Gò0dNews September 2020
Complimentary
Christian Magazine
®
ROME
Happy birth day,
baby!
Celebrating 150,000 first breaths and counting.
Wow! We've delivered over 150,000 babies at Floyd. And, while this amazing number speaks to our experience, it speaks to your trust as well. It's a special bond with growing families in the communities we serve that's almost 80 years strong. With an expert medical team, a family-centered environment, state-of-the-art care, education and support classes, and the peace of mind from knowing the region's only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is available 24/7 right here, every day brings more reasons to celebrate at the Family Birth Center at Floyd.
floyd.org/baby
Rome’s Oldest Family Owned Independent Pharmacy
• Fast, Friendly Service • Drive Thru Window • Delivery Service • Home Medical Equipment
(706) 291-0999 710 North Fifth Avenue Rome, Georgia 30165
SINCE 1972 W E A C C E P T M O S T 3 R D PA R T Y P L A N S
About Us WRITERS
Aimee Hays Andrew Lee Bill Fortenberry Brad Perkins Brian Branam Carl Corser Deana Thompson Diana Fain Evelyn Bathe Julie Baumgardner Lauren Simpson Linda Tinney Pam Walker Ruthiey Boggs Tommy Deal Toris Redding Zebbie Brewster
SALES
Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410
DESIGN
Caleb Prytherch
PHOTOGRAPHER Melanie Abney 706-844-3818
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 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.
DISTRIBUTION
Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us
GoodNews Rome 5500 Monthly
EDITOR
David Thompson
PUBLISHER
Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Cell: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com
OFFICE
423-478-6484
WEBSITE
goodnewscm.com issuu.com/goodnewsrome
GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!
Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.
Contents SEPTEMBER 2020
GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk
6 When We Wobble by Brian Branam
GoodNews for Kids
8 A Kind Word
by Zebbie Brewster
GoodNews on Money Matters
10 The Other Comparison Problem
by Andrew Lee GoodNews for Men
12 What’s This World Coming To?
by Tommy Deal GoodNews for Women
14 This Is 40
by Linda Tinney
GoodNews for Everyone
18 Praising God Through It All by Lauren Simpson
GoodNews for Everyone
20 Listen
by Bill Fortenberry
GoodNews Cover Story
22 Creted, LLC. GoodNews for Family
24 How to Help Your Children Process Their Emotions
by Julie Baumgardner
GoodNews for Marriage
26 Marriage Sabotage To An End
by Carl Corser GoodNews for Everyone
28 An Open Invitation by Diana Fain
GoodNews for Seniors
30 Am I An Antique? by Evelyn Bathe
GoodNews on Encouragement
32 Spiritual Entrepreneur: 100
6
Days of Encouragement
by Brad Perkins GoodNews for Everyone
34 Jesus’ Love Languages by Ruthiey Boggs
GoodNews for Everyone
36 The Grandma Lady Angel by Pam Walker
GoodNews for Everyone
38 My Strength Is Small by Aimee Hays
22
GoodNews for Everyone
40 Know Our Enemy; Destroy The Lies
by Toris Redding GoodNews for your Taste Buds
42 Chocolate Zucchini Cake by Deana Thompson
38
Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk
When We Wobble
J
by Brian Branam
enga is a game consisting of 54 wooden blocks stacked
not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but
three wide and 18 rows high. Each player takes a
encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the
turn taking a block from a lower tier of the tower
Day drawing near” (Hebrews 10:23-25).
and stacking it on top. As the game goes along, the tower
When we wobble, we need something faithful to help
becomes unstable. At some point, the tower falls, and the
us become stable. Faithful is the opposite of wobble. In
last player to take a turn loses the game.
the Bible, the word faithful describes the way a mother
The game is pretty casual through the first several
holds her child. Faithful can also describe the giant pillars
rounds, but it gets exciting when the tower begins to
that hold up a massive temple. And in Hebrews 10:23-25,
wobble. When things start to wobble, the players tend
the Scriptures call our attention to faithful people and a
to slow down and become much more careful in their
faithful God.
placement of each piece.
Our Faithful God “He who promised is faithful.” Over and over again, the Bible affirms the faithfulness of God. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says that when we wobble in temptation, we can endure it and escape it because “God is faithful.” Each day the sun rises and sets, it is a testimony that God is faithful. Every person who gives their life to Christ is a reminder that God is not only merciful but faithful. Each time God’s Word proves true, each time a prayer is answered, each day we live with provision, it is a testimony that God is faithful.
God’s Faithful People Because God is faithful, we hold fast to our confession, and because God’s people are faithful, we do not neglect to gather as a congregation. Great thoughts Life wobbles. Marriage, family, finances, friendships: even your faith wobbles at times. The author of Hebrews penned his message for some people who were wobbling. At the time of writing, they were only about 30 years after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, but they were struggling to keep the faith due to the pressure of persecution. So the author shared some truths that would help them stabilize the situation. “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without
of God are not enough when we wobble. God ministers His graces through His people. We can’t isolate. We have to get together, especially when we wobble. The Jenga tower collapses when there are too many blocks on top and not enough at the bottom. Our lives begin to wobble when we keep taking on more stuff but forget to secure the foundation. Isolation is detrimental to your foundation. When we wobble, we’ve got to go to God, and we’ve got to get together.
consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,
6 // September 2020
About The Author
wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us Brian Branam is the Pastor of Liberty Baptist Church, a multi-site church in NW Georgia. For more of his material visit www.FeelMyFaith.com.
Study At Your Own Pace
LIBERTY BIBLE COLLEGE & SEMINARY CONSERVATIVE SCHOOLS
DEGREES Through Corespondence
ASSOCIATE THROUGH PH.D. CREDIT FOR LIFE EXPERIENCE CONTACT US FOR A FREE CATALOG!
lbcs.co | lcbands@gmail.com
352.621.4991
5480 S. Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446
Sweet P’s
Cakes & Catering 69 Church Street Rome, Georgia 706.235.6829
sweetpscatering.com Sunday: 11am - 4pm Mon. - Thurs.: 11am - 3pm
JACE THOMPSON & WIFE, ERICA. TWO DAUGHTERS, JADE AND FAITH.
A PERSONAL INSURANCE AGENT HELPING TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY • LIFE INSURANCE INCLUDING LIVING BENEFITS • RETIREMENT PLANNING/ANNUNITIES • MEDICARE SUPPLEMENTS • NO COST NEEDS ANALYSIS
JACE THOMPSON
706.508.2488 JaceThompsonTAN@outlook.com
AGENCY NETWORK
TERRY SIMMONS AGENCY 5 N Fourth Street Lindale, GA 30147-1037 Bus (706) 235-3276 Cell (706) 346-1521 Fax (706) 235-7469 terrysimmonsinsurance.com NMLS # 167166
Gò0dNews for Kids
A Kind Word
W
by Zebbie Brewster
hen I was a child growing up, we loved time off
I think about how kind words can make ripples also.
in the summer. It meant not having to get up
The Bible says in Proverbs 15:23, “A man hath joy by the
early and catch the school bus. It seemed that
answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how
my brothers and I were some of the first ones on the bus and
good is it!” Also, Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken
the last ones to get off the bus in the evenings.
is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.”
In the summertime, we found things to entertain
I can remember when a kind word was spoken to
ourselves. We were blessed with a creek down in the
me when I was feeling low. It sure brightened up my
pasture behind our house to walk down to. It was always
sad heart! What kind word can you share today? Tell
an adventure as we walked past cows, trying to stay in the trail the cows had made going to the creek. By the time we made the halfmile hike down there, we were ready to cool off in that cold creek water. We would wade out into the shallow water, splashing each other. If we were really brave, we would duck down into the water, even getting our heads wet. Did I tell you how cold the water was? It was such a great way to cool off on a hot summer day. It was also there that I learned how to skip rocks across the top of the water. It was something we had to work at to get right. First, you had to find just the right-sized flat rock. Then, holding
someone thank you for how they help you. Tell someone
the rock in your hand in just a certain way, you let it go.
that they are loved not only by you but also by Jesus. Let
Sometimes the rock would just plop into the water. Trying
me encourage you to share that kind word today and see
again, you hoped that it would skip on top of the water,
the difference it can make. The ripples of kindness can just
making ripples as you let it go. I think the most my brothers
keep going and going.
and I could get it to skip was three times. Of course, I am sure
I would like to remember one of Mother Teresa’s famous quotes that she spoke in love to a hurting heart: “Kind
have been there when we waded in. We always felt safe, as
words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are
usually, we would wear an old pair of shoes into the water.
truly endless.”
Those are wonderful memories that I can now look back on with joy!
8 // September 2020
About The Author
all the splashing had to scare off any fish or snakes that might
Zebbie Brewster resides in Summerville, Georgia. She is an active member at Perennial Springs Baptist Church.
S & A Landscape Service Yo u r B e s t C h o i c e Fo r R o m e , G e o r g i a , L an d s c ap i ng
Residential & Commercial Services Including: • Lawn Service • Aeration • Hardscapes • Irrigation Systems • Trees & Shrubs • Flower Beds
• Stone Work • Drainage Systems • Retaining Walls • Patios • Bobcat Work • Sod Installation & Service
S & A Landscape Service is your best choice for Rome, GA, Landscaping. We are a full service company that has served the Northwest Georgia area for 10 plus years with hard work and quality landscapes. S & A is fully insured and equipped to handle commercial and residential projects. We are a Christian owned company and we pride ourselves on honesty and fulfilling our commitments. We find great joy and satisfaction in pleasing our customers and in creating beautiful outdoor spaces. S & A takes great consideration of the environment and we make sure that we use eco-friendly products and practices. We are here for all of your landscaping needs and we take great pride in meeting all of our customers requirements to ensure satisfaction. We offer a wide variety of services. Please contact us for a free quote. We are at your disposal.
706.266.4436 | salandscaperome.com | joselopezland@gmail.com FACEBOOK REVIEWS "With a new baby in the house it is so wonderful not to have to worry about pests!! Great friendly staff! Amazing service. Reliable and worry free!” —Moriah Medina “Wonderful people that are great at their job! Friendly and efficient, I highly recommend them.” —Lindsey Lynn
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FREE ESTIMATES
OUR FAMILY HAS BEEN PROVIDING PEST CONTROL SERVICES YOU CAN RELY ON FOR THE PAST 30+ YEARS
HELPING YOU CONTROL: • Ants • Bees • Bed Bugs • Fleas • Roaches • Rodents
• Termites • Silverfish • & More!
MENTION THIS AD TO GET
$10.00 OFF THE FIRST MONTH’S SERVICE!
“Very friendly, answers all questions and concerns, and locally owned. Thank you Rome City Pest Control for helping me keep a pest free home.” —Hannah Strickand “Started using RCPC a few months ago and I would highly recommend them. Our monthly service is done by Chris and he is not only very knowledgeable, but he is also so patient and kind with my curious and talkative 3yr old who follows him around. They call each month to set up my service and have come out for problems mid month when I’ve needed them. Thanks so much for your service!” —Nikki Woodee
(706) 676-2615 | romecitypestcontrol.com romecitypest@gmail.com
The Other Comparison Problem MONEY MATTERS
WITH DR. ANDREW LEE
W
Dr. Andrew Lee is professor of English at Lee University. He also serves as a coordinator for Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. He and his wife Esmerelda have three children.
e’ve all heard that we shouldn’t compare
lifetime (late 30’s). When she looks around at her friends and
ourselves to others, which can lead to envy,
family, she notices that she is one of the few with a college
discontentment, and even depression among
degree and a salary that is above the national median income.
those who spend countless hours scrolling through social
She is not in the best physical shape, but she observes with
media posts and thinking everyone else’s life is more fulfilling
satisfaction that most of her friends and family are more
and glamorous than their own. Ironically, many studies have
out of shape than she is. Her marriage may be hanging on
found that some of the posts on social media aren’t even
by a thread, but she is proud that she’s the only one still in
legitimate experiences (can we say Photoshop?). But that’s
her first marriage compared to her friends and family. Do
beside the point. FOMO (fear of missing out) is the current
you see where this is going? Lisa consoles herself and even
trendy catchphrase for what many of us know as “keeping up
creates excuses for not improving her life, based solely on her
with the Joneses,” and it can lead to chronic discontentment.
observation that her life looks pretty good compared to her
We all know about this “comparison problem” and its
inner circle, and she knows any of them would gladly trade
dangers. But what about the “other” comparison problem?
places with her. By choosing the wrong people with which to
The other comparison problem is when we compare
compare herself, Lisa will never achieve the more fulfilling
ourselves to those who are less successful than we are, and
and more successful life she could have had.
then we use that comparison to congratulate ourselves on our
But what if Lisa believed the saying that “you will
own achievements (higher education, above average salary,
become the average of the five people you spend the most
above average health, stable marriage, etc.). This can become
time with”? Because she believed this, she began to expand
a very real and dangerous problem as well; sure, it may boost
her social network by meeting people whom she admired—
our self-esteem, but what about the long-term consequences of
people who were more educated, more financially successful,
this other comparison problem? By using less successful people
had thriving marriages and spiritual lives, were regularly
as our touchstones for evaluating how well we are doing in
involved in community service, and who were conscientious
certain areas, we may be subconsciously sabotaging ourselves,
about their appearance and physical fitness, too. What if
destroying our motivation to aspire for excellence. And
she got to know some of these people and learn how they
when I refer to “less successful” people to which we compare
did it, and then Lisa began to emulate these best practices to
ourselves, I don’t mean only in the socioeconomic context
improve her own life? Where would Lisa be in ten years from
of income and wealth; I mean every aspect of life (spiritual,
now? The answer should be obvious. So be very careful about
psychological and emotional health, physical health, education,
this other “comparison problem,” for it can lead to serious
service, as well as socioeconomic measures).
consequences as surely as the envy and discontentment of
Here’s an example of this other comparison problem—
the earlier comparison problem. Neither route is the path to a
we’ll call her Lisa. Lisa is about halfway through her working
happy and fulfilling life. Proverbs 16:3 promises, “Commit to
10 // September 2020
the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”
Expect More
Physical and Occupational Therapy are designed to help you heal, but at Floyd, you can EXPECT MORE. Our team of certified specialists have MORE training so that you can GET THE MOST out of your therapy. Andy Alisago, PT Board Certified Hand Therapist
Clay McCollum, PT Board Certified Sports Specialist
Larken Logan, PT Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist
Hunter Todd, PT Board Certified Sports Specialist
Darius McAphee, PT Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist
Carol Richardson, OT Board Certified Hand Therapist
For more information visit floyd.org or to schedule an appointment call 706.509.3400. *Less than 10 percent of therapist achieve specialty certification.
Gò0dNews for Men
What’s This World Coming To?
A
by Tommy Deal
s a product of the sixties (1960s), I heard the phrase,
What must I do to effect the change I want and we need?
“What’s this world coming to?” countless times. There
I want peace in this world; I must be one who should work,
was the Vietnam War and the lack of respect for veterans
act, and live so that it will happen. Let it be so through the love that
as they returned home. There were those who “dodged the draft”
I share. May I forgive as freely as I expect to be forgiven by God
to avoid participating. There were the murders of our president
and others.
and then his senator brother. There was the Civil Rights Movement and the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. There was the “new-fangled music” called rock ’n roll that was leading all young people down the slippery slopes. Alongside the music was the influx of psychedelic, mind-altering drugs and the so-called “Sexual Revolution.”
I have doubts, but may I have faith that overcomes them. “What is this world coming to?” is a cry of despair, but I have hope in the Lord of all creation. In this sad and dark world, I want to be a reflection of my Savior’s joy and light. I have thought about and prayed the familiar prayer of Saint Francis. Saint Francis was born in the town of Assisi in Italy in 1182. At the age of 20, he devoted himself to a life of prayer. Three years later, Francis embraced a life of poverty and dedicated himself to God. He was the founder of the Franciscan religious order. This prayer is attributed to him. Prayer of St Francis: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.
Everyone was wondering and asking, “What IS this world coming to?” A lot has changed in 50 years, while nothing much has changed at all. Turn on the TV, radio, Sirius, or cable, and the news is reporting much the same thing with different names and locations. No one could have fathomed a virus disabling and perhaps dismantling this world as COVID-19 has. I am ashamed of how politics has modeled for us to treat one another with disrespect. I am heartbroken that our generation did not fix the problems: only propagated them. As a police chaplain, I have served alongside hundreds of dedicated men and women in law enforcement who themselves are ashamed and embarrassed by the acts of a few bad officers. I work with and interact with people of color daily who live with some fear because of the color of their skin. I am a white man, and because of who I am and where I live,
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen. It’s not about me! I do not need to be understood, consoled, loved, or cared for. I need to look at everyone I meet throughout every day and offer to them the understanding, love, care, and compassion they deserve and need. Lord! Please make me an instrument of your peace! For if we do not become the change we want for our world, we can imagine “what this world is coming to.”
sisters’ fears that have grown immeasurably due to the color of their skin. For this and all of my judgmental past, I repent. Yet there must be more than the “I am sorry” words off of my lips.
12 // September 2020
About The Author
I have basically no fears. I cannot comprehend my brothers’ and Rev. Tommy Deal is a hospice Chaplain with Hamilton Healthcare System in Dalton, Georgia. His wife,Rev. Susan Deal, is Minister of Music and Worship at Dalton’s First Baptist Church. They are parents to two sons, grandparents to twin girls and anticipating a new grand around Christmas of this year.
Home & Auto go together. & Auto Home Home Home & Auto &&Auto Auto &gotogether. Agogood neighbor together. gether. Like you go together. Like youyou & ou & a good Like Like you& & neighbor. has your back. a good neighbor. a agood good neighbor. neighbor.
d neighbor.
Eldridge Ins and Fin Svcs Inc Some things in life just go together. Life’s a combination of good days Like andhome bad. I have your back Melissa Eldridge, Agent ® . And and auto insuranceSome from State Farm my back? The company more people Some things in415 life just go together. things Some in life things Some just things in go life together. just inyou life gojust Like together. go home together. Like home Like home Shorter Ave SW Like home for both. And who has ® ® ® with a goodfor neighbor to goinsurance right. Save . And you .Farm And ®you . And you and auto insurance fromGAState Farm . And you have autohelp insurance andlife auto and from auto State insurance from FarmState from Farm State Rome, 30165 trusted 90and years. with a good neighbor to help life go right. Save with a good with neighbor a with good a to neighbor good help neighbor life to go help right. to life help Save go life right. go Save right. Save Bus: 706-234-5333 time money. CALL MEandTODAY. time and money. time and money. time and time money. and money. 171 W Belmont Drive Suite CALLMarquis, ME TODAY.a Welcome to 8Renaissance CALL ME TODAY. CALL ME TODAY. CALL ME CALL TODAY. ME TODAY. Calhoun, GA 30701 premier senior living community. We Bus: 706-383-8787 wait to show you around our Secan hablanot Español
A New Life is Here for You!
Eldridge Ins and Eldridge Fin Svcs Ins Inc Eldridge and FinIns Svcs andInc Fin Svcs Inc newly remodeled Eldridge Ins and Fin Svcs Inc community! Melissa Eldridge, Melissa Agent Eldridge, MelissaAgent Eldridge, Agent
Melissa Eldridge, Agent 415 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165 Bus: 706-234-5333 3126 Cedartown Hwy 1606040 171 W Belmont Drive Suite 8 Calhoun, GA 30701 Bus: 706-383-8787
al Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Dallas, TX e and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX
1601975
A PREMIER RETIREMENT VILLAGE
415 Shorter Ave SW 415 Shorter415 AveShorter SW Ave SW Rome, GA 30165Rome, GA Rome, 30165 GA 30165 Bus: 706-234-5333 Bus: 706-234-5333 Bus: 706-234-5333 State Farm 171 W Belmont Drive 171 Suite W Belmont 8Bloomington, 171 W Drive Belmont Suite IL Drive 8 Suite 8 Calhoun, GA 30701 Calhoun, GACalhoun, 30701 GA 30701 Bus: 706-383-8787 Bus: 706-383-8787 Bus: 706-383-8787
| Rome, GA 30161 | 706-295-0014 | renaissancemarquis.com
1601975
1601975
State Farm Mutual Automobile StateInsurance Farm Mutual Company, State Automobile Farm StateMutual Farm Insurance Automobile Indemnity Company, Company, Insurance State Farm Bloomington, Company, Indemnity State IL Company, Farm Indemnity Bloomington, Company, IL Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance State FarmCompany CountyState Mutual of Texas, Farm Insurance County Dallas, Mutual TX Company Insurance of Texas,Company Dallas, TX of Texas, Dallas, TX State Farm Fire and Casualty State Company, Farm Fire State and State Farm Casualty Farm General Fire Company, Insurance and Casualty State Company, Farm Company, General Bloomington, State Insurance FarmILGeneral Company, Insurance Bloomington, Company, IL Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance State Company, Farm Florida Winter State Insurance Haven, FarmFLFlorida Company, Insurance Winter Company, Haven, FL Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, StateTX Farm Lloyds,State Richardson, Farm Lloyds, TX Richardson, TX 1601975
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Dallas, TX State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX
www.advancerehab.com
WE LOVE ALL OUR AWESOME FOOTBALL TEAM’S IN
NORTH GEORGIA!!!
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE • Orthopedic Therapy • Sports Medicine • Balance & Fall Prevention • Workers’ Compensation
HOME HEALTH
• Manual Therapy • Trigger Point Dry Needling • Golf Swing Analysis (Canton Road Clinic) • Chronic Pain Management
ADAIRSVILLE 7423 Adairsville Hwy phone (770) 773-9315 fax (770) 773-9317
CEDARTOWN 1566 Rome Hwy phone (770) 749-0250 fax (770) 749-0086
SUMMERVILLE 11638 Hwy 27, Ste 1 phone (706) 857-6366 fax (706) 857-6372
ROCKMART 1081 Nathan Dean Pkwy phone (678) 757-1899 fax (678) 757-1898
CALHOUN 136 West Belmont Dr. SW phone (706) 625-0662 fax (706) 625-0582
CHATSWORTH 1422 Green Rd., Ste N phone (706) 695-9699 fax (706) 695-1623
JASPER 620 J.L. White Dr., Ste 110 phone (706) 692-9080 fax (706) 692-1199
ROME 224 Shorter Ave phone (706) 235-2727 fax (706) 235-2726
Most Insurance Plans Accepted Including Medicare & Workers’ Compensation
Gò0dNews for Women
This Is 40
T
by Linda Tinney
his past November, I joined the 40 club. Although I
just parents. After all, they have lived longer and have way
have had 40 years to get used to the idea, I was not
more experience in this game of life. My siblings and their
ready! To some (including me), this sounds trivial,
spouses have become people I can call for help, and I know
but for some reason, that number hit me like a ton of bricks.
they will be there. We might not see each other as often as
In fact, the week before my birthday, my parents said to me,
we did in our younger years, but there is no doubt they are
“Your birthday is coming up! Are you excited?” I took one
there for me. Lastly, my friends that I have from our son’s
look at them and busted out crying: not just a tear every once
school, from our church, and from my younger years are all
in a while, but full-fledged sobbing. Of course, they asked
there. We are past the stages of having to impress each other
what about 40 was so hard for me. I had no idea! However, I
and talking about the latest gossip. We are now at the stage
just knew I did not want to turn 40. I have every right to be happy at 40, and I am genuinely a happy person. So this was out of character for me. However, I did not want a drive-by birthday parade, a dinner out with my family and friends, or a big event to occur. I did not want any attention at all. A week later, I thought to myself, why in the world am I having a hard time with a number? I had accomplished a lot in my life and survived! I had an awesome family, a wonderful husband, a loving son, a great job, a caring group of friends, had survived a few medical scares, etc. Therefore, I had decided to pick myself up and enjoy this new decade. Forty—what more could I have accomplished by 40? The answer is nothing. Although I
of taking pictures of our latest meal creations, showing the
am far from perfect, I am happy with the road that life has
newest paint color we used on our walls, or sharing easy
led me to follow. I could not ask for anything different. I
exercise tips.
am enjoying this phase with my husband, where we have
For those of you who are struggling with a new
learned each other’s quirks, dislikes, likes, etc. Seventeen
decade of life, just remember to embrace what has already
years with that person will teach you things, and just when
happened in your life and be thankful for every day that
you think you know him, he surprises you by going to
God has given you. One of my favorite Bible verses comes
the store and coming back with a king-size bag of peanut
from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 and states, “Rejoice always,
M&M’s: my hero!
pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is
Our child is growing into a fun preteen, and I enjoy
God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
ability to make people laugh and is not afraid to show his personality. My parents have become “advice-givers,” not
14 // September 2020
About The Author
watching how his mind is working. He has an awesome Linda Tinney is employed as a career transitions specialist at GNTC. She is wife to Neil and mom to Chason, a 5th grader She attends The Church at Rome.
Make Your Grocery Budget Go Further With...
A L L I E D FOODSERVICE LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR OVER 45 YEARS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
The
HERB Shop
Now is the time to give your immune system that “extra boost.” The Herb Shop on Broad has an excellent selection of products to help you achieve your wellness goals.
FILLYOUR FREEZER
$99.99
• 24 - 5OZ. BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN BREASTS • 18 CT. SAUSAGE PATTIES • 14 CT. CORNDOGS • 5 LB. FRENCH FRIES • 5 LB. CHICKEN NUGGETS • 5 LB. PORK CHOPS • 38 CT. BISCUITS • 2.25 LB. FRESH THICK SLICED BACON • 4 FREE 8oz. RIBEYE STEAKS
26 SELMAN RD. NW • ROME, GA 30165 • 706.232.4123 M ONDAY - T HURSDAY : 7:00AM - 4:30PM • F RIDAY : 7:00AM - 4:00PM Debit, Credit, & EBT Welcome
103 BROAD ST, ROME, GEORGIA 706.232.4447 | herbsonbroad.com
Preserving The Special Moments In Your Life! • Custom Framing • Giclee Printing • Fine Art Reproduction • Shadow Boxes • Photo Restoration • Custom Mirrors • Canvas Stretching & Much More!
519owned business A veteran supporting your local area
519 Broad Street • Suite 101/103 • Rome, GA 30161 • 706.584.7816 farrellsframeanddesign.com • amanda@farrellsframeanddesign.com
Rome Church Directory
African Methodist Episcopal Bethel AME Church 22 Nichols Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0019 St. James AME Zion Church 3 Maxwell Lane Rome, GA 30165 404-307-7396 Summer Hill AME Church 1981 Kingston Hwy NE Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-7113
Anglican
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church 42 Ash Street Rome, Ga 30161 706-235-5892
Apostolic
First Apostolic Church of Rome 3213 Cave Spring Rd Rome, Ga 30161 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 706-235-3169 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 Bush Arbor Baptist Church 3290 Black Bluff Rd Rome, Ga. 30161 770-885-0779 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 Valley Baptist Church 3024 Cedartown Hwy SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-295-0978 Community Chapel Baptist Church 3733 Black Bluff Rd 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
16 // September 2020
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 Fairview Baptist Church 2348 Old Cedartown Hwy SE Lindale, Ga 30147 Fellowship Rome Baptist Church 314 Burnett Ferry Rd Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-9416 First Baptist Church 100 E 4th Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6850 Flatrock Baptist Church 848 Cunningham Rd SW Rome, Ga 30161 706-234-9976 Flint Hill Baptist Church 3578 Wax Rd SE, Aragon, GA 30104 706-232-8121 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 706-232-6222 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 Northwood Missionary Baptist 4076 Calhoun Rd NE Rome, Ga 30161 Park Ave Baptist Church 531 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147 Parkview Baptist Church 4 Wesley Drive Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-4431 PisGah Baptist Church Alabama Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-232-4431 Pleasant Hope Baptist Church 5935 Rockmart Road SE Silver Creek, Ga 706-235-2800 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 Pleasant Valley South Baptist 702 Pleasant Valley Rd SE Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-1841 Providence Baptist Church 17 Burnett Ferry Road SW Rome, Ga 30165 706-291-0689 Riverside Baptist Church 48 Ash Street 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 Shannon First Baptist Church 400 Fourth Street,
PO Box 997, Shannon, GA 30172 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 Three Rivers Church 2960 New Calhoun Highway NE Rome, Ga 706-766-0942 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
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 Lindale Church of God 585 Park Ave Lindale, Ga 30147 706-232-5676 New Life 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 706-291-6687 Rome AOH Church of God 504 Decatur St Rome, Ga 30165 706-295-2999 West Rome Church of God UA 2827 Alabama Hwy Rome, Ga 30165 706-880-6895
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 Renovation Church 2601 Shorter Ave. Rome, Ga 30165 (706) 936-1380
Lutheran
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 3000 Garden Lakes Blvd Rome, Ga 30165 706-232-7257
Methodist
600 First Street Shannon, GA 30172 706-491-7112 Silver Creek UMC 36 Reeceburg Rd SE Silver Creek, GA 30173 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 706-234-6214
Nazarene
Rome First Church of the Nazarene 20 Glenda Dr Rome, Ga 30165 706-234-5023
Christ Gospel Church 619 Chulio Rd SE Rome, Ga 30161
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 4782 Alabama Hwy 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
Cave Spring Church of God 19 Mill Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8348 Cedar Creek Baptist Church 5440 Black Buff Rd Rome, Ga 30161 706-777-8360
Live Oak Baptist Church 5506 GA-100 Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8566 The Empty Tomb 5630 Fosters Mill Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 Rehoboth Missionary Baptist
6 Rehoboth Rd SW Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3313 First Baptist Church 4 Old Cedartown Rd. Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-3566 Cave Spring UMC
Disciples of Christ
First Christian Church 209 E. Second Ave, Rome, Ga 30161
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
Non-Denominational
Access Church 1905 Calhoun Rd Rome, Ga 30161 705-584-7497 Christian Church at Rome 2417 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 706-235-0501 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 1246 Cartersville Hwy SE Rome, Ga 30161 706-290-9858 LIFE Church of Rome 19 John Davenport Drive Rome GA 30165 706-728-3166 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 Northside Church 75 N. Floyd Park Rd. Rome, Ga 30165 706-233-9896 Rally Up International Ministries 1941 Shorter Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-235-8561 Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle 700 Kingston Ave Rome, Ga 30161
706-291-8948 The Church at Rome 246 North 5th Avenue Rome, Ga 30165 706-346-2733 The Place Global 1107 Calhoun Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706.802.2059 Trinity United Christian Church 6 Deer Run Trail Rome, Ga 30165 706-204-8270 We The Church 810 East 2nd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 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 Victory Temple Of Joy 118 Williamson St. Rome, Ga 30165 706-766-3865
Presbyterian
Covenant Presbyterian Church EPC 1645 Cartersville Hwy. Rome, GA 30161 706-767-8373 First Presbyterian Church EPC 101 E 3rd Ave Rome, Ga 30161 706-291-6033 Seven Hills Fellowship 530 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161 706-530-1630 Silver Creek Presbyterian Church 6 Old Rockmart Road Silver Creek, Ga 30173 706-234-6862 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
Cave Spring Church Directory 30 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 30124 706-777-8624 Jackson Chapel UMC 301 Jackson Chapel Rd Cave Spring, GA 30125 706-777-3750
goodnewscm.com // 17
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Praising God Through It All
O
by Lauren Simpson
ver the last 8 years, every 2-3 years our family has gotten rocked. Losing our first daughter, Berkley,
at 3 days old was devastating. Three years later we were blessed with our rainbow baby Sadie! Three years later we lost our son, Henry, at 7 days old. With no intention of trying to expand our family, 2 years later I have been given a breast cancer diagnosis and am also pregnant again. We are praying diligently for our sweet rainbow boy Isaac. God has blessed us through each loss and we will continue to praise Him during these uncertain times. God is good, even when our circumstances seem impossible. Praising God when things are good is easy but praising God when things are uncertain is tough, real tough. If we only praise God in the good, we lose the blessings of trust and faith that relying God is all about. Seeing and feeling God move in every aspect of life, good or bad, reveals so much about Gods character and I don’t want to miss a moment of knowing more about Him! “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus,” About The Author
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, (NIV).
18 // September 2020
Lauren Simpson is a follower of Christ, wife to David, and mother of three. Her daughter Berkley and son Henry passed away shortly after their birth, while her daughter Sadie is a thriving 5-year-old. Lauren enjoys reading, blogging, and spending time with her family!
LIST YOUR CHURCH ACTIVITIES & EVENTS Such As:
• SPECIAL EVENTS • CONCERTS • CONFERENCES • ACTIVITIES • & MORE! Send Your Events To: articles.goodnews@gmail.com
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Listen
by Bill Fortenberry
T
he Bible is God talking to me personally. I will, therefore,
second person as if God were talking to me personally: Bill, I
listen to it carefully and obey it fully. And I will endeavor
want you to pay attention to your gates. You are a gatekeeper.
to internalize it in my life by doing four things: I will
Then, I made a third pass at my journal and extracted
know it in my head by diligent study; I will stow it in my heart by
the thoughts into first-person action points. I will not watch
memorization and meditation; I will show it in my life by obeying
television, movies, or videos that cause me to think negatively,
its teachings; and I will sow it in my world by witnessing.
to fear, or pull me away from God. I will not listen to music or
I have recited those words almost weekly for more than
podcasts or read articles or books that do those things.
five years, but I don’t think I truly understood them until this year. Each year, I read the Bible through from Genesis to Revelation or chronologically. Last year, I added journaling to that daily discipline, underlining and writing notes in the margin of a new Bible with the idea that I would give it to my son at Christmas. I wanted him to have God’s Word in his hand with notes and prayers that I had made in my handwriting. The idea came when I found some old recipes that my sweet mama had copied into a notebook and onto index cards. I immediately recognized her handwriting, and it brought tears to my eyes.
It took me a few days to go back over what I had
Thanks to today’s digital world, my kids don’t have
already journaled, but God’s voice was loud and clear. All
many things in my handwriting. What better way to give
Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for doctrine, reproof,
them something than to journal in a Bible just for them? This
for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be
year, I’m doing the same for my daughter.
perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
But this year brought an unexpected bonus: God pointed out themes in the Old Testament that kept
The Bible is God talking to me personally. He wants me to listen and take action.
resurfacing. I told others about them. Those same themes showed up in the sermon podcasts I listen to. God was telling me something. a notch. I went back through my notes and wrote down the recurring themes. From there, I rewrote the Scripture in
20 // September 2020
About The Author
To make sure I didn’t miss it, I took my journaling up
Bill Fortenberry worked 17 years as a newspaper reporter, editor and columnist, and has worked in healthcare communications since 2001. Bill serves as the chairman of the board of managers of Haven Health Clinic for Women and is a men’s ministry leader and small group facilitator at his church, HBC Rome. He and his wife, Lisa, have two children, Ethan and Autumn. A storyteller at heart, Bill writes an occasional blog at kudzudad.blogspot.com.
770.540.0088 | brantley.wilson@gmail.com Riverwood Senior Living Is More Than Just Personal Care…We Are Where Relationships Are Made. “Riverwood is such a special place to my mother and our family. Since her arrival in September 2011 she has been a part of the Assisted Living and Pathways Community. I cannot say enough about the kindness, attention and love my mother has received at Riverwood.”
Senior Living
& Pathways Intentional Memory Care
706.235.0807 511 West 10th Street Rome, GA 30165 riverwoodretirement.com
FEATURED COVER STORY
S
CRETED, LLC.
ince 2005, Brantley Wilson, Founder and President of Creted, LLC, has been delighting clients with beautiful concrete designs - transforming ordinary concrete surfaces into artistic masterpieces using a variety of decorative methods to achieve each client’s vision. Creted provides many types of professional design, installation, and finishing services for commercial and residential concrete spaces using state-of-the-art processes, materials, tools, and machinery. Brantley began his career as a concrete craftsman’s apprentice while he was in college. During this time, he learned the trade that he would later perfect as an entrepreneur and artisan. Upon graduating from Kennesaw State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 2006, he co-founded a concrete design and installation company with a long-time
22 // September 2020
friend. Together, each with unique skills, they established and built a successful business. During this time, they both married their sweethearts and began their beautiful families. Then, after eight years together, the partners decided to part ways so that they could pursue their own business and career goals. Brantley was immediately recruited by a family-owned tractor sales and rental company where he gained further experience and knowledge about market-leading machinery for each type of job. After two years of establishing business relationships with hundreds of clients across northwest Georgia and consistently overachieving sales quotas, Brantley’s entrepreneurial spirit, along with the devotion of his wife, Serena, a part-time RN at Floyd Medical Center, led him to establish Creted, LLC in 2017.
Serena happily helps with the business while caring for their four children and working shifts at the hospital when needed, albeit the hospital shifts have become fewer with the birth of each precious baby over the years. As you can imagine, it’s a busy, and fulfilling life for the young family. In addition to Brantley’s “dayjob,” Brantley is an ordained minister and part-time pastor. In 2018, he and Serena, along with his brother, Chad, and father, Oley, renovated the Three Rivers Nursery into what is now “Access Church,” where Brantley and his family are active members, with Serena heading the children’s ministry and Brantley pastoring with his brother, father, and Elders. Over the years, Brantley has also purchased, lived in, remodeled, and “flipped,” numerous houses in the Rome area. Serena says that life with Brantley and their four children, ages
nine months to eight years, “is always an adventure,” and loves how Brantley makes their visions come to life with each new home project. The full-time crew is as busy as ever as they serve businesses and homeowners throughout Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, and North Carolina. Today all the company’s business comes from client referrals and a facebook page, and there are plans to build a company web site this year. The types of residential, commercial, and industrial concrete projects Creted specializes in are design, decorative finishing, hardscaping, installation, overlays, removal, replacement, and resurfacing. The various techniques used are metallic epoxy coating, epoxy with broadcasting flakes or quartz, acidetching, coloring, engraving, forming, polishing, pouring, sealing, staining, and stamping as well as urethane cement application which is ideal for commercial kitchens, bathrooms and/ or animal clinics. Surfaces include commercial retail spaces, warehouses, basements, countertops, driveways,
garages, indoor flooring, outdoor plazas, patios, pool decks, and retaining walls. God has continued to bless the Creted business even amid uncertain times and difficult challenges. Creted has learned through the hardships that even if or when things don’t go as planned, the “good news” is that with hard work, patience, and an open mind to continue to learn, you will get through it and you can overcome through the Lord’s strength. Brantley and the crew try to start each day with gratitude and a clean canvas as everyone knows there will be an adventure of some sort awaiting them. Through the ups and downs having a small business brings, Creted remains humble and understands that the best learning and creativity occur in the midst of challenges. Brantley’s passion for people makes him a great listener who seeks to understand exactly what his client’s expectations are, then exceed them. Under Brantley’s leadership, the Creted team, is energetic, reliable, detail-oriented, and dedicated to high
quality craftsmanship. Whether it is installing a pool deck, replacing a driveway, polishing a basement floor, or acid-etching an outdoor plaza, Brantley’s artistic ability, attention to detail, strong work ethic, natural leadership, industry knowledge, and experience gained from hundreds of successful projects ensure that each Creted client is truly delighted. Creted, LLC is honored to be voted Best of Rome by readers of Rome News-Tribune for the past two years, and Brantley, along with his family and the “crete crew” hope to be able to continue serving the community in positive, fearless ways in the years to come. To view the company’s photo gallery, check out www.facebook.com/ cretedconcrete, and call (770) 540-0088 if you would like a free estimate. At Creted are artisans who take pride in their craftsmanship, quality, and reputation and who are dedicated to helping clients achieve their vision for each unique project.
goodnewscm.com // 23
Gò0dNews for Family How to Help Your Children Process Their Emotions ow do you feel when your child has a meltdown? You probably do everything you can think of to help them, but absolutely nothing works. It could be in the store checkout line, at bedtime, the second you walk in your friend’s house or at a birthday party. You may find yourself at wits’ end and literally on the verge of having your own meltdown. There probably isn’t a parent on the planet who can’t relate to this experience. Your blood pressure goes up and you can feel everyone watching you. So, you reach into the recesses of all you know about good parenting in an attempt
to use something you’ve learned, but absolutely nothing will console your child. What now? Before you judge yourself too harshly, know that you are not alone. There is nothing worse, no matter how old you are, than feeling out of control. Children have meltdowns. But guess what? Sometimes adults do too. Christie Burnett, editor of Childhood 101, encourages parents to consider developing a “Calm Down Plan” to help children cope when their emotions overwhelm them. These steps can help them when they are upset or feel out of control.
5 Steps to Managing Big Emotions
● Remember that it is never OK to hurt others. Set clear guidelines about what is acceptable and what
24 // September 2020
is not. For example, physically hurting others or destroying things is not acceptable, nor is it OK to say hurtful things. ● Take three deep breaths or count slowly to 10. Breathing deeply or slowly counting to 10 gives your child time to recognize their body’s warning signs, such as a tense body, clenched teeth or a racing heart. Talk with your child about how their body feels when they are angry or frustrated. Then introduce the idea of taking a few breaths to compose themselves and choose a better course of action than striking out at another person. ● Use words to express feelings and hopes. Acknowledging their feelings gives them legitimacy. Saying what they wish would take place helps to open a problem-solving conversation. Sometimes what they wish would happen is not acceptable, but this is part of the learning process. It’s also a great opportunity to help them think of other options. ● Ask for help to solve the problem. Talking through a problem helps to process the situation, even for adults. Let your child know it is OK to ask for help solving a problem, and keep channels of communication open so they feel they can always come to you for help. One day, they’ll be working on much bigger problems than a spat with a sibling or frustration with a friend. ● Take the time needed to calm down. Teach your child that sometimes the proposed solution may not seem to be enough. They may still feel angry or upset after working through each of the steps. In these situations, it is often better to walk away or find another safe way to diffuse those feelings. Whether you’re younger or older, it’s difficult when you feel out of control. These steps can provide a sense of security and help you develop a plan of attack for those moments when big emotions try to take over. About The Author
H
by Julie Baumgardner
Julie Baumgardner is the President and CEO of First Things First and a certified marriage and family life therapist.
unfaltering curiosity • unlimited potential • unwavering faith
NOW ENROLLING! EXPLOREUNITY.ORG 706.292.0700
H O S P I C E & PA L L I AT I V E C A R E
We are here to serve families every day.
706.235.8800 2519 Redmond Circle Rome, GA 30165
FREE $12.99 KIDS BUFFET 2 CAN DINE FOR
WITH PURCHASE OF AN ADULT BUFFET
INCLUDES 2 ADULT BUFFETS AND 2 REGULAR DRINKS
NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. MUST PRESENT COUPON. EXPIRES: 10-15-20.
NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. MUST PRESENT COUPON. EXPIRES: 10-15-20.
TAKE OUT SPECIAL: 3 MEDIUM 1 TOPPING PIZZAS
$12.00 NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. MUST PRESENT COUPON. EXPIRES: 10-15-20.
Hospice of Chattanooga has been providing quality Hospice and Palliative care for patients and families in Tennessee and North Georgia for 37 years.
3 Hour
24/7
365
ADMISSIONS
H O L I DAY S & WEEKENDS
DAY S P E R YEAR
R EFER R AL LIN E
(423) 892-1533
hospiceofchattanooga.org
Gò0dNews for Marriage
Marriage Sabotage To An End ow many marriages have been destroyed simply because people have not properly resolved issues in their lives, commonly called baggage? What is baggage? How does it affect our marital relationships? If you stop and open your life’s bag and pilfer through it, what would you discover? How full is it? There’s a saying commonly referenced to when discussing marriage: “They’re bringing a lot of baggage into their new marriage.” You haven’t heard this before, have you? Why is this so common? Is it not the fact that issues that caused the previous relationship to fail were not recognized or accepted and resolved? How many people today enter into another relationship shortly after the dissolving of the previous one without resolving the causes of their failure? This common baggage problem does not just involve marriages. It also includes our social relationships. Any unresolved issues in our lives will affect the success of our marriage. They will sooner or later surface and sabotage the present relationship we are developing. Whose desire is it to destroy all relationships? Doesn’t he make it so easy and convenient to open our life’s bag of stuff and dig something out of it and sabotage our relationship with the possibility of permanent injury? Why do we find it so difficult to resolve so many issues from our past? Why do we make it so easy for Satan to use those issues against us, thus continuing our relationship failure cycle? This cycle will continue the rest of our lives if we fail to resolve baggage issues. Baggage, baggage, baggage. It’s no wonder the Bible says it’s so important that we need to lay aside every weight and sin that so easily besets us. Please notice that the Bible does not say that everything we carry with us in life is sin: absolutely the contrary. It becomes needless pain and suffering that we bear in our lives. How many times have you reached into your baggage and retrieved something and sabotaged your relationship? Are we not supposed to take our burdens and unresolved issues to the Lord in prayer and leave them in His care?
26 // September 2020
Those issues are still unresolved if we pick them up to carry them with us as we leave the altar. Doesn’t that baggage get quite heavy to lug around all the time? If we continue doing the same things all the time, can we not expect the same old results? We need to seek the Lord and allow Him to help us in our unresolved issues. We need to open our hearts to receive God’s healing and lay aside all our unresolved issues which
will eventually sabotage our marriage. Seek the Lord and adopt His changes, and in time, your marital relationship will change for the better. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Peace will return to your marriage. You don’t have to continue to carry your relationship baggage any further. Stop! Resolve it! Forgiveness matters! God intended for our lives to be simple and easy, not burdensome, filled with pain and suffering. Isn’t His yoke easy and His burden light to carry? Don’t allow Satan to trick you into reaching into your bag of stuff for something to sabotage your marriage. Isn’t it worth fighting for to have a healthy marriage? Blessings and peace be unto you as you begin to evaluate all the relationships in your life.
About The Author
H
by Carl Corser
Carl Corser is an ordained bishop, serves as president of the Gideons Cleveland North Camp, board of directors and chaplin of the Peach State Antique Tractor Club, and owner of Corser Enterprises (roll- off dumpsters, sheet metal and welding shop, and home renovation).
Let Us Turn Your Backyard Into An Oasis Of Your Dreams! ROME’S FULL SERVICE POOL STORE SINCE 1971 13 JOHN DAVENPORT DRIVE, ROME, GA 30165 706.291.0875 | THEPOOLSTOREOFROME.COM
• Personal Care • Medication Reminders • Chores & Errands • Meal Preparation
Call for an immediate free in-home visit with safety check. Moriah Medina
Community Outreach Coordinator
706.622.3065 moriah@comforcare.com
Gò0dNews for Everyone
An Open Invitation
W
by Diana Fain
hen an invitation is open, that means anyone
they felt they were alright the way they were. The Gentiles,
is invited. There is no need to RSVP because
though, believed and received the word of God gladly.
there is plenty of room. Jesus has extended to
In Acts 10:1-6 and 34-44, Cornelius wanted to know
everyone an open invitation. He says in Matthew 11:28-30,
what he needed to do for him and his household to be
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I
saved. He knew the fact that just because he gave and feared
will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from
God wasn’t enough: that there was much more to it than
Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find
that. So he inquired, and God answered his prayers by
rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is
sending Peter to show him the way in Acts 11:13-15.
light.” Jesus is saying, come as you are, and I will provide everything that you have need of. Jesus shows no
God’s grace is extended to everyone who accepts it. Who would not want to go to a wedding where everything
partiality and extends this offer to anyone who will accept Him. He has given us an invitation to the wedding just like He did to those spoken about in Matthew 22 and Luke 14:15-24. They made excuses as to why they could not accept His invitation. This is an invitation that He is not going to force anyone into. Repentance and salvation are open to anyone, but sometimes those who are chosen don’t want it and try to hinder those who do. Such was the case with the Jews in
is supplied unlimitedly and where you can go freely in and
Acts 13:42-52; the Gentiles wanted to know more about God
out, a place where all you must do is abide by the rules,
and asked Paul and Barnabas to preach to them the next
which are set in place to protect you from all harm, a place
time. They liked what they heard and wanted to know more,
where the road map to life eternal has already been laid out
and of course, some of the Jews took opposition to that.
for you? God has invited us to a wedding like no other and
Those who did not want to receive what Paul and Barnabas
wishes for us to accept that invitation so that He may gather
were saying could have just left, but instead, they wanted
us under His wings where we may take refuge. But will we
to stay to try to hinder others who were willing to gladly
accept His invitation?
want anyone to succeed and will try his best to manipulate. The Jews had an opportunity to receive but did not because
28 // September 2020
About The Author
receive what was being offered to them. The devil does not Diana Fain is a member of Solid Holy Rock Deliverance Tabernacle. She feels it is important to what God gives her in hopes of helping others.
Come in on your birthday and receive a free pasta dinner, including our famous house salad and garlic rolls, with spumoni ice cream for dessert.
288 Shorter Avenue NW, Rome, Georgia 706.378.9009 | www.provinos.com Pain-Free is FREEDOM
®
Introducing the
AVACEN 100
FDA Class II Medical Device
Bruce Epperson
Bruce Epperson Bruce Epperson
Branch Manager
Bruce Epperson
NMLS#: 145526
Branch Manager
Branch Manager
Cell: 770-548-4550 bepperson@smprate.com
Branch Manager NMLS#: 145526
NMLS#: 145526
504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Cell: 770-548-4550 Rome, GA 30161
J.P. Black
(770) 363-7618
nulifeventures.com/handsoverheart
GA Residential Mortgage Licensee #26807 NMLS#: 145526 Cell: 770-548-4550
bepperson@smprate.com
bepperson@smprate.com Cell: 770-548-4550 Cell: 770-548-4550 bruce.epperson@fcmhomeloans.com 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 bepperson@smprate.com 504 Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Rome,Riverside GA 30161 Rome, GA 30161 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 404 Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not402 an offer & of credit or commitment to lend. Interest This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available at the time of loan application or loan lock-in. Contact Success Mortgage at the time loan application. Loans are subject to buyer and property First Community Mortgage, Inc. Cash is notreserves acting on behalf of or at Success the Partners, Inc of to learn more about your eligibility for its mortgage products. Loansqualification. are subject to buyer and property qualification. may be required. Rome, GA 30161 direction Partners, of HUD/FHA or the Government. Mortgage Inc is not Federal acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal Government. 504 Riverside Parkway, Suite 402 & 404 Rome, GA 30161
Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Interest rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice and may not be available at the time of loan application or loan lock-in. Contact Success Mortgage Partners, Inc to learn more about your eligibility for its mortgage products. Loans are subject to buyer and property qualification. Cash reserves may be required. Success Mortgage Partners, Inc is not acting on behalf of or at the direction of HUD/FHA or the Federal Government. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
(www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
Success Mortgage Partners, Inc supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 130562. This is informational only and is not an
Gò0dNews for Seniors
Am I An Antique? ee, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:19). I love antiques. To me, old things have a certain charm about them, filled with history and interest. I personally own a few antiques, but I am really not very knowledgeable about them. I was told once that the criterion for an item’s being considered an antique is that it be 50 years old or older. If that is the case, then I qualify— and some of my belongings are also eligible. Yeah, I love old things. I love the old hymns that have stood the test of time. Many of them still send chills and thrills to my inner spirit when I hear them or sing them.
Although I love old things, I also get excited about new things! I love the newer, contemporary worship and praise music, and I love the thrill that I feel when I hear or sing them too. My car radio is usually attuned to the Message, although my husband occasionally turns it to enLighten, the Southern Gospel music station. He likes old things too! Although I am sometimes slow to accept newer fads, fashions, and trends, I still love the new—new ideas, new ways of doing things, new insights. Yes, I know every new thing a person tries doesn’t always work or endure the test of time. The newest ideas are not necessarily the best ideas, but the fact that people are thinking up new things proves that there are optimistic people who are not
30 // September 2020
satisfied with the status quo and think things could be better. LPs and 8-tracks may well be considered antiques now, but they were important steps in the chain of events that brought us DVDs! A news story in the recent past told of a church closing its doors for the purpose of getting rid of the aged membership, and later reopening with only the young as members. There are those who believe it’s time for the old to step back and let the young take over. There must be a place for all of us! While the young bring new energy, excitement, and fresh, innovative ways of doing things, the old bring stability, wisdom, and encouragement, and they preserve legacy. My husband, given half a chance, can strike up a conversation with anybody, anywhere! In a conversation once with a man in his 80s, he discovered what church the elderly gentleman attended and commented on the beauty of the new sanctuary just built. The man (I hesitate to call him “old” because of his wonderful mindset!) responded with excitement and pride and said, “You know, we had an uphill battle with some of the old people, but we persevered and finally got our new building!” You may feel safe living in the “comfort zone” of the past, but I don’t want to be like the person who said, “Wheels—who needs ’em?” or, “Computers—who needs ’em?” (or you fill in the blank!). I want to be an active advocate of the upgrade and update! I want to go broadband, embrace the iPad, and appreciate my GPS (even when it sometimes doesn’t choose the quickest route for me)! Life is too short and too important to live in the past. Bring on the changes! Just be patient with me until I can get in my Scooter and go with you! My body may move a little slower, but my mind and my spirit may very well be yelling for you to catch up!
About The Author
“S
by Evelyn Bathe
Evelyn Bathe is the wife of Joseph, mother of Jonathan, and grandmother of Brooklyn and Jackson. She has been a speaker for youth, women, and marriage conferences and served in various Christian ministries. Evelyn and her husband retired from pastoring and presently attend Peerless Road Church in Cleveland. Follow Evelyn’s blog at evelyntbathe.wordpress com.
PrimeCare provides in-home services and personal care, so you can
stay in the comfort of your own home. PrimeCare provides quality one-on-one care to clients requiring assistance in the home, hospital, nursing home or assisted living facility. We provide care from a one time visit to twenty-four hours, seven days a week. Sometimes just a little assistance can help avoid a decline in health or independence. Others need help to continue living safely at home or to recover from injury, illness or surgery. Individuals have different needs and PrimeCare specializes in designing a unique care plan for each client. RNs and LPNs supervise all services and are available for consulting or problem solving 24 hours a day. We coordinate client care by maintaining open communication with the referring physician, the client and the family.
• PERSONAL CARE SERVICES
• HOME MANAGEMENT
• COMPANIONSHIP & SITTER SERVICES
• NUTRITION SERVICES
• HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES
• AMUBULATIONS & TRANSFERS
706.291.9151 | primecarenursing.com
NOW HIRING PART-TIME & FULL-TIME CAREGIVERS
Gò0dNews on Encouragement
Spiritual Entrepreneur: 100 Days of Encouragement word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver” (Proverbs 25:11). The world needs more entrepreneurs, more good ideas, and more courageous people who see a need and will do something about it. The world especially needs more Christian “spiritual” entrepreneurs who recognize the opportunities God is revealing to them and are then courageous enough to act on it. On August 14, 2019, I read in Richard Foster’s book “Celebration of Discipline,” “The fruit of solitude is increased sensitivity and compassion for others.” Over the next several days, I reflected on this thought and prayed, “What can I do to make the world a better place and have more compassion for others?” God brought to my mind the image of an older gentleman I would see often at coffee shops around town. It appeared to me that this man was always meeting with collegeaged students. I saw him so often, I started asking others if they knew who he was. It turns out he is a retired minister who meets with young adults to mentor them. Wow—someone willing to give up their time and energy for the betterment of others to speak encouragement into their lives! Six days later, God’s prompting came: “I want you to write letters of encouragement—for 100 days.” Yikes! What would people think? I feared people’s thinking I was a weirdo or that I wanted something from them. I also thought, why should I write these letters? I need encouragement. I’m going through a tough spot in life; I’m out of work! Nevertheless, I submitted and started writing to family, friends, acquaintances, strangers, celebrities, heroes, cultural villains, and the older gentleman from the coffee shops. Each day, I would pray, “God, who needs encouragement today? Who do you want me to write to?” Each day, He would bring someone to mind for me to write to, sometimes people I absolutely did not want to write to.
32 // September 2020
But what I discovered as I wrote these letters was that I was being encouraged. I was focusing less on myself and my own problems and more on others and how I could speak into their lives. Gratitude was changing my attitude. Over the 100 days, I received responses like, “I really needed to hear those words because I was in a very dark place.” I had people approach me in tears, saying, “I’ve
never received anything like that before, and you don’t know how perfect the timing of this was.” Others said, “You believe in me more than I believe in myself.” Maybe there’s someone you know who needs to know that you admire them, look up to them, believe in them. During this time of quarantine, maybe now is the time to write and tell them? We all need encouragement. “I shall pass this way but once; any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” –Etienne de Grellet (Quaker missionary)
About The Author
“A
by Brad Perkins
Brad Perkins is a 12-year banking veteran who enjoys speaking and writing on Middle Eastern Culture. He and his wife, Heather live in Cleveland, Tennessee, attend Silverdale Baptist Church, and volunteer with an organization to help refugees feel welcomed and loved.
Human touch. Robotic precision. Announcing advanced surgical technology with a personalized surgical plan, all in the palm of your surgeon’s hand. Redmond is proud to offer the latest in robotic-assisted technology for partial and total knee replacement surgery. This new surgical technology is designed to enhance accuracy in placing implants and get you back to life as quickly as possible – all under the guidance of your surgeon. If you’ve been putting off orthopedic surgery, ask about the new robotic-assisted surgical technology at Redmond.
Learn more at RedmondRegional.com/Robotic-Surgery For a free physician referral, please call Medline® at 706-368-8480 or 1-800-242-5662
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Jesus’ Love Languages
T
by Ruthiey Boggs
he first Sunday that churches in our area began
talks numerous times about how Jesus touched others. In
reopening, I attended the church that was my home
Mark 10, when the little children were brought to Him and
almost my whole life and had been up until a year
the disciples turned them away, Jesus didn’t just stand and
ago. There are few people on this earth who have loved
wave or bless them from afar; He commanded that they be
me, prayed for me, and supported me more than those of
brought to Him so He could lay hands on them.
this congregation. That Sunday was the first time I have
Long before the love languages had ever been named or
ever felt just weird at that church. When we finished the
addressed, Jesus was speaking our love languages. He has
service, there was some conversation, but it all felt out of
never stopped. He has loved us with a sacrificial love; His
sorts, making sure we kept our distance, and we didn’t hug
acts of service were seen in the washing of His disciples’ feet and in the way He so freely gave His life for ours. He bought us the ultimate gift, eternal life, with His own blood. He gave quality time in the beginning in the Garden with Adam and Eve, and then He came as a man, walked among mankind, and discipled them. He still wants that quality time anytime we will sit with Him in His Word and allow Him to pour down on us. Last but certainly not least, there are the words of affirmation. He has given His holy Word, which is exactly that. It is encouraging and affirming of what is required of us. It is the answer to every question we may ever have, the instructions to protect us from Hell,
or shake hands. I was so sad when I left church that day
and the road map to a glorious place where there is no pain,
thinking, what if this were our new normal?
no suffering, no injustices, no sickness, no anger, and no
It also got me thinking about the importance of physical
evil. Wow, think about that: how we are so loved that our
touch. I knew that was one of my love languages but
Creator has crafted His love especially for each of us to find
never realized how important it was until Covid-19 came
it and feel it in the love language that we speak best. So if
knocking. Jesus was powerful and could speak miracles into
these past few months have weighed you down, just hang
existence; He never had to touch anyone, but He did. Jesus
on and realize that He has beautifully designed us and His
knew that physical touch mattered and that people needed
love fits us all perfectly.
or acceptance for who really knows how long, but He chose to love him physically as well as sacrificially. The Bible
34 // September 2020
About The Author
it. He knew that the leper had been without physical touch Ruthiey Boggs received her Bachelor of Science, Human Services from Shorter university. She is currently serving her family as a stay at home mom. She is on the Board of Directors for the William S. Davies Homeless Shelter. She and her husband Jim are members of Philadelphia Baptist Church.
CATCH THE THIEF IN YOUR INBOX Your pastor just sent an email asking you to send money. The request seems out of the ordinary, but the email looks authentic. What would you do? Schemes like this are becoming common—and more sophisticated. It can be difficult to discern between legitimate requests and scams. Access a free webinar on how to protect your ministry’s money and data from digital threats.
cyberwebinar.brotherhoodmutual.com
HALLMARK INSURANCE
an authorized agency of
& Risk Management Solutions
Brandon Hall 423.894.9497 HallmarkInsure.com Serving TN and North GA Insuring America’s churches and related ministries.® | www.brotherhoodmutual.com | 800.333.3735 Property & Liability Insurance | Commercial Auto | Workers’ Compensation | Mission Travel Insurance | Ministry Payroll © 2018 Brotherhood Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved. Brotherhood Mutual is licensed in most states.
Gò0dNews for Everyone
The Grandma Lady Angel
O
by Pam Walker
ne morning, I was taking my
Benz SL300 24 convertible drove up! A grandma
children, Paul and Christy, to school.
lady angel! She said, “Hi! Get in!”
They were in the fifth and fourth
grades, respectively. As I entered I-75 North from Howell Mill
Road, we were suddenly careening across four
We got in, introduced ourselves, and thanked her for the ride. When I told the woman we lived on Collier Road, she said, “That is on my way to bridge club.” We reached
lanes of Atlanta rush-hour traffic! I was the fifth driver to hit an unsecured dolly, which had fallen off a construction materials truck. The undercarriage of my car was totaled. My car had to be towed. That was in the days before cell phones and debit cards, and we had no choice but to walk home. Our 12-mile walk home took us through a
our apartment, got out, and thanked her again. We watched the lady drive off, believing all
very posh area of Atlanta known as Buckhead.
the while she was the grandma lady angel Paul
Paul was cranky and tired. He said, “Father
prayed for, whom God sent us right when we
God, please send us a grandma lady who
needed her.
wouldn’t be afraid to pick up a woman and two elderly, gray-haired woman in a blue Mercedes36 // September 2020
About The Author
children and give us a ride home!” Just then, an
Pam Walker, a native of Rome, is a paralegal at Vaughn & Clements PC in Calhoun. She is a local columnist for the Rome News-Tribune. Pam and her husband, Stan, are members of Riverside Baptist Church, in Rome where she teaches the Naomi Sunday School class twice a month. Readers may email her at pamterrellwalker@gmail.com.
SERVICING CUSTOMERS SINCE ~ 415~ SHORTER AVE • ROME GA2003 30165
415 SHORTER AVE • ROME, GA • 706.252.0450
Gò0dNews for Everyone
My Strength Is Small
W
by Aimee Hays
e have all had times in our lives when we faced
One morning after mom’s emergency brain surgery, I
situations where we knew the right person, had
awoke from my sleep to a feeling of just utter brokenness and
the right answer, or found a quick solution. It is in
helplessness. I opened my Bible and turned to 2 Chronicles 20,
those times that we find the strength within ourselves to solve
where I read about a king named Jehoshaphat whose army was
life’s problems. Life is going pretty well. Everything seems to
completely surrounded. He saw an inevitable defeat on the
be falling into place until, seemingly out of nowhere, we find
horizon. 2 Chronicles 20:15-18 tells us, “He said: ‘Listen, King
ourselves in a situation beyond our control.
Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is
I remember walking anxiously into the neuro ICU at Emory Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, where I gazed upon my 48-year-
what the Lord says to you: “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but
old mother lying motionless in the hospital bed with every type of medical tubing and monitoring device imaginable connected to her body from where she had just undergone emergency brain surgery to remove an arteriovenous malformation and aneurysm. I was 26 at the time and had never really faced an uncontrollable situation prior to seeing my mother comatose. I knew immediately as I looked at my mother that nothing I could say or do would change her situation. At that very moment, I knew that all I had and all that I needed was the Lord’s help! My strength was so small, and I could not make my mother better. Mom ended up spending four months comatose and the next 15 years wheelchair-bound, living in a 24-hour-care brain injury facility as a result of the arteriovenous malformation. It was during those 15 years that I had to choose whether I was
God’s. Tomorrow march down against them. They will be
going to get bitter or better in the face of adversity.
climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the
Adversity comes in all shapes and sizes when we least expect
end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to
it. For some, adversity comes as a medical diagnosis, the passing
fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see
of a loved one, loss of a job or income, divorce, a tragic accident,
the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem.
false accusations, depression, anxiety, fear…the list of adversities
Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them
is endless. Yet, in these adverse situations, we do not have to look
tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.”’ Jehoshaphat bowed
within ourselves for the power or strength to overcome.
down with his face to the ground, and all the people of Judah
There is hope! As Christians, hope is not a wish or an exit route from hardships and trials. Hope can be seen in
and Jerusalem fell down in worship before the Lord.” When the situation seems hopeless with no way out, we have hope in the Lord. He is our strength. Be encouraged
is in you.” Our hope is in the Lord. Psalm 43:5 also tells us,
today! Stand firm. The battle is the Lord’s! Let’s find a song of
“Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in
praise and lift up our greatest weapon in times of adversity and
turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
distress. We serve an awesome God who is mighty to save. He
my salvation, and my God.” Yes, in our darkest moments,
is our hope!
when our heart cries out in anguish while the pain of our circumstances seems too great to bear, we can place our hope in God.
38 // September 2020
About The Author
Psalm 39:7: “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope
My name is Aimee Hays. I am a native Roman and graduate of Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. I am married to my husband Tony Hays who teaches 8th grade and mother to Hunter and Landon Hays. I am an elementary school principal and educator of 24 years and have a passion for sharing the love of God with others.
®
It’s Hard To Stop A Trane.®
HIGHLY TRAINED EXPERTS IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION.
THE RELIABLE LEADER IN HEATING AND AIR ALSO UNDERSTANDS THE VALUE IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION. IMAGINE THAT.
YOUR TRANE COMFORT SPECIALIST IS 100% COMMITTED TO MAKING YOU 100% HAPPY. TM
We all want better service. At stores, restaurants, hotels—wherever we spend our money as customers. When it comes to service that affects your quality of life at home, nothing short of the best will do. As your local independent Trane Comfort SpecialistTM dealer, that’s why we go all out to give you the greatest comfort, value and peace of mind possible. 100% customer satisfaction may sound ambitious, but for us, it’s the goal we live to achieve every day.
Contact us right away, your local Trane Comfort SpecialistsTM with the reputation for reliability. © 2017 Trane. All rights reserved.
(706) 234-3051 waremechanical.com LIC. NO. CN211186
Gò0dNews for Everyone
Know Our Enemy; Destroy The Lies by Toris Redding
I
look at the life of King David and his prayers and see an
Davids, His kings and priests, the Body of Christ in the earth
example of a heart after God, a sincere desire to know
today, those who have confessed with their mouths and
God and His voice and to do His will in every place at
believed in their hearts the Lordship of Jesus and salvation
any cost, even through and in spite of his human frailties.
through Him alone. The plight is still the same as it was for
Further, I see him and his people, God’s people, constantly
David. The enemy is still the same, and he is not flesh and
surrounded by enemies, being sought out and targeted by
blood. This enemy desires to sift us like wheat, just as he
their enemies to be conquered and for destruction. In Psalm
did David and even as Jesus told Peter. He desires to try our
120, David cries out to the Lord, “Rescue me, O Lord, from
faith and overthrow the Body of Christ. Satan, our real and
liars and from all deceitful people.”
unseen enemy, desires to conquer and ultimately destroy
David recognized that there was deception all around him. And ultimately, the deception came from the enemy, satan, for the Scripture says of him in John 8:44, “He was a murderer from the beginning and abode not in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own; for he is a liar, and the father of it.” And what is deception? Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “the act of causing someone to accept as true or valid what is false or invalid: the act of deceiving.” Further, who was the one ultimately responsible for the constant attempts to conquer and destroy David and God’s people through other people and the culture of the world around them? It was satan, the
the church. And he is still doing it through people and the
devil, that serpent of old. John 10:10 says this: “The thief
culture of today with lies, deception, and by presenting
comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” How can we
untruths and attempting to make those things valid.
know that these attacks and attempts on David’s life were
We must cry out to God today, just like David, for
from the devil, from satan himself? God makes that clear
truth and to be rescued from liars through every source
to us in His Word in Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is
the enemy would use. Our significance in the earth, in our
not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against
individual cities, in our families, jobs, and businesses, is
the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and
vital, great, and very necessary. I daresay the CHURCH OF
against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”
THE LORD JESUS CHRIST is the most important entity in
David was never just fighting his fellow man, but
the earth after the Holy Spirit. We must recognize it and
there was a deeper, darker, unseen force influencing
walk in it, being the giant-slaying, devil-destroying, earth-
and inhabiting the culture and manipulating the minds
subduing, and divine wisdom-carrying vessels of the living
of people. These forces wanted to oppress, control, and
God we have been created to be!
Well, here’s an announcement for us today, for God’s people, His chosen generation, His precious ones, His
40 // September 2020
About The Author
ultimately destroy God’s people and their future existence! Toris Redding is married to Detrick Redding, and he is the pastor of Rally Up International Ministries in Rome, Georgia. Together, they have four beautiful children and reside in Rome.
Gò0dNews
Christian Magazine
Mission Statement:
W
Writer Guidelines:
e believe when people are equipped,
Who: Our writers range from pastors, professors, and
motivated, and passionately engaged in
professional writers to stay at home moms and dads,
living out their faith in Jesus Christ they
business professionals, and others who have a desire to
have the potential to be world changers. Our mission is to bring people into a dynamic
relationship with Jesus Christ—a relationship that empowers them to see how God can work through individual personalities, situations, and talents. Christ was an activist, he did not neglect the needs of the people as He brought His message. We strive to encourage everyone to look more like Christ by reaching outside of themselves to serve the needs of others—at home, at school, in communities, and across the world.
goodnewscm.com Phone: 423.478.6484
reach out to people through words of encouragement. What: We believe that it is important to laugh together, praise each other, encourage one another, and to offer biblical advice. Articles can be directed toward everyone, or from woman to woman, or man to man. We love to share recipes and family traditions as well. We ask that articles be kept to a 500 word maximum. We’d love to hear from you! Where: Please send submissions to articles.goodnews@gmail.com Why: Because God has not intended for us to just survive. We believe that we are intended to reach out to love and encourage each other. God has brought each of us through tough times, blessed us, and made the “impossible” possible. Let’s, together, share the love of Jesus Christ.
Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds
Chocolate Zucchini Cake
W
by Deana Thompson
ebster defines harvest as “the time of year when matured grain, fruit, vegetables, etc. are reaped and gathered in.” My parents always had a
garden, and harvest time meant getting to eat an abundance of zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and whatever else happened to be planted that year. It also was a time of canning, freezing, and preserving the fruits and vegetables so that they could be eaten during the cold winter months while the garden lay dormant. Yet, harvest can be applied to other things. Galatians 6:9
applies it to good works: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (NIV). 1 Corinthians 9:6 applies it to finances: “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully” (NKJV). Jesus applied it to the spiritual salvation of the world: “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field” (Mt. 9:37-38 NIV). As autumn harvest comes to a close and gardens are tilled under for the winter, harvesting can still continue. What will you harvest today?
Ingredients
• ½ c. oil • 1½ c. honey • 3 eggs • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract • ½ tsp. orange flavor, or 2 tsp. grated orange peel • 2 c. peeled and grated zucchini • 3 c. freshly ground soft white wheat flour, or 2-2/3 c. all-purpose flour • ½ c. unsweetened cocoa powder • 1 Tbsp. baking powder • ½ tsp. baking soda • 1 tsp. salt • 1 tsp. cinnamon • ¼ c. milk • 1 c. chopped nuts (optional)
42 // September 2020
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a bundt pan. 2. In a large bowl, mix together the oil and honey with an electric mixer. Add eggs, beating after each addition. Add vanilla, orange flavor, and zucchini. 3. In a small bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. 4. Add the flour mixture to the honey mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix on low until thoroughly combined. Add nuts, if desired. 5. Bake for 55-60 minutes. Let it cool for 15 minutes before removing it from the pan. 6. After inverting it on a plate, drizzle the chocolate glaze over the top.
Chocolate Glaze
• 2/3 c. honey • 3 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder • 1/3 c. milk • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter • 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract • 5 drops (1/16 tsp.) orange flavor
In a small saucepan, combine honey, cocoa powder, and milk. Cook over medium heat and boil until it reaches 230°F (using a candy thermometer). Remove from heat. Add the butter, vanilla, and orange flavor. If it becomes too thick as it cools, add a little milk to thin it.
LAWNMOWER SHOP 23 Alabama Street Cave Spring, GA 706.777.8877
Rome, Georgia
6am-10pm Closed Sunday