September 2014
THE ANNUAL MEETING OCTOBER 12, 2014
Inside This Issue: --Board Candidates Resumes --The Shady Lady Review --14th Annual Rally of the Cure
President’s Perspective By Jim Jackson
A
s many of you are aware, the publication schedule for the echo requires that articles be submitted well in advance of the month of publication. The current deadline is the first of the month proceeding the month of publication. In other words, I have to have this submitted no later than the first of August for the September echo. So, in July heat, I am writing something pertinent for September. Here goes.
Our web site also has announcements of various activities and other information. Please check it often so you’ll know what’s going on. Also make sure you’re signed up for the Bullets and the Buzz so you’ll get email notification of fast breaking or important information.
September is a time of change from Summer to Fall, much as March is a time of change from Winter to Spring. School is back in session, football season is cranking up as baseball is coming down to the playoffs, and maybe the weather is even better than it usually is.
It would be close to impossible for Bent Tree to provide the quality of life we enjoy without our volunteers in many areas. There are myriad opportunities to help out around here. From Keep Bent Tree Beautiful to serving on a committee of interest to adopting a section of road, our neighbors demonstrate that they care about our community by volunteering. It is also very rewarding, so if you are not currently volunteering, please consider it.
Life here in Bent Tree is also in a state of change. Our tasks are beginning to get us prepared for the tough weather to come after the beautiful colors amaze us once again. Our Bent Tree staff is also busy preparing our facilities and common properties. Even though we’re preparing for the changing seasons, our amenities are still going strong and providing us with the great recreational opportunities most of us enjoy.
This is the first chance I’ve had to thank everyone who voted for the recently-approved change to the CC&Rs. It provides the Board with another tool to use in emergency situations. Thanks also to the ad hoc advisory group and the Elections Committee for all their hard work.
BTCI 2013 Water Quality Report Results Consumer Confidence Report Analyte Chloroform Bromodichloromethane 4-Bromofluorobenzene
2013 DETECTED ORGANIC CONTAMINANTS Code Result Rl 32106 7.1 0.5 32101 3.7 0.5 5.11 0.5
1.2 Dichlorobenzene Chloro-Dibromomethane Analyte Sodium 23
5.17
0.5
34306 1.7 0.5 2013 DETECTED INORGANIC CONTAMINANTS Code Result Rl 929 12000 1000
Mcl Not Listed Not Listed 3.5/6.1
Date 05/29/13 05/29/13 05/29/13
3.6/5.8
05/29/13
Not Listed
05/29/13
Mcl Not Listed
Date 06/11/13
Samples of Cryptosporidium and Giardia were also collected in 2013 with a result of no detection.
2014 AC Action Report MONTH JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE JULY
REQUESTS 12 19 18 40 31 62 23
APPROVALS 12 19 13/4 tabled 37 31 60/1 tabled 22/1 tabled
DENIALS 0 0 1 1 1 2 1
VIOLATION LETTERS 9 6 7 7 4 4 4
FINES 2 0 0 1 0 2 0
APPEALS 2 0 0 1 0 2 0
YTD TOTALS
205
172
6
41
5
5
September 2014
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President’s Perspective By Jim Jackson
T
here has been some confusion regarding the earlier echo submission deadline (recently adjusted from the 10th of the month to the 1st of the month). This adjustment was made in order to transition to a new date for the actual publication and therefore the date we all receive the paper copy. The new target date for receiving the echo in the future is the 25 of the month. This means our goal to receive the November echo is October 25. In order to make this transition smoothly, it will take place over the next couple months. This decision followed a meeting between the publisher, our communication director, board liaison and me. Our goal was to get the echo into the readers’ hands before the month began. We believe following this transition period we will have accomplished that goal. Additionally, the electronic version of the echo will be sent to those who have requested it a few days prior to the paper copy being mailed. If you have not seen an electronic echo, check it out on the website’s public home page. I encourage everyone to sign up to receive the electronic version. You can sign up for the electronic version and you will still receive your paper copy. Sign up by going to the web site, then click on home tab/my profile/subscriptions, then select electronic echo. It is that easy! I wonder if anyone else has noticed an increase in the amount of “junk” that gets piled next to the dumpster. According to the signage on the dumpster, the junk piled outside the dumpster constitutes “illegal dumping.” This costs us time and money each day to deal with this mess and quite frankly it has gotten out of hand. Beginning today, we are stepping up our efforts to eliminate this problem. Cameras will be installed to monitor the dumpster areas. Public Safety will monitor these cameras and will respond to reports from homeowners or employees who witness anyone placing inappropriate items inside the dumpsters or placing anything outside. Fines will be issued to all violators. Don’t be the first to receive a fine for being caught on camera for illegal dumping. Now that the CC&R change regarding a special assessment provision for emergency funding has passed, I would like to share the actual ballot numbers for the vote. There were one thousand seven hundred and one eligible voters who received ballots; eight-hundred sixty-five votes were cast; five hundred ninety-seven votes in favor of the change and two hundred sixty-eight opposed. I’d like to thank the property owners for approving this provision and I hope we never have to utilize it.
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Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
2014 Bent Tree Board of Directors
On the cover…
Jim Jackson – President
Photos submitted by: Gerald Hunter, Andy Ohlson, Deone Higgs, and Deborah Sorenson.
Eileen Foresman – Vice President
We Want You…
jackson9786@gmail.com • 678-452-2064 ejbentree@etcmail.com • 770-893-2703
Sandy Fantz - Secretary
sfantz@mindspring.com • 770-894-4194
Gene Berry – Treasurer
geneberry@tds.net • 770-893-2723
Wayne Duncan
wd644@yahoo.com • 678-452-2521
Dwight Free
dfreeindc@yahoo.com • 706-692-9880
Tim Long
timlong@tds.net • 770-893-1413
Fred Manget
vamangets@yahoo.com • 703-430-6302
Jim Nickell
nickelljl@hotmail.com • 770-893-2338
General Manager Mike King 770-893-2629 Editorial Committee Members Mark Atkins Sue Bapst Jean Bogas Hank Hollensbe Verna Jones Cynthia Nickell Peggy Simmons Eileen Foresman, Board Liaison Deone Higgs, Editor – 404-771-0876 Any articles, letters, omissions, errors, or questions should be sent to the editor, Deone Higgs at btecho@etcmail.com.
Support echo Advertisers The echo is free to BTCI and you as a property owner due to the advertising. Please support the advertisers and tell them you saw them in the echo. To place an ad contact KDA Communications at 770-894-4420 susan@kda-communications.com September 2014
… to email us short stories, interviews, poetry, and articles of general interest to Bent Tree residents. … to tell us what articles you would like to see. … to share with us some of your amazing Bent Tree related images to be featured on our “Out and About in Bent Tree” page. Thanks. echo Editorial Committee
echo Deadline Date:
Submissions are due to the Editor (btecho@etcmail.com) by 4pm, on the 1st of each month prior to publication month. Please note the earlier date.
Articles or letters to the echo
Please submit all items via email in MS Word (or similar) format with double-spaced paragraphs to Deone Higgs at btecho@etcmail.com. Be sure to visit the community website at bent-tree.com, and located under the “Resources” tab for all other echo guidelines. If you are not proficient with Word, write your article in an email. We will convert it to a Word document. That will enable the editorial staff to prepare the most accurate and timely submission to the printer. Questions, call Deone Higgs, 404-771-0876.
Photos for the echo
We get some good photos that we cannot print because they are too small. Even if they work online, they may not be printable. Take pictures for the echo with a camera with at least 8 mega-pixels (MP) and attach them to an email as a .jpeg file in large size. Do not embed them in a document.
Additional echo copies can be pre-ordered at a cost of $1.75 each. Email btecho@etcmail.com by the submission deadline for the next monthly issue. The additional copies must be paid for and picked up at Administration.
Economic Development in Pickens County Go to www.pickenschamber.com to see a monthly report by Gerry Nechvatal, Community Economic Development Director.
GPS Directions to Bent Tree Please give your visitors the following address (40 Little Pine Mountain Road, Jasper, GA) to gain access into the front gate on Bent Tree Drive, which will alleviate GPS systems from sending them to the back gate off Grandview Road. Without a bar code, they will be unable to gain access into the community. “Representatives of Bent Tree Community, Inc. (BTCI) may photograph on our Common Property. By participating in BTCI-sponsored events, you consent to the ownership and use thereof unless and until you provide written notice otherwise.” Bent Tree • the echo
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BTCI Candidates Essays
Madonna Lytle • 300 Chestnut Cove Trail #20349 • Jasper, GA 30143 • 404-805-7723 I am a little apprehensive to write the typical essay about why I want to run or actually be a board member in Bent Tree. It is like watching the question section of a beauty pageant. Usually by the time someone wants to be on the board, they have become somewhat known in the neighborhood - for good reasons or bad. Some of the members are just natural leaders, and you know that from the minute that you meet them; some show their volunteer spirit, and then some show promise and they are encouraged. I think I fall in the last category. It seems to also be important to have a good mix of gender on the board. With that said I obviously love this community. Bob and I moved here about nine years ago. We came to stay for a month in one of the rental homes just to see what it’s like to live in the mountains. We went back to Florida and immediately put our home up for sale. With God’s endorsement our house sold in less than one month and we were here sooner than later. At that time the ECHO was still in newspaper format and there was a monthly section of prayer. It was simply a paragraph of those in the community that were going through various struggles, and we thought how wonderful this community is to help one another and come to each other’s aid.
The experiences I have had on the various committees have been eye-opening and valuable. I have also learned quite a bit from speaking with different people in the community who come with varying ideas. I look forward to additional learning about the actual day to day workings of the current administration and where the decision-making processes begin and how they can be enhanced. A few of the things that I am already concerned about seem to center around communication with all of the residents of our community. I realize that the demographics of our neighbors have changed somewhat in the past few years. We do seem to have a greater percentage of people in full time careers than we used to in the past. In those cases I know that they are not able to participate in as many activities as some of the retired people, and they miss out on some of the volunteering opportunities as well. Another concern regarding communication comes from the understanding and homeowner responsibilities that each resident needs to know, but apparently doesn’t. We do need to be aware of what we can each do to preserve this community that we all choose to enjoy. When we pursue our own agendas we can bring about situations that cause strife among us. I have great respect for the board members that have gone before me and I really do appreciate the confidence that many have expressed and look forward to and hope to fulfill their expectations!!
William (Bill) Baldwin • 300 Locust Trail, #20679 • Jasper, GA. 30143 Lot #MM2934 Vision and Goals as a BTCI Board Member My love for Bent Tree has prompted me to run for the Board. Over the past year I have been fortunate enough to meet with many of our residents, listen to their concerns and prepare a vision about the today, tomorrow and future of our community. It is my hope that during my tenure on the Board I can offer not only a new perspective, but a realistic plan for meeting Bent Tree’s goals now and for the future. In order to preserve the quality, lifestyle and property values of Bent Tree, I foresee our Board facing some difficult decisions in the years ahead. Such Board directed actions will be needed to protect the future vitality and financial health of our community. As a property owner, I urge you to be involved by gaining a thorough understanding of the issues we’re facing. Learn the facts and not simply the gossip. Participate in the debate. My professional background as an architect, real estate developer and general contractor gives me a knowledgeable, yet concerned perspective of the status of our infrastructure and community buildings. And also, in addition, having a background in the vacation resort business, gives me firsthand experience on how our amenities should be capitalized to improve their bottom line. Specifically, my vision looks to address the following; • Insure adherence to the guidelines set forth in the 2013 Reserve Analysis Study as to the funding of reserves, deferred capital replacement and maintenance. • Study and implement new strategies for the collection of delinquent assessments and fines.
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• Facilitate and direct a plan to amend and improve most of our revenue producing amenities, such that their business plan and bottom line produces additional revenue. Essentials to include: ◦◦ Formulating a marketing plan to encourage greater participation by residents and non-residents alike ◦◦ Implementing a new community wide point of sale (POS) system for tracking all sales transactions. ◦◦ Adopting the use of resident accounts for the purchase of all goods and services ◦◦ Exploring the value of a new “Club Membership” program which includes benefits ◦◦ Readdressing the pros and cons of obtaining a full service liquor license. ◦◦ Exploring the viability of rebranding the 19th Hole restaurant ◦◦ A consideration of marketing some of our amenities to a broader community • Adopt a new, progressive marketing campaign for Bent Tree properties ◦◦ Inventory all existing buildable and non-buildable vacant lots and repackage them to create saleable properties. ◦◦ Adapt a plan to aggressively market Bent Tree to similar communities in Florida and elsewhere as the vibrant, amenity rich community in which to live. ◦◦ Partner with local realtors to expand, improve and enhance their marketing plans for Bent Tree. ◦◦ Create a new Bent Tree website solely for marketing purposes. My vision may be controversial to some. Yet new tactics must be tried. I look forward to serving the community and welcome your input or thoughts at any time.
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
BTCI Candidates Essays continued Gary M Baker • 113 Grandview Trail Box 20439 • Lot# ST 0003 Why I am a candidate for the BTCI Board My wife Brenda and I first came in contact with Bent Tree through an article in the Sunday AJC Home Section in 2000. There was a lengthy article describing the community, its location, amenities, etc. We were living in Lawrenceville, GA at the time and had just begun to think about where we wanted to end up once we retired. We drove up to Bent Tree the following weekend and fell in love with the atmosphere of Bent Tree, its beauty and the community in general. After several visits over the next couple of years Brenda presented the ultimatum – either we buy a house or a lot or we do not come up here anymore. We bought a lot and subsequently traded it and a lot more money to buy the home we live in now in 2004. We have never regretted our purchase. Even though we were not able to come up to Bent Tree as often as we would have liked in the intervening years, we loved those weekends when we could come up. Driving down the S curve on Tamarack and seeing lake was then and still is now a beautiful and relaxing experience. We became fulltime residents in June 2011 and I retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs in October 2011. Fears and concerns about what will we do when we finally are retired were all for naught.
Bent Tree with its varied amenities and social life has taken good care of us. Between bridge, Suppers Around the Tree, hiking, Lake & Wildlife, various social events, volunteer opportunities, etc., etc. we have found everything we hoped for in our retirement. So why ruin a good thing by running for the BTCI Board? Good question…..let me think about that for a moment. Oh, I remember! One of the things that makes Bent Tree a great community is the fact that volunteers are such an important part of it. I have never been a person to spend all my free time in volunteer activities. However, I have done my share of volunteering for school activities while our children were growing up, in church and other community activities. Once I retired I have found that there is plenty of time to enjoy hiking, reading and other activities while still participating in various volunteer activities. I have found my time as Co-Chair (aka Co-bird) of the Lake & Wildlife Committee to be enjoyable rather than onerous. I have met many more residents of Bent Tree through volunteering and enjoy that experience as well. So I see running for the Board as a way to support our wonderful community. I do not have a specific agenda. I will try to do what I perceive to be best for the community during my tenure on the Board. I hope that my fellow Bent Tree residents will assist me by sharing their thoughts and concerns while at the same time supporting the Board as it does its best for Bent Tree.
A Note from Mike King
Note: If you receive the following letter, it is legitimate and from our internet marketing firm. They are increasing the responses to keep and our Gfrom oogle our status high amarketing nd keep our firm. 4 star They Google Plus rating. A the responses to keep our If you receive the following letter, it is legitimate internet are increasing positive r esponse w ould b e a ppreciated. Google status high and keep our 4 star Google Plus rating. A positive response would be appreciated.
Hello! We would like to thank you for your patronage, as a local establishment we really appreciate your trust in us. Please take a few minutes and share your feedback about what we have provided for you thus far. Simply click the link we have set up below and follow the 3 steps in order to help us to continue to provide you with the best service possible. We are excited about this opportunity to hear from you. Click the link below: Rate us here! Thank you again for taking the time to help Bent Tree Community grow. It is people like you that allow us to stay in business and develop within the community. Sincerely,
Mike King Bent Tree Community Phone: 770-893-2629 Fax: 770-893-3413 Visit our
September 2014
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Serve Your Community. Join the Web Team or The Editorial Committee. The Bent Tree Communications Team is in need of residents who would be willing to offer their talents to these vital assets of the community:
Bent Tree Communications (the echo & www.bent-tree.com) Key Characteristics: • Team/Task oriented • Willingness to learn • Computer literate (Proficiency with Microsoft Suite helpful) • Available for monthly meeting (1-2 hours) • Availability as needed for website updates (Web Team only) • Detail orientated • Strong communication skills, both written and oral • Self-motivated • Solution seeker • Strong proofing skills • Ambitious/Adaptable • Opportunity to cross-train for both teams
Interested parties should contact the Communications Director via email at btecho@etcmail.com. Feel free to come and check us out! Next Editorial Committee meeting: September 3 @ 3 p.m. Next Web Team meeting: September 8 @ 10 a.m.
Calling
s r e All Bak
Do you love to bake? Please consider donating a “home made” cake to BTAC Fall Fest for the Cake Walk. Scheduled for Saturday, October 25, interested participants can contact Nancy Collier at nonnic@icloud.com or 770-712-6907 or Pat Smith at 770-456-1447
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September 2014
Spanakopita – A Savory Spinach and Cheese Pastry
Remembering Foggy Meadow
A traditional Greek tart, spanakopita, may be served as an appetizer or as the main course. Spinach or Popeye never had it so good! Frozen phyllo pastry forms the crust for a creamy spinach and cheese filling with a liberal amount of butter brushed on each phyllo layer. A 10 ½” x 7 ½” tart pan, a baking sheet or a jelly roll pan is needed.
he past few days have been a trip down memory lane. It all started at breakfast when I picked blueberries from my container grown rabbiteye blueberry bush to add to my cereal. So delicious, there’s nothing like eating something you’ve grown.
To make the filling
So as I sit there savoring my breakfast, I say to Hank, “Do you remember all the things I grew in my kitchen garden at Foggy Meadow? Do you remember my asparagus? And my sugar snap peas? And do you remember that summer I planted heritage tomatoes? Boy, what a harvest that was! And what about the year I served tomatoes from the garden—at Thanksgiving!” You get the idea.
By A Fellow Epicurean
½ cup pine nuts (about 3 ounces) 1 medium onion 1/3 cup olive oil Two 10 ounce packages frozen chopped spinach, thawed ½ teaspoon salt 2 large eggs ½ cup crumbled feta (about 3 ounces) 1 tablespoon fine dry bread crumbs Seven 17 by 12 inch phyllo sheets brought to room temperature 5 tablespoons unsalted butter 6 tablespoons plus ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan Preheat oven to 375 degrees In a shallow baking pan toast pine nuts in middle of oven until golden, about 4 minutes, and cool. Finely chop onion, and in a large heavy skillet, cook in oil over low heat, stirring, until softened. Squeeze spinach to remove as much liquid as possible and stir with salt into onion. Cook the spinach mixture over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until any liquid is evaporated, 1 to 2 minutes, and cool slightly. In a large bowl whisk eggs until combined and stir in spinach mixture, pine nuts, feta, and bread crumbs until combined. Filling may be made a day ahead and chilled, covered. Bring filling to room temperature before proceeding. Stack phyllo sheets and cover with 2 overlapping sheets plastic wrap and then a dampened kitchen towel. In a small saucepan melt butter and cool slightly. Lightly brush a 10 ½ -by 71’2 by 1-inch rectangular tart pan with a removable fluted rim with butter. On a work surface, lightly brush 1 phyllo sheet with butter. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon Parmesan evenly over buttered phyllo and repeat layering with 5 more phyllo sheets, butter, and 5 tablespoons Parmesan. Arrange last phyllo on stack and lightly brush with butter. Transfer phyllo to tart pan, letting excess hang over edge, and spoon filling onto phyllo, spreading evenly. Fold edges of pastry over filling, leaving center uncovered, and lightly brush top of phyllo with butter. Sprinkle remaining ¼ cup Parmesan over exposed filling and bake tart in middle of oven until golden, 25 to 30 minutes. Serve tart warm or at room temperature. Serves 6 as main course.
Recipe from The Best of Gourmet September 2014
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Anyway, when we moved to Bent Tree in 2005, reality set in. I was not going to have a kitchen garden here, or a garden, period. So I contented myself with playing tennis and reading. But blood will tell and my peasant blood was calling. “You need to grow something”, it said. And lo and behold! A May, 2008 article in Southern Living gave me a start. The article, “A Harvest by the Door” featured growing blueberries in a container. My sanity was saved. I bought two bushes from the Pickens County 4-H sale, a ‘Delite’ and a ‘Tifblue”, the rabbiteye varieties suited to container gardening. You must plant more than one variety for cross-pollination, necessary for fruit set. The only place I had out of the reach of the critters and also convenient to my back door was on my rear upstairs deck where I have part sun. Following the planting instructions in the article, I filled a container with good soil and peat moss and watered thoroughly and topped with mulch. It’s a good idea to do all this where your plant will be growing because containers can get pretty heavy. Use an azalea-type fertilizer in the spring and fall. That’s it. The rabbiteye blueberry is native to Georgia. Rabbiteyes are considered the best type of blueberries for home gardening, so avoid the southern highbush varieties. Another plus: not only does the blueberry bush look good all year long, it provides good fall color and the bare bush in winter is very “sculptural.” I only had a few berries that first year, but as my plants have matured, my harvest has grown, allowing me to enjoy my very own blueberries for a month or so every summer. An added bonus: blueberries are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E.
So, if you have a hankering for some home grown produce, consider container gardening. You are only limited by the amount of light you have in the area you have chosen since most fruits and vegetables need at least part sun and many require full sun. It’s worth the effort. Bent Tree • the echo Page 9
To sample more authentic Greek delicacies such as baklava and moussaka, mark your calendars now and plan to attend the Atlanta Greek Festival, October 9-12, 2014, at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 2500 Clairmont Road, NE Atlanta, Georgia, Exit 91 off I-85. Food, shopping and entertainment all contribute to this yearly celebration where festival attendees are encouraged to participate in the Greek dances. Fun!
By Marsha Hollensbe
September Celebrations By Sue Bapst & Ginny Harriss
FALLFEST & CHILI COOKOFF Saturday, October 25 Club Tamarack 3:00-7:00 p.m. Taste & Vote for your Favorite Chili Hot dog plates included SEC Game of Week on Big Screen
Birthdays 3 Joan Greer, Darlene Johnson, Ruthann Friedrichs, Mike Lesley, Janet Vigue 5
Dillion Smith (Tennis)
8
Delores Johnson
9
Sherry Cameron
11 Mel Halfon, Jennie Stackpole 12 Joan Koss, Gary Potts, Russell Smith (Golf Pro) 15 Tate Rizoti 16 Joe Edmunds 17
Bill Chapman, Gary Schneeberg, Judy Cloyes, Joe Chastain (Golf Course Maintenance), Deborah Sorenson (Horse Mistress)
19 Ginger Rizoti, Doug McClellan 20 Liz Edmunds 23 Roger Seagrave 24 Annette Crotta 25 Carol Buhler
Silent Auction
26 Sherry Sather 28 Deborah Guffey (Administration), Sam Stancil (Buildings and Grounds)
Cash Bar
Advance ticket sales Beginning September 10 To purchase tickets contact
Marlin Ferrell mferrell777@earthlink.net 678-458-2073 Margie Hall hall34@aol.com 706-692-9298 OR purchase from any Activities Committee member
29 Bob Foley
Anniversaries 1 9 15 20
Betty & Ray Brown – ‘54 Nita & R.T. Josey – ‘50 Kay & Pete Cook – ‘55 Liz & Joe Edmunds
29 Patricia & Jerry Tyson – ‘61 If you see any errors or wish to have your birthday or anniversary published in the echo, please contact me at bappersue@ windstream.net.
See article in this issue of the echo for more information Sponsored by Bent Tree Activities Committee Page 10
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
FALLFEST & CHILI COOK-OFF - A Bent Tree Fall Favorite!!! TICKETS $10 • Saturday, October 25 • Club Tamarack • 3-7 pm By Margie Robinson
A
fall staple on the Bent Tree calendar - FALLFEST & CHILI COOK-OFF – has become the most popular event of the year. Make plans to attend as you won’t be disappointed with this fun-filled event.. Advance tickets sales will begin September 10.
Sponsored by the Bent Tree Activities Committee as a fundraising event, all proceeds of Fallfest will be used by BTAC to defray the costs of activities for 2015. This is BTAC’s only fundraiser and is your opportunity to support the BTAC sponsored activities for the upcoming year. Come ready to enjoy a great afternoon with your neighbors. Favorite Highlight of the Day is the CHILI COOK-OFF: Chili tasting and voting from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. Chefs will include a number of members from the Board of Directors, representatives from many Bent Tree Activities, Golf, Tennis & Stables plus volunteers from the community at large. If you are would like to enter your own famous or favorite chili in the competition, contact Marty Stephens: marty@mybellehaven. com (Phone: 678-452-2044) SILENT AUCTION highlights: Support the fund-raising opportunities of this event by making a donation to the silent auction. Items donated should have a value of $50 or greater. Suggested donations include gift baskets of wine, entertainSue Weatherly creating her popular handmade ment tickets, handmade items, gift certificates, new or nearly greeting cards. Sue is donating a “Taste of North new upscale designer home décor and pottery. Services can Georgia” gift basket for the Silent Auction, full of be offered, such a specialty group dinners or homemade bread North Georgia goodies, including the wonderful cards. or dessert packages. Whatever your talent, offer it as a service within the community. Cash, of course, will be accepted to purchase these items. (To donate items/services contact: Peggy King – kingmaggie57@gmail.com (phone: 904-6102455) or Jean Bender – jean.bender@gmail.com (phone: 404-314-5601) FOOTBALL ON THE BIG SCREEN: The SEC Game of the Week will be featured on the big screen and a football pool will be available with prizes to winners. HOT DOG PLATES: Grilled hot dog plates (including slaw, chips and cookie) will be served on the lower patio (included in ticket price). Cash bar, outdoor seating and mountain music will be on the lower patio and decks. CAKE WALKS: Cake walks will be offered often during the afternoon on the lower deck. There will be many opportunities to win a homemade cake for one dollar per walk. (To donate cake contact: Nancy Collier nonnic@icloud.com (phone: 770-712-6907). Invite your family and friends to attend. Be sure to contact Public Safety and provide their names for admission. Advance purchase of tickets is appreciated. Traveling by carpool and golf carts is encouraged. TO PURCHASE TICKETS starting September 10 contact Marlin Ferrell – mferrell777@earthlink.net (phone 678-4522073) or Margie Hall: mhall@etcmail.com (phone: 706-692-9298)
TICKETS MAY ALSO BE PURCHASED FROM ANY BENT TREE ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE September 2014
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Be Careful With Your Fly By Gerald Hunter
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his report should probably be entitled “Fishing in Lake Tamarack,” but that sounds too commonplace, even if more accurate. First, the fishing here is very good for bass and trout, with a population of catfish and crappie, although I have not yet fished for these two. As for the bream, an angler can plop down a cricket under a cork along the banks and catch them until his arm gets tired from reeling them in. In my opinion, the most fun to be had in our lake is derived from fishing with a fly rod. In the spring, the large bluegills venture out of the deep water to feed in the shallows, and they love to attack a small cork-bodied fly tossed in their direction. One of these big boys on the end of a lightweight graphite fly rod makes you feel like you have hooked a monster. As a bonus, there is nothing much better than a few of these fish deep-fried along with some hush puppies and cheese grits (for those of you not familiar with this, ask at your local plant nursery for a grit tree, which all Southerners know is planted in order to produce this Georgia delicacy). Fly fishing scares away most folks because they worry over all the fly patterns, long rods, and required sophistication that elitist fly anglers attempt to convey to the public. After all, if one has a $500 Sage outfit, drinks the finest single malt and dresses in L.L. Bean attire, be must be very special! But I have found that a fellow can catch what we call in the South “a mess of fish,” using a $40 rod and reel, a cooler of PBR’s and cutoff jeans. Recently our new tennis pro, Mike Larscheid, mentioned that he would like to learn to fly fish. We agreed to meet at a reasonable time the next morning, which is apparently 8 a.m. for both retired guys and tennis instructors. I ran through some basics with Mike and, as I expected, he was casting well within a few minutes. There is something magical about watching your fly line slip through the air and deposit a tiny fly near a log in the water. Then the ripples fade and a splash indicates that a fish thinks he has found breakfast. You lift the rod and suddenly it bends back down toward the water as the fish heads for the bottom, fighting hard until you finally get him to the boat. In spite of the hot weather, Mike was able to catch several nice bream as we eased along the shoreline. He released all of his fish, as he knew that it is much more fun to catch them than to clean them. He also likely thought that he should not meet his tennis students smelling like the seafood department at Kroger. The highlight of the morning was when one of the hungry fish turned out to be a nice bass. This fish gave Mike all the tussle he wanted on the little fly rod and served as a reminder that you never know what is waiting underneath when your fly drops on the water. Needless to say, by the time we had headed back to the house, Mike had become an addicted fly fisherman! We have a great fishing lake here in Bent Tree, so get out there with a kid or a friend soon. Whether it is dunking a squirmy live worm from the pavilion dock or casting a plastic worm from your boat, you are sure to have a wonderful time!
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How 38 HORSES Changed My Life By Carol Vincent
Riding horses was not a favorite sport of mine. In fact, as a teenager, I experienced a very unpleasant out of control horseback ride. From that point on I made a decision never to ride again. And I didn’t until nineteen years ago when I was introduced to the Swan Center Outreach located one hour north of Atlanta, nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. The Swan Center Outreach is a nonprofit educational organization serving as a sanctuary and a rehabilitation center for abused and neglected animals. For the past nineteen years, I have volunteered. By better understanding the nature of horses and witnessing the kind of care they experience at the Swan Center, I have come to know myself. The thirty-eight horses that reside at the Swan Center have been my teachers, healers and friends. It seemed that I was the one who was giving care to them, but it was they who taught me how to be more aware, kind, compassionate, patient and sensitive. At times of great sadness, they mended my heart. When I needed an ear, they always listened. They gave me confidence when I was unsure. In essence, they have helped me become a better “human.” The ultimate goal of Swan Center Outreach is to affect individuals in a positive way by sharing with them the therapeutic, educational and spiritual value of a loving relationship with animals; and in the process to assist them in developing life skills and attitudes that will enhance their potential as contributing members of society. The immediate focus is to make more people aware of what the Center has to offer and to raise funds so that they may increase their capacity to greater serve the community. Public programs include: Leadership and Teambuilding; Self-awareness and Confidence; Effective Communication; Conservation and Sustainability and Wounded Warriors/Therapeutic Riding, just to name a few. During the summer months, week long horse day camps for the children are offered.
Friday Morning Bible Study
(Interdenominational…All ladies are welcome) Every Friday 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. 19th Hole Restaurant Community Room Opening Session, Friday, September 5 at 10:30 a.m. With lunch following at the 19th Hole Our study: The Magnificent Obsession, Embracing the God-filled Life By Anne Graham Lotz Leader Mary Russell • mary.d.russell@tds.net
Dance Away the Pain
By David Johnson Photo by Dolores Johnson Jean Krampe, an assistant professor of nursing at Saint Louis University and lead author of the study “Dance Away That Arthritis Pain”, found that dancing can reduce seniors’ knee and hip pain in addition to improving their walking. The research involved seniors who all had pain or stiffness in their knees or hips as a result, mainly, of arthritis. The Twirlers motto “Fun, Fellowship and Exercise” describes the objective of square dancing in Bent Tree; however, as Jean Krampe’s study along with many other similar studies prove that movement helps to reduce joint pain, we could add “Reduction of Pain”. We can assure you that we will not change our motto, but our many references in past articles that “movement is life” does take on another perspective. The Twirler Flex Plan continues to encourage folks to begin participating in square dancing. A couple can learn to square dance at their own pace and schedule. The simplest definition of the Flex Plan is the couple participating in the Class, attends when they can and progress is made with each lesson. The Class and Dance schedule is the 2nd, 4th and if 5th Monday of every month. The Class is at 6 p.m. and the dance begins at 7 p.m. If you desire to join in “Fun, Fellowship and Exercise”, contact a Twirler or David and Dolores Johnson (706-692-7914 or djohfamily@aol.com) to get your questions answered. www.treetwirlers.org also provides insight to your Bent Tree Twirlers Square Dance Club. You are invited to visit a class or dance at any time.
Since this article was published in 2005, the Swan Center has relocated to Silverthorne Colorado. I am now a member of the Board of Directors for the Swan Center. I am proud to say that I donate all the proceeds from The Hot Dog Wagon to them. I also collect gently worn shoes at the Community Center which converts into cash for the horses. So, for those who of you who wish to make a difference in the life of a horse and the children and adults they serve, please donate your shoes. Tax deductible financial donations can be sent to: Swan Center Outreach, Inc. PO Box 25749 Silverthorne, CO 80497
Page 14
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
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September 2014
Bent Tree • the echo
Page 15
e m v o b N er 1, 20 , y a d r 14 Satu
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Any questions call Phil Bracken 770-893-1607 Representatives of Bent Tree Community, Inc. (BTCI) may photograph on our Common Property. By participating in BTCI sponsored events, you consent to BTCI’s ownership and use thereof unless and until you provide written notice otherwise.
Page 16
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
The Shady Lady Dinner Effect Review By Kimberly Holfels Wow! It was a “rooting tootin” evening. If you didn’t enjoy the The Shady Lady dinner theater it’s because you weren’t there! Everything was just good old fashion fun! The decorations set the tone with wagon wheel chandeliers, boots of flowers, and saloon paraphernalia EVERYWHERE! There was even a ‘suspicious/tempting ‘saloon girl, whose name we must withhold because she might be in jail by now! Ross Galbreath and the North Georgia Acting Company thoroughly entertained us! We tapped our feet ... we were wowed by the ‘can can’ and we were seduced by several beautiful songbirds! Coast 2 Coast fed us until we popped! Marty Stephens and her team of wild west hands: Linda August, Lyn Johnson aka Chester, Carol Carlsen, Bob/Kimberly Holfels, Betty Francis and Debbie Davis pulled together like a good team of horses! I think the pictures say it all!
September 2014
Bent Tree • the echo
Page 17
Capturing Motion By Bill Baldwin
There are several ways a photographer might attempt to capture motion in a photograph. The most common method involves the instantaneous capture of the subject, in the act of performing some type of movement. For the shot to be effective, the photographer must rely upon his talents to successfully infer the feeling of movement into the photo. The second method relies upon the use of manual settings. Herein the photographer slows the shutter speed or adjusts the ISO setting to blur the subject or background.
Regular Shoot-Out
1st Place - Regular Shoot-Out Feet In the Air - Tom Robinson
1. Feet In the Air Tom Robinson 2. Casting the Net Tim Long 3. Make A Wish Margie Robinson
Plus Shoot-Out 1. Flight 2. Sock Hop 3. Moving Water
Tim Long Tom Carlson Sarah Baldwin
Motion was the shoot-out subject for July’s Shutterbugs. It was a difficult task that was captured in several surprising ways by club members. We present to you this month’s winners; Congratulations to this month’s winners. For August, the shoot-out subject will be f/2 or less.
2nd Place - Plus Shoot-Out Sock Hop - Tom Carlson
2nd Place - Regular Shoot-Out Casting the Net - Tim Long
The Shutterbugs meet on the third Wednesday of every month at 7 PM in the Rec Room of Club Tamarack. Come and join us. We’re always looking for new members who enjoy photography.
3rd Place - Regular Shoot-Out Make A Wish - Margie Robinson
1st Place - Plus Shoot-Out Flight - Tim Long Page 18
3rd Place - Plus Shoot-Out Moving Water - Sarah Baldwin Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
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September 2014
Bent Tree • the echo
Page 19
Stables News
by Deborah Sorenson, CESMT. CMT. Reiki Master, Certified Yoga Instructor, Bent Tree Stable Master (706) 692-6322 or (706) 669-0692 btstables@etcmail.com www.equitherapies.com
S
ummer is flying by and days are slowly getting shorter. Our stable has never been better, hosting two July camps with over twenty-five children, over fifty trail rides, many arena rides and loads of lessons. We have a new boarder, Julie Williams and her beautiful Palomino JT (short for “Just Trouble”), which she is not! We are happy with our eight boarded horses: Cherokee Rose, Skip, Ruby, Miles, Red Stripe, Precious, Annie and JT, and have a waiting list as we are at capacity with fourteen horses. Our latest acquisition, Thumper, is a HIT with everyone who comes to visit or ride him. We can accommodate up to five riders for trail rides, from 10 a.m.5 p.m. Arena rides are for ages two & up and lessons in English or Western for any age or level. All the horses are thriving and spend most of the time outdoors in paddocks and pasture. Horses are healthier and happier outside even when it rains and can move around, roll and interact with their buddies rather than the confines of a 12x12 stall. Horses eat grazing on hay or grass for most of the day and drink between ten and fifteen gallons of water per day. They can sleep standing up, but also lie down to sleep as well. They love when people come down and bring carrots, apples and watermelon rinds. Yes, they love the rind and the melon too, but will gobble up just the rind. Many people and young adults and children come to help out at the stable. We offer a work to ride program which offers lessons and trail rides in exchange for helping out with the many chores. I want to thank Taylor, who is my right hand, Ethan, Johnny, who recently started coming to the stables and lives in Bent Tree, Allison and her sister Lucy, also from our community, James, Nolan, Ruth Anne Allard, Sadie, Ronnie and Haley, David (my wonderful hubby), Roberta Sarchet, Scott Parker and Bailey and my best bud in the whole world, Wendy Watson. Wendy spent 3 ½ weeks here this July and helped me with camp, daily chores, trail rides and arena rides. How many people do you know who would spend their vacation working with a friend? Pretty special, I say, and we have known each other for over forty-five years. We do not take that amazing friendship for granted and cherish our time together, both loving horses and animals. While Wendy was here she found a young black female dog down the road from our house just before nightfall. She thought it might be a black bear cub ….. But it was a 9-month-old black dog who we have named most appropriately “Spirit.” A call to Vickie Wilson, who is an absolute angel, and Sprit was placed in the fabulous pet center here in Bent Tree. Two days later we were shown a five week old puppy found by the side of a road, black and cute as can be. We have named him Little Bear and he and Spirit are together. Spirit was afraid and quite shy and mistrusting until Little Bear was placed with her and brought out her personality within days. Officially now they are the Bent Tree Stable dogs and will come down to the stable shortly. They will not be allowed to run on the trails, but will have a great home here and be well cared for along with our horses. So, come down and visit them in August.
Cooler temps, school starting soon and fall around the corner makes a great time to come and ride. We get so many positive comments every day on how great the stable grounds, stalls, horses and barn look and we so appreciate hearing them. Come have a birthday party, reunion or other special event with us! We make every effort to have your experience riding our horses a great memory. We look forward to seeing you here at the best ever Bent Tree Stables. Page 20 Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
September 2014
Bent Tree • the echo
Page 21
Men’s Golf Association (MGA)
The Red-White-Blue is still fun a week late! By Andy Ohlson
T
2014 MGA Tournament Dates
he Red-White and Blue tournament was scheduled for July 19, but the threat of bad weather forced a postponement until the next Saturday. The Men’s October 17 Social at Club Golf Association was able to hold our summer breakfast meeting, while wait Tamarack ing to see what the weather was going to be before postponing the match. The primary purpose of the meeting was to solicit an Election Committee for the upcoming October 18 NFL MGA officer’s election to be held this fall. Andy Ohlson volunteered (again) to be the committee head with Harold Ford and Verne Girard volunteering to also be on October 19 NFL the committee. All MGA officer positions are up for election this year, President, Vice-president, Treasurer, Secretary and Representative to the Golf and Greens ComNovember 1 Mixed Format mittee. If you, or anyone you know, are interested in one of these positions please see Andy, Harold or Verne with a written Letter of Intent with five MGA member signatures. For specific information about one of the positions’ duties please see one of the current MGA officers. The Tournament began with twenty-four 3-man teams heading off into the morning dew. On each team one member played from a different tee in a scramble format. By the time all teams were through, it was a typical warm summer day. There were a few ties, so scorecard playoffs were necessary to rank the players. The winning team was that of Butch Goldi, Bill (TCP) Fickes and Jim Cox at 61, also at 61 for second place were Bobby James, Brad Bledsoe and Gary Potts. Third, were Tim Taylor, Don Smith and Wayne Duncan at 62; fourth Charles Scott, Dave Foley and Tommy Walters at 64; fifth, Larry Williamson, Mitch Henson and Thurman Slone at 65; sixth Bob Clemens, Phil Stohr and Dwayne Totzke at 65; seventh Ken Baxley, Ernie Hollifield and Bob Falgren at 65; and eighth, Dennis Williams, Peter Hiro and Jim Lipscomb also at 65. All of these teams received shop credit with the winning team also receiving trophies! Congratulations to all who won and participated.
My Commentary
This year will mark the situation in which all MGA Officer Positions are up for election. Each position has different responsibilities and lengths of term. To find specific information about each position please consult the current officers. But the short story is this: The President (2 years with third optional) organizes and runs the tournaments, the Vice-president (1 year) aids the President and finds sponsors, the Secretary (1 year) records the MGA business records, the Treasurer (1 year) maintains the MGA monies, and the Golf and Greens Committee Member (3 years) attends the Golf and Greens Committee meetings. Golf and Greens reviews all things golf and makes recommendations to the Bent Tree Board. Page 22
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
News from the 18 Holers By Nancy Henson
The two day Ringer Tournament is in process as of this writing, and the two day Ladies Club Championship is scheduled for August 12 and 19. Watch the next echo issue for a list of winners. Everyone is looking forward to the “Mystery Game” on August 26, wondering what our tournament chair has up her sleeve! Ladies, it’s time to start looking for “your man” to play in the Sadie Hawkins Tournament on October 7. This person must be someone other than your spouse. It will be a two person scramble with a luncheon to follow. It is generally understood that a good short game is crucial to low scores. Getting to the green in regulation is good, but putting that little ball into the cup is sometimes a battle with undulating greens, breaks in every direction and unsteady hands. According to a book entitled Golf by Virginia Lindblad Nance and Elwood Craig Davis, “Putting gives you chances to score under par on certain holes, as well as opportunities to make up for any error shots in your play from the tee to the putting green. To score well, you must become a consistently good putter.” Practice suggestions from this book include the following: • Use several golf balls and begin practice with the balls about a foot away from the hole. Simply stroke the balls into the cup with little or no thought on “how” to putt. Gradually increase the distance. Let your “instinct” for aiming and judging take over. If the ball does not fall into the cup, it should come to rest very close to the hole. • Stroke the ball and listen for it to drop in the cup. This will help train you to remain calm and confident, not anxious about the result. • Practice at home on carpeting. It does not matter if the surface is different from grass. You are practicing to develop a stroke and swing. Hope these tips help the next time you are on the practice green. In the meantime, remember that we only play golf on days that end in “Y”. Have fun! Are you interested in joining the 18 Holers? Members must have a USGA handicap index of 40 or less, pay an annual membership fee of $45, and complete a membership form located in the ladies locker room. If you’ve been thinking about it, it’s never too late. Call President Judy Crain, 678-452-2107 or Treasurer Judy Galphin 404-406-4178.
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PAINT & BODY WORKS Bent Tree • the echo
Page 23
Rally On – Part 3 By Edi Stephens
B
ent Tree’s 14th Annual Rally for the Cure golf tournament will be held Sunday, September 28. The format is a fun, 9-hole couples scramble, with front and back nine winners, and closest to the pin awards. Whether or not you play in the tournament, you’re invited to stop by the 19th Hole and participate in a delicious brunch, putting contest, and silent auction. Take this opportunity to enjoy the day and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. This year, 40,000 women and over 400 men in the United States are expected to die of breast cancer, and 232,000 will be newly diagnosed. We hope you have been reading the personal breast cancer stories in the echo over the last few months. Again, a heartfelt “thank you” to the Bent Tree friends and neighbors who shared their stories, including the one below. Sixteen Years Cancer Free By Linda Bonnette I am a Stage II aggressive breast cancer survivor. When first diagnosed, my first thoughts were, “I better not renew my Southern Living subscription or buy a coat on clearance for next year.” The surgeon told me the chance of survival (60%) was just as good with a quadrantectomy along with chemotherapy (adriamycin + cytoxan) and radiation versus a complete mastectomy, because of the location of my cancer (close to my armpit). After my quadrantectomy and another operation to thread a catheter through my vein, I started chemo. My first treatment caused me to become sepsis and landed me in ICU for five days. My red and white blood count plummeted because of my chemo and I had to take shots for both. Elden gave me a shot everyday and he enjoyed this too much... I always will appreciate all his efforts and support to keep me going. Never thought I would look forward to doing dishes, laundry, dusting, returning to work and buying different colored wigs to cover my bald head, but I did. Because of looking forward to those few things along with the support from family, friends, neighbors and, most of all, my husband, I had the optimism to renew my magazine subscription and buy clearance items for the next year.
Rally for the Cure Milestones • 2001 - Bent Tree Niners hold their first Rally for the Cure golf event. It was held on a regular play-day, with 16 players. • 2002 - In 2002, the Niners kicked it up a notch, and the Rally for the Cure was a full-fledged tournament with a “Prettiest in Pink” theme, and a luncheon afterwards. • 2004 - The Niners invited the 18-Holers to join them in the Rally for the Cure. The event was still limited to women participants. • 2005 - The tournament became a couple’s event with 68 players. Everyone was encouraged to wear pink, and even a few of the men complied. • 2007 - In order to accommodate more golfers, both sides of the golf course were opened, and two tournaments were played simultaneously. A social, held the night before the tournament, was added to the event. During the tournament, a breast cancer survivor had a hole-in-one! • 2009 - 108 golfers played in the two nine-hole tournaments. By this time, along with the women, most of the men players also were decked out in pink attire. • 2010 - The lofty goal for the 10th annual Bent Tree Rally for the Cure was to raise $10,000. At the luncheon following the tournament, when it looked like the bottom line might be a little shy of that amount, one player challenged everyone there to toss in a little more. The grand total donated was over $10,400. • 2013 - Upon hearing that the Niners would not be hosting the Rally for the Cure that year, the Golf and Greens Committee accepted the challenge of sponsoring the event (with a zero budget). They decided on a one-day event, and held the tournament in October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month). • 2014 - With no group officially sponsoring the event, Carol Slone and Vicki Wickham, along with support from Russell Smith, stepped forward to make sure the Bent Tree Rally for the Cure tradition continues. Please join them in their efforts to eradicate breast cancer. The tournament is open to all, including those from outside Bent Tree.
Contact the Pro Shop at 770-893-2626 by September 20th to register. To sponsor a hole, contact Vicki Wickham at 706-253-0339. To donate silent auction items, contact Carol Slone at 770-893-3769. Page 24
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
th
14 Annual
Rally for the Cure
Passionately Pink Event
Sunday, September 28 - 11:00 AM ‘til 6 PM Bent Tree Golf Club Pro Shop (770) 893-2626 Support the research that works toward a cure and help raise breast cancer awareness at the same time! The 19th Hole’s famous Sunday brunch ($14.95 includes $1 donation to the event). Silent Auction of many beautiful and useful items and lots of golf rounds all benefitting Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research. Putting contest and honor badges for sale. Nine-hole couples scramble starts at 2:30 PM; closest to the hole prizes, front and back nine winners. Hole sponsorships are available.
September 2014
Bent Tree • the echo
Page 25
Bent Tree Golf Shop News By Russell Smith and Lydia Decker
September News from the Pro Shop… We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the LGA 18 Holers for relinquishing their regular play time to accommodate the Georgia Sr. PGA Tournament in July. Without the help and cooperation from our groups and all the members we could not host these outside events. You all are the best! During these outside events we have received many compliments and comments on the beautiful condition of the course. John and his crew have done an admirable job and the course is in great shape. When you see one of these hardworking men on the course, please give them your thanks.
Congratulations to the newest “Wall of Fame” Members. Tom Casey Vicki Wickham Jim Lipscomb Ron Thompson Kerry Hirschy George Rotkvich Arlene Scott Dick Kocerha
Eagle #6 Best Back Nine Ever “48” Best Round Ever “79” Hole in One #16 Hole in One #4 Lowest Round Ever “89” Lowest Round Ever “79” Shot His Age “74”
7/2 7/12 7/12 7/13 7/13 7/29 7/25 7/28
Upcoming Events for September September 13 & 14 – Bent Tree Club Championship
Divisions for Men, Women, Regular, Seniors, Super Seniors, both gross and net. You may pick up a complete rules sheet at the Pro Shop.
September 28 – Rally for the Cure Passionately Pink Event
There is something for everyone in the community at this Sunday event. There will be a brunch at the 19th Hole from 11:00-12 noon with $1.00 of the $14.95 per person cost going to the Rally. Concurrently there will be a Silent Auction from 11:00 -5:00 with proceeds going to benefitting Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research. A nine-hole couples scramble starts at 2:30 PM with closest to the hole prizes, front and back nine winners. You can sign up for the scramble either as a twosome or foursome. Call the Pro Shop to add your name to the list.
Don’t forget to call the Pro Shop for information on Member Play time on any special event day. You may also check the Golf pages on the Bent Tree website (www.bent-tree. com) for updates and the latest information. See you on the course!
Page 26
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
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Bent Tree • the echo
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Page 27
Page 28
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
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Bent Tree • the echo
Phone: 706-692-5811 • Fax 706-692-9407 866-221-7960
Page 29
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Recipe of the Month
Ingredients:
Courtesy of McNack’s Kitchen
mcnackskitchen.com
1 whole chicken or 4-5 1 jar of Frank’s RedHot boneless, skinless chicken Buffalo Wing Sauce breasts, poached and shredded 8 oz. shredded sharp cheddar 1 jar of MARIE’S light bleu cheese cheese dressing 1 bag of Stacy Chips (Naked 1 8 oz. container of low fat cream cheese
Flavor) or Tortilla chips
Directions: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Put the shredded chicken into an 8x13 dish. Pour the entire bottle of Frank’s wing sauce over the chicken and mix well. Place the bleu cheese dressing and cream cheese in a saucepan. Mix together over medium heat, stirring constantly until the cream cheese has melted. Pour over the chicken. Place the dip in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the dip and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top to cover the dip. Bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with Stacy chips or tortilla chips.
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770-893-4337 Page 30
Bent Tree • the echo
September 2014
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What Lurks Below
Your Leaky Window? RiveR hills CONSTRUCTION Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Painting • Remodeling
CALL NOW: 770-231-194 www.riverhillsconstruction.net September 2014
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Living With
Snakes can be found in most backyards, parks, and woodlands throughout Georgia. Many species are secretive, spending most of their time underground or under cover. Active gardeners may occasionally see small ringneck, worm, red-bellied, brown, earth, and crowned snakes. None of these species are much bigger than a large earthworm and do not bite. Several larger snake species also frequent backyards, especially corn and rat snakes, as well as racers. These larger snakes will eat mice, rats, and occasionally birds and their eggs. Snakes often take refuge in piles of brush or firewood. Water snakes, especially banded water snakes, are occasionally found in areas bordering streams, swamps, or farm ponds. Occasionally, snakes searching for rodents or eggs will take refuge in barns, crawl spaces underneath homes, or sometimes in a home. The best way to keep snakes from entering your home or other building is to prevent snakes and snake food (rodents) from entering your home. Closing up all possible entrance locations is a must. Next, a rodent control program should be put in place to eliminate the food attraction for snakes. If you already have a snake in your
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home or other undesirable area, glueboards purchased at almost any hardware, landscaping, home improvement, or department store are quite effective in trapping the uninvited guest for removal from the premises. As a bonus, unwanted rodents may be caught also. Simply staple or nail a 6” X 12” glueboard to a 16” X 24” piece of plywood and place the board in the area the snake is suspected to be. Use holes cut in the wood to attach a rope so the board easily can be removed without getting too close to the snake. Snakes usually travel next to walls so board placement against a wall is preferred. When trapping any animal, always minimize the chances of catching non-targets like birds, rabbits, squirrels or pets by keeping all pets away from the trap. If you are trapping outside your home, cover the glueboards with a
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board or box to prevent birds from landing directly on the board. Don’t forget to check the glueboards at least once a day to minimize the time the snakes are trapped. Snakes can easily be released from the glueboards by pouring cooking oil over the snake. The oil breaks down the glue and the snake can be removed with a stick or pole. Other than some glue residue that will be lost the next time the snake sheds, the snake will be trapped and released unharmed, which is a good thing since all snakes except venomous ones are protected in Georgia.
September 2014
‘SAY WHAT THEY MEAN AND THEN DO WHAT THEY SAY’ We really like people who “say what they mean and then do what they say”.... in a nutshell that describes our experience with Hynes Custom Homes! We also like people that give thought and consideration to us as people/friends not just a client that they may never work with again... In our first meeting we mentioned some things that were really important to us in our new house - things that were NOT written in a contract... but those things were never forgotten by either Jerry or Mike! Building our home together was both an adventure and a friendship made! Their contractors and crews were all men of skill and integrity and individual senses of
humor! They knew what was expected of them and they did the work cost effectively and very efficiently... the Pharaohs should have been so lucky! We enjoyed visiting our work site and always went with happy anticipation... On the few occasions that something needed changing either Mike or Jerry was there in minutes via the phone/ email or truck! Never ever did we ‘wait to hear from them’... NEVER! It’ll be a little sad when they hand us the keys to the front door - it’s been fun and we’ll miss them. Thank YOU Jerry and Mike for making Bob’s dream house a happy experience and a dream come true! — Kimberly & Bob Holfels Bent Tree 2013
‘Building long term relationships with my customers is just as important to me as building quality homes.’
— Jerry Hynes, Hynes Custom Homes
Jerry Hynes has been building homes in Bent Tree and Big Canoe for the past 13 years. In that time he has completed 70 homes and another 60 room additions, rebuilds and home improvement projects large and small. Many of these involve repeat customers or their referrals. Over the course of his career, he has put up over 300 single family homes. Jerry’s reputation for quality work and fair dealings is
well established and maintained by his emphasis on customer service before, during and after a job. He takes great pride in getting back to his clients quickly in the event of questions, requests or late Sunday night emergencies. If you are considering building a home or undertaking a home improvement project of any size, contact Jerry today or drop by his office at Foothills. He’s always nearby.
Over 30 Years Experience! JERRY HYNES, Big Canoe Resident 706.268.2890 office • 404.372.8187 cell www.HynesInThePines.com • Certified Green Builder • Certified Graduate Builder • Certified Professional Builder • Licensed by State of Georgia National Association of Homebuilders Greater Atlanta Homebuilders From left: Jerry, Mike and Bobbie
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Connecting Local Businesses to Your Neighborhood. A/C & Heating Services
AccuTemp, Inc. Heating & Cooling 770-672-6963 R&D Mechanical Services - 770-917-1795
Banks
Renasant Bank 678-388-5709 Towne Lake 678-388-5328 E. Woodstock 678-454-2466 Riverstone
Chiropractor/Pain Management
Vinings Spine & Health - 678-293-9918
Dentists
Acworth Family Dentistry - 770-974-8211 Cedarcrest Dental - 770-627-5358 Patrick Family Dental Care-Smyrna 770-863-0005
Early Learning/Child Development Primrose Schools Acworth - 770-529-3925 Mountain Brook - 770-924-9881 Providence Pavillion - 770-819-1286 Smyrna West - 678-217-4455
Financial Planning
Edward Jones-Ned Castleberry - 770-720-6245
Golf Carts/Sport Vehicles/Grills All Pro Carts - 678-384-4945
Orthodontists (continued)
Williams Orthodontics Woodstock - 770-592-5554 Canton - 770-345-4155
Outdoor Kitchens/Fireplaces/Gas Logs
Hair Salon
Jyl Craven Hair Colour Studio - 770-345-9411
Home Theater/Automation
Atlanta Audio & Automation - 404-602-0559
Hospital/Health Systems
The Mad Hatter - 770-740-8133
Outdoor Lighting
Night Vision - 678-500-8099
Painting
Painting Plus - 404-382-9988
Wellstar - 770-956-STAR
Pest Services
Indoor Trampoline Park
Sky Zone Sports Kennesaw - 678-426-4400
Landscape Borders
Community Pest Solutions - 678-383-1649
Plumbing
Georgia Borders - 678-369-8894
Dupree Plumbing - 770-872-0476 Serv’All Plumbing - 770-917-1852
Medical Weight Loss
Tree Services
Orthodontists
Under Deck Systems
Vinings Spine & Health - 678-293-9918 Depew Orthodontics Acworth - 770-422-3939
AKA Tree Removal - 404-496-5405 Undercover Systems - 678-608-4384
CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES HOME REPAIRS & HANDY WORK – Bent Tree Resident, 30 years experience. Licensed and insured. Call Dave Erdin 706-301-9461 or 770-893-7483 HEATING AND AIR – Sales, service and installation; preventative maintenance agreements; Bent Tree discounts; quality work at reasonable prices. Call Jamie Davis 770-778-1063 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS DELIVERED: Natural Stone, Timbers, Bulk Mulches, Pine Straw, and Gravels, Erosion Control Products. www.southscape.net • 706-253-0033 • 790 E. Church St, Jasper THDW Catering: From a hot dog cart to gourmet intimate weddings. Call 770-224-7057 Fully Licensed and Insured www.thehotdogwagon.com MAINTENANCE & REPAIR SERVICE – All Types of repair - construction, carpentry, plumbing, painting, roofing. Bent Tree resident Donnie Brown. 706-897-6113 HOME REPAIRS – Remodeling, retaining walls, carpentry, decks, enclosures, trim, painting. Locally owned and operated. Call Jamie Davis 770-778-1063 READY TO SELL YOUR HOME? Homes are selling. Let’s talk about yours. Call, text or email me. I’m a Bent Tree resident with 16 years experience. Maria Ashby, Associate Broker with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Georgia Properties (formerly Prudential Ga. Realty) Direct: 770893-8451; Broker: 770-720-1400 mariasellshomes@icloud.com.
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RIVER HILLS CONSTRUCTION – Roofing, siding, retaining walls, mold and water issues. Dozens of references available. Bent Tree Resident. 770-231-4949 COMMUNITY SERVICE – The Optimist Club of Pickens County Mentoring Program is seeking positive, caring mentors for students. Could you spend some time to invest in a child? Contact Donna Smeltz at summit2580@tds.net FOR RENT / FOR SALE FOR SALE OR RENT BY OWNER – Lovely 5-year old Bent Tree home on Frost Pine Circle. 4BR-3BTH. Accepting offers for sale in the region of $275,000 or 12-month Lease Agreement. The basement has a Life Time B Dry Warranty and can be converted for separate living. Contact Steve Cason 678-3862893 or email ernetspam.fitt@gmail.com FOR SALE – Bent Tree wooded double lake lot over one (1) acre with 185 ft of shore line on the community’s private pristine 110 acre stocked lake. Perked and ready to build. $185,000 - Email martinjm36@gmail.com or call 352-503-7797 FOR RENT / FOR SALE – Charming mountain cabin with 40 mile view, near front gate. 3bd/2bt, sleeps 8 max. Nicely furnished. $250 for 2-night minimum. $600 per week. Reserve now. Call 770-993-3901 FOR RENT: A three bed/two bath home in Sea Palms on Saint Simons. $119.00 per night. Call Sandra at 770-377-3035.
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September 2014
“A” is for Affordable.
"A" is also for Allstate Agent. When you’re looking to save on car insurance, I’m the first person to call. In fact, drivers who switched to Allstate saved an average of $396 a year. Call me today to see how much you can save.
STEVE MORANOS (706) 268-1268 88 NORTH GATE STATION DRIVE MARBLE HILL stevemoranos@allstate.com *Savings based on national customer-reported data for new policies in 2008. Actual savings will vary. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company