Albany Living - December 2016

winter 2016

Dennis A. Robinson, M.D.

albany

Tracy A. Bridges, M.D. Michael A. Fowler, PA-C

Nancy L. McKemmie, PA-C Erin M. Cannington, M.D.

ALLERGY AND ASTHMA CLINICS OF GEORGIA, P.C. (229) 438-7100 Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

105 Spanish Court Albany, Georgia 31707 (Inside Grand Island)

We thank you for your continued support and consider it an honor to serve you.

also...

Running with Faith Life, for Knight, is no longer about the material things of youth, but the experiences and people in his life.

APPOINTMENTS (229) 438-7100 albanyinfo@aacoga.com

REFILL REQUEST/DOCTOR QUESTIONS (229) 438-7100 albanynurse@aacoga.com INSURANCE/BILLING QUESTIONS (229) 438-7100 billing@aacoga.com

Namaste Sylvia Maxwell is yoking Albany’s people and places.

When you follow the things your heart leads you to do, the pieces start coming together and you start seeing the whole picture.

Painting Albany Blue

Gieryic’s passion to display gratitude to individuals serving the U.S. has once again brought Albany community together.

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

The Ultimate Driving Machine

®

We’re out to exceed your expectations with outstanding customer service by offering: Free Loaner Cars, Pickup & Delivery, Concierge Service & so much more.

Work or Play...

2016 Mercedes-Benz

C-Class Sedan

Southwest Georgia’s Top Pick For Your Employment Needs.

We are your Human Resource Solutions provider,

specializing in temp to perm and direct hire placements. We also provide temp labor, day labor and skilled labor.

We handle all of the Human Resource and Workers’ Comp costs and paperwork so you can focus on your business.

2016 BMW

X4

We have a 24-hour on call manager to be there when you need us.

Affordable Luxury A Click Away AlbanyMotorcars.com or BMWofAlbany.com

Two Luxury Brands - One Incredible Location

Albany Motorcars & BMW of Albany 805 E. Oglethorpe Blvd. • Albany, GA. • 800.476.2040

229.405.2284 | 1107-A 8th Ave. • Albany, GA 31707 | office@southernpointstaffing.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

1

2

Albany Living Magazine

Albany Living m a g a z i n e

10

contents 10

Running with Faith

Life for Knight, is no longer about the material things of youth, but the experience and people in his life.

24

38

Embracing the Exceptional

Madison lives out everything she teaches and her platform continues to live on, changing the world by shaping perspectives one at a time.

38

Dedicated to the Community

Marvin Laster is a living testament of the Boys and Girls Club creating turning points in these kids lives through experience and exposure.

54

Tying Communities Together

Cancer Ties impact on Albany spreads wide through families and individuals touched by the love poured out by those in the community who reach through this group.

4

Albany Living magazine

About the Cover

The cover photo is of entrepreneur Kristy Wilkins. Chart her journey as she follows her heart and discovers her vision for a new direction in life.

Read more about her on page 68.

24

54

Visit out website for helpful evaluation tools like this scorecard, or call today for an appointment.

OVERACTIVE BLADDER (OAB) As many as 46 million Americans 40 years of age or older reported symptoms of OAB, including an uncontrollable frequent and sudden urgency to urinate that sometimes leads to leakage and accidental wetting.

Take this quiz to see if you are among the 1 in 3 adults living with OAB. I have sudden urges to urinate that make me rush to the bathroom. ☐ NEVER ☐ SOMETIMES ☐ OFTEN I have urges to urinate that end in urine leakage. ☐ NEVER ☐ SOMETIMES ☐ OFTEN When I leave my house, I plan my activities around the nearest bathroom. ☐ NEVER ☐ SOMETIMES ☐ OFTEN

Albany native

If you answered “sometimes” or “often” to one or more of the questions, you may be experiencing symptoms of OAB.

Dr. Michael Monahan

is pleased to be providing cuttingedge treatment and surgical procedures in our state-of-the-art facility in his hometown.

Having an honest and ongoing talk with one of our health care providers is one of the most important steps you can take. Call today for an appointment. No referral needed.

Serving Albany and Dougherty County for over 40 years 2400 OSLER COURT | 229.883.1503 | WWW.ALBANYUROLOGYCLINIC.COM

148

If at First You Don’t Succeed

68

68

Beautifully Dirty

When you follow the things your heart leads you to do, the pieces start coming together and you start seeing the whole picture.

84

Painting Albany Blue

Gieryic’s passion to display gratitude to individuals serving the U.S. has once again brought the Albany community together.

96

Life on Purpose

Jerri Jarrell is proof that it is never too late to strive for a goal, and to make a difference in people’s lives.

158

Busy Bees

This group’s passionate pursuit comes with its own sweet reward.

in every 130 issue Hometown Happenings A glimpse inside a few of the exciting events recently held in Albany.

Their deep faith in Christ drives them to give the best of themselves to every job.

110

Namaste

Sylvia Maxwell is yoking Albany’s people and places.

130

Building Dreams on the Diamond

Hayes Cook saw the opportunity to teach kids how playing sports can help them to pursue their dreams, and live the life of a champion when their playing days are far behind.

6

Albany Living Magazine

148

SOUTHWEST ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURERY, LLC -

Dr. Brad Harris, Board Certified Oral Surgeon

We Wish You A Happy, Peaceful And Safe Holiday Season DENTAL EXTRACTION | GENERAL ANESTHESIA | DENTAL IMPLANTS FACIAL TRAUMA | WISDOM TEETH SERVING ALL OF SOUTHWEST GEORGIA AND BEYOND! 620 Pointe North Blvd. | Albany, GA 31721 229.878.3610

southwestoralandfacialsurgery.com

From the Publisher

Albany Living m a g a z i n e

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

Landon and Mandi Spivey C r e at i v e | D e s i g n Eric S. Love Mandi Spivey Robert Self Ryan Sichelstiel Stacey Nichols

Photo by Dawn McDaniel Owens

O f f i c e m a n ag e r Kim Anderson

Recently our family welcomed a new furry member to our home and we have been smitten ever since. His name is Ace. Somehow his tiny little self has managed to bring more joy and happiness into our home than the usual holiday excitement. He has tucked his little tiny face into our arms, our couch and our hearts. We have watched in wonder at the delight he brings to our 7-year-old son Jayden and can’t help but be reminded how much more God must delight in watching us enjoy all He has provided to us here on Earth.

At a time of the year where we remember most profoundly the gift that we were given in Jesus, I somehow can’t help but imagine God is looking over His people with such joy and delight as He watches us share in the absolute thrill of decorating our trees, visiting friends and family with love and laughter, sharing with those who have less and overall anticipation of what is to come. In celebration of life and the moments of today, we are so grateful for the absolute blessings that we experience each and every day.

Albany, YOU are one of those amazing blessings in our lives…Our hearts are overwhelmed with the friendships, love and support you all have and continue to pour out on us. This city thrives on electric energy and hands held together for a strong structure. This is seen in one of the feature stories inside, Painting Albany Blue, where such community support in shown through the Back the Blue campaign.

Also one not to miss, is the story on the Cancer Ties foundation which has impacted waves of love through their outpouring. We hope you will take your time as you work your way through the pages of this issue and really soak in what Albany lives and stands for. The simple word for that is LOVE. Love pours out from this city in so many ways. Some are big and easy to see, some are small any may never be noticed.

Regardless, it's all the same language and we are honored to share some of these stories with you.

As always, we could not do this without the continued support from our sponsors which are listed on page 176. We hope that you will join us in thanking them. Be sure to drop in at any of those locations listed and grab your free copy that they make possible! Shop with them, visit with them and just keep on showing the love you so freely give.

With gratitude in our hearts and love in our souls, from our family to yours, we thank you for allowing us to be a part of your home and hearts and we look forward to many years ahead!

Like us on Facebook!

Wishing you many blessings,

With You In Mind Publications Sales: (912) 293-5900 Email: landonspivey.wyim@gmail.com 8

albany Living magazine

A s s i s ta n t

Ma n ag e r June Dixon

Nikki Burkhalter

P h otog r ap h e r s Amy Rolfe with Dare Photography

David Parks Photography Eric S. Love with logic4design.com Kelly McDonald Photography Millie Mac Photography Samantha Rambo of SR Photography Shae Foy Photography Shannon Campbell Photography Stallian Cagle Whitney Spurlock

C ov e r P h oto Kristy Wilkens, Photo by David Parks Photography Sa l e s Keisha Cory

Patti Martin Landon Spivey

Contributing

Wri te r s Carson Gregors

Elizabeth Sheffield Keisha Cory Lexi Anthony Sherri Martin Trent Cory

Albany Living Magazine© is published semi-annually by With You in Mind Publications. www.hometown-living.com P.O. Box 55 • Glennville, GA 30427 (912) 654-3045 All rights reserved. Copies or reproduction of this publication in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without expressed written authorization from the publisher.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein.

Advertising is subject to omission, errors, and other changes without notice.

182 Oakland Parkway Leesburg, Georgia 31763 | 229.888.0886

10

albany living magazine

Story by Elizabeth Sheffield

Photos by Amy Rolfe, Dare Photography

On a Friday night, after being up at 5 a.m. and a full day of work, Chuck Knight sits and finishes writing his sermon for the upcoming Sunday morning, something he’s only been doing since June. He is still learning how to set up and deliver his sermons.

However, he knows that part of the process is running, helping to clear his head and think through sections and snags in his sermon; allowing God to set the pace and help Knight choose the right words.

“Running really helps me release. I think it puts me in a position a lot of times to have a clear head and be able to think,” Knight says of his running.

Knight is not necessarily well known in the community as a runner. Comfortable in a white Columbia shirt and yellow and blue Alta running shoes, Knight is known as a local businessman who is seen in comical commercials on local television channels.

Hometown Living At Its Best

11

12

albany living magazine

As he sits and drinks coffee, people nod their heads in his direction or stop and speak, asking various questions about refrigerators, appliance handles, and whether or not they need matching appliances throughout their kitchen for it to look nice. The second-generation part-owner (his sister and mother still own parts of the business) of Knights Appliance nods back in acknowledgement or answers as honestly as he can; even though he is on his lunch break, he is always interested and ready with answers for his customers.

For the last fifteen years, on top of taking over the operational duties of the family business in 2003, Knight has slowly been making a name for himself as a serious runner. Knight began running as an obese child who had pounds to lose and a motorcycle to gain.

“I read in a Reader’s Digest where you could jog five minutes, walk five minutes and you would lose 10 calories a minute, so I bet my parents that I could lose 20 pounds by my birthday in March, and if I did, they would buy me a motorcycle,” says Knight, recalling the memory with a smile. “I think my mom thought she could cook her way out of it,” he chuckles.

To get started Knight bought a calorie book and started eating a certain number of calories a day.

He began walking for five minutes and jogging for five minutes like the article said to do for an hour every day, and “that was 600 calories I could have a snack with,” he says with a laugh. Six months later on his birthday, when he managed to make the goal, his mother protested the motorcycle, but he recalls overhearing his dad say, “Well, he held up his part of the bargain. We don’t have a choice.”

Not only did Knight gain the motorcycle all his buddies had, he gained a love of running that he has held on to and has pursued since. He “played with” running on and off through high school and college.

He admits to studying until midnight while at Georgia Tech, and then “we would go out and run around through downtown just to burn off energy and loosen up.” When Knight began to seriously run he tried to train on his own, a technique he doesn’t recommend.

While trying to train alone, Knight kept hurting himself. That is, until a buddy told him about Olympian Jeff Galloway’s book and the local Albany

Hometown Living At Its Best

13

Run/Walk group that practiced this method.

“Ever since then I’ve been running,” he says. He also claims “the fun part about running is the social aspect of it.” He claims runners are “a social group with a running problem,” a phrase that helped him successfully direct Albany Run/Walk for several years. Knight says he doesn’t enjoy running alone. “I can’t run a long way by myself,” he says, “but I can do it with a friend,” which is where running partners, Amie Lockhart and Terri Lyn Morton, help out.

“The further you run, the more the walls break down, and my running partners know a lot about me. The only person who knows more about me than they do is my wife,” Knight says of his partners, Lockhart and Morton.

Knight is more than just a “big brother” to his running partners; he is a guiding figure who, as Morton best says, “is one of the most knowledgeable people about Christianity and Christian faith that I know. He can explain things when you are struggling, and he doesn’t judge at all.”

14

albany living magazine

Knight met Lockhart, a nurse practitioner at Phoebe, while participating in Albany Run/Walk.

“Her husband, who is deceased now, liked her running with me because he didn’t feel he had to worry about her,” Knight says. His wife, Debra, who Knight says he took out in high school and never dated anybody else, likes him running with Amie as well because “she feels like if I fall out I have somebody there to look after me.”

Knight and Lockhart were joined a few years after they began running together by Morton, who works at Phoebe in the accounting department. After a year running in Albany Run/Walk, Morton saw Amie at the hospital going in to work one morning. Knight was out of town for the week and Lockhart asked Morton to run with her. “I met her at her house. We would meet at like 5 in the morning, and then she

asked me if I wanted to keep running with [Knight and Lockhart] the next week when Chuck came back. I did, and the three of us have been best friends since,” says Morton. “Amie and I joke around and call him our Wise Old Owl. He’s like a big brother to us.”

Knight is more than just a “big brother” to his running partners; he is a guiding figure who, as Morton best says, “is one of the most knowledgeable people about Christianity and Christian faith that I know. He can explain things when you are struggling, and he doesn’t judge at all.” Since June, Knight has taken this knowledge and “big brother” guidance from the track to the pulpit. After a 25-year calling to preach, Knight finally answered by going through a candidacy process to become what the Methodist church calls a Licensed Local Pastor, which is an un-

Hometown Living At Its Best

15

After a 25-year calling to preach, Knight finally answered by going through a candidacy process to become what the Methodist church calls a Licensed Local Pastor, which is an un-ordained, appointed preacher able to conduct worship service and perform other pastoral duties in smaller congregations.

ordained, appointed preacher able to conduct worship service and perform other pastoral duties in smaller congregations.

“There are two options. I went through the candidacy process because with my business, going through seminary, particularly at 55-years-old, just doesn’t make a lot of sense,” says Knight, who says his faith in the Lord is “everything in my life that works and that my life revolves around,” including his ability to successfully run his father’s business as a secondgeneration owner and to run ultra-marathons with two women who have become family.

Currently, Knight, Lockhart and Morton have signed up for the Sky to Summit in November, a 50K ultra-marathon in Sky Valley, Georgia. “This one is about 14,000 feet of elevation for the total way,” says Knight, excitement showing in his eyes. Even though Knight says he “runs just for fun,” Morton says Knight “never misses a workout” if he can help it. The trio “always tries to keep some kind of race on the schedule” says Morton, who ran the Green Beret Challenge with Lockhart after Knight had to pull out with tendonitis.

Normally, however, nothing stops Knight. He runs in costume, dressed as a leprechaun, in a pink tutu,

16

albany living magazine

or as Elvis. Knight, with a twinkle in his eye, tells a funny story about running in costume dressed as Elvis during the Riverfront Run in Albany one year. “A lady was running about five steps in front of me. A deer ran out of the woods and hit her square in the hip. She fell down and I stopped to help her up. She said she was fine, but she was all shaken up. The next morning at church someone came up to me and said I had helped their friend during the race the day before. The lady had been hit by a deer, was lying on the ground with her breath knocked out of her, and all of a sudden, she opened her eyes and saw Elvis standing there. Her first thought was, ‘Oh God, Elvis is dead!’” Knight is always willing to run for a cause, even in silly costumes, or help a fellow runner, an attitude that contributed to his success as a past director of Albany Run/Walk.

Throughout his successful running career, Knight says he’s run “25-30 marathons, maybe that many half-marathons and I’ve run quite a few ultras. I did a Half Ironman a few years back.” The farthest he has run in competition has been 50 miles, and he has enough medals that his wife bought him a shelf with knobs, telling him to hang it in his office at work and get all the medals out of her bathroom. He also puts in weekly training, running an average of 12 to 14 miles on a Saturday morning and several miles every other day as part of a training program to help him and his running partners get into shape for the next race on the schedule, but he always makes sure to run at the pace of his trio’s slowest runner.

After all the training he and his partners put in, Knight claims that part of the fun of running the

Hometown Living At Its Best

17

marathons and ultra-marathons is the challenge of the course and the friendship he has with Lockhart and Morton. Although he serves as the pace-setter, or rabbit, for many organizations in and around the community, Knight still trusts God and says he feels, for the first time, that he is on the track God wants him on. “As Debra and I have gotten older and I

18

albany living magazine

have gotten into the ministry,” he says, “the money and stuff is just not as important. We realized that we are happily married (33 years), we’ve got good kids, a grandchild, and none of that involves money. It’s a matter of being happy and living the life that we should be living.”  ALM

CUSTOM INTERIORS 229.420.8781 (office) | 866.420.2335 (toll free)

• Flooring • Furniture • Accessories • Fabric/Windows • Area Rugs FLOORING • Hardwood ( p r e f i n i s h e d / u n fi n i s h ed e n g i n e e r e d a n d s o li d wo o d)

• B a m bo o • L a m i n at e • Cer a m i c & P o rc e la in T ile

• N at u ra l s t o n e ( in c l ud in g sl at e , t rav e rt in e , gra n it e )

• • • •

B ri c k Pave rs Glass mosaics C a rp e t ( re sid e n t ia l & c o m m e rc ia l ) Vi n y l ( sh e e t v in yl , v in yl t il e a n d p l a n k )

www.custominteriors-fa.com • 1310 HIGHWAY 82 WEST • LEESBURG, GEORGIA 31763

WENDY BUTLER, DC 20

TAMMY EISENHART, RN

Albany Living Magazine

BROOKLYN HOLT, MT

JULIE WILLIS, RN

NICOLE MILLER R.N.

Renew. Restore. Rejuvenate.

At Georgia Center MedSpa, our state licensed medical staff provide quality services you can trust. Working under our board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Joshua Groves, our Master-Level trained injectors, Julie Willis, RN and Nicole Miller, RN, have over 26 years experience and are among the top 22% in the country.

Dr. Wendy Butler has more than 16 years experience in chiropractic and family wellness. Treating patients of all ages and a variety of health conditions, her services are focused on correcting the underlying causes of many illnesses rather than merely treating the symptoms. These services are natural, requiring no medication, surgery or needles.

Heading up our weight loss and nutrition program, #TAMMYAPPROVED, is Tammy Eisenhart, RN with over 15 years experience. Crossfit certified and medically trained to understand the needs of any individual, Tammy will motivate you to make the lifestyle changes that maintain optimal health and a refined physique.

Brooklyn Holt is a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years experience and is board-certified in therapeutic massage and body work. Customizing each treatment, Brooklyn works to relieve muscle tension, leaving you relaxed and energized.

Visit our facility for the results you want and deserve!

COSMETIC INJECTIONS - WEIGHT LOSS AND NUTRITION - CHIROPRACTIC LASER HAIR REMOVAL - SCLEROTHERAPY - MASSAGE - MICRODERMABRASION CHEMICAL PEELS - FACIALS - PERMANENT MAKEUP - KYBELLA

2407 Westgate Dr | Albany, GA 31707 | (229) 496-9529

www.georgiacentermedspa.com

2 n

2815 Old Dawson Rd, Albany 229.405.2854 Owner: Kori Henbree 22

Albany Living Magazine

Urban Lizzie 2700 Dawson Rd, Albany | 229.496.1075 Hometown Living At Its Best

23

24

albany living magazine

Story by Carson Gregors

Photos by Shae Foy and provided by Madison Daughtry

Embracing the Madison lives out everything she teaches and her platform continues to live on, changing the world by shaping perspectives one at a time.

I

Imagine using an opportunity in the spotlight to change the way an entire culture views a people group. This is what Madison Daughtry sought to achieve during her time preparing for and competing in the Miss Georgia 2016 pageant. The 20-yearold Lee County resident holds the title Miss Rockdale County, through which she competed in the pageant this past June.

Hometown Living At Its Best

25

“My first step onto the stage was full of apprehension, awestruck wonder and lots of nerves.

All the work that I had been putting in for the past few months were about to be put to the test.

It was my time to shine and represent the Lord in all my actions,” Madison recalls of her first night competing in the week-long event. Many individuals outside the realm of pageantry may underestimate the work and determination it takes to compete at the state level. When asked if there was more to pageants than dresses and glitter, Madison nodded her head and smiled. She then explained the different parts of the competition, one of which starkly stood out among the rest—the platform.

In many pageants contestants are required to present a platform based on their passions and the needs they see within their communities. The women then aim to bring awareness and raise support for their cause. “The platform gives you something to stand behind and people to advocate for,” explained Madison, former Miss Lee County High School and Distinguished Young Woman of Leesburg. The inspiration for Madison’s platform

26

albany living magazine

and love for exceptional children derives from her friendship with a girl diagnosed with Down syndrome, whom she met on her dance line while attending Lee County High School. “She’ll call me sometimes after she goes to events that are not school related, and she’ll say, ‘No one talked to me. I sat there with Mama.’ And that really made me upset.” It was in this moment that anyone talking to Madison could sense her passion for special needs children. Her desire for others to see the beauty of individuals with special needs and her love for them

Madison originally designed “Embracing the Exceptional” as a component for competing in the Miss Georgia 2016 pageant; however, this platform

has impacted her life far beyond the realm of pageantry. soon transformed into a plan of action to make a difference.

Madison crafted the platform “Embracing the Exceptional” to encapsulate her desire to teach students within primary school systems ways in which to interact with children who have been diagnosed with special needs. In the slogan, Madison chose to use Georgia’s new politically correct term for children with special needs— exceptional. “My platform encourages general education students to interact with those who have a disability. Being able to go into schools and teach 3rd through 5th graders to look at the person before the disability is my ultimate goal.”

Madison crafted the platform “Embracing the Exceptional” to encapsulate her desire to teach students within primary school systems ways in which to interact with children who have been diagnosed with special needs.

This platform quickly gained support after Madison spoke with Lee County School superintendent, Jason Miller. Granting her permission to raise awareness for her platform, Miller created a way for Madison to put her dreams into action. “Madison’s ‘Embracing the Exceptional’ platform is a truly important and impactful initiative that will do much to help many people,” said Miller. After obtaining permission from the nine Lee County School principals, Madison presented in several classes and plans to continue speaking

Hometown Living At Its Best

27

Her desire for others to see the beauty of individuals with special needs and her love for them soon transformed into a plan of action to make a difference. and raising awareness for this cause. “There are different ways of interaction. [Some individuals] may be nonverbal but that doesn’t mean they can’t communicate with you or understand you.”

Thus far, students have responded positively to Madison’s presentations. “In [the students] who don’t know how to interact [with kids with disabilities], I have seen a tremendous difference.

They go out of the classroom really confident that they can wave at the little boy in the hallway that can’t speak or pat his shoulder, knowing he’ll get the same meaning.” To aid in educating individuals, Madison’s platform went viral at embracingtheexceptional.com.

Madison originally designed “Embracing

This platform quickly gained support after Madison spoke with Lee County School superintendent, Jason Miller.

Granting her permission to raise awareness for her platform, Miller created a way for Madison to put her dreams into action. “Madison’s ‘Embracing the Exceptional’ platform is a truly important and impactful initiative that will do much to help many people,” said Miller.

28

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

29

Though she recognizes the challenges in this dream, she stands

behind her belief that many individuals diagnosed with disabilities have the ability to live a full life. the Exceptional” as a component for competing in the Miss Georgia 2016 pageant; however, this platform has impacted her life far beyond the realm of pageantry. Now a special education major, Madison plans to obtain her bachelor’s and master’s degree from Georgia College and State University, eventually progressing to teach exceptional children in the northern Atlanta area. She has also given thought to creating a curriculum for special education students. “My ultimate goal, if I were to win the lottery, or somehow get a million dollars, would be to start a special education two-year college. They would [be able to] earn a degree. . . . I want them to have the

30

albany living magazine

Though Madison did not place in the Miss Georgia pageant, along the way she found a place in the hearts and lives of many exceptional individuals. Through involvement with The Challenger League (Leesburg’s special needs baseball league), Camp Arrow (a special needs camp in southwest Georgia) and Camp Sunshine (a special needs day camp in Lee County) Madison lives out everything she teaches.

Hometown Living At Its Best

31

option to earn a home-economics degree or a public relations degree. So they can graduate with an associates; something that says I completed my schooling. I have worth.” At the college, Madison envisions that exceptional students would be able to live in dorm-like residence halls, so they could experience all college offers traditional students.

Though she recognizes the challenges in this dream, she stands behind her belief that many individuals diagnosed with disabilities have the ability to live a full life.

To anyone interested in pageantry Madison offers some advice: “Be prepared. This is a job. The scholarship opportunities are prenominal! Go into the pageant system with an open mind and realize that these girls are not your competition; you are competing with yourself to be the best you could ever be! I have made so many lifelong friends in the span of a week and would not trade my time for anything in the world.” Though Madison did not place in the Miss Georgia pageant, along the way she found a place in the hearts and lives of many exceptional individuals. Through involvement with The Challenger League (Leesburg’s special needs baseball league), Camp Arrow (a special needs camp in southwest Georgia) and Camp Sunshine (a special needs day camp in Lee County) Madison lives out everything she teaches. Her platform continues to live on, changing the world by shaping perspectives one at a time to truly embrace the exceptional.  ALM

32

albany living magazine

At Sellers Tile we offer various lines of tile, wood, carpet, rugs, specialty tile, and granite and marble countertops. We pride ourselves on our large quantity of stock products and our Albany location offers the largest natural stone yard in South Georgia, where our customers can hand pick their granite and marble slabs.

129 Flint Avenue | Albany, GA 31701 | (229) 329-4772 | www.sellerstile.com

2 n

SOUTHERN PINES SENIOR LIVING AND MEMORY CARE 423 COVINGTON AVENUE, THOMASVILLE, GA 31792

34

Albany Living Magazine

N 229-226-6074

ProvisionLiving.com Hometown Living At Its Best

35

Albany Living Ad - 2pg spread - 100615.qxp_Layout 1 12/2/16 1:50 PM Page 1

36

Albany Living Magazine

Moving Albany. Forward.

There’s Only One Albany

albanyga.com 229.434.8700

choosealbany.com 229.434.0044

visitalbanyga.com 229.317.4760

38

albany living magazine

Story by Elizabeth Sheffield

Photos by Eric S. Love

Marvin Laster, CEO of Albany, Georgia’s Boys and Girls Club, is hard to separate from the place that gave him his initial start, not only in his career, but as a young man ready to lead and do great things. His life is so entwined with the place he calls home that he quotes Tupac Shakur saying, “when my heart can beat no more / I Hope I Die For A Principle / or A Belief that I had Lived 4,” a poem he wants read as his eulogy. His mission

and vision for Albany, and the greater world, is the same as the organization he represents: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”

He has lived by this creed since he was 8-years-old, here in Albany and while traveling, continuously making a difference “all in the name of this growing movement that is so near Hometown Living At Its Best

39

“We’re really focused on three major things here at the Boys and Girls Club,” says Laster. “One of them is academic success, another is character and leadership, and the last is health and life skills.” The three areas Laster concentrates on in his clubs are what he calls the three E’s: Education, Experience, and Exposure.

and dear to me,” he says. “I always say that there are many doors that open in a lot of communities, but the door to the Boys and Girls Club truly transforms lives. I am a living testament to that.”

Laster’s life transformed from the first time he set foot in the Jefferson Street Unit 31 years ago in 1977. Since then, he has “in some way, shape, form, or fashion” been affiliated with the Boys and Girls Club. From that small boy just starting out, he rose through the ranks and was given the ability to represent the club as a Youth of the Year locally. Later, in 1994, he was also named State Youth of the Year, an honor given to only one Georgia Boys and Girls Club member each year. In order to 40

albany living magazine

achieve these awards on any of its levels, local, state, regional, or national, a member must exemplify the values of leadership and service, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyle, showing the impact that the Boys and Girls Club has had on their life and the lives of members in general.

“That was a pivotal moment for me in terms of my future,” says Laster, who was introduced to his good friend and mentor, then State Senator Mark Taylor.

That introduction led to an internship following Taylor around and meeting people Laster only dreamed of shaking hands with, including President Bill Clinton during the 1994 flood of Albany.

The influence of the Boys and Girls Club on Laster’s life did not, however, stop there. At 18-years-old, during his senior year in high school and the last year the club would allow him to be a student member, Laster was given a job coordinating the intervention

programs. Upon his graduation from high school, he retained the job as a Juvenile Justice Coordinator, working in that position for the next five and a half years.

“We were ultimately recognized by the US department of justice as one of the top delinquency programs in the country,” says Laster.

“It was during that time that I kind of got the bug, and I knew my ultimate career goal was going to be to work on the Boys and Girls Club national staff.”

From that point on, Laster made sure to pursue opportunities that would position him to meet his goal. He graduated from Albany State University in May of 2000, and shortly after, his dream came true when the Boys and Girls Club of America based in Atlanta, Georgia, hired him as their Youth Empowerment Coordinator, where he worked Hometown Living At Its Best

41

for a year. He then came back to Albany for a year to work with Albany State University’s Institutional Research, Planning and Outreach department.

The Boys and Girls Club, however, continued to call his name. Nine years after making his initial goal to work at the national office, Laster began work with the national Boys and Girls Club staff, coming in as an assistant director of the diversity program.

“One of my projects that I inherited was a small endeavor funded by the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation,” says Laster. “We were able to take that program and ultimately create Boys and Girls Club initiatives around serving kids with disabilities.”

Because of his involvement with the development of this program, in 2007 Laster was the first person to ever be presented with the Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation’s Inclusion Champion Award.

42

albany living magazine

His helpful insight and ability to make things grow did not end. After growing his small, inherited project, Laster took over the Director of Diversity Services position and continued to use his small town Boys and Girls Club experiences and education to help the young people coming after him succeed.

“My last assignment there was as a national advisor for the Youth of the Year program,” he says, pointing to three pictures of moments with the students he advised hanging on his office wall.

Though these pictures were taken several years ago, Laster names every student, the year they are in college currently, and the college or university they are currently enrolled in without ever hesitating to remember a name of a kid he helped inspire in a program he participated in as a young man and helped grow as an adult.

“So many of the challenges that young people face in this community are so systemic that to heal it is going to take more than the BandAid approach. A Band-Aid approach is only able to work if the body is able to heal itself. But some of the challenges our youth face is going to take the IV solution,” says Laster.

This is what the Boys and Girls Club of Albany is dedicated to doing, not only with education, but also with experiences that the kids would not normally have and exposure to the stuff of their “wildest imaginations.”

“When I inherited that project it was funded at 5 years for 5 million,” says Laster, “so a million a year.

When I stepped down, we were at 5 years for 55 million.”

Laster, however, refuses to take the credit. Instead, he says that it was a “total team effort” done with a common vision with the organization that “has touched and made an impact on so many lives.”

While working in Atlanta and traveling, Laster admits to watching the young people around him give up on their hopes and dreams, throwing their futures away by dropping out of school and choosing the life of crime. He says these kids had no hope for a “brighter, better future” that had been instilled in him early on by the Boys and Girls Club.

“I wanted to come back to Albany as, hopefully, a beacon of hope to work with like-minded individuals inside and outside of the organization to create what I call an ecosystem of youth development, which is a place where young people can grow and thrive.” Laster says he was “driven spiritually” to come back here because “a message was laid on my heart that this was my opportunity to really work in an environment back home and make some change.”

Back in Albany after 10 years of working in Atlanta, Laster took on the role of Assistant Chief Professional Officer in January of 2015. After only a year in the position, Laster was offered the CEO position when

Hometown Living At Its Best

43

then CEO Bob Hutchinson announced his retirement.

In January of 2016, Laster took over Hutchinson’s position, vowing to continue the example set by his predecessor and joking that Hutchinson says he gave him his first job, and he has just given him his last.

“It was a great experience to work alongside them and work with them as they have done great work and served the young people in this community,” says Laster.

As a living testament still exemplifying the same Youth of the Year qualities 22 years later, Laster has tried to bring that same enrichment he got while a young man at the Jefferson Street Unit to the children in all of the clubs he is currently over in the Albany community.

“We’re really focused on three major things here at the Boys and Girls Club,” says Laster. “One of them is academic success, another is character and leadership, and the last is health and life skills.” The three areas Laster concentrates on in his clubs are 44

albany living magazine

what he calls the three E’s: Education, Experience, and Exposure.

Laster stresses the importance of education in his clubs, requiring “Power Hour” before “any basketballs are pulled out, before any pool sticks come out, before any kid goes into an arts and crafts program or any other program, they have to do homework for an hour.” This hour of homework, he says, provides students with academic assistance in a world of “new” homework that requires tablets and Wi-Fi access.

“We see ourselves as a bridge between school and actual graduation and the many things that happen at home,” Laster says, commenting that the club helps the kids make a plan for their future. “The higher they go up, the greater opportunities they have of reaching success. It’s not the absolute rule that they need an education, but we help them make a plan in the quest for knowledge that is fundamental to their being successful in life.”

“The higher they go up, the greater opportunities they have of reaching success. It’s not the absolute rule that they need an education, but we help them make a plan in the quest for knowledge that is fundamental to their being successful in life.”

After homework is done, the club provides a hot meal to every child there. “For some of these kids, that is the last meal they will get for the day,” he says, compassion in his eyes as he continues with a discussion of the “temporarily displaced” kids living in hotels who, without the Boys and Girls Club, may not have the meals, help, and playtime they need to thrive.

“We provide free memberships to those students and young people to come here, get their academic support that they need, participate in programs that support them academically and help develop them into good leaders and adopt healthy lifestyles, but in addition, they get hot meals, probably the only meal they’ll get of the day.”

This is an approach that Laster calls the IV solution.

This solution, though he acknowledges does not fix every problem, allows the community to begin to heal through the “time, talent, and treasure” the staff and

volunteers donate each year to the Boys and Girls Club.

“So many of the challenges that young people face in this community are so systemic that to heal it is going to take more than the Band-Aid approach. A Band-Aid approach is only able to work if the body is able to heal itself. But some of the challenges our youth face is going to take the IV solution,” says Laster. This is what the Boys and Girls Club of Albany is dedicated to doing, not only with education, but also with experiences that the kids would not normally have and exposure to the stuff of their “wildest imaginations.”

Though education is important, Laster explains that experience and exposure are necessary to stimulate education, creating turning points in the kids lives. His own experiences and exposures while in the club are proof of this, which he tells to

Hometown Living At Its Best

45

Laster takes the time to let the kids get to know him, spending time in the seven clubs at least once a month. He knows that in order for the kids in his clubs to become well-rounded leaders and successful adults, he has to expose them to people they wouldn’t normally see, himself included.

the kids in the clubs. He tells them the story of the event that changed his own life shortly after joining the club. Selected to go on a trip to see the Braves play in 1977, Laster didn’t care about the game itself and doesn’t remember who won. Instead, what he remembers is getting on an old, yellow school bus and driving to downtown Atlanta, which he had never seen before this point. It was fan appreciation day, and they got there early, so the kids were allowed jerseys and to see batting practice. “I got a chance to meet Zane Smith and Bob Horne, and Dale Murphy,” he says with as much enthusiasm as his 8-year-old self might have had 31 years ago.

“We got back late that night and my mother was there to pick me up. I still had on my jersey and my mom snapped a picture using a Polaroid camera,” Laster recounts. “That one trip really changed my life because it exposed me to a world that I had never seen before. When I got a taste of it, I wanted 46

albany living magazine

to see more. In my current role, I’m adamant about exposing kids to things that they never knew could exist.”

He has tried to bring these same types of experiences into his clubs, in and outside of the borders of Dougherty County. Just last year he implemented a cycling program. “We have kids on bikes showing them places in the city of Albany,” he says. “We ride 15 or 16 miles in neighborhoods that they have never seen, yet they’ve lived here all their lives.”

To expose them and help them plan their futures, Laster took the seniors in the clubs on a college campus tour this past summer. One of the girls on the trip “had no clue that you could drive outside of the range of the local radio station here. One told me she had never been to Atlanta,” he says. Upon hearing this, Laster made it a point to do something many of them “had only heard in a popular rap song.” He called and ordered two Uber cars to pick the kids up and take them to a nice, sit-down restaurant to eat.

“Everybody wanted steaks, of course, but when it came down to ordering the steaks, they had to be educated and shown how to do it,” Laster says. “That’s why I’m so adamant about using the full breadth of the experiences I’ve had to educate and give them some practical experiences, but also to expose them to the world beyond what they’re seeing on television or in their neighborhoods.”

Laster takes the time to let the kids get to know him, spending time in the seven clubs at least once a month.

He knows that in order for the kids in his clubs to become well-rounded leaders and successful adults, he has to expose them to people they wouldn’t normally see, himself included.

“This,” he says, “is not about me. This is about the close to 20,000 young people that are out there in the community.” Paraphrasing Martin Luther King, Jr.’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, he continues, “I’ve always realized we are holding a great promissory note. That note was made payable to the youth of this community, and we have to do everything that we can possibly do to ensure that none of their futures go bankrupt because we failed to provide and fully invest in them.”  ALM

D&D

KITCHEN CENTER Custom Built Cabinets • Residential & Commercial

(229) 883-8687 www.danddkitchens.org 604 N. Washington St. | Albany, GA 31701 Hometown Living At Its Best

47

HARVEY DRILLING WITH OVER 50 YEARS

in the well drilling industry we have the experience, personnel and equipment needed to meet your needs. We specialize in residential, agricultural and irrigation wells.

Ask about our maintenance plans!

WELL DRILLING PUMP SERVICES WATER TREATMENT WELLS SALES SERVICE

No Water? Problems with your well or pump? We offer 24 hour emergency well or pump service 365 days per year!

Do you have dirty water? Bad tasting water? Bacteria? If so we can fix it!

We install and service all types of filtration and disinfection systems.

1101 Williamsburg Road • Albany, GA 31705 • 229-435-0204

HOMETOWN

HAPPENINGS

Photo Credit: Millie Mac Photography

Sally Wetherbee Adoption Center

No-kill adoption center of the Albany Humane Society SWAC is an animal adoption center associated with the Albany Humane Society.

Initially funded by a will legacy from Sally Wetherbee, it is a place for animals to live while awaiting a good home. Located at 2223 Dawson Road across from Porterfield Methodist Church, it will be run by a center director and an associate director as well as a staff of dedicated volunteers. It is a no-kill shelter.

50

Albany Living Magazine

Millie Mac

PHOTOGRAPHY

www.milliemacphotography.smugmug.com facebook.com/MillieMacPhotography Hometown Living At Its Best

51

2 n

52

Albany Living Magazine

Choose A Better Way Know Where to Go for the Care You Need.

At Phoebe, we’ve developed new ways to make it easier than ever to access our experts – with new choices that can even help you save time and money. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide where to go when you need care.



 



Primary Care

Urgent Care and Community Care

Emergency Care

best for scheduling

best for non-life-threatening

best for life-threatening

appointments for minor illnesses and routine visits to help maintain overall wellness. Convenient appointments that fit your schedule.

illnesses or injuries that need prompt attention. Walk-ins welcome at multiple locations with extended hours and a range of payment options.

illnesses or injuries that require immediate attention.

24/7 hospital-based care.

Learn more at choosephoebe.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

53

Photos by

Story by Carson Gregors Samantha Rambo of SR Photography

Tying

Communities Together

Late one evening in 2007, while at Henry’s Fine Edibles for a night of laughter and conversation, a dinner party’s topic of discussion shifted to a serious note as Carrie Hutchinson and her friends discussed the cancer diagnosis of their friend Allison Salter. Burdened to aid Salter in whatever way possible, the group began brainstorming to create an event at which they could raise funds to offset

54

albany living magazine

Cancer Ties impact on Albany spreads wide through familes and individuals touched by the love poured out by those in the community who are reached through this group.

huge success Cancer Ties debut in 2007 was a huge success. Members from the community participated in a silent auction and enjoyed an evening filled with music and dancing. Due to the success of the event, Hutchinson and her friends decided to make Cancer Ties an annual fundraiser.

Hometown Living At Its Best

55

As Cancer Ties expands in the future, the organization will be able to provide financial support to even more people battling cancer.

hope and support In light of the shock of a cancer diagnosis, Cancer Ties seeks to offer hope and support to individuals and families through providing a sense of community and friendship. “The fear of feeling like you’re all alone diminishes because of Cancer Ties,� states Hutchinson. Standing on the other side of a cancer diagnosis, Salter sees her battle in a new light because of the organization.

56

albany living magazine

Salter’s medical expenses. “We couldn’t make the cancer go away,” recounts Hutchinson, executive director of Cancer Ties, “but we knew what we could do was what we did best—throw a big party and raise a bunch of money. And that’s exactly what we did.” Six weeks later Cancer Ties held its first event in Albany, Georgia.

Cancer Ties debut in 2007 was a huge success. Members from the community participated in a silent auction and enjoyed an evening filled with music and dancing. Despite receiving chemotherapy treatment at the time, Salter was able to attend the event. “I was very surprised because they had the whole thing planned before they ever told me about it. I was surprised, honored, overwhelmed and very grateful.” Due to the success of the event, Hutchinson and her friends decided to make Cancer

Coming Together “There’s always strength in numbers, and it is so evident when the community comes together. We may not be able to take away the disease, but we are all coming together to do what we can,” explained Hutchinson. Since its start in 2007, 13 individuals have received a fundraiser in their name and many others have been given monetary gifts through the Cancer Ties general fund, which the board seeks to expand through a giving campaign and smaller events in the future.

Hometown Living At Its Best

57

58

albany living magazine

Cancer Ties board Bottom row L-R: Natasha Golden, Hayley Tennyson, Allison Salter, Shea Harrell Middle row L-R: Michele Bates, Jennifer Norman, Brittany Stalvey, Melisa Pollock, Carrie Hutchinson, Mary Askew, Hannah Hendley, Maryann Reddick, Dana Jones, Taffy Hayes Back Row L-R: Stephen Garner, Ryan Carr, Sam Shugart, Justin Andrews, Matt Luke

Ties an annual fundraiser. Officially recognized as a nonprofit organization in 2009, they began filing for 501c3 status which was obtained in 2012. As a recipient of the fundraiser, Salter sought a way to help others fighting the battle against cancer by serving on the planning committee for the following three years. Her desire sparked the “pay it forward� aspect of the organization, encouraging recipients to serve with the organization in some capacity.

Hometown Living At Its Best

59

60

albany living magazine

“Cancer was a hard storm to go through, but it taught me to count my blessings,” said Salter who was declared cancer free in 2008. Watching her friend struggle through the mental, physical and emotional aspects of dealing with this disease impacted Hutchinson on a level she had not previously experienced. “It was the first time I had ever had a friend diagnosed. Someone who was close to my age,” recalled Hutchinson. Though Hutchinson’s life had been previously affected by cancer through members of her family, walking alongside her friend through the various stages created the desire within her to continue helping individuals diagnosed with cancer.

In the following years Hutchinson lost her grandfather, Julian Clegg, to cancer and gave birth to her son Elliott. Handling the balance of death and life gave her a new perspective on humanity. “It really hit at home for me what a precious gift life is within itself

and so very fragile,” said Hutchinson. Yet through the various battles in life, being a part of Cancer Ties taught Hutchinson the strength and value of community.

“There’s always strength in numbers, and it is so evident when the community comes together. We may not be able to take away the disease, but we are all coming together to do what we can,” explained Hutchinson.

Since its start in 2007, 13 individuals have received a fundraiser in their name and many others have been given monetary gifts through the Cancer Ties general fund, which the board seeks to expand through a giving campaign and smaller events in the future. Word of Cancer Ties impact on Albany spread to surrounding cities, and the organization now has events scheduled to be held in Camilla, Dalton, Sylvester and Dothan, Alabama. “My favorite part every year is to watch and hear how overwhelmed (the recipients) are,” said

Hometown Living At Its Best

61

Hutchinson smiling. “Yes, they are surrounded by their family and friends, but they are also surrounded by total strangers that they never knew existed and those strangers are there because of them.”

In light of the shock of a cancer diagnosis, Cancer Ties seeks to offer hope and support to individuals and families through providing a sense of community and friendship. “The fear of feeling like you’re all alone diminishes because of Cancer Ties,” states Hutchinson.

62

albany living magazine

Standing on the other side of a cancer diagnosis, Salter sees her battle in a new light because of the organization. “It gave a purpose to my cancer, watching it help somebody else every year. I like seeing the event help others,” said Salter. As Cancer Ties expands in the future, the organization will be able to provide financial support to even more people battling cancer. To learn more about Cancer Ties and events or to get involved, visit their website www.cancerties.com.  ALM

2 n

South Georgia’s #1 dealer!

Family fun at its best! www.hugginsoutboard.com | 229.432.6831 | 922 Radium Springs Rd. in Albany 64

Albany Living Magazine

Providing quality food since 1974. We use fresh ingredients on all our menu items.

Open Daily 11am-UNTIL

229.888.4646 | 2825 Nottingham Way | Albany Hometown Living At Its Best

65

Albany magazine ad 11-14-16.qxp_Layout 1 11/15/16 2:14 PM Page 1

IT’S ALL ABOUT

RELATIONSHIPS

2 n

We are confident we sell the very finest equipment in the world – that is a given. But the foundation of our company has always been based on relationships. Our clientfocused personal service sets us apart.

We consider it an honor and a privilege to serve our clients. And too, we value the relationships we have with our employees

and the people we do business with. At Flint, we are proud to support our community, and are involved in community projects throughout the year.

For us at Flint, our well-being is linked to the community. We believe investing in our community today means a better tomorrow for everyone.

FLINT

John Deere

AG & TURF DIVISION | CONSTRUCTION & FORESTRY DIVISION | POWER SYSTEMS DIVISION www.flintequipco.com From construction, forestry and mining equipment to ag equipment and diesel power units, if John Deere makes it – we rent it, sell it, finance it, insure it, service it and provide parts for it all over the Southeast.

66

Albany Living Magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

67

Beautifully Dirty 68

albany living magazine

Story by Keisha Cory Photos by David Parks Photography

What seemed like an ordinary day on the farm turned out to be a pivotal moment for Kristy Wilkens.

Born and raised in Albany, Georgia Kristy Wilkins attended St Teresa’s Catholic school until the 6th grade. Her family moved to Lee County and she graduated high school at LCHS in 1995. She was awarded a full scholarship to attend Darton College for softball. As Kristy made her way into the corporate world she was soon named National Retail Account Executive for AT&T. Daily, Kristy had the responsibility to cover a route of stores from Tallahassee to Atlanta, until the beautiful arrival of her baby girl, Avery Grace. It was at that point in her career that she made a choice to stay home on the farm where her family had moved to in 2008.

It was at that moment, doing the mundane things, that she caught an idea that would launch her into the marketplace. “Run To The Farm” dropped in her heart, and she immediately returned inside her home to pursue making that the name of her products.

For products you can also visit Kristy on Facebook @Run To The Farm.

You can follow her also on Instagram @runtothefarm Twitter @runtothefarm www.runtothefarm.com www.farmfreshskincare.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

69

Kristy lives by, “If there’s a will, there’s a way!”

She exemplifies determination.

If you are in Albany, you can find Kristy’s product line at Livi & Co., In the Light Massage Therapy and Skincare, and Ivey’s. Underneath the umbrella of Run to the Farm, you will find a line of jewelry handmade by her oldest son Dustin. He loves hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He has created a line of deer antler pieces that he puts together with the help of his grandfather, Charlie Evans.

What seemed like an ordinary day on the farm turned out to be a pivotal moment for Kristy. She would have never dreamed that a walk down their dirt road driveway to the mailbox would become the vision for a new direction. As her kids took off running back toward their farmhouse, her quest for a new branding idea was born. I can imagine how the sun was beaming down and the dirt kicking up behind their feet, and the grin of contentment on Kristy’s face as she peeked up from the mail to see her boys take off. It was at that moment, doing the mundane things, that she caught an idea that would launch her into the marketplace. “Run To The Farm” dropped in her heart, and she immediately returned inside her home to pursue making that the name of her products.

Kristy followed the lead in her heart and bought the web domain “Run To The Farm.” She then enrolled herself in online marketing classes where she learned how to build her very own website. Determined to make something happen, she built a blog and their first logo for Run To The Farm.

Simultaneously, Kristy and her husband, Kevin Wilkins, managed their farm where they grow corn, peanuts, and cotton, as well as keep up with the cows.

Speaking of following a lead, I am impressed with the drive that resides within such a beautiful soul. Kristy and I met for coffee because I was curious about her products, and being a fellow essential oil user, I noticed essential oils were included in her ingredients. Over coffee, I learned quickly that Kristy lives

70

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

71

72

albany living magazine

by, “If there’s a will, there’s a way!” She exemplifies determination. Prior to getting her hand in making beauty products Kristy spent years in the cell phone industry. It was during that time that she began to develop neurological problems that created great stress for her life and family. She was seeing signs of impairment in her memory that began interfering with her day-today life. After being loaded up on pharmaceuticals and with disdain over the side effects, she ran to one of our local health food stores in Albany called Live

Naturally. Kristy found her way to the essential oil section and left with a handful of oils she felt could be the answer for her health. She started adding Rosemary essential oil to her homemade shampoo and began to see significant changes in her memory and brain health.

Soon, she was off all medications prescribed and taking a holistic approach to improving her health. In our time together, Kristy shared with me one conversation that she had with her husband. If he was in agreement with her developing her business and staying home with the

Dalton, at the age of 9, told her he wanted to become a bee keeper. Being the motivated mom Kristy is, she began to research what was involved with bee keeping. She found the National Honey Board, and she actually picked up the phone and called them. Knowing nothing about bees, she asked for directions on guiding this endeavor for her young son. The National Honey board sent Dalton a care package full of books on honey bees, honey, and honey lip balm. The package included all kinds of things to help him get started. Kristy says this set him on fire! It became all he wanted to do!

Hometown Living At Its Best

73

Kristy started buying bulk ingredients to perfect her formulas at home, and began working with labs to create the products she has today. One of those products is a natural shampoo. After many trial runs of getting the lather she desired from the shampoo ingredients, she has a product that people are raving about! In fact, she includes the rosemary essential oil that brought healing to her brain health.

kids, she would find a way to replace her income. And she has…

I believe life sometimes reflects a big jumbo puzzle. The things we do at times may make no sense and could appear to be out in left field. Kind-of like how those end pieces of the puzzle don’t reveal the middle.

But the middle starts coming together more strategically piece by piece. You follow the things your heart leads you to do, and then, the pieces start coming together and you start seeing the whole picture.

This was one of those instances. I can imagine Kristy didn’t see how it was going to play out when her son, Dalton, at the age of 9, told her he wanted to become a bee keeper. Being the motivated mom Kristy is, she began to research what was involved with bee keeping. She found the National Honey Board and actually picked up the phone and called them. Knowing nothing about bees, she asked for directions on guiding this endeavor for her young son. The National Honey board sent Dalton a care package full of books on honey bees, honey, and honey lip balm. The package included all kinds of things to help him get started. Kristy says this set him on fire! It became all he wanted to do!

After sharing this new journey with a few friends, Kristy was encouraged to get her son a mentor for bee keeping. She again, researched and found one in Germany who formerly lived in the U.S. His name is Mr. Ed Shillcutt. He connected her with Cheehaw Park and the Bee Club. Together, Kristy and Dalton took classes at the Bee Club and began learning about keeping bees and making honey. While they were 74

albany living magazine

learning, they would check in with their mentor, Mr. Ed, by sending him pictures of their hive and honey through Facebook. Soon, Dalton was selling the honey to teachers, friends, and people in their area. He got paid for his work and this became his business.

Being in love with holistic skin care, Kristy started using Dalton’s honey to make face masks and sugar scrubs. In the bathroom one day she noticed her sugar scrub was used up. Her first thought was, her son was eating it! One day he said, “Mom, this smells so good I could eat it!” As she was trying to

wrap her mind around how it could be disappearing so fast, she took the jar from the bathroom to make more. Later that night, her husband called her while he was in the shower. She thought he was going to ask for a towel but he asked her where the scrub was!

She asked laughing, “are you the one who is using my scrub?” He then told her it cleaned his hands from tractor farming and diesel fuel better than other products he had tried, and it didn’t leave his skin irritated. A light bulb went off because if he loved it, the whole world would!

Hometown Living At Its Best

75

Once again, Kristy began researching for the best approach to formulating skin care with natural, power house products. She enrolled in online classes yet again for anti-aging organic formulation out of the UK. She became knowledgable in what products best protect the skin, as well as learning how to treat eczema and improve psoriasis. Also, she learned about how honey was a powerful source for skin care.

Kristy started buying bulk ingredients to perfect her formulas at home, and began working with labs to create the products she has today. One of those products is a natural shampoo. After many trial runs of getting the lather she desired from the shampoo ingredients, she has a product that people are raving about! In fact, she includes the rosemary essential oil that brought healing to her brain health. She also slid me a bottle of her Honey Bee Lotion across the table. I can’t even describe how good this stuff smells and feels! As if that wasn’t incredible enough, she showed me another product she lovingly calls her “Dirt” line. She created a Dry-Rub Coffee Scrub. Kirsty developed a working relationship with Cafe Campesino in Americus to use their fair trade organic coffee grounds to make an incredible smelling, exfoliating, feel good scrub.

If you are in Albany, you can find Kristy’s product line at Livi & Co., In the Light Massage Therapy and Skincare, and Ivey’s. Outside of Albany, you can find her products expanding rapidly. Blue Hazel in Blakely, GA carries her products and she is now working with White Oak Pastures in Bluffton, GA. In Arlington, GA you can visit Still Pond Vineyards. In Thomasville, Livi & Co, and in Camilla, I Luv Linens and Pearls. Underneath the umbrella of Run To The Farm, you will find a line of jewelry hand-made by her oldest son, Dustin. He loves hunting, fishing and the outdoors. He has created a line of deer antler pieces that he puts together with the help of his grandfather, Charlie Evans. What I love the most about Run To The Farm, is that Kristy and her husband have included their family in making this business run. Many days are spent as a family filling containers, and labeling right in their home. Kristy’s youngest child is Avery Grace, and she, too, loves essential oils and helping her mom with the scents and mixing the products.

Run To The Farm is being requested in stores everywhere and Kristy is being invited to showcase her products in various fairs and agriculture expos. She coined this phrase that can be purchased on her first t-shirt made for Run To The Farm, “It’s a cotton pickin’, corn shuckin’, peanut eatin’ kind of life”.  ALM 76

albany living magazine

The Estates | Quail Valley | Quail Chase Nestled among the centuries-old oaks indigenous to this area, Oakland Plantation is a graceful 1,500-acre master planned community in Lee County.

A premier development, Oakland Plantation embodies the old sense of community where families connect, where lifestyles are wholesome, and where neighborhood friendships thrive. Rooted in the traditions of this region, life at Oakland Plantation is less about doing and more about being.

It’s All About Quality of Life. sales@oaklandplantation.com | (229) 789-0112 | oaklandplantation.com Directions: Highway 82 North to Oakland Road - turn right and follow the signs.

Hometown Living At Its Best

77

YOUR BANK OF CHOICE

We are dedicated to helping you find the financial products and services that best meet your needs.

716 Philema Rd Albany, GA 31701 • (229) 439-4030 | 2609 Ledo Rd Albany, GA 31707 • (229) 430-8080 www.colonybank.com | Member FDIC

FLOWERS FOR ALL OCCASIONS ~ SINCE 1945

Left to right Amanda Dow, Interior Designs Diane Goff, Owner and Designer Kristi Batten, Manager and Designer

Way’s

House Of Flowers

1209 Dawson Road, Albany, GA 31707 | Local: (229) 436-8104 Tollfree: (800) 525-1056

www.wayshouseofflowers.net

MY BUSINESS IS GETTING YOU BACK TO YOUR BUSINESS

DUNN’S BUSINESS SERVICES Over 20 Years Experience | On Site/Off Site Services Offered: Full Service Bookkeeping • Payroll • Budgeting • Accts Payable/Receivable Financial Reconciliation • Cost Control • Journal Entries • General Ledger QuickBooks, Small Business Expertise

2410 Westgate Dr, Ste 105 | Albany, Georgia 31707 | (229) 888-2366

229.288.4510 2734 Ledo Road • Suite 2 Albany, GA 31721

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MAEBREYMARKET Women’s and Baby Boutique • Jewelry • Gifts • Furniture • Home Decor • Monograming Hometown Living At Its Best

81

2 n

229.883.4482

2817 Old Dawson Rd Albany GA

Good food

speaks to the

www.austinsfiregrill.com

soul.

www.newmansbarandgrill.com

229.496.1176

2807 Meredyth Dr Albany GA We offer a private room to rent for gatherings, karaoke and parties.

Featuring Albany’s first state-of-the-art self-serve beer kiosk.

82

Albany Living Magazine

Finnicum Motor Company

“Where a handshake still means something!�

1372 US Hwy 19 South Leesburg, GA 31763

229-446-9960

Story by Carson Gregors

Photos by Whitney Spurlock

Painting Albany

Blue

“The most important thing you come into this world with is your name and don’t ever tarnish it.” Tom Gieryic recalled this as being the motto Roy Collier taught him and other employees at Collier’s Citgo. In 1982 Gieryic, having graduated a year prior from Albany High School, started in the automotive industry as a service station attendant. His jobs included pumping gas, changing oil, checking tire pressure and cleaning car windows. Coming to Albany his senior year of high school, Gieryic instantly fell in love with the city and community. It was at the service station that Gieryic began to establish his roots within Albany. Like many of the station’s employees, Gieryic saw Collier as a father figure and from him learned many life lessons. After Collier’s passing in 1993, Gieryic purchased the station and shifted operations from a full-service gas station to a general maintenance and repair shop.

Though the name of the business located at 2401 Dawson Road changed to Gieryic’s Automotive Repair, Collier’s legacy and influence still holds a presence within daily operations. “I like to treat my customers like I expect my daughter to be treated if she was away from home and had a breakdown,” explained Gieryic. “If you ruin your name, you can’t ever get it back.”

84

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

85

Driving through the streets of Albany and those of the surrounding cities, one will notice blue and black striped yard signs with the phrase “Back the Blue” written on them.

86

albany living magazine

The station was built around 1971, yet in recent years it has become an unexpected rallying point for our community. In 2012, the station received media coverage when Gieryic became an advocate for taking pride in flying the American flag. During this time he began distributing American flag magnets for individuals to place on the backs of their cars, displaying their support for the U.S. military. “One of the biggest things that will put a smile on a soldier’s face when he or she comes back to the country is to see the American flag,” Gieryic said after estimating that a little over 7,000 magnets were given away. Watching individuals rally around the “Fly Your Flag” movement reminded Gieryic of the reason he chose to call Albany his home—the community.

Gieryic’s passion to display gratitude to individuals serving the U.S. has once again brought the Albany community together. Driving through the streets of Albany and those of the surrounding cities, one will notice blue and black striped yard signs with the phrase “Back the Blue” written on them. These signs began to appear in front of homes and businesses in the fall of 2015, shortly after a deputy sheriff was shot and killed in Texas while pumping gas into his car. When hearing of this event on the news,

Gieryic was deeply moved. “It disturbed me so much I came outside and wrote some notes about how I felt.” He then sent that letter to the Albany Herald.

Captivated by the piece, the Albany Herald sent a reporter to do a story on Gieryic which was published along with Gieryic’s editorial piece. However, his passion to raise support for the police did not end there. “I met a lot of people when the American flag thing happened.

I made a lot of relations with important people, and when the police killings started happening, I contacted some folks and got a lot of good ideas of what maybe we could do.”

The phrase “Back the Blue” developed from a letter Gieryic read on Facebook shortly after the Texas shooting. It was written by a man expressing Gieryic’s shared feelings about supporting the police force.

After asking a lawyer to check into whether or not the phrase had been trademarked, Gieryic learned that due to the familiarity of the phrase, it was not trademarked and therefore could be used as the rallying cry to bring about communal support for law enforcement.

Gieryic enlisted the aid of his sisterin-law, Gina Anderson, to develop the Back the Blue design, which they printed in the form of small plaques for businesses to display in their building windows. “Soon we had people asking for something bigger—a yard sign.”

Gieryic and Anderson were quick to comply. A year later 3,200 signs have been distributed throughout southwest Georgia and the surrounding states; some signs travelled as far as Michigan and Colorado. Of those signs, over 600 first responders received them free of charge, this cost being offset by the sign price of $10 for civilians.

Due to popularity of the design and

The most recent expansion in Back the Blue includes the addition of two new yard signs. This expansion developed from Gieryic’s desire to help not only police officers, but also others who risk their safety and lives to aid civilians. In order to raise support and awareness for first responders, the First Responder sign was created; the proceeds from this sign are given to Albany and Lee County first responders. The second sign commemorates law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.

Hometown Living At Its Best

87

phrase, it was not long before Back the Blue T-shirts hit the press, and they, along with the yard signs, car decals and bracelets, display support for law enforcement. “Back The Blue is my way of saying that it’s not okay to kill a cop just because he is a cop. It’s not okay to kill one period, but to kill one just because he’s a cop isn’t right.

So, that’s really the meaning behind it. Now, the meaning has grown as a show of support to our law enforcement. A much, much overdo show of support,” Gieryic said.

As the community began to support the Back the Blue movement, individuals within Albany sought to join alongside Gieryic in his efforts to make a difference. Tee Taylor of the Albany

88

albany living magazine

Recreation & Parks Department contacted Gieryic and organized two basketball games and a kickball game for law enforcement and civilians to participate in. News spread about the successful turn out, sparking an idea in the minds of Chris Phillips, owner of Wild Side Running, and Livingston Fulton, owner of WSRA Radio, for a fundraiser 5K fun run/walk.

An estimated 160 individuals participated in the event, and the proceeds of this event were donated to the Albany Police Department and Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

The most recent expansion in Back the Blue includes the addition of two new yard signs.

This expansion developed from Gieryic’s desire to help not only police officers, but also others who risk their safety and lives to aid civilians.

In order to raise support and awareness for first responders, the First Responder sign was created; the proceeds from this sign are given to Albany and Lee County first responders. The second sign commemorates law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. “I had so many people want the flag out in front of my shop, the Thin Blue Line American flag, so we just put our little phrase on it,” said Gieryic as he explained how the Thin Blue Line flag sign developed.

Due to the people’s response and support of Back the Blue Gieryic has begun the process of filing to become a limited liability corporation called First Responder Signs. “We’re in the early stages of spreading this thing throughout the U.S.,” Gieryic said. “As long as cops are getting killed that sign needs to be up. My dream is that every business in town, up and down the road, displays this sign, and then at least every other house in every neighborhood has a sign.” Gieryic described several times officers and their families stopped by his shop to share stories with him of moments they saw the signs and felt a sense of assurance and safety.

When Gieryic moved to Albany he did not know the impact this community would have

on his life, neither did he foresee the ways in which he would be able to affect the lives of those around him. Through the course of the Back the Blue movement, Gieryic learned the depth to Collier’s lesson about the importance of one’s name. For through his name and reputation, he has been able to take a stand for a cause he believes in, rallying together the community of Albany, Georgia. Gieryic’s aim for Back the Blue rings clear: “Get them signs out. Let’s paint this town blue.” Several surrounding counties recently joined the movement and received permission from Gieryic to print and distribute his Back the Blue sign.  ALM

When Gieryic moved to Albany he did not know the impact this community would have on his life, neither did he foresee the ways in which he would be able to affect the lives of those around him. Through the course of the Back the Blue movement, Gieryic learned the depth to Collier’s lesson about the importance of one’s name. For through his name and reputation, he has been able to take a stand for a cause he believes in, rallying together the community of Albany, Georgia.

Hometown Living At Its Best

89

PROVIDING QUALITY SIGN SERVICES SINCE 1975

At Art Sign Company, Inc. we offer a complete list of sign solutions to accommodate your requests and satisfy your every need. From installation to crane and auger rentals and more, we know the ins and outs of sign production, installation and maintenance and can help you determine what services will suit your situation best.

2241 Toledo Drive | Albany, GA 31705 | (229) 883-4044 | artsignga.com

229.439.8896 2301 Lullwater Rd | Albany

Where Southern Smiles Grow

• We are accepting new patients!

• Parents are welcome back with their child • IV sedation with a Pediatric Anesthesiologist • Injection-Free fillings • Tooth colored fillings and crowns

Our goal is for every child

to have a great experience at every appointment.

SOUTHLANDKIDS.COM Hometown Living At Its Best

91

THE STAFFING PEOPLE

END THE HEADACHES OF: •UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS •WORKERS COMPENSATION CLAIMS •DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AUDITS • Locally Owned & Operated • We handle Recruiting • We support short-term & long-term staffing along with permanent positions • Workers Comp & Payroll Services • Drug Testing & Background Screenings

WE HANDLE IT ALL! ALL OF YOUR HUMAN RESOURCE NEEDS... MET IN ONE PLACE WITH EXCELLENCE.

WWW.THESTAFFINGPEOPLE.NET HIRING GREAT TALENT STARTS HERE! Albany Address/Phone: 1118-D Stuart Ave/229-434-1182 Americus Address/Phone: 400 West Lamar St/229-924-0476

WWW.WORLDCAMPCROSSFIT.COM

2722-6 Dawson Rd. | Albany, GA 31707

229.343.5369

SO MUCH

MORE

THAN A GYM...

A COMMUNITY! GROUP CLASS TIME

Kris Morrill, CPT Owner/Head Coach

Monday - Thursday 5:30am, 6:30am, 9:00am, 12 noon, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm Friday 5:30am, 6:30am, 9:00am, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm Saturday 9:00am - Open to the public 10:00am Women’s Class

匀吀䔀圀䈀伀匀 匀吀䔀圀䈀伀匀

p p O O

吀栀攀 䌀愀琀挀栀 匀攀愀昀漀漀搀 刀漀漀洀 ☀ 伀礀猀琀攀爀 䈀愀爀 簀 䠀愀爀瘀攀猀琀 䴀漀漀渀 簀 䠀攀渀爀礀 䌀愀洀瀀戀攀氀氀ᤠ猀 匀琀攀愀欀栀漀甀猀攀 䴀愀渀漀爀 䠀漀甀猀攀 倀甀戀 簀 䴀攀爀爀礀 䄀挀爀攀猀 䤀渀渀 ☀ 䔀瘀攀渀琀 䌀攀渀琀攀爀 簀 吀栀攀 匀栀愀挀欀攀氀昀漀爀搀 䠀漀甀猀攀

吀栀攀 䌀愀琀挀栀 匀攀愀昀漀漀搀 刀漀漀洀 ☀ 伀礀猀琀攀爀 䈀愀爀 簀 䠀愀爀瘀攀猀琀 䴀漀漀渀 簀 䠀攀渀爀礀 䌀愀洀瀀戀攀氀氀ᤠ猀 匀琀攀愀欀栀漀甀猀攀 䴀愀渀漀爀 䠀漀甀猀攀 倀甀戀 簀 䴀攀爀爀礀 䄀挀爀攀猀 䤀渀渀 ☀ 䔀瘀攀渀琀 䌀攀渀琀攀爀 簀 吀栀攀 匀栀愀挀欀攀氀昀漀爀搀 䠀漀甀猀攀

stewbos.com | 229.496.1185

嘀椀猀椀琀 猀琀攀眀戀漀猀⸀挀漀洀 昀漀爀 洀漀爀攀 椀渀昀漀爀洀愀琀椀漀渀 漀渀 漀甀爀 戀爀愀渀搀猀 愀渀搀 挀愀琀攀爀椀渀最⸀ Hometown Living At Its Best

85

嘀椀猀椀琀 猀琀攀眀戀漀猀⸀挀漀洀 昀漀爀 洀漀爀攀 椀渀昀漀爀洀愀琀椀漀渀 漀渀 漀甀爀 戀爀愀渀搀猀 愀渀搀 挀愀琀攀爀椀渀最⸀ Hometown Living At Its Best

85

THE

PREMIER DEALERSHIPS IN THE AREA

COME BY AND VISIT US TODAY!

2926 N SLAPPEY BLVD | ALBANY, GA 31701

Ford • Lincoln Albany, GA

229-883-3100

OR VISIT US ONLINE AT SUNBELTALBANY.COM

Their deep faith in Christ drives them to give the best of themselves to every job.

Story by Keisha Cory Photos by Eric S. Love

96

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

97

As a strong faith based business, the Pool Brothers believe that every project and every detail should be done in a way that honors God. This can be found in their company mission statement which reads, “We create functional living spaces and quality flooring work by providing quality products and labor that is done with integrity and excellence. While doing so, we strive to love our neighbor as ourselves, and ultimately bring glory to God.�

98

albany living magazine

If you have driven through the neighborhoods and communities of Albany and Leesburg, you have passed

by countless homes that have been transformed by the Pool Brothers. From designer kitchens, spa bathrooms, and flooring that is out of this world, they have emerged as one of the leading interior construction companies in the area. For those of you who don’t know, David and Keith Pool are the Pool Brothers. Natives of Albany, Georgia the brothers have a passion for working with homeowners in our community to make their dreams come to life inside their homes.

Speaking of dreams, the Pool Brothers are currently pursuing their purpose, and building out the newest phase of their local business. The company is

expanding with a brand new home interior showcase for one stop shopping! Complete with a design center for kitchens, cabinets, bathrooms, lighting, and flooring, this new space will provide a great environment for residents of southwest Georgia to plan their next home renovation. The hit TV show on HGTV, Fixer Upper, has stirred the hearts of many to update their living spaces, and make them more current with today’s trends. With David and Keith Pool in town, you don’t need Chip and Joanna Gaines to fix up your home. Just call the Pool Brothers! I have seen their work, and they have the amazing skills needed to make homes beautiful, but also the kind of integrity in business that brings peace of mind to every customer.

I recently spent a morning with David and Keith

Hometown Living At Its Best

99

Talent is God given, and is cultivated the best with the adversity of life. Success comes when you persevere through life’s challenges, and the trials you face ignite your purpose. For the Pool Brothers, quality craftsmanship has opened the door for them to pursue their purpose that runs much deeper than windows and walls.

Pool catching up over coffee, and hearing about their newest endeavors. Can I just say I walked away excited about how blessed our city is to have talent that matches the best in the world. When talent is coupled with a mission, I believe there are endless opportunities to make a mark in our community that reaches the world.

I’ll share a little more about that mission later in the article. But first, let me introduce you to David and Keith.

After talking to the brothers, I feel like I have a front row seat to watch this new venture come to life. Ironically, as an Albany, Georgia native myself, my desk in high school was right in front of David!

Alphabetically seated, his name put him right behind me. Being the talker that I was, I often turned around in an effort to get him to crack a smile. David was a quiet student, and a good one. I distinctly remember being intrigued with him and his demeanor. He was mature for his age and focused. I only shared two years of high school with him at Byne Baptist School, but I remember he didn’t entertain the silly things most kids allow to consume their time. He didn't even waste time hanging out after school. Being limited in my

100

albany living magazine

understanding of life at that age, I can look back and see what I didn’t notice then. Due to circumstances at home that many families face, David answered the call at a young age to shift his life into a leadership role for his brother, as well as a support for his family. Digging into our conversation, I discovered that David was leaving school to work. I didn’t know that then, but if you were looking for David after school, he could’ve been found on construction sites doing interior trim work. {There are times when our perception about a person predetermines who we believe they are. But when we stop at perception, we may never uncover the compassionate nature of a person that sometimes resides deeper than the surface.} Little did David know, when he was developing his skills as a high school student, he was setting an example that his younger brother, Keith, would follow.

An expert at tile and flooring in his own right, Keith committed to developing his skills at a young age as well. Talking to Keith about the business, he reminisced of how it started for him working part-time while attending classes at Darton College. While laying tile on the side, he didn’t realize that he was actually laying the groundwork that would become his career. Quite honestly, neither of them knew it then, but together the brothers learned that hard work and dedication would be the foundation of their family business. Talent is God given, and is cultivated the best with the adversity of life. Success comes when you persevere through life’s challenges, and the trials you face ignite your purpose. For the Pool Brothers, quality craftsmanship has opened the door for them to pursue their purpose that runs much deeper than windows and walls.

As a strong faith based business, the Pool Brothers believe that every project and every detail should be done in a way that honors God. This can be found in their company mission statement which reads, “We create functional living spaces and quality flooring work by providing quality products and labor that is done with integrity and excellence. While doing so, we strive to love our neighbor as ourselves, and ultimately bring glory to God.” As you can see, home renovation means much more to David and Keith than just the hammer and nails.

Every time they start a project, their desire is to complete it as if it were their own home. They carry the golden rule of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you� throughout every phase of their business from the design to completion. Their deep faith in Christ drives them to give the best of themselves to every job. By doing this, they find fulfillment in knowing that they are using their God-given talents to make a difference in the lives of the residents of southwest Georgia.

As a team, the Pool Brothers are a match made in heaven, no pun intended! David and Keith complement each other with their skill sets. While David is out on the field as the Operations Manager and overseeing the Project Managers, Keith is the Business Director. Keith manages all things internal of Pool Brothers. He devotes his attention to client relations, branding, supplier relations and finances. Together they are the team you should consider for any home project you may be dreaming of completing!

For more information on the Pool Brothers, visit their website: poolbrosflooring.com or view their Instagram page @poolbrothers and while you are out, stop by their new showroom located on Oakland Parkway in Leesburg. ď • ALM

Hometown Living At Its Best

101

229-344-2931 | shaefoyphotography.com facebook.com/shaefoyphoto | Follow on instagram: shaefoyphotography

W.C. Webb, owner

The

Parlor salon & boutique (229) 439-2253 2 4 1 8 We s t g a t e B l v d . A l b a n y, G e o r g i a 3 1 7 0 7

Hometown Living At Its Best

103

LOVE. SERVE. REMEMBER

229Yoga is Everyone’s Studio Regardless of religion, culture, age or political views, we all have something in common - the desire to feel better and relieve stress.

Our purpose and passion is to help those living in Southwest Georgia enhance the quality of their lives and create a blissful, joyful, balanced well-being.

2620-C Dawson Road | Albany, GA 31707 | 808-284-7548

summer 2016

Dennis A. Robinson, M.D.

Tracy A. Bridges, M.D. Michael A. Fowler, PA-C

Nancy L. McKemmie, PA-C Erin M. Cannington, M.D.

ALLERGY AND ASTHMA CLINICS OF GEORGIA, P.C. (229) 438-7100 Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

105 Spanish Court Albany, Georgia 31707 (Inside Grand Island)

We thank you for your continued support and consider it an honor to serve you.

APPOINTMENTS (229) 438-7100 albanyinfo@aacoga.com

REFILL REQUEST/DOCTOR QUESTIONS (229) 438-7100 albanynurse@aacoga.com INSURANCE/BILLING QUESTIONS (229) 438-7100 billing@aacoga.com

Hope City United is a non-denominational, cross-cultural church in the heart of Albany, GA. Founded in January of 2016 by Pastors Trent and Keisha Cory, the mission of Hope City United is to share the love of God with the city of Albany from the inside out. The Cory’s are equipped with 17 years of full-time ministry experience, and take great joy in helping people maximize their relationship with God. Hope City United meets at the historic State Theatre at 313 Pine Ave every Sunday at 5pm. Children’s ministry is provided, and there is a weekly youth service on Wednesday evenings. If you are looking for a place to call home, the search is over! We can’t wait to meet you!

For more information, email hopecityuc@gmail.com or visit www.hopecityuc.com facebook.com/hopecityuc Instagram @hopecityuc Twitter @hopecityuc

I

I

I vey’s

p O

Since 1952

Your Family’s Destination For Casual, Modern Classic clothing & Accessories

229.432.0622 108 N Westover Blvd • Albany, GA 31707

www.iveysalbanyga.com

We make financing your land easy.

APPLY ONLINE at SWGAFarmCredit.com

COMPETITIVE RATES 20-YEAR TERMS MEMBER DIVIDEND PROGRAM

Josh McGalliard NMLS 700138 JMcGalliard@SWGAFarmCredit.com 229.254.0053

SWGAFarmCredit.com

Member dividends are at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

Hometown Living At Its Best

107

2 n

Our Name Says It All With much excitement, Women’s Health Professionals welcomes Penny Champion, CNM and Sharon Pierce, CNM.

Our Name Says It All At Women’s Health Professionals, it’s no coincidence that the first word in our name is

appointments now available

WOMEN.

We pride ourselves on our decication to women, through all the stages of their lives.

Thomas Talley, MD, FACOG • Paul Smurda, MD, FACOG Penny Champion, CNM • Sharon Pierce, CNM • Lynette Talley, CNM, WHNP

Thomas Talley, MD, FACOG • Paul Smurda, MD, FACOG Emily Sumner, MD • Lynette Talley, CNM, WHNP

414 Fifth Avenue • Albany, GA 31701 • 229.883.4555 • WomensHealthAlbany.com 229.883.4555

108

Albany Living Magazine

414 Fifth Avenue Albany, GA 31701 WomensHealthAlbany.com

2610 DAWSON RD STE 1 | ALBANY, GA | 404.938.9640 find us on and @shopibizaboutique

For people who feel their pet is a family member.

410 410NNWestover WestoverBlvd Blvd || 229.883.1618 229.883.1618 Hours: Hours:M/T/Th/F M/T/Th/F8am-6pm 8am-6pm || W/S W/S8am-12pm, 8am-12pm,5pm-6pm 5pm-6pm

westoveranimalhospital.com westoveranimalhospital.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

109

Na m a s t e Sylvia Maxwell is yoking Albany’s people and places.

Story by Lexi Anthony Photos by Eric S. Love

110

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

111

112

albany living magazine

Sylvia’s true passion lies with connecting people. “That’s our inner human desire to connect. We’re not meant to be alone.” Sylvia finds that the best way to establish these connections and teach others how to create these connections is through the practice of yoga.

As the sun shines above the trees throughout Tift Park, the dew still beads on the blades of grass beneath my feet. I stand on the yoga mat and inhale a bit of cool morning air that is practically unheard of during the sweltering Georgia summer. Listening to the peaceful sound of leaves rustling above me brings me to my center and aids my relaxation that is much needed after a stressful week. I watch as a beautiful woman with long black hair wearing leggings and an Albany Yoga Project tank top takes her place in front of everyone and greets her impromptu class. My teacher this morning is Sylvia Maxwell, and yoga is one of the outlets for her passion.

Hometown Living At Its Best

113

Sylvia Maxwell lived in Pittsburgh for 20 years before moving back to her hometown of Albany earlier this year. She “saw it as an opportunity because there’s more yoga students in Pittsburgh than there are in New York.” She is the mother of twin boys, who she states are her greatest accomplishments. When asked how she balances it all, she replies, “I don’t. I feel like I’m keeping my head above water, but I don’t think I’ve worked a minute. I’ve never gotten up early until the past three months of my life, and it’s because I want to.”

Sylvia’s true passion lies with connecting people.

“That’s our inner human desire to connect. We’re not meant to be alone.” Sylvia finds that the best way to establish these connections and teach others how to create these connections is through the practice of yoga.

“Yoga means to yoke, so that’s what yoga really means is to yoke. Yoke people and to yoke yourself so you can connect. Yoga is connecting, and it’s connecting people.”

She gets emotional as she recalls a time in the airport where she helped a little girl establish the connection that she desperately wanted with. “I was in the airport when I was flying home from New York a few days ago, and there was this little girl. Her mom was on her phone and the little girl says, ‘Mama, look at this,’ ‘Mama, look at that,’ and ‘Mama, get off your phone.’ I’m just sitting there thinking please get off your phone and listen to that child. The mom still wouldn’t pay her attention. So, I called her over and asked, ‘Can you do a handstand?’ and she goes, ‘Um

114

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

115

116

albany living magazine

Sylvia attempted to absorb all of the useful insights gained from Baptiste and realized that she hadn’t been living her life to the fullest. “I left there and thought, ‘Oh my gosh. I’m not the person I thought I was. I haven’t been living my truth so that’s kind of where the work started after I left.”’

kinda.’ And we did handstands in the airport.”

She begins to tear up as she recalls the little girl being called by her mother because their gate had been changed. “I got emotional when I saw her walk away because it was the connection. That’s what she was looking for was a connection, and she couldn’t get it.

I’m glad I could give that connection to her.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

117

118

albany living magazine

“Yoga can be a little bit intimidating. People just think it’s this status quo workout. I’m trying to integrate it throughout the community that can be there for anyone… It’s about linking the community together, and I wish there was more of me and more time to do it.”

Though some may believe that yoga is simply an exercise that helps one relax, Sylvia proudly states that “Yoga is a life’s work.” Sylvia first stepped on a mat after becoming interested in a class in the area where she resided in Pittsburgh. “They were just starting a hot yoga class in the little suburb that I lived in, so I went and tried it. I almost couldn’t finish the class, but I felt so good afterwards. That’s where the journey started.” After becoming a certified “yogi”, or person who practices yoga, Sylvia decided that it was time to share the powerful connections she gained to others by becoming a certified instructor.

“I was looking to go to a yoga teacher training, and my yoga teacher at the time said, ‘Well, maybe you should go to Baptiste Power Yoga. It seems like it’s more your style. They are all about empowerment.’

And I said, okay, sure. I thought I was going to learn how to teach yoga for a week, but

that’s not what it was about.”

She traveled to study under the famous Baron Baptiste. Baptiste has been teaching his own methodology of yoga for over 25 years, but he teaches his students lessons for a fulfilling life, not just how to complete the Warrior or Downward Dog poses.

“Baptiste… what he does is basically makes you come to your truth so you spend a lot of time talking in front of 160 people about the things that we hide.

He believes that we all have a lie we tell ourselves. I’m not good enough. I’m not tall enough. I’m not smart enough. I’m not thin enough. It starts when we’re young and that little lie kind of curves and shapes our entire life.”

She reflects that though “our lie causes us to hide,” one of the greatest things we can do for ourselves is learn to say “so what?” about our lie. “Our lie just Hometown Living At Its Best

119

needs to be out there, and we need to learn to be the fullest expression of ourselves. Baron Baptiste believes that you can’t connect and teach people a powerful yoga class unless you are authentic in yourself and in your teaching.”

Sylvia attempted to absorb all of the useful insights gained from Baptiste and realized that she hadn’t been living her life to the fullest. “I left there and thought, ‘Oh my gosh. I’m not the person I thought I was. I haven’t been living my truth so that’s kind of where the work started after I left.”’

After Sylvia returned, she wanted to share this information with others; therefore, she started the Albany Yoga Project. The inspiration for the Albany Yoga Project lies behind the Baptiste Power Yoga: Africa Yoga Project. This organization travels to different areas of

120

albany living magazine

Africa and attempts to help residents connect through the practice of yoga. Sylvia has brought this same premise to the Albany area. “Yoga can be a little bit intimidating.

People just think it’s this status quo workout. I’m trying to integrate it throughout the community that can be there for anyone… It’s about linking the community together, and I wish there was more of me and more time to do it.” Currently, Sylvia does not have a studio of her own, but she mainly spreads the word and boosts involvement by hosting pop-ups at local businesses and participating in community-sponsored events. Not only has she hosted events that boost local businesses such as Namaste and Shop at Blush Albany boutique, but she has also hosted sessions such as Yoda Yoga during the Movie in the Park at Riverfront event that promoted community involvement. By attempting to merge people throughout the city of Albany, Sylvia describes her goal as helping people discover “the beauty of the practice itself.”

Sylvia says, “A lot of people are intimidated by the poses and that kind of thing, but you can flow in a way where anyone from 9 years old to 90 years old can do it.

We can all connect in that way because Albany is divided and that’s my goal: to eventually bring that humanitarian piece of the Albany Yoga Project to Albany.”

She not only links people through the Albany Yoga Project, but she also searches to join people from all walks of life through her other businesses: Stand Up Paddle Boarding, SUP Yoga, and Stand Up Girl. Though Sylvia discovered her true self through power yoga, she enjoys floating down the tranquil water of the Flint River as she stands on her paddle board.

“I’m level two ACA certified to teach paddle, and I’m certified to teach SUP Yoga. I do SUP Yoga, paddle lessons, and my brainchild, Stand Up Girl, which is a teen empowerment program.”

Paddle boarding is a fairly new sport that involves taking what is essentially a surfboard, gaining enough balance to stand on top of it holding a paddle, and then using the paddle to move the paddle board in the direction you want it to go. SUP Yoga involves performing yoga atop the paddle board which sounds like a difficult feat but Sylvia believes that anyone can do it.

Although both of these business ventures are outlets for Sylvia’s passion for connections, Stand Up Girl proves to be her favorite.

Stand Up Girl is a four day program for girls who are rising 5th through 8th graders where Sylvia seeks to establish a definite union and empower these young

women to effectively take on middle school, high school, and life in general.

“We do yoga on the mat and yoga on the board, but the girls have to get their board on and off the trailer, put their fin, or their skeg, on themselves, and get it all ready. But, we have conversations about inclusion, exclusion, everything...

We talk a lot about what it is that you’re really good at. It may be playing the flute. Then, you play that flute the best that you can.”

She says that this idea emerged when she began to think about her past experiences in junior high and high school.

“I was bullied in high school… I didn’t even think I was pretty. I had no idea. I thought I was this oddball so my memory of high school left a bad

taste in my mouth. I thought to myself here’s this great new sport that’s really cool and hip. I think yoga and paddle boarding are both great. It’s just a way to empower, have them do something cool, different, and unique.”

Sylvia also serves to connect with her Stand Up Girls by teaching them the beauty of being the fullest expression of themselves and the power of yoga.

“Teens are my focus as far as leaders in the Albany Yoga Project. They are the future… They are the ones who are going to change the world. They’re the leaders of this town so we have to teach them what we know.”

She believes that the next generation must be taught the importance of making valuable ties with others.

“Society has changed because of cell

phones and that kind of thing so there’s a lack of connection. For example, looking in the eyes, you don’t see that much with teenagers anymore. We’re losing that and what’s it going to be like in 20 years if we’ve lost that connection.

That’s where the yoga comes in. It’s all about connections with people.”

As the sun begins to shine a little brighter and the temperature begins to elevate, I have become fully relaxed and have established a new connection with myself and my instructor. I inhale, as Sylvia states, “The light in me honors the light in you.” As I exhale all of my struggles, worries, and stress in a single breath, Sylvia ends her class and transfers her students back into the world by stating, “Namaste.”  ALM

Hometown Living At Its Best

121

Let Us Make InsUrance easy!

2 n

We can offer you a multitude of options for your needs, including auto, home, agribusiness, farm, and life insurance.

We keep the client in mind.

1115 W. 3rd Ave | Albany, GA 31707 | (800) 833-4379 | (229) 436-2408 | flemingins.com

tents & events specialists

Quality. Experience. Reliability.

229.883.5777 | rentaldepotonline.com | 2200 Gillionville Rd in Albany 122

Albany Living Magazine

10% off

products to new clients (select stylist only)

2818 Old Dawson Rd | Albany, Georgia | (229) 888-3500

Capelli salon is a passionate, energetic, and fun environment. Our enthusiastic staff are ready to provide you with the best results no matter what the service!

We offer cut, color, highlights, upstyles, airbrush makeup, spray tans, manicures, and brow waxing!

Call us to book appointments!

Your Hometown Bank Serving Southwest Georgia since 1903

• Checking Accounts • Savings Accounts • Certificates of Deposit

• Loans • Overdraft Protection

2101 North Slappey Boulevard Albany, Georgia 31707 www.fsbanks.com | (229) 888-0774 Hometown Living At Its Best

123

p O

2 n

OXFORD

CONSTRUCTION COMPANY 229.883.3232 | 3200 PALMYRA RD, ALBANY

WWW.OXFORDCONSTRUCTION.COM

The best gift idea when you have no idea. + ALBANY-MALL.COM Redeem at participating Mall Merchants Intersection of Dawson Rd. & Stuart Ave. Open Mon-Sat 10am-9pm | Sun 1pm-6pm

124

Albany Living Magazine

When it comes to offering quality dentistry in a modern, high technology facility, Longleaf Dental is in a class of its own.

Jeffery R. Singleton, DMD | Charles L. Clark, Jr., DMD | Martin B. Clark, DMD

602 Pointe North Blvd., Albany, Georgia 31721 | 229-514-1235

Hometown Living At Its Best

125

2 n AAPHC

Albany Area Primary Health Care

Primary Care Internal Medicine Family Medicine Pediatrics Women’s Health Dentistry Podiatry Behavioral Health

Albany Area Primary Health Care is a multi-specialty physician group with offices in 6 counties across Southwest Georgia. We have more than 70 Providers who are accepting new patients and want to help you live a healthier - and longer - life.

Call us at: 229-888-6559 Visit our Web Site: www.AAPHC.org Follow us online at: Facebook.com/AAPHCINC 126

Albany Living Magazine

KNIG APPAREL•GIFTS

1545B US HWY 19 SOUTH | LEESBURG GA. 41763

(229) 483-0501

Knights Apparel and Gifts

knightsapparel

Buffet & Drive Thru • Catering

2401-A Old Dawson Rd. • 229.439.1600 Hometown Living At Its Best

Catering by Open Roads

127

p O

Oen Imitated. Never Duplicated. e Choice is Yours!

2 n

1360 US Hwy 82 W Leesburg, Georgia 229.435.8346

albanyair.com 2500 West Gordon Ave | Albany, GA 31707 | Phone: 229.436.0341 | Fax: 229.436.6252 128

Albany Living Magazine

Your one stop shop for all your apparel, hunting, and FIshing needs!

p O

We carry Drake Waterfowl Systems, Heybo, Costa del Mar, Under Armour, Southern Marsh, Sanuk, Teva, and more apparel brands.

The

1486 US Highway 19 S | Leesburg, Georgia | (229) 438-1395

Cookie Shoppe

A Downtown Albany Institution!

Sub sandwiches on homemade bread, daily soup specials, salads, cookies and authentic middle eastern baklava! Our family has been serving lunch, daily, to the fine people of Albany for the last 30 years.

115 N Jackson St Albany, GA | (229) 883-3327 Mon-Fri: 7:00 am - 3:00 pm Hometown Living At Its Best

129

on the Diamond Hayes Cook saw the opportunity to teach kids how playing sports can help them to pursue their dreams, and live the life of a champion when their playing days are far behind Story by Trent Cory

130

albany living magazine

Photos by Shannon Campbell Photography

Hometown Living At Its Best

131

D

Did you know that Albany, Georgia is home to Team Elite South, the 2015 17U East Coast Championship baseball team? Neither did I, but pulling into Synergy Sports Academy for my interview with owner Hayes Cook took me back to the days when I loved to play the game of baseball myself. The facility, which houses 5 indoor batting cages, 3 pitching lanes, and a 3.5 acre outdoor practice field, is conveniently located off of Ledo Road and it shines with excellence.

After walking into the lobby, I approached the office where Hayes invited me like family into a baseball conversation that was already in progress. Director of baseball operations Hunter Brettel, another coach and a parent, along with

132

albany living magazine

The sum of all the moving parts it takes to develop young people from home, to school, to churches, coaches, teachers…it’s all of those parts moving together that help to develop kids into who they have the potential to become. And all of those moving parts are working together in this community. So Synergy…that’s just what it is.

“Hayes Cook and Synergy Sports Academy are the reason my son is experiencing success on and off the field. When he needs someone to talk to, the first call he makes is to that man right there�

Hometown Living At Its Best

133

Hayes were talking about upcoming lessons and games. After being introduced by Hayes to the room, the parent of a college-bound student athlete quickly made it known declaring “Hayes Cook and Synergy Sports Academy are the reason my son is experiencing success on and off the field. When he needs someone to talk to, the first call he makes is to that man right there” pointing to Hayes. It

134

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

135

immediately became obvious to me that although Synergy develops championship teams, and gives lessons to children of all ages, these facilities were here for a reason far greater than bats, gloves, baseballs, and softballs.

Academy owner Hayes Cook has lived and breathed baseball since he was a child. Born and raised right here in Albany, Georgia, Hayes played baseball at Sherwood Christian Academy and went on to play college baseball at South Georgia College as well as Kennesaw State University. After finishing his baseball career, and moving away to Atlanta to pursue other business opportunities, Hayes found himself away from the game that he had once so loved. Following a 5 year hiatus from baseball an Atlanta based travel organization approached him about coaching and Hayes gave it a run. His first experience was not one that he relishes in remembering, but it awakened something inside his heart. For the first time he started thinking that the kids in Albany and Southwest Georgia shouldn’t have to leave town to find a place to develop their skills and abilities. But even more importantly he saw the opportunity to teach kids how playing sports can help them to pursue their dreams and live the life of a champion when their playing days are far behind.

After leaving the coaches and parents behind in the office, I had the opportunity to sit down with Hayes one-on-one, to talk about sports, kids, and dreams. Overlooking the beautiful new practice facility and fresh cut grass, we fittingly pulled up two buckets of baseballs as seats, and talked about what Synergy Sports Academy and Team Elite South baseball is all about.

It became really obvious in the first few moments that bringing Synergy Sports Academy to Albany meant the world to Hayes. After living in Atlanta for 7 years baseball once again became something that was missing from his life. So after agreeing to coach for a travel team in Atlanta the light came on. There was nothing like this in his hometown of Albany. He began to believe that kids should not have to leave Albany to receive the best training and play for great organizations. And on top of that, the reward for doing it in his 136

albany living magazine

Well, just in the last few years Synergy had over 40 kids playing baseball and softball at the college level. And that requires more than just talent on the field. 95% of the students that get involved at Synergy have had an increase in GPA since becoming a part.

“Success for us is not based on whether or not these kids make it to the major leagues.

We are more concerned about helping them learn to win the world-series of life.�

Hometown Living At Its Best

137

hometown has opened the door to walking through the grocery store and running into some of the very same people that shaped his own life. Now he gets to do the very same thing. In his own words, Hayes told me “it has just become the ultimate ‘give back’ and it’s unexplainably fulfilling.”

There’s definitely a reason this place is called Synergy. Early in the process Hayes was struggling for a name. In a discussion with his fiancé over logos and designs she asked him, “What do you always talk about when you’re teaching players?” He replied, “Well, I talk to them about rhythm and energy flow, character, integrity, hard work, the importance of academics, and all those things that are hard to grasp for some kids.” All of sudden one night out of nowhere she says, “I’ve got it!” He said, “You’ve got what?” She said, “The name of the academy. Synergy!” It took Hayes a while to get his mind around the marketing and branding thoughts, but now he firmly believes it couldn’t be named anything else. In Hayes’ words, “It’s so much more than a brand name or a business. The sum of all the moving parts it takes to develop young people from home, to school, to churches, coaches, teachers…it’s all of those parts moving together that help to develop kids into who they have the potential to become. And all of those moving parts are working together in this community. So Synergy…that’s just what it is.”

Synergy is having an impact on the kids involved in the program beyond the game. In just the last few years, over 40 kids from the programs are playing baseball and softball at the college level. Playing at that level requires more than just talent on the field. I learned through spending time with Hayes and the coaches that 95% of the students involved at Synergy have had an increase in GPA since becoming a part. Everyone loves the fact that Team Elite South won a 17U East Coast Championship last year, but even more impressive is that the student-athletes are also champions in the classroom.

138

albany living magazine

Some of the most important principles taught to the kids at Synergy apply on and off the field. According to Hayes, one of the greatest things young people can learn is how to manage failure. He told me, “The greatest hitters of all-time failed more than twice for every time they succeeded. So I kind of view us (Synergy), and our coaches like bumpers that you can use for kids at a bowling alley. Sometimes they will roll the ball straight, but when they don’t, we are there on either side to guide them with the eventual goal of helping them to hit the center pin.”

I asked Coach Hayes what he wanted parents and their children to know about Synergy Sports Academy and he replied, “Success for us is not based on whether or not these kids make it to the major leagues. We are more concerned about helping them learn to win the world series of life. It’s the kids that make this thing successful not me, and not our coaches. And for the parents… our greatest hope is that none of us would place unrealistic expectations

on the kids from a performance perspective. At the end of the day, we try to encourage the parents that their most important job is to be their child’s biggest fan.”

Hayes and the coaches at Synergy believe kids can be successful at anything. As we were wrapping up our conversation Coach Hayes summed it up by saying, “When you get around successful people doing what you want to do regardless of what it is, it will rub off on you. I love what I get to do, and I want to be a part of helping young people seize opportunities, and realize their dreams. I have the best job in the world…I literally feel like the luckiest guy in world.”  ALM

For more information on Synergy Sports Academy and Team Elite South Visit synergysportsacademy.org and teamelitesouth.com

Academy owner Hayes Cook has lived and breathed baseball since he was a child. Born and raised right here in Albany, GA, Hayes played baseball at Sherwood Christian Academy, and went on to play college baseball at South GA college as well as Kennesaw State University.

Hometown Living At Its Best

139

2 n

“We Build more than just Buildings! We Build Lasting Relationships, Communities, Trust, Memories and the Future.”

Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool—Alpharetta, GA ~ Walter Elliott Photography

www.pellicanoconstruction.com ALBANY (CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS) 415 PINE AVENUE, SUITE 200 ALBANY, GA 31701 PHONE (229) 883-6000

ATLANTA 990 HAMMOND DRIVE, NE BUILDING ONE, SUITE 970 ATLANTA, GA 30328 PHONE (770) 542-2400

MACON 3985 ARKWRIGHT ROAD SUITE 107 MACON, GA 31210 PHONE (478) 254-2772

SAN ANTONIO 17803 LA CANTERA PARKWAY SAN ANTONIO, TX 78257 PHONE (210) 569-0964

Happy Holidays To All From Your Friends at

Albany General Tire

60

1002 W Broad Ave | Albany, Georgia | (229) 436-2484 140

Albany Living Magazine

YEARS OF SERVICE

p O 1155 Dawson Rd, Albany, GA 31707 | (229) 883-0716

Hometown Living At Its Best

141

2 n

142

Albany Living Magazine

p O CATERING AVAILABLE • HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY 7AM - 2PM SUNDAY 8AM - 2PM

Sarah Edmonds, Owner

“Where taste buds” 229.405.2294

2206-A Dawson Road • Albany, GA 31707 Hometown Living At Its Best

143

Nursing Care Services

Courteous Service

2 n

that Promotes

Client Wellness

Angelite

HOMECARE CENTER, LLC

• Complex Wound Care • Ostomy Care • Catheterization Care • Enteral Feeding • IV Infusion • Diabetic Management & Teaching • Visiting Nurse • Medication Administration / Management Personal and Companion Services • Ambulating Assistant • Personal & Oral Hygiene • Light Housekeeping • Grooming • Meal Preparation • Bathing Assistance • Shopping & Assistance • Escort Services • Safety Monitoring • Errands • Medication Reminders • Dressing & Feeding

706-621-7331 / 706-621-7330 / 229-410-5130 www.angelitegroup.com

HOME SWEET LOAN. From starter homes to vacation homes, we have you in mind. www.abtgold.com 2815 Meredyth Dr., Albany 241 Pine Ave., Albany 1204-A US Hwy. 19 S, Leesburg 144

Albany Living Magazine

DEERFIELD-WINDSOR SCHOOL

p O

K4-12th Grade There is a difference. DWS. Take a look.

229.435.1301

Lower School: 1733 Beattie Road | Upper Campus: 2500 Nottingham Way Albany, Ga | www.DEERFIELDWINDSOR.com

Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, P.C. Certified Public Accountants and Advisors 406 North Westover Boulevard in Albany | 229.435.4611 | www.hcrhcpa.com

Hometown Living At Its Best

145

2 n

Now with 9 doctors,and 5 locations,you’ll never be far from your friends at Dental Partners of Southwest Georgia!

138 Oakland Pkwy Leesburg, GA 31763 (229) 432-2213

1514 West 3rd Ave Albany, GA 31707 (229) 436-6144

105 Mayo Street Americus, GA 31709 (229) 924-2746

919 US Hwy 19 S Leesburg, GA 31763 (229) 888-3550

108 W. Pope Street Sylvester, GA 31791 229.776.6431

mydentalpartners.com

Jay A. Williams, DMD | Chad A. Bush, DMD Richman M. Margeson, DMD | Thomas E. Wright, III, DMD L. Willis Miles, Jr., DMD | Amanda S. Merritt, DMD Cecil O. Myers, Jr., DMD | A. Hugh Hudson, DDS Jessica E. Seubert, DDS

DJ’s II Car Wash & Quick Lube

Locally owned & operated for over 43 years!

2535 Stuart Avenue, Albany 229.888.6262 146

Albany Living Magazine

p O

Flower THE

BASKET 2243 Dawson Rd, Albany, GA 31707

eflowerbasket.net 229.432.2950

OF ALBANY

WE DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY HERE Prince Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac Of Albany has a wide selection of new, used and GM certified Chevrolet, cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. Experience the superior service at Prince Automotive Group in Albany, and see how we do things differently here!

2701 Ledo Road, Albany, GA, 31707 | Sales: 888-494-2829 | Service: 888-497-0668 Hometown Living At Its Best

147

Story by

Sherri Martin

Photos by

Stallian Cagle

if at first you don’t succeed Jerri Jarrell is proof that it is never too late to strive for a goal, and to make a difference in people’s lives.

148

albany living magazine

Reaching a life goal takes hard work, patience, and determination. Yet all too often, setbacks can derail a person’s attempts to achieve. For those who persevere in spite of setbacks, the accomplishment can bring satisfaction and provide inspiration for others.

Jerri Jarrell knew from an early age that she wanted to work in the medical field when she grew up. “It’s something I wanted to do – actually the first memory I have of ever wanting to do anything,” she explains.

Hometown Living At Its Best

149

She even began taking classes at Southwest Georgia Technical College while still in high school, studying to become a certified nursing assistant. This was the first step to her dream, but soon the dream would take a back seat to something – or someone – more important: her first daughter. “After a couple of semesters, I had had my first daughter,” Jarrell says. “I was a new mom; I was a young mom. I had to figure the mother thing out.”

She put her college dreams on hold to be a stay-at-home mom, and in a couple of years was the mom of two little girls. She decided it was time to try for her dream again, so she enrolled in 150

albany living magazine

Albany Tech in 2010, working towards a degree as a medical assistant. However, after two semesters in, she realized the cost of daycare for her two little girls was prohibitive. The dream was put on the backburner once again.

Fast forward to 2014. Jarrell has added a baby boy to her growing family. The desire to finish what she started is stronger than ever. She says about going back at the time, “This is something I’ve always wanted to do. I have two kids in school and a best friend who would keep my third.”

But the reason for going back was about more than just fulfilling a dream; it was for the future of her children. “I wanted to do something that would

make their lives better,” she says.

She went back to Albany Tech in 2014, as part of the “Go Back. Move Ahead” initiative, a collaboration of the University System of Georgia, the Technical College System of Georgia, and the Georgia Student Finance Committee.

The initiative (gobackmoveahead.org) pairs adult learners with advisors to help them with class choices, credit transfers, and financial options. Jarrell used a Pell

“To never give up. No matter how hard it is, never give up.”

She says that while her children thought it was neat that their mom was doing homework alongside them, the best lesson they have is her example: “To never give up. No matter how hard it is, never give up.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

151

Grant to go back and finish her degree, and she says, “It was worth it.

“The third time around was much easier than I thought it would be -- even easier than the first,” she adds. “I had the mindset that I was going to finish, no matter what.”

The third time was the charm for Jarrell, who says, “Albany Tech offered the handson training I needed, allowing me to walk out of school into my chosen profession as a medical assistant.” She says. “I’m a certified medical assistant at Phoebe Orthopaedic Specialty Group.”

She completed her externship program at Phoebe Orthopaedic, where now she is busy helping take care of patients. “I put casts on, splint patients, give injections, triage patients,” she says. “There’s so much that I like. We stay busy. I love working with the doctor that I work with and the other people I work with.”

Jerri Jarrell is proof that it is never too late to strive for a goal, and to make a difference in people’s lives. She says that while her children thought it was neat that their mom was doing homework alongside them, the best lesson they have is her example: “To never give up. No matter how hard it is, never give up.”  ALM

The third time was the charm for Jarrell, who says, “Albany Tech offered the handson training I needed, allowing me to walk out of school into my chosen profession as a medical assistant.” She says. “I’m a certified medical assistant at Phoebe Orthopaedic Specialty Group.”

152

albany living magazine

Unleash your childs imagination and creativity by visiting the beautiful new Blue Jaie Learning store.

All types of toys and crafts to help and educate and inspire your future artist, engineer, doctor, nurse or teacher! One stop shop gift ideas for the inquisitive child in your life.

To refresh your home style design or office with distinctive design and dĂŠcor, look no further than our very own Kay Fuller Interiors! Melissa Hill has a keen eye for unique items that transform your surroundings.

Wild Side Running is your place for helping equip you with the best running, walking and gym shoes on the market! Keep your fitness goals for 2017 on track by stopping in to see Chris for all of your athletic needs!

Enjoy your pool for years to come with expert advice from Hinman Pool Supply! This team is

decades deep in the pool industry. Advising you on every aspect , including Cleaning tips to help you have a do-it-yourself crystal clear pool for years to come! A great way to kick off 2017.

Personalized attention is the fashion at Royal Collection! Fine ladies apparel and accessories boutique with something for every taste. They are a favorite for local Albany husbands who call asking for help picking out just the right gifts for their wives. From dressing for a fine event, to great casual wear, Royal Collection is the place to shop.

With your wellbeing at heart, the trained staff at Journey Counseling is here for you! In todays challenges, let Journey Counseling help you and your family navigate your way successfully.

They provide all types of counseling for all ages, and offer psychological testing for IQ, Learning Disorders, ADHD, Autism and more.

Hometown Living At Its Best

153

We provide psychological testing (IQ, Learning Disorders, ADHD, Autism, and more) and counseling for individuals of all ages for the South Georgia area.

229-255-3099 2339 Lake Park Drive | Albany, GA 31707

Hours of operations: Monday - Thursday | 8am-6pm & Friday | 8am-5pm 154

Albany Living Magazine

UNLEASH THEIR IMAGINATION AND CREATIVITY!

Blue Jaie Learning is a children’s toy and crafts store specializing in toys that are educational and that foster a child’s imagination and creativity.

2355 LAKE PARK DRIVE | ALBANY, GA 31707 | (229) 449-6160 Hometown Living At Its Best

155

WILD SIDE R U N N I N G 2341 Lake Park Drive • Albany, GA 31707 • 229.395.5778

WWW.WILDSIDERUNNING.COM

GET YOUR POOL TODAY! We are decades deep in the pool industry, and we’re excited to share our knowledge with you!

2361 Lake Park Dr | Albany, Georgia | (229) 344-4200

hinmanpoolsupply.com 156

Albany Living Magazine

at

Royal Collection 2347 Lake Park Drive Albany, GA

~

229.446.1106

Distinctive Design & Decor

ROSEMARY WEST PHOTOGRAPHY

M E L I S S A HILL NEW OWNER

2 3 5 1 L a ke Pa r k D r i v e 229-888-0752 M o n d a y - Fr i d a y 10am - 5:30pm S a t u rd a y 10am - 3pm

L A N C A S T E R V I L L A G E • A L B A N Y , G E O R G I A Hometown Living At Its Best

157

This group’s passionate pursuit comes with its own sweet reward.

Story by Sherri Martin

158

albany living magazine

Photos by Eric S. Love

e

Every second Thursday evening of each month, a disparate group of people meet in the Creekside Education Center in the Parks of Chehaw. They are male and female, young, seniors, and in between, all with one goal: to gather and share information about beekeeping.

The apiarists range from those who have just started with their first hive to those who have been keeping bees for years. There are those who view beekeeping as a backyard hobby, and those who are making a living with it. Some have a very few hives; others have hundreds.

Hometown Living At Its Best

159

Other club members agree that beekeeping can be addictive.

No matter their position in the beekeeping world, the need for information and support is constant.

When Jan Jones and her family of Bainbridge first started with their four hives, she says they were told, “The first thing you need to do is join a beekeepers club.”

She adds, “There is a steep learning curve. There’s a lot you don’t know.”

The SOWEGA club formed in 2011; today it has over 60 members.

The club also has a good relationship with Chehaw, where they maintain the Chehaw Bee yard and hold periodic Bee Skools. “We have a fabulous relationship with Chehaw,” explains Gail Rakel, club president. “They allow us to use the facility when there is not a paying customer. We go halves on the beehives. They pay for half of the wooden hives; we give them half the honey.”

The club’s Chehaw Apiary Committee and Barbara Gagnon, head apiarist, maintain the Bee Yard.

They use the hives to educate both club members and the general public, and to hold Bee Skools, which often result in new club members and new beekeeping enthusiasts.

However an interest in beekeeping begins, it is an interest that usually grows. Dr. Kent Simmons, a dentist in Albany, first started beekeeping to

160

albany living magazine

Hometown Living At Its Best

161

162

albany living magazine

maintain his father’s hives after his father had a stroke. “The first time I went out to the hives, it was a zen moment,” he explains. “Now it’s my therapy.”

And now he has 30 hives that produce about 2500 pounds of honey a year. He has won two national awards for that honey, which he harvests and sells. He is also a certified Welsh Honey Judge, having gone through the certification program of the University of Georgia Entymology Department. His experience comes in handy when the club holds its annual honey show each fall.

Other club members agree that beekeeping can be addictive. “Once you start you can’t hardly stop,” Monte McDonald of Leesburg says. He has been keeping bees for three years and has 30 hives. What started as a hobby to help with pollination of his garden has also turned into a side job. He builds and sells oxalic acid vaporizers, which target the Varroa mite, a top pest for bees.

The SOWEGA Beekeepers speak a language that is different from the general public, but they have found an enthusiasm for a hobby, pastime, or job that is vital to the world. It is a passionate pursuit that comes with its own sweet reward.

Hometown Living At Its Best

163

Special guest speakers during the monthly meetings share new ideas or techniques, but often the most information shared takes place in the small groups that knot together following the meeting.

Others have turned bees into a full career, such as club Vice-president Cheney Tye of Calhoun County, who sells honey, rents out bees for pollination, and specializes in bee removal. Dewayne Pitts of Sumter County has plans to double his number of hives from 200 to 400 by fall, and to begin taking his hives across the country to California, like Tye does, for pollination purposes.

They both agree that the club is important for the sharing of information about beekeeping, as does McDonald.

164

albany living magazine

“People in here are in every stage of beekeeping,” McDonald says. “They want to guide you…the ultimate goal is keeping those bees alive.”

He adds that while the Georgia Department of Agriculture does have a chief apiary inspector, he is busy and not always available to help. “That’s why bee clubs are so important,” he adds.

Special guest speakers during the monthly meetings share new ideas or techniques, but often the most information shared takes place in the small groups that knot together following the meeting.

Hometown Living At Its Best

165

“The first time I went out to the hives, it was a zen moment. Now it’s my therapy.”

Discussions range from why bees are swarming outside of the hive to mite problems to how to tell if a queen is still in a hive. They speak of Langstrath hives and top bar hives, of smokers, supers and nucs.

The buzz of conversation rises and falls until the last few beekeepers leave for the evening.

The SOWEGA Beekeepers speak a language that is different from the general public, but they have found an enthusiasm for a hobby, pastime, or job that is vital to the world. It is a passionate pursuit that comes with its own sweet reward.  ALM

166

albany living magazine

Looking Forward To Serving Your Family’s Medical Needs!

Devell Young, MD, Charles Gebhardt, MD, Maria Nelson, FNP-C, Mike Patton, PA-C, Carla Johnson, PA-C, Dee Patton, FNP-C, Bruce Houston, DO, Michael Satchell, MD

Family Medicine, Internal Medicine

101 Oakland Crossing Drive, Leesburg, GA 31763 • (229) 432-1440

If you are looking for a club to call home, you’ve found it at Doublegate.

L

ocated in Albany, GA, Doublegate offers an 18hole championship course designed by George Cobb, Shirley Cooper, and Jack Rowe. The club was originally owned and developed by Angus Alberson, Charles Oxford, and O.D. Carlton, II. Doublegate Country Club provides elegant seating for your next 10 person business meeting or 225 person banquet. With a great atmosphere and caring staff, we will learn your every need and take care of it all for you. Your event will be memorable for all present.

• 18 Hole Championship Caliber Golf Course – George Cobb Design • Tennis Center with lighted hard and clay courts • Fitness Room • Swimming Complex • Ala carte Lunch and Dinner Service • Banquet Space seating up to 225 • Spacious Clubhouse with Men’s and Ladies Locker Rooms • Teaching professionals on Staff • State of the art teaching equipment • Affordable Golf and Social Memberships available – Call to be our guest for a day

3800 Old Dawson Rd | Albany, Georgia | (229) 436-6501

“The Plantation Room” Albany’s newest and finest dining experience by Chef Jabbaar Newton

doublegatecc.com Hometown Living At Its Best

167

2 n

HEALTHY SMILE, HEALTHY YOU

DDS, PC

1315 Dawson Rd | Albany 229.436.1518 168

Albany Living Magazine

2420 Westgate Drive | Albany, GA 31707 | (229) 432-7440 www.anniehowarddds.com

Visit usaveitpharmacy.com to find a location near you.

DUREN PRO 1 COLLISION PAINT & BODY

103 Branch View Street | Leesburg, Ga (229) 438-0021

1554 US Highway 19 S | Leesburg, Ga (229) 888-3633

We’ve got you covered.

CUT. COLOR. STYLE. BELLA’S HAIR SALON

2206 Dawson Rd, Albany, GA 31707 | (229) 446-0020 Hometown Living At Its Best

169

p O

WE KNOW FRUIT, AND THAT’S A FACT. Whether it’s a birthday or simply a Tuesday, we have the fresh fruit gifts that everyone loves, for every occasion.

711 North Westover Blvd, Suite H | Albany, GA 31707 | 229-785-8100

O F F I C E

H O U R S :

Mon-Fri: 8:00-5:00 By Appointment Closed 12:00-1:30 for lunch

1110 North Monroe Street | Albany, GA 31701 Phone: (229) 888-8121 | Fax: (229) 888-6374 www.swgapeds.com 170

Albany Living Magazine

p O

when it comes to your health!

Latifat T. Agbeja, MD Anita J. Bell, MD Harry N. Dorsey, MD Frank D. Jones, MD Charles H. Kemp, MD

Kay C. Kitchen, MD J. Stephen McLendon, MD Jinne’ N. Richards, MD JosephW. Stubbs, MD Stephanie L. Williams, MD

ALBANY INTERNAL MEDICINE (AIM) 2402 Osler Court, Albany, GA 31707 | (229) 438-3300 | www.albanyim.com

INSURANCE. ANNUITIES. INVESTMENTS. Helping families prepare for the future.

BLAINE STRICKLAND

2539 Lafayette Plaza Drive | Albany, GA 31707

www.woodmen.org | (229) 903-1516 Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society, Omaha, NE Hometown Living At Its Best

171

2 n

TRUST THE GLASS breakfast • lunch • dinner

Experts

• AUTO GLASS • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL GLAZING Elements Coffee Co serves premium lattes & cappuccinos, delicious baked treats, deli sandwiches, soups & salads.

(229)435-8579 219 Cedric Street, Leesburg, GA

2726 Ledo Rd, Ste 10 | Albany, Georgia | (229) 435-1163

2822 NOTTINGHAM WAY, SUITE 5 IN ALBANY

172

Albany Living Magazine

229.439.0508

(229) 883-4152 www.kimbrellstern.com Mortuary Crematory & Memorials Crown Hill Cemetary

cupcake

Maybe a

p O

will help?

1503 Daw s on Rd. Alban y, GA 31707

Service Since 1880

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Monday - Saturday 11am - 8 pm 2818 Old Dawson Rd. Suite 4 Albany, GA 31707

(229) 420-9700

We specialize in Corporate & Business Accounting, Accounting for Individuals, Payroll, and Income Tax 165 Bill Whitaker Rd | Dawson, GA 39842 (229) 995-5999

Owner Lani Milling Studio: 435-2377 Cell: 291-0117

2418 Suite 3 Dawson Rd, Albany | DanceCompanyAlbany.com | Ages 2 & Up Hometown Living At Its Best

173

2 n

The Local

Marketplace Albany is growing and steadily becoming a central marketplace for our area.

We offer great retail shopping, restaurants and services.

If you haven’t done so lately, take the time to look around your hometown and discover all the wonderful things there are to find.

A Albany FISH COMPANY

1921 Dawson Road • 229.496.1721

Elegance Nails 229-883-5997 2516 Dawson Rd #A Albany, GA 31707 (Largo Plaza)

208 West Lamar Street | Americus, GA 31709

229-924-8888 174

174

Albany Living Magazine

Brooks County Magazine

WIN TE R 201 6

Tracy A. Bridges,

M.D.

e, PA-C

Nancy L. McKemmi

also...

YORGIAA,NP.DC. ASTHMA

n, M.D.

8-7100

ours: 30 p.m.

h Court 7 gia 3170

d Island)

support r continued . onor to serve you

We’ll Come to Your Doorstep

albany th Faith Running wi er ght, is no long

Life, for Kni gs of material thin about the nces and the experie life. youth, but people in his

tifuylly auirt BeD

NTS APPOINTME 00 (229) 438-71 aacoga.com albanyinfo@

T/DOCTOR REFILL REQUES QUESTIONS 00 (229) 438-71 acoga.com albanynurse@a

s your heart lead ow the things When you foll ing together and pieces start com you to do, the picture. le who the you start seeing

STIONS /BILLING QUE INSURANCE 00 (229) 438-71 .com billing@aacoga

HOMETO

ING WN LIV

Namaste

Sylvia Max

’s ing Albany well is yok places. people and

bany Blue Painting Al display ’s passion to

Gieryic serving the individuals gratitude to ught Albany e again bro together.

U.S. has onc community

EST AT I T S B

We hear it all the time. Readers don’t want to miss an exciting issue of Albany Living Magazine. Now you can make sure a copy is delivered right to your home, so you’ll never miss a story.

Detach and return bottom portion with payment to PO Box 55, Glennville, GA 30427

o Yes, I want a 1 year subscription to Albany Living Magazine, that's 2 issues for $15.00 Begin my subscription with o June 2017 Issue

Name________________________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________State____________________________Zip_________________________ Phone_______________________________________________________________________________________ Email________________________________________________________________________________________ Send to (if different): Name________________________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________State____________________________Zip_________________________ Payment o I am enclosing Cash, Check or Money Order Amount submitted______________ o Please charge my: [ ] Visa

[ ] MasterCard

[ ] AMEX

Credit Card #____________________________________Exp._________________ Card CCV Code__________ Billing Address, City, State, Zip___________________________________________________________________ Name on card________________________________________________________________________________

index of advertisers

229 Yoga ……..............................................................….. 104 AB&T …....................................................................…….. 144 Adams Exterminators …….............................................….. 52 Albany Air Conditioning & Heating …….......................….. 128 Albany Area Chamber of Commerce …..................…….. 36-37 Albany Area Primary Health Care ……...............…............. 126 Albany Fish Company …............................................…….. 174 Albany General Tire …...............................................…….. 140 Albany Internal Medicine ………........................................ 171 Albany Living Magazine Subscription ……....................….. 175 Albany Mall ……...........................................................….. 124 Albany Motorcars & BMW of Albany ………. Inside Front Cover Albany Technical College ……......................................….. 126 Albany Urology Clinic ……................................................….. 5 Allen’s Jewelry …….......................................................….. 141 Allergy and Asthma Clinics of Georgia, P.C. .. 105, Back Cover Angelite Homecare Center, LLC ............................……….. 144 Annie Edwards Howard DDS, PC ...................................... 168 Art Sign Company, Inc. ……...........................................….. 90 ASP …….......................................................................….. 142 Austin’s FireGrill ……......................................................….. 82 Backwoods Outdoors ………............................................. 129 Bellas ……...................................................................….. 169 BJ’s Buffet & Drive Thru ……........................................….. 127 Bliss Nails Spa …......................................................…….. 172 Blue Jaie Learning..............................................................155 Breakaway Cycles ….................................................…….. 125 Capelli Salon ……........................................................….. 123 Colony Bank ………............................................................. 78 Custom Interiors ………....................................................... 19 D & D Kitchen Center ………................................................ 47 David Smith Autoland …...........................................…….. 174 Deerfield-Windsor School …….....................................….. 145 Dental Partners of Southwest Georgia ……….................... 146 DJ’s II Car Wash & Quick Lube …..............................…….. 146 Doublegate Country Club ................................................. 167 Dougherty Glass Company ……...................................….. 172 Dunn’s Business Services ………......................................... 80 Duren Paint & Body ……..............................................….. 169 Edible Arrangements …............................................…….. 170 Elegance Nails ......................................................……….. 174 Elements Coffee Co. ….............................................…….. 172 Envy ……….......................................................................... 63 Fast Copy Blueprint ……..............................................….. 108 Finnicum Motor Company ……......................................….. 83 First State Bank of Albany ………...................................... 123 Fleming & Riles Insurance ……....................................….. 122 Flint Community Bank ………............................................. 2-3 Flint Equipment Company ……......................................….. 66 Georgia Center MedSpa ………...................................... 20-21 Harvey Drilling …...................................................…….. 48-49 Hickory Grove Storage at Oakland Plantation ….......…….. 142 Hinman Pool Supply...........................................................156 Hope City United ……...................................................….. 106 Huggins Outboard ……..................................................….. 64 Hutchins Clenney Rumsey Huckaby, P.C. …..............…….. 145 Ibiza Boutique ………........................................................ 109

Ivey’s ……..................................................................….. 107 Jones & Co Accounting …….......................................….. 173 Journey Counseling & Psychological Services, LLC.........154 Kay Fuller Interiors...........................................................157 Kimbrell-Stern Funeral Directors ……........................….. 173 Knights Apparel and Gifts ……..................................….. 127 Lancaster Village ……........................................….. 153-157 Longleaf Dental ….................................................…….. 125 LRA Constructors, Inc. ……........................................….. 143 Lucky Dog Outfitters …….............................................….. 22 Maebrey Market ………..................................................... 81 Medical Associates of Albany ………............................... 167 Mellow Mushroom ……...............................................….. 65 Merry Acres Inn & Event Center ……............................….. 94 Millie Mac Photography ……..................................….. 50-51 Modern Gas ………........................................................... 67 Newman’s Bar & Grill ……...........................................….. 82 Oakland Plantation ……..............................................….. 77 Oxford Construction Company ……...........................….. 124 Pellicano Construction ….......................................…….. 140 Phoebe ……................................................................….. 53 Plantation Collision Center ……................................….. 128 Pool Brothers Cabinets + Flooring + Lighting …….........….. 9 Prince Automotive Group of Albany …....................…….. 147 Pro 1 Collision ……....................................................….. 169 Pro 1 Sportswear Inc. …….........................................….. 172 Renasant Bank ……...................................................….. 141 Rental Depot ……......................................................….. 122 Royal Collection..............................................................157 SafeAire Heating & Cooling ………...................................... 1 Sellers Tile ………............................................................. 33 Shae Foy Photography ………......................................... 102 Smallcakes …........................................................…….. 173 Southern Pines Senior Living and Memory Care …….. 34-35 Southern Point Staffing ……................….. Inside Back Cover Southland Children’s Dentistry ………............................... 91 Southwest Georgia Farm Credit …….........................….. 107 Southwest Georgia Pediatrics, P.C. …....................…….. 170 Southwest Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, LLC ……......….. 7 Speed Shop & Truck Accessories …….......................….. 108 Stewbos …...............................................................…….. 94 Sunbelt Ford Lincoln ……............................................….. 95 The Cookie Shoppe ……….............................................. 129 The Dance Company ……..........................................….. 173 The Flower Basket …..............................................…….. 147 The Kinnebrew Co. ……..............................................….. 174 The Parlor Salon & Boutique ………................................ 103 The Staffing People ……..............................................….. 92 U Save It Pharmacy …............................................…….. 168 Urban Lizzie ……..........................................................….. 23 Way’s House of Flowers ……........................................….. 79 Westover Animal Hospital …..................................…….. 109 Wild Side Running...........................................................156 Wildflour Cafe ……....................................................….. 143 Women’s Health Professionals ………............................ 108 WoodmenLife ….....................................................…….. 171 World Camp Crossfit ............................................……….. 93

Shop locally and please thank these sponsors for making this publication possible!

176

albany living magazine

The Ultimate Driving Machine

®

We’re out to exceed your expectations with outstanding customer service by offering: Free Loaner Cars, Pickup & Delivery, Concierge Service & so much more.

Work or Play...

2016 Mercedes-Benz

C-Class Sedan

Southwest Georgia’s Top Pick For Your Employment Needs.

We are your Human Resource Solutions provider,

specializing in temp to perm and direct hire placements. We also provide temp labor, day labor and skilled labor.

We handle all of the Human Resource and Workers’ Comp costs and paperwork so you can focus on your business.

2016 BMW

X4

We have a 24-hour on call manager to be there when you need us.

Affordable Luxury A Click Away AlbanyMotorcars.com or BMWofAlbany.com

Two Luxury Brands - One Incredible Location

Albany Motorcars & BMW of Albany 805 E. Oglethorpe Blvd. • Albany, GA. • 800.476.2040

229.405.2284 | 1107-A 8th Ave. • Albany, GA 31707 | office@southernpointstaffing.com

winter 2016

Dennis A. Robinson, M.D.

albany

Tracy A. Bridges, M.D. Michael A. Fowler, PA-C

Nancy L. McKemmie, PA-C Erin M. Cannington, M.D.

ALLERGY AND ASTHMA CLINICS OF GEORGIA, P.C. (229) 438-7100 Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

105 Spanish Court Albany, Georgia 31707 (Inside Grand Island)

We thank you for your continued support and consider it an honor to serve you.

also...

Running with Faith Life, for Knight, is no longer about the material things of youth, but the experiences and people in his life.

APPOINTMENTS (229) 438-7100 albanyinfo@aacoga.com

REFILL REQUEST/DOCTOR QUESTIONS (229) 438-7100 albanynurse@aacoga.com INSURANCE/BILLING QUESTIONS (229) 438-7100 billing@aacoga.com

Namaste Sylvia Maxwell is yoking Albany’s people and places.

When you follow the things your heart leads you to do, the pieces start coming together and you start seeing the whole picture.

Painting Albany Blue

Gieryic’s passion to display gratitude to individuals serving the U.S. has once again brought Albany community together.

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