Albany Living Magazine Summer 2021

S u m m e r 2021

H o m e t o wn L i v i n g at i t s B e st

HOLY GHOST RIDERS

Motorcycle ministry hits higher gear and power with Brad and Ann Mock.

ALBANY LIVING

GROWING SUSTAINABILITY INDOORS Gardening as a lifestyle, for the environment and for your wallet.

CAKE Icing on the

Lindsay Bridges, Owner of Smallcakes in Albany, Dared to Try Something Different

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CONTENTS /

SUMMER ISSUE 2021

Coming Home Again

Self-care Advocate and holistic educator Jestacia Jones extends a helping hand.

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Icing on the Cake Lindsay Bridges, owner of Smallcakes in Albany, dared to try something different when she left an established career in nursing to become an entrepreneur.

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Treating Man’s Best Friend A calling to care for the lives of man’s best friend is more than a career, it’s a purpose.

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Holy Ghost Riders Motorcycle ministry hits higher gear and power with Brad and Ann Mock.

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Thinking Outside the Birthday Box Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents: Party Places Your Kids Will Love.

ON T H E C O V E R Cupcakes from Smallcakes in Albany >> DAVID PARKS PHOTOGRAPHY 4 SUMMER 2021 / ALBANY LIVING

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Albany H o m e t o wn L i v i n g at i t s B e st

C O NT E NTS

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Scenes of Albany Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless

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A Better, Healthier Way

supply.

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The Good News Network The Good News Network is the

of A Better Way Grocers, provide

Growing Sustainability Indoors

the citizens of Albany that lack

Gardening is a great hobby to support

via satellite to 22 English speaking

transportation easy access to quality

a more sustainable lifestyle, as well

affiliates, and Radio Amistad

meats, fresh fruits and vegetables

as to help the environment and your

which broadcasts via satellite to six

every day.

wallet.

Spanish-speaking affiliates.

Tommie and Tiffany Terrell, owners

6 SUMMER 2021 / ALBANY LIVING

umbrella organization comprised of GNN Radio, which broadcasts

F rtohm From e tPhu eb lPi u sb h le irs h e r

albany P u b l i s h e r With You in mind Publications

E x E C u t i V E E d i to r S Jay and Patti martin P u b l i s h e r With You In Mind Publications

landon and mandi spivey

CCrreEat Generated Graphics, LLC Ati vi VeE||DdeEsSi g i Gnn Caffeine robin harrison

mandi spivey Relative Media and Marketing relative media and marketing Stacey Nichols Stacey nichols

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As I sit down to write the publisher’s letter I review in my mind the articles that are in this issue. Many times I look for similarities. It dawned on me that one of the biggest similarities is that a year ago we weretheallgreatest in a time confusion andheard questions and it was called Perhaps piece of of advice i have ever was given by dory, courtesty of the disney movieno Finding Nemojust whenquestions, she sang hertheories heart out and a COVID-19.

There were answers to “Just Keep Swimming.” Seriously, she ran into obstacle after obstacle lot fear. This coming Saturday, willshe bekept at a baseball andof it seemed her mission was impossible,I yet finding the tournament strength to just swimming. watching ourkeep oldest grandson play here in Georgia. In Texas, 2 of our grandchildren will be practicing for all-stars. Our middle daughter i was truly overwhelmed when reading these stories in this issue as the theme was so her clear.wedding. not quittingOur or giving up was daughter the messageistime is planning youngest enrolling her and again when so many of these heroic people suffered huge life daughter in school. devastations and made the ChoiCe to not give up. What truly brought me In the last most ofthese the fear has replaced with to tears was the 12 fact months that not just one of stories, but been every single one thatthe experienced some with sort ofconviction trauma, chose to turn their pain into hope, uncertainty and courage. love and give to others from that place. that is what life is all about. so As of you fillpages your are glass teaand and cozy up inturned your favorite many these filledwith with sweet our friends neighbors who love into action. chair, read these stories about your neighbors and it will be easy to see why hope is replacing Please helpfor. thank our partners listed relationships matter and is what fear. our hearts are made Connection to those our purpose. there are for always rainbows rain, on pagearound 152 us byiscontinuing to pray them and after supporting their growth after Winter, hope after trial. We get the opportunity to choose businesses. what we do with every single day. sharing these inspirational messages through these pages brings me the John 10:10 KJV

greatest joy and i am truly honored to present this issue. Please take the time to go through the names of generous business owners on page 192 that give this community such charge.

We to arekill, so thankful The thief cometh not, buta gift forattonosteal, and and tofordestroy: each one of our readers and each one of these sponsors.

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more We love you Albany and we are so honored to be a part of this incredible abundantly. family in the good life city!

withyouinmindpublications.com @albanylivingmagazine

From our family to yours,

Albany Living Magazine Contact (912) 403-3004 Contact usus at at (912) 654-3045 8 8

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A S S i S tA n t AmsAsni sAG taEnrtS June dixon

nikki Burkhalter Dixon M a n ag e r June

P h oto G r A P h E r S Cox Photography P h otog r ap h e r s David davidParks ParksPhotography Photography

millie mac Photography Evie Carver Perry revell Millie Mac Photography relative media and marketing Rachel PriceWest Photography rosemary Relative Media and Marketing shae Foy Photography shannan blanchard Smitts Photography Photography

C oV E r P h oto Brandy dew, C ov e r P h oto Cupcakes from Smallcakes Photo by david Parks

Photography by David Parks Photography

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landon spivey Patti Martin

ContriButinG C o n t r iWri b u tte i nrgs Jahnae nelson

Jessica Fellows Wri te r s Alexa Tebben

John stacy Worth David Pena Karen Cohilas

Kimberly Blaker Kate deLoach Keisha Cory Rachel Price Ladonna ulrick

Stephen Prudhomme rachel Price

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Icing Cake

on the

10 albany living magazine

By Alexa Tebben | Photos by David Parks Photography

Lindsay Bridges, owner of Smallcakes in Albany, dared to try something different when she left an established career in nursing to become an entrepreneur.

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Running Smallcakes has

enriched Lindsay’s life more than she could have imagined. The time she gets to spend with her children has proven to be the true icing on the cake of this whole experience. “I can be more present in their lives,” she said excitedly. And it has made all the difference.

When family is at the core of everything we do, our daily interactions with others are made that much sweeter. Lindsay Bridges, owner of Smallcakes in Albany, dared to try something different when she left an established career in nursing to become an entrepreneur.

Passionate about healthcare, Lindsay had completed nursing school followed by a master’s degree in nursing administration. A NICU nurse at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital for seven years, Lindsay loved being around children. But while spending 12 hour shifts with other people’s babies over nights, holidays and weekends, Lindsay missed spending time with her own three kids more and more.

“It was really out of character for me to take this leap of faith,” she admits. A planner who craves stability and order, Lindsay stepped out of her comfort zone when she left the hospital to become owner of this Smallcakes franchise.

“I wanted to do something that gave me more time with my family,” she recalls. “My kids are only little for so long.” With the support of

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her husband Bryan, co-workers and friends, Lindsay jumped into this new adventure head first.

When asked why she chose Smallcakes for this career move, Lindsay says simply, “Everybody loves cupcakes.” Each sweet bite of a deliciously frosted cupcake can be enjoyed by adults and children alike.

Whether celebrating a birthday, graduation or an average Tuesday, a cupcake is the perfect way to indulge in life’s every day pleasures.

Lindsay’s Smallcakes franchise opened in June 2013. “We dove in,” she says laughing. “When I worked at the hospital I was one of the nurse

managers so I had experiences with leadership and management.”

However, Lindsay admits that learning the books and accounting side of the business was a challenge.

Networking with other Smallcakes owners allowed her to connect with those already in the grove of the business and learn the tricks and trade of being an entrepreneur.

Lindsay talks about the store with all the pride of a hardworking owner. “We bake everything fresh every morning,” she explains. “Nothing is frozen.”

Each treat is made from scratch and baked daily to

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ensure freshness of quality with a home cooked taste.

The abundance of cupcake flavors is tailored to please a wide range of customers’ cravings. “We have over 200 recipes,” Lindsay says. “Some that the franchise has given us and some that we come up with on our own.” Flavors such as key lime, birthday cake and maple bacon will send your pallet down a road of sweet and savory sensations.

In addition to cupcakes, they bake cakes, cookies, brownies and macarons. “I try and keep up with what the customers are asking for,” Lindsay says acknowledging that demand for product frequently changes. “We’ve grown a lot in what we’re able to do and provide for customers.”

Bryan is another example to their kids of quality ownership. As the owner of Lee Redi Mix concrete plant in Lee County, he values the relationships he builds with his customers. “He keeps it small like I do,” Lindsay says. “I think that shows you provide better service too, because you can be one-on-one with your customers.”

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Supporting local businesses is important to Lindsay, and she runs her shop with the same values. “I try to shop locally,” she tells me. “I have a friend that grows blueberries and he brings me blueberries when they’re in season.” With these fresh, local berries, they make a variety of blueberry flavored cupcakes during certain times of the year.

Lindsay’s passion for incredible taste along with love for her community drives everything she does. She talks about meeting customers’ needs and the flexibility that allows her to adapt to their preferences. “That’s the good thing about being a small business locally – we can get to know our customers,” she says. Lindsay loves the creative freedom being a business owner provides her.

With the rise of the global pandemic in 2020, she was forced to become creative to keep her business afloat. “We have a mobile trailer,” she tells

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me. “We go out to events, parties and festivals.”

To bring the cupcakes to the door fronts of her customers, she tells me, “We got creative and took the truck out through neighborhoods and sold it like ice cream.”

Lindsay’s Smallcakes franchise has a strong social media presence so customers can follow their updates online. While effective for keeping customers in the know, Lindsay reveals that online advertising is constantly changing. In a world that thrives off online engagement, it is more important now than ever for businesses to have a strong social media presence.

To encourage engagement in her brand, Lindsay often runs promotions on her products. “I try to do something about once a month where we’ll give away cupcakes,” she says. “We have Santa come at Christmas and we’ll give away a family pack to decorate cupcakes with Santa.” Customers enjoy the interactive creativity this allows them.

In addition to her job-related achievements, Lindsay is inspiring creativity and diligence within her own family. Her drive is a testament to her children that hard work pays off. “That’s my biggest reward,” she says.

“Teaching them that we don’t just have things handed to us, we work for it.”

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In addition to her job-related achievements, Lindsay is inspiring creativity and diligence within her own family. Her drive is a testament to her children that hard work pays off. “That’s my biggest reward,” she says. “Teaching them that we don’t just have things handed to us, we work for it.”

Bryan is another example to their kids of quality ownership. As the owner of Lee Redi Mix concrete plant in Lee County, he values the relationships he builds with his customers. “He keeps it small like I do,” Lindsay says. “I think that shows you provide better service too, because you can be one-on-one with your customers.”

Throughout the years of owning Smallcakes, Lindsay has developed valuable friendships with her customers and employees. “Everybody that’s there loves what they do,” she says of the Smallcakes team. “We’re a family run business and that’s really important to us.”

Having lived locally almost her entire life, Lindsay runs into familiar faces on a near daily basis. “It’s fun too when patients I took care of when they were a baby come into Smallcakes,” she notes. “I get to see them again and see how they’ve grown.”

Running Smallcakes has enriched Lindsay’s life more than she could have imagined. The time she gets to spend with her children has proven to be the true icing on the cake of this whole experience. “I can be more present in their lives,” she said excitedly. And it has made all the difference.

Staying true to herself, Lindsay maintains her nursing credentials to smartly leave her options open. “I keep my nursing license up,” she confirms. “Because I worked way too hard for this to let it go.”

Lindsay’s story is a shining example that with enough determination and support from your loved ones, anything is possible.

Next time you purchase a delicious treat from this Smallcakes franchise, you can be assured that you are not only supporting a loving mother but the dreams and achievements of your very own neighbor.  ALM

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Treating

Man’s Best Friend

A calling to care for the lives of man’s best friend is more than a career, it’s a purpose.

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Philema Animal Hospital has been treating the community’s animals for over 25 years. The owner, Dr. Ken Greene, has been practicing veterinary medicine for 35 years. His decision to become a veterinarian manifested at a young age. Originally from Leesburg, he grew up surrounded by animals and people that cherished them. “Both of my parents originated on farms and we always had animals of some type around the house,” Dr. Greene explains.

The son of a dentist, Dr. Greene wanted to join the medical field in one capacity or another. He ultimately settled on becoming a veterinarian and has not regretted a single moment. “I knew I wanted to do something like that,” he says of becoming a doctor. “I liked the surgical aspect and there’s such a variety in the veterinary field.”

He explains the many duties of a veterinarian saying, “Most of my medical doctor friends specialize in one area where veterinarians have to be involved in everything.” At Philema Animal Hospital, veterinarians perform orthopedic tasks, internal medicine, soft tissue surgery and much more. “You name it, we do it,” he says. The variety that each day brings provides unparalleled fulfillment.

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Dr. Greene reflects on his time with Philema Animal Hospital and the changes that have occurred in the past 25 years.

“When I first started, it was me and two other people,” he remembers. A few more joined the team, but it remained a small practice for years. He tells me about Dr. Trey Morrison who had worked as a kennel technician for Philema Animal Hospital in high school. “About nine years ago, when Dr. Morrison graduated [veterinary school] and came back, we gave him a job and he has been a tremendous asset to the practice. That opened so many more avenues for us,” Dr. Greene says. He describes the hospital’s addition of Dr. Morrison as a force multiplier, and its growth has been nothing but a whirlwind.

As business grew, Philema Animal Hospital had to adjust to the increase in work. To meet the demand, they bought the piece of land next door and built a facility that was over twice as large as the one before. In November 2019, this site became the new home of Philema Animal Hospital. “We had been growing

Philema Animal Hospital makes a difference in people’s lives every day, and their impact stretches far beyond the duties of the job. “I’m in tune to how people feel about their pets,” Dr. Greene affirms. “And it’s a sense of satisfaction that every day we’re making the world better for someone’s animal.”

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very rapidly before that,” Dr. Greene explains.

“That’s why we had to build a new hospital. We had completely outgrown our old facility.” The expansion was an adjustment, but Dr. Greene and his team were committed to the project. “My philosophy has always been that you have to embrace change,” he says.

Philema Animal Hospital has been modernized to better serve its customers. Dr. Greene attributes these changes to Operations Manager Mark Spainhour.

“Mark’s experience in healthcare delivery systems has been a great asset to our practice. He is modernizing our workflows and making us much more efficient,” he says. “We’re completely computerized in each of our seven exam rooms.” Dr. Greene explains how clients

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The emotion in Dr. Greene’s voice is genuine as he speaks of his patients. “It’s personal for me,” he admits. “Every dog and cat that comes in there, when I see them on a table, it’s like that’s my dog or cat.” Treating animals as his own, he cares a great deal for each one of them.

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The staff at Philema Animal Hospital is described as members of a family more than anything. “In the past, at the end of the day, everybody would just be trying to get out of there and go home,” Dr. Greene recalls. “Now, people will hang around afterwards and talk through the day’s events.”

can self-checkout in the exam room at the end of their visit. Simplifying this part of the visit helps maintain a steady flow that allows them to see more patients.

Additional changes were made for client and patient comfort including foldable tables, benches and TVs in each exam room. The waiting room in the front of the building is spacious and accommodating for people and their pets. Complete with dividers between the seats, animals do not fear unfriendly encounters with one another. “No dogs ever meet in the hallways because we have double hallways on the sides of the rooms. They enter through

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one hallway and exit out another,” Dr. Greene explains.

This strategic layout prevents overlap of the animals and creates a stress-free environment.

With four veterinarians and another 25 staff members, Philema Animal Hospital is well equipped to tackle each day’s events. “On a busy day we may see close to 100 patients,” Dr. Greene says. “But I would say the average

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Dr. Greene speaks of his personal growth as a veterinarian saying, “As I’ve gotten older I realize a lot more how important pets are to people’s mental and physical well-being.” Because of this, he adds, “We really strive to do the right thing and to treat people and their pets like they are part of our own family.”

is probably around 60. If we need to, we can put out a high volume of pretty much anything.” He tells me about a time that The Humane Society recruited their help spaying and neutering an overflow of 118 animals in two days. “It was all hands on deck,” Dr. Greene says of the work.

What makes Philema Animal Hospital even more unique is the variety of animals they treat. “We’re one of the few state and federally accredited wildlife rehab centers,” Dr. Greene reports. “We handle raptors, eagles, hawks, owls, coons, fox…anything that comes in injured or are found that we can help, we do.” Taking on these wildlife animals is a free service they do for the joy of giving aid to these creatures. “We’ll take anybody’s call just because that’s what we do.

If they need help, we’re going to provide it for them.”

The veterinarians at Philema Animal Hospital are also qualified to treat large and exotic animals.

People travel from hundreds of miles away to have their horses, pigs, rabbits, sugar gliders and other exotic animals treated at this trusted animal hospital.

With four veterinarians and another 25 staff members, Philema Animal Hospital is well equipped to tackle each day’s events. “On a busy day we may see close to 100 patients,” Dr. Greene says. “But I would say the average is probably around 60. If we need to, we can put out a high volume of pretty much anything.”

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Dr. Greene speaks of his personal growth as a veterinarian saying, “As I’ve gotten older I realize a lot more how important pets are to people’s mental and physical well-being.” Because of this, he adds, “We really strive to do the right thing and to treat people and their pets like they are part of our own family.”

The staff at Philema Animal Hospital is described as members of a family more than anything. “In the past, at the end of the day, everybody would just be trying to get out of there and go home,” Dr. Greene recalls. “Now, people will hang around afterwards

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and talk through the day’s events.” Friendships have naturally developed, and the staff has a teamworkfocused environment. “There’s a sense of family instead of just workers and that has been probably the most satisfying thing that has happened.”

As an animal-friendly business, employees are welcome to bring their pets with them to work. “They wander into exam rooms when we’re in there,” Dr. Greene says. “People pet them and they like it because it’s relaxing.” The calming presence of these animals helps ease the nerves of both pets and owners that come in for a visit.

Philema Animal Hospital has been modernized to better serve its customers. Dr. Greene attributes these changes to Operations Manager Mark Spainhour. “Mark’s experience in healthcare delivery systems has been a great asset to our practice. He is modernizing our workflows and making us much more efficient,” he says.

“We’re completely computerized in each of our seven exam rooms.” Dr. Greene explains how clients can self-checkout in the exam room at the end of their visit.

Simplifying this part of the visit helps maintain a steady flow that allows them to see more patients.

The emotion in Dr. Greene’s voice is genuine as he speaks of his patients. “It’s personal for me,” he admits.

“Every dog and cat that comes in there, when I see them on a table, it’s like that’s my dog or cat.” Treating animals as his own, he cares a great deal for each one of them. Philema Animal Hospital makes a difference in people’s lives every day, and their impact stretches far beyond the duties of the job. “I’m in tune to how people feel about their pets,” Dr. Greene affirms. “And it’s a sense of satisfaction that every day we’re making the world better for someone’s animal.”  ALM

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Coming

Home Again

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BY DAVID PENA | PHOTOS BY DAVID PARKS PHOTOGRAPHY

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“Thinking back on my life, my journey started from very humble beginnings. I was always raised to ‘walk in faith,’ but I never really understood what that meant until my teenaged years,” says Jestacia Jones, an Atlanta-based healthy lifestyle coach and educator who returned to her hometown of Albany in March of 2020.

“When I was a child growing up in Albany, my family had a lot of love to give and we always had our faith, but there wasn’t much else. I just had to pray and trust God to

Self-care Advocate and holistic educator Jestacia Jones extends her helping hand through youth development and community empowerment programs.

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open the doors,” she says. Despite her family’s status, however, Jestacia was always quick to help others.

“Folks came to me to get their hair or nails done. I ran a little spa and didn’t even know it,” she says with a laugh. “I was always the person that local girls called to get help with their hair or makeup.”

Jestacia says that while growing up her mentor was definitely her grandmother. “Without a doubt, she was the root of our family, our true matriarch. All of our family gatherings were at her house, and she was always a vibrant and active force in our lives.”

A self-professed risk taker, Jestacia says she had a

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rather unconventional approach when determining her own career path. “I simply made a list of three options and began to research and explore each. One was being a flight attendant, one was dermatology, and the other was the theater. In fact, I became part of the Albany Theater in my teens and took part in a production of Camelot. If I found an interest in something, I made it happen.” It was around that time that Jestacia learned about the field of aesthetics on her first job, a field that would become an important part of her growth. “I knew that it was my destiny to move away and see the

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“The scriptures teach us that ‘as a man thinketh in his heart so is he.’ Therefore, we must commit to changing the way we think about our lives and our circumstances,” she says.

Jestacia’s advice for self-care? “Do the work. The lack of self-care will show itself – in how we deal with others, and in our overall well-being. We are all worth the time.” Also a licensed and ordained minister, Jestacia offers free consultations for people facing life threatening illnesses.

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world in order to make my dreams come true.”

Those words would soon prove to ring true for Jestacia when, in just her 19th year, she moved to Atlanta to pursue a career as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines. “Being from a small town, a lot of the folks (here) can’t really see the possibilities in the world because they’ve never seen it themselves, so I set out to find my own way.”

While working as a flight attendant, Jestacia attended school to

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The 50-year-old says she looks forward to the next chapter of her life, namely pursuing a Ph.D. in alternative medicine.

Now based out of her hometown, Jestacia leads the fight against small-mindedness and destructive tendencies, while remaining close to her family.

become a skin specialist in 1994 and began doing hair and makeup for CNN on-air talent and other television personalities. In 2000, Jestacia attended her first Grammy Awards show and accompanied national recording artist Macy Gray, who actually won an award for her song I Try. “We had met at CNN, and when I did her hair and makeup, her label said that was the best she ever looked,” says Jestacia proudly.

While blending the herbs for clients, however, Jestacia noticed changes in her clients’ overall health. “I found that my concoctions were helping them with depression, immunity, and overall health core. I was taken aback by the effects on their overall health, so I did some more research on the healing aspects of herbs.”

After completing her Bachelor’s degree and going through a difficult divorce, Jestacia was determined to start her own business. “At first it was sole proprietorship, and then I formed J & J Image Group,” she recalls. After fifteen successful years, she set about creating her own line of medicinal teas and skin and body care products.

The result became the J’Lore Foundation, Inc., which was launched in 2011. Jestacia, along with a group of women from various wellness industries, formed the foundation in order to find remedies for common ailments using herbs mentioned in the Bible. Inspired by her friendship with the late CNN anchor, Andria Hall Sizemore, the foundation focuses its efforts on diseases like diabetes and cancer. “We tried to fill a gap since most insurance plans do not cover alternative health care treatments,” explains Jestacia. The result of their research turned out to be something called Biblical Aromatherapy, which uses the Biblical herbs as Hometown Living At Its Best

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treatments to heal, restore, and find balance in the mind, body and spirit.

Jestacia also took time to author an e-book entitled The Ministry of Mind, Body and Spirit Life Balance Journal for Quiet Times. Following her close friend’s battle with breast cancer, Jestacia realized that teaching others about Biblical Aromatherapy was her new calling.

Thus, she set out on a mission to educate others about the benefits of Biblical Aromatherapy.

“Through my work, I assist others in achieving balance from the inside out. I put the ‘look’ together for the film and television industry as an image coach for skin, hair and wardrobes.”

As a busy mom and entrepreneur, Jestacia says she can definitely relate to the importance of embracing balance as a lifestyle. “With all 56

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It was in March of 2020 that Jestacia’s life would be turned upside down. Her grandmother went for a routine checkup at the doctor, and Jestacia decided to return to Albany for what she thought would just be a short visit.

“It turns out that just five days later, my grandmother unexpectedly passed away,” she says tearfully.

Despite the tragic loss, Jestacia saw the event as a sign from God. “My son and I arrived the day before the doctor’s visit, so God really timed it perfectly. There was a strange kind of blessing in me coming back.”

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of my successes, I’ve also experienced deep loss in my life. The foundation was formed during one of those difficult times in my life. It really helped me to shift the focus to helping and serving others who needed educational tools the most namely, the underrepresented cultures of African Americans and Hispanics.”

It was in March of 2020 that Jestacia’s life would be turned upside down. Her grandmother went for a routine checkup at the doctor, and Jestacia decided to return to Albany for what she thought would just be a short visit. “It turns out that just five days later, my grandmother unexpectedly passed away,” she says tearfully.

Despite the tragic loss, Jestacia saw the event as a sign from God. “My son and I arrived the day before the doctor’s visit, so God really timed it

perfectly. There was a strange kind of blessing in me coming back.”

Unfortunately, Jestacia’s mother and her sisters were exposed to the COVID virus, but she met this new challenge head-on. “For the next 90 days, I set about putting together some of the herbs and teas to help boost their immunity systems. My son and I stayed with my mother for about six months.”

Jestacia soon began to see a need in her hometown for her services. “I found an even greater need in my community, a need for basic nourishment and enrichment opportunities.”

Thus, Jestacia continues to provide virtual enrichment for youth while strengthening her community. This includes online training for professional and personal growth. Originating in 2013, her E3 Tech Academy for youth is a division

of the J’Lore Foundation.

The 50-year-old says she looks forward to the next chapter of her life, namely pursuing a Ph.D. in alternative medicine. Now based out of her hometown, Jestacia leads the fight against smallmindedness and destructive tendencies, while remaining close to her family. “I lead virtual retreats while still maintaining the serenity I need for prayer and time with God,” she says. She also spends her time developing healing treatments for preventative care and for cancer patients, as well as sharing self-help tips for personal development. Jestacia was rewarded for her work in 2017 when she was nominated for the Non-Profit Trinity Awards. Her J’Lore Foundation continues to serve the community by offering holistic enrichment training as well as development for women and youth.

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Jestacia’s advice for selfcare? “Do the work. The lack of self-care will show itself – in how we deal with others, and in our overall well-being.

We are all worth the time.”

Also a licensed and ordained minister, Jestacia offers free consultations for people facing life threatening illnesses. “The scriptures teach us that ‘as a man thinketh in his heart so is he.’ Therefore, we must commit to changing the way we think about our lives and our circumstances,” she says.

For more information about Jestacia’s Foundation or her line of herbal teas, go to www. jlorefoundation.com or www. jloreorganicteas.com..  ALM

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Holy Ghost

Riders

Motorcycle ministry hits higher gear and power with Brad and Ann Mock

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By Stephen Prudhomme | Photos provided

Brad Mock rides a motorcycle, sports long hair and a beard, and has an affinity for knives. On the surface, he appears to be a rough and tumble biker who one doesn’t want to cross.

As it turns out, appearances are deceiving.

The 60-year-old Albany, Ga., resident doesn’t smoke, drink or use profanity.

He makes custom knives and frequent references to the cross of Christianity.

Mock is a member of Hellfighters Christian Ministries. Started by Richard and Gina Headrick in Laurel, Miss., in 2000, the ministry is comprised of units in 14 states whose members are motorcyclists who adhere to a strict code of conduct while helping out in the local community and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ both near and far.

The Albany unit hub consists of Mock and his wife, Ann. Brad’s love of bikes started when he was a youngster and had its most memorable moment when he went on a family vacation to Disney World. “My parents told me I could have a souvenir,” says the Indiana native, “and I picked a little metal dirt bike toy. After much discussion about how I should get something that would remind

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me of Disney or even the South, I won and got the dirt bike toy. I can still see it today.”

Brad graduated to larger bikes after getting his license; his first vehicle was a motorcycle that he learned to ride during an 80-mile trip after purchasing the bike. A few years later, his father, realizing that motorcycles were not a passing fad in his son’s life, consigned on a small Harley.

Zip ahead some 30 years, on a motorcycle of course. Brad began searching for a Christian biker ministry.

It was a search that lasted several years as he sought a group that met his spiritual needs. It eventually paid off when he spotted a Bible track titled Satan Sucks.

Brad learned the track was put out by the Hellfighters Ministry, which he researched and concluded was the ministry for him. He quickly discovered this wasn’t an organization he could join in several days, weeks or even

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months. The vetting process took eight months before he was accepted as a member.

Brad says it was well worth the wait.

“Every person I met was outstanding,” he says. “They were committed, serious and vetted. It was stringent to get in. I consider Hellfighters the Navy Seals of biker ministries. You know you’re with the best.”

Ann, Brad’s wife, says she became involved with Hellfighters so she could support her husband after he joined the organization.

She describes Hellfighters as a great group who cares about others and loves the Lord.

Her favorite part of the ministry, Ann notes, is working with the poor and homeless.

“I get to know different people and show them we care,” Ann says. “We have gotten to know a couple of homeless men that were amazing artists, and I do mean amazing. Some of the people we meet have just got out of prison and have no Hometown Living At Its Best

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place to live. Sometimes we never know why someone is in that circumstance. It could be drugs, mental illness, loss of income, and many other reasons. We are not here to judge them and we try to help them if we can.”

That help includes weekly Sunday Bible classes at a local Methodist church that allows the Mocks the use of its facilities. During those classes, Ann says, they all take turns reading from their Bibles and discussing what they read. One participant, in particular, stood out in Ann’s mind.

“One lady who was born blind would bring her braille Bible with her,” Ann says. “You could literally see the love of Christ on her face. It is such an inspiration and blessing to spend time with her. We have been very blessed to be a part of Hellfighters and be able to do these things.”

Mike Grubb’s road to the Hellfighters Ministry was filled with many metaphorical potholes and speed bumps. The national president of the organization, he was involved with a life of crime and addicted to meth and spent 17 years in prison. Yet it was during his incarceration that Grubb was saved and ultimately found the road to his present calling.

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In 2008, having been out of prison in California for two years, Grubb, along with his wife, started attending a “sinner-friendly” church in California. This was also around the same time Grubb purchased a motorcycle, something he was reluctant to do given his newfound faith. Following some prayer, however, he felt led to purchase a Harley and rekindled his longtime love affair with motorcycles.

Through his involvement with the church, Grubb learned about the Hellfighters Ministry. He says it spoke to his soul and he decided to join. As with Mock and other prospective members, Grubb went through a lengthy vetting process before his application was approved. He subsequently started a unit in Southern California and offered testimony at the same prison where he had been housed. Over the next seven years, Grubb continued to minister to the homeless and lost and established a relationship with the Headricks in Mississippi. Following a motorcycle accident, Grubb and his wife moved to Laurel and he became the international president for the Hellfighters Ministry.

Grubb had traveled many miles during his lifetime, both

physically and spiritually. He still faces daily challenges, yet with God riding sidecar he says he’s confident he’ll remain on the right road.

“Please don’t think that life is a trouble-free walk in the park these days,” Grubb says. “Every day there are problems. Some days are a constant struggle, but with Jesus, I have the strength, HIS strength to get through it. Hellfighters has allowed me to carry the message of salvation back to the prisons in which I once lived. It has allowed me to serve at a level I could never have imagined.”

Ann went to be with Jesus on August 1st, 2021. In remembrance of Ann Mock’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.  ALM

Brad’s love of bikes started when he was a youngster and had its most memorable moment when he went on a family vacation to Disney World. “My parents told me I could have a souvenir,” says the Indiana native, “and I picked a little metal dirt bike toy. After much discussion about how I should get something that would remind me of Disney or even the South, I won and got the dirt bike toy. I can still see it today.”

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BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

THINK OUTSIDE the

birthday box

Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents: Party Places Your Kids Will Love

S

So your child’s birthday is just around the corner, and you don’t have time to plan and prepare the perfect party? Don’t despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday child and guests will have a blast.

Try some of these party places for kids of all different ages. When you call, ask what amenities are available and included. Many sites provide invitations, Hometown Living At Its Best

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Theme parks make for big-time fun for older kids who are content to take only one or two guests.

When planning the guest list, don’t forget to budget meals, snacks, and drinks, which add up quickly in theme parks.

food and cake, balloons and decorations, a private party area, a gift for the birthday child, and other special birthday services.

Skates & Blades - Roller skating rinks are again gaining popularity, and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today’s kids. Also, consider ice-skating and ice or a roller hockey party as a fun alternative.

Strike it Big – Bowling parties are a fun form of recreation for kids of all ages. Preschoolers can score every time with bumper bowling, while teens can go cosmic for glow in the dark fun. Add to the amusement by offering small prizes for low and high scores and the most and fewest gutters.

Pizza and Play – Preschool and early elementary children thrill at invitations to these parties. They can play kiddie arcade-style games, win tickets for prizes, hop on coin-operated rides, and romp in soft play areas.

Water, Water Everywhere – Head to a wave pool or water park where big kids can ride the waves, swish down water slides, take a plunge, and go on tubing adventures. What better way cool off and party on a hot summer day? Indoor water parks a fun alternative for the colder months.

Old MacDonald Had a Farm – Check with your nearby farm, ranch, or apple orchard to find out what activities are offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more.

These are perfect for fall birthdays.

Recreational Romp – Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for

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birthdays, including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.

You Should be Dancin’ – Check with your local dance studio for birthday party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in, so the whole shebang is done right there.

Music Marvel – Big kids will be in awe to see one of their favorite performers in concert. For young children, look for a kiddie musical adventure offered by an area musician or music center.

Craft Magic – Young kids love to create.

So schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids’ activities are offered.

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For a simple and inexpensive toddler or preschool party, McDonald’s, Burger King, and other fast-food joints are an excellent choice. Children can crawl through a playscape and dive into a pool of balls while enjoying their favorites: hamburgers and French fries. Call ahead to make your reservation.

Fast Food Fun – For a simple and inexpensive toddler or preschool party, McDonald’s, Burger King, and other fast-food joints are an excellent choice.

Children can crawl through a playscape and dive into a pool of balls while enjoying their favorites: hamburgers and French fries. Call ahead to make your reservation.

Putt-Putt & More - Family fun centers offer a variety of entertainment, including batting cages, miniature golf, video games, bumper boats, and gocarts.

Hands-on Science – Kids of all ages will be thoroughly engrossed and entertained at one of the many hands-on science museums. The party-goers

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Give your teen some fun in the sun with a beach bash. Contact the park for information on volleyball equipment and to make a reservation for a covered picnic area. Look for a spot with horseshoes and plenty of sand, and don’t forget the beach balls, pizza, and cooler of pop.

can try out gadgets, watch or participate in experiments, play instruments, construct, and much more.

Rock Climbing Adventures – Daredevils won’t want to miss one of these exciting quests. Look for a rock climbing gym in your area where party guests can do rock climbing with a professional instructor.

Beach Party – Give your teen some fun in the sun with a beach bash. Contact the park for information on volleyball equipment and to make a reservation for a covered picnic area.

Look for a spot with horseshoes and plenty of sand, and don’t forget the beach balls, pizza, and cooler of pop.

Amusement Mini-Party– Theme parks make for big-time fun for older kids who are content to take only one or two guests. When planning the guest list, don’t forget to budget meals, snacks, and drinks, which add up quickly in theme parks.

Monkeyin’ Around – Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fenced-in, frontier-style playscape. Little ones can run, climb, and play to their heart’s content. Bring along your party supplies and set up under a pavilion. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat – An afternoon canoe excursion for teens is the ultimate in outdoor fun. Contact canoe rental facilities for

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details. Bring along pop and a picnic lunch, and make sure the food stays in the chaperone’s canoe where it’ll be safe from tips. Don’t forget balloons for water balloon fights during rest stops.

Z is for Zoo –Zoos are an excellent source for birthday entertainment.

Many offer party packages that include meals, cake, invitations, live animal presentations, and more.

When planning your child’s party, keep in mind what’s important is not how perfectly the party goes. Instead, it’s that your birthday child and guests have fun. To ensure success, follow these tips:

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Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fenced-in, frontier-style playscape. Little ones can run, climb, and play to their heart’s content. Bring along your party supplies and set up under a pavilion. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.

Keep the guest list manageable to avoid chaos, confusion, and conflict.

The number of guests should correspond with the child’s age or slightly over.

Request an RSVP with a specific deadline, so there is time to invite others should the guest list fall short. Be sure to include your phone number and email address.

Offer your child choices for the party, ask for input, and allow them to assist in planning.

Send out written invitations. Verbal invitations are easily forgotten and make the invitee feel that he or she was an afterthought. Also, it can leave parents of the invited child wondering whether the invitation was approved by the birthday child’s parents.

Include all details on the invitation, including a start and end time, address and directions, phone number, and what guests need to bring, such as a bathing suit and towel.

Play it safe, and set a rain date for outdoor parties.

Keep the length of the party within reason. Unless it’s a sleepover or special event, preschool parties should be limited to one hour, and two to three hours for older children.  ALM

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Health

By Alexa Tebben | Photos by David Parks Photography

A Better, Healthier Way

Tommie and Tiffany Terrell, owners of A Better Way Grocers, provide the citizens of Albany, that lack transportation, easy access to quality meats, fresh fruits and vegetables every day.

T

The help of a neighbor can leave an astounding impact on one’s community. Tommie and Tiffany Terrell, owners of A Better Way Grocers, get to be this impact when they provide the citizens of Albany that lack transportation easy access to quality meats, fresh fruits and vegetables every day.

Having access to healthy food is a privilege that many people take for granted. Tommie says, “More than 85% of the areas we serve don’t have personal vehicles.” For these people, going to the grocery store two miles away quickly becomes a difficult feat. And when they do get there, they often purchase unhealthy snacks like candy and sodas that contribute to an increase of health problems. Tommie and Tiffany learned of people’s limited access to healthy groceries and felt led to do something about it.

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“We knew that Dougherty County had a whole lot of grocery stores that were closing,” Tiffany tells me. “There was more and more talk about the health risks with people not being able to get proper nutrition.” Curious about this problem, Tiffany attended a senior hunger conference that gave her information and tips on how to provide food access for the most vulnerable populations. “That’s when the idea formed,” she tells me. “I was like, that’s something that we can incorporate here in Albany. Let’s see how we can get food directly to the doors of people.”

In 2017, Tommie and Tiffany purchased a bus and created A Better Way Grocers mobile grocery store to bring food directly to those that need it the most. Stocking the bus full of fresh fruits, vegetables and meat, they drive through the community and bring healthy food to

“It’s our responsibility as community oriented businesses to make the community healthier for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren,” Tiffany says. Every time someone reaches for a piece of fruit instead of buying a bag of candy down the road, they are one step closer to sustenance and nourishment.

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their neighbor’s doorsteps. “People eat what they have access to,” Tiffany says. Because of this neighborhood grocery store on wheels, those without transportation have access to foods like kale, potatoes, apples and more than 200 other fresh products to help them achieve a healthier diet.

Having previously founded HERO’s afterschool program designed to help children reach greater opportunities, Tommie and Tiffany knew that many people in the community were unacquainted with healthy foods. “When we were working in the community, [we saw] not only children but adults

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as well not being able to identify certain foods,” Tiffany says. They took it upon themselves to educate community members on the value of healthy nutrition.

Tommie tells me, “When people get brussels sprout, we give them different recipes and [tell them] how to cook them.” These conversations equip customers with the proper tools to make delicious and well-balanced meals.

Dougherty County has an astonishing high rate of health risks such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

When Tommie and Tiffany go the extra mile to educate community members about nutrition, it makes a

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Tommie and Tiffany are passionate about serving people and bettering their community. They express great satisfaction in their reward of helping people make better decisions for their health. “The only profit we get is being able to see people smile,” Tiffany says.

All that they do is motivated by a desire to see the community healthier, happier and equipped for success.

difference in people’s health. “Eightynine percent of our customer’s report having healthier diets because of A Better Way Grocers,” Tiffany says excitedly. “It’s been wildly successful.”

Tiffany explains the process of obtaining fresh products before selling them in the community. “We buy all the food from different vendors,” she says. “We go to participating farms to get the produce. We have different produce vendors we use, different meat vendors.” Tommie and Tiffany hand select the freshest product to bring to their customers.

Twice a week, A Better Way Grocers makes its rounds through surrounding areas and all are invited to shop. “Those are stops where we go directly to housing communities and they come out and shop on the bus,” Tiffany explains.

Another four days a week, A Better Way Grocers delivers food directly to the homes of those that have called in orders. Free of additional cost, these scheduled orders and deliveries help customers plan their meals in advance knowing their food is on its way.

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“We’ve even been able to go into other communities outside of Albany to help our neighboring communities with food access,” Tiffany adds. Easy accessibility is their top priority. They wish to make healthy grocery shopping convenient and exciting for the whole community.

With a heart for service, Tommie and Tiffany continue to build lasting relationships with their customers. “We never meet a stranger,” Tommie says candidly. “They’re part of our extended family now, we have to make sure they’re getting the proper diet for their medical conditions.” It is with this genuine concern for the health of the community that they connect with and love on the people of Albany.

In addition to improving your health, good eating habits simply increase your overall well-being. “I think that diet has a lot to do with behaviors,” Tommie believes. Eating healthy food makes your body feel better which can increase your overall happiness. It is for this reason they strive to provide community members with healthy alternatives to increase their quality of life.

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Tiffany tells me about how A Better Way Grocers helps low income people obtain their products. “Part of our sustainability plan has been different partners we use,” she says.

Their partnership with Wholesome Ways Georgia further assists their customers when shopping at A Better Way Grocers. “That increases food access for low income participants,” Tiffany explains. “We accept EBT Debit Cards. They just need to show up and swipe their EBT and get 50% on any Georgia grown produce.”

This has been of great help to the community as many customers utilize this option.

Tiffany tells me about how A Better Way Grocers helps low income people obtain their products. “Part of our sustainability plan has been different partners we use,” she says.

Their partnership with Wholesome Ways Georgia further assists their customers when shopping at A Better Way Grocers. “That increases food access for low income participants,” Tiffany explains. “We accept EBT Debit Cards. They just need to show up and swipe their EBT and get 50% on any Georgia grown produce.”

This has been of great help to the community as many customers utilize this option.

In addition to improving your health, good eating habits simply increase your overall well-being. “I think that diet has a lot to do with behaviors,” Tommie believes. Eating healthy food makes your body feel better which can increase your overall happiness. It is for this reason they strive to provide community members with healthy alternatives to increase

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Twice a week, A Better Way Grocers makes its rounds through surrounding areas and all are invited to shop.

“Those are stops where we go directly to housing communities and they come out and shop on the bus,” Tiffany explains. Another four days a week, A Better Way Grocers delivers food directly to the homes of those that have called in orders. Free of additional cost, these scheduled orders and deliveries help customers plan their meals in advance knowing their food is on its way.

their quality of life. “We have everything that a grocery store would have besides the items we don’t want in our community,” Tommie says. He reports that this commitment to clean and healthy food is enhancing both their customer’s health and behavior.

Tommie and Tiffany are passionate about serving people and bettering their community. They express great satisfaction in their reward of helping people make better decisions for their health.

“The only profit we get is being able to see people smile,” Tiffany says. All that they do is motivated by a desire to see the community healthier, happier and equipped for success.

Tommie and Tiffany invite you to join the fight against hunger in our community. They welcome

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donations and volunteers to help them continue to inspire change in people’s eating habits.

“It’s our responsibility as community oriented businesses to make the community healthier for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren,” Tiffany says. Every time someone reaches for a piece of fruit instead of buying a bag of candy down the road, they are one step closer to sustenance and nourishment. A Better Way Grocers is empowering its customers towards healthier habits that are enriching their ways of life. By lending a friendly neighborhood hand, Tommie and Tiffany continue to inspire the change they wish to see in their community. ALM

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These growth factors then help your body repair the damage inside the joint allowing pain and inflammation to subside.

The allograft also lubricates and cushions the joint space which can extend the life of the joint. This is by far the most effective treatment we have ever used to treat joint problems.

If you suffer from any dress of joint pain, we invite you to regain control of your life by visiting Southwest Georgia Center of Medicine, a state of the art medical facility.

How do I know this is right for me?

What is available to treat joint pain?

Southwest Georgia Center of Medicine has been using stem cell rich allografts for over four years and the results are astounding. the procedure boasts an 80% satisfaction rate from the patients that receive it, with zero side effects.

The only downside to allograft in the past has been its high cost and lack of coverage by Medicare and other carriers. A typical joint costs over five thousand dollars. Medicare now covers an allograft treatment for joints and connective tissue injuries.

What is an allograft?

The allograft is a Amnion flowable matrix of growth factors harvested from donated healthy placentas. When a woman has a C-section birth she can elect to donate her placenta and umbilical cord (afterbirth) to a tissue bank lab. The FDA approved tissue bank then harvests the healing growth factors in a manner

In most cases, if you have joint or spine pain, this is a great solution. Our medical staff will give you an honest and fair evaluation of your particular spine or join pain. We are pleased to announce that we have opened up our schedule and we are now accepting new patients.

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FAITH • DIVERSITY • UNITY

Hope City United is a vibrant non-denominational congregation in the heart of our city.

1501 Schley Ave Albany GA 31707 | Sunday Services @10:30 | LIVE on FB and YOUTUBE We are part of the Hillsong Leadership Network and welcome you to join us for worship!

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Scenesof Albany Around every corner in our amazing community, there are treasures that lay awaiting discovery. Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply. Take a look at a few more reasons

why we love

Albany.

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Evie Carver Photography

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LP EE

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rowing

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sustainability indoors

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

Gardening is a great hobby to support a more sustainable lifestyle, as well as to help the environment and your wallet.

T

The move toward more sustainable living has gained traction in recent years with people looking to help the environment and their wallets. Gardening is a great hobby to support a more sustainable lifestyle. It’s fun, saves money on groceries, and helps you feel accomplished by eating something you grew. It also promotes healthy living, cooking at home, and eating more nutritious foods. When you grow your own food at home, you also know exactly what’s in it and how it was produced.

Gardening can be difficult, especially outdoor gardening, because there are so many variables. This includes climate changes, unpredictable weather, and plants getting eaten by wildlife or pests. Indoor gardening allows you to grow

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veggies year-round in the comfort of your home, with a greater likelihood of success because you control the environment. This is also beneficial for those with little or no outdoor space to incorporate nature into their daily lives.

Growing plants indoors is good for your health in other ways too. Plants remove carbon dioxide from the air and generate oxygen, making the air in your home cleaner. Exposure to nature and the accomplishment you feel from successfully starting a garden is also good for your mental health.

What types of vegetables and herbs can be grown indoors?

Herbs, leafy plants, and microgreens are the most common edible plants for indoor growing.

They generally do well with shallow soil because they’re smaller and don’t need as much space inside. They also don’t need as much sun and are easier to grow if you’re just starting out. It’s possible to grow fruits indoors. But fruit generally needs a significant amount of sun and exposure to

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pollinating insects or animals and wind, which are more difficult to replicate indoors.

Examples of edible vegetables and herbs that can be grown indoors include: Vegetables: Leafy greens (spinach, kale, lettuce, arugula) Carrots Scallions Potatoes Mushrooms Microgreens (vegetables like beets, radishes, and peas harvested as seedlings or sprouts) Herbs: Mint varieties Cilantro Parsley Basil Rosemary Thyme Lavender Oregano

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Before you begin Before starting your indoor herb and veggie garden, consider realistic expectations for your lifestyle. Plants need tending and care to grow successfully. If you’re a newbie to gardening, you may want to start small and simple, like a grow kit that supports your growth process.

On a basic level, plants need at least water, nutrients, and light - and of course, you’ll need the plant seeds or seedlings. Also, think about what your space is like and what will grow best in that environment. Alternatively, if you have more flexibility, you can think about which plants you want to grow and how to adapt your environment to meet their needs.

To give your plants the best chance of thriving, you’ll want a specific place you can control. Decide if you’ll use one room, spread them around the house, dedicate just a windowsill, or perhaps build a smaller controllable environment within your home. Also, be aware of your home’s humidity, especially during dry winter months, since plants need a more moist environment. Plants do best in stable, consistent temperatures in the 60s to 70s with good air circulation to prevent mold or fungus growth.

In terms of harvesting, some plants need to be completely picked and then replanted. Other plants, especially herbs and leafy greens, can be harvested as you need while the plant grows and regrows where it was cut.

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If you’re planning to use mostly natural light from your windows, consider the amount of light they permit and at what time of day they allow for more or less light.

Generally, a south-facing window will give you the most sunlight. This will likely change throughout the seasons.

So be aware of how light exposure varies and affects plants.

Supplies

Edible plants generally take more effort than just putting seeds in the soil and forgetting them, especially indoors where you have to create the environment. Each plant has different needs: some may need pruning, adjustments to watering and soil, and various harvesting or replanting times. To keep track of your plants’ needs, it might help to keep a journal or binder or some kind of tracking system.

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The supplies you’ll need depends on your budget and how involved you want to be. Some products do nearly all the work for you. You can also find those that offer simple setups yet where you’re more engaged with the process. If you have specific plants in mind, research what particular items you’ll need to support the bestgrowing environment.

Containers should be big enough for your plants’ needs. Consider how big the plants will grow, the depth needed for roots, and how far seeds must be planted from each other. When growing plants indoors, you need to consider drainage, so excess water doesn’t build up and cause problems like root rot or bacterial growth.

You don’t need fancy, expensive containers. Depending

on the individual plant, you can even repurpose old plastic containers.

The soil you use for growing indoors is different from ordinary garden soil. Use potting mix or soil made explicitly for seedlings and the indoors. These soil varieties are made to drain better than garden soil.

They aren’t likely to contain organisms like fungus or bacteria.

If you’re growing plants throughout the winter, you’ll need a light source to make up for the lack of natural sunlight. Grow lamps are specifically designed to provide the right type of light to help plants grow.

Common types of grow lamps are LED or fluorescent.

Consider which plants will need more or less light exposure and place them at appropriate distances.

Since your plants won’t get rain, you’re in charge of making sure they have enough but not too much water.

Always check how dry the soil is before watering, ensure appropriate drainage, and be aware of the plants’ needs. Self-watering containers, drip systems, and hydroponic kits that may use pumps or other methods to make the process easier can be helpful.

Planting your garden Before planting your indoor garden, prepare your environment. Have all the supplies you’ll need so you don’t have to stop and run to the store midplanting. If you’re using a growing system, read all the instructions before starting. If you’re doing the whole

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process on your own, have a way to track everything yourself and make sure you’ve researched what you’re doing. Depending on the plant, you need to put it into the soil the correct way. Each type of plant needs to be planted within particular dimensions, at specific depths and distances apart.

Caring for your garden Edible plants generally take more effort than just putting seeds in the soil and forgetting them, especially indoors where you have to create the environment. Each plant has different needs: some may need pruning, adjustments to watering and soil, and various harvesting or replanting times. To keep track of your plants’ needs, it might help to keep a

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journal or binder or some kind of tracking system.

You can use your system to remind you to care for them and how to do so, and also track your successes or failures for next time.

In terms of harvesting, some plants need to be completely picked and then replanted. Other plants, especially herbs and leafy greens, can be harvested as you need while the plant grows and regrows where it was cut.

You might decide to use a growing system that does most of the work for you. In that case, you still want to check and track it to be involved in or aware of the process and make sure everything is working correctly. Be sure to always follow all directions for appropriate use.

Finally, keep in mind you can do everything right

If you’re growing plants throughout the winter, you’ll need a light source to make up for the lack of natural sunlight.

Grow lamps are specifically designed to provide the right type of light to help plants grow. Common types of grow lamps are LED or fluorescent.

Consider which plants will need more or less light exposure and place them at appropriate distances.

and still fail, which can be frustrating.

But indoor gardening is a learning process. You can try new things next time for better results and a garden that contributes to a sustainable lifestyle.

Tips for indoor gardening with kids Gardening can be a fun and educational project for kids of all ages. It provides them the opportunity to learn about how plants grow and healthy eating and nutrition. It also helps them develop responsibility and so much more. You know your child and their abilities best in terms of how much support they’ll need. Here are a few suggestions for growing an indoor garden with your child.

Use a chore chart or tracking chart to help keep your child on track. Include what the plants need, how often, and what your child should look out for.

Have your child create a journal. To make it more fun, they can take photos or draw pictures of what the plants look like as they grow.

When the plants are ready to harvest, work together, so your child experiences the reward of their efforts.

Involve your child in finding or choosing delicious, healthy recipes to make with the plants.

Work together to prepare the produce to be stored. ALM

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The Good News Network is the umbrella organization comprised of GNN Radio, which broadcasts via satellite to 22 English speaking affiliates, and Radio Amistad, which broadcasts to six Spanish speaking affiliates. These affiliates are spread throughout Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Alabama.

How It All Began Clarence Barinowski wanted to solve a problem. As a traveling salesman for a family-owned animal feed business, he traveled over 50,000 miles a year. Spending so much time in his car made him wish he could hear some Christian broadcasting.

But there was no way to make it happen over such a large territory. The startup cost to build a station was very high and the reach was limited to the coverage area for that station.

But God made a way. President Ronald Reagan deregulated the radio airwaves and at the right time, satellite technology made it possible to build a much more inexpensive broadcast facility. So, in 1982, Clarence incorporated the Augusta

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good news THE

NETWORK

The Good News Network is the umbrella organization comprised of GNN Radio, which broadcasts via satellite to 22 Englishspeaking affiliates, and Radio Amistad which broadcasts via satellite to six Spanish-speaking affiliates.

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The first station’s call letters were assigned as WLPE since no specific letters had been requested. One day while reading Philippians 4, Clarence was able to put some significance to the letters with the line, “Whatever is Lovely, Pure and Excellent.”

The theme was continued with Lovely, Pure, True (WLPT), Good, Pure, Honest (WGPH), Lovely, Pure, Faithful (WLPF), but the pattern dropped at WPWB.

Radio Fellowship Institute and filed for a frequency. In 1984, the permit was granted and soon, a tiny Sunday School room provided by Bethany Chapel, became a radio station. The signal was sent via microwave transmitter to a tower in Sweetwater, South Carolina, from which it was sent out to listeners for the first time in November 1984. WLPE was on air!

At this point, Clarence was working full-time for ConAgra Feed Company, and so a lot of volunteer help was needed, especially for technical and engineering issues, as feeding farm animals did not lend a great deal of expertise in the radio industry.

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The learning curve was steep, but the very first FM Christian radio station in the area was finally broadcasting. All the sleepless nights were worth it as the dream was realized and listeners began to write and provide support for the ministry. At night, Clarence and his wife, Sylvia, would hand write receipts for gifts.

But this was just the beginning.

Growth of the Network As support increased, the vision enlarged. A search for places to put more stations in communities without Christian radio saw applications in Georgia for Jesup (WLPT), Vidalia (WGPH), Byron (WPWB), and Florence (WLPG) in South Carolina. Next, a group of Christians in Morehead City, North Carolina transferred their license to GNN which provided a

powerful signal to the GNN lineup of stations.

Growth continued when a large gift allowed GNN to build a station in Barnwell, South Carolina (WHBJ) and Fair Bluff, North Carolina (WGHJ). Most recently, stations were built like WFAL reaching south Atlanta to Macon, and WJTB in Columbia, South Carolina, as well as WJNA in the Clemson/Anderson/Toccoa area.

The remainder of areas covered are: in Georgia…

WZIQ, Albany; WWGF, Donalsonville; WTHP, Gibson; WPMA, Greensboro; WLPF, Ocilla-Tifton; WNNG, Unadilla; WSJA, York, Alabama and repeaters in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and in Georgia…

Douglas, Richmond Hill, and Blakely. Far more than was ever dreamed has been accomplished, which has been a great blessing to many people in these areas.

All these stations were added without hiring any Hometown Living At Its Best

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additional people! Satellites make it possible to send a signal from the main studio to all the different stations which then transmit to their respective listening areas, and all within a fraction of a second. The signal bounces from earth to space faster than a ping pong ball in a table tennis match.

Spanish Stations An opportunity to purchase WBLR in BatesburgLeesville, South Carolina allowed GNN to reach poultry workers in that area, as a large number of Spanish speaking people live and work there. Soon, more Spanish stations

were added in Georgia…Soperton and Sparta, and repeaters in Lake Oconee, Lumber City, and Higgston.

We, at the Good News Network, are grateful for God’s blessings and the many new listeners who have contacted us, and we look forward to continuing with our mission to carry God’s Word over the airwaves. We are thankful that a traveling salesman’s dream to have a local radio station has been fulfilled above and beyond, as God has blessed and multiplied this network which is now able to reach the world through the internet. Who would have ever thought that the lonely backroads of Georgia would reach so far?

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Clarence Barinowski wanted to solve a problem. As a traveling salesman for a familyowned animal feed business, he traveled over 50,000 miles a year. Spending so much time in his car made him wish he could hear some Christian broadcasting. But there was no way to make it happen over such large territory. The startup cost to build a station was very high and the reach was limited to the coverage area for that station.

The first station’s call letters were assigned as WLPE since no specific letters had been requested. One day while reading Philippians 4, Clarence was able to put some significance to the letters with the line, “Whatever is Lovely, Pure and Excellent.” The theme was continued with Lovely, Pure, True (WLPT), Good, Pure, Honest (WGPH), Lovely, Pure, Faithful (WLPF), but the pattern dropped at WPWB. ALM

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Longstreet Clinic Hematology & Medical Oncology Braselton, GA

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Years Of Service

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Index of Advertisers Adams Exterminators ……….....................................………. 74

Lee Power Equipment …………..................................……. 124

AirPro Heating and Cooling ……………............................…. 92

Logic4Design …...............................................……………. 112

Albany Air Conditioning & Heating ……….................………. 63

LRA Constructors, Inc. …………..................................……. 141

Albany General Tire ………......................................………. 125 M. Hill Interiors …………............................................……. 139 Albany Internal Medicine …………..........................……. 26-27 Mellow Mushroom ………….........................................……. 93 Albany Living Magazine ……............................…………. 46-47

Millie Mac Photography ……...............................…………. 109

Albany Symphony Orchestra ………..........................………. 76

Oakland Plantation ………........................................………. 62

Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Georgia ………...............………. 66

Oxford Construction ……...................................…....………. 89

Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Georgia ……………..…. Back Cover Paul Anderson Youth Home …………............................……. 90 Art Sign Company, Inc. ……...................................…………. 67 Pellicano Construction …..........................................……. 149 Austin’s Firegrill ……………..............................................…. 61 Philema Animal Hospital …....................................………. 139 Concrete Enterprises LLC …………..............................……. 2-3 Potter Motor Co, Inc. …........................……. Inside Back Cover Custom Interiors …………............................................……. 65

Promise of Hope ………..........................................………. 149

D & D Kitchen Center …………................................……. 24-25 Renasant Bank ……......................................................…. 138 DJ’s Car Wash & Quick Lube ………........................………. 149

Rental Depot …………...............................................……. 138

Dougherty Glass Company ………...........................………. 151 Sellers Tile ………….......................................................……. 7 Dunn’s Business Services ………..............................………. 75

SL Sausage Company ……......…............................………. 140

Evie Carver Photography ……..............................…………. 122 Smallcakes …..................................................……………. 123 First State Bank of Albany …………......……. Inside Front Cover

Smitts Photography ……….........…............................……. 149

Fleming & Riles Insurance …………….............................…. 64

Southern Tractor & Outdoors ….............................……. 28-29

Flint Community Bank …………......................................……. 5 Southwest Georgia Center of Medicine ……...........………. 108 GNN Radio ………...................................................………. 151

Southwest Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, LLC ………………. 9

Hannes Pienaar Productions …....................……………. 44-45 Stewbos | Merry Acres …………..................................……. 88 Harvey Drilling ………..........................................………. 42-43

Sunbelt Ford …………..................................................……. 91

Hickory Grove Storage ………..................................………. 110 The Bow Shop ……..............................................…………. 111 HopeCity United ………...........................................………. 113 Turner’s Fine Furniture …………......................................……. 1 Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, P.C. …………......……. 140 Walker Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning ……………......…. 107 Ivey’s ………............................................................………. 123 Westover Animal Hospital ………............................………. 124 Kimbrell-Stern Funeral Home …………….......................…. 151 Wild Side Running ………….......................................……. 125 Knight’s Apparel …...........................................……………. 141 Wynfield Plantation ………….......................................……. 77 Please thank our sponsors for making this publication possible!

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albany living magazine

S u m m e r 2021

H o m e t o wn L i v i n g at i t s B e st

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Motorcycle ministry hits higher gear and power with Brad and Ann Mock.

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GROWING SUSTAINABILITY INDOORS Gardening as a lifestyle, for the environment and for your wallet.

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