Houston County Living - Winter 2019

Hometown Living at its Best Win t e r 201 9 HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

THE WALK AT SANDY RUN

The park features a boardwalk trail, a large grassy green area and a shaded pavilion.

LEGACY OF

REFRESHED, REFINED, REIMAGINED

Giving

FOUNDATION NAMED FOR FORMER PERRY MAYOR, JAMES WORRALL, CONTINUES HIS GENEROSITY THROUGH CHARITABLE WORKS.

Houston County Galleria Mall gets a face-lift just in time for the holidays.

Dining For Every Occasion

From traditional and casual to coastal and rustic styles, find the perfect dining room at Turner’s Furniture. Whether you’re looking for an entire dining set or unique seating to update an existing table, Turner’s is here to help personalize your dining space.

785 GA HWY 96 (CORNER OF HWY 96 & HOUSTON LAKE ROAD) 4 7 8 - 2 1 7 - 2 1 6 5 | M O N - F R I 9 A M - 8 P M ; S AT 1 0 A M - 6 P M ; S U N 1 P M - 6 P M W W W . T U R N E R F U R N I T U R E . C O M

J. Don Spillers, Jr., DMD, MS | Adam Gordon, DMD

Spillers Orthodontics is where great smiles begin!

Known for our friendly, well-trained team, we offer Invisalign®, Clarity™ Aligners, Smartclip™ metal and clear self-ligating braces, and much more.

Our office uses the most advanced technologies, including intraoral scanning, 3D digital X-ray, 3D imaging, and 3D printing to ensure that every patient achieves a healthy and beautiful smile.

• Middle GA’s ONLY Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider • Complimentary Evaluation • No Referral Needed • No Goopy Impressions

Earning Trust

Saving Money

We are a real estate firm focused on two primary principles: Earning Trust and Saving Money.

EARNING TRUST, SAVING MONEY ... that’s what we do.” As the Broker/ Owner of A Choice Realty, Phillip Collins has built his real estate company model on the motto: “Never underestimate the power of simplicity.”

“We are a real estate firm focused on two primary principles: Earning Trust and Saving Money. Being in the real estate business, A Choice Realty understands the stress associated with this task, We surround our clients with a strong team dedicated to every aspect of the home buying or selling process. It can get very stressful at times, but in the end, we love seeing those big smiles after EARNING TRUST.” SAVING MONEY is a big deal to A Choice Realty. As the only member of the “Million Dollar Saved Club,” Phillip gets excited when his homeowners save thousands of dollars. “In 2018, we saved our clients over $150,000. This year, we are on track to save our clients over $200,000, I love it when homeowners hold up that Big Check and see how much money A Choice Realty saved them; it’s better than getting a fruit basket at the closing table any day of the week.”

How does A Choice Realty save homeowners that much money? The answer is very simple: “We charge 4% total commission instead of the industry standard 6%.

That savings of 2% might not sound like a lot, but take a look at a comparison of the same $200,000 house. The industry standard of 6% equals $12,000 in commission.

With A Choice Realty’s way, 4% total commission equals $8,000 – a clear savings of

When it’s time to buy or sell your home, call A Choice Realty. With their 4% total listing commission program, you are guaranteed to save thousands.

$4,000. To make it even better, that $4,000 savings is TAX FREE. Who wouldn’t want to save $4,000?”

Is A Choice a discount real estate firm? “No! There is nothing discount about A Choice Realty, We feel this is the best way to do business. We are business partners; our homeowners have a product and A Choice Realty has a service. In a partnership, partners should share in the profits. Our clients will always save more than what I make when I sell their home using our 4% total commission savings program.”

Is A Choice Realty a one-man show? “No, I am so very fortunate to have the BEST real estate team in the business: Leslie Huggins, Mitch

Faraone, Amy Wilkes and Mike Douglas. I call them ‘SALE TEAM SIX.’ As a former Naval Hospital Corpsman with the Marines, I always look for ways to honor my past and those with whom I served, so that’s how they received the name Sale Team Six. I cannot say enough about Sale Team Six. They are the most focused, dedicated and hardworking team I have ever been associated with.”

When it’s time to buy or sell your home, call A Choice Realty. With their 4% total listing commission program, you are guaranteed to save thousands. “We keep it simple: EARNING TRUST & SAVING MONEY!”

205 THOMSON ST, CENTERVILLE, GA 31028 | (478) 334-7260

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Hometown Living at its Best

The Walk at Sandy Run contents /

winter Issue 2019

The park features a boardwalk trail, a large grassy green area & more

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Running the Race Adrianna Haynes is a state and national track champion at the age of 10.

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Keeping it in the Family Sometimes life does not turn out as planned. Sometimes the choices you make help it to turn out better.

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I know what it’s like Crystal Wisecup Zunino chronicles her journey from school teacher to cancer survivor.

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Sermon on the Mat Breath of Life yoga classes offer Christian focus and faith-based practice.

On T h e C o v e r Mandi Posey Paris and Joe Posey >> Photo: Tinika Bennett Photography 4 winter 2019 / Houston County Living

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Hometown Living at its Best

c o nt e nts

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174

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Just the Right Prescription Uwa says that her books are a conduit for some of the advice that she’s been giving for years.

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Love Thy Neighbor HALO offers a bright future for the Community.

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The Pride of Georgia Gillian has volunteered hundreds of hours with the organization MADD.

6 winter 2019 / houston County Living

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Legacy of Giving

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Praetorian CrossFit Mike and Bre created a community of wellness when they started a crossfit gym out of their garage.

generosity through charitable works.

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Houston County Galleria Mall gets a

Foundation named for former Perry Mayor, James Worrall, continues his

Perry Players Filled with generations of community members, a Christian spirit, and incredible talent.

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The Journey David Feldman teaches selfdiscipline, self-improvement and life enjoyment at Perry Tae Kwon Do.

Refreshed, Refined, Reimagined facelift just in time for the holidays.

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A Pillar of the Community Pat Braski finds his job of running three restaurants extremely fulfilling since it gives him the opportunity to give back to his community.

Commitment to excellence... it’s a family tradition

Beverly Hardy (478) 951-7140 (478) 218-287-6156 leeandbeverlyhardy@robbinsfree.com

Christi King Cell: (478) 662-4285 Direct: (478) 218-8055 christihking@robbinsfree.com

SPECIALIZING IN: RESIDENTIAL NEW CONSTRUCTION AND RESALES, LOTS, A S S I S T I N G F I R S T- T I M E A N D E X P E R I E N C E D B U Y E R S A N D S E L L E R S 1271 S. HOUSTON LAKE ROAD | WARNER ROBINS, GA 31088

From the Publisher

the Publisher

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F r o m t h e P u b l i s h e r

P u b l i s h e r With You In Mind Publications

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Jay and Patti Martin

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M a n ager June Dixon being enough, not having enough, or not doing enough. This f f i C e m A n AG e r laura mcCullough headspace can have the power to shift ourO focus away from D i r e c to r Of nning our holiday schedules magical time whatthrough trulythis matters.

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ce blossom this year as she grows the most city. with this into beautiful as we also welcomed a new little nephew who made his fall. All around us, we are surrounded by loved ones.

As we are festively planning our holiday schedules through this magical time m A n AG e r s June dixon of year, i have found myself stopping to savor so many moments this season. nikki Burkhalter hot chocolate nights with delicious marshmallows stuck to our lips, late night of countless stories of people who P h otograp h er s family snuggles with a good movie on the couch, finding the perfect tree to community to hold close and decorate and the laughter fromshare the kids while helping dig out the ornaments h OtO Gheart r A Poverflows h e r s with Antgratitude hill Photography and string thePlights. my for our family.

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little toddler, as we by alsoso welcomed little nephew who made his erica new s. love andadorable one that can pass David Parks Photogra beautiful entrance this fall. All around us, we are surrounded by loved C ovones. er P h oto Mandi Posey Paris and Joe Posey

tance. family and love is a choice, whether born into or

Perhaps the most fascinating realization of all is that family is created through more than one circumstance. family andPhotography love is a choice, Randy whether born into or path together, hand in hand, we chosen.

As we all continue to walk this

year, i hope we all remember to count our blessings, as County, how much we LOVE each one hope you know, Houston A l ewe s allKeisha Cory for the little moments...the ones we will look back on As we move into a new year, ishope remember to count ourCblessings,

o n t r i bas uting of you and treasure Please continue to little show hose that remain imprinted on our hearts that carryour us friendship. often as we remember, for the moments...the ones we will look back on Patti martin Wri through the years. it’s thosewho that remain us te r s life. love and support to all of our incredible advertisers so imprinted on our hearts that carry landon spivey through the seasons of life.

graciously make this magazine available to you at no charge. ou and the love you all pour out onto our families We are so grateful for you and the love you all pour out onto our families

Your complimentary copies are available at each business raging emails and ideas all sent our way. We hope you C O n t r i B emails u t i n Gand ideas all sent our way. We hope you through readers, encouraging gratitude to each advertiser listed on page 192 listedthat onispage 208.

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Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas the hAPPiest neW YeAr June and b. Anderson full of love and memories!

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amily a merry Christmas and the hAPPiest neW YeAr Blessings, es!

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feel that peace, we then have theCoach energy to Gary, turnms.toPeggy ourBryant, family l e s Dorothy Sichelstiel Damien Bishop frederick Sa Williams, and so their stories of us where they came from that brought them to and community and pour out the many lovemore on share those around that

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by May we all take these lessons to heart and gently remind this issue seems to weave a similar theme of how family has impacted so shae Foy Photography o we become and who we teach our children to be. many of these incredible people you will read about in their stories. Family s. Peggy Bryant, Bishop frederick Williams, and ARE so ourselves that we enough, we HAVE enough and when we shannan blanchard Photography shapes who we are, who we become and who we teach our children to be. stories of where they came from that brought them to

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home

The easiest way

Garrett Bennett is proud to play an important role in the growth of his hometown.

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At 32, Homestar Financial Corporation’s local branch manager Garrett Bennett is one of the mortgage industry’s youngest professionals. A Macon native and Warner Robins resident, Garrett is proud to play an important role in the recent growth of his hometown area as a lender for one of Georgia’s best residential mortgage lenders.

Homestar, headquartered in Gainesville, has more than 80 offices in 21 states and offers a variety of residential mortgages including VA, FHA, Conventional, Rehab, Jumbo, USDA and Refinances. Homestar also boast impressive numbers being the No. 1 USDA Mortgage Lender in Georgia the past nine years and the No. 1 FHA Mortgage Purchase Lender in Georgia the past five years.

“Homestar is an awesome company. From my co-workers and team around me to the various mortgage products we offer, Homestar is top notch and our numbers reflect this. We take pride in our performance and customer service and do everything to

make this enjoyable for all parties,” he said. “Buying a house is exciting but it is also stressful and scary; especially for first-time buyers. As a young homeowner myself, I understand the stress and fears involved in buying a home. Buyers have all these numbers, percentages and new words thrown at them where it feels like a foreign language – except the risks are greater as it involves their money and future.”

Understanding buyers and the mortgage process, Garrett encourages buyers to contact him at any time – even late at night or on the weekends. “There is a lot to comprehend and being accessible is a main priority. Not only do we have to be available, but we also have to relate to everyone and speak their language where they feel comfortable.”

Garrett believes his success is due to this attitude as well as his team at Homestar. “I am only as good as the people around me. ... At the end of the day, we are all on the same team working toward the same goal.”

Garrett Bennett, Branch Manager NMLS #1510504 GA #60344 349 Margie Drive, Suite 200A, Warner Robins 478-747-4581 www.homestarfc.com/garrettbennett Garrett.bennett@homestarfc.com HFC NMLS #70864 Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #17638 Hometown Living At Its Best

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houston county living

Story by SHERRI MARTIN

Photos by TINIKA BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY

Running the Race Adrianna Haynes is a state and national track champion at the age of 10. Coached by her father, Carlos Brooks, she has the determination and drive to reach her goals, and learn some life lessons along the way.

A

Adrianna Haynes is a normal 10-year-old. She likes to skate, spend time with her family, go bowling, go to church, play outside, and even clean, sometimes. She makes funny videos with her sister, and thinks about being a hairstylist one day.

Her 5th grade classmates at Perdue Elementary have recently discovered something different about Adrianna.

During PE, when the game involves speed, always pick Adrianna for your team.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Her father, Carlos Brooks, realized that she had exceptional speed when he was coaching her in basketball at the Warner Robins Rec Department. Adrianna has always been involved in sports, beginning with gymnastics as a preschooler, then going to basketball.

But when Carlos saw her outrunning everyone on the team, he knew she needed to be running track.

That was three years ago, and since then, Adrianna has racked up award after award, and has competed both at the state and national levels. She runs for the rec department, and competes in the Amateur Athletics Union and the U.S. Association of Track and Field.

She is a two-time national champion and four-time 12

houston county living

All-American.

The final state and national rankings for the 2019 track season feature her name several times.

In national competition, Adrianna placed 1st in the triathlon, which combines the scores from the 200 meter (200m) race, high jump, and shot put; she also ranked 5th in high jump, 4th in long jump, 16th in 200m, 28th in 100m, and 30th in 400m. In the state of Georgia, she is ranked in her age group 1st in high jump, 3rd in long jump, 4th in shot put, 6th in 200m and 400m, and 11th in 100m.

When competing in the Junior Olympics this year, Adrianna competed in a field of 50 other

Adrianna has racked up award after award, and has competed both at the state and national levels. She runs for the rec department, and competes in the Amateur Athletics Union and the U.S. Association of Track and Field. She is a two-time national champion and four-time All-American.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Adrianna says that she loves to have her dad as her coach. One day she will be able to see all that he is putting into her life through coaching.

Carlos and Ashley also stay involved in their children’s lives. For Carlos, that means coaching something he never dreamed of coaching. Although he ran track at Houston County High School, he also played football and attended college on a football scholarship. He always figured if he coached anything, it would be football.

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10-year-olds, and was actually behind until her final event, the 200 meters.

In that final, she had the eighth, or outside, lane. This means that she was at a disadvantage because the staggered start, which compensates for the curve in the track, placed everyone behind her, and she would not know how her competition was faring. But Adrianna is a determined young lady who likes to compete and likes to win. She won the race in a time of 28.51 seconds, clinching the 200 meter race and the triathlon title. “When you win, it shows that you can beat other people if you push yourself,� she says.

To compete at that level takes a lot of work, as well as a lot of people supporting her. Carlos, who is the union president and works in electrical

Adrianna has always been involved in sports, beginning with gymnastics as a preschooler, then going to basketball. But when Carlos saw her outrunning everyone on the team, he knew she needed to be running track.

instrumentation at CEMEX, and his wife, Ashley, an ICU nurse in Macon, have a blended family of six children. (“We don’t use the word ‘step’ in our family,” Carlos explains.) Adrianna’s older sister, Aryanna, also runs track, plays basketball, and cheers. Other siblings (Adrian, London, Austin, and Eli) are involved in a variety of activities; Adrianna is in the middle of the six.

Carlos and Ashley keep each child busy, putting church and school first, then extracurricular activities, at their home in Kathleen. “We are busy, but it works,” Carlos says.

Carlos and Ashley also stay involved in their children’s lives. For Carlos, that means coaching something he never dreamed of coaching. Although he ran track at Houston County High School, he also played football and attended college on a football scholarship.

He always figured if he coached anything, it would be football.

But all of that changed three years ago; now he is the head track and field coach at the Warner Robins Rec Department. He volunteers many hours to train the young people for their competitions. He is helped by assistants Terris Deans and Samantha Keeby locally, and assistant Andre Kennedy with the AAU. He also depends on skills he learned from speed coaches in football, and on people he meets along the way. One afternoon at the track, Carlos and Adrianna met shot putter Greg Farms, who, in 30 minutes, trained her in the proper form and style for shot put.

For Carlos, however, coaching is about a lot more than form and style, and times and winning. “I grew up in a rough area, and sports taught me a lot about life,” he explains. “If we are going to make a difference in these young people’s lives, we are going to have to teach them life lessons, such as teamwork, accountability, and respectability.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

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determination and drive

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houston county living

“My goals are to beat people in my competitions, set new records, and become first in the nation in all my events,” she explains. She adds that winning medals is the best part. “I feel proud when I do it,” she adds. Her family recently got a new display case for her medals, which can hold 120 medals; she has 46 in it so far.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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To keep a balance, Carlos and Ashley only allow track to take up part of the year, from February to August. Some athletes in other areas compete in indoor track during the off-season, but the Brooks’ feel it is important to have a break.

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He also pays attention to the most effective and safest ways to train, such as plyometrics – “a lot of jumps” – and running on sand or grass rather than concrete and asphalt. The Warner Robins team makes their mark, with several winning state in their events, and some setting state records. One of those setting a new record this year was Adrianna, who set a new long jump record by breaking her old one from last year; her new record is 14’10.5”.

Being both coach and dad is not without its difficulties, however. “I try to find the balance between dad and coach,” Carlos says. “Adrianna is selfmotivated, but sometimes I have to become the coach and push her.”

To keep a balance, Carlos and Ashley only allow track to take up part of the year, from February to August. Some athletes in other areas compete

Being both coach and dad is not without its difficulties, however. “I try to find the balance between dad and coach,” Carlos says.

“Adrianna is self-motivated, but sometimes I have to become the coach and push her.”

in indoor track during the off-season, but the Brooks’ feel it is important to have a break. This year, Adrianna is also going back to playing basketball, which she enjoys.

She will also have the chance to enjoy a hamburger or pizza during the off-season. During track season, they follow a track-friendly diet of lots of vegetables and good carbohydrates, and lots of water.

Adrianna says with a shy smile that she loves to have her dad as her coach. One day she will be able to see all that he is putting into her life through coaching. “It means a lot to be able to coach her and watch her grow and progress, to see the hard work she puts in, and how she handles failures, but also how she learns to come back from a failure,” Carlos says. “I am able to teach her about life through track. I take pride in being able to coach her and teach her about life along the way. I hope she continues to run and to enjoy running, and will continue on to the college and professional level.”

Adrianna, at the age of 10, thinks less about college or the Olympics than the next race. She is a competitive dynamo, who equally enjoys meeting new people, which she says is the fun part of track meets, and beating them.

“My goals are to beat people in my competitions, set new records, and become first in the nation in all my events,” she explains. She adds that winning medals is the best part. “I feel proud when I do it,” she adds.

Her family recently got a new display case for her medals, which can hold 120 medals; she has 46 in it so far. Adrianna says, “My goal is to fill it up, mainly with first places, because I don’t like to get second.”

It’s a pretty safe bet that those spots will be filled quickly, as quickly as she runs the 200m or tags her friends on the playground at school.  HCL Hometown Living At Its Best

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D Smile THE BUSINESS OF MAKING FAMILIES

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Houston County Living

Drs. Joseph and Gran Sumrall are in the business of making families smile. For 37 years, Sumrall Family Dental has been helping Warner Robins residents smile brighter and maintain healthy dental habits for generations.

Dr. Joseph T. Sumrall, who opened the practice in 1982, said he’s seen generations of families through the years, and attributes the success of his practice to treating every one of his patients like family.

“We’ve been around long time and we treat people the way we want to be treated,” Dr. Joe said. “Recently I had a patient come in; I’ve known her a long time. I used to go swimming at her house and I grew up with her children.

She had an issue, and I said, ‘If you were my mother, this is what I’d do.’ And that’s how we treat all of our patients – like family.”

With a laugh, Dr. Joe said sometimes it makes him feel old, seeing the kids of patients he treated when they were young. But encouraging good dental health in children is something he’s proud of. He’s also proud of his son, Dr. Gran Sumrall, who joined the practice in 2011.

“My dad and I were real close growing up. I saw how much he enjoyed doing what he did,” Dr. Gran said. “We’re very similar, and I felt like I’d be good at dentistry because he’s really good at it. But dentistry isn’t something you know that you truly like until you do it, and you can’t do it until you become a dentist. It’s a good thing I actually like it!”

“My dad and I were real close growing up.

I saw how much he enjoyed doing what he did,” Dr. Gran said. “We’re very similar, and I felt like I’d be good at dentistry because he’s really good at it. But dentistry isn’t something you know that you truly like until you do it, and you can’t do it until you become a dentist. It’s a good thing I actually like it!”

The father-son team share the same philosophy that dentistry is a big responsibility, and patients should whole-heartedly trust their doctors.

“We have patients travel a long way to see us. It’s a big responsibility; they’re doing that because they trust us to make the right decisions,” Dr. Gran said.

“Dentistry can be complicated and overwhelming for patients. But we present the problem and show them how we can fix it in a way they understand and agree with. We want people to understand and agree what we’re doing, because everything we do is for their long-term benefit.”

Part of the way they build trust is by spending time with their patients.

The ability to do so is a benefit of being a family-owned practice.

“We spend time with our patients.

We’re able to calm their fears and find out what they want or need.

Listening to the customer is very important; it doesn’t pay to be short minded,” Dr. Gran said, adding, “I want to be here as long as my dad’s been here. And this place is still here and growing because of his practice philosophy.”

Dr. Joe said seeing people smile with confidence is the reason he’s happily practiced dentistry for so long. “Some people are so selfconscience about their teeth, and are embarrassed to smile,” he said. “A beautiful smile can change a person’s life, and we can help with that. Being able to smile, to have pretty teeth, to chew properly, it’s a chance to change lives.”

“We have patients travel a long way to see us. It’s a big responsibility; they’re doing that because they trust us to make the right decisions,” Dr. Gran said. “Dentistry can be complicated and overwhelming for patients. But we present the problem and show them how we can fix it in a way they understand and agree with. “

100 SOUTH HOUSTON ROAD WARNER ROBINS, GEORGIA 31088 478-929-1661 | SUMRALLFAMILYDENTAL.COM

Hometown Living At Its Best

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DESTINATION: WELLNESS story By Nicole Kirksey

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FLOAT ROBINS

t begins with a decision – one that can transform your mind, body and spirit. Float Robins is Middle Georgia’s exclusive float therapy center and is your destination for wellness. If you decide to visit, you will thank yourself.

From the moment you cross the threshold at Float Robins, you know you have entered a place of relaxation and healing. Soothing colors and the scent of essentials oils set the tone for your day of wellness.

Master the art of weightless floating without any sensory input from light and/or sound by relaxing in a float “pod” filled with close to a thousand pounds of Epsom salt. Floatation Therapy has been scientifically and anecdotally proven to treat insomnia, fibromyalgia, arthritis, autism, muscle strains, addiction problems, anxiety, PTSD, and so much more. When you float in one of the pods, your body absorbs magnesium sulfate, a mineral in which nearly everyone is deficient. This helps to calm your nervous system and enhances your body’s natural ability to heal.

From the moment you cross the threshold at Float Robins, you know you have entered a place of relaxation and healing.

Soothing colors and the scent of essentials oils set the tone for your day of wellness.

According to owner Telisa Asaro, this therapy is a vacation from everyday stressors. “We’ve created an environment in which you can truly ‘unplug’ for a while. Floating has been around for decades but is new to Middle Georgia. We are very excited that we can now offer this amazing therapy to our community.”

In addition to the three float therapy rooms, Float Robins offers two licensed massage therapists specializing in Swedish, hot stone, myofascial, trigger point, sports and deep tissue massage.

Their infrared sauna is spacious enough to stretch out and features chromotherapy lights and music options. Bring your phone or other device to connect to the sauna’s Bluetooth speakers. Soft towels, soft body wraps with velcro for all sizes, cooling cloths and cucumber water are all within reach to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

New to Float Robins is Halotherapy - an alternative treatment that involves breathing salty air. This form of therapy treats respiratory conditions, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and allergies. The room is outfitted with zero-gravity lounge chairs, soothing music, and the glow of Himalayan salt lamps.

Finally, no trip to Float Robins is complete without a visit to their widely popular Glow Room, which consists of a wall of candles, spa water, luxurious chaise lounges, weighted blankets, and meditation space.

Open six days a week, closed on Wednesdays, Float Robins is your destination for wellness. Rain or shine, you get the benefits of a float in the sea, without the stress and worry of hotel rooms, sand, and long drives. Carve out an hour or three and transport yourself to place where calm & wellness are the end result.

Call (478) 333-5628 or visit floatrobins.com to book your appointment.

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EMPLOYEE-OWNED. CUSTOMER-DRIVEN. Hometown At Its Best Hometown LivingLiving At Its Best

XX 27

The Walk at

Sandy Run

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HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

S t o r y b y Tr a c i B u r n s

Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

The park features a boardwalk trail, a large grassy green area for open playtime and exploration, two bright yellow slides built into an earth mound, and a shaded pavilion with picnic-ready seating underneath.

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A lot of people, especially military families who are new to town, want to know one thing: Where are your parks?

“We do have some, but they’re 40 years old, and everything’s outdated,” says Warner Robins Parks and Recreation Director Jarred Reneau. “We really needed green space.

We needed a place where anybody, from a toddler to a grown adult, could go and enjoy themselves. We needed something that would create community.”

The Walk at Sandy Run does just that.

The 22-acre, $1.6 million green space was SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) funded and is the brainchild of city councilman Tim Thomas. It’s the first park of its kind in Warner Robins.

Since the official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Aug. 30, locals and visitors alike have flocked to the tranquil grounds to enjoy some much-needed down time with their families and pets. The park Hometown Living At Its Best

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Now that the weather is cool, there’s no excuse – enjoy a meditative walk around Warner Robins’ beautiful new gem of a park

features a boardwalk trail, a large grassy green area for open playtime and exploration, two bright yellow slides built into an earth mound, and a shaded pavilion with picnic-ready seating underneath.

The trail here has been dubbed Parker’s Trail, in honor of Parker Killian Moore, who lost his life on Jan. 21, 2018, during an armed robbery at Barberito’s in Warner Robins.

“Fiercely unique, loyal, lover of life ... nature, music, smiles, long hikes, laughter, all creatures and everyone he met along the way,” reads the plaque at the start of Parker’s Trail, a touching tribute to a vibrant young man.

“He would love that there are people here enjoying family time, relaxing and walking the trail,” says his mother, Leah Maas.

The trail’s overlook has been named Chuckie’s View in honor of Chuck Mauk, who was shot on Feb. 17, 1986, as he was riding his bike to the store to get some candy. His commemorative plaque reads: “To know Chuck was to see motion. He was never still. He loved life. ... He was kind, sensitive and never met a stranger. He was a big brother, a son and now he is our Angel. He will always be missed.”

Visitors also will find an eternal flame lit in honor of all those

Be sure to follow Warner Robins Parks and Recreation’s social media for fun, interactive activities at The Walk at Sandy Run. There’s already been one “Play in the Park” Saturday, with more to come. During these Saturday events, folks from Parks and Rec provide games and sporting equipment – all you need to do is show up ready to have a good time. Plans are in the works for even more crowd-pleasing activities such as Zumba, Pilates and yoga.

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HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

who are no longer with us due to senseless violence.

A Ralph Waldo Emerson quote on the accompanying plaque reads, “The tempered light of the woods is like a perpetual morning.” These dedications are perpetual, too – a permanent way to honor and respect the memory of loved ones gone too soon.

The Walk at Sandy Run has been a hub of

community-building since before it opened. Billie Cook, who lives near the park with her husband, John, her son Albie and dog Lexi, worked alongside five other Houston County Extension Master Gardeners to design and install a planting bed at the trailhead of Parker’s Trail. They also offered advice to the city on tree and plant selections for the park.

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Visitors also will find an eternal flame lit in honor of all those who are no longer with us due to senseless violence. A Ralph Waldo Emerson quote on the accompanying plaque reads, “The tempered light of the woods is like a perpetual morning.” These dedications are perpetual, too – a permanent way to honor and respect the memory of loved ones gone too soon.

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HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

“It was great working with city councilman Tim Thomas, Parker’s family, Warner Robins Parks and Rec, Keep Warner Robins Beautiful and our Master Gardener group to help enhance the park and encourage our community to enjoy the outdoors,” Billie says.

“I think this was a much-needed addition to bring more green space to the community, and I love having a place to be able to explore the outdoors with my family. My favorite part of the park is the overlook, because it’s a great space for viewing wildlife.”

Tracy Jones, a Special Education teacher at Russell Elementary, fell in love with the park on her first visit.

Hometown Living At Its Best 33

The 22-acre, $1.6 million green space was SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) funded and is the brainchild of city councilman Tim Thomas. It’s the first park of its kind in Warner Robins. Since the official opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Aug. 30, locals and visitors alike have flocked to the tranquil grounds to enjoy some much-needed down time with their families and pets. The park features a boardwalk trail, a large grassy green area for open playtime and exploration, two bright yellow slides built into an earth mound, and a shaded pavilion with picnic-ready seating underneath.

“It’s a great place to spend quality family time because it has something for everyone,” Tracy says. “I love the wood bridge walking path – it’s very picturesque and Zen. It’s hard to hold onto the stresses of everyday life when you’re in such a beautiful place surrounded by nature.”

After her first visit with daughter Kayleigh and dog Rex, she appreciated even the smallest details, such as the pet waste stations.

“I love that they had pets in mind when they designed the park. It really is all about the whole family,” she says. “It’s so gorgeous that we went back the following week; it’s the best spot to take photos.

We’re already planning fun family picnics in the fall.”

Be sure to follow Warner Robins Parks and Recreation’s social media for fun, interactive activities at The Walk at Sandy Run. There’s already been one “Play in the Park” Saturday, with more

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HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

to come. During these Saturday events, folks from Parks and Rec provide games and sporting equipment – all you need to do is show up ready to have a good time. Plans are in the works for even more crowd-pleasing activities such as Zumba, Pilates and yoga.

Now that the weather is cool, there’s no excuse – pack the family in the car, grab a friend or go solo to enjoy a meditative walk around Warner Robins’ beautiful new gem of a park.  HCL The Walk at Sandy Run 1119 S. Houston Lake Road, Warner Robins Find Warner Robins Parks and Rec at @ wrparksrecreation on Instagram and facebook. com/WRParksandRecreation/ on Facebook

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Houston County Living

LONG TERM CARE For that time when nursing home care is required for safety and quality of life, Church Home delivers the highest quality skilled nursing care and therapy for long term residents.

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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Family

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houston county living

STORY BY SHERRI MARTIN

PHOTOS BY TINIKA BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY

Keeping It in the Family

Sometimes life does not turn out as planned.

Sometimes the choices you make help it to turn out better.

A

After graduating from college, Danielle Bone started a career in marketing with the City of Macon. She was following a typical path for a young twentysomething, when she made the somewhat unusual decision to leave her chosen career to go back and join her father in a male-dominated business.

And she has not looked back.

Now, Danielle is the vice-president of Perry Wholesale Tire, a business her dad, Jeff Bone, first bought in 1994. He had worked previously with his “Uncle Slim” at Wholesale Tire & Wheel Company, and the opportunity came to buy the business. “I sold everything I owned to buy the business, including my prized possession Trans Am,” Jeff explains.

The business saw many changes through the years; at one time, there were nine retail locations throughout middle Georgia. However, the recession that began with the stock market crash in 2007 brought the business back to the one location on Courtney Hodges Boulevard in Perry.

Danielle grew up around the business; she was one-year-old when Jeff bought it in 1994. She also grew up knowing customers who have been loyal to it

through the years. “We are on our third generation of families coming back,” Jeff says.

“I know them all because I grew up here,” Danielle adds. “If you treat people like family, not as a dollar sign, they will keep coming back.”

When Danielle came back to the business in October 2016, she had definite ideas about her role in helping move the business forward. “I came in

knowing what I wanted to do with the business,” she says.

She worked on creating a new waiting area for the comfort of their customers, particularly women, and also implemented a finance program after researching the idea extensively. She is planning some cosmetic changes – paint, new fencing, new sign – and is planning a rebrand of the business.

Social media marketing has been

Hometown Living At Its Best

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a big change she has implemented. “Social media has been big, particularly for my generation,” she says. “If I post something funny about tires on our Facebook page, my age group is going to respond. If I post a good deal, my generation is going to respond.”

Father and daughter make a good team – they both like people and they both want to treat their customers right and provide quality service. While they both handle sales, Jeff takes care of the hands-on work, along

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houston county living

with their employees, and Danielle handles the accounts, bookkeeping, customer service, and marketing.

And they stick to one thing to do well: tires.

“We do tire sales, tire repairs, rotations, and balancing,” Danielle explains. “It’s a simple store with lots of customers, and we know our customers on a first-name basis. But we always treat new customers the same.”

They have a warehouse with approximately 10,000 tires in it to meet practically any need that same day, and they work to get people seen about quickly. “We have a very quick turnaround,” she adds. “We won’t make you wait.”

They are a General Continental tire franchise, an American company headquartered in South Carolina. “The tires appeal to our customers because we can back them up completely,” Danielle says. “Our customers expect this and that’s what Continental provides.”

The Bones also provide a guarantee for their customers: “Whenever you buy a new set of tires from us, we will rotate and balance them for free for the life of the tires,” Danielle says.

They are also a service dealer for commercial trucks who travel the I-75 corridor from Forsyth to Cordele, and work with both the DOT and large businesses such as Penske, FedEx, and UPS to keep their trucks rolling.

Whoever their customers are, they always try to meet their needs without trying to add in any extras. “We don’t sell stuff you don’t need,” Jeff explains.

“If you ask the right questions, you give people what they need,” Danielle adds, “not just sell them extra products.”

This approach to business is good for their customers, such as the single moms who come in and need to be treated well. And knowing they have done the work right the first time is important. “My personal cell phone number is on my business card,” Jeff says. “I tell my guys, ‘If you do your job right during the day, they won’t call me at night.’ I get very few calls at night.”

They enjoy being in Perry and appreciate the support the community gives to locally owned

Father and daughter make a good team

They both like people and they both want to treat their customers right and provide quality service. While they both handle sales, Jeff takes care of the hands-on work, along with their employees, and Danielle handles the accounts, bookkeeping, customer service, and marketing.

Hometown Living At Its Best

43

businesses, which in turn makes them strive all the harder to make their business a benefit to the town. “You go home fully satisfied because you did the community well,” Danielle says.

Perry Wholesale Tire is an “old school” family business with new ideas brought in by Danielle to make the business attractive to the next generation.

“I’m the owner. I’m out here making sure everything is bolted on and right, and I have my daughter taking care of the business,” Jeff says.

“We work together well as a family,” Danielle

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houston county living

adds. “I enjoy the family time. My sister Camille is part-time here also.”

As the poet Robert Frost wrote in “The Road Not Taken,” sometimes the road less traveled can make all the difference. For Danielle, it certainly has; she chose a road not expected for a 25-year old woman with a college degree, but she has no regrets.

“I just chose the family route over a career,” she says. “Despite what the world tells you, I define success through family.”  HCL

“ You go home fully satisfied because you did the community well.�

They enjoy being in Perry and appreciate the support the community gives to locally owned businesses, which in turn makes them strive all the harder to make their business a benefit to the town.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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STORY BY

Renee Corwine

PHOTOS BY

Tinika Bennett Photography

‘I know what it’s like’

Crystal Wisecup Zunino chronicles her journey from school teacher to cancer survivor

C

Crystal Wisecup Zunino always wanted to be a teacher. After high school, she earned her degree at Middle Georgia State University, and went right to work in October 2015 as a seventh-grade teacher at Thomson Middle School in Centerville. She said teaching is what she always wanted to do, but her career didn’t last long.

By January 2016, Crystal had been to the doctor several times. “I kept having chest pains,” she said.

“I went to the doctor and they thought I had a pulled muscle, then a cough, then maybe walking pneumonia, and by the time I couldn’t eat or drink, my boyfriend took me to the emergency room.”

First, doctors discovered she had a 13-centimeter mass around her heart. Then, a few days later, Crystal received life-changing news: She had Stage 2 Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, in Crystal’s case, the disease morphed from swollen lymph nodes into the sack around her heart. The size of the sack was the determining factor in the Stage 2 diagnosis.

“When the doctor came in and told me I had cancer, the first thing I asked was when could I go back to work. I always wanted to be a teacher, so I wanted to get back to the classroom right away,” she said. “The doctor said, ‘You’re not going back to work,’ and I said, ‘Yes, I am.’”

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Even after her oncologist urged her to quit teaching, Crystal was determined to work while undergoing her six chemo treatments.

“I did try to go to work during chemo, but didn’t make it through the first full day. I was too weak,” she said.

But being too weak to be in the classroom didn’t mean she wasn’t staying connected with her students.

Reaching out to them also helped Crystal cope with her diagnosis.

“I was like, I can’t be sad about it, these kids are watching how I handle this,” she said, adding that a student’s mother had cancer and a dear friend’s daughter did as well. “I made posters for the first chemo session, for students to see I was doing OK. That led to FaceTiming them from the chemo center. Then, I started making posters for every chemo session. It kept me entertained, because I was going crazy locked up in the house.”

Thanks to helpful friends and a super-loving boyfriend named Will Zunino, Crystal went to the movies and even took a trip to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta – despite having to be in wheelchair.

It’s a funny story about Will, Crystal said. They were friends in high school and lost touch until after college.

After reconnecting, he asked her on a date – and then stood her up.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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“But he made up for it,” she said with a smile. “We started dating, and I was diagnosed a month and a half later. He stayed with me at night when I was in the hospital and my mom stayed during the day. When I came home from the hospital, my mom and Will moved in with me to help take care of me. One day I overheard Will and his mom having a conversation that he was going to propose to me. But I made him promise he wouldn’t until I got my hair back.”

Losing her blonde hair wasn’t the hardest thing for

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Crystal to accept about the side effects of chemo; it was when she lost her eyebrows and eyelashes that she got very depressed. On the day of her very last chemo treatment, her mom took her to look at wedding dresses to cheer her up – and it worked: she found her perfect dress. By Christmas 2016, she and Will were engaged. They married less than a year later.

It was one of the most defining moments of Crystal’s life, but it wasn’t the only one. One day during a follow-up visit with her doctor at Central Georgia

Hometown Living At Its Best

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“The next day in the waiting room, my chemo nurse came and found me. She said the man I brought up in the wheelchair yesterday was asking for the nurse who brought him up. The nurse said, ‘We don’t know why he thought you were a nurse; we had to explain to him you were a patient.’ Later, my oncologist and I were talking about it and she said, ‘You know, you’d be a great oncology nurse.’”

Cancer Care, Crystal saw an elderly man in a wheelchair being dropped off by family at the same time that Will was dropping her off. She offered to take the man to the chemo room so that his daughter could park the car.

“The next day in the waiting room, my chemo nurse came and found me. She said the man I brought up in the wheelchair yesterday was asking for the nurse who brought him up. The nurse said, ‘We don’t know why he thought you were a nurse; we had to explain to him you were a patient.’ Later, my oncologist and I were talking about it and she said, ‘You know, you’d be a great oncology nurse.’”

Crystal immediately dismissed the idea, but the 54

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thought stayed in the back of her mind. After her chemo treatments ended, she was preparing for being back in the classroom in fall 2016 but said something felt missing in her life.

“I knew I got diagnosed with cancer for a reason.

I knew I wanted to use that for something, and although I loved working with kids, something was missing,” she said.

Thinking back to the conversation with her oncologist, Crystal began to realize that as a nurse, she could use her own experience with cancer to help other cancer patients.

“Whenever you’re diagnosed with cancer, you see nurses more than you see doctors. Whenever you’re scared or nervous, the first person you see is a nurse. The first person who’s going to hold your hand is a nurse. The first person who’s going to comfort you is a nurse,” she said.

Crystal applied to the nursing program at Central Georgia Technical College, and started classes in January 2017. She said nursing school was tough, and there were times when she questioned her decision to leave teaching: “But I just kept thinking about how I could help cancer patients and I kept a picture of me bald on my binder.”

After graduation, Crystal worked for a time on the cardiac floor of Houston Medical Center, but wanted to keep progressing toward becoming an oncology nurse. Since February 2019, she’s worked on 9 Main at The Medical Center Navicent Health.

The floor handles surgical oncology patients, as well as those in palliative care. It can be a heartbreaking job, and Crystal said she relies on the other nurses for support.

Continuing her goals of becoming an oncology nurse, 28-year-old Crystal recently achieved her chemo certification. Her ultimate goal is to serve as a chemotherapy nurse at an infusion center such as Central Georgia Cancer Care, where she received treatment all those years ago.

In fact, it was there that Crystal met a nurse

named Lynn Clark who partly inspired her journey – although she didn’t know it at the time.

“When I went to the Georgia Aquarium before I first started chemo, I bought pillow pet – because you fall asleep during chemo and it’s easier than carrying around an actual pillow. So, I got a penguin and named it Lynn the Lymphoma Penguin. When I showed up to my very first chemo session, my very first nurse was named Lynn,” Crystal recalled with a smile. “I really bonded with her; I hope to be like her one day.”

It’s now been almost five years since her diagnoses, and Crystal continues to joyously journey through life. Her scans have been clear since that final treatment, and she’s determined to “live life to the fullest.”

She still has the mass around her heart, which doctors can’t remove

“I knew I got diagnosed with cancer for a reason. I knew I wanted to use that for something, and although I loved working with kids, something was missing,” she said.Thinking back to the conversation with her oncologist, Crystal began to realize that as a nurse, she could use her own experience with cancer to help other cancer patients.“Whenever you’re diagnosed with cancer, you see nurses more than you see doctors. Whenever you’re scared or nervous, the first person you see is a nurse. The first person who’s going to hold your hand is a nurse. The first person who’s going to comfort you is a nurse,” she said.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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because of its location. “It occasionally causes chest pain, but it’s something I have to live with,” she said, although it’s evident that mass hasn’t slowed her down one bit: she’s been skydiving, wakeboarding and hiked up Georgia’s highest peak.

She and Will have three furbabies – Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe and Molly Ringwald. In addition to the dogs, they hope to have human children one day. Crystal has shared her story at Relay For Life events and with the American Cancer Society, and she’s writing a book about her journey.

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She still gets nervous when it’s time for her scans, and annoyed at the chest pains, but accepts them both as reminders why she’s on this path in life – to use her experience to help others.

“I know what it’s like to be a cancer patient. I know what it’s like to be scared and sitting in the hospital room, or to have a side effect from chemo medication, because it happened to me,” she said. “Now, being on the other side of it, having a nurse who knows what it’s like and has been there, helps to make it a little bit easier for the patients.”  HCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

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Rescue Everyone Needs A

A

Canine Clubhouse works with rescue groups to make “problem” dogs more adoptable.

Alyssa Madon says the happiest part of her work day is when she gets to run around Adventureland exercising club members alongside her A-pack. The owner of Canine Clubhouse believes exercise is the best medicine for dogs, and she’s got a track record of helping troubled dogs become calm, furry family members.

Canine Clubhouse offers boarding and doggy daycare, but the heart of Alyssa’s business is working with rescue groups to make “problem” dogs more adoptable.

“I have a soft spot for rescues,” she says. “I like dogs that are high energy. All they need is exercise to be better dogs. We work to get them in a routine, and the dogs are much happier.”

Some dogs stay with Alyssa for a few weeks until their behavior improves, but some stay much longer. Take American bulldog Casper, for example.

“Casper has been with me two years. He’s deaf and he’s been adopted twice, and returned twice. He is a wonderful, friendly dog that

is unlucky in love. He loves the ball and he loves other dogs,” she says.

“The past, failed adopters didn’t know what a commitment he was.”

Then there’s Bronx. Now, he’s a healthy 85-pound dog, but when he came to her through the rescue program Go Dogs Go, he weighed 20 pounds, was covered in scabs and bite marks and had been tied to a heavy chain with a 10-inch lock.

“I pampered him and loved him so much. I’ve been working hard to get him social, but it’s like he has this chip on his shoulder from what he went through,” she says, adding that he’s still waiting for his forever home.

Alyssa says it’s the best feeling in the world to see her rescue dogs find happiness. JJ went from “mean” to “exceptional” after eight months in Alyssa’s program: “He’s in a great family and they send me selfies with him and I think, ‘that’s what I did.’ It makes me feel so good to see pictures of the dogs in their new homes, with their people; it’s awesome.”

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Story by Renee Corwine

Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

Sermon on the Mat

Breath of Life yoga classes offer Christian focus and faith-based practice.

Music plays calmingly in the background as the teachers weave scripture and faith-based inspiration throughout class.

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Most yoga teachers will tell you that yoga is suitable for all sizes, all ages and all faiths. But here in the South, there can be a misconception that yoga isn’t acceptable for Christians. Brianna Cruden and Christa Byrd are working to change that.

“We believe God uses yoga to bless us and to bless others, and what we do is all for Him,” said Brianna, the founder of Breath of Life, a faith-based yoga practice in Warner Robins.

Christa, Fellow Breath of Life yoga teacher, said that practicing yoga is all about your intention, and if that intention is focused solidly on God, you will find His presence during yoga. “With Breath of Life, we’re creating a space where we can meet Jesus on our mat. Yoga is about your intention, and if you’re intentional in making the thought process a space to connect to God, that’s what it is,” Christa said. “If you’re coming to stillness and thinking about God, that’s where your center will be.”

The question of yoga being acceptable for Christians is something that comes up frequently as Brianna and Christa share the story of their faith and yoga journey with different church groups around Middle Georgia. For both of them, their own grounded faith is what led them to becoming trained to teach yoga, and so the two are forever intertwined.

“We’re solid and grounded in our faith. God is

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sovereign over all things, and so wherever we are, we know that He is there with us,” Brianna said.

“I worship a God that has the ability to use anything for His purpose,” Christa added. “He finds people where they are, and sometimes that’s on the mat.”

Brianna started practicing yoga many years ago after, as she said, “my body quit on me.” She had been doing high-intensity exercise and was in the Air Force. After her second baby, she developed some health issues and her doctor suggested yoga as a means to slow down, refocus and heal her body. She attended her first class while living in Illinois and was instantly hooked.

When her husband, David, got transferred to Robins Air Force Base in 2014, Brianna said she was disappointed there were no yoga studios in Warner Robins. So, she decided to get trained with a company that certified her in Tai chi, Pilates and yoga, and began teaching at local gyms, as well as leading yoga and meditation at retreats in North Georgia.

“I slowly started to realize I felt like

avenue to prayer That faith-based approach led her to become trained through YogaFaith, a Christian yoga school certified by the Yoga Alliance. “My relationship grew with Christ and I had an overwhelming feeling of His presence with me, more than I ever had in my whole life. I knew I wanted to incorporate Him in my practice and share that with others,” she said.

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yoga was more of what I loved to do, and I wanted to create my own classes. So, I went to YogaFit training and it was eye-opening. I knew from then on that I wanted to create something faith-based, so I started Breath of Life,” she said.

That faith-based approach led her to become trained through YogaFaith, a Christian yoga school certified by the Yoga Alliance. “My relationship grew with Christ and I had an overwhelming feeling of His presence with me, more than I ever had in my whole life. I knew I wanted to incorporate Him in my practice and share that with others,” she said.

Feeling Christ’s presence during yoga is something Christa experienced many times before she became

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called to teach. In fact, she viewed exercise as an “avenue to prayer” in her life. She met Brianna through taking yoga, and one morning while on the mat, everything changed.

“After my father-in-law passed away, I needed some time to breathe and so I signed up for a class Brianna was teaching, and I found myself weeping. I needed a safe space where I could go and release my emotions,” Christa said. “I came to that class and I just prayed. That was the moment I realized Jesus really is everywhere, and on the mat was the space where I was truly able to meet Him. It was a space I could breathe and pray.”

After that experience, Christa signed up for yoga

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teacher training. During her training, she experienced “a very direct and clear message from God” telling her to teach Christian yoga. “I reached out to Brianna and said, ‘I know you’ve already created Breath of Life, but I would love to come into this and partner with you.’ God was calling me to do this, and He brought us together for a purpose.”

Now, the two women share teaching duties for Breath of Life, which offers two yoga classes a week at Intuitions of APS Yoga Studio on Russell Parkway, owned by Nikki Hadbavny. They also teach classes at Byron’s North Peach Park and at local churches, including Southside Baptist’s Kathleen campus and Shady Grove Baptist.

Many times, they are asked what makes a Christian yoga class different than a regular yoga class. The answer is, it’s all in the intention set from the beginning of class. “When we start class, we ask the Lord to settle into the space with us,” Brianna said. “We begin with prayer and set our intention on Him.” Christian music plays calmingly in the background as the teachers weave scripture and faith-based inspiration throughout class. To make it more relatable, they use the English translation of the Sanskrit names for different yoga poses, and in many cases refer to them as “postures of prayer.”

For example, a Humble Warrior pose becomes a posture of prayer called Devotional Warrior and the restorative pose Savasana becomes Resting Angel.

At the end of class, instead of the traditional closing phrase Namaste, meaning “the light in me honors the light in you,” they say Jaimasi, meaning “praise to the Messiah.”

Certainly, the women have much to praise Him for. In addition to owning

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Breath of Life, Brianna works as a full-time mom to her boys, Slade, age 12, and Jace, age 9. Christa and her husband, Shawn, have two daughters, Victoria, age 12, and Darby, age 8. Christa also works as the office manager for Dr. Curtis Hayslip.

In growing the business, they hope to continue spreading the word that Breath of Life is a safe space for Christians who need low-impact exercise or who already practice yoga. It’s a place people can come, slow down and “find the cadence of rest.”

“Right now, the people who come to class are mostly believers. Our hope is that Breath of Life becomes a place where non-believers could meet Jesus, maybe even for the first time,” Brianna said. “People are always trying to find their true selves, and until people see themselves and accept themselves through Christ’s eyes, they’ll never be comfortable in their skin. We want people to know they are loved by us and by Christ, and that they’re beautiful in every way.”

Jaimasi.

Learn more about Breath of Life and view their class offerings by visiting breathoflifeyogaandwellness. com, or searching Breath of Life Yoga and Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.  HCL

Many times, they are asked what makes a Christian yoga class different than a regular yoga class. The answer is, it’s all in the intention set from the beginning of class. “When we start class, we ask the Lord to settle into the space with us,” Brianna said. “We begin with prayer and set our intention on Him.”

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Macon Macon Robins Macon Macon Warner Robins Griffin Milledgeville Macon Macon Macon Macon Warner Warner Robins Griffin Griffin Milledgeville Milledgeville Milledgeville Warner RobinsGriffin 3708 Northside DrDr Dr 1600 Forsyth St St 301 717717 S717 8th 2803 North Columbia St St St S Margie Drive 3708 Northside 1600 Forsyth 301 Margie Drive S717 8th North Columbia 3708 3708 Northside Northside Dr 1600 1600 Forsyth Forsyth St St 301 Margie Drive SSt8th SSt8th St2803 St 2803 2803 North North Columbia Columbia 301 Margie Drive 478.745.4206 478.745.4206 770.227.4600 478.971-1153 478.745.4206 478.745.4206 478.971-1153 770.227.4600 478.414.5820 478.745.4206 478.745.4206 478.745.4206 478.745.4206 478.971-1153 770.227.4600 770.227.4600478.414.5820 478.414.5820 478.414.5820 478.971-1153

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What can Families do to help Cancer Patients?

Dr. Bradley Sumrall knows first-hand the

effects cancer can have on families, and gives advice on what families can do to help.

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Hearing the words “You have cancer,” undoubtedly is one of the scariest diagnoses a patient may receive. In that moment, and the critical time that follows, having family and friends to lean on is key to a patient’s wellbeing.

It’s something Dr. Bradley Sumrall knows first-hand.

Both his mother and grandmother had cancer, and their experiences helped motivate him to become a doctor. Since 2013, Dr. Sumrall has specialized in oncology and hematology at Central Georgia Cancer Care in Warner Robins and Macon.

“Cancer in general elicits fear in most patients,” he said.

“When I talk to them for the first time, there are so many questions; they don’t know what to expect.”

That’s where it helps to have a supportive friend or family member.

“For the patient, it’s just nice to know that they have someone to lean on. Patients come in, we talk to them for an hour, and who knows what they remember. This is shocking stuff. It’s a lot to take in, and in that situation having someone next to you really helps.”

That help continues throughout a patient’s cancer journey.

“I saw a lady today whose husband is now doing all the cooking and laundry; things he’s never done before. He’s stepped into that role while his wife undergoes chemotherapy,” said Dr. Sumrall.

He referenced another patient who received support from her sister-in-law.

Now, the sister-in-law’s father has cancer, so she’s able to help him as well: “They’ve got this one person who can say, ‘I know how to get us through this.’ She’s been a big help; he’s got someone good in his corner.”

Dr. Sumrall also stressed that for patients without a support system, the doctors and nurses at CGCC are here to help.

“The doctors and nurses here are all really compassionate,” he said. “Time and again I hear people talk about how caring our nurses are and how they listen and help patients understand what to expect.”

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Just the Right

PRESCRIPTION

Uwa says that in her medical practice, she has always tried her best to be transparent and to make the best recommendations to parents; her books are just a conduit for some of the advice that she’s been giving for years S t o r y by D av i d Pe n a P h o t o s by Ti n i k a B e n n e t t P h o t o g r a p hy a n d U wa I g u o b a d i a

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S

Stomachaches, bed wetting, and persistent coughs are some of the more common ailments that are certainly no stranger to most new parents. However, instead of simply being age-old earmarks of normal childhood maladies, these symptoms could actually turn out to be manifestations of something deeper…bullying.

Over the past two decades or so, bullying has definitely evolved into a much more prevalent problem in most schools. Whether it is “traditional” bullying or online cyberbullying, the problem is often the root of significant emotional and psychological distress to the victims and often for a lifetime. It’s no secret that children who are bullied are at a much greater risk for anxiety, depression, and even suicide. Moreover, recent studies have also shown that clear physical effects, which include headaches, stomachaches, dizziness, persistent coughing, bed wetting, as well as various sleep problems, can be tied to bullying.

One Warner Robins pediatrician has recently decided to take this issue head-on by speaking directly to the ones who are most affected by it, namely the children themselves. In 2017, Doctor

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Uwa Iguobadia penned a children’s book entitled Bully that addresses the warning signs of bullying as well as some proactive solutions to the problem. “As a pediatrician here in Georgia, I really love taking care of children and working with families to try to be a part of the molding process of working with kids,” she says.

“That’s the main reason for writing my book. As they say, it takes a village to raise a child, and I definitely want to be a part of that village.”

A native of Nigeria who grew up in New Jersey, Uwa moved to Georgia along with her family in 2014 to live a quieter life in the suburbs. “I always wanted to be a Georgia peach,” she says with a smile. “While I’m here, I also want to have a positive partnership with the Bully is written in a language that is easy to understand and seeks to make children aware of certain patterns of behavior and how to cope with them. Uwa says she consciously designed the book to be non-threatening and to-the-point in order to be more palatable to a young child’s mindset.

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families of my patients in Warner Robins. It’s important that everyone works together for the good of any child, and that’s something that I address in my book.”

Uwa says that her children were also inspirations for her foray into the writing world. “My eldest started preschool in 2016, and although he wasn’t bullied, he would come home from school upset at some of the actions of a number of his classmates. For instance, they would refuse to play with him or take things without asking, the normal stuff that kids go through.

Well, I just thought if I were a child, would I recognize the signs of actually being bullied? Thus, I wanted to prepare him as best I could, so I wrote a book as if I were talking to one of my children or someone in their age group.”

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Over the past two decades or so, bullying has definitely evolved into a much more prevalent problem in most schools. Whether it is “traditional” bullying or online cyberbullying, the problem is often the root of significant emotional and psychological distress to the victims and often for a lifetime.

Bully is written in a language that is easy to understand and seeks to make children aware of certain patterns of behavior and how to cope with them. Uwa says she consciously designed the book to be non-threatening and to-the-point in order to be more palatable to a young child’s mindset. “It’s written for kids ages five to ten and I try to show them the different behaviors that may relate to bullying,” she explains. “For example, it doesn’t just always involve someone who picks on another person daily; it may consist of different behaviors that need to be recognized and addressed…things such as refusal to share, aggressiveness and entitlement, just to name a few. I also illustrate some of the warning signs that parents can look for in my book.”

Uwa goes on to explain that bullying rarely involves a singular act. Conversely, it involves a pattern of

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behavior which, if addressed early on, can be stopped, thus avoiding possible emotional and psychological distress to the victim. “It’s not a one-time behavior; there are certain repetitive things that most bullies do. They essentially seek to manipulate their victims through verbal or physical threats.”

Uwa’s book was published in June by Swiner Publishing and is available for $9.99 in both electronic and hard copy versions on Amazon.

Illustrated by Greg Harris, Bully is actually the first installment in a trilogy of books aimed at addressing the issue of bullying. “The second book is addressed from a parent’s viewpoint, and the third installment is written from a bully’s viewpoint, why they behave in these ways and how they can change their patterns of behavior.”

In addition to now being a published author, Uwa also speaks out against bullying in area schools.

She recently spoke to a class of preschoolers in Milledgeville and made Bully available to all in attendance. She makes sure to impart the message that her book has a universal, understandable appeal.

“One good thing about the books is that parents can either read them to their children or the children can read the books themselves; they are very quick reads that clearly and simply illustrate what can happen in school, the repercussions and how to deal with these negative behaviors. I take this very seriously because bullying usually starts at home, and it’s something that needs to be addressed there by parents before it reaches the school. ” Uwa’s husband Barry, who is also a physician, says he’s thrilled with his wife’s newfound career as a writer. “I couldn’t be prouder of her; I’ve done my best to support and encourage her. I have friends who have gone through experiences with bullying, so when

she came up with the idea for the book, I thought it was a great idea. In fact, our oldest child reads Uwa’s book to his younger siblings, and we’re both thrilled about that.” A victim of bullying himself when he moved to Tennessee from Nigeria in his teens, Barry says the book’s message is needed now more than ever. “10 or 15 years ago, bullying was prevalent but not to the extent that it is now, especially with all the social media out there. Therefore, I feel that the sky’s the limit with Uwa and her writing.”

Uwa says that in her medical practice, she has always

tried her best to be transparent and to make the best recommendations to parents; her books are just a conduit for some of the advice that she’s been giving for years. “My books are basically extensions of what I try to impart to parents and the children that I see,” she says. “Plus, I wanted to prepare my own kids for what they may experience later in life. I have found that if you provide a positive impact in a child’s life, even if only once or twice a year, it makes a huge difference to them; that’s what I have always tried to bring to the table.”  HCL

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Forever Friends Elizabeth Stokes Dunaway, Jessie “Boots” Sparrow and Christine Cross spent their youth on farms in rural, South Georgia. Now, they are all spending their golden years at Summerhill Senior Community!

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Elizabeth Stokes Dunaway, Jessie “Boots” Sparrow and Christine Cross spent their youth on farms in rural, South Georgia. Now, they are all spending their golden years at Summerhill Senior Community!

“I worked in the field in the summer and went to school the rest of the year,” Boots said. “I picked cotton, stacked peanuts, pulled corn, loaded watermelons – whatever you do on a farm I had to help do it because I didn’t have any brothers.”

Elizabeth grew up on a cattle farm, and Christine said she lived in the “big city” of Pinehurst until her family moved to the country.

Boots and Christine grew up as best friends and knew their husbands their whole lives.

After Christine married Bud Cross, she didn’t do much farming work but spent time keeping a house and raising her two boys. Boots married J.W. Sparrow, a farmer himself, and raised four children, one of whom still lives and works at the family farm.

After high school, Elizabeth got a degree in typing, shorthand and dictation and worked at Robins Air Force Base for four years before marrying Berner Dunaway. In fact, they eloped!

Being raised on a farm, Elizabeth acclimated quickly to being a farmer’s wife and used some

of her education to help keep the farm’s books while raising three children.

As life went on, each of these strong women survived the loss of their husbands and came to live at Summerhill. Although they live in different areas of the campus, these ladies are able to visit often and enjoy being surrounded by familiar faces. Boots arrived first, followed shortly by Christine, who said, “We’ve been friends so long, I guess you could say I followed her up here!”

These three women love the relaxed lifestyle at Summerhill. They said now that the work of farming and raising children is done, they enjoy “doing what we please!” Boots and Christine still enjoy attending church together every Sunday at Harmony Baptist in Unadilla. Although she is no longer able to attend, Elizabeth is a long-time member of Harmony Baptist.

Life is full of changes – some good and some bad. Summerhill Senior Community thrives to provide a senior community that embraces retirement and provides seniors with a place they can gladly call home! Who knew 50 years ago that these farmers’ wives would all end up at Summerhill “doing what we please”?!

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S. Michael Loden, DMD & Amy S. Loden, DMD We are a team of health care professionals dedicated to improving the lives of our patients by establishing relationships based on trust, compassion, and commitment.

Our goal is to become a partner with our patients to help them achieve and maintain optimum health, beauty, and comfort for a lifetime.

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Valerie Rose

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HALO offers a bright future for the Houston County and Perry Community, as well as a bright future for the New Perry Hotel.

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There are those who move into a community quietly with the sole intent to fade into the crowd, go unnoticed, and lay low. Then, there are those who step into the community with the sole intention of using their passion with a purpose for restoration and revival, not just for the community, but a very special piece of its community members too! Angela Cuti is just that person and she will tell you that with every “divine appointment” she encounters, she takes one more step towards seeing her visions and dreams of a communal ministry come into focus. Fortunately for the residents of Houston County, more specifically Perry, one woman’s vision and passionate pursuit is currently building and unfolding into endless opportunities and value for this local community in which everyone in the community can be a key player or contributor. The birth of this divinely led vision of HALO occurred in 2008; eleven years later you’re not going to believe how far Angela’s

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passion for servant leadership and ministry has come…not unless you, like her, believe in “divine appointments” too. But, even then, to hear this story in its entirety is definitely one of those “mind blowing” kinds of moments and will likely all be told in its own front to back book cover one day.

What does HALO stand for? Its meaning is twofold…from its origin it means “Having Agape Love for Others,” which has now evolved into this multifaceted endeavor of “Helping Achieve Life Outcomes” for a special group of the local community in a very historical and iconic landmark of Houston County/Perry. If you are a native, then odds are you have heard of the New Perry Hotel or perhaps hold your own special memories of dining there, loved ones staying there, taking a stroll around its campus, or taking pictures there, and it’s likely that as its livelihood drifted away over the years a sadness was felt by many. The

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They are very much involved with each client as they offer a pregnancy program, parenting program, toddler program, and life skills program, each being involved and comprehensive in its own area.

good news is that from the very moment Angela and her core crew saw it was on the market for sale, they knew it was meant to be HALO’s home. Angela shared that “after countless times of prayer, searching biblical scriptures, and simply seeking God’s guidance”, she along with her core crew felt led to purchase the historic New Perry Hotel, despite its needing extensive renovations. “It’s the perfect place to provide assistance to accomplish our mission and provide jobs in our community,” says Angela.

The HALO Group of Middle Georgia is a non-profit organization dedicated to the ministry and mission of enriching the lives of adults with developmental disabilities and autism through vocational training and support, social interaction and community integration, and providing residential choices.

HALO’s founders, affectionately known as the “Core Four” are Angela Cuti, Melanie Murphy, April Tew, and Debbie Vickers. Together, they have over 75 years of experience

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The HALO group currently offers classes in job readiness, social skills, and independent living, as well as job placement and on-thejob support. Most importantly, they offer broader horizons for Middle Georgians with developmental disabilities and autism.

teaching students with special needs. They recognized the needs among many of their former students, whom after graduating, continued to need support to live lives of purpose. Angela shared that there have been multiple challenges and obstacles met along the way in pursuit of obtaining the hotel, a home office, qualified help, and recruiting volunteers to help them in their mission. Some of these obstacles include holding a paint brush, moving furniture, and to one of the biggest of feats…financing, bank approvals, and lots of “red tape” issues. Yet, she says none of those things were allowed to detour her passion with a purpose or mission to see this communal ministry come to pass. She says they seek their refuge and encouragement through their resilient faith and spiritual relationships they commonly share. Melanie states, “We relate

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HALO’s founders, affectionately known as the “Core Four” are Angela Cuti, Melanie Murphy, April Tew, and Debbie Vickers.

well to biblical scriptures that share about men of the Old Testament who, despite their own flaws or shortcomings, answered God’s call. We are continually encouraged by stories such as Noah, who obeyed God and accomplished a monumental task; Moses, who in the beginning felt unequipped; Gideon, who was called a mighty man of valor while hiding in a winepress; and Nehemiah, whose enemies were intimidated when they realized the building of the wall had been accomplished by God.” Angela points out that all of these stories are the very fuel they use to get up and keep putting one foot in front of the other to see this project come to fruition. The HALO group firmly believes that God still calls His people to action daily. He calls the highly unlikely to do what they cannot do on their own, yet He miraculously provides the courage,

strength, and resources so that all who see can only say, “but God” and give all to His glory.

There is no doubt that in order to spread this kind of blind faith and stewardship throughout the community, the HALO group would need a whole lot of support from its community...one divine appointment at a time, which is exactly what these ladies and their mission have and continue to receive. HALO currently has prominent and passionate local community members serving alongside them on the board of directors: Gary Martin, Darryl Yelverton, Debbie Mullis, Mark Claussen, and Dr. Vernard Hodges. HALO has received generous monetary and in-kind donations from many contributors. The outpouring of support from local churches, organizations, and individuals through not only the ongoing Genesis Campaign,

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but also from those reaching out to host fundraisers on their behalf, has been a blessing. With a mission and ministry this big, there is always a need to be fulfilled, and further work to do in order to facilitate this ministry to its full capacity. Some of the current needs are transportation, i.e. a shuttle bus and food truck, a vocational lab, and volunteers are always welcome and needed.

With the support of its local community and many donors, local businesses, and benefactors, the New Perry Hotel and Restaurant will once again be a functioning entity in which adults with developmental disabilities and autism will be trained to work alongside their peers in many fields of the hospitality industry. The New Perry Hotel’s gardens will return to their former glory as our team members learn landscaping and horticultural skills.

The Motor Court behind the hotel will be renovated as apartments and the upper floors of the hotel will

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be renovated for office space and other revenuegenerating uses to benefit HALO’s programing.

HALO offers a bright future for the Houston County and Perry Community, as well as a bright future for the New Perry Hotel. The hotel is undoubtedly a Middle-Georgia treasure, yet for the community and communal ministry, HALO’s real treasures are the adults with special needs they are already serving. The HALO group currently offers classes in job readiness, social skills, and independent living, as well as job placement and onthe-job support. Most importantly, they offer broader horizons for Middle Georgians with developmental disabilities and autism. There is no question that this new addition to the community is here to revive and restore it in a multitude of ways through ministering to some very special needs within the community.  HCL

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Story by David Pena Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography & Provided by The Pritchett Family 106

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Since she started, Gillian has volunteered hundreds of hours with the organization MADD, speaking at countless Victim Impact Panels, and being one of a handful chosen to serve on the organization’s Georgia Teen Influencer Group.

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On a crisp November night in 2006, Kimberly Pritchett and her 8-year-old daughter, Gillian, were traveling home to Warner Robins when suddenly the unthinkable happened. “We had spent some time with one of my best friends from high school and her daughter at a Chick-fil-A in Perry and were traveling home on Russell Parkway,” recalls Kimberly. “At that time, there were not a lot of lights on that particular road, and suddenly, we were hit head-on by a drunk driver.

I don’t even think he had his headlights on.” The impact, which roused Gillian from her sleep, caused severe damage to Kimberly’s knees while her daughter suffered some cuts and bruises. “We were blessed to have lived, but God took care of us. There was a guard rail that prevented us from going down a deep incline.”

Thus, a night that should have consisted of fun and games, ended in disaster due to an intoxicated driver. Moreover, there were five other vehicles involved; Gillian and her mother both feel very fortunate to have escaped with only minor injuries. However, little did they know at that time that this particular night would profoundly affect the young girl’s path in life.

“My family has been affected by drunk driving in other really traumatic ways,” says Gillian, who recently celebrated her 21st birthday. “In addition to our accident, one of my family’s rental houses was struck by a 19-year-old, who was

The 2016 WRHS Honor Graduate began working with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), at the tender age of 13, in the hopes of helping to eliminate the hazards of drunk driving and its devastating impact on the lives of others.

actually killed from the impact.” The final tragic straw, however, was in 2011 when Gillian’s cousin, Tiffany Herman, was struck and killed by a drunk driver when she was only 22. The loss profoundly affected Gillian and her family, and the youngster felt compelled to do something about the issue then and there.

The 2016 WRHS Honor Graduate began working with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), at the tender age of 13, in the hopes of helping to eliminate the hazards of drunk driving and its devastating impact on the lives of others. “I decided to contact Cynthia Hagain with Mothers Against Drunk Driving to see how I could help,”

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“Be Accountable #DriveWise” Gillian also began making presentations to Driver’s Education classes and schools to prevent others from making the devastatingly life-changing decision to drive while intoxicated.

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Gillian’s mother theorizes that her daughter’s drive to make the world a better place initially stemmed from that horrific November night all those years ago. “Let’s face it, when you have something that impacts you at such a young age, it can’t help but change you. It’s scary enough for an adult, much less an 8-year-old child, and to lose her cousin just devastated us all. I think all of this has made her very community-oriented; she just loves to help people,” says Kimberly.

says Gillian. Hagain, the current Manager of Victim Services for MADD, says, “Gillian has been sharing her story since she was in the eighth grade, and she’s an amazing young lady. She has been part of our teen advisory board and has been an excellent representative for our organization.”

Thus, Gillian began speaking at schools and at quarterly Victim Impact Panels at the Warner

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Robins courthouse. These panels consist of victims and survivors whose lives have been dramatically changed by intoxicated drivers. “The goal of the panel is to demonstrate the consequences that an intoxicated driver has on other individuals like myself,” she says. “Many of the people in the audience were ordered by a court to be there, and many had been convicted of a DUI, so it was

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Thus, Gillian began speaking at schools and at quarterly Victim Impact Panels at the Warner Robins courthouse. These panels consist of victims and survivors whose lives have been dramatically changed by intoxicated drivers. “The goal of the panel is to demonstrate the consequences that an intoxicated driver has on other individuals like myself,� she says.

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important for me to share my story with them.”

Gillian also began making presentations to Driver’s Education classes and schools to prevent others from making the devastatingly life-changing decision to drive while intoxicated. “Gillian has volunteered a great deal of her time to this cause,” says her mother. “She was speaking at Drivers’ Education classes at Central Georgia Tech while she was still in high school, for example. She also designed a bracelet that said, ‘Be accountable. If you drink, don’t drive.’ She would give out these bracelets wherever she would speak.

One of the points that she tries to drive home, and that people don’t realize, is that a car is a weapon. The accident that we were in involved five cars and ten people, so she is emphatic about her message.”

To that end, Gillian has also developed a social media revolution to help reach more people online. “In the last few years, I’ve developed #DriveWise, which is a social media revolution that involves the community taking a stand against drinking and driving. It also includes drowsy driving and driving while impaired in any way.”

I also have a Facebook Page called “Be Accountable #DriveWise” which is a tool to help educate people about safe driving and the hazards of drunk and impaired driving.

Since she started, Gillian has volunteered hundreds of hours with the organization MADD, speaking at countless Victim Impact Panels, and being one of a handful chosen to serve on the organization’s Georgia Teen Influencer Group. Gillian recently began her role as Class Secretary in her senior class at Wesleyan College in Macon and says that she will continue to spread the word about MADD and #DriveWise through her position at the college. “I hope to link in my platform at

Gillian also began making presentations to Driver’s Education classes and schools to prevent others from making the devastatingly life-changing decision to drive while intoxicated. “Gillian has volunteered a great deal of her time to this cause,” says her mother. “She was speaking at Drivers’ Education classes at Central Georgia Tech while she was still in high school,

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MADD with (these organizations). For example, we’ll be partnering with the local police department, as well as GDOT to give presentations regarding the movement.”

Gillian has also served in numerous capacities of volunteering and teaching since age 10 at Second Baptist and volunteering for Relay For Life. “We’ve had numerous events raising money for cancer research,” she says. Gillian has also served on the Student Government Association as Vice President last year, as well as holding several positions with Reformed University Fellowship (RUF), a Christian organization on campus. “We realize that her volunteerism makes for a long list, but Gillian has always strived to make her world a better place,”

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explains Kimberly.

Most recently, the 21-year-old has found a new avenue to help spread her message. In June, she was crowned the 2019 Miss Georgia Forestry. The pageant took place in Tifton and included over 140 contestants. “The competition consisted of four factors: an interview, a speech about my #DriveWise campaign, an evening gown competition as well as on-stage questions,” says Gillian. Forestry Director Dianne Dominy says of Gillian, “I think the judges fell in love with her speaking ability. Gillian is just a people person; she communicates extremely well, and I’m sure she’ll do a great job representing the Georgia Forestry Industry this coming year.” As a result, she now has a sign placed on Russell Parkway

commemorating her achievement, as well as in her hometown, less than a mile from where she was hit by a drunk driver.

“I’m very honored to represent the Miss Georgia Forestry Pageant for the year, and I hope to make a difference in that role,” says Gillian. “For one, it’s the oldest pageantry system in the state, and I’m the 80th person to hold that title, so I’m really proud of that fact.

Winning it was one of my life goals, and I’m relieved to have done it.” More importantly, it’s yet another platform through which Gillian can spread her

message.

In addition to being the Middle Georgia Representative for MADD, Gillian is majoring in Early Childhood Education at Wesleyan, while minoring in History and Reading. “I want to teach young children and ultimately go into administration. I want to try to make a difference wherever I go.” Gillian has even written a children’s book entitled Safety in a Car Will Take You So Far and hopes to have the book published in the near future.

Gillian’s mother theorizes that her daughter’s drive to make the world a

better place initially stemmed from that horrific November night all those years ago. “Let’s face it, when you have something that impacts you at such a young age, it can’t help but change you.

It’s scary enough for an adult, much less an 8-year-old child, and to lose her cousin just devastated us all. I think all of this has made her very communityoriented; she just loves to help people,” says Kimberly. Fortunately for the rest of us, her past would lead Gillian to do great things and continue making a positive impact in her corner of the world.  HCL

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Legacy of

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Foundation named for former Perry Mayor James Worrall continues his generosity through charitable works S t o r y by M i c h a e l W. Pa n n e l l

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Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

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James Worrall’s daughter tells of going through her daddy’s papers after his death and finding notes from former students. One caught her attention. It was a letter from a woman who had written a belated “thank you” for a coat Worrall gave her while he was her elementary school principal.

“She wrote saying she would never forget him and the trouble he went to getting her a winter coat her family couldn’t afford,” Fran Worrall Goldstein said. “She went on to say she hadn’t told him what he meant to her back when she was a child, but was writing to make sure her gratitude didn’t go unexpressed. She said what he did had a big impact on her life and her attitude toward people.”

In his 81 years, many saw that side of James Worrall: active kindness, concern for others and a dedication to serving them as a family man, educator, Sunday school teacher, Perry mayor for 21 years and friend to people who crossed his path – especially young people.

Though he lost his life to cancer in 2010, Worrall’s legacy continues today through the James E. Worrall Foundation. “The foundation is a living legacy in James’ honor,” said Joe Posey, founder of the organization and one who knew Worrall as a friend and who also served as a Perry City Council member.

“It’s a living legacy working for a variety of the causes James loved,” Joe said. “That includes city recreation opportunities for all children, but goes further to serve their well-being in areas from recreation to education to health – really every area of their lives. It’s a way to solicit and accept contributions, gifts, grants and other donations to help, all tax-deductible for contributors.”

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The foundation’s first major project involved working with the city to create Heritage Park – with its green spaces, trails and activity spaces – a project the city has since taken over. Small fundraisers, solicitations from businesses and individuals all helped make the park a reality.As efforts progressed, another major project became raising money to help the city make all its parks and playgrounds handicapped accessible.

One of the Worrall Foundation’s latest major efforts is geared toward children’s health. In September, the group hosted the Mary Elizabeth Memorial Golf Tournament and Silent Auction with proceeds being split evenly between the Worrall Foundation, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and United for a Cure Foundation. The tournament raised $50,000.

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Joe himself knows heartbreak from the loss of children to cancer. His own granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Paris, was diagnosed with cancer at age 11 .

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Joe said the idea of the foundation to further Worrall’s work came during a city council budget meeting. He said with demands for city funds moving from recreational funding to other needs, he wondered if there wasn’t a way to collect private funds the city could use for recreation. He thought it was something Worrall would have been excited to see happen.

“I didn’t know anything about foundations when we started in 2012, so I talked to a number of people and, with their help, we got it going,” Joe said.

“I remain the board’s chairman with a very active collection of board members serving today.”

The foundation’s first major project involved working with the city to create Heritage Park – with its green spaces, trails and activity spaces – a project the city has since taken over.

Small fundraisers, solicitations from businesses and individuals all helped make the park a reality.

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As efforts progressed, another major project became raising money to help the city make all its parks and playgrounds handicapped accessible.

“It’s a horrible thing seeing a kid in a wheelchair just looking at other kids playing on a playground and there’s no way they can join in,” Joe said. “We were happy to give the city a check in early 2019 for $9,000 so that scenario won’t keep happening.

Work began and is primarily complete, making our spaces useful to all. That’s a big step.”

One of the Worrall Foundation’s latest major efforts is geared toward children’s health. In September, the group hosted the Mary Elizabeth Memorial Golf Tournament and Silent Auction with proceeds being split evenly between the Worrall Foundation, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and United for a Cure Foundation. The tournament raised $50,000.

“James always felt deeply for children when they were sick,” Joe said. “In his own fight against cancer, he met many kids and I think he felt worse for them than he did for himself.”

Joe himself knows heartbreak from the loss of children to cancer. His own granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Paris, was diagnosed with cancer at age 11 and died at 12. “In the U.S., 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer every year and one out of five won’t survive five years,” Joe said. “In the last 45 or 50 years, only three new drugs have been developed specifically for childhood cancer, and that’s terrible – terrible because not every drug that works for adults works for children. Children suffering from cancer was big on James’ heart and of course mine as well. While alive, he found ways to help and bless those he ran into and this follows right on from that.”

Worrall’s widow, Frances Worrall, said she knows her husband would be pleased with the foundation’s ongoing work. “He’d be so happy to know what the foundation is doing,” she said.

“He would be thrilled. He was always such a gentleman, always loved his work, loved being a blessing to others and when he did something, he always wanted it done right. He loved Perry so

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Children suffering from cancer was big on James’ heart and of course mine as well. While alive, he found ways to help and bless those he ran into and this follows right on from that.

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much and would notice things. When things were good he paid attention and when things needed changing – he noticed that, too. He cared about details, but he mostly loved people – people of every race and all situations, it didn’t matter. And above everything, he always wanted to be a good example.”

Frances said she and James met in Athens at the University of Georgia. She was studying education and he was a history major – but he switched to education. After graduating, they moved to Perry and worked in Houston County schools.

She became a media specialist then served in the district’s central office. After teaching, he became principal at Perry Junior High School and, of course, was an elementary school principal.

Worrall was the first headmaster at Perry’s The Westfield Schools and later headmaster at Beechwood Academy in Marshallville and at Savannah Christian Preparatory School.

But moving from Perry was never a question, Frances said.

They both loved the community they called home too much.

As for being a good example, apparently the foundation bearing his name is a good example of that. “It’s just an ongoing way to continue things he thought were important,” Joe said. “We hope others will see the good in it and help however they can.”  HCL

To contact the James E. Worrall Foundation, call Joe Posey at 478-550-7113 or email jposey1003@yahoo.com The foundation is online at worrallfoundation.org.

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Darla’s “Fun Fact” Few understand a factor that can improve their finances significantly: how an additional year of work can raise a key number that SS uses to set their benefits. It uses an average of your highest 35 years of earnings covered by SS ( they need not be consecutive years ) , starting from age 16. An inflation adjustment is applied up to age 60 to bring them in line with your current purchasing power. If you put in more that 35 years your lowest -earning years are dropped , pulling your average earnings up. If you put in fewer than 35 years, you get a zero for each missing year. When working ,each year of higher earnings replace one of your lower earnings years , so your average earnings rise. People who aren’t working can eliminate zeros on their record by getting a job. Adding to a work record can be especially valuable for people who spent part of their lives out of the workforce.

Darla M. Stahl

478-442-2824 | Darlamstahl@ Gmail.com

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Braswell Family D e n ti stry

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Elegant Senior Living with Independent, Assisted, and Secure Memory Care

Guest Rooms

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“ We Are Who We Are Becoming”

104 Tommy Stalnaker Dr, Warner Robins, GA 31088 www.WeArePediatricDentistry.com (478) 953-4800

With over 60 years combined experience our veterinarians and staff understand the importance of providing the best care possible to your pets. That is why we offer the most qualified experienced staff around, innovative medical treatments, and extensive business hours.

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PERRY PLAYERS

“Lights, Camera & A Community in Action”

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BY VA L E R I E R O S E | P H O T O S BY T I N I K A B E N N E T T P H O T O G R A P H Y

filled with generations of community members, a Christian spirit, and incredible talent. Perry Players was founded in the 1980s as a repertory company in the local area.

S

Shakespeare believed that the world was a stage in which men and woman were players; however, if you have spent time watching a Perry Players performance in downtown Perry, Georgia, it is clear to see that this stage is filled with generations of community members, a Christian spirit, and incredible talent. Perry Players was founded in the 1980s as a repertory company in the local area, producing a variety of performing arts entertainment from sketches, one acts, fulllength dramas, musicals, and comedy skits.

Original performances took place in local schools, studios, and recital halls, along with other various venues. The founders of Perry Players, simply a group of Middle Georgians with the passion to offer blue ribbon entertainment and an outlet for local artists to come together, believed it would offer opportunities for novice and seasoned performers and designers throughout the local communities to practice their talents and grow in their own performing arts craft. Just a few

Perry Players was founded in the 1980s as a repertory company in the local area, producing a variety of performing arts entertainment from sketches, one acts, full-length dramas, musicals, and comedy skits.

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Supported by countless patrons, benefactors, and businesses within the Middle Georgia area throughout its beginning years, the first players purchased the theatre building that stands today at 909 Main Street in 1990. The building was originally constructed in 1902 and is a beautiful historical icon of downtown Perry.

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Typical productions have casts ranging anywhere from one to 50 people, and the local youth makes up a great portion of that. Perry Players is staffed by local community members willing to volunteer their time, talents, education, skills, and knowledge with others.

of the instrumental founding members are Carol Strandburg, and Dennis and Donna Harper.

Supported by countless patrons, benefactors, and businesses within the Middle Georgia area throughout its beginning years, the first players purchased the theatre building that stands today at 909 Main Street in 1990. The building was originally constructed in 1902 and is a beautiful historical icon

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of downtown Perry. The building holds about 170 seats for a full house. In 2018 the building underwent renovations to accommodate the consistent growth of the program thanks to the continuous and gracious support of patrons via ticket sales, benefactors, and local business support. Typical productions have casts ranging anywhere from one to 50 people, and the local youth makes up a great portion of that. Perry

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Jimmy took his family to see the summer musical production of The Addams Family the Musical in July 2015. Not only did they thoroughly enjoy the show that night, but they returned to see it again the two following weekends.

Today, Mr. Stricklen serves as the President of the theatre Board of Directors.

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Players is staffed by local community members willing to volunteer their time, talents, education, skills, and knowledge with others. On numerous occasions, there have been families of three generations or more volunteering together to produce quality entertainment for families to come and enjoy together.

Jimmy Stricklen and Hunter Hufnagel are two of the many examples of how the founders’ vision has come to a reality.

Jimmy took his family to see the summer musical production of The Addams Family the Musical in July 2015. Not only did they thoroughly enjoy the show that night, but they returned to see it again the two following weekends. Today, Mr. Stricklen serves as the President of the theatre Board of Directors. His wife, Shannon, is head of hospitality during performances, and his entire family stays actively involved with the program year round. Hunter has been affiliated with Perry Players since he was a child and recalls being “bitten by the bug” in 2004 during the Youth Workshop, hosted by Perry Players over the summer break from school. In addition to his play and musical performances, he made his directorship debut in 2014 for the musical performance of Oliver!; in 2015, he was elected as the Vice President of Production of the theatre board, and in 2016 he was selected as Perry Players’ first Artistic Director. Born and raised in Middle Georgia, Hunter began volunteering his time with the organization, and because both the theatre and entire City of Perry welcomed him in from a young age, he now has purchased his home in Perry. He feels that seeing a tangible example of loving thy neighbor and coming together as a community, for your community, is what has kept him grounded and involved over the years. Hunter says, “We are one big family. We look out for each other and take care of each other the way a community

“We are one big family. We look out for each other and take care of each other the way a community should. Everyone has a niche” and if you are interested in getting involved in any way at the theatre, “there is a place here for you.”

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should.” He believes that “everyone has a niche” and if you are interested in getting involved in any way at the theatre, “there is a place here for you.”

Auditions are open to the public. This means that anyone and everyone who is interested in auditioning are welcome. There have been several community members who choose to participate via performing or designing for every show of the season.

Performing is a full-time voluntary commitment as performers rehearse Monday through Friday from 6:30-9:30 pm, six to ten weeks per every show.

The design team responsible for everything from set builders to costume designers is a large group of local volunteers as well, which goes to show the extent of support this organization receives. All

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materials are either donated by benefactors, local businesses, or purchased through ticket sales funds and sponsorships from attending patrons. Costumes and set construction often occurs off site, which entails community members loaning, not only their time, but their trailers, garage space, and home space for work to be done. These are all visible examples within the community of what a labor of love looks like. Students and educators from all of the Houston County schools are active at Perry Players, sharing their time, knowledge, and skill sets with others. Providing middle Georgia’s youth with a safe and knowledgeable performing arts outlet, where they can expand their own knowledge, skills, and community service, is one of the many

Perry Players strives to promote and plant personal desire for and nourish community spirit through the arts. They provide an outlet for individuals to learn and grow in the theatre arts, offering support and encouragement to those individuals and other various cultural arts groups. They provide the opportunity for members of the community to participate in all areas of the theatre, from enjoying the production from the audience to performing on the stage, running the lights and sound, designing or building sets and costumes, or volunteering as an usher at the box office.

reasons members of our community choose to volunteer; taking care of our future generations who will one day lead and care for past generations. The Christ-centered family spirit of Perry Players proves itself to be quite contagious, and they wouldn’t want it any other way.

Perry Players strives to promote and plant personal desire for and nourish community spirit through the arts. They provide an outlet for individuals to learn and grow in the theatre arts, offering support and encouragement to those individuals and other various cultural arts groups. They provide the opportunity for members of the community to participate in all areas of the theatre, from enjoying the production from the audience to performing on the stage, running the lights and sound, designing or building sets and costumes, or volunteering as an usher at the box office. They have earned several accolades over the years…the most recent acknowledgements include the 2018 Best of the Best Entertainment, Business of the Month by the Perry Chamber of Commerce, and 2019 Best of the Best Place to Take a Date from the Macon Telegraph. One thing is certain…the founders of Perry Players created a legacy that is still growing today as it heads into its fourth decade of operation. There is no doubt that this organization and community theatre could not exist without middle Georgia’s community past, present, and continued support.  HCL

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Discover Westfield.

College Preparatory Curriculum Christian Environment Average Class Size = 15 students Fine Arts Instruction in Pre K - 12 Foreign Language in Pre K - 12 Advanced Placement & Honors Classes Dual Enrollment Courses 1:1 Tablets in Middle School 1:1 Laptops in Upper School Athletics & Fine Arts Leadership Opportunities AdvancEd/SAIS/SACS Accreditation

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LetLet thethe journey begin... journey begin...

Let the journey begin...

Let the journey begin...

You’ve got your partner by your side and a life’s journey to look forward to.

You’ve got your partner by your side and a life’s journey to look forward to.

Dreams are made realityYou’ve by planning, hard work aside pinch the process, don’t forget to gotyour your partner byand your andofjourney aluck. life’stoIn journey to look You’ve got by your sidework and a life’s look forward to. forward to.

Dreams are made by partner planning, hard put together a roadmap for reality your financial journey as well.and a pinch of luck. In the process, don’t forget to aremade made reality by planning, and pinch ofprocess, luck. Indon’t the forget process, Dreams are reality by planning, hard work andwork a pinch of a luck.

In the to don’t forget to put together aDreams roadmap for your financial journey ashard well. put together a roadmap for your financial journey journey as life well.insurance A good place to start is put with an affordable life insurance policy.

A together a roadmap for your financial as well. policy can help your good place toA if start is with an affordable life insurance policy.

A life policycancan partner beAOK financially something happens you. good place start is with antoaffordable life insurance policy.

A lifeinsurance insurance policy helphelp youryour good placetoto start is with an affordable life insurance policy.

A life insurance policy can help your partner be OKApartner financially something happens to you. be OKiffinancially if something happens to you.

And don’t worry if you don’t know where begin.

Wea life’s canjourney explore what works partner be financially if something happens to you.

You’ve got yourOK partner bytoyour side and to look forward to. for your situation— And don’t worry you don’t knowtowhere to begin.

We explore can explore whatworks works for situation— And don’t worry ifthe youconversation don’tifknow where begin.

We can what foryour your situation— and your budget.

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Dreams arebudget. made reality by hard work and a pinch of luck.We In the process, don’twhat forget works to And don’t worry if you don’t know where to begin. can explore for your situation— andLet’s your Let’s getplanning, the conversation started. and your budget. get the conversation started. put together a roadmap for your financial journey as well.

Let the journey begin...

and your budget. Let’s get the conversation started.

A good place to start is with an affordable life insurance policy. A life insurance policy can help your partner be OK financially if something happens to you.

Wendy Johnson Wendy Johnson Representative And don’t worry ifFinancial you don’t know where to begin. We can explore what works for your situation— Wendy Johnson Financial Representative 1023 Ball and your budget. Let’s getSt.the Johnson conversation started.

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Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. Policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®, Bloomington, IL. ® ® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company , Bloomington, Policies of issued COUNTRY Life Insurance Companydedicated This piece has been reproduced with the permission Life by Happens, a nonprofit organization to helping consumers make smart insurance decisionsIL.to ® This piece has been reproduced with the of Life Happens, a nonprofit organization toIL.helping consumers make smart insurance decisions to and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®dedicated , Bloomington, Policies issued by COUNTRY Lifepermission Insurance Company safeguard their families’ financial futures.

LifeThis Happens does notreproduced endorse any insurance company, product or advisor. © Life Happens 2018.

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Raccoon

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Live Life Confidently No matter where you are in life, we’re here to help.

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160 Houston County Living

[ By Sherri Martin | Photos by Kelly McDonald Photography ]

the journey

David Feldman teaches self-discipline, self-improvement and life enjoyment at Perry Tae Kwon Do

W

When he has down time, David Feldman enjoys touring the country by Amtrak train, often with a few college buddies.

The trips remind him of the excitement of train trips he took as a child growing up in Montgomery, Alabama. In a larger sense, though, the winding trips are symbolic of the circuitous route his life has taken.

As a train travels through different areas, making stops at different stations, the one thing that remains the same is it travels on the rails. And just as those rails are a constant,

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His life, winding like an Amtrak trip, has stayed on the rails of martial arts, creating quite a wonderful ride.

David also has had one thing remain the same in his life. “Martial arts has always been my constant,” he says.

David took his first martial arts course in 1972, as a continuing education course at the University of Alabama, where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music education. He was working as a band director, but he says David Carradine from the show “Kung Fu” and other martial artists inspired him. “The martial artists were like superheroes,” he says. So, he began working

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toward earning his black belt.

He took a break in his professional career to work in retail at JC Penney, then “mistakenly” went back to band directing. All the while, he was progressing through the ranks in tae kwon do, and by 1980, he was a black belt. “I started teaching (tae kwon do) right then,” he says. “With my teaching background and interest in martial arts, it was a good marriage.”

His first experience teaching tae kwon do was at Gunter Air Force Station, and he was there for four years. “Talk about a fresh recruit!” he says

with a laugh about his memories starting out as a new teacher.

When he moved to begin teaching public school in Greenville, Alabama, he also made a move in his martial arts career: He opened his first tae kwon do school. “By 1988, I had almost 100 students, four nights a week,” he says.

Soon, he was ready for another change. “I decided to leave band directing and pursue a new career,” he says. “Computers were in vogue, so I went to Auburn University at Montgomery and got a business degree in information systems so I could manage computers.”

While he was pursuing his new career, he was still running the tae kwon do school, and looking for ways to advance his career. “In ’93, I found out about a program, Palace Acquire, an internship to go into the Air Force as a civilian,” David says.

This program would put him in a position as a civilian working for the Air Force, and would move him to Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins in August 1993. He worked in computer management for the Air Force Reserves Headquarters, assisting with computer

new location

Perry Tae Kwon Do opened at its new location at 229 Wes Park Drive in May 2003, featuring a 2,000-square-foot workout space with safety floor, showers, a kitchen, offices, a glassed-in lobby for parents to sit and observe, and a playroom for younger siblings. The school now has 100-120 students and offers lessons six days a week.

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“Tae kwon do offers three types of exercise: anaerobic, aerobic and flexibility. Classes also provide a group psychology – you are going to do better than if you were doing it by yourself. And you can always do a lot better than what you are currently doing. Everyone has a baseline, and you go from there.”

requirements at Air Force Reserve locations all over the world.

To make the move to Georgia, however, he had to sell his tae kwon do school in Alabama.

But by 1996, he had opened a new school in Perry. “We started in February of ’96, in a little shop next to Longhorn Butcher Shop,” he says.

David found the right career fit in the Air Force and worked there until he retired in October 2018, after 25 years at Robins. He also continued to successfully turn his love of martial arts into a second career.

The Perry tae kwon do school quickly outgrew its first location, and David purchased a half-acre parcel of land and hired SOA 164

Houston County Living

Construction to build his vision for a new facility. “I knew exactly what I wanted, but had no idea about construction,” he says.

Perry Tae Kwon Do opened at its new location at 229 Wes Park Drive in May 2003, featuring a 2,000-square-foot workout space with safety floor, showers, a kitchen, offices, a glassed-in lobby for parents to sit and observe, and a playroom for younger siblings. The school now has 100-120 students and offers lessons six days a week.

Classes start for children ages 4 to 6, called Tigers. Juniors are 7 to 11, and the adult group is for ages 12 and older. Each group has several different levels within it, to meet each student’s needs. David values a low student-teacher ratio,

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Classes start for children ages 4 to 6, called Tigers. Juniors are 7 to 11, and the adult group is for ages 12 and older. Each group has several different levels within it, to meet each student’s needs. David values a low student-teacher ratio, and has three paid instructors plus volunteers.

He also offers private lessons.

and has three paid instructors plus volunteers.

He also offers private lessons. “We want to make sure that when you come in here for lessons, you get what you pay for,” he says.

Because he never married, although he “got close a couple of times,” and is now retired, he has more time to commit to the school. That also means more time to watch people come to realize the benefits of martial arts.

“I like to think of martial arts as a selfimprovement program. It teaches discipline and self-instruction and a can-do attitude. I enjoy seeing the results – seeing a kid who couldn’t do push-ups now leading the class in push-ups,” he says. “Tae kwon do offers three types of exercise: anaerobic, aerobic and flexibility. Classes also provide a group psychology – you are going to do better than if you were doing it by yourself. And you

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Houston County Living

can always do a lot better than what you are currently doing. Everyone has a baseline, and you go from there.”

David himself progressed through his martial arts career to an 8th degree black belt, a master’s level. When he was competing in sparring tournaments, which is expected of instructors, he was nationally ranked in the ‘90s.

“But age takes its toll,” David says. He no longer spars, but he appreciates, at the age of 66, the fitness benefits martial arts still provides for him. He also goes to the gym once or twice a week to run and lift weights.

Staying in shape helps him keep up with the demands of running the school and teaching.

For example, Saturdays are a full day. “From 8:30-10:30 a.m., we have private lessons every half hour. Then we have instructor classes, then black belt classes. These are very intense; we kick and punch, and then when we get tired of that, we do more kicks and punches. Then, I clean up and scrub the floors. Then, I go home and collapse!” he says.

As if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, he also takes the time to share yet another passion with students in Houston County: model rocketry. He enjoys working with area ROTC programs and has model rocket sessions at the tae kwon do school as well. “I do it because I enjoy it, but also because it is very educational,” he says. “Anything I can do to stimulate the kids’ minds, I want to do that.”

Although it wasn’t a life of teaching music, David still has been a lifelong teacher.

Through martial arts and rocketry, he also teaches self-discipline, self-improvement and life enjoyment.

As he looks back at his life to this point, he says, “I’m glad I did what I did, but hindsight is 20/20. I would have done things earlier, career-wise. But I have no regrets on the martial arts side.”

His life, winding like an Amtrak trip, has stayed on the rails of martial arts, creating quite a wonderful ride.  HCL

encouraging spirit As if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, he also takes the time to share yet another passion with students in Houston County: model rocketry. He enjoys working with area ROTC programs and has model rocket sessions at the tae kwon do school as well. “I do it because I enjoy it, but also because it is very educational,” he says. “Anything I can do to stimulate the kids’ minds, I want to do that.”

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Britton Rawls Serving Central Georgia For Over 20 Years

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Dr Uwa Iguobadia was born in Nigeria and grew up in New Jersey.

She has lived in Middle Georgia for over five years. She has a calling to serve and care for all children and is honored to care for the children and families here in Middle Georgia, changing and improving the lives of those around her.

LIFEGUARD

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Praetorian CrossFit Builds a Community Around Wellness

Mike and Bre created a community of wellness when they started a crossfit gym out of their garage.

By Jamie Dickson |Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

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I

It’s 4:00 on a blistering July afternoon, and Mike and Bre Farrand are gearing up for another round of CrossFit classes at their gym, Praetorian CrossFit, in Perry. A few early birds joke around with each other as they stretch and practice muscle-ups. They’re waiting for the next class to start. As more members file into the building, music drowns out the sound of several roaring fans as the class gets going.

The instructor (one of the gym’s six in total) goes over the day’s workout, and, at the sound of a buzzer, the group of about a dozen men and women make their way out of the building for their warm-up jog along South Houston Lake Road. This is an average afternoon at Praetorian CrossFit, where people from all over the County and beyond not only exercise, but also build relationships.

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The instructor (one of the gym’s six in total) goes over the day’s workout, and, at the sound of a buzzer, the group of about a dozen men and women make their way out of the building for their warm-up jog along South Houston Lake Road. This is an average afternoon at Praetorian CrossFit, where people from all over the County and beyond not only exercise, but also build relationships.

“The best thing about [Praetorian] is the community,” Mike said. “It really is like a big family. The people who have been here are here just as much for the community as they are for the fitness.”

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Mike told Bre he wanted to start a gym in their garage, and she thought it was a joke.

After all, they had two children under 15 months of age. “Okay, you can start a gym in the garage,” she recalled sarcastically telling him.

“The best thing about [Praetorian] is the community,” Mike said. “It really is like a big family. The people who have been here are here just as much for the community as they are for the fitness.”

Mike and Bre had no intention of starting a gym when they arrived in Perry 20 years ago. The Air Force brought them to Robins Air Force Base in 1999 where Mike was an operator with JSTARs (Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System).

“I had a typical Air Force career.

We were just doing our thing and then 9/11 happened, which kicked off a lot of things in the Middle East,” Mike said. “That’s when I started deploying.”

He said he’s been on a total of 20 deployments in his Air Force career.

An avid gym goer, he was introduced to CrossFit while in the Middle East. “Now you can find all sorts of information about it,” Mike said, “but back then people had no idea what CrossFit was.”

CrossFit is a lifestyle designed to help participants accomplish fitness goals, improve health, and weight loss, according to crossfit.org, “It’s a combination of weightlifting, cardio, 178

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and gymnastics skills–like pull-ups, pushups, ring dips, and burpees–put together at a high level of intensity,” Bre said.

And, according to Mike, anyone can do it. “It’s for everybody,” he said. “You can scale the movements to your fitness level, and they’re functional. You can apply them to everyday life. You don’t have to be in shape to do CrossFit.” But the workouts are still challenging.

Mike tried his first CrossFit workout while on deployment and was immediately hooked. “I thought I was in pretty good shape,” he said. “I did this workout and it destroyed me. And that’s when I fell in love with it.”

Eventually, his fellow crew members caught on and asked him to teach them the basics. “Every time I deployed, people would start gravitating toward me and asking me about CrossFit. I wasn’t a trainer at the time, but I would help them with what I knew,” he said.

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“That’s where the idea for Praetorian developed.”

Mike told Bre he wanted to start a gym in their garage, and she thought it was a joke. After all, they had two children under 15 months of age. “Okay, you can start a gym in the garage,” she recalled sarcastically telling him.

Mike was serious, though, and in 2012, more than 40 people were in and out of the Farrand garage each week; he had no idea so many people would be interested in the workouts. “We started with the intent of just helping people,” Mike said.

Before long, the Farrands quickly realized they couldn’t sustain the gym in their garage, so in 2013 they secured a lease on a former auto-shop off of South Houston Lake Road near Perry Parkway. Now, the gym has about 200 members.

Abbie White and her husband, Frank, have been going to the gym for several years. She said the coaches and members encourage her to push herself. “I love Praetorian CrossFit because of the people,” she said.

“I’d never lifted weights a day in my life until I stepped in that gym, and everyone was so encouraging and supportive. It’s the support of the coaches and members that push me to be a better version of myself.”

The Farrands are proud to do business in Perry and make it a priority to give back. The gym hosts an annual CrossFit competition each fall. And this year, they added the “Go, Fight, Run” 5K to their philanthropy efforts.

Funds raised through the 5K and competition typically go to Perry families or individuals fighting illnesses.

“It’s a great feeling to be a part of these events that combine physicality with genuine compassion for our community,” White said. To date, the gym has raised more than $20,000 for Perry families.

Mike said while watching people meet their fitness goals is rewarding, he feels especially proud when members reach wellness milestones. “It’s more than just being able to do a muscle-up. When someone tells me they got off their blood pressure medicine, that’s the best thing to me,” he said.

Praetorian offers classes Monday-Saturday. Each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning, Bre leads a women’s only class, and the gym recently started offering classes for kids. For more information, visit www.praetoriancrossfit.com. HCL

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S T ORY B Y T R A C I B U R N S | P H O TO S P R O V I D E D BY H OUS T ON C OUNT Y GALLE RIA M ALL AND T INIK A BE NNE T T PHOTOGRAPHY

Refreshed, Refined, Reimagined

1

Houston County Galleria Mall gets a facelift just in time for the holidays

1994 was a good year for icons. Musical heartthrobs Justin Bieber and Harry Styles were born, beloved TV show “Friends” premiered on NBC, “Forrest Gump” charmed movie audiences and the Sony PlayStation hit shelves, changing the face of video gaming forever.

1994 also saw the launch of one of our own community icons here in Middle Georgia: the Houston County Galleria Mall.

In the midst of a rapidly changing retail

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landscape, the Houston County Galleria has remained a reliable, vibrant destination for shopping, dining and entertainment for the past 25 years. Owned by Gemini-ALTO Centerville Partners LLC and managed by JLL Management Company, today’s Galleria is anchored by Belk, JCPenney and the 15-screen Galleria Cinemas, and filled with specialty and national retailers like American Eagle, F.Y.E., Finish Line and Victoria’s Secret.

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In the midst of a rapidly changing retail landscape, the Houston County Galleria has remained a reliable, vibrant destination for shopping, dining and entertainment for the past 25 years.

Shoppers praise the mall’s cleanliness, safety, convenient location and friendly employees. Recently, JLL Management announced that new features are on the way to help improve the mall’s shopping and dining experience – all in time for this year’s holiday shopping rush.

“Our goal for Houston County Galleria was to design a transformative refresh of the public spaces,” says Hayley Hughes, a designer with MSTSD Inc., the Atlanta-based architectural firm working on the project. “The vibrant designs of the aircraft displayed in the Museum of Aviation inspired the color palette, and the concept of the renovation gives a light and airy feel in the mall to acknowledge the area’s history as the location of a prominent Air Force base.”

Under the supervision of Galleria General Manager Angie McClelland, who is in charge of overseeing all renovations, we will see fresh coats of paint on many of the mall’s interior structures, modernized interior lighting and a kids’ play area with a soft foam climbing gym.

“One of the biggest changes affecting

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malls all over the country is that consumers are prioritizing two things: convenience and entertainment,” says Hughes. To address that, two new seating lounges with charging stations near the food court will give shoppers a place to hang out and recharge – both themselves and their phones.

“We’re doing our part to grow and change with the times so we can be part of this community for another 25 years,” says Betsy Yates, marketing manager for the Galleria.

There also are many other new additions to the mall. In August, a 71-foot mural, one of the largest in the southeast, was installed. The bright and charming wall features six different stations for shoppers to take and share colorful, interactive, Instagram-worthy photos.

The Social Lounge is a new fullservice restaurant offering delicious food, creative cocktails and good vibes.

They’re open Wednesday through

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Sunday, with late night hours on Friday and Saturday, and their Sunday brunch menu is wildly popular.

Taco El Jefe is bringing some fresh, spicy flavor to the food court, and the Preppy Pink Pineapple, newly relocated from Perry, offers custom-made clothing, dresses, jewelry, baby gifts, monogramming and more.

Another new addition, the Purple Panda Arcade, has been a hit with shoppers of all ages since relocating into the mall in August. They’ve got classic games like Pac-Man and Galaga, cutting-edge new experiences in the form of their five Virtual Reality stations, a Nerf Arena and lots of fun weekly events.

Locals are thrilled to have this friendly new hangout spot conveniently located in the Galleria – and the feeling is mutual. “The Galleria Mall has been a very big asset for our arcade,” says Laura Looney, Purple Panda’s manager. “The mall is full of wonderful businesses and amazing people, and I’m proud to be here. We can only hope that the renovations of the mall and our relocation into it helps both of us grow and expand in the future.”

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The Grand Re-Opening will be held on November 19 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. – country radio favorites WDEN will be on site, and there will be refreshments and giveaways throughout the event, which is open to the public. By the time the holiday season is in full swing, you and your family can check out the renovations, see what’s new in your favorite stores, and enjoy some of the pop-up tenants who’ll be setting up shop. Be sure to visit Le Elegant Macaron, a Middle Georgia bakery that makes delectable French macarons in fun, creative flavors like cotton candy and lemon pound cake. They’ll have goodies available that are sure to thrill everybody on your list – and don’t forget to pick up a few for yourself!

Another beloved community event that promises unique shopping is the Centerville Artisan’s Christmas Market, featuring an array of handmade goods from talented locals, held this year from 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Dec. 7-8. New this year, Houston County Galleria will host Special Santa: A Sensory-Friendly Santa Photo

Experience from 6-7 p.m. Dec. 8.

This event, held in partnership with Autism Speaks, offers families with special needs the chance to visit a patient and understanding Santa and have their photo made with him. Visits with Santa are free of charge, and photo packages will be available for purchase on site. Purple Panda Arcade will be open during these hours and will offer a sensoryfriendly space with low lights and sound off on all games. Please visit EventBrite to reserve your space with Santa – only one reservation per family.

Houston County Galleria’s holiday schedule promises to be jam-packed, with something for everyone. From a gingerbread house competition and performances by local choirs, to cookies and milk with Santa and a daily Elf on the Shelf contest – there’ll be a reason to visit the Galleria every day during the holiday season. Holiday operating hours will vary, and Black Friday hours will be announced soon.

Want an easy, convenient way to stay up-to-date on all the cool happenings at the mall? Join Houston County Galleria’s Mobile Club. Text HCG to 444222 from your mobile device to receive promotional offers, discounts and other news from the mall’s retailers and businesses.

Be sure to do your part to keep the iconic Galleria a vibrant part of the fabric of our community here in Houston County. Make it your destination for date nights, playdates with the kids, holiday shopping or grabbing a quick lunch with friends.

“We are proud of our changes,” says McClelland, “and we cannot wait to share them with all of Middle Georgia!”  HCL

Houston County Galleria 2922 Watson Boulevard Centerville, GA 478-953-9631 houstoncountygalleria.com

Hours of operation: 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Open at 7 a.m.

Monday-Saturday for mall walkers.

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Michelle Smith ATTORNEY AT LAW

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By David Pena | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

A Pillar of the Community Pat Braski finds his job of running three restaurants extremely fulfilling since it gives him the opportunity to give back to his community.

“I have always had this sense of obligation to give back to my community,” says successful restauranteur Pat Braski. “I find that in the business world, people will try you once, but they will buy into you when they believe in who you really are. If you are running a business and are successful in what you do, you should always be giving back. We may serve 2000 sandwiches a day, but every sandwich we sell allows us to help others, and that’s what’s really important.”

One of eight children, the 55-year-old was born in Fort Rucker, Alabama, before moving with his family to Columbus, Georgia, where he spent his formative years. “My father was a helicopter pilot,” says Pat, “and while we were stationed at Fort Benning, my father was unfortunately killed in 1966.” This loss had a profound impact on the youngster, as he sought to make something of himself in a world that he didn’t always understand.

Pat attended both Columbus State University and the University of Georgia, where he majored in Political Science. It was during his stint at UGA that he decided not to pursue a degree in law. “I met my wife, Christine, during college and I thought she was better looking than law school,” he says with a laugh. So instead, he chose to continue working for the business that was so good to him in his teens…Chick-fil-A. “I worked for Chick-fil-A in high school and college, and three of my

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brothers also happened to work for the company. One day I told Christine, who at that time was my fiancé, that I would own one of those restaurants. I guess I was trying to impress her, but it actually became a selffulfilling prophecy in 2001 when I became owner of the Macon Mall location.”

Over the next few years, Pat acquired two more locations. Now, in addition to the Watson Boulevard location, Pat is also the owner of the Houston County Galleria Mall store as well as the Highway 96 location. “I literally have eight couples, who are now married, that didn’t know each other before I hired them,” laughs Pat. Aside from being an unwitting matchmaker, Pat says that owning three restaurants is extremely fulfilling since it gives him the opportunity to give back to his community while providing a great business model.

However, multiple ownership does come with its share of challenges. “One of the biggest challenges of being a multi-unit operator is being able to execute what I call ‘Ministry of Presence’ at all locations,” he explains.

“I want to be visible and get to know my employees as well as our customers. It’s important (for me) to be in there with them, and that’s really what our business model is all about. We’re basically a family-owned business that serves families.”

As a former Board member for Mount DeSales,

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Pat now serves on the Board of Flint Energies. He also served as the Building Committee Chairman for Sacred Heart Catholic School. “Fundamentally, we’re all here to serve. It doesn’t matter what you do, it is part of all our responsibility to serve others. While it’s good to succeed in business, the success we’ve obtained now enables us to acquire the resources to improve our community. As the saying goes, ‘to whom much is given, much will be required.’”

One of Pat’s most significant community efforts is the yearly coordination of the “Legacy of Lights” show 198

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at his Chick-fil-A location on Highway 96, which has resulted in over $100,000 contributed to date. Pat partners with Habitat for Humanity during holidays for this impressive show. “It’s an animated light show to music with roughly 75,000 lights. We basically convert a flagpole into a Christmas tree. Folks come from all over to see the show during the month of December and, most importantly, they purchase sponsorships and make donations to Habitat for Humanity. So far, it’s been a great success.”

In his spare time, Pat truly enjoys working alongside

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“My father was a helicopter pilot,” says Pat, “and while we were stationed at Fort Benning, my father was unfortunately killed in 1966.” This loss had a profound impact on the youngster, as he sought to make something of himself in a world that he didn’t always understand.

several community organizations and churches to help build an attitude of Servant Leadership.

These include the Warner Robins Chamber Youth Leadership Program and the Rehoboth Baptist and Winshape Camps. “The camps are part of the Cathy family’s philanthropic arm,” says Pat. “We basically hold camps in our local churches and recruit, train, and hire typically college-age students to come and run our faith-based Winshape program in the communities.” As a part of the Cathy family’s WinShape Foundation, each camp’s mission is to glorify God by creating experiences that transform campers and families with the

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message of Jesus Christ. “We were proud to be one of the founding communities for this particular camp program,” he adds.

In addition, Pat often takes time to speak at many schools, churches, and clubs to positively encourage the community to strive for success with a Christ-centered work ethic. The restauranteur is an active supporter of all four high school athletic and academic programs. “We have a program in all of our high schools called the Leader Academy.

We are so proud to subsidize this curriculum that teaches our young people to demonstrate great leadership skills. They are recommended to us by the administration and teachers, either on the basis of their academic qualities or leadership abilities, and then the youth work together on a project that the school implements in the community.

This encourages leadership development in our community, which is always a good thing.”

Pat has also faithfully served as a youth leader with his wife of 31 years, and the Braski family has all helped to coordinate the Antioch Youth Retreat Program for the past 20 years at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Pat and Christine have five children, whom they regularly include in these programs. “Part of our responsibility is to give back to a community that has been so gracious to us,” explains Pat. “As a result, you’re inevitably going to find yourself part of various organizations to achieve that goal. When I speak to various groups in the community, I always say that what you do is not as important as why you do it. When you correlate what you do for a living, which in and of itself may be mundane, to a true purpose, that’s when you gain real fulfillment. Glorifying God is my true purpose, and it has always encompassed what I do in both my professional and personal life.”  HCL

“I have always had this sense of obligation to give back to my community,” says successful restauranteur Pat Braski. “I find that in the business world, people will try you once, but they will buy into you when they believe in who you really are. If you are running a business and are successful in what you do, you should always be giving back.

We may serve 2000 sandwiches a day, but every sandwich we sell allows us to help others, and that’s what’s really important.”

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JWS, LLC | Commercial & Industrial | Joe Shuttlesworth 1205 Ball Street | Perry, GA 31069 | (478)988-8620

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The Houston County area is growing and steadily becoming a central marketplace. You can find great retail shopping, restaurants and services around each corner.

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Index of Advertisers

A Choice Realty ………….......................................………………….. 2-3 Abreanne’s …………………….......................................…….....….. 207 Advanced Eye Care …................................………………………….. 206 AF Realty Group …………………....................………….. 35, Back Cover Alfa Insurance - Amy Harmon ………………….................………….. 171 Allen’s Tree Service ………………................................…………….. 159 Arrowhead Tool & Equipment ……….................…………………….. 117 Ashley’s Business Solutions ……………………...................……….. 118 Beautiful Skin by Kim Stuckey ……...............……………………….. 205 Bob White Self Storage ………..........................…………………….. 202 Bodega Brew ……………….........................................…………….. 185 Boland Prosthetic & Orthotic Center ……………………........……….. 48 Bonnie “Michelle” Smith Attorney at Law ……………………..…….. 192 Braswell Family Dentistry ………………….......................………….. 137 Bridals by Gilbert ………………...................................…………….. 155 BurgerIm ………………................................................…………….. 193 Canine Clubhouse ……………....................................……………….. 59 Central Georgia Cancer Care ………....................…………………….. 77 Central Georgia Heart Institute, LLC ……………….........…………….. 60 Central Georgia Radiation Oncology ………………………......…….. 103 Church Home LifeSpring ………….....................………………….. 36-37 City of Perry ……………............................................……………….. 102 City of Warner Robins ……………...............................……………….. 76 Clean Control | OdoBan ………………...........................…………….. 74 Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker LLC ………………….………….. 204 Coldwell Banker - Beverly Hardy & Christi King ………….......……….. 7 Coldwell Banker Robbins & Free Realty …….. 104, Inside Front Cover Colony Bank ………………...........................................…………….. 154 Community Foundation of Central Georgia ……………..………….. 206 Computers ETC ………………………......................................…….. 207 Cornerstone Medical Associates, LLC …………………………......….. 90 Country Financial - Shawn Buchanan, MBA ………………………... 105 Country Financial - Wendy Johnson …………………........………….. 157 Crosby Equipment Co ……………………...............................……….. 86 Cruz Lawn Care & Landscaping …....................…………………….. 185 Daisy Patch Flowers ……………………...............................……….. 172 Darla M. Stahl ……………………........................................……….. 136 Do It Best | Houston Hardware & Garden Center …………..…….. 156 Enjoy the Journey Boutique at Merle Norman …………………..….. 153 Fairfield Inn & Suites ……….............................…………………….. 184 Firehouse Subs …………………......................................………….. 202 Fisher Construction …………………................................………….. 119 Flint Energies .........................................…………………………….. 120 Float Robins .......................................…………………………….. 22-23 Fringe Salon ………………….............................................………….. 63 Geico - Jesse Warren …………………….............................……….. 152 Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center ……………….……….. 139 Golden Key Realty - Lisa Corley ………………………..............…….. 204 Golden Key Realty - The Balletto Team ………………………...…….. 183 Grace For All Families Counseling …………….............…………….. 205 Griggers Wealth Management ………………………….................….. 62 Hampton Inn by Hilton …...........................………………………….. 158 Hargray Communications …………………......................………….. 206 Heart of Georgia Hospice ………………….......................………….. 193 Hello Beautiful Salon …………….............................……………….. 139 Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory …….......………….. 61 Homestar Financial Corp - Garrett Bennett …………………………….. 9 Houston County Galleria Mall ………………………................…….. 169 Houston County Living - Dorothy Sichelstiel ………………….......... 194 Houston Healthcare ………………………...............................…….. 123 J Auto Ranch ………………..........................................…………….. 121 JT Custom Homes LLC ……............................……………………….. 171 JWS, LLC ……………................................................……………….. 202 Keller Williams Realty - Jennifer Cosby | Georgia Brooks ……….. 173

Keller Williams Realty - Kamerin Bazemore …………….………….. 203 Kerri Moore Interiors ………………..............................…………….. 205 Kingsland Farm ……………........................................……………….. 49 Lasseter Tractor Company …………….....................……………….. 138 Lifeguard Pediatrics …………………...............................………….. 170 Loden Dental Associates ………………….........................………….. 91 Logic4Design …………………........................................………….. 206 Macon & Robins Bed & Mattress ………...........…………………….. 172 Magnolia Park Cemetery & Mausoleum ………..…………………….. 38 Mays Mitigation Water Damage Restoration ……………………….. 168 McCullough Funeral Home …………………………......................….. 39 McNair, McLemore Middlebrooks & Co ……………………………... 202 Middle Georgia Dumpster Rentals ….....………………………….. 24-25 Middle Georgia Firearms Training ………...............................….. 194 Middle Georgia Orthopaedics …..................………………………….. 89 Mike’s Tree & Landscaping ……………....................……………….. 182 Moore Insurance Agency ……………………….......................…….. 204 Morris Bank ……………...............................................……………….. 5 My Father’s Place ……………..................................……………….. 204 New American Funding ……………..........................……………….. 101 Oil Lamp Restaurant …………………..............................………….. 195 OrthoGeorgia Orthopaedic Specialists ……………………....……….. 73 Paul Anderson Youth Home ………………...................…………….. 192 Pearson Farm …………........................................………………….. 140 Pediatric and Adolescent Dentistry ………………........…………….. 141 Pellicano Construction ………………..........................…………….. 183 Perry Memorial Gardens …………........................………………….. 116 Pet Stop ………….................................................………………….. 168 Phil Brannen Ford of Perry ………………………….....................….. 170 Pool Orthodontics …………………..................................………….. 184 R. Jason Kent Physical Therapy ……................……………………….. 75 Raccoon Stone & Tile Works ……………………..................……….. 158 ResCare HomeCare …………………...............................………….. 207 Sandbox Consulting Group ………....................…………………….. 122 Satterfield & Dempsey Jewelers …………………............………….. 155 Sheridan Construction ….......................………………………….. 26-27 Smith Animal Hospital ……………………...........................……….. 203 Southern Bridge Inc ……...............................……………………….. 153 Southern Lighting ……………..................................……………….. 154 Spherion Staffing Services …………....................………………….. 195 Spillers Orthodontics ……….................................…………………….. 1 State Farm - Connor Suttles …………………………...................….. 159 Sugarplum Tree ……………….....................................…………….. 203 Summer’s Landing of Warner Robins ………………….....………….. 138 Summerhill Senior Living Community ……………………......……….. 87 Sumrall Family Dental …………………........................………….. 20-21 SunMark Community Bank ……………....................……………….. 182 Surgical Associates of Warner Robins ………………....…………….. 173 The Butcher Shop …………………..................................………….. 137 The Floor Store …………….......................................……………….. 136 The Law Firm of Carmel W. Sanders ………………….........………….. 46 The Swanson ……………...........................................……………….. 58 The Westfield School ….............................………………………….. 152 Tinika Bennett Photography …………………..................………….. 135 Total Computer Solutions ………......................…………………….. 169 U Name It Roofing ………..................................…………………….. 140 Varner & Peacock LLC …............................………………………….. 157 Vision Savers ………………….........................................………….. 203 Warner Robins Building Supply Co …………..........………………….. 88 Warner Robins E.N.T. Associates ……………………...........……….. 156 Warner Robins Foot and Ankle, Dr. Larry Goldstein …….............. 205 Watson-Hunt Funeral Home ………………..................…………….. 134 Westmoreland & Slappey Animal Hospital ……………...………….. 141 Women’s HealthCare ……………...............................……………….. 47

Please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

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houston county living

Dining For Every Occasion

From traditional and casual to coastal and rustic styles, find the perfect dining room at Turner’s Furniture. Whether you’re looking for an entire dining set or unique seating to update an existing table, Turner’s is here to help personalize your dining space.

785 GA HWY 96 (CORNER OF HWY 96 & HOUSTON LAKE ROAD) 4 7 8 - 2 1 7 - 2 1 6 5 | M O N - F R I 9 A M - 8 P M ; S AT 1 0 A M - 6 P M ; S U N 1 P M - 6 P M W W W . T U R N E R F U R N I T U R E . C O M

Hometown Living at its Best Win t e r 201 9 HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

THE WALK AT SANDY RUN

The park features a boardwalk trail, a large grassy green area and a shaded pavilion.

LEGACY OF

REFRESHED, REFINED, REIMAGINED

Giving

FOUNDATION NAMED FOR FORMER PERRY MAYOR, JAMES WORRALL, CONTINUES HIS GENEROSITY THROUGH CHARITABLE WORKS.

Houston County Galleria Mall gets a face-lift just in time for the holidays.