

As for her professional life, Christy’s motivation comes from a sincere appreciation and respect for her clients. “Our clients that come into the salon mean everything to us, and we try to keep them happy,” she says, “We appreciate every single person. Brandy Harper, Diane Sharp and I enjoy working together to help others, getting to know new people and making our clients feel better about themselves.”

The average woman changes her hairstyle about 150 times in her lifetime, according to a survey by hair salon chain Toni & Guy.

Her Advice Christy has some simple, yet tried-and-true advice for other women who may be thinking about starting a career in this industry or owning a hair salon of their own. “Be patient, work hard and love what you do!,” she shares excitedly.

Even the continuing education involved is sometimes difficult to manage with the busy schedule of late night and weekend work.

“Continuing education consists of obtaining hours online every two years,” she relates. “The hours usually consist of things we have already been tested on and it is just to refresh what we have already learned.”

“We do try to attend hair shows when we can, but that can be very hard at times because they are always on the weekends which is our busiest time, and out of town.

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Looking Ahead Christy hopes the future continues to look bright for the Hair Emporium, and she and her staff are very thankful for the business they have. Being a small business owner isn’t for the faint of heart, but Christy wouldn’t trade the hard work and sacrifice for anything. She is doing what she loves and finds satisfaction in being able to interact with her wonderful and interesting clients on a daily basis.

She is excited to tell everyone what she believes sets the Hair Emporium apart from other hair salons when clients visit for the first time. “The staff at Hair Emporium are friendly and it is a very relaxing, fun place to get your new look or just to ‘freshen up your style.’ Having a comfortable environment to come to makes us unique,” she shares. “I would like to thank all of our clients for making Hair Emporium such a success. We would also like to extend an invitation for new clients. We would love to have the opportunity to serve you and your family.” WGW Claire, Megan, Joshua, and Mattie

West Georgia Ambulance Encourages all WOMEN to INVEST IN YOURSELVES! For the greatest return on your time and money, invest in yourself.

• • • • • • •

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Check your blood pressure at the local drugstore.

Scan the paper for free health screenings in your area.

Get your yearly check up and mammogram.

Add drinking water to your daily routine.

Park farther out from the store and walk.

Incorporate a meatless Monday and eat your veggies!

No one is worth more than you. When you are at your best, then you can be better for those around you.

Dedicated Healthcare When You Need It Most

770.832.9689

Subscribe to our free digital issue

and have it sent to your inbox each month. westgeorgiawoman.com 49

Womentality

Inspiring quotes by extraordinary women “For a long time it seemed to me that real life was about to begin, but there was always some obstacle in the way. Something had to be got through first, some unfinished business; time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life.”

- Bette Howland

“Invest in the human soul.

Who knows, it might be a diamond in the rough.”

- Mary McLeod Bethune “I’m in love with the potential of miracles. For me, the safest place is out on a limb.”

“We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are.”

- Anaïs Nin “Who thinks it just to be judged by a single error?”

- Beryl Markham 50

- Shirley MacLaine

“Sometimes loving yourself in the right way means saying goodbye to those who love you in the wrong way.”

- Anna Grace McCall

Ever After “Tenderness is greater proof of love than the most passionate of vows.�

Marlene Dietrich

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PHOTO BY RACHEL DOBSON

TIFFANY AND JOEY CROOK Were married June 14, 2015, at The Overlook in Tallapoosa, Georgia

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970 Hays Mill Rd. Carrollton, Georgia 678.664.0610

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Style is what you do with it!

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Wedding Trends

To Match Your Personal Style Weddings are highly personal events, often reflecting the personality of the happy couple – or, at least, of the bride. While each event is unique in some way, trends still emerge that showcase the era as the brides add their individual spins.

Not even halfway through 2016, some interesting trends have appeared. Brides tend to be shying away from Pinterest a bit and sticking to the classics for timeless elegance they can remember fondly forever.

• More Metallics. Brides might choose soft pastels or bright pops of color, but metallics seem to be making a comeback with both palette types. This might be golden candlesticks, pewter mugs or bronze lanterns.

Some weddings might be full of glitz and glamor with shiny metallics throughout, while others might add just a touch to enhance the atmosphere.

• Mixed Rustic. The rustic theme is still in style.

Brides might choose venues that have that oldbarn feel, or they can bring in earthy elements such as twigs, cut-log centerpieces, and handpicked flowers. Getting more popular in 2016 is mixing the rustic side with technology. The bride might share GoPro cameras with her wedding party to get several perspectives on the evening, for example, or she might request drone photography of an outdoor ceremony.

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For truly techie couples, drones can serve as alternatives to the ring bearer – with a careful driver behind the remote control, of course.

• Mismatched Bridesmaids. Many brides are looking for practical alternatives to some wedding traditions. Some choose bridesmaid flowers that double as centerpieces, and others eschew matching bridal outfits. Letting the bridesmaids pick their own dresses, but making sure they coordinate, is becoming more common in 2016. The bride might ask them all to choose a light shade of blue, for example, but let the bridesmaids choose dresses that flatter their figures and that they might wear again. This helps the bridesmaids stick to a budget as well by not requiring them to purchase a specific formal, and often overpriced, gown. The brides should request the right of refusal, however – brides should approve all the dresses well before the ceremony to ensure they have a look that fits the event appropriately.

• Innovative Desserts. While most brides still prefer some sort of traditional wedding cake, keep an eye out for other interesting dessert options. These might replace the groom’s cake or just be a side option that is visually appealing as well as delicious. For example, the reception might feature a tower made of macarons or a fancy ice cream bar. Some grooms opt for donut cakes instead of the real thing, or they might simply provide a spread of dessert shots or bite-sized versions of items

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such as cheesecake, brownies and cream puffs.

• Intimate Gatherings. Instead of formal round tables at the receptions, brides seem to be leaning toward setups that encourage a more casual, intimate feel. This might be long tables that help people converse with a variety of other guests, or several high-top tables for people to stand around, chat and mingle. Sit-down dinners could be replaced by brunch or buffet-style fare, often outdoors or in a natural, rather than formal, environment.

• Eco-Friendly Options. Many brides want their dedication to the environment to spill over into their weddings, which could mean using recycled paper for invitations, offering locally sourced and organic food options at the reception and creative attendee favors such as seed packets or tiny succulents. Watch

West Georgia Woman will feature your bridal photo at no charge in

“Ever After.” The bride or groom must be from West Georgia. Please submit

one photo (at least 300 dpi), the bride and groom’s names, address,

wedding date, venue, photographer’s name and copyright release to:

photos@westgeorgiawoman.com.

Photos will be included as space becomes available.

for green ideas, such as potted plants as centerpieces rather than cut flowers, to appear more frequently in weddings in 2016.

• The Dress. While some styles never go out of fashion, look for some more relaxed designs in 2016. Some brides might prefer the off-the-shoulder look with a lace or crochet fabric. Open backs and V-cut backs are making a comeback this year. For the more flamboyant, watch for feathers to adorn the gowns, or even wedding gowns that feature prints rather than sticking to solid colors.

The trends should by no means decide the route you take, if you’re planning a wedding in 2016. Your special day should reflect who you are and what you like. You might decide to incorporate bits and pieces of several current fads, but you could, instead, avoid the trendiness and stick to classic traditional wedding choices. As long as the ceremony and reception makes you happy, you can’t go wrong. WGW

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Resources for Women

Police Departments Call 911 in an emergency.

Bremen Police: 770.537.4441

Dallas Police: 770.443.8100

Buchanan Police: 770.646.5246

Douglasville Police: 770.920.3010

Carrollton Police: 770.834.4451

Douglas County Sheriff: 770.942.2121

Carroll County Sheriff: 770.830.5888 Cedartown Police: 770.748.4123 Coweta County Sheriff: 770.253.1502

Floyd County Sheriff: 706.291.4111

GSPIN

Suicide prevention, intervention, and aftercare information. www.GSPIN.org

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Heard County Sheriff: 706.675.0444 Hiram Police: 770.943.3087 Newnan Police: 770.254.2355

Franklin Police: 706.675.6624

Paulding County Sheriff: 770.443.3010

Grantville Police: 770.583.2266

Polk County Sheriff: 770.749.2900

Suicide Prevention Services National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800.273.TALK (8255)

Haralson County Sheriff: 770.646.2011

Know the Suicide Warning Signs!* If you or someone you know: • Threatens or talks about hurting themselves • Feels hopeless or like a burden • Increases alcohol or drug use

• Feels rage or uncontrolled anger • Feels trapped, like there is no way out • Engages in reckless behaviors • Withdraws from friends and family

Senoia Police: 770.599.3256 Tallapoosa Police: 770.574.7211 Temple Police: 770.562.3151 University of West Georgia Police: 678.839.6000 Villa Rica Police: 678.785.1100 West Georgia Technical College Police: 855.579.4357 Whitesburg Police: 770.832.1184 • Feels anxious, agitated or unable to sleep • Encounters dramatic mood changes • Sees no reason for living *Warning signs provided by Georgia Suicide Prevention Information Network

Healthcare Resources The following list of contacts assists people with no health insurance or those who can’t afford their medications, based on income or age.

Department of Human Resources, Division of Aging, Georgia Cares Program: (Disabled. 60 years of age and older.)

800.669.8387 dhr.georgia.gov/portal/site/DHS/ RX Outreach: 800.769.3880 www.rxoutreach.com

Partnership for Prescription Assistance: 888.477.2669 (toll free) www.pparx.org/ Pfizer Helpful Answers: 866.706.2400 (toll free) www.pfizerhelpfulanswers.com Lilly Answers: 877.RX.Lilly (1-877-795-4559) (toll free) www.lillymedicareanswers.com Merck Prescription Discount Program: 800.727.5400 www.merck.com Georgia Parent Support Network: (Addictive Disease, Developmental Disabilities, Mental Health Issues.)

404.758.4500 www.gpsn.org

Additional Resources: www.rxhope.com www.rxaminer.com www.medicare.gov www.phrma.org www.rxassist.org www.needymeds.com www.themedicineprogram.com PeachCare for Kids: Provides free or low-cost health insurance for qualifying children in Georgia.

To apply, visit www.peachcare.org or call 877.427.3224 (toll free).

Pregnancy Resource Center: Carroll, Haralson & Heard Counties: Provides free confidential pregnancy tests and counseling.

770.832.0256 www.pregnancyrc.com

Services Georgia Legal Services: 404.206.5175 TDD 800.255.0056

Coweta County Solicitor’s Victim Assistance: 770.254.2701

Exchange Club Family Resource Center, Floyd County: 706.290.0764

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.799.7233 TTY 800.787.3224

Douglas Task Force on Family Violence: 678.715.1196

Hospitality House for Women, Floyd County: 706.235.4673

Douglas Judicial Victim Assistance: 770.920.7292

Victim Assistance, Haralson County: 770.646.2016

Douglas County Homeless Shelter: 770.949.4911

Heard County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Unit: 706.675.3329

S.H.A.R.E. House Family Violence Crisis Center, Douglas County: 770.489.7513

Paulding County District Attorney Victim Assistance: 770.443.7561

Carroll Co. Emergency Shelter: 770.834.1141 Carroll County Mental Health: 770.836.6678 Carroll County Solicitor Victim Assistance: 770.214.3110 Carroll Rape Crisis Center: 770.834.7273 Community Welcome House, Newnan: 770.304.0966 Coweta Judicial Circuit Victim Assistance: 706.845.4270

Highland Rivers Center, Floyd County: 706.233.9023 Floyd County District Attorney Victim Assistance: 706.291.5210

Shepherds Rest Ministries, Paulding County: 770.443.5213 Polk County Women’s Shelter: 770.748.2300

UWG Health Services: 678.839.6452 (free sexual assault exams completed by sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE)) UWG Patient Advocates: 678.839.0641 (Jill Hendricks) or 678.839.5338 (Corey Hindman) Georgia Crisis & Access Line Help is available 24/7 for problems with mental health, drugs, or alcohol.

800.715.4225 mygcal.com

HomeSafe Georgia: 877.519.4443 www.homesafegeorgia.com HomeSafe Georgia helps by providing “bridge” mortgage assistance to many Georgians who are unemployed or have seen a dramatic decrease in their income due to national economic conditions.

West Georgia Woman magazine makes every effort to make sure the information made available is complete, correct, accurate and up to date. Despite these efforts, inaccuracies can occur. Angel Media, LLC and West Georgia Woman magazine cannot be held liable for direct or indirect damage originating from use of the information on this page. Should you observe inaccuracies in the information made available, please email us at features@westgeorgiawoman.com.

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KAYA SURVIVED! Born 4 months early and spent more than 5 months in the hospital.

Sign up at marchforbabies.org

© 2015 March of Dimes Foundation

Saturday, April 16, 2016 John Tanner Park Registration & Team Photos: 8:00 a.m.

Walk Starts: 9:30 a.m.

For more information, please call 706.845.0708

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Premature birth is the #1 killer of babies.

Kidz Korner Delicious To celebrate Arbor Day this month what better treat to make than these yummy marshmallow crispy rice bird nests. Not only do they taste great, but these treats only cost around $6 to make.

Marshmallow Crispy Rice Bird Nests

Instructions

Melt butter over low heat in a large saucepan.

Add the marshmallows until completely melted. Add the crispy rice cereal and mix well. Place the mixture in the butter-greased cups of the muffin pan. After the mixture has cooled, form the mixture in each muffin cup into the shape of a bird nest.

Place each nest onto the platter of your choice.

Fill the bird nests with the assorted candy eggs.

Enjoy!

Ingredients 1 bag regular size marshmallows 6 cups crispy rice cereal 4 tablespoons butter (Use 1 tablespoon to grease muffin cups.

1 metal muffin pan Assorted candy eggs

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Arbor Day Tissue Paper Hand Trees Celebrate Arbor Day by having your little one make these adorable tissue paper hand trees. Using only construction paper, tissue paper and glue, this creative craft is so inexpensive and easy to make even for the youngest conservationist.

3. Tear off small pieces of tissue paper about 3 inches in diameter.

Materials Sheet of brown construction paper Several sheets of tissue paper in assorted colors Glue Pencil Scissors Instructions 1. Trace the outline of your child’s arm and hand on the construction paper.

2. Cut out the tracing.

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4. Glue the crumpled pieces of tissue paper onto the fingers and hand of the traced pattern.

Consider it ...

!

D

L O

S

Shala Hainer, Realtor Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers Office: 404.843.2500 Direct: 678.320.4529 www.metrobrokers.com

Better Homes and Gardens速 is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company.

Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Better Homes and Gardens速 Real Estate Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

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Arbor Day Word Search Word Bank Tree Community Plant Conservationists Mulch Preservation Soil Nature Arborist Water Landscaping Green Sunshine Fertilizer

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Word search created at puzzle-maker.com

M. Dawn Harvey, DMD, PC Family Dentistry and Complete Facial Esthetics

Don't you look at your smile and your face as one complete picture?

Well, so do we. Ask us today about our treatment options using injectables for wrinkle reduction, "gummy smiles," and lip and line fillers to enhance that beautiful smile.

Who better than your dentist to enhance your facial features to compliment your smile? Your dentist is an expert on the facial muscles and is also among the most experienced with injection techniques.

Do you suffer from TMJ, headaches, and/or migraines?

Did you know that 80-90% of the time, these problems are muscle related? See how we can use trigger point injections to relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. Often these injections not only relieve your pain, but also enhance your facial features for the better.

We are your total facial esthetics and facial pain treatment dental office.

Give us a call!

105 Dallas Rd, Villa Rica, GA 30180 • 770-459-5778 www.drharveysmiles.com

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COMING SOON

WALKER GMC 1492 N Park St (Hwy 27) Carrollton GA 30117 770.832.9602 www.walkergmauto.com

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