December 2017

Gò0dNews December 2017

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

ÂŽ

CATOOSA

Amy Jackson, Membership Coodinator Shirley Watts, Executive Administrative Assistant Martha Eaker, President and CEO Mary Dunlap, Receptionist/Tourism Information

Don’t hope so. Know so.

Call me today for a free Good Hands® Coverage Checkup and see if you have the coverage that’s right for you. I can also help you find discounts you may qualify for that could save you big time.

GREG SEIBENHENER 706-866-9299 2855 Battlefield Pkwy FT. OGLETHORPE gregs@allstate.com

230118

Insurance and discounts subject to qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. Northbrook, IL. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Co.

113 OAKWOOD ST. • CHICKAMAUGA, GA 30707 706.375.7247 • OCAEAGLES.ORG

About Us WRITERS

Amy Wilson Andrew Lee Arlene Ledbetter Brent Madaris Cara Cochran Danny Hesterly Ellen Oliveira Emily Bangura Eric Kennedy Evan Tyler Fox Mitch Frix Rick Mitchell Sandra Godfrey Stephanie Young

SALES

Stewart Kelley 423-227-2002

DESIGN

Caleb Prytherch Avery Hurst

PHOTOGRAPHS

Courtesy of Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce

Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in Cleveland, Tennessee, and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community

FACEBOOK

are combined, lives will be changed.

DISTRIBUTION

Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us

GoodNews Christian Magazine Catoosa 5000 Monthly

EDITOR

Emily Bangura

PUBLISHER

Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Phone: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

WEBSITE

goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewscatoosa

GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord.

Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS� basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

Contents DECEMBER 2017

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk 6 A Thankful Heart

by Eric Kennedy

GoodNews for Kids 8 Born for a Purpose

by Stephanie Young

GoodNews on Money Matters 10 Red and Green—The Colors of Christmas?

by Andrew Lee

GoodNews for Men 12 Anger

by Brent Madaris

GoodNews for Women 14 Tough Journey toward Motherhood

by Sandra Godfrey

GoodNews Cover Story 18 Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce

by Emily Bangura

GoodNews for Parents 20 Making Memories

GoodNews for Everyone 22 Praise: An Anchor for Our Souls

by Cara Cochran

GoodNews for Health & Fitness 24 Fit Not Frozen

by Evan Tyler Fox

GoodNews for Teens 26 To Every Season

by Amy Wilson

GoodNews from the Physician’s Desk 28 Joint Replacement Surgery

8

by Mitch Frix

GoodNews for your Tastebuds 30 Mini Mango Rose Tart

by Ellen Oliveira

GoodNews for Everyone 32 Precious to God

by Arlene Ledbetter

GoodNews for Everyone 34 The Christmas Light

18

by Rick Mitchell

by Danny Hesterly

34

Gò0dNews Christian Magazine

®

Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

A Thankful Heart

by Eric Kennedy

“You are my King, O God; ordain salvation for Jacob! Through you we push down our foes; Through your name we tread down those who rise up against us.

For not in my bow do I trust, nor can my sword save me. But you have saved us from our foes and have put to shame those who hate us. In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever.”

I

— Psalm 44:4-8

’ll never forget the night I began our weekly Wednesday night Bible study in the usual way. I asked the folks present if anyone had any praises to share, and one of our regulars was the first to raise his hand. The words he spoke have stuck with me for years: “I have a praise to share. I’m having my foot amputated next week - but God is still good.”

The brother who shared that praise had been through more hardship and heartache than just about anyone I have ever known. Diabetes had robbed him of his health and was now robbing him of his foot. Kidney failure meant three dialysis treatments a week for the rest of his life. A few years earlier a surgeon had accidentally cut his aorta during a routine gallbladder surgery and my friend nearly died.

But through it all, one thing remained constant – “God is still good.” Thanksgiving has just passed but the time to be thankful has not; all of us have much to be thankful for. Some of us, however, are in the midst of difficulties that make the giving of thanks a bit difficult. Don’t let the hard times rob you of a thankful heart! Psalm 44 reminds us that we always have reason to thank God, even when there are forces that seem to be working against us. No matter what is happening, God has saved us in Christ and causes

6 // December 2017

all things to work together for our good – even when we don’t understand how. C. S. Lewis said it this way: “We ought to give thanks for all fortune: if it is ‘good,’ because it is good, if ‘bad’ because it works in us patience, humility, and the contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country.”

The Psalmist said it this way: “In God we have boasted continually, and we will give thanks to your name forever.” No matter your circumstances, take time as this year ends to join the eternal chorus of praise and give thanks to our God from whom all blessings flow!

Eric Kennedy has served as pastor of Ringgold 1st Baptist Church since 2014. He and his wife Lori, a speech pathologist at Battlefield Primary school, are the proud parents of James (12) and Ellie (8).

Elite Title Co., LLC W H E N O N LY T H E B E S T W I L L D O !

SERVICES WE OFFER • Residential Closing • Refinance Transactions • Purchase & Sale Agreements • Resolution Of Complex Title Issues • Title Exams

2 5 6 1 B AT T L E F I E L D PA R K W AY FORT OGLETHORPE, GA 706.419.1903 | ELITETITLECO.COM

Gò0dNews for Kids

Born for a Purpose

T

by Stephanie S. Young

his month, we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior. We perform plays and sing songs that remind us of His story. He was born to Mary and Joseph in a lowly, dirty manger for you and me. The angel told the shepherds, “The Savior – yes, the Messiah, the Lord – has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger” (NLT). How could someone born in those conditions grow up to be such a person to die for us?

Jesus was born for a purpose and so are you. You are on this earth for a reason. What is it I am supposed to do?

Why am I here? These are questions you will start asking yourself as you get older or maybe you do now. Don’t worry if you don’t know right now. Even though Jesus’s purpose was determined, he lived as a child and teenager just like the rest of his family and friends. Jesus had time to grow into what would be the purpose and vision for His life: to save us from our sins and give us another chance to have a relationship with Him. You may also be thinking about the neighborhood you live in, how much or little money you have, how you look or act, or even how old you are. How can I grow up to be someone with such purpose? What can I do that would be so great?

8 // December 2017

Well, to answer those questions, I will tell you this: God has given each of us gifts and talents to use for Him and to help others. Nowhere in the Bible does it say that you have to look a certain way, be from a certain neighborhood, or have a large amount of money to be a great person with purpose. Where you are now is only a step in the direction that God has for you to find your purpose. He has a plan for all of us, no matter how big or small. God tells us in Jeremiah 29 that he has plans for us, to take care of us, and to give us a future. Isn’t that great?!

We are all here for a reason. Yes, we go to school to learn.

At home, we spend time with family and may have chores to do. We play and visit with friends and family on the weekend. But, all of that is a part of our story and the steps to our purpose. During those times, we are learning more about ourselves and who God is in us.

At this time in your life, enjoy being a kid. Find out what you are interested in and try it. Learn something new! Each day, each adventure is another step to learn what God has for you to do.

You were born for a purpose!

Stephanie Young is an educator with 20 years experience in the public and private sector. She has worked in various parts of ministry, but most closely with marriage ministry alongside her husband, Theodore Young Jr. of 20 years. As she completes her doctorate degree this year, she looks forward to what else God has in store.

When living alone is no longer an option and a nursing home isn’t the answer.

706.937.5488 Full Service Garden Center TREES & SHRUBS CLAY POTTERY YARD ART ROCK & PAVERS Landscaping DESIGN SODDING SPRINKLERS LIGHTING Hardscaping

One Bedroom & Studio Apartments

WALLS PATIOS FIRE PITS WALKWAYS

Limited Availability

Grilling

Senior Independent Living • Assisted Living Memory Care • Respite

63704-1

Call Gregg Martin At (706) 866-4443

KAMADO JOE SAFFIRE ACCESSORIES

Come Visit Us At Our New Location 840 OLD MILL ROAD RINGGOLD, GA 30736 (JUST BEHIND CVS)

Red and Green—The Colors of Christmas?

MONEY MATTERS WITH DR. ANDREW LEE Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.

approaches, we would be well to keep in mind

A

Financial Peace University right now at my home church

the words of the apostle Paul in Phillipians 4:11,

(Westmore Church of God). In this week’s lesson, we

s yet another Christmas shopping season (frenzy?)

Coincidentally, I happen to be teaching Dave Ramsey’s

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

learned that by putting $660 per month into a retirement

When every commercial and online pop-up ad seems to be

account invested in stocks averaging around 10% annual

telling us that what we really need to bring us happiness

return (which is reasonable given the long-term track

is “more” of this, that, and the other, we can start to see

record of the stock markets), by retirement age of 68, you

why “red” and “green” are colors that are traditionally

would have nearly $3 million dollars! Notice that $660

associated with Christmas: we turn “green” with envy

per month falls between that average new car payment

when we see what our neighbors and friends have, and

listed above, and that new Mercedes Benz lease payment.

then we turn “red” and throw a tantrum when we are told

In other words, it would cost you several million dollars

we can’t afford to get those things for ourselves. Recently,

by the time you retire in order to make the neighbors

I was listening to a financial talk radio show where a caller

“green” with envy to show off your new car. But with that

was explaining his imaginative method for avoiding this

car losing 60%-70% of its value within the first four or five

type of materialistic envy. Whenever a shiny, expensive

years, that “green” has now put you in the “red” financially

luxury car pulled up next to him at a stop light, he would

speaking. Does that make for a Merry Christmas? Wouldn’t

look over and picture a flashing “red” sign in the air above

it be better to have a paid-for car so that you can invest that

the car, showing the amount of the monthly car payment

car payment and grow your money into some real “green,”

(or lease payment, more often than not). The imaginary

meaning dollars? (Yes, I realize in today’s nearly “cashless”

“red” number hovering over the car became a warning

society, this pun will soon lose its luster, as did gold long

sign for him not to envy a car he could not afford. I heard

ago). In the end, we are reminded in 1Timothy 6:7 that we

not long ago that today the “average” new car payment

truly cannot take it with us when we die: “For we brought

in the U.S. is around $490 per month for sixty months.

nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”

I also saw a television commercial recently featuring

Or as Dave Ramsey quips, “I’ve never seen a moving truck

Santa Claus, no less, advertising that you can lease (rent)

following a hearse to the graveyard.” This Christmas, as

a brand new Mercedes Benz for only $770 per month—

we shop either in the malls or online, let’s also be content

wouldn’t your neighbors be envious to see you pulling

to enjoy the simple and lasting pleasures of Christmas—

into the driveway in that?

memories with family and friends, and a chance to reflect on God’s grace through Christ. Merry Christmas!

10 // December 2017

Gò0dNews for Men

T

Anger

by Brent Madaris

here is much talk these days, across many levels of society, about anger, especially the angry man.

When it comes to anger, we all probably know people who, “fly off the handle, blow their stack, flip their lid, come unglued, and lose control.” It does seem that we live in an angry world, with many people just waiting for an excuse to explode.

It is easy to see how various human emotions have their place, but what about anger? Does anger have a place?

I have seen anger tear apart husbands and wives, children and parents, preachers and parishioners. Surely, we think, there can be no place for anger in the emotional makeup of human beings. The Bible even states in Ephesians 4:31, “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.” Galatians 5:22 lists the fruit of the Spirit, and, interestingly, anger isn’t one of them.

However, in spite of these very plain verses of Scripture, there is a time for anger. When is it? Most people believe that the time for anger is when anything irritates them. Not so! Look at Ephesians 4:26. It states, “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” Yeah! There it is! Justification for my anger! Hold on. Not so fast.

The context of Ephesians 4:26 leads us to believe that our encouraged anger should be directed at things that hinder the full expression of our Christian testimony.

For example, things like lying (v.25), stealing (v.28), evil speaking (v.29), grieving the Holy Spirit (v. 30), etc. In other words, we should be angry at our own sin! In fact, I contend that if we were properly angry at the right things (i.e. our own sin) and were truly living the genuine Christian life

12 // December 2017

(and not common cultural Christianity that has become so mundane), we would see a great deal less misdirected anger.

Anger can become a deep-seated emotional problem if not properly managed, but the good news is that there is an answer to the problem of anger. In dealing with anger, begin by remembering and practicing the following: ◊ Repent (every single time) concerning un-biblical anger and appeal to the Holy Ghost to conquer anger in your life. ◊ Identify the true source of your anger. Most of the time it is some form of selfishness. You beat anger by “crucifying the flesh” and “yielding to the Holy Ghost.” Allow him to fill you with the opposite of anger (Christlikeness - e.g. patience, peace, selfcontrol). “Crucify” and “yield” many times per day.

You will be (with God’s help), creating a new response pattern with each such effort. ◊ Pray for God’s power. Have others pray for you too.

Accountability is key to successfully overcoming anger. ◊ Study yourself. Know what angers you and avoid it if possible. Know what it is about you that angers others and, if possible, stop doing those things. Know what makes you less angry and do those things when anger begins to manifest itself (however, avoid destructive things like overeating, smoking, drugs, alcohol, etc.).

I have other reference materials on dealing with anger.

Write to me and I will share them with you. May God help you and give you victory.

Brent Madaris is the Pastor of New Haven Baptist Church in Summerville, GA. He is the father of four and has been married for 16 years. He is also a Family Nurse Practitioner. He has a Master of Divinity from Crown Seminary and is currently engaging Doctoral studies at Pensacola Theological Seminary.

suzukicycles.com

PROUDLY BUILT IN

ROME, GEORGIA THE SUZUKI KINGQUAD ATV. AMERICAN STRONG. JUST LIKE THE PEOPLE WHO BUILD IT. American work is at the heart of what makes the KingQuad trusted, rugged, and reliable. That’s why we’ve been assembling KingQuad ATVs in Rome, Georgia for 16 years. Raw, high-tensile steel from local suppliers is cut, bent, and welded into frames, and our engines are built using precision tools and techniques that continue Suzuki’s legacy of performance and reliability. The in-house plastic molding of fenders and application of the elements-resistant powder coating are fitting testaments to Nothing’s Built Like a KingQuad®.

The end result is an ATV that’s more than strong – it’s KingQuad strong.

RT CYCLES

1931 Lafayette Rd Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706.861.3000 rtcyclesuzuki.com

Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

Gò0dNews for Women

Tough Journey Toward Motherhood

N

by Sandra Godfrey

ot all women want children. I wanted ten. My parents raised a big family, yet after seven years of marriage, Ken and I had none. I kept holding onto faith while I turned my nurturing skills toward the students in my classroom. ‘Why’, I wondered, ‘must my journey toward motherhood take so long?’

Then one spring day my kind husband, a United Methodist pastor, breezed home to confront an impending

tsunami incited by another negative pregnancy test. Tears washed my cheeks, as I unleashed my frustrations.

“Ken,” I wept, “why can’t we have children?”

He hugged me close; we prayed; we made appointments with our doctors. What a miracle! Eight days before Christmas that year we welcomed Kevin, baby number one, into our home.

However, another tsunami was quietly encroaching.

Eighteen months later baby Kyle surprised us by arriving four weeks early. In the neo-natal intensive care unit, Ken and I sat by the precious little fellow, talking to him softly, letting his tiny fingers curl around ours. The doctors brought terrible news. He needed surgery for a tear in his esophagus; his lungs required ventilation; the diagnosis looked ominous. Twenty-one days later the baby died. On Labor Day we buried our second child.

Our grief refocused a few months later when we discovered the coming of baby number three. We waited before sharing our great news. Finally we celebrated with family and friends. That child, however, arrived weeks later as a miscarriage.

14 // December 2017

How I obsessed over the desire to cradle a newborn. So, when a parishioner called to say we could adopt Elisa, an infant needing a home, I thought ‘Surely this child, baby number four, will end my empty arm syndrome’. Inwardly I withered, however, as Ken said little, and the opportunity passed.

Then another Christmas, with six-year-old Kevin tucked in bed, ornaments glistening, presents wrapped, I snuggled by the blazing fire in the Graysville United Methodist church parsonage. Reading the biblical story of Mary’s journey toward motherhood, I thought how different hers sounded from mine. Young, humble, unmarried, she saw an angel.

“And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found favor with God. And behold thou shalt conceive…and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.” “And Mary said, ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.’”

Turning the silky white page, I read how the babe leaped in Mary’s womb when she visited her cousin Elizabeth.

Then this mysterious little verse sparkled in the text, Luke 2:45.

“And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.”

“Lord, I believe,” I whispered. “I believe you will perform whatever you promise your people.” Peace massaged my weary heart. Faith swirled through my soul. I sensed God’s presence, and knew all was well.

Ten months later, Ken and I stopped at the drive thru window for sandwiches on our way home from the hospital. Two ladies filling our order swooned over Jonathan, our precious newborn.

With two sons to hug and hold, our nest felt full. Along our journey we had gathered greater sensitivity for people who suffer. We had also gathered lots of truthlets about prayer, patience, peace, promises, presence, and provision.

Sometimes I still quote Luke 2:45: “And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.…”

Then, like Mary, I stretch my faith further and whisper, Lord, “…be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 2: 38).

Sandra Godfrey, retired teacher, minister’s wife, and mom. Her published credits include articles in Highlights for Children, Guideposts for Kids, World Vision, The Upper Room… along with three curriculum books commissioned by Shining Star Publications.

Sandra blogs at sandragodfrey.com

Ringgold Church Directory Baptist Boynton Baptist Church 4093 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1898 Briarwood Baptist Church 26 Ellis Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9177 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 518 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9340 Catoosa Baptist Tabernacle 4994 Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4323 Cherokee Valley Baptist Church 1495 Cherokee Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-6220 Clearview Baptist Church 2183 Dietz Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-861-3430 Ebenezer Baptist Church 77 Hackett Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7970 First Baptist Church of Ringgold 105 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2358 Friendship Primitive Baptist Church 851 Ooltewah Ringgold Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2382 Gospel Way Baptist Church 31 Bowling Road Ringgold, GA 30736

16 // December 2017

706-891-9866 Grace Baptist Church 7638 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Heritage Pointe Baptist Church 60 Dyer Bridge Place Ringgold, GA 30736 706-858-0976 Hickory Grove Baptist Church 5010 Houston Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-673-6999 Living Faith Baptist Church Highway 41 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-1817 Midway Baptist Church Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-2317 Mount Peria Baptist Church 341 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4887 Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 66 Mount Pisgah Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3031 Mount Vernon Baptist Church 1006 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3872 New Bethel Baptist Church 1635 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3500 New Friendship Baptist Church 3833 Salem Valley Road Ringgold, GA 30736 423-364-6164 New Heights Baptist Church 158 Ooltewah Ringgold Road

Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-9838 New Liberty Baptist Church 923 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4754 Philadelphia Baptist Church 1065 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-5683 Pine Grove Baptist Church 46 Pine Grove Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-2427 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 7769 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3348 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 422 Poplar Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4461 Salem Baptist Church 1947 Keith Salem Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3907 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 223 Inman Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-4814

Church of Christ Cohutta Road Church of Christ 2233 Mount Vernon Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3884 Ringgold Church of Christ 4099 Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-2820 Church of God Boynton Church of God 1956 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-6300

Indian Springs Church of God 2256 Highway 41 North Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-3599 Ringgold Church of God 117 Emberson Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-2056

Community Green Pasture Community Church 1008 North Beaumont Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-7333 Rock Bridge Community Church 102 Remco Shops Lane Ringgold, GA 30736 706-279-3175

Full Gospel Yates Spring Full Gospel Church 1300 Yates Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3700

Methodist Boynton UMC 4246 Boynton Drive Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-2626 Graysville Methodist Church 502 Graysville Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-891-9253 Lee’s Chapel Methodist Church 3253 Catoosa Parkway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-9928 Ringgold UMC 162 Sparks Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-4777 Woodstation UMC 13198 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-3360

Non-Denominational Battlefield Church of Faith Highway 41 South Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-7729 Church of Catoosa 6141 Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-375-9703 Church of Living Faith

7623 Alabama Highway Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-5673 Grace Memorial Church 118 East Nashville Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-965-7969 Venue Church 3969 Cloud Springs Road Ringgold, GA 30736

423-637-7100

Presbyterian John Calvin Presbyterian Church 1176 North Three Notch Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-937-4115

Seventh-Day Adventist Church 308 Calhoun Street Ringgold, GA 30736 706-935-3741

Seventh-Day Adventist

Fort Oglethorpe Church Directory Baptist Anchor of Hope Baptist Church 2613 Lakeview Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9447 Battlefield Baptist Church 2011 South Cedar Lane Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1316 Burning Bush Baptist Church 2195 Burning Bush Road Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-1989 Calvary Memorial Baptist Church 2 E Gate Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-6183 Cloud Springs Baptist Church 207 Cloud Springs Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0164 First Baptist Church of Ft. Oglethorpe 115 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232 New Manna Baptist Church 1337 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-3582 Old Fort Baptist Church 18 Van Cleve Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-2807

Parkway Baptist Temple 65 Stuart Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0325 Tri County Baptist Temple 2864 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-8843

Catholic

Saint Gerard Catholic Church 3049 Lafayette Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-9410

Church of Christ

Fort Oglethorpe Church of Christ 6 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-2124

Church of God Harbor Faith Church of God 650 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1737

Community

Battlefield Ministries Church 64 3rd Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9090

Episcopal

Church of the Nativity 1520 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9773

Methodist

Fort Oglethorpe UMC 1733 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-1398

Non-Denominational

Battlefield Parkway Church 3220 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-9838 Chosen Generation Ministries 92 W Patterson Avenue Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 423-779-6777 Cornerstone Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1957 New Life Church PO Box 1973 Ringgold, GA 30736 706-866-7799 RockPointe Church 1278 Cross Street Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-1957

U P D AT E YOUR CHURCH LISTING

Presbyterian

First Presbyterian Church 1 Harker Road Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-866-0232

Seventh-Day Adventist

Battlefield Community Seventh-Day Adventist Church 1875 Fant Drive Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 706-861-5999

issuu.com/goodnewscatoosa // 17

FEATURED COVER STORY

Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce

by Emily Bangura

18 // December 2017

F

rom its beginning in 1929, the Catoosa County

the Chamber. Every new member comes with a different

Chamber of Commerce has gone through many

perspective and a different story and they each contribute to

different stages in order to stay updated with the

the Chamber of Commerce and the community. With each

ever-changing community. The Catoosa County Chamber of

new member, a new network and connection is available;

Commerce has been the voice of business for their county,

as the Chamber grows, so does the list of opportunities for

striving to serve its members who are focused on business,

each business in the Chamber.

tourism, workforce education, and economic stability.

The Chamber has a grass-roots governmental affairs

They are the visionary leader for their areas and promote

program whereby they direct their efforts towards business

commerce and community development in and around

advocacy with their local, state, and federal legislative

Catoosa County.

bodies. Because of this approach, and other programs, the

The Catoosa County Chamber staff and Board of

Chamber has become the largest organization in the county

Directors are dedicated to offering programs to members

representing business. The Chamber of Commerce has

that will enhance and grow their business. Programs such

an open door policy and invites anyone to stop by their

as Business University are offered on the website as well as

office for a cup of coffee and see what they have to offer.

local seminars and are designed for both the small business

People who have stopped by have commented saying that

person and larger businesses. The website houses over two

they were the friendliest and most helpful Chamber of

hundred and fifty videos covering a wide range of topics to

Commerce in the area.

help start and grow your business. The goal is to help the businesses in the community thrive.

The Chamber hosts over one hundred networking

The Chamber partners with the Catoosa County School System. They are able to work within the schools and with the students to prepare them for the workforce of the

events throughout the year. This includes, but is not limited

community through Rising Professionals Academy. This

to, Networking @ Lunch, Business After Hours, Member of

is a curriculum that helps educate students on what to

the Week presentations, Restaurant of the Month, Catoosa

expect and how to best prepare in order to succeed in the

Golf Classic, Celebrate Catoosa Gala, and many more.

workforce. They also work with Partnership 2000 and many

In addition to these networking opportunities, there are

other educational programs in partnership with the school

also referral programs such as the Leads Groups that pass

system.

dozens of leads each week providing additional business

President and CEO, Martha Eaker, has been with the

opportunities for the members. These Leads Groups are a

Chamber for almost eleven years. She has been an active

very efficient way to help grow your business, whether it is

member and volunteer for over thirty years in total. She

upward or outward. Most recently, the Chamber hosted the

has worked as an assistant manager in a textile plant, a

annual Showcases Catoosa Expo which housed eighty-four

manufacturer’s representative, and real estate broker. These

vendors. They received comments such as “Best expo we

jobs have prepared her to better understand challenges in

have ever had,” and “Lots of foot traffic,” and “What a good

the business community. The tag-line for the Chamber is

representation of the community.”

“We Know Business.” With the varied talents of the staff,

Leadership Catoosa was established in 1987. Over

the experience of the CEO and the Board of Directors, along

the years, it has grown and stretched far beyond the

with the resources available to them, there is no doubt that

expectations of the founding members. It is a community

this motto is an accurate description of the Catoosa County

educational program that is offered to existing and emerging

Chamber of Commerce.

leaders from diverse backgrounds. The program is designed to educate and expose participants to varied aspects of the community. This program is extremely beneficial for people looking to learn more about the community and how the community will affect their business and what will drive their business in the area.

The Chamber is constantly growing. In the last twelve months over seventy-five new members have affiliated with

issuu.com/goodnewscm // 19

Gò0dNews for Parents

O

Making Memories

by Danny Hesterly

ver the past few weeks, this has been my

now, you have a family and desire to do things but don’t

conversation with my 8-year old.

know where to start. Let me give you a few thoughts on

“Hey dad, can we go fishing sometime?”

how to begin cultivating a family dynamic where doing life

“Hey dad, I’m probably the only kid in the world that hasn’t been fishing.”

“Hey dad, did your dad ever take you fishing?”

My reply to those questions were, “Yes, that’s highly unlikely, and yes.”

Some of my fondest memories growing up were our

together becomes an everyday thing.

1. Listen to your kids. They want you to be a part of their world. Kids are smart. If they feel like you’re too busy or won’t make time for them they’ll stop inviting you into their lives.

2. Say yes as much as possible. You can’t overboard

family fishing trips. We go to Sam Dale Lake in Illinois,

and give them everything under the sun. You can say

get our campsite set for the weekend and my dad would

yes to shared family experiences. Be budget conscious.

go rent a metal canoe. He loved to fish. My dad would

Get creative. There are tons of ways to have fun without

row my sister, my brother, and me around that lake to the

spending a lot of money.

prime fishing areas. And we’d fish for hours that weekend.

3. Your yeses will empower your nos. There are

I don’t ever remember catching a ton of fish, but there was

times in my family when saying “no” is the best response

this excitement that I had just being out there with my dad.

to what they’re asking. But more times than not my kids

So when my 8-year old son started asking me to take him

understand there must be a good reason why dad or mom

fishing, it brought back memories of fishing with my dad.

is saying no.

I don’t know about you, maybe I just over think things,

4. Be honest. There’s going to be times when your kids

but when I hear my son ask me to take him fishing, there’s

ask you to do something and you’re not going to feel up to

a deeper ask behind the question. I really believe he wants

it. It’s okay to say no in the moment but make plans to do

to go fishing but more importantly he’s asking me if we can

the activity at a later time. Put it on a calendar so they can

do this together. I’m at that wonderful stage of parenting

see and know you mean business.

where my kids want me around 24/7. I know things will

So, when your kid asks you to go fishing, paint pottery,

shift a bit as they get older, but I really think cultivating

or something like that, say yes! Remember, it’s not the

a parent/child relationship that involves as many shared

activity that’s most important it’s the shared experiences as

experiences as possible will foster a growing relationship

a family that will make memories.

where it’s normal to do life together as a family.

You may be reading this and you never had those shared experiences with your family growing up. And

20 // December 2017

Danny Hesterly is the family ministries pastor at City Church Chattanooga.

He’s been married to his lovely bride, Erin for 13 years and has two wonderful kiddos, Micah-8 and Ava-6.

Church Activities & Events First Baptist Church

“Invitation to a Miracle”

7611 Nashville Street, Ringgold, GA 30376 Call for date and time (706) 935-2358

Brand of the Cross

Christmas Eve Celebration

Sunday, December 24th - 10AM 3460 Keith Road, Ringgold, GA 30736

Hope Fellowship Men’s Bible Study

Thursday’s 6:30AM - 7:30AM Call for more info (706) 478-5058

Burning Bush Baptist Pancakes with Santa

Saturday, December 2nd 2915 Burning Bush Road, Ringgold, GA 30736 Call for more info (706) 866-1989

Battlefield Community Seveneth-Day Adventist Church Journey to Wholeness

Mondays at 2PM 96 Hillman Lane, Ringgold, GA 30736 Call for more info (706) 866-6600

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Praise: An Anchor for Our Souls

by Dr. Cara Cochran

I

started this article several days in advance, but the day before

going well. To praise God when things are going badly requires a

it was due, I scrapped what I had written and started over. You

conscious choice, and not one that always comes readily to mind.

see, on that day, something happened that shook me deeply,

By stating that we should praise God in the hard times, I am not

and I had to decide if what I had written was true for me. I didn’t

talking about empty words that are merely a mask to hide pain

know how to pray or what to pray for. The article was always to

and hurt. God sees beyond superficial gestures, and empty words

be about praising God when things go wrong, but on that day, it

bring us no solace. But allowing ourselves to sink deeply into

became personal.

praise that goes beyond our human emotions brings us to a place

On Sunday, September 10, 2017, our Bible study class was beginning the study of Job on the same day hurricane Irma

where we can find peace that passes understanding, and even joy, in the midst of chaos.

was wreaking havoc for tens of thousands. Hurricane Harvey had struck just two weeks prior, and a magnitude 8.0 earthquake had just struck Mexico. The heaviness of studying Job was lost on none of us.

Job lost everything in one day – all of his livestock, property, and most significantly, all of his children. Yet, what was his response? “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21). Was Job being simplistic or pious? No, but Job did understand a simple truth: when things are as bad as they can get, as counterintuitive as it sounds, praise is an anchor for our souls. Praise brings us promise, perspective, and peace.

We have a promise from the Lord that He will never leave us. He will never change, and He has overcome the world. When we intentionally praise God in the middle of life’s storms, we are consciously recognizing that He is

How, then, shall we praise? One of our best means of praise

in control, no matter the circumstance. Praise ushers our minds

is found in the Bible’s hymnbook – the book of Psalms. When I

and hearts into the very presence of the Lord, and in His presence

cannot find the words to praise, I can borrow from King David

is fullness of joy. God’s Word is full of promises to anchor our

and others who poured out their pain to God, but still praised

souls when we are tossed about.

Him. The words of old hymns or new worship choruses can

Praise changes our perspective from the temporary to the eternal. When we praise Him, we are taking our minds away from

strengthen our hearts when our minds are overwhelmed.

Yes, when we anchor our souls in praise, we find promises,

our fears, frustrations, anger, or hurt, and focusing on the eternal

perspective, and peace. Can praise change our circumstances? No,

nature of God. I often ask our Bible study class, “What will matter

but praise can change us.

to you in 100 years?” Yes, in this world we face trouble, hardship,

You may be wondering what happened in my situation.

and all manner of woundedness, but nothing can separate us from

Well, for me, it is still the day before the article is due, but God, in

the love of Christ. “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but

His tender mercy, has reminded me that I can praise Him through

on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is

my tears, and trust Him no matter what the outcome. “May the

unseen is eternal” (2 Cor. 4:18). Our tribulation on earth brings

name of the Lord be praised!”

about perseverance, and ultimately an eternal hope that does not disappoint, because of God’s love poured out in our hearts.

Praise brings us peace. Our human inclination is to praise God when we feel like it – when we are joyful, grateful, and things are

22 // December 2017

Dr. Cara Cochran is the Assistant Dean of the School of Counseling at Richmont Graduate University in Chattanooga, TN, and a licensed counselor, and marriage, and family theapist. She is a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church in Chattanooga, where she teaches an adult Bible Study class.

Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

E

Fit Not Frozen

by Evan Tyler Fox

ver wondered why we tend to gain weight in the

proper gear for battling the elements. Exercising in your home

winter? With all the holiday feasting, less yardwork to

is convenient but could wake your family or tempt you to

do, and more excuses to stay in where it’s nice and cozy,

just crawl back in bed. Hitting the gym has its benefits, but

it’s easy to see how the pounds can add up. As the New Year

remember you’ll have to deal with a cold or icy car. Evaluate

approaches, you realize that you need to shed a few pounds

which of these factors will spike or sink your motivation and

and tone up, you make a resolution, and then WHOOSH! You

choose what works for you.

open your front door for your first January jog and there you

Quick Tips

find an anxious winter wind eager to join you. What can you do when you want to get fit but your will is weak and the weather is harsh?

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

A wise man once told me, “Tomorrow’s productivity

starts the night before.” And with morning exercise, if you can’t get out of bed then you definitely won’t get out the door.

Because the sun sets earlier in the Winter, melatonin (the sleep hormone) is also released earlier. Staying up too late or getting too much light exposure after dark inhibits melatonin’s effects, will not have you waking up well-rested; instead, you end up hitting the snooze button and beating yourself up about it later. Do yourself a favor – give yourself a good night’s sleep.

Preparation is Key

Preparing your gear the night before dramatically

improves consistency. For me that means having a chair with all my exercise gear right next to my alarm clock. The alarm sounds, I get up to turn it off, sit down, and start gearing up. It

• Start your Warm-Up Exercise Inside to Adapt better to the Cold • Cotton and Winter Don’t Mix, Use Synthetics and Wool Instead • Several Thin, Easily Removable Layers are Better than a Couple, Bulky Layers • Use a Bandana or Covering to Protect your Face and Breathe Comfortably • Beware of Hills and Ice, Wear Shoes with Proper Tread and Shorten your Stride • Dress Safely, Use Lights and Reflective Gear

Resolution to Reality

“For it is God which works in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). If God has impressed you to live a more active life, move forward confident that the God who knows no failure will, with that conviction, provide all the power you need to make exercising not just a resolution, but a reality.

may look a little different for you but the idea is to make getting ready so easy that you could (almost) do it in your sleep.

In or Out?

Another important consideration is whether you’ll

exercise outside or inside. If outside, make sure to have

24 // December 2017

Evan Tyler Fox, originally from Greeneville, TN, is the health promotions liaison for Health Made Simple, a Christian health club serving Chattanooga.

For more information about how Health Made Simple can serve you, visit: health-madesimple.com.

Stewart’s Shop &MAZDA Save GRAY EPPERSON Quality Products At Discount Prices

1857 Battlefield Parkway Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30142 706.956.8104

Monday - Saturday: 10am - 8pm Sunday: 12pm - 6pm

Make Us Your #1 Stop For AllFamily Your Service Needs Owned & Operated We Service Most Makes & Models

888.770.4383

FREE FREE BRING THIS COUPON IN TO RECEIVE

TIRE ROTATION 10% OFF 24 POINT 4100 APD 40 WITH PURCHASE YOUR NEXT PURCHASE Cleveland, TN 37311 INSPECTION OF OIL CHANGE Offer Expires: 06-01-17

Cannot Be Combined With Any Other Offers. Offer Expires: 01-15-18 Offer Expires: 06-01-17

Each distribute Eachmonth month we we distribute 7,500 toover over350 400 5,000magazines magazines to locations Catoosa County locations ininCleveland such as such as churches, businesses, churches, businesses, doctor doctors offices, offices, etc!etc!

Advertise With

Gò0dNews Christian Magazine

Advertise Your Business With Rates As Low As

$$150 1 5 0 AA M ONTH! MONTH!

Contact: Matthew Ruckman Contact: Stewart Kelley 423-227-2002 (423) 503-1410

Gò0dNews for Teens

To Every Season

by Amy Zumstein

“T

o everything there is a season. A time for

Since 2011 and the loss of my nephew, our season

every purpose under heaven; a time to

has been one of mourning but as the years pass, I can

be born; and a time to die; a time to plant

find laughter in the memories. I see the joy of this

and a time to pluck what is planted. A time to kill and a

Christmas Season. What season are you in right now?

time to heal; time to break down and a time to build up;

Look around you and see the season you are in for what

a time to weep. A time to laugh and a time to mourn.

it is. Do you need healing? Do you need peace?

A time to dance and a time to cast away stones…”

(Ecclesiastes 3: 1-5).

We are in the middle of the Thanksgiving and

My prayer for you during this holiday season is that you will recognize your season and allow the Lord to show you the things this season is teaching you. Each

Christmas season. To many this is the happiest and

season has a purpose and regardless of if we brought

best time of the year, but to others it is a very sad and

the season upon ourselves, the Lord knows the wind is

lonely time. As I’ve been thinking and praying as to

going to blow and the season is going to change.

what to share for this season, I always find myself at the scripture listed above. Let me explain.

I love this time of year. It is my favorite. I love the

Embrace this season of love, peace, and joy. Look around you and see someone who needs you to be a part of their season. Smile as you shop, hug those you

cool weather and the family time. I love getting to give

run into, and tell those around you Merry Christmas.

people gifts. There’s the Christmas tree and the caroling,

You never know when those kind gestures will turn

the church gatherings and friends laughing but then

someone’s season around. Show your parents that

six years ago life happened. My family and our Christmas season changed forever.

Christmas isn’t just about the gifts, but about the season!

“Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here. Merry

My 15-year-old nephew went to Jesus

Christmas if even just one. May the joy of the

on Christmas Eve. That changed our

season surround you, Merry Christmas with

“season”, but it was just that, a “season.”

love” (Song, Merry Christmas with Love

by Clay Aiken).

26 // December 2017

Advertise With

Gò0dNews Christian Magazine

Each monthwe we distribute 7,500 magazines 400 locations Each month distribute 5,000 magazines to over to 350over locations in Catoosa Countysuch such as businesses, doctors offices, etc! etc! in Cleveland aschurches, churches, businesses, doctor offices, Advertise Your Your Business Business With With Rates Rates As As Low Low As As Advertise

$150 MONTH! $1 5 0 AA M ONTH! Contact: Matthew Contact: StewartRuckman Kelley 423-227-2002 (423) 503-1410

Gò0dNews from the Physican’s Desk

Joint Replacement Surgery

C

by Mitch Frix, MD

hronic joint pain can be debilitating. But the good news is, you don’t have to live with the pain.

There are options, both surgical and non-surgical, that you can discuss with your doctor.

Several different conditions can lead to joint pain.

These conditions include: ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease) Rheumatoid Arthritis Post-traumatic Arthritis Rotator Cuff Tear Arthropathy Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis) Severe Fractures

Non-surgical Options for Reducing and Eliminating Joint Pain

It is often possible to reduce and even completely eliminate joint pain through non-invasive measures.

Exercise

Exercise can play a positive role in eliminating joint pain. This is especially true for those who suffer from arthritis. Exercise can help to increase your body’s strength and flexibility. This in turn can reduce joint pain and fatigue. Keeping your muscles strong is important because they support your bones and joints.

Talk to your doctor before you begin a new exercise plan. It is important to know which exercises are best for you and your joint condition. Low-impact exercises, including bicycling, water aerobics, and yoga, are often excellent choices.

Weight Loss

Another way to reduce joint pain is by losing weight. Excess weight can cause unneeded wear and tear on joints. If you need help creating or maintaining a weight-loss plan, contact your doctor, personal trainer, and/or nutritionist.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is often an excellent way to relieve joint pain. Licensed physical therapists are trained to develop customized plans of care that are tailored to each patient’s specific condition.

Medication

muscle relaxer or prescription-strength pain reliever.

Your doctor may also suggest that you consider a steroid injection. This is a common, yet often temporary treatment for arthritis, joint disease, and tendinitis.

Joint Replacement

If your everyday activities are being limited due to stiffness and pain and there is little relief from other treatments, your physician may recommend joint replacement surgery. Most people who have knee, hip, or shoulder replacement surgery experience a substantial reduction in the amount of pain they are having daily and are able to return to the activities they enjoy.

Joint replacement is a very effective way to reduce and very often completely eliminate joint pain. Joint replacement surgery has changed significantly over the years. Joint replacement designs have improved in function and longevity to benefit patients’ active lifestyles for a longer period of time.

Joint replacement surgery can often even be done on an outpatient basis. Advancements in joint replacement and surgical care services now allow for joint replacement patients to receive their surgery and return home in less than 24-hours!

Most importantly, when considering joint replacement surgery, be sure to choose a hospital that is certified by The Joint Commission in hip, knee, and shoulder replacement. This means that the hospital has consistently demonstrated compliance with The Joint Commission’s national state-ofthe-art standards for health care quality and safety in disease-specific care.

Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can often help to relieve joint pain. If these are not effective, your doctor may prescribe a

28 // December 2017

Mitch Frix, MD

FROM

NEW 2017 SILVERADO 1500 CREW CAB

MTN. VIEW SILVERADO TRUCK

310 EAST 20TH STREET • CHATTANOOGA

PROMISE

423-266-0181 MTNVIEWCHEVY.COM

CHAMPION “HIGHEST RANKED LARGE LIGHT DUTY PICKUP IN INITIAL QUALITY, TWO YEARS IN A ROW”

Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Mini Mango Rose Tart

F

by Ellen Oliveira

or as long as I can remember I have enjoyed cooking.

• Mix flours and sugar in a bowl. Add the coconut oil

As a little girl, Mom would always find me by her side

and mix very well. Start adding water little by little

seeking to learn how to recreate her delicious recipes. I

until the mixture becomes a soft, moldable dough.

would have never imagined that this passion of mine would

Make into little balls and mold the dough around

ultimately develop into my profession one day.

the edges of mini muffin tins coated with non-stick

I love healthful food and I get excited about creating dishes that are not only healthy, but beautiful and tasty as well. As one of the chefs at Wildwood Lifestyle Center, one of the blessings of my job is to have the opportunity to show our guests that flavor and health don’t have to be contradictory, but that they can go hand in hand. That they can enjoy delicious food while at the same time restoring their health.

This recipe that I’m sharing with you is one of my alltime favorites. While my husband and I lived in the Philippines for 3 years furthering our education, we quickly discovered that the mangos there are beyond delicious. A beautiful, bright yellow, tender and sweet – they just melt in your mouth. With an abundance of this amazing fruit, I was determined to create some delicious recipes with them, and this just happens to be one.

Instructions for Mini Mango Rose Tart: Crust:

2 cups Almond Flour

spray. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes or until the crust becomes golden brown.

Filling:

1 can of Coconut Milk 3 Tbsp Chia Seeds 1/4 cup Raspberry All-Fruit Jam, or any other fruit preserve that you like.

• Mix all the ingredients and let rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Topping:

1 Mango Mint Leaves

• Peel the mango, cut lengthwise around the pit then slice very thin to make the flower petals.

Assembling the Tart:

• After the crust cools, fill each tart to the top. Place the mango slices around the top of the tart to make a flower. Garnish with mint leaves.

A delicate, sweet and fruity bite to finish your meal. Enjoy!

1/2 cup Garbanzo Flour 1/4 cup Coconut Sugar 1/4 cup Coconut Oil Water

30 // December 2017

Ellen Oliveira born and raised in Brazil. Ellen left her home and occupation to be trained in the US as a medical missionary. From there she moved with her husband to the Phillippines where she received her culinary arts degree. Currently, she serves as a chef at Wildwood Lifestyle Center.

Tapestry Hospice is a familyowned and operated hospice company. With the goal of promoting patient and family quality of life, the team provides medical, social, and spiritual services, including pain and symptom management, to the patient in their home.

706.383.8812 tapestryhospice.com

Church Chairs OF

AMERICA Inc

800-331-5411 | churchchair.com 7007 New Calhoun Hwy. NE • Rome, Georgia 30161

Gò0dNews for Everyone

Precious to God

by Arlene Ledbetter

A

“We are all precious in His sight.”

— Isaiah 43:4

s soon as I read about a Trek-A-Thon coming to my area, I called my sister, Debra. She had been a fan of the Star Trek television series since the maiden voyage of the Starship Enterprise in 1966. She even named her little pointy-eared Pomeranian, “Mr. Spock.”

Neither Debra nor I knew what to expect at the Star Trek convention, so we dressed in nice but casual outfits.

We put sundresses on my daughters, Rachel and Rebecca, and their hair in bouncy dog-ears.

As we entered the convention hall, Debra explained, “Hardcore fans call themselves Trekkies and sometimes dress like a favorite character.”

The words were barely out of her mouth when I spied Trekkies in the uniforms of Captain Kirk and Dr. McCoy, complete with the Star Fleet insignia. Three teenage girls strolled past in the mini-dress, tights, and boots popularized by Lieutenant Uhura. Clusters of people with Spock-ears greeted others with the words “Live long and prosper” as well as the parted-fingers Vulcan salute.

“What’s the deal with that guy’s eyebrows?” I whispered.

My sister smiled. She loved to show off her knowledge of Star Trek trivia. “Upturned eyebrows and a swarthy complexion are the features of a Klingon,” Debra explained.

“The white gorilla-girl with a horn on top of her head is a Mugatus. Oh, and see the half black and half white fellow over there? His name is Lokai. He’s from the planet Cheron.”

Lokai from Cheron had painted the skin on the left side of his face and body a shiny black. The clothing on that side

32 // December 2017

was white. The skin on his right side was a dull white with black clothing. Even his belt was half-and-half.

My wide-eyed daughters drank in the vast array of people gathered from planet Earth and beyond. Rebecca, my four year old, stared at Lokai, the half black and half white guy.

I pulled Rebecca into my lap and whispered, “What do you think about that fellow?”

“Jesus thinks he’s precious,” she answered.

Surprised, I asked what she meant.

My child’s dog-ears swung back and forth as she sang a song she learned at church. “Red-and-yellow, black-andwhite, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.”

Rebecca pointed to the young man. “He’s a blackand-white.”

A sudden thought occurred to her and she whipped around to face me. “Oh, Mommy, do you think we’ll meet any red-and-yellows today?”

I love Rebecca’s appreciation for people who are not just like her. I pray she will always delight in the beautiful diversity of the people on planet Earth. Whether a person is red, yellow, black, white, black-and-white, red-and-yellow, or blessed with a splendid horn on top of his or her head, we are all truly precious in God’s sight.

Arlene Ledbetter holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Dalton College in Georgia. She has written adult Sunday school curriculum and contributed to five Chicken Soup for the Soul books. Visit her at www.arleneledbetter.net

YOU HAVE BIGGER THINGS ON YOUR MIND

You’re busy. We get it. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with 20 years of experience providing health insurance to North Georgians.

Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Christmas Light

by Rick Mitchell

C

hristmas is my favorite time of year. I love the

that the festivities on the plane were simply a surface

decorations, especially the lights. Some years

emotion of patriotism. Just as Jerusalem was dark,

ago I left all the familiar lights and decorations

there is darkness in the soul of each person who does

of home to lead a tour group to the Holy Land during

not know the light of Christ. The darkness all around

the first part of December. We were excited to go during

started to penetrate my emotions until I remembered

such a significant Christian holiday. Shortly after

that Jesus had come and He lives in my heart.

boarding El Al Airlines, we realized that our little band

In reality, most of the world sees December as just

of Christians was uniquely non-Jewish. The plane was

another month on the calendar, and December 25 is just

filled with Israelis traveling to their ancestral homeland.

another work day. They have missed the Messiah who

The flight was festive, with cheers and dancing in

came for the Jews and the whole world. They didn’t

the isles. Their celebrations increased with every

plan to miss him—no one has told them. How will

announcement from the pilot.

they hear without a preacher or missionary (Romans

After landing, we boarded the shuttle for our hotel,

10:14-15)? If you have the light of Jesus, you can go as

and then it hit me. There were no Christmas lights to

a missionary, or give so someone else can go. Become

be seen. No Christmas music to be enjoyed. No nativity

involved in spreading the Gospel so those, who are lost

scenes to remind us of the miracle of His birth. I should

in darkness, can find the Christmas light of Jesus.

have expected that. Jews do not believe the Messiah has come. They are still waiting for His arrival. I realized

34 // December 2017

Rick Mitchell is a fun type of guy. He is President and CEO of Sports & Rec Plus. Sports & Rec Plus is a worldwide ministry that uses sports and all types of recreation activities to reach people with the Gospel and plant churches. Rick can be reached at sportsrecplus@cs.com.

Our Mission:

As the visionary leader, the Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce promotes commerce and community development in and around Catoosa County.

Vision:

The Catoosa County Chamber of Commerce will be the leading voice of business and economic development in Catoosa County.

Objectives:

• To help our members succeed and grow through our programs and partnerships • To consistently work to overcome barriers to future economic development • To promote a healthy and positive business climate to encourage economic development • To enhance overall quality of life and standard of living • To promote the educational, historic, and cultural resources of Catoosa County and the region

264 Catoosa Circle • Ringgold, GA 30736 706.965.5201 • catoosachamberofcommerce.com

Medical Center

More Out of Health. More Out of Life.

Hamilton Medical Center AOSM

Dalton, Georgia

Dalton and Calhoun, Georgia

HamiltonHealth.com

706.226.5533

Dan Penland, Recent Outpatient Total Knee Replacement Patient

TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT.

Surgery performed

by Nick Reed, MD

HOME SWEET HOME IN LESS THAN 24-HOURS. Get More Out of Life with Hamilton.

When considering joint replacement surgery, quality and expertise matter. Fitting joint replacement surgery into your life is important too.

Hamilton is the #1 hospital in the market for joint replacement surgery and is certified by The Joint Commission in shoulder, hip, and knee replacement surgery.

And, Hamilton Medical Center also offers joint replacement as an outpatient option.

It’s time to stop putting up with joint pain. Call 706.226.5533 to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon at Associates in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine (AOSM).

At Hamilton, we’re all about MORE – so that you can Get More Out of Life.

At AOSM we provide care that is up-todate, down-to-earth, and close-to-home.

Learn how you can get more out of health and more out of life by visiting Hamilton Medical Center at HamiltonHealth.com or AOSM at AOSMClinic.com.