Titles and Blurbs

By Julie Senger

Anyone who has spent any amount of time in Georgia knows that the line between spring and summertime is often a blurry one. Georgias transition between these two seasons is not usually dictated by a date on the calendar, but rather by the temperature outside. Georgia frequently sees 80-90+ temperatures while its still technically spring. So, if youre looking for a unique way to cool off, check out some of these breathtaking waterfalls; submerge yourself in one of Mother Natures sparkling swimming holes, or let the kids (or kids at heart) glide down an awesome rock waterslide! Gather family and friends together, and make a day out of exploring these gorgeous Georgia locations!

Edge of the World
Highway 53 West, Dawsonville
Latitude: 34.426321
Longitude: -84.211665

Just off the Amicalola River Trail, youll find an awesome swimming hole and fun rock slides! You will need to purchase a parking pass ahead of time. A day pass is $3, or you can purchase an annual pass at GeorgiaWildlife.com. The entire trail is almost three miles long, but according to a post on 365AtlantaFamily.com, you wont have to hike the entire trail to get to the swimming hole:

From the parking lot, head down the stairs to the trailhead. Youll follow the boardwalk for about a half-mile. When the boardwalk ends, you can catch a spectacular view of the rapids from a small observation deck. Dont stop here. Follow the rough-terrain trail for a few hundred more feet. It will split, with the Amicalola River Trail following the top split to the left. You want to take the fork to the right to reach the swimming hole.

If you happen to be an advanced kayaker:

You may want to take the road from the north end of the parking lot (the area furthest away from the road) to the boat ramp/handicap parking area. This is a major put-in spot for those who want to test their skill on the class IV Edge of the World rapids that are about a half mile downstream (GeorgiaTrails.com).

Wildcat Creek Waterfall on Wildcat Trail
Wildcat Camp Road, Dawson
Swimming Hole
Latitude: 34.5006580
Longitude: -84.2845210
Waterfall
Latitude: 34.498855
Longitude: -84.293823

Wildcat trail is a streamlined hike along Wildcat Creek. Theres nothing quite like being able to hear the rushing water in the distance throughout your 3.4-mile hike to the reach the waterfall. It builds your anticipation of the amazing view that awaits you around an uncertain corner, as the crashing sound gets closer and closer, and the temperature in the air gets just a little bit cooler as you near the falls and the delightful swimming hole at its base.

Wildcat Creek also connects with the Huckleberry, Fall, and Rocky Ford Creeks. This creek joins the Amicalola River in the Wildcat Campground, so you are welcome to make this trip an overnighter! The campground is by one of the bridges that crosses the Amicalola River. The total hike is almost seven miles long. There are a few moderate climbing spots, so this trail may not be the best choice for smaller children or those with physical limitations. There are also some areas that have ropes you can use to help you along your way. Be sure to dress appropriately because there are several areas where you will cross over the water, some are small, shallow areas, while others are nearly knee-deep streams. Many people like to hike this trail barefoot.

Poole's Mill Park
7725 Pooles Mill Road, Ball Ground

Pooles Mill Park is ten acres of lovely property, boasting a charming covered bridge over Settendown Creek. The bridge was built in 1901 and refurbished in 1997. The stream alternates between gathering in small pools, providing great little swimming holes for kids to dip in the water, and areas where the water flows over rock, creating little waterfalls throughout creek. If you like to fish, be sure to bring your rod, and try your luck. There are also sloping rocks for the kids to slide down.

This park has a nice playground with slides and swings as well as plenty of parking. There are a few walking trails with some great scenery along the way. The picnic areas are perfect for enjoying an afternoon lunch.

Tallulah Gorge State Park
Sliding Rock/Bridal Veil Falls
Chattahoochee National Forest
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Road, Tallulah Falls

If you plan to hike down to Bridal Veil Falls via Sliding Rock Trail, it would be wise to arrive early, especially on nice days, as you must obtain a free permit to hike this trail, and permits are limited to only 100 per day. This is a pretty rigorous 3.4-mile hike, which may not be suitable for younger children or anyone with physical limitations; dogs are also not allowed on this trail. So, if youre up for the challenge, when you get to the floor of the gorge, you are rewarded with a huge rock slide that lands you right in the middle of a deep, sparkling swimming hole, which is the only spot where youre allowed to swim in the entire gorge.

Even if you dont manage to score one of the days 100 permits to hike Sliding Rock Trail to the slide and swimming hole, there are many other open-access trails to traverse at this hikers paradise, complete with waterfalls and whitewater-filled views. There is also an impressive, breathtaking suspension bridge that ascends to the canyons south rim.

Watson Mill State Bridge State Park
650 Watson Mill Road, Comer

Just twenty minutes east of Athens, this park is somewhat of a hidden gem. Its covered bridge is the longest of the fewer than twenty covered bridges that remain in Georgia. During summer, visitors can play in or slide down the cool river shoals just below this historical bridge.

Visitors can also go fishing, rent kayaks or pedal boats (seasonal), rent campsites or cabins, reserve a picnic shelter for a family reunion or other large event. Bikers and hikers will find five and seven miles worth of trails, respectively, and horse owners can reserve a stable for their horse, and enjoy fourteen miles worth of horseback riding trails.

Things to Remember...

• Be sure to wear an old swim suit. If youre rock sliding or sitting on rocks and sediment, you probably dont want to wear your most expensive trunks or bikini.
• Wear water shoes. You will likely be walking across rocks and other rough terrain, and youll want to protect your feet. Also, be careful when stepping on rocks and stones. They are often slippery, and smaller stepping stones may be unstable.
• Obey the rules. Be sure that you dont go past any private property signs that may be posted near some of these locations, and for your safety, be sure to adhere to all government-posted signs.
• Whatever you carry in, carry it back out. Respect these beautiful areas, and the visitors who want to enjoy them after you, by not leaving any of your trash or personal belongings behind.
• Dont forget the sunscreen!

For more information about these and other beautiful Georgia locations, visit:

GaStateParks.org

AtlantaTrails.com

SwimmingHoles.org/ga.html

ExploreGeorgia.org

Understanding the Traditions Behind How We Say Goodbye to Our Active Duty and Veteran Soldiers

By Julie Senger

While all funerals are somber, special, personal and moving experiences for the family and friends who are in mourning, if youve ever attended a military funeral, you have experienced an additional level of respect and gratitude through the different traditions, protocols and etiquettes that must be followed by our nations military as they assist families in honoring our nations veteran and active duty soldiers.

Theres nothing quite like the vision of the impeccable, white-gloved hands of the soldiers as they make each meticulous, meaningful fold of the flag. Theres nothing quite like the emotional feeling one gets as one of our nations soldiers kneels in front of a fallen veterans spouse, mother, father or child to present them with that now folded flag that had been draped across their loved ones casket only moments before. Theres nothing quite like the sound of Taps being played in the distance as you sit with your head bowed, while chill bumps prickle across your skin. And theres nothing that will jar you back into the moment quite like the honor displayed through the 3-volley firing of rifles.

Why is it so important to perform these tasks? The importance of etiquette during a military funeral/burial is that it is a way to show reverence and respect to the fallen and their family. There is a certain protocol at each military funeral/burial that ensures that the service will be presented the same way for each of the fallen, said Robert Wallace, chairman of the advisory council for the Georgia National Cemetery.

But what do all of these things mean? What do they symbolize?

*The 3-Volley Rifle Fire

This tradition dates to the European dynastic wars (1688-1748). The volleys were shots fired during a battle to request a pause in the fighting to allow time for both sides to remove the bodies of fallen soldiers from the battlefield. The three bullets represent the three volleys fired, and also symbolize the words duty, honor and country. Three shell casings, one for each volley, are often slipped into the folded flag before it is presented to the family.

Many people often mistake a 3-volley rifle fire for a 21-gun salute. The three volleys are fired from rifles, not guns. In the military, a gun is actually a large-caliber weapon, such as a cannon.

*Taps

After the 3-volley rifle fire, a bugler will play Taps as the flag is being folded. Taps originated during the Civil War. It was played to indicate to the soldiers that it was time to extinguish the lights and to go to sleep. It was later used as a figurative call in death, symbolizing the extinguishing of life, or eternal sleep.

*Flag Folding

When a veteran or active duty soldier dies, the casket is covered with the flag, and the stars are always placed over the left shoulder of the deceased. This is due to the patriotic tradition started during the Napoleonic wars. During the Napoleonic Wars, a flag was used to cover the dead as they were taken from the battlefield on a caisson.

As soldiers remove the flag from the casket, they make exactly twelve folds in it. Each fold has a meaning:
1.    Life on earth
2.    Eternal life
3.    The veteran gave a portion of him/her self for the defense of the United States.
4.    Humanitys weaker nature and American reliance of God in peace and war
5.    Tribute to the United States
6.    The state of the American heart
7.    The United States armed forces
8.    Tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death that humanity might see the light of day
9.    Tribute to motherhood
10.    Tribute to fatherhood
11.    For the Jewish citizen, this fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies the God of Abraham, Issac and Jacob.
12.    For the Christian citizen, this fold represents the eternity, and glorifies God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

*Flag Presentation

When the flag is presented to the deceaseds next of kin, the blue field of stars is always facing up. The following is what is said to the next of kin during presentation, based upon to which branch of the military the deceased belonged:

U.S. Air Force: On behalf of the President of the United States, the Department of the Air Force, and a grateful nation, we offer this flag for the faithful and dedicated service of (service members rank and name).

U.S. Army: This flag is presented on behalf of a grateful nation and the United States Army as a token of appreciation for your loved ones honorable and faithful service.

U.S. Coast Guard: On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Coast Guard, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved ones service to country and the Coast Guard.

U.S. Marine Corps: On behalf of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved ones service to country and Corps.

U.S. Navy: On behalf of the President of the United States and the Chief of Naval Operations, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved ones service to this country and a grateful Navy.

If the next of kin has expressed a religious preference or belief, the following may be added: God bless you and this family, and God bless the United States of America.

Everything about a military funeral/burial is very deliberate. Robert Wallace assured, The courtesies at a military funeral/burial are so that all aspects of the service for the fallen and their family are completed with honor and respect. It will impact the family members by showing them that we appreciate their service and sacrifice to our great nation, and they will not be forgotten.

*Sources: VeteransUnited.com: A Final Salute: Know the Symbolism Behind Military Funerals, Derek Hartley. TheBalance.com: What Do the Three Bullets Represent in Military Funerals? & Military Funeral Customs and Traditions Rod Powers. MilitarySalute.ProBoards.com: Military Salute Project.

Water Sports, Hiking, Horseback Riding It's Fun to Camp at the Cherokee Outdoor Y!

By Cyndi Braun

Summer is right around the corner, which means its time to register for camp. The Cherokee Outdoor Family YMCA has offered youth camp programs since 1992.

Located on Bells Ferry Road, by Lake Allatoona, the facility features more than 200 acres of woods, hiking trails, sports fields, a climbing wall, a swimming pool and waterfront access to the lake.

Camps run from 9:00am-4:00pm, with extended hours, free of charge, so parents can drop-off children as early as 7:00am, and pick them up as late as 6:30pm. Financial assistance is available based on need.

Our goal is to share a positive summer camp experience for children starting at age five, said Dave Andrews, executive director of the Cherokee Outdoor Family Y. We believe in nurturing our youth and helping teens develop the tools they need to be productive leaders in our community.

The Y offers several types of camps. Traditional camp,  for children ages 5-15, includes activities like swimming, rock climbing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, survival skills, organic gardening, arts/crafts, fishing, Ga-Ga ball and learning the Y values (caring, honesty, respect and responsibility).

In addition, families may register for specialty camps that focus on specific skills. These camps include:

• Little Ninjas Camp Martial arts for grades k-3
• Swim Camp Two-week program includes swim lessons for grades k-3
• Science Camp Science fun for grades k-3
• Jr. Outdoor Adventure Outdoor living skills for grades 2-3
• Soccer/Basketball/Volleyball Camps Lessons and drills for grades 2-7
• Fishing Camp Grades 2-7 (spend two hours a day fishing)
• Outdoor Adventure Grades 4-5 (learn outdoor camping skills)
• Water Sports Camp Canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding for grades 4-10
• Survivor Camp Advanced outdoor living skills for grades 6-7
• Mountain Bike Camp Trail riding, bicycle care and trail safety for grades 6-10
• Teen Leaders Build leadership skills for grades 8-10

Children who attend Y camps grow and learn, build friendships and develop into responsible young adults, said Ryder Leary, associate executive director of the Cherokee Outdoor Family Y. While the children are learning and having fun, parents have peace of mind knowing that their children are well taken care of.

YMCA camp counselors and staff motivate children to learn new things and experience the outdoors in a values-based environment.

Everything that we do at the Y is values-based. We emphasize core values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. When we practice those values, from the staff to the campers to anyone at the Y, we take on the responsibility to be caring and supportive and to foster respect, said Bob Bentley, Cherokee Outdoor Y camp director. We encourage kids to connect with nature, make friends and learn new skills, all in a positive environment.

In addition to camps at the Cherokee Outdoor Y, children ages 5-12 may attend a camp at the G. Cecil Pruett Family YMCA in Canton.

Reflecting its Judeo-Christian heritage, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta is an association of volunteers, members and staff, open to and serving all, with programs and services which build spirit, mind and body. The Y recognizes that healthy lifestyles are achieved through nurturing mind, body and spirit.

For a complete list of camps and program features, visit CherokeeYMCARegistration.com, or call 770-345-9622.

One Family Looks Back on Decades at the Y

Swimming, sports teams, summer camps, fitness programs Tina Williams and family have done it all at the Y, beginning approximately twenty years ago, when her oldest son played soccer.

One of the unique things about the YMCA is we are truly a family community center, said Williams, who teaches group fitness classes at the Canton YMCA. The Y is a place where change happens in an encouraging environment.

All six of Williams children (who range in age from 13-29) have participated in summer camp and youth programs, and five of them have worked at the Y. Her grandchildren are now enjoying the Y, with one in youth soccer and the other in a Mommy-and-Me class.

If we dont get kids thinking in terms of living an active lifestyle, many times, they will not pursue fitness in adulthood, said Williams. We want to encourage kids who are athletic to pursue their dreams, and we want to encourage kids who just want to hike trails and have fun outdoors. The Y does both of these things for our youth.

Williams family remains committed to fitness, serving the community and living out the core values they learned at the Y.

I cant imagine what my familys life would have been like, had it not been for our experience at the Y, said Williams.

The G. Cecil Pruett Family YMCA
151 Waleska Street, Canton

The Cherokee Outdoor Family Y
201 E. Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock

The Single Life Secure, Comfortable Senior Living

By Cyndi Braun

When Bev Langhorne and her husband, Jack, moved to St. George Village in 2011, she knew it was the right place for this time in their lives. Bev already knew several people who lived in the community; they were contacts from her years of volunteering at Saint Josephs Hospital in Atlanta. Additionally, she and Jack quickly made new friends as soon as they moved into their new apartment.

When Jack passed away, Bev says that she knew, yet again, that St. George Village was the right place for her.

I have so much support. My wonderful friends and the staff have been very good to me, she said. Its like living in a neighborhood a really safe, secure neighborhood.

Bev attributes some of that comfort level to moving from her former two-bedroom apartment into a smaller, yet still spacious, one-bedroom home.

I wasnt planning to move, but I noticed a one-bedroom apartment with a screened porch that had become available just down the hall, she said. The porch sold me! The apartment is not so big that I cant take care of it, and Im still on the same floor with my same neighbors. I really feel very safe and comfortable here on my own.

If you, like Bev, are a single senior seeking a lifestyle that is comfortable and secure, free of the worry of maintaining a house and yard, St. George Village offers a vibrant solution.

• Would you like an elegant home thats just the right size for you? St. George Villages one-bedroom Dover apartment is the perfect space. With features like an open floor plan, 10-foot ceilings, beautiful crown molding, spacious bedroom, bath with walk-in, porcelain-tile shower and frameless glass door; and a well-equipped kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and tiled backsplash, the affordable Dover offers maximum space and maximum value. St. George Villages first-rate amenities and services from housekeeping and maintenance to a 24-hour security service and scheduled transportation plus professional designers to assist you with interior finish selections and furniture placement, all work together to ensure the worry-free lifestyle of your dreams!
• Would you like the opportunity to be active, and make new friends? St. George Village is a place where you can experience a wide variety of opportunities to enrich your mind, body and spirit with neighbors who share your interests. The opportunities to make new friends are endless here: attend one of their exercise or educational classes; work out in the fitness center or pool; walk the trails, or put in a raised-bed garden; play bridge, or join with other residents on a community volunteer project.
• Would you like a secure plan for your future? St. George Village can help you plan in advance for your needs, as you navigate the aging process. As a Life Plan community, St. George Village presents the option to live independently and elegantly, with the peace of mind that you will have access to every level of healthcare, if or when you need it. Additionally, youll have the security of knowing that your financial investment will be protected because St. George Village is a nonprofit entity, its residents also enjoy superb estate protection through plans that offer refundable entrance fees, along with predictable, affordable monthly services fees.

To learn more about how you can live securely and comfortably as a single senior with a variety of choices, plus peace of mind call 678-987-0409 for a confidential appointment. Visit for a tour; stay for lunch. You can also find more details about St. George Village, its lifestyle and its residents at  StGeorgeVillage.org as well as on its Facebook and Pinterest pages.

St. George Village
11350 Woodstock Road
Roswell, Georgia 30075
770-645-2340
or toll free 866-826-3400
StGeorgeVillage.org

The Key To Set You Free

By Rajayne Cordery

To err is human; to forgive divine. Alexander Pope

Mistakes are made. It is the absolute nature of the human condition on many levels. Whether you are locked out or locked up, Cherokee Bail Bonds holds the key to open the door. Staffed by knowledgeable and dedicated professionals, Cherokee Bail Bonds has the expertise and reliability needed when securing a bond issue. A full-service bail bond company serving Canton, Woodstock, Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska, Cherokee Bail Bonds is here to help in all of Cherokee County.

In addition to Cherokee County, Cindy and Scott Echols are also approved by the City of Atlanta, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett and Rabun Counties and normally can facilitate bonds anywhere within the state of Georgia.

Cherokee Bail Bonds is deeply committed to the service of its clients, ensuring respect and confidentiality. Trust is an essential element in bonding relationships, and Cherokee Bail Bonds assures that faith is never violated. Licensed bail bond agents are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, ready to serve in all capacities.

A bail bond is determined by the court after a defendant is booked, and a judge sets the dollar amount required for release until an arraignment hearing is scheduled. The bonding company provides the financial assistance to guarantee full payment of the bond should the defendant not make a court appearance until final disposition is reached. A cosigner or indemnitor is required, signing a contract with the bail bonds company, who agrees to honor payment of the bond amount should the defendant fail to attend a court appearance. The agents at Cherokee Bail Bonds supervise the process, preparing and issuing the necessary paperwork and negotiations from initial defendant release to the fulfillment of all court requirements.

Cindy explains their business services:

• Bail agents and law enforcement depend on one another for holding defendants accountable, and both play a critical role in the criminal justice system.
• A bail agents goal is to help people help themselves.
• If a client violates the terms of a bail bond contract, a bail agent does what is necessary to find the individual and return them to custody, which can be an easy or difficult task.
• Bail agents do what they can to help their clients do the right thing, reminding them of court dates, weekly check-ins and stressing the importance of showing up for court.

Owners Cindy and Scott Echols have collectively been in the bonds business for over 29 years, establishing a professional reputation worthy of much respect. Any negative perception of the bonding business is far removed from the real positive experience of working with Cherokee Bail Bonds. Forget the mind-set. Cindy feels a compassion for clients, remarking on the perception, If anyone has had doings with the law, are they bad people? Thats not necessarily the case.  They just may have made a poor choice, Scott adds; Crime doesnt discriminate. A lot of good people find themselves in uncomfortable situations.

With a background in insurance and the fostering of children, Cindy is a resident of Cherokee County since being born at the old R.T. Jones Hospital in Canton, and shes also a graduate of Cherokee High School. She founded North Georgia Angel House in Canton with her parents, where she was introduced to the juvenile justice system through interventions. She holds an A.A. in Criminal Justice and a B.S. in Human Services Management. Cindy was elected and currently holds the position of region 1 director for the Georgia Association of Professional Bondsmen. She explains, It is a passion for helping others.

Scott Echols, her husband, is the immediate past president of the Georgia Association of Professional Bondsmen for a maximum of two consecutive terms. We are at the Capitol, working on legislation, Scott explains. They have worked to secure the approval of education dollar increases for bondsmen through a dedicated commitment to their professional cause. Theres something to learn every day. It is our business to be aware, says Scott.

The bond agents at Cherokee Bail Bonds are highly qualified and approved by the Cherokee County Sheriffs Department, having undergone extensive background checks and having been accredited for moral turpitude. They undergo continuing education in their field on a yearly basis, following the dictates of state law. We could not have asked for a better team, Cindy smiles.  We call ourselves Team Echols. Our agents are your friends. They are going to take the time, be patient and explain the process.  Scott offers, Our agents will explain what you need to know, so youre not in the dark. You are only as good as your team.

Why do they do it? Cindy quickly quips, You may be the only person when they get out that door who can say something to them that can make a change in their lives. Cherokee Bail Bonds is a member of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and frequently sponsors events for local charities. They are a supporter of Northstar Educational and Therapeutic Services, a supporter of Food for the Poor, a member of the Georgia Association of Professional Bondsmen, a member of the National Professional Bail Agents of the United States, and a supporter for the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation. I am doing business in my hometown, says Cindy, thankfully.

Tyler Perry said, The key to life when it gets tough is to keep moving. Just keep moving.  Cherokee Bail Bonds holds that key to unlock the door for you to walk through.

Cherokee Bail Bonds
Cherokee County Location: 2920 Marietta Highway, Unit 106, Canton
Call: 770-224-9150
Fax: 770-224-9149
BailBondsCherokee.com

By Farris Yawn

As many people know, members of what is known as the Greatest Generation dont often share a lot of personal war stories. Many of the people who came home from WWII kept their war experiences to themselves.

As time passes, there are fewer and fewer of these veterans left, and some people are trying to record these first-hand accounts before they are lost forever. Denver Peardon is one such person.

Denver sat down with these veterans in their homes or assisted living centers and wrote down their experiences to share with the world. Denver stated, For most veterans, it was very difficult to share their stories. I have a couple of them that took years to agree to talk about the war, and some still refused. I feel like I am keeping a secret from the rest of the world if I dont share what I have. We have all heard the stories of famous divisions or famous individuals from World War II, but these are the stories of the local, everyday soldiers that you very rarely hear from. Some stories may be difficult to understand or to relate to. I didnt want to change anything because it would not be the accurate history. The stories are told in the words of the ones who were there.

For this collection, Denver has stories from William Pressley, Fred Goodwin Sr., George and Rae McLaughlin, Louis Moysin, H.T. Padgett, Charlie Harrell, Carl D. Beck, Jake McGarity, Floyd J. Land, Leland and Elsie Bell, Louis and Fran Wagner, Cecil Page Davis, Alfred L. Butterworth, Wilmer Frady and Cliff Nolte. Their stories will carry you from the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, to Pearl Harbor, to Casablanca, to Calcutta and all points in between.

We owe an enormous debt to these men and women, and everyone should read and share their stories of fighting for our freedom. Everyone who puts on a uniform should be celebrated as part of the Greatest Generation.

By Annell Gerson

For many of us, home includes winding neighborhood roads lined with towering pines, plush fescue lawns sprinkled with azaleas and dogwoods and roads dense with SUVs loaded with soccer gear, children and the family dog. Compared to home around the globe, suburban life in Atlanta is mostly quiet, predictable and safe.

But what if it wasnt?

What if the unimaginable happened in our city? What if a stadium, school or shopping center became the target for a terrorist attack? Who would do this, and more importantly, why?

Rona Simmons newest book, The Martyrs Brother, takes readers to the edge of such an event and presents a fictional who and why. Riveting and perfect for robust book club conversation, The Martyrs Brother unfolds from four points of view. Since her husbands death five years ago in a suicide bomber attack in the Middle East, Alicia has worked doubly hard to be a good mom to her son. Lupe and her twin sister pay coyotes to help them enter the United States, where they hope to reunite with their father and work to send money home. Cyril works in the Atlanta field office of the FBI, and after messing up a previous assignment, he is determined to salvage his career by creating meaningful software that will significantly help with data sorting. Shafras brother is the suicide bomber responsible for the death of Alicias husband; five years after the event, he leaves home to head to Atlanta.

Simmons carefully chisels the many faces of each character. They are scared, brave, angry, hopeful, lonely, anxious, but most importantly, they are motivated motivated by what cannot be seen, but rather by what stirs quietly in the silence of their thoughts. As good books often do, The Martyrs Brother will linger in your thoughts, as you think about home.

Rona Simmons previous novels are The Quiet Room and Postcards from Wonderland. Visit RonaSimmons.com for additional information.

Enjoying the Process

By Tina Morris

Peachy Pyrons debut album, Worth the Burn. was released when she was only fourteen years old and included several self-penned tracks. At that time, her music decidedly fell into the country music genre. As she matured, her sound transformed to an eclectic mix of indie singer/songwriter with a bluesy tone and an acoustic style. Whichever genre, Peachy has a soulful voice that can mesmerize the listener.

Her creativity has always been evident. As a toddler, she asked her parents to call her Peachy. In that moment, a star was born. It is this type of unwavering support from her parents that cultivated the creativity that has shaped Peachy into the young woman she is today.

She first picked up the guitar at eight years old, but according to Peachy, she didnt immediately fall in love with it. After a few years and a change in instructors, as her song titled In Love with My Guitar suggests, she was re-inspired. At the age of twelve, Peachy began playing, singing and performing shows.

Artists such as Chris Stapleton and Ray LaMontane greatly influence Peachy as she continues to create her own sound and image. She appreciates Stapletons ability to cross genres. She first heard LaMontane on a road trip with her family and was captivated by his sound. The rental car the family was using happened to be tuned to the Coffeehouse Radio station. Since that day, Peachy has attended four of Ray LaMotanes concerts and considers him one of her biggest musical influences.

From playing the guitar and singing to song writing and performing, Peachy enjoys all aspects of the craft. Over the years, she has taken several trips to Nashville to co-write music. While she has not recorded anything lately, at age seventeen, Peachy is busy taking college courses while finishing high school and working. With all that she has going on, she wishes she had more time to write and play. Peachy still finds the time to perform, most recently playing shows at Madlife Stage and Studios in Woodstock. She enjoys giving her audience new music at every show.

The creative process is important to her, though its always different. Sometimes, a billboard inspires her; other times, it may start with a line, title, hook or melody. Peachy calls music her outlet and finds the process of writing and playing a healing one. Even though she is young, she is poised beyond her years. Her advice to artists just starting out? Always stay inspired.  This is what allows the creative process to keep moving forward.

Songs For Kids Foundation exists to give kids battling serious illness opportunities to be creative and express themselves through music. This Foundation brings music into hospitals all over the U.S. They also run regular programs in childrens hospitals in five states. Songs for Kids musicians perform mini concerts in hospitals for entire floors of patients as well as making individual bedside visits for kids who are not well enough to leave their rooms. Songs For Kids is not there to just play a couple of songs, provide a distraction and leave; their goal is to form the kinds of meaningful relationships that are necessary to help kids cope with their illnesses through creativity.

Songs For Kids musicians are dedicated artists, trained in hospital procedures, and they dont let illness get in the way of kids having a good time. Theyve played guitars wearing latex gloves and scrubs, sung classic rock anthems from behind surgical masks and provided the soundtrack for physical therapy exercises in rehab gyms.

In addition to hospital performances, Songs For Kids provides opportunities for songwriting and recording to give kids the chance to put their experiences into words and feel a sense of accomplishment. How many people can say theyve written and professionally recorded a song in the midst of medical procedures, chemo, checkups and tests?

Songs For Kids artists have been bringing music into the lives of these amazing kids for ten years, and theyve performed in nearly every childrens hospital in the U.S. This year, the Foundation will be taking that work one step further by launching a one-on-one music mentorship program that will be available to kids both in and out of the hospital. Kids who join the program will work with their own Songs For Kids musician on a dedicated music project. Whether that means songwriting, singing lessons or learning an instrument, it will be exciting to witness and showcase the awesome work they do together. Songs For Kids is honored to rock with the kids who need them most.

One of Songs For Kids largest and most notable fundraising events is their annual 500 Songs For Kids. 500 Songs For Kids takes place every year in Atlanta, GA and features hundreds of volunteer bands and solo artists who perform one of 500 songs over twelve nights. There have also been many famous musicians whove volunteered at 500 Songs for Kids over the years such as Cee-Lo Green, Arrested Development, Butch Walker, Gavin DeGraw, Edwin McCain, Drivin n Cryin, Janelle Monae, Shawn Mullins and the Zac Brown Band, just to name a few. This is the eleventh year for 500 Songs For Kids, each year has a musical theme; this years theme will be the 500 Greatest Feel-Good Songs of All Time. If you are a musician who would like to volunteer to perform at 500 Songs For Kids, visit SongsForKids.org/500SongsForKids for more information and to apply.

500 Songs For Kids Dates & Venues:
March 24-25  Smiths Olde Bar
March 31-April 1  Venkmans
April 7-8  Smiths Olde Bar
April 14-15  Smiths Olde Bar
April 21-22  Venkmans
April 28-29  Smiths Olde Bar
Tickets:  Pay what you want! Thats right, you can pay what you want at each show. Your contribution is appreciated.

1579 Monrow Drive, Suite F-927
Atlanta, GA 30324
404-541-9231
SongsForKids.org

Q&A with Canton Termite: Your Hometown Pest Control Company

By Cyndi Braun

Canton Family Life recently sat down with Tim McWhirter, president of Canton Termite and Pest Control. Tim and his crew are expert bug guys who have been helping homeowners with pest and wildlife problems for almost three decades. The conversation began by talking about the upcoming termite swarm season.

What is swarm season?
Its when thousands of young termites come out of hiding. Swarm season usually starts in late March after some rain and warm temperatures. Once the ground temperature reaches an average 75 degrees, subterranean termites begin producing swarmers, which in maturity, leave the colony to infest new areas.

Without regular inspections, homeowners can go years unaware that their home is already infested. This can allow the termites to cause extensive structural damage while remaining completely undetected.

Sounds like a nightmare! Whats the first thing you should do if you see a swarm?
Termites devour anything that contains cellulose (like wood or paper) and cause billions of dollars of damage every year. If termites are discovered in your home, it is vital that you act quickly to eliminate the threat of damage. It is often impossible to deal with an infestation of termites without professional training and equipment, so it is best to call an expert to deal with termites in your home.

What can I do to prevent termite damage?
Just like you lock your doors to prevent home burglaries, you should be proactive in monitoring for termites and preventing the damage they can do. At Canton Termite, we offer several options to help protect your home:
Borate Wood Treatment When homes are being constructed or remodeled, we apply borate wood treatment to exposed wood. Once the borate is absorbed, the wood becomes resistant to termites.
Liquid Treatment The oldest and most popular form of termite treatment, liquid insecticide attacks existing termite infestations as well as preventing future termites.
Bait Stations These are basically food canisters that attract termites. On a quarterly basis, we inspect the bait stations. If termites are active, we switch the bait with a product that the termites ingest and carry back to the nest, eliminating the colony.

Wouldnt it be easier to wait and see if termites are ever a problem?
As Benjamin Franklin stated, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It is always cheaper to deal with termites before they have a chance to cause damage to your home.

What area do you serve?
We serve customers in Cherokee County and the surrounding area from Marietta Square to Talking Rock, GA, from Cumming to Cartersville, and of course, everywhere in between.

What if I have a problem with ants or squirrels?
Give us a call. Were a full-service company, offering control of termites, roaches, ants, mosquitoes, rats, mice, nuisance wildlife and other household pests.

Our most popular program is what we call our complete service, which includes four quarterly treatments. On the first visit, we do a thorough interior treatment followed by an exterior application. We go through the house and make sure there are no problems, applying insecticide only where needed. Then, we come back for three more quarterly visits and treat the exterior of the home.

The idea is simple, get the pests out and keep the pests out. If during the year you see bugs in the inside of your home, we come back as needed and treat for that specific problem as part of the complete program service.

Do you have any tips for preventing pests from being a problem?
The best way to keep pests out of your home is to keep your home in good repair; seal any access points like vents, cracks or holes, and eliminate any conditions conducive to infestation. If you would like specific information on protecting your home from common pests, our website has informative, up-to-date articles that may be helpful.

What makes your company different from others in the area?
As your hometown pest control company, we have built our reputation on quality work and
friendly service. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your home and provide you with a solution that will best solve your specific pest problem. We provide custom solutions to common pest problems.

Canton Termite & Pest Control, Inc.
770-479-1598
CantonTermite.com

Bringing the World in Focus, One Patients at a Time

By Cyndi Braun

It has been said that the eyes are the windows to the soul. If so, thats all the more reason to pay attention to eye health. When your vision is fuzzy, its time to bring your world in focus.

Whether you need routine eye care or have a more serious vision problem, Thomas Eye Care can help. Founded in 1974, this full-service eye care provider has locations throughout Atlanta including an office on Alpharetta Highway in Roswell.

The Roswell office provides eye care for the whole family, specializing in pediatric ophthalmology, cataract surgery, LASIK, vitreoretinal diseases and surgery, glaucoma, cornea, oculoplastic surgery and cosmetic services. In addition, the group is committed to patient care, starting at the front desk and continuing through examinations and any necessary procedures.

I am always impressed with Thomas Eye Group and how professionally they run their business. From check-in to final check-out, the service is great, said patient Elliott Dahle.

The Roswell doctors include: Larry Heit, M.D.; Stuart Newman, M.D.; Stephen Lipsky, M.D.; David Sackel, M.D. and Nhora Abril, O.D.

Larry Heit, M.D., is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract and refractive surgery. He has successfully performed more than 10,000 cataract and refractive surgical procedures in his career.

When we perform cataract surgery, we are able to change the whole focus of the eye, so its functional without glasses, said Dr. Heit. I enjoy performing surgery. Its very rewarding to do a procedure, get a great result and have the patient experience a remarkable improvement in their vision.

Stuart Newman, M.D., is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in dry eye and comprehensive medical care of the eye. Dr. Newman is celebrating his 29th year at Thomas Eye Group.

I have a special interest in dry eye because I have dry eyes myself. Dry eye affects vision and comfort and gets progressively worse if you dont address it. And dry eye is no longer something only older people suffer from, said Dr. Newman, adding that he performs diagnostic screening, so treatments are tailored to the specific type of dry eye the patient is experiencing.

Stephen Lipsky, M.D., is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus. Dr. Lipsky treats eye misalignment, tear-duct obstruction, eyelid abnormalities, cataracts and glaucoma. He also performs routine eye care including glasses and contact lenses.

One of the most important things when meeting a child is to remember to address the child with a smile. Children pick up on subtle cues, said Dr. Lipsky. Parents are often more apprehensive than the children. If they give us an opportunity to work with their child, theyll find that the child has a great experience here.

Patients and their parents respond well to Dr. Lipskys approach.

Thomas Eye Group has been my childrens eye provider for eight-to- nine years. We have always enjoyed the professionalism and kindness shown over the years. My daughters have always had a great experience with Dr. Lipsky and his staff, said Lynelle Perry.

David Sackel, M.D., is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. He treats patients with a wide variety of corneal pathology including corneal infections, ectasias and dystrophies as well as dry eye disease and cataracts.

The ability to transform patients lives by allowing them to regain vision via corneal transplantation and/or cataract and refractive surgery is truly a rewarding experience, said Dr. Sackel. I am humbled each and every day to have the opportunity to interact with patients in order to help meaningfully improve their vision.

Nhora Abril, O.D., is a board-licensed, bilingual optometrist, born in Colombia and trained in Pennsylvania. She assists people of all ages including a growing number of Spanish-speaking patients.

From the front desk, to the technicians, to the doctors we work together as a team, said Dr. Abril. I enjoy meeting patients and getting to know them. I like helping people see, especially children who have no idea they need glasses and dont know what the world is supposed to look like until they get their first glasses. I also get great professional satisfaction from assisting those who communicate in Spanish.

Thomas Eye Group has established a strong reputation for highly experienced doctors, state-of-the art facilities, commitment to procuring leading-edge surgical and diagnostic equipment and delivering superior, quality patient experiences and results.

With a mission to improve the quality of peoples lives by compassionately providing a lifetime of outstanding eye care, its no surprise that Thomas Eye Group has been awarded the Consumers Choice Award for ten consecutive years.

If youre looking for an eye care provider in the Roswell area, consider Thomas Eye Group.

Thomas Eye Group
Roswell Office
11690 Alpharetta Highway
Roswell, GA 30076
770-475-5515
ThomasEye.com

Dean Woodall Communities' Latest Masterpiece

Wilshire Estates, the newest subdivision by local real estate developer and home builder Dean Woodall, is located in Cherokee County and offers custom, farmhouse and craftsman-style homes on acre-plus wooded lots. Many of the plans that you will see are exclusive designs created by Woodall Construction Company, Inc.

As a leader in the real estate industry for the past 32 years, Dean 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 subdivisions and homes in Cherokee County.

Wilshire Estates is conveniently located off White Road, near the intersection of Highways 108 and 20, between Canton and Cartersville, at a distance of only seven miles from both Interstates 575 and 75. It uniquely provides both privacy and easy access to local restaurants and shops. The local schools, Knox Elementary, Teasley Middle and Cherokee High School, are all well respected for academic excellence.

At Wilshire Estates, the lots, ranging from 1 to 2.5 acres, are heavily wooded with stately trees, providing a mature, natural setting. We take a minimal number of trees out in order to preserve the natural beauty of the land, Dean says. The setting is back in the woods and is very quiet. He adds, The gently sloping topography is excellent for ranch homes with full basements. As each lot is unique, Dean is able to create the homes to compliment the natural features of each lot. Deans genuine desire is to not only build fine homes, but to also establish a close relationship with future homeowners. David and Nancy Brannen, recent buyers, stated, We are so thankful for the opportunity to have worked with Dean. The experience has been amazing! Deans ease, guidance, professionalism and quality of work are unsurpassed.

Other developments by Dean Woodall Communities include: Chestnut Hill, Sweetbriar, Pebble Brooke, Brookwood, Amberleigh, Brookfield and Willow Ridge. Asked about his latest venture at Wilshire Estates, Dean proudly states that, Wilshire Estates may be my most beautiful development yet.

Dean Woodall, recently recognized by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as builder of the week, has built over 300 homes in Cherokee and Pickens Counties. Over his career, beginning with the founding of his first subcontracting business at age nineteen, he has closed over 475 real estate transactions, buying and selling over 1650 acres of land. Additionally, Dean lives in one of his own neighborhoods amongst those whose homes he has built and whose dreams he has helped to fulfill.

Wilshire Estates Phase II, which consists of 32 heavily wooded lots, opens this month. Homes will range in price from the mid-300s to the mid-400s. Lot reservations are being offered, for a limited time, for only $1000. These reservations allow prospective buyers to choose the lot for their new home on a first-come, first-served basis. In the event that the buyers and the builder are not able to come to an agreement that is pleasing to both sides, the deposit will be refunded in full.

Wilshire Estates is marketed by Deans daughter, Ashley Donnelly, of Woodall Family Realty, a family-owned-and-operated, full-service real estate company. Ashley is a dedicated and experienced realtor who takes pride in helping all customers navigate their way through the home buying and building process. She has the unique ability to turn what could be a stressful situation into an exciting and fun experience.

Dean Woodall is a licensed builder in the State of Georgia, an IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified water restoration technician and a certified EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) lead safe renovator. Named Agent of the Month by Metro Brokers GMAC realty, he holds memberships in the Cherokee County Board of Realtors and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.

Why does Dean do what he does? Dean answers:

When I develop a subdivision, I take a piece of property, and I have a vision of what it will look like when the streets, houses, trees and landscaping are complete. Then, I get to go through the process of buying the land, getting it engineered, putting in the streets and building the homes. I get to put all the pieces together to turn it into the vision I had in the beginning.

Dean designs fabulous custom homes according to the wishes of his customers, helping them to realize their own vision of their dream home and create their own individual painting on a carefully chosen canvas. A Wilshire Estate lot is a magnificent canvas, waiting for sketches and brush strokes, promising a personalized masterpiece.

More information can be found at Wilshire-Estates.com

Woodall Construction
404-314-1000
WoodallConstructionCompany.com

Woodall Family Realty
678-230-2911
WoodallFamilyRealty.com

Plan the Perfect Outdoor Dinner Party

By Julie Senger

Hooray! Springtime has officially arrived, ushering in warmer temperatures and more daylight hours. So, before we roll in to the sticky-hot, humid days of summer in Georgia, now is the perfect time to plan an outdoor dinner party for friends and family. Heres what you need to do to pull off the perfect springtime soire.

Lets Get This Party Started!

Thematically Speaking:
The first thing you need to do is decide on a theme. The best way to decide this is to consider the reason youre gathering people together for an outdoor meal. Some popular spring themes for outdoor dinner parties include: Easter dinner, little league baseball, bridal/baby showers, wine-and-cheese/chocolate tasting, small plates/appetizers, garden party, spring harvest, block party, Cinco de Mayo Mexican fiesta, rustic BBQ, low-country boil, farm-to-table, Hawaiian luau, ethnic food (Moroccan, sushi, Italian, etc.), murder mystery, and and and. you get the point; the possibilities are endless!

Youre Cordially Invited:
If your theme is less formal, your invitations can be as casual as a phone call, face-to-face conversation, a flier posted in the break room at work or a group invitation in social media/Messenger. However, if your theme is more formal, youll want to order or create traditional invitations to send out via regular mail. Your invitations should hint at your theme. In other words, if youre having a garden dinner party, you may want to select an invitation with a delicate floral pattern. If youre having a murder-mystery dinner party, your invitations might have fingerprints or a magnifying glass depicted on them.

In addition to date, time, theme and location, be sure to let your guests know what to expect, so they can come prepared. If your theme requires that your guests dress a certain way (formal/casual attire, costumes, etc.), make sure to indicate this on the invitation. You will also want to let your guests know if they need to bring anything (BYOB, a side dish/dessert to share, white-elephant gift, games/sports equipment, etc.).

Ambiance Set the Stage.

Thats Music to My Ears:
Unless your dinner has another planned form of entertainment (outdoor movie night, spoken-word poetry readings, etc.), youll need to decide what type of music to have at your party. You can hire a DJ or live musicians, or you can run your digital music app of choice (Pandora, Spotify, etc.) through speakers you have set up outside.

Make sure that your music compliments the theme youve chosen. For example, if your theme is sports-related, you might want to select a stadium/arena rock station on your music app. If youre having a wine-and-cheese/chocolate tasting, you may consider hiring an acoustic band or solo artist to play mellow, mood music in the background. Make sure that youre considerate of your neighbors and aware of local noise ordinances.

Ive Seen the Light:
Though many people dont give it much thought, lighting is very important when it comes to setting the mood for your outdoor dinner party. If youre having a Hawaiian luau, you may want to set up lots of tiki torches around the area. A sushi dinner party might call for paper lanterns, or a Moroccan theme would be best illuminated by colorful, ornate, glass lanterns. String lights or twinkling fairy lights draped from tree branches or adhered to nearby bushes or fences are always a lovely choice that can complement many different themes.

Table Decor:
When setting/decorating the table where your guests will dine, in addition to sticking with your theme (Ha! Are you noticing a running theme here?), be sure that your centerpieces are low enough so as not to obstruct the flow of conversation. Lots of tealight candles floating in water in short glass bowls or short vases and/or votive candles in various types of decorative candle holders are always a safe choice. Short flower arrangements, plants or succulents bring fresh life to the table.

Its always a good idea to set up a separate table or three so that your guests have plenty of space to eat on the dining table; set up one table for drinks, one for your main course and side dishes and one for desserts. The exception to this would be if youre planning a low-country boil, in which case youd use a disposable table cloth and dump the delicious food right down the middle of the butcher-paper table runner. Be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!

Food! Get in Muh Belly!

Whats for Dinner?
While your theme will likely dictate your menu, you dont necessarily have to prepare the food yourself. Catering is a wonderful option for those short on time or for parties planned on short notice. There are many local restaurants that can accommodate you. For example, if youre having a BBQ-themed event, Butts and Barley has delicious entrees as well as down-home southern sides and yummy desserts.

When preparing the food yourself, if youre not preparing items that will be consumed right when theyre served, consider making dishes that will be palatable at room temperature, so you dont have to worry about being close to a kitchen or other heat source, and guests can snack throughout the evening. Youll also want to make sure that you have a way to cover food items while theyre not being eaten in order to keep out the bugs.

Other Things to Consider

Extra-Curricular Activities:
If youd like to be considered the host(ess)-with-the-most(ess), plan to have a few activities for guests to enjoy once the meal has concluded. Cornhole, horseshoes, Slip n Slide, Twister, hula-hoops, jump ropes, karaoke machines, badminton/volleyball nets, sprinklers, bubbles, sidewalk chalk and movies projected onto an outdoor screen are fun ideas, many of which are great for adults and children alike.

Climate Control:
Springtime in Georgia can be a bit unpredictable. Plan to have fans (electric and hand-held) in case its still really hot when the sun goes down or a fire pit, campfire or bonfire in case it gets chilly. If it has been awhile since it last rained, make sure there are no current bans on outdoor burning in your area before igniting your flames.

How to Design and Grow Dramatically Beautiful Container Plants

By Joshua Fuder

Container gardening can serve as a terrific first step into gardening for the novice; its also ideal if youre limited on time or space. Additionally, its excellent for aging gardeners or anyone with limited mobility because it puts the soil at a height that is more easily accessible.

Success Starts with the Soil
The biggest difference in container gardening vs. in-ground gardening is the soil. Commercial potting mixes are ideal for container gardening because they allow for adequate drainage and aeration. These mixes will contain a combination of vermiculite and peat moss and either perlite or ground-pine bark. Many commercial mixtures also come fortified with fertilizer. If you plan to have an abundance of containers, consider mixing your own potting soil to save money. Mineral soil (soil from your garden) can be used as long as its improved with organic matter to provide the necessary drainage. A mixture of two parts soil, two parts peat moss and one part perlite should be satisfactory.

Fertilizer Amendments
Although commercial mixtures that come fortified with fertilizer often claim to feed up to four months, potting soils by design will not hold on to nutrients for more than a few weeks. Nutrient levels drop as plants use them for growth, and with each watering, nutrients are leached through the soil.

Most commercial fertilizers contain the big three nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. These are the primary nutrients required for plant growth. There are other minor nutrients required for healthy plant growth that are usually found in sufficient amounts in native soils. Since potting mixtures dont contain real soil, they will often lack minor nutrients like calcium, magnesium, sulfur and iron.

Container-grown plants may turn yellow due to lack of iron, magnesium or sulfur. A container-grown tomato may get blossom-end rot, which is a symptom of calcium deficiency. The solution is to choose fertilizers that contain both major and minor nutrients. You can also add dolomitic limestone to the potting mixture at planting time, as it contains both calcium and magnesium. Apply one tablespoon of lime per gallon of soil mixture.

When mixing your own soil, its beneficial to add a premium-grade fertilizer. A well-balanced fertilizer such as 5-10-15, 5-10-10 or 6-12-12 at a rate of five pounds per cubic yard or 3 ounces per bushel (1.25 cubic feet). Dolomitic lime should also be added at the same rate as the fertilizer.

Supplemental fertilization of plants should begin two-to-three weeks after planting. The frequency will depend on what type of fertilizer you choose. For liquid-soluble fertilizer, plan to apply it every two-to-three weeks during the growing season. For dry, granular types, apply a half teaspoon for every gallon of soil every two-to-three weeks. Slow-release fertilizers are a good option and will last up to three months. A teaspoonful per gallon of soil is generally recommended.

Creative Containers
Containers come in all shapes and forms, from colorful, beautifully glazed pots to old rubber boots.  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the function is the same. The most important consideration is whether it has adequate drainage. If you choose a pot without holes for drainage, its recommended to use a double-pot method. This requires that you pot in a different container that has drainage holes then place it on gravel inside the pot without holes.

Container size is also important. Outdoor container plants, especially fast-growing ones, need adequate space for root development. Small pots restrict root growth, which will result in limited top growth. Containers that are tall (more than one foot) will require a large amount of soil. To save on soil, you can fill the bottom of containers with light-weight material such as aluminum cans or old nursery pots placed open-end down.

Planting Design
Designing the container planting is much like traditional garden design. Principles like form, texture, color and proper proportion are perhaps more important in containers than in a larger landscape. For a balanced look, dont let plants be more than two-thirds of the overall height of the container. For shallow or small containers, choose smaller plants or plants with small foliage. For large or tall containers, choose plants with medium-to-tall, mature-sized plants, plants with large leaves or both.

Successful plantings will pull the eye to the center to a thriller plant. Plants that work well in this role have compact, upright growth such as salvia, grasses and Dracaena spike.  Around the thriller, you want to create a sense of flow, so complementary fillers should be used. Filler plants will have a compact, upright growth. Good examples of filler plants are geraniums, Dusty Miller and heliotrope. To get a lush, overflowing look, add additional plants that will serve as the spiller. Plants like sweet potato vine, verbenas, Vinca vines or Portulacas will be sure to impress.

Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. Contact the UGA Extension office for any gardening assistance, 770-721-7830 or CAES.UGA.Edu/extension/cherokee

Bringing Quality Cardiology Care Close to Home

By Cyndi Braun

Northside Hearts Cumming office provides convenience and quality care to residents of North Fulton and Forsyth County. The practice is conveniently located on the Northside Hospital Forsyth campus.

Northside Heart is one of the largest cardiology practices in the north Atlanta area, with locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Suwanee/Johns Creek and Woodstock.

Physicians treat a wide range of cardiovascular disease. They are board-certified in cardiovascular disease, nuclear and interventional cardiology.

Full-Service Cardiology in Cumming
The Cumming location is a full-service cardiology office, which means patients may receive preventative medicine care, diagnostic procedures and cardiac electrophysiology evaluations.

We evaluate and treat people with all forms of cardiovascular disease, said Dr. Thomas Jordan, who is one of six physicians seeing patients in Cumming. That includes something as basic as high blood pressure, which is the most common medical problem that any physician sees, to complex congenital heart disease.

Patients visit the Cumming location for routine exams and diagnostic testing such as EKGs, echocardiograms, rhythm monitoring, nuclear and non-nuclear stress tests.

With Northside Hospital Forsyth and Northside Heart in Cumming, you have Atlanta-based physicians right here in your community, said Patricia Tyson, administrative director for the Northside Hospital Heart and Vascular Institute.

Partnering for Your Care
Northside Heart formed in 2016 after Cardiovascular Physicians of North Atlanta and Northside Cardiology, two well-respected cardiology groups, partnered to serve the communities throughout greater Atlanta with the highest standard of cardiovascular care. Northside Heart now brings together a team of sixteen cardiologists and eight locations, with a newly-opened office in Canton and an additional office in Marietta opening in the coming months.

With so many doctors on staff, the practice is committed to offering patients something smaller practices cannot collaboration with other highly experienced members of the team. Doctors consult with each other to provide the best possible care for patients.

Dr. Jordan says doctors often meet with each other to consult about a particular patient. Getting input from other doctors improves patient care.

Compassionate, Quality Care
At each of the locations, Northside Hearts physicians hold the belief that they should not just care for patients; they should care about them.

From office personnel to technicians, nurses, medical assistants and the rest of the medical team, the practice is committed to patient-centered care. Some patients have been with the practice so long that they have become like family.

Ive seen patients now for almost 25 years, who Ive seen since day one. They keep coming back, and thats a great part of this type of practice. You can do all these procedures, and then you get to know the people, and learn about them and their families, and see them over the years, said Dr. Jordan. You dont just do one procedure, and never see them again; you are taking care of them for the duration.

Northside Heart is committed to making sure patients get quality time with the physicians. Doctors spend as much time as needed with each patient to conduct a thorough exam and to get to know them as well as address any concerns that the patient may have.

Good News About Heart Disease
In the past fifty years, death rates due to cardiovascular disease have declined significantly. This decline has been attributed to a variety of factors including advances in treating heart disease, better medications for high blood pressure and high cholesterol and the existence of cardiac care units such as those at Northside Hospital. In fact, all three Northside Hospitals have been recognized by the American Heart Association as providing gold standard cardiovascular care.

Cardiovascular disease is actually one of the few diseases where the mortality is going down. There are more people with cardiac problems, but the number of people dying from heart disease has actually gone down compared to most other diseases, said Dr. Jordan. Weve really done well in helping control risk factors, improving patients lives, getting them to live longer and hopefully better, too.

Patients who have risk factors for heart disease or have already been diagnosed should monitor and treat their condition with the assistance of cardiologists such as those at Northside Heart.

Northside Heart- Cumming
1505 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 3600, Cumming
770-343-8565
NorthsideHeart.com

Bringing Quality Cardiology Care Close to Home

By Cyndi Braun

Northside Hearts Woodstock office provides convenience and quality care to residents who live on the southern end of Cherokee County.

Northside Heart is one of the largest cardiology practices in the north Atlanta area, with locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Suwanee/Johns Creek and Woodstock.

Physicians treat a wide range of cardiovascular disease. They are board-certified in cardiovascular disease, nuclear and interventional cardiology.

Full-Service Cardiology in Woodstock
The Woodstock location is a full-service cardiology office, which means patients may receive preventative medicine care, diagnostic procedures and cardiac electrophysiology evaluations.

We evaluate and treat people with all forms of cardiovascular disease, said Dr. Thomas Jordan, who is one of six physicians seeing patients in Woodstock. That includes something as basic as high blood pressure, which is the most common medical problem that any physician sees, to complex congenital heart disease.

Patients visit the Woodstock location for routine exams and diagnostic testing such as EKGs, echocardiograms, rhythm monitoring, nuclear and non-nuclear stress tests.

With Northside Hospital Cherokee in Canton and Northside Heart in Woodstock, you have Atlanta-based physicians here in your community, said Patricia Tyson, administrative director for the Northside Hospital Heart and Vascular Institute.

Partnering for Your Care
Northside Heart formed in 2016 after Cardiovascular Physicians of North Atlanta and Northside Cardiology, two well-respected cardiology groups, partnered to serve the communities throughout greater Atlanta with the highest standard of cardiovascular care. Northside Heart now brings together a team of sixteen cardiologists and eight locations, with a newly-opened office in Canton and an additional office in Marietta opening in the coming months.

With so many doctors on staff, the practice is committed to offering patients something smaller practices cannot collaboration with other highly experienced members of the team. Doctors consult with each other to provide the best possible care for patients.

When we have complex patients, well talk to other doctors in the practice, and theyll talk to us about their patients. We always end up learning something. Everyone gets along well, so we can get other opinions, share our own and help each other. At the end of the day, the patient really benefits from the experience of all the doctors, said Dr. Gordon Azar, who also sees patients in Woodstock.

Compassionate, Quality Care
At each of the locations, Northside Hearts physicians hold the belief that they should not just care for patients; they should care about them.

From office personnel to technicians, nurses, medical assistants and the rest of the medical team, the practice is committed to patient-centered care. Some patients have been with the practice so long that they have become like family.

Ive seen patients now for almost 25 years, who Ive seen since day one. They keep coming back, and thats a great part of this type of practice. You can do all these procedures, and then you get to know the people, and learn about them and their families, and see them over the years, said Dr. Jordan. You dont just do one procedure, and never see them again; you are taking care of them for the duration.

Northside Heart is committed to making sure patients get quality time with the physicians. Doctors spend as much time as needed with each patient to conduct a thorough exam and to get to know them as well as address any concerns that the patient may have.

Good News About Heart Disease
In the past fifty years, death rates due to cardiovascular disease have declined significantly. This decline has been attributed to a variety of factors including advances in treating heart disease, better medications for high blood pressure and high cholesterol and the existence of cardiac care units such as those at Northside Hospital. In fact, all three Northside Hospitals have been recognized by the American Heart Association as providing gold standard cardiovascular care.

Cardiovascular disease is actually one of the few diseases where the mortality is going down. There are more people with cardiac problems, but the number of people dying from heart disease has actually gone down compared to most other diseases, said Dr. Jordan. Weve really done well in helping control risk factors, improving patients lives, getting them to live longer and hopefully better, too.

Patients who have risk factors for heart disease or have already been diagnosed should monitor and treat their condition with the assistance of cardiologists such as those at Northside Heart.

Northside Heart- Woodstock
900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 400, Woodstock
770-924-5095
NorthsideHeart.com

By Jessica Asbell

What would you do if your chance at happiness caused someone else a lifetime of pain? In The Light Between Oceans, by M.L. Stedman, Tom Sherbourne is the keeper of the light on Janus, a small island off the coast of Australia. He is there to keep ships from harms way. He marries Isabel, and they become the only two inhabitants on the island.

Isabel wants plenty of children, but after two miscarriages followed by a stillbirth, she is grief-stricken until a dinghy washes ashore with a dead man and a healthy, wailing infant. Isabel takes the infant and soothes her. As the keeper of the lighthouse, it is Toms duty to report this incident. But Isabel convinces him to wait. A day turns into years. And eventually, its time to go back to the mainland to have Lucy christened.

Tom is uneasy, knowing he should have reported their discovery. By this time, they have learned that the mother was not dead, and in fact, had been mourning her husband and infant daughter for years. What are they to do?

M.L. Stedman creates a beautifully written story of pain, family and how our choices can change so many lives. The Light Between Oceans will make you feel the characters grief, pain and happiness. Its a wonderfully written book.

Jessica Asbell is an avid reader and a childrens minister. She holds a BBA from Mercer and a Master of Divinity in Christian education from McAfee School of Theology. Shes also a frequent customer at Foxtale Book Shoppe. 770-516-9989. FoxTaleBooks.com

By Annell Gerson

Two of Atlantas favorite womens fiction authors both have new novels out this month!

Wendy Waxs 10 Beach Road series continues with the sixth installment in the lives of Maddie, Avery, Nikki, Kyra and newest member of the sisterhood, Bitsy. One Good Thing reminds us that despite the heartache of wayward teens, uncertainties of second chances at love, the hormonal rollercoaster of pregnancy, realities of life with the rich and famous and the ever-looming cloud of financial uncertainty, there is always something good to appreciate. The load-bearing beam of this series is friendship, and though these women begin their relationship as strangers, each comes to realize how much support they give and receive from each other.

Karen Whites The Night the Lights Went Out is also a book about the unlikely friendship between Sweet Apple, GA residents a crusty, 93-year-old Sugar Prescott; working mom and recently divorced Merilee Talbot and gated-community, all that mom, Heather Blackford. When Merilees husband leaves her for their daughters third-grade teacher, she and her two children rent a small cottage on Sugars property.

Through blogs by an anonymous Sweet Apple observer who seems to know everybodys business, as well as character revelations, readers delve into secrets, sorrows and revenge...and learn a few southernisms along the way. Its not until a violent tornado hits Sweet Apple and knocks out electricity on Sugars property that the truth and true friends are revealed. Such is life; its often while in darkness that we see the light.

There will be a luncheon for the release of Wendy Waxs One Good Thing on April 26th, 11:30am-1:30pm at Bookmiser in Roswell. A brunch for the release of Karen Whites The Night the Lights Went Out will be held at the Public House in Roswell on April 17th, 10:30am-12:30pm.

Annell Gerson is co-owner of Bookmiser bookstore, with locations in Roswell and East Cobb. 770-993-1555. Bookmiser.net

Consumed by Costumes

By Tina Morris

Kenette Bethel enjoyed attending plays at Elm Street Playhouse long before she became a costume designer for them. Some may call it chance; some may call it fate, but whichever it was, it was a perfect match. While attending a play at the Elm Street Playhouse, Kenette discovered a flyer in the program that said, looking for visionary support. She took a chance and emailed the playhouse. Soon, she began working in the costume design department.

Kenette grew up in Huntsville, Alabama where her parents worked as programmers for NASA. Her mother died when Kenette was only nine years old. Her father remarried a year and a half later. It was Kenettes step mother who first introduced her to sewing when she signed Kenette up for a weeklong sewing camp when she was thirteen years old. Kenette learned a lot and loved the experience. Her passion, plus four years of home economics in high school, prepared Kenette to work as a tailor while attending Kennesaw State University.

Today, with over four decades of experience in sewing, Kenette is more than capable of costume design and creation. She began working with Cindy Flanders, the costume manager at Elm Street Playhouse, who designed the first play that Kenette worked on. Kenette enjoyed the collaboration, stating that, Two heads are better than one.

The Little Mermaid Jr. was Kenettes first show as costume director. Her experience and creative process helped her overcome any challenges she faced. When it comes to costume design, Kenette states that, It is important to talk with the director first about the overall vision for each character. Next, its important to learn what the needs of the characters and costumes are. For example, if characters must dance, the costume must allow for free range of motion. It sounds obvious, but it can create quite a challenge. Kenette states that, If the director has a vision in mind, I follow that. If the director does not, then I will follow my own idea path. Even fabrics can prove a challenge. A fabric that may look perfect at the store may wash-out under stage lights.

According to Kenette, the functionality of the garments can be the most challenging task. For The Little Mermaid Jr, Ariel had to transform from mermaid to human on stage. The challenge allowed Kenette to push her creativity and design a piece that became her favorite.

Kenette is enthusiastic about upcoming projects, including Annie Get Your Gun. She is not the costume director for this production, but is excited because she loves western wear. She enjoys volunteering with Elm Street Playhouse and encourages anyone who enjoys a craft to find a way to share it with their community.

Tina Morris is a student in the MFA creative writing program at Reinhardt University. 770-720-5582. Reinhardt.edu/Graduate/MFA-CW/

By Julie Senger

Many of us look forward to having our beloved family dog excitedly greet us at the door at the end of our day, tail wagging, jumping up and down as they look out the window to see us pull in the driveway and emerge from our vehicle. No matter what kind of day weve had, we can always count on our dog to be happy to see us, even if its just because they need a potty break. Theres a certain level of comfort in that.

We rely on our dogs for many things. They help us remain active due to their need for walks and playtime; they alert us when someone is in our yard or at the door; they comfort us when were sick, sad or upset by snuggling up to us or allowing us to pet them until we are calm. But what if we had to rely on them to save our life or the lives of others?

There are dogs that are trained to do just that, among other things. K-9 Yup is a 29-month-old German Shephard who was actually born in Germany then raised in Holland from the time he was three months old until he was sixteen months old. In Holland, K-9 Yup was trained in initial obedience, initial patrol work (bite work, aggression training, handler protection/defense) and other areas of K-9 training. He then made his way to the United States in early 2016 to become Rob Columbos security companion/partner. Rob and K-9 Yup work for a private security agency that supplies K-9s nationwide.

When Rob first acquired K-9 Yup, they went to Indiana for a seven-week training program, which would allow Rob the opportunity to learn everything he could about his new partner. But the training doesnt end at the conclusion of the seven-week program, K-9s must be trained on daily basis, and they and their handlers have to be certified once a year, Rob stated. From the moment a dog starts training, training lasts until the dog is retired, due to age or medical conditions, or until the dog is taken out of service.

According to Rob, There is a very distinct, in-depth and intense process when it comes to training police or security dogs. It starts with a detailed, selective breeding process, where two previous service dogs, two dogs with a service-dog blood line, or two dogs that have strong service/police dog traits are mated. After the puppies are born, they are put through several basic evaluations, which progressively get more complex. Police/security dogs must have a strong level of perseverance. They must have a high desire to find and locate things, coupled with a drive to hunt, not necessarily for prey, but hunt for people, objects and other materials, Rob said.

Police/security dogs can be trained to do many different things; they can track subjects, sniff out bombs or illegal drugs, find articles and evidence and protect their handlers among other things. One of the things K-9 Yup is certified to do is protect and defend his handler. If a dog is handler-protection-and-defense certified then they are trained to protect and defend their handler with or without a command to do so; basically, K-9 Yup reacts to intense or hostile situations and goes into protection mode, Rob explained; I would trust K-9 Yup to protect me and/or save my life.

So how are K-9s protected on the job? Many are provided bullet-proof vests, and their handlers often have vehicles that are specially equipped for K-9 safety and transportation. Because of K-9 Yup, my patrol car is outfitted with a kennel, air system, hydration system, heat-sensor system and a door-pop system, Rob assured. The heat-sensor system indicates when the vehicle gets too hot for a dog to remain in the vehicle. Rob continued by explaining that:

If the vehicle gets too hot, it will sound alarms, roll down windows and activate a window fan that is installed on the vehicle especially for K-9 Yup in his kennel. The door-pop system is in case I get into a fight or situation where I need to deploy K-9 Yup at a moments notice. I have a remote control that I carry in my vest that will automatically open the door and let K-9 Yup out to come assist me in any ongoing situation.

There is not a specific retirement age for police/security dogs, as it largely depends on the type of job each dog is trained to do as well as their physical structure and mental capacity. I probably will not work K-9 Yup much past eight or nine years old, Rob stated; at which point, I will be able to keep him as a pet, and we will get old, fat and happy together in our golden years!