Home Magazine March and April 2013 edition

MARCH | APRIL 2013

Gary Black Homegrown, Handpicked

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What’s Inside

March | April 2013

26 18

Gary and Lydia Black

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From the Editor Calendar Around Town

34 Lifestyle – Fashion

Business

Inside Every Issue 6 40 46

Home & Garden

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The Art-Full Barn in Clarkesville has grown from a small old barn where artists could sell their creations to a hub for people who create and people who like to buy their stuff.

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The Holbrook of Lake Lanier embraces its mission to change lives through wellness and an inspiration to live a purposeful life.

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Dr. Chris and Amber Halper wanted North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry to be somewhere they would take their own children.

Ten years ago, Dr. Stephanie Greene started her own dental practice, fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a dentist.

On the Cover A better choice for Department of Agriculture couldn’t have been homegrown and handpicked. North Georgian Gary Black, who lives in Jackson County, is shown here at The Veggie Patch at Bouchard Farms in Commerce, where he was treated to a taste of organic vegetables grown in a greenhouse and picked fresh that morning.

Taste of HOME 16

Scott’s on the Square moved a block away and is now Scott’s Downtown, but the ambiance and great food is still the same.

Photo by Sarina Roth | Design by Tom Jordan 4

March | April 2013

HOME Living

In North Georgia

30 Charity

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34 Lifestyle – Fashion Business

Cover Story

Charity

Health & Fitness

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30

36

The medical community is increasingly recognizing the importance of sleep to overall health and wellness.

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Learn about common eye injuries and how to avoid them as well as the need to maintain general eye health.

Meet Gary and Lydia Black and their dogs Dottie and Millie and get a peek at the amazing barn that served as campaign headquarters.

Home & Garden 26

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Everywhere you look you can see the signs of new life bursting their way through the cold winter season.

Azaleas will be among the first to grace us with color.

Learn about the elegant dogwood and its association with Easter.

Hall-Dawson CASA and Piedmont CASA: The Court Appointed Special Advocates program delivers the angels who protect children by providing advocacy to those who are victims of neglect and physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

Lifestyle 34

Spring into Easter with these women’s and children’s fashions from stores at Lakeshore Mall.

Get to Know 28

Meet Jennifer Dees, public servant ... and wife, mother, volunteer, board member, occasional house painter.

homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

March | April 2013

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From the Editor Growing Georgia The March-April issue of HOME is the perfect time to feature our state’s Department of Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black. Plants and flowers are blooming, food and hay is growing, and baby animals are being born. All of this and more is overseen by the Department of Agriculture, which is not one of your more common household names.

Yet this department is integral to the welfare of our state. Ultimately, this department grows our state by growing programs, resources and myriad other endeavors that support farming, animal agriculture and related areas. In fact, it is a massive undertaking for the commissioner, who is from right here in North Georgia.

An area where new growth is not desirable is on the domestic animal front. “Domestic” meaning cats and dogs, kittens and puppies, guinea pigs, rabbits and other animals that live their lives alongside humans. While we delight in the new flowers popping up and look forward to the crops of fresh vegetables this time of year, spring also means copious quantities of litters of kittens and puppies for which there are no homes and with which animal control agencies and rescue groups will have to contend.

At the end of the day, there are simply not enough homes for all the homeless cats and dogs. Try as we might, we cannot adopt our way out of this nationwide problem.

Spay and neuter is the answer: A female cat can get pregnant up to three times a year, with as many as six kittens in a litter. Dogs can only have two litters per year, but they can be equally as prolific since their litters, especially those of big dogs, can be larger. While the often-used scenario of “one female cat and her kittens can produce as many as 420,000 cats in seven years” has been debunked, that’s still a lot of kittens and puppies in need of a home. Add in pets that families can no longer keep and others that get lost and never make their way home, and that is a lot of homeless pets.

As an animal rescue advocate, of course these numbers tug at my heart. As a business person, something that has resonated with me over the years is the cost to taxpayers. You don’t even have to like animals, much less be a passionate rescuer, to be horrified at the amount of taxpayer money spent to rescue, house, hopefully adopt out, but probably kill more than 50 percent of homeless animals. It can cost as much as $100 per animal in some cases and in some counties. So, help stop the growth. Be sure your pets are spayed or neutered and support your local humane society and rescue groups.

Back to good growth, this is my last issue as general manager and editor of HOME. Parent company The Times has new products and projects in the works and I am excited to be working with another new product! HOME will be in great hands with new Editor Michelle Jameson, who has been with The Times for more than six years, the past four of which have been as Life/ Features editor.

I appreciate the opportunity to have served you, our wonderful readers, since HOME was fortunate enough to be brought into The Times family of publications. I look forward to seeing you again in print or on-line! Happy Spring,

Roxane

Roxane Rose rrose@homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com 6

March | April 2013

Publisher Dennis Stockton General Manager/Editor Roxane Rose Advertising Director Sherrie Jones Advertising Sales Angela Cannon-Pulliam Debra Purvis Melisa Sizemore Amanda Woodall Graphic Design Tom Jordan Katherine Hake Eddy McIlvain Roxane Rose Patty Sawyer April Seymour Production Support Dana Erwin Betty Thompson Contributing Photographers Sarina Roth Tom Reed Scott Rogers HOME Magazine, a division of: The Times Gainesville, GA The Paper Hoschton, GA A Morris Multimedia Inc. property 345 Green St. | Gainesville, GA 30501 | 770-535-6332

www.homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com HOME: Living in North Georgia reserves the right to refuse advertisements for any reason. Acceptance of advertising does not mean or imply the services or product is endorsed or recommended by HOME: Living in North Georgia. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Morris Multimedia Inc. Although every precaution is taken to ensure accuracy of published materials, Morris Multimedia cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors.

Manuscripts, artwork, photography, inquiries and submitted materials are welcome.

HOME Living In North Georgia

HOME Living In North Georgia

Always Tired? You’re Not Alone Have you had trouble getting or staying asleep? Stress, work and schedules can make getting quality shut-eye feel impossible.

For more than 30 years, northside hospital Sleep disorders Center has been helping sleep-deprived patients start to enjoy the benefits of slumber again; sleep improves memory, curbs weight gain and prevents disease. Our board-certified physicians work with you to develop a plan for effective treatment, so you can experience the rejuvenation and comfort from sleeping soundly.

Board-certified physicians • 3 Convenient Locations Comfortable & Relaxing Settings • 30 years of experience Centralized SCheduling: (404) 851-8135 View videos on sleep disorders at northside.com/sleep

home business

Spotlight on Local Businesses Story and photography

by Roxane Rose

The Art-Full Barn – A Delight-Full Shopping Experience

The term “Shop Local” is bandied about much these days. From local chambers of commerce to national efforts to keep jobs in the United States, the point is to keep money local. The ability to buy local and keep the local economy strong is made possible by small – and not-so-small in some cases – business owners and entrepreneurs who are part of the community.

They are people just like the rest of us; often they are colorful and highly motivated. They are local citizens who are trying to make a living and, in the process, frequently give back to the community by supporting schools, nonprofits and churches. Here is a peek at some of the wonderful people who make North Georgia their home, for their families and their businesses.

Gail and Greg Kimsey, owners of The Art-Full Barn in Clarkesville, started very small in a 1920s red barn in August 1998. They are both artists, and their plan was to have a place for artists to sell their creations – not just paintings, but pottery and art on furniture and other functional items. Today, The Art-Full Barn takes up much of the space in the old Clarkesville Mill, which encompasses almost seven acres under the roof, and they are expanding as well as moving the art supplies, the frame shop, toys and backyard birding to a second location.

Growth first began when customers began asking the Kimseys if they could supplies. The antique area alone is 18,000 teach them to paint. square feet and is expanding this spring.

“We taught art classes for decorative “We have some very exciting new and fine art techniques,” Gail said. Then, dealers and artists coming into the Greg noted, the customers-turnedexpansion area of the antique mall,” Gail students had trouble finding art supplies, said. “Some are favorite previous dealers so the Kimseys added art supplies to who are returning and some are our best their inventory. Once customers learned current dealers who are expanding.” they had art supplies, they began asking Becoming the owners of something for specific items and, eventually, The of this magnitude was not a lifelong Art-Full Barn became one of the best art dream. Instead, the Kimseys came into it supply stores in Northeast Georgia. They by way of their art. outgrew the original old barn, and with “We were both artists for furniture the much larger space inside of the mill, makers,” Gail said. “But I am a store other ventures grew. keeper now! Greg is the real artist – he It is now basically a hub for people gets up in the middle of the night to who create. The myriad items customers paint. I am a respectful reproductionist.” can browse in addition to art and art Greg’s artwork, mostly oil, is on supplies are frames, toys, model cars (built and ready to be built), all kinds of books, Top left: Painting of the original old barn, which including comic books, antiques and bird the Kimseys now own – painted by Greg Kimsey.

Bottom right: Tonya, Gail and Greg Kimsey.

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March | April 2013

display in the store, as is their daughter Tonya’s pottery. Tonya also teaches pottery there and, in the words of both of her parents is “a very gifted artist.” The ArtFull Barn is definitely a family endeavor – their son Chris also works there, although not as much now that he is in school full time at Georgia State. His forte with them is paperwork and technology.

“It’s been a great place for them to grow up,” Gail said. She grew up in Habersham, while Greg grew up right across the road from the old mill.

“I remember hitting golf balls in our front yard when it was still a mill,” Greg reminisced.

home business The Kimseys remain involved in their hometown community.

They own the barn where they started, and it houses Habersham Families Helping Families, a food bank and thrift store. They do a project each summer with the library and summer reading program, donate to a variety of local events and were coaches for Little League and involved in PTA when their children were still in grade school.

Since this is the fifth time the Kimseys have moved and/or expanded in almost 15 years, it means on average they have outgrown their space every three years. It is a labor of love and the success is humbling to them.

“People tell me this is their happy place – I love to hear that,” Gail said.

“One guy told me that he has a certain amount of mad money to spend and that, we’re it!” Greg said.

“We enjoy each other a lot. There’s nothing I’d rather do than this,” Greg said, and Gail agreed, adding, “We’re happy when we get up and go to work every morning.”

The Art-Full Barn is located at 583 Grant Street and the new location is 107 LaPrade Street, both in Clarkesville. It is open seven days a week, except for Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas and the occasional snow day: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday. For information, call 706-754-1247 or visit www.artfullbarn.com.

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Greene Family Dentistry A native of Hiawassee, Dr. Stephanie Greene always knew she wanted to be a dentist when she grew up.

“I had hereditary issues with my teeth growing up, so I spent a lot of time at my dentist’s office, and I loved her,” Dr. Greene said. “I liked the treasure box … but I did love her too and I always thought, ‘I want to be just like her when I grow up.’”

Dr. Stephanie, as she is fondly known to most of her patients, graduated from Towns County Comprehensive High School then received a basketball scholarship to Emmanuel College where she completed her associate’s degree. She furthered her undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from North Georgia College& State University in Dahlonega, then went on to the Medical College of Georgia to attend dental school.

All of this brought her closer to Gainesville, where she worked for four years as an associate for Dr. Jeff Carstens.

“He was a great mentor,” Dr. Stephanie said. “I was able to learn and get a lot of experience, and he taught me that everyone has individual needs, which has served me well.”

When Dr. Carstens was approaching retirement, she decided to start her own practice. She chose Oakwood because there was nothing there at that time – of course, that was 10 years ago this September and things have changed quite a bit in Oakwood.

Today, Dr. Carstens and Dr. Greene still work together – a couple of years after he retired, he joined her practice. There are a total of 10 employees at Greene Family Dentistry: three dentists, including Dr. Greene, Dr. Carstens and Dr. Gretchen Blanchard; plus seven staff members – Suzanne Moore, practice administrator; Karen Ivey, schedule coordinator; Tasha Maney, Sawyer Coffee and Andrea Collins, dental hygienists; and Aneta Bis and Pam Stralow, dental assistants.

“I’ve got the best staff in the world, and patients tell me that every day,” Dr. Stephanie said. “I was just very blessed – everyone but one person has been here at least seven years – and two of the staff have been here since day one!”

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March | April 2013

Greene Family Dentistry has grown its services in recent years, and now offers cosmetic dentistry, which is any combination of teeth whitening, resin bonded fillings, veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, orthodontics and periodontics that can be used to help you achieve a smile that you will show with confidence.

These procedures are done not just for aesthetic purposes, but also for the restoration of damaged teeth.

In October, Greene Family Dentistry began offering Botox and dermal fillers.

There were a couple of reasons for this new service, mainly due to patient request.

“They would have work done on their teeth, then they would be looking at them in a bright light and they could see all of their wrinkles and ask about it.

Who better than a dentist to administer this type of treatment, as we know the head and neck anatomy very well!” Dr. Stephanie said. “Another good reason for a dentist to do this type of procedure is because we already give so many shots in one day … as many as 50 … that’s thousands per month. We know how to do painless shots.”

There are also therapeutic reasons for some of the services offered. From improved self-confidence to reduction of clinching and grinding of teeth, the cosmetic procedures can be beneficial.

Dr. Stephanie is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy

of General Dentistry, Georgia Dental Association and the Northern District Dental Society.

Dr. Stephanie’s husband is Trey and they have two boys, Will and Nick, and live in the South Hall area. Dr. Greene enjoys spending time on the lake with her family as well as playing tennis and traveling.

Greene Family Dentistry is located at 4235 Mundy Mill Rd. in Oakwood.

For more information, visit www. greenedentistry.com or call 770-532-2003.

Mouth Myths Dr. Stephanie Greene shared some common myths and misperceptions about dentists and dental care with HOME magazine.

“I don’t need to go to the dentist because my teeth don’t hurt.”

False. If/when they start to hurt, it is too late. That is why it is good practice to visit your dentist twice a year – to catch problems before they start.

Bleaching will hurt my teeth.

False. Bleaching only changes the color. It does not affect the strength. It might cause sensitivity, which is “why we encourage our patients to try over-the-counter whitening first,” Dr. Greene said.

I brush my teeth four to six times a day so I don’t need a dentist.

False. And, it is possible to brush your teeth too much.

Only children can have braces.

False. “That is why we offer Invisalign here at the office,” said Dr. Greene. “Adults don’t want the metal. Invisalign is virtually invisible plastic.”

“Something I tell people over and over: There are 600-plus bacteria in your mouth – some great, some not-so-great.Your mouth is the doorway to the rest of your body. So you have to take care of it,” Dr. Greene said. “One of the biggest health risks of bad dental hygiene is heart disease. Also, we can do oral cancer screenings. There’s just so much in your mouth that tells a story.”

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home business

The Holbrook of Lake Lanier and Dogwood Forest – Exceeding Expectations A revolution in the concept of aging and vastly improved living options for seniors – from those who desire an independent living community to those who require assisted living – has been growing in leaps and bounds in recent years.

Trinity Lifestyles Management in Alpharetta is a family-owned business founded on the principles of “providing Georgia’s senior community with lifestyle alternatives focused on wellness and the celebration of individual expression.”

The company has eight Dogwood Forest communities, including one in Gainesville, that offer assisted living, memory care, adult day services, temporary stays and at-home care. In January 2010, Trinity opened the Holbrook, an active senior community in Gainesville. A second independent living facility is planned for Acworth.

The 170,000-square-foot Holbrook community offers more square footage of amenities per apartment than any other comparable community, the company says, and the mission of The Holbrook is “to change lives through wellness and an inspiration to live a purposeful life.”

A tour of the facility leaves no doubt the mission has been accomplished.

The community was specifically designed with the needs of the active senior in mind and emphasizes travel programs, boat excursions, wine tastings and continuing education programs.

A wide range of amenities and activities are available such as therapeutic aquatics in the heated indoor saltwater lap pool, walking trails, fitness centers, gardens, an auditorium with a stage for social events and a hair salon, barber and spa.

On Wednesdays, Happy Hour is held and usually includes some type of live entertainment. Other regular activities include a knitting group, Bible study, gardening club and technology and computer workshops.

Seasonal events are popular, too, such as the barbeques in the spring and the Christmas party that includes a chili cook-off.

“I always tell people, it’s the biggest

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March | April 2013

home they’ll never have to own!” said Melanie Loughrey-Burrows, community relations director. There are 85 units available, and 65 are rented.

All of this and it is pet friendly, too!

In addition to Gracie and Pocket, who live in the Holbrook, LuLu, who lives in Dogwood, and Whiskey, who comes to work every day with Loughrey-Burrows, residents are allowed to have pets.

Ever noticed how, at a party, people end up in the kitchen? Well, food is a focal point at Holbrook and Chef Anthony

In addition to meals prepared by a resort-level chef, the residents eat in a fine dining atmosphere complete with ambiance, music, seating by a hostess and wait staff.

Abreu takes great pride in providing a fine dining experience on a daily basis to the residents.

“My job is to make sure we are meeting their needs in the best possible way,” he said. “Often our residents have diet restrictions, but I will give them a quality product with quality taste.”

Since graduating from Johnson & Wells in 1991, Chef Anthony has worked at hotels, private resorts and another assisted living facility.

“Cooking is a passion to me. I love it. I enjoy doing it,” he said. “Here at Holbrook I also get to enjoy being able to make the residents’ day.”

It is definitely not hospital food – they use fresh food, cook from scratch and offer a blend of fine dining and comfort foods.

They currently serve 138 people every day.

“If they want to give us recipes we will implement and try to do it,” Chef Anthony said.

In addition to meals prepared by a resort-level chef, the residents eat in a fine dining atmosphere complete with ambiance, music, seating by a hostess and wait staff.

“They get a soup/salad, then order off of a leather-bound menu,” LoughreyBurrows pointed out. “We offer diabetic desserts, and we bake all of our desserts inhouse. Our pies are to die for – especially the pecan pie. The soups are all homemade, too, and delicious.”

The chef is so good that Holbrook also offers catering for outside events, and recently donated a “private dining experience” to a silent auction for the American Heart Association. The winner of that received a full menu cooked in their home, plated and served as if they were at a restaurant.

In addition to the fine dining experience, residents have the option of a bistro that includes a deli and coffee shop.

And, if they feel like dining in, they can get any of these meals “to go.” A staff of 12, including five in the kitchen, manages the wonderful food experience at the Holbrook.

Adjoining the Holbrook is Dogwood Forest for assisted living, which offers long-term as well as short-term and postoperative programs.

“Life does not stop when you get older,” Loughrey-Burrows said. “We are trying to provide everything so our seniors can continue to live a full life. And, when they need more care, they can transition to Dogwood.”

“The company and our staff have a passion for what we do. We are here because we consider this a ministry and opportunity to take care of our seniors,” said Cathy McMillon, executive director.

“The thing I enjoy the most each day is talking to the residents. Sometimes I am a listening ear; sometimes they have a great day and lift me up. You can learn a lot from the residents – it’s like when you were a child and could visit and listen to your grandparents.”

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home business

North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry – A Dentist Who will make a Child Smile!

participation in Give Kids a Smile Day, the main event of February’s Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Georgia Another husband-and-wife team observation Dental Association and the American behind the launch of a successful and of National Dental Association. valuable business is Dr. Chris and Children’s Dr. Halper, or “Dr. Chris” as he Amber Halper, who opened North Dental Health is known to his patients and their Georgia Pediatric Dentistry two years Month. This parents, said working with children ago this April. Earlier this year, the national event is natural for him. He grew up in a Halpers opened a second office in the tries to reach family that took in foster children – Buford/Sugar Hill area. Their offices children who do not have access to 10 of them during his grade school are far more like a happy place for dental care or those families who do years – and his love of sports kept him children than a medical office – while not have the means for dental care. coaching youth sports for years. it doesn’t have a kid-like “cartoony” In 2012, two dozen children were Parents should give as much theme, the primary colors, televisions served and more than $10,000 worth attention to choosing their child’s with games and children’s shows, toys, of dentistry was performed at North dentist as they do their pediatrician, and child-size amenities including a Georgia Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Chris noted. “More days are missed miniature toilet all make going to the “I’ve been involved volunteering in school from dental than anything dentist a fun thing for children, from with this national event since 2003 else,” he said. little ones to teens. while in dental school and wanted to “Some people ask me, ‘How can “We wanted to build a place continue it within my own practice,” you work with children?’ I ask other that we would want to take our own said Dr. Chris. In addition to his people, ‘How do you work with adults?’” children to,” Dr. Halper said. “By donated time and services, the staff he quipped. “I look forward to going to having my own practice, I can ensure volunteers their time as well. work when I wake up every morning. that our patients will see the same His wife, Amber, who serves as Getting to see the children grow and doctor each time, and I can spend practice coordinator, loves being a part follow their interests is very rewarding.” any extra time needed to make them of the practice as well.

“We look forward to being a staple comfortable and develop a relationship “It’s nice to feel like we are building in the community,” Dr. Chris said. with the child.” something people will appreciate,” she “We’re raising our family here; our kids Dr. Halper didn’t start out said. “And it is so great when you see go to school here. We don’t want to planning to be a dentist. He began kids in local stores and get to say hi. just live here – we want to be an active college at Georgia Southern University, Some of my best friends are moms of participant in the community.” and completed his Bachelor’s of our patients.”

One of the biggest endeavors in Science degree from Penn State.

Amber is a CPA which serves giving back to the community is their He worked for a couple of years in her well in helping run the business, the pharmaceuticals industry but she wears a lot of different in research and development hats and often it is her bright before deciding to go back to and cheery voice answering the school for his dental education. phone. And yes, their children He graduated from Temple – Hayden, a 3-year-old girl, and University School of Dentistry Brooklyn, a beautiful 20-monthin Philadelphia, Pa., and then old baby girl, are both patients completed a two-year pediatric at North Georgia Pediatric specialty residency at St. Dentistry as well.

Christopher’s Hospital for North Georgia Pediatric Children. These two extra years Dentistry is located at 2695 are required for the pediatric Old Winder Hwy., Suite dentistry specialty.

100 in Braselton and 4530 To stay on top of a Nelson Brogdon Blvd., Suite constantly changing industry, A, in Sugar Hill. For more Dr. Halper is a member of the information, call 770-965-2340 American Academy of Pediatric or visit www.startlifesmiling.

Dentistry, Georgia Academy of com and www.facebook.com/ Pediatric Dentistry, Southeastern Dr. Chris and Amber Halper with children Hayden and Brooklyn. northgeorgiapediatricdentistry.

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March | April 2013

HOME Living

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EASTER BUNNY ARRIVAL SHOW With Special Guest Star

Saturday, March 16th at 1:00 p.m. in JCPenney Court Join us as we welcome the Easter Bunny to Lakeshore with a free show hosted by mother goose! Stick around afterward for a 30 minute meet & greet with Curious George!

Visit the Easter Bunny at Lakeshore, March 15th through 30th in center court! For hours and photo pricing visit ShopLakeshoreMall.com homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

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Dining Out at Scott’s Downtown Story by Roxane Rose Photography by Sarina Roth f you are a fan of Scott’s and have seen that the restaurant is no longer on the square in downtown Gainesville, not to worry! Owners Scott and Kay Dixon have moved the restaurant around the corner one block north to the former Pilgrim Estes Furniture Company building and changed the name to Scott’s Downtown. If you haven’t been to Scott’s yet, you need to experience the ambience and food at this “casual fine dining” restaurant.

The restaurant is now located in 20,000 square feet of space, which includes, in addition to the regular dining area and expanded lounge, a 10,000-square-foot event facility upstairs with movable dividers to accommodate 30-500 people; the Chesapeake Room, which seats 22; the Orleans Room, which seats 14; and five private alcoves, a popular feature in the original location.

It still feels like Scott’s, something owners Scott and Kay Dixon strived for with the relocation. Much of the reason for the move was bigger space, Scott said.

“Losing event space at the Mountain Center was part of what made us start thinking about it, kind of the impetus,” Scott said. “We wanted private dining rooms for meetings and presentations. We were sought after for that but we didn’t have enough room.

I

Now, we have people and organizations who have booked for a full year.”

More plans are in the works. Right now, the restaurant will begin having live music on Saturday nights and, when the weather changes, Scott’s will be adding a complete outdoor dining area. “It will be true alfresco dining with the same tables, chairs and tablecloths as on the inside,” Scott said.

The original building was destroyed in the 1936 tornado, and when it was rebuilt, it was constructed very solid, Scott said. “The walls are 18 inches thick and the beams, floor and ceiling joists are 3x14 hardwood on 14-inch centers. It could probably withstand an F5!”

Scott would know – other than electrical and plumbing, he did it all – he hung all the drywall and drove every nail, he said. There is some decorating left to do, Kay noted.

“We didn’t want to just throw things up for the sake of decorating,” she said.

“We have a great staff. We couldn’t have done it without them and their going above and beyond,” Kay and Scott commented.

“This building has such great character.

We have people come in who shopped here when it was Estes, played in the building when their parents worked here and all of the people who came here to work out when it was the various gyms,” Scott said. “It’s a nice little slice of history for Gainesville.”

The Dixons not only kept the famous tiny private dining rooms for two, or “private alcoves,” but added two more, one of which seats four.

One of the most popular entrees at Scott’s is the prime filet, hand cut and aged on the premises; drizzled with sauce Béarnaise and served with asparagus and red pepper brunoise.

Mixed organic field greens, Maytag blue cheese crumbles, fresh strawberries and toasted Elliott pecans make a salad that tastes as delicious as it looks.

This succulent bourbon salmon, served with buttermilk mashed potatoes and haricot verts, is another popular dish with Scott’s diners.

Scott and Kay Dixon

The Loft in Scott’s new location is a 10,000-square-foot event facility. Scott’s Downtown, located at 131 Bradford St. NW in Gainesville, is open for lunch Tuesday-Friday 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner Tuesday-Thursday 4:30-9:30 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday, dinner 4:30-11 p.m.To contact Scott’s, call 770-536-1111 or visit www.scottsonthesquare.com.

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March | April 2013

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March | April 2013

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AgMan

Gary Bl ck

GA

Story by Roxane Rose Photography by Sarina Roth

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March | April 2013

HOME Living

In North Georgia

home cover story

G

ary W. Black grew up with farming and today lives on the 70 acres in Commerce where he was raised.

He has always been an advocate for agriculture and has participated in and supported agricultural programs.

Serving in political office was not his life-long plan, however, and, he said, if someone had told him 10 years ago he would be the 16th Georgian to hold the state’s office of Commissioner of Agriculture, he would have laughed at them.

A better option couldn’t have been homegrown and handpicked.

The commissioner learned to drive a tractor as a young boy, scraping weeds on a cotton gin farm while spending his summers at his uncle’s farm in West Texas. His dad bought the farm in Commerce in 1969 and they moved here in 1979, when Black was in the ninth grade. When the school counselor found out where he lived, he told Black, “You need to be in Mr. (Haily) Fleming’s class.” Fleming was the FFA teacher; he taught at Lula, Jefferson, Commerce and Jackson County high schools during his career and was known and loved for his high standards of excellence.

“Mr. Fleming was father number two,” Black said. “FFA is an integral part of the classroom experience, with lots of opportunities to compete and develop leadership skills.”

That was the beginning of the story, so to speak, as it “really opened the floodgates,” Black said.

FFA is not just a high school class, he noted. He played tuba in the national FFA band, which “really broadened my horizons.” Black won state meets and went on to serve as the state FFA president in 1975 and 1976.

He stayed involved in FFA in college

homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

and continues to be an active supporter of agricultural programs that expand opportunities for young people, serving in advisory capacities for FFA as well as 4-H. It was through these passions that he met his truest love, his wife, Lydia.

They first met in college, where they

The Blacks’ barn includes an inviting porch that looks out over the cow fields.

Memorabilia from the campaign adorns the wallks of the barn, which was used as campaign headquarters.

The Blacks with their children Ward and Caroline.

The barn features antiques inside and out.

were both attending the University of Georgia, during the Georgia Powersponsored collegiate leadership program. Lydia was in 4-H in clothing and textiles, so they had a lot of the same friends. They began dating after they graduated.

“I got very familiar with the road between Macon and Newnan,” Black said with a smile.

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home cover story

The couple celebrates their 30th anniversary this April. They were married in 1983 and had children Ward and Caroline. The children were 6 and 4 years old when the Blacks moved back to the commissioner’s family farm in 1993 to care for his aging dad and stepmother.

“It was the right thing to do, to come back here and take care of my folks,” both Gary and Lydia agreed.

And, “We felt like it would be a really good environment for the kids, and it was,” she said.

Caroline and Ward started showing cows when they were 9 and 11 years old.

“That was our family activity, loading up the cows and taking them to shows,” said Lydia, for whom this was her first experience with cows.

The best laboratory for developing work ethic, sportsmanship, responsibility and leadership is to have another creature you are responsible for...

“The best laboratory for developing work ethic, sportsmanship, responsibility and leadership is to have another creature you are responsible for, which is a benefit of FFA,” Black said. “Learning about and understanding the many career opportunities available in farming is another benefit of participating in FFA.”

Now 23, Caroline is finishing her thesis in agricultural communication from Texas A&M after receiving her undergraduate degree from UGA. Son Ward, 25, received his Master’s in agriculture and economics from UGA and works for The Langdale Company in Valdosta.

The commissioner, after earning his degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in 1980, started his career at Farm Bureau, working with the Young Farmer

What is the Department of Agriculture?

In a nutshell, the Georgia Department of Agriculture administers a variety of programs, all of which have a primary goal – to maintain the state’s viable farm industry and protect the consuming public.

That summary doesn’t begin to illustrate the numerous divisions and services encompassed by this often unknown but extremely vital department, which was established in 1874.

The Animal Industry Division consists of veterinarians, field inspectors, laboratory technicians, program managers and support staff, who are tasked with the protection of animal and public health, food safety, animal welfare and successful livestock production. The division encompasses Animal Health, Equine Health, Livestock Poultry Field Forces, Meat Inspection, and Livestock and Poultry Market News.

Animal agriculture is the largest sector of agriculture, contributing more than $5.8 billion to Georgia’s farm gate value.

The Food Safety Division administers state laws, rules and regulations for retail and

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March | April 2013

wholesale grocery stores, retail seafood stores and places in the business of food processing and plants that are required to obtain a license from the commissioner under any other provision of law: bakeries, confectioneries, fruit, nuts and vegetables stores and places of business, and similar establishments, mobile or permanent, engaged in sale of food primarily for consumption off the premises. (This does not include “food service establishments” – restaurants and institutions.)

The Fuel and Measures Division protects consumers by verifying the accuracy of weights and measures used in commercial transactions, the quality and quantity of motor fuels and the enforcement of grain, cotton and tobacco laws. Regulatory field inspection, the state fuel oil laboratory and the state weights laboratory comprise this division.

The Plant Industry Division includes four regulatory and inspection programs – Seed, Fertilizer and Feed; Pesticide; Plant

Gary Black, at the Veggie Patch at Bouchard Farms in Commerce.

Protection and Grain Inspection; and Structural Pest Control – as well as four laboratory programs: Food Safety; Seed; Fertilizer and Feed; and Pesticide.

Then there is the Marketing Division, which promotes demand for and sales of the state’s agricultural commodities in the United States and abroad, and the Administration Division, which handles all administrative functions for the Department of Agriculture. Programs and responsibilities under Administration include consumer services, grants, information technology, legal services, personnel and public affairs.

Information from www.agr.georgia.gov.

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home cover home story & garden

Leadership Development program.

“It was a really good opportunity to travel the state and meet lots of people,” he said, observing, “It is funny how things have evolved, and it is interesting to see the people I met then who have ended up in respected leadership positions.”

For example, he worked with Tom McCall, Elberton, state house representative district 33, and Zippy Duvall, now president of Georgia Farm Bureau.

Georgia, ranging from private property rights to food safety, and from lower taxes to science-based environmental stewardship.

“He loves agriculture – he just loves agriculture,” Lydia said. “He has always been all about agriculture and agricultural policy, but his plan was to be a teacher, which is why he interned for Herman Talmadge. Being the commissioner for the Department of Agriculture was not his or our life’s dream … it just evolved. But he loves

and features poplar, sycamore, red oak and hickory from Gillsville. Bricks are from the old Commerce Middle School that burned in the mid-1970s, and the beams under the loft are floor joists from the original Commerce City Hall that was built just after the turn of the century. The kitchen table and his desk were made by him.

Black also likes to cook, whether it is stir frying fresh vegetables for a quiet dinner at home with his wife or grilling up a huge meal for 100 or more people

Commissioner Black built this table - he says woodworking is therapeutic.

Commissioner Black and Millie, one of their dogs.

“Twenty years ago, we were doing Young Farmer work together,” Black said.

Since then, the commissioner served 21 years as president of the Georgia Agribusiness Council, a chamber-like organization that represents all facets of Georgia’s food and fiber industry. He is a past president of the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences’ alumni society. Black led the development of AgriTrust of Georgia, a renowned workers’ compensation insurance program for farmers and agricultural businesses. He has championed sound policies throughout 22

March | April 2013

his job.”

A quiet, gentle, soft-spoken man, Gary’s passion for all things agriculture is apparent by spending just a few minutes with him. But at any time, he would rather be referred to as Lydia’s husband and Ward’s and Caroline’s dad. The Blacks’ personal life and related activities are very important to them.

The commissioner enjoys building things, he said, explaining that woodworking is very therapeutic for him. His barn and some of the items in it are a testament to his hobby. The barn includes tin from an old chicken house

on in the commercial-size kitchen in his barn, which also served as campaign headquarters. He also enjoys reading, often having three or four books going at a time. When HOME interviewed the commissioner, he was reading “Founding Mothers: The Women Who Raised Our Nation” by Cokie Roberts and had just finished “Killing Kennedy” and “Killing Lincoln” by Bill O’Reilly. Next on the list was “The 5000 Year Leap: A Miracle That Changed the World,” a study on constitutional discipline by W. Cleon Skousen.

But again, his true love is his wife HOME Living

In North Georgia

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home cover story

The barn was built with many repurposed and recycled items from Commerce, such as bricks from the local high school and beams from the original city hall.

Lydia and their family.

“I am so thankful for a wife with immense integrity,” he said. As quick to tease or joke as he is serious and passionate, Gary added, “I’m actually her third child. She is incredibly patient with me.”

Lydia teaches Family and Consumer Sciences, a modernday home economics class that

encompasses food and nutrition, at Jackson County Comprehensive High School.

“It’s the best job I’ve ever had,” she said, noting that half the jobs in the world are related to food.

It may be her best job, but she also speaks fondly of her time as a county agent with the extension service and her 14 years running her

own drapery business so that she could stay home with the children.

The family is active at Maysville Baptist Church where Black serves in the music and adult Sunday school ministries. He and Lydia teach an adult Sunday school class together.

“The Lord is the source of all life.

That is one of the cool things about being a farmer,” Gary said, adding,

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home cover story

Dottie, one of the Blacks’ dogs.

“Being able to feed people, clothe people; to serve in this arena, it’s a privilege. Farmers do the Lord’s work every day.”

People are desperate for “the straight word, and something that is reliable,” Black said. And, he added, “I hope I take that to my job. People are tired of false promises.”

The commissioner is thankful

homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

for the people with whom he works, noting that they are integral to the success of the department.

“We have a great group of guys and ladies in the Department of Agriculture,” Black said. “It’s a good place.”

Black humbly hopes he can fulfill his own expectations for public office.

“I’d seen the way it was, and I didn’t like it. I found myself saying, ‘Somebody ought to …’ and realized when you’re pointing a finger at someone, there are three pointing back at you,” he said. “I believe people in government have to be public servants, and that the job is about public service. The customer is the taxpayer.”

March | April 2013

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Calla Lil

home home & garden

Spring is in the air

Cherry Story and Photography

by Sarina Roth

Native azaleas are among the first to bloom in early spring.They are easily identified in wild forested areas as their blooms arrive even before the green foliage begins to show.

Spring is in the air ‌ and on the ground and in the water! Everywhere you look you can see the signs of new life bursting its way through our last cold winter season. The air is fresh, and so are the tips of the tender limbs and branches of trees, the leaves and buds on the shrubs, new colorful sprouts and shoots in the ponds. They are all ready to surge into bloom.

This is an inspiring time of the year, not only in nature but also in life and in spirit. Easter brings a sense of renewal and rebirth for many of us, and provides a fresh start for new hopes and promises for our warm summer days ahead.

Cherry trees begin their lush display of blossoms in the spring, with Kwanzan varieties showcasing pink pom-poms and attracting excited and busy bees.

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March | April 2013

The purple leaf plum tree can be found in many landscapes and offers beautiful contrast with shiny burgundy leaves.This tree’s blooming cycle kicks off in spring with little pinkish-white flowers and attracts bees and ants to begin pollination.

HOME Living

In North Georgia

ily Rose Crocus

y

home home & garden

The tea olive is a very sweetly fragrant evergreen shrub with tiny white flowers that grow in clusters.

The scent has been described as an essence of peach and orange blossoms, apricot and jasmine.

The amazing Crocus is a small flower with big show. Planted from bulbs, they grow in clusters and make a big splash in a landscape.

The Yoshino cherry tree is known for its bright white flowers. In late spring when they lose their blooms, their delicate petals on the ground can resemble a light snowfall.

The graceful Calla Lily is a favorite in traditional gardens.These gorgeous perennials can bloom in white, yellow, pink, coral, purple and ruby, and some are a magical blend of colors.

The hyacinth is a remarkably fragrant flower that is a perennial and grown as a bulb. Colors can range from white, pinks and blues to shades of sunshine yellow.

Plant beds begin to turn green and lush again in spring, with bright and fragrant blossoms and blooms of perennials to give them playful color.

Roses are a gardener’s favorite and now there are many exceptionally easy varieties of reblooming roses that can start in spring and bloom all summer.

Ask your favorite nursery about a “Knock-Out” or “Nearly Wild” rose for disease and pest resistance. homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

Dogwoods

The elegant dogwood tree has traditionally been associated with the Easter season, representing the cross in the formation of its petals. Looking closely you can also see a pattern on its leaves that may remind Christians of the nails that pierced Jesus’ hands and feet on the cross. Some have even told legends that the cross was made of the wood from a dogwood.

Although these stories are not supported by biblical teachings or historical evidence, these blessings of beauty in nature can be sweet reminders of the Easter message.

March | April 2013

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home get to know

Jennifer Dees | Public Servant Story by Roxane Rose Photography by Sarina Roth

T

the position in September 1997, and on top of that, it straddles four counties, which means Dees works with four different county governments.

“Juggling four counties is tough,” she acknowledged. “But, I didn’t know any different. Braselton was in three counties when I came to work there, so adding one was no big deal.”

Dees said she feels “just lucky” that she got the job. She didn’t go to school to work in municipalities and says her background is not normal for a municipality administrator’s job. She received a Bachelor’s degree in English, followed by an MS degree in justice and public safety. In the 1980s, she was a TV reporter in Montgomery, Ala., and then held the position of marketing coordinator for an international computer company. Dees had just received her law degree when she took the Braselton town manager position.

This varied background has enabled her to serve the town well.

“We have a small staff, so we all multitask,” Dees said.

“I market Braselton as part of my job, so that part of my background has helped.”

While managing Braselton with a small staff is no small feat, she obviously enjoys it since she has stayed around.

“I love my job,” Dees said. “Braselton is so exciting and so dynamic and, contrary to what I heard Jennifer Dees with her 6-year-old son, Wilder. when I applied for the job –

he job of city or town manager is one of those often seen as dry, and the people occupying that position the same. In North Georgia, however, many of the towns and cities have managers and administrators who are as vibrant as the communities they serve.

Jennifer Dees is one of them. She is a true public servant, both inside and outside of her job.

Dees has served as the town manager of Braselton for more than 15 years. The person who told her about the job said, “It should be easy. There’s never anything happening here.”

Her laugh that followed that tells the true story of just how “not easy” the job is. Braselton experienced tremendous growth since Dees took

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March | April 2013

there is always something going on. I can’t imagine leaving.”

Dees lives in an 1850s farmhouse about nine miles from Braselton Town Hall with husband John Allen Dees, his 14- and 12-year-old sons Tatham and Leslie and her 6-year-old son, Wilder.

They share their home with two dogs, four cats (“they all found us,” she said) and four hermit crabs.

Dees said she recently discovered why it costs so much for painters when she took on painting their house. She has three sides done with one to go, and it has been quite an undertaking. “Painters are worth every penny!” she said.

In her spare time, when she is not running one of Georgia’s premier municipalities, painting her house or spending time with her family and pets, Dees volunteers with a number of organizations.

She has served on the board of directors for the Jackson County Boys & Girls Clubs since 2005. She began volunteering in 2003, and got to know then-board member Tricia Massey, who encouraged her to join the board.

Dees also serves on the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors and served as cochair of the 2012 Braselton-Hoschton Relay for Life, and this year is luminary chair. She was the 2011 finance chair for March of Dimes, and she is currently serving as the chair of the Jackson County Library board as well as chair of the 2013 West Jackson Friends of Scouting.

Those are community endeavors outside of the committees and other obligations directly related to her job as town manager.

HOME Living

In North Georgia

home get to know

“If it has to do with children or animals, I am usually drawn to it,” Dees said, adding, “Those are my two true loves.”

The question begged to be asked: How does she juggle all of that?

“If it is important to you, you will make time for it,” Dees said, adding that her parents were always very involved with community, so her volunteer activities “just seem natural.”

Dees, a finalist for the Jackson County Chamber’s 2012 Woman of the Year award, is highly thought of throughout the community. Massey, now marketing director at Northridge Medical Center, who still shares a close friendship with Dees, sums up Dees’ reputation.

“Jennifer possesses a strong love of community. She is genuinely passionate about others … she is ‘others-absorbed’ which is very contagious when you are around her,” Massey said. “She combines her wit and humor with her intellect to make an effective community leader. I enjoyed working with her when we served on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs. I admire her so much!” Massey added with a smile, “Obviously, I think the world of her. I want to be like Jennifer Dees when I grow up.”

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home charity

It Takes a Village

The Court Appointed Special Advocates program provides angels on earth to children who have been neglected and abused.

Story and photography by Roxane Rose

A

ccording to Georgia CASA, there are some 763,000 children who are the confirmed victims of child abuse or neglect each year on a national level. An estimated four children die every day from child abuse and neglect.

The Court Appointed Special Advocates program delivers the angels that protect these children by providing advocacy to children who are victims of neglect and physical, sexual and emotional abuse.

CASA is a result of the Child Abuse Protection and Prevention Act, which was originally enacted in 1974 and provided for a guardian in juvenile court for cases of child abuse and neglect. When juvenile courts had trouble fulfilling the federal mandate due to budget constraints and overwhelmed attorneys, the CASA concept was developed. The act has been amended several times, most recently in 2003 by the Keeping Children and Families Safe act.

Georgia was the 37th state to implement the CASA concept, and this

year celebrates the 25th anniversary of CASA in Georgia. The Georgia CASA organization governs the 47 CASA programs in Georgia, which are affiliates of Georgia CASA and members of the National CASA Association.

The Hall-Dawson CASA program, formed in 1989, was one of the first CASAs established in Georgia.

“Our goal is stop the cycle of abuse and neglect,” explained Connie Stephens, executive director of the Hall-Dawson CASA. Stephens was one of the first Hall-Dawson volunteers. She was named executive director in 1990 and, in 1994, the organization hired its first employee to respond to the crucial need for additional volunteers and staff. Today, the organization has three volunteer supervisors and an advocacy coordinator on staff in addition to Stephens.

Piedmont CASA, which serves Barrow, Jackson and Banks counties, was founded in 2000 by Juvenile Court Judge Kevin Guidry, with the help

L-R: Annette Bates, executive director; Rebecca Boles, volunteer coordinator; and volunteer Karin Haynes, all of Piedmont CASA. 30

March | April 2013

of community members. Executive Director Annette Bates, who joined Piedmont CASA six years ago in April 2007, also started as a CASA volunteer.

“I was very energized to come in to a place where I could do something meaningful with my life,” said Bates, who left a steady-paying job of 20 years with a law firm to join CASA. CASA volunteers are the heart and soul of the program. With more than half a million children living in foster care who can easily get lost in the complexities of the court system, there is always a huge need for more advocates. While it can be challenging, being a CASA volunteer can also be extremely rewarding.

Stephens and Bates addressed some of the concerns people have about becoming CASA volunteers. “’Do I have the time?’ is a question frequently asked,” Stephens said.

“The majority of our volunteers work full-time, so I would say yes. The time invested is very flexible, except for when you are expected in court, which

Hall-Dawson CASA staff, L-R: Cory Buckley, volunteer supervisor; Lisa McCarthy, advocacy coordinator; Sally Patrick, volunteer supervisor; Jennifer Moore, volunteer supervisor; and Connie Stephens, executive director.

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is every six months. You can take the number of cases as you are able.”

Bates agreed. “I was working full time when I was a CASA volunteer,” she said.

Another concern is about safety.

“In 25 years, we have never had one incident where a volunteer’s safety was jeopardized,” Stephens said. “The families know they are volunteers and understand they are trying to help, and they usually are compliant.”

Other concerns are about the emotional involvement.

“We address this in training, and we have the staff to support and assist our volunteers in this area,” Stephens said, explaining that that is part of being a good advocate. “We help you learn to put your energies into how to help the kids instead of getting drawn into how bad it is for them. We help you focus on enabling the kids to thrive and become contributing members of society.” And, she added, “We wouldn’t want you in the program if you didn’t have a heart.”

What CASA Volunteers Do

child.”

The volunteer then prepares a report that is provided to the judge, attorneys, DFACS, parents and foster parents and is used for determining the best solution for the child – to stay in the home, or be adopted into another family.

“A CASA volunteer has to make connections with people, but they have to remain objective,” said Bates, but, she added, the volunteer also needs to form a relationship with the child.

“You need to get to know them and their personality. Even with a baby, you can look at them and see how they are doing,” Bates said.

Time-wise, in addition to the required court appearances twice a year, CASA volunteers have to meet once a month with the child, and sometimes more depending on the case needs. Monthly, that can be five to 15 hours. In-service training is required once a year, as well.

Once a CASA volunteer is assigned to a case, it is preferable they stay with it to the conclusion, Bates said. The cases can last a month or years.

The ultimate goal is to solve the problems that landed the child and his or her family in court, because keeping a child with parents is always the most positive outcome. But, if that can’t be accomplished, the child will be adopted into a permanent loving home.

“You are the child’s voice in court.

You are the eyes and ears for the judge,” Stephens said.

CASA volunteers start the process with a child by gathering information about him or her and the family. A court order gives them the ability to access school and medical records and attend school conferences.

Volunteers visit with family and friends.

“This enables them to learn what is going on in the child’s life and to determine what can be done to cure the problem,” Bates said. “You are asking difficult questions, Husband-wife team Randy Sellers and Nena Henry, Piedmont but you are doing CASA volunteers since 2009, with Rebecca Boles, volunteer it on behalf of the coordinator, on left.

Photo courtesy of Hall-Dawson CASA

home charity

Is This Real?

I sit on a freezing floor In a pitch black closet.

I hear “him” stomping towards me.

Even though I can’t see him, I know he’s angry.

He’s always angry.

He finds a reason to be.

Will it make you feel better to hit me?

I call you “dad” but you’re no dad You’re not what a daddy should be She just stands by and watches.

She doesn’t care about me, She doesn’t love me.

She never even says she does, Never acts like it either.

Never cuddles me, Never tucks me in bed.

She doesn’t kiss my boo-boos, doesn’t protect me.

I call you “mom” but you’re no mom…

Where did you come from?

Are you an angel?

A home and a family—A true mom and dad.

I can’t quite believe it!

Everything I have ever wanted A new and improved mom.

Hugs and lots of love She tucks me into bed, And kisses my boo-boos.

A new dad—The best a girl could have.

He lets me ride on his shoulders, And makes me feel protected.

I am safe as he holds my hand.

When I have a bad dream, He’s always there.

He stays in my room til’ I fall asleep And reads me bedtime stories.

Is This Real?

Poem written by Mary Lou Downs, who was served

by Hall-Dawson CASA. She is now a beautiful young woman who has been adopted by a permanent family. She is pictured above with Shay Lawson, CASA volunteer.

March | April 2013

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home charity

The Little House

The Hall-Dawson CASA program has a facility that houses the office and provides a haven for the children to heal and get help. It is called The Little House, and it is located on Washington Street in Gainesville.

“It was named for that purpose and it is a very child-friendly facility,” Stephens said. The Little House was built a couple of years ago thanks in large part to Ricky Presley.

“If it wasn’t for Ricky, I don’t know that we would be here,” Stephens said.

“He had a vision, and he served as project manager.”

The Little House is 14,000 square feet, half of which is an unfinished downstairs. It is currently used for storage of donated toys and clothes for children.

“Our dream is to finish the basement so that it can be used by other child advocacy groups,” Stephens said.

The upstairs is already shared with the Edmondson-Telford Center for Children, which provides services to Hall and Dawson County residents under the age of 18 who are victims of sexual or severe physical abuse or neglect, as well as their nonoffending family members. (For more information, see HOME, March-April 2012.)

In addition to office space for both organizations, The Little House has family meeting rooms for CASA that are warm and welcoming for the children, and are much like a home environment. It features a state-of-theart conference room used for in-house training sessions that can hold 40 people and also is available for other community and civic groups. The Little House also has the facilities for on-site medical exams in addition to special rooms for forensic interviewing services.

“It’s a real treasure for this community,” Stephens said.

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March | April 2013

A Better Tomorrow

In addition to providing advocacy to children today, the CASA program also protects future children.

“The saying that it takes a tribe, or it takes a village, to raise a child, is true,” Stephens noted. “It truly takes our community to address these problems, and our future depends on it. The threat of violence in these young children’s lives … if we don’t intervene, as a community we will pay.”

The economic cost of child abuse is estimated to be $103 billion per year, according to Georgia CASA. The emotional cost is higher.

According to Stephens, 90 percent of the prison population was abused when they were children. Statistics

from Georgia CASA are equally sobering: Children who suffer abuse or neglect are 53 percent more likely to become juvenile delinquents, 38 percent are more likely to be arrested as adults and 38 percent are more likely to become violent criminals.

“Stopping this cycle of child abuse and neglect will have a big impact on future generations to come,” Stephens said. “That’s huge.”

The Gift of a Forever Family

By Shannon Hughs

The gift at the top of my list this Christmas is not one of material value. Yet, it is a gift of immeasurable worth and one that I know I will always cherish.

The gift I am most excited about this Christmas is the joy of seeing three precious children adopted into a “forever family.”

I am the children’s CASA, their Court Appointed Special Advocate. For the last 18 months my CASA partner, Shay Lawson, and I were assigned to advocate for three children – Lizzy, William and Justin. Our job as a CASA is to ensure that abused and neglected children in our community have the right to a safe and permanent home. These are children who are involved in the courts through no fault of their. We speak for these children.

Lizzy will never again have to wonder if it will be hours or days that she will be locked in her room, she will never wonder if her mother will let her boyfriend abuse her, or if she will be “dropped off” at her mother’s friend’s house … for months at a time. William and Justin will never wonder if their mother will feed them instead of being “passed out” from drugs, they will never wonder if their father will come see them, and they will never be fearful that their baby sibling will die because their mother was too “ high” to take care of him …

As a CASA, it has been remarkable to see the way the children have thrived in their new home. I am amazed at the way this adoptive family has dedicated themselves to the many needs, both emotional and physical, of these children. The Davis family is one in which all three children feel loved and valued … things every child deserves to experience.

Webster defines adoption as “to choose, to take voluntarily as one’s own child.”

Lizzy, William and Justin’s lives will be forever changed by the incredible choice Alex and Tina are making to adopt them as their own. As the CASA for these children I cannot imagine a gift of any greater value than this. * CASA children and adoptive parents’ names were changed for privacy HOME Living

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Special thanks to

Lakeshore Mall, for organizing and setting up the photoshoot Cato and Belk, for providing clothes, shoes and accessories Mary DuVall, for managing the photoshoot ReTail Thrift Store, for the Easter props Junior League of Gainesville-Hall County, for helping us find the models

Photography by Sarina Roth

...Springs Into Easter

home fashion

A pair of Cato hot pink heels for just $21.99

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Fashion...

March | April 2013

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In North Georgia

Siblings ing with from Be cement and cor tender but she white b cool sp and BO than an white st yellow l

Move over, pastels – Lee and her daughter Morgan are roaring into spring with the vibrant royal blue outfits.

Mom is sporting a Ralph Lauren Cannes dress, available from Belk at Lakeshore Mall for $134. Six-year-old Morgan is wearing a two-piece Bonnie Jean coat and dress highlighted with white stripes and piping, $80, also available from Belk.

Lee is manager of workforce planning and employment at Northeast Georgia Health System and is involved with the Hall County Chamber’s Women in Business. Morgan, who is enrolled in kindergarten at Enota, said her favorite part about Easter is the Easter Bunny.

Siblings Makena and Jackson, along with cousin Tug, are bouncing with excitement for the Easter bunny in their spring finery from Belk. Three-year-old Tug’s four-piece set by Izod features cement-color slacks paired with a long-sleeve coral shirt, tie and coral cotton vest, $50. Makena, age 6, looks as sweet and tender as a spring flower in her yellow dress by Rare Editions, but she is one tough cookie! The dress is $60 and the JK white bolero sweater with a ruffle, to keep arms warm on a cool spring morning, is $28. The white grosgrain hair bow, $8, and BOC shoes, $35, round out the outfit. Jackson is cuter than an Easter egg (but don’t tell him!) in the Goodland mint/ white striped seersucker pant, white/mint knit vest and Izod yellow long-sleeved shirt, all just $38.

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home fashion

Makena and Jackson are the children of David and Haley Black Corry, Gainesville. Haley is a fitness instructor at BodyPlex, has a home monogramming business and is children’s choir director at her church.

Tug’s parents are Dustin and Julie Black Oliver, also from Gainesville.

Haley has been a member of the Hall County Junior League since 2008. She is the art teacher at Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy and coaches volleyball at Gainesville High School.Haley and Julie are the daughters of Tony and Cathy Black, Gainesville.

This hot-pink necklace with its matching earrings are the perfect accessories for a white lace tee – yes ladies, like in the fall and winter, lace is still in-in-in! – and a hot pink wrap shirt.

Taylor Day and her son Preston are ready for church in fashions that can be found at Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville. Mom is wearing an outfit from Cato: the aqua sleeveless ruffled blouse is paired with a white knit jacket and accented with Cato jewelry – a necklace, earrings and bracelet. Cost for the top, jacket and accessories is less than $74. Baby Preston is happy in his Nursery Rhyme three-piece set from Belk, which includes the Madras print shirt, light blue pants and white sweater with sailboat embroidery, available for $50.

Taylor, born and raised in Hall County like her parents, is a nurse recruiter at Northeast Georgia Health System.

March

35

home health & fitness

Tired of Being Tired?

Compiled by Roxane Rose Information provided by: Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic Northeast Georgia Medical Sleep Center Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center

A

ccording to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately seven out of 10 Americans are affected by a sleep problem, but few seek help.

Untreated sleep disorders have been linked to a number of chronic diseases including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and stroke. In many cases, an evaluation by a sleep specialist, followed by an overnight sleep study, can save your life.

“Untreated sleep disorders can have a negative impact in so many ways we can’t even imagine,” said Dr. Alan Lankford, administrative director and sleep specialist with the Sleep Disorders Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center. “We are increasingly 36

March | April 2013

recognizing the importance of sleep for overall health and wellness.

“One of the interesting things we have learned about sleep deprivation is that it affects the secretion of the body’s hormones that dictate hunger. When you are sleep deprived, you feel hungrier, which makes you eat more, which in turn can lead to diabetes. he added.

Some of the negative effects of sleep disorders include: daytime sleepiness and fatigue, Type 2 diabetes, increased risk of serious heart problems, a higher rate of illness, increased risk of automobile accidents and reduced job performance, which can lead to lost income. Sleep disorders in children can cause learning difficulties, slow growth,

coping problems and hyperactivity.

There are an amazing 84 diagnoses in sleep disorders (see next page), although by far one outpaces the others – sleep apnea. It is followed by insomnia, then restless leg syndrome.

“If you are concerned, talk to your doctor,” said Dr. Daniel Cobb, a neurologist with Gainesville Neurology Group who serves as medical director of sleep medicine for the NGMC Sleep Disorders Center. “It’s nice to get a work up. A sleep study is simple, quick and relatively pain free.”

People can either call the sleep center on their own, or be referred by a physician.

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home health & fitness What to expect According to Northside Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Center, most people know when to seek medical help for physical discomfort such as fever or pain, but sleep problems often are overlooked or ignored. In fact, the overwhelming majority of people with sleep disorders are undiagnosed and untreated because they expect a sleep study to be an uncomfortable experience.

Sleep studies are completely safe and painless. A sleep study, or polysomnogram, records your brain wave activity, muscle twitches, eye movements, heart rate and breathing while you sleep. Sensors are placed on your scalp, face, chest, limbs and a finger, while elastic belts go around your chest and abdomen.

As the information is collected, it is transmitted to a computer in the next room, where a registered polysomnographic/sleep technologist monitors you at all times.

After the study, a board-certified sleep physician reviews and interprets the information to help you and your personal physician understand your specific sleep patterns and problems.

Treatment recommendations are made if evidence of a sleep disorder is found.

The doctors at Northside say they are often asked, “How am I supposed to sleep like that?” For your study, you will be assigned to a private bedroom in a sleep center or hospital. The room may look like an upscale hotel room, with all of the amenities you would expect – private bathroom, TV, soft bedding, breakfast and more. You’re also welcome to bring items from home (a favorite pillow or pajamas).

Although you will be hooked up to equipment that may look uncomfortable, most people fall asleep with little difficulty. The wires are very thin and flexible and are bundled homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

together so they don’t restrict movement, disrupt your sleep or cause other discomfort.

Nothing is wrong – why am I still tired?

“Sleep is certainly a necessary part of good health,” said Dr. Wes Head, Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic in Gainesville.

“Even organisms down to worms appear to sleep.”

Dr. Head explained that humans have a biologic clock and sleep hormones that regulate the sleep cycle.

It is important to have a regular sleep schedule and, when your brain tells you to sleep, then sleep.

“We haven’t found a substitute for sleep yet,” Dr. Head remarked, adding

NGHS Sleep Center

that in addition to sleep disorders, sleep “hygiene” is frequently overlooked.

“That is the habits of sleep,” he explained. “People who complain of insomnia are frequently doing things wrong in bed, such as watching TV, reading, leaving a light on, etc.”

Common Sleep Disorders Provided by Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Sleep Center Insomnia Insomnia is a general term which describes the inability to initiate or maintain sleep, and is associated with daytime fatigue and sleepiness. More than 20 million Americans complain of having chronic insomnia, which typically lasts at least one month.Treating insomnia requires the patient and the doctor to work as partners to explore the causes and effects of the problem.

Insomnia can be the result of a medical or psychiatric problem.

Narcolepsy Narcolepsy manifests itself through excessive daytime sleepiness, uncontrollable sleep attacks, and muscle weakness triggered by sudden emotional reactions such as laughter or fear. Some patients may experience vivid dream-like scenes or paralysis upon falling asleep or awakening.

With education and medication, this condition can be significantly improved.

Restless Legs Syndrome Restless Legs Syndrome produces discomfort, a restless sensation and an urgency to move the legs just before sleep onset. It may be described as an aching or creeping sensation. Once asleep, the patient may experience periodic leg twitches or jerks which interrupt sleep. This condition can be treated with medication.

Sleep Apnea Sleep Apnea is frequently associated with snoring and daytime sleepiness. Breathing may stop repeatedly during sleep. Patients suffering from sleep apnea may have high blood pressure, heart arrhythmia, diabetes and/or memory/concentration problems. In virtually all cases, this condition can be evaluated and treated with remarkable results.

GERD Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a chronic illness that affects 5-7 percent of the world population and is associated with serious medical complications if untreated. Sufferers of this disease experience stomach acid coming back up through their throat and into their mouth while lying flat on their bed. Many of these patients wake up with a really bad taste in their mouth. Most patients with GERD also experience nighttime heartburn, which is more bothersome.

March | April 2013

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home health & fitness Dr. Lankford, who helped found the NGMC Sleep Center, said there are a number of things to do and to avoid to increase the probability of a good night’s sleep.

You should have a regular schedule, go to bed when you feel sleepy (there’s that biologicl clock again), avoid coffee and, if you are a smoker, cigarettes, four to six hours before bed. You also want to avoid alcohol – yes, it can put you to sleep, noted Dr. Lankford, but when you start to metabolize it two to three hours later it will wake you up and disrupt your sleep cycle.

Dr. Lankford also said he is surprised at the number of people who

leave the television on all night; this also is very disruptive to the sleep cycle.

Animals are another no-no. “It is OK to have the in the bedroom but keep them on the floor. They move around a lot more than you know, so keep them out of the bed,” Dr. Lankford said.

Be sure to get plenty of sleep, and make sure it is good sleep. While some people really can get by on as little as six hours of sleep, most people need seven to eight hours.

“With good sleep hygiene,” said Dr. Head, “you shouldn’t need sleep aids.”

“Adequate, good quality sleep is more important than most people

A Strong Finish Provided by Northside Hospital Don’t let your bedtime routine sabotage the healthy efforts you’ve made all day. Instead, to get the best rest possible, grab your watch and perform this daily countdown until the lights go out.

Six to eight hours before bed: Avoid caffeine (a stimulant in coffee, tea, sodas and chocolate) after midday to improve sleep quality, recommends the National Sleep Foundation.

Four to six hours before bed: Late-afternoon exercise is the perfect way to help you fall asleep at night. Our body temperatures rise during exercise and take as much as six hours to begin to drop. As your body temperature drops, it makes you feel sleepier.

Two to three hours before bed: Finish eating dinner. A heavy meal too close to bedtime can make you less comfortable, and spicy foods can lead to heartburn that will keep you awake or cause discomfort during the night.

After dinner: Spend five or 10 minutes reflecting on your day. Ask yourself: “Is my day done? If it isn’t, what do I need to do to make it over?” It might not be anything you can do now, but you can make a list and plan for tomorrow. It’s not going to help you if you let your worries run free in your mind all night while you’re trying to sleep.

One hour before bed: If you often have trouble falling asleep, indulge in a hot bath an hour or more before bedtime. Afterward, your body temperature will drop quickly, helping you fall asleep faster, according to a study conducted at Stanford University.

Plus, the time spent soaking will give your mind a chance to wind down. Follow it up by performing your healthy bedtime rituals – washing your face and brushing and flossing your teeth.

If you’ve tried everything and are still struggling to get enough shut-eye, the National Sleep Foundation recommends recording your sleep and sleep-related activities in a diary. Discuss your sleep diary with your doctor, who will treat the problem or refer you to a sleep specialist.

The Sleep Disorders Center at Northside Hospital-Forsyth is a full-service sleep disorders program, offering the clinical expertise and state-of-the-art technology necessary for diagnosing and treating adult sleep/wake disorders. Northside Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Center in Atlanta was the first accredited sleep center in Georgia, and the hospital’s other two facilities – in Cherokee and Forsyth – also are accredited.

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March | April 2013

realize,” said Dr. Lankford. “If you think you have a problem, don’t hesitate to contact a sleep center. We have made big strides in the field of sleep. There’s good help available.”

Eye Wellness Eye care should begin as soon as we are born. Newborns should be checked by the family doctor or a pediatrician within the first few days of life, when most congenital eye conditions will be identifiable.

A pediatrician should check a baby’s eyes again within the first three months, said Dr. Jack M. Chapman Jr., Gainesville Eye Associates. A child should be checked again going into first grade.

As we get into adulthood, people should have their eyes checked periodically, Dr. Chapman recommended.

Eventually, everyone will have to deal with cataracts and glaucoma if they live long enough, he said.

“Cataracts are a normal part of aging,” Dr. Chapman said, adding that there are a lot of choices today for correcting that. There are also new treatments in glaucoma; previously, it was treated only with medications.

Before you reach the point of age-related eye issues, be sure to support the health of the eye, and, “… look at your family history to see what eye health issues there have been, and take steps to help prevent those diseases,” Dr. Chapman said. “For example, if your family has a history of macular degeneration, make sure you eat a lot of green, leafy vegetables for lutine and zeaxanthin.

Those and the carotenoids in red fruits and vegetables may decrease the risk.”

Or, he added, be sure to get these through a vitamin developed for the eyes.

One of his biggest pieces of advice, which he stressed, is to always wear protective eye gear. The most common eye injuries he and the other doctors see at Gainesville Eye Associates, which has also has offices in Braselton and Cornelia, are pieces of metal in the eye, often from someone working on/ under a car or grinding metal; nail injuries; and injuries from trimming shrubbery and weed eating. All of which likely could have been prevented with protective eye gear.

“To maintain the health of the eye, wear sunglasses when outside,” Dr. Chapman added.

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home calendar

March

March 1 50th Anniversary Gala Spring fundraising event in partnership with The Tree House in Winder sponsored by Winder Rotary Club. This black tie affair will be an evening of reminiscing, honors and good fellowship with past and present Rotarians.

Cash bar and hors d’oeuvres at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner and presentations with dancing beginning at 8:30 p.m. with the Dirk Howell Band. Event closes at 11 p.m. Proceeds from the Rotary’s event will benefit Piedmont CASA and The Tree House. Tickets are $75 per person. For information, contact Christine Willis at 770-307-8439 or Laurie Healan at 678-907-7808. www.piedmontcasa.org, 706-387-6375 March 1-3 Folk to Fine Arts Festival & Expo A gathering of more than 65 regional artists displaying and selling works ranging from folk to fine art during an exciting three-day weekend. In addition, artist-sponsored workshops will be offered. At the Commerce Civic Center on State Street in historic downtown Commerce. Friday, 5-10 p.m., $15 admission, which includes reception and weekend re-admission; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., $7 admission. http://folk-finearts.com March 6 Empty Bowl Luncheon This annual event is a community project that raises much-needed funds to support the work of The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia. The luncheon, $20, includes a simple lunch of soup and sandwich; attendees select a handcrafted or hand-painted bowl and bid on beautiful silent auction items. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Classic Center, Athens. Individual and corporate opportunities are available. www.foodbanknega.org, 706-354-8191, donations@foodbanknega.org

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March | April 2013

March 9 Wellspring Camp 5KTrail Run/Walk This 5th annual event is a Run & See Georgia Race and will begin at 10 a.m. at Wellspring Camp. The course is a beautiful run (or walk) around the camp property. Cost is $25; includes t-shirt. www.wellspringcamponline.com, 706353-2324 March 12 Woman of Distinction Luncheon Annual Girl Scouts event. At the First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, 11:30 a.m. Deborah Keith Mack is the honoree. Tickets are $45. www.gshg.org, 770-536-8656 March 16 Come Play Bingo Win prizes donated by located businesses. At 6:30 p.m., at the Hoschton Heritage Arts Center at 74 White St., Hoschton. www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil.com, 706-654-2693 March 21 Organic Farming in Georgia Series of three talks by guest speakers sharing knowledge in natural history and environmental policy. Bring lunch; $10 donation requested. At 12:30 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, Gainesville. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976 March 22 Fur Ball Black tie fundraiser for the Humane Society of Jackson County, theme is “Come Fly With Us.” At the BraseltonStover House, event is 7 p.m.-midnight, doors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $100 per person; table and other sponsorships available. Limited seating – reserve your tickets now. ww.hsjc.com, 706-367-1111 March 23 HeART for Chocolate, Heart for Children Piedmont CASA will challenge your creativity and tickle your taste buds at the first annual HeART for Chocolate, Heart for Children Spring Gala

fundraiser for Piedmont CASA. It will be held at the Jefferson Civic Center, 6:30-10:30 p.m. Art made by local children and artists will be displayed for sale and at auction. Live music, dancing, wine and hors d’oeuvres will round out the evening. Tickets are $35 each in advance ($40 at the door).

Sponsorships are also available. If you can’t attend, consider the purchase of one or more tickets to be given to CASA Volunteers in recognition of their incredible service to children. www.piedmontcasa.org, 706-387-6375 March 23 Evan Christopher Trio New Orleans Jazz tradition comes to Gainesville at the Smithgall Arts Center, 8 p.m. Cost is $30. Clarinetist Evan Christophes, a refreshingly bright light on the international jazz scene, combines virtuosity, immaculate taste and enthusiasm with a deep commitment to exploring the full range of musical possibilities. www.theartscouncil.net/evan_christopher_trio.html March 23 Curing Cancer With Color 5K All proceeds will benefit Hall County’s Relay for Life. Awards will be given out to top three individuals (male and female) in each age group, plus overall winners. Cost is $20. Begins at Flowery Branch High School, 4 p.m.

March 26 American Business Women Held on the fourth Tuesday each month, includes dinner, speakers and a meeting. At 6 p.m., Recess Southern Gastro Pub, Gainesville. www.abwallcc.org, 770-654-9277 March 28 ‘Free China:The Courage to Believe’ At Smithgall Arts Center, 7 p.m. Part of the Tour of Independent Filmmakers.

Tickets are $7 adults, $5 students and seniors and include film and filmmaker Q&A reception. www.theartscouncil.net/free-china.html

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FIRST IN GEORGIA FIRST IN GEORGIA

Breakthrough Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery Breakthrough Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery Bladeless, breakthrough technology has come to Northeast Georgia at Gainesville Bladeless, breakthrough technology has come to Northeast Georgia Gainesville Eye Associates, the rst practice in Georgia to offer state-of-the-art laseratcataract surEye rst practice in Georgia laser cataract surgery.Associates, And unlike the traditional cataract surgery, to thisoffer newstate-of-the-art procedure improves eyesight in gery. And traditional cataract surgery, thisa new procedure improves eyesight in most casesunlike through astigmatic reduction.

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Stephen J. Farkas, M.D. Jack M. Chapman Jr., M.D. Clayton G. Blehm, M.D. Lori C. Lebow, M.D. S. Michael Veach, O.D. Stephen J. Farkas, M.D. Jack M. Chapman Jr., M.D. Clayton G. Blehm, M.D. Lori C. Lebow, M.D. S. Michael Veach, O.D.

2061 Beverly Road • Gainesville, GA 30501 • GainesvilleEye.com • 770.532.4444 2061 Beverly Road • Gainesville, GA 30501 • GainesvilleEye.com • 770.532.4444

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April April 9-14, 16-20 ‘Twelfth Night’ Gainesville State College’s Ed Cabell Theatre, 3850 Mundy Mill Rd., Oakwood. Tickets are $16-18 for adults, $14-16 for seniors and $10-12 for students. Times April 9-13, 16-20 are 7:30 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. on April 14, 20. www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org April 11 Celebrity Server Night Third annual event to benefit the Edmondson-Telford Center for Children.

At Mellow Mushroom in Gainesville, serving will be done by local celebrities such as Phil Niekro, some Atlanta Falcons, and more! All tips and 20 percent of sales go to EdmondsonTelford. www.etcenterforchildren.org, 770-5345151 April 12 Boys & Girls Clubs Dinner The 12th Annual Live & Silent Auction Dinner to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Jackson County, 6:30 p.m. at the Commerce Civic Center. Cost is $500 for a table of 8, $250 for a half table and $50 for individual tickets.

Sponsorships available. www.bgcjcga.org, 706-367-8553 April 13 Student Fashion Show At 4:30 p.m., Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University, Gainesville. Free.

770-534-6240 April 13 Rockin’ Rides Auto Show Bring your cars, trucks and bikes. $15 vehicle registration, $25 vendor booth fee; free admission. At Davis Middle School, Flowery Branch, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

678-997-9448 April 13 Annie Sellick Trio Annie Sellick has been compared to the greats - “Ella’s playfulness, Carmen’s attitude, Betty’s instincts and Anita’s flair…” (Greg Lee, WMOT jazz radio).

At the Smithgall Arts Center, 8 p.m. www.theartscouncil.net/annie_sellick.html

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April 13-14 Members Art Show Hoschton Heritage Arts Council – any paid member can submit art for judging. Opening reception on Saturday 5-7 p.m. and open to the public on Sunday 2-5 p.m.

770-540-1099 April 18 Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce’s annual event, 6 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville.

On-line registration for the Chamber Chase ends April 17. Cost is $25 through March 31; $30 after. Sponsorship opportunities available. www.chamberchase5k.com, 770-5326206, mwiley@ghcc.com April 18 ‘Strong’ Smithgall Arts Center, 7 p.m. Part of the Tour of Independent Filmmakers. www.theartscouncil.net/independentfilms April 19 Little Black Dress Party Fourth annual girls night out benefit event to support Glory Hope & Life.

Gainesville Civic Center, 7-11 p.m.

Includes a DJ, great food, dancing, raffle, cash bar and a huge silent auction.

Tickets are $25. rhh300@bellsouth.net, 678-316-0766

April 19-20 Apple Blossom BBQ Festival In Cornelia, a KCBS sanctioned BBQ competition. www.corneliageorgia.org April 19-21 Bear on the Square 17th annual Mountain Festival in Dahlonega that celebrates Southern Appalachian music, art and culture. Free. www.bearonthesquare.org, 706-864-9007 April 20 Come Play Bingo Win prizes donated by local businesses. At 6:30 p.m., at the Hoschton Heritage Arts Center in Hoschton. www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil.com, 706-654-2693 April 25 Sunset Soiree Dinner-dance fundraiser to benefit My Sister’s Place, at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. Live entertainment will again be provided by Peggie Hoskins and SoulShine. Formal invitations will be mailed out soon. www.my-sisters-place.org April 26-27 Braselton-Hoschton Relay for Life Hoschton Park. Contact Kellie Scott for more information at kellie.scott@ cancer.org, 706-543-2240. www.relayforlife.org/bhga

25th Anniversary Celebration Gwinnett Children’s Shelter On Friday, April 19, the Georgia Legends Golf Tournament will be held at Woodlands Course, Château Élan. It will include Celebrity and PGA Pro Flights, Best Ball Scramble, Putting Contest and an awards luncheon. Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.

On Saturday, April 20, the Georgia Legends Run for Hope, also at Château Élan, starts at 8:30 a.m. and includes a 5K and 10.2 K qualifier.

On Saturday evening, a dinner and auction will be held at the Château Élan Grand Ballroom.The Legends VIP Meet and Greet pre-event cocktail party starts at 5 p.m. and the auction at 7 p.m.

Run for Hope Registration: www.gcsrunforhope.kintera.org Contact: mwatkins@gwinnettchildrenshelter.org, 678-546-8770

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HIGHLY SKILLED MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS OFFERING THE MOST ADVANCED TREATMENTS AVAILABLE Braxton B. Turner III, MD Medical Degree: Medical College of Georgia Residency: Anesthesiology - Emory University Fellowship: Pain Medicine - Emory University Board Certifications: American Board of Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology: Subspecialty Certified in Pain Medicine

Steve R. Crider, Jr., MD Medical Degree: Medical College of Georgia Residency: Carraway Methodist Medical Center; Anesthesiology - Northwestern University Fellowship: PPain Medicine - Texas Tech University Board Certifications: American Board of Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology: Subspecialty Certified in Pain Medicine

H. Keith Robinson, MD Medical Degree: Medical College of Georgia Residency: Anesthesiology - University of Alabama: Birmingham, AL Fellowship: Pain Management - Wake Forest University, Bowman Gray School of Medicine: Winston-Salem, NC Board Certifications: American Board of Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology: Subspecialty Certified in Pain Medicine

Becky Caverzasi, APRN, NP-C Education: Valdosta State University - BSN North Georgia College & State Univ - MSN Board Certifications: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Georgia Board of Nursing

April J. Bussoletti, APRN, NP-C Education: Georgia Southern University - BSN Brenau University - MSN Board Certifications: American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Nurses Credentialing Center, Georgia Board of Nursing

LOCATIONS 1250 Jesse Jewell Pkwy Ste. 200 Gainesville, GA 30501

5005 Friendship Road Buford, GA 30518

770-297-7277 • www.scgpain.com homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

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home calendar April 26, 28 Salute to Georgia Concert Voices of North Georgia will complete its 44th season with a salute to the state of Georgia at St. Paul Methodist Church. Friday performance at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m. This special presentation will feature compositions

by Georgia musicians and music about Georgia. A variety of vocal and choral styles and multimedia elements will make these performances memorable.

Voices of North Georgia was awarded a $1,500 grant from the Georgia Arts Council to produce this specially themed show. Tickets are available from VNG members or at the door and cost $15; $12 for seniors/students. www.voicesofnorthgeorgia.com/concerts April 27 Hands On Wellspring Camp Day An opportunity for your business/ group/family to “adopt” a project at Wellspring and work together on that project. Wellspring is a non-profit, non-denominational Christian camp for children and adults (ages 8 through adult) with disabilities and special needs. Located in Northeast Georgia. www.wellspringcamponline.com April 27-28 Antique & Gardening Festival On Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At Braselton Park, sponsored by the Town of Braselton and antique shops of Braselton and Hoschton. www.countrysideantiques.net/festival.htm

May May 3 Jackson Derby A virtual horse race with all the excitement of derby day! Complete with on-screen horse racing, big beautiful hats, summer jackets, mint juleps, live music and great food. At Bouchard Farms, Commerce, 6:30-9 p.m. Tickets $100. Hosted by the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce. www.jacksoncountyga.org, 706-387-0300

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May 11 Come Play Bingo Win prizes donated by located businesses. At 6:30 p.m., at the Hoschton Heritage Arts Center at 74 White St, Hoschton. www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil.com, 706-654-2693 May 11 PetFest and Ride Like the Animals Annual motorcycle ride and outdoor, bring-your-pet fundraiser for the Humane Society of Jackson County. www.hsjc.com, 706-367-1111 May 11 Braselton Beach Bash A family fun festival where all children’s attractions are free. At Braselton Park. www.braselton.net, dgaustin@braselton.net May 17 Braselton Downtown Business Breakfast & Networking Meeting Community Room, Braselton Police & Municipal Court building, 7:30-8:30 a.m.

May 18 Big Green Eggfest At the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Starts at 9 a.m., cost is $20. www.mountainegg.com.

May 18 Joe Gransden & Friends At the Smithgall Arts Center, 8 p.m.

Tickets are $30. Joe Gransden has performed worldwide and released 10 CDs under his own name. Renowned first for the hard bop approach of his trumpet, Gransden’s singing voice has been compared to that of Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra. With Kenny Banks on piano. www.theartscouncil.net/joe_gransden.html May 27 “The Spirit of American Heroes” Presented by Northwinds Symphonic Band for Memorial Day. Annual concert celebrating veterans, both living and dead, who served their country with honor and valor. Ronald J. Evans, conductor; Mercer E. Crook, associate conductor; and guest artists and speakers. First Baptist Church, Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. www.northwindsband.com

May 31 Small Biz Summit Early Bird ticket price $45. The Summit will provide more than 200 small businesses the opportunity to learn, connect and be inspired through a range of breakout sessions, exhibits, a panel of industry leaders, networking events and more. At the Classic Center, Athens. www.smalbizathens.com

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June June 7 Chamber Classic Golf Tournament Annual event hosted by the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce.

At Traditions of Braselton Golf Club; 8 a.m. registration followed by 9 a.m. shotgun start. www.jacksoncountyga.org, 706-387-0300 June 8 Redo A gala dinner and fundraiser for the Hoschton Heritage Arts Center. Wear something old or made from old items. Visit the photo booth and bid on great items repainted or remade by local artists in the silent and live auctions. Tickets are $35 each or $195 for a table of six. www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil.com, 770-540-1099 June 15 Hoschton Heritage Arts Fest Featuring local artists and artisans, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Location TBA. Entertainment throughout the day. Jackson County Shoot Out (photography), Quick Draw Competition details and Quilt Show. Booth space available. www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil, 770540-1099 June 15 Summer Concert Series On the Veranda at the Hoschton Heritage Arts Center featuring Doug Thompson as Elvis. At 8 p.m., 74 White St, Hoschton. www.hoschtonheritageartscouncil, 770540-1099 HOME Living

In North Georgia

Mo

MOORE’S

WEALTH MANAGEMENT “Protecting Your Future” Scott Moore, founder and senior advisor of Moore’s Wealth Management, has been in the financial services industry for over 22 years and has helped hundreds of clients throughout the Southeast United States prepare for retirement and protect their retirement assets. He has a low-risk, safe ADVISOR OF THE YEAR AGAIN FOR 2012 & secure philosophy toward managing his client’s retirement assets while providing a 6,7, maybe 8% per year return over the next 5, 10, or 15 years with some of the finest Private Wealth Managers in the country. Scott relocated his family owned firm from Snellville to Gainesville in 2008 and in 2011 opened a second office in Alpharetta. Scott was previously recognized as Advisor of the Year for 2011. Now, once again he has been honored and awarded Advisor of the Year for 2012 by one of the top advisor organizations in the nation. According to the president and co-founder, Gary Reed, “This is the first time we have ever had a back-to-back winner. Scott continues to stand out amongst our advisors as we evaluate client care and satisfaction. He truly understands and accepts his responsibility for helping his clients to preserve, grow and protect their wealth in today’s challenging market. Most importantly, Scott takes his fiduciary role very serious and always does what is in the best interest of his clients.” Drew Horter, Founder and Chief Investment Strategist of Horter Investment Management LLC said “Scott has all the great qualities of a leader in the financial planning industry: trustworthiness, tremendous integrity, diligence, exceptional client service standards, and dedicated to doing what is truly in the best interest of his clients. Scott does what it takes to meet his client’s needs.”

SCOTT MOORE AWARDED

Scott was a mutual fund broker for almost 17 years before becoming an independent fiduciary advisor 4 years ago. Having been on both sides of the profession, and now an Ed Slott Master Elite IRA Advisor, he can quickly analyze a client’s retirement portfolio to determine if it was designed for the best interest of the client or the best interest of their financial professional. According to Scott, “Today’s retirees, and those about to enter retirement, need more than just a Banker, Broker or Insurance Agent. They need someone to be their ‘financial coach’ – someone to help put it all together. We are proud to be that firm and provide those services for the people of north Georgia.” To learn more about Scott’s philosophies and how he continues to be one of the top advisors in the nation, visit his website at www.mooreswealthmanagement.com or call 770-535-5000 to arrange a visit with Scott at one of his offices located in Gainesville and Alpharetta.

Investment advice is offered by Horter Investment Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Insurance and annuity products are sold separately through Moore’s Wealth Management, LLC. Securities transactions for Horter Investment Management clients are placed through Pershing Advisor Solutions, Trust Company of America and Jefferson National Monument Advisor.

Moore’s Wealth Management Staff include Scott and his wife Carla pictured in the center, their sons Chris, Brian & Kyle, daughter Michelle, and new to the firm Mark and Liz Peterson.

12600 Deerfield Parkway Suite 100 Alpharetta, Georgia 30004 678-566-3590

210 Washington St NW Suite 106 Gainesville, GA 30501 770-535-5000

www.mooreswealthmanagement.com

home around town Industry of the Year Awards January 23, 2013

The Greater Hall Chamber’s Industry of the Year Awards luncheon was held at the Chattahoochee Country Club.

The program included remarks by Jackie Rohosky, assistant commissioner, Technical College System of Georgia, Economic Development Programs. The event was sponsored by Lanier Technical College.

Photos by Scott Rogers,The Times Bitzer Plant manager Mike Duffy, left, is greeted by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce’s Tim Evans after Bitzer received the Industry of the Year award in the medium category.

Joe Hicks of Jackson EMC.

Greater Hall County Chamber of Commerce President Kit Dunlap.

Henry Kubota speaks at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Industry Appreciation luncheon after Kubota was named Industry of the Year in the large category.

Pao Sengkhammee speaks on behalf of Zebra Technologies Corp., which was named Industry of the Year in the small category.

Lanier Technical College Vice President Tim McDonald spoke at the luncheon.

Hall Chamber Business After Hours January 24, 2013

The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce held its January Business After Hours at Community Bank & Trust in downtown Gainesville. Attendees got to check out CB&T’s newly remodeled main branch and see the friendly faces that have been serving Hall County since 1994.

Networking, delicious food and complimentary beverages rounded out the evening.

Debbie Rodkin.

Josh Everett and Kara Tate.

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March | April 2013

Jim Kerlin, left, and Ron Hahne.

Dan Stewart.

Photos by Scott Rogers,The Times

Sabrina Sanderson, Biotrauma.

Brenau University’s Rosanne Short.

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home around town

Jackson Chamber Awards Banquet January 24, 2013

The Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards banquet featured a 1970’s theme in honor of the organization’s 40th anniversary. Many of the attendees turned out in period-appropriate attire for the event, which was held at the Jefferson Civic Center.

Photos by Roxane Rose

Cindy Patterson and Debbie Cross, both with Southeast Toyota.

The 2012 award winners (L-R): Jim Scott, Citizen of the Year;Tom Murphy,Volunteer of the Year; State Rep. Tommy Benton received the William H. Booth Award, which recognizes lifetime achievement; Joel Harbin and Jonathan Milford accepted the award for Allstate Insurance, Small Business of the Year; and Lee Bryan accepted the Large Business of the Year award on behalf of TenCate Geosynthetics. Not pictured is Marshall Acree, who was named Chamber Ambassador of the Year.

Debby Mockus, Arcade city manager; Beth Laughinghouse, Mainstreet Jefferson; and Greg Laughinghouse.

Sarina and Dr. Michael Roth.

Margaret Lang and Paula Matzko.

Tricia Massey and Cindy Patterson.

Left: Matt Benson; John Ward, Jefferson city manager; and Charlie Schrauth, BSI Management.

Vicki and Mark Starnes.

Left: David Harris with Vanity Fair Outlet won the men’s costume contest. Other contestants were (L-R) David Hocker, David Harris, Joe Godfrey, Michael Roth, Ross Kesterson, John Ward and Howard Ledford.

Right:The women’s costume contest was won by Sarina Roth with Never the Rock Photography.

Front (L-R): Sarina Roth and Theresa Kenerly.

Back (L-R):Trisha Massey, Cindy Patterson, Cindi Bagwell, Lisa Harris, Mary Ann Kenerly and Emily Howell.

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home around town

Fashion Show

Left: Beatriz Shirley, 33, modeling a bright pink sleeveless dress and black belt from CATO.

February 9, 2013

Lakeshore Mall held its first fashion show in several years, featuring local residents, customers and mall employees as models. The participating stores were Belk, CATO and Body Central. The show focused on juniors, ladies and plus-size apparel.

Right: Brittany Wilson, 20, modeling a fitted white lace dress with a denim vest and patterned scarf, all from Body Central.

Photos courtesy of Photographer Emily Whitehead Right: Lazandra shows off a red ruffled corset top with black “jeggings,” red platform heels and a KISS ME necklace – all from Body Central. Below: She is modeling a lace “little black dress” by Love Fire, from Belk.

Laura Jones, 36, modeling an aqua gathered v-neck dress with waist-winged back by London Times, from Belk.

Cynthia Deras, 19, modeling a floral babydoll top and jade green sheer blouse with sequined collar by Living Doll and Lucky Brand jeans – all from Belk.

Open House January 23, 2013

Hall County Chamber Wisdom Project December 19, 2012

The Wisdom Project is a senior leadership program and part of the VISION 2030 Initiative developed and presented by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and Brenau University’s Center for Lifetime Study.

Meadows Surgical Arts in Commerce held an open house to welcome and introduce to patients Shannon Chatman, N.P., who will be overseeing family practice at the clinic.

Photo by Roxane Rose

Photo courtesy of the Greater Hall County Chamber of Commerce

Front, seated (L-R): Bill Sanders, Annita Thomas, Elaine Burnette, Jeanne Buffington, Sally Delisle, Jim Whitlock and Deborah Nelson. Back, standing (L-R): Kathy Amos, Bill Ware, Karol Scarborough, Keith Abernathy, Jay Crews, Austin Edmondson, Erika Walker, Mary Rogers, Lee Lovett, Lane Jones, Jolinda Martin, Gary Lawrence and Charles White. Not pictured: Chaz Robers, Joel Williams and Jim Walker.

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Front (L-R): Laura Dickerson, April Stanley, Alexa Robertson, Stacey Murray and Britta Thomas.

Back (L-R): Shannon Chatman, Hannah Dunn, Samantha Rickman, Hannah Milford, Kathryn Meadows and Dr. Lionel Meadows

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home around town

Heart Ball February 2, 2013

The Hall County Heart Ball was a huge success, raising nearly $95,000 to fight heart disease and stroke. Doug Carter reprised his role as emcee for the event, which was held at the Chattahoochee Country Club with more than 180 guests pledging their support during the silent and live auctions. Susie Graybeal served as chairperson for the annual fundraiser, which embodied a “Put On Your Red Shoes” theme for 2013. Guests enjoyed dining, dancing and entertainment while celebrating the efforts of the American Heart Association.

M a o o v F

Photos courtesy of the Heart Ball

M a a a b la

Jimmy and Betsey Adams; Jimmy was honored as a survivor of heart disease and for his long-time support of the American Heart Association.

E L L L T r

Susie Graybeal, event chairperson, and Jimmy Adams, the 2013 Hall County Heart Ball honoree.

Shaw and Doug Carter – Doug served as emcee; on far right is Scott Dixon.

Left: Carol Burrell, president and CEO, Northeast Georgia Health System.

Right: Dr. and Mrs.Thomas Abbruzzese and their daughter Ada.

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O C 1 B S $

FUNARI R E A LT Y

6323 Grand Hickory Drive 100G Braselton, GA 30517

WWW.

FUNARIREALTY.COM

MAGNIFICENT HOME situated on 3 acres with all you can ask for: multiple ponds, creek w/bridge, outdoor covered area w/ fireplace, pool, master on main & much, much more! Unbelivable views from every room!!! $3,595,000 Tony Funari 404-271-3710

MAGNIFICENT GOLF COURSE HOME Private fenced in backyard w/salt water pool and hot tub.

6 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 1 half bath. Master on main as well as master suite on terrace level.

Media room, recreation room, bar area and living room. $990,000 Tony Funari 404-271-3710

D L SO MAGNIFICENT HOME Two lots combined for additional privacy. Beautiful pool environment and complete out door cooking area, sink, bar, appliances, fire place and pizza oven. 4 BR 3 ½ bath, Master on the main. 3 car garage. Professional landscaping. $695,000 Tony Funari 404-271-3710

ENJOY COUNTRY CLUB LIVING AT IT'S FINEST. Located on a large beautiful lot in the private Legends of Chateau Elan, 8th fairway. Professionally Landscaped. Enjoy the especially nice daylight Terrace level,with views of the pool area from every room. Tony Funari 404-271-3710

BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM BUILT HOME with an array of special upgrades and attention to detail. Spacious entry foyer w/inlaid hardwood flooring opens to the formal dining room. Master on main, 3 bedroom suites upstairs. Terrace level has a finished office. $729,900 Tony Funari 404-271-3710

Southern Living Custom Home

GREAT SPACE FOR A LARGE OR EXTENDED FAMILY! Located on a quiet culdesac. Master on main, awesome stone patio & fireplace in private backyard. 3 car side entry garage. Finished terrace level with second kitchen, game room & famly/tv room. $435,000 Cindy Keller 404-663-4303

Features front and side courtyards, a private salt water pool, art studio, library, Au Pair suite with full kitchen, gym, and much more. Located on a private and beautifully landscaped lot with views of the seventh and eighth holes of the Chateau Course. $2,249,000 ONE OF THE BEST LOTS IN PROVIDENCE CLUB! Great Landscaping. 5 Bedrooms 3 And 1/2 Baths. Full Basement Stubbed For Full Bath.

Basement Has Interior And Exterior Entrance.

Seller Is Related To Listing Agent. Reduced $250,000 Charles Little 404-274-3100

Cindy Keller 404-663-4303 or Tony Funari 404-271-3710

EXECUTIVE HOME with 5 bedrooms and 4 full baths located near highway 400 and the avenues off of Kelly Mill Road in Cumming, great newer home fenced yard corner lot. $375,000 Tony Funari 404-271-3710

Prestige HOME CONCIERGE

Qu a l i t y Ho m e Ma n a g e m e n t & Ma i n t e n a n c e

Rhonda Pottinger 770.314.5790

RhondaPottinger@bellsouth.net

Office Located Across from Chateau Elan: 770-967-9889