November 2025 Magazine Issue

Calleigh Hitt, M.D.

Dr. Hitt, a Bowdon native, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of West Georgia before obtaining her Doctor of Medicine from Mercer University. She completed her residency in internal medicine at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.

Dr. Hitt will serve as the lead physician for the primary care practice at our new Bremen, Ga., location (700 Alabama Ave.) while also maintaining office hours in Carrollton on Mondays.

Application Deadline: Jan. 30, 2026

Walter Harrison Scholarship

CEMC selects one high school senior or undergraduate student to compete for the $1,000 scholarship to use at any two- or four-year university or technical school in Georgia.

STUDENT

Scan the code to visit our website & access scholarship applications!

SCHOLARSHIPSSTUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Application Deadline: March 6, 2026

Lineman School Scholarship

CEMC offers the $5,000 scholarship to aspiring electrical lineworkers to use toward schooling and training.

Washington Youth Tour

CEMC selects local high school students to receive an all-expenses-paid, weeklong educational trip to Washington, D.C.

Application Deadline: Feb. 6, 2026

Thankful for You

During this season of thanks, I want to reach out and personally tell you how grateful I am to you, our readers, and our community advertising partners. This month marks our 10th year in business, and reaching this milestone fills me with joy, humble appreciation and a bit of relief (only 34.7% of small businesses make it to their 10th year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Whether you are now – or have been – part of the West Georgia Woman crew, a longtime or current advertising partner, an individual or business who has been featured in West Georgia Woman, a loyal reader who looks forward to every issue or even a business that allows us to distribute our magazine in your office, you have all played a very important part in helping us grow.

I want to give a very special shout-out to Shala Rathke, our writer and copy editor. She has been on this journey with me from the very beginning. If not for her, I'm not sure we would have made it to this anniversary. There have been so many times she has saved my bacon over the years in various ways. Shala, you are a true friend, and I love you. Thank you so much.

Because this is a family owned business, I also want to thank my children, Zachary and Sydney, both of whom work for me now, my daughter-in-law Jordan (accounting), Kennedy Coykendall Carney (distributor), Jordan Alexis (anything we need!), my parents, Kin Brooks and Charlene D'Ambrosio for helping me with distribution during those early years, my stepdad Walt D'Ambrosio who always thinks to call our advertising partners first when he needs a service or to buy something, and Dan Keever who has offered significant support over the last 10 years and steps in to help whenever I need him. There are so many other friends, family and community partners (framily) who have offered support, and I wish I could list them all. Thank you all so much.

The photo above is very special to me. Drs. Fred and Anne Richards have been staunch supporters of the magazine from the very beginning. This is Fred and me in November 2015 holding our inaugural issue (taken by Anne). Sadly, Fred passed away March 27, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. I know my dear friend and mentor's spirit is celebrating with us during our anniversary. I just wish he could be here to experience it with us.

The relationships we’ve built over the past decade are at the heart of who we are, and they continue to inspire everything we do. I'm looking forward to the next 10 years, and I'm hopeful for what the future holds for West Georgia Woman. With your continued support, I know we’ll keep growing and telling the stories that matter most. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being a part of our journey and for letting us be part of your lives every month.

In This Issue

Our feature this month is retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Margaret Miller. A true trailblazer, Margaret joined the Marines when women made up less than 5% of the entire force. Many of her male counterparts didn't think women should be in the military, but that only motivated her to work harder and prove she belonged. She served on several deployments, including 13 months on a combat deployment to Iraq, followed two years later by a deployment to Afghanistan. Margaret retired as a Colonel on June 1, 2021, after 36 years of service. Now she spends her time in service to her community. On page 10, learn more about Margaret and the sacrifices she and her family made so she could serve our country.

Inside is my reflections on 10 years of West Georgia Woman in the community, the last installment of our cancer support series, a look inside Palmer Farm's elderberry syrup production and more, including Chef Rose Isaacs' delicious recipes.

Thank you again for 10 amazing years.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Thank you,

Finding our voice. Knowing our value.

Making a difference. TM

West Georgia Woman is a voice for and about the women who live and work in West Georgia.

Our mission is to engage, inspire, and cultivate a cohesive community for all women in West Georgia by sharing our hopes, our dreams and our lives.

This magazine would not be possible without the inclusion of our community advertising partners.

Please be sure to show your support by doing business with these VIPs (very important partners) so we will be able to continue to share with you our stories about amazing West Georgia women!

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Do you know an interesting woman who should be on the cover of West Georgia Woman? Is there a special project or organization you would like us to feature in our magazine? Let us know! Email your suggestions to features@westgeorgiawoman.com.

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The views, opinions, positions or strategies expressed by the contributing authors are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, positions or strategies of Angel Media, LLC., West Georgia Woman magazine or any employee thereof.

Angel Media, LLC. makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information in this publication and will not be liable for any errors, omissions or delays in this information or any losses, injuries or damages arising from its display or use.

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Need a copy? We mail thousands of copies each month to households through direct mail or get yours from our racks at Tanner Medical Center, Smith Brothers Supply Company, Southern Home and Ranch Center, Food Depot (Maple St.), Neva Lomason Library, Professional Park Medical Building, Physicians Care Group of West Georgia and Tanner Health System Medical Pavilion in Carrollton; Piggly Wiggly and CVS in Bowdon, Buchanan, Franklin and Tallapoosa; Higgins General Hospital in Bremen; The Little Giant Grocery in Sargent; Piedmont Hospital, Leaf and Bean Coffee, Crook's Grocery (Temple Ave.) and Lee King pharmacy in Newnan; Tanner Health System's Villa Med and Villa West Office Buildings in Villa Rica; Tanner Primary Care Building at Mirror Lake; Kroger (Highway 5) and Food Depot on Hiram Douglasville Hwy and Highway 5 in Douglasville; Food Depot and Brickhouse Grille in LaGrange; Food Depot (Villa Rica Hwy) in Dallas; Kroger on Ridge Rd. in Hiram; WM Grocery in Roanoke, Ala; Tanner Health System and WM Grocery in Wedowee, Ala. We have them in larger quantities at Publix (Bullsborough Drive), and Thompson pharmacy in Newnan, the Apothecary Shoppe in Douglasville, Publix in New Georgia as well as hundreds of other retail locations and medical offices covering 18 cities in eight counties in West Georgia and East Alabama.

Publisher/Editor

Angela Dailey

angela@westgeorgiawoman.com

Copy Editor

Editorial Contributor

Shala Rathke

shala@westgeorgiawoman.com

Photographer for Cover/ Graphic Design

Zachary Dailey

Editorial Contributors

Sandra Bolan, Jordan Dailey, Rose Isaacs, Kim Ashby MacColeman and Patrick Yuran

Advertising Sales

Sales@westgeorgiawoman.com

West Georgia Woman is a monthly publication of Angel Media, LLC. All contents of this issue are copyright 2025. West Georgia Woman magazine, its logo and “Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference.” are trademarks of Angel Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

Print or online reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submissions will be included as space is available.

West Georgia Woman reserves the right to reject or edit any submissions that are not in compliance with our editorial policy. If you wish to have your submission returned, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope along with your submission.

From Carrollton to the Corps

A Journey of Faith, Service and Sacrifice

By Shala Rathke

Born and raised in Carrollton, Ga., Marine Corps Colonel (retired) Margaret Miller was once convinced her path lay in the performing arts. In a surprise twist, she ended up doing a complete 180 by enlisting not just in the military, but in the Marine Corps.

Margaret attended Carrollton City Schools through her junior year, when a rare opportunity took her across the country. “In the summer of 1983, an incredible opportunity arose: I was invited to spend the first half of my senior year at a performing arts school in Los Angeles,” she recalls. “Immersing myself in that vibrant, creative environment was truly life-changing. After that unforgettable experience, I returned home to Carrollton to graduate with the class of 1984.”

After high school, Margaret attended West Georgia College on a full vocal scholarship, but discovered that wasn’t the right direction for her. “I was more drawn to Carrollton’s lively social scene than the classroom,” she says with a laugh. She was working at what she called “the coolest spot in West Georgia, the Maple Street Mansion,” when fate intervened in March of 1985.

“One afternoon, a sharply dressed Marine Corps recruiter walked into the restaurant,” Margaret remembers. “He spoke passionately about the Marine Corps: its benefits, its challenges and the adventures.”

That conversation changed everything about her future. Having grown up in a small town, she felt she was ready for something new and different. So off she went to boot camp at Parris Island, S.C.

It was a decision that surprised everyone, including herself. “Ironically, the Marine Corps was the last path anyone, including me, would have expected. If my high school yearbook had included a ‘Least Likely to Join the Military’ category, I would have won it, hands down,” she says.

“My world revolved around the performing arts – that was my passion and identity.

Joining the military didn’t exactly fit the picture.

Land Zen

But looking back, I can clearly see God’s hand guiding me toward something greater.

“When I announced my decision, most people thought I had completely lost my mind.”

But she hadn’t. She had found her calling.

The Making of a Marine

Margaret’s upbringing, surrounded by four siblings, had already prepared her better than she thought.

“Being the fourth of five kids was like growing up in gladiator school,” she jokes. “I became a pretty fast distance runner thanks to a very practical form of training – running away from my older brothers to avoid a good butt kicking. That came in handy when I joined the junior high and high school track teams at Carrollton.”

That early endurance paid off. “In the Marine Corps, running isn’t just required – it’s rewarded. At boot camp, I earned the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) award, which came with a meritorious promotion to Private First Class. Not a bad return on all those childhood sprints!”

When she joined the Marine Corps Reserves in 1985, there was a clear disparity between male and female marines. “Women made up less than 5% of the entire force – fewer than one in 20, so we stood out like a sore thumb. Today,

females comprise almost 10% of the Marine Corps’ total force. That’s still less than half of the other military branches’ total female populations.”

Margaret says the fitness standards became more stringent for women in the 1990s, which helped level the playing field. But the challenges of being a woman in a heavily male military branch were real.

“There were still plenty of men who believed women didn’t belong in the military, especially not

Deployment and Domestic Life

In 1990, Margaret’s military career shifted from training to adventure. “My first experience with deployment and real-world military action came in 1990, when I was mobilized in support of Operation Desert Shield, followed by Desert Storm in 1991 after Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait,” she says. “Although the war itself was relatively short, it was my first introduction to military operations on a global

After the conflict ended, Margaret returned home to Carrollton to complete her bachelor’s in psychology at what was then West Georgia College, now known as the University of West Georgia. She continued as a reservist at Dobbins Air Base in Marietta, Ga., where her senior officers felt like she had what it takes to be an officer.

“After nine years enlisted in the reserves, I applied to the Officer Candidate Program in 1994 and was accepted,” she remembers. “Training at Quantico, Va., was no joke. It was tougher than boot camp and designed to challenge every ounce of strength, resilience and determination you have. The purpose wasn’t just to build strong Marines; it was to build

Her first officer assignment came in Beaufort, S.C., in 1996. Her daughter, Victoria, was born shortly after. Although she was a new officer and a new mom, she completed her master’s in human resource management, attending school at night and on weekends.

In 1998, she transferred to Jacksonville, Fla., to serve as a Marine Corps Officer Recruiter. “I absolutely loved that tour,” she says. “Every day brought new opportunities to meet young men and women, hear their stories and help shape their

After completing her tour as a recruiter, Margaret was ready for a new challenge: full-time parent. “In

2001, I was pregnant with my son, Dawson, and felt a strong pull to be home with him and my daughter, Victoria, who was 4 at the time. So, I made the decision to leave active duty and dedicate a year to being a stay-at-home mom. It was a new chapter, one focused on family and the precious early years of my children’s lives. I cherish that time with them.”

But when 9/11 changed the world, it also changed her plans. By 2002, she was back in uniform, supporting Marines deploying to Iraq. “In 2004, I was assigned as the Reserve Marine for Life Coordinator in Jacksonville – a role focused on supporting Marines as they transitioned into civilian life,” she says. “It was especially rewarding to work with younger Marines, helping them develop résumés, sharpen their interviewing skills and gain the confidence they needed to succeed beyond the uniform.”

At the same time, she worked as Deputy Director of Military Affairs and Veteran Services for the City of Jacksonville. “This role kept me closely connected to the needs of veterans throughout the region, as well as to the resources available to support them. Working alongside dedicated partners, we established a robust Veterans Homeless Village and launched an annual resource fair – initiatives that made a real difference. It was deeply meaningful work that allowed me to give back to the veteran community in a tangible way,” she says.

By 2006, Margaret and her family were transferred closer to home, stationed in Albany, Ga. In 2007, her unit received orders to deploy to Iraq.

“This combat deployment was to Al Anbar Province in Iraq in January 2008, where I would spend the next 13 months,” she says. “At the time, my children were still so young – Victoria was 9, and Dawson was just 5. Even now, I get choked up thinking about the day I had to say goodbye.”

Before deploying, Margaret resettled the kids in Carrollton so they would have the love and support

of her family while she was gone.

“My heart ached every single moment I was away from them,” she shares. “The separation was constant and heavy; an ache that never truly faded. I poured myself into my duties during the day, focusing on the mission to keep my mind occupied. But at night, when there was space to feel, the emotions would come flooding in. I wept as I prayed every night, asking God to watch over my children and to bring me safely home to them. My dear second mother, Helon Shoemake, gave me a beautiful angel blanket that comforted me each night of separation.”

In Iraq, one of her duties was to lead Female Engagement Teams into local villages. “Our mission was to meet with Iraqi women and help address their many needs,” she says. “Those interactions were some of the most impactful experiences of my deployment.”

When her deployment ended, her husband and children met her in California for a tearful reunion. “A large celebration was held in a hangar at Miramar Air Station, filled with families, flags, a military band and chaos,” she recalls. “But in that moment, all I could see were my children. I ran to them as fast as I could, scooped them up, and held them tight, not wanting to ever let go.”

She continued to advance her career, including a prestigious promotion to Lieutenant Colonel, while beginning studies toward a Ph.D. in psychology at UWG. But two years after returning from Iraq, Margaret received new deployment orders to Afghanistan.

“This time, my children were older, and we had already built a strong support network in Carrollton through extended family, church and school,” she says. “That foundation made all the difference. Another difference was that I had internet sometimes and was able to Facetime my children, which was so comforting to be able to see them and talk with them. I did not have that in Iraq.”

Her circle in Carrollton offered incredible support for Margaret while she was deployed. “I have to give a big shout-out to my friend Cathy Myers Lawrence, retired media director at Carrollton Junior High School. During my deployment, Cathy kept me connected to West Georgia by faithfully sending mail: newspaper clippings, cards with updates on the latest happenings and funny notes to lift my spirits. Those envelopes were a lifeline on hard days, reminding me of home and easing the weight of separation. I can’t thank her enough for that steady kindness.”

Family and Faith

Balancing a military career with family life was never simple. “My children all paid a high price for my service, especially during deployment,” Margaret says. “The truth is, I wasn’t always there when they needed me, and there’s no easy way to soften that reality.”

But her faith provided healing. “Psalms 147:3 ‘He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds,’” she quotes. “Through God’s grace, I’ve been able to process and move through that pain.

“I am profoundly grateful that my children have grown into strong, resilient individuals. Their courage and adaptability through those years are a testament to their character, and a gift I don’t take for granted.”

She is proud of her children’s success and happiness. “My bonus daughter, Britney (a gift from my late husband), is married to Josh Utley, and together they’re raising a beautiful family on little farm in Arkansas,” she shares. The couple has four children: Ruby, Grayson, Paxton and Rylan.

“My daughter, Victoria Grace Weitzel, lives in Oceanside, Calif. She’s engaged to Rob Blackwell, and they’re planning to be married in the late spring – a new and exciting chapter in her life. My youngest, Dawson Weitzel, recently completed his four-year enlistment in the U.S. Marine Corps and has moved back to Carrollton. Having him close to home again is a tremendous blessing.”

Giving Back at Home

After 36 years of service, Margaret retired as a Colonel on June 1, 2021. “My final official duty was one of the greatest honors of my career: serving as the Parade Reviewing Official for my own son’s

bootcamp graduation at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego,” she says. “Standing there in uniform, watching him earn the title ‘Marine,’ was a moment beyond anything I could have ever imagined.”

Although she served in many units around the country and abroad – Washington, D.C.; Iwakuni, Japan; Beaufort, S.C.; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Oceanside, Calif. – she considers Carrollton her favorite.

She chooses to remain where her roots are in Carrollton, honoring her parents’ legacy of paying it forward. “I was blessed to be raised by two deeply committed and caring Christians, Grace and J. Mark Miller,” she shares. “They didn’t just talk about service; they lived it every day. Their example shaped everything about who we were as a family. We were actively involved in Carrollton First United Methodist Church, as well as Scouts and 4-H. Serving others wasn’t just something we did. It was a way of life then, and it continues to be a core part of

Margaret’s Advice: Support the Charities that Support Veterans

While her transition back into civilian life was rather seamless, she recognizes that many veterans struggle with that transition, as well as their mental and physical health. “Here in our community, we still have veterans who served this nation with honor but either don’t know where to turn for help or, after reaching out, have been denied the services they need,” she shares. “Navigating the Veterans Administration system can be one of the most frustrating and demoralizing experiences a veteran will face. This is why community awareness, outreach and advocacy are so important.”

American Legion Post 143 provides many services for veterans. “The American Legion truly impacts the lives of veterans by providing knowledge and access to resources that trickle down to the community,” Margaret shares. Visit post143ga.org, email contact@gapost143.org or call 770-252-7562 to leave a voicemail. The American Legion provides a brotherhood/social connection and helps link veterans to needed programs and services. It helps veterans by advocating for their rights and benefits locally and nationally, assisting with VA claims and healthcare access, providing emergency

financial aid and offering community programs such as job placement, education scholarships and peer support.

IMPACT West Georgia - Kathy and Darrell Parsons provide transportation for veterans to medical appointments and offer a variety of other support services. Visit impactwestga.org and click on the “Deserve” link to register for services, or call 404-834-4007.

The Trinka Davis Veterans Clinic connects veterans with critical healthcare resources. Visit VA.gov or call 678-423-4970.

Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park offers a place of reflection, remembrance and honor for those who have served. “I currently serve as the membership chair of the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association, where we proudly honor those who have served our nation,” Margaret says. “The park stands as a beautiful and meaningful place of remembrance. If someone is unable to afford a memorial marker for themselves or a family member, we may be able to provide funding with proof of service. This ensures that every veteran has a place of honor in the park, a lasting tribute to their service and sacrifice for our country. It’s a privilege to help preserve their legacy for generations to come.” Visit ccvmp.org for more information.

who I am today.”

Now, her mission is local service. “Community outreach is vital because isolation is one of the greatest threats to the human spirit,” she says. “We thrive when we build relationships, serve one another, and share life together. Community strengthens us, uplifts us, and reminds us that none of us is meant to walk this journey alone.”

Margaret stays active in groups such as the Kiwanis Club, the American Legion Post 143 and the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association.

She offers powerful words of wisdom for the next generation to use as guiding lights. “No matter what you choose to do in life, faith in God and a good sense of humor aren’t just nice to have –they’re essential tools,” she shares. “They help you navigate the challenges, keep perspective when the pressure’s on, and remind you not to take yourself too seriously, even in a serious profession. This world

is temporary, and none of us get out of here alive.

“In the words of the late, but ever-present Dr. Fred Richards ‘Death is one of our greatest teachers; this life is impermanent.’ Making peace with our mortality grants us freedom like none other. It frees us to live more fully in the moment.”

Margaret recognizes that the military isn’t the right career for many people, but to her, it’s the ultimate form of service.

“For anyone considering joining the U.S. military, I highly encourage it. Military service is a powerful way to grow, serve and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of something larger than yourself,” she says. “Service teaches responsibility, builds character and instills an appreciation for community and country. It’s through serving others that we often discover our greatest strengths.

“Happy 250th Birthday to all U.S. Marines –Semper Fidelis!” WGW

Please Help Us Build a Memorial Bench for Dr. Fred Richards

Sculptor Kevin Shunn will be creating a bronze memorial statue of Fred with a bench.

The Carrollton Fraternal Order of Police is collecting donations through its Barry Carroll Foundation for this project.

If you wish to donate to Fred's legacy project, please make your check payable to the Barry Carroll Foundation, with "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the memo line.

Checks can be dropped off at the City of Carrollton Police Department or mailed to:

Barry Carroll Foundation c/o Chief Joel Richards, 115 W. Center St., Carrollton, Ga. 30117.

Or, you may donate through PayPal or Venmo using the QR codes on the left. Please reference the "Fred Richards Memorial Bench" in the "for" section.

West Georgia Woman Celebrates 10 Years of Heart, Community and Connection

By Angela Dailey, Owner/Publisher

It’s hard to believe that West Georgia Woman is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Some days, it feels like only yesterday we were pouring our hearts into that very first issue, uncertain of what the future might hold. Other times, as I think about the countless stories we’ve shared and the incredible people we’ve met along the way, it feels as though this magazine has always been part of the community we love so deeply. What an extraordinary journey it has been.

When I started this magazine in November 2015, my dream was simple – to create something that truly reflected the heart and spirit of West Georgia. I wanted to build a publication that celebrated women, uplifted voices and highlighted the strength and beauty within our communities. I never could have imagined how much it would grow or how many lives it would touch. What began as one humble monthly issue has blossomed into a family of publications that celebrate every aspect of life across West Georgia and East Alabama.

Over the years, we’ve introduced special editions like our Bridal and Holiday issues, our Football Preview and Spring Sports Showcase, and we’ve built lasting partnerships with organizations

Let’s build champions together.

LET'S GO WEST.

that share our vision of service and connection. We are especially proud of our collaboration with Tanner Health System on Healthy Woman, a publication dedicated to inspiring and empowering local women to live healthier, happier lives; our collaboration with Commission Chair Michelle Morgan to produce Carroll County’s Annual Report to the Community; and creating the Community Newcomer’s Guides for the Carroll County and Greater Haralson Chambers of Commerce. In 2026, we will be having our 6th annual Women's Extravaganza – a free community event for women in West Georgia and East Alabama. Every partnership, every project and every story reflects a shared commitment to making our community stronger.

At the heart of everything we do is – and always has been – community. This magazine has never been just about the stories printed on its pages; it’s about the people behind them. It’s about the small business owners who keep our towns thriving, the volunteers who give so generously of their time, and the students, athletes and artists whose passion and accomplishments inspire us all. These are the stories that remind us who we are and what we can accomplish when we come together.

As we celebrate this 10-year milestone, I am filled

“ “with overwhelming gratitude to so many people who have helped West Georgia Woman magazine grow into what it is today. To our readers – thank you for welcoming us into your homes and hearts month after month. To our talented and dedicated team – your creativity, care and commitment make this magazine truly shine. And to our community advertising partners – thank you for believing in us, for investing in our family owned local business and for trusting us to deliver your important marketing message to the community. Your support allows us to continue telling the stories that matter most.

Over the past decade, West Georgia Woman magazine has become a reflection of the spirit that defines West Georgia and East Alabama – sharing kindness, perseverance, generosity, resilience, pride in our neighbors and where we live, and most of all, the incredible power of the human spirit.

It truly takes a village to produce a publication of this quality and reach, and I am so humbled by the village we have built together. Over the past decade, West Georgia Woman magazine

has become a reflection of the spirit that defines the communities in West Georgia and East Alabama – sharing kindness, perseverance, generosity, resilience, pride in our neighbors and where we live, and most of all, the incredible power of the human spirit.

As we look to the next 10 years, our mission remains the same – to celebrate the remarkable people who make this region shine, to support locally owned businesses and community-focused nonprofit organizations, and to continue sharing stories that uplift, connect and inspire all of us.

Here’s to the next decade of storytelling, community and connection, and most important, here's to all of you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of our journey and for letting us be part of yours. We wouldn't have made it to 10 years without your love and support. WGW

Harvested with Heart

Sickness spurs a Douglas County mom into action

By Kim Ashby MacColeman

Ihad strep over and over again, and sinus infections,” says Kody Palmer, as he recalls being sick as a child. Little did he know that these repeat illnesses would be the spark for his mom, Heather, to create Palmer Farm Elderberry.

Years earlier, Kody's common but miserable, ailments were taking their toll, both at home and at school. Everything came to a head one day when Heather received a letter in the mail. “Eventually, he missed so much school that we got a note from the school system,” she says. The letter said if Kody had any more absences from school, she would need to come before the board to explain why. It was a shocking wake-up call for the former second grade teacher. It was clear –Heather needed a solution to end the sickness cycle.

That letter fueled frustration as well as determination in Heather. She needed a plan to get Kody healthy and back in school. But how? Could there be a solution that didn’t involve more X-rays and antibiotics? Heather's first choice was an all-natural remedy that would not create new concerns as Kody grew. So she turned to her tribe, friends who believed in holistic, nature-based medicines. One of them suggested elderberries, also known as Sambucus Nigra. Back in 2012, the benefits of elderberries were barely a blip on America’s medicinal radar,

but that was about to change. Soon, word of their health benefits would spread across the traditional and naturopathic worlds alike.

American black elderberry is native to most of the world, including North and South America. They must be cooked to be eaten in jams, pies, preserves and, of course, syrups. Most important, especially for Heather, elderberries are scientifically proven to have excellent immuneboosting properties, and they are packed with antioxidants.

This new-found knowledge led Heather to her first recipe, but unfortunately, the first spoonful did not go over so well. “It tasted bitter,” Kody recalls. Heather thought, "What good would elderberries do if no one could stomach the taste?" This question resulted in tweaks to the recipe. She finally landed on a combination of cinnamon – which has antiviral properties – cloves, ginger and local honey.

Everyone opened up for round two. The result: smiles all around. A syrup recipe that tasted sweet and jammy was born. Immediately, she started giving it to Kody and the rest of the family daily as an ounce of prevention. It wasn’t long before everyone saw the difference.

“Kody’s health improved dramatically,” Heather says, “No more sickness at all, hardly. He rarely misses any days.”

Good News Travels Fast

Heather continued to make the elderberry syrup for her family and close friends, but a deadline in a long-established family plan was coming due. “I’d intended to go back to teaching when my youngest started kindergarten, which was quickly coming up in the fall,” she explains. However, the tug to remain home was strong, especially when home includes an ever-expanding garden and orchard.

Palmer Farm is located in a rural part of Douglas County. A few steps from the back door lies a flourishing garden. Beyond that are fruit trees of every variety blueberry, pear, apple and, of course, Georgia peaches. It’s clear Heather and her husband Jim are not afraid to plant something new, just to see what comes up.

One day, she saw two equal paths in front of her, but she was waiting for one to stand out clearly. One trail kept her home with her boys; the other led her back to the classroom. The path that began to bloom started with a simple social media post about her elderberry syrup. In a matter of days, the post went viral, at least locally. Friends began placing orders, and suddenly, business was booming.

“I started off putting it in a small eight-ounce jars

Call

Jill Pierce

1654 Maple St Carrollton, GA 30117-4117 Bus:

in a cooler on my front porch. I would make it up, slap some labels on there, and add a little raffia to make it cute.” More and more people showed up on her doorstep. “We use the honor system. Just grab your elderberry and leave your money in the fridge or pay through a money-transfer app,” says Heather.

Sudden Success and Simmering Concern

As orders increased, so did the realities of entrepreneurship. Questions could no longer be ignored: “Is this legal? Are we ready for the next step?“

“I wasn’t making what I was making as a teacher, but we had so many dreams,” Heather recalls. “I said to my husband, ‘I can either drop elderberry and go back to teaching or I can run a business. I can’t do both.’” They decided to jump in with both feet. In 2018, instead of returning to the classroom, Heather returned to her bubbling pots of elderberry. Going all in, of course, meant new challenges – including being in compliance with the county. “It was funny because when we did go before the board, several of the members had already heard of us … Their wives had already been purchasing from

us.” They created an LLC, received their certification by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and started cooking in a commercial-grade kitchen. Certification truly opened the door to opportunity. The benefits of elderberries had become more widely known, and now more local businesses were willing, and even eager, to sell the syrup.

Certification also led to experimentation. Over the years, Heather has created elderberry gummies, popsicles and lemonade. Most recently, she’s ventured into tallow, rendered animal fat – in this case, beef fat – that’s used in everything from cooking to skincare. “Everyone is loving it for the face … I actually put elderberry seed oil in it as well. Both are really amazing for your skin.”

Aside from boosting your immune system, elderberries are known for their antioxidant properties. Those antioxidants protect your skin from free radicals that can cause damage, triggering premature aging and wrinkles.

All of these products and all this success created a new concern: how to fill so many orders efficiently while keeping costs down. Jim remembers those early years. “She was ordering elderberries off Amazon for like $15 dollars a pound. That just didn’t make sense to me. She needed to be ordering in

bulk, buying jars in bulk,” he says. The pragmatic engineer put his analytical skills to work. “We now have a semi that literally backs into our driveway and drops off pallets of supplies. It’s much less expensive,” he explains.

Another idea of Jim’s was to start growing their own elderberries. It took several years for the trees to produce, but now that they have, Heather questions whether this is a long-term solution.

”I don't know if we would ever be able to grow enough elderberries to supply my business because just doing the syrup is extremely time consuming. Elderberry harvesting is difficult – it's not like picking blueberries.”

That’s because elderberries are very tender. Heather explains you have to cut them off in clusters, then freeze them so you don’t accidentally squash them with your fingers. After that, you dry them. All this must happen before you even begin to make syrup. So for Heather, the trees on the farm are more symbolic of faith, of growth, even of the future.

Maturing Seeds: Watching and Waiting

Now more than 10 years into the elderberry syrup making adventure, Palmer Farm Elderberry is sold in six West Georgia stores and is shipped all over the United States and Puerto Rico.

So what does the future hold? Sell the business? Close up shop? Heather says she would like to see the business grow, but retirement also beckons like a shimmering wave just off shore.

Kody is now a high school senior and active in Future Farmers of America. His brother Kohen is in middle school. “I started out wanting to be either an electrical or mechanical engineer like my dad,” says Kody. “But I took a basic agriculture class in school and really liked the greenhouse work.”

He’s now set his sights on the University of Georgia and an agriculture engineering degree. He’s grown up watching his mom measure, mix and stir elderberry syrup, and he says he’s hoping to take over the business one day. “I’ve learned a lot about being an entrepreneur, about production and management.” He hopes to expand the business, and maybe, one day, even pass it along to his kids.

For now, Heather and Jim are content to wait and see whether that actually happens. Until then, Heather says she’ll continue to cultivate it, all the while keeping a watchful eye on that shimmering retirement wave that rolls ever closer. WGW

Daily Fare

Chef Rose With

Chef Rose Isaacs is a native of Carroll County and lives in Carrollton with her husband, Shawn and their son, Sebastian. She graduated from West Georgia Technical College in 2013 with a degree in Culinary Arts.

She is a personal chef who offers cooking lessons, baby food prep, date night dinners for two and more.

Learn more about Chef Rose at www.chefrosecooks.com.

Chef Rose photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography, daileylifephotography@gmail.com.

Recipe photos by Andrew Agresta, Agresta Photography, www.agrestaphotography.com.

Turkey and Mushroom Pot Pie with Cheddar Sage Biscuits

Ingredients

For the filling

3 cups cooked turkey, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini or a mix)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken or turkey stock

1 cup heavy cream or whole milk

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the cheddar-sage biscuits

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed

1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded

1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped

¾ cup milk or buttermilk

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Begin by preparing the filling.

“Make use of your leftover thanksgiving turkey with this comforting pot pie recipe. This recipe also works great with rotisserie chicken.”

Heat olive oil in a large skillet.

Sauté the onion, garlic and mushrooms over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in the stock and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a rich, creamy filling.

Fold in the diced turkey and herbs. Season generously with salt and black pepper.

Transfer the filling to a lightly greased baking dish.

To make the biscuits, combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl.

Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the shredded cheddar and chopped sage, then add the milk just until the dough comes together.

Spoon the biscuit dough evenly over the turkey and mushroom filling, leaving small gaps so the filling can peek through.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the filling is bubbling.

Remove from the oven and let the pot pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serves 8.

Apple Cider Mustard Dip

Ingredients

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup sharp cheddar, finely shredded

2 tablespoons whole grain mustard

2 tablespoons apple cider

1 teaspoon honey

Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Sliced apples, pretzels or crackers for serving

Preparation

In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese and shredded cheddar mixing until smooth.

Stir in the whole grain mustard, honey and apple cider and blend until fully incorporated.

Season with black pepper to taste.

Transfer dip to serving dish and and serve with sliced apples, pretzel sticks or crackers.

Serves 4 to 6. WGW

“A take on a beer cheese dip that requires no cooking and comes together quickly for a perfect Thanksgiving Day appetizer.”

Holding On and Letting Go: A Story of Love, Life and Loss

By Patrick Yuran

Helen Keller said, "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us."

Over the past year, this series has been a journey through the landscapes of love, loss and rediscovery, learning to give ourselves permission to find purpose, to embrace clarity, time, grace and presence. Each lesson has revealed a truth about what it means to live fully, even when life looks different than we imagined.

Looking back, I realize that each month carried its own message, an invitation to grow. We began by learning to give ourselves permission, not just to grieve, but to feel deeply and to begin again. We explored how purpose can be reborn in unexpected ways, how clarity often follows chaos and how time itself becomes one of our greatest teachers. We practiced intentionality, living with focus, awareness, and compassion, and we embraced grace – both for ourselves and for others. Finally, we discovered the power of presence, learning that being fully in the moment allows us to experience life in its most honest and healing form.

Now, as the series closes, I have come to see that legacy is not something we will leave behind someday. It is something we create every day. It is built moment by moment, choice by choice – in how we live, love and lead.

For a long time, I thought legacy was what remained after someone was gone; heirlooms, memories and traditions. However, the longer I walk this path, the more I realize that legacy is alive and unfolding in real time. It is not a reflection of the past, but an act of the present.

Marie and I are still writing our legacy, and it is found in the laughter that fills our home, the people we pour into and the courage we choose when the future feels uncertain. Despite her diagnosis of stage four, incurable cancer, her strength shows up in the way she faces each day with grace and joy, in how she encourages others and in the quiet faith that steadies both of us when life demands more than we think we can give. Her strength shows up in the way she faces each day with grace and joy, in how she encourages others and in the quiet faith that steadies both of us when life demands more than we think we can give.

Legacy is defined by the small everyday moments of life, not by major milestones. It is defined by the way we treat others, the attention we give to loved ones and the compassion we extend to those in need. Legacy is a ripple that begins with a single act of kindness and reaches further than we can ever imagine.

The lesson I have learned throughout this journey is that legacy does not have to wait. It does not have

to be something that we build later. It is something we are building daily by living in the here and now. We create it in the ways we show up, in how we give of ourselves and in how we choose to turn our love into action.

When I think of carrying our legacy forward, I do not think of an ending. Instead, I think of an expansion. I think of the many ways our love has grown by how we have shared it with so many people. I think of how one person’s courage can inspire another person’s journey, how one person’s compassion can strengthen another person’s spirit and how one person’s hope can multiply when it is spoken aloud.

The truth is, we are all legacy-makers. Every day we are shaping the stories that others will carry long after the moment passes. Legacy is not what we leave for people, but what we leave in people. So, what part of your legacy are you creating today, and how might your choices, words and acts of love shape the stories others will tell tomorrow?

As this Holding On and Letting Go series draws to a close, I hope you will remember that love’s greatest power is not just in what it remembers, but in what it creates. Legacy is built from what we continue to give, not from what we have lost. Perhaps that is the greatest lesson of all, that every

moment of presence, every act of grace and every expression of love becomes the legacy we are living right now.

To those who have followed our story throughout this journey, thank you. Your compassion, your messages and your shared reflections have been reminders that we are never alone in love, in loss or in learning. Your encouragement has carried us, and your openness has made this series more than words on a page. It has become a shared experience of hope, strength and connection.

May the lessons we have shared continue to ripple outward, inspiring you to create and carry forward your own legacy of love. We would welcome the opportunity to stay in touch and continue to share reflections. If you are interested, please email patrick.j.yuran@gmail.com. WGW

Patrick Yuran is an educator, artist and entrepreneur. He currently serves as the Head of School at Oak Mountain Academy, is the founder and Artistic Director of The REAL Theatre and is the President of PJY Consulting. Photos by Zachary Dailey, Dailey Life Photography.

Guarding Innocence

By Sandra Bolan

How people close to your child can be more dangerous than strangers

From a young age, children are taught strangers are not to be trusted. Strangers might want to cause them harm, so under no circumstances should children speak to someone they don't know. Based on statistics, we should be more concerned about the people we call our friends than the random person who momentarily crosses paths with the child.

Almost 90 percent of sexually abused children know their abuser, according to the National Center for Victims of Crime. Only 14 percent are abused by strangers.

Throughout life, people regularly turn strangers into friends, some of whom become life partners. This is why it’s almost impossible to tell when a new person enters your life with pure or nefarious intentions. You don't want to assume all strangers have malicious motives, but unfortunately, some do.

The term “Stranger Danger” has been around for decades, however, The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children no longer recommends teaching “Stranger Danger,” but instead the three Rs:

• Recognize that no one is allowed to touch any body part covered by a bathing suit.

• Resist. Make a fuss anytime anyone does something you don’t like.

• Report. Kids need to know they can tell their parents anything. This is especially important because it takes away a predator’s greatest power – manipulation, secrecy and fear of punishment.

Predators play the long game and patiently become trusted members of inner circles for the sole purpose of abuse, which is known as grooming.

Grooming follows a predictable pattern: victim selection; gaining access and isolating the victim; developing trust and keeping secrets; and desensitizing touch and talking about sex. But because it occurs over months or even years, it typically goes unnoticed by parents or caregivers.

Warning Signs

Predators typically seek out children who are easy to access and control, and they can be so skilled at choosing their targets that many families have no idea the children are being groomed. But there are signs that parents, or anyone, can look out for. The most obvious is a change in the child’s personality. She may become moody, want to be alone and

lose contact with her friends. She might become secretive about who she hangs out with and where she goes. What makes grooming such a challenge for parents to recognize is these are all pretty typical teenage behaviors. But, if parents let their children know at an early age that they can tell them anything and they won’t get in trouble, she may open up and explain what’s happening to her – before it’s too late. No one wants to live a life so closed off to the world that you become afraid and suspicious of everyone, but you do need to pay attention to those you let into your inner circle. If they seem too good to be true, they may be up to no good. WGW

LocaL Happenings

Domestic Violence Support Group

There is Hope is a support group for women survivors who have dealt with, or are currently dealing with, domestic violence.

This is a private group where women survivors come together and share their personal stories of experience, strength and hope.

This group meets on the first Thursday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at a private location. A ZOOM option is available.

There will be guidance for help and resources available as needed. At times there will also be guest speakers.

Contact hopefulone807@gmail.com for more information and to obtain the privacy contract with the physical address or ZOOM meeting ID and passcode.

Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Groups

Has your life been impacted by the loss of a friend or loved one to suicide? You are not alone.

These groups offer peer support for anyone who has been affected by suicide loss.

There is no cost to attend.

Group meetings in Carrollton are the third

Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 118 South White Street.

For more information, contact Ivey Rollins at iveyrollins@gmail.com or call 470.729.0909.

Group meetings in Douglasville are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 6167 Priestley Mill Rd., Room 226.

For more information, contact Terri Johnson at chose2live@aol.com or 770.765.2181.

Group meetings in Newnan are the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Crossroads Church, 2564 Hwy 154.

For more information, contact Lynn Bradley at 770.301.4890 or email nbll.bradley170@gmail.com, or contact Nancy Bradley at 770.251.6216.

PFLAG Carrollton Support Group

PFLAG Carrollton provides a free monthly peer facilitated support group for adult members (ages 18+) of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as their family, friends and allies, as a resource for families struggling with acceptance of their LGBTQ+ loved ones.

The goal is to meet people where they are and lead with love. PFLAG’s mission of support, education and advocacy from a place of love can

help struggling families, as well as the community at large.

Support group meetings (for adults 18+) are led by a PFLAG trained facilitator and held on the second Thursday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Grace Lutheran Church, 101 Somerset Place in Carrollton.

Confidentiality and safety are top priorities. Contact Julia Houser, pflagcarrollton@gmail.com for more information.

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon family groups provides support for families and friends who have been affected by an alcoholic or drug addict. Members have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others who have faced similar problems. There are several weekly meetings in the Carrollton, Douglasville and Newnan areas.

There is no cost to attend. If you'd like to find a group near you, visit al-anon.org/al-anon-meetings, click on find an al-anon meeting and enter your ZIP code for the complete directory in your area.

Carrollton Goodwill Career Center Job Fairs

Carrollton Goodwill Career Center provides support to the community with local resources, job

Carroll EMC Energy Education Expo

Empower yourself with the tools and knowledge to make smarter energy choices at Carroll EMC's Energy Education Expo on Thursday, November 6, from 2-4 PM. Learn practical home energy-saving tips, hear from heating and air experts, meet with local vendors and learn about various products, services and resources. The event will be held at Carroll EMC's Carrollton headquarters and is FREE for all community members. RSVP at carrollemc.com.

Love in Action

Expressing gratitude to your partner

By Sandra Bolan

As soon as Lloyd Dobler held a boombox over his head while it played Peter Gabriel’s In Your Eyes as a way to apologize to his girlfriend, the bar was raised 10 notches for every guy who messed up. Gone are the days when a bouquet of gas station roses and an “I’m sorry, I won’t do it again” sufficed; now, women expect grand, romantic spectacles – preferably made in public – for the most minor of transgressions.

Taking out the garbage and letting your partner sleep in on Sunday morning while you take care of breakfast and the kids are simple acts, but they say a lot, despite what social media has us believing – the bigger the gesture, the more they love you. The reality is it’s the small things you do every day that truly show your partner how much you love and appreciate them.

After a while, couples fall into routines, including who takes out the trash or gets the kids up, dressed and out the door to school on time, and because these things just get done, we don’t stop to think about all that goes into making the task seem effortless. Saying “thank you” lets the other person know you’re paying attention and appreciate the effort it takes to accomplish all the things.

We all have a love language, which is how people tell someone they love them without actually saying “I love you.” Conversely, it’s also how we want to be told we’re loved. The various love languages are spending time together, physical touch, words of affirmation, acts of service, as well as gift-giving or receiving.

Partners typically speak the same love language, but not always, and when you want to let your partner know you appreciate him, it’s important to do it in his language, not yours. For example, your partner loves to cuddle and have physical contact,

but you prefer to shower him with gifts. Try to be more touchy-feely – he’ll appreciate that more than an expensive gift.

• Compliment him. Don’t be shy with compliments and don’t just focus on the times they dress up, because there’s a good chance that compliment will be received as “I look like trash the rest of the time and no one has bothered to tell me.” Instead, ask for help with tasks your partner is better at than you. Not everyone screams from the rooftops about their latest accomplishments. But you can do that for your partner. Don’t be shy to brag about your partner in public. Compliments make people feel seen.

• Dates are important. Remember the important dates – not Valentine’s Day – but the dates that mean something to just the two of you. Again, no grand gesture is required to commemorate them, just a simple text denoting, “Hey, we met 10 years ago today.”

• Respect his personality. You fell in love with your partner because of who they were, whether that was the life of the party, someone who was always up for an adventure, or a dedicated family person. As we age, we grow and change. Let them evolve

because you’re also undergoing your own transformation. Acknowledge the shifts and tell them how proud you are of them.

• Pay attention and listen. All too often, when partners talk to us, or at least try to, they’re acknowledged with “uh-huh,” “yup,” “great,” and “got it” while we’re face down watching cat videos on TikTok. When your partner speaks, put the phone down and respond as if you’ve heard what was said.

• Support his dreams. The two of you likely became a couple because you had something in common – a hobby, career or zest for adventure. But as we age, our likes, dislikes and interests shift and not necessarily at the same time or in the same direction, and that’s OK. Having different interests can strengthen a relationship and foster a deeper bond.

• Be supportive of your partner, even if they’re no longer passionate about the same things you are. Showing your partner you appreciate them doesn’t have to be done with over-the-top gimmicks. The simple act of saying “thank you” in a text or leaving a handwritten note on the coffee pot for them to see in the morning may even be appreciated more because it came from the heart. WGW

Kids Korner

By Jordan

Pumpkin Spice Playdough

Materials

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup salt

2 tablespoons cream of tartar

2 cups water

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves mix

Orange food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Mix the flour, salt, cream of tartar and pumpkin pie spice in a saucepan.

Add the water, vegetable oil and a few drops of orange food coloring.

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and forms a dough.

Remove from heat and knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and soft.

Allow to cool before playing.

Pinecone Turkeys

Materials

Pinecones

Colored paper (red, orange, yellow, brown)

Googly eyes

Glue

Scissors

Instructions

Cut feather shapes from colored paper in red, orange, yellow and brown.

Glue the feathers to the back of the pinecone so they fan out like a turkey’s tail.

Glue two googly eyes near the top front of the pinecone.

Cut a small triangle from orange paper for the beak and glue it under the eyes.

Cut a small wavy piece from red paper for the wattle and glue it next to the beak.

Allow the glue to dry completely. WGW

Thanksgiving Word Search

Get the care you need when you need it.

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Schedule an appointment by visiting your Tanner MyChart app or scanning the QR code.

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