August 2025

Gò0dNews August 2025

Complimentary

Christian Magazine

®

13

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Keep reaching for what makes you feel whole.

Surprises. Triumphs. Breakthroughs. For every moment when words just won’t do, we give it our all so you can, too. Because there’s a whole lot of life to love, and the joy’s worth the journey. As you strive for what makes you come alive, we’ll be here — seeing, hearing and helping you feel whole.

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About Us WRITERS

Beth Godfrey Candyce Carden Filip Brunner Garrett Nudd Lori McAfee Reagan Marsh Sheneka Land Stephanie Daniels Stephanie Evans Tammy Madden Thomas Morrison Zebbie Brewster

SALES

Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410 Email: goodnewstn@gmail.com

Hello Friends,

DESIGN

are and what we are about. Our names are Matt

Caleb Prytherch Email: art.goodnews@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

EDITOR/ARTICLE COORDINATOR Sandra Gilmore Email: articles.goodnews@gmail.com

PUBLISHER

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

OFFICE

423-790-5378

WEBSITE

goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsdalton

FACEBOOK

GoodNews Dalton

We want to take a moment to tell you who we and Bethany Ruckman and we have six beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, Leah Jean, Emma, and Cooper. 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 are combined, lives will be changed.

GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us 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.

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Contents AUGUST 2025

GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk

8 Ask the Pastor

by Reagan Marsh

GoodNews Money Matters

10 Medicare Scams Are on the Rise—What You Need to Know

by Beth Godfrey GoodNews for Men

12 My Own Path to Jesus

by Filip Brunner

GoodNews for Women

14 God Is Everywhere—Even on Vacation

by Stephanie Daniels GoodNews for Kids

16 Back to School with God by

GoodNews for Life

28 Summer

by Tammy Madden

GoodNews for Discovering More

30 MORE THAN Stories

by Garrett Nudd

GoodNews for your Taste Buds

32 Quick and Easy One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

GoodNews Poetry

34 Woven Thread of Love

by Lori McAfee

GoodNews for Seniors

36 When Ladybugs Say Hi!

by Stephanie Evans

GoodNews for Health & Fitness

Your Side

38 Carbs Do NOT Make

GoodNews Ministry Spotlight

by Thomas Morrison

18 Thousands And Counting GoodNews for Grandparents

20 Grandparenting with Purpose

by Sheneka Land GoodNews Cover Story

24 La Esperanza Bakery: A

12

You Fat!

GoodNews for Everyone

40 Dog Days of Summer

by Candyce Carden

24

GoodNews for Everyone

42 Joyful

by Zebbie Brewster

Sweet Place for Hope and Treats

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Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Ask the Pastor

by Reagan Marsh

I

always enjoy hearing from readers. Feel free to submit your

Another question that stands out was the elderly

questions at reformationdalton.com. I’ll do my best to answer

woman who didn’t like my preaching and told me so

faithfully and helpfully from the Scriptures. The following

frequently. One Sunday, she approached me after I’d

question and answer is from this website.

finished the sermon to deliver her regular remarks. She

Q. I always enjoy your articles and thought I’d write to

then asked if my family held a similar opinion to hers, and

you with a very important question: as a pastor, what are the

specifically if they ever tired of me “just reading the Bible

strangest questions you’ve ever received? I guess you get some

and preaching to them all day.” Her persistence eventually

crazy ones!

prevailed with me, and I abbreviated our family worship

A. Well, your question is a “first” for me…so, yours. Ha! I’ve certainly received my share of oddball, goofy, off-the-wall questions! This one will be fun to answer.

from twenty hours per day to about twenty minutes.

A third question concerned facial hair: I have worn a beard for nearly two decades. Early into a new pastorate, an older man told me he did not vote for me when I candidated there.

That was an awkward moment, particularly given that their pastor was to be selected by secret ballot.

He then asked me suspiciously what my disqualifying sin was. I was immediately confused: my life is an open book, and others usually know my secrets long before I do! So I respectfully asked what he meant.

“My childhood pastor told me that only wicked men who are hiding something wear facial hair. That man was never wrong about anything from the Bible, and I know it must

Perhaps most memorable is the man who asked me

be in there somewhere. So, what is your hidden sin? I

if I would mind baptizing his dog in the church baptistry

know you can’t be qualified as a pastor – that beard tells

if he brought him by the church. I told him he was

me everything I need to know!” I respectfully stifled a

entirely qualified to handle that himself: all he needed

chuckle and opened my Bible to 1 Timothy 3 with him.

was his bathtub or large metal washbasin. Since it was

Thanks for a fun (and funny) question!

some dog shampoo and a sponge to the “baptism” while he was at it!

8 // August 2025

About The Author

summertime, I recommended that he consider adding Having served in the Gospel ministry since 1998, Reagan Marsh is husband to Kara, daddy to RG and AG, and founding pastor-teacher to Reformation Baptist Church of Dalton, Georgia. For more about Pastor Marsh, see www.reformationdalton.com.

There’s no place like hope.

Become a volunteer advocate for a child in foster care.

Ayudemos a un niño a prosperar.

Contact Murray/Whitfield CASA to Volunteer! #ChangeAChildsStory #CambiemosLaHistoriaDeUnNiño Scan the QR code or contact Murray/Whitfield CASA to learn more: 706.428.7931 tharmon@fscdalton.com

Medicare Scams Are on the Rise—What You Need to Know with

Money Matters Beth Godfrey

A

s you approach Medicare eligibility, it's important to be informed—not only about your coverage options but also about the growing number of scams targeting seniors.

Work With a Local, Trusted Broker Choosing Medicare coverage should be a personal and informed decision—not something made under pressure from

Unfortunately, we are seeing more and more misleading calls,

an unfamiliar voice over the phone. That’s where we come in. At

postcards, and mailers from companies pretending to be affiliated

Hughes Retirement Group, we take a personalized approach to

with Medicare. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself

Medicare planning. We sit down with you and review everything

and your loved ones.

from your doctors and medications to your travel plans (how that

Medicare Will Never Contact You

affects plans) and medical history. We never make decisions for

One of the most important things to remember is that Medicare will never call, text, or email you asking for personal information or to sign up for coverage. If you are already receiving

you—we provide education, guidance, and the tools you need to choose the plan that best fits your needs.

We are here for you year-round—not just during enrollment

Social Security benefits, you will automatically receive your red,

season. Whether you have a question about a new medication,

white, and blue Medicare card about three months before your

need help with a claim, or just want to stop by, our doors are

65th birthday. If you are not yet drawing Social Security, you will

always open. You’ll never be routed to a call center or have to

need to apply for Medicare online, by phone, or at your local

speak with someone who doesn’t know your name or your story.

Social Security office. You will not be contacted to do so.

At Hughes, we treat you like family.

Some people who still have group coverage through an employer may receive a Medicare Part B card (which typically

Say “No Thank You” to Scam Callers If you receive a phone call offering a “great new plan” that

costs $185 per month). If you want to delay Part B because you

you might qualify for, the best response is simple: “No, thank

have group coverage, you can simply sign the back of the card and

you.” Then call us. We are happy to review any new options that

send it back.

might truly be available—and to do it face to face, with your best

Beware of Fake “Medicare Appointments” and High-Pressure Tactics

interests in mind.

Scammers and aggressive call centers are reaching out to people turning 65, falsely claiming that a Medicare appointment has already been scheduled for them. Some postcards even mimic the look of official Medicare materials, using red, white, and blue designs or wording that causes confusion. Always read the fine print—it usually includes a disclaimer such as “not affiliated with or endorsed by the government.” Remember, Medicare is a government program. Any organization claiming to be “Medicare” but pushing you to act immediately, requesting personal information, or offering a plan you “must enroll in now” is likely a scam.

10 // August 2025

The Annual Election Period Is Coming The Annual Election Period (AEP) is right around the corner. This is your opportunity to review your current Medicare coverage, explore any new plans for 2026, and make sure your prescriptions and providers are still covered. If you'd like to get on our calendar to discuss your options, give us a call today. At Hughes Retirement Group, we are committed to helping you navigate Medicare with confidence. From the day you first apply to the day-to-day support you need, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Choose Hughes—Because Your Future Matters.

(423) 664-4203 HughesRetirementGroup.com

heart soul might you shall love

GOD

with all your heart soul mind strength

Gò0dNews for Men

My Own Path to Jesus

C

by Filip Brunner

oming from a communist country, I was exposed to evolution-driven atheism.

Atheism was the default norm; there was

no comparison. Initially I was exposed only to my grandfather’s teaching about the historical Jesus.

But God used progressive revelation of Himself to convince me of His existence, His preeminence, and my need for atonement through the blood of His Son, Jesus. Even as a teenager, I realized that evolution had no or at best very little scientific basis.

Evolution is only a poorly constructed philosophical, ideological construct, not based in fact. Evolution uses a question which is answered by another question which is answered by yet another question.

But, the foundational question of evolution; where did all of the matter and energy needed to build the universe come from? Cannot be answered by evolution. Matter and energy are something and

And the gift of God, in the form of the Lamb of God, and the

something cannot come from nothing. Something has to

invitation that Jesus gives: “I stand at the door and knock…”

have an origin. Something which had an origin has to have

was also true. It was from that knocking at the door of my

an ORIGINATOR. That Originator has to be transcendent,

heart that I realized several things. First, there are only two

self-existent, outside of space/time. So, I understood that

choices when someone knocks on the door, ignore it or open

a supreme being has to exist in order for all of this (the

it. Second, I have never known my earthly father, I was not

universe, etc.) to exist.

wanted by him; but my heavenly Father not only wanted me

My next step in finding who this being was brought me

but loved me (John 3:16).

to the study of mythology. What intrigued me most was

Salvation is an invitation by God to a lost sinner to

this concept that gods and goddesses could have offspring.

relinquish their sin and desire to sin, in exchange for an

Which brought me to my grandfather’s teaching about the

edict of pardon, sonship (adoption), and eternal life. Jesus

historical Jesus. Was there more to Jesus than historical

was knocking on the door of my heart and then gave me the

evidence that Jesus existed?

will and power to open the door unto Him. At that moment,

Fast forward to when I was 17 or 18 and living in the

I came face to face with EMMANUEL. Jesus shed His blood

USA where I had access to something I could compare

on the cross. That is His part of the equation. I said,“Come

with atheism and evolution. It was at Faith Baptist Church

in.” That is my part in the equation of the atonement and

that I learned, not just about the historical Jesus, but about

Jesus became my substitute. And, I have walked with Jesus

creation and The Living Word of God through Whom, and

since the age of 18.

I came to the conclusion that if creation is true, then the fall of mankind and the depravity of mankind is true too.

12 // August 2025

About The Author

for Whom everything that is, was created.

Filip Brunner is married to his wife, Dr. Kim Brunner and together they have six children.

He is a writer, author, and artist.

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Gò0dNews for Women

God Is Everywhere—Even on Vacation

O

by Stephanie Daniels

ne of my fondest memories is the family cruise

Remembering that God is everywhere gave me a great

I took last year. We spent seven unforgettable

sense of peace—especially as I stood on my balcony,

days visiting Turks and Caicos, the Dominican

gazing out at the vast, endless ocean. Seeing God in the

Republic, and the Bahamas—enjoying incredible food, fun

little things in life is truly rewarding. He was present in

activities, and breathtaking views. I had never seen anything

the clouds, the sunshine, the smell of salt in the ocean,

quite like the sights there! And I got to experience all of it

the sounds of the waves, the wonderful meals, the smiles

with my family. Family times make the best memories. And

of the people around me, and in the rest and relaxation I

the best opportunities for life-changing lessons.

experienced during this time.

While cruising in the warm weather, I noticed a man on board wearing a sweatshirt that read God is everywhere!

My first reaction was to wonder why anyone would wear a sweatshirt in such heat, but as I reflected on the words, I realized the message was deeply profound.

Too often, people tend to leave God at home when they go on vacation. They don’t read their Bibles. They skip prayer.

And, they treat vacation as a time off from their relationship with Him. But this shouldn’t be the case. In fact, it’s during these restful moments that we should make space for meaningful time with God. John 8:37 NIV says, “I know that you are Abraham’s descendants. Yet you are looking for a way to kill me,

We are blessed to be a blessing. Vacation offers us not only rest but also opportunities to witness to others and sow seeds— whether through encouraging words or acts of generosity.

because you have no room for my word.” We should take a

One of the best parts of traveling is meeting new

lesson from the religious leaders long ago. Jesus reminded

people. Each conversation becomes a chance to share the

them that they had no room for His word.

good news of the Gospel. You can remind someone that

Vacations can be filled with shows, excursions, delicious

God is omnipresent—He is everywhere, in every moment.

meals, and nonstop entertainment. We certainly enjoyed all

He is also omniscient—all-knowing and filled with infinite

of that during our seven days on the cruise. Yet as believers,

wisdom. And He is omnipotent—the all-powerful Creator

we must remember that God is always with us. His Word

and source of all strength.

promises, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). Shouldn’t we commit to the same? We

So, the next time you go on vacation, have fun, make memories, and don’t forget—God is everywhere!

can say, “Father, I will never leave nor forsake You.” day with prayer and spend time reading the Word.

I also shared the goodness of God with others I met.

14 // August 2025

About The Author

During my vacation, I made it a point to begin each

Stephanie Daniels is a dedicated HR Manager based in Virginia with a deep love for the Lord. Her faith drives her passion for writing, and she has penned three self-published books that aim to inspire and uplift readers on their spiritual journeys. Her titles include Grace Growing Up, Overcoming Eve, and Restoring Hearts. Stephanie’s writing not only offers a unique perspective on life’s challenges but also encourages readers to seek the Lord’s guidance and wisdom.

Her engaging and heartfelt prose resonates with people from all walks of life, drawing them closer to their faith, and fostering a deeper relationship with God.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

Back to School with God by Your Side

S

ummer fun is winding down, and it’s time to

reading, but also in how to treat others and handle

sharpen pencils, pack backpacks, and head back

challenges. Every day, you have a chance to show

to school! Going back to school can bring lots of

kindness, patience, and respect. When you do your best,

different feelings—maybe you're excited to see your

you’re actually honoring God.

friends, nervous about a new teacher, or curious about

Colossians 3:23 NKJV says, “And whatever you do,

what you’ll learn this year. Guess what? God cares about

do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” So, whether

all those feelings and promises to be with you every step of

you’re solving a hard math problem or helping a friend, do

the way.

it with a cheerful heart—like you're doing it for God.

Even when school feels big and busy, you don’t have to face it alone. The Bible reminds us in Deuteronomy 31:6 NKJV, “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid...for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” That means no matter what your school year looks like, God is with you in the classroom, on the bus, during recess, and even during spelling tests!

Doing Your Best for God School is a place where you learn and grow—not just in math or

Making Good Choices There might be days when it’s hard to do what’s right.

Maybe someone is being unkind, or you’re tempted to give up when something is hard. That’s when it’s extra important to remember what God says in Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” God can help you make wise choices—just ask Him! He loves when you talk to Him in prayer, even about small things like a pop quiz or a friendship problem.

You’re Not Alone One of the best things about school is that you’re never alone. You have classmates, teachers, maybe even brothers or sisters around—but even better, you have God with you all the time. Try starting your morning with a simple prayer like this: “Dear God, thank You for this new school year. Help me to be brave, kind, and do my best. Walk with me through every class and help me to make good choices. Amen.”

Fun Ways to Remember God at School: • Tape a small Bible verse in your pencil box.

• Say a quick prayer before lunch.

• Write a kind note to a classmate.

16 // August 2025

• Keep a journal to write down what you're thankful for.

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Gò0dNews Ministry Spotlight

Thousands And Counting

I

Dalton Church sends out Thousands of Greeting Cards to New Christians Across the United States

t began with a single greeting card from an unknown sender.

Today, the spirit behind that card has blossomed into

ministry and involve the elementary department where she has taught for years.

an informal ministry reaching more than 6,000 newly-

Just a few weeks after her grandson received the

baptized Christians across the United States and Canada.

card, she sent out 18 cards to new believers she learned

Lorraine Smith, a Sunday school teacher in the

about through various Facebook posts. The ministry now

elementary department at Central Church of Christ in

involves the elementary department, youth group, and

Dalton, Georgia, said her 14-year-old grandson, Carter Goble,

ladies ministry as the effort has expanded to about 85 cards

received a heartfelt but mysterious card addressed to him in

a week.

care of the church after he was baptized in January 2023.

“All the glory belongs to God Almighty for allowing us

Inside was a note congratulating him on his baptism

to do this,” she said. “If He was not holding us up, we could

and encouraging him in his walk with Christ. It was signed with just a first name and a partial Florida address but no

not do it.”

Using her own funds plus donations from supporters,

other information. The return envelope has been lost to time,

Smith individualizes each card with a handwritten message,

but the card was enigmatic from the start.

Bible verses, and signed names. Each of the children in the

“Nobody knew the names of the people it was from, and

elementary department and youth group sign several cards

there was no last name, but Carter looked around and said,

during class time, an effort that counts toward their Good

‘Wow, Grammy. The fact that someone thinks enough of

Samaritan points for the Lads 2 Leaders program.

me to send me a card from Florida makes me very happy,’” Smith recalled.

As of early April, the ministry had sent out 6,148 cards.

They are sent primarily to churches of Christ in the United

Seeing the impact on her grandson sparked an idea.

States, although some go to Canada. Smith said she learns

Smith, who is in her 70s, saw an opportunity to create a card

of baptisms by keeping up with Facebook pages Souls Being

18 // August 2025

Saved, - - Praise Reports—churches of Christ group and House to House Heart to Heart.

Smith said her elementary class has sent cards to individuals in every state and has received responses from

The message on the inside is always something simple

individuals in 30 states. Each time they get a response

along the lines of, “Welcome to God’s amazing family,” or

from a new state, a student places a heart sticker on the

“God loves you, and we love you, and we praise God for

appropriate spot on a map of the United States that hangs in

you.” And she always references Ephesians 3:14-21, which

their classroom.

discusses God’s abundant and unending love.

“We’ve had numerous responses,” Smith said. “One

Each envelope includes a business card-sized note with

young lady sent us her prom picture. We’ve had some tear-

a Bible verse or word of encouragement for the recipient to

you-up letters about how they felt. People are just amazed

easily carry with them. Finally, each card includes a folded

that somebody else is thinking about them.”

note of encouragement reminding the reader that:

Sometimes, getting the cards to the appropriate places

“Every day God thinks of you! — ‘Blessed be the Lord

requires diligence — calls for addresses, conversations with

who daily loads us with benefits, the God of our salvation!’

those involved in prison ministries, touching moments and

Psalm 68:19

sometimes funny ones of people sharing bits of their lives as

“Every hour God looks out for you! — ‘But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.’ 2 Thessalonians 3:3

cards create small connections.

“Not a card goes out that is not prayed over,” Smith said. “My perspective is, when you become a Christian,

“Every minute God cares for you! — ‘...casting all your care on Him, for He cares for you.’ I Peter 5:7

Satan is going to come after you with everything he’s got, and you need the encouragement — and whatever

“Because every second He loves you! — ‘The Lord

encouragement you can supply to others — to fight him off.

has appeared to me saying, ‘Yes, I have loved you with

He’s going to come running at you, so I’m just trying to find

an everlasting love, therefore with lovingkindness I have

a way to wage my own spiritual warfare. It’s changing my

drawn you.’ Jeremiah 31:3”

prayer life, too.”

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Gò0dNews for Grandparents

by Sheneka Land

Grandparenting with Purpose

H

by Sheneka Land

ave you ever needed to be at two places at Family

to participate in the celebrations. However, somewhere

and friends gathered at the post-graduation

along the way, the grandparent lost sight of the magnitude

celebration for the bright young man who

and joy of sharing the milestone moment with the

had just received his Bachelor of Science degree with a

grandson, adult children and other family members and

number of honors. The next pursuit was a journey into the

friends when the grandparent chose not to attend. The

world of medicine as he had been awarded a number of

excuses were shallow, poor, and inappropriate: “My

scholarships to a prestigious medical school. Both laughter

spouse isn’t feeling well, so it wouldn’t be fair for me

and tears testified to the joy of the milestone day as words

to attend without them.” “I need to stay home and take

of congratulations and well wishes flowed.

care of the dogs, and besides, I need to paint the kitchen

One conversation in particular stood out as a

cabinets.” This is an example of the complete lack of

grandparent shared their sentiments of the day and wishes

others’ awareness and one’s own self-awareness when a

for the future. “I hope I live to attend your graduation from

person becomes oblivious to the negative impact of their

medical school, but I’m afraid I will not.” From time to

words and actions or lack thereof.

time, the young man would mention that conversation, in

In another situation, two young men recounted

hopes that his grandparent would indeed remain in good

memories of weekly visits with their grandmother. “She

health so as to share in the future milestone moment.

always talked hateful to us, never wanting us in the

Four years passed and the much-anticipated day of

same room with her where she mostly watched HGTV.

graduation arrived, and the grandparent had indeed lived

Only when Dad walked into the room did she talk in

20 // August 2025

sweet tones, as if she had been doing the same outside

One sure way to build healthy relationships with

his presence. We never looked forward to going to her

our adult children is to love our grandchildren well. In

house, as we were treated as nothing but trouble, so unlike

fact, grandparenting presents a redeeming opportunity

the grandparent experiences our friends often spoke

to love children in ways we may not have been aware

of. Although she knew we were coming each week, no

of during our parenting years. If we have grown in self-

lunches or fun activities were ever prepared for us. In fact,

awareness, others-awareness and have pursued emotional

we were shamed for opening the fridge, and if we told her

intelligence (a sure path out of narcissism), we have come

we were hungry, she would say, ‘Go tell your dad.’ There

to understand the joys of loving our own.

are no memories of playing catch with her in the backyard,

Fellow grandparents, let’s step up to the plate

no memories of being held on her lap, of having a book

and provide unconditional love to our children and

read to us, or being held in her arms or perched on her hip.

grandchildren by being kind, affirmative, and helpful in

She chose to not enter our world. And Dad always had to

ways most important to them. In our sunset years, we

bear the complaints against us for just simply being kids.”

will be thankful that we created strong bonds and filled a

It is true that one can be full of days while not

treasure box of memories that will prove to be our legacy

abounding in wisdom. Some grow old, having never

gift. Although we have silver in our hair, may we have

learned how to build healthy relationships. Sadly, these

gold in our hearts.

individuals often live their sunset years in loneliness and painfully evident. Grandparents who do not lovingly engage with their grandchildren not only cheat themselves of rewarding relationships, but they also cheat their children and grandchildren of longed-for relationships.

About The Author

regret as the consequences of a narcissistic lifestyle become Sheneka Land and her husband, Jon, live in Cleveland, Tennessee. She earned an MDiv from Pentecostal Theological Seminary in Cleveland, Tennessee, and serves as lead chaplain at CHI Memorial Hospital in Hixson, Tennessee.

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FEATURED COVER STORY

La Esperanza Bakery: A Sweet Place for Hope and Treats

T

he aroma of freshly baked delicacies hugs each customer who enters like a welcoming greeter. Smells and flavors evoke memories of delicious times,

whether it was last week or decades ago at your favorite grandmother’s house. Nothing brings that contented feeling like baked goods. And, you can find this experience at La Esperanza Bakery in Dalton, GA. The Lara and Altamarino families share, ”Have you ever felt one bite could change your day? At La Esperanza Bakery, we know our doughnuts are little clouds of happiness in a fluffy glaze of love and filled with surprises that melt the heart, where every doughnut is a hug!”

Kneaded with Care

This place of sweet ‘hope’ (esperanza means ‘hope’ in

Starting from Scratch

The La Esperanza Bakery recently experienced a remodel

from 2,400 square feet to 9,000 square feet. The Lara and Altamarino families explain, “Each day, we are surprised how our customers support us and we have now been blessed to be able to add on to the building to better serve our faithful customers. This helps us maintain our motto, ‘Pleasing our clients and innovating our products.’”

When the bakery first opened, the beginnings were both humble and enthusiastic. The Lara and Altamirano families who launched the bakery, describes the bakery’s start, “In the year 2000, doors were opened for the Lara and Altamarino families to start a bakery business. We had very little equipment but had positivity and a lot of desire. The

Spanish) is ready to serve you whether it's a quick pastry to

equipment was not the best. For example, we had to hold the

accompany your morning coffee or a special order for your

oven door shut with a stick!

next occasion.

“That is just a simple example of the challenges we had

For example, if you haven't tried the Pan Recado yet,

at the beginning of our journey. But through it all, we were

you're missing out on a real treat. Infused with traditional

always asking GOD for wisdom and guidance. There have

spices, this bread will make you feel like you're in the heart of

been ups and downs but we have not lost our faith. It takes

Guatemala. You’ll find authenticity in every bite, unmatched

time and patience and with God’s help, we now have reached

flavor that’s full of history, perfect for any occasion from

more than 25 years in business and we have faith that it will

breakfasts to dinners.

keep growing.”

24 // August 2025

The Lara and Altamarino families continue, “There are a lot of factors that are extremely important to success. Some examples for us have been communication among each other, good business administration, responsibility, passion to work and serve but most of all a commitment to the business and one another. You must also remain faithful to your mission in any circumstances that life throws at you. We all have to remember that not everything nor everybody is perfect, and also there will be obstacles. At the bakery, we have learned to convert obstacles into challenges which has developed our service to an excellent level and has let us make a difference in the area. Our bakery stands out with the excellent service we provide. None of this could have been possible without God. “Our mission in life has been to serve and to help others.

We can gladly say that it has been a big blessing to help the community in different activities and different organizations.

God has blessed us in big ways and we have learned not to retain that blessing but to share it. La Esperanza Bakery has been supporting kids and teens sport teams as well as Dalton State College students for their rallies and events. We have been blessed with opportunities to be part of a few 5k runs and have supported those with special needs with birthdays and events.

We can truly say we feel blessed and honored to be part of this community and to support the community in different ways.”

Traditions and Trends

With a motto that embraces innovation, the team at La

of July. There's Day of the Dead in November, Christmas in December and a few more events that fall in between. We try to keep the tradition of making special breads or decorations for certain events. Some events have slowly faded with time but we try to maintain those so we can remember our background and culture.

“In all of this, we always try to maintain humbleness and great service to all of our customers for a great experience when they are in the bakery and for them to enjoy the quality of our product when they are at home. At the end of the day, we love to receive a smile and a thank you in return for the service provided.”

If you are ‘hoping’ to get to La Esperanza Bakery by closing time, plan your visit with their Facebook page

Esperanza focuses on a variety of ways to offer choices with

www.Facebook.com/BakeryLaEsperanza. Call ahead to place your

both traditional treats and with new, fresh products. The Lara

orders at (706) 270-0178.And take in the sights and smells in

and Altamarino families explain, “We really want to keep our

person at 1702 E Morris St, Dalton, GA.

tradition in the bakery for our customers and for our children to learn and maintain for they are the future in the bakery. In the bakery, we try to maintain traditions like the Three Kings Day in January, Semana Santa in April, Valentine’s Day, or Children’s Day which, in Hispanic society, is celebrated on April 30th. Then there’s Mother’s day, Father’s day, and Fourth QUE BUEN PAN!

La Esperanza Bakery

goodnewscm.com // 25

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Gò0dNews for Life

Summer

S

by Tammy Madden

ummer. What a beautiful time of year! As I sat out

Then my mind went to many years later on August 1,

on our porch tonight with my beautiful 23 year old

1992 when we finally pledged our love to each other after

daughter (who is special needs and more like a ten

seven years of being together. It was another beautiful

year old), along with my five year old granddaughter, I

summer night. Somehow I knew God was building His plan.

began to think back to a much simpler time in my life. My

We began to think about babies. My dream was to be

mind goes back, back to a ten year old me. I remember how

a mom. We tried and tried. Doctors told us it would never

we would play in the woods all day from morning until

happen. Then on September 15, 1995, I rededicated my life

night only coming home for lunch and we knew when it

to the Lord. But my husband wasn't ready to give his life

was supper time. There were no cell phones. There was no

to God yet. I prayed and prayed and then on May 13, 2001

cable TV. There was no “Siri.” There was no “Alexa.”

it happened! He kneeled at the altar and gave his life to

We just enjoyed each other's company, the five of us.

the Lord! And yet again, it was another beautiful summer

Mom had three girls and two boys. We didn't worry about

night in July of 2001 when we found out I was pregnant.

Nikes or Fila or Skechers or any name brand anything. We

God is so good!

were happy with what we got. Sitting on that porch took me back to eating popsicles on a hot summer day and playing in the hose water along with drinking from the hose all day. We didn't have bottled water. If someone had suggested bottled water, we would have laughed wondering what that even was! I remember us kids catching lightning bugs. Yes, they were not called "fireflies," simply lightning bugs. What wonderful summers we had back then. We would run to our neighbors garden and "steal" his rhubarb. (He knew all along we were getting it. LOL.) We would pick cherries off his cherry tree and lay in the yard trying to figure out what the clouds looked like. We each had a different opinion!

Then my mind fast forwards to the 16 and 17 year old

It was like Sarah in the Bible. Sarah was sure her time was up but God gave them a son. Issac was his name. I

me. The me who fell in love with my now husband. We

wonder how many summers Sarah and Issac sat out and

would take long walks at night just holding hands and

gazed at the stars on a summer's night.

enjoying each other's company. Again, no cell phones or technology. Just the love we had for each other. I remember

I'm just so grateful that God gives us beautiful summer nights and I just felt the need to share some of mine.

sitting in his car at night just talking about our future and that neither one of us could see yet. Oh, how wonderful the world was with no AI or technology.

28 // August 2025

About The Author

looking at the beautiful stars. God already had plans for us My name is Tammy Madden. I live in the beautiful foothills of North Georgia in Chatsworth. I am married to my amazing husband, Gene and we have a beautiful daughter named Megan.

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Gò0dNews for Discovering More

MORE THAN Stories

by Garrett Nudd

I

love stories. Every evening we sit around the dinner

But every time I’ve found Him waiting there at the end of a

table as a family and share stories about our day. There’s

chapter in my story with the most beautiful words, “You are

something about sharing a story. Stories move people—

MORE THAN.”

they move people to believe, change, and grow. Stories move people to love.

Over the years I’ve learned a sad and unfortunate truth.

In the Gospel of Luke, the prodigal son returns home to a father who is outside in the driveway with his arms open wide ready to welcome him. That’s MORE THAN.

Most people view themselves as less than. Less than they

He doesn’t just wait for his son to come to the door. He’s

are. Less than others see them. And less than God designed

looking for him. And when he sees him, he races toward

them to be.

him. That’s MORE THAN.

I’m not a psychologist or psychotherapist. And I have no formal training in how to help people feel their best.

Who am I? I am a husband to my wife, Joy. She loves me beautifully, and after a quarter of a century, I still can’t figure out why, but I’ll go with it! I’m a father to three strong, beautiful, spirited daughters. And most importantly, I’m a child of God. Last year I published my first book. And during the process, I did a lot of reflecting. I realized the less-than perception we often have of ourselves is contrary to everything God stands for and every promise He’s ever made. If only we could see ourselves through His eyes. If only we could see why He loves us and how He loves us,

No, I haven’t squandered an inheritance on gluttonous

I think everything would change, especially how we feel

and frivolous pursuits, and I haven’t dined on slop with

about ourselves. And how we feel about our own stories.

swine. But more than once I’ve been the prodigal. And I bet

The truth is, when you think you’re less than, God says

you have too. Sometimes it’s gotten pretty uncomfortable. In

you are MORE THAN. When you think you are less than,

my own MORE THAN journey, I’ve discovered that God is

God says you are His.

pushing me to give MORE THAN—more of myself, more

“Oh, I love you beyond your wildest dreams,” God says.

“Make no mistake about it.”

of my time, more of my talents and resources, and more of my heart. Even when I felt I had nothing more to give, He’s

“I wish you could see yourself the way I do.”

challenged me to give more. But you know what? That’s

“I wish you could see yourself the way I created you.”

giving MORE THAN. And that’s what He’s given me.

My life story is fairly ordinary. But as I’ve reflected, I’ve

I’ve come to understand when God gives us MORE

discovered countless times when God has shown up in the

THAN, He expects us to give MORE THAN so others can

simplest moments and revealed Himself as MORE THAN.

experience MORE THAN too. Did you catch that? It’s big.

I was raised right, by most standards. And I’ve lived mostly right, by my standards. But I’ve wrestled with God.

Go ahead and read it again. It’s okay—I’ll wait.

Got it? Now let’s go.

calling His bluff. I’ve denied Him, turned my back on Him, and more than once I’ve given up and thrown in the towel.

30 // August 2025

About The Author

I’ve tried being in charge. I’ve tested Him. And I’ve tried

Garrett Nudd serves as director of communications for AdventHealth Georgia. His recent book, MORE THAN: Discovering How Your Story Reveals God’s Beautiful Truth About You, challenges readers to shift their paradigm from less than to MORE THAN.

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Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Quick and Easy One-Pan Chicken and Veggies

G

uess which month is most popular for moves and relocations? August! Here’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for those hectic moving days when you

need a nutritious and satisfying meal without much fuss.

This one-pan chicken and veggies recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with protein and nutrients to keep you energized during the moving process. The minimal cleanup and simple preparation make it an ideal choice for those busy, transitional days. Enjoy a wholesome meal without the hassle, and keep your move stress-free!

Ingredients • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder • 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved • 2 cups baby carrots

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional) • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions 1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken, rubbing it in to coat.

3. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby potatoes, baby carrots, broccoli florets, and bell pepper slices. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.

4. Assemble the Pan: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Moving Day: 1. Prep Ahead: If you know you’ll be busy on moving day, prep the chicken and vegetables the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, so all you need to do is pop them onto the baking sheet and into the oven.

2. Use Disposable Baking Sheets: To make cleanup even easier, consider using disposable aluminum baking sheets. This way, you can toss the whole thing once you’re done, saving precious time and effort.

3. Portable Meal: This meal is perfect for packing into containers and eating on the go if you’re in between homes or need to take a break during the move.

4. Customizable: Switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or green beans are all great alternatives.

32 // August 2025

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Gò0dNews Poetry

Woven Thread of Love

by Lori McAfee

Woven by the Creator’s glorious hand,

Intertwined as two empower the stitch to victory!

Intricately threaded every stitch and every strand.

Oh, the strength in cord of three,

Praise be to the Lord!

The Father, The Son, The Holy Spirit dwell within me.

Woven fearfully and wonderfully, graciously adored.

Woven and intertwined will complete the eternal tapestry,

Thread by thread without exception,

Crafted by the skilled weaver intentionally.

Marvelous works stitched to perfection.

The unseen confess

Woven and securely tethered,

Vast colors mingled and unified reveal a mess.

Love threaded the needle of scarlet infinitely measured.

A masterpiece of skilled workmanship,

For all mankind, the sacrifice paid.

Woven by hand with a firm grip.

A mysterious treasure, the world to illuminate.

Remnants of scarlet thread reveal:

Woven strands of two are better than one,

Love was woven for each thread so surreal.

Despite unraveling, tattered, and torn,

The masterpiece was given at such a price,

Designed to complete the tapestry of life,

The Eternal Tapestry,

An array of colors, delicate and divine.

woven with threads, complete in Jesus Christ.

Friendship’s elegant hand lifts the heart.

Tangled as one shall cease to proceed,

34 // August 2025

About The Author

No single thread can fulfill the work of art.

Lori McAfee, author of Burning Hope, is a certified life coach, speaker, and host of the popular podcast Get Your Rear In Gear. For more information, see www.lorimcafeecoaching.com.

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Gò0dNews for Seniors

When Ladybugs Say Hi!

A

by Stephanie Evans

s an elderly single woman after a late-life divorce, I learned to keep myself company and keep moving. I get outside at least

once a day, if weather permits, and when relatives gifted me with a much-appreciated car, I started driving to stores for supplies or just stopping by local frozen yogurt or custard shops when I can afford dessert.

(Incidentally, when I didn't have a vehicle postdivorce, I rode the Cleveland Urban Area Transit System city buses, which serve the Cleveland area on several routes from early morning to early evening. It's a great and affordable way to travel locally Monday through Friday).

But one lonely Sunday night stands out in my memory now. (First, let me clean the cream soda off my eyeglasses and floss this turkey sandwich away. There.

That's better).

Anyway, that night—I stopped at one of my favorite frozen yogurt shops and parked my car to sit with myself and enjoy vanilla-cherry amaretto. In front of my car, about ten feet away, yellow and black caution tape surrounds a small depressed square full of gravel and broken pieces of old asphalt. (We feel ya!) The cool autumn breeze trembles the plastic warning. Then the breeze settles, gracing that tape into a curve. (Was that God, smiling at me? Yes, I think it was).

Dusk turns the day gray and solemn. Cars whoosh by steadily on the recently-repaired four-lane behind me. I try to call one friend--busy and unavailable. At that point, I feel like one line of a couplet.

A piercing car alarm disturbs my daze, then quickly shuts off. I remember my former family, when we used to watch our television shows and laugh together or go to

cradle phones and land lines. And yet I enjoy and appreciate new technology that lets me get nearly-instant photos and texts and calls from family, even when they travel long distances. I just got photos of my granddaughter on a first school field trip. My heart melts and I rejoice at the festive colors and happy faces. Now I'm a happy grandmother!!

Anyway, let me get to the ladybug! That Sunday evening, everybody I know was busy—or maybe just worn out from the workweek. But God is God and never wears out. I look down while my warm car turns that pink and white frozen treat melt-y around the edges. (Yum!) I look up and see ten gentle raindrops on my car's front windshield. I knew God saw me. Maybe He wept with me. “Thank You,” I say.

As I got ready to leave the parking lot, a coral ladybug touched down on my driver's side window. “Wow!” I thought. “A ladybug!” With tiny wings and vibrant colors, she flew away with my despair. I flew home to my next good book. (Hooray!! Another good day!!)

church and serve Communion or take our children to class But my children are grown and on their own, as they should be. I miss the old days sometimes--even the old

36 // August 2025

About The Author

and nursery, when I was a happy mother of children.

Stephanie Evans is a retired newspaper reporter/library clerk. She is a mother and grandmother, She enjoys semi-sweet iced tea with just about everything! One of her favorite verses is John 3:16-17.

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Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness

Carbs Do NOT Make You Fat!

D

by Thomas Morrison

r. Atkins was wrong. Eating excess calories makes you fat—not excess carbs. In 2001, the medical journal Obesity Research published “Popular Diets: A Scientific

Review,” where they reviewed every study ever done on lowcarb diets and concluded, “In all cases, individuals on high fat, low carbohydrate diets lose weight because they consume fewer calories.” In line with this same thinking, health writer Anthony Colpo dug up every metabolic ward study he could find comparing low-carb to high-carb diets. Unlike free-living studies, where participants can choose what they want to eat and try to recall it later, in a metabolic ward the caloric intake And in these studies, 100% of the time, it was shown that at the same caloric intake, low-carbohydrate diets offer absolutely no fat-loss advantage whatsoever. When it comes to weight loss, calories count—every time, all the time.

Insulin: The Storage Hormone Unfortunately, Dr. Atkins sought to convince us that carbs were the enemy because they raised insulin levels. Insulin is the “storage” hormone the body releases to help shuttle the nutrients you have digested into the muscle and fat cells for storage. If insulin levels are high, we are in storage mode and not burning fat. Therefore, not only Dr. Atkins but many other diet gurus have blamed high insulin levels from carbohydraterich foods for making us sicker and fatter. The problem is… it’s just not true.

Protein Raises Insulin Too What Dr. Atkins and those promoting lower-carb eating have failed to mention is that insulin is raised by protein foods too! Research in which study subjects serve as their own controls, for example, shows that under fasting conditions, a quarter pound of beef raises insulin levels as much as a quarter pound of straight sugar! Low-carb diets suggest eating foods like beef and cheese instead of “dreaded” high-carb foods like pasta, but a single burger or just three slices of cheese will boost insulin more than almost two cups of cooked pasta! That’s why a more whole-foods, plant-based type diet is encouraged, because the insulin levels, weight, and overall health of those following that is consistently better than those following anything else.

38 // August 2025

Diet Comparisons A study done at Tufts, for example, compared four popular diets for a year. They compared Weight Watchers, The Zone Diet (moderate carb), the Atkins Diet (low carb), and the Ornish Diet (high carb). Only Ornish’s vegetarian high-carb diet showed a reduction of 27% in insulin levels—even though the Zone and Atkins Diet were supposedly designed for that purpose!

Other studies show that a high (70%+) carb diet combined with a 15–30-minute walk each day not only results in weight loss (if the calories are reduced) but also lowers blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin levels as well—exactly the opposite of what those promoting low-carb diets would predict. One study showed such a high-carb vegetarian diet reduced the need for insulin by diabetics and cured most pre-diabetics of insulin resistance in just three weeks!

Blue Zones The longest-lived peoples in the world live in five regions called “Blue Zones.” These people are notable because they have no problems with weight gain—even into old age—and none of them eat low-carb. In fact, all of them eat high-carb and mostly vegetarian diets.

So don’t fall for the low-carb mantra of “carbs make you fat.” Carbs aren’t the problem, and insulin isn’t either.

Understand that your body was built to move, and that carbohydrates from plant food are a source of fuel you were designed to eat, and you will do well.

About The Author

of the low- and high-carb participants is tightly controlled.

Thomas Morrison is the Fitness Coordinator at Bradley Wellness Center in Dalton, GA, where he has served for the past 25 years.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Dog Days of Summer

T

by Candyce Carden

oward the end of July and into August, I experienced feelings of malaise and unease. When I shared my thoughts with a friend, she bluntly asked: “Why?”

Why indeed? I didn’t have a concrete answer, so I

dismissed her question by saying, “Oh, just the dog days of summer, I guess.”

I heard that phrase for years, but didn’t know what it meant, so I researched its meaning. The Dog Days of Summer references a period of hot and humid weather during July and August. This scorching phase of the year coincides with the rising of Sirius, the Dog Star. Sirius is the brightest star in our sky other than the Sun. But the real question was why I felt the way I did. At the start of summer, I eagerly anticipated the joy-filled days of the season. Why should a period of dry, sultry heat disrupt those positive vibes?

A Restless Soul

The term restlessness sums up my mood. Writers of the

Bible describe restlessness as inner disquiet. Unease is another term used. Restlessness is the opposite of rest. When our soul is restless, it is not at rest.

“Why are you in despair my soul? And why are you restless within me?” (Psalm 42:5; Psalm 42:11; Psalm 43:5 NASB) The psalmist asks himself these questions three times in Psalm 42 and 43. Clearly, he felt troubled. I understand why he sought answers. Inner disquiet is a hard thing. Bible commentator Andrew MacLaren points out the psalmist is questioning himself as to the reasonableness of the emotions churning in his soul. MacLaren concludes by saying, “Our moods and emotions need to be examined and governed by a higher self.” Was my restlessness unreasonable? I couldn’t identify a specific cause for it, so maybe. I finally took my restlessness to God.

Four Valuable Lessons

God led me to the source of my restlessness during my

“Dog Days of Summer.” He also instilled four valuable lessons.

I. It’s okay to be vulnerable.

I had a couple of major disappointments this summer

II. Feelings of unrest don’t make us less Christian.

I need to acknowledge and evaluate my emotions, including disappointment. I had so many things for which to be thankful that I suffered guilt about my agitation. Restlessness may signal a warning we need to pay attention to, so let’s examine our feelings. During a sermon I heard a while ago, a pastor said our restlessness may be God stirring our soul, calling us to something different.

III. Waiting can be a good thing.

I hate waiting. Impatient for my familiar feeling of contentment to return, I rebelled and turned from God, which only added to the inner turmoil. Waiting with God is to rest in God. And rest is the opposite of restlessness.

IV. Jesus desires to share our burdens.

He tells us so throughout Scripture. In one of my favorite verses, He invites us to share His yoke, follow His lead, and rely on His support. This is the one true path to rest and contentment. “Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls“ (Matthew 11:29 ESV).

Have you ever wrestled with unsettled feelings? How did you handle them? What did you learn?

With permission, this article was adapted for our format from Candyce’s blog, www.candycecarden.com.

under the proverbial rug and kept on trucking. Maybe I feared accepting them made me vulnerable.

40 // August 2025

About The Author

that I didn’t deal with. Instead, I ignored them. I swept them

Candyce Carden is an award-winning writer and teacher in north Georgia. She’s worked with students from kindergarten through college and also served as director of the Children’s Learning Center for First Baptist Dalton, where she is a member. When not at home, she can usually be found at the beach. Read her blog at www.candycecarden.com.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

Joyful

W

by Zebbie Brewster

hen I still worked, I loved to treat myself to a

as they soon became best friends. I do believe that dog had to

Saturday of loafing. I would allot myself so

be a God-send for all the joy that he brought into our lives.

much money to spend and would set off for

I also will never forget a really special need that God

an adventure. I usually had something in mind that I was

met at Trade Day for me. My young daughter needed

looking for. Sometimes it could be found and sometimes

some church dresses to wear to church. I remember feeling

not. Please know that we have Trade Day in our town

discouraged as it seemed that I had walked all over Trade

on Tuesdays and Saturdays. It has always been fun to go

Day and not found what I was looking for. I remember

and see what you might find on that particular Tuesday

looking one more place before we left and found those

or Saturday. I remember often you would see people just

sweet little dresses that were just her size. You would never

stopping and visiting with others as they walked around

believe how much they cost? I bought them for 10 cents each! Without a doubt that was a blessing from The Good Lord. Even now as I remember that special blessing, it is never too late to thank God again for His loving kindness.

Psalm 16:11, “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.”

Trade Day has been around for a long time and there are many stories that can be told by others who visit there. It was a time to visit with old friends and make new friends. We need each other and I hope you can take time today to say a kind word to someone. A friend of mine had a T-shirt that asked the question, “How do you know if someone needs encouragement? The answer was “They are breathing!“ A kind word can go a long

Trade Day. I can fondly bring to remembrance a homemade

way, let it begin with you. With a kind word or even a smile,

porch swing that I bought at Trade Day. I still have it on

you can bring joy to someone.

my porch and that is my happy place. It is amazing how peaceful it is to sit on the front porch and watch the world go by. My cat loves to get my attention and enjoy the quiet

Psalm 35:9, “And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord; it shall rejoice in His salvation.”

Nehemiah 8:10, “Then he said unto them, Go your way,

time with me. How would I have ever known that swing

eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto

would bring so much joy?

them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy

a medicine.”

On another Saturday, we ran upon a dachshund puppy someone had for sale. He was so tiny and my daughter named him “Little Bit.” He could be found where she was at,

42 // August 2025

unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Stay strong in Jesus. *All Scriptures are KJV. About The Author

*Proverbs 17:22a KJV, “A merry heart doeth good like

Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.

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Dalton Church Directory Assembly of God

Christian Fellowship Assembly 3656 Chattanooga Road, 30755 706-280-7594 The Sanctuary 515 Reed Rd NW, 30720 706-270-2088 The Healing Center Church 515 Reed Road, 30720 706-229-9456

Baptist

Abundant Life Baptist Church 811 J and J, 30721 706-278-5289 Antioch Baptist Church 1205 Antioch Road, 30720 706-278-1305 Beaverdale Baptist Church 2496 Beaverdale Rd NW, 30721 706-259-7089 Calvary Baptist Church 2115 Chatsworth Rd, 30721 706-278-6324 Carolyn Baptist Church 2305 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8142 Centerpoint Baptist Church 420 Centerpoint Drive SE, 30721 706-277-2100 Christ Reformed Baptist Church 1378 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-226-3026 Concord Baptist Church 1054 Hopewell Rd, Cohutta 30710 706-694-8618 Cove Baptist Fellowship Church 461 Carbondale Rd SW, 30721 706-277-3484 Crown View Baptist Church 502 West Tyler St, 30720 706-278-7422 Deep Springs Baptist Church 1660 Beaverdale Rd NE, 30721 706-259-3255 Dug Gap Baptist Church 2031 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-2377 Eastbrook Baptist Church 204 Hill Rd, 30720 Eastside Baptist Church 913 East Morris St, 30721 706-278-8553 Eleventh Avenue Baptist Church 2550 South Dalton Bypass, 30722 706-278-7020 Emmaus Baptist Church 4268 S. Dixie Rd, 30735 706-483-5251 First Baptist Church 802 Kenner St, 30721 706-226-9681 First Baptist Church of Dalton 311 North Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-2911 Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721 706-537-6884 Good Hope Baptist Church 2525 Lake Francis Rd, 30721 706-259-3719 Grove Level Baptist Church 2802 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-8519 Good Samaritan Baptist Church 3137 Cleveland Rd, 30721

44 // August 2025

706-259-7239 Gospelway Baptist Church 336 Jupiter Cir, 30721 706-278-1424 Grace Baptist Church 2049 Lower Kings Bridge Rd, 30721 706-537-6884 Harmony Baptist Church 187 Lower Dawnville Rd, 30721 706-226-5521 Harvest Baptist Church 3986 Cleveland Hwy, 30721 706-694-8951 Hill Crest Baptist Church 1901 Cityview St, 30720 706-279-1267 Hopewell Baptist Church 3527 Airport Rd, 30721 706-226-5987 Hopewell Baptist Church Cohutta 810 Baldwin Rd, 30710 706-280-8286 Kinsey Drive Baptist Church 2626 Kinsey Drive,30720 706-277-3505 Lakeshore Park Baptist Church 12 Crescent St, 30720 706-275-6050 Liberty Baptist Church 506 South Pentz St, 30720 706-226-5535 Lindsey Memorial Baptist 706-673-7650 3503 Lindsey Memorial Rd. Rocky Face, Ga. 30740 Macedonia Baptist Church 1355 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721 706-259-9220 Maple Grove Baptist Church 347 Maple Grove Rd, 30721 706-483-6300 McFarland Hill Baptist Church 307 Brickyard Rd, 30721 706-277-5521 Mount Rachel Baptist Church 332 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-5192 Mount Ridge Baptist Church 1401 M L King, Jr. Blvd, 30721 706-278-0335 New Hope Baptist Church 900 Roan St, 30721 706-226-2093 New Hope Baptist Church 706-673-8050 2105 Tunnel Hill-Varnell Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 New Life Baptist Church 2620 Old Grade Rd, 30721 Northwest Georgia Baptist Church 222 North Pentz St, 30720 706-463-3490 Olivia Baptist Church 1817 Guy St, 30720 706-278-3507 Pine Grove Baptist Church 4004 Airport Road, 30721 706-264-8630 Poplar Springs Baptist Church 897 Poplar Springs Rd, 30720 706-259-8727 Reformation Baptist Church 244 N. Hamilton St, 30720 706-314-8711 Rocky Face Baptist Church 1544 Rocky Face Railroad St, 30740

706- 226-5751 Salem Baptist Church 1448 Pleasant Grove Dr, 30721 706-259-7045 South Dalton Baptist Church 498 Lakemont Drive, 30720 706-278-4946 Shiloh Baptist Church 2014 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721 706-226-5981 Temple Baptist Church 2310 South Dixie Hwy, 30720 706-226-6785 Tunnel Hill First Baptist Church 706-673-2085 202 South Cherry Street Tunnel Hill, GA 30755 Valley Baptist Church 2907 Old Rome, 30720 Welcome Hill Baptist Church 2772 E Welcome Hill Circle, 30721 706-278-0368 Whitfield Baptist Church 2134 Dug Gap Rd, 30721 706-278-6776

Bible

Fellowship Bible Church 2044 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-6269

Catholic

Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church 968 Haig Mill Lake Rd, 30720 706-278-3107

Christian

First Christian Church 1506 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-278-7244

Church of Christ

Central Church of Christ 515 N. Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-278-8051 Riverbend Church of Christ 2218 S Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-226-0819

Church of God

Church of God of Union Assembly 2311 South Dixie Rd, 30720 706-275-0510 City View Church of God 3688 Chatsworth Hwy, 30721 706-226-6686 Crosspointe 2681 Underwood Street 30721 706-278-2649 Lifegate Church 2744 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-0016 Valley Brook Church of God 1474 Mineral Springs Rd, 30720 706-279-3296

Community

Church on the Hill 1035 Abutment Rd, 30721 706-278-9208 Community Fellowship Church 409 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-3204 Freedom Community Church 908 Elk Street, 30720 706-463-2690 The River Community Church 2410 Cleveland Hwy, Suite 112, 30721

678-314-7994 Rock Bridge Community Church 121 W Crawford St, 30720

Episcopal

Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church 901 West Emory St, 30720 706-278-8857

Jehovah’s Witnesses

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1309 Applewood Drive, 30720 706-529-0192 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1817 Dug Gap Rd, 30720 706-270-0156

Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 610 Shugart Rd, 30720 706-278-5295

Lutheran

Christ the King Lutheran Church 623 S Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-3979

Methodist

Bethel AME Church 620 Spring Street, 30720 706-226-2714 Bethel Methodist Church 123 Bethel Church Rd, 30721 706-278-3309 Dalton First UMC 500 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-278-8494 Fairview Church 1735 Riverbend Rd, 30721 706-996-5057 Five Springs Methodist Church 2823 Five Springs Rd, 30720 706-277-3928 Mineral Springs UMC 4079 Airport Road, 30721 706-517-0200 Mt. Vernon UMC 597 Lafayette Road Rocky Face, GA 30740 706-673-4667 New Haven UMC 4040 South Dixie Highway, 30721 706-217-1879 Pleasant Grove Methodist 2701 Cleveland Highway, 30721 706-259-3141 Trinity UMC 901 Veterans Dr, 30721 706-278-4042 Varnell Church 3485 Highway 2 Cohutta, 30710 706-694-8023 Wesley Chapel UMC 808 Jamestown CT, 30721 706-270-2331

Nazarene

First Church of the Nazarene 2325 Chattanooga Rd, 30720 706-278-8428 Grace Church of the Nazarene 1111 Nelson St, 30721 706-278-1171

Non-Denominational

Abundant Life Bible Church

901 Chester Road, 30721 706-270-9733 Bridging the Gap Ministries 514 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, 30721 706-277-7575 Relentless Worship Center 210 Robinwood Dr, 30721 706-313-1129 Dalton House Of Prayer 897 College Dr, Conference Rm 3, 30720 706-915-6545 Dawnville Community Church 1409 Dawnville Rd NE, 30721 706-259-5342 Good Neighbors Church 910 South Thornton Ave, 30720 706-226-0846 Gospel Light Tabernacle 804 Sheridan Ave, 30721

Grace Fellowship Ministries 620 N Glenwood Ave 2&3, 30721 706-280-1375 Northwest Christian Fellowship 272 Main St, Varnell, GA 30756 706-694-9830 River of Life Church of Dalton 2919 East Walnut Ave, 30721 706-965-6683 Saint James Overcoming Church 400 North Fredrick St, 30721 706-278-0319 Tunnel Hill Community Church 706-673-4022 121 North Varnell Road Tunnel Hill, GA 30755

Pentecostal

Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Fuente

de Agua Viva 1007 Underwood St, 30721 706-278-4963 La Senda Antigua 308 East Matilda St, 30720 706-270-8826 True Gospel Pentecostal Church 109 South Henderson St, 30721 706-278-5696 Shadow Ridge Worship Center 122 Wheat Drive Varnell, GA 30721 706-280-4546

Presbyterian

ChristChurch Presbyterian 510 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-529-2911 First Presbyterian Church 101 S. Selvidge St, 30720

706-278-8161 Grace Presbyterian Church 2107 Threadmill Rd, 30720 706-226-6344

Salvationalist

Salvation Army 1109 N. Thornton Ave, 30722 706-278-3966

Seventh Day Adventist

3 Angels Hispanic SDA 701 E Morris St, 30721 706-618-1182 Dalton Hispanic SDA 112 W Long St, 30720 706-275-0523 Dalton SDA Church 300 South Tibbs Rd, 30720 706-226-2166

Chatsworth Church Directory Baptist

Blue Ridge Primitive Baptist Church 706-517-9849 134 Hyden Tyler Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Calvary Baptist Church 706-695-7747 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Center Hill Baptist Church 706-695-7988 65 Berry Bennett Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Cisco Baptist Church 706-695-9270 Highway 411 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Cool Springs Baptist Church 4330 Holly Creek Cool Springs Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Fellowship Baptist Church 706-695-2626 4396 Highway 52 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First Baptist Church 706-695-2112 121 West Market Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Flat Branch Baptist Church 706-695-2663 3443 Highway 286 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Free Hope Baptist Church 706-695-3717 4176 Highway 76 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Holly Creek Baptist Church 706-695-8522 422 Holly Creek Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Liberty Baptist Church 4221 US-76, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Little Consauga Baptist Church 706-517-5733 1100 Sugar Creek Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Maranatha Baptist Church 706-695-6330 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Mount Pisgah Baptist Church 706-517-8944 2309 Old Highway 411

Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Hope Baptist Church 706-517-3089 1273 New Hope Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Prospect Baptist Church 706-629-9521 7629 Highway 225 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Old Fashion Baptist Church 706-695-5420 885 Ben Adams Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Open Air Ministries 706-386-484 1058 Mtn Crest Dr. Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Prayer Baptist Church 706-624-9216 10859 Hwy. 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Shinning Light Baptist Church 706-517-1739 801 North 5th Avenue Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Smyrna Baptist Church 706-695-5815 1913 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Spring Place Baptist Church 706-695-5532 441 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Total Praise Baptist Church 706-695-6441 1461 Greeson Bend Rd, Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Zion Hill Baptist Church 706-517-5913 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Bible

Grace Bible Church 2599 Leonard Bridge Rd. Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Church of Christ

Woodhaven Church of Christ 706-847-7400 508 West Peachtree Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Church of God

Chatsworth Church of God

706-695-9388 Highway 411 South Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Central Community Church 706-695-4242 60 Pine Hills Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 Spring Place Church of God 706-695-8000 717 Tibbs Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Full Gospel

Faith Worship Center 706-695-6866 189 Hyden Tyler Road Chatsworth GA 30705 House Of Prayer 616 Jenkins Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Methodist

Casey Springs 7250 Chastworth Highway South Chastworth, GA 30705 Center Valley Methodist Church 706-971-4646 5394 Highway 225 North Chatsworth, GA 30705 US First Methodist Church 706-695-3211 107 W Cherokee Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Fullers Chapel UMC 2144 Fuller’s Chapel Rd Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Spring Place UMC 706-695-5143 Po Box 248 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Non-Denominational

Smyrna Gospel Tabernacle 784 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 The Church of God of the Union Assembly at Chatsworth, GA 706-695-7335 Highway 52 Alternate Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Liberty Tabernacle 706-517-3140

2196 Smyrna Church Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Living Word Christian Fellowship 706-695-5005 960 Cherokee Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US New Beginnings Ministries 706-695-6067 646 Floodtown Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US North Gate Church 706-548-4967 7727 Highway 225 South Chatsworth, GA 30755 US Tabernacle of Praise 706-517-0377 1435 Leonard Bridge Road Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Wings Of Faith Ministries 706-695-1527 1122 North Holly Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Pentecostal

Victory Tabernacle 706-517-1458 355 Ellijay Street Chatsworth, GA 30705 US A Place to Worship 706-517-8568 259 Old Landfill Rd Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Presbyterian Sumach Presbyterian Church 706-695-4773 2089 Sumach Church Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

Seventh Day Adventist

Hispanic Adventist Church of Chatsworth 706-264-4299 88 North Park Drive Chatsworth, GA 30705 US Seventh-Day Adventist Church 706-517-5124 1115 Highway 52 Chatsworth, GA 30705 US

goodnewscm.com // 45

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