Titles and Blurbs

Creating Art to Honor Those Who Serve

By Ellen Samsell Salas

Combining a knack for working with wood, a willingness to experiment, and an appreciation for those who serve, north Georgia artists Rick and Victoria Pearson are honoring Old Glory, soldiers, veterans, and public servants through their custom-made wooden flags, crosses, and tribute plaques.

An inspector for Cobb County, Rick spent his free time making furniture from wine barrels, which the couple would then sell at craft fairs. Victoria focused on breeding Great Danes and managing her boarding facility while organizing their trips to craft fairs. It was at a fair where the couple saw a flag made from wood.

When we first saw it, we learned it was made by machine, Victoria said. But Rick thought he could create something similar by hand. He tried different tools and found what worked best. Hes always learning; he studies, searches for new techniques, and talks to other woodworkers.

Now, Rick and Victoria create flags in a variety of sizes, from mini (12.5 inches x 6 inches) to large (36.5 inches x 19 inches). Their tribute plaques honor all branches of military service including special forces, Navy SEALs, and Airborne divisions whatever the client requests. Crosses, painted in a stars and stripes design, convey faith and patriotism. Sports fans can also request team plaques.

No matter which item Rick is creating, he enjoys making each piece unique. He starts with a solid piece of eastern white pine and creates a ripple effect that makes the flags appear to be in motion. Rick tailors each piece to the clients wishes, adding a military branch plaque or an emblem if requested. Police and fire personnel can be honored by adding blue or red lines to the flags.

Victoria says they work as a team: Rick does the carving; I plan the trips. I come up with a lot of the ideas, and he implements them. Sometimes, I help with the painting.

Though their unique artistic creations bring them much satisfaction, they also relish touching peoples lives. With family members who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and law enforcement, Rick and Victoria agree it is a joy to honor them.

The couple are moved by veterans who sit quietly and look at their work and also by those who thank them.

Returning to a craft fair in Virginia Beach where we had sold quite a few pieces, people stopped to tell us that they had received one of our flags from a spouse, and it was the best gift ever, Victoria said.

The flags, emblems, and plaques clearly resonate with people. In 2019, they sold approximately 1,000 pieces. An order takes a week to 10 days to complete.

Visit VictoryWaveUSA.com to see Rick and Victorias flags, crosses, and plaques.

The Difference Is in the Details

As a leader in the real estate industry for the past 35 years, Dean Woodall, president of Woodall Construction Company, Inc., is hands-on in every aspect of his projects. He uses his vast knowledge of engineering, architecture, and construction techniques to create some of the most sought-after homes and subdivisions in Cherokee County.

In addition to receiving honors for real estate marketing and sales, Woodall has been recognized by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution as builder of the week. He has constructed more than 500 homes in Cherokee, Pickens, and Bartow counties. During his career, beginning with the founding of his first subcontracting business at age 19, he has closed over 550 real estate transactions, buying and selling over 1,800 acres of land.

Surrounding himself with successful, knowledgeable people, Woodall works closely with local architects, engineers, designers, and realtors. His daughter and real estate partner, Ashley Donnelly, assists clients with everything from finding the right property, to building their dream home, to financing recommendations. She can also assist in selling your existing home at just the right moment to make for a smooth transition (Ashley Donnelly, 678-230-2911, WoodallFamilyRealty.com).

Woodall creates homes to complement the natural features of each lot he builds on, whether it be within one of his communities or your own personal lot. His genuine desire is to not only build fine homes, but to also establish a close relationship with future homeowners. It gives him great joy to bring life to his clients dreams and visions. Woodall designs fabulous custom homes that are based on the wishes of his customers, helping them realize their own vision of their dream home by creating their individual painting on a carefully chosen canvas. Here is what some of his most recent clients have to say:

"My wife and I built our first custom home with Woodall Construction Company, and we were very impressed by the professionalism, attention to detail, and quality homes they build. Dean was easy to work with and guided us through the process on making selections and working within budgets. Great group of people to work with!" Gerald and Kathy Allen

"We were very impressed with how meticulous and knowledgeable Dean is. He was prompt and patient with us and made certain to provide us with every possibility for unique things that we wanted in our home. We highly recommend him, and he even made it fun!" Buster and Christy Cushing

"When we had the opportunity to build our dream home, we knew without a doubt that we wanted Dean Woodall to build our home. He exceeded our expectations." Marc and Mandy Hogan

"If youre thinking about working with Dean to either build or buy your house, one walk around one of his properties, and youll quickly see that he builds a very high quality home. What you may not know, but should, is his insistence on your total happiness after youve moved in. Dean answers his phone, willingly stops by, and doesnt hesitate to solve the little and big things that we all discover in a new home. We couldnt be happier with our experience working with Dean, Ashley, Bryan, Abraham, and all of their crew." Michael and Carin Hopton

Many people dream of building a custom home, but they do not quite know where to begin. With his years of experience, Woodall can help from start to finish. He has many floor plans to offer that he can build and/or modify to fit specific needs, or you can bring your own plan. He understands that every family has different requirements to suit their lifestyle.

The difference between an exceptional home and an average home is in the details, says Woodall.

He typically starts by walking potential clients through his current homes to show them standard features, floor plan layouts, design ideas, and the quality of his work. This helps buyers truly understand what finishes and features they can achieve within their budgets, so they will have realistic expectations, which makes for a much easier building process.

Dean Woodall Communities is excited to announce the opening of two new communities in northern Cherokee County:

Sawyers Farm 43 lots on 71 acres
Located on Cable Road in Waleska, construction on new homes will
begin in this month, and prices in Phase 1 will start at $375,000.

Willow Brooke 13 lots on 45 acres
Located on Land Road in Waleska, construction on new homes will begin
at the end of 2020. Prices for this community are to be determined.

If you are in the market to build a new home or would like to discuss the process involved in building, feel free to call Dean Woodall for a free consultation.

Woodall Construction Company, Inc.
793 White Road, White, GA 30184
404-314-1000
WoodallConstructionCompany.com

Helping Those Who Need Saving After COVID-19

By Anna Teal

The recent pandemic has stretched and tested families in our community in many ways. For instance, some married couples discovered they dont like each other as much as they thought after spending all day, every day together. Others have lost their jobs, and their debt keeps piling up. However, keep hope because help is on the horizon.

No matter what the circumstances, husband and wife attorneys Alex Hait and Lizz Kuhn of Hait & Kuhn are no strangers to representing those going through the valleys of life. They, along with their diverse team, are always one step ahead of the game and dedicated to getting results yes, even in an unprecedented pandemic situation.

Save Your House, Save Your Car, Save Your Hard Work
The emergence of COVID-19 birthed troubling situations that are manifesting throughout our communities such as families falling behind on their mortgage and bill payments. Commonly, those in financial straits seek out help from creditors.

Reaching out can help suspend mortgage or other bill payments for a time, but oftentimes, once the judicial order or the order from the governor is lifted, the payment is due in full, explains Lizz.

Many go into this agreement not understanding the mortgage company expects a balloon payment as soon as the stay-at-home orders are lifted.

Say, for example, youve deferred your mortgage payment for the last couple of months, and now you owe a lump sum of $6,000. We can help you spread that $6,000 payment over the next five years by filing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, says Lizz. 

Hait & Kuhn can help preserve the things a client has worked hard for while he/she focuses on moving forward after the pandemic.

The bankruptcy process can differ depending on whether you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, but we are here to make sure you choose the right option for your unique debt situation, explains Alex.

When dealing with sensitive family law matters such as child custody, child support, visitation, and domestic violence, the Hait & Kuhn team understands that each case is different while navigating each one with special care.

Along with tough financial situations, weve also seen divorce rates and domestic violence claims skyrocket these past few months, says Lizz.

No one wants to go through a divorce. Its a truly taxing and emotionally draining process in which you want experienced representation, like our practice, that will exhibit skillful, strategic, and compassionate counsel, explains Alex.

Redefining the Process
Hait & Kuhn has redefined the litigation process, making it more efficient. The pandemic has modernized the court system. Client meetings are held via Zoom, and some court matters are handled via Zoom, which is a safe and secure platform.

This saves our clients thousands of dollars in attorneys fees rather than me just waiting hours in a courtroom to be reached, explains Lizz.

By scheduling Zoom meetings at the start of a case, they achieve quick results for their clients. This often leads an opposing party to be more reasonable in the negotiation process. 

Hait & Kuhn applies a team approach to every client. Their commitment to keeping everyone in the loop on all matters throughout the legal process fosters a seamless working relationship. They provide free consultations, so clients can meet each member of the firm before they hire them for representation.

Trusted Experience of North Metro Litigators
The Hait & Kuhn teams mastery of all things law makes them highly sought after, but their ability to relate to real-life experiences makes them that much more renowned. Many team members have experienced troubles similar to those their clients face. This enables Hait & Kuhn to serve the community on a deeper level. Helping clients through the storms of life, so they can enjoy a happier and more prosperous future, is the ultimate goal. If you are currently dealing with family law, divorce, bankruptcy, or a personal injury, the Hait & Kuhn team would love to assist you. For more information, please feel free to visit their website. They also have two office locations to better serve their community.

Hait & Kuhn North Metro Ligtigators

Alpharetta
11545 Park Woods Circle
Suite C
678-888-0198

Woodstock
185 Stockwood Drive
Suite 100
770-517-0045

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
NMLit.com

Creating Exceptional Smiles and Lifelong Memories

By Anna Teal

A smile is worth more than a thousand words at Kragor Orthodontics, and it is the best first impression you can provide. This is a foundation for the Kragors practice and a testament to their patient-centric approach. The practice is well known in the community as a haven for those looking to improve their smile in a friendly, comfortable, and clean environment. The staff creates beautiful smiles, whether it be through clear aligners like Invisalign or through clear, self-ligating, or traditional braces.

Drs. Andy and Ambre Kragor have grown their large following through simple acts of courtesy and kindness. This sincere level of attentiveness is exactly what makes Kragor Orthodontics a shining star in the Canton, Woodstock, and Towne Lake communities.

When the Kragors opened their practice in 2016, they had a mission to extend compassionate care and excellent service to their patients. This power couple identified early on the value of their community. Their humble beginnings were supported by the same community members they so proudly serve today whom they like to call their Kragor Ortho Family.

A Husband and Wife Team

You may wonder how two orthodontists ended up married to each other. It is rare to see this combination of professionals, and they are currently the only husband and wife board-certified orthodontics team in Georgia to practice together.

After they graduated from college and dental school, Dr. Ambre and Dr. Andy met at the University of Michigan during their orthodontics residency. There, they both graduated at the top of their class while obtaining their Masters in Science in Orthodontics. After graduation, they moved back to their native Georgia, got married, and started their life together.

The Kragor Difference

With patient care at the forefront of their minds, the Kragors set themselves apart in several ways; one of which is their value of time.

We feel its important to respect our patients time and practice prompt appointment scheduling. Time is one of our most valuable assets, explains Dr. Andy.

Their sense of courtesy extends through their dedication to providing real-life interactions.

When you call our office, youll always talk to one of our team members. Our patients have direct access to our team, and that includes both Ambre and me, says Dr. Andy. Its another personal touch that speaks volumes about their dedication to building relationships and unprecedented support within their practice.

A Clean and Modern Experience

The Kragors not only want their patients to feel at home in their care, but they also want them to feel good about being in a clean and safe environment especially since the emergence of COVID-19. Their practice adheres to both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines for universal precautions of infection control in health care. To ensure everyones safety, this approach treats all patients as if they were known to be infectious with bloodborne pathogens, which prevents the spread of any known virus and, in turn, protects those in close contact.

Drs. Ambre and Andy are also raising the bar by providing a pleasant and inviting modern office environment. The waiting area features a movie room for children and a parent lounge complete with a coffee bar and bottled waters. It is a place you can catch your breath for a few minutes in your busy day.

The doctors use modern, state-of-the-art equipment that includes digital imaging radiographs, 3-D scanners, and printers.

We use secure, HIPPA-compliant software and communications services, Dr. Andy says.

A Heart for Service and Community

The Kragor family exhibits their true love of community through their active support for local schools, charities, and sports teams.

Andy and I have a passion for our practice and business, but what we do for our community thats our legacy, says Dr. Ambre.

Dr. Ambre lends her kind, compassionate spirit, coupled with unmatched expertise, to Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) regularly. She treats children, teens, and babies with craniofacial syndromes such as cleft lip or cleft palate. She employs a comprehensive care approach, focusing not only on the outcome, but taking care to provide her patients with a fun and exciting journey.

Dr. Andy, known for his charismatic, outgoing nature, also enjoys volunteering to support the cleft lip and cleft palate patient community.

Celebrating Four Wonderful Years

This August, Kragor Orthodontics will turn 4 years old. The Kragors attribute their growth to their community and are thankful to those who have supported them. This fall, they hope to express their gratitude by giving back to local educators and schools. The lifelong memories they create with their patients are almost as important as the finished smile.

For more information about Kragor Orthodontics, please visit the website or call to schedule a complimentary consultation. Experience #TheKragorDifference on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, or in person.

Kragor Orthodontics
1816 Eagle Drive, Suite 100-B
Woodstock, GA 30189
770-485-8827
KragorOrtho.com

Research suggests that one in four girls is sexually abused before the age of 18 thats an estimated 41.5 million adult American women who are survivors.

Think of the women you know and love your mother, your sister, your college roommate, your best friend, your gym partner, and your co-worker who helps keep you sane when life is scary. One of every four of these women is statistically a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and may have been carrying feelings of shame, guilt, and other post-traumatic symptoms for years, or even decades.

The Younique Foundation exists to help these women find the hope and healing they deserve.

Founded in 2015, The Younique Foundation, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity that provides healing services through The Haven Retreat, Finding Hope Support Groups, and other online resources.

The organization was formed after founders Shelaine and Derek Maxfield learned that someone close to them had been sexually abused as a child. Both were heartbroken to learn that many survivors of child sexual abuse take blame and guilt upon themselves.

Thats not fair, Derek remembers saying to Shelaine. Somebody should do something about that.

The Maxfields envisioned a healing retreat nestled in the mountains where survivors could begin or continue their healing journeys.

Since 2015, more than 3,000 women have attended The Haven Retreat in one of two locations in Georgia and Utah. In 2019 alone, The Younique Foundation facilitated the start of 40 Finding Hope Support Groups in eight countries, including New Zealand, Ireland, and Austria.

Third-party research confirms that The Haven Retreat successfully helps women heal from the impacts of child sexual abuse. Some of the healing benefits survivors experience are comparable to receiving 1524 weeks of group psychotherapy for trauma.

On average, participants:

• Experience a 23% reduction of PTSD symptoms.
• See a 21% improvement in well-being.
• Feel 9% more confident that they can cope with their traumatic experience.

These positive effects have been shown to be sustained for one year after participating in a retreat.

The Younique Foundation wants survivors of child sexual abuse to know that they are not alone, that they are not broken, and that hope and healing are possible. The brain is malleable and can learn how to heal. Through recovery, survivors can learn to recognize and manage triggers, discover passions that motivate them to heal, and develop self-compassion.

The Younique Foundation is also dedicated to the eradication of child sexual abuse and focuses prevention efforts through its brand, Defend Innocence.

Education is critical to responding to sexual abuse and preventing it. As such, Defend Innocence focuses on empowering parents, caregivers, and community leaders to protect children through community and online resources. These resources seek to facilitate safe, open discussions and to give parents and caregivers a starting point for these discussions.

You, too, can support survivors in their healing journeys and help put an end to the epidemic of child sexual abuse. Learn more about The Younique Foundations healing resources at YouniqueFoundation.org and Defend Innocences prevention resources at DefendInnocence.org.

The Younique Foundation
11675 Great Oaks Way, Suite 175
Alpharetta, GA 30022
YouniqueFoundation.org

DefendInnocence.org

801-341-2308

By District Attorney Shannon Wallace

As children, we are taught to honor and respect our elders. Unfortunately, some people fail to heed this advice and, instead, target senior citizens. In recent years, we have seen a rise in opportunists who abuse and exploit seniors as well as other vulnerable adults. Elder abuse is a crime in Georgia, and something we take very seriously in Cherokee County.

Elder abuse occurs when trusted family members, friends, or caregivers intentionally harm or fail to provide needed services to older adults in their care. It also occurs when criminals commit financial exploitation scams that target seniors.

Typically, elder abuse is one (or all) of the following:

• Physical, which often includes sexual and emotional abuse as well.
• Neglect, or failure to provide essential medical care, a safe living environment, or adequate nutrition and hygiene.
• Financial exploitation, which prevents elders from accessing financial resources by using force, threats, or deception.

In response to this prevalent crime, in 2015, the District Attorneys Office designated a special prosecution team. The White Collar/Elder Abuse Unit includes a prosecutor, investigator, and victim advocates.

Two years later, the District Attorneys Office and community partners established the Cherokee County Adult Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Multidisciplinary Team (MDT). This MDT brings together organizations committed to protecting vulnerable adults from situations of abuse or exploitation. During monthly meetings, MDT members discuss reports of abuse and collaborate to ensure seniors receive the services they need. In 2019, the team handled 275 cases of suspected abuse or neglect of elders or vulnerable adults in Cherokee.

In addition to the District Attorneys Office, MDT members include the Cherokee Coroners Office, Senior Services, and Solicitor-Generals Office; the Georgia Division of Aging - Adult Protective Services; and all Cherokee law enforcement agencies.

We also partner with Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T., an organization that works to reduce victimization of senior citizens by offering programs for them and their caregivers. More information on these programs can be found at SALTCherokee.com.

World Elder Abuse Day

Each year on June 15, communities worldwide draw attention to the problem of physical, emotional, and financial abuse of our elders. The day provides the opportunity to educate people about the unique challenges of our aging population, reach out to elders to help them not become crime victims, and exchange ideas on how to reduce crimes against elders.

You can help, too. Talk to elderly and vulnerable adults in your life and make sure they are safe and making sound decisions.

Common Scams

• Your grandchild needs money
  Caller poses as a grandchild and preys on the elders emotions. Be suspicious. Verify with family members before sending money.
• IRS demands money by phone
  Caller says, If you dont send payment now, youll be arrested. Perpetrator preys on fear. The IRS never calls to demand money.
• Email scams
  Recently, church members have received emails from a person claiming to be their pastor, asking them to send gift cards to help people affected by the pandemic. Verify the facts before buying or sending gift cards.

Georgia laws related to elder abuse: O.C.G.A. 16-5-101, 16-5-102, 16-5-23.1

By Dr. Rich Austin

First, I would like to express my sincere condolences to anyone who has dealt with loss, sickness, or other issues that have widely accompanied the COVID-19 pandemic. Fortunately, due to the #FlattenTheCurve movement, the worst that many folks endured was adjusting to sheltering in place and trying to educate and entertain our children in the wake of school closures.

While we may be much less likely to catch this awful virus while sheltered at home, there are other predators you should be aware of. These predators, not unlike the coronavirus, are a threat that is often difficult to perceive. But, fortunately, you can easily do things to protect yourself against criminals who are trying to use this crisis to defraud unsuspecting victims.

Fraud Often Rises in Crises

It is widely known among those in the fields of emergency management and law enforcement that fraud becomes more prevalent during times of crises. This has historically been seen in natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina. The problem was so prevalent in that era that a federal task force was developed just to address Katrina-related fraud schemes. According to the FBI, even days before Katrina made landfall, schemers propped up fraudulent websites in hopes of misdirecting charitable donations for personal gain, including the collection of personally identifiable information (e.g., credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, etc.).

Unfortunately, the law enforcement community nationwide is seeing similar types of fraud related to COVID-19. The difference is that since the pandemic is worldwide and affects most everyone, the opportunity for this type of criminal activity is exponential. So, what types of crimes are we seeing based on the current situation?

Scams Promising Federal Relief or Private Aid

According to the Federal Trade Commission, the agency has been flooded with information about fraudulent robocalls, phishing emails, and text messages that promise relief that the victim is supposedly entitled to receive. Many victims may believe the calls are from actual aid they may have legitimately applied for, so consumers should be especially careful if they have an application for aid under consideration such as unemployment assistance.

Many of these calls also fraudulently offer low interest loans, mortgage relief, or even a government relief check. The problem occurs when the victims give their personal information and experience identity theft or provide money upfront in order to receive payment, which never arrives.

Protect Yourself

Government agencies will never ask for your personal information, login information, or any types of payment through gift cards, wire transfer, or Bitcoin. Be especially wary of callers offering goods or services that are not widely available such as COVID-19 testing, remedies, or other medical services. 

Often, these scammers will misrepresent themselves as Medicare staff. While most of us want to be charitable and help our neighbors, be sure to thoroughly research any organization before contributing to ensure your donation is going where you think its going. Lastly, if you think you have become the target of fraud, contact your local law enforcement agency.

For more information on how to protect yourself, visit Consumer.FTC.gov or CDC.gov/media/phishing.html.

By Jessica Oravec

What would you do, if, as a child, your parents invited someone to stay at your house for a few days because you had so much room? And then, what if that person became a permanent resident, bringing along her boyfriend and another family as well? And then began to take over your home? This is the premise to Lisa Jewells The Family Upstairs.

The story begins with 25-year-old Libby, who has just been informed that she has inherited the home of her biological family. As she digs deeper into the history of the home, she learns about the tragedy that happened there: the suicide of her parents and another man, along with a note asking that someone care for her, a baby.

Rumors abound about what occurred in that house. Told by three narrators Libby, Lucy, and Henry we learn what happened: how visitors came to stay and slowly began to take over, how the adults of the house were convinced to give up their possessions, and how more rules were imposed until, eventually, everyone was a prisoner.

The Family Upstairs is about manipulation and charisma. It is a detailed account of how people slowly give up their freedoms when someone tells them what is best. It is a reminder that all is not what it seems, and that some will go to great lengths to get what they want and to save what they love.

Lisa Jewell has written a fascinating novel of family, betrayal, and what it takes to survive. In this fast-paced page-turner, readers will find themselves wanting to know more about what happened as well as if the characters really are who they say they are.

By Marcia Divack

In Steven Wrights debut novel, The Coyotes of Carthage, readers get a glimpse of the underbelly of American politics, including dark money, paid operatives, and of course, greed. Wright, a former Justice Department trial lawyer and now an associate law professor and author, provides a razor sharp and dryly humorous view of race, politics, and class in the American South.

The novels protagonist, Toussaint Andre Ross, a Washington D.C. political consultant, finds himself exiled to fictional Carthage County, South Carolina, nestled snugly in the Appalachian temperate rainforest, after a mistake embarrasses the firm he works for. Carthage County is undergoing a new gold rush, and a mining company wants ownership of the public land and access to the gold. Government officials in Carthage County are not interested in giving up land to the mining company, so Ross is sent in, with money and questionable morals, to see that the sale of the public land ends up on the ballot, and the county manager ends up under fire.

The Coyotes of Carthage reveals just what dark money can buy: fake social media accounts, phony companies, manipulated polls, slogan-filled political ads, and a staged liberation from the tyranny of local government. This is a dark look at politics as we know it and is likely to give us cause to question every political ad we see and slogan that we hear. It is also an exciting and intelligent political thriller that reveals the coyotes at our doors.

Chasing the Beautiful

By Ellen Samsell Salas

Although friends and family say they knew she would be an artist someday, north Georgia painter Mavis Manganelly took a circuitous route before embracing her calling.

Born in Cuba, she lived in Russia as a child and again as an adult, then immigrated to the United States, living first in Arizona and later in Georgia. She earned a bachelors degree in physics from the University of Havana and a masters degree in economics from Carlton University in Canada before teaching both physics and computer science.

But I always knew I wanted to paint, Manganelly said. That was my plan to paint when I retired. I didnt think I would ever call myself an artist.

It was a chance meeting with a Cuban artist that encouraged her to make art her full-time pursuit. He told me, Dont wait. Just do it, she said. So, in 2006, she decided to  dedicate herself to painting.

Manganellys affinity for drawing and color began when she attended elementary school in Russia.

Russia had strong arts programs, she said. I vividly remember my art classes. They were the best place for me and the best gift for me was a box of colored pencils. I love color. When she was a teenager, she would sometimes pretend to take notes while actually sketching during class.

Completely self-taught, Manganelly has found her artistic voice through the experimentation that began with those childhood sketches. Through the internet, she visits museums and meets other artists. She sees herself as a young artist who is still finding her expression.

I learned to work with mediums, learned the basics of color, light, and shade online, she said. I challenged myself to explore different styles because I wanted to learn. I learned portraits, not because I want to be a portrait painter, but as part of my learning process.

Whether creating still life, landscapes, flowers, or figures, Manganelly said her goal is to create beauty. Done mostly in acrylic, but also in mixed media, her large abstract canvases draw the viewer in through bold color and varied texture, and contrasts of light and dark, black and white, line and shape.

I like the viewer to rest his eyes on one part of the canvas, not to be overwhelmed. Often, a large part of the canvas will be white; other times, I work in two main colors. Some of my works are minimalist. The parts of the canvas that have color are bright and bold, similar to (Jackson) Pollocks style.

Manganellys colors and dramatic contrasts draw the viewer from a distance while the textures and layers of the painting reveal themselves when viewed more closely.

Working quickly, Manganelly says she doesnt know where the painting will go when she starts. Frequently using a palette knife to apply color, she creates layers, changing the painting with each color she adds. Using acrylics allows her to modify and watch the painting evolve. Sometimes, the layers include stones, paper, mesh, varnish, or gesso whatever creates texture.

I might work on a painting for three days and set it aside. That doesnt mean that I am finished. I will keep looking at it. I find myself adding things and taking away things. So, I work on two or three paintings at the same time. I keep working until I am satisfied. I am always chasing something that I find beautiful, no matter what the subject.

You can enjoy Manganellys paintings at:

MavisGallery.com

Facebook.com/mavis.m.manganelly

Congratulations to our Winners!

TEEN WINNER

Upgraded
By Katy Wheeler

Itd been quite a while since Id upgraded. A long overdue enhancement, Im guessing at least five years in the making. Hardly anyone is immune to being enamored by the hypnotic spell that a brand-new cell phone seems to cast. I was no different.

When I plucked the shiny new phone out of its box, I could hardly contain myself. All the latest and greatest technology for me to catch up on, right here in this metal and plastic box. More gadgets, more capacity, more apps, and unfortunately, more money coming out of my checking account. It was OK though. My old phone was out of date, and despite my infatuation with it (and the hard case that saved it from breaking countless times), it was toast.

Yet, as I transferred over all of its data and the other cool functions I associated with my device, I couldnt help but notice some of the old phone numbers sequentially transitioning into the new phone. Most of them were friends, siblings, or business contacts. However, the last one stood out conspicuously: MOM CELL.

It made my blood turn to ice. Yes, she had a home phone, but unlike others her age, she hardly used it anymore. Just to see that number again tore my soul in half. It made me want to laugh and cry at the same time, as I remembered every little detail about her. You see, she had died nearly five years ago. Pancreatic cancer literally sucked the life out of her; the once vibrant and hauntingly beautiful baby blue eyes, so blue youd swear that you could see down into her very soul, became hollow and frail. To witness what that disease had done to her earthly shell, and to know that she now had a perfect body, a heavenly body that is ignorant of pain, suffering, and tearsmy mom had upgraded.

I never bothered to turn off her cellular service after shed passed away. I continued to faithfully pay the bill month after month, even though I knew the phone would never be used again. Many have asked me why, and if youve ever lost a parent, then you know why. Itsits because

Well, sometimes you just need to hear a friendly voice, one bathed in unconditional love. Mamas voice. When its gone, its gone forever from this life at least in person.

Whenever I call her phone and hear that sweet, sweet voice repeat something as simple as her outgoing message, it gives me peace when I need it the most. It makes me long to be reunited with her one day soon, once my time here on earth is done. And on that day, when I am upgraded, our relationship will be made whole again. I will know no greater joy than to be with my family, my heavenly family.

So, for now, Ill smile, shed a tear, and then dial the first number on my brand-new cell phone: MOM CELL.

ADULT WINNER

Swinging Through Life
By Anna Skudarnova

My grandfather did not live long enough to know that his wife could build a sturdier swing than he could. It seemed as if every summer when I visited my family in Ukraine, my grandfather spent half his time reconstructing the swing that he built for his grandchildren. He would wrap old rags and attach metal wires to various parts of the swing. But somehow, these solutions never lasted more than a few days before they, too, gave out.

The wooden seat of the swing always cracked, no matter how many times it was replaced, and the rusty iron bars that held up the whole contraption left blue-flaked paint on my blistered hands. The swish of air that the swing provided felt better than any sort of air conditioning on those hot summer days. The swing creaked, our dog Jack barked, the sprinkler noisily watered the plants, and my cousins yelled at me every time I got on that swing.

I ate the freshest kind of cherries, strawberries, snap peas, cucumbers, sand, and blood all while swinging on grandfathers swing. The vegetation came from my grandparents surrounding garden, the blood from being kicked off the swing by my cousins, and the sand from falling in the nearby sandbox.

My grandmother flew to America to visit us the summer that my family bought our first house, and consequently, our backyard. Her main goal for the summer was to make my grandfather turn in his grave by
planting a garden and building a swing that were more successful than his had ever been.

The swing she built was upheld by two sturdy trees that would not rust. She chose plastic ropes from the hardware store that would not blister hands. Traumatized by the many times my grandfathers contraption had broken while I was mid-swing, I asked my grandmother if her swing would ever break.

Never in a lifetime, she stated proudly in Ukrainian.

All throughout my preteen years, I ran to grandmothers swing when I was upset. With tears streaming down my face, I rebelliously flung off the jacket my mother always forced me to wear. I relished the bite of the air against my skin that the swing provided. The swing creaked, the birds chirped, the squirrels scuttled, and the fallen leaves crinkled in the wind, as I swung myself into dizziness. I liked to see the world that did not make sense swirl around me. Like a mother rocking her child, grandmothers swing rocked me until I was calm, and my tears dried.

A year after my grandmother died, my family sold that house with the swing still sturdily hung in the backyard. Grandmother was right, her swing could outlast a lifetime, or, at least, her lifetime. And I am sure the first thing she did when she was laid to rest beside my grandfather was tell him all about it.

Thank You to All Who Shared Short Stories With Us!
We received almost 40 thoughtful, well written submissions that covered a variety of topics, and we enjoyed reading each one. With only 500 words to tell a story with a beginning, middle, and end, sentences had to be carefully constructed to be impactful and convey meaning, with no room for verbosity. We truly enjoyed visiting the succinct worlds you created, which inspired us to think and feel a wide array of emotions.

Local Businessmen Taking It to the 'Skeets

By Gregory Flail

Few places are as dear to the hearts of north Georgia residents as their backyards. Backyards are more than just a plot of land; they are an extension of the home a place for children to play, pets to roam, and families to enjoy good weather with friends and neighbors.

The only serious threats to this lush paradise are the harmful insects that favor Georgias long summers. The mosquitoes in Georgia are notorious for loving backyards, picnics, and parties as much as homeowners do. Considering that a bottle caps worth of water can breed 150 mosquitoes in just three days, its no wonder that residents often feel overwhelmed by bugs long before summer begins.

Jody Wheeler and Chad Woodall are lifelong, local area residents who grew up knowing what a nuisance these insects can be. Throughout their years of fishing and spending time outdoors, they experienced the states growing mosquito problem firsthand. With every pesky sting and bite they suffered, they began to see an opportunity. By the summer of 2016, they decided to take matters into their own hands.

Together, Wheeler and Woodall started Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free, two locally owned and operated companies on a mission to ensure that backyard and dockside gatherings remain invitation only. As local business owners, they have taken a big picture approach to their small business. There is much more to being Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free than one might think. Its not just making insects disappear.

Our goal is to protect families and pets, Woodall said. Mosquito bites are always painful, but the diseases that mosquitoes carry can also be deadly to people as well as animals. And certain spider bites can be every bit as lethal.

According to the World Health Organization, mosquitoes and the diseases they carry will cause more than a million deaths this year alone.

Mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous animals in the world, said Wheeler. Historically, theyve proven to be more deadly than all wars combined.

Given Georgias summery climate and coastal border, the state has been suffering from mosquitoes since the yellow fever epidemics of the 1800s when physicians were still unaware of how the disease was transmitted.

Today, we have a clearer understanding of how to combat mosquitoes, and how to do it safely, Woodall said. Theres no reason that the treatment should also be a danger.

Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free offer a variety of solutions, all of which are completely biodegradable. They also offer an all-natural Mosquito-Free solution that is both biodegradable and safe for vegetable gardens. In addition to traditional treatments, automatic Mosquito-Free misting systems are available, as well as all-natural Mosquito-Free traps that require no spraying whatsoever. Each of these innovative, eco-friendly approaches is quickly making Mosquito-Free one of the areas best choices for mosquito control solutions that are safe for people, pets, gardens, and wildlife.

We take our work a little more seriously than many franchises would be able to do, Woodall said. Because we own our business and our clients are our neighbors, friends, and friends of friends, we always guarantee that our products are not only effective against pests, but also safe for everyone who shares that environment.

Whether the occasion is a special event or a season full of outdoor gatherings, Mosquito-Free offers reasonably priced solutions for residential or commercial properties of all sizes. The companys state-certified technicians can establish a mosquito-free zone that repels insects and disrupts their breeding cycle for three weeks. The zones help repel other harmful insects as well, including fleas, ticks, ants, and spiders. With recurring treatments every 21 days, the great outdoors can truly become great again.

The staff at Mosquito-Free provides seamless, trouble-free service throughout the year sending a notice via email, text, or phone call before their visit and another notice upon completion. Mosquito-Free now accepts online payments for customers convenience as well.

Satisfaction is always guaranteed, and being local means that the Mosquito-Free team can resolve almost any issue within 48 hours or less. Typically, the mosquito season begins in March and ends in October, but changing weather patterns often extend the season without warning. However long mosquitoes manage to cling to summer this year, Mosquito-Free will be ready to adapt. Service plans are completely flexible and designed especially for each clients needs.

• Safe for People and Pets
• Controls Mosquitoes, Fleas, Ticks, and Ants
• All Natural and Biodegradable Offerings
• Locally Owned and Operated
• 21-Day Service With Complimentary Re-Treats
• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

To learn more about Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free, including their customer referral program, please visit the websites or give the staff a call. Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free are now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, too.

Mosquito-Free
2171 Holly Brook Lane, Canton
770-704-4560
Mosquito-Free.com

Spider-Free.com

Facebook.com/MosquitoFreeLLC

Instagram.com/MosquitoFreeLLC

Twitter.com/MosquitoFreeLLC

Local Businessmen Taking It to the 'Skeets

By Gregory Flail

Few places are as dear to the hearts of north Georgia residents as their backyards. Backyards are more than just a plot of land; they are an extension of the home a place for children to play, pets to roam, and families to enjoy good weather with friends and neighbors.

The only serious threats to this lush paradise are the harmful insects that favor Georgias long summers. The mosquitoes in Georgia are notorious for loving backyards, picnics, and parties as much as homeowners do. Considering that a bottle caps worth of water can breed 150 mosquitoes in just three days, its no wonder that residents often feel overwhelmed by bugs long before summer begins.

Jody Wheeler and Chad Woodall are lifelong, local area residents who grew up knowing what a nuisance these insects can be. Throughout their years of fishing and spending time outdoors, they experienced the states growing mosquito problem firsthand. With every pesky sting and bite they suffered, they began to see an opportunity. By the summer of 2016, they decided to take matters into their own hands.

Together, Wheeler and Woodall started Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free, two locally owned and operated companies on a mission to ensure that backyard and dockside gatherings remain invitation only. As local business owners, they have taken a big picture approach to their small business. There is much more to being Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free than one might think. Its not just making insects disappear.

Our goal is to protect families and pets, Woodall said. Mosquito bites are always painful, but the diseases that mosquitoes carry can also be deadly to people as well as animals. And certain spider bites can be every bit as lethal.

According to the World Health Organization, mosquitoes and the diseases they carry will cause more than a million deaths this year alone.

Mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous animals in the world, said Wheeler. Historically, theyve proven to be more deadly than all wars combined.

Given Georgias summery climate and coastal border, the state has been suffering from mosquitoes since the yellow fever epidemics of the 1800s when physicians were still unaware of how the disease was transmitted.

Today, we have a clearer understanding of how to combat mosquitoes, and how to do it safely, Woodall said. Theres no reason that the treatment should also be a danger.

Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free offer a variety of solutions, all of which are completely biodegradable. They also offer an all-natural Mosquito-Free solution that is both biodegradable and safe for vegetable gardens. In addition to traditional treatments, automatic Mosquito-Free misting systems are available, as well as all-natural Mosquito-Free traps that require no spraying whatsoever. Each of these innovative, eco-friendly approaches is quickly making Mosquito-Free one of the areas best choices for mosquito control solutions that are safe for people, pets, gardens, and wildlife.

We take our work a little more seriously than many franchises would be able to do, Woodall said. Because we own our business and our clients are our neighbors, friends, and friends of friends, we always guarantee that our products are not only effective against pests, but also safe for everyone who shares that environment.

Whether the occasion is a special event or a season full of outdoor gatherings, Mosquito-Free offers reasonably priced solutions for residential or commercial properties of all sizes. The companys state-certified technicians can establish a mosquito-free zone that repels insects and disrupts their breeding cycle for three weeks. The zones help repel other harmful insects as well, including fleas, ticks, ants, and spiders. With recurring treatments every 21 days, the great outdoors can truly become great again.

The staff at Mosquito-Free provides seamless, trouble-free service throughout the year sending a notice via email, text, or phone call before their visit and another notice upon completion. Mosquito-Free now accepts online payments for customers convenience as well.

Satisfaction is always guaranteed, and being local means that the Mosquito-Free team can resolve almost any issue within 48 hours or less. Typically, the mosquito season begins in March and ends in October, but changing weather patterns often extend the season without warning. However long mosquitoes manage to cling to summer this year, Mosquito-Free will be ready to adapt. Service plans are completely flexible and designed especially for each clients needs.

• Safe for People and Pets
• Controls Mosquitoes, Fleas, Ticks, and Ants
• All Natural and Biodegradable Offerings
• Locally Owned and Operated
• 21-Day Service With Complimentary Re-Treats
• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

To learn more about Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free, including their customer referral program, please visit the websites or give the staff a call. Mosquito-Free and Spider-Free are now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, too.

Mosquito-Free
2171 Holly Brook Lane, Canton
770-704-4560
Mosquito-Free.com

Spider-Free.com

Facebook.com/MosquitoFreeLLC

Instagram.com/MosquitoFreeLLC

Twitter.com/MosquitoFreeLLC

By Anna Teal

In business since 2017 and backed by expertise in addiction and behavioral psychology, Centered Recovery Programs wants to share its passion for alternative holistic rehab solutions in the north metro Atlanta area. With locations in Roswell and Marietta, this organization offers a unique mindfulness-based approach unlike the traditional 12-step recovery programs. The approach is so successful and widely received that it has been featured in U.S. News & World Report along with countless glowing reviews on Google.

Owners Reed and Krista Smith have a deep-seated desire and dedication to helping humans gain an understanding of themselves mentally and physically, which targets a true need in the rehab community, especially those who have made previous attempts at recovery and continue to struggle.

The unique program helps clients connect to their mental health while becoming more self-aware of what sparks stress, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to addiction. Helping clients get to the root of their problems and developing a sensitivity to their feelings leads to awareness and helps the mind be more apt to evolve in a healthy way.

We offer an alternative that is refreshing and logical. Most traditional rehab programs provide the tools for recovery, but we strive to help clients understand themselves and their psychological processes, explains Reed.

We help people understand themselves in a very real way to connect to their own humanity. This method helps lift them out of their story to create a healthier one by removing obstacles and getting clarity of what is causing issues. We encourage them to go upstream in the source of thought to prevent polluting it. This allows them to understand where their stress or anxiety is coming from, says Reed.

The non-12 step program was designed to help facilitate insightful awareness, which is crucial for effortless lasting change. Centered Recovery is licensed as an outpatient facility. The founders believe that while inpatient facilities provide invaluable support in early recovery, once the client returns home, their recovery bubble often bursts, as stressors occur. This makes it hard to adapt, which causes a greater chance of relapse. Centered Recovery specializes in chronic relapse.

Reed and I have worked in residential facilities before. We believe outpatient programs are essential for lasting recovery. Working through recovery in the stresses of real life is one of the key elements that makes our program successful, explains Krista.

The longer youre involved in a treatment program, the higher rate of success. We can tweak and adjust as you go to tailor it to your needs, says Reed, who compares this belief to investing in a gym membership with the intent to work out and get fit. If you stop going to the gym, you will likely see your fitness levels decline.

Mental health should be thought of in a similar light. It takes practice and consistency to keep your mind in good health. Reed explains that they have clients theyve been seeing for over two years who come once a week to keep their mind fit and healthy.

Their renowned mindfulness approach stretches past the lines of addiction to those who struggle with a wide range of emotions including anxiety, depression, and work burnout. Theyve also implemented programs and ways to accommodate the busy lives of most Atlantans. For example, their Executive Track program focuses on older, career-focused adults who may be dealing with a variety of unique stressors. The combination of group and one-on-one therapy allows them to get the support they need.

Centered Recovery pioneered virtual intensive outpatient programming (IOP) in 2019 to fill a void in rural areas and bring services to the entire state of Georgia. Telemental therapies allow stay-at-home parents, professionals with full schedules or travel schedules, and retirees to get involved in recovery from a distance.

All sessions are offered on secure servers in compliance with HIPPA policies to protect each patients privacy. The virtual program provides a full interactive experience where clients can participate just as if they were physically present. Morning, afternoon, and evening sessions are available to provide flexibility and fit a variety of scheduling needs. Most insurance plans are accepted.

We dont believe in labels, states Krista. Our program includes a unique blend of therapies, education, and counseling that are tailored to each individual client. A byproduct of becoming your healthiest self is having a life free from addictions and habits that limit possibilities. We are in the business of helping people become their healthiest selves by addressing what is preventing it in the first place.

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about Centered Recovery Programs, visit the website or call 800-556-2966 for a FREE consultation.

Centered Recovery Programs
1250 Hembree Road
Roswell, GA 30076
770-410-4894
CenteredRecoveryPrograms.com

By Sheriff Frank Reynolds

As I write this article, we are in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis; the date is April 9. These past few weeks have been interesting to say the least. Each day brings new questions and even fewer answers. I am hopeful that when you read this, we will NOT be back to what was normal. Ill explain later.

A few weeks ago, I began to keep notes on the number of COVID-19 cases. On March 21, the U.S. had 19,658 known cases and approximately 219 deaths.

At the time this magazine went to print, the U.S. had 644,746 known cases and 28,593 deaths. Cherokee County had 238 known cases and eight deaths. Looking at those numbers, you can see how rapid the disease spreads.

When asking others about their thoughts on the matter, you will likely have a wide range of opinions. Some think it is a weaponized virus from the Chinese to negatively affect the economic status of the U.S. and other foreign countries, while others may say it was a virus transmitted from an animal to humans in Wuhan. Regardless of its origin, we all have been affected in some way, whether by contracting disease itself, financial loss, or the feeling of social isolation.

As the sheriff, I am often consulted for answers during times of uncertainty. This event has been uniquely challenging because it is a public health crisis, not a law enforcement one. Although I have been granted some powers by the governor, I have had to balance the spirit of the law and the letter of the law. Fortunately, most of our citizens have complied with the federal guidelines and the governors orders.

I want to praise our elected officials, public safety personnel, medical professionals, school district, and local businesses. Together, we have managed the crisis with a reasonable sense of calm.

In any good movie plot, you have a storyline, a hero/heroine, and a villain. In this story, we all know COVID-19 is the villain. The storyline is being played out before our very eyes, and the hero/heroine is you.

Every day, I see random acts of kindness from both friends and strangers. I see and hear about people checking on loved ones and neighbors in a way I have not seen since before the internet and cell phones.

Families playing in the yard or completing projects together. Heck, I even played Frisbee with my wife, something I have not done in years.

Although our new normal is social distancing, I believe we have grown a little closer.

When this thing is over, I hope we are all physically and mentally healthy. But aside from that, I hope we do not lose our newly discovered appreciation for what really matters in our lives. Lets not go back to what used to be normal. Instead, lets remember to be a little more neighborly and family oriented.

God bless you, your families, and the United States of America.

Back in 1975, when CURE Childhood Cancer was founded at Emory University, the survival rate for children with cancer was less than 10%.

Since then, research has improved the survival rate to above 80%. While that is great progress, its not enough when you consider that one in five children with cancer is still lost to this disease, which remains the No. 1 cause of death by disease for children.

CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer by funding targeted research and supporting patients and their families.

Research is the key to unlocking breakthroughs that save the lives of children diagnosed with cancer. Besides helping children survive their diagnoses, research leads to the development of safer and less toxic treatments that help survivors experience fewer harmful side effects and live their lives to the fullest.

In the past 10 years, CURE has invested $25 million in innovative research at leading pediatric cancer research institutions across the nation.

The highest priority is precision medicine, which is individualized treatment that targets tumor-driving genes and is already yielding significant results for children with recurring and hard to treat cancers.

Another way to describe precision medicine is personalized medicine. Today, childrens cancers are treated by disease type one size fits all. But a chemotherapy that works for some children might not be effective for others because of genetic differences.

Through genetic testing, doctors look at the genetic change in a tumor to determine how a childs cancer will behave and the best way to treat it. By isolating the specific gene that is causing tumor growth, doctors can identify medications targeted at the tumor-driving gene, which can then slow down or shut off the genes activity. This can potentially slow, stop, or reverse the tumors growth.

CUREs hope is that the research it funds will lead to a safe and effective treatment for all children diagnosed with cancer.

Until there is a cure, theres CURE. The second part of the organizations mission is to support families devastated by a childhood cancer diagnosis through programs designed to meet a familys emotional, practical, and financial needs quickly and appropriately.

CURE is in hospitals serving meals several days a week. The organization also provides emergency financial support to ease the burden of families in the fight, as well as offering professional counseling to patients and family members. CURE also gives bereavement support to families who must deal with unimaginable loss.

These are only a few of the ways the organization serves cancer patients and their families. CUREs goal is to be an ever-present help during crisis by encompassing dozens of services designed to lighten the load of families and make sure they know they arent alone. CUREs unwavering support is available from diagnosis until it is no longer needed.

CURE Childhood Cancer
200 Ashford Center North
Suite 250
Atlanta, GA 30338
770-986-0035
CureChildhoodCancer.org

By Jack L. Shampine, Jr., LPL

Recent financial reports provide a catalog of the stock market roller-coaster ride starting at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic:

February 19 S&P 500 at an all-time high
March 23 Dow Jones down almost 40% since Feb 19, fastest drop in history
March 26 S&P 500 on track for best week since 1938 and Dow Jones on track for best week since 1931
March 31 Dow Jones on track for worst first quarter ever

Besides dramatically altering our way of life, COVID-19 has taken a toll on our economy and markets. Sheltering in place was recommended to avoid exponential spread of the disease, but how can you protect your retirement savings and investments? Shelter your money in place? Take it out of the stock market? Move it to safe investments? Stop contributing to retirement accounts?

Before answering these questions, lets look at where we are, how we got here, and what clues history offers as to where we might be headed. On February 19, the S&P 500 was at an all-time high 3,386 points.

This chart highlights the magnitude of the markets fall:

But now, lets zoom out and look at this dramatic drop in the context of market history:

As you can see in the second chart, beginning in 1928, the index went from 17.66 points to 2,526 points. Even though those 90 years were fraught with world wars, natural disasters, pandemics, and more, you can view the overall trend. Notice how the COVID-19 pandemic looks fairly typical on this chart.

But for claritys sake, lets put it in terms of dollars. One thousand dollars invested in the S&P 500 on January 1, 1928, and left alone with dividends reinvested would be worth roughly $3.6 million today. So, as horrible and unprecedented as this pandemic is, it too shall pass, and the positive long-term trajectory of the stock market will likely continue.

Against that backdrop, here are answers to some questions you may have:

1. Should I get out of the market and put my money in cash?

When people get spooked enough to withdraw all their money, they rarely become confident enough to reinvest as the market falls further. However, some people pull out of the market near the low and wait to get back in when it is significantly higher, thus locking in a huge loss.

2. Should I move all my money to safe investments for now?

If youre currently invested in the stock market, moving to safe investments (like bonds) would be ill-advised because youd be selling stocks low and likely buying bonds high. The portion of your money invested in stocks should have a relatively long-term horizon. So, wait things will improve.

3. Should I stop adding to my 401(k) or individual retirement account (IRA)?

If your personal financial situation dictates that you need more cash flow right now due to reduced wages, stopping your contributions is understandable, but you should not stop adding to your 401(k) or IRA due to market downturn. If youre able, consider increasing your contributions to stock-oriented funds, since youd be buying low (relatively speaking).

4. With all these fluctuations and uncertainties, why invest at all? Why not just put money in the bank?

If you put money in the bank, your number of currency units (dollars in our case) wont decrease at all. But guess what? It wont increase much either. On the other hand, your living expenses will increase. Historically, the cost of goods and services inflates at a rate of about 3% annually. This means that during 30 years of retirement, your costs will rise by about 2.5 times. So, if your bank account doesnt keep up with increasing costs, youre going backward in terms of purchasing power.

Historically speaking, the only way to stay ahead of inflation is to have most of your money in the stock market. The trade-off is that you must sometimes endure the discomfort of periodic (occasionally, drastic) fluctuations in your account balance.

5. Im retiring soon, and I dont have a long-term horizon. What should I do?

Even when you retire, you wont withdraw all your money at once. You should keep a portion in the stock market to have any hope of outrunning inflation. A proper withdrawal strategy designed with your financial adviser should account for difficult periods like this one.

6. Should I invest now?

If you have cash with a long-term purpose, and youre confident you wont need it for several years, you should strongly consider it. Consult your financial adviser first.

To summarize, dont be lured into doing something with your investments when you probably should do nothing. Reacting emotionally could negatively affect your financial future.

Jack L. Shampine, Jr. is a financial planner and president of J. Lyndon Financial, LLC. 185 West Main Street, Suite F, Canton. 678-880-6267. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. JLyndonFinancial.com

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.
All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.
No strategy assures success or protects against loss.
All investing involves risk including loss of principal.

By the Georgia Film Office Staff

Georgia has been named the No. 1 state in which to do business for seven years in a row, and Georgias film industry has been an important part of our states years-long success story. Film has spurred investment, empowered local small businesses, and put Georgians across the state to work.

The industry continued to smash records in fiscal year 2019. The 391 film and television productions that were made in Georgia created another record year of $2.9 billion in direct spending, supported 3,040 motion picture and television industry businesses, and delivered $9.2 billion in total wages.

No state has seen the kind of investment that Georgia has seen in the industry, especially in the number of soundstages that have been built from 45,000 square feet of stage space in 2010 to more than 3.3 million today. These facilities enable the state to attract tent pole projects, which provide thousands of jobs in the state each year.

Thats why in March, the Georgia Film Office, which is a division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, celebrated Film Day at the Capitol. Governor Brian P. Kemp, top legislators, and industry partners joined the Georgia Film Office to celebrate the stories of the numerous individuals who make the industry work, launching a new website at Georgia.org/FilmWorks, to tell the personal stories about the impact the industry has made on the lives of Georgians, small businesses, and communities.

When people think of screened entertainment, the first careers that usually come to mind are actor, director, and producer. But it takes thousands of people to support the film, television, commercial, and music video industry in Georgia, and training individuals to fill those critical positions is increasing and paying off.

Aside from the small businesses that supply air conditioners, generators, catering, specialty costuming, and prop decor, for every red carpet starring role, many more behind-the-scenes roles are required to create movie magic.

The Georgia Film Office, which has worked diligently to ensure residents fill jobs up and down the production ladder, maintains numerous resources for people who are interested in pursuing a career in the film industry.

The Film Office help wanted hotline includes details on industry jobs at Georgia.org/industries/film-entertainment/georgia-film-tv-production/help-wanted-hotline. The offices production directory  provides a comprehensive resource for individuals and companies to list their services and skills, as well as to find classes, local filmmaking links, and much more at Georgia.org/film.

In 2016, the state created the Georgia Film Academy (GFA) to build the workforce pipeline necessary to fast-track workers into the industry. This first-of-its-kind collaborative effort between the University System of Georgia and Technical College System of Georgia will have enrolled more than 7,000 students from 25 partner institutions across Georgia by fall of 2020.

The GFA curriculum consists of three semesters the final of which can be a paid, on-set internship. Classes include introduction, scenic construction and painting, grip and rigging, special effects makeup, lighting and electric, post-production, production accounting, and office management. All classes are related to critical, high-demand industry careers.

The GFA prepares students for entry-level positions both on-set and in production offices; set construction and scenic painting; set dressers and props; hair, make-up, and wardrobe procedures; sound, including mixer, boom operator, and utility; camera operators and first and second assistants; on-set lamp operators; on-set grips and dolly grips; location managers; script supervision procedures; video assistants; post-production editors; and production accountants. For more information, visit GeorgiaFilmAcademy.org.

The Atlanta Film Society also regularly offers production assistant training classes as well as indie filmmaking classes. To learn more, visit AtlantaFilmSociety.org.

Many people call the film office about opportunities as extras for local productions. Casting companies have information on Facebook and Twitter, as well as email alerts. Helpful links to these resources are available at Georgia.org/industries/entertainment/georgia-film-tv-production/film-and-tv-casting-crew-jobs-classes.

High school students can even start training and planning for a career in the industry through programs in local college and career academies though the Georgia Department of Education. More programs are being offered each day, so check with your local Board of Education.

Thanks to stronger demand from students, independent and private colleges are also helping fill this need, so be sure to check course offerings at any higher learning establishment you are considering. New education, jobs, and opportunities abound with options specific to the film industry, and more local talent is filling these highly paid positions every day.

Georgia Film Office
Technology Square
75 5th Street N.W.,
Suite 1200
Atlanta, GA
404-962-4000
Georgia.org/film

By Julia Padgett

During the uncertainty of recent times, the wit, warmth, and honest brilliance of author Celestine Sibley will bring much needed comfort to readers. For those who may be too young to remember her writing in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution or her popular books, The Celestine Sibley Sampler is a great place to start. Snippets from Sibleys books easily pull you into her world, which will be like visiting a childhood friend with every turn of the page for those who are familiar with her work.

Even the authors who introduce each section are an impressive reminder of Sibleys influence, but yes, especially in the South. Where else can you find an author who wrote about murder as easily as she wrote about gardening? Sibley has many devoted readers who enjoy the range of emotions that her work elicits.

When Sibley lost her Muv (mom), it was felt keenly by some Georgia readers people who may have walked the same streets, taken the same MARTA train, and had the same appreciation for turnip greens, but never met her. That is why another visit shows how her voice still rings true after all these years.

It would be wonderful for new readers connect with Sibley and her sense of place. So, pull up a chair and sit a spell with this lovely book.

Sharing a Passion for Dance

By Ellen Samsell Salas

Lacking natural flexibility, extension, and range of motion, Jamie Trial didnt see herself as a dancer. In fact, she says she hated ballet as a child. Only after she switched dance studios when she was 13 did she discover that dance is her passion.

Suddenly, at the new studio with teachers who encouraged me, I wanted to dance every day, Trial remembered. I dove in, and there was no going back!

Discovering that passion motivated her to earn a bachelors degree in dance with a concentration in ballet at Kennesaw State University, followed by becoming the co-owner of a Canton dance production company and adjunct professor of dance at Reinhardt University, where she teaches dance technique classes and choreographs the universitys musicals.

While Trial loves performing, she knew early on that she wanted to choreograph.

Its fun for me. I think in choreography. I hear music, and I picture bodies moving. I think God wanted me to be a choreographer, she said.

Starting in high school, Trial has choreographed all varieties of dance from the Nutcracker Suite ballet, to popular musicals including Annie, Little Shop of Horrors, Hairspray, The Sound of Music, and most recently Reinhardts production of the classic, Cabaret.

As a teacher, Trial emulates her past instructors, whom she credits with being demanding but encouraging. Remembering that ballet was initially difficult for her, she empathizes with students who are facing challenges.

Dance can be highly critical. Youre always looking at yourself in the mirror and critiquing, she said. I try to keep that in mind with my students. They have to believe in their progress, to know that they might not see the end result that day, but they will (eventually).

This year, a longtime dream of Trials will become a reality, as her production companys DanceFest is launching DanceFest Reach, a program that will award dance scholarships to children and teens who are in the Georgia foster care program.

Last year, DanceFest sponsored one teen for a full year of dance instruction. With proceeds from a fall benefit gala, Trial hopes to offer dance to dozens of students.

I have a heart for kids in need, Trial said. Several years ago, I worked with kids in group homes, and I got this idea. They dont have the opportunity for activities; I started going and teaching them dance. Through DanceFest Reach, we will be able to take dance to the kids.

While Trial has performed professionally, she says that being a wife, mother, teacher, and business owner keep her too busy and too fulfilled to seek professional performance opportunities.

I love what  I do. I have a passion for dance and a belief in the goodness of art.

DanceFestInc.com