Houston County Living - Summer 2022 by With You In Mind Publications

Hometown Living at its Best S u m m e r 2022 HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

Chloe Collins IS TURNING HER HOBBIES INTO HANDIWORK

SCENES OF HOUSTON Beauty is indeed all around us and in endless supply. Take a look at a few more reasons why we love Houston.

KELSEY’S HEART WARMING JOURNEY

Eighteen years ago in a Russian orphanage, Kelsey Anastasia Norris’ life was about to change for the better.

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Residential, Commercial, Outdoor Hometown Living At Its Best

Hometown Living at its Best

Turning Hobbies into Handiwork Chloe Collins’ love of art grew as her education expanded and turned her favorite childhood hobby into her

CONT E N TS /

SUMMER ISSUE 2022

full-time job.

One for All When small businesses band together for the good of the whole, it creates a uniquely close-knit community.

Mingle with your Mutt Barks N Brews is an off-leash dog park and bar that was created for our four-legged friends to exercise and socialize in a large, open space.

32 The Station 31072 Restoring History with Home-Town Traditions, and Hidden Houston County Gems.

ON T H E C O V E R Chloe Collins >> TINIKA BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY 4 SUMMER 2022 / HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

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Hometown Living at its Best

Luxury at Your Fingertips

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Founded by Dr. Ania Rynarzewska, Lux Leonis uses naturally fresh ingredients in each high-quality self-care product.

100

A True Crafts Woman

Heather Peebles’ love for woodworking led to an unexpected vocation - furniture maker.

116

Kelsey’s Heart Warming Journey

Eighteen years ago in a Russian orphanage, Kelsey Anastasia Norris’ life was about to change for the better.

130

Paying it Forward First

The Second Saturday Market, hosted by Serving Forward, is an ongoing monthly event that not only provides for the local community of Houston County, it pays forward and gives back as well.

144

Life Savers

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

6 SUMMER 2022 / HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

For P.A. Nikki Lytle, founder of Mental Health 1st nonprofit, educating others on mental health and how to recognize depression in others is a undertaking she has proudly accepted.

158

Community at Your Fingertips

Ashleigh Deakin, has created a Facebook page for women in surrounding areas to connect with local moms.

Steven Wilson 478-922-8114 2801 Watson Blvd, Warner Robins geico.com/warner-robins-wilson ¡Hablamos Español!

From the Publisher

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

Jay and Patti Martin C r eat i v e | D e s i g n Caffeine Generated Graphics

Stacey Nichols o f f i ce M a n age r Nikki Burkhalter A s s i s ta n t

This last weekend was Father’s Day and, my wife, Patti’s

M a n age r June Dixon

birthday. It has been a family tradition to gather at the dinner table for a simple meal. During the meal everyone shares anything funny or special that may have taken place in the last few months. Many times someone will share a special meeting or encounter that took place. In some instances it is referred to as a “God Thing”.

We also have a tradition of telling the person who is

celebrating their birthday one special character trait or a tribute that we appreciate about them. As each person at the table shared a special characteristic they had seen exemplified by Patti, a pattern began to develop. Some of the qualities that were brought up was; her heart for others, her gift of making people feel special, being an encourager to others. When each child had shared their solution to a situation they had encountered earlier in the meal it was very similar to the special characteristics that someone had pointed out about Patti. She is an example of do as you see me do!

P h otog r ap h y Tinika Bennett P h otog r ap h e r s Courtney Kitchens Photography

Jennifer Demaro M. Farmer Photography Tinika Bennett Photography C ov e r P h oto Chloe Collins, taken by

Tinika Bennett Photography Sa l e s Dorothy Sichelstiel

Dottie Hicks Patti Martin Tinika Bennett Contributing Wri te r s Alexa Tebben

Happy Birthday! I love you!

Jennifer Demaro

Stephen Prudhomme

Proverbs 31

Valerie A. Rose

Jay and Patti Martin

Sales: (912) 654-3045 Email: jay@wyimpublications.com houstoncountylivingmedia.com 8

D i r ec to r O f

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Houston County Living© is published semi-annually by With You in Mind Publications. houstoncountylivingmedia.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.

Fall 2020 CHATHAM COUNTY LIVING

Beautifully maintained, Magnolia Park has options for every type of memorialization and offers both affordability and enduring quality. Our newly expanded Veteran’s Garden of Valor features a custom-made POW-MIA memorial. Spaces for Veterans will always be provided at no charge. Burial Lots | Private Estates Mausoleums | Cremation Options Free spaces for Veterans

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4 1 7 So u th Hou s ton L ake Road | Warner Robi ns, GA 31088 | (478) 953-1478 |mccullo ugh fh .co m Hometown Living At Its Best

Turning Hobbies

into Handiwork

houston county living

Story by ALEXA TEBBEN | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

Chloe Collins, owner of Third Bowl Pottery,

Chloe Collins’ love of art grew as her education expanded and turned her favorite childhood hobby into her full-time job.

is a spirited artist who has turned her favorite childhood hobby into her full-time job. “I started in high school,” she recalls. Chloe’s art teacher saw the passion and potential in her from the start. “I loved it so much that she was making pottery classes just for me,” Chloe admits. “I was the only one in those classes.” Her love of art grew as her education expanded. Chloe studied fine arts at Georgia College in Milledgeville with a minor in psyche.

Hometown Living At Its Best

Overall, Chloe has loved every minute of this exciting journey. “I’m getting to meet and see people in our own community who are rallying around and supporting our local artists,” she says. “I’ve built really great relationships with people that I otherwise never would have met.”

While pottery was her pride and joy, Chloe planned to become an art therapist. “However,” she says, “I had to get a master’s degree to do art therapy, and with COVID it wasn’t a good time to go back to school.” Graduated from college and newly married to her high school sweetheart, Jacob, Chloe once again turned to creating art. In October of 2020, she took a giant leap in starting her own business, Third Bowl Pottery. “At first it was a bunch of friends and family who were supporting me,” Chloe says. “But they started sharing it and the word got out.” Chloe threw herself into making unique tableware, hanging planters, lamps, jewelry, and more. She created a small studio space in her basement just big enough for her kiln and other essential tools. “There’s just enough space for one person to work down there,” she says. The studio is a personal oasis where she explores her creative freedoms. After designing, creating, and painting her first set of pottery, Chloe hopped on Etsy to begin selling her work. “I was completely blown 14

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Hometown Living At Its Best

houston county living

away,” she says of her first sale. “I had 70 items

just me and my husband. We really like to host,

posted on Etsy and only three items left after

and [the business] felt like adding another plate

the sale. That was really encouraging.”

to our table.” Jacob is beyond supportive of

After only a few months, her business was

Chloe’s business. He acts behind the scenes

thriving and Chloe decided it was time for

keeping her books and ensuring the website

growth. While Etsy was a great tool to start

continues to function.

with, she moved her work to its own website and officially became Third Bowl Pottery. In addition to her website is Third Bowl

Not many people know the extent of work that goes into each piece of pottery. “It’s a really slow process,” Chloe says. “Pottery has taught

Potter’s Instagram page. Followers are updated

me a ton of patience because you can’t do

on new products, restocks and unique custom

anything quickly.” The many steps of pottery-

orders. It is nearly impossible to browse her

making can be tedious and laborious, but Chloe

products without finding something you

loves it all the same.

absolutely must have. “The whole premise of pottery to me means community,” she shares. “At the time, it was

To start, she removes the clay from the bag it comes in, puts it on a wheel, then throws or rolls it into a slab or shape. The clay

Hometown Living At Its Best

sits anywhere from a few hours to two days depending on the weather. Next, she places “We have a great community,” Chloe says of their support system. “Both of our parents live about five minutes from us, and we are extremely plugged in at Kings Cross Baptist Church in Perry.” The outpouring of love and support their family and church has offered has been overwhelming. “We volunteer in the youth group in our church,” she tells me. “Some of the kids help me pack orders after the restock.”

the clay back on the wheel where she centers it, trims it, and cleans up the edges. It sits out again, this time for a week. Then it bakes in the kiln before the glazing. At this point, Chloe adds designs, dips it, or paints it with a solid glaze. The pottery returns to the kiln where it runs overnight. The next day it is cooled and ready for unloading. “It’s a long process to finish one piece, but you fill up the whole kiln,” she explains. “It’s a lot of multitasking. You’re working with whatever’s dry enough to work with each day. There is

houston county living Hometown Living At Its Best

Hometown Living At Its Best 19

nothing like pulling a completed batch of pottery from the kiln.” Fostering has been a unique journey of its own. “Kids teach you so much about yourself,” Chloe says. “When you go from zero to three kids you just take it day by day. We feel really blessed by what we’ve learned through this.”

Knowing the amount of work and detail that goes into each small step changes the value you place on a small bowl of pottery. Chloe’s customers appreciate her careful attention to detail that stands out in each beautiful piece. Third Bowl Pottery offers custom wedding registries for customers. “You can email me

houston county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

houston county living

Above her talent as an artist stands Chloe’s obvious heart for God. “Anything that comes from my hands, I want it to be glorifying to the Lord,” she says. “The talent that He’s given me, I want to use to serve Him. I want the community that’s invested in it to be getting a glimpse of Him through my work whether it’s a gift they’re getting in a hard time or a casserole they’re getting in celebration of a new baby.”

that you’re interested and then if you’re local, we’ll set up a time to have a consultation,” Chloe explains. “We’ll look at different glazes and clay and you can look at different products and choose what you want on your registry.” Brides that are not local can have a virtual consultation and have their items shipped. For all customers, Chloe says, “I ship all over and I offer local pick up. One of the things that are kind of different is that you can pick up off my front porch.” Customers enjoy swinging by the site of origin to collect their muchanticipated pottery. Above her talent as an artist stands Chloe’s obvious heart for God. “Anything that comes from my hands, I want it to be glorifying to the Lord,” she says. “The talent that He’s given me, I want to use to serve Him. I want the community that’s invested in it to be getting a glimpse of Him through my work whether it’s a gift they’re getting in a hard time or a casserole they’re getting in celebration of a new baby.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

Third Bowl Pottery offers custom wedding registries for customers. “You can email me that you’re interested and then if you’re local, we’ll set up a time to have a consultation,” Chloe explains. “We’ll look at different glazes and clay and you can look at different products and choose what you want on your registry.” Brides that are not local can have a virtual consultation and have their items shipped.

This attitude of service shines bright with each business dealing. Not only does Chloe approach business with this attitude, she lives her life with similar values. Desiring to serve the Lord and show love to others, Chloe and Jacob decided to become foster parents to three young siblings. “I wanted to foster since I was younger,” Chloe says. “We had talked about it and we just felt called specifically to this family.” Fostering has been a unique journey of its own. “Kids teach you so much about yourself,” Chloe says. “When you go from zero to three kids you just take it day by day. We feel really blessed by what we’ve learned through this.” Each day, Chloe and Jacob are walking in the calling the Lord has placed on their hearts. They love their foster children with all the love the Lord has given them. “We have a great community,” Chloe says of their support system. “Both of our parents live about five minutes from us, and we are extremely plugged in at Kings Cross Baptist Church in Perry.” The outpouring of love and support their family and

houston county living

church has offered has been overwhelming. “We

around and supporting our local artists,” she

volunteer in the youth group in our church,” she

says. “I’ve built really great relationships with

tells me. “Some of the kids help me pack orders

people that I otherwise never would have met.”

after the restock.”

Every sale of Third Bowl Pottery allows

Overall, Chloe has loved every minute of this

Chloe to continue using the talent the Lord has

exciting journey. “I’m getting to meet and see

blessed her with in a beautiful expression of

people in our own community who are rallying

love and faithfulness.HCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

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for your intricate needs Patricia Johnson chose Summerhill for her rehabilitation needs and never looked back.

When it comes to rehabilitation, finding the best care for your intricate needs is a critical aspect of the healing process. Summerhill Senior Living’s top notch medical professionals are committed to the improvement of each patient’s health. Patricia Johnson chose Summerhill for her rehabilitation needs and never looked back. “I had knee replacement surgery and before that I was falling a lot because my knee was giving way,” Patricia recalls. “Now I’m here to strengthen up my legs and learn to walk again.” Having heard of Summerhill Senior Living’s impeccable reputation, she confidently sought their services for this healing process. “My husband’s grandmother was here several years ago and they were really good to her,” Patricia says. “I’ve only heard good things about them.” From the first day of her treatment, Patricia was met with unmatched kindness and professionalism in

each staff member of Summerhill. “Everybody has been exceptionally nice from the therapist on down to the ladies that come in and check on you,” Patricia says. Physical therapy is never easy, and Patricia admits that she has her good days as well as her bad days. “Days that I want to just stop, they push it a little bit – but that’s what they’re supposed to do, and I appreciate it,” she says. “They don’t let me give up.” In just over a month, Patricia’s mobility improved exponentially. “When I got here, I couldn’t walk,” she says. “They were having to get me in and out of the bed with one of their lifts. Now I’m able to get up with my walker and walk and get in my wheelchair.” Patricia expresses immense gratitude for the important role Summerhill has played in her journey. “Come and give them a chance. They’ve been wonderful. And the food is great too,” she concludes with laughter.

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STORY BY VALERIE A ROSE PHOTOS BY TINIKA BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY

Restoring History with Home-Town Traditions, and Hidden Houston County Gems

Picture yourself on a Saturday afternoon driving in southern Georgia, one dirt road leading to the next, a few turns, and not to speak of many stop lights or intersections. Suddenly you find yourself in front of place that favors an old historic gas station and store, now standing tall with beautiful windows, painted murals on the walls and a warm country welcome that invites you into the front door. This is how many have to come to find The Station 31072, in Pitts, GA. Whether you find it on accident or on purpose, once you’ve ventured inside, you come to discover a multitude of many hidden treasures from our local Houston County communities, to other surrounding communities and states too, there is a variety of goods to choose from. In fact, two local Houston County artists are highlighted here in this same issue, so be sure to stay tuned

32 houston county living

Station 31072 The

Hometown Living At Its Best

Customers, who stop at The Station 31072, are invited to get the QR code too and take a tour on their way home or before leaving town. Also, they are encouraged to stop by the sunflower field to take pictures. These sunflowers will be in full bloom between late June and early August, depending on their planting date, so check out Oliver Farm’s Facebook page for more details.

houston county living

Hometown Living At Its Best

36 houston county living

Clay is constantly looking for new challenges and thinking about what to explore next, which has not only led to an expansion of many other oils and gluten free flours, but he has plans for expanding at the station to offer both educational courses and entertainment. He has future dreams to build a kitchen and be able to utilize not only their own Oliver Farm products, but those that are sold at the station as well so that people can enjoy the tastes of home while they shop.

and keep reading…you never know what hidden treasures can be found all around our community. The Station 31072 features Oliver Farm Artisan Oils and flours, alongside a selection of carefully curated goods from other local and neighboring small family-operated farms and businesses. Additionally, there is a revolving collection of local art on display, including hand- crafted wood works, hand-made pottery and paintings, and hand-crafted jewelry. Clay and Valerie Oliver share that they want all their customers to feel at home as they shop and to know that when you make a purchase you are supporting a local community member

directly. Clay compliments his wife by saying that there isn’t anyone that leaves the store as a stranger to his wife; her ability to make everyone from all walks of life feel valued and important as customers is one of the many reasons he says he married her. Clay states, “She’s the kindest hearted person I know and it shows with everyone she meets and greets.” From the personable touches of the shop décor, to the careful selection that goes into what is placed in the shop for sale, the Oliver’s want their customers and community members to know that they are getting the very best products and service. Clay Oliver, owner and founder of Oliver

Hometown Living At Its Best

According to Clay, “Naturally tasty, nut and seed oils are necessary for balanced nutrition. They can be used in fuel, cleaners, soap, cosmetic products, and have medicinal uses as well. Our simple process, genuine care for your approval, and desire to keep it pure and fresh makes Oliver Farm a natural choice for any pantry.” This farming business has not only caught the attention of various chefs and foodies alike, the Oliver’s were also featured on a PBS documentary, Taste Makers. Season 1 is featured on their web page…oliverfarms.com.

Farm Artisan Oils, grew his first crop of sunflowers for oil production in 2012. This idea came from an interest Clay took into discovering alternative fuel sources that lead him to the discovery of the cold pressed method of oil extraction, which does not use chemicals or high temperatures to remove the oil. This process leaves valuable vitamins and nutrients in the oil. The oil also retains its natural flavor and color. According to Clay, “Naturally tasty, nut and seed oils are necessary for balanced nutrition. They can be used in fuel, cleaners, soap, cosmetic products, and have medicinal uses as well. Our simple process, genuine care for your approval, and desire to keep it pure and fresh makes Oliver Farm a natural choice for any pantry.” This farming business has not only caught the attention of various chefs and foodies alike, the Oliver’s were also featured on a PBS documentary, Taste Makers. Season 1 is featured on their web page…oliverfarms.com. From the farm to their online store to the Station 31072, the Oliver’s have all hands on deck at the shop, with each family member willing to pitch in and do the work. His wife, Valerie, a former teacher, said she never imagined life would lead to a business that was so much fun and allowed them the opportunity to meet so many incredible people. She isn’t at all shy

houston county living

to tell you how humble and grateful she is to be on this journey with her husband and to be able to work alongside her husband and best friend. Clay is constantly looking for new challenges and thinking about what to explore next, which has not only led to an expansion of many other oils and gluten free flours, but he has plans for expanding at the station to offer both educational courses and entertainment. He has future dreams to build a kitchen and be able to utilize not only their own Oliver Farm products, but those that are sold at the station as well so that people can enjoy the tastes of home while they shop. When asked about his awards and accolades he’s earned along the way, Clay is pretty modest. However, when asked about what advice he gives to other local community members or entrepreneurs out there, he shares this…“keep your eyes wide open and don’t be scared to trust God with what you’re given.” Valerie echoes the sentiments sharing this

Clay and Valerie Oliver share that they want all their customers to feel at home as they shop and to know that when you make a purchase you are supporting a local community member directly. Clay compliments his wife by saying that there isn’t anyone that leaves the store as a stranger to his wife; her ability to make everyone from all walks of life feel valued and important as customers is one of the many reasons he says he married her.

Hometown Living At Its Best

40 houston county living

statement and verse on their business cards… “when you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance. Matthew 5:16 (KJV) says…Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” The Oliver’s have recently joined in being members of Harvest Host, which allows campers from all over to stop and camp at their farm and tour the local community via a QR code detour; Clay designed this to take people on a tour of Pitts, Georgia. This Pitts adventure tour allows people to see some of the local history and fun, with a pit stop at the Station along the way. Customers, who stop at The Station 31072, are invited to get the QR code too and take a tour on their way home or before leaving town. Also, they are encouraged to stop by the sunflower

Whether you find it on accident or on purpose, once you’ve ventured inside, you come to discover a multitude of many hidden treasures from our local Houston County communities, to other surrounding communities and states too, there is a variety of goods to choose from. In fact, two local Houston County artists are highlighted here in this same issue, so be sure to stay tuned and keep reading… you never know what hidden treasures can be found all around our community.

Hometown Living At Its Best

Clay states, “She’s the kindest hearted person I know and it shows with everyone she meets and greets.” From the personable touches of the shop décor, to the careful selection that goes into what is placed in the shop for sale, the Oliver’s want their customers and community members to know that they are getting the very best products and service

houston county living

field to take pictures. These sunflowers will be in full bloom between late June and early August, depending on their planting date, so check out Oliver Farm’s Facebook page for more details. Now that you’ve been properly introduced, the Oliver’s invite you to take a drive to find The Station 31072, in Pitts, Georgia. Once you’ve ventured inside, you will discover a multitude of many hidden treasures from right here in local communities, to surrounding Georgia counties, to some of our neighboring states too. There are a variety of goods to choose from. The Station 31072 is opened from 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday, and located at 110 7th Ave. W., Pitts, Georgia. HCL

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You Never Know When You Will Need Urgent Care...

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THREE URGENT CARE LOCATIONS IN HOUSTON COUNTY

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Pavilion Med-Stop

233 North Houston Road Suite 140A Warner Robins (478) 975-6720 #houstonhealthy

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Creating Unforgettable Memories

Kingsland Farm Georgia’s gorgeous landscape is accentuated at Kingsland Farm, making it a stunning scenery fit for any occasion. 266 Wimberly Rd | Hawkinsville, GA. 31036 | (478) 747-5570 | www.kingslandfarmga.com

BY ALEXA TEBBEN | PHOTOS BY TINIKA BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY

One such person that is committed

When small businesses band together for the good of the whole, it creates a uniquely close-knit community.

to the city of Perry is Jodi Daley of Bodega Brew. Jodi talks of her journey of becoming a business owner in downtown Perry. “I’ve always wanted to have my own business,” she says. “But I didn’t know what it was going to be.” Originally from Ohio, Jodi moved to

middle Georgia in 2007. Previously, she says, “I worked for the state of Ohio,

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One for All Hometown Living At Its Best

Jodi is ambitious about her plans for Bodega Brew. Always looking for ways to improve the business, she says, “I’m excited to make things better and hopefully have a second location someday.”

Department of Health, helping the communities improve their access to healthcare.” While those years of work held incredible meaning, she longed for a change of pace. In 2018, Jodi opened Bodega Brew – her absolute pride and joy. Bodega Brew offers extraordinary coffee from a local roaster alongside traditional baked goods and food items. Unlike a traditional

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“I’ve always wanted to have my own business. But I didn’t know what it was going to be.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

52 houston county living

coffee shop, they also serve cocktails to meet your every beverage need. “We have a chef now who does a lot of different things every day,” Jodi says of Chef Delaina Wingate. “We’ve also invited special guest chefs that would come and they would create the dinner and we would sell tickets or take reservations.” Bodega Brew hosts grill nights, offers seasonal specials, and creates an atmosphere that invites guests to stay and relax. Bodega Brew hosts local musicians to play live music on the weekends. “We try to book people every Friday and

Hometown Living At Its Best

Saturday,” Jodi says. “Customers love it. A lot of times we have it outside because it’s so nice out. But we do it inside as well if it’s raining.” Jodi has always had a passion for fresh ingredients and supporting local businesses. “In Ohio,” she says, “I always went to the farmer’s market, and when I came here I was like, ‘Where is the farmer’s market?’” She was in Warner Robins at the time and quite surprised they were not seizing this opportunity. Inspired to spruce up the town with this darling addition, she says, “I met with the Visitor’s Bureau in Warner Robins and discussed a farmer’s market with the lady there. She thought it was an awesome idea.” Jodi spoke with other city employees and they allowed them to set up a farmer’s market in one of the parks where it still is today. An instant hit, the farmer’s market blossomed into the city’s most cherished weekly ritual. Jodi describes the farmer’s market as a splendid opportunity to get to know one’s neighbors and local entrepreneurs. The Warner Robins farmer’s market caught the eye of the city of Perry. They later asked Jodi to run their farmer’s market for them, and it has been a joy to see it flourish with the help of other amazing volunteers. “I like seeing people come together,” Jodi says. “I love that the market is also an incubator for small businesses. They get their feet wet and do market research and see how hard or how satisfying it could be.” Jodi reports that after participating in the farmer’s market, some people have gone on to start their own business. “We’ve had 54

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“As a business owner down here, we all work together and I’ve found a lot of good friends that way.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

houston county living

several people that started at the farmer’s market then

This year, Jodi found a unique avenue of

opened restaurants, bakeries and soap shops.” Jodi

collaboration when the Professional Bull Riding

finds it rewarding to play a part in these businesses’

event came to the Perry Fair Grounds in April.

exciting journey.

“This is the first time they have had a show

Held every Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM, the

in Perry,” Jodi shares excitedly. The group

farmer’s market usually boasts around 20 vendors

sought sponsors to pay for the facility and

during the peak season. “There are not that many

the production of their show. “What was so

small growers in small family farms in middle

exciting about this group was they came to

Georgia,” Jodi says. “But the few that exist are

us, locally owned businesses, because they

usually in attendance. None of them travel more than

wanted to support local businesses.”

Hometown Living At Its Best

an hour to the farmer’s market, so the fruits and vegetables you will find there are truly locally grown.” Being part of the Perry farmer’s market is just one of many ways she enjoys community involvement. Jodi is a member of the Inspired to spruce up the town with this darling addition, she says, “I met with the Visitor’s Bureau in Warner Robins and discussed a farmer’s market with the lady there. She thought it was an awesome idea.”

Perry Chamber of Commerce. “I’m enrolled in their leadership class this year,” she shares. With about 20 members, this yearround program meets once a month to learn more about the city’s history and the people that make up the community. “Every class does something to give back to the community,” Jodi explains. “We’ve chosen to help the city parks put in a handicap accessible playground.” To encourage networking among neighbors, the chamber hosts coffee and chat gatherings that are alternately held at Bodega Brew and Morning by Morning. Jodi shares, “In Ohio, I was from a much larger community. The county I lived in was over a million people. Here, it took a while to meet friends and find my people, my tribe.” But when

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she did, nothing could match the true feeling of belonging and acceptance she found in this community. Jodi talks about the comradery between business owners and the friendships that grow from helping one another. “As a business owner down here, we all work together and I’ve found a lot of good friends that way.” This year, Jodi found a unique avenue of collaboration when the Professional Bull Riding event came to the Perry Fair Grounds “Every class does something to give back to the community,” Jodi explains. “We’ve chosen to help the city parks put in a handicap accessible playground.” To encourage networking among neighbors, the chamber hosts coffee and chat gatherings

in April. “This is the first time they have had a show in Perry,” Jodi shares excitedly. The group sought sponsors to pay for the facility and the production of their show. “What was so exciting about this group was they came to us, locally owned businesses, because they wanted to support local businesses.”

that are alternately held at Bodega Brew and

Jodi got eight other local businesses to join

Morning by Morning.

Bodega Brew in buying a $5000 sponsorship for the event. “The nine restaurants that participated offered specials or discounts. We had a QR code at the event and people at the event could click on that QR code and

Hometown Living At Its Best

houston county living

see what restaurants were participating.” It was a fun way to draw more businesses while supporting the Professional Bull Riding event. Around the same time, Jodi rolled out a friendly competition to help support local artists. “Artists can submit works of art and the winner

and support their dreams. Jodi is ambitious about her plans for Bodega Brew. Always looking for ways to improve the business, she says, “I’m excited to make things better and hopefully have a second location someday.” It is rare and lovely when local businesses

will get a scholarship. Their work of art will go

exhibit exceptional support of one another. Every

on the side of the building as a mural and on our

day, Bodega Brew exemplifies what it means to be

custom coffee to-go cups.” Jodi plans to host

committed to the community bringing true meaning

this competition annually to promote local artists

to the phrase, all for one and one for all. HCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

Get Back to Fixing Critters

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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Mingle with Your Mutt Barks N Brews is an off-leash dog park and bar that was created for our four-legged friends to exercise and socialize in a large, open space.

People spend billions of dollars every year on this industry and there does not seem to be a slowdown coming anytime soon. Can you guess what industry I might be talking about? If you guessed the pet industry, you would be correct. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), Americans spent over 123 billion dollars in 2021 on pet products and services. This number has steadily gone up in the past few years and it would seem the sky is the limit for our furry friends. The breakdown for the money spent on our pets includes pet food, supplies, vet care, and a category referred to as “other services”. The “other services” category would include boarding, grooming, insurance, training, and unique offerings. I am providing this information because the “other category” for 2021 made up 9.5 billion dollars of the overall 123 billion. This information leads me into highlighting a local business that is contributing to the “other category” of the booming pet industry. Barks N Brews is an off-leash dog park and bar that was created for our four-legged friends to exercise and socialize in a large, open space. People can play with their pups, enjoy a beverage at their airstream bar, and hang out with friends while their dogs are free to roam the park and enjoy the outdoors without the restrictions of a leash. This unique park

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Hometown Living At Its Best

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is in downtown Macon off Riverside Drive. You may be wondering how this all came to fruition and the answer leads us to Entrepreneur, Kate Lambert. Kate is the owner of Barks N Brews. As a Macon native and a dog owner, she saw a need for a space that caters to pets so they may be outdoors and socialize just as we like to do. Having lived in Macon her entire life, she wanted to provide this service to the tri-county area. Kate feels very strongly about this venture and has taken a leave of absence from her career as an elementary teacher to pursue her dream of opening the park. We all have heard that it takes a village to accomplish our dreams, and in this case, it is no different. Kate has a sister who is right there in the trenches with her, along with her husband and many family members who have helped pave the way as well. As you can imagine, finding enough green space for a dog park was a challenge, but not the only one. Convincing the city that they needed a dog park that allowed the serving of

As you can imagine, finding enough green space for a dog park was a challenge, but not the only one. Convincing the city that they needed a dog park that allowed the serving of alcoholic beverages would seem a monumental task, but the NewTown Macon Organization and the Urban Development Authority were extremely interested in hearing what Kate had in mind. The pitch included a renovated airstream for serving beverages and a place for our 4-legged friends and their respective owners to meet other community members. I guess you could say a social club for man and beast.

Hometown Living At Its Best

alcoholic beverages would seem a monumental task, but the NewTown Macon Organization and the Urban Development Authority were extremely interested in hearing what Kate had in mind. The pitch included a renovated airstream for serving beverages and a place for our 4-legged friends and their respective owners to meet other community members. I guess you could say a social club for man and beast. The mission of the NewTown Macon organization is to attract leverage and invest in businesses that will create a sense of place for its community members. In comes Kate with her business plan for Barks N Brews and a

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community relationship was formed. The Urban Development Authority is providing the lease for the property, which is known as Rotary Park. Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic delayed the initial progress of the park transformation, but Barks N Brews is now in full swing and providing the community with a unique and fun activity for dogs and people. Unlike regular dog parks, Barks N Brews has a membership application that requires proof of vaccinations before your dog can enter the park. Because the dogs have close contact with each other, it is especially important to make sure they are kept safe and up-to-date on vaccinations.

Hometown Living At Its Best

You can enroll online and they have different options for membership with very reasonable pricing. The membership, which includes a daily option as well, is put to beneficial use with the offerings of a beautifully painted restroom area, seating with umbrellas, obstacles for the dogs, and upkeep of the grounds. Kate feels it was important to give back to the community and has already hosted a few charity events that benefit animals. Some of those events have included Adoption Days, Doggy Yoga, and the exceedingly popular Single Mingles nights. Many have met up on Single Mingles night at the park; you do not need to own a dog to come out and enjoy the fun. Kate is not sure how many people have found a lasting relationship but can guarantee that many furry friends have bonded at these gatherings. The park has a highly active Facebook page, and they are adding new events all the time. Even though the park is a year-round experience, there are times of inclement weather and time changes that are updated regularly on their Facebook page. They also have just recently added additional offerings from Everything Gelato by Chad, a local vendor and the park will now have Gelato, Sorbet, and pupsicles for your furry children. Kate and her family appreciate all the support from everyone and want to make sure they provide a safe and fun environment for the community. There is always a bigger responsibility when you offer alcohol at a venue, but they hope everyone will drink responsibly just as they would at any other venue.

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There are plans for continuing improvements of the park and you can count on seeing additional events and activities throughout the year. At some point, they may be adding a Doggy Daycare once they establish the need and logistics. Go on out and visit this local treasure and you will no doubt see dogs and their humans having fun. Visit their website at www.maconbarksnbrews. com or FaceBook page at facebook.com/ maconbarksnbrews to get all the updated information.  HCL

Barks N Brews is an off-leash dog park and bar that was created for our four-legged friends to exercise and socialize in a large, open space. People can play with their pups, enjoy a beverage at their airstream bar, and hang out with friends while their dogs are free to roam the park and enjoy the outdoors without the restrictions of a leash. This unique park is in downtown Macon off Riverside Drive.

Hometown Living At Its Best

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2470 US Hwy 41 N, Fort Valley, GA 31030 | (478) 987-1239 | www.ChurchHomeLifeSpring.com

6 miles north of Perry on US Hwy 41 near GA 96

Tinika Bennett Photography Natural Light | On Location Photographer | Visual Story Teller Marketing Cheerleader + Houston County Living Magazine | tinikabennettphoto@gmail.com

Kim Hamlin, Branch Manager NMLS # 1502078 679-457-0285 www.kimhamlin.com

402 Corder Road, Suite 400, Warner Robins, GA 31088

MLO licensing information: GA # 65724. NFM, Inc. d/b/a NFM Lending. NFM, Inc is licensed by: GA # 17414. For NFM, Inc.’s full agency and state licensing information, please visit www.nfmlending.com/licensing. NFM, Inc.’s NMLS #2893 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). NFM, Inc. is not affiliated with, or an agent or division of, a governmental agency or a depository institution. Copyright © 2022.

In childhood we want to be just like Mama .... funny how that never goes away. In Loving Memory of

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HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

Story by Alexa Tebben | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

Founded by Dr. Ania Rynarzewska, Lux Leonis uses naturally fresh ingredients in each high-quality self-care product.

Luxury at Your

Fingertips Hometown Living At Its Best

HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

A daily spa trip falls within the realm of unattainable indulgences many of us long for. But with Lux Leonis’ line of luxury, natural skin and hair care and products, you can create your own lavish spa-like experience at home every day. Founded by Dr. Ania Rynarzewska, Lux Leonis uses naturally fresh ingredients in each high-quality self-care product. Originally from Poland, Dr. Rynarzewska spent her annual vacations at the farm. She says of farming, “It’s a lot of work, but it is a really different kind of work. It’s enjoyable in a sense. It’s an escape when you hang out with animals and you plant your own little garden.” A national tennis champion in Poland, Dr. Rynarzewska moved to the United States where she received her undergraduate degree at Florida State. After college, she furthered her education with a master’s degree and then her PhD. A professor at Mercer for the past nine years, she has taught research, analytics and marketing.

“By lighting a beautiful candle, the scent itself can literally transport you somewhere. That’s an escape. Every moment matters.”

Allow yourself the indulgence of using these truly natural skincare products and see where the experience takes you.

Hometown Living At Its Best 83

Shortly after she began teaching, Dr. Rynarzewska acquired a farm. With the obtainment of natural resources, her interest in creating skincare blossomed. “From the beginning, I have mostly been focused on luxury skincare because I like luxury skincare,” she admits. Dr. Rynarzewska says her passion for natural ingredients is a combination of her Polish upbringing and her education. “I want to make sure that everything works well for our skin as naturally and as wholesome as possible.” Preferring luxury skin care herself, Dr. Rynarzewska desired to create a line of high-

After much research, Dr. Rynarzewska found that some of the best shea butter is made by village women in Ghana, Africa. These women labor over traditional shea butter and then carry their product for miles to make a sale. With every order of their product, Dr. Rynarzewska supports these hardworking women and eases a bit of their burden.

HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

Hometown Living At Its Best

At the end of the day, using Lux Leonis to support others is extremely rewarding. Dr. Rynarzewska buys local honey from a neighbor and sunflower oil from a nearby farmer to use in her products. This local support is also environmentally friendly as it cuts transportation time of her ingredients. “This care for the environment goes from my supply chain and the people around us all the way to the end customer,” she says.

HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

end products that were also affordable. She researched age defying products to discover their natural origin. Then, she procured these natural ingredients from her garden and farm life. “I spent a lot of money formulating the ideal product that is effect, as natural as possible but also safe,” she says. With her natural resources, she created a skincare line that is both economically friendly and affordable. The results of her product were outstanding. “People with really sensitive skin that tend to break out after using other products loved it,” she testifies. Both men and women of all ages have fantastic results with these natural products. Her range of

With every basket of Lux Leonis’ product Dr. Rynarzewska donates to hospitals, Special Olympics Georgia and cancer patients, she inspires generosity and kindness in others. Earlier this year, she used her soaps and candles to run a fundraiser in support of Ukrainian refugees seeking shelter in Poland.

customers includes teachers, bakers, Vogue models, actresses and NFL players. In addition to Dr. Rynarzewska’s skincare lotions, face washes, serums, etc., is her natural hair care product, soaps and candles. “It became a self-care lifestyle,” she says matter-of-factly. “I’ve created shampoo bars and conditioner bars that are eco-friendly to reduce the packaging. It was a good way for people to try a lower priced product like soap or lotion and build their way up to skincare.” When choosing the name of her business, Dr. Rynarzewska says, “I wanted to incorporate the family roots and everything that I’ve learned about life and plants from my family.” Dr. Rynarzewska’s Polish family comes from a line of nobility, and their coat of arms is quite special. “The coat of arms is a lion holding a circle, she explains. “The circle represents

Hometown Living At Its Best

Many of Dr. Rynarzewska’s products are uniquely multi-functional. With Lux Leonis, she says, “You don’t have to have 20 million products. My shampoo can serve as your soap and even your face wash because it has such great PH balance. When you’re done with a shower and you’re still moist, you can glide conditioner on your body and it can be a lotion.”

HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

truth.” The literal translation of this coat of arms is, ‘truth.’ Dr. Rynarzewska landed on Lux Leonis for her business name, which is Latin for ‘Light of a lion.’ “The lux part implies luxury, but it’s a combination of light, luxury and the lion of truth. It’s a play on heritage and upbringing,” she says proudly. The unique name holds as much value to her as the business itself. Recently, Dr. Rynarzewska began introducing subscription boxes to her customers. These boxes contain a variety of products that allow customers to try things they otherwise might not have purchased. “I wanted it to be enough ‘product’ to have several at-home spa days.

Being a mom myself, let’s face it, I never have time to go to a spa. This is a great way for people to try new product that has been priced at good value to them.” Custom designed skincare sets are also available for individuals with specific needs. Dr. Rynarzewska understands that skincare treatment is not a ‘one-size-fits-all.’ Because of this, she purposefully keeps unique skin types in mind when creating new product. She admits that Lux Leonis has inadvertently turned into a full-fledged self-care company. “Which,” she adds, “given the pandemic and all the stress

Hometown Living At Its Best

90 HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

Recently, Dr. Rynarzewska began introducing subscription boxes to her customers. These boxes contain a variety of products that allow customers to try things they otherwise might not have purchased. “I wanted it to be enough ‘product’ to have several at-home spa days. Being a mom myself, let’s face it, I never have time to go to a spa. This is a great way for people to try new product that has been priced at good value to them.”

of the world, is not a bad thing. People look forward to my boxes because they bring joy and relaxation.” With lavish skincare at their fingertips, Lux Leonis’ customers can enjoy a thorough at-home pampering experience any time they please. Many of Dr. Rynarzewska’s products are uniquely multi-functional. With Lux Leonis, she says, “You don’t have to have 20 million products. My shampoo can serve as your soap and even your face wash because it has such great PH balance. When you’re done with a shower and you’re still moist, you can glide conditioner on your body and it can be a lotion.” She encourages customers to splurge on one or two products and allow them to work for you in a multitude of ways. “We spend a lot of time taking showers, and that time should matter.” Encompassing a working mentality for the greater good, Dr. Rynarzewska enjoys supporting her local community and the world at large. “I try to help where I can,” she says. “I do believe that businesses should not just be out for themselves, but also to help communities.” With every basket of Lux Leonis’ product Dr. Rynarzewska donates to hospitals, Special Olympics Georgia and cancer patients, she

Hometown Living At Its Best

HOUSTON COUNTY LIVING

inspires generosity and kindness in others. Earlier this year, she used her soaps and candles to run a fundraiser in support of Ukrainian refugees seeking shelter in Poland. At the end of the day, using Lux Leonis to support others is extremely rewarding. Dr. Rynarzewska buys local honey from a neighbor and sunflower oil from a nearby farmer to use in her products. This local support is also environmentally friendly as it cuts transportation time of her ingredients. “This care for the environment goes from my supply chain and the people around us all the way to the end customer,” she says. After much research, Dr. Rynarzewska found that some of the best shea butter is made by village women in Ghana, Africa. These women labor over traditional shea butter and then carry their product for miles to make a sale. With every order of their product, Dr. Rynarzewska supports these hardworking women and eases a bit of their burden. “You can do well with business,” she says.

“You can shape the future and help people who need it with your business.” Dr. Rynarzewska talks about the joy she experiences in helping pave the way for future generations. “I’ve offered thousands of hours of internships to students so that they can gain hands-on experience rather than being coffee makers,” she says. A mom of six-year-old twins, she sets an example both at home and in the workplace. “My dream is that with all that is happening, we could find an escape in our lives,” Dr. Rynarzewska says. While many love to physically travel, we cannot pack our bags and leave at the end of every difficult day. However, Dr. Rynarzewska says, “By lighting a beautiful candle, the scent itself can literally transport you somewhere. That’s an escape. Every moment matters.” Allow yourself the indulgence of using these truly natural skincare products and see where the experience takes you. HCL

Hometown Living At Its Best

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LANDMARK REALTY www.landmarkperry.com

Your Guiding Light In Real Estate Since 1987

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Story by STEPHEN PRUDHOMME | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

A TRUE

Crafts Woman Heather Peebles’ love for woodworking led to an unexpected vocation - furniture maker.

While growing up in Perry, furniture maker Heather Peebles had conflicting feelings about woodworking. While she was intimidated by the power tools her father used as a carpenter, she loved wood and the smell of sawdust. Heather’s love for the latter led to an unexpected vocation - furniture maker - and, as such, she had to get past being intimidated by the tools of her trade. Heather is the owner of Penelope Farmhouse Furniture in Byron. While she builds the furniture in a home shop, Heather has a storefront which features home décor in a 103-year-old building that initially housed a birthing center known locally as Dr. JB Clay’s clinic. She said they lovingly refer to it as the Cottage.

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Keeping the older theme, Heather is expanding her business in early May to a 102-year-old carriage house building near her first store. She described it as a solid brick structure that’s in excellent shape and will feature, appropriately, a carriage. “I will offer classes on furniture making at the new, old place. These will include decor projects, pet beds, hand-crocheted blankets, macramé, plant hangars, and other projects that can be completed in two to three hours.” Heather said they’ve even considered oneon-one sessions at her home shop where participants could “rent” her out and build something to take home while receiving her guidance. “I need my schedule to calm down

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Heather’s work demands she no longer be intimidated by power tools. She’s retained her love of wood and the smell of sawdust while pursuing a profession that she never envisioned doing in her wildest dreams. “I’m doing something women typically don’t do,” said Heather, who operates the aforementioned property management company and works as a real estate agent for KellerWilliams. “Never in a million years did I think I would do something like this. I love the creativeness of it. I have a 15-year-old daughter, and I want to show her there are no limits to what you can do. If you work hard, you can accomplish it.”

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a bit before taking that one on,” she said. “Having a management company, being a realtor, building furniture, owning a home decor boutique and soon-to-be hosting classes, keeps me running enough as it is, lol.” Using power and hand tools, Heather makes wood furniture. Her specialties are farmhouse tables and barn doors of various sizes. She also does queen bed systems, conference tables and bars. Right now, Heather is working on a bar system for Hazards, a restaurant in Perry. She works with her sister, Tiffany Gordy, in her shop on two to three projects at a time and has orders backed up for 10 to 12 weeks. Jeremy Lassiter purchased Heather’s first piece - a farmhouse table. Since then, he’s added tables, desks, custom bunk beds, a toy box, and the “largest coffee table in America.” “I’ve probably bought more than anyone,” said the Perry

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resident. “I’ll probably buy more.” Jeremy, who owns Alpha Insurance Company, has known Heather for a long time and is glad to be a repeat customer. “Her furniture is all custom-made,” he said. “She’s not buying stuff. She comes up with the design. Every piece is different.” That unique look is reflected in his coffee table…“The wood looks like something out of a 1900’s house,” Jeremy said. “It looks aged.” When he bought a farmhouse, Jeremy told his wife they needed some stuff done…that included buying furniture that would go along with the farmhouse look. “It’s cool to have stuff no one else has,” Jeremy said. “It’s a beat cheaper than what you buy at the store and of a much higher quality. I’ve sold 40 pieces for her from people looking at my stuff. I told her I need to be paid a

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Before Leslie Sharpe and her husband opened the Saltwater Outpost last summer, they looked around for someone to build a checkout counter. Actually, it wasn’t much of a search, as Leslie knew about Heather and her furniture-making from the latter’s Facebook page. Leslie pulled several pictures together and sent them to Heather, along with a design idea and measurements.

Not only do the sisters, both around 5 feet tall and 120 pounds, work with wood and furniture weighing several hundred pounds and employ power tools that they once considered intimidating, but they also deliver their creations. When “two little girls” walk in with a breakfast nook, Tiffany said they earn respect, especially among any skeptical men who may have doubted their capability of handling such work. “They don’t have much to say after that,” she said, noting their customers are made up equally of men and women.

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commission. It’s pretty cool being a woman in that line of work and local.” Another satisfied customer is Skip Malcom, who owns Edward Jones on Houston Lake. He was looking for some rustic, farmhouse furniture for his new office and found out about Peebles through one of her previous clients. Skip gave Heather a list of the items he wanted and asked her to work her magic. She came back with some design ideas and suggestions, which they tweaked, and then she went to work, sending Skip pictures of her progress. While a picture is worth a thousand words, the furniture, which includes a conference room table, two work desks, a waiting area bench, several small coffee tables and a sliding barn door, elicited four words from Skip when it was delivered. “I was blown away,” he said. “They were exactly what I needed. Heather was able to take my basic ideas and needs and transform them into beautiful, well-made pieces of art. I’m constantly getting compliments on all of the wood pieces when clients come in. I highly recommend Heather for your wood furniture needs.” It all started with a farmhouse table two years ago. Heather was working as a realtor and property manager for several hundred homes when the pandemic spread and impacted lives and jobs. For Heather, that meant a

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downsizing at the property management company where she worked. With public contact limited, her job as a real estate agent took a hit as well. Staying at home and looking for something to occupy her time, Heather decided to build a farmhouse table. Although she and her ex-husband had tinkered with various home projects, she said they never did anything remotely close to building a table. She went to the Internet for help, watching a YouTube video on building a farmhouse table. “I got some design ideas and tweaked it a bit,” Heather said. “I made it sturdier.” Emboldened by finishing and selling her first creation, Heather graduated to a barn door. Soon, due largely to word-ofmouth, she was backed up on orders for various furniture items and opened up

shop in the former birthing center. The first word in the store’s name has a long history in Heather’s life. When she was in her 20s, Heather and her sister would go out and be approached by would-be suitors asking for their names. She came up with the moniker Penelope so she wouldn’t have to reveal her real name. It became more ingrained after a friend of her boyfriend, Shawn, couldn’t remember her name. Heather said just to call her Penelope. She started using the name in everyday life and, over time, that became her new identity and was eventually shortened to P. Peebles said only family and close friends who know her as Heather. Speaking of Shawn, she remarked she’s blessed to have a man who happily sits back and let’s her be herself and

Tiffany, like Heather, had to get acquainted and comfortable with tools. “I didn’t know anything about tools,” she said. “I had never operated a drill. I’ve come a long way. I’m good at this. We’ve built really cool stuff. It’s been a great journey.”

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supports all her “crazy ideas,” such as building her first farmhouse table. “Family is everything to me,” Heather said, “and I’m blessed with mine.” After about a year in business, with orders continuing to come in, Heather brought her sister onboard to help with the furniture building and other assorted tasks. Tiffany, who had worked as a server and bartender, embraced her new job and the chance to work with her sister. “I enjoy working with her more than serving,” she said. “It’s always an adventure. We have a good time. I’m dealing with people who are happy to see me.” Tiffany, like Heather, had to get acquainted and comfortable with tools. “I didn’t know anything about tools,” she said. “I had never operated a drill. I’ve come a long way. I’m good at this. We’ve built really cool stuff. It’s been a great journey.” Heather described her shop as chaotic - “just the way I like it.” She takes an average of five days to complete a piece, most of which are made of pine. “It’s more cost effective,” said Heather, who also uses metal in her pieces. “It’s also sturdy, strong, and lasts forever. If you use the right kind of stain and technique, you can make it look like another wood.” Tables remain Heather’s signature piece and best-selling item. Getting the 2x4 and 1x4 boards from Lowe’s, she cuts them down to size, planes the wood and

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glues the pieces before smoothing them with a huge orbital sander, giving it a hand and hewn look. She then stains the wood, giving it the illusion of being old and rotten, and fills knotholes with clear epoxy. The final step is applying multiple layers of polyurethane. Not only do the sisters, both around 5 feet tall and 120 pounds, work with wood and furniture weighing several hundred pounds and employ power tools that they once considered intimidating, but they also deliver their creations. When “two little girls” walk in with a breakfast nook, Tiffany said they earn respect, especially among any skeptical men who may have doubted their capability of handling such work. “They don’t have much to say after that,” she said, noting their customers are made up equally of men and women. Before Leslie Sharpe and her husband opened the Saltwater Outpost last summer, they looked around for someone to build a checkout counter. Actually, it wasn’t much of a search, as Leslie knew about Heather and her furniture-making from the latter’s Facebook page. Leslie pulled several pictures together and sent them to Heather, along with a design idea and measurements. Leslie said Heather didn’t hesitate and created a piece that earned her plaudits and the promise of future work. “It was huge,” Leslie said. “A lot of her pieces are. She pours her heart and soul into each piece and it’s beautiful stuff. I told her when I get rich she will build all my furniture. It’s just amazing how hard she works; her ambition and motivation are admirable.” Heather’s work demands she no longer be intimidated by power tools. She’s retained her love of wood and the smell of sawdust while pursuing a profession that she never envisioned doing in her wildest dreams. “I’m doing something women typically don’t do,” said Heather, who operates the aforementioned property management company and works as a real estate agent for Keller-Williams. “Never in a million years did I think I would do something like this. I love the creativeness of it. I have a 15-year-old daughter, and I want to show her there are no limits to what you can do. If you work hard, you can accomplish it.” For further information, call (478) 951-4663 or go to penelopesfarmhouse.com.  HCL

Emboldened by finishing and selling her first creation, Heather graduated to a barn door. Soon, due largely to word-ofmouth, she was backed up on orders for various furniture items and opened up shop in the former birthing center. The first word in the store’s name has a long history in Heather’s life.

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Story by JENNIFER DEMARO P h o t o s b y J e n n i f e r D e M a r o P h o t o g r a p h y, H a i l e e M o r g a n , M a t t B o y d , T a m a r a J o i n e r

Kelsey’s Heart-Warming

Journey

Eighteen years ago in a Russian orphanage, Kelsey Anastasia Norris life was about to change for the better

Eighteen years ago in a Russian orphanage, was a baby that’s life was about to change for the better. Her name is Kelsey Anastasia Norris and she has an extraordinary story to share with everyone. I really can not tell you about Kelsey until I tell you about the force behind her and that is her mother, Carol Norris. Carol came to Georgia in June 1986 after graduating from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. After college she started her career in Savannah, GA. Like many newly minted graduates, she had little money in her bank account, a large student loan and the stress of figuring out how to survive day to day while pursuing her career. Though she secured a fellowship position at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Savannah, she still had to be very frugal with her finances. After finishing her fellowship, she accepted a position that kept her in

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Savannah for another 6 years. During those years she became very disillusioned with the health care system. In October of 1994 she started her path to working with underserved counties in Georgia. Having worked with many failed leadership programs, she decided to venture into her own consulting health care business. Her first project out the gate was to coordinate an eight-month maternal and child health project for the State Medical Education Board of Georgia, Georgia Department of Medical Assistance and Mercer University School of Medicine. Though she had her concerns about going out on her own as a consultant, she has not looked back since. She eventually made the move to the Warner Robins area so that she could better serve her clients by being in the middle Georgia area.

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By 2002, her company was recognized as one of the leading consultant firms for health, social services and education related projects in the country. This was accomplished by her expertise of grant writing. As you can imagine, this work took all of Carol’s time and as time passed, her maternal clock was ticking. At the age of 42 Carol realized she was missing something in her life and that was a child to nurture. Now that you know about Carol and her strong character, you will understand why I needed to provide her background in order to lead into her journey with Kelsey. As mentioned in the beginning, there once was a baby that’s life was about to change eighteen years ago, and her name is Kelsey. Carol had been thinking about adoption and was told about an agency that worked with orphanages in Russia. Though adoptions are not allowed anymore from Russia, it was a very active program in the early 2000’s. In October of 2004 Carol made the long flight to Moscow to meet her 11-month-old daughter. She was provided information ahead of time of what conditions she may see at the orphanage. Though the children were cared for at the orphanage, their surrounding conditions were sub-standard,

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Carol had been thinking about adoption and was told about an agency that worked with orphanages in Russia. Though adoptions are not allowed anymore from Russia, it was a very active program in the early 2000’s. In October of 2004 Carol made the long flight to Moscow to meet her 11-month-old daughter.

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Like many of us, Kelsey is an animal lover. She has had a few animals come and go through time, and each one has made a mark on her life. She has also donated over 7000 pounds of dog food since 2015 to an area Humane Society.

at best. The workers were not allowed to pick up the children and hug them. They were ordered to pick up the children from behind so the children could not hug them and then expect the affection all the time. This is what we would call barbaric, but they were ordered to treat the children like this in order to keep control of so many of them. When Carol first set eyes on Kelsey, it was love at first site for the both of them. Carol was allowed to pick her up and hug her and Kelsey hugged her back and the strong bond began. After meeting Kelsey, the doctors at the orphanage wanted to talk to Carol and make sure she knew that Kelsey was a special needs baby. Kelsey was 11 months and weighed 14 lbs. Her preliminary testing indicated that she may have a heart condition and they could not guarantee that she would ever walk or talk.

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Carol has always been determined to provide the best for Kelsey and to help her to reach her full potential in life. Carol had already fallen in love with her, and she made it clear that her medical needs would be addressed. It took another flight back through Atlanta and back to Russia again in January of 2005 to finally start the paperwork for the formal adoption. The process was not for the faint of heart. Carol was in Russia for three weeks waiting for paperwork to process through the court system. During the waiting period she was able to visit with Kelsey and tighten their bond even more. Carol and Kelsey arrived in the United States in February of 2005 and yet again, in another life changing event for Carol, she never looked back. Medical care was the number one priority to address once Kelsey was settled into her new life. The doctors did not find any heart condition as thought by the Russian doctors, but they were concerned

with her size and weight along with some noted motor skill deficiencies. However, they just wanted Kelsey to go home and catch up on living the life that she had missed in her first 14 months. Since Carol was running her consulting business, she found Kelsey a childcare facility so that she could start interacting with other children. The Director of the facility provided updates to Carol about Kelsey’s progress and did recommend that she see a speech therapist that came to the center once a week. This made a huge difference in Kelsey’s life and when Kelsey was evaluated to see if she needed preschool special education services, it was noted at that time she did not need to attend but it was recommended to continue speech therapy sessions. Carol has always been determined to provide the

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When Carol first set eyes on Kelsey, it was love at first site for the both of them. Carol was allowed to pick her up and hug her and Kelsey hugged her back and the strong bond began. After meeting Kelsey, the doctors at the orphanage wanted to talk to Carol and make sure she knew that Kelsey was a special needs baby. Kelsey was 11 months and weighed 14 lbs. Her preliminary testing indicated that she may have a heart condition and they could not guarantee that she would ever walk or talk.

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best for Kelsey and to help her to reach her full potential in life. Carol kept up on developmental issues and one day someone had sent her an article and picture of a young girl that looked just like Kelsey. They both were small in stature with very similar facial features. The girl in the picture had been diagnosed with having RubensteinTaybi Syndrome (RTS). Her doctor was a bit skeptical as this is an extremely rare disease, but he was willing to refer them to a specialist at Emory University and subsequently ended up at the University of Chicago. It was there that they did make the diagnosis of RTS and added that Kelsey also was the only person in the world with an additional factor of having a specific genetic chromosomal defect. People with RTS are small in stature, (females are not usually taller than four eleven), have moderate to severe learning disabilities, poor motor and coordination skills, along with an array of health risks. This then put Kelsey in the category of having Autism. Though researchers at the University wanted Kelsey to participate in clinical research studies, Carol made the ultimate decision not to participate since the studies would not change the course of Kelsey’s life. Fast forward to today, Kelsey has grown into a very bright and talented 18-year-old young lady. She is currently an 11th grade special education student at Veterans High School in Kathleen, Georgia. Her resume, yes, I said resume, fills three single space pages. She has a resume because she participates in many activities that require her accomplishments to be known in order to participate. One of those activities is her pageant participation. Kelsey is the current Miss Conyers Cherry Blossom and will be competing at the Miss Georgia Scholarship Competition in June 2022 as the first person with intellectual disabilities in the pageants 77-year history. Her pageant social impact initiative is, “special needs means special abilities – the importance of self-advocacy for individuals with disabilities”. She strongly believes that individuals with disabilities can achieve remarkable things in life, and she is certainly on her way to doing

just that. Kelsey has been preparing for the pageant with her communications teacher from Puzzle Pieces Intervention Center located in Centerville, Georgia. The centers owner, Bridgette Sparks, has been working with Kelsey for a while and they are focusing on her pageant speech. Kelsey also attends young adult life skills classes offered at the center a couple times a month. Another major accomplishment of Kelsey’s is that she is a state Special Olympics gold medalist. She has won 4 gold medals in track and bowling and will be attending this year’s Special Olympics competing in swimming. Through trial and tribulation Kelsey will be able to participate in swimming this year. Swimming was deemed not to be safe for a special needs student by school administration but overturned last year in order for her to participate. Unfortunately, the Special Olympics was cancelled last year because of COVID, but on track this year with some restrictions. Kelsey has had the same swim

coach for 10 years. She is on a swim team at the Warner Robins Aquanauts, in Warner Robins, GA. Her swim coach would be the first to say she is very comfortable with who she is and approaches everything she does with determination to do the best that she can. She is extremely excited to be competing and is looking forward to being a part of something that is larger than herself. If being a pageant contestant and athlete was not enough, Kelsey and her mom have also authored a few books. The most recent book is a children’s book called “Kelsey Goes to the Special Olympics”. The book provides a capsule of information of her journey from the beginning of her life until her Special Olympics experience. The Norris’s strongly feel that to tell Kelsey’s story she also needs to address the bullying she endured at times while growing up. This book provides a strong positive message that promotes

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If being a pageant contestant and athlete was not enough, Kelsey and her mom have also authored a few books. The most recent book is a children’s book called “Kelsey Goes to the Special Olympics”. The book provides a capsule of information of her journey from the beginning of her life until her Special Olympics experience.

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kindness and acceptance of people who are different. Kelsey and her mom have traveled throughout Georgia doing book tours speaking to students, parents, and community groups. They have donated books to local libraries and schools. Like many of us, Kelsey is an animal lover. She has had a few animals come and go through time, and each one has made a mark on her life. She has also donated over 7000 pounds of dog food since 2015 to an area Humane Society. Kelsey mentioned to me during our interview that she loved horses and had taken riding lessons at one time. I could not help but invite her to the Nancy Ellis Knox Equestrian Center located on the campus of Wesleyan College. This is where I keep my horse, Georgia, and we had a great day of grooming and riding. Kelsey lights up around animals and has a yorkie named Maggie that keeps her company at home. Needless to say, both mother and daughter are an inspiration to all. When interviewing the two of them you could see the admiration and love that they both have for each other. Carol acknowledges that it has not always been easy, but she made a promise to herself and to Kelsey that she would provide the best possible life for her and to help her reach her full potential. I would say Carol has surpassed that goal by miles. Kelsey has been involved in state government initiatives that help with the advocacy of Autism, volunteered over 4500 community service hours and is serving as a Georgia Autism Speaks Volunteer Advocacy Ambassador. Kelsey has a resume that will continue to grow as she starts looking ahead at college. She is someone to watch out for and you can guarantee you will see her mother right by her side continuing to provide the support she has given Kelsey throughout the years.  HCL

From the Perry International Festival to the nationally recognized New Year's Eve Buzzard Drop celebration, discover all that awaits you in Perry! To view our full calendar of special events or to learn more about participating in an upcoming event, please visit us online at: www.perry-ga.gov/specialevents 478-954-5758 | @cityofperryga | Text “Hello” to (888) 49-PERRY (73779) Hometown Living At Its Best

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Serving Middle Georgia Since 1978 Free Estimates | Licensed & Insured

8 0 8 C ARL V I N S O N P KW Y | CE N TE R V IL L E , GA 31028 | 478. 328.0246

THE FLOOR STORE Showroom & Warehouse

We have more than 30 years of experience designing, installing and selling custom cabinets and flooring in Warner Robins and the surrounding areas. Sunday: Closed | Mon-Fri 10a.m. - 5p.m. | Saturday: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 4027 Watson Blvd and New location 2020 Russell Parkway, Warner Robins, GA 31088 | (478) 333-3396 | www.thefloorstoreonline.com

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LESLIE HUGGINS R E A LT O R ®

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RPI 478-954-3774 or 478-954-5665

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Braswell Fam i ly D e n ti stry 1133 Macon Road Perry, GA 31069 478-988-3200 www.drtbraswelldds.com

Neighbors Serving Neighbors for over 30 Years! • Managed Cybersecurity • Managed Network Services

• Business Continuity • Disaster Recovery Planning

• Compliance as a Service • Business Technology Consulting

353 Robins W Pkwy | Warner Robins, GA 31088 | www.choosetcs.com | 478-953-6070

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Penelope’s Carriage House Private venue located in an authentic Carriage House. Perfect for private weddings or gatherings. Officiant services available. 1 02 E HERITA GE B LVD , B Y R ON, G A | ( 478 ) 9 5 1 -4 6 6 3 | PE N E L O PE SFARMH O U SE . C O M

Heather Peebles Owner

Come See Us!

Cool off with a cup of homemade peach ice cream.

Enjoy a bowl of delicious peach cobbler on the porch. Stay awhile and watch our peach packing shed run. Take home a box of the sweetest Georgia peaches! 5575 Zenith Mill Road • Fort Valley, GA 31030

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Monday-Saturday 9:00-5:30

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Story by VALERIE A. ROSE | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

Paying it Forward First The Second Saturday Market, hosted by Serving Forward, is an ongoing monthly event that not only provides for the local community of Houston County, it pays forward and gives back as well.

Every second Saturday of every month there’s a buzz of excitement in the air because Market Day is here! The Second Saturday Market, hosted by Serving Forward, is an ongoing monthly event that not only provides for the local community of Houston County, it pays forward and gives back as well. The idea of hosting this farmers market is one of many that Amanda Vanlandingham has for contributing towards the community. She founded her non-profit organization called Serving Forward with one goal in mind, focusing on whole wellness for pastors and missionaries.

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Amanda’s goal was to be a vessel of ministering to those who minister to others, a concept that came to her during her own time of working as a youth leader and struggling with a multitude of health issues. When she set out to find ways to network and partner with other Houston County and surrounding county businesses such as Ole Bake House out of Perry, GA, Sue Handbags of Warner Robins, GA, Second Saturday Market began and has been running strong since, in fact it recently celebrated its first year of operation. So what makes this market or event different from others around the county? The answer to that question

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is where the collaboration of local Houston County community members comes in. Serving Forward invites local community members who have family farm businesses, home- harvested or hand-crafted goods and services to sell. Each local community member or vendor pays a small fee that goes to the Serving Forward non-profit organization, and in return they get to set up shop on the Vandlingham’s private property from 9 AM to 1 PM to greet, educate, and serve the community via the communication and selling of their products and goods.

Amanda shares, “That’s exactly what I hope will always stand out about the Second Saturday Market, is the idea that it is a place where people come together to collaborate, learn, grow, and share what they know with others. It’s collaboration over competition here, because when we know better, we do better, and when we are learning from one another, we are encouraging one another to grow too.”

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Amanda shares that she would love to incorporate inviting local artists to join in the Second Saturday Market; she hopes to build a stage on site, for local musicians and/ or showcasing local potters, painters, etc. One of the ways the Market currently gives back comes from collecting a donated item from each vendor which contributes to a gift basket that is gifted to a local pastor in the community. Each month a different pastor’s name is drawn after being nominated by local community members via Serving Forward’s Facebook page.

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Amanda shares the purpose of the Market is to offer local farm, home-harvested, and hand- crafted businesses a place to shine and share their knowledge and talents so that others who are interested could learn and venture out to do the same. Unlike conventional market events held at local conference centers, coliseums, and Perry fairgrounds, this market is much more personable. Amanda makes it a point so stop and talk with each vendor, to share with them about their business and also about Serving Forward too. Serving Forward has a booth at the Market too… Amanda and her partner, Shannon Feudner, sell produce and share the gospel, as they share about their nonprofit mission, the towers and all things supporting spiritual, physical, and emotional wellness. There are lots of things to see at the Second Saturday Market to include the greenhouse located on the Vandlingham’s property as well as their pond, resident ducks, chickens, a rooster, farm dogs…Einstein, the family pig, comes out to visit with the vendors too.

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Chris, Amanda’s husband, faithfully supports his wife in all her endeavors and shares that she is one of the most giving people he knows and she is always willing to help others feel better. Amanda has hopes to expand beyond the Market on their property by building retreat cabins for pastors and missionaries around the lake. She currently offers wellness classes on making items such as fire cider, kombucha, and water kefir. Serving Forward has hosted a “Dinner under the Stars,” fundraiser and will be hosting another one this year as well. Amanda truly enjoys educating others about whole foods and whole wellness, along with her nonprofit business Serving Forward; she also has her own business, Renewed Health, where she meets independently with clients, to help them assess their own whole wellness lifestyles. With a business, a nonprofit, and her husband’s drag racing hobbies, hosting a monthly market seems like it would be the last thing on her mind, but paying forward and giving back is at the basis of many things on Amanda’s mind and always a part of her goals. Amanda shares that she would love to incorporate inviting local artists to join in the Second Saturday Market; she hopes to build

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a stage on site, for local musicians and/or showcasing local potters, painters, etc. One of the ways the Market currently gives back comes from collecting a donated item from each vendor which contributes to a gift basket that is gifted to a local pastor in the community. Each month a different pastor’s name is drawn after being nominated by local community members via Serving Forward’s Facebook page. Amanda also hopes to develop a lunch and learn program for pastors and ministry staff within the upcoming year, in which she would again utilize a collaboration of goods from the Second Saturday Market vendors to create meals delivered to the church, with an educational conversation about how and what the whole foods being eaten do for restoring one’s whole health. Kids are also a part of the equation, when making plans for future markets by providing a creative or learning activity, or a cook and learn booth just for children, greenhouse tours, and answering questions about life on the farm. Amanda is known for breaking out garden books and telling produce tales to children at Second Saturday Market; she enjoys offering kid-friendly and fun treats such as “ants on a log” and “gooey good

So what makes this market or event different from others around the county? The answer to that question is where the collaboration of local Houston County community members comes in. Serving Forward invites local community members who have family farm businesses, home- harvested or hand-crafted goods and services to sell.

caterpillars” because she wants kids to learn how to eat well for themselves and have fun while doing it. As for how long folks can expect the Second Saturday Market to continue, Amanda says, “As long as God intends for it to go for,” which is an answer vendors such as Anita Curry of Golden Bee Apiaries likes to hear. Anita is one of the market’s original vendors and shares that she thoroughly enjoys coming to Second Saturday Market, and sharing about her bees and honey with all folks and “how honey heals and helps us in so many ways.” Amanda shares, “That’s exactly what I hope will always stand out about the Second Saturday Market, is the idea that it is a place where people come together to collaborate, learn, grow, and share what they know with others. It’s collaboration over competition here, because when we know better, we do better, and when we are learning from one another, we are encouraging one another to grow too.” That’s the kind of community business everyone wants to have and Second Saturday Market is here to pay it forward and to give back month after month, year after year. The Serving Forward office is located at 1114 Hwy 96 Suite C-1 #235 Kathleen, GA 31047 in Houston County. Second Saturday Market occurs on the second Saturday of every month and is located at 64 First Avenue, Hawkinsville, GA from 9 AM to 1 PM. Serving Forward invites you to come check out community business at work for the greater good at Second Saturday Market. Amanda says to be sure to find her and say “hello.”  HCL

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Need help or have questions regarding Medicare coverage and plans? You may be able to enroll in or change your Medicare Plan outside October 15-December 7 Medicare Annual Enrollment period: • Age 65 and newly eligible for Medicare or have a qualifying disability • Are you retiring and losing your current coverage • Have moved out of your current Medicare’s plans service area • Receive Medicaid benefits • Get Extra Help to pay for your prescription drug costs or health insurance premiums If you have questions about your Medicare choices, I’m here to help.

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The Muse Theatre originally operated in 1950 as Perry’s second movie theatre. In 2021, the theatre reawakened as a popular spot for wedding receptions, corporate parties, theatrical events, concerts, and more.

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We are a Warner Robins based general contractor, offering custom built homes and remodeling services. Whether your project is large or small our approach is honest and simple; understanding your contractor needs combined with our detailed management, superior teamwork as well as hands-on building and remodeling skills; your project is delivered with care, craftsmanship and durability that will last a lifetime at a fair value.

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Life

Savers Story by ALEXA TEBBEN | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

For P.A. Nikki Lytle, founder of Mental Health 1st nonprofit, educating others on mental health and how to recognize depression in others is an undertaking she has proudly accepted. 144

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When it comes to social causes, there are some that touch a special place in our hearts. For P.A. Nikki Lytle, founder of Mental Health 1st nonprofit, educating others on mental health and how to recognize depression in others is an undertaking she has proudly accepted. Born and raised in Houston County, the local area is near and dear to Nikki’s heart. “I care about here,” she says. “And more than that, I care about the kids that are here. Their mental health matters as much as their physical health and their education.” Inspiring mental health awareness and promoting suicide prevention within the community, Nikki is bringing light to a subject that is too often swept under the rug. Nikki’s enthusiasm for suicide prevention stems from her personal struggles with depression. “I have been a physician’s assistant for over 20 years and dealt with depression for nearly 30 years,” Nikki tells me. “This eventually led to my finding my purpose in helping those dealing with depression.” At the age of 19, Nikki was heartbroken over a boy whose name she cannot recall today. Devastated, she attempted to take her own life. “When

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you’re a teenager, you can’t see past right now,” she says. “I’ve been there and I totally get that.” Having experienced the pain and heartache that can lead to suicidal thoughts, Nikki works to educate people on how to recognize depression in others and where to find help for oneself. “It’s much easier to help someone when you’ve been there yourself,” she says honestly. Her own experiences have changed the way she views others and helps her better relate to people dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts. “Georgia ranks 51st out of the states for access to mental healthcare,” Nikki reports. As a PA working in mental health, she says, “There are not a lot of places to refer these people if they can’t get to our clinic. We In trying times, it is difficult to see the purpose of our present pain. But looking back, Nikki attests that our trials produce growth and perseverance to give us a beautiful, brighter future.

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don’t have the same care as other states.” It is truly unfortunate what little resources exist in our area, and Nikki sees the impact of this every day. In addition, Nikki reports that adolescents ages 1114 are the fastest growing demographic that commit suicide. As a mother of four teenagers, Nikki sees the direct impact of children’s surroundings and their struggle to cope with their environment. With the advancement of technology has come the inability for kids to shield themselves from negative and hurtful content. Even at home, kids are bombarded with apps and nonstop mainstream media that tell them they are not enough. “We didn’t have that when we were growing up,” Nikki says. “If you didn’t want to talk to someone you just didn’t answer the phone.”

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Mental Health 1st aims to educate communities on how to respond to those that battle depression lovingly and without condemnation. Nikki talks about their various projects and initiatives. “The one we have going on right now is the mental health first aid kits for Houston County,” Nikki says. “We’re placing them in all the schools. Thirty-two thousand kids will get a mental health first aid kit.”

Now, however, bullies live in the very palms of our children. “Social media has changed everything,” Nikki says. Children often feel that the only escape is drugs, sleep, or suicide, and it is time to do something to change this. Inspired to make a difference, Nikki decided to expand her passion for other’s wellbeing outside of her medical practice. In 2021, she started the Mental Health 1st nonprofit. “Our mission statement is to work to prevent suicide and reduce stigma surrounding mental health treatment,” she says proudly. Mental Health 1st aims to educate communities on how to respond to those that battle depression lovingly and without condemnation. Nikki talks about their various projects and initiatives. “The one we have going on right now is the mental health first aid kits for Houston County,” Nikki says. “We’re placing them in

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all the schools. Thirty-two thousand kids will get a mental health first aid kit.” The mental health first aid kits include live safer candies, Kleenex, suicide prevention hotline numbers, and motivational cards. These items send an underlying message to encourage kids to be life savers and remind them that it is okay to cry and lend a shoulder to cry on. The motivational cards say things like, “You’re loved,” “You matter,” and “You’ve got this.” The mental health first aid kits were funded by Project Aware, a large government grant that was given to the Houston County Board of Education. “They’ve used [the grant] for a lot of education, but they had enough to pay for a large portion of the kits.” Several local businesses have offered their financial support as well. “These companies took a chance on a new nonprofit,” Nikki says with gratitude. It is because of their generosity that Mental Health 1st continues to reach the youth in middle Georgia. In honor of the Mental Health Awareness month, the mental health first aid kits were distributed throughout all the schools in middle Georgia in May of 2022. Nikki’s plans include making this project an annual occurrence. Nikki can often be found speaking at schools, churches and civic organizations to further spread awareness and educate a willing audience. Rarely at these events is she not approached by someone eager to discuss more resources and methods of helping a loved one. Nikki talks about how taboo discussions of

depression and suicide used to be. “The world has come a long way. Nobody [used to] talk about it, ever. I think the best thing we can do is talk about it so people know there’s help out there.” Nikki urges people to familiarize themselves with ways to spot depression and how to approach those that are hurting. “Talk to your friend, talk to your family,” she encourages. “Don’t be afraid to say the actual words ‘Are you suicidal?’” If you do not take the opportunity now, you might not get the chance to later. Nikki reflects on her past and how it made her the person she is today. “I totally feel like everything happened like it was supposed to happen,” she says. “From a kidney stone to a miscarriage, to divorce, everything happened like it was supposed to happen so I could help.”

Nikki’s faith in the Lord is a driving force in the work she does to help others. She dreams of the day she will hear the words, “Well done my good and faithful servant,” when this life is over. Until then, she will continue the work God has placed on her heart, offering comfort and encouragement to as many people she can reach. In trying times, it is difficult to see the purpose of our present pain. But looking back, Nikki attests that our trials produce growth and perseverance to give us a beautiful, brighter future. Making a difference in the community starts with you. Check in with your loved ones today and let someone know that their life matters… because every life matters.  HCL

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200 Gunn Road Centerville, GA 31028 478.953.1010

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Summer’s Landing of Warner Robins is dedicated to providing elegant residences for senior adults. We offer Supportive Independent Living, Assisted Living, and we have a special Secure Memory Care Unit for residents with Dementia or Alzheimer’s. The Summer’s Landing worry-free promise is simple. One convenient flat-rate monthly fee covers your private residence, utilities, transportation scheduling, housekeeping, maintenance, nourishing meals, and a rich array of daily activities designed to boost wellness and fun! 600 South Kimberly Road | Warner Robins, GA 31088 (478) 328-3800 | summerslandingwr.com

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Story by ALEXA TEBBEN | Photos by Tinika Bennett Photography

Community

at Your

Fingertips

When it comes to finding a good online

community, you can sift through hundreds of groups before discovering the right one for you. Ashleigh Deakin, founder of the Houston County, GA Moms Facebook page, also

Ashleigh Deakin, has created a Facebook page for women in surrounding areas to connect with local moms.

struggled to find a good local group, never mind connect with one.

“My son was 6 months old at the time and I

had searched around Facebook to see if there were any in our area, and I didn’t see any,” she recalls. “I said, let me just create one that all moms can be a part of.” Ashleigh looked at Facebook groups for women in surrounding areas to see what she could offer in Houston County. In a group based

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in Macon, Ashleigh met Danielle Sweeney, a military spouse and mother of three. Based on their location, Ashleigh says, “We started talking and Danielle agreed with me that creating a group for Houston County would be better [for us].” Tiffany Francis was alongside Ashleigh and Danielle when they officially launched the Houston County, GA Moms Facebook page in July of 2019. Later, Anya Turpin, Special Events Manager for Perry, and Lauren Causey joined them as moderators. “I chose these ladies to help moderate based on their group tenure, how active and helpful they were in the group, and their response on how they handle conflict.” Each woman was determined to let the community know about the support they could find in this local online group. “We just invited our friends and then they invited their friends,” Ashleigh says. Excited to get the ball rolling, the trio spread the word about their Facebook page – and it caught like wildfire. In the beginning, Ashleigh admits, “I honestly did not realize that it would become this big. I started the group thinking maybe I’ll have just 1000 [members].” Ashleigh quickly saw that many women and more joined the Facebook group. By early 2022, the group surpassed 3000 members. On the page, members are invited to post questions and offer suggestions on any given topic. Women asked about online school suggestions for stay-at-home moms, storms surging through the area, female specialist

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recommendations and much more. “We have a lot of people that make posts. It could be about anything,” Ashleigh says. “They’ll say, ‘Hey, I’m interested in hiking or wine nights, let’s meet up.’ When people make posts, they have a lot of good responses.” Women that are new to the area can use this group to make friends and get plugged into the community. With a simple post like, “New to the area, looking to make friendships over a mutual love of coffee and live music,” members can quickly find their soul sisters. “It’s amazing how many people have met up through my group, and they’re friends for life,” Ashleigh reports. “I love

On the page, members are invited to post questions and offer suggestions on any given topic. Women asked about online school suggestions for stay-at-home moms, storms surging through the area, female specialist recommendations and much more. “We have a lot of people that make posts. It could be about anything,” Ashleigh says. “They’ll say, ‘Hey, I’m interested in hiking or wine nights, let’s meet up.’ When people make posts, they have a lot of good responses.”

seeing that.” Ashleigh is committed to providing fun and helpful resources for the women of Houston

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Each woman was determined to let the community know about the support they could find in this local online group. “We just invited our friends and then they invited their friends,” Ashleigh says. Excited to get the ball rolling, the trio spread the word about their Facebook page – and it caught like wildfire.

County. She personally keeps up with special events and relative news to share what is going on with the group. “You have a lot of posts ranging from events to if school is closed next week. It’s a very active group.” In her commitment to providing helpful information to members, Ashleigh keeps a close eye on the content streaming through her platform. “We keep things positive; we don’t allow any sort of negativity in the group at all,” she says. “You’re going to experience very welcoming and very nice moms that have been through a lot and they’re willing to share their experience.” On the off chance that someone makes a questionable post, Ashleigh is quick to reign it in. “If I see that a post could go a certain way, I tend to monitor it right then. But for the most part I don’t have to police it that much because people give genuine advice.” Ashleigh talks about the diversity of the group and how each member brings forth new perspective and fresh ideas. “We have members

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that range from young moms to grandmothers, women of color, single moms, LGBTQ+, etc.,”

different types of moms active in the group.” A unique feature of the Houston County, GA

Ashleigh says proudly. “We also have moms

Moms Facebook page is the ability for members

in our group who hold various employment

to post anonymously. A few members have

positions such as in city council, board of

reached out to Ashleigh in their varying needs.

education, police officers, news media reporters,

“Whether they need assistance with their power

teachers, lawyers, business owners, etc.” Given

bill, rent or childcare, we like to have those

the sheer size of this online community, you are bound to find even just a handful of women you relate to and connect with. For whatever reason, Ashleigh says that older women tend to opt out of online mom groups such as this. However, on Houston County, GA Moms, she says, “A lot of grandmothers and older moms are active as well, and it’s nice to

Ashleigh looked at Facebook groups for women in surrounding areas to see what she could offer in Houston County. In a group based in Macon, Ashleigh met Danielle Sweeney, a military spouse and mother of three. Based on their location, Ashleigh says, “We started talking and Danielle agreed with me that creating a group for Houston County would be better [for us].”

see this. It’s just nice being able to see all these

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[resources] on hand because we want to provide those to moms that may need it.” It makes Ashleigh truly happy to help these women. She shares one experience saying, “We had someone that wanted to know if there was free mental healthcare. They needed to talk to someone mainly through text messages.” Hearing this, they provided them with a crisis line to reach out for help. Through this Facebook page, Ashleigh has met many great friends as well as prominent community members. One such woman she has grown close with is April Brooks Bragg, CEO of Robins Regional Chamber. April runs the Robins-to-go Facebook page that offers local recommendations for all community members. Ashleigh tells me, “[April] was getting a lot of posts about baby formula and she said, ‘We’re likely going to refer these people to you because it would be better suited to your group than Robins-to-go.’” This working friendship helps both women provide accurate resources tailored specifically to each community member. “It’s nice to get involved with city leaders,” Ashleigh says. While Ashleigh created the Houston County, GA Moms group primarily for other moms, she has thoroughly enjoyed every connection it has brought her. “I can’t even count how many people I’ve met,” she says.

For whatever reason, Ashleigh says that older women tend to opt out of online mom groups such as this. However, on Houston County, GA Moms, she says, “A lot of grandmothers and older moms are active as well, and it’s nice to

“There are some very good friendships that

see this. It’s just nice being able to see all these

have blossomed for me personally.” When

different types of moms active in the group.”

Ashleigh needs advice, she takes to the

Hometown Living At Its Best 165

When it comes to finding a good online community, you can sift through hundreds of groups before discovering the right one for you. Ashleigh Deakin, founder of the Houston County, GA Moms Facebook page, also struggled to find a good local group, never mind connect with one.

Facebook page herself. “There’s no judgement. You have the support of 3000 people.” What more could you need? Ashleigh promises to potential members that, “When you join you are going to be greeted with open arms and no judgement. We want everyone to feel welcome and here to stay.” Join today and see what fun lies ahead. You never know, your new best friend could be one click away! HCL

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Ryan Mosley - State Farm Insurance Agent 813 Carroll Street | Perry, GA 31069 | 478-224-7322 | 478-538-5333 cell | ryan@ryanmosleyinsurance.com

HEART OF GEORGIA HOSPICE, A LEGACY HOSPICE

We are the caretakers of what has been bestowed to us for safekeeping. Heart of Georgia Hospice has been in service and ministry to Houston and 9 other surrounding counties for nearly 40 years providing all the necessary services relating to hospice care. If you are interested in supporting our Legacy or know someone who believes in the preservation of foundational organizations that are truly the heart of what really matters, then please come talk with us at Heart of Georgia Hospice. We would love to tell you about what we are doing for our community and how we may be of service to you and your family. It would be our sincere privilege to serve you.

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HEART OF GEORGIA

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vmendozaphoto@gmail.com www.victoriamendozaphotography.com

A DEPENDABLE SURGICAL TEAM Providing the best care to Middle Georgia since 1978

Michael A. Hellwege, MD F T. Kent McBride, MD FACS

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DANIELLE EVANS, LMFT | PRACTICE OWNER

Southern Bridge Inc.

Counseling and Family Therapy

Your hometown oasis for psychological and emotional wellness. Allow us to support you in your journey.

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24/7 Service Light and Medium Duty Towing, Lockouts, Tire Changes, Jumpstarts. We move Storage Buildings and Play Houses!!

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Family owned & Operated

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YOUR

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300 S. Houston Lake Rd. | Warner Robins, GA 31088 | (478) 971-2500 170

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Great Smiles, Amazing Faces 1721 Russell Pkwy | Warner Robins, GA 31088 | (478) 328-7049| drpoolortho.com Hometown Living At Its Best

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GILES OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT

1002 ST PATRICK’S DR PERRY, GA 31069 | WWW.GILESOUTDOORPOWEREQUIPMENT.COM | (478) 224-3737

We love having you here!

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405 Hwy 96 an Moody Rd | Bonaire, GA 31005 +1 (478) 973-3064 | www.fringeandfrayed.com

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

why we love

Houston.

Photos By | 174 houston county living

Tinika Bennett Photography

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The Dream Starts Here

SAT T ERF IELD & DEMP SE Y JEWELERS

Voted the BES T 7 y e ar s i n a row !

621 South Houston Lake Road | Warner Robins, GA 31088 478-971-1200 | satterfieldanddempsey.com 186

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Est. 1987

SOUTHERN LIGHTING

HOME LIGHTING CENTER Est. 1987 Middle Georgia’s Largest Selection Of Lighting Fixtures

(478) 929-0624 www.southernlightingga.com Mon - Fri: 8:00 - 5:30 • Closed Saturday & Sunday 2508 Moody Road | Warner Robins, GA 31088

Need Insurance? We’re Here To Help.

Devon Joiner Jacob Gore Audrey Davis Blake Bennett

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expand

your reach

advertise today Dorothy Sichelstiel

478.396.2447 | dorothysichelstiel@yahoo.com

LOLLIPOP

KIDS COMPANY

2922 WATSON SUITE 400 | CENTERVILLE, GA 31028 | 478-333-1440 (INSIDE THE HOUSTON COUNTY GALLERIA )

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Kevin Barry State Farm

OUR SUCCESS IS BANKING ON YOURS. We take pride in being a part of this community and are truly invested in your success.

Kevin Barry State Farm Ride with the #1 insurer in Georgia

Providing Insurance and Financial Services 3520 U S Highway 41 N | Suite 1005 | 478-333-3377

WWW.KEVINBARRYINSURANCE.COM

Houston County Banking Team Left to Right: Angela Clayton, Financial Center Manager NMLS#1004006 Melanie Jackson, RMA Annie Sherrod, Financial Center Manager NMLS#2067732 Scott Henderson, Financial Center Manager NMLS#1697103

Call us at 800-329-0289

The

Upholstery See us for your tax and accounting needs

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Furniture • Boats

CLH CPAs,LLC Certified Public Accountants and Consultants

468 S. HOUSTON LAKE RD. | WARNER ROBINS, GA 31088 (478) 953-0125

Specializing in all types of reupholster work Sherry Rucker | 478.244.4907 Hometown Living At Its Best

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Stylish Clothing For Boys & Girls

916 MAIN STREET, 2ND FLOOR | PERRY, GA 31069 | 478-987-0947 | MMMCPA.COM

917 Carroll St, Perry, GA 31069 | (478) 987-0970 | sugarplumtree.com

Greater Perry’s Safest, Cleanest Storage • Fenced & Secured • Video Security Cameras • Personal Gate Codes • Outdoor & Temperature Controlled • Covered Boat & RV Storage • Outdoor Parking • Locally Owned & Operated

Bill O’Neal CIC Life • Auto • Home Farm • Business 103 Woodlawn Drive (Across from Mike’s Golf Carts) Perry, GA 31069 478-218-5967 | www.bobwhitestorage.com

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1109 Washington Street | Perry, GA 31069 InsureWithONeal.com | 478-987-1951

WHAT MOVES YOU

Celebrate our

20th Anniversary Come visit our locally owned and family operated Pharmacy.

PERRY

DRUG COMPANY

REALTOR ®

www.PerryDrugCompany.com

Ask us about how you can order your refills using your smartphone. 478.988.1144 | 1036 A MACON ROAD | PERRY, GA 31069

Cell: 478-390-2233 melissa@thehallerteam.com 526 S Houston Lake Rd, Warner Robins GA 31088 • Ph: 478-929-4444

Peels Botox Facial The Glass Oxygen Facial Spa Facials Dermaplaning Microneedling Acne Bootcamp SKINfinity Skincare Cosmetic Dermatology TXs and more

Located inside Hello Beautiful Salon

www.skinfinitystudio.com

Relax the mind Renew the body Revive the soul 1019 Jernigan Street | Perry, GA 31069 | 478-955-6099 Hometown Living At Its Best

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Index of Advertisers Acres & Oak Kitchen ............................................. Inside Back Cover Advanced Eye Care ....................................................................... 28 AF Realty Group ........................................................ 63, Back Cover Alfa Insurance ............................................................................ 187 Allen’s Tree Service, Inc. ............................................................. 126 Arriscraft ....................................................................................... 44 Ashley’s Business Solutions ......................................................... 64 Badcock Home Furniture & More ................................................ 170 Bob White Self Storage .............................................................. 190 Bodega Brew .............................................................................. 127 Boland Prosthetic & Orthotic Center ............................................ 43 Braswell Family Dentistry ........................................................... 128 Cadence Bank ............................................................................ 189 Central Georgia Cancer Care ...................................................... 142 Central Georgia Heart & Vein Center ........................................... 110 Chancy Auto ............................................................................... 143 City of Perry ................................................................................ 125 Clean Control | OdoBan ............................................................. 111 CLH CPAs, LLC ............................................................................ 189 Coldwell Banker Free Realty ................................. Inside Front Cover Colony Bank ............................................................................... 152 Courtney Kitchens Photography ................................................. 152 Cruz Tree Service, Lawn Care & Landscaping .............................. 157 Danny Reed Construction ........................................................... 140 Do It Best .................................................................................... 153 Flint Energies ................................................................................ 96 Fringe & Frayed Boutique ........................................................... 173 Geico .............................................................................................. 7 Giles Outdoor Power Equipment ................................................. 172 Golden Key - The Haller Team ...................................................... 141 Golden Key Realty - Melissa Posilero .......................................... 191 Griggers Wealth Management ...................................................... 94 Hampton by Hilton ...................................................................... 172 Heart of Georgia Hospice ............................................................ 167 Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory ...................... 26-27 Houston County Living - Dorothy Sichelstiel ................................ 188 Houston Hardware ...................................................................... 153 Houston Healthcare ...................................................................... 97 Houston Healthcare Urgent Care .................................................. 45 Houston Lake Country Club ........................................................ 191 Impact Therapy ............................................................................. 65 J Auto Ranch ................................................................................. 31 Keller Williams Real Estate - The Bazemore Group ..................... 188 Kingsland Farm ............................................................................. 47 Kollier & Co ................................................................................. 157 Landmark Realty - Madison Holland ............................................. 99 LifeSpring Community .................................................................. 76 Loden Dental Associates .............................................................. 46 Lollipop Kids Company ............................................................... 188 M. Farmer Photography .............................................................. 173 Magnolia Park Cemetery .............................................................. 10 Massey Gordon ........................................................................... 142 MBG Office Systems ................................................................... 112 McCullough Funeral Home ........................................................... 11

McNair McLemore Middlebrooks & Co ...................................... 190 Middle Georgia Medicare ........................................................... 138 Middle Georgia Orthopaedics ....................................................... 95 Middle Georgia Painting ................................................................. 3 Mini Dixie Donuts ........................................................................ 141 Mistletoe Market ........................................................................ 155 Morris Bank .................................................................................... 5 Moss & Brannen Orthodontics ................................................... 139 Mossy Pond Retrievers .................................................................... 9 New American Funding - Melissa Gibson .................................... 115 Northern Millworks LLC .............................................................. 156 O’Neal Insurance ....................................................................... 190 Orleans on Carroll Street ............................................................... 29 OrthoGeorgia Orthopaedic Specialists ......................................... 62 Pearson Farm ............................................................................. 129 Pellicano Construction ............................................................... 154 Penelope’s Carriage House ........................................................ 129 Perry Chamber .............................................................................. 98 Perry Drug Company .................................................................. 191 Pool Orthodontics ....................................................................... 171 Posh Paws Pet Grooming ............................................................ 138 Promise of Hope ......................................................................... 114 Reece Heating & Air Conditioning ................................................... 2 Road Runner Towing of Perry ...................................................... 169 RPI Real Estate Services, Leslie Huggins, Bill Waldorf ................ 127 Sanders Law, P.C. ......................................................................... 66 Satterfield & Dempsey Jewelers ................................................. 186 Skinfinity Studio ......................................................................... 191 Southern Bridge Inc. Counseling and Family Therapy ................. 169 Southern Lighting ....................................................................... 187 Spillers Orthodontics ...................................................................... 1 State Farm - Kevin Barry ............................................................. 189 State Farm - Ryan Mosley ........................................................... 167 Sugarplum Tree .......................................................................... 190 Summerhill Senior Living Community ........................................... 30 Summer’s Landing of Warner Robins .......................................... 153 Sumrall Family Dental ................................................................ 156 SunMark Community Bank ......................................................... 171 Surgical Associates of Warner Robins ......................................... 168 Synovus Bank ............................................................................. 143 The Butcher Shop ....................................................................... 140 The Floor Store ........................................................................... 126 The Kim Hamlin Group of NFM Lending ........................................ 78 The Muse Theatre ....................................................................... 139 The Upholstery Shop .................................................................. 189 The Westfield School .................................................................. 186 Tinika Bennett Photography ................................................. 77, 113 Total Computer Solutions ........................................................... 128 Victoria Mendoza Photography ................................................... 168 Warner Robins E.N.T. Associates ................................................ 170 Watson-Hunt Funeral Home .......................................................... 79 Westmoreland & Slappey Animal Hospital ................................. 155 Windsor Hotel ............................................................................. 154 Women’s Healthcare of Georgia ................................................... 67

Please thank our sponsors for making this publication possible! 192

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