Artist Profile: Deborah Rossi Fine Stoneware, Porcelain & Earthenware By Heike Hellmann-Brown When designing her ceramics, artist Deborah Rossi approaches the task not only from a functional but more so from an esthetic point of view. What characterizes my work is the elegance in form and proportion, Rossi, who often incorporates surface texture such as imprints, raised reliefs, medallions or animal shapes into her sophisticated designs, explains. My goal is to make everyday items as close to a piece of art as possible. The Ohio native had initially eyed a career in fashion design and lived in New York City for a few years to follow her dream, but later settled in North Georgia with her husband and three kids. Here she started her own fashion design studio, offering high-end daywear from French and Italian fabrics. During this time she had also been creative in other areas; she played piano, took up oil painting and sculpting and used fiber as a medium, but when she discovered pottery, she never looked back. Working with clay is the most organic of what you can do with your hands, Rossi, who has a strong appreciation for traditional Greek and Korean pottery, says. A beautiful proportioned shape of a piece from 2,000 B.C. can serve as an inspiration for my designs. Rossis products range from baking dishes to dinnerware, childrens cups and bowls, oil bottles, berry bowls and mortars and pestles. They are all set up for everyday use and safe for the oven, microwave and dishwasher. While most of her pieces are one-of-a-kind, Rossi recently developed a contemporary series in brown and red tones and a white colored farmhouse series. Reaching a temperature of up to 2380 F, Rossis high-firing gas kiln produces more vitreous and durable ceramic works than electric kilns. The higher temperature also generates surface effects such as speckles and inadvertently led to the development of Rossis signature glaze, an appealing apricot color. In my never-ending search for beautiful glazes I was aiming for a yellow, Rossi states. Instead it produced this gorgeous pale orange that turns green when it flows over a textured surface and even creates a black outlining. Very few glazes have such a variety. More than anything Rossi loves the design aspect of her work. I wake up every morning and cant wait to enter my studio. I find such satisfaction in the design process. The more I create, the more ideas I have I cant design fast enough! she says and emphasizes that the elegance of her creations sets her apart. It took me a long time to develop my own style. And while I am at a point now where I know who I am as an artist and what appeals to me, I am still constantly learning new things. Yet I focus on my goal to be commercially viable. Ultimately I would like to design for a ceramics manufacturer and hopefully see my own line of ceramic products in a department store some day. DRossiCeramics.com
Book Review: Jan Karon Mitford Cookbook & Kitchen Reader By Catherine Groves Have you visited Mitford? Have you listened to Father Tim expound on Wordsworth? Perhaps youve laughed at one of Uncle Billys jokes or cried when (at the age of 60) Father Tim falls in love with Cynthia, his next door neighbor. Maybe, as I did, you found yourself praying that Dooley would go from being a lost child to a very much loved young man in the home of Father Tim. And then Puny; she gives a new meaning to the word Father for this Episcopalian bachelor. Yes, these characters may be the fictional work of Jan Karon, author of At Home in Mitford and seven other books in the series, The Mitford Years, all of which were bestsellers. To her huge following of readers, these characters become so very real. Based in a southern town in North Carolina, Karon gives such personality to her characters that it seems quite likely they could be that someone that is serving up breakfast at the local diner. In many scenes throughout the series, mouth-watering dishes are described in a way that one finds themselves wanting the recipe. From Father Tims meatloaf to Punys cornbread, and then theres Cynthias Heavenly Tea, and certainly the most coveted recipe of all; Esther Bolicks Orange Marmalade Cake. These recipes are available in Jan Karons Mitford Cookbook and Kitchen Reader! If you love the Mitford books, youre sure to love this cookbook and reader. If youve not yet met Karons memorable characters, find her first Mitford novel, At Home in Mitford, and get ready to meet some endearing people youll call friends for life! Jan Karons Mitford Cookbook and Kitchen Reader can be purchased at most major retail book stores and on Amazon.
Lyndon Academy In the spring of 2014, Tina Clark walked through the doors of Lyndon Academy for a tour with her son, Cody. As she entered the middle school wing, Mrs. Clark paused at about the half way point and turned to Peter Murdock, the schools financial officer to ask, Is this it? Lyndon is small in comparison to public school facilities, so Mr. Murdock immediately began to address her question by describing the planned expansion in the future. However, he halted his explanation when he realized that her question was one that was filled with enthusiasm as she exclaimed, This is awesome! Student-to-teacher ratios that hover around ten or twelve to one and sometimes less, were key in Mrs. Clarks decision when applying to Lyndon Academy. The Clarks had moved to the Canton area from the Northridge School District near Columbus, Ohio prior to Cody entering sixth grade in 2012. They chose the area due to the public school ratings, but were not prepared for such a jump in class sizes. During this two year time frame, Mrs. Clark watched her sons love of learning slowly dwindle away. She felt like her son had fallen through the cracks by sitting in the background of more crowded classrooms. While Mrs. Clark was fearful of her sons ability to succeed at Lyndon Academy due to the advanced curriculum and heavy emphasis on the foreign languages, she wanted more than anything for her son to be happy and enjoy school again. Following Codys acceptance, she opted to transfer her son into Lyndons eighth grade. In less than two months, he regained confidence and took on a new found sense of responsibility. He manages everything himself. I never have to check up on him, explained Mrs. Clark. Cody has taken on a rigorous academic load at Lyndon in eighth grade while studying Physical Science, Mandarin and Spanish, which are all high school level courses. Cody is now more focused than ever before. While he was also nervous about the curriculum challenges at Lyndon in the beginning, he has thrived. By the third quarter, Cody made the Honor Roll, which factors in his accomplishments in all core subjects including the foreign languages. Mrs. Clark proudly stated, Seeing Codys face on the day he made Honor Roll was amazing. Cody largely credits his teachers for helping him reach his academic potential and reigniting a passion for learning. He said, The teachers at Lyndon care. They provide individual attention and take time to make sure you understand. They explain what you are going to learn and why. He also credited the environment and sited the uniform policy as a contributing factor. There are no distractions, he explained. Cody is also surrounded by students who, on average, score at the 90th percentile on nationally standardized exams. Concurrently, over 70% of the middle school population is eligible for the Duke TIP program. Codys transfer experience is not necessarily unique. Lyndon accepted numerous transfer students into their middle school program for the 2014-15 scholastic year. Whether they were student athletes, young scientists, musicians, actors, or just students in discovery, they were all embraced in the same manner. These students will continue to succeed as they complete middle school and enter Lyndons high school program. The kids love coming to school now, and they didnt before, said Mrs. Johnston, the parent of both a middle school and junior kindergarten student. Molly, Amy Johnstons oldest daughter, now a rising seventh grader at Lyndon has matured so much, said Amy. Molly has embraced the sciences and rather enjoys competing on the Science Olympiad Team. Molly also gained a tremendous amount of confidence, and like Cody, loves Mandarin class. Lisa Bobo, another middle school transfer parent, is ecstatic that her daughter has also shown great growth and maturity as a sixth grade transfer. Lauren Bobo was recently named Distinguished Delegate at the Model UN Conference at The Ron Clark Academy. This year she took to the stage with a lead role in the middle school drama production of Little Women, and by the second quarter she received recognition for her academic achievements by being listed on the High Honor Roll. Lauren said, Its hard work, but if you are willing to put forth the effort, its worth it. She credits her teachers for the special attention that they have given her. The transfer has been enlightening for new parents as well. Mrs. Clark, Mrs. Bobo and Mrs. Johnston enjoy seeing their children have such positive educational experiences, and all three are thrilled with the college prep program at Lyndon. When Mrs. Johnston was asked for her three leading reasons why she enrolled her girls, she responded, The benefits of multilingual education, having my girls surrounded by Duke TIP students and the accelerated learning environment sold me. After enrolling, she further learned about the benefits of the Lyndon Academy College Preparatory Program. I was excited to learn that elite private collegiate institutions are not out of reach for my daughters. In fact, they could cost less than state run institutions attending an Ivy League school could cost less than UGA, said Mrs. Johnston. Doors have opened up for these children that would have otherwise been out of reach. Private school students have the same access to financial aid such as the Hope Scholarship and in-state school benefits as public school students. However, the doors open much wider to other opportunities due in part to the specialized education they receive and the additional financial aid available solely to privately educated individuals. Students can have the world at their fingertips after experiencing what the private independent school sector has to offer. To learn more about what the future can hold for your child by attending a private college preparatory school, Lyndon Academy invites you to attend a College Prep Workshop. Workshops are open to the public, and you may contact Lyndon directly to reserve your seat at the next workshop. Lyndon AcademyThe Future Is Our Priority485 Toonigh RoadWoodstock, GA 30188770-926-0166LyndonAcademy.org
Artist Profile: Sharon Crumley Fabric and Paper Collages By Heike Hellmann-Brown Interhuman connections are the lead motive of Sharon Crumleys work. Fabric or paper in artfully arranged pieces or woven strips, single or multi-layered, are my symbolism for the ties that bind us, the artist explains. Born and raised in Southern California, Crumley had been exposed to textiles as a child, sewing doll clothes with the help of her mom. Later she took up crocheting and sold her handmade hats and scarves to a small boutique in town. After graduating from school she worked in cosmetology for many years and then became a software trainer, training courthouse staff and law enforcement agencies in computer technology. In 1992 her husbands job transfer brought her to Georgia, and the family settled in Roswell with their three kids. Sharon Crumley returned to a corporate career with IBM, but lost her job with the downturn of the economy, when her work was outsourced. I went back to sewing, but this time not clothes. Something more immediate was necessary to provide an income. After cutting fabric in squares and random pieces, laying them out and sewing them together, the result was very pleasing the idea to create fabric collages was born! Crumley recalls. She entered her first piece into a show at the Defoor Center, and when she came to the reception to see how it was displayed it had sold already. Encouraged she began to experiment with the medium and transitioned from fabric collage to woven paper that she colors herself in free-form abstract patterns. Paper is readily available, and I can create my own patterns while fabric already has patterns. Yet I am still able to reinforce the textural nature through the rough edges of the medium, Crumley says. Her mixed media artwork became increasingly purposeful when Crumley remembered a book she had read with her mom as a child. The book was 100 Dresses by Eleanor Estes, Crumley states. The story is about a child that was bullied in the 1940s for wearing the same dress to school every day. With that memory the 100 Dresses Series was started. It has taken many years to complete and is now also including note cards and prints. Apart from this 100 Dresses Series Crumley creates Kimono-collages and African Tutu-collages. Especially my African Art is another expression of who I am, the artist says. Playing with fabric one afternoon inspired Crumleys popular fortune cookies mixed media collages with inspirational messages that she places in shadowbox frames. We all have days when we need to be motivated, Crumley states. These fortune cookies can be a reflection upon life, maybe a need to take action, they can instill a new way of thinking or serve as a gentle reminder to be kind. While Sharon Crumleys work has been featured in various galleries and exhibitions, she is still displaying regularly at local artist markets. www.SharonCrumleyStudios.com
Chicken Salad Chick Made Fresh Every Day! Kathleen Boemig In 2007, Stacy Evans of Auburn, Alabama, began making her unique chicken salad in her own kitchen for friends and family. Her fan base grew fast, and soon she was selling 20 pounds of chicken salad per day. Her friend and advisor now Stacys husband Kevin Brown stepped in to help, and several months later, the first Chicken Salad Chick restaurant opened on January 7, 2008. We invested our entire savings into this idea, so we didnt even have enough to pay a general contractor to open our little takeout spot. We did all the work ourselves. The idea was obviously a recipe for success. Nations Restaurant News listed Chicken Salad Chick as one of the ten Breakout Brands for 2015, Paula Deen listed it as one of the Top Ten chicken salads to try, and QSR (Quick-Service and Fast Casual Restaurant News Magazine) listed it in Ones To Watch. As of May 2015, there are 32 Chicken Salad Chick restaurants throughout the Southeast. Seven locations are corporate owned; the remaining 25 are franchises. Stacy says they will have 60 stores by the end of this year, and 100 by the end of 2016. Stacy adds, This whole experience has been so rewarding. We are providing opportunities for people who work with us, from team members to franchise owners, to new partners, and even guests. Whether our story has inspired someone to start a new adventure with a small business, or to step away from corporate America to run a Chicken Salad Chick of their own, being able to impact other lives in a positive way through our restaurants has just been unbelievable! Melanie Pohill, of the Roswell location continues, We wanted to offer a unique dine-in experience, in addition to by-the-pound carryout and catering. Chicken Salad Chick is unusual, not your typical grab-and-go: its spotless signature white and green striped interiors and exceptionally friendly servers provide a clean, warm, cheerful ambience. The freshness of the ingredients is outstanding. Our produce is locally sourced, Melanie says. We spend a lot of time preparing it by hand grating, peeling, and going the extra mile to ensure the most fresh, delicious food around. Each restaurant makes between 180 and 500 pounds of chicken salad per day. Thats a lot of chicken! There are fifteen flavors of chicken salad, including the Classic Carol, Buffalo Barclay, Cranberry Kelli and Sassy Scotty, plus fresh fruit, deli sandwiches, soup, pimiento cheese, and outstanding broccoli, grape and pasta salads and cookies. All of the chicken salad choices, pimiento cheese and homemade sides are available by the pound as a Quick Chick grab and go. In addition, Chicken Salad Chick offers a wide variety of catering options, from boxed lunches to party platters. They offer a free CravingCredits Loyalty Program, and give away a free lunch every month. Online ordering will be available soon. Melanie says with a smile, It has been an absolute joy to watch guests go crazy for our chicken salad, then bring their friends to the restaurant and see them do the same thing. She adds, Our chicken salad is delicious and addicting, and the atmosphere of our restaurants is guest-centered. Our mission at Chicken Salad Chick is to offer every guest, on every visit, a superb experience that creates a lasting memory. By offering a fresh, delicious meal in a warm and friendly environment, we hope to share the Chicken Salad experience across Atlanta. The group is looking at other properties in metro Atlanta, Augusta and Athens, and hopes to expand further into these areas soon. And its not just about chicken salad. The Roswell, Alpharetta and Kennesaw locations have all partnered with Action Ministries, whose mission is to mobilize communities to address the challenges of poverty by focusing on hunger relief, housing, and education. So what makes it all worthwhile? Melanie says, Some of our most meaningful experiences have been due to our wonderful employees. At all of our locations, they are truly members of our family. We value their commitment to us and to the brand we are trying to grow. Their struggles become our struggles, and their triumphs become our triumphs. Stacy Browns vision of service and fresh, delicious food is flourishing, without a doubt. Melanie and the rest of her team are wholly on board with providing a friendly, wholesome dining experience to every guest. . . every time they visit. Chicken Salad Chick Roswell1105 Woodstock Road770-998-0621 Chicken Salad Chick Alpharetta970 Northpoint Drive770-667-5459 Chicken Salad Chick Kennesaw425 Ernest W Barrett Parkway NW678-290-0173 Chicken Salad Chick Marietta4101 Roswell Road770-565-3985 ChickenSaladChick.com
Artist Profile: David and Julie Boone Wildcat on a Wing By Heike Hellmann-Brown Birdhouses according to the specifications of the National Audubon Society are the specialty of woodworker David Boone. In 30 years I have sold over 55,000 birdhouses, Boone states proudly. Many of my customers are not even aware that each species requires housing that matches its natural habitat. Floor size, depth, diameter and above floor height of the hole and the birdhouses height above the ground are important to ensure the safety of the nesting bird. Boone, a native Atlantan, became fascinated with birdhouses as a Cub Scout. The fact that I could manipulate a natural product like wood, construct something with my hands and a bird would find a home in it was just amazing. Boone attended an art school in Atlanta and later took a job with a fine art publisher in Cherokee County, where he met Julie, who worked at the same company as a graphic designer. After they got married the Boones decided to start out on their own. They offered handmade paper and printmaking services to artists and began attending arts and craft shows to attract more business. During that time David Boone remembered his passion for birdhouses and began working on his own designs. I learned about the science behind birdhouses and began adding elements such as copper and glass, Boone explains. While participating in nationwide art festivals with their birdhouses the Boones met artists from all across the country who created unique merchandise just like they did. An idea was born: In 1999 the Boones acquired 24 acres in Ball Ground and opened Wildcat on a Wing, a gallery that sells the work from up to 150 different artisans from 38 states. We felt we were starting the gallery on a wing and a prayer, Julie jokes. Now in its 16th year, the gallery is thriving. Julie Boone runs the daily operations, while her husband can be found in his woodworking shop on the property or at various art festivals. And they are embarking on their next adventure a vineyard. We have such an array of bird species on our property, David Boone says, so Julie and I decided to clear the land and grow grapes that would make good wine and at the same time attract different bird varieties. While the Boones admit that this endeavor was a long and labor-intensive process, they are hoping to open Feathered Edge Vineyard by summer. We want customers to enjoy art and good wine in a beautiful setting, Julie says. I cant wait for people to come to our gallery/winery, enjoy a glass of wine, walk my vineyard and see my birds. It is so rewarding if someone appreciates what we have created and are passionate about, David adds, I am the dreamer, who gets the ball rolling, but Julie is the one who makes it all happen! www.wildcatonawing.com
Artist Profile: Kathleen Craft Boehmig A Perennial Student By Heike Hellmann-Brown I dont feel fully alive unless I am creative in any way be it through painting, clay works, jewelry design, mosaic, papier-mch, writing or any other creative outlet, states artist and writer Kathleen Craft Boehmig. Life is not long enough for all the techniques I want to explore. Boehmig, an Atlanta native, started her artistic endeavor, As soon as I was able to hold a pen in my chubby hands, she says. As a 6th grader she published her own newspaper and was sure that one day she would be a writer or an illustrator. Later she studied linguistics and psychology and worked in the travel industry as a tour operator. Her appreciation for world languages opened her eyes for other cultures. I was raised Christian, but I embrace Buddhism, Boehmig elaborates. I firmly believe that our level of happiness depends on how creative we are in every area of life. Thats why I am extremely inspired by ordinary people who show beautiful spirit in spite of unfortunate circumstances. Most successful people had pain and growth in their past, yet they draw strength from it and move forward. Art and writing are Kathleen Craft Boehmigs way to make her voice heard. On a personal level, creativity can be a catharsis; on a public level, it can be impactful. Her quest to inspire and empower others with her art and her writing stems from a fear of failure that she shares with many aspiring artists. Instead of telling our kids to go as far as they want and to conquer the world, we try to protect them from failure. It took me almost half a century to learn that fear, not hate, is the opposite of love. Fear stops us from creating! Now that I overcame those restrictions, its my passion to help people see their own worth, and thus make the world a better place. Most of Boehmigs pieces convey a story. As a writer she prefers a 1,000 to 2,000 word memoir style, while as an artist she focuses on uniqueness in her particular artwork. My all-time favorite is a clay figure called A Reptile Dysfunction that depicts an alligator on a psychiatrists couch for his fear of chickens, Boehmig states. She still takes art classes and visits an artist retreat in North Carolina twice a year to honor her creative side. I was 48 years old when I submitted my first piece of writing, and it took me a long time to work up self-esteem and murder the editor on my shoulder. I am not quite there with my art, yet, though every sale is a validation for me. Boehmig has served as a board member of the Atlanta Writers Club, she appeared on the Writers Radio Show, and taught at the Blue Ridge Writers Conference and at the Spruill Center for the Arts. Her pieces have appeared in local magazines and publications such as Chicken Soup for the Grandmas Soul. www.MySparrowsSong.com
Book Review: James Herriot A True Lover of all Animals By Catherine Groves On October 3, 1916, James Alfred Wight was born in Sunderland, England. The world now knows him as James Herriot, as he became one of the worlds most beloved writers of all time. Having been a veterinarian his entire adult life, Herriot, at the age of 50, began writing and in 1969 published his first book. Sales were slow until he became published in America; the first book was called All Creatures Great and Small. He followed this with All Things Bright and Beautiful, All Things Wise and Wonderful, The Lord God Made Them All, and Every Living Thing, which he finished shortly before his death in 1995. All of his books were bestsellers. Herriots books portray his life as a Yorkshire county vet during a time when times were tough, horses were used to farm, and penicillin was not yet discovered. The reader will fall in love with not only James and his furry patients, but also with the two brothers with whom he worked closely his entire life. Siegfred, his somewhat eccentric partner, and Tristan, the dare devil with hilarious charm, enrich the already compelling stories. Although the books have been in print for decades, they are ageless. Herriots wholesome yet poignant ability to share stories based on truth will move the reader to tears and within the same paragraph bring laughter. The books take us through the journey of Herriots life as he begins practicing in rural England, to his falling in love, going to war, and having kids. He brings the farmers, the farm animals, and the pets to life in a way that makes one understand, even with his literary success; how he stood by he was first and foremost a veterinarian. These books are a must read for animal lovers and for those whom lives have already been touched by Herriot in the past, they are the perfect books to be reread, again and again.
Canton Termite & Pest Control By Meghan Griffin When Tim McWhirter Jr. of Canton Termite and Pest Control started his business, he pledged that hard work, dedicated service and respect for others would be his companys watchwords. As a lifetime Cherokee County resident, his reputation with his local area means a great deal to him. Tims family is well known in the Canton area. As many may recall, Reeves Florist serviced the county for many years before the death of Tims grandfather, John Reeves. If youve been around Cherokee County for a while, you might have hired Tim and Canton Termite and Pest Control under a different name. In fact, the company was originally called Systematic Service and Tim only recently made the decision to change the companys name. Canton Termite and Pest Control was originally run for 35 years by one of Tims inspirations, Mr. Winston Stringer of Cartersville. Tim worked for Mr. Stringer for many years and respected him greatly for never letting his disability stop him. In fact, Tim said that it truly made Mr. Stringer work harder. He never quit. Tim carried on the legacy of Canton Termite and Pest Control after Winston Stringer passed away. Another inspiration for Tim was the farm where he grew up; the McCurley Dairy Farm on Univeter Road. He credits both the farm and Mr. Stringer with his hard work ethic and strong moral compass. There wasnt a day that wasnt filled with hard work. It was a matter of pride to work hard and do well, Tim said. Both Mr. Stringer and the McCurley Farm also instilled in Tim a call of service. The farm put their people first. From family to customers to employees, everyone was valued and treated with respect. Testimonials from customers prove that this core value is put into action by Tim and, his service manager, William Botts, both professionally and personally. The company is frequently commended for their integrity and quality of service. As evidence, Tims company offers a 58 point Pest Analysis and no risk 100% money back guarantee. If you are not completely happy with Canton Termites work, they will make it right or you wont pay a penny! Tim also offers another service on his website where he writes pest control advice blog posts. If you have a question about pests, you might want to take a look at www.CantonTermite.com. Tim may have an answer for you there. When asked about local pest control concerns, Tim stressed the issue of termites here in the southeast. Did you know that, statistically speaking, termites will do far more damage to your home than fire? Canton Termite and Pest Control will help prevent termites or mitigate damage thats already been done. Canton Termite and Pest Control also handles wildlife control issues like squirrels, raccoons, and groundhogs. Tim and William are also happy to help local homeowners with that most annoying of all pests the mosquito. Call for a backyard treatment before planning your first summertime BBQ. Mosquitoes also are vectors (transmitters) of several viruses that can cause severe disease and even death in humans, including West Nile Virus and St. Louis Encephalitis. In addition to putting service first professionally, Tim and his wife, Robin, are active with First Baptist Church in Woodstock, where their daughter Bethany cheers with the Upward Program. The program focuses on building skills in sports and teaching Christian values that athletes will have for life. Tim and Robin have also served through AWANA, Boy Scouts, and by leading youth groups at church. Tim feels that in addition to his family, his biggest inspiration is his faith. He is guided by a passage from Proverbs 22:29. It reads, Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings and not before obscure men. The apple doesnt fall far from the tree when it comes to a tradition of community service. The McWhirters three sons, Joshua, Aaron and Adam are active with Boy Scout Troop 125, chartered by the Canton United Methodist Church. Tim is also heavily involved in the Scouts, and proudly guided his two oldest sons through the Eagle Scout rank. Joshua, who now attends North Georgia College, worked actively with the Bryan Center in Canton for his Eagle Scout project. He helped to create a beautiful courtyard for residents of the Center near what long time Cherokee County residents will recognize as the former home of Dr. Coker. Aaron, who attends Kings Academy with Adam and Bethany, partnered with TurnAround Ministries in Woodstock to build a play and storage area. TurnAround Ministries provides a home for displaced children and currently has 20 permanent residents under the age of 18. Tims Service Manager, William Botts shares this dedication to hard work and service. William, also a lifelong Cherokee County-ian, grew up in Holly Springs near the fire station. He married his high school sweetheart Mary Beth Daniel and for the next eight years continued to work in management. After witnessing the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the Botts family made the decision to serve as missionaries. With their three children; Dakota, Mason and Grace, they traveled all over the US and overseas to serve others. William, who is bilingual in Spanish, also attended school at Tennessee Temple University and completed his degree in Intercultural Studies. After returning to Cherokee County, William searched for a vocation that matched his and his familys values. He and Canton Termite and Pest Control were a perfect fit. William is also currently serving as interim student pastor at First Baptist Church Holly Springs. As we move into another summer, be sure to reach out to your hometown neighbors at Canton Termite and Pest Control for all of your pest control needs. 770-479-1598CantonTermite.comFree Consultation and Free 58 Point Pest Analysis100% Money Back Guarantee
Pro Roofing Painting, Gutters & Siding Professionalism, Realiability, Sincerity By Kathleen Craft Boehmig Juan founded the company in 2008 to serve the metro Atlanta area with an emphasis on PRS: Professionalism, Reliability and Sincerity. The companys success is evident via great reviews on Angies List as a Super Service Award winner, an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and glowing customer testimonials. In addition, PRS has been a Consumers Choice Award winner for Exterior Contractor of the Year for the last four years. Office Manager Tracey Arnold says, We are always pushing ourselves to be the best. To this end, PRS has garnered the GAF Master Elite Contractor status, granted to only 2% of Georgia roofing contractors. Tracey adds, We earned this certification based on our proficiency in quality installation, education, insurance requirements and consumer protection. To maintain our Master Elite status, we participate in annual continuing education programs through GAF (the largest shingle manufacturer in America). And of course we use this knowledge in every installation. The company is also a Certified Green Roofer (there are only three of these in Georgia), which makes Pro Roofing an environmental leader in the community. The primary materials the company recycles are asphalt shingles and metals from removed gutters. Green roofing practices give back to the environment, Kelvin Stembridge, Production Manager, explains. During the last two years we recycled 310 tons of materials which would have gone to landfills. Now they are being used for things like roadways, and lacrosse and football sports field surfaces. Juan adds, We are the number two shingle recycler in the state, and recognized by the US Green Council GA. PRS not only tends to the roof of your home. According to Kelvin, We want to be the leading exterior finishing company in metro Atlanta. We believe in combining our knowledge of fashion and function to provide quality roofing, gutters, insulation, skylights, windows, siding and exterior painting. We can make your home beautiful, with lasting quality, from the roof to the ground. Professionalism and attention to detail set PRS apart from other contractors. Tracey says, Replacing a roof isnt a task most homeowners look forward to. Sometimes they have had less than thrilling experiences with other contractors in the past. The difference with PRS begins with our impeccable reputation. Our website (www.MyProRoofing.com) provides a wealth of information regarding all of the products and services we offer. We provide an expectation of excellence to every customer. She continues, We are firm believers that the customers experience after the sale is very important. After installation, our project managers conduct a final walk-through to be certain everything has been completed to the customers satisfaction. We stand behind our warranties and conduct a formal follow-up each quarter for one year to make sure the customer has the opportunity to express any feedback they would like to share. Aside from residential business, Pro Roofing also services multi-family buildings, assisted living and retirement homes, and medical facilities, beyond the metro area. On the walls of the PRS offices, several Core Values and Mission statements are prominently displayed, emphasizing integrity, continuous improvement, excellence, safety and customer service. The office staff of fifteen all had input. Giving back to the community is a big core value for the company, Kelvin explains. We recently took part in a charity event benefitting a local family. We donated their roof replacement, and ABC Supply in Smyrna donated shingles and materials. We helped in yard cleanup, oversaw the demolition of an unsafe deck, and refurbished drywall and cabinetry. In their Roofs for Troops program, PRS is partnering with GAF to offer members of the military up to a $600 rebate off of Lifetime Roofing Systems, with an additional $500 off Lifetime Deluxe Warranties. PRS is also currently teaming up with five local charities to form a new online points-redemption referral program, where customers may redeem dollars earned for referrals to give back to the community. Juan Reyes is accomplishing his mission every day through integrity, skill and high quality at Pro Roofing and Siding. Its nice to know that when your installation is finished, not only have you improved your propertyyou have given back to the environment and to your community. Pro Roofing Painting, Gutters & Siding2558 Canton Road, Marietta, Georgia 30066770-777-1733www.MyProRoofing.com
R&D Mechanical Services Inc. The Heart of a Family By Meghan Griffin Business ownership can certainly have highs and lows, yet owning a business with your family can present its own unique set of challenges. When lifelong Georgians, Robbie and Dana Matiak, started R & D Mechanical Services in 2000, their goal was to build a company with rock solid values that would lead them to a successful future. That decision wasnt made without some trepidation as Robbie had just left a position with a larger company and had concerns about striking out on his own. However, he said that he felt called to do the work he is doing; fixing problems and serving people within and around his community. As R & D continued to grow through the early 2000s, Robbie and his family continued to build the business together. He brought his son and daughter, Heath and Ashleigh into the business in 2011 and the company relocated from Robbie and Danas home to their current office space in Holly Springs. While expanding their company, they also wanted to make sure that they were making the lives of their employees better. Every January, the team members meet to discuss the expectations, goals and focus for the year. Last year, the company made a decision to center efforts on further improving quality, both in the work that they perform and personally by being good examples to those they come in contact with. This years focus is on serving others. At the top of the priority list are the team members who make up R & D Mechanical Services. Heath noted, If we serve each other first, we will serve our customers even more so. The term team member was a very deliberate decision for the company; Robbie wants everyone at R & D to know that they are, Working with us and not for us. The focus on valuing family time is also conveyed by allowing the on-call service technicians to control their schedules when emergency calls are needed. If their son or daughter has an activity such as a sporting event scheduled or they are attending a church outing, technicians are encouraged to make it known and to ask other technicians to assist in the emergency service calls with our customers. As always with R & D, family is first priority. R & D also wants to make sure that everyone that works within their company understands that doing the right thing and treating other employees as they would like to be treated is intrinsic in their companys work ethic. They use these values as standards when hiring new team members. As Heath said, Our core values serve as a great litmus test when we are looking to expand. We can teach the skill set later, but they need to connect with our values first. Customers and future team members can learn more about the company by visiting R & Ds website, where the companys core values are proudly listed. Some key points include living and working with the highest sense of integrity and character, being themselves, whether in public or in private, and always doing as they have promised. R & D Mechanical Services currently operates at about a 70/30 split between commercial and residential work. They offer heating and cooling installation services, as well as preventative maintenance, upgrades and repair. For their customers, Robbie and Heath stress the importance of building a loyal customer base. The company strives to under-promise and over-deliver at all times. We strive to spend your money like it was our money. Robbie said. In addition to putting the focus on family and team members, Robbie and his crew are active in the community. Last year, R & D Mechanical was a sponsor for the Collins Dixon Bend Your Knees 5K in Canton and the Hero Run 5K for the Wounded Warrior Project in Kennesaw. This year they are sponsoring the Kennesaw Grand Prix Series. They also partner heavily with Alive Ministries and their Save It Forward program, which Dana Matiak is very involved. The Save It Forward program uses extreme couponing and partnering with the Atlanta Food Bank to provide food and toiletries to families in need. They work with local schools and counselors to identify and serve those families. R & D Mechanical believes wholeheartedly in the mission of this program and helps out monthly. Other organizations that they have partnered with include Next Steps Ministry in Woodstock, which assists special needs individuals in job skills development, and Cloud Walk Ministry in Alpharetta. However, the team members at R & D are most proud of quietly helping individuals in their community. Whether it is installing a new low or no-cost furnace or system for someone who was without heat during the winter or doing labor at cost to help families in need save money, R & D continues to show their actions speak louder than their words. During Thanksgiving 2014, Robbie sent out a letter to their customers and titled it Thanks-Giving. In the letter, he spoke of the history of the company and of his drive to start his own business. He reiterated their mission and the work that they do in the community. He also wrote about how the company and his family supports children in Haiti and how special it was to him and Dana, when they are able to spend time with the children during mission trips to Haiti. The letter spoke to many of his customers and Robbie shared the overwhelming responses. In Robbies mind, it proved his point that by putting family, team members, and his customers first; he has built a company not driven by profit, but by love and loyalty. As we transition into spring, if you need assistance with your HVAC system, consider calling R & D Mechanical Services and know that your money will be going to a company that goes above and beyond. R&D Mechanica Services Inc.3448 Holly Springs ParkwayCANTON770-917-1795 RandDMechanical.net AliveMinistriesInc.org
Traveling with Your Pets By Diane Castle, D.V.M. Taking a pet on a vacation or a trip can be a great adventure for you and your best friend. Preparation ahead of time can significantly improve both your experiences. The most important thing to consider is being honest about whether your pet will be comfortable with travel. Some pets may not be able to handle travel because of illness, injury, age or temperament. If your pet is not good with travel, you should consider a reliable pet-sitter or talk to your veterinarian about boarding facilities in your area. The most common way to travel with your pet is by car. If you dont often take your pet in the car, start with short trips to fun destinations (such as PetsMart or a park) to help your pet get used to riding in a car. If your pet gets car sick, talk to your veterinarian about suggestions or medications to keep them comfortable. To keep your pet safe and healthy while traveling by car: Make frequent stops (about every 2-3 hours) to allow your pet to go to the bathroom and get some exercise. Properly restrain your pet in the car to prevent injury to your pets, you and to other drivers. Pets should not be allowed to ride on the drivers lap or near the drivers feet for the same reasons you wear your seat belt. A crate or a specially designed pet harness that attaches to a seat belt are viable options for dogs. Cats should always be transported in carriers to prevent escape and/or injury. Traveling by air with your pet may be an option but be aware that pets over 15 pounds must travel in cargo. Most airlines do not allow pets to fly in cargo during the summer months because of the risk of overheating. Small pets can travel in the cabin, but most airlines limit the number on each flight so make sure you make a reservation for your pet well in advance. Most airlines also require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) issued within 10 days of travel. It is recommended that you do not give tranquilizers to your pet when traveling by air because it can increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems as well as make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature.If your pet is not used to traveling in a crate, leave the travel crate sitting open for a few days before your trip so they can get used to the smell and so they dont get nervous when its time to get into it. Feeding them in the carrier at home may lessen their anxiety about the carrier also. An important step that is often overlooked is that your pet may not be allowed where you are staying. Some accommodations allow pets and some will not, so be sure to check in advance. If you are staying with friends or family, be sure to inform your host that your pet will be coming along and make sure that your pet is a welcomed guest as well. If you are staying in a hotel call ahead to be sure pets are welcome. Some hotels only accept small pets or pets under a certain weight; so when making a reservation, make sure you inquire about the terms of their pet policy. Be aware that many do not allow you to leave a pet alone in the room. You will need to plan for a place for your pet if you go out to eat or tour someplace that does not allow pets. Leaving them in the car in hot weather is not an option since car temperatures rise quickly in the sun and can become deadly. Animals can travel out of the country with you but keep in mind that you have to follow both the United States regulations, as well as the regulations in the other country to which you are traveling. Traveling to many countries involves weeks to months of planning to satisfy specific requirements so start your inquiries early. The United States Department of Agriculture website and your veterinarian are good sources of information. Knowing the requirements before you travel helps you decide if you are going to take your pet or leave it at home, and prepares you for what to expect if you do take your pet with you. Traveling with your 4-legged family member can be a great experience but does require some preparation so that everyone can enjoy the trip. Dr. Diane Castle is a veterinarian with Union Hill Animal Hospital. 770-664-8380, UnionHillVet.com
Traveling with Pets By Michelle Kraft, DVM Its that time of year again! Time for spring break and summer vacation. Time for trips to the park, the mountains, the lake or the beach. Most pet owners love going out of town to relax and unwind but dread leaving their furry friends behind. Nowadays, it is relatively easy to travel with your pets, whether it is a short car ride or traveling across country via automobile or airplane. Dogs make perfect travel companions most of the time. Most dogs love to jump in the car on a nice day to go for a ride to the park. However, not all dogs are so enthusiastic in the beginning. Many dogs can get car sick or very anxious on rides, especially if this is a new experience for them. For those nervous dogs, it is important to not only take them on many car rides but also take them to places they enjoy, rather than just a trip to the veterinarian every time they get in the car. Usually with a few trips to the park, those nervous dogs are more than willing to go for a ride. If your dog tends to vomit due to motion sickness, there are some over the counter medications you can give after a discussion with your veterinarian. If those medications arent helping, stronger medications for sedation can be prescribed after an examination with your veterinarian to be sure they are safe to administer. Another thing to consider for your canine passenger is a safety belt that attaches to a harness. Not only will this keep your dog safer in an accident, but it will help prevent your dog from jumping all over the car and causing a collision. You can purchase these canine seat belts at your local pet store or online. Remember, it is never safe to ride with your dog on your lap, especially in the event that your airbag is deployed. Traveling with our feline friends may be a bit more challenging as they are not as accustomed to riding or flying and prefer to stay in their home. Since cats can stress out or panic easily in transit, it is highly advised that you purchase a secure cat carrier for them to ride in. Pet stores carry anything from plastic crates to zip up soft nylon carriers that resemble duffle bags. For long trips, anxious cats do well with a sedative that can be prescribed by your veterinarian after an examination. If you plan on traveling a long distance in the car with your feline companion, I would be sure to have a litter box on hand so you can let them use it occasionally when you take a break from driving. Many cats wont use the litter box due to nervousness. Other cats may vomit, urinate or have a bowel movement in their cat carrier. Therefore, it is probably a good idea to bring some paper towels, cleaning supplies and some fresh blankets in case this happens. If you are looking to travel with your pet on an airline, you must make sure the carrier is approved for airline travel. Even if the product is labeled airline approved, I would call your specific airline and be certain it is allowed. Also, different airlines require different dimensions if you are carrying your pet on with you. For instance, Air Tran requires smaller dimensions for a carry on carrier than Delta, so it can fit under the seats on that airline. Different airlines also have different weight restrictions if you want to bring your pet in the cabin with you. Most allow you to bring one pet on with you if the pet weighs less than 15 pounds in lieu of a carry on. Larger dogs must fly in cargo, unless you have a canine assistance dog. If you are shipping your pet in cargo, I would purchase the strongest and most secure kennel you can find. Fees range anywhere from $100 to carry on, up to $300 to ship in cargo one way. There are also restrictions on the age of your pet. Often puppies and kittens must be older than 10 weeks old to fly. You should research your airlines specific requirements before traveling. It is always recommended to see your veterinarian a few days prior to traveling to purchase a health certificate. This is important to make sure your pet is healthy enough for travel and to have the appropriate legal documentation of their vaccination status, proof of negative heartworm tests, fecal exams, and any deworming or parasite treatment. If you are flying with your pet anywhere in the United States, I recommend having a health certificate on hand in case there is a problem. If you are traveling internationally, a health certificate is required. Often other countries will have strict and detailed requirements months prior to travel, especially when it comes to rabies vaccination. So if you are planning on traveling with your pet to another country in the next year, I would recommend researching the requirements needed for travel far in advance. You can find stipulations for the different countries on the website www.usda.gov. Finally, no matter where you are traveling with your pet, it is important for them to have identification tags attached to their collar or a microchip in the event they get lost. These upcoming months are some of the best for travel and recreation. Be sure to include your furry friends on your excursions and if you have any questions be sure to contact your local veterinarian. Dr. Michelle Kraft is a veterinarian with Little River Animal Hospital, 15710 Birmingham Hwy, Alpharetta. 770-619-1616, Animal-Dr.com
Huntington Learning Center Academic Success for Life By Michelle Martin Every child can learn; the key to academic success is in understanding that each child learns differently. At Huntington Learning Center in Woodstock, the team of professional tutors is experienced in helping students achieve academic success at any level. New owners Ramana Panchumarthy and his wife, Vasudha Edara, executive director, along with partners Shreyas and Jignasa Desai, marketing and community relations, are excited to continue Huntington Learning Centers 12-year history serving Woodstock and surrounding communities. As local business owners for the past 10 years and with two sons in middle school, Ramana and Vasudha are grateful for the opportunity to serve the Woodstock community in a new way. We recognize the important role that Huntington Learning Center plays in helping students learn outside of the classroom so that they can be more successful in school, Ramana says. Jignasa, whose husband, Shreyas, has a masters degree in mathematics and teaches at Atlanta Metropolitan State College, says he sees firsthand how a lack of fundamentals affects students. So many students are failing because they lack a basic understanding of fundamentals in mathematics. That deficiency will follow them later in life and in business, she says. But with the proper foundation in fundamentals, students can continue to learn and be more successful. Huntington Learning Center, established in 1977, provides professional academic tutoring and learning resources based on curriculum that is aligned with current national educational standards. Programs include academic skills (reading, writing, math, phonics, spelling, vocabulary, study skills, and critical thinking); subject tutoring (algebra, pre-algebra, geometry, trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus, earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics); and exam prep (ACT, SAT, PSAT, AP, and other entrance exams). Huntington Learning Center customizes learning programs to students individual needs based on standardized test results. Traditional tutoring is like a band-aid to help students improve in their current areas of study. Many times, students rely on memorization rather than mastery of skills, says Diane Alred, director of the Woodstock Huntington Learning Center for five years. The Huntington Learning Center approach is more like surgery, designed to build the basic fundamentals necessary for long-term academic success. Based on students individual academic assessment, Huntington Learning Center tutors will meet with parents to discuss areas of strengths and weaknesses, and customize a program to help fill in specific learning gaps. All instruction is done at Huntington Learning Center by certified, experienced instructors. Students are tested at different phases in the program to gauge their academic progress; adjustments can be made at any time if students are learning faster than expected or if they require additional focus in a specific study area. As Diane explains, learning programs begin at students individual comfort levels and progress in difficulty so that they can see their own success firsthand. Students want to learn. As they become more successful and more confident, they are more motivated to study and work hard to achieve their academic goals. The instructors at Huntington Learning Center work closely with teachers to monitor students progress at the center and in the classroom. In addition, instructors meet with parents every few weeks to keep them updated as well. Huntington instructors, students, parents, school teachers we all are partners working together to help students succeed academically, says Jignasa. It is especially important for parents to understand that good grades in school do not necessarily reflect skills. Huntington Learning Centers subject tutoring also involves helping students develop better organizational skills and homework habits. In many cases, its just a matter of focus. And for some students, that might mean seeking the help from someone other than their parents and teachers, Ramana says. Once students develop good organizational skills, study skills and homework habits, they are better prepared to tackle studying on their own. In addition to individual subject tutoring and a focus on fundamentals, Huntington Learning Center also offers an exam prep program for standardized tests, entrance exams, and the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Huntington instructors can help students determine which test is best suited to their strengths and offer tips to maximize their scoring potential. Then, based on the results of practice tests, instructors work with students to improve in specific test areas. The exam prep program is also beneficial to students hoping to earn a certain score required for certain scholarships and more selective schools. As Ramana explains, On average, students who go through Huntingtons ACT prep program score three to six points higher than they would without any specialized exam prep. The difference between a 20 and a 24, for example, could be significant for students hoping to get into a specific school or applying for scholarships. This is also a critical time for students as they approach the end of the current school year. Diane encourages parents to address their childrens learning gaps as soon as possible. Unfortunately, by the time students come to Huntington Learning Center for help, they have been struggling for three to four years, she says. But, its never too late to learn. Adds Ramana, At Huntington Learning Center, we believe confidence builds success in students. We are proud to be a part of a program that helps students achieve academic success so that they can be more successful not only in school but also in life. 6244 Old Hwy. 5, Woodstock678-445-1515Woodstock.HuntingtonHelps.com
Artist Profile: Dee Ruff Black Cat Mosaics By Heike Hellmann-Brown The art of creating images with an array of pieces of colored glass, stone or similar materials dates back as far as the 3rd millennium BC. Greeks and Romans used this technique to cover the surfaces of walls, ceilings and floors with figurative works using either tesserae, flat, square colored pieces of stone or glass, or small pebbles. Artist Dee Ruff was first introduced to mosaics through her love for gardening, and today many of her artistic creations serve as interior decoration or decorative garden art. Since childhood Ive been captivated by the beauty of colors and textures, especially those found in the natural world, Ruff states and adds that she always had the mind of an artist but felt she was lacking the skills to express herself artistically. That changed when she discovered needlepoint and later applied her knowledge to mosaics. Throughout my house you can find intricate needlepoint pieces, including a rug of African marigolds, tapestries, and framed pieces, all comprised of thousands of colorful stitches. Each stitch has been patiently, individually placed by me to form a whole, she elaborates. Ruff grew up in Western Pennsylvania and continued her education in Maryland. As a Master of Clinical Social Work she had been offering support and counseling in hospice and health settings for almost two decades, before she set out on a second career and became a Certified Massage Therapist. In 2005 Ruff moved to Georgia with her husband and two daughters and opened a private practice in Historic Roswell. In 2011 she had to close her practice due to physical problems. When her husband introduced her to gardening, Ruff enthusiastically began to learn everything about the subject and even became a Master Gardener. As opposed to needlepoint where she used to follow patterns, gardening taught her to design using different colors and compositions. Additionally she began to incorporate garden art by re-purposing household items. During that time I discovered a book on mosaics, and my passion was ignited, Ruff says. I experimented at home with basic tools and supplies. Creating mosaics not only offered more challenges than needlepoint, but it also provided me with a new means of expression. Like the stitches in needlepoint, pieces of tesserae combine into a powerful and evocative piece of art. Yet each tessera means something: if you take away one, the entire composition changes. Ruff uses handmade substrates that give her flexibility in size, shape and characteristic. She is particularly drawn to abstract expressionism. Her home designs include everything from mirrors to a whimsical mosaic shoe, while her colorful birdbaths and garden sculptures are intended to complement and enhance the natural elements in a garden instead of competing with nature, as representational designs such as flowers, foliage, or insects would. It is my hope that my art brings together color, texture, space, and light as a means to convey my love of the natural world and to kindle these emotions in others. BlackCatMosaics.com
Artist Profile: Kristina Laurendi Havens Unique Portraits and Figure Drawings By Heike Hellmann-Brown While she also creates landscapes, florals and still-lifes, Kristina Laurendi Havens predominant subject matters are portraits and figurative paintings. I have always been fascinated by the human body and what it is capable of doing, explains Havens, who cites art and dance as the two biggest loves in her life. Her background in ballet, point, and lyrical, as a student as well as an instructor, is visibly influencing Havens artistic compositions. Having been a dancer for over 20 years I am able to empathize with my models and to actually feel the poses. Havens grew up in Western New York in a large multi-generation family. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts with honors from Buffalo State College and was awarded a full scholarship to pursue her Masters of Fine Arts at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. During that time she began teaching, curating shows with the Kimbel Art Museum, and exhibiting her work. Another move took Havens to Newport News, Virginia. Working with the Peninsula Fine Arts Center, Kristina taught art classes to all ages, including portrait painting and figure drawing, which she considers the most challenging subjects in art. She continued to develop her own work, entered local and national juried exhibitions and began to earn awards and accolades. With her move to Woodstock, Havens had the opportunity to share gallery/studio space with fellow artist Ann Litrel in a historic building on Woodstocks Main Street. Here Havens, a busy mom of two, creates new pieces, instructs and hosts workshops by world-renowned portrait artists such as Kerry Dunn, Casey Baugh, and Jeffrey Hein. In support of the community that so enthusiastically embraced her, Kristina Laurendi Havens created The Woodstock Vignettes. 36 paintings that depict the vibrant life in downtown Woodstock were auctioned off to benefit the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. Soon the series will be available as reproductions. Havens, who paints in bold oil and pastel colors, or draws in charcoal, uses either photographs or live models for reference. In her portrait work she prefers a non-traditional look. When prospective clients tell me that they like my style, send me a photograph and challenge me to show them what I can do with it those are the most fun and gratifying projects. In 2013 Kristina Laurendi Havens was invited by the DaVinci Wine Company to spend a week in Tuscany/Italy to learn about the people and places behind the wine and share her experience through her work. Just recently her piece Cessation of the Mind was acquired by the LaGrange Art Museum. Havens goal for the next years is to continue learning from the best, to refine her style and ultimately to teach workshops abroad. I realize how special it is to be able to do something I love. Whatever I do, teach or paint, I hope that my enthusiasm for art and beauty will always shine through. Studio81.biz
Book Review: Farming, Friends, and Fried Bologna Sandwiches A sequel to "In the Garden with Billy" By Catherine Groves Billy Albertson has lived locally pretty much his entire life and knows the area and its history, perhaps more than anyone around. He is 82 years old, yet he still works a garden large enough to feed himself and then plenty left over to sell to the community. Many, many goats living in Milton came from Billys! He still chops and sells his own wood and heats his own house with a wood burning stove. It is around the stove that many love to pull up a chair and sit a spell. Billy never fails to give what each visitor desires, a good story. One day, Renea Winchester and her daughter were driving by Billys house after a tough day. Upon seeing the sign with Goats for sale, Reneas daughter asked if they could stop. This proved to change her life, and Billys, in a way that, at the time, neither of them could fathom. In 2010, Renea published In the Garden with Billy, Life, Love, and Tomatoes. This year, Renea, along with Mercer University Press, released Farming, Friends, and Fried Bologna Sandwiches, a sequel (yet a stand-alone book) to In the Garden with Billy. Janis Owens, author of American Ghost: A Novel and the Cracker Kitchen says it best: In the winning voice of a friendly farm neighbor, Renea Winchester shares her down-home wisdom on all aspects of the Southern garden and table, from seeds to fried bologna. Her tips are as warm and practical as Georgia sunshine, her applications to life, friendship, and love, universal. A great gift book for a budding gardener, newlywed cook, or to read on the porch with a glass of sweet tea. Renea Winchester is the award-winning author whose work has appeared in A Cup of Comfort for families touched by Alzheimers, Appalachian Heritage, Georgia Backroads, Blue Ridge Country, and Longleaf Style. ReneaWinchester.com
Hughley, Hollingsworth Real Estate Your Family's Home Team By Rachel Buckley The owners of Hughley, Hollingsworth Real Estate LLC, Shellie Hollingsworth and Lisa Hughley have combined forces to give Cherokee County a reliable, knowledgeable real estate powerhouse team. As a team armed with over forty years of experience, Shellie and Lisa have utilized their complimentary personalities to build a real estate team of five experienced individuals, ready and willing to give their clients the absolute best possible service and real estate resources. Based in Cherokee County, this power duo offers a wide range of services to a diverse group of clients. From first time homebuyers, to retirees ready to downsize, Shellie and Lisa have the combined expertise to make any clients dream a reality. Surprisingly, these two ladies werent always working on the same team. In fact, theyve spent most of their relationship as competitors. We would meet in driveways at listing appointments, Lisa laughs, and we would wish each other good luck. Fortunately, Lisas growing client base and career ambitions brought the two together. Lisa explains, I expanded my business to the Destin 30A, Panama City Beach region, and also have a huge business here and wanted to continue the same level of service that I had been giving. I could not think of a better business partner to give that service than Shellie. Having spent decades building separate, successful careers, Lisa and Shellie decided they could serve their clients much more effectively as a team rather than as competitors. The ladies came to the conclusion that with Lisas savvy business sense combined with Shellies effortless ability to connect with clients, the two complimented one another beautifully. Shellie is a dedicated leader in the industry, focused on relationships and results. Lisa is a focused business person driven to succeed with a tireless work ethic. Both have been award-winning realtors year after year. Shellie continues, We are a diverse team, and the combination of our strengths only makes us stronger, which benefits our clients. After all, the client is and always will be the main focus of Lisa and Shellies story. We know that buying a home is a process, not an event, says Shellie, so its fulfilling to know were helping people through what might be a challenging time and work to make it a smooth process. Lisa adds, Its about placing our clients first. We are excited for everyone to know we have joined forces and that means top notch service. Because of Lisa and Shellies client centric business model, theyve developed trustworthy, long lasting relationships with their clients. Lisa mentions, Its all about the service you provide and the relationships you build. This is what makes us a successful team. It is this attitude, which has enabled Shellie and Lisa to create an exceptional reputation within the continuously growing community that is Cherokee County. As Cherokee expands and develops, Lisa and Shellies client base grows more and more diverse. Shellie explains, Statistics validate East Cherokee is a booming area. The opportunities here are phenomenal. The area really is in growth mode. While business development is booming in East Cherokee County, the communitys natural charm prevails. The scenery is very relaxing, continues Lisa, once you get past the traffic and congestion of Atlanta, its a peaceful setting and clients love being able to come home here after a long day at work. Although the duos primary market has been Cherokee County, they also service North Fulton, Forsyth and Cobb counties. At the end of the day, finding their clients home is the primary focus of this dynamic duo, and they wouldnt have it any other way. Its different every day. No matter how long youve been in the business, you learn something new every day, explains Lisa, I absolutely love what I do. I wouldnt do anything else. While Lisa and Shellie benefit from differing personalities, the same passion for real estate finds itself in both. Lisa explains, Weve negotiated against each other for many years, and now were two strong negotiators who want whats best for our clients. Shellie concludes, You cannot go wrong because youve got the best of both worlds. Youve got two top producers who have been in the business, know the area and focus on their clients first. We intend to grow our business exponentially. We are excited about the future and all it will bring. If you or someone you know needs to sell or purchase a property, please do not hesitate to call. Shellie Hollingsworth and Lisa Hughley can be reached by phone at 678-923-5152 or 404-242-5541 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. 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Anchors Seafood & Ale House Ocean to Table That's Fresh By Jodi Drinkard Anchors Seafood & Ale House is the freshest face in town! Having opened their doors only a few months ago, theyve already become a local favorite. Anchors just raised the bar by serving high-end seafood at a friendly price, explains Patty Stack, a local who recently visited the Roswell establishment. Coastal decor, hardwood floors, and a bowed dining room resembling that of a ships hull ignite an immediate connection between you and the sea. But, its the wafts of mouth-watering seafood and fresh-cut herbs thatll hook you. The trick to great seafood is in the freshness, explains Executive Chef Brian Wilson. Weve selected the best seafood purveyors to deliver their catch as quickly as possible. Theres not a restaurant in Roswell, or Atlanta, that serves a fresher fish. Seafood restaurants in land-locked cities like Atlanta do a fairly good job of acquiring fish from warehouses that distribute both fresh and frozen goods. However, Anchors goes a step further by refusing fish that has been frozen or delayed by a warehouse. We will never sacrifice taste or texture for convenience, declared Chef Wilson. Chef Wilson gets an email about nine oclock every Monday morning from a small Atlanta based boat-to-shore distributor serving only a few upscale seafood restaurants around town. This call informs him as to the available fresh catch, and thats what goes on Anchors menu for the week absolutely nothing comes from a warehouse. We get our shrimp from a guy on a day boat, says Chef Wilson. This guy goes out to sea, comes in with a catch, packs and puts it on a delivery truck, and we receive fresh shrimp at our doorstep. Thats fresh! Scallops are hand-delivered from the waters just south of Nova Scotia. Our scallops are big and bursting with flavor, Chef Wilson explains. Each portion consists of more than a half-pound of buttery meat. Although you can get them prepared any way you wish, the flavor of these scallops stands on their own simply seared with a little butter, and seasoning will knock your sandals off! Anchors embraces the important trend of Farm-to-Table. Although the snow could fly at a moments notice here in Atlanta, fresh produce is paramount. Currently, vegetables are being flown in from South America while fresh herbs are being planted in-house. Being new to Roswell, we are weeding through local produce vendors right now, Chef Wilson says. Spring in Georgia will give us an opportunity to shine with the best local produce available. Spring will also open the doors to Anchors outdoor patio! Set back from the busy traffic on Mansell Road in Roswell, the quiet outdoor patio will be the perfect place to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner and a cold pint of brew. Every Friday evening we feature a new beer on tap, explains co-owner Michael Taylor. Its a real party here, as we crack open the fresh keg and give away matching labeled pint glasses. Get there early, as the glasses are on a first-come first-served basis. Keep an eye out for upcoming beer selections by following Anchors FaceBook page. Wine lovers will find themselves right at home at Anchors, as their extensive wine list is as pleasant to the pocketbook as it is the palate. Bottles of wine are truly reasonable, as the price tag resembles that of a wine shop rather than a restaurant. Perhaps our most exciting night of the week is Thursday, Michael goes on to say. We feature our All You Can Eat Shrimp menu for only $17.95. Let me tell you we can certainly go through some shrimp! Blackened, grilled, steamed, or fried its a la cart and all you can eat! Land lovers will never go away hungry! Burgers and chicken are always a favorite, but the braised spare ribs are melt-in-your-mouth scrumptious and served with Blairsville, Georgias own Logan Turnpike Grits. Of course, these savory grits can also be found on Anchors menu with a hearty portion of shrimp. Anchors menu is abundant with options for every Foodie. Visit their mouth-watering website (www.AnchorsRoswell.com) to get a full perspective on the variety they have to offer. Whether you choose the pan seared crab cakes appetizers, slow-roasted French Dip sandwich, or the Blackened Penne Alfredo Chicken or Shrimp dinner, youll find the heart and soul of Chef Brian Wilson in every bite. Anchors Seafood & Ale House900 Mansell Road in Roswell Reservations and walk-ins are welcome(678) 242-8962www.AnchorsRoswell.com
Farm Raised A Sharecroppers Roots By Renea Winchester Billy Albertson promised himself that if he ever saved enough money to buy a place of his own he would put down permanent roots. Being a sharecroppers son meant living in someone elses house, using someone elses tools and tending the soil someone else owned. Sharecroppers and their children owned the clothes on their backs and a few meager possessions. The lucky ones had a cow, a mule and a gaggle of chickens. The work was hard and a gamble, as Billy is wont to say. Families depended on soil integrity and Mother Nature who is known for her fickle disposition. Working hard never bothered Billy, but moving bothered him a sight. Billy Albertson was born 3-31-1931 at the Bill Etris Farm in Roswell, Georgia. None of us kids were born in the same town. We moved twelve times before Poppa had a place of his own. Billy remembers. Two years later, the family moved to the Phillips farm in Alpharetta where his younger brother, Bobby, was born. In 1936, Billys Poppa, Egbert Albertson, moved the family to the Will Chatham farm near Providence Road on Birmingham Highway in Alpharetta. Even though Billy was only four-years-old, he wanted to help his mother. Unfortunately, he got too close to the milk cow, who kicked him resulting in a bone infection. Doctors visits were not an option. Billys mother dressed the wound and warned Billy to be careful. During the fall of 1938, Poppa Albertson moved his family to Hall County. Word had reached the Albertsons that there was a small farm with an apple and peach orchard. This was a welcome change from cotton. The Albertsons unloaded their sparse possessions at the Lee Pitchford farm and got to work only to move the following year to a dairy farm. By now, many of Billys older siblings had settled in White or Hall County. Billy, age seven, remained with his folks. Sharecroppers moved every two years, sometimes yearly if the growing season wasnt productive. They typically moved after the crops were harvested. Folk settled their accounts at the hardware store and then split any profit with the landowner. Billys Poppa tucked away as much money as he could, hoping to buy his own place. Billy remembers, Those old farmhouses werent tight. I could look through the floorboards and see the chickens roosting under the house. In addition to housing, sharecroppers received a personal garden spot. These vegetables werent split with the landowner, but preserved to feed the family through the winter. Spring began at a new farm, with new debt. Sharecroppers visited the supply store and added the necessary supplies and fertilizer to their tab. Many farmers did not use chemical fertilizer because of the expense. The first thing Momma always done when we planted our garden was clean out the chicken house. Cotton takes a lot of nutrients from the soil and many farms were worn out. Billy also recalls his family leaving the Claude Westbrook farm because it was too rocky to grow anything. In 1941, Billys older brothers: Judge, JT, and Claude enlisted in the military leaving Billy to help his folks tend the farm with the remaining siblings. During the war and the Depression we probably had more than most. City folk didnt have nothing. They were really hurting, but life didnt much change for us poor folk. At least we could feed ourselves. While cows provided milk, chickens provided eggs which were sold. Mommas egg money was all the cash money we had. We never ate eggs. We might eat one of the old roosters, but eggs were valuable. The Albertson family continued to move from farm-to-farm using their mule-drawn wagon, even in the late 30s. It wasnt until 1947, when Poppa Albertson purchased a Ford, that the family moved their belongings using an automobile. That year, the family moved from Hall County to Fulton County. The men wrangled the family cow, her calf, and a small horse into a pickup belonging to Mr. Harmon, a family friend, and headed to Alpharetta, settling in an area near the Liberty Baptist Church at the Cherokee/Fulton County line. It took Poppa thirty years to save three thousand dollars. He bought twenty-five acres. The farm was wore out, and we couldnt grow much, but we tried. In 1949, Egbert sold the failed farm and invested in three acres on Birmingham Highway. Billy helped build two chicken houses and the Albertson men set about raising three thousand chickens. By then the boll weevil had destroyed all the cotton. Billy was the only child living at home. In December of 1955, Billy Albertson married Marjorie Cornelison and they started tending house in a three room green house that still stands on Birmingham Highway. The couple saved enough money to buy a little strip of land on Hardscrabble Road. Here Billy and Marjorie built a modest home. Neighbors told Billy he should plant a magnolia as a symbol of perseverance. He placed the small tree at the corner of his home. Billy worked for Crabapple Sausage Company and later at the A&P grocery store. He and Marjorie had two daughters who grew up with chickens, and goats, which Billy still raises today. True to his sharecropping heritage, Billy tended a large garden that produced a bounty so plentiful he began selling produce to friends and neighbors. Today, Farmer Billy still sells produce from his roadside stand located on Hardscrabble Road. A fifty-year-old Magnolia tree stands as a symbol of Billys promise to himself that his roots are planted deep in the Georgia Clay.