Sterling Life May 2023

THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER FOR STERLING HOMEOWNERS

Sterling Life

Check out pages 12-13 to see how Vera and Vivi made special memories helping resident, Brenda Moore, plant in her garden!

WHO TO CONTACT

Clubhouse Phone Number 770-965-3980

Clubhouse Hours & Address

Monday-Friday 9am-5pm 7005 Lake Sterling Boulevard

PROPERTY MANAGER

Allison VanKirk Totten manager@sterling-life.com

Community concerns, matters relating to the Board of Directors, and the HOA

ASSISTANT PROPERTY MANAGER

Ashley De La Cruz adelacruz@cmacommunities.com

Community concerns and modification questions.

PROPERTY ADMINISTRATOR

Fanny Lopez famaya@cmacommunities.com

General account and community questions

ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR activities@Sterling-Life.com

Information about activities and events, fitness classes, clubhouse and lodge rentals, marketing, Sterling- Life.com questions, and amenity access cards

LANDSCAPE Greenwood Group sterlinginfo@greenwoodgroup.net

THE RETREAT Ashley Grannum agrannum@cmacommunities.com

For Retreat specific questions or concerns

CMA AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY NUMBER

404-835-9100

Please call this number for emergencies involving amenity and common areas such as fire, flood, etc.

Please use this temporary remote phone number to reach the Staff while they are working from the Trailer: 470-250-8884

POOL INFORMATION

Pool Opens Saturday, May 13th!

You can find the pool rules on Sterling-life.com in the Document Center. Please make sure you read through the rules in their entirety before the start of the pool season.

We would like to point out a few important reminders:

AMENITY CARDS

A photo ID card is used to gain access to all the amenities. The pool gates will only be accessible using your photo amenity card. Residents should always have their card with them when using the amenities. Your 2023 pool stickers are also required to enter the pool. Residents must be up to date on their dues in order to obtain the stickers. Please visit the Clubhouse Trailer prior to the start of pool season.

SWIM DIAPERS

All children who are not potty-trained MUST wear a swim diaper (such as “Little Swimmers”) AND Rubber pants in addition to a swimsuit. Do not dispose of diapers in the pool area.

(Note: changing tables are available in both men’s and women’s locker rooms).

If a child is not potty-trained and is not wearing swim diapers, the resident will be assessed a $200.00 fine if a fecal accident occurs. If an accident occurs with swim diapers the resident will be assessed a $100.00 fine for the cost of chemicals to shock the pool.

The following will take place for an infraction of the pool rules:

FIRST INFRACTION

Pool privileges will be suspended for the day of the infraction.

The swipe card of who ever is using the card will confiscated by the lifeguard. Swipe cards may be claimed by the homeowner the following day at the clubhouse.

A letter to the homeowner to document the infraction and explain the pool rules and the infraction policy.

SECOND INFRACTION

The violator and family will NOT be able to use the amenities (POOL) for one week.

THIRD INFRACTION

The violator and family will NOT be able to use the amenities for the remaining season.

Thank you for helping us keep a safe and clean environment this pool season!

Resident Amenities

Resident Amenity Cards

Photo Amenity Access Cards are available to all current residents. They are used to access your amenities, and for access to many of our events (including restrooms). This photo ID should always be kept with you while using the amenities as you may be asked to verify that you are a resident. This protects the investment that you have made in your community, ensuring that only Sterling on the Lake residents and their guests use their facilities.

New Homeowners

Please email SOTLaccesscards@gmail. com a photo of each person in need of a card, and your closing documents, to receive your amenity access cards. You will be provided two complimentary photo access cards. Additional cards may be purchased for family members living in your home for a cost of $25 per card. A parent must be present when cards are issued to residents under the age of 18 years old. Only minors 13 and over can be issued an amenity card.

LOST OR DAMAGED CARDS CAN BE REPLACED FOR $25 PER CARD.

Tenants

Must obtain homeowner approval to receive amenity cards. You will have to purchase your cards for $25 per card. Please email SOTLaccesscards@gmail. com photos and your leasing documents to receive your amenity cards.

Outdoor Modification Requests

Are you planning for that new deck or that new pool addition? Please keep in mind that any modification to the exterior of your home must be approved by the Association. Please plan accordingly for all projects, including holiday and birthday gifts. Failure to receive prior approval may result in unauthorized modification fines.

The Design Review process is outlined below:

1. DRC meetings to review applications are scheduled every 2 weeks. Contact the HOA office to confirm when the next meeting will be held. All documentation (2 copies) must be submitted the Friday before the meeting date.

2. Modification Application- can be found under the documents tab on www.sterling-life.com

3. Supporting Documentation- ensure all required documentation, including but not limited to, paint samples, roof shingles, plat/survey site, material lists, renderings, etc. are included with your application. Failure to provide the required documentation may result in delays in the processing time.

4. Review Fee- there is a $75 review fee for most projects. Please confirm with the checklist if there are additional fees required. All fees must be paid prior to starting the review process. Fees are payable via check or money order.

Meeting Dates:

ɖ May 9th | Documentation

Due May 3rd

ɖ May 23rd | Documentation

Due May 19th

Approval Turnaround Time:

We understand that you are ready to get these projects underway. We ask for your patience and understanding during the approval process. The DRC has an allotted 30 days to approve/ deny your modification. Please note that it usually takes about 7 to 10 days business day depending on the requested modification.

Please be aware that all modifications are different and are judged accordingly, which may increase the time taken to make a decision. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

If you have any questions, please contact Ashley De La Cruz adelacruz@cmacommunities.com

STAY INFORMED!

Are you registered to receive community email blasts?

Are they going to SPAM?

Check your SPAM folder and mark them as “NOT SPAM”. To be added to the communications list please email activities@sterling-life.com

Paint with Kelly Turley

Come Join us for our monthly Sip and Paint at the lodge Friday May 19th to paint May Morning! Bring your own snacks and beverages.

May 19th | 7-9pm | $35 per person

May 2023

Your Own Homegrown Nature Park

“ We are at a critical point of losing so many species from local ecosystems that their ability to produce the oxygen, clean water, flood control, pollination, pest control, carbon storage, etc, that is, the ecosystem services that sustain us, will become seriously compromised.” Doug Tallamy

What are the four things your yard needs to be wildlife habitat garden?

Homes

FOOD

Native plants that evolved with the local birds and insects provide the specialized food sources needed to support these specific species.

Water

A simple, shallow birdbath with fresh water will provide the drinking water source for birds. Add a few stones and attract a few butterflies! Just keep it clean!

Nesting boxes can add more spaces for birds to nest. In nature, dead/dying trees, called snags, provide these spaces. Native bees need a patch of bare soil where they can dig their (solitary) homes

Protection Shelter from the elements and from predators is important. In nature, dead tree, and fallen branches provide cover for birds & insects. You can create a small brush pile in your backyard to do the same thing.

Spring is the time to plan an area in your yard to be especially attractive to native birds and insects. Check out our local garden centers for supplies. Use these webpages for inspiration!

https://blog.nwf.org/2019/05/four-ways-to-attract-birds-and-butterflies/ https://xerces.org/blog/5-ways-to-increase-nesting-habitat-for-bees https://homegrownnationalpark.org/tallamys-hub-1

Empty Nester Clubs and Groups

Our Empty Nesters continue to stay engaged and enjoy life and diverse activities thanks to the residents who have volunteered to coordinate the groups! To join one of the groups listed below, either contact the individual noted or attend an upcoming scheduled meeting or activity!

Register as a user on our Empty Nesters Group page on www. sterling-life.com for updates on meeting times, new groups, activities and additional details for Empty Nester events!

CO-ED GROUPS/SINGLES

Mexican Train Dominoes Judigritz@gmail.com

Sterling Reviews Book Club Zhangmin96@hotmail.com

Euchre Club Darlene.Hanson@dgscpa.com

Empty Nesters Travel Group Oliver.mcclellan@gmail.com

Theater and Music Group Merceboling@gmail.com

WOMEN’S ACTIVITES

Ladies Bunco Group Coleen_coey@yahoo.com

Ladies Bridge Merceboling@gmail.com

Ladies American Mahjong lynnagnes625@gmail.com

Ladies Canasta Pmorel14@verizon.net

Ladies Luncheon gailgranata@me.com

Ladies Knitting/Crochet gailgranata@me.com

Ladies Mexican Train Dominos Pmorel14@verizon.net

Singles Just Want to Have Fun Amaries1970@gmail.com

SLAP Lindag2530@hotmail.com

Ladies Sewing and Quilting curleefo917@gmail.com

Ladies Walking Group lynnagnes625@gmail.com

MEN’S ACTIVITIES

Men’s Breakfast rmmarzano@gmail.com

ROMEO Lunch Meet at Main Clubhouse 11:15 am

WEEKLY SPORTS

Ladies Social Pickleball Rprobst46@yahoo.com

Men’s Tennis Kenkitt1@att.net

Men’s Golf Boblester@charter.net

Need a Name Tag for EN Events? sue.barcus@gmail.com

EMPTY NESTERS CALENDAR BY THE WEEK

CH = Clubhouse LD = The Lodge TBA = email Register for ALL events at the Main Clubhouse

SECOND SUNDAY SOCIALS

Cornhole/Pizza on the Lawn

May 7th Cost is $12

Hamburgers and Hod Dogs at the Lodge Pool

June 11 Cost is $6

MARVELOUS MONDAYS

2nd – Kniting/Crocheting (10 – noon LD)

4th - Kniting/Crocheting (10 – noon LD)

TERRIFIC TUESDAYS

2nd - Ladies Bunco (2-5 LD)

3rd – Sterling Reviews Book Club (7pm LD)

4th – Ladies Bunco (7pm LD)

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS

1st – ROMEOS (11am CH)

1st – Music & Song Circle (3pm LD)

2nd – Ladies Luncheon (TBA)

2nd - ROMEOS (11am CH)

2nd – EN Social Comm Meeting (6:30 pm LD)

3rd – Co-ed Mexican Train Dominoes (6:30 pm CH)

3rd - ROMEOS (11am CH)

3rd – Ladies Walking Group (TBA)

4th - ROMEOS (11am CH)

TREMENDOUS THURSDAYS

1st – Ladies Sewing and Quilting Group (9:30-noon LD)

1st – Am Mahjong (1:30 – 4pm LD)

1st – Co-ed Euchre (6:30- 9pm LD)

2nd – Ladies Bunco (6:30 LD)

3rd - Am Mahjong (1:30 – 4pm LD)

3rd – Co-ed Euchre (6:30 – 9pm LD)

5th - Am Mahjong (1:30 – 4pm LD)

FABULOUS FRIDAYS

1st/3rd/5th – Men’s Breakfast (9am Papa Jack’s)

1st – Mexican Train Dominoes (1-3pm CH)

2nd – Canasta (1pm CH)

3rd – Mexican Train Dominoes (1-3pm CH)

4th – Canasta (1pm CH)

5th – Mexican Train Dominoes (1-3pm CH)

Past Events

St. Patrick’s Party Sponsored by The Piedmont Group, Peter Truong

We had a very rainy St. Patrick’s Day at Sterling! But residents were still able to enjoy a fun evening with live music, an Irish themed food truck, and a specialty St. Patrick’s beverage courtesy of Peter Truong!

Congratulations to the winner of the Yeti Cooler- Victoria Fanand

Movie on the Green Sponsored by Gary Nix with Georgia Real Estate Depot

Unlike the previous weekend that was filled with rain, we experienced a beautiful spring evening for our first movie night of the year! We had over 200 residents come to see the movie Moana and Moana herself even made an appearance! At the end of the movie, Gary raffled off tickets to a Braves home game! Be sure to attend his May movie night where we will be showing The Incredibles!

SAVE THE DATES!

June 3rd

Spring Fishing Tournament

June 3rd

Concert on the Green featuring The Tribute Kings

June 10th

Pool Party sponsored by American Family Insurance and Dream Homes of Georgia

June 16th

Fathers Day Event sponsored by Peter Truong with The Piedmont Group

June 23rd

Live Music at the Pool featuring Phil Davis

July 1st

FIREWORKS

**More details to come in your community email blasts and June newsletter!

Summer Camps at Sterling

Challenger International Soccer Cam

June 5-9 and July 17-21

*deadline for free jersey and early bird pricing is 30 days before camp start date

I9 Sports Camp

June 12-15

Sterling Clubs & Groups Open to Everyone!

CO-ED GROUPS

Music and Song Circle

gossedward@gmail.com

Pickleball ablenke@hotmail.com

60’s and 70’s Music Roundtable kguinn@bellsouth.net

WOMEN’S ACTIVITIES

The Fireball Ladies (Intermediate Level Play Pickleball) dmfaer72@gmail.com

Sterling Ladies Social Pickleball Group rprobst46@yahoo.com

Ladies Golf ruthielesser@gmail.com

Sterling Stripers

Sterling Stripers Swim Team: We are a developmental summer league team and compete as a member of the North Georgia Swim League. Through this league we offer both weekday meets (with 1 to 2 other teams at a time), and larger-scale NGSL sanctioned meets on weekends.

Registration 2023 rates for SOTL residents is $170.00 for the first 3 swimmers in a family, and $150.00 for any additional swimmers in the same family.

Our current practice and meet schedules are provided on the swim team website. Dual meets are currently being scheduled and will be added as soon as possible. They are expected to be week night meets throughout the month of June, with the night of the week dependent on the availability of the hosting team.

Meet our Coaches!

We’re excited to have an amazing coaching staff this season with two Co-Coaches, Jennifer Eubanks and Kenzie Trip.

Jennifer Eubanks

I am excited about working with the Sterling Summer Swim League. It will be a fun time to swim, spend time with friends, and enjoy the summer.

I am a Hall County Native. I lived in Orange County, CA for awhile ,but was glad to get back to Georgia. I have been a teacher for 22 years. I taught elementary school for 21 years, 15 of those at Spout Springs Elementary. I am currently teaching 8th grade at Davis Middle School. I have coached the Flowery Branch High School and Davis Middle School Swim teams for 4 years.

Boy Scout Twilight Camp

June 19-23

CHECK OUT THE

CODE FOR THE

I love spending time with my family and two German Shepherds. I attend Chestnut Mountain Church and volunteer in the preschool department. I look forward to meeting and getting to know all of the Sterling Swimmers and families.

Kenzie Trip

My name is Kenzie Trip and I could not be more excited to join the Sterling on the Lake Swim Team and coach alongside Coach Eubanks this summer! Here is a little about me. I began swimming at the age of six in my neighborhood summer swim

Ladies Bunco 2nd Tuesday kenkitt1@att.net

Ladies Bunco 3rd Thursday carrie.kiger@gmail.com

Mercy MATTers jepray@outlook.com

team. My whole family grew to love the sport and my siblings and I joined Dynamo Swim Team when I was 10. I began coaching my neighborhood team at 14 and became head coach at 18. I went on to swim at Berry College. I have also coached at the Country Club of the South summer team, Aqua Darts and Three Rivers year-round club teams, as well as Greater Atlanta Christian School and Rome’s High School teams. My family is all very involved in swimming. My sister swam at LSU and my brother swam at UGA. He went on to become a professional swimmer and swam in both the Rio and Tokyo Olympics, even earning a gold medal in the 800 free relay! I am very passionate about summer league swimming because it can be such a fun and beneficial environment for kids, and it is usually where all the elite swimmers get their start! I am also currently in my 7th year as an elementary school teacher.

Here are some areas I like to focus on as a summer league coach:

*First and foremost, having lots of fun!

*Team spirit and bonding

*Good sportsmanship

*Growth mindset- working on improving yourself and not comparing yourself to others

*Improving stroke technique

*Building stamina

*Learning more about the ins and outs of the sport of swimming and how meets work

I cannot wait to meet you all and I know we will have an amazing season! Go Stripers!!!

Sterling Stripers Mission Statement: To provide a fun and competitive environment that gives swimmers the opportunity to learn swimming excellence while focusing on the components of individual progress, selfesteem, and team unity.

Sterling Stripers Vision Statement: All families will be engaged and enjoy swim team activities, while all swimmers will gain swim skills, overall endurance, selfconfidence, and a sense of teamwork.

Past Events

Easter Event

The morning of our Easter event brought severe thunderstorms! But thankfully the sun popped up at the start of the event! We were unable to host the egg hunt but thanks to our resident volunteers for filling Easter baskets with 5000 eggs for families to take and do an egg hunt at their homes!

Thank you to Executive Turf for donating some of our eggs and donating raffle prizes where the kids had a chance to answer trivia questions to win some fun prizes!

Thank you to The Rains Team for providing golden eggs to exchange for gift basket prizes and additional goodies for our kids to enjoy!

We also had JAMBOS in attendance and residents donated 126 pairs of pajamas for this charitable organization!

We hope everyone had a great time despite the changes that had to be made due to weather. We hope to have a beautiful day next year for our egg hunt!

You will have the opportunity to be a part of The Sandwich Project and participate in a weekly drop off at the Clubhouse every Wednesday. EVERY WEDNESDAY, we are asking for any residents who would like to be a part of this to make and drop off sandwiches to the clubhouse. This will take place every Wednesday. To participate, check out the QR code to read the instructions on what sandwiches are needed and how to assemble. Then simply come to the Clubhouse during business hours (between 9am-5pm) and place your sandwiches in the Clubhouse refrigerator in the kitchen. On the kitchen counter, you will find a sign up sheet to fill out and a label to label your sandwiches (either peanut butter & jelly or deli).

For questions, please call or text Kristina directly at 678-372-7959.

***Drop off is currently at the Clubhouse Trailer until further notice.

Have you had an opportunity to support the new service project in Sterling? We began in October and are continuing to grow!

Tennis and Pickleball

JUNIOR TENNIS

Ages 4-7 and 10U--Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30-5:30

ɖ This class will be split into two groups (ages 4-7 and 8-10)

ɖ The focus will be on strokes and learning some match play

Advanced, Ages 10-16--Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:30-6:30

ɖ This class will focus on shot selection and continued match play

ɖ Class will be divided into at least two different skill levels

ɖ Players may opt to stay an extra hour from 6:30-7:30.

High School Academy (tryouts required) Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30-8:30

All lessons will be taught by USPTA pros Travis Threadgill and Yul Ventor and assistant Bao Dang. Travis has over twelve years of experience training athletes at all levels. There will be no more than an 8:1 player/instructor ratio.

Coaches encourage tournament play for the top level of the junior academy.

SUMMER JUNIOR ACADEMY DRILLS

ɖ Every Tuesday and Thursday morning:

ɖ Ages 9-14 8:30am-11:30am--$25

ɖ Bring water bottle, sweat towel, and a snack

ɖ Ages 8 and Under 8:30am-9:30am--$10

ɖ RSVP with Coach Travis

ADULT TENNIS

ɖ Beginners and Advanced, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30—7:30, split into separate classes

ɖ Tuesday Mornings 10am

ɖ Friday Mornings 9:30am”

Questions? Call or Email Travis Threadgill @ 678-863-2672; tgilltennis@gmail.com

STERLING ON THE LAKE LADIES TENNIS

DROP-IN ROUND ROBIN

When: Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30am

Where: Courts 7 & 8

Contact: Call or text Kay MacMillan at 706-3082603 to confirm your reservation

An email will go out each week inviting everyone to come and play. Meet and play with different players and neighbors. This is a fun way to practice without having to make several phone calls to get a foursome together. If you don’t care for playing at night or do not take lessons, this is an accessible alternative!

Reservations are set up to allow 2 courts/day/person making reservation, for 2 hours each, up to 14 days in advance.

PICKLEBALL RESERVATIONS

Pickleball court reservations policy now align with current tennis court reservations policy. Players will be able to reserve 2 courts up to 3 days per week, and for only two weeks at a time. Reservations will utilize the Reserve My Court app. This change will create a consistent reservation policy for the community and allow all residents an opportunity to play. As always, if there is need for an additional course and one is open, you may use an open court without reservations.

SPRING PICKLEBALL CLINICS

Beginner Level Only

Dates: Mondays, May 1

Time: 9:00–10:00am

Cost: Attend ALL 4 clinics for $60 or $20 per clinic

RSVP Required! Contact Coach Nathaniel at 812-319-5956 or nathanieltennis@gmail.com

CO-ED PICKLEBALL

ɖ Intermediate to advanced levels on Tuesday and Thursday night 6-9 pm, year-round.

ɖ Beginning, Intermediate, advanced levels for the Monday-Friday 2-4 pm, during the winter months

ɖ Beginning to advanced levels for the Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm, during the winter months.

ɖ Courts 9-10

ɖ Newcomers welcomed Contact: Pat Blenke, ablenke@hotmail.com

With the participation in Pickleball increasing rapidly, we need to be aware of court scheduling. When scheduling on Reserve My Court, please be sure that you only reserve two courts for the allotted number of days allowed. We want to be sure that different groups of Pickleball participants have courts available for play. If there are empty courts when your group is playing, and no one is waiting to use them, please feel free to use the unused court(s).

ATTENTION ALL STERLING TENNIS PLAYERS! OPPORTUNITIES FOR PLAY:

Adult Casual tennis, played Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 9-11 AM at courts 4-6 (and Saturdays on courts 7 & 8, dependent on court availability) has primarily included senior men players. However, players of all ages are encouraged to participate with this group, including female players. Contact: Ken Kittrell at Kenkitt1@att.net

REMINDER FOR ALL

If you are the last one playing on the courts at night, please turn off the lights before you leave.

Yard to Table: Growing What You Love With Those You Love.

As we go through life we often reflect on childhood memories. These memories involve fun activities that we shared with family. For my family much of what we did involved “all hands on deck” . Whatever we did, we did as a family. Caring for the family garden and other gifts nature provides was a big part of “family time”

For my mother flowers and a beautiful yard was a priority. She nurtured over 500 azaleas, and planted many other beautiful flowers each spring. This brought her great joy and provided a sense of accomplishment to her life. As a child, I only knew we pulled many weeds and dug many holes. As an adult I know we helped support what was her passion. I cannot claim her green thumb or have the same dedication to my yard, However, she instilled in me an appreciation for beautiful things and a willingness to labor for the things that we love.

Our family also had a vegetable garden and a variety of fruit trees. The spring harvest would yield tomatoes, peppers, corn, okra, peas, beans, squash and potatoes. In addition, we had strawberries, plums, apples and figs. When I look back, I see a family engaged in planting, weeding and harvesting what the garden offered. Nothing tasted better than a tomato or strawberry which we picked right from the vine.

Many family meals were based on what was grown and harvested in our garden. My mother, the traditional southern cook, could turn summer squash (one vegetable my husband does not like) into something amazing. Her strawberry cake and cobbler were, as you may imagine, INCREDIBLE .She was a great cook and I learned my love of cooking at her side.

She also would take the abundance from the garden and can or freeze it to be used in the winter months. As a family, we grew, cooked and ate our vegetables. I am so thankful to my mom and my dad for helping me to understand the value of working together in our family garden and to appreciate all of the good food and times it offered.

Now, I have my own backyard garden. My husband and I started our garden project with a small raised bed. The small plot once held knockout roses which attracted too many bees and for me they had to go. We were limited by size, but the exposure to sun and overall location was perfect for what would become my vegetable garden.

Year one of planting yielded tomatoes, peppers and herbs. We started with great success and learned to tackle pests and hungry rabbits. That was all part of the fun. The next year we expanded the bed and continued to add other vegetables. The new options included okra, green onions and cucumbers. Okra was a huge success. It is easy to grow and yielded more than my husband and I could keep up with. On the other hand cucumbers were a challenge. No one told me that they could and would take over a garden. They did and I learned that this year they will need a vertical option. I’m sure if my dad was still with us, he would laugh at my mistake. But in gardening, like life there are no failures, just opportunities to learn and “grow”.

This year our garden continues to grow and I am sharing in the process. My neighbor offered her granddaughters, Vera and Vivi, as willing and able new garden volunteers. They came prepared with rain/garden boots, sunglasses and happy smiling faces.

We started our afternoon by talking about what we were going to plant and what we could make with those vegetables. We discussed salsa and spaghetti sauce. I told them that things that go together in cooking should grow together in the garden. And, that was how we would plant them. Tomatoes would be planted in close proximity to the basil and cilantro. Peppers and tomatoes also work well together and should be close neighbors in the garden. It was not necessary to tell them why and how this works. Perhaps that is fodder for another year’s planting.

I explained that garden friends are much like their own friends. They are happy sharing space and supporting each other. We also discussed how some things need more space and we would allow for that growth. I told them that cucumbers take too

much space and they would later be planted to grow upward. They are bed hogs!

We made sure that each plant was planted where it would thrive and had space to grow. Their small hands created holes that were just big enough to house each plant. Root balls were gently broken apart so they could spread and each plant was gently placed in the hole. It was a process and my small fellow gardeners learned quickly.

Vera and ViVi were also excited to know flowers have a place in the vegetable garden. We talked about attracting bees, and butterflies and how gardens need pollination. Also, they learned that the type of flower planted was important. Some flowers like petunias and marigolds help keep the insects at bay and will help protect our vegetables.

At the end we watered each plant and talked about the prospect of rain to help the plants have a good start. There was even talk of planting more and adding to the garden as we could. The girls are especially excited about more strawberry plants. I now know a creative way we can add them and cannot wait to share this with my fellow gardeners. “Why try to explain miracles to your children when you can have them plant a garden.”

– Janet Kilburn Phillips

There are many lessons and other takeaways I have from my garden and sharing this experience with Vera and Vivi.

◆ The garden is a never ending learning lab. As a teacher, I soon learned there was more to discuss with my young friends than time would allow. Hopefully, these are lessons for another day.

◆ Children love being involved in the process. Let them participate in planting and caring for flowers and even vegetables and they will develop an interest. My life is living proof.

◆ Children learn to try new things and experiment. We planted brussel sprouts in a pot not in the garden. Brussel sprouts need depth and the pot would work best. I’ve never done this, but we decided “let’s give it a shot to see how it goes”.

“Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace.” –May Sarton

◆ We also know that when children grow food they are much more willing to try new things. They develop a more extensive flavor palate. This sets the stage for healthier eating. Once the vegetables start to come in, the girls can help us harvest, and prepare dishes from what we grew.

◆ Growing new things can expand into other interests. These interests can be floral arrangement, cooking and appreciation for the environment.

◆ Sharing an interest and passion with the young can bring you such joy and can change how they approach food and peak an interest in growing and nurturing new things. This applies to a garden, and to life.

At the writing of this article and only a few days after planting, I am still basking in the joy of my new garden. I truly love my spring garden. This love and joy comes because I shared the planting and design with my young friends. I know the love shared here will make it the best garden ever.

After working with Vera and Vivi to plant my garden I received a text from their GiGI (grandmother). She thanked me for doing this.and sharing with the girls. Of course, the pleasure and gift went both ways. In addition, she noted that gardening provides life lessons for the girls. This gave me pause. Yes, a garden does just that. Through the experience of a garden we can learn the importance of:

◆ Planting and nurturing the things we love

◆ Providing space and opportunity for growth

◆ Sharing what you love with those you love

◆ Working as a team and in harmony so that all can thrive

◆ Being wary of weeds and the like that seek to destroy things of value

◆ Surrounding your plants and life with beautiful things. They keep the pests at bay and enhance our growth.

◆ Working hard, planting new things, being patient, letting them grow and reaping the rewards that come about.

◆ Sharing simple act ivities with the young can harvest a lifetime of good.

“Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better.”

– Albert Einstein

With all of this said, I hope you will give this a try. Start small with tomatoes, herbs, peppers etc. in pots. Learn from those and go from there. If you can find the space, put together a small raised bed. Get the family involved in the planning and planting. You have many internet resources to help you have a successful garden and to plant a lifetime of memories. As the girls and I decided about brussel sprouts, “just give it a go” and see what happens.

Many thanks to Vera and Vivi for being great helpers and making our first planting day such a great day. You are “my adopted granddaughters”. I hope that one day you will have your own garden and share it with your families. Thanks also to Tammy Bjugson, my great friend and neighbor, for sharing her time and beautiful granddaughters with me.

Brenda Moore

Summer Cornhole

Summer League Registration closes

May 30th

Link: https://peachstatecornhole.com/flowerybranch/

League Dates (FRIDAYS):

6/9/23, 6/16/23, 6/23/23, 6/30/23, 7/7/23, 7/14/23, 7/21/23, 7/28/23

League Highlights:

• 8 weeks of league play ending in a City Tournament at your location

• Register as a Team (we recommend 2-4 players) or as a Free Agent

• League Shirts

• Top teams are invited to the PSC Spring State Tournament

Congratulations To Our 2023 Sterling On The Lake Graduates!

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES

AL-FALAH ACADEMY

• Mahreen Chowdhury, Georgia Institute of Technology

BUFORD HIGH SCHOOL

• Hayden Bailey, Florida State University

• Jack Jensen, University of South Carolina

• Nick Warnstrom, Berry College

• Abby Wood, University of Georgia

CHEROKEE BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

• Haven Bruce, UNG Gainesville

• Becca Galasso, University of Georgia

FLOWERY BRANCH HIGH SCHOOL

• Noah Matthew Barrett, Welding Career

• Valeria Quintero, University of Georgia

• Malcolm Bright, Georgia State University

• Alex Brown, University of Georgia

• Amelia Grace Cannon, Lanier College

• Olivia Chambers, Georgia College and State University

• Brice H. Deitz, Undecided/ Track and Field Athlete

• Chase Grady, Military

• Jason Hechavarria, University of North Georgia

• Kiala Holloway, University of North Georgia

• Kinsli Holloway, University of North Georgia

• Cody Hood, Undecided/Business Admin./ Marketing Communications Major

• Brayden Jackson, Georgia College and State University/Business

• Avian Lara

• Evelyn Tyla Lee, Wake Forest University

• Fabia Linton, University of North Georgia

• Tyler Martin, Georgia Southern University

• Ethan Mieldezis, William Peace University

• John David Peacock, Berry College

• Jackson Sanchez, University of North Georgia

• Joseph “Joey “ Turner, Columbus State University

• T.J. Weatherley, Ole Miss

• Ty Weatherley, Ole Miss

• Madelynn Wingate, University of North Georgia

• Sophie Woolums, Georgia College & State University

LANIER CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

• Luke Hopkins

• Bethany Wilson, University of North Georgia

LOGANVILLE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

• Bjourn Banks

MILL CREEK HIGH SCHOOL

• Colby Hayes, Georgia Southern University

• Brooke Meltzer, University of Tennessee

TALLULAH FALLS SCHOOL

• Kailyn Ashley Neal, Georgia Institute of Technology

COLLEGE GRADUATES

• Janae Freeman, University of North Georgia Doctorate of Physical Therapy

• Nick Kezios, Georgia Tech, Working for Abbott as a Cardiac Rhythm Specialist

• Tori Weatherley, Gardner-Webb University Law School

• Trent Weatherley, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Residency in Anesthesia at Wake Forest Baptist

Thursday, May 4th

The month of May can bring wild temperature swings!

Morning lows can dip as cool as the upper 30s to low 40s, while afternoon highs can vary between the mid 50s and the upper 80s.

May is also the month when temperatures can soar into the 90s, and on average, Atlanta registers its first 90 degree day on May 31.

However, the earliest 90 degree day on record for Atlanta was recorded on April 23, 1980. The latest first 90 degree day occurred on July 28, 1961.

The hottest temperature recorded in the month of May is 97 degrees, which occurred on May 29, 1941.

When Is The First 90 Degree Day in Atlanta?

WEATHER BY CHRISTINA

Facebook: Christina Edwards WSB Twitter: @ChristinaWSBwx

Keeping Undesirables Away This Season

Spring has sprung! The possibilities this time of year are endless for those who love gardening and being outdoors. Yes, Mother Nature has a funny way of reminding us who’s in charge though, as April can still bring freezing temperatures across the south east. But while homeowners are busy dusting off patio furniture, mowing lawns and tending to busy bird feeders, the things we don’t enjoy are emerging this time of year too!

With warmer, wetter weather comes mosquitoes, snakes, and deer. Be ready to keep these pests away with these few, simple tasks.

University of Georgia Extension Service and others share the following acronym to help homeowners control wildlife damage. “HERL method includes a step-by-step approach to addressing a damage problem: H - habitat modification or harassment; E - exclusion, including fencing; R - repellent or removal; and, finally, L - lethal control.”

Mosquitoes

Ƚ Control them naturally by making adjustments to the surrounding landscape. Larvae need standing water, so eliminate the water that ponds on tarps, in buckets and pots, or in clogged gutters.

Ƚ For water features like ponds and birdbaths, invest in Mosquito Dunks. They’re safe for birds and fish.

Ƚ Have an oscillating fan running while

enjoying time outdoors.

Ƚ Rather than treating the entire outdoor area indiscriminately, keep repellents like Off, Deet or Skin So Soft on hand.

Ƚ Finally, avoid dark clothing. Yep! Apparently that’s what they’re attracted to. Who knew?!

Snakes

Ƚ They’re going to be active in landscapes near water no matter what, so expect to see them.

Ƚ Know the difference between the ‘good’ guys and the venomous snakes. The four venomous snakes found in this area are copperhead, cottonmouth, coral snake and timber rattlesnake.

Ƚ When working around thick ground cover, water, or brush, make as much noise as possible to scare them away.

Ƚ Eliminate brush, lumber and junk piles near the house and common areas. These places are protected and safe from predators.

Ƚ Eliminate their food source, which may be small rodents. Have an extermination company out to help if rats and mice are a problem.

Ƚ Do NOT toss mothballs outside as repellents! It is a violation of pesticide laws and is therefore illegal, to endanger humans and other mammals outside in this manner.

Deer

Ƚ This is where the HERL method comes in handy! Harassment would include sounds and dogs on the property.

Ƚ Exclusion, which includes fencing, can be costly but is often effective if built tall enough. Recently on my radio show, a wildlife management specialist said to monitor the paths they take through the yard, and keep the plants that they like to browse out of those areas.

Ƚ Many repellents use smell and taste to deter deer. Scented repellents often employ a rotten egg smell or coyote urine. Believe it or not, deer are picky about taste and texture.

Ƚ For a thoughtful list of plants that deer don’t prefer, visit the University of Georgia Extension website, and search “deer” in their publications.

Ashley Frasca is host of the radio show Green and Growing, heard on 95.5 WSB Radio every Saturday from 6-9:00 a.m. For gardening tips, information, and advice, follow her Facebook page: Facebook.com/greenandgrowingwsb

POLLEN

Yuck. It comes in through the window, the window that is open so you can smell the sweet smells of spring.

It comes in on your clothes after working in the garden. It comes in from your garage where it has been hitch hiking on your car for the past 2 weeks.

However it is not the only yuck in your house. Dust, mold, little bugs and other trash can find its way into your vents and settle in your ductwork.

How do you keep your ductwork clean in order to keep that yuck out of the air that you are breathing?

Well, to start with you can change the filter on your furnace on a regular basis. Almost all of the air in your house passes through the filter at some point, keeping the filter clean can help keep your air clean.

But what about cleaning those ducts?

You know they are just loaded with yuck. What’s the deal with duct cleaning?

Here are a couple of things you should know about cleaning your ducts, or as I like to call, ‘Duct Sucking”.

Ƚ Maybe one of the biggest scams in the home services field unfortunately, centers on cleaning your duct work. I am talking about carpet cleaning companies that say they can clean your air ducts for some really cheapo amount – and by the I mean like $49.95 - “As long as we are here” then all they do is vacuum around your registers and if you are lucky they stick the vacuum 2 ft. into your duct.

Ƚ For your information – a good thorough duct cleaning by a professional will run you in your average sized home $500 - $600.

While I don’t generally give out prices here I will in this instance to illustrate A – that it is a serious procedure that calls for serious money and 2 – to show you how ridiculous and how little work or good you will get out of a $49.95 deal.

This is really when you should absolutely have your ducts cleaned:

Ƚ Immediately after you move into a newly built home. Lots of construction debris, saw dust, dry wall scraps, and Doritos bags end up in the duct work of a newly build home.

Ƚ And after that every 4-6 years. Lemme repeat that, every 4-6 YEARS is sufficient.

(This is unless you have someone in the house with breathing problems. If that is the case, then you should get your hvac man/lady out to your house to upgrade your furnace filtration situation. That is money better spent than on a yearly or every two year duct cleaning scam.)

I will repeat: every 4-6 years. The beauty of this is that a good, honest, reputable duct cleaning company will agree that it is not a yearly maintenance project, and that you can go years in between cleanings. One more thing. A quality duct cleaning company will/should clean your drier vents too. Hey - they are also ducts...

If your duct suckers can pass the mustard on all that, you are on to a good one. Get your ducts cleaned. Then do it again.

In 2029.