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Gò0dNews November 2017
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Writers
Amy Mendez Angie Bishop Ben Baker Bill Fortenberry Donald Cantrell Donna Tumlin Herman Stamey Joey Ineichen Karla Smedley Kent Howard Khristie Staines Mande Chapman Mitch Jolly Ralph Jenkins Sue Lagermann
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About Us 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 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!
GoodNews Christian Magazine Rome
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Editor
Emily Bangura
Publisher
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Phone: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
Website
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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. Front Cover Photo: (left to right) Mark Mixer, CEO, Alliant Health Plans; Amanda Reed, COO, Alliant Health Plans; Greg Dent, Executive Director, Northwest Georgia Healthcare Partnership
November 2017
Gò0dNews Christian Magazine
Pg 4 Pg 6 Pg 8 Pg 10 Pg 12 Pg 14 Pg 18 Pg 22 Pg 24 Pg 26 Pg 28 Pg 30 Pg 32 Pg 34 Pg 36 Pg 38
About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk An Attitude of Gratitude by Ralph Jenkins GoodNews for Kids The Hula-Hoop Contest by Sue Lagermann GoodNews on Money Matters Don’t Look Now, but It is November by Bill Fortenberry GoodNews for Men Men, Trust in the Lord by Joey Ineichen GoodNews for Women Friendships That Encourage Faith by Angie Bishop GoodNews for Parents Some Lessons Learned While Parenting by Mitch Jolly GoodNews for Life With a Heart of Thanksgiving by Khristie Staines GoodNews for Health & Fitness 5 Tips to Prevent Slowdown in Your Weight-Loss by Amy Mendez GoodNews for Teens Gaining Independence by Karla Smedley GoodNews for Seniors The Greatest Generation by Ben Baker GoodNews Player of the Month Caroline Clark by Kent Howard GoodNews for Everyone Gifts from God by Herman Stamey GoodNews for Everyone Plant Yourself by Donna Tumlin GoodNews for Everyone Yes! Get On That Plane and Go! by Mande Chapman GoodNews for Everyone Just a Word of Thanks by Donald Cantrell
Pg 20-21
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Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
An Attitude of Gratitude
“That my soul may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to Thee forever” (Psalm 30:19 NASB). by Ralph Jenkins
T
hanksgiving Day approaches. An American holiday when we give God the thanks and gratitude for all His glorious blessings. We should be: 1. Thankful for his providence. As believers in the Lord Jesus, our God is from everlasting to everlasting, from eternal past to eternal future. There is nothing past, present, or future that He is not in control of. We can praise Him because our own eternity was sealed before eternity began. 2. Thankful for his protection. Throughout our lives there have been times when we shouldn’t have come through the fires, we shouldn’t have come through the heart attacks, the cancers, the diseases we have come through. We shouldn’t have come through the terrors of our own sins. But we did, and it is only because we have been placed in the protective hand of God. 3. Thankful for his provision. Our God is the great provider. He has always taken care of our needs. When there seems to be no way, He is the way-maker. As we praise Him for our provision let us remember that it is not just food and clothing, but it is also His love, grace, mercy, peace, and joy that He provides for all who call on His name.
6 // November 2017
4. Thankful for his peace. We live in a world that is coming apart at the seams. We are literally living in a day when things are going from bad to worse. The earth itself seems to be groaning within for its creator and men have become haters of good and even haters of God. Yet, in the midst of our ungodliness and unrighteousness our God still offers His peace to a righteous and holy people. It is a wonderful peace that comes not in the absence of war, but rather in the middle of it. It is an unshakable peace that surpasses understanding, coming from within those who have been sealed, healed, and filled with God’s own Holy Spirit. 5. Thankful for his procurement. His procurement simply means that He has taken hold of us for all eternity. As believers we have been bought with the precious blood of God’s own son. In this procurement we have been justified, sanctified, and glorified. We are forgiven of our past sins, our present iniquities, and our future transgressions. Through Christ, we have been saved from our sin, our immorality, our drunkenness and carousing, our unbelief, and are now saved to walk in holiness and righteousness in the truth. We are saved from death, hell, and the grave and saved to eternal life, a heavenly home, and like Jesus the grave cannot hold us. Yes, like the Psalmist, I will give thanks to Him forever for He has been good. I would love to know what you’re thankful for. E-mail me at pastorralphjenkins@gmail.com
Dr. Ralph W. Jenkins is the pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Cartersville, GA. and a native of Rome, GA. He and His wife Tammy have served the Lord in ministry for over 20 years and pastored three churches. He loves to win souls, preach the gospel, shepherd God’s people, and work on the farm.
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Gò0dNews for Kids
The Hula - Hoop Contest
O
by Sue Lagermann
ne day my sister Cindy and I heard on
We just knew since we practiced so much that one of us
the radio that there would be a big hula-
was going to be rich. It was hard to fall asleep that night
hoop contest downtown. The person who
because we kept laughing and whispering to each other
could keep the hula-hoop going the longest would
and feeling a little bit sorry for all those people who
win $100.00 from the radio station and the television
were not going to win.
station would be there to show everyone who stayed
The next morning Daddy drove us downtown to
home how much fun they were missing. The winner
the big event. The radio announcer told everyone to
would get to talk on the radio and on television about
find a spot to start. We picked a spot in the middle close
what they would do with the $100.00 and how it felt to
to the judges. Next thing we heard was “Ready, Set,
be a winner.
Hula Hoop!” The music started and all different colors
My sister and I were very excited. We thought
were spinning everywhere. By the time the second song
one of us would win the big contest because we
started, 20 people had dropped their hoops and had to
could hula-hoop all day long. We could do tricks,
leave the parking lot. When the 30th song was playing,
too. Sometimes Cindy would start the
I saw mean Tammie hula hooping towards us. I tried to
hula-hoop at her neck and keep it
warn Cindy, but it was too late. Tammie’s hoop brushed
going all the way down to her
Cindy’s and then mine, making them tilt just enough
ankles. Sometimes I would start
to stop them spinning. Tammie’s hula-hoop feel to the
the hula-hoop at my ankles and
ground and she laughed meanly and said, “Oh well,
keep it going all
you weren’t going to win anyway.” We were out!
the way up to my
On the way home, I was so angry and sad.
neck. Sometimes
My Daddy said, “There will always be mean
we would spin them on our opposite
people around. Sometime even your friends can
arms together and sing funny songs
be mean. However, you have to always
until we laughed too hard to keep the hoops going. The night before the big contest Cindy and I lay awake in bed to decide
have a positive attitude, do your best, be kind to even your mean friends, and
what we would do with the $100. If
do not let things get you down. (Love your
I won, I would give my sister $50. If
enemies, Luke 6:27-36) Try something new
Cindy won, she would give me $50.
and enter another contest.” We did.
8 // November 2017
Sue Lagermann has been involved with the Floyd County CASA (court appointed special advocates) Program since 1998 as a volunteer and became the Director in 2004. Before becoming Director, she advocated for over 20 children in the foster care system. She is the author of Violet Daisy Flowers becomes a Foster Kid which is about an 8-year-old child’s journey through the child welfare system.Sue is the mother of six and grandmother of 11 children. Sue and her husband Bob reside in Aragon, GA.
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Growing Mentors for the Master United by a belief that God’s Word and a band of brothers is a priority.
I
By Bill Fortenberry Gò0dNews on Money Matters
Don’t Look Now, but It Is November
t's 5:30 in the morning. One-by-one the men arrive,
• Identification with, support of, and service in a
most grabbing a Styrofoam cup of coffee before local church Bill Fortenberry settling around one of three tables. At 5:45, theybyare • Intense devotion to one's family, especially his
T
asked to stand,heBibles in hand, and recite the familiar countdown to Christmas has started, and if words: "This isyou myhaven’t Bible.already It is God's inerrant Word. is begun preparations, youItsoon
wifeand candy. Christmas parties and extensive is for food
will. earthly The question is whetherI your will be my most valuable possession. will,January therefore, with retail regret blissful beginnings? The answer make it afilled lamp unto my feetorand a light to my path, and
your Day menu toand a fewcleansing favorites rather •Christmas Instant repentance fromthan all asin.
depends on how you spend the next few weeks, or, more I will hide its words in my heart that I might not sin appropriately, how you budget for the next few weeks. against God." In 2016, American adults spent an average of $589 on
• Intentional discipline of thecelebration physicalorbody meals can be expensive. Try a potluck limit display of gluttony. When you talk about these kinds of topics with
a list of each person you are shopping for, as otherMake men, it doesn't take long for friendships to form. well as the other expenses you’ll have, and, yes, check I have cried with, prayed with, and laughed with the it twice. Past years of budget-less spending may have
Returning to their seats, the men spend the next men who share my table. We've worshiped together, Christmas gifts, according to the National Retail Federation, but resulted in shopping lists that are longer than your money
hour reciting verses they memorized previous that’s not the only holiday spending. the Americans spent another week and$347 talking what they on other holidayrelated learned duringitems: the week. ● $105 on food This same scene and candy
plays out at 6 p.m. each ● $55 on decorations Monday and at 6:45 p.m. ● $27 on greeting
on Wednesdays. The cards andmen postage are from different churches, ● $20 on flowers and plants. different stagespotted in life, and On top of that, different ages, but they are by the united byenticed a belief that God's Christmas sales, Word and a band of brothers shoppers spent another should be$140 a priority. This is on non-gift M3—Mentoring for the Master, open to purchasesMen for themselves. That’s a and total it of is $936 per adult any man shopper seekingorsomething moreAnd, thanaccording the status quo. $1,872 per couple. to the NRF, half ofrequirements that was charged to a credit card. Do you think The only are commitment to be that this may be more than you can afford to spend? transparent, to make an earnest effort to memorize Take control of your Christmas finances by planning ahead. Scripture, to keep private the conversations with other Set a budget. Financial expert Dave Ramsey says to men, and to regularly attend the weekly M3 meetings. think of a budget as you telling your money where to go The primary the same work ratherprinciple than your is money telling at you whereintothe go. gym: The best You get out what you putguilt-free into it. Christmas season is wayof to M3 having a financially set a budget and it. 10 Take an honest look at your Eachtoweek focuses onstick onetoof "Imperatives": income and expenses, decide what you can spend, and • Internalizing the Word stick to it. • Infilling of the Holy Spirit Look over the typical Christmas expenses above, and • Intimacy with the Father let them be your reminder to watch your expenditures. • Intentional involvement in the world mission of Gifts are the largest retail expense in November and Christ December, but the second most costly purchases are non• Interrelating others share your life gift, personalwith items. Decideto now not to be sidelined by sales for your thingsmoney you don’t need. TheLord third highest expense • Investing with the
10 // November 2017
12 // May 2017
eaten breakfast lunch together, and shown up at the has lasted. With a or Christmas budget, you’ll want to make hospital forare one another. I sure you spending appropriate amounts trust them, and they trust me. of money on gifts, The founder and food, Christmas cards,
developer of M3 is a now postage, etc. elderly North Carolina One great way to
pastor stickwhose to your challenge budget is has stayed witha me: You know to adopt cash-only plan. Create the spending Pledge of Allegiance, the a Christmas envelope Preamble to the Constitution withnational the amount or the anthem, of money you have but can you recite the most budgeted to spend. basic tenets of our faith? Do Withdraw money from you know the by memory? The the envelope for Ten each Commandments purchase. When the envelope is Beatitudes? I did not, and that fact suddenly seemed empty, your shopping is done. Finally, don’t buy into the notion that the only way to wrong. show people thatisyou about themIt is is to alive buy them This book mycare guidebook. andansharper expensive gift: than any two-edged sword. It is God's own word, and ● Agree on a maximum amount to spend on individual it cannot return void. Why hadn't I committed these to gifts. memory? If I needed a reason to join these men, this is ● Consider baking cookies or make other inexpensive, enough. I think of it as a workout for the soul. homemade gifts ● Start a new tradition serving a charity or ministry To learn more aboutofM3 or join an M3 group, contact with friends family. You’ll be glad you did. Mark Huckaby byand email at mkhuckaby@gmail.com. Bill worked 17 years as a newspaper BillFortenberry Fortenberry worked 17 years as a newspaper reporter, editor and columnist, and worked in reporter, editor and columnist,hasand has worked in healthcare communications since 2001. He holds healthcare communications since 2001. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from a bachelor’s degree in massBill communications the University of West Georgia. has served with from the University of West Georgia. Bill hasRome served with Rome-Floyd County Communities in Schools, Action Ministries, Rome High School PTSO Rome-Floyd County Communities inand Schools, Rome in his church, HBCRome. He and hisSchool wife, Lisa, Action Ministries, Rome High PTSO and in have two children, Ethan, a student at Middle Tennesee State University his church, HBCRome. He and his wife, Lisa, have two children, in Nashville, and Autumn, a senior at Rome High School. A storyteller at Ethan, aheart, student Middle Tennesee State University in Nashville, and Autumn, Bill at writes an occasional blog at kudzudad.blogspot.com.
a senior at Rome High School. A storyteller at heart, Bill writes an occasional blog at kudzudad.blogspot.com.
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Gò0dNews for Men
A
Men, Trust in the Lord by Joey Ineichen
s the holidays are quickly approaching, the stress
and he shall direct thy paths.” Once I truly took these two
of life becomes more pressuring. As men, we are
verses to heart and prayed for the Lord to strengthen me in
often seen to be the strong ones and most of the
applying them to my mind and heart, I began to experience
time it appears that we are not affected by the pressure or
a change in my feelings. The depression faded and the
the stress at all. Although appearances are often times very
anxiety became less debilitating over time. God showed up
misleading, men are affected and often times consumed by
and showed out!
them. We carry the burdens around day in and day out with
My advice to other men that think they may battle
everything weighing heavily on our minds as we struggle
with one or both of these two beasts is to first acknowledge
to maintain Godly character amidst it all. This struggle for
the problem to yourself. Then speak with your spouse
many will end with periods of depression and anxiety. This
or a brother in Christ about what you are struggling
is often not talked about so much when it comes to men, and
with. Please understand that acknowledging that this
women are the ones prominently considered to be the ones
is happening to you does not make you weak or less of
fighting these two beasts. The reality is that both men and
a man. It happens to us all in different degrees. If not
women sink into life lulls and fight these terrible beasts, and
addressed, it can lead to physical sickness and even to a
many times they fight them alone.
road filled with thoughts of suicide. Believe me when I say
I myself have struggled with both. Anxiety attacks
that the quicker you address this the better you will be.
and deep depression have been the realities that I have
Realize that man’s true strength is in the Lord and not in
faced in my life when I have met unexpected bends in
your own understanding. Don't allow the enemy to keep
the road. Life's unexpected valleys have us questioning
you hidden in the darkness of denial while he continues
God and ourselves. I have been to medical doctors and
his assault on you and all those around you. To God be the
been placed on medication to allow me to cope with each.
glory and peace fall upon you.
I began to question God. Why am I feeling these things? Why do they affect me like they do? God spoke to me with these two verses of scripture. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him,
12 // November 2017
Joey Ineichen is the pastor of Trinity United Christian Church since 2002 and he has been a correctional officer at Floyd County Prison for 22 years. US Navy veteran and attended school at Shorter College. He has been active in local outreach to the homeless in Rome as well as working with those struggling in their battle with addiction with CrossRoads Ministries and Living Proof recovery. He also ministers monthly to the men incarcerated at the Floyd County Prison. He has been married to Misty Ineichen for two years and has three sons Drew Phillips (21), Brad Ineichen (22), and Braden Ineichen (14).
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HOME HEALTH
Gò0dNews for Women
Friendships That Encourage Faith
L
by Angie Bishop
adies, how much do you see a need for other women in your life? Many of us don’t always see a need, but I’m here to tell you, “We need each other!” Before marriage, I had my tight-knit group of friends. In fact, we are all still friends, but now with some distance between us. Some have moved away, and we all have gotten married and built families, so naturally that kept us busy and family focused for several years, not leaving much time for just us girls. It wasn’t until recently I realized the importance of female relationships and what they entail when centered on Christ. About a year and a half ago, God moved me and my family to a new church. I so wanted to know my new church family so of course I jumped into Sunday school, small group studies, etc. What I didn’t expect was to be a part of something amazing! I quickly grew to love some incredible women with incredible faith. Women who had very real stories of struggles, pains, hardships, and battles, but women who also had very real faith and commitment to God, which makes all of those things mentioned before seem like nothing when God is in control of the circumstances. What I fell in love with about these ladies was their raw honesty, their pure hearts, and their vulnerability. I found it extremely refreshing, encouraging, and uplifting to sit and share our stories in life without worry of judgement. I’ve learned that female friendships centered on Christ are the true meaning of Christian fellowship. Our stories,
14 // November 2017
past and present, when shared, open us up to be encouraged by a sweet sister in Christ who has been there. It allows us to be the encourager to someone else as well, when they know first-hand that by our faith in God and his goodness, he sees us through, he gives us strength, and he grows us spiritually, all the while developing our character. Paul tells us in Romans 1:12, “When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.” Ladies! We were not meant to do this walk of life alone. For those of you who have husbands, he’s a gift no doubt, but female companionship is essential. We understand each other on the same level, we can learn and be inspired by each other, and most importantly, we can help encourage each other in our faith! Isn’t that awesome? A friend that helps you grow spiritually? I mean after all, isn’t God the goal here? And what better way to focus more on him than to build your faith and do it with a little help from friends. I encourage you to find a group of godly women and start a journey that places you on a path with ladies that you can pray for and with, and rely on to help you focus more on Christ. It’s a bond of love centered on our ultimate goal: Jesus! And it will bless your socks off! Angie Bishop is a resident of Rome, Ga. She is the blessed wife of a wonderful husband of 22 years and a mother of two children, 21 and 18. Angie is a member and attends church at Calvary Baptist. She yearns to share God’s message in hopes to encourage, speak God’s Truths, and point people to Jesus!
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Rome Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal
Bethel AME Church 22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 Us 706-295-0019 St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 706 853-8059 Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church of Rome 3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 20161 706-235-9551
Assembly Of God
Redemption Church 105 Broadus Road NE, Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0277
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 4526 Big Texas Valley Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7248 Armuchee Baptist Church 6648 Big Texas Valley Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3018 Berean Baptist Church 8 Skyline Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-9832 Blue Pond Baptist Church 1291 Morrison Campground Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3296 Bryant Chapel Baptist Church 24 Shady Lane Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9768 Calhoun Avenue Baptist Church 1021 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4431 Calvary Baptist Church 101 Broadus Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-1461 Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-777-8360 Cedar Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0978 Community Chapel Baptist Church 3733 Black Bluff Rd
16 // November 2017
Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4070 Desoto Park Baptist Church 1107 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-6207 Dykes Creek Baptist Church 3181 Kingston Hwy NE Rome Ga, 30161 706-291-7790 East Rome Baptist Church 601 Cedar Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8553 East View Baptist Church 901 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8250 Emmanuel Baptist Church 1414 Old Dalton Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-3939 Enon Baptist Church 3105 Turkey Mountain Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-5052 Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416 Fifth Avenue Baptist Church 416 N 5th Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0689 First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-1150 Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-9976 Friendship Baptist Church 2283 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-4803 Garden Lakes Baptist Church 2200 Redmond Cir Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-6615 Greater Mount Calvary Baptist 445 East 14th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-5047 Hill Crest Baptist Church 2202 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8806 Hollywood Baptist Church 112 Lombardy Way Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6642 In Focus Baptist Church
12 N Hughes Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8963 Lakeview Baptist Church 80 Salem Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-2149 Lovejoy Baptist Church 436 Branham Ave Rome, Ga 30171 706-232-1917 McFall Baptist Church 3011 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5673 Mount Alto Church 1915 Huffaker Rd NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-5102 Mount Carmel Baptist Church E 20th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-8777 Mount Olive Baptist Church 17 E Pennington Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-6413 New Antioch Baptist Church 4553 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2248 New Bethel Baptist Church Weathington Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706, 291-8939 New Canaan Baptist Church 3 Excelsior St Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-1984 New Hope Baptist Church Hwy 156 Rome, Ga 706-235-0250 New Hope Baptist Church 399 Moran Lake Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-0507 North Broad Baptist Church 1309 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-2100 PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4431 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 500 N Division St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0731 Pleasant Valley North Baptist 735 Old Summerville Road NW Rome, GA 30165 706-232-6426
Riverside Baptist Church 38 Ash St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8114 State Line Baptist Church 8536 Black Bluff Road Cave Spring, Ga 30124 678-988-0339 Saint Paul Baptist Church Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5037 Second Avenue Baptist 823 E 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-3663 Sherwood Forest Baptist Church 1 Goodman Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6174 Shorter Avenue Baptist Church 1410 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-8266 South Broad Baptist Church 508 South Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 Spring Creek Baptist Church 2636 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-1220 Springfield Baptist Church 113 Smith St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7217 Thankful Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Dr Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8132 Trinity Baptist Church 1728 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3368 Turner Chapel Baptist Church 756 Turner Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-8682 Unity Baptist Church 2261 Pleasant Valley Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-2184 West End Baptist Church 107 Mississippi Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-1971 West Rome Baptist Church 914 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-9722 Wilkerson Road Baptist Church Wilkerson Rd Rome, Ga 30161 Woodlawn Baptist Church
1649 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4171 Word & Way Baptist Church New Rocketmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-8729
Catholic
Saint Mary Catholic Church 911 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7014
Charismatic
Solid Holy Rock Church 700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-3022
Christian & Missionary Alliance
Missionary Alliance 306 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 20165 706-235-9190
Church of Christ
Church of Christ 108 E Callahan St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0675 Lindale Church of Christ 3035 Maple Road Lindale, Ga 30147 706-234-3027 Oak Hill Church of Christ 1500 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 20165 706-291-0351 Rome Church of Christ 121 Primrose Road Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4444
Church of God
Armuchee Church of God 4974 Martha Berry Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4414 Beech Creek Church of God 3000 Alabama Hwy NW Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-7466 Church of God of Prophecy 94 Huffaker Rd. Rome, GA 30165 706-528-4225 East Rome Church of God 210 E 18th St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-0704 New Hope Overcoming Church of God 200 Nixon Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4695 North Rome Church of God 1929 N Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-3516 Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St
Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, GA
Episcopal
Church of the Transfiguration 304 Coker Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-0197 Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church 101 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-9111
Foursquare
Rome Foursquare Church 308 Reservoir St NE Rome, Ga 30161
Full Gospel
Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-7744
Independent Bible
Grace Bible Church 614 Dalton Rd NE Rome, Ga 30165
Interdenominational
Cornerstone Church 324 Mathis Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-4923
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
Beech Creek UMC 2972 Alabama Hwy, Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-4973 Chapel Hill UMC 1818 Kingston Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-9177 Holsey Sinai CME Church 1233 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-7265 Lindsay Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 Livingston UMC 21 E Lakeshore Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 Metropolitan UMC 700 Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8660 Mt Pleasant UMC 100 Dodd St Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4350
New Bethel Methodist Church Reeceburg Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-9700 North Rome UMC 706-291-6704 Oostanaula UMC 74 Battey Farm Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0084 Rome First UMC 202 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-8590 Rush Chapel UMC 1225 Rush Chapel Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-7986 Scott Chapel UMC 3 Chambers St NE Rome, Ga 30161 Second Avenue UMC 801 E Second Ave SW Rome, GA 30161 Shannon UMC 600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112 Silver Creek UMC 585 Reynolds Bend Rd Rome, GA 30161 706-234-2518 South Broad UMC 546 S Broad St Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-5230 Trinity UMC 606 Turner McCall Blvd SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0033 Wesley Chapel UMC 9 College Park Dr SW Rome, Ga 30161 West Rome UMC 1003 Shorter Ave PO Box 2247 Rome, GA 30164-2247 706-234-6214
Nazarene
Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023 Rome First 26 Glenda Dr SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023
1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 Lighthouse Church of Rome Lighthouse Dr SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-0864 New and Living Way Bible Church 59 Dykes Creek Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-233-9200 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 Words of Faith Tabernacle 3134 Rockmart Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-314-9158
Orthodox
All Saints Church 615 Cleveland Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-378-4474
Pentecostal
Cannon Temple Holiness Church 308 Porter St Rome, Ga 20161 706-233-9001 Christ Temple Holiness Church 1321 Martin L King Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-3787
Presbyterian
Covenant Presbyterian Church 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-512-0190 First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Westminster Presbyterian Church 1941 Shorter Ave Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561
Seventh-Day Adventist
Rome Bethany Seventh-Day Adventist Church 307 E 14th St SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-292-0067 Seventh-Day Adventist Church 2526 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-4117
Non-Denominational
Glorious New Jerusalem Church 537 W 12th St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2045 Glory Tabernacle Church 300 Watson St Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-0888 Gospel Harvester Church
FREE Add/Update Church Directory
issuu.com/goodnewsrome // 17
Gò0dNews for Parents
Some Lessons Learned While Parenting
P
by Mitch Jolly
arenting is on-the-job training. No matter how many books one may read or how much advice one gets from others, parenting is learned while we are having to parent. I suppose the reason is that every life setting is different, and every child is wired differently. Of course, the curse of sin plays a role in all of that from our children’s not-so-great days to our notso-great days. So, let me not pretend to be giving expert advice with fail-proof techniques. These are lessons Jennifer and I have learned through trial and error, wise counsel from those who have gone before us, and leaning hard on God’s Word to be a lamp for our feet and light for our path.
◊ Hold timeless truths tightly, and herald them publicly. Let fads go the way of fads…away –
Unfortunately, Deuteronomy 6:4-11 is often quoted and then casted aside for new-fangled fads. How did previous generations survive without our superior methods? Love God, teach your kids to love God, feed their bodies and souls, clothe them, put shoes on their feet, teach them to obey God’s truth, teach them to trust in Jesus, and you trust all that is good, enough.
◊ Expose your kids to the globe sooner rather than later – We’ve had the honor of working, serving and
traveling to places, from central Africa to South Asia, and exposing our children to the advance of God’s kingdom in hard places. This has been intentional. Serving around the world has a way of helping our kids live beyond themselves, for superior ends rather than trivial pursuits.
20 // November 2017 18
◊ Begin to tell children the gospel story as soon as they are born – As soon as my boys could hear my
voice I began to relate the gospel story to them verbally. Read bible stories to them. It’s good to begin to help our children see that the whole bible tells the gospel story. We love “The Jesus Story Book Bible”. It’s good for children and adults.
Lloyd-Jones, Sally, The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name. Grand Rapids, MI: Zonderkidz, 2014.
◊ Be purposeful in cultivating meaningful traditions around our Christian Holy Days –
Create gospel-centered traditions that point your children to Jesus. This creates fun and anticipation and helps us shepherd our children to eternal truths. Piper, Noel. Treasuring God in Our Traditions. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2007.
◊ Apologize to your kids quickly when you mess up – Model for your children how to handle being
wrong through humble, repentant, and quick responses. We all know when we’ve messed up as a parent, and our kids know it too. Show them how to handle being wrong by telling them you messed up, and asking their forgiveness. They will learn how to be big people by the example we set in how to repent well. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Walk with the Lord. Lead your children to walk with the Lord and you’ll do fine. Mitch Jolly is the husband of Jennifer, the daddy of Gabriel, John Mark and Daniel. Mitch is a native of Rome, Georgia, and is one of the founding pastors of Three Rivers Church www.threeriversc.org www.mitchjolly.com and Global Impact, an NGO that focuses work in hard places globally and locally. Mitch serves Rome/Floyd County as a Chairman of the Department of Family and Children Services board of directors. Mitch is a former educator and administrator, teaching 7th-12th grade. Mitch loves to hunt, loves to climb mountains, loves watching football, and equipping churches to plant other churches that work in hard places “glocally”.
Church Activities & Events Second Avenue Baptist Church Men’s Prayer Breakfast
November 5th from 6:30AM - 7:30AM Call for more info (706) 232-3663
Cornerstone Church
Operation Christmas Child - Pack a Shoebox Collection week November 13th - 20th Call for more info (706) 234-4923
Fellowship Baptist Church Fellowship Dinner
Wednesday’s at 5PM Call for more info (706) 234-9416
North Rome Church of God Choir and Musican’s Clinic
Friday, November 3rd - Saturday, November 4th 9AM - 12 PM Call for more info (706) 291-6687
Pleasant Valley North Baptist Church Men’s Ministry Sporting Clay Shoot Saturday, November 4th - 9:00AM - 12PM Call for more info (706) 232-6426
FEATURED COVER STORY
20
Alliant Health Plans Customer Service Representatives Brenda Sandoval, Valeria Fraire and Jesus Barriga (left to right) meet with Executive Team Members, Mark Mixer and Amanda Reed.
Alliant Health Plans: Doing its Part to Bridge Cultural Barriers in Health Care
S
ince the implementation of the Affordable Care
Since opening its doors in North Georgia 20 years
Act (ACA, or commonly known as Obamacare),
ago, Alliant has continually sought ways to better serve
understanding health insurance can seem
its members. As it noticed its membership becoming
daunting. And, the rules around health insurance have
more diverse, Alliant began by making small changes.
changed. In fact, some of the rules seem to change every
For example, it first started with translating applications,
year. The scenario becomes even more complex when one
forms and important letters to members, which outline
adds to the mix, both language and cultural barriers. How
best care practices for those with chronic diseases. This
does that impact North Georgians? Whitfield County,
first step, while small, is crucial for members to feel
which has one of the highest Hispanic populations in
comfortable understanding and managing their insurance
Georgia, has seen an increase in traditionally insured
coverage. As membership continues to grow – both in
Hispanics, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation
size and diversity – Alliant’s efforts to accommodate its
website. While this is great news, more education is
Hispanic members is increasing as well. For example,
needed to teach members the basics about insurance
Alliant will soon be launching a Spanish version of its
and accessing health care. This is where Alliant Health
website, allowing bilingual members the same direct
Plans is stepping in. Alliant, one of the leading health
access to health plan information as currently enjoyed by
care insurers for North Georgia, is reaching out to the
English-speaking members.
Hispanic community to help bridge the cultural barriers in health care.
20 // November 2017
In addition to the website, Alliant continues to expand its bilingual staff. While it has always offered interpretive
services, Alliant quickly realized the need for on-staff bilingual customer service representatives to extend its high standard of customer service to its Hispanic members. Already, over 25 percent of its customer service team is bilingual. Staying healthy is also an important message Alliant wants to share with its Hispanic members. One way to maintain good health is to take advantage of covered preventive services, which in most cases are paid 100 percent by Alliant Health Plans. Examples of preventive services include annual wellness exams for children and adults, and mammograms for women 40-74 years of age. Many people are relatively healthy, meaning that they don’t have chronic diseases that they need to manage; they simply need to see a doctor to make sure they are “still on track.” One of this year’s upcoming challenges is the Open Enrollment period for individuals to select health coverage for 2018. It has been shortened to six weeks, November 1, 2017 to December 15, 2017. To help spread the word, Alliant is working with a Georgia company specializing in Hispanic communications, marketing and educational outreach. With bilingual representatives out and about in the community, they will help educate and inform, explaining how to qualify and enroll AND then use their insurance – such as preventive services. They will also help explain some of the rules of health insurance, which
Mark Mixer, CEO, Alliant Health Plans
as gain access to information about healthy living and healthier lifestyles. Some of the events hosted by NGHP are the Downtown Dalton Farmers Market, which gives Dalton residents the opportunity to buy locally grown, farm fresh foods; the well-attended and free Erwin Mitchell Community Health Fair; Bike Around Murray; and the popular Bill Gregory Healthcare Classic. All these events support NGHP’s mission to work to improve the overall quality of health of Northwest Georgia. Small steps can sometimes make a big difference. Alliant Health Plans is hopeful that their efforts in the Hispanic community will help to bridge the cultural gap and equal an improvement in education, access and ultimately better care for its Hispanic members.
can be misunderstood or missed altogether. They will help ensure members know that after they sign up for insurance, they need to pay their premium to “activate” their insurance coverage on January 1, 2018; how to tell the difference between “in-network” and “out-ofnetwork” doctors and the cost savings of using “innetwork” doctors; and the importance of using their insurance to maintain their health. Alliant’s philosophy has always been to give back to the community in meaningful ways that will positively impact community members’ quality of life. Alliant has increased its support as a partner of the Northwest Georgia Healthcare Partnership (NGHP). By supporting NGHP’s mission and programs, more of the community, including the Hispanic community, will learn about specific preventable diseases and conditions, as well
Amanda Reed, COO, Alliant Health Plans
issuu.com/goodnewsrome // 21
Gò0dNews for Life
With a Heart of Thanksgiving by Khristie Staines
“He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”
T
– 2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT
he beautiful autumn days are ending and winter is just around the corner it seems. Most people have made it through back-to-school and Halloween, and are now preparing their hearts and homes for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. However, with each of these passing holidays/seasons, for bereaved families it is still a stark reminder of loved ones who are no longer physically with us, no matter if our loved ones were 7 weeks-gestation or 100 years old. Instead we are comforted only by the memories that we hold so dear to our hearts. This holiday season I would like to encourage our community to purposefully choose each day to find some small way to remember those who might find the holidays filled with heartache and despair, instead of hope and love. May you ask God daily whom He might use you to bless. It doesn’t have to be monetary in nature, yes some are down on their luck and a financial blessing is warranted, but so often a simple smile can mean so much more than we ever realize. Perhaps just mentioning their loved one in your Christmas card greeting, try to find an old photograph that you may have of them and their loved one, maybe even consider hand-making or purchasing a special Christmas ornament to share with them so they know that the world has not forgotten them. Whom might you write an old-fashioned note of thanks to for the impact they have had on your life? (I am slacking in this department too. Before my son was born I tried to send note cards out quite frequently; now, I often carry them around for weeks and even months before getting them in the mail, despite passing by the post office almost every day. That is procrastination at its finest, I presume). So many families that I have met over the past few
22 // November 2017
years find the holidays to be a source of anxiety. They try to put on a smile and pretend as though their heart is not still feeling like it has just been ripped from their chest. Yes, even years into the grief journey it still feels this way some days. Be kind and gentle with them as they try to navigate the holidays in the best way they know how: one minute, one hour, and one day at a time. MerriamWebster defines thanksgiving as ‘the act of giving thanks’. So, this holiday season, I would like to say thank you to each and every person who truly are the hands and feet of Christ daily. The way that you show love and share hope with those who are hurting, just as God promises to us in 2 Corinthians 1:4, is perhaps the most beautiful gift you could ever give.
May the promises found in God’s word bring hope and peace to all our hearts this season. Khristie Staines is the co-founder and president of Footprints on the Heart, Inc. She resides in Bartow, Ga.
Gò0dNews for Health & Fitness
5 Tips to Prevent Slowdown in Your Weight-Loss
T
by Amy Mendez
hankfully, there are ways to prevent serious metabolic issues from occurring. The metabolism will slow a bit on any diet, but this does not, and should not, lead to extreme calorie deprivation and hours of cardio. Here are a few rules to follow for keeping a healthy metabolic rate.
1. Practice Patience
Don’t rush fat loss. It takes time, and plenty of it. Aim to lose no more than two pounds of fat per week. This guarantees that muscle loss is minimized. Muscle tissue consumes calories all the time. You don’t want to destroy this metabolically critical tissue. Another part of being patient is learning to make minor changes to the diet rather than massive changes. As soon as you make a change, whether it be cutting carbs or increasing cardio, your body will immediately begin adapting to the change. Avoid getting in a hurry it will only lead to discouragement.
2. Keep the Carbohydrates
If you want to get lean, you sometimes have to drop carbs to low levels. This does not mean that you should eliminate them all together. Carbs increase cellular hydration, and therefore cell volume. When muscle cells are hydrated and have greater volume, this signals the body that it is in a healthy state. The body, sensing it is fed, keeps the metabolic rate raised. Obviously if carbs are too high, fat loss will not occur, but for continued fat loss, carbs should remain in the diet.
3. Utilize High-Carb Days
I believe carbohydrates are essential to keeping an elevated metabolism. Leptin is a primary reason for this.
24 // November 2017
Leptin is a fat-burning hormone; its release is directly related to carbohydrate intake and body fat levels. Leptin serves many functions, including the control of energy expenditure. As carbs get low and body fat levels decline, the body lowers leptin levels. You can combat this to an extent by adding in high-carb days. A high-carb day once every 3-4 days can boost leptin levels; leptin is highly responsive to glucose metabolism. Add high-carb days to boost leptin, and it will lead to a more positive hormonal profile in general. High-carb days can lead to higher levels of the thyroid hormone t3, as well as help to keep testosterone levels elevated, both of which can further your fat-loss goals.
4. Don’t Cut Fat Too Low
The body also has a built-in adaptive response to extreme low dietary fat intake. When it senses this low intake of fat, your body naturally tries to hold on to body fat stores, since fats are at a premium. Moderate amounts of fat intake will ensure that calories are low enough for fat loss, and that the body is not in starvation mode.
5. Reverse Diet
A reverse diet is where you add calories back into your diet slowly, much the same as when you cut them slowly in order to get lean. The metabolism can be raised by slowly adding protein, carbs, and fat. If you already find yourself with a crashed metabolism, then a long reverse diet is the best way to help get you back on track. Amy Mendez is a life coach, mentor, personal trainer, and a nutritionist at Results Unlimited in Calhoun, Ga.
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Gò0dNews for Teens
W
Gaining Independence by Kara Smedley
ould you ever think of getting dressed and then taking a shower? Who would want to begin making car payments before he buys the car? It is so easy to notice when a child does something backwards. Sometimes a little one wants to dress herself trying to be independent, but ends up with her head getting stuck in the armhole. Adults are guilty of backward thinking as well. I have spent money on things I thought I had to have. Then the next day something unexpected comes up, and I wish I had the money I had spent. It is natural for teenagers to strive for independence, but they often do this backwards. I see many try to gain freedom in ways that can have a reverse effect. It is almost funny to watch a little kid stomp their foot, fold their arms across their chest, and poke out their lip. They think that this action will help them get what they want. Perhaps this can be compared to how some youth try to convince their parents they are ready for more freedom. But, when they don’t get their way, they begin pleading and arguing for the privilege. During my youth years and again in my thirties, I had horses. They are so beautiful! I love brushing and petting them. Besides bringing me moments of great joy, they also taught me an important lesson. When a horse is being tamed and learning to go in the
26 // November 2017
direction its rider wants him to go, the rider uses the reins. At first, the rider holds the left rein against the left side of the horse’s neck. He presses the strap firmly to urge him to the right. The method is true for steering the horse in the opposite direction as well. After a period of time has passed, the horse begins to learn what his master wants of him. When the horse shows he understands by continuously turning the way the rider leads him, the rider can then ease back. Using less control, the rider can now hold the left rein outward giving it a little tug, and the horse knows to go left. Of course, the horse learns to go the right with a little pull from the right rein as it is held away from his neck on the right side. Eventually, the rider can loosely hold the reins as the horse has learned how to follow his master’s guidance. Parents want their children to gain independence as they age, but it is sometimes scary for us to let go. However, the more a teenager chooses to act responsibly, the less strict a parent has to be. So, instead of trying to gain independence in a backward motion by begging or demanding freedom, listen to your parents’ instructions and prove to them you understand their guidance in the ways they want you to go. Karla Smedley lives in Dalton, Georgia, where she has taught 5th through 8th grade for the past twenty-four years. She is a member of Emmaus Baptist Church and has two grown children. She enjoys singing with the Praise Team at church, and she writes a Christian blog, Smorgasbord of Sisterhood, with her cousin Donna
Gò0dNews for Seniors
The Greatest Generation
T
by Ben Baker
hey say it’s the hardships of life that form our true character. If that’s true, then Americans who were born between the two World Wars have certainly earned their character badges. For this, we call them the “Greatest Generation” Because they made the world a better place for us, we’re committed to making the world a better place for them. Honoring the Greatest Generation is part of our mission here at Renaissance Marquis. In fact, serving this generation is our mission. In carrying out that mission, we hope to uphold the values handed down to us by the Greatest Generation in every possible way.
2. Work Ethic
Who is the Greatest Generation?
Many gave of themselves during World War II, to the extent that they lost life or limb. The war was truly allencompassing for this generation at that time. The Battle of the Bulge, for example, is considered by military experts to be the greatest in the nation’s history. United as a country in the face of evil, the greatest generation came together to sacrifice what they could to make the world a better place.
You’ve probably heard the term before. It was coined almost twenty years ago by Tom Brokaw. Former anchor and managing editor of the NBC News, Mr. Brokaw published his best-selling book, The Greatest Generation, in 1998. By doing so, he forever set the phrase in our hearts and minds. The phrase may be familiar, but have you ever stopped to wonder what makes this group of people ‘The Greatest Generation’?
Four Factors Contributing to the Formation of the Greatest Generation 1. Momentous Changes
This generation lived through the Great Depression, World War II, and then on into one of the most the prosperous eras in the history of our nation.
28 // November 2017
Perhaps because of having lived through the Great Depression, this generation knows a thing or two about working hard. On top of that, they lived through the years of World War II and appreciate stability.
3. Frugality
The combination of living during the Great Depression and experiencing war-time rationing means many in this generation are well-versed in frugal living. They learned to make due. They also learned creativity in the face of scarcity.
4. Sacrifice and Honor
How do we serve the Greatest Generation?
We strive to give the greatest generation a sense of purpose. Finding a purpose can mean so many different things to different people. It can be gardening in the courtyard, baking brownies, singing in bible study or just participating in daily activities. In everything we do, we aspire to create a sense of being for this great generation. Ben Baker serves as the director of sales and marketing for Renaissance Marquis and is truly honored to have such a rewarding job. The residents and team members have become his family. He loves having the opportunity to serve the greatest generation each day.
3126 Cedartown Hwy Rome, GA 30161
706-295-0014
renaissancemarquis.com
Gò0dNews Gò0dNews Player of the Month Gò0dNews Player of the Month Gò0dNewsPlayer Playerof ofthe theMonth Month
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She states Award for the month of June. Named after Joshua, the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Award for the month of June. Named after Joshua, the the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Award for the month of June. Named after Joshua, the the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Award for the month of June. Named after Joshua, the the the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian scholarship and scholarship and that and leadership. and leadership. award isisisis presented monthly by FCA to honor courage, Student Council, and YoungLife. Karson an award presented monthly by FCA to honor courage, Athletes, Student Council, and YoungLife. Karson an Clark, apresented senior at her mother “shows award presented monthly by FCA to honor courage, Athletes, Student Council, and YoungLife. Karson an award monthly by FCA to honor courage, Athletes, Athletes, Student Council, and YoungLife. Karson is an majoring in premajoring in pre-isisisJesus Watkins, a arising Watkins, rising obedience, and leadership. active member at Pleasant Valley North Baptist Church. obedience, and leadership. active member at Pleasant Valley North Baptist Church. obedience, and leadership. active North Church. obedience, and leadership. activemember memberatatPleasant PleasantValley Valley NorthBaptist Baptist Church. Pepperell School, through her actions physical therapy. physical therapy. senior atatHigh Pepperell senior Pepperell Trejo, a junior at Her hobbies include Trejo, a junior at Her hobbies include Trejo, a junior at Her hobbies include Trejo, a junior at Her hobbies include is a member of the in loving others and He Heenjoys enjoysreading, reading, High HighSchool, School,isisa a Armuchee High School, photography, outdoor Armuchee High School, photography, outdoor Armuchee High School, photography, outdoor Armuchee High School, photography, outdoor Lady Dragon Softball, showing compassion writing, writing,and and member the football memberofof the football participates in cross adventures, sleeping, participates in cross adventures, sleeping, participates inincross adventures, sleeping, participates cross adventures, sleeping, Basketball, and Track more than anyone I exercising. His life exercising. His life and basketball teams. and basketball teams. country, basketball, and spending time with country, basketball, and spending time with country, basketball, and spending time with country, basketball, and spending time with and Field Teams. She also know.” Her life verse verse isand Matthew 19:26 verse is Matthew 19:26 He also serves as He also serves asa a and soccer. She isis friends family. After and soccer. She isis friends and family. After and soccer. She friends and family. After and soccer. She friends and family. After serves as an FCA Huddle is Romans 8:18 which also aaamember of the graduation in 2018, also member of the graduation in 2018, that reads, “Jesus that reads, “Jesus Fellowship ofof Christian Fellowship Christian also of the graduation in 2018, also amember member of the graduation in 2018, Leader and FCA Student reads, “I consider that National Honor Society, she plans on attending National Honor Society, she plans on attending National Honor Society, she on attending NationalPHS Honor Society, sheplans plans on attending looked atat them and looked them and Athletes Huddle Athletes PHS Huddle Leadership Council our present sufferings Spanish Honors Society, college and pursuing Spanish Honors Society, college and pursuing Spanish Honors Society, college and pursuing Spanish Honors Society, college and pursuing said, ‘With man this said, ‘With man thisisis Leader aa Leaderas aswell wellasas Member forof Rome and not in worth comparing Fellowship Christian aaare physical Fellowship of Christian acareer career in physical Fellowship of Christian in physical Fellowship of Christian acareer career in physical impossible, but with impossible, but with member ofofthe FCA member the FCA Floyd County. She has with theHer glory that will Athletes, Student therapy. life verse isisisis Athletes, Student therapy. Her life verse Athletes, Student therapy. Her life verse Athletes, Student therapy. Her life verse God all things are God all things are Student Leadership Student Leadership won numerous awards be revealed in us” (NIV). Council, Future Business Psalm 139:17 that reads, Council, Future Business Psalm 139:17 that reads, Council, Future Business Psalm 139:17 that reads, Council, Future Business Psalm 139:17 that reads,
Council in Rome and Council in Rome and including the Optimist Leaders of America, and Leaders of America, and Leaders of America, and Leaders of America, and Floyd County. While Floyd County. While Award, Academic YoungLife. Addie Grace YoungLife. Addie Grace YoungLife. Addie Grace YoungLife. Addie Grace is an active member of is an active member of a shoulder injury kept a shoulder injury kept Excellence Award, and isisananactive member of active member of Pleasant Valley North Pleasant Valley North Pleasant Valley North Pleasant Valley North him the himon onAward thesideline sideline Coaches while Baptist Church and has Baptist Church and has Baptist Church and has Baptist Church and has taking care ofhoops business in thethe classroom (3.9 GPA.) during the season, season during the hoops season, the2016 2016football football season attended WinShape attended WinShape attended WinShape attended WinShape Known for productive. her big smileT. and ability toAll-Region make others was wasvery very productive. T.J.J.earned earned All-Region Camps for eleven years. Her hobbies include watching Camps for eleven years. Her hobbies include watching Camps for eleven years. Her hobbies include watching Camps for eleven years. Her hobbies include watching laugh, Carolinehonors ishonors also admired for receiver her toughness and and asasa awide where andAll-Area All-Area wide receiver where sports and spending time in the outdoors. After sports and spending time in the outdoors. After sports and spending time in the outdoors. After sports and spending time in the outdoors. After grit. She gives God the glory for healing her during he the Dragons totoanother great playoff hehelped helped the Dragons another great playoff graduation in 2018, she plans on attending college but graduation in 2018, she plans on attending college but graduation in 2018, she plans on attending college but graduation in 2018, she plans on attending college but arun. major health scare but admitshis that she never quit The consensus among coaches is that his run. The consensus among his coaches is that his her major is undecided. Her life verse is John 8:12 that her major is undecided. Her life verse is John 8:12 that her hermajor majorisisundecided. undecided.Her Herlife lifeverse verseisisJohn John8:12 8:12that that fighting through the pain. character isissecond-to-none and that he had character second-to-none and that hehas has had reads, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, reads, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, reads, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, reads, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, Caroline attends Pleasant Valley South Baptist ‘I‘I‘Iam the light of the world. Whoever follows me will am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will the light of the world. Whoever follows me will ‘Iam am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will Church. She plans on attending college at the University never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’. never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’. never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’. never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’.
30 30 // July July 2017 2017 June June 2017 2017 30 30 //// // June June 2017 20172017 30 // November
possible’” possible’” (NIV). FCA is(NIV). the largest “How precious to me are “How precious to me are “How precious to me are “How precious to me are FCA is the largest FCA is the largest Christian sports your thoughts, OOOO God! your thoughts, God! your thoughts, God! your thoughts, God!
Christian sports Christian sports How vast isis the sum of How vast isis the sum of ministry in the world How vast the sum of How vast the sum of them!”(RSV). them!”(RSV). them!”(RSV). them!”(RSV). ministry ininthe ministry the and focuses on serving FCA is the largest FCA is the largest FCA is the largest FCA is the largest local communities byon equipping, empowering, and world and world andfocuses focuses onserving servinglocal localcommunities communities sports ministry Christian sports ministry Christian sports ministry Christian sports ministry encouraging people to make a Christian difference for Christ. by empowering, and byequipping, equipping, empowering, andencouraging encouraging in the world and focuses on serving local communities in the world and focuses on serving local communities ininthe and on serving local theworld world andfocuses focuses on serving localcommunities communities For over years, has sought impact theover world people to60 for Christ. For people tomake makeaFCA adifference difference forto Christ. For over by equipping, empowering, and encouraging people by equipping, empowering, and encouraging people by equipping, empowering, and encouraging people by equipping, empowering, and encouraging people through the influence ofsought athletestoto and coaches. sixty years, FCA impact the world sixty years, FCAhas has sought impact the world to make aaadifference for Christ. For more than sixty to make difference for Christ. For more than sixty to make for Christ. For more than sixty to make adifference difference for Christ. For more than sixty through the influence of athletes and coaches. through the influence of athletes and coaches. years, FCA has sought to impact the world through the years, FCA has sought to impact the world through the years, FCA has sought to impact the world through the years, FCA has sought to impact the world through the influence of athletes and coaches. influence of athletes and coaches. influence of athletes and coaches. influence of athletes and coaches.
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the heart and The Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the heart and The Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the heart and The Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the heart and soul in sports, isisisis touching millions of lives . ........one soul in sports, touching millions of lives .one soul in sports, touching millions of lives soul in sports, touching millions of lives .one one heart at aaatime. Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian heart at time. Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian heart at Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian heart at atime. time. Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has been challenging coaches and athletes on Athletes has been challenging coaches and athletes on Athletes has been challenging coaches and athletes on Athletes has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high, and the professional, college, high school, junior high, and the professional, college, high school, junior high, and the professional, college, high school, junior high, and youth levels to use the powerful medium of athletics youth levels to use the powerful medium of athletics youth levels to use the powerful medium of athletics youth levels to use the powerful medium of athletics to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA isisisis the largest to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA the largest to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA the largest to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA the largest Christian sports ministry in the world and focuses on Christian sports ministry in the world and focuses on Christian sports ministry in the world and focuses on Christian sports ministry in the world and focuses on serving local communities by equipping, empowering, serving local communities by equipping, empowering, serving local communities by equipping, empowering, serving local communities by equipping, empowering, and encouraging people to make aaadifference for Christ. and encouraging people to make difference for Christ. and encouraging people to make for Christ. and encouraging people to make adifference difference for Christ. MEDIA CONTACT: Kent Howard, Area Director. MEDIA CONTACT: Kent Howard, Area Director. MEDIA CONTACT: Kent Howard, Area Director. MEDIA CONTACT: Kent Howard, Area Director. 706-506-2501 --khoward@fca.org 706-506-2501 -khoward@fca.org 706-506-2501 706-506-2501 -khoward@fca.org khoward@fca.org
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
Gifts from God
P
by Herman Stamey
recious little gifts are everywhere. Some come in things seen and some unseen. Precious little gifts are those things that come unexpected. They are gifts from God. My wife was 38 weeks pregnant. The reason I think this is a precious little gift from God is that we had been trying to have a child for over 8 years. The doctors said that with the endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome she had it would be almost impossible for her to become pregnant. We never gave up hope. We always knew God would allow us to have children, in His own timing, whether our own or through adoption. My wife has had 2 miscarriages, the second worse than the first. It would always break our hearts. Every time we would go out and see other people with their children, we would have an empty space in our hearts. We would wish that was us. We knew that everything happens for a reason and we knew that God is still God and He knows what He is doing. When we found out that she was pregnant again we were so excited, but scared too. I started thinking what if she lost this one? What would we do? How would we carry on? Then God asked me, “Do you trust me?” I looked around and nobody was there. Then God asked me again, “Do you trust me?” I finally realized that it was the Lord talking to me.
32 // November 2017
So I answered Him, “Yes, I do, Lord.” Then He replied, “Believe.” She is now 4 years old and I remember when we had our first ultrasound done. How awesome it was to see this precious little gift that God had blessed us with. It was so amazing to watch her heart beat with life that He had made. My mind always went back to the stories in the bible where Elizabeth and Sarah weren’t blessed with a child until they were up in age. For that reason, we named her Sarah Elisabeth. I know that we prayed for something and God answered our prayers. The human side of us is that we get impatient and want things now. If we stop and allow God to work in our lives, things would be so much better. June 5, 2013, at 5:28 pm, Sarah Elisabeth was born. We are experiencing our Precious Little Gift of God that the doctors said would never happen. I’m reminded every day when I look at my wife and this little bundle of joy that all things are possible with God. I hope this will give you encouragement to never give up; allow God to work in your life and trust in him. Since I first wrote this story we have been blessed yet again with a little boy Micah Isaiah. He was born on September 26, 2016 at 10:44. My name is Herman Stamey and I live in Rome, Ga., with my wife of 13 years, Miranda, and our two children, Sarah, 4, and Micah, 1. I’m the Associate Pastor at Silver Creek Baptist Church. I’ve been in the ministry since 1997. I work at Good Shepherd Funeral Home. I’ve been in the funeral industry for over 16 years. I Love helping others, and spending time with family.
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Gò0dNews for Everyone
F
Plant Yourself by Donna Tumlin
or twenty-seven years our house has sat in the middle of a 200-acre forest. This year, the owners of the surrounding land had it clear-cut. Now on the outskirts of our 40 acres is a thin line of trees, and many trees that stand alone. When a storm comes through, my daddy always calls to check and make sure we had no damage. Besides the Blizzard of 93, we never have. But since the cutting, storms have knocked down large trees, often across our long dirt drive. One morning I had to drive down a small hill around a fallen tree to get to work. A few stormy nights ago, my son called saying, “Bring me a chainsaw; I can’t get up the driveway.” I pondered why the high winds were blowing over trees when it’s never happened before. I have come to this conclusion. When there were 200 acres of trees standing side by side, together they were like a wall. But now, standing alone, they lack protection the others provided. I think life is that way. When you try to go through life, preferring to handle it alone, you may fall or break. My parents’ life-long forest was obvious during the last few days before her passing. In the hospice facility, there were times when additional chairs were brought in for the circle of friends and family. A nurse once commented, “We have never had a patient with this many visitors.” After her passing, my Daddy was well taken care of. His forest made sure of that.
34 // November 2017
My mama was my protection tree. When my tree began to wither, I looked around and fear set in. I called my Aunt, and she arrived at the hospice to stay with us until the end. And she has been here for me ever since. I have always been one to keep things to myself and deal with them alone. I didn’t want to burden others, or appear to be weak. You know the expression, “You can’t see the forest for the trees?” That was me. I had always been surrounded by my forest, but didn’t realize it until my time of need. Returning to work, my lesson plans for the next month were completed. Meals were brought, and gifts were given. I have encountered many challenges over the past year, and it has enabled me to see how big my forest is. I have a forest of co-workers, church family, related family, and friends. There are still times I hesitate to accept help, but as I attempted to decline help from my Uncle, he told me, “The polite thing to do is accept and say thank you.” Don’t be the tree standing alone. Plant yourself in a forest. Pride can prevent you from the blessings of others. Someday you may need their strength. And in return, you are a part of their forest. Reach out to those who may be looking for a place to plant their roots. Donna Tumlin is the mother of three grown children and lives in Rome, Georgia. She has been a teacher for twenty years and is currently teaching kindergarten. She is a member of First Baptist Church of Lindale. She is also the coauthor of a Christian blog Smorgasbord of Sisterhood, which she writes with her cousin.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Yes! Get On That Plane and Go! by Mande Chapman
I
am a mom to six and a pastor’s wife in Chattanooga,
I still had such a strong heart for missions and wanting
Tennessee. My life honestly never has a dull moment.
to be a part of what God was doing with teams and people
It is all I dreamed and so much more than I ever dared
all over the world, but it was so difficult for me to leave
to hope for. We have had our fair share of “faith jumps,”
and not know what might happen if I were gone.
leaning into God and His love for us at very uncertain
It’s been a journey and I am so thankful that the fear
times. He has always been faithful to guide us and direct
battle is one that with God’s help I am winning every time.
our paths. It hasn’t always been what I would have wished
Yes, I still have the moments of “what ifs,” but I continually
for but it has always been something He has given us the
surrender them at the feet of Jesus, knowing He is the only
grace and peace to go through and come out better and
one in control. He has proven Himself faithful to me and
closer to His heart in the end.
to my family even in the hard times; His grace has always
I have a heart for missions. I went on my first missions trip as a 14-year-old. It was life-changing and something
been sufficient and covered our delicate hearts. I’ve learned so much in my surrender and God has not
that set me on a journey with a passion and a fire to change
only allowed me to continue to have a heart for missions,
the world and allow God’s light to shine through me no
but He has also placed me in a position where I am now
matter where God took me. As a college student and young
helping to send teams of people all over the world to share
adult, I would jump at the chance to fly anywhere God
His love. Just think what I would have missed if I decided to
asked me and stay as long as He would allow me.
stop going and stop getting on the plane each time I had the
I found the love of my life and was married in my 20’s and the beginnings of attachment and fear when we were
chance because of the “what ifs” I feared would happen. I’ve seen God do so much throughout the world, in my
apart began to creep into my life. I suddenly hesitated to
own life, in my children’s hearts, and through the teams I
just get on a plane and go places if we couldn’t go together.
have been a part of sending. Don’t hesitate; Say yes! Get on
Then we had children and this became even more of a
that plane and go be a part of what God is doing all over
struggle for me. I feared if everyone would be safe if I were
the world!
away from them. The “what ifs” became a part of my day to day thinking.
36 // November 2017
Mande Chapman is a pastor’s wife and mom of six in Chattanooga, TN. She has a heart to see the church passionately living life to it’s fullest and sharing the Gospel around the world. She is currently serving as the global missions director of City Church Chattanooga.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Just a Word of Thanks by Donald Cantrell
I
n the 1965 movie “Shenandoah,” the main character
I was puzzled that it only takes around three hours to
“Charlie Anderson” prayed one of the most famous
cook a turkey. I realized that my mother believed that
prayers of movie cinema history. The character was
you had to cook it slow and on low heat to ensure it was
played by none other than Jimmy Stewart. The prayer is merely around sixty words as follows, “Lord, We cleared
not undercooked. The thing I love about Thanksgiving is the food, the
this land; we plowed it, sowed it, and harvested it. We
festivities, the football, and the joy of spending time with
cooked the harvest. It wouldn’t be here—we wouldn’t be
my family. In trying to perfect my own way of cooking
eating it—if we hadn’t done it all ourselves. We worked
our Thanksgiving turkey, I found that special ingredient
dog-bone hard for every crumb and morsel, but we thank
to ensure that it comes out moist and tasty. I slather it in
you just the same anyway, Lord, for this food we’re about
“mayonnaise” and for those that cringed in reading this,
to eat. Amen.” Charlie Anderson failed to see the need to
it truly works. The “mayonnaise” locks in all of the flavor
be thankful.
and the turkey comes out of the oven crispy on the outside
In our family the “Thanksgiving Holidays” are second
and all of the juices still locked up on the inside.
only to Christmas and it is a very close contest. There are
We never have enough room for everyone when
many people that think we as a nation go overboard in
we all get together, but the atmosphere is great and the
celebrating some of our holidays. I am not one of them;
conversations are full of laughter and joy. I cannot agree
I think we should enjoy the holidays because they bring
with Charlie Anderson and take the credit for all that God
us together. We live in such a fast-paced society and most
has blessed me with. I am so thankful for my family, my
get up early and stay up late, in turn we miss out on being
faith, and my friends. The beauty of Thanksgiving is that it
together with those we truly care for and love.
allows us as a nation to set aside one day per year to reflect
I love the tradition of our family holidays and
upon our personal blessings. As men, we should take the
thoroughly embrace all that they involve and engulf.
lead in observing this time of thankfulness with our family
On Thanksgiving morning, I will be the first one up and
and our friends and observe just a word of thanks.
look forward to cooking our annual turkey. I remember the aroma of the turkey cooking all night when I was a child at home and when I begin to cook my own turkey,
38 // November 2017
Donald Cantrell is a lifelong native of Murray county and has been pastoring and preaching since 1980. He has the honor of publishing over thirty books and his sermon material is sold all over the world by various online companies. If you visit his house any weekend in the fall, you will find them watching the “Florida Gators or the New England Patriots . . . Chomp Chomp.”
The Bagwell Team
Keller Williams Signature Partners Office: 706-235-1515 Team: 706-352-9473 www.BagwellSOLDit.com
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