Since 1958, we have built our reputation on a tradition of authenticity and exceptional care. As this community has grown, so have we. What started as a single building called Williamson County Hospital in 1958 has grown into a regional health system, with 30 different locations including primary care and orthopaedic clinics, outpatient lab and imaging services, EMS stations, walk-in clinics and more. We are proud to be poised to take care of our communities for generations to come. The entire Williamson Health organization is committed to providing world-class care that feels like home.
For more information, visit WilliamsonHealth.org.
mor e With incoming or der, at time of pur c hase only Expir es 8/30/24. Of fer not v alid in all r e gions.
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Cheers To Our Twolegged And Four-legged Loved Ones
Welcome to the August issue of Thompson's Station Lifestyle, our much-anticipated "Kids and Pets" edition! This month, we celebrate the children and the furry, feathered, and finned friends in our community who hold such special places in our hearts.
As we turn the page to August, we're savoring the last golden days of summer filled with outdoor fun, family trips, and those wonderfully lazy afternoons. At the same time, we're looking forward to the back-to-school season, with new classes, friends, and opportunities on the horizon.
In this issue, you'll find heartwarming stories about exceptional teens in our community, a non-profit pet rescue, pet safety tips, and local resident Office Ryan Coll and his K9 partner, Diesel.
We caught up with Pat Monahan of Train ("Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)," "Hey, Soul Sister," "Calling All Angels," and "Play That Song," among many others and spoke about his musical career and remaining tour dates, including their upcoming performance on August 18 at FirstBank Amphitheater.
Thank you for being a part of our Thompson’s Station Lifestyle family. We hope this issue brings a smile to your face and inspires you to create wonderful memories with your two-legged and four-legged loved ones.
Wishing you a fantastic end to your summer and a smooth start to the school year!
Warm regards,
ATHENA WEST, PUBLISHER @THOMPSONSSTATIONLIFESTYLE
Thompson’s Station Lifestyle is available for pickup at the following locations: Grecian Family Restaurant and Bakery (Spring Hill), The Fainting Goat (Spring Hill), Spring Hill Public Library, Sweet CeCe’s (The Crossings at Spring Hill), Parkway Wine and Spirits (The Crossings at Spring Hill), Local doctors and professional offices around the area
We love hearing from you, so please feel free to share your stories and photos with us and be sure to follow us on Instagram for stories, contests, and other local content @thompsonsstationlifestyle CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/THOMPSONSSTATION
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Athena West | athena.west@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Maria Dinoia | maria.dinoia@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Karen Creason | karen.creason@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Emily Smith | emily.smith@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Jenny Ferguson | jenny.ferguson@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Hailey Holloway, Lainey Green
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ed Atlas, Sue Baldani, Hailey Holloway, Christina Madrid
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
Learn
Get your Summer Electrical Inspection now! Included:
1) Check all lugs for tightness in your electrical panel.
2) Using an infrared camera, we look for hot spots in your electrical system.
3) Look for any cost saving ideas for your electric bill.
4) Replace any broken or loose receptacles and switches.
Brandon & Hannah Waugh Husband and Wife Team | Franklin Residents
Photo Credit: Evin Photography
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
Williamson Health hosted a community ribbon-cutting event in celebration of its newly expanded and renovated Williamson Medical Center West Tower, and unveiled a sign dedicating the building as the Boyer-Bryan West Tower on behalf of hospital supporters Luke and Caroline (Boyer) Bryan and The Brett Boyer Foundation. 5-7: For the 11th year in a row, Signature Homes has built and hosted the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway. Located in the SaddleWalk section of Spring Hill’s June Lake, over 22,222 tickets were sold to tour the home. Becky Smith, owner of The Linen Duck in downtown Columbia served as this year’s lead designer and official St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway furniture partner. Signature Homes has helped raise over $16.7 million dollars for St. Jude Research Hospital.
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New Interchange At June Lake Boulevard and I-65 Opens
The newly completed I-65 and June Lake interchange, exit 55, will allow efficient access to June Lake, located in the corner of Spring Hill. The interchange indicates a milestone in the development of June Lake and will make it easier for commuters and corporations to connect to the developing and vibrant community. The construction of the interchange began in June 2021, and its completion has opened a new gateway into Spring Hill. JuneLakeTN.com
Bubbakoo's Burritos Brings Mexican-Inspired Food To Spring Hill
Bubbakoo's Burritos is the latest entry into the Spring Hill restaurant market, opening last May at 5006 Spedale Court. The menu for the build-your-own burrito concept offers fresh and delicious burritos, tacos, quesadillas, taco salad, and their famous Chiwawa. The Mexican-fusion staple features a variety of unique and customizable fresh ingredients. The chain has 100 locations in 15 states. Bubbakoos.com
Does Your Dealer Do This?
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“I’ve always had a love and affinity for dogs and the companionship and loyalty they bring.”
To Protect And Serve
An Officer And His Police Dog Taking A Bite Out Of Crime
Police officers’ primary responsibilities are to protect and serve their communities; the number one priority for themselves and for their families is to return home safe at the end of every shift. In order to accomplish these goals, they rely on their training and other tools. Officer Ryan Coll, a seven year veteran of the Metro Police Department, and area resident, has additional support on the street: a K9 dog named Diesel.
WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A K9 OFFICER? WHY?
I worked patrol for five years before I was assigned to a proactive undercover unit. We started doing training operations with K9 and I immediately knew that was where I wanted my police career to go. I’ve always had a love and affinity for dogs and the companionship and loyalty they bring. Interacting with and seeing a true “working dog” was something special.
HOW DID YOU GET PAIRED UP WITH DIESEL?
When someone transfers over to our unit, our head trainer goes to a kennel that specifically sells working breeds for military and police. The dogs at these kennels are put through various tests to determine if they’ll be able to do the job we ask of them in the real world. The head trainer selects the dogs and brings them
back. When Diesel was assigned to me, I had two names picked out for him - Ragnar and Diesel. I let my oldest son choose.
TELL ME ABOUT DIESEL AND WHAT MAKES HIM A GREAT POLICE DOG.
Diesel is a three-year-old half Belgian Malinois and half German Shepherd, and he has a tremendous drive and loves to work. As aggressive and dangerous as he is on the streets, he is equally loving and playful. His ability to turn his “work mode” on and off still amazes me. When it comes to police work, he always puts himself between me and danger. I trust him with my life.
WHAT IS HE TRAINED TO DO?
Diesel is trained in agility, obedience, suspect search, open-area search for articles/evidence, suspect apprehension, and suspect tracking. He will soon be trained in narcotic detection as well. Diesel was trained by both the head trainer and by me.
HOW DOES HE HELP YOU WITH YOUR JOB?
Diesel’s greatest asset, and our most frequent use, is as a de-escalation tool. A lot of violent and noncompliant individuals will peacefully surrender when a K9 is brought into the picture. Police K9s are also utilized in clearing buildings,
especially large structures where a criminal has broken in and is hiding. Diesel is also used quite often for suspect tracking. When a violent and dangerous individual runs from officers on foot and poses a danger to society, we’re called to track and apprehend the suspect. He can also be used to find discarded evidence of a suspect who flees.
WHEN DIESEL IS NOT WORKING, WHAT DOES HE LIKE TO DO?
Diesel lives with me and my family. His favorite place to be is outside under our deck or inside on our couch with my wife. When he’s home, he’s the most affectionate and loving dog. He loves to play
ball and be brushed by my youngest son or just lay on the floor and watch movies with my oldest son.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO MENTION?
Since I got Diesel in 2022, we’ve been unitized in over 50 operations. In 2023, we competed in the National Field Trials for USPCA (United States Police Canine Association) against 80 dog teams being tested in obedience, suspect search, open area search, and suspect apprehension. Diesel and I won 2nd team overall. Aside from being a husband and a father, being a K9 handler and working with Diesel is one of my greatest accomplishments. He truly is my best friend.
On The Road
ARTICLE BY MARIA DINOIA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Train’s Pat Monahan Talks Summer Road Trip Tour With REO Speedwagon and Yacht Rock Revue
Hailing from San Francisco, Train has been making chart-topping hits since 1993. “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me),” “Hey, Soul Sister,” “Calling All Angels” and “Play That Song” are just a few of the monster tunes that lead them up the charts, captivating audiences with their unique blend of rock, pop, and rootsy Americana. Three decades later, Train is co-headlining the Summer Road Trip Tour with the popular early 80s band, REO Speedwagon, and they are planning to make some beautiful music together.
Photo by Ben Zucker
Train frontman Pat Monahan shares, “When I was younger I heard a band called REO Speedwagon and fell in love with their numerous, infectious hit songs. Years later I met Kevin Cronin, and thank goodness he’s as great a person as he is a songwriter. This tour won’t just be a great time with great people, but a tour that will have a ton of familiar songs to most generations. I will be wishing I was in the audience as much as I’ll love being on the stage.”
REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin said, “Pat Monahan and I have done several benefit shows over the years, and now we get to take out our bands for a summer full of music and fun. I love the idea of bringing together people of all ages, who share a common love for well-crafted songs and high energy live performances. The REO boys are stoked about this tour.”
So how do two hit-making bands from two different eras of music come together? “Kevin Cronin and I met at a charity event a few years ago and we talked about maybe working together,”
Photo by Ben Zucker
Photo by Ben Zucker
says Monahan. “They’d usually be out with Styx and we’d be out with another band from our era. We decided that maybe this was the year to do it together. It’s going to be really great fun because Kevin and the guys have an insane amount of hit songs. And Yacht Rock Revue will be with us. We’re just gonna take it around the country, have a blast, and share the stage together. And if you don’t go see this concert, go see something, because you never know how long artists will want to perform. I never got to see Tom Petty or Prince and really wish I could.”
Touring these days may look a little different for the five members of Train. “It’s very similar in a lot of ways and different in other ways,” says Monahan. “We do workouts every day and try to fight time and try to play golf on days off. We do this 48-hour fasting thing every once in a while. There’s a shift in trying to take care of yourself and keep up and give the best performance you can. In our younger years, it was more about the parties or the newness of it all.”
Monahan and the boys still have a heart that belongs to San Francisco and where it all began for them. “It’s hard to say I have a favorite city, but those hometown shows in San Francisco are pretty important. Being a San Fran band, San Francisco is always really at the top. I do love going to Chicago. There’s not really a city I don’t love going to.”
In fact, Monahan partakes in other ventures outside of music, paying homage to his beloved hometown. His award-winning wine portfolio, Save Me, San Francisco Wine Co, was created in 2011 and has sold over 10 million bottles and won over 100 medals. Proceeds from his wine business support Family House, a San Francisco charity that supports families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
Adds Monahan, “When the Save Me, San Francisco album [released in 2009 and celebrating 15 years!]
“This tour won’t just be a great time with great people, but a tour that will have a ton of familiar songs to most generations.”
came out, that album title was very important for me. I was telling my manager that it was time to get back to our home roots and thank San Francisco for everything they’ve done for us. So Save Me, San Francisco was really a plea - can you get us back on our feet? We owe San Fran everything. We continue to thank them and give back.”
Train is still making new music, including a live album from London’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall that includes the latest single, “Long Yellow Dress.” Of the single, Monahan says, “I had a dream that I couldn’t reach my wife. She was wearing a long yellow dress. I had this music that I wanted to write to, so I wrote about that dream. It was obvious she didn’t want to be with me in the dream, so we broke up in a song. Not in real life!”
In addition to music and wine, the 55-year-old Monahan has appeared on television and in film with
credits that include the 2021 Hallmark Channel original movie, Christmas in Tahoe, inspired by Train’s album of the same name, which he executive produced and starred, Dr. Ken , 90210, CBS’s Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., The Voice, American Idol , and The Bachelor. He says, “Acting is really not easy for me because it’s other people’s words. I’m really good at memorizing my own words, but other people’s words are difficult for me. I do like it. So if someone offered me a role, I’d take it incredibly seriously and it’d be all-consuming. If I’m ever gonna act again, it would probably be something I have to write.” SaveMeSanFrancisco.com
TRAIN'S REMAINING TOUR DATES
August 18
August 20
August 21
August 22
August 23
August 25
August 26
August 28
August 29
August 31
September 1
September 4
September 6
September 7
September 8
September 10
September 11
Franklin, TN
Tampa, FL
West Palm Beach, FL
Jacksonville, FL
Orange Beach, AL
Houston, TX
Dallas, TX
Denver, CO
Salt Lake City, UT
Auburn, WA
Bend, OR
Ridgefield, WA
Wheatland, CA
Mountain View, CA
Inglewood, CA
Chula Vista, CA
Phoenix, AZ
FirstBank Amphitheater
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
Daily’s Place
The Wharf Amphitheater
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Dos Equis Pavilion
Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre
Utah First Credit Amphitheatre
White River Amphitheatre
Hayden Homes Amphitheater
RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater
Toyota Amphitheatre
Shoreline Amphitheatre
The Kia Forum
North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
Photo by Brooke Clark
Photo by Ben Zucker
Tricia S. Stover BFATM
un scripted
Dr. Donald Zuber’s Path To Goose Creek Pet Hospital Has Taken A Circuitous Route
ARTICLE BY ED ATLAS
Sometimes, even if things veer off script, they have a way of working out for the best. That’s how it went for Goose Creek Pet Hospital owner, Dr. Donald Zuber.
After graduating from Catholic High School in Baton Rouge in 1994, he enrolled at hometown Louisiana State University. Because that’s what high school grads did in his family. But it was the start of a touch-and-go post-secondary education experience. “There are a lot of doctors and lawyers on my dad’s side of the family, so (going to college) was kind of expected of me,” says Dr. Zuber. “My dad advised me not to become a lawyer, but the truth is, I had no clue what I wanted to do.”
After a few years, he withdrew from college and started working in the restaurant business. It was work he found personally gratifying, having advanced quickly from dishwasher to manager.
Eventually, he realized he wanted to become a veterinarian, so he returned to LSU and worked as a bartender and as a vet tech to help pay for his tuition. But a conversation with one of the bar’s
regulars led to another education disruption for a career diversion, this time as a pharmaceutical sales rep. On the surface, it was a smart career move as he routinely ranked among his company’s top 10 or top five producers. “But it wasn’t for me,” he says. “I really missed the clinic.”
By 2008, with the economy entering a recession, he decided to enroll at LSU for a third time. But there was still one hurdle to clear. “The vet school only accepted grades that were earned in the preceding six years, and it had been more than 10 years since I was in school,” he says. “So I had to retake all my prerequisites. It was interesting being a 30+ guy in classes with 18-year-olds.”
While attending classes, Dr. Zuber returned to work part-time at the same clinic where he had been previously. He met Ashley, the woman he would marry. And with a newfound focus, he completed his requirements in 18 months, instead of 24. Then the time came to apply to vet school.
“The letter from the admissions office arrived in the mail and Ashley brought it to me at work,” he recalls. “We opened it and read it on the front porch of the clinic.” The letter was confirmation of his acceptance to LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine, and he and Ashley celebrated. They hugged and cried like babies, which was appropriate because 10 days later, Ashley gave birth to their first son, Tripp.
Shortly after his graduation in 2015, the Zubers and their young family, which by then included their daughter, Connely, moved to the Nashville area. “Ashley’s sister and her husband live here, and we had been visiting every six months since the time we were dating,” Dr. Zuber says. “We were thinking about moving
Dr. Donald Zuber
either here or to Dallas and it was a very short conversation. We love the area. It’s beautiful and has great schools. It’s great to experience the change of seasons and to live where people are so laid back. I can’t say enough about it.”
You could say the laid-back vibe extends to Goose Creek Pet Hospital. Dr. Zuber, who had worked at various practices in the area, went to work at Goose Creek in August of 2022 and purchased the practice, located at 4400 Franklin South Court, from founder Dr. William Pals, in 2023.
“I truly enjoy the relationships we have with our clients,” says Dr. Zuber. “Pet owners share a common bond and, during healthy visits, it’s not unusual for me to spend as much time chatting about life in general as I do examining their pets.”
Dr. Zuber says that during the heat of summer, managing your pet’s outdoor activities is as important as a healthy diet or administering monthly heart, flea and tick medications.
“You have to guard against heatstroke during this time of year,” he says. “Schedule your daily walks in the early morning or evening hours. If you take your pet out during the day, limit the activity to just a few minutes. It’s obvious when they feel the heat. They’ll be panting excessively, and it could sound raspy and stressed.”
Dr. Zuber says this is especially true for bulldogs, boxers, cavaliers and “any breed with a smooshed face. Their respiratory systems are not equipped to handle intense heat and they can overheat easily. Keep them cool, let them lay down in the shade, and it’s a good idea to carry a bottle of water with you.”
That way should things veer off script, they’ll have a way of working out for the best.
GooseCreekPetHospital.vet
The Zuber family on vacation
Taylor Bush,
When does it make sense to stay put instead of moving on? Let’s talk about it.
A M A ZING INDEED
Williamson County is blessed with an array of diverse business owners and dedicated community members. Among them are our exceptional teenagers, who have shown remarkable dedication in pursuing their dreams. We are proud to highlight four of these teens who exemplify hard work, self-motivation and adaptability: Elijah Browning, Sydney Sternagel, Finn McConnell and Ethan Hill.
CELEBRATING FOUR WILLIAMSON COUNTY TEENS AND THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA MADRID | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Elijah Browning
Teen Shows His Prowess On American Ninja Warrior
Elijah Browning of Thompson’s Station first saw American Ninja Warrior on television when he was six years old and instantly fell in love with it. The popular game show has competitors go through stages of increasingly difficult obstacles to win. Elijah and his grandfather started building obstacles in his backyard so he could train and at age 10, Elijah started competing in the National Ninja League (now World Ninja League). At age 14, he won both the Ultimate Ninja Athlete Association and the State Games of America. In 2020, Elijah was invited to compete on American Ninja Warrior at age 15. The pandemic then hit and all the invited teens were cut from the show. Luckily, he was called back again in 2021 and went to the finals in Las Vegas, placing ninth out of 400 contestants. Now at age 19, Elijah just finished competing in Episode 16, which is airing now through September. Elijah’s advice to others is to “dream big and put in the work.” You have to watch Episode 16 to see if Elijah achieves his dream. And if not, then keep watching-this guy is not giving up any time soon. @elijahthebossninja
Sydney Sternagel Inspiring
Teen Creates Nonprofit Organization to Support Siblings of Sick Children
Sydney Sternagel, a rising Independence High School senior, founded the nonprofit organization, Make Y’All Smile, last year. The organization focuses on supporting siblings of sick children and providing them with a nurturing environment. It is an endeavor close to Sydney’s heart because she wishes she had similar support when her brother was diagnosed with an illness. “Most kids don’t like the idea of traditional therapy,” says Sydney. So she organizes fun activities, such as attending concerts or sporting events, based on the needs and interests of the kids whose ages range from three to 18. They, along with their parents, can attend as many events as they want, at no cost.
Sydney executed all the required paperwork to establish the organization. She manages the entire operation, including fundraising. Despite her busy schedule with classes, school clubs and college preparation, Sydney juggles it all with a positive attitude and efficient time management. “If you have a cause you are passionate about, you don’t mind putting in the work,” she says. Her plans include pursuing college degrees in political science and international relations and continuing to run her nonprofit and making a difference in the lives of others. MakeYallSmile.org
Sydney Sternagel
Elijah Browning
Finn McConnell
Teen Entrepreneur Starts Own Clothing Line
Finn McConnell, a junior at Battle Ground Academy, has known since middle school that he wanted to own a business. In 2023, he made that dream a reality by starting his own clothing line, Gulf Southern Clothing. “I chose the name because it reflects my connection to where I live, Tennessee, and where I often travel to, Florida, and everything in between,” says Finn. The Southern region, from its values to its wildlife and landscape, inspires him. There is a range of clothing options to choose from, including sweatshirts and t-shirts and seasonal attire such as bathing suits. In line with his brand, Finn regularly supports nonprofits like the Nature Conservancy, each month. The apparel is currently available for purchase online, but Finn hopes to have a retail store sell his brand one day. ”I’ve learned a lot along the way,” says Finn. “You need to put in the time and then you will see results.” He has watched his business slowly flourish over the year and looks forward to continued success. With plans to attend college to study business, he’s clearly off to a good start. GulfSouthernClothing.com
Photo by Tim Agee
Ethan Hill Music Skill Showcased at Carnegie Hall
Ethan Hill, a senior at Franklin High School, was accepted to play cello for the High School Honors Performance Series at the renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City. The event, limited to only the best performers, occurred last February and included students from across the United States and from countries such as Taiwan, South Korea and the U.S. Territory of Guam. “My orchestra teacher, Susan Abell, encouraged me to try out,” says Ethan. Ethan has been recognized locally as well for his musical talents. Every year since eighth grade, he has been selected for the MidState music ensemble honor. MidState provides a platform for exceptional young musicians to perform under a master conductor.
Having grown up around music his entire life, he has also learned to play drums, piano and guitar. “There is always music in the house,” says Ethan, whose father is a bass player. So what’s next for this musical virtuoso? Ethan has auditioned, and hopes to be selected to perform in the orchestra at the Sydney Opera House next year. His advice to aspiring musicians is to always try. One never knows what opportunities could arise.
Photography
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND
Williamson County Fair
AG Expo Park | 6:00 PM
The annual county fair returns from August 2 -10, bringing a plethora of rides, games, and food along with its electric atmosphere. Agricultural exhibits held indoors will showcase art, animals, plants and more from the surrounding area and periodic performances from jugglers, stilt walkers, and circus members are sure to stun audiences. WilliamsonCountyFair.org
AUGUST 3RD
Hidden Gem Farmers Market
863 Old Military Road | 11:00 AM
Hosted on a local family owned and operated farm, this market strives to provide the community with responsibly grown fresh food. This month, freshly harvested watermelon, tomatoes, beans, herbs and more will be in stock. The market runs each Saturday from May to January. AutumnRidgeCSA.com
AUGUST 10TH
Back To School Bash
Thompson’s Station Church | 6:00 PM
In celebration of their return to school, kids of all ages are welcome to participate in a myriad of games and competitions to bid the summer farewell. There will also be food, music, guest speakers, and more that are sure to make this night one to remember. TSCLife.org
AUGUST 17TH
Motor City Magic
Williamson County Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Motor City Magic pays homage to the record label that transformed American pop music and defined a generation. Three vocalists and a 9-piece band will take you back in time through the history of Motown’s biggest artists with all of their greatest hits. Featured artists include Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, The Temptations and more! WCPACTn.com
AUGUST 18TH
Train and REO Speedwagon
FirstBank Amphitheater | 6:30 PM
Special guest Yacht Rock Revue. Train’s critically acclaimed catalog of global hits with REO Speedwagon’s vast collection of timeless classics makes for an unforgettable night of music, high energy, and fun. FirstBankAmphitheater.com
AUGUST 24TH
Muletown Mission Possible
Memorial Building | 6:00 PM
Hosted by On Mission Motorsports, this fundraiser aims to raise money to improve the mental health of veterans, first responders, and active duty military by providing camaraderie and stress outlets. The 21-and-up event will host live and silent auctions, a poker run and scavenger hunt with a $1,000 prize each, and a lip sync battle with a $500 prize. Facebook @MuletownMissionPossible
AFreedomJourney.com
A Freedom Journey
Rescuing Hope One Pet At A Time
ARTICLE BY HAILEY HOLLOWAY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
After being mauled by a dog in her youth, Mandee Jones’ heart was not hardened. Rather, she felt compassion for the dogs that had been brought up viciously, and was inspired to ensure that no animal had to endure abuse and neglect. Today, she runs a nonprofit rescue center which accomplishes just that.
Q: WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO OPEN A PET RESCUE CENTER? HOW DID YOU START IT?
A: I always had a heart for it. I groomed dogs for over 20 years and I had the mindset of understanding them and why they act how they do. I also lived in an area where animals were dumped frequently and I knew that I wanted to save these animals.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU FACE IN RUNNING A RESCUE CENTER?
A: Money is a big challenge. We can’t afford to take every single dog because of the costs of training, feeding, medication, and rehabilitation. There’s also emotional challenges. I have this steadfast belief in God, but I still wonder why the pain and abuse animals endure is allowed. Praying for renewal each night helps me to wake up ready to keep working.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR LONG TERM GOALS FOR THE RESCUE CENTER?
A: The ultimate goal is to be able to train and rehabilitate dogs and offer them for free to military veterans and to people with disabilities.
Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE THINKING ABOUT ADOPTING A PET FROM YOUR RESCUE CENTER?
A: Be prepared to put in the work. These dogs are coming in from rough environments so we use the 3-3-3 rule. Three days for them to relax, three weeks for them to get comfortable, three months until you see the dog’s personality. So we ask when people adopt, that they have patience and understand they’re not getting a toy. They’re getting a living creature.
