contents
12 | Through a Different Lens
As a Filipino born artist and photographer,
Dominique James has traveled America
documenting some of our greatest icons.
26 | Amazing Ella
Known for her encouraging words,
“Ms. Ella” shines her light on the community.
36 | Landon’s Song
Empowered by prayer, Landon Harvill’s
family learns the value of friendship,
supportive doctors and miracles.
48 | Rising Star
Although she is the first Filipino-American
judge in Georgia and the youngest Asian
American to serve on the bench, Judge
Rizza O’Connor’s greatest role is inspiring
young leaders in our community.
60 | Making His Own Contribution
Dewitt Davis is a master in martial arts but
teaching self-discipline and respect to
youth is his greatest talent.
70 | A Picture of Success
Hard work, determination and vision helped
Jesslyn Johnson cement one of Toombs
County’s most successful businesses.
80 | Keep Your Pets Healthy
This Summer
Try these 8 professional tips for protecting
your pets from summer challenges.
84 | Encouraging the
World Through Art
Meredith Raiford has discovered art’s true
purpose–to inspire and uplift others.
100 | Down on the Farm
A collection of stories as told
by Mose Coleman, Jr.
106 | Taking Her Faith to the Stage
Celester Bacon is a school nurse, hair braiding
genius, and writer/director of a series of
plays that inspire people.
114 | The Value of a Stone
An accomplished lapidarist, Emory Davis
makes treasure from the objects that
lie at our feet.
4 toombs county magazine
128 | Last Words
Social media has its
advantages, but take time to unplug.
focus on health
in
every
issue
96 | Local Marketplace
94 | Main Street Lyons
98-99 | Downtown
Vidalia Association
128 | Chamber of Commerce
130 | Hometown Happenings
136 | Scenes of Toombs
8 | Flipping the Script on Cancer
Local specialists and a new cancer center
are working together to improve
cancer outcomes in Toombs County.
for the art lover
114 | Spirit of Creativity
Celebrate art in Toombs County
About the Cover
A picture is worth a thousand words and 999 of those could be used to
describe what it takes to get the perfect shot. Wind, rain, heat, clouds or
lack of, unhappy children and more can all hinder a photographer’s work.
At TCM, we know this well. Some shots are easy, some are hard work, and
sometimes you just have to improvise. The original cover idea for this issue
was completely different on paper, but when the rain interfered, it took a
little creative thinking and the collective talent of Jesslyn Johnson’s team
to come up with a solution that turned out beautifully. Sometimes the best
things are born out of chaos.