Sumter County Living Magazine - Fall 2020

Hometown Living at its Best Fall 2020

EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUENESS Michael JaKobe Terry encourages people to embrace their uniqueness through his clothing line, Zoo. SUMTER COUNTY LIVING

FINDING A DOG TO FIT YOUR FAMILY’S LIFESTYLE Plan Ahead to Reap the Rewards of a Loving Family Pet.

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Sumter County Living

SHOP • DINE • STAY Below the Inn, enjoy shopping for antiques in the new mall featuring display cases and over 25 booths!

HOME DECOR • GIFT ITEMS • COLLECTIBLES • ANTIQUES Hometown Living At Its Best

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Hometown Living at its Best

Embrace Your Uniqueness

CON TENTS /

FALL ISSUE 2020

Michael JaKobe Terry encourages people to embrace their uniqueness through his clothing line, Zoo.

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Love at First Site Casie Rowland didn’t give up on the dream and opened Love at First Sight Ultrasound Studio in downtown Americus.

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Following His Lead Kevin’s vision for the church revolves around a process he calls “S3,” which stands for “Seek God, Serve Others, and Share the Good News.”

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Finding a Dog to Fit Your Family’s Lifestyle Plan Ahead to Reap the Rewards of a Loving Family Pet

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From a hardworking truck to a fun motor Bobbie and Ben have both proven that with the Lord involved, hard work and living responsible lives will take you far in life.

ON T H E C O V E R Casie Rowland >> DAVID PARKS PHOTOGRAPHY 4 FALL 2020 / SUMTER COUNTY LIVING

Advanced Skin Cancer Care That’s Close to Home In sunny southwest Georgia, skin cancer can be a fact of life. At Phoebe, experts like Dr. Stephen Plumb deliver the most advanced skin cancer treatments – including cuttingedge Mohs surgery – right here in Albany.

Appointments available now with surgeries performed throughout the week. Schedule today at 229-312-6501.

Mohs surgery is a specialized skin cancer removal technique that offers: • Lowest recurrence rates • Highest cure rates • Best cosmetic results • In office procedure with local anesthesia

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The Butterfly Lady Annette Wise and Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter are raising awareness on the possible extinction of Monarch butterfly populations.

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Hiking, A Hands-on Experience Fun, family hiking adventures

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Sparking a Fire Within Sumter Chapel is a new ministry in Americus, Georgia that has a huge heart for the community.

Pastored by Drew Anderson, they are a growing group of believers wanting to see God show up through empowering people to live out the calling God places on their lives.

a better way to bank

FIRSTATE BANK

ESTABLISHED 1964

Meeting the financial needs of the community, First State Bank has been serving its citizens since 1964

800 East Lamar Street | Americus, Georgia 31709 | (229) 924-3200 | Oncall Banking: (706) 547-4401 | Monday - Friday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

ro om m tt h h ee P Pu ub b ll ii s sh h ee r r FF r

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o f f i C E m A n AG E r nikki Burkhalter P roo f Reade r s Gail Dixon

Photo by Leslie Hand Photography

As we enter the “New Normal”, it is impossible to project what is ahead for our world, country, state, county, city and family. I have heard it said that “history repeats itself”. I’m not sure that “history” Gearing up for the new school year, summer has come to a close has ever seen anything quite like the last few months BUT, what and the back-to-school supply list is being checked off. Oh, the history has shown us istothat has seasons of life.

Learning ebb the and world flow with all previously that life can faced bring wars, unrest andso pestilence.

Although havelearning come out can evoke many emotions in us indevastating, various ways.we I believe ontothe otherthe side – sometimes quickly and peace sometimes embrace flowing waters allows us to have and joy slowly in all – of the times.painlessly and sometimes painfully. sometimes Wegoal haveisoften said that people our passion, andeach learning Our to highlight some are of the people in of our issues about people’s stories is what makes what we do so incredible.

We in that represent the solutions to the “new normal”. The people hear and learn the wisdom, mistakes, lessons and choices that the this issue are part of the history and legacy of Sumter County. fascinating people of Sumter County have and we get to share the Their stories provideand all details. of us with confidence that, together, in-depth background We are always so honored to glean we will persevere and thrive! from these pages and hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

AsFamilies, always,like wethe could not do without theof continued McNeills, arethis on the forefront preserving support history modern a good healthy dose that from ourintertwined sponsorswith which areadditives listed onand page 128.

We hope of old-fashioned hard work! Also included is child you will join us in thanking them.

Be sure tomusic drop prodigy, in at any of those David Busman, storyyour will give chills about howmake he uses locations listedwhose and grab freeyou copy that they possible! his ability to speak to the world through music. Sharad Patel and his Shop with them, visit with them and just keep on showing the love hard working family show such loyalty and passion to the Sumter you so freely give. community and truly captivate what a family owned business looks like.

JohnEach 10:10 KJV stories, and so many more, walk you from the of these beginning to the present of the different pages of life that each have experienced; lessons learned along the wayand andtothe journey ahead.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, kill, and to destroy: I Thank you to all of our readers for sharing in our joy and continuing am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more to open your arms of friendship. We are so grateful for our clients who abundantly. continue to make this publication possible and they are listed on page 136. Please thank them and continue to support them.

Blessings,

Jay and Patti Martin

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P h otog r ap h e r s David Parks Photography P h oto G r A P h E r S david Parks Photography

Phil Hardy leslie hand Photography Shannan Blanchard Photography samantha rambo shannan blanchard

C ov e r P h oto Casie Rowland,

C oV E r P h oto bymcneill children

David Parks Photography Photo by david Parks Photography

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Wri te r s June Anderson Wri te r s June b. Anderson

Kimberly Blaker Kate deLoach Jessica Fellows Michael J. Ross rachel Price Phil Hardy sherri martin Rachel Price

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Love at

First Sight Casie Rowland didn’t give up on the dream and opened Love at First Sight Ultrasound Studio in downtown Americus.

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Casie Rowland once traveled to Americus from Leesburg with her son, Howie, in tow several times a week. With time to spare before hitting the pickup line at school for her two girls, she would take Howie to what was once Bittersweet Coffee Shop.

Casie would watch as Howie played in the children’s section and she would marvel at the historic building. She would look at the brick wall and the warmth and coziness it brought; she would wish to sit all day in peace. She dreamed of one day owning her own business and having a space like 111 W. Forsyth Street.

Outside of her daydreams, Casie worked as a labor and delivery nurse at Phoebe in Albany.

Being a labor and delivery nurse was a dream since high school that she envisioned, pursued, and

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accomplished. “I was always fascinated with pregnancy. It was just beautiful to me. Every time I would see an expectant mother, I would be fascinated. It was just so...amazing. Of course, as a junior in high school, I didn’t know what all it looked like to be in labor and delivery. I didn’t know of all the bad things that can happen to both mother and child. I’ve seen a lot of pain and I’ve helped women labor and deliver that were all alone, not a soul there for support,” she told me.

From 2007 to 2018, Casie continued working as a nurse while pursuing other goals. In 2012, she began studying for her Bachelor’s Degree. Between being married, working, and having children, she attended one class at a time, earning her degree in 2017. Prior to graduating, she learned about ultrasound studios and became intrigued.

“My aunt opened an ultrasound studio in Louisiana about seven years ago. Since I’ve always been interested in business and being my own boss, I thought this would be something I would enjoy. I love being a nurse, I enjoy being in

Outside of her daydreams, Casie worked as a labor and delivery nurse at Phoebe in Albany. Being a labor and delivery nurse was a dream since high school that she envisioned, pursued, and accomplished. “I was always fascinated with pregnancy. It was just beautiful to me.”

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labor and delivery, and I have always been fascinated with pregnancy. My aunt opened her studio without a medical background. I have a medical background and thought ‘I could do that.’ That is perfect for me!” explained Casie.

However, time and circumstance would prove resistant. Things were not falling into place as she’d hoped; opening her own shop was seemingly out of reach. However, she continued to research and held onto her desire. Her spirit was crushed, but she didn’t give up on the dream. “I put that dream on the back burner for a while and continued moving ahead,” she said.

Casie made the decision to transfer to Phoebe

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Sumter in 2018. She planned to work weekends so she could spend more time with her children and figure things out for her future. She was content and at a good place in her life. Then, in October of 2018, she received a call from her aunt. “She called me one day and told me she had an extra ultrasound machine,” Casie recalled. My aunt said, “I know you have wanted to open your own business, so I will help you get started.” “It was perfect timing. God opened everything up. I was moving to Phoebe Sumter, I wanted to open my shop in Americus, it was all falling into place,” Casie explained.

Thanksgiving 2018, Casie traveled to Louisiana for a week with her family and learned how to operate

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“I love everything about this space. It is mine, I am my own boss. I have been able to be creative and I’ve learned a lot about myself that I didn’t know.

Meeting you [Rachel] and doing the breastfeeding classes wasn’t something I planned. I was a lactation counselor before I completed nursing school...it is a beautiful thing, it is awesome. I enjoy being able to hold the classes, host them and being able to have food and talk with women,” Casie explained.

the ultrasound machine. She helped run the shop and explored ways to bring a studio to Americus.

In January 2019, Casie opened Love at First Sight Ultrasound Studio and Boutique at 111 W. Forsyth Street, the same building she fell in love with years prior…the same building that she would sit in and wish she could spend her days being creative, still, but yet productive.

Her friend, Holly Wingate, helped her get the studio set up and ready. Holly has been an incredible asset to Casie and the store; she works on Fridays and helps when needed.

This building that Casie fell in love with has birthed many great things personally and professionally. She offers an adorable boutique with fashionable clothes, practical baby items, and space for baby showers or gatherings. She offers many ultrasound packages for moms and couples that span every price range from gender reveals to 4D scans.

She wants to ensure all mothers can afford to see their baby.

She graciously loaned an office space to me [Rachel Price], a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor, to house,

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AT LAST, my business, which offers mothers a place to connect. Casie helps host classes or get-togethers with At LAST. Here, expecting and new mothers can come to discuss everything pregnancy and beyond, ask questions while making connections, and gather community resources. Casie also has co-hosted a global event, The Global Latch On, with At LAST and hosted the creator of Busy Tabs, having Jen Fletcher as a vendor.

“I love everything about this space. It is mine, I am my own boss. I have been able to be creative and I’ve learned a lot about myself that I didn’t know. Meeting you [Rachel] and doing the breastfeeding classes wasn’t something I planned. I was a lactation counselor before I completed nursing school...it is a beautiful thing, it is awesome. I enjoy being able to hold the classes, host them and being able to have food and talk with women,” Casie explained.

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and take care of her home, husband, and family. But that isn’t all. Currently, she is growing and expanding a farm on her property. It all began with two goats, so her farm is fittingly called, Two Goat Farm.

“Love at First Sight has given me the confidence to do anything, no matter if I fail,” she told me. “I used to be afraid to venture out. I would think to myself, ‘What if it doesn’t work?’ ‘What if it fails?’” she shared. “What if it does? I won’t know unless I try. I would rather try and fail than never give it a shot.”

Casie doesn’t know what I know! She won’t fail… her determination, drive, and character won’t allow it.

She is an achiever.  SCL

“I enjoy that my children can come up here with me. It has given me the flexibility I need as a mom.

If I want to run to the gym, I can. I can bring my dog, Rosie, up here with me and enjoy her company. I love downtown Americus! I love the historic feel, the way it looks, the music playing on the sidewalk, and the brick buildings. I have never tired of how beautiful this building is,” Casie said.

Casie loves the sidewalk sales, the First Fridays, the Women’s Wine and Chocolate Walk, and the unity between business owners. “There is just enough here that it isn’t overwhelming. I feel like I’ve gotten to know a lot of people and I love it,” she said as she smiled.

Casie still works as a labor and delivery nurse on weekends, while running her shop during the week.

She still travels daily to pick her kids up from school

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From 2007 to 2018, Casie continued working as a nurse while pursuing other goals. In 2012, she began studying for her Bachelor’s Degree. Between being married, working, and having children, she attended one class at a time, earning her degree in 2017. Prior to graduating, she learned about ultrasound studios and became intrigued.

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FOLLOWING HIS LEAD STORY BY

June Anderson

PHOTOS BY

David Parks Photography

Kevin’s vision for the church revolves around a process he calls “S3,” which stands for “Seek God, Serve Others, and Share the Good News.”

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How does a man, born and raised in Ohio, schooled most of his life in Ohio, and married to the girl next door (well, sort of…she was from the neighboring state of Indiana), end up in Americus, Georgia?

Kevin Brown will tell you it was simply because he followed God’s leading.

Kevin was born on April 13, 1968, in Columbus, Ohio, and lived there all his life except for the couple of years he attended college in Oklahoma.

He lived quite the normal life; he helped in the family photography business. He graduated from Upper Arlington High School in 1987, attended Oral Roberts University (ORU) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for a couple of years working on his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, then transferred to Ohio State University (or as some would say “THE” Ohio

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State University!) where he completed his degree and graduated in 1993. He attended World Harvest Bible College (WHBC) for two years and received a diploma in Pastoral Studies in 1995. During his time there, Kevin met a lovely young lady, Stacy Farmer, and they married in August, 1995. He received his Masters of Arts in Biblical Counseling in 2002 from Trinity Theological Seminary in Newbergh, Indiana.

This all sounds somewhat typical of the lives of many young people of his generation, and upon meeting Kevin, you would not be surprised at these accomplishments. He is intelligent, speaks well, looks you in the eye, and has a most pleasant demeanor. What would surprise you is the fact that he didn’t like school, he struggled with a learning

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disability that held him back in third grade, he threatened to drop out of high school, he wanted no part of college, and he quaked in his boots at the thought of public speaking. However, as is true with most of us, Kevin can look back and identify the turning point in his life…and, oddly enough, it was a gym class requirement! Had his high school not required students to pass a swim class, Kevin’s future might have looked quite different.

Slight problem, though…Kevin could not swim. However, he knew he had to pass the swim class, so he did a smart thing: he took swimming lessons before taking the class! Not only did he learn to swim, but he learned to swim well. His high school guidance counselor knew that Kevin was capable of much more than what he saw on paper and encouraged him to go to college, which he did only because he received a scholarship to swim on the team at ORU! He’s liked water ever since and until he became so busy with “life,” he enjoyed swimming, boating, waterskiing, and ice hockey, or as he says, “water in all its forms!” He still finds time in his busy schedule for a couple of his favorite pleasures: reading and family activities, one of which is attending swim meets with Rachel and Abby, a couple of his children who have followed Dad’s lead. Sometimes the apple just doesn’t fall far from the tree! (Their sister, Jordan, was swimming until an injury curtailed her activities. Don’t worry… she’s plenty busy with college, music, serving at church, AND she teaches swimming lessons!)

During Kevin’s two years at ORU, he sensed the call to fulltime ministry, later confirmed through prophecy by Oral’s son, Richard, who also sensed that Kevin should soon begin preparing himself for that call. When he transferred to OSU, he became involved in a campus church, where he regularly taught Bible

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Between 1993 and 1995, Kevin traveled to the Ukraine four times, planting four churches, and in 1994, he traveled to India for three weeks of evangelistic meetings, encouraging the believers on all these trips.

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studies. In 1993, he began traveling with Apostle Bob Swanger. That year, his second mission trip was to Russia where the team spoke in an arena.

They were due to speak there again the next day, but when they showed up, the arena was locked and the team was refused entrance. No problem‌ Kevin just stood outside the arena and preached!

Apparently, he’s a bit headstrong, the type that doesn’t give up easily!

Between 1993 and 1995, Kevin traveled to the Ukraine four times, planting four churches, and in 1994, he traveled to India for three weeks of evangelistic meetings, encouraging the believers on all these trips. He was ordained in June that year by Harvest Network International, where he now serves as an elder, and planted a church that ministered to the homeless in the Short North, an area in his native Columbus. Then in May,

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In 2011, Kevin discovered that Cornerstone Church in Americus was conducting a pastor search. This piqued his interest and the rest, as they say, is history. He and his family moved here in August 2011 and he has pastored Cornerstone ever since.

In the last year, a desire has arisen in Macon County for a church like Cornerstone and Cornerstone Macon is just getting off the ground.

1995, he received his Pastoral Studies diploma from WHBC. After his marriage to Stacy that August, Kevin let very little grass grow under his feet until he was off in 1996 and 1997 traveling as part of an independent ministry team for crusades in Monterrey, Mexico, and Caracas, Venezuela.

In 1997, the direction of the church plant was changed in location, name, and vision under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, relocating to Grandview, a suburb of Columbus, as Growing Faith Fellowship with a focus on ministering to families. This church made quite an impact for the kingdom as 37% of its adult members came from conversion growth. The number of people who rededicated their lives to Christ caused the numbers to skyrocket.

Then came the babies‌Zach in 1997, Jordan in 2000, Rachel in 2003, and Abby in 2006. One son

and three daughters! Somehow in the hustle and bustle of having and rearing children, Kevin found time to obtain the aforementioned Masters of Arts in Biblical Counseling. In 2003, he traveled to Bimini Island with a group from his church, along with 51 shoe boxes filled with gifts for each child in a local church where they ministered.

As if he were not busy enough, he launched a small business, Midwest Appraisal Services, which performed appraisals and appraisal reviews for the Central Ohio area. It expanded into the Cincinnati area with a staff of four appraisers and an office manager.

Kevin’s next church was Redeemers Church in Columbus where he served as the overseer of the Children and Youth departments from 2008-2010, providing vision, leadership, and direction to the

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youth and children’s ministries. He developed and implemented a Sunday morning class for teens, recruited teachers and provided oversight, and also headed up several outreaches. After some time, as happens quite often with pastors who are closely in tune with the Lord, he sensed their time was done at Redeemers, and Kevin resigned and left the church on good terms.

In 2011, Kevin discovered that Cornerstone Church in Americus was conducting a pastor search. This piqued his interest and the rest, as they say, is history. He and his family moved here in August 2011 and he has pastored Cornerstone ever since. Lest you think he is resting on his laurels, however, it may surprise (and exhaust!) you to think of how much has transpired since he moved here. After just a few short years, he sensed that the Lord desired to expand Cornerstone Church outside of Americus, when he realized that people were hungry for a church like Cornerstone in Marion County. He and the elders of Cornerstone prayed, discussed, and researched, discovering that there was indeed a need and desire and found a store front in Buena Vista. When it was announced that a Cornerstone campus was forming there, the interest grew quickly. Cornerstone Marion has been in existence since 2017, and the campus pastor is Robbie Pilcher. His wife, Harriett, works alongside him and takes care of the children’s ministries and anything else that needs attention.

The church is well-established and enjoying close fellowship with each other and with Jesus.

In the last year, a desire has arisen in Macon County for a church like Cornerstone and Cornerstone Macon is just getting off the ground.

Leadership has found a suitable building to conduct services there, and the campus pastor is Thomas Woolsey, whose wife, Jessica, will be working alongside him to further the ministries of the church.

Besides Bimini Island, Venezuela, Mexico, and Ukraine, Kevin’s mission trips have taken him to Haiti, Cambodia, the Dominican Republic, and India. One would have to surmise that he has quite a heart for the lost. He is also a mighty believer in the power of prayer. Surely these

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So, you see, Kevin Brown doesn’t just settle in and ride the wave. You might say he creates waves…the good kind! He and Stacy, who is Cornerstone’s very capable worship leader, having received a diploma in Praise and Worship from WHBC and served in worship capacities at their different churches, and their four children, serve at Cornerstone.

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places, as well as all the Cornerstone campuses, have benefited greatly from his staunch belief in prayer as the mightiest of tools God has given us.

So, you see, Kevin Brown doesn’t just settle in and ride the wave. You might say he creates waves…the good kind! He and Stacy, who is Cornerstone’s very capable worship leader, having received a diploma in Praise and Worship from WHBC and served in worship capacities at their different churches, and their four children, serve at Cornerstone. All four of their children play an instrument and serve on the worship team and their son, Zach, is involved in sound, photography, and video at the church. If that were not enough, Stacy, probably with a little help from Kevin, has homeschooled all four children, one of which recently graduated from Georgia Southwestern, and another soon to graduate there. This family doesn’t sit around much! They are active! Their influence is contagious and encourages many others of all ages to get involved.

When asked what he is most zealous about, Kevin says, “ministry, church, helping people, engaging the younger generation, and releasing more and more people into ministry.” His vision for the church revolves around a process he calls “S3,” which stands for “Seek God, Serve Others, and Share the Good News.” Kevin believes that these three elements of focus will help people grow in Christ and obey the command Jesus gave in Matthew 28:18-20 – Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. In other words, follow His lead.

Cornerstone Church of Americus 245 Southland Drive Americus, GA 31709 Cornerstone Marion 108 McDuffie Street Buena Vista, GA 31803 Cornerstone Macon County 875 Chatham Street Oglethorpe, GA 31068  SCL

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settle in for adventure SUMTER COUNTY withyouinmindpublications.com

Living

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EMBRACE YOUR

uniqueness Michael JaKobe Terry encourages people to embrace their uniqueness through his clothing line Zoo.

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S T O R Y B Y M I C H A E L J . R O S S | P H O T O S B Y DAV I D PA R K S P H O T O G R A P H Y

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“One of the main reasons I started my clothing line, Zoo, is to encourage people to embrace their uniqueness,” explained 21-year-old fashion designer Michael JaKobe Terry of Americus. Michael has sold over a thousand of his signature two-tone t-shirts since April to customers in several states including Kentucky, Florida, Colorado, Texas, and, of course, Georgia, just to name a few. He credits former Sumter County residents for taking the Zoo brand to different parts of the country. “People originally from Sumter County, that now live in different states, go back to where they live with a Zoo t-shirt on and then, all of sudden, I’m getting several orders from that particular state. Old fashioned word-of-mouth is still a great way to reach customers.”

Michael sold his first shirts in Americus and still remembers some of the customers. “Some of my first customers were people like Kyra, Destiny, Mr. Perry, and Keisha,” he recalled. “I really appreciated their support.

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Michael has a parttime assistant, his 3-year-old daughter, Zoey, when he makes the shirts.

“She helps me put the shirts into bags when they’re finished. She’s a big help and she enjoys it. It’s just another way for us to bond and spend time together.”

They helped a young entrepreneur that was trying to get his feet wet in the industry.” He said it was not overwhelming to see people wearing his t-shirts because he has always had confidence in his designs and ability.

“I knew Zoo would appeal to potential customers because it was something different, fashionable, and something I put my heart and soul in,” Michael explained. He makes each t-shirt with his own hands; he imagines each potential customer as he sews the shirt. “Every customer is important to me and I want him or her to make a fashion statement when they wear the shirt out in public,” Michael stated.

“They chose to spend their hardearned money with me, and I want them to get a quality product in return.

The customer is the main focus of my business.”

Michael has a part-time assistant, his 3-year-old daughter, Zoey, when he makes the shirts. “She helps me put the shirts into bags when they’re finished. She’s a big help and she enjoys it. It’s just another way for us to bond and spend time together.”

Michael loves his daughter more than anybody in the world; he takes his responsibilities as a father very seriously. “My daughter is a jewel and I want to show her, in a positive way, how men are supposed to treat and respect women.”

He explained that the name of Zoo for his designer label does not have a negative connotation at all. “Anyone Hometown Living At Its Best

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Michael said, “The sky is the limit,” when he talked about his long-term plans for the Zoo brand. “I want to see people around the world with a Zoo across their chests; I want the brand to get as big as it can get. I feel like I have a brand that people will support, because the Zoo philosophy is all about each person embracing his or her individuality, and I think that message will find support.”

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that knows me knows I believe in the concept of Zoo. When you see animals at the zoo, they are always being themselves and don’t put on any airs.” Michael went on to say, “They are content and happy with the way God made them. The lion doesn’t try to be the giraffe and the giraffe doesn’t try to be the lion. Each animal is comfortable in his own skin and I encourage people to be the same way. We can learn a lot just by simply examining the animals at the zoo.”

Michael has always had a unique fashion sense, even dating back to his middle school days. “I didn’t want to follow the crowd even when it came to my clothes,” he recalled. “Sometimes I would buy a particular shirt, pair of shoes, or pants just because they weren’t trendy at that moment,” said Michael. “I always tried to be a step ahead of the rest when it came to fashion, even when I was young buck.”

Americus native McKenzie Young said she is a big fan of Michael’s designs. “I love Zoo apparel and I have several articles of clothing. The two-tone design of the t-shirts is very ‘fly’ and pops out to the eye. You see the Zoo label all around Americus. It’s hot, like fire, right now and I think it has potential to go nationwide.”

Michael said, “The sky is the limit,” when he talked about his long-term plans for the Zoo brand. “I want to see people around the world with a Zoo across their chests; I want the brand to get as big as it can get. I feel like I have a brand that people will support, because the Zoo philosophy is all about each person embracing his or her individuality, and I think that message will find support.”

According to Michael, running a small business takes hard work, dedication, and perseverance. He learned most of these attributes from playing organized football much of his life. He was a cornerback and wide receiver during high school for Americus-Sumter and had a promising football future until two severe knee injuries ended his playing days. “I love the game of football and

Michael has always had a unique fashion sense, even dating back to his middle school days. “I didn’t want to follow the crowd even when it came to my clothes,” he recalled.

“Sometimes I would buy a particular shirt, pair of shoes, or pants just because they weren’t trendy at that moment,” said Michael. “I always tried to be a step ahead of the rest when it came to fashion, even when I was young buck.”

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Designing t-shirts is his passion, but Michael also works at Walmart part-time as a cashier. “I enjoy interacting with the customers and helping them check out in a courteous, friendly manner. I enjoy being of service to others, and this philosophy also translates to my clothing business.�

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I felt free and uninhibited when I was on the field. Football was a great way to let out aggression and stress; the opposing teams had a handful to deal with when I was on the field,” he said with a laugh. Michael misses the game and sometimes wishes he was still out there playing.

Designing t-shirts is his passion, but Michael also works at Walmart part-time as a cashier. “I enjoy interacting with the customers and helping them check out in a courteous, friendly manner. I enjoy being of service to others, and this philosophy also translates to my clothing business.” He has not freaked out working in retail during the COVID-19 crisis. “Coronavirus is very serious, but you can’t live in fear. Living in fear isn’t good for the spirit or soul. All I can do is take the necessary precautions while I’m at work and leave the rest in God’s hands.”

“I want to make sure I thank the entire Sumter County community for their support. They have shown me a lot of love.”

Follow Michael on Instagram at Zoo.ish and Iket5 for more information on Zoo clothing. SCL

Americus native McKenzie Young said she is a big fan of Michael’s designs. “I love Zoo apparel and I have several articles of clothing. The two-tone design of the t-shirts is very ‘fly’ and pops out to the eye. You see the Zoo label all around Americus. It’s hot, like fire, right now and I think it has potential to go nationwide.”

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FINDING A DOG TO FIT Your Family’s Lifestyle

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Story by Kimberly Blaker

Plan Ahead to Reap the Rewards of a Loving Family Pet

E

Every year thousands of dogs are turned over to animal shelters because they were given as a gift without first consulting the gift recipient – or families discover they brought home a biter, barker, digger, or jumper. When pets are given away, the pets, their owners, and children all suffer. So before selecting your dog, do your homework. With a little pre-planning, you can find the dog that most closely fits your family’s or gift recipient’s lifestyle.

Variety of dogs, variety of nuisances Dogs can create many nuisances. Some of these are more common in particular breeds. A barking dog helps protect against intruders.

But excessive barking can become a problem. Some breeds known for their barking include the Alaskan Malamute, American Water Hometown Living At Its Best

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Spaniel, Bassett Hound, Finnish Spitz, Fox and other Terriers, Great Pyrenees, and Miniature Schnauzer.

A playful, energetic puppy can make a great playmate for your child. But as your puppy grows, that hyperactivity could become overwhelming.

High-strung dogs often jump on people and tear through the house. Certain breeds tend to maintain that high energy level well into their adult size bodies. Such breeds include Airedale Terriers, Boxer, Brittany, Cocker Spaniel, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, Irish Setter, Jack Russell Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Pointer, and Schnauzer.

Dogs dig for many reasons—to bury a bone, to escape from a fenced yard, to keep cool, or out of boredom. A torn-up yard can be the last straw for many dog owners. The following breeds tend to be diggers: Fox Terriers, Norwich Terrier, and 56

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Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen.

Dogs can be aggressive for a variety of reasons.

Poor breeding, physical abuse, and even disease can cause aggression in a dog. Certain dominant breeds can also tend toward aggressiveness if not handled by a firm and skilled handler. Choose these dogs with caution and the understanding they require strong leadership: Akita, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bulldog, Bullmastiff, Chow Chow, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Schnauzer, Shih Tzu, Siberian Husky, and Weimaraner.

Grooming is another consideration. While it may sound painless, the upkeep of certain breeds can be overwhelming. In addition to keeping claws trimmed and an occasional bath, some dogs require lengthy daily brushing to remove tangles or trapped fur in double coats. High maintenance breeds include the American Eskimo, Cocker Spaniel,

The costs of pet ownership should also be weighed out. First, there are obvious costs, such as pet food and annual vaccinations. Other expenses include licensing, monthly heartworm pills, chew toys, damaged belongings, fencing, training, unexpected veterinary expense, grooming, kenneling, and more.

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Collie, Great Pyrenees, Lhasa Apso, Old English Sheepdog, Poodle, Schnauzer, and Terriers.

Every year thousands of dogs are turned over to animal shelters because they were given as a gift without first consulting the gift recipient – or families discover they brought home a biter, barker, digger, or jumper. When pets are given away, the pets, their owners, and children all suffer. So before selecting your dog, do your homework. With a little pre-planning, you can find the dog that most closely fits your family’s or gift recipient’s lifestyle.

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Traits to look for in a family dog Many unforeseen problems are avoidable by finding a dog that’ll be easy for your child to handle so your child can assist in training. Easy trainers include American Water Spaniel, Australian Shepherd, Bichon Frise, Cocker Spaniel, Irish Setter, Italian Greyhound, Maltese, and Shetland Sheepdog.

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Dogs can be aggressive for a variety of reasons.

Poor breeding, physical abuse, and even disease can cause aggression in a dog. Certain dominant breeds can also tend toward aggressiveness if not handled by a firm and skilled handler.

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Many unforeseen problems are avoidable by finding a dog that’ll be easy for your child to handle so your child can assist in training. Easy trainers include American Water Spaniel, Australian Shepherd, Bichon Frise, Cocker Spaniel, Irish Setter, Italian Greyhound, Maltese, and Shetland Sheepdog.

Calm, gentle breeds are essential for families with small children. Keep in mind size alone doesn’t dictate these traits. Gentle breeds you might consider are Bassett Hound, Beagle, Bearded Collie, Chinese Crested, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland, and Mastiff.

Playful and energetic puppies work well for older children who won’t feel threatened by the dog’s full-grown size.

Consider an American Eskimo, Bloodhound, Brittany, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, Irish Wolfhound, Labrador Retriever, Pointer, Poodle, Saint Bernard, or Schnauzer.

There are many other traits to consider in choosing a new dog. Before bringing home your puppy, read a book or articles about the breed that interests you to determine if it will fit your family’s lifestyle. For personalized assistance in choosing a breed, go to http:// www.selectsmart.com/DOG/ or one of the many other breed selection sites. You’ll be guided through a series of questions and receive a free personalized list of matches.

Special considerations The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 800,000 people, mostly children, are bitten annually severely enough to require medical attention. Infants and small children shouldn’t be left alone with a dog. It may be hard to picture your lovable Fido as capable of hurting your child.

But even the gentlest dogs have been known to bite.

Little kids sometimes get too close to a dog while it’s eating or chewing a bone or startle Hometown Living At Its Best

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a dog while it’s sleeping. Sometimes, small children hang on dogs, pull their tails, or threaten a dog’s safety.

This can lead to injury to either the dog or your child.

Also, dogs view their families as part of their pack.

A properly trained dog should view adults and older children as alpha (top dog). But a dog isn’t likely to see a small child in this light and may wield its authority when no one’s around.

Apartment living is another consideration. The size dog you choose is vital to both your dog’s well being and to maintain your sanity. High energy and medium to large breeds generally need large areas to romp.

Without it, your apartment could become a round-theclock racetrack. Planning regular walks for these dogs may not be sufficient. You’ll tire long before your dog.

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Also, there will be occasions when you aren’t able to accommodate your dog’s need to exercise.

The costs of pet ownership should also be weighed out. First, there are obvious costs, such as pet food and annual vaccinations. Other expenses include licensing, monthly heartworm pills, chew toys, damaged belongings, fencing, training, unexpected veterinary expense, grooming, kenneling, and more.

If your family has members with bad allergies or asthma, check with your doctor before bringing any furred, feathered, or finned pet into your home.

Finally, keep in mind no matter how sincere your child’s intent to care for his new pet, it’s a big responsibility. Ultimately, parents take the brunt

A playful, energetic puppy can make a great playmate for your child. But as your puppy grows, that hyperactivity could become overwhelming. High-strung dogs often jump on people and tear through the house. Certain breeds tend to maintain that high energy level well into their adult size bodies.

of the work. Also, the holiday season may not be the best time of year to bring home a new dog. Families are generally too busy during the holidays to give a new pet the attention it needs. Choose a season when you’ll be able to spend plenty of time with your new dog as it adjusts to its new home.

Where to find your dog The Humane Society, an animal shelter, or an accidental litter of pups is a great place to find your dog at an affordable price. Giving a home to a dog that might otherwise be put to sleep or caged indefinitely, and not contributing to the overpopulation of dogs by buying from breeders, are good reasons to go this route.

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Most often, you’ll find mixed breeds through these methods. Mixed breeds are less likely to inherit the diseases and disabilities often common in pure breeds. Keep in mind though, sometimes these dogs are strays or weren’t properly cared for by their original owner. If a dog didn’t receive proper vaccinations, it could be at risk for disease. A dog that was abused by its previous owner could also pose risks. Ask the animal shelter what it knows about the dog’s history.

Another way to find your new puppy is through a breeder. Taking home a puppy whose history is known and hasn’t been exposed to a poor environment is a plus. But caution should be used even when buying from a breeder.

While most are in the business for their love of the breed, there are plenty of exceptions.

Some breeders are only interested in profits and have little knowledge or concern for good breeding and proper care of pups. This can lead to dogs with poor temperaments, genetic

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disorders, or disease. Ask plenty of questions, request references, and ask to see the puppies in their normal environment.

According to the American Kennel Club, some things to watch for when selecting your puppy include a runny nose, watery eyes, fever, or disease in the litter. If any of these conditions are present, look elsewhere.

Avoid a puppy that trembles and is shy or one that shows a bad temper. Also, understand that a kennel designated “AKC Reg.” doesn’t mean it has the American Kennel Club’s stamp of approval.

It merely means the dogs are registered as being purebred.

Finally, keep in mind that puppies should remain with their mother until six weeks of age, and preferably eight.

Training Tips No matter how careful you are in selecting your pet, chances are, your puppy will develop a

Dogs can create many nuisances. Some of these are more common in particular breeds. A barking dog helps protect against intruders. But excessive barking can become a problem. Some breeds known for their barking include the Alaskan Malamute, American Water Spaniel, Bassett Hound, Finnish Spitz, Fox and other Terriers, Great Pyrenees, and Miniature Schnauzer.

problem or nuisance behavior. Prevention is the first step. Around six months, your puppy will be old enough for an obedience course.

Teaching your puppy the basics will make it easier to manage problem behaviors. If you can’t take a class, purchase a dog-training manual and stick with it.

If your dog shows signs of aggression, talk with a professional trainer or your veterinarian.

Depending on the cause, there may be a simple solution. But if your child’s safety becomes an issue, your only option may be a new home for your pet.

Whether your dog ends up with a new owner or in a shelter, make sure you explain the reason for giving your dog away, so it ends up in the proper environment.

For other problem behaviors, there are several good books to help tame your dog. Decoding Your Dog: Explaining Common Dog Behaviors and How to Change or Prevent Unwanted Ones by the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, provides many helpful techniques.

Contrary to popular belief, never hit, kick, or swat a dog with a newspaper. This can lead to aggressiveness or increase already aggressive behavior.

Most importantly, try to understand and accept your pet’s imperfections and adjust your home accordingly to reduce aggravations. In time, your dog will learn to accept the household routine and become a part of it. SCL

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S TO R Y B Y J U N E A N D E R S O N | P H OTO S B Y DAV I D PA R K S P H OTO G R A P H Y

FROM A

HARDWORKING TRUCK TO A

FUN MOTOR HOME

O On a hot summer afternoon, I arrived for my appointment to interview Bobbie and Ben Kennedy at their lovely home in Americus. It was even warmer inside as I was invited in to sit for our interview, but the warmth inside was not from heat, but from the glow of hospitality and was much more pleasant than the ninety-odd degrees outside.

I was made to feel welcome as Ben opened the door and Bobbie came into the room. We sat and they made me feel comfortable immediately. We chatted small talk at first and we realized that Ben had “kin” from my neck of the woods in Walton County, Georgia, and the surrounding area. I enjoy talk of genealogy and he enjoys looking at old gravestones, so we had something in common instantly.

Bobbie and Ben were both born in tiny towns in Georgia. Bobbie was born in Rhine in Dodge County, and Ben in Doyle in Marion County, but when little tikes they both moved to Preston, where they have fond memories of growing up all their lives.

Ben’s schooling took him to Buena Vista in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades, to Preston in 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th grades, to Warwick in 8th and 9th grades, to

Lumpkin in 10th, and back to Preston in 11th, where he graduated in 1950 when the requirement was only 11 grades. He said there was no graduating class in 1951 and the 12th grade started in 1952.

Bobbie’s schooling made an abrupt halt when her heart was stolen away by the 17-year-old Ben. They began dating when she was 13 and did so for a short while, and then Ben asked her daddy for her hand in marriage. Daddy

Bobbie and Ben have both proven that with the Lord involved, hard work and living responsible lives will take you far in life.

stopped and thought…very briefly… and declared that she was too young and must wait. Maybe he should have clarified a time limit on that suggestion because as soon as she turned 14 and Ben turned 18, they eloped, or as Ben says, “ran away and got married.” That was in 1952.

Sometime later, Bobbie decided to go to cosmetology school here in Americus because she loved styling hair. She was

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a beautician for 16 years and then, changing gears in 1975, performed a feat uncommon back then…she became an Emergency Medical Technician, or EMT. You might say that’s not so uncommon, and that’s true now, but when Bobbie got her license, she became one of the first female EMTs in Georgia. In fact, her certificate says she is #593, so for that time period when there were just under 600 in the entire state, she held an outstanding honor to be one of the first females to earn the distinction. Not only did she have to pass the Georgia test, but at that time an applicant was also required to pass a nationwide test, which she obviously did.

Bobbie and Ben have two children, Linda and Mark. Linda is married to Bobby Rogers and they have three children…Scott Rogers, Sandi Filmore, and Stephen Rogers. Mark is married to Jan Kennedy and they have two children…Kelly Schramm and Kyle Kennedy.

There are also nine great-grandchildren.

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Don’t you know that’s a giggly houseful when they all get together?

Ben enjoys golf, bird shoots, and traveling/ seeing our lovely country where they have enjoyed visiting motor home sites they purchased in California, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Florida. They made their residence in Florida in 1998, and their second home is in Southland Ridge here in Americus.

They have sold their other places and enjoy traveling in their beautiful, sleek, black motor home.

Bobbie enjoys fishing, traveling with her husband, and working in their yard. She loves nature and says that where they live, she is treated by its sights and sounds often. She particularly enjoys the Canadian geese that live in their neighborhood, but she loves all the wildlife on their land.

When asked what they are zealous about, Ben says going to their church here, Central Baptist, and also about buying land, growing trees, and riding over the land. Bobbie says she used to be passionate about styling hair, but now it’s nature and the outdoors that pique her interest.

During their years in Preston, they attended Preston Baptist Church, where Ben was a deacon and chairman of the deacons at one time, held a place on the treasury board, and conducted services when the pastor was away.

They also taught Sunday School and worked with the young people and senior citizens. Ben was appointed by the Grand Jury to the office of Justice of the Peace in 1975. This position was changed to Magistrate and he was approved by the Governor until 1985.

Ben says the Lord has been good to him and Bobbie. He has allowed Ben to be in business for himself all his life, except for a few years in the beginning when he trained to be a hardwood lumber inspector and was also yard foreman for a large lumber mill, Sullivan Lumber Company.

He says his first job, however, was after graduation with his father’s logging business in 1950. Ben’s wages were $6.00 a day, $2.00 of which went immediately to his mother for room and board, so he only saw $4.00 a day

During their years in Preston, they attended Preston Baptist Church, where Ben was a deacon and chairman of the deacons at one time, held a place on the treasury board, and conducted services when the pastor was away. They also taught Sunday School and worked with the young people and senior citizens. Ben was appointed by the Grand Jury to the office of Justice of the Peace in 1975. This position was changed to Magistrate and he was approved by the Governor until 1985.

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of that, and when he wasn’t at work, he wasn’t paid. My guess is that he didn’t miss many days! Ben is proud of the fact that his parents taught him responsibility in handling money and how to get along in life by controlling your finances. Apparently, he was good enough and comfortable enough with his logging job that he bought his father out in 1952.

In 1962, Ben had trucks that hauled base dirt for the paving of roads. In 1964, he started working at iron ore mines in Webster and Marion Counties. In 1965, he bought big trucks and started hauling cotton and other commodities.

In 1977, Ben started his own trucking company, K & R Trucking Company, with two other men. On January 1, 1980, he sold his part to them. He continued his story by saying,

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During 1980, though, the economy slowed for a time, and they started selling trailers and were one of the first to haul fertilizer to businesses like IMC here in Americus. They also did some trip leasing with another company. In the mid-1990s, Ben hauled hazardous materials in South Carolina and Alabama, from Tampa to the Bonneville Salt Flats, and from Savannah to Montreal, Canada; at all sites the materials were disposed of according to direction.

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During their years in Preston, they attended Preston Baptist Church, where Ben was a deacon and chairman of the deacons at one time, held a place on the treasury board, and conducted services when the pastor was away. They also taught Sunday School and worked with the young people and senior citizens. Ben was appointed by the Grand Jury to the office of Justice of the Peace in 1975.

This position was changed to Magistrate and he was approved by the Governor until 1985.

“On April 22, 1980, I started Ben Kennedy Trucking Company and…” I stopped taking notes and looked off into space for a moment.

I interrupted with “Whoa! Whoa! I’ve seen Ben Kennedy trucks all over the place as my husband and I have travelled. That’s YOU?!”

He smiled and declared that it was. I said, “I remember seeing those trucks! On the cab it says ‘Kennedy’ and the ‘K’ is long…” “Yes, and the ‘Y’ is long,” he adds with a grin.

“Yes! Yes! And the letters are red?” “Yes,” still grinning. “On a white background,” he adds calmly. “I’ve seen LOTS of those trucks!”

He laughed and was amazed that I had paid that much attention to semis going down the road. I told him that, “when we travel, we like to see where the trucks have come from, so we look at their license plates as we come up behind them. As we pass each other, I like to look at the writing on the door of the cab. I don’t know why, I just do!” Ben and Bobbie looked pleased.

After I gathered my wits, we continued with the interview. Let’s see. Where was I? Oh, yes. On April 22, 1980, he started Ben Kennedy Trucking Company and performed specialized hauling with specially built trailers that he and his son had designed.

They became a popular trailer and many people ordered from trailer companies “if they had the Kennedy trailer.” He had the largest dump division company east of the

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In 1977, Ben started his own trucking company, K & R Trucking Company, with two other men. On January 1, 1980, he sold his part to them. He continued his story by saying, “On April 22, 1980, I started Ben Kennedy Trucking Company and…” I stopped taking notes and looked off into space for a moment. I interrupted with “Whoa! Whoa! I’ve seen Ben Kennedy trucks all over the place as my husband and I have travelled.

That’s YOU?!” He smiled and declared that it was.

Mississippi, and at one point in time, both of his children were involved in trucking.

One particularly fun tidbit is that one year, Mark shined up one of his own trucks and entered it in the Atlanta Truck Show…and took first place!

During 1980, though, the economy slowed for a time, and they started selling trailers and were one of the first to haul fertilizer to businesses like IMC here in Americus. They also did some trip leasing with another company. In the mid-1990s, Ben hauled hazardous materials in South Carolina and Alabama, from Tampa to the Bonneville Salt Flats, and from Savannah to Montreal, Canada; at all sites the materials were disposed of according to direction.

When asked where his company had been located, Ben said the corporate office was in Preston, but they had offices in Delaware, Ohio, South Carolina, Illinois, and two in Alabama. They had one each in Texas and Florida that they decided later to close.

In 2003, he finalized a deal to sell Ben Kennedy Trucking Company and retired.

Ever since then, he and Bobbie have travelled extensively in that shiny motor home all over the United States and Canada.

Ben said they have been to all 50 states and all the Canadian provinces except one because they couldn’t drive their motor home into it!

Bobbie and Ben have both proved that with the Lord involved, hard work and living responsible lives will take you far in life.  SCL 80

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“Your Comfort Is Our Business”

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butterfly The

Lady

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Story and Photos by Phil Hardy

Annette Wise and Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter are rasing awareness on the possible extinction of Monarch butterfly populations

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Is the classification “extinct” a possibility for the Monarch butterfly? Don’t think it could happen? Over the past two decades, Monarch butterfly populations have declined by 90% according to the Center for Biological Diversity.

The Center has even sought protection for this iconic flying jewel of North and Central America under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. A decision is expected in December of 2020.

Can one person make a difference in the life of a Monarch? That’s exactly what Annette Wise and Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, both of Plains, have done.

The genesis of the Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail had a rather unique birth. In February 2013, Annette had something happen to her that most ordinary people could only imagine…she received a phone call from Rosalynn Carter who requested Annette stop by her house. In the ensuing meeting, Mrs. Carter expressed her concern for the Monarch butterfly and asked Annette for her help in planting a pollinator-attracting garden; Annette agreed to do so.

Because of Mrs. Carter’s strong desire for the public to know about the plight of Monarch butterflies, as well as other pollinators, Annette suggested to Mrs. Carter that they construct another pollinator garden for the public to see, adjacent to U.S. Hwy 280; the highway runs in front of the Carter Compound.

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Annette warns gardeners to look for plants that are native and/or chemical free.

Labels such as “aphid resistant� should raise warning flags to those wanting to attract pollinators. Plants treated with chemicals like neonicotinoids, in an effort to thwart pests, can remain in plants for months.

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Butterflies must have a specific host plant on which to lay their eggs. Host plants provide food for the caterpillar to grow and develop before it undergoes one of the great miracles of nature - metamorphosis. In the case of the Monarch, that plant is milkweed.

The original garden proved to be almost experimental as Annette learned what types of flowers and plants would attract butterflies, especially the beautiful Monarch, their target species. This prototype garden was located just outside Mrs. Carter’s front door, near the pond, and was not visible to passersby.

Because of Mrs. Carter’s strong desire for the public to know about the plight of Monarch butterflies, as well as other pollinators, Annette suggested to Mrs. Carter that they construct another pollinator garden for the public to see, adjacent to U.S. Hwy 280; the highway runs in front of the Carter Compound. Further, Annette suggested that

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they create a trail of gardens throughout Plains that visitors and tourists to the small town of less than 800 could observe first-hand. Complete with brochures and locations, tourists now had a driving tour they could visit with 11 different pollinator gardens within the city. Soon gardens, both public like businesses and schools, as well as private, sprang up with requests coming from outside Georgia and the United States to join the effort. The name Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail was selected because Mrs. Carter’s garden was the very first.

A butterfly garden need not be anything elaborate.

Some trail members have in-ground gardens while others, particularly businesses, may have a few

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One person can indeed make a difference whether it’s an influential professor or teacher, one voter that decides a close election or one person that plants milkweed in his/her garden to help Monarch butterflies survive. It has been said that one out of every three bites of food we eat is because of pollinators.

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containers with host and nectar plants to attract butterflies. Children have their natural curiosity ignited when schools plant pollinator gardens.

Annette warns gardeners to look for plants that are native and/or chemical free.

Labels such as “aphid resistant” should raise warning flags to those wanting to attract pollinators. Plants treated with chemicals like neonicotinoids, in an effort to thwart pests, can remain in plants for months. They have a devastating effect on beneficial species like honey bees and butterflies. “Some plants may be very beautiful but they just don’t provide the nectar needed for pollinators,” Annette explained.

The Monarch butterfly is unique among the insect world in that it endures the longest migration of any known insect. In early fall, a super generation of Monarchs hatch and embark on an arduous journey from as far north as Canada to a few acres in Central Mexico, California or Florida to over winter. Indeed they are the longest migrating insect in the world.

Butterflies must have a specific host plant on which to lay their eggs. Host plants provide food for the caterpillar to grow and develop before it undergoes one of the great miracles of nature - metamorphosis. In the case of the Monarch, that plant is milkweed. Because milkweed is indeed a weed, it has been persecuted with herbicides in areas where it once flourished. Dwindling numbers of host plants equals fewer numbers of butterflies. But scientists say Monarch butterflies have other problems that have affected their decline. Habitat loss, pesticides, collisions with vehicles, parasites, illegal logging in Central Mexico and global warming may be causes for diminished numbers as well.

In 2016 I visited Annette’s house and was surprised at several plastic containers

Citizen science projects like Monarch Watch, Journey North and Monarch Health provide valuable clues to scientists that study Monarchs. Annette received an appreciation certificate from Monarch Watch informing her that one of the Monarchs she personally tagged in Plains, Georgia, was recovered/sighted at El Rosario Colony in Central Mexico at the species wintering site some 1,874 miles away.

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The Monarch butterfly is unique among the insect world in that it endures the longest migration of any known insect. In early fall, a super generation of Monarchs hatch and embark on an arduous journey from as far north as Canada to a few acres in Central Mexico, California or Florida to over winter.

Indeed they are the longest migrating insect in the world.

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in her kitchen housing the colorful Monarch caterpillars. Annette and her husband, Lonnie, feed Monarch caterpillars milkweed leaves several times a day until they pupate. The caterpillar makes its way to the top of the container and attaches itself with a thread of silk. The exoskeleton is shed before forming a chrysalis. Over time, the adult Monarch butterfly develops inside the chrysalis.

Upon hatching, the butterfly will hang while blood flows throughout its body and wings. Once the newly hatched butterfly’s wings have dried and strengthened, Annette will tag the adults with a unique ID on the ventral side of the wing. “The tags are about the size of a pencil eraser and have no effect on the butterflies’ flight ability. We only tag those butterflies hatched in the fall months in an effort to track their migration routes,” declared Annette.

Citizen science projects like Monarch Watch, Journey North and Monarch Health provide valuable clues to scientists that study Monarchs. Annette

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received an appreciation certificate from Monarch Watch informing her that one of the Monarchs she personally tagged in Plains, Georgia, was recovered/ sighted at El Rosario Colony in Central Mexico at the species wintering site some 1,874 miles away.

One person can indeed make a difference whether it’s an influential professor or teacher, one voter that decides a close election or one person that plants milkweed in his/her garden to help Monarch butterflies survive. It has been said that one out of every three bites of food we eat is because of pollinators. Pollinators are essential to mankind’s survival, so protection is of paramount importance.

2019 marked the fifth year the Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail has hosted a spring symposium. The half-day event featured a very popular plant sale, snacks, vendors, a silent auction and a keynote speaker. Annette welcomes new members to the trail and membership is free. Just visit www. rosalynncarterbutterflytrail.org to join. SCL

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HIKING,

A HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE:

Fun, Family Hiking Adventures 100 sumter county living

Story by Kimberly Blaker

W

What better way to spend quality time with your family and get in touch with nature than a fresh, invigorating walk in the woods, along a river, or the beach? What’s more, family hikes make for fun learning opportunities for kids and parents alike.

So try some of these hiking activities with your youngsters.

A STONE IS A STONE IS A‌MINERAL? Go on an excursion to learn about rocks and minerals. Shorelines offer a variety of stones.

Before you go, learn which rocks and minerals are abundant in the area, and have each family member choose several to scout for. Take along a small plastic container with dividers, a descriptive rock and mineral guide, and a magnifying glass for viewing the colors, layers, and details. As you identify stones and minerals, discuss their uses and other neat facts.

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Capture nature’s splendor. Hiking trails provide plenty of photo opportunities, and kids will love snapping the shots. Discuss in advance what each family member wants to photograph, such as a huge oak tree, a monarch butterfly, deer tracks, or a close-up of a nibbling squirrel. When you get home, print out the best photos, and create a nature scrapbook with them.

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SOUNDS OF NATURE Wander through a forest and listen carefully for a variety of bird and animal sounds. Before you go, visit your library for a DVD or audio CD of birds and wild animal calls. Then download an audio recorder on your phone and carry it on your hike to record some of the sounds you hear.

Listen to the recording again at home and play a game of detective to determine the source of the sounds you can’t make out. Search the Internet, encyclopedias, and books to discover the makers of the mystery calls.

PHOTO ADVENTURE Capture nature’s splendor. Hiking trails provide plenty of photo opportunities, and kids will love

snapping the shots. Discuss in advance what each family member wants to photograph, such as a huge oak tree, a monarch butterfly, deer tracks, or a close-up of a nibbling squirrel. When you get home, print out the best photos, and create a nature scrapbook with them.

TREE TALES These giants of nature are not only intriguing because of their size but also because of their many variations. Borrow some books on trees from your library that describe the unique features of trees and their history. Use clues such as the shape of the leaves, texture of bark, and size of the trunk to identify the kind of tree.

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WHICH WAY DO WE GO? Roam the countryside and teach your children directional skills such as how to read a map and use a compass or the sun to determine direction. Before setting out, choose a trail system that provides maps, or make up your own. Take a trail that branches off several times, allowing for plenty of skillbuilding opportunities. For even more fun, turn the excursion into a treasure hunt. Hide a small prize just off the trail under a bush or pile of leaves, mark the location on your map, and let the journey begin.

ANIMALS ALL AROUND Take a quiet hike in a wooded area with grassy clearings, and see how many animals you meet. Watch for snakes, turtles, and geese if there’s a nearby lake or stream. Also, look for chipmunks and squirrels playing chase or gathering food; birds of prey circling overhead; or grazing rabbits and deer. Discuss

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the animal’s unique characteristics and how those qualities help or hinder the animal. Talk about what the animals eat, their shelters, and species they are related to. Also, keep eyes peeled for animal tracks to identify and determine how recently they were made.

CREEPY CRAWLY THINGS

Scouting for insects is an all-time favorite among kids, and the variety of creepy-crawly creatures in the woods is remarkable. Carry an insect book, clear container, tweezers, and a magnifying glass for close examination of insects’ fascinating features. Bring a journal and track the types of insects you find. Read about insects’ defense behaviors and characteristics such as colors that indicate danger to predators.

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PLANTLIFE, OLD AND NEW Discover with your kids the fantastic diversity of plant life. Before you head out, review some books on plants to spark your children’s interest. On each hiking trip, choose a different trail or area and see what plants grow in certain types of soil, climates, and in each season. As you inspect plants, look for their seeds, and notice the variations. Talk about how seeds travel by blowing in the wind or catching on the fur of animals. Carefully brush away the ground cover and look for seeds that have sprouted their roots that will soon develop into a new plant or tree. Learn how individual plants have evolved to have natural defenses to protect against creatures that would otherwise devour them.

WHERE TO FIND TRAILS Go on an excursion to learn about rocks and minerals. Shorelines offer a variety of stones. Before you go, learn which rocks and minerals are abundant in the area, and have each family member choose several to scout for. Take along a small plastic container with dividers, a descriptive rock and mineral guide, and a magnifying glass for viewing the colors, layers, and details. As you identify stones and minerals, discuss their uses and other neat facts.

You might be surprised to discover nearby trails that you never knew existed. Check with city, county, and state parks and for trails along rivers or near lakeshores and beaches. There are also national forests and parks throughout the United States with extensive trail systems. If you have access to a wooded area near you that isn’t too dense, a trail may not be necessary. When hiking off trails, use safety precautions to protect against tripping, poison ivy, getting lost, or other hazards.

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What better way to spend quality time with your family and get in touch with nature than a fresh, invigorating walk in the woods, along a river, or the beach? What’s more, family hikes make for fun learning opportunities for kids and parents alike. So try some of these hiking activities with your youngsters.

BEFORE YOU GO Plan your activities before you leave so you’ll arrive prepared. For your comfort and convenience, carry a small daypack, extra clothing for cold air along trails, and don’t forget hiking boots. For your protection, bring along hats, sunglasses, sunblock, and insect repellant. Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a small flashlight and batteries, watch, map, bandages, and don’t forget plenty of water and snacks. Finally, make the most of your nature quest by carrying binoculars, a magnifying glass, and a small camera.

TREKKIN’ TIPS FOR TYKES When hiking with children, keep these suggestions in mind.

• Allow small legs plenty of time for breaks and making the journey, and know your child’s limitations.

• Be familiar with potential dangers in the area in which you’ll explore and teach your children trail and animal safety.

• Before you set out, prepare your kids by informing them that there may be rules against taking their nature finds home. SCL

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Promise of Hope Tattnall serves as a faith-based long-term recovery residence for women. We offer nine month and yearly recovery programs for women over 18 years of age.

Your recovery process with us will include weekly church attendance on Sundays, consistent AA and NA 12-step programs, and fellowship with others in recovery. Classes will be provided during recovery, including subjects such as life skills, boundaries, education, insight meetings, and re-lapse prevention. Regular Bible study will be observed as well as several outside group activities.

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sparking

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Sumter Chapel is a new ministry in Americus, Georgia that has a huge heart for the community. Pastored by Drew Anderson, they are a growing group of believers wanting to see God show up through empowering people to live out the calling God places on their lives.

Stor y by Rachel Price |Photos by David Parks Photog raphy 114

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I

I have a personal experience with Sumter Chapel. I noticed their social media activity in 2019 and became intrigued. I noticed a church family addressing issues such as sex trafficking, suicide, and hosting events where young, old, and multiethnic people were loving one another. It sparked a fire within and made me proud to see our small community addressing big things. It took me over a year to walk in the doors, but when I did, I was impressed. There were long tables throughout, a table with coffee, water, and breakfast snacks. We were given name tags, and everyone sat together at the table. After praise and worship, a guest speaker, Rory Edge, delivered a powerful message that was transformative and uplifting. After we gathered, we were given the opportunity to take communion or to visit one of their interactive prayer tables where you could spend time with God in a constructive way.

Sumter Chapel is a new ministry in Americus, Georgia that has a huge heart for the community. Pastored by Drew Anderson, they are a growing group of believers wanting to see God show up through empowering people to live out the calling God places on their lives.

As a child being raised in Central Florida, Drew was always in church.

He grew up hearing how Jesus wanted to save him so he could go to Heaven.

However, a personal relationship with God was foreign to him. He did not realize Jesus wanted to save him in the here and now, too. Drew felt his life was to live as a “good boy� in all he did.

His goal was being saved for Heaven and being good was his way there. He learned to adapt to each situation or

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circumstance he encountered. At school, he was a great student. At home, he was a great kid. In sports, he was a good athlete. At church, he was a good Christian. He played the game.

His family moved to Alabama his sophomore year of high school. “The move was a huge turning point for me,” Drew shares. “It took me out of my friend group, school environment, and comfort zone. It threw me into a new situation which afforded me the opportunity to decide who I really wanted to be. I felt like I got a do-over; like I could be the Christian I was supposed to be.” He thought that because his friendships would be new, he would be able to show his true relationship with God and stop pretending. “The problem was I still “With the doors open, God began to formulate who we would be as a people,” he says. “God began to say, ‘what did Jesus do first?’ Go back to the basics.” Drew explains, “The first thing Jesus did was seek people out.

We didn’t go to Him; He came to us. So, that is where we started.”

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didn’t have a relationship with Jesus. And it was still very much playing the game of church and displaying this persona that wasn’t me. I set out with the right intentions, but it was all for selfish reasons and nothing to do with my relationship with Jesus.”

During his college years at Georgia Southern, Drew was forced to deal with the realities of who he was and his lack of relationship with God. God took him through many trials that made him take pause and reflect. “One crucial moment that really cut to the core of who I was wasn’t through the church or the context of a church,” Drew shares. “It was through my friendships. I had several friends where I voiced that I was best friends with these people, but I really wasn’t being a friend to them at all. I was using the relationship for popularity and to make myself feel better. I wasn’t being a friend to them but they were being a friend to me. It took one of them looking me in the face and telling me, ‘Drew, you’re a really bad friend. You’re not my best friend as you say. You have yet to reciprocate the same kind 118

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They have a community garden where they welcome anyone to sign up and volunteer to help, they offer a space for those affected by suicide to safely gather, they host online coffee and dinner gatherings during a pandemic, and nightly discussions live on Facebook to share and reflect on each day.

of friendship I give to you.’” It was then that Drew understood the lack of genuineness with God was showing up in the fact that he also didn’t have genuine friendships with the people around him.

“I was the ‘other son’ in the story of the prodigal son, the one that was good and stays home and does all the work but still doesn’t have the relationship with the father,” he says. “I didn’t rebel like the prodigal I just went through the motions like the good son.”

Drew questioned his faith-in-action and how he responded to God. He wanted to be the person God called him to be and to stop pleasing everyone around him by portraying who he felt they needed him to be. Drew made the decision to be the same person in public that he was in private. He no longer wanted to check all the faith boxes and go through the motions.

He no longer wanted to be a good person that dressed Christianity up. He wanted to have an empowering relationship with God that was transforming and real.

After developing a more mature faith, he began to feel a call to minister. He decided that no matter his job title, be it working in a café or in an office, he would minister even if it never led to a leadership role. “That brought me out of the machinery of the American church and opened my eyes to really see the gospel, church, and God’s people as He always has, as an organic body of believers in this familial group because of Jesus. It gave me eyes to see how people, especially the younger generation, now are so disinterested in church, but not disinterested in Jesus.”

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Drew met his lovely wife, Sarah, in college. He fell in love with her and with South Georgia while attending Georgia Southern. In 2014 they moved to Cordele and their first son, Camden, was born in 2016. “We felt we were to lead an effort toward a multiethnic ministry focused on outreach to the community in our last few years in Cordele,” Drew tells me. “God then opened the doors for us to come to Americus and start a new faith community.” They had their second son, Jax, in 2019 and had the public opening of Sumter Chapel.

“With the doors open, God began to formulate who we would be as a people,” he says. “God began to say, ‘what did Jesus do first?’ Go back to the basics.” Drew explains, “The first thing Jesus did was seek people out. We didn’t go to Him; He came

to us. So, that is where we started.” They began by integrating into the city. Sumter Chapel joined Georgia Southwestern State University in their fight against human trafficking. “We want to be a part of fighting those social issues that are evil. We don’t want to shy away. Why would we shy away and run, why would we be nervous to talk about them as if breaking into light is a bad thing?” he asks.

“That is literally the gospel. You bring out into the light what is dark, or you shine light into darkness.

Then, the darkness goes away. If Jesus came in and shined light into my life, then that is what He wants me to do in the world. I must join Him in that and seek, gather, and band people together.”

Drew felt called to start a familial community in Americus, not in spite of what exists, but alongside

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what exists here. He hopes God will show up in a way that will revive people as relational. He has no desire to rage or rebel against church or to say this “new thing” in town is better; it is evident that is not his heart. His heart is for God’s people, for community, and for the younger generation. His heart is for helping people build deep meaningful relationships with God and one another.

When Sumter Chapel does gather in a building, they do so in a communal way, around a table. “Jesus at the table of communion began the new covenant with humanity; His body broken, His blood shed,” Drew tells me. “The table in our culture is where people gather across all backgrounds. We gather around table and food or coffee. Jesus established a new relationship for humanity around a table at His last supper. Why wouldn’t we do ministry around a table? Gather around and band together?”

They have a community garden where they welcome anyone to sign up and volunteer to help, they offer a space for those affected by suicide to safely gather, they host online coffee and dinner gatherings during a pandemic, and nightly discussions live on Facebook to share and reflect on each day. “We want to be for our city, for the business community, the school system, and the college campus and technical college campus,” he says. “For all of it. We want to support and uplift the life of the city so we can meet people where they are at.” Sumter Chapel is a ministry that reaches across division to bring people together: different ages, races, and marital status. They open their doors to societal issues, community efforts, and to anyone who loves Jesus or wants to know Him more. SCL

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Instruments, Repairs, Lessons 1560 East Forsyth Street | Americus, GA 31709 229-944-8131 | www.tlguitars.com

(229) 924-40

Index of Advertisers A Cut Above Salon ………………….......…………………….. 9

Logic4Design ………………….....………………………….. 97

Accelerated Physical Therapy …………....……………….. 50 Louis A. Riccardi, DDS, PC ……........…………………….. 38 Adams Exterminators ………………………...…………….. 52

Mossy Pond Retrievers ……………….... Inside Front Cover

Allergy & Asthma Clinics of Georgia ………...………….. 99

Nutrien ………………………………………..........……….. 125

Americus Apartment Homes ………………….........….. 124

Parker’s Heating & Air Conditioning …………......…….. 83

Americus Dental …………………………...........………….. 69 Paul Anderson Youth Home ………………..........……….. 98 Andersonville Encampment ……………………......…….. 95

Perfect Care, Inc …............……………………………….. 112

Arnold & Hooks, LLC …………………………………..….. 127

Perry Brothers ……………….........……………………….. 112

Bison Valley Lodge ……………………………………..….. 113

Phoebe ……………………………….………………………….. 5

Blanchard Photography ………………………………..….. 82

Plains Historic Inn & Antique Mall …........…………….. 2-3

Chandler Morgan Eyeworks ……………............………….. 1

Plains Sweet Stems ……………………….......………….. 111

Citizens Bank of Americus ………….....….. 71, Back Cover

Promise of Hope …………………………………..……….. 110

City of Americus …………………………........…………….. 39

Pro-Tech Security Group, Inc. ……………………..…….. 124

City of Andersonville …………………………........……….. 53

Roberts Jewelers …...........……………………………….. 127

Cooper Lighting Solutions …….……….. Inside Back Cover

Rylander Theatre ………….......…………………………….. 68

David Parks Photography ………...……………………….. 70

Scott’s Jewelry …………………..………………………….. 127

Decorated Unlimited ……………….......………………….. 21

South Georgia Technical College ……..……………….. 125

Firstate Bank ………………………………...............……….. 7 Southland Academy ……………………….……………….. 67 Friends of Jimmy Carter …………………...……………….. 81

Strickland Accounting LLC ………………...…………….. 127

Gatewood, Skipper, and Rambo, PC ……....………….. 113

Sumter County Chamber of Commerce ….....…….. 22-23

Georgia Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center …….….. 126

Sumter County Living …………………………….…….. 36-37

Georgia Southwestern State University ……......…….. 126

Sunbelt Ford of Americus ………………………...……….. 51

Harper’s Animal Clinic ……………......………………….. 126

The Bow Shop ……………………………………….……….. 96

Harvey Drilling ……………………………..…………….. 24-25

The Sandbox …………………………………………...…….. 66

Hooks Simmons Insurance ………………..…………….. 126

TL Guitars …………………………………………………….. 127

Johnston Realty Group Inc. …………………..………….. 111

Turton Properties …………………………………….…….. 124

Please thank our sponsors for making this publication possible!

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We specialize in training gun dogs, dogs i­ nterested in competing in AKC and UKC s­ anctioned hunt tests and field trials and the gentlemen's gun dog.

Mossy Pond Retrievers 3099 Mayberry Road | Patterson, GA. 31577 | 912-288-1549 | mossypondretrievers.com

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EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUENESS Michael JaKobe Terry encourages people to embrace their uniqueness through his clothing line, Zoo. SUMTER COUNTY LIVING

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love at First Site CASIE ROWLAND DIDN’T

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