Hometown Herald February 2018

HOMETOWN HERALD News from the Hamilton Mill Community Association

February 2018

Welcome

COMMUNITY NEWS

2 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

Welcome to Our Newest Residents Charles and Rattikan Crockett

The Board of

DIRECTORS Get to Know Your Board Members Chris Singleton, President Kyle Shields, Vice President Anne Dotter, Secretary Megan Kaderli, Treasurer Karen Taylor, Member at Large Josh Emmett, Member at Large Steve Smith, Member at Large

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Do you enjoy receiving the monthly Hometown Herald? If so, please help promote the newsletter by inviting businesses you support to advertise to our community. Our newsletter is supported by advertisers, so please help spread the word. Interested parties can contact Leah Nelson at 770.535.6330 for more details on advertising opportunities.

To advertise in the Hometown Herald, contact Leah Nelson at The Times - 770.535.6330 - lnelson@gainesvilletimes.com The Hometown Herald is a publication of The Times. Subject matter published is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher of this newsletter. Professional advice should be obtained before making any decision in which a professional is readily available.

Advertisers assume responsibility for the content of the ads placed in publication. Material published may not be reproduced without the written permission of The Times. The information and advertisements contained in this Newsletter are provided for the members of the Hamilton Mill Homeowners Association as a courtesy only. No representations are made as to information presented, the quality of the goods or services advertised, or the veracity of the statements relating to the goods and services. The printing of opinions, information or advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the Neighborhood or such opinions, information, goods or services.

Hamilton Mill HOMETOWN HERALD

inside this

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ISSUE 4 26

Home Makeover Tips

22

Around Town

Snow Day

14

Swim Team News

21

Hello

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February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 3

HELPFUL INFORMATION

SHABEN & ASSOCIATES ON-SITE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Ph: 678.546.3737 1669 Hamilton Mill Parkway, Dacula, GA 30019 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm Email: PropertyManager@Hmill.com Property Manager: Gaye Cantrell CORPORATE OFFICE (for after-hours common area maintenance emergencies)

Shaben Main Office: 770-271-2252 After Hours Emergency: 770-271-2252 P.O. Box 3189 Suwanee, GA 30024-0989 ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT

Email: hmillevents@gmail.com You are welcome to contact the Activities Office via email at hmillevents@gmail.com for information on planned events or to RSVP for an event.

TENNIS SHOP

Ph: 770.945.6452 Jeff Dudacek: On-Site Tennis Pro GWINNETT POLICE NON-EMERGENCY

Ph: 770.513.5700 STREET MAINTENANCE

Contact Gwinnett County at 770.822.7474 to report a problem with street, curb or sidewalk.

MAILBOX REPLACEMENT/REPAIR

All mailboxes must be the same as a Community-Wide Standard: STYLE 311K • Addresses of Distinction: Ph: 770.436.6198 www.aodmailboxes.com • Mailbox Maven, Kathy Ramatowski: 678-551-8591

GOVERNMENT SERVICES

Emergency ......................................................... 911 Police Headquarters............................770.513.5000 Non Emergency...................................770.513.5700 Gwinnett Sheriff/Jail..............................770.619.6500 County Courthouse..............................770.822.8000 Dacula City Hall...................................770.963.7451 Dacula Post Office...............................770.962.4390 Poison Control......................................404.616.9000 Fire Headquarters.................................678.518.5018 Station 18.............................................678.518.5018 Tag Office............................................770.822.8801 Drivers License Services........................770.995.6855 Property Tax..........................................770.822.8800 Voter Registration.................................770.226.7210 Animal Control.....................................770.339.3200 Gwinnett Senior Services......................770.822.8850 UTILITIES

BFI Waste Management......................678.963.2800 Water Resources..................................770.376.6800 Buford Gas...........................................770.945.6761 Jackson EMC/Street Light Outage........770.963.6166 Charter Communications....................678.410.9362 AT&T.....................................................800.436.8638 Direct Satellite/Dish Network.................678.714.1495 For a complete listing of Gwinnett County Departments, please visit www.gwinnettcounty.com/portal/gwinnett/Departments

PUBLIC SCHOOLS Puckett’s Mill Elementary School.................. 678.765.5110 www.pmseonline.org

Osborne Middle School....................... 770.904.5400 www.gwinnett.k12/ha.us/OsborneMS.home.org

Millcreek High School........................... 678.714.5850 www.millcreekhighschool.org

Dacula High School............................. 770.963.6664 www.daculahs.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

These are resources only, no recommendations or assurances are made by the Association.

Hebron Christian Academy..................770.962.9250 Dacula Classical Academy.................678.377.0080 Oak Hill Classical School............................. 770-338-7945 Sugar Hill Christian Academy...............678-745-4121 Greater Atlanta Christian......................770-243-2258

AMENITY CARD REPLACEMENT

HOSPITALS/URGENT CARE

Hamilton Mill Amenity Cards are available to goodstanding residents. Please call 678.546.3737 or 678.546.1597 to set up an appointment. Replacement cards/tenant cards are $25 each. Check or money order ONLY. No cash or credit cards accepted.

RECREATION

LOST DOG/CATS/ANIMAL DISTURBANCES

If you have lost your pet, please email the On-Site Property Management and they will be happy to email the community. Please also contact the Gwinnett County Animal Control at 770-513-5100 to report your lost pet or a dangerous pet is running loose.

4 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

Gwinnett Medical Center.....................678-312-1000 ChoiceOne Urgent Care - Hamilton Mill...... 470-326-7300 Northeast Georgia Medical Center.....770.219.9000 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta........... 404.150.KIDS Northeast Georgia Urgent Care...........770.848.6195 Community After Hours emergency....404.835.9100 Millcreek Athletic Association............ millcreekaa.net Dacula Soccer............................. dscrevolution.com Bogan Park (for reservations at any park).......678.227.0850 Gwinnett County Public Library.............770.978.5154 Gwinnett County Cultural Center.........770.813.7500 Lake Lanier Islands................................800.840.LAKE Road Atlanta....................................... 800.849.RACE

RESIDENT NEWS

GROUNDS AND FACILITIES Happy Winter!

This is a slow time for G&F as far as the neighborhood can tell, however, all of the planning for the upcoming year is happening now. If you want to have hand in helping to maintain this neighborhood, G&F meets on the third Monday of the month. Please come and join us.

A huge shout out to our property management team from Shaben, Gaye Cantrell and Chris Shanks. While we are a neighborhood generally run by homeowners it could not be done without our property management team. They do all of the legwork for our projects, finding qualified contractors, getting bids and reviewing requirements, and presenting to the committees their findings so we can make informed decisions. With so many large projects over the next year it just could not happen without their input. Thanks so much for all you do!

Grounds and Facilities

Save the Date!

Saturday,

March 24

Spring Carnival at the Lakeview Clubhouse From 1-4pm DJ, Inflatables, Petting Zoo, Egg Hunt, and of course, the Easter Bunny! Be on the lookout for more details in the next Hometown Herald, and in the weekly emails.

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 5

Flirty Eyelash Extensions for Valentine’s Day

$135

FULL SET

Melt away your chocolates with

HealtheTrim

$39.95

European Body Wrap

$99

3 VISITS

FREE Consultations Non-Surgical Face Lift with Beautiful Image Special..........$99 Full Legs Laser Hair Removal Special................................$175 HCG Weight Loss Special...................................$249/21 days Botox Special................................................................$9/unit Fillers Special.......................................................$450/syringe

2720 Mall of Georgia Blvd., Suite 107 Buford, GA

770-932-2662

Monday - Thursday 10am - 7pm Friday 6 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018- Saturday 10am - 3pm

Cancer expertise is just around the corner at Center for Cancer Care-Hamilton Mill.

Our nationally recognized cancer program is expanding to better serve our community. Our specialty-trained cancer care team will soon provide its personalized care in a new soothing environment—adding to the comprehensive primary care and specialty services already offered at GMC Health Park-Hamilton Mill. Learn more at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ccchm.

This is Gwinnett Medical Center. This is now.

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 7

8 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

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25

Father’s Day

12

11

26

President’s Day

Grounds and Facilities Meeting 7pm

5

MONDAY

4

Calendar Sponsored by:

SUNDAY

Social Committee Meeting 6:45

6

27

20

13

TUESDAY

28

21

Happy Valentine’s Day

14

7

WEDNESDAY

Join us for any of the listed events RSVP to Hmillevents@gmail.com!

Other

Meetings

9

2

23

16

Groundhog Day

FRIDAY

17

10

3

24

Dueling Pianos at the Lakeview Clubhouse, 7pm

SATURDAY

Join us for any of the listed events RSVP to Hmillevents@gmail.com

The February Board Meeting is TBD after the annual meeting. Notifications will go out via the weekly emails.

22

Social Events

Swim Team

Tennis

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1

15

THURSDAY

FEBRUARY 2018 HAMILTON MILL CALENDAR

Accepting New Patients!

Welcome!

Please join Dr. Mary K. Falletta-Swegman and the Hamilton Mill Dental Staff in welcoming Dr. Ebad Habeeb to our Office!

Dr. Ebad Habeeb, is originally from Karachi, Pakistan. His family moved to United States of America when he was 10 years old where he attended Taylor Road Middle school, Chattahoochee High School and grew up in Alpharetta, Georgia. He received his Doctors of Dental Medicine (DMD) from University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Ebad is currently a member of the American Dental Association, The Academy of General Dentistry, and the Chicago Dental Society.

He is committed to provide the best possible comprehensive care for his patients which suits their needs. He is also a firm believer in building a long-lasting relationship with his patients while providing state of the art care in all aspects of dentistry. In his free time he likes to go camping, workout, and enjoys watching movies.

59

$

89

4 BITE WING DIGITAL X-RAYS, EXAM & GENERAL CLEANING

(NON-INSURED PATIENTS ONLY, AGES 13 AND UNDER.)

Extra charge for periodontal procedures.

Offer expires 8/1/2018.

Offer expires 8/1/2018.

59

NEW PATIENT $ SPECIAL $223 value

KID’S CLEANING EXAM, 2 BITE WING X-RAYS

Dr. Ebad Habeeb, DMD

$

$117 value

EMERGENCY EXAM AND X-RAYS Includes two periapical x-rays. Offer expires 8/1/2018.

We focus on Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. There are many services we provide, and a few are listed below. Please call if you have any questions about these procedures or other procedures not listed.

• • • • •

Whitening Oral Surgery Opalescence Digital Photography Veneers

• • • • •

Periodontal Disease Endodontics Dental Implants TMJ Treatment Crowns / Bridges

• • • •

Dentures / Partials Sports Dentistry Invisalign Cosmetic Procedures

Hamilton Mill Dental Associates 3611 BRASELTON HWY, STE 104 • DACULA, GA 30019 770-945-2733 • HAMILTONMILLDENTAL.COM

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 9

SOCIAL NEWS

Serving Gwinnett County’s Heating & Air Needs For More Than 20 Years!

R&S McKay HEATING & AIR We service all makes and models!

Hamilton Mill residents get

10% OFF

any system replacement. *Expiration date 3/31/18

404.978.3082 WWW.RSMCKAY.COM

10 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

CONGRATULATIONS TO HERMES FOR EARNING FIVE THE WORLD PARA Back in December, McClain Hermes, along with her family, set out for the World Para Swimming Championships in Mexico City with the intention to earn her first medal at the international level.

McClain said in a press release.

“After Rio, I got really sick and went through a lot. It feels great to show that I can overcome something and perform really well.”

In four days, Hermes won five medals, including her first gold!

McClain is not only a great swimmer, but she is an inspiration and a great friend. Back in 2016, she met Grace Bunke, a 14-yearold combating bone cancer, while literally being thrown in the same lane together at practice.

They became instant friends and a huge support system for each other. On land, Grace provides a guiding arm to McClain, who otherwise uses a cane. In the water, Grace kicks ahead so that

McClain placed first in the 400-meter Freestyle, third in 50 freestyle, and third in 100 Breaststroke after she had earned two silver medals in 100 Freestyle and 100 Backstroke.

“It feels really amazing because I’ve had a really hard past year,”

McClain can follow her bubbles in a straight line. McClain gifted her a wall plaque to remind her to “just keep swimming”, and swims with Grace’s name written on her hand during her meets. In fact, Grace’s name on her hand became a bit of a good luck charm and helped qualify her for the Para World Championship.

In return, McClain gave Grace her silver medal that she earned in the 100 Backstroke at World Para Swimming Championship.

WAY TO GO MCCLAIN!

12 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

HAMILTON MILL’S MCCLAIN MEDALS IN FOUR DAYS AT SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS About McClain Hermes

McClain has spent the past 8 plus years dealing with issues related to retina detachments and numerous surgeries in an attempt to save her eyesight. She is now completely blind in the right eye (no light perception) and only has light perception in her in her left eye. She has a diagnosis of Wagners Syndrome which not only caused the retina detachments, but has also led to her being color blind, completely night blind, having glaucoma, and her progressive vision loss.

McClain has turned her disability of being

legally blind into her ability in the pool! She is a Paralympic swimmer that currently holds several American Records and 1 World Record for the S11 and S12 Vision Classes. McClain just competed in the 2017 Paralympic World Championship where she earned a gold medal and was named World Champion in the S11 400 Freestyle. She also won two silver medals and two bronze medals for the S11 Vision Class at the World Championships. At the age of 15, she was the youngest member of the 2016 USA Paralympic Team in Rio and competed in three swimming events.

In 2015, she represented Team USA at the 2015 ParaPan American Games and won a bronze medal in the 400 M freestyle. She is dedicated to the sport of swimming and trains 9 to 12 times a week.

Not only is McClain a talented athlete, but she is an intelligent a n d intrinsically motivated student

YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE YOUR HAMILTON MILL FAMILY CHEERING YOU ON!

who attends high school at Gwinnett Online Campus. She is currently taking two college classes through the Move on When Ready program. She has set high academic standards for herself and she has to work hard due to being legally blind to maintain those standards. She is a member of the National Honor Society and named a US Swimming Scholastic All American.

McClain and her father began Shoes for the Souls as a small service project in 2009.

The first year she collected and donated 365 pairs of new and slightly used shoes to the Atlanta Mission, which serves homeless men, women, and children. That “small service project”, started by an eight-yearold, has now collected and donated over 19,000 pairs of shoes to The Atlanta Mission. With the support of the local community, Shoes for the Souls collected over 2,000 pairs of shoes in 2017 and will be making a delivery to the Atlanta Mission in January 2018. McClain has spoken throughout the community and across the United States about her accomplishments in the pool and her community service.

She continues to motivate others to see beyond their perceived disabilities and pursue their dreams with perseverance and dedication. She hopes that other young people hear her message about Shoes for the Souls and realize that it doesn’t take large sums of money or you don’t have to be an adult to make a positive impact on your community.

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 13

SOCIAL NEWS

SNOW DAY FUN! Back in December, the news forecasted some snow… and in Georgia, we go out and buy up all the milk and bread for a few flakes, or we wait and believe it when we see it! Well, on Friday, December 8, a few flurries started that morning, and Dacula soon turned into a beautiful winter wonderland. Kids (and most adults I know!) were able to enjoy a really fun weekend full of sledding, making snowmen, snow ball fights and the beautiful views we had throughout the neighborhood. Thank you to the residents that shared their pictures and captions below!

HAPPY WINTER! - April Williams

“We did not expect this to happen when we woke up today!!

Absolutely beautiful!” Jennifer Gastley, WindRidge

“Enjoy the Snow Neighbors & be safe!!!”

Courtaney Liedke, Millwater Crossing

“Our 6-year-old Scarlett enjoying the snow!” Suzanne & Nathaniel Smith, Fairway Bend Cover photo by Oak and Gold Studios, Hamilton Mill

“Snow Day!” Trent Wilkes (9), Alex Vadala (9), Gianna Vadala (7), Millwater Crossing

SOCIAL NEWS

Taylor, Adelyn, & Asher Keister, Lakeforest

Brooke and Shmetrice Mootry with dog, Ari, Hillgrove

Jackson and Sidney Borden, Preston and Sterling Rine, Woodleaf

“Pictures of the Parkway and my sons’ first snowman.”

Kevin McNeil

SOCIAL NEWS

New LOcATiON

1 of 10 people have vein problems... do you?

NEW LOCATION

Outside The Mall of GA/behind HHGregg

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Bulging veins Spider veins

Tired/Heavy legs

Leg swelling Outside The Mall of GA/behind HHGregg Specializing in COMFORT & PERFORMANCE Footwear since 2005 Leg pain

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770-945-3777 thefoottraveler.com 3200 Woodward Crossing Blvd •• Ste. A103 • Buford, GA 30519 Mon-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 12:30pm-5:30pm Outside The Mall of GA behind HH Gregg & across from Honey Baked Ham

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Mon-Sat. 10am - 8:00pm • Sun. 12:30pm - 5:30pm Crossing Blvd • Ste. A103 • Buford, GA 30519 Mon-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 12:30pm-5:30pm Outside The Mall of GA behind HH Gregg & across from Honey Baked Ham

770-945-3777 • thefoottraveler.com Mon-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 12:30pm-5:30pm

SeasonsComforts Comforts Seasons Comforts Seasons 770-616-2494

3200 Woodward Crossing Blvd • Ste. A103 • Buford, GA 30519 Outside The Mall of GA behind HH Gregg & across from Honey Baked Ham

770-945-3777 • thefoottraveler.com Mon-Sat 10am-8pm • Sun 12:30pm-5:30pm

770-616-2494 770-616-2494 770-616-2494

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16 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

Service call

Expires 9/30/17

SOCIAL NEWS

Duck Duck Goose

5 off

$

With Total Purchase of $25.00 or more *Expires 2/28/18

Valid Only on Regular Priced Merchandise

3523 Braselton Hwy, Ste C-7 • Dacula, GA • 770-904-4332

accepting new patients

PENNINGTON FENCE

Preventative Care Cosmetic Dentistry Common Procedures Pediatric Dentistry Gum Disease • TMJ-TMD Emergency Dental Care

Located in The Wild Wing Shopping Center Outside Hamilton Mill

Quality Built Since 1972

770-963-9961 We Look Forward To Building Your New Fence Ask Us About Wood Fence Staining

Making you sMile

froM the inside out

NICHOLS BODY SHOP

Quality Repairs • Old Fashioned Service • Complete Collision Repair • Family Owned and Operated • All Insurance Claims Accepted

Ask your neighbors. They know us.

770-967-8200

FREE ESTIMATES, PICK UPS AND DELIVERIES 4730 ATLANTA HWY • FLOWERY BRANCH, GA

Mall of Georgia Dentistry • 678-714-6343 1905 Mall of Georgia Blvd, Ste A • Buford Mall of Georgia Dentistry at Hamilton Mill 678-318-3191 • 3625 Braselton Hwy, Ste 103 • Dacula

www.mallofgeorgiadentistry.com

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 17

BI

H RT APP HD Y AY !!!

ue en ay t V thd ! ea ir es Gr or B arti f P

FREE FACIAL OR

We can arrange everything including the cake!

50% Off Any Item With Purchase Of Any Regular Priced Item of Equal or Greater Value, with this coupon.

Homemade Bake Goods & Hot Coffee Available!

470-655-7986

6342 Grand Hickory Dr, Suite 101 • Braselton, GA Next to Jeffrey’s Bar and Grill

STRETCH 60-MIN SESSION* with $125 in gift card purchases

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Offer valid through Valentine’s Day

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Contact Your Coach Today: Joe Wenig 678-951-0024 email: jwenig@esourcecoach.com website: jwenig.esourcecoach.com

18 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

SWIM KID’S TEAM CORNER NEWS

Pets Inn Suites 1st Day Lodging OR Daycare Free with this ad NEW CLIENTS’ FIRST VISIT ONLY

Luxury Pet Lodging • Grooming • Daycare

770-995-9122 www.petsinnsuites.com

Mon-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-4pm • Sun 5pm-7pm only

Discover the Difference

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 19

RECIPES

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR SOUPS… ESPECIALLY IF YOU CAN THROW THEM IN THE CROCKPOT AND LET IT DO ALL THE WORK!

A y t

W l

T A w s W b

P R 4 F p

Slow-Cooker BBQ Chicken Soup

The Best Crockpot Beef Stew

INGREDIENTS 2lb boneless skinless chicken breast 1/3 cup diced onion 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 can (15.25 oz) Southwestern style corn (corn with peppers) 1 can (15.5 oz) white beans, drained, rinsed 5 cups Progresso™ chicken broth (from two 32-oz cartons) 1 cup barbecue sauce 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper Shredded Cheddar cheese, if desired

INGREDIENTS 2 pounds beef stew meat, (cut into bite-sized pieces) 1 tsp Salt 1 tsp pepper 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 celery ribs, sliced 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced 6oz can tomato paste 32oz beef broth 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 cups baby carrots carrots 4-5 small red potatoes,cut into bite-sized pieces (about 3 cups) 1 tablespoon dried parsley 1 teaspoon oregano 1 cups frozen peas 1 cup frozen corn 1/4 cup flour 1/4 cup water

If you are missing summer weather right about now, combine your loves of BBQ and soup with this hearty, comforting bowl of goodness!

STEPS 1. In 6-quart slow cooker, add chicken breast, onion, garlic, corn and white beans.

2. In large bowl, mix broth, barbecue sauce salt and pepper. Pour into slow cooker. Cover; cook on Low heat setting 6 hours.

3. Remove chicken breast from slow cooker, and shred using two forks.

Place back into slow cooker. Cover; cook 30 minutes.

4. Serve soup topped with shredded cheese.

Courtesy of bettycrocker.com

Beef stew is a staple as for as comfort foods go, especially during the winter months.

DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine beef, celery, carrots, red onion, potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic, parsley, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste in the crock pot.

I used a 6 qt. crockpot for this stew. Cook on LOW for 10 hours or on HIGH for 6-7 hours.

2. About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour and the water together in a small dish and pour into the crockpot.

Mix until well combined. This will add a nice thickness to the stew. Next add in your frozen peas and corn. Continue cooking covered for 30 minutes.

Courtesy of familyfreshmeals.com

20 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

SWIM TEAM NEWS

HAMMMERHEAD NEWS Admit it! You miss that summertime heat right about now! It’s not here yet, but winter’s almost over. Time to start thinking about summer…and the pool…and the Hammerheads!

We are hard at work getting ready for another great season of summer league swimming with your Hamilton Mill Hammerheads!

The season kicks off with our annual Back to the Pool Party at Bogan Aquatic Center on Friday April 13, from 6:30 – 8:30pm. Come out with all your friends signed up for or trying out for the swim team. All new swimmers will need to show that they can swim one length of the pool.

We’ll have the whole facility, including the lap swim pool with diving board, as well as the recreation pool with slide and lazy river.

Practice for the season will kick off the second Monday in May (the 14th).

Registration opens February 4 for returning families and February 10 for new or prospective families.

For registration, please go to: https://hamiltonmill.swimtopia.com For questions, please send email to hmsthammerheads@gmail.com.

See you at the pool!

GO HAMMERHEADS!!

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 21

TENNIS NEWS

FEBRUARY TENNIS UPDATE from Jeff Dudacek, Director of Tennis

Welcome to February–the month that starts the ball rolling for the tennis season! Between the unpredictable weather, not playing (or not playing the right matches), and trying to play in coats and gloves... you get off your normal tennis schedule and things can get a little crazy. Bad habits can form and may eventually catch up with you... maybe not now, but it could surface when you need that shot during a match. This is a good time to fix your stroke with private or small group lessons before we get started in the spring season. Any questions? Email me at Jeff.milltennis@ gmail.com or the shop at hmill@bellsouth.net.

Pro Shop News February is also a demo month. The Hamilton Mill Pro Shop will carry the latest Head, Wilson and Babolat Rackets. The best way to try a racket is to demo it. Hamilton Mill residents can demo for 3 days for free. The pros at Hamilton Mill can fit you with the right racket because we know your game and no one can beat our pricing. That service cannot be matched by any other store. You might not need a new racket this season, but a restring for your old racket might be in store. Along with rackets, the latest line of Hamilton Mill attire will be available. All this is a win-win for Hamilton Mill.

HAMILTON MILL SPRING ADULT ALTA CAMP

It’s time to get ready for Spring 2017 Alta!

Come join us for 1½ hours of live ball drills followed by an hour of round-robin play to help you get back into top form.

Groups will be set by ability and teams will stay together!

9:30-12:00 Thursday, March 1st 9:30-12:00 Friday, March 2nd 9:30-12:00 Saturday, March 3rd *rain dates 3/8, 3/9, 3/10 Cost is $20 per session.

Reserve your spot through the shop at milltennis@bellsouth.net or (770)-945-6452. No walk-ins.

Toys for Tots and the South East Gwinnett Co-Op Round Robin & Food Drive The ladies braved the below 30-degree temperatures back in December to participate in the Toys for Tots tennis round-robin. Players showed up through the week and that morning bringing in food and toys for donation. I want to thank Hamilton Mill for showing what the real meaning of the Christmas season is.

LADIES DOUBLES TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Friday, February 23rd, 2018 Ladies find your partner! Get ready for a one-day tennis tournament! If you can’t find a partner we will help you find one for the event.

Who: Open to all levels. The tournament will be divided into two levels high and low, limited to 32 players.

Format: 8 teams per division. A compass draw (win or lose you will always advance) will be used for the draw.

Lunch: Lunch will be served at the courts after the event. (BYOB) Time: Play will start at 9:15. (Four rounds, lunch, and close around 1:30.)

Cost: $40.00 per team Deadline February 9th at noon.

Reserve your spot by sending an email at milltennis@bellsouth.net or call (770)945-6452 for more information.

22 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

TENNIS TIPS

TENNIS TIPS 10 Tips to Win Your Next Tennis Match Winning is an art that takes drive, positive attitude, and a little luck.

Sometimes you know how you win and sometimes you don’t know how you won. Take these tips and use them for your tennis game. They will put you and your partner in a position to win the game. Remember you will still have to finish the match.

1. Pay Attention to Your Opponent’s “Current” Style of Play A player, who wants to win, won’t stick to a losing game for long. Adjusting your strategy to defend your opponent’s style.

2. Stick with What Works Don’t stop attacking the weaknesses until they have proven repeatedly that they have solved the problem.

3. Watch How Your Opponent Moves Pay attention to the opponent’s movement and spacing likes and dislikes. Some opponents are terrific from the baseline but the net is foreign to them.

4. Pay Attention to Patterns of Play If a certain serve pattern of yours works like a charm, revisit it on game points. If the opponent’s killing you with a certain pattern, expect it on big points and shut it down early.

5. Watch for Negative Emotional Cues Remember, not all forms of communication are verbal. Watch between points for the opponent’s negative facial expressions and body language as well. Whatever caused the negative reaction, plan on repeating it often.

6. Think Like a Baseball Pitcher Yes, you are hitting a ball but your stroke is their incoming pitch. Are you throwing the same 67 mph fastball, 2 feet over the net directly into their wheelhouse over and over again? And then walking away from the match saying, “They were too good! I had no chance!” The reality is you made them look good.

7. Use Your Changeover Wisely Use the allocated 90 seconds to design or modify the next two game’s plan of attack. Come on and off the court with your partner. Stay hydrated because you are not sure how long the next two games will take.

8. Stay Composed Athletes who train correctly perform with a sense of elite composure.

They remain poised even when things aren’t going well. Often in tennis, the player who simply loses their cool often loses the close matches.

The art of winning requires being unflappable under stress and this skill is earned through proper training.

9. The 3 Second Rule After you win or lose the point you have 3 seconds to celebrate or get mad. After that, you focus on the next point.

10. The Last Point While playing a match, it can feel as if you are on a roller coaster ride.

You can be up and lose and behind and come back. It doesn’t matter what the score is in the match. Never stop trying to win the match until the last point has been played.

See ya on the courts!

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 23

COMMUNITY NEWS

Relationships

Thrive with Love Eagle Ranch believes that children thrive when family members are actively working to improve communication and relationships. At the root of these relationships is a driving factor—unconditional love.

Through our integrated approach to home life, education, counseling and spiritual guidance, we help children and their families heal and rediscover what it means to love one another within the struggle they are facing.

E a g l E R a n c h . o R g 24 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

Our Heart is in Northeast Georgia

Georgia’s #1 Heart Hospital, 12 Years and Counting

Request an appointment with a cardiologist at one of The Heart Center’s three Greater Braselton locations by calling 770-534-2020 or by visiting heartngmc.org/appointment.

Braselton 1404 River Place Suite 101

Buford 4445 S. Lee St. Suite 300

Hamilton Mill 3575 Braselton Hwy.

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 25

HAMILTON MILL GUEST COLUMN

INSIDE, OUTSIDE, AND INBETWEEN DIY tips to keep your home, and its value, up to date.

By Amy Wolfe, Broker for Elizabeth Street Realty/Owners Choice As our homes age, we see new trends come and go every day in the media. While we can’t change our homes as often as the trends happen, it is important to keep the condition, as well as the style, of our homes up to date. The useful life and value of our homes are both raised with good seasonal maintenance, and time-to-time style updates, that don’t have to cost a ton. There are many cost-effective DIY items you can do to help your home stay current.

While trends are tough to keep up with, there are some that stick around, and become a part of the look and feel that buyers expect to see in a home they purchase. Our advice is to incorporate some of the long-lasting trends into the “base envelope” of your home (walls, floors, fixtures), and keep the personal patterns and bolder looks to your décor, so that they are removable.

Equally important for value is maintenance. Maintenance doesn’t have to be arduous. Simple regular maintenance items, that are cost and time effective, can help your home from having costly replacements later. And, it shows. It is easy to see the results of a well-kept home vs one with what the industry calls “deferred maintenance”.

While you can do all sorts of changes to your home, “Value Adders” are the best place to focus and make updates, if you are keeping it simple.

Value Adders affect the “base envelope” of your home, which are items that affixed to the home and stay.

2018 Color of the year: Sherwin Williams color of the year is “OCEANSIDE SW 6496”. This is a dark, rich, blue-green color. Having said that, being “in” with the super trendy crowd is not always the best option for base envelope items. Use it in décor instead. Keep it changeable.

FIXTURES: The biggest tell-tale of the age of your home are the fixtures installed for lighting and plumbing. These can also be the costliest to update, because of the number of them in your home, and the price of each new piece. So, how do you update fixtures without breaking the bank? There are many DIY projects you can find on YouTube and other home improvement sites, too many to talk about here. We love the “idea” of refinishing your fake brass tone fixtures, like lights, knobs and faucets, to an oil rubbed bronze look.

ACCENT WALLS: Everyone loves an accent wall, as a way to pop a room into style. We’ve seen it done, most notably, in dining rooms. This year, consider doing accent walls in rooms like bedrooms and even kitchens. The use of materials like wood trim, brick, concrete, tile, fabric, wall paper and other things are where the trend is heading, instead of just painting the wall.

Full Wall Accent Trends: • Bedrooms – most added room • Millwork – aka wood trim – most used material INSIDE DIY Value Adders: • Interior Knobs – from brass look to oil rubbed bronze

INSIDE

The “Inside” of your home is where trends and maintenance live and breathe. Set aside four times a year (each season) to DIY regular maintenance items, and you may help avoid costly repair items later.

2018 COLORS TRENDS Warm rich greys with earthy accent colors will replace the cooler neutrals as your base envelope colors for the 2018 trends.

• Light Fixtures – warm matt bronze or black colors, solid or brushed look • Cabinet knobs - Can DIY color changes, or find affordable replacements online • Sink Faucets – DIY with caution – may want to find affordable replacements

• Warm Greys • Rich Earthy Shaded: Camel, rust, Tobacco, Brown-Blacks • Matte Blacks • Warm woods • Vibrant Floral Patterns or popping colors for accent décor items

26 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

HAMILTON MILL GUEST COLUMN • Fireplace Frame, brass to black: “How to Update Fireplace Brass” - https://youtu.be/B2V8j9j6Dfg • Trim Accent Wall: “DIY Wainscoting for Half the Cost” https://youtu.be/RpIpBe5wHFc

OUTSIDE

The first impression of your home is the outside. It is an important statement of your style, and is often overlooked when updating or maintaining your home and property. While trends are slower for landscaping, and exterior finishes are not an easy or economical update, there are small DIY projects that will help your yard and home stay fresh.

THE FRONT DOOR: This is the most visible item on the exterior of your home. It is the focal point of your whole property from the curb, and hey, it was meant to be.

While you can’t change the door itself without costing a good penny, you can update it with a fresh coat of paint or stain, and even make a style statement with a color change.

• Add trim molding – anywhere and everywhere it makes since, like picture mold and enamel paint for wainscoting look in hall and stairways. A fun place, that is elegant and noticeable, is adding header caps over doorways.

SEE MORE DIY Tips & Projects to consider at our blog: http://ownerschoicerealty. org/ARTICLES

BACKSPLASH RULES: One of the most often DYI accomplished game changers in your kitchen is the backsplash. Remember that this is a “base envelope” item that will remain when you sell your home. So, while you may want to go crazy with colors and patterns after seeing all the available options, think of the resale factor.

DIY YouTube Video Picks:

OUTSIDE DIY Value Adders: • Redo your front door and entry. This is the first impression to your home, near and far.

• Reshape plant beds. Add some curves for a more contemporary feel.

• Remove overly mature and/or overgrown areas with younger plantings.

• Increase your seating area out back with easy combo lawn/paver designs.

• Door Knobs: “How to Refinish Brass Hardware Yourself” - https://youtu. be/mHS3_60Ii94 • Foyer Light Fixture: “DIY Farmhouse Light/Fixer Upper Inspired” - https:// youtu.be/EdeQKIVENZg • Bath Light Fixture: “Awesome Rust-oleum spray paint transformation!” https://youtu.be/F0xrTq53zxg

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 27

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3674 Fence Road • Auburn, Georgia 30011 Located less than 5 miles from Hamilton Mill and I-85

Phone 770-277-3950 • hg.countryside3674@gmail.com www.daculamontessorischool.com

HAMILTON MILL GUEST COLUMN OUTSIDE DIY YouTube Video Picks: • Lawn Edging Choices and Techniques: https://youtu.be/1zjEwLNbBS4 • Pavers over existing grass: https://youtu.be/GwaXo1GibA4 • Re-Stain Front Door: https://youtu.be/FEhcpYF7DRA

IN BETWEEN

Sometimes, it is the things we don’t think of on a daily basis that can matter. In Between items are items that are not just inside the walls of our home, but also Outside and Inside. These items can help with the overall impression and the upkeep of your home. Regular maintenance of In Between items can not only add value to your home and property, but help save you from costly repair or replacement items later.

IN BETWEEN DIY Value Adders: • Curb Appeal: Yes, we, actually, mean your curb at the street. Clean concrete with a mixture of ½ and ½ water and bleach in an empty 2 gallon sprayer, and leave it to dry. But, don’t stop at cleaning.

Consider patching and fixing cracked or chipped curbing. Nothing says “old house”, like a dirty, chipped up curb out front.

• HVAC Outside Condensers: Clean your outside condenser units (watch many YouTube videos for proper care), and reposition them, if needed, to be level. Remove overgrowth of plantings around them for better performance. When you go to sell your home, wellmaintained HVAC systems say a lot about how you have cared for your home, overall.

• High Tech Automation items that show via wall mounted controllers or user interfaces. Examples “nest” HVAC T-Stats, exterior video cameras, and blue tooth entry locks.

• Change out old flip switches and outlets for newer style décor rocker style, or even smart home type units.

Other Trends for 2018 – some of these may be costly to accomplish.

But, these are “base envelope” items that will stick around for a while. If in doubt, lean towards contemporary for the most current styles. Google Images for “contemporary interior design ideas” to provide you with some inspiration.

• Hidden Range Hoods (slide out type) • Flat Panel Cabinet Doors (current contemporary lends to modern (1920’s-50’s) styles) • Vintage style lighting • Dedicated small storage spaces, like broom closets and spice racks, pull out drawers • Kitchen sinks in colors other than white or stainless: darker grays, bronze or matt black are popular • Partial glass panels for showers, instead of curtains or full sliding units • Dining room tables in kitchens

ENJOY YOUR DIY PROJECTS. Keep them fun, simple, and “base envelope” oriented to be “value adders”. And remember to always follow HOA guidelines for any work you do.

You can find the full article with many more DIY TIPS AND PROJECT IDEAS AT OUR BLOG SPOT: http://ownerschoicerealty.org/ARTICLES Email questions to amy@elizabethstreet.net

IN BETWEEN DIY YouTube Video Picks • Weather Stripping: https://youtu.be/PYOhxK0yauE • Change Switches and Outlets: https://youtu.be/imia1J7a8No • Favorite Deck Paint Products: https://youtu.be/Q9xEMbly_JE • Unclog your AC Drip Line/HVAC Condensation line: https://youtu.be/y_ G0G-Qke1M

February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 29

EVENTS AROUND TOWN

Community News AURORA GALA

Friday, February 9

Aurora’s gala includes a unique evening of live performances that you will not want to miss! The stars come out to support Aurora Theatre and showcase the talent that makes our theatre what it is. The evening will also feature dinner, a silent auction, and the announcement of Season 23!

We will award the Barbara Award and the Cindy Sutt Volunteer of the Year Award for service to Aurora and our community.

New this year: your ticket includes a sit-down dinner before the live entertainment begins. Purchase a ticket or a whole table for you and your guests! Festive Attire. www.auroratheatre.com

WORLD THINKING DAY

Saturday, February 24 | 11am

In partnership with local Girl Scouts from the Apalachee Service Unit, the Gwinnett Environmental Heritage Center is proud to host the annual World Thinking Day. The event highlights international friendships and celebrates people and cultures from around the globe. http://www.gwinnettehc.org

21ST NORTH ATLANTA HOME SHOW & OUTDOOR LIVING EXPO

Friday, February 9 at 12pm, Saturday, February 10 at 10am, Sunday, February 11 at 12pm Could your home use a little TLC? Remodel, Repair, Refresh at the 20th Annual North Atlanta Home Show! More than 150 companies will be displaying the latest in home improvement products and services. Many of these companies will be offering special show pricing! Foundation to roofing and everything in between. Save time, save money and get inspired! For more show information visit www.AtlantaHomeShow.com. Tickets available at the door.

SUWANEE SWEETHEART SPRINT

Saturday, February 10 | 10am

Start your Valentine’s week with the Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint! Grab your special someone and register as a team. There will be a costume contest, so wear your best Valentine’s attire. Age group awards make this the perfect family event!

Early packet pickup is from 5-7 pm on 2/9 at Big Peach Running in Suwanee Town Center. Race day registration begins at 9 am. 5K will begin at 10 am. runsignup.com/Race/GA/Suwanee/SSS KIDSIGNMENTS SALE

Tuesday, February - Saturday, February 17

Kidsignments is a semi-annual consignment sale held at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville, Georgia. As one of the nation’s largest consignment events with over 1,500 sellers, Kidsignments is proud to offer high-quality, gently used items for infants, children, and teens. Shoppers line up hours before this great event toting laundry baskets, wagons, and even wheeled garbage cans (new of course...) to shop the endless bargains! For most shoppers it is a tradition… why not bring your friends and make a day of it? You will not want to miss out! Come see why this event was voted twice “Best Place to Buy Children’s Clothing” by Gwinnett Magazine and listed as one of the “101 Things to do in Georgia!” www.kidsignments.com GREENWOOD CULTURE FEST

Saturday, February 17 | 10am

Bring the whole family for a day filled with food and fun!

Visit with local businesses while we honor the past and celebrate the future during Black History Month. Vendor spaces available, register by phone or online with code LSP11404. http://www.gwinnettparks.com

30 | HOMETOWN HERALD | February 2018

February

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February 2018 | HOMETOWN HERALD | 31