her magazine

magazine tm

WorkingWoman

with St. Francis’

Deanna Robinson

EVENTS

Danielle COUNTSCover Story

anielle COUNTSStrong-Willed Women

ALSO INSIDE

Mother’s Day Brunch & Recipes

Spring Fashion with Samantha Curtis

What’s in Her Bag? with Smithie Vaughn

Health: National Women’s Health Week

MAY 2016

2�•�hr magazine

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she enjoyed small pleasures like going shopping, or going out to eat; and, most importantly to her, had recently built a custom home with her husband. Four years ago though, she traded in her business casual wardrobe and adult conversations when her daily routine changed from preparing [nancial records to playing peek-a-boo.

However, with just one income and a new baby, the couple had to make some serious sacri[ces. ]ey were left with no other option but to put their newly built home on the market. For 18 months they waited for their home to sell, and for 18 months they barely made each payment. “We thought we were going to have to go down with the ship,” all so she could stay home with Jackson. Each month they didn’t know how they were going to pay their bills, but each month the Lord provided. ]ey once received a text from an unknown number saying ’check the envelope on the porch,’ where they found the exact amount needed to make that month’s payment. One month they got an unexpected Christmas bonus, and another they received a tax

break they weren’t expecting. Miraculous provisions such as these continued to happen each month for 18 months straight, until their house [nally sold. “It’s not about a\ordability, it’s about sacri[ce.” Hedges says. ]e couple trusted in the Lord’s provision even though the math was against them. And to say He provided is an understatement - they were never late on one bill.

]e sacri[ces of staying at home go far beyond selling the house, though. For starters, once it

actually sold, the family moved in with her parents while looking for another home. “Giving up our beautiful two story home to stay in a little 10’ by 10’ bedroom was rough”, Hedges remembers, “but it was the next step in re-evaluating our life [nancially to make this all work”. While living in their own, smaller home now, they are still sacri[cing. ]ey don’t have cable, iPhones, or a gym membership. Hedges exercises by walking her three children in a four seater stroller because it was more a\ordable than a three seater. She doesn’t go shopping or out to eat often, and rarely has time to herself. Her days are spent changing diapers, picking up toys, cleaning up messes, and practicing sight words in preparation for homeschooling, which she plans to start in the fall. During the kid’s naps, Hedges catches up on the household tasks like laundry and dishes. With few breaks, her job is exhausting, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Instead of spending morning through evening at a typical job, she starts her day o\ with prayer and co\ee, enjoys activities and

outings with their three children and, with her husband, holds an evening devotional with them before bed. Often Hedges feels like she’s in her own world folding laundry and cleaning her kitchen while burping babies and watching kid shows. “I sent my husband a text the other day saying I was eating lunch and singing Veggie Tales to myself !”, she says laughing, “But the bene[ts outweigh the sacri[ces.”

As a stay at home mom, Hedges didn’t miss the [rst words or the [rst step; “I get to experience all the joys, all the funny things they say,” including her son Jackson’s current goofy habit of answering questions with a thumbs up. She says “I feel like I’m contributing more to society staying home with them than I did at [my job]. I would encourage every mom to do the same.”

Crafts help her decompress; a yellow H hangs on their front door and a handmade sign made from scraps of wood from the house they sold hangs over their kitchen saying “]e Lord Will Provide.” Once a planner and social butterZy, Hedges changed her way of living to take on the unpredictable and often overwhelming task of being a stay at home. But no matter how unpredictable, one thing is certain: she’ll always drink her coke.


By CAROLINE HEARN

Life can at times be an exhaustingrunaway train of activity. We go towork, we come home long enough to

start a load of laundry and check the day’sdeposit of bills, pile the kids in the car andhead to practice…or the grocery store…or the doctor’s appointment, feeding thechildren some substandard food substituteon the way. By the time we arrive backhome, it has long since turned dark. Afterthe kids are bathed and put to bed, thereare approximately 142 household choresthat need to be addressed. Perhaps theywill be, or not. Sometimes we are just tootired. It is in these moments that we scanthe weeks and months ahead to see whenour next day o` is. We just need a break.Hello, there,Memorial Day. Whew.You

could not have come at a better time.Apparently, this day exists on our

calendars for more than just to give us abreak from the grind.Memorial Day is a long standing

tradition in the Americanculture. A mere three yearsafter the end of the CivilWar, on May 5, 1868, theGrand Army of the Republicestablished this day to payhomage to the those whodied in service to the UnitedStates. ae day originallycalled, “Decoration Day,”wasto be a day where all woulddecorate the graves of thefallen soldiers with beautiful]owers. It is widely believedthat the date of May 30thwas chosen because ]owers would be inbloom in all parts of the country at thistime.We live in an extremely politically

divisive country, and it is rare to ^ndsomeone who is ambivalent with theirpolitical opinions. Among us are the Democrats and theRepublicans, the conservatives and the liberals, the pro militaryand those who disagree with the use of force. We are all heretogether whether we like each other or not, and we are all herebecause THEY fought for us to be here, whether THEY wouldhave liked us or not.When one enlists in military service they do not get the

opportunity to choose who in our country they are ^ghting for,or who they will potentially die for. aey choose our country as awhole, and the melting pot of madness and beauty within it. aeintangible blessings in our lives, in large part, are a direct result ofthe generations of men and women who gave the ^nal sacri^ce oftheir lives. It really does not matter whether we personally agreewith the military action that took place that claimed the life of

our sister or brother in uniform. aose on the front lines stoodthere for us all, the dissenters and the advocates. What a powerfulnotion it is to realize that our freedom to agree or disagree was aright that was earned by the blood of so many.So, yes, for many of us, there is a holiday coming up; a break in

our schedules that slows the rat race down just a bit for us to catchour breath. On this Memorial Day, while you are enjoying yourlatté at home, in your pajamas far away from the constant buzzof your oYce phone, step outside for a moment. Glance at youryard, and the yard of your neighbors. Notice the ]owers. All overthis vast country of ours, ]owers will be blooming for the gravesof the countless brave souls whose lives were lost protecting ourfreedoms. Regardless of who you are, or what you believe, pick a]ower and be thankful.

8 • hr magazine


Though many people are quick to refer to

Memorial Day as the unoYcial beginning of

summer, the day is much more than that. Initially

known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a day

to remember those military members who died

in service of the country.

The origins of Memorial Day remain a topic

of debate. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson

declared Waterloo, N.Y. as the oYcial birthplace

of Memorial Day. However, the roots of Memorial

Day likely run much deeper, as researchers at

Duke University note that during the Civil War,

organized women’s groups in the south had

begun to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers.

Memorial Day as we know it today can likely

be traced to Charleston, S.C., where teachers,

missionaries and some members of the press

gathered on May 1, 1865 to honor fallen soldiers.

During the Civil War, captured Union soldiers

were held at the Charleston Race Course and

hundreds died during captivity. Upon their

deaths, soldiers were buried in unmarked

graves. When the Civil War ended, the May Day

gathering was organized as a memorial to all the

men who had died during captivity. The burial

ground was landscaped, and those freed as a

result of the Civil War played an integral role in

the event at the Charleston Race Course.

While the event in Charleston might have

been the [rst Memorial Day-type celebration

in the southern United States, General John A.

Logan is often cited as inspiring similar events in

the north. As commander-in-chief of the Grand

Army of the Republic, a veterans’ organization

for men who served in the Civil War, General

Logan issued a proclamation just [ve days after

the Charleston event that called for Decoration

Day to be observed annually across the country.

Logan preferred the event not be held on the

anniversary of any particular battle, and thus the

day was observed for the [rst time on May 30.

Celebrating the day in May also was signi[cant

to event organizers because May is a month

when Zowers are in bloom, making it easier for

observers of the holiday to place Zowers on the

graves of fallen soldiers.

In 1868, events were held at more than 180

cemeteries in 27 states, and those [gures nearly

doubled in 1869. By 1890, every northern state

oYcially recognized Decoration Day as a state

holiday. But southern states honored their

dead on a di\erent day until after World War

I, when the holiday was changed to recognize

Americans who died in any war and not just

the Civil War. Nearly every state now celebrates

Memorial Day, a name for the holiday [rst used

in 1882, on the last Monday in May.

the history of

Memorial Day

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By SAMANTHA CURTIS| Photos by AMY HESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Let’s set things straight really quick; the whole “you can’t wearwhite until Memorial Day and have to stop wearing white afterLabor Day” is a fallacy. You can wear white all year round! Andalthough Memorial Day is right around the corner, I wore thisoutPt before that. Call me a rebel but I believe you can wearwhatever you want and whatever makes you feel good. Butit wouldn’t be fun without a little challenge right? Enter themonochromatic look.I’ll be honest, trying a monochromatic look felt a little out of

my comfort zone the Prst time I tried it. I felt self conscious andwondered if people thought it looked chic and trendy or if itlooked like I got dressed in the dark.Monochromatic outPts are“trendy”, yes, but I almost Pnd them more classic now if done theright way.Not sure how to do it the right way? Here are a few steps to

help you nail a monochromatic look:Start with neutrals.White, nude, black, ivory, cream, camel-

try one of these Prst.Qese colors are more subdued and if youaren’t sure if the look is for you, trying these colors will let youease your way into the uncharted territory.Di0erent shades. If you wore the same exact color in every

piece you were wearing, it would look too matchy matchy and

MONOCHROMATIC LOOKhow to nail the

10 • hr magazine

that is not what this trend is meanto be. Switching up the shadesmakes it look cohesive, which maysound contradicting but trust me,Lows best that way.Di2erent textures.Using

diNerent textures help to break itup and give it dimension. If younotice, my top is a sweater-likeknit fabric, which is diNerent thanthe denim texture of my jeans.Mypurse is faux leather with fringe,and my heels are patent leather.All totally diNerent things thatI would have never thought topair together, but when I triedeverything on together, it justLowed.Keep accessories to a

minimum. Some people maydisagree with me on thisone, but I feel like wearing amonochromatic outMt is makingenough of a statement that youdon’t need much else. In mostoutMts, one piece sticks outmore than another. But in amonochromatic outMt, you look at it as a whole.

And that’s one of the reasons Ilove it so much.Experiment.Put diNerent

things on and see how they look.You won’t know until you try. Iwas originally looking for whitehoes and a white bag to go withhis, but I really liked the nudeumps and ivory backpack with. You just have to experimentnd see what you come up with!As long as you rock your lookth a smile and conMdence,ruly believe you can pull oNything you want!Oat’s whatakes it your style and diNerentm everyone else’s style.Whichkes life exciting, don’t younk?Want more style inspirationadvice? Check out Samantha’s

g; www.thesamanthashow.comfollow her on Instagram fory looks and trend updates! @antha_show_.

nt

yit

ny

t it as a whole.

Al

tYwshthpuit.an

wiI tranymafrommakthinW

andbloganddailysama

hr magazine • 11

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By ROXANNE HYATT

[ere is no better time to take a secondlook at your health than National Women’sHealth week of May 8-14th. I encourageyou to analyze one important area in your lifethat you are probably neglecting. As women,we tend to focus on Ytness and nutritionas the cornerstone of our healthy living, butwhat if I told you you’re probably neglectingthe most beneYcial routine that can take yourYtness and health to the next level.

[at’s right. I have the golden secret and it’sa big one that you can share with your friends,coworkers, and most importantly the men inyour life. Why? Because we need more of it.

According to the Sleep Foundation, womenneed 20 more minutes of sleep than men. Let’s face it ladies, we aresuperheroes. Researchers believe our abilities to multitask requiresus to sleep a little bit longer than men. So, allow your man to get upand make the coZee or tend to the kids while you rest and dream ofconquering the world. Can I get an AMEN?

Sleep is the #1 most beneYcial routine youcan include in your daily life. Unlike thepopular old adage “less is more”, maybe you’llrethink your current theory and realize lesssleep is doing you more harm.

If you’re experiencing the followingsymptoms, your body’s shortage of pillowtime is signiYcantly aZecting your overallhealth.

1. You’re cravings are out of control.Overeating on sugary or fatty foods is a

quick sign of lack of sleep. Snacking is morecommon when you’re tired or sleep deprived. Since your body is rundown, your brain signals other parts of your body to crave more junk.[erefore, a quick trip through the drive through or a handful ofwhatever is around, satiates your appetite when you’re sleepy. Addingextra calories to your day leads to added weight gain. See the trend.Less sleep + more snacking = tired out-of-shape mess.

Sleepthe secretabout

WHY WOMEN NEED MORE

SLEEP TO IMPROVE OVER ALL

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

12 • hr magazine

2. You’ve lost your workout mojo. It is like the dreaded snowball eèct. As an immediate impact from the absence of sleep and too many calories, you’re directly slowing down your metabolic rate and directly aècting your lean body mass. You’re gaining weight and feel less than motivated to lace up your shoes and workout. I recommend you track your sleep like your workouts. When was the last good workout you had? Did you get a good night’s rest?

3. You’re a total diva (…and not in a good way). Feeling and looking like Ursula doesn’t have to be the normal vibe you’re putting o` on people. Can you hear yourself saying, “I’m sorry I got angry, I’m just tired”? Quit apologizing, keep calm and go to sleep. Of course there are circumstances in our lives where sleep is not an option: cue major work deadline, an upset newborn or even a snoring husband. Night after night of restless sleep can shorten your fuse and ignite your temper. Realize you’re not an angry person or need anger management. Put Ursula to bed a few extra hours earlier and see the happier side of your days. Research shows most people who get anywhere from 7-9 hours of sleep each night are happier people.

4. What was #4 again? Oh… you tend to forget more easily. Have you noticed making a list, checking it twice and still forgetting eggs at the grocery store? Your ability to remember important tasks, numbers or events is slower when you’re tired. Without a su[cient amount of sleep, your mind drifts, allowing your brains ability to connect with the present world virtually impossible.

5. You’re getting sick too often. Sleep deprivation can negatively aèct your central nervous system. Bottom line-your immune system is breaking down. Your body’s ability to recover and build healthy cells happens most eèctively and e[ciently while you’re sleeping. If you’re depriving yourself from quality recovery time, your immune system can’t _ght o` the dreaded bacteria ready to attack those healthy cells.

6. You’re impulsive. You lack the ability to make sound choices. You’re angry, tired, stressed and impatient. ae culminating factors that directly aèct your mind to take a minute and evaluate situations responsibly. Instead of weighing out pros and cons, your mind can’t think and you impulsively make a choice. Sleep deprivation is powerful. Instead of acting immediately, sleep on it.

Sleep is the greatest tool to add into your _tness and wellness routine because it positively impacts your mind, body and soul. I encourage you to quit hitting the snooze button and treat your body to the no.1 necessity it needs — REST. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest. Treat sleep just like your _tness and nutrition routine—make it a priority. Keep track of your sleep to ensure you’re getting the most out of pillow time.

Remember, your body needs quality and quantity for your mind and soul. When you’re forgetful, overly hungry, angry and downright tired, your body is telling you to slow down and recover.

If you have any questions or want to share a healthy recipe, lets get connected on instagram @tribalancegirl, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriBalanceGirl/ or email me at tribalancegirl.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

5 TIPS TO HELP YOU FALL ASLEEP

1. Power Down all electronic devices. Set an alarm to remind yourself to power down.

2. Keep a notebook on your nightstand and write things down that normally keep you up at night

3. Replace wine for herbal tea before bed (contrary to popular belief, wine doesn’t help you fall asleep, but rather

keeps you up because of the high sugar content)

4. Wash your face and prepare yourself for a good night sleep

5. Reset your thermostat. For a better night’s sleep, set it between 65-72 degrees. The cooler

the better for a more restful night sleep

6. Melatonin supplement (used to treat sleep disorders) is a natural supplement. **Please consult your doctor on proper usage of this product**


By LARISSA CRAFT

“I can see the goal,”Danielle Counts says in regard tomotherhood.With two sons, Bailey, 18, and Bennet, 16, shegrasps the rewards and blessings that have come out of thestruggles from the toddler years.aough her boys grew up with loving parents and a home

of their own, they also learned the unfortunate reality that notevery child is a[orded the same luxury. Counts and her husbandReynold entered the foster care system roughly 12 years ago andthrough their participation they are able to instill in their childrena love for those who are less fortunate. “We wanted to showthem that there are people in the world who are in need,” sheexplains, “show them early on that there is a whole other thinggoing on out there.”And now, after 12 years, Danielle and her husband are moving

in the direction to adopt their 18th foster, a three year old littlegirl.With two grown boys, they are stepping back into thetoddler years, this time with a potential daughter.A Georgia native, Counts grew up in Jonesboro, met her

husband Reynold at Barry College in Rome and married backin her hometown.aey lived a few years in Alpharetta beforemaking Columbus their home. After being a stay at home momto her two sons, she now works part-time at Iron Bank Co[eeCompany booking the music, keeping up with social media andhelping the employees overall. “I don’t make co[ee,” she clariZeswith a smile, “the most I can do there is pour myself a cup,’’ a skillevery mother knows well.Fostering began when the couple went to a banquet for

Carpenters Way Boys Ranch. “God pierced our hearts,’’ sherecalled. ae couple’s belief that they as Christians are calledto take care of orphans led them to help. “Our ‘do something’was to enter the foster system and take care of children.”aeystarted as a resource family for Carpenters Way which later ledthem to foster infants through New Beginnings, Bethany andLifeline, all di[erent adoption agencies. For the last four yearsthey have fostered with Muscogee County Department of FamilyAnd Children Services (DFACS).arough the DFACS they’veopened their home to six children.As for the state of their current foster, “It’s not really in my

hands” she says of the adoption, “you don’t ever know if it’s going

to lead to adoption.”ae goal of DFACS is to reunite children

with their families, never to remove the children from the family.

ae court and DFACS provide the parents with a strategy and

only terminate their rights after they fail to follow through. “We

didn’t go into adopt, but we went into it with an open mind of

where God might lead us with that.”

Baby Stepsa story of foster care

with danielle counts

14 • hr magazine

All the previous children in their foster care were reunited withtheir families, a blessing that requires foster parents to protecttheir hearts. “You have to be willing to let them go; that easinesscomes when you’re comfortable with where they’re going.”One oftheir foster children, a young boy they had for 19 months, begancalling Counts ‘mommy,’ bonding to her the way he saw otherchildren at daycare bonding to their mothers. “Love them as goodas you can, with a little bit of a guard up.”With almost 600 kids in Muscogee County to foster, and

around 90 families, the system can be frustrating; there are neverenough foster families and never enough social workers, “I stepback and understand it’s just a long process.”But sometimes things move rather quickly. Often, foster

families receive phone calls asking if they can home a child thatafternoon; the calls can come in the middle of the night, or early

in the morning.Re Counts family always have a room prepared.

Danielle knows the struggles, tears and challenges of moving

through the system, and the glitches that come with trying to

love the children, but no matter how diOcult, she reminds herself

that the children don’t know the system; they just want the love

of a family. “It’s everybody’s calling in some way.”Volunteering,

temporary care, donating and fostering are all ways people can

help.

After raising two boys of her own, seeing 17 children reunited

with their families, and now on the verge of adopting a daughter,

Counts can see the goal; she can see the rewards and blessings

that come from taking baby steps through the often frustrating

but necessary system of loving and homing children, if only for 2

weeks.

hr magazine • 15

Have you noticed your son or daughter perk up as you’ve watched a dance-themed reality

show? Or is it you who thinks you can dance? If the dancing bug is \ying around your home, you should de]nitely attend the Academy Dance Center’s annual dance production May 14 or May 15 at the River Center. It will give you a chance to see what could be in your future. “No other local dance studio does this. Our end of year product makes us unique. It showcases all that has gone on before: the classes, the choreography, the instruction. It is presented in that last product, and you’ll see that it is not just ballet, musical theater, jazz, or hip hop. It’s everything. It’s a full variety show of many dance styles and genres,” according to Director-Owner Brantley Arrington who bought the studio from original owner and his former dance instructor, Patty Taylor two years ago.

Arrington goes on to explain that while there are a number of dance studios in Columbus, the Academy Dance Center has produced a high caliber show for the past 46 years. ̀ e 47th production will be ̀ e Princess and the Frog, May 14-15. è Academy Dance Center can pull o^ a high caliber production year after year because of their faculty. Arrington, himself, studied dance at Texas Christian University and put it to use for use for nearly a decade in Chicago. He has performed professionally throughout Chicago and toured both nationally and internationally. He is a former company member of Cerqua Rivera Dance ̀ eatre, Inaside Chicago Dance, and Joel Hall’s Dial Dance Company. Brantley’s diverse stylistic performances in Chicago include various works with River North Dance Chicago, Lyric Opera Works, Dance Chicago, Alliance Dance, and soloist with Ballet Arts-Scholastica.

In addition to Arrington, ten instructors oêring various specialties teach three year olds all the way up through adults. Each instructor has danced no less than a dozen years, performed regionally and nationally, and choreographed productions. Together with Columbus faculty, students also learn from guest faculty from around the country. è wealth of knowledge provided by a diverse well-trained faculty truly bene]ts the students because students are exposed to techniques their instructors have learned here in Columbus as well as when instructors studied and danced in bigger cities. Arrington says, “We focus on technique. A lot of studios focus on show material or just competition. We focus on technique during the ]rst part of the year, working the performance aspect on the second half of the year for our big show. We are not

just a competition studio, and we’re not just a show studio. We try to bring both together. We give the tools – dancing and even acting – to see if this is what they want to do. I think the well-roundedness of the studio gives us an edge in Columbus.” Most of the students who attend the Academy Dance Center are recreational students who take one or two classes per week. About 10 percent are students who take four of ]ve classes and are seriously considering dance. Many of them just completed competitions in January, February, and March and will now play characters and supporting roles in ̀ e Princess and the Frog production. ̀ e rest of the ensemble classes will be made up of recreational students who have been excitedly practicing for their chance to wow an audience.

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Excited may be an understatement. Arrington had to add three more classes to accommodate the number of people who wanted to dance in Fe Princess and the Frog. “It is such a good story about hard work, ambition, putting it all to work, and having your dreams come true. It is the perfect story to illustrate everything we are about.” So, how will the Academy Dance Center top this highly anticipated production? Arrington is full of ideas, and at least one surprise is forthcoming, Arrington promises. Get ready, Columbus!


By THERESA GARCIA ROBERTSON

There’s an art to being a Southern Woman. It takes astrong-willed woman to know when and where to usewhich God-given attribute and Judyaomas is an expert

in that area. A retired teacher, a retired California teacher advocate,former Chief-of-Sta` for Mayor Wetherington, and sittingcity-wide Councilor (among otherthings), Judyaomas is a naturalborn leader who gives the credit toher mother. “My mother was a leader.My mother was always the presidentof whatever organization she wasin. It was a natural kind of thing forher, you become a member of yourprofessional organization - whateverthat is, you become active, and nextthing you know…”She starts tolaugh. “Next thing you know, you’re incharge.”A teacher in Columbus for six

years at Bibb Elementary, Judy wasactive in the local and state Teacher’sAssociation here in Georgia. In 1972,there were sixty-three schools inColumbus.Of those sixty-three schoolsthere were three female principals.aey had all been principals for aboutthirty years. “It just didn’t seem to methat there was a lot of upward mobilityin school administration at the time.During that same period, the GeorgiaTeacher’s Association expanded their sta` and oèred me aposition because I had been very active in the organization and Itook it.”arough that, she met people from all over the countryand when the California Teacher’s Association expanded theirsta`, they reached out to Judy and she took that job. “At the time,I was single, footloose and fancy free and I thought ‘Why not?’.Two weeks later, I picked up and moved to California. I didn’tknow a soul.My job was in Santa Rosa. I didn’t know where anyof the people I had met lived or where their towns were in relationto mine.” Judy was three weeks away from her thirtieth birthday

when she made her cross country trek. She arrived six monthsbefore the collective bargaining law went into eèct and was ableto set precedence for the law. She describes her thirty years inCalifornia as invigorating. From organizing and working teacherstrikes, to being involved in state politics, to training teachers,Judy worked hard in the most gorgeous locations California has to

oèr. But, she always kept her Columbusnections. “My mother gave me ascription to the Ledger-Enquirert was mailed to me, but when it cameine, I read it there. And every Sundayht at 6pm my time, 9pm Eastern

me, I called my parents. No matterhat we were in the middle of, we mademe for that call.”Fast forward to Memorial Dayeekend, 2006, and Judy moved backColumbus. Because she had keptp with the happenings at home, Judyas aware that then Police ChiefmWetherington was running for

Mayor. If you know Judy, you knowhat “retirement” isn’t really her thing.Always busy, always involved, heroriginal idea was to volunteer a fewimes a week for the campaign. Butafter a few conversations with herlong time friend, Chief Wetheringtonsoon had her in the campaign o[ceeveryday.One time, and one timeonly, he mentioned to her that he

would like for her to go downtown with him to the Mayor’s o[ceif he won. Judy brushed him o` and he never mentioned it to heragain. But she would hear him saying to others throughout the day“Well, when we win and Judy is my Chief of Sta`…”And so itwas. “I think that JimWetherington is the ^nest man I have everknown, bar none. It was wonderful working for him. I remembera woman coming into the campaign o[ce to ask for a sign andshe said the reason that she was supporting Chief Wetheringtonwas because after her son had been shot and killed while he wasrobbing a convenience store, Chief Wetherington came to thehospital to see her, not because her son had committed a crime,

herington, and sitting

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Judy ThomasA TRUE SOUTHERN WOMAN

18 • hr magazine

but because she waa mother who hadlost a child.”ChiefWetheringtonbecame MayorWetheringtonand Judy went towork for him inthe Mayor’s oNcedowntown. “Hetook me withhim to speakingengagements,he brought meinto meetings,and I felt likehe valued myopinion.”MayorWetheringtonwas fairly vocal from thebeginning that he would only serve one term and when thenCity Councilor Wayne Anthony announced his run for Mayorin 2010, his seat was vacant, opening the door for Judy to runfor oNce. “I was so encouraged by friends and family, I thought‘I can do this’. It’s one of the things I am so grateful for from myparents, they always told all three of us ‘You can do this’-whatever‘it’ was.”In all of her successes, Judy says that her “Qlters”, or how she

sees life,whether as a woman, a southern woman, a middle child,a teacher, a Methodist, a Rotarian, shape how she handles eachsituation that comes her way. “I pick my battles. Some things aremore important to me than others.Rere are some things peoplewould be surprised about if they knew how I really felt aboutthem.One of the Qlters as a southern woman is that you canbe the Steel Magnolia. One of my heros is Dixie on DesigningWomen. I don’t think she went looking for trouble, but she foundit and she took care of what was going on. If I had to pick a rolemodel, that is who I would want to be when I grow up.”JudyRomas doesn’t have to take a very deep inward look to

Qnd the “Dixie” in herself and neither does the city of Columbus.Her bi-weekly appearance on City Council is a documentationof her ability to “take care of what is going on.” “I know it lookslike I ask a lot of questions. And I do. Sometimes I alreadyknow the answers, sometimes they are questions others haveasked me about, but I try to remember that just because I gotan email with the answer to my question, doesn’t mean that theperson watching us on television knows the answer. A lot oftimes, I am not asking questions because I am questioning theadministration, I’m asking for information. Sometimes, I am theone lone dissenting vote, and I’m ok with that because we need tomake sure it’s clear that not everyone is for whatever it is we arevoting on.”One thing is clear, Judy is an advocate for her community.

She is a natural born leader. She is real and what you see is whatyou get.Her strong-willed, can-do attitude is a dynamic forcein whatever she sets out to do and it is what draws people toher. Dixie Carter may be Judy’s role model, but it wouldn’t bea stretch to say that JudyRomas is a role model for many awoman, whether they are southern or not.

as

m the

hr magazine • 19

NEW LOCATION.SAME WARRIOR SPIRIT.

TROY has been part of the Phenix Citycommunity for more than 35 years. During

that time, we have helped thousands of studentsachieve their career goals. Our commitment hasnever been stronger as we proudly welcome you

to our new Phenix City Campus, located on thebanks of the Chattahoochee River. Do what youlove, and be great at it. That’s the Trojan Warrior

Spirit, and it’s alive and well at Troy University.

Feel it in Phenix City.

troy.edu/workingwarrior • 1-800-586-9771

troy.edu/phenixcity • 1-334-448-5106

WORKING WOMANOF THE MONTH

Tell us how you ended up in this line of work.

I started my professional career as a Radiologic Technologist RT(R). I wanted to continue my knowledge in healthcare, so I trained in the Cardiac Cath Lab and obtained my Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist Credential (RCIS). I have always had a passion for taking care of people and Vnding a solution to a problem. I am very grateful for my mentors who led me into my leadership role.

Describe a day in your role.

A day in my role is hard to describe, as every day presents something new. I oversee day to day operations for the cardiovascular lab, Imaging Services, and Sleep Lab.

DEANNAROBINSONADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR OF CARDIAC, IMAGING, AND SLEEP SERVICES, ST. FRANCIS HOSPITAL

... more about Deanna Robinson

Age: 37

Years at St. Francis: 15 years working at St. Francis

Hometown: Columbus, Georgia

Family: Husband, Dr. Phillip Robinson; one son, Knox Robinson, 7 years old; two dogs, Laney and Isabelle

Hobbies: Running and spending time with family and friends

Nearly every day involves rounding on patients, communication with my team members and physicians, and attending meetings focused on quality/safety, and operations.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Xe best part of my job is experiencing the team work and collaboration of many diWerent specialties that are focused on providing high quality patient care for our community.

What’s special about St. Francis Hospital?

St. Francis is a reputable, well known hospital that strives to make our community healthier. In addition to providing exceptional health care and having the area’s only open heart surgery program, we have a culture of partnership and teamwork between physicians and associates.

What is unique and special about your particular department at St.

Francis Hospital?

Xe departments I oversee work very well together and strive to provide the best experience to our patients, visitors, and physicians. As the regions premiere resource for the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease, the heart hospital is a “one stop shop” for patients. Xe process is unique and easy because the cardiovascular services and physician practices are located in the same area.

How does St. Francis give back

to the local community?

St. Francis has been a long time supporter of the community and will continue to do so in the future. Our employees and physicians make a conscious eWort to give back to the community by providing education.


OFFER EXPIRES 3/1/16OFFER EXPIRES 5/1/16


with Smithie VaughnMarketing Director for Columbus Diagnostic Center/CDC on Comer

By EVELYN COLVIN

Smithie Vaughn, an Air Force brat who grew up Columbus, GA, allowedme to stop by Columbus Diagnostic Center and get a [rst hand glimpse ofwhat’s in her Brahmin bag.

Smithie oversees the marketing and sales for Columbus Diagnostic Center’stwo locations which are located on 10th Avenue and Comer Avenue. Smithie’swork day is pretty busy and keeps her on the move which requires her to havea work bag to take along when she is out marketing to physicians and theirsta\ in Columbus and surrounding markets.When Smithie is not visitingarea physicians, she works very closely with the CDC sta\ and radiologist topromote the most positive patient and referral physician experience. Smithiealso focuses on maintaining a strong market presence for Columbus DiagnosticCenter through marketing and advertising campaigns in mainstream and socialmedia.

When Smithie is not ful[lling her work duties, she enjoys spending timewith her son who currently attends the United States Military Academyin West Point, NY. She is very active in the community which includescommunity projects through her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc–Rho Rho Omega chapter, an associate member of Jack and Jill of America,Inc., Hardaway High School Alumni Association board member and herchurch.^e AKA chapter has three signature events which include: anAuKtion4Acure Breast Cancer Awareness Silent Auction and Luncheon,which she created; a Pink Ice Educational Ball, which honors unsung heroesand provides scholarships for high school students; and a Red Wine Sip whichbrings awareness to heart disease, the #1 killer of women.

Last month, Smithie celebrated a very special birthday with a theme ‘Hatsand Heels’ which is truly [tting to her personality and style. Smithie’s birthdaycelebration was an elegant tea at her home that was hosted by her sister andvery special friends.

My hat is certainly o\ to Smithie and all that she does and, of course, forallowing me the opportunity to see what’s in her Bag!

What’s in hr Bag?

Brahmin bag

Brahmin pouch Coach work bag

photo holder

Cancunfan

West Point momkeychain

AKASororitypurseholder

gift cards fromher “Hats andHeels” birthdaycelebration

Black Heritagestamps of RobertRobinson Taylor

Smithie’ssonDavid

22 • hr magazine

If you would like to advertise in

hr magazinetm

please contact Ross McDuDe at 706-324-5526

or email [email protected]

Offering 10% off on all purchases for HERmagazine subscribers for the month of May.

The Promo Code is: SPRING

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Carol GallagherI know I am very blessed to havea mom as loving and caring asmine. She’s always been one ofmy biggest supporters, even whenit takes me states away. I love mymom very much and wish she wascloser, but I cherish the time wedo get and I hope she knows how

much I love her.

KellyWebb

Leslie MartinMy mom has truly been “MY

HERO’’ for the past 18 years of mylife. My mom has made so manysacriRces to make sure I was welltaken care of, spoiled at times, andalways loved. As I go oS to college,I will certainly take everything thatshe has taught me thus far alongwith me on my new journey. I

couldn’t ask for a better person towipe away my tears, tell my secrets,and help me discover my dreams.I am forever grateful to God forblessing me with this wonderful

woman I get to call ‘Mom’.

KennedyWest

DorisTurnerMy mom is amazing because,after raising two children ofher own she chose me. I’mso thankful for her generousheart. She’s so special to meand my babies. Best Mom

and DD ever!!

Jamie Cook

Carla RiveraMy mom is an amazing, caring,loving, hard working and kindwoman.My mother has alwaysbeen the most aSectionate,

honest and supportive woman Ihave ever known in my life. Sheis a Rghter and the strongestperson I’ve ever met allowingme to have the conRdence toovercome anything that comesmy way.My mother is the

woman I one day hope to be andI’m grateful that she has alreadyshaped me into the woman I am

today. I love you mom!

Sheila Rivera Coleman

Vickie EversmanOur mother is the best. She taught us how to bestrong, how to be caring, how to be a dreamer andhow to be a maker. She spoiled us to the bone,

disciplined us to the core, and showed us there aremore shades of life than merely black and white.She made mistakes so we could learn and sowedthe seed of love in us so that we can share it with

our children. She is always there even when we leastexpect. She taught us to be human and not perfect.We love her more than words can say and are so

thankful for her each and every day.

JessicaMarvets, Racheal Pearson&Rebecca Haden

Pat CoulterWatfordMy mom is important to me because even thoughshe’s been through rough times she still sees the

best in the world. She has sacriRced her own wantsand needs over ours. Even though I’m grown, mymom still makes sure I have the things that I wantand she goes above and beyond as a grandmother.

I love my momma to the moon and back.

Christy Rumph

24 • hr magazine

whatmakesMom so

special?

Faye FaulknerMy mom is special because she is my

best friend. I can always depend on herto help me, support me, and encourageme along the way. I know that she isalways there for me through ups anddowns and there have been a few. Sheis a fun person to be around and she isalways good for some laughs.We havehad many adventures together…we

have even nicknamed ourselvesXelmaand Louise. I hope to be the kind ofmother she is to me to my children.

Kim Cunningham

HelenTriceWilliamsMy mother,HelenTriceWilliams, is beyond “special” as she has always beenconsistent in both her words and actions and has led by example in all facetsof her life; she devotedly serves as the nucleus from which mine and my

sibling’s impenetrable foundation has been built – a foundation upon whichour ‘Faith’ and our ‘Family’ are unrivaled. Our mother is kind, generous andcompassionate as she never meets a stranger … in fact, to our family and

friends alike, she is THE mom – the one who willingly surrogates others in ablink of an eye – never once dropping the ball or missing a beat. Our motherpersoniUes Proverb 31:10-31 as her love and support are unwavering; she hasalways put others ahead of self - all while epitomizing authenticity, humility,grace, elegance and class. She is by far, the most brilliant, hardworking, loyaland nurturing person that we know; she has selTessly allowed us to standupon her shoulders to both reach for and catch the stars. With unceasing

prayers, her laugh and jovial personality are contagious and her unconditionallove sustains our spirits…she typiUes strength and resiliency – to our family,

she is our most precious jewel, our hearts absolute joy.

Deidre N.Williams

TheWilliams Family Easter 2016 – Mom andmy siblings, Daphne and Rodney and all of hergrandchildren (Sydney-16, Ryann-7, Christian-6 and Carrington-7).

Darlene Shirley, RNWords can not fully express why my Mom is so special nor can theyfully convey the amount of love and gratitude I have for her.My

entire life, through thick and thin, she has supported me emotionally,Unancially and even physically....and I don’t make it easy. I have theluxury of awaking each day knowing without a doubt that I am lovedunconditionally by the most amazing human being I know. I am

truly blessed to have her as my mother. Her unwavering compassion,generosity and altruistic spirit has touched countless lives and she isloved and cherished by many....whether she realizes it or not. Happy

Mothers Day to my Rock. “Love you the best”

Nikki Broderick

Janet AllenMy mother is the epitomeof strength, grace, andlove. She is my teacher,

my mentor, my friend, myvoice of reason, my biggestcheerleader and so muchmore! I am thankful everysecond of every day thatshe was chosen to be my

mother. If I grow to be onlyhalf of the woman she is, Iwill consider it to be a great

success! I love you!

Deborah Allen

Joyce CronicMy mom is my best friend.We do everything

together. I am so blessed to have such a thoughtfuland caring mom. She always puts her family Urst.

Christi Smith

hr magazine • 25

By LEANN SIMS

Mother’s Day is fast approaching and what better timeto gather all the mothers in your life together for aspecial meal.My favorite meal to host is brunch: A

combination of breakfast and lunch but sounds so much prettier.It is usually eaten in the late morning so your guests can stillsleep in. And most importantly, you can serve breakfast food anddesserts in the same meal and it’s totally acceptable!Setting a pretty table makes any occasion feel special and

Holiday’s are a great time to pull out the good silver and clothnapkins.Make each place setting stand out by adding a menuand sprig of lavender or Gower to each one.He menu templatepictured can be found at Pizzazzerie.com and the faux lavenderis fromWorld Market. Little Gower pots wrapped in burlap andtied with twine make adorable place card holders and double as alittle gift for each guest to take home.When wrapping the Gower

mother’s dayBRUNCH

26 • hr magazine

pots with burlap, dab a little bit of hot glue as needed to help hold it in place while tying the twine around it.Me place card templates can be found at 11magnolialane.com. Garden Jowers placed in a mason jar make a pretty centerpiece without taking away from the place settings. It’s a good idea to have the table set and music picked out the night before so you have less to worry about the day of the party.

Don’t be afraid to purchase items from your local bakery to add to the menu. I enjoy baking but by using a few store bought items and choosing a few to make at home I have less clean up and more time to spend with friends and family.Try to choose menu items that can be left out for a couple

hours. Fresh fruit is always a good idea and you can serve it with yogurt or melted chocolate for dipping. Egg or potato

dishes are great choices also. Quiche is one of my favorites as it’s easy to make, serves a crowd and always gets rave reviews! Once you make the

base recipe you can add any other ingredients you want to it. Me one

pictured is bacon and cheddar but you could sub for ham and cheese or

any combination of veggies would be deliciousl. Scones and muIns are a must

- they are the perfect brunch Knger food and so easy to prepare ahead of time or

purchase from your favorite bakery.Most importantly relax! Do as much

in advance as you can so you can enjoy spending time with your guests and say yes

when people oLer to help.

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs

• 8 oz cottage cheese

• 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated

• 5-6 slices cooked bacon, chopped

• 6-8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed

according to package directions

• Butter, melted

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

2. Brush a sheet of phyllo pastry with butter

and Rt into the bottom of a greased 9”

pie dish or springform pan with the ends

hanging over the side. Repeat with the

remaining sheets placing them on top.

Set aside.

3. In a medium bowl beat together the eggs

and cottage cheese.

4. Stir in the cooked bacon and cheddar

cheese.

5. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared

pan and fold down the edges of phyllo

dough that are hanging over the sides.

6. Cover with foil and Bake at 425 degrees

for 15 minutes.

7. Remove the foil and bake at 300 degrees

for 30 more minutes or until the egg is

set.

8. This is delicious served warm out of the

oven or reheated the next day.

** You can substitute the bacon and cheddar for any combination of veggies, ham and cheese or even cooked apples would be delicious.

Cheddar Bacon Quiche Recipe how to:Burlap

wrapped

mini

/ower

pot


Lemon Curd Recipe

Ingredients:• 1 cup sugar

• 3/4 cup lemon juice

• 3 eggs

• 3 egg yolks

• 2 Tablespoons grated lemon peel

• Dash salt

• 6 Tablespoons butter, cubed

Directions:In a large saucepan, whisk the \rst six ingredients until blended. Add

butter; cook and stir over low heat for 10-12 minutes or until thickened. It

should coat the back of a spoon. Strain. Let cool on a wire rack. Cover and

store in the fridge until you are ready to use it. I love to add it to mini tart

shells topped with fresh berries for an easy yet still impressive dessert.

Spread it on scones, layer it in a cake or eat it by itself. Oh the possibilities!

Recipe from Taste of Home: February-March 2008

Glazed Lemon Blueberry Scones

Ingredients:• 2 cups all-purpose [our, plus more for

hands and work surface

• 6 Tablespoons granulated sugar

• 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• zest of 1 large lemon

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, frozen

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

• Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar, sifted

• 2-3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and

adjust the baking rack to the middle-low position. Line a large baking

sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, whisk the [our, sugar, baking powder, salt and lemon

zest. Grate the frozen butter and mix it into the [our mixture using a

pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set

aside.

3. In a small bowl, whisk the cream, egg and vanilla together. Drizzle it

over the [our mixture and stir it together with a rubber spatula until

everything appears moistened. Gently fold in the blueberries. Try not to

overwork the dough. Mold the dough into a ball with [oured hands as

best as you can and transfer to a [oured surface. Press into a neat 8” disc

and cut into 8 equal wedges with a sharp knife. Place scones at least 2

inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden and cooked through.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.

5. To make the glaze, whisk the confectioners’ sugar and 2 Tablespoons

lemon juice until smooth. Add another Tablespoon of lemon juice to thin

it out, if necessary. Drizzle glaze over scones right before serving.

sallysbakingaddiction.com


Seven Waysof a HealthyWomen1. Take time for yourself

2. Socialize

3. Exercise the way you want

4. Get a good nights rest

5. Eat breakfast

6. Drink plenty of water

7. Manage cravings

Contact Jessica Kinsey at 706-326-3118 for special rates.

timelessmemoriesbyjessica.com

mothers and their newborns

meet dr. christie

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MAYevents

UPTOWN RIVERFEST

Friday, May 6 - Saturday, May 7WoodruU Park in Uptown ColumbusMay 6th, 7-10pm | May 7th, 9am-11pmStarting Friday, May 6th at 7 p.m., the Big To Do

Concert Series kicks oh RiverFest Weekend. The

Friday night concert will feature Kalimba The Spirit

of Earth, Wind and Fire Tribute Band and Alanna

Royale on the main stage at Woodruh Park. The

celebration continues Saturday, May 7th at 10 a.m.

as the Boy Scout Expo invades Woodruh Park with

fun for all ages, featuring geocaching activities,

Tomahawk throwing contest, outdoor cook-oh,

archery activities and more. New this year, Indie

South Fair, a curated market that brings together

artists, designers,

and creative

entrepreneurs

will also begin

at 10 a.m. Indie

South Fair will

oher handmade

art, jewelry,

gifts and more.

Downstream, the

Chattahoochee

River will come

alive for the 4th

Annual Uptown

Dragon Boat

Race behind the Coca-Cola Space Science Center.

Upstream will be just as lively with an array of river

activities such as SUP (stand up paddling), rafting

and zip lining. A destination for food lovers, the

Dillingham Street Bridge will host food trucks

and local eateries. Shopaholics will have the

opportunity to shop local artisans on Dillingham

Street at CSU. The celebration concludes at

9:30pm with Tusk Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band,

and Lloyd Buchanan and The Cubed Roots. For

more information, click here. Or visit the Uptown’s

RiverFest website to become a vendor, register for

Dragonboats, and more!

CUPCAKES AND COCKTAILS

Thurs., May 12, 6-8pm I Rankin Gardens & AtriumSample a variety of cupcakes from local vendors

and enjoy a nice cocktail. Enjoy the smooth sounds

of CSU’s Jazz Band and enter our 50/50 raee.

Tickets are $20. Proceeds will beneft ESP’s Family

Strengthening, Early Head Start, and Head Start

Programs. For more information, call 706-649-

1696.

THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG

Saturday, May 14, 7pm & Sunday, May 15, 2pm I RiverCenter The Academy Dance Center will

present “THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG,” especially

adapted for the students of the Academy, at the

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts on Saturday,

May 14th at

7 p.m. and

Sunday,

May 15th at

2 p.m. This

enchanting

tale

about the

hardworking

and

ambitious,

Princess

Tiana,

desperate to fulfll her dreams. Tickets and

information are available by calling (706) 561-8085

academydancecenter.com

FANFEST - SUMMER READING

CHALLENGE KICK OFF

Saturday, May 21 I 10am-4pmColumbus Public Library I 3000 Macon Road

Join us for a Multi-Fandom Mini-Con on May 21th

from 10am-4pm at the Columbus Public Library

as we kick oh 10 weeks of summer reading.

Enjoy fan inspired crafts, cosplay runway, trivia,

Lego Mania, vendors and more. Special guests:

Alabama Paranormal Research Team, the Jane

Austen Society of North America and Syndicate

Promotions Wrestling.

THE BIG TODO CONCERT SERIES –

UPTOWN COLUMBUS

Friday, May 13 – Cale DoddsFriday, May 20 – The DI Evans BandFriday, May 27 – Lava Lamp7-10pm I 1000 Block of BroadwayJoin us for a FREE concert! Broadway will be flled

with great music all night long. Bring your lawn

chair, blanket and your family for a night of great

music and fun! Outside food and beverages are allowed. However,

glass containers and outside alcoholic beverages are

prohibited.

5TH ANNUAL BUGS ON THE HOOCH

Saturday, May 28 I All Day I WoodruU Park in Uptown ColumbusScumbugs presents the 5th Annual Bugs on the

Hooch - Free to Enter, Free for Vendors, Free for

Swap Meet and Car Corral, Free Door Prizes.


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© 2016 Wind Creek Hospitality.

At Wind Creek Montgomery, we do it all. From

the rehearsal dinner at Itta Bena, to the big event in

our spacious Ramblin’ Hall ballroom, to lodging for

your wedding party, all you have to worry about is

saying “I do.”

Call (866) WIND-360 to book your event.


DIGITAL PREVIEW!See It Before You Build! Own Your Sunroom For

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