May 2016 by Good News Chattanooga

May 2016

Complimentary

Gò0dNews

Christian Magazine

Chattanooga

• Mad at the Devil p. 6 • Divisive Devices p. 22 • What is Your Treasure? p. 38

6 1 0 2MMER

SU MPS CA 7 23 - 2 S E PAG

2016 Pioneer 1000-5

HondaofChattanoogaTN.com 4915 Highway 58 • Chattanooga, TN

423.855.5055

powersports.honda.com PIONEER 1000-5 IS ONLY FOR DRIVERS 16 YEARS AND OLDER. MULTI-PURPOSE UTILITY VEHICLES (SIDE-BY-SIDES) CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO OPERATE. FOR YOUR SAFETY, DRIVE RESPONSIBLY. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION AND APPROPRIATE CLOTHING. ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT, AND KEEP THE SIDE NETS AND DOORS CLOSED. AVOID EXCESSIVE SPEEDS AND BE CAREFUL ON DIFFICULT TERRAIN. ALL MUV DRIVERS SHOULD WATCH THE SAFETY VIDEO “MULTIPURPOSE UTILITY VEHICLES: A GUIDE TO SAFE OPERATION” AND READ THE OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THE VEHICLE. NEVER DRIVE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL, OR ON PUBLIC ROADS. DRIVER AND PASSENGERS MUST BE TALL ENOUGH FOR SEAT BELT TO FIT PROPERLY AND TO BRACE THEMSELVES WITH BOTH FEET FIRMLY ON THE FLOOR. PASSENGER MUST BE ABLE TO GRASP THE HAND HOLD WITH THE SEAT BELT ON AND BOTH FEET ON THE FLOOR. RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT WHEN DRIVING. Pioneer™ is a trademark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. ©2015 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

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Writers

Brian Branam Chris Isbill Deana Thompson Delaney Walker Deven Wallace Emily Dawe Fernando Alejandro John Garrod John Stancil Kristy Adams Mark Aitkenhead Mead Vest Mike Shreve Tina Christein

About Us Hello Friends, We want to take a moment to tell you who we are and what we are about. Our names are Matt and Bethany Ruckman and we have four beautiful children, Brendon, Kailey, Andrew, and Leah Jean. We live in Cleveland and love what this town has to offer! We have started GoodNews Christian Magazine because we feel that when God, family, and community are combined, lives will be changed. GoodNews Christian Magazine is a complimentary, Christian lifestyle publication. You can find us throughout the community in retail establishments, churches, restaurants, and more. Our magazine opens the door for Christians to work together to grow and strengthen our community through relevant editorial and effective advertising. GoodNews Christian Magazine is written by men and women in the community who love and serve the Lord. Our hearts are open and willing to be used by God to reach out to the community to spread the GoodNews!

Sales

Matthew Ruckman 423-503-1410

Design

Caleb Prytherch Matt Green

Photographer Paula Knipp 423-310-4207

Business Index Abra Autobody & Glass………...........……13

Ivy Academy…………………..……………17

Academy of Allied Health Care…...........….3

Jungle Town..............................................17

Allstate Insurance- Greg Seibenhener…..13

Learning Rx..............................................27

Chattanooga Funeral Home……..........….31

Lee University………………...…...............35

Chattanooga Zoo......................................24

Maxim………………..………………..…….31

CHI Memorial............................................39

New Life Bible School………...……...……37

5000 Monthly

Churchill Mortgage…………………....……11

Pathway Press………...……………...……33

Cici’s Pizza.…………………………..….....29

Personalized Health Care for Women…...15

Editor

Covenant Funeral & Crematory……..…...29

Remax- Tracie Smith………...…………….11

Emily Dawe

Equititle………………………………......….11

Springdale Heating & Air………....………...7

GoodGuys Moving & Delivery………....…33

Stateline Car Care……...……….....………29

Publisher

Goss Insurance………..………………......40

St. Nicholas School...................................26

Hallmark Insurance…………………..…......9

Superfly.....................................................13

Hixson Transmission………………...........15

The Sweet & Savory Classroom...............26

Honda of Chattanooga………..…....………2

White's Cycle and Marine……….........……7

Irma Marie……………………………..……15

YMCA.......................................................25

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Matthew and Bethany Ruckman Phone: 423-503-1410 E-mail: goodnewstn@gmail.com

Website

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Disclaimer All of the content in the GoodNews Christian Magazine is for general information and/or use. Such contents does not constitute advice and should not be relied upon in making (or refraining from making) a decision. Any specific advice or replies to queries in any part of the magazine is the personal opinion of such experts/consultants/persons and is not subscribed to by GoodNews Christian Magazine. The information in GoodNews Christian Magazine is provided on an “AS IS” basis, and all warranties, expressed or implied of any kind, regarding any matter pertaining to any information, advice or replies are disclaimed and excluded. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or article we deem inappropriate.

May 2016

Gò0dNews Christian Magazine

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About Us GoodNews from the Pastor’s Desk Mad at the Devil by Brian Branam GoodNews for Kids The Summer Brain by Kristy Adams GoodNews on Money Matters Smart Money by Tina Christein GoodNews for Men The Real Man of God by John Garrod GoodNews for Women Arrows in the Hands of a Warrior by Deven Wallace GoodNews for your Taste Buds Mom’s Blessed Banana Nut Bread by Deana Thompson GoodNews for Parents Divisive Devices by Mark Aitkenhead GoodNews for Seniors Nursing Homes and Assisted Living – It’s All the Same, Right? Wrong! by John Stancil GoodNews for Teens Am I Good? by Fernando Alejandro GoodNews for Couples The Miracle of the Marriage Feast by Mike Shreve GoodNews for Life Pregnancy Outside of Marriage is Still Pregnancy by Delaney Walker GoodNews for Everyone The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Made Beautiful by Mead Vest GoodNews from the Tech Shop What is Your Treasure? by Chris Isbill

Pg 20-21

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Gò0dNews from the Pastor’s Desk

Mad at the Devil by Brian Branam

We should not be angry with God, but mad at the devil.

henever we suffer it is easy to become angry at God. While it is very human to deal with doubt, anger, discouragement, and uncertainty in suffering; those emotions misdirected become misleading. The Biblical reality is that we should not be angry with God, but mad at the devil. 1. God said it would be like this. God was honest about our situation (Gen. 2:15-17). He told us that if we chose to know good and evil that we would know it very well. It was Satan who said we could sin and never die; and we still believe the lie (Gen. 3:4-5)! The reality of our situation is that God created a blessed world that is life giving, but because man has sinned we have introduced a curse that leads to death. 2. There are various types of suffering and no immunity. Living in a fallen creation means that the planet that was designed to give us life can at times cause great pain. Tornados, famine, hurricanes, storms, and wildfire can not only claim lives, but destroy livelihood (Mark 13:7-9). We suffer in a world in which there are accidents (Luke 13:4). No one has brought more suffering to man than his fellow man. The evils of crime, war, genocide, and violence unfortunately became a part of our story once sin was introduced (Gen. 4). Sadly, our bodies may for a time experience youth, health, and vigor but these realities are merely temporary for all of us. The

6 // May 2016

young and old, the good and bad alike deal with disability, disease, and injury (John 9:1-7). We have the ability to make choices to keep ourselves safe and healthy, but ultimately none of us are immune from the natural calamities of life. 3. God has given us a solution for our suffering. No one has suffered more unjustly, nor more intensely than God. Through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has entered into our suffering. He has not left us alone. Although we will not survive life, in salvation we are not ultimately defeated by death (1 Cor. 15). My health may fail, but the Son of God will not. For those who repent of sin and believe in Jesus’ name, what has gone wrong, will be made right. Our bodies will be resurrected and glorified. This flesh that is susceptible to decay, disease, and defeat in this life will be made new and fit for eternity (2 Cor. 5:1-10). We can live forever. Thank God we don’t have to live forever like this! Because of what God has done our suffering is not a waste, but an opportunity. Through our suffering we identify with Christ and our hearts develop hope (Rom. 5:1-5). Get mad when you suffer, but don’t be angry with God. Get mad at the devil. Mourn our situation, but don’t give up on our Savior.

Brian Branam is the pastor of Liberty Baptist Church in Dalton, GA. He is the author of #TheWalk, a book about the power of breaking life down into one simple question.

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All trademarks, registered trademarks, logos and copyrights are the property of their respective owners.

CYCLE & MARINE

423.499.6000

4917 Highway 58 N. Chattanooga, TN 37416 Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Professional rider shown on a closed course. ©2015 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Professional rider shown on a closed course. ©2015 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

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Gò0dNews for Kids

The Summer Brain by Kristy Adams

Lazy days and active minds

any parents ask me about summer learning loss and how it will affect their children. I call this the “summer brain”. Between the end of the school year and the beginning of the following school year, every student experiences summer learning loss. Statistics show that every child loses approximately one to two months of learning if they do not stay academically engaged throughout the summer months. Summer breaks are one of the most important, yet least acknowledged, causes of underachievement in our schools. This is a scary thought, when many of our students are already struggling in either reading, mathematics, or both. If students are not academically challenged in the summer, they lose critical skills that enable them to start the upcoming school year successfully. What, as educators and as parents, can we do to ensure that our children enjoy their “lazy days of summer”, yet still keep their minds motivated to learn? I have compiled a list of ideas that will help parents, educators, and students continue learning…and even have some fun while they are at it! 1. MAKE TIME FOR READING Set aside between 15 and 30 minutes at least three to five days a week for reading. Please do

not choose your child’s book for them, and do not become the reading monster. The purpose here is to develop a love for reading, and not make them hate it. Taking trips to the library, or your local book store, can be part of the fun when planning summer reading time. Then, throw in some incentives for reading. It really is ok to reward this behavior. After a book has been chosen, make a reading log together or a chapter chart (you can find samples all over the internet and on Pinterest). Finally, allow your child to set his/her own reading goals. Together, you can decide on rewards for meeting those goals. The goal here is to make reading more about pleasure than a computerized test. This will easily bring out the reader in any child if they are able to find enjoyment in reading rather than view it as something that causes stress. 2. KEEP A SUMMER SCRAPBOOK AND JOURNAL Try to designate a time every day for your child to sit down and write about what’s going on while on summer break. If you have been somewhere fun (like to the movies) have your kids glue their ticket stubs into their journal, and then follow it up with a movie review. If you travel, make sure your child’s journal goes with you. Having your children write in their journals is a great way to keep brains active, and it will be a wonderful keepsake full of memories for years to come. 3. FIND GOOD SUMMER PROGRAMS Look for summer programs in your area that offer camps and classes that are geared towards academics. The camps that we provide are fun, but ensure that our students are well prepared for the upcoming school year. Above all else, make sure that you are encouraging and developing a love for learning as you spend a fun-filled summer vacation with your child.

Kristy Adams Centers for Creative Learning Owner Educational Therapist Dyslexia Specialist

8 // May 2016

Small Miracles. Big Heart. This morning you greeted a returning missions team and welcomed a new family to your church. You put your heart into everything you do. We understand why you do what you do. That’s why we’ve developed MinistryFirst®, a customizable insurance product designed to fit the specific needs of churches like yours. And, it’s why we offer hundreds of free safety resources and services, including LegalAssistance for ministries. For free ministry resources, visit BrotherhoodMutual.com today

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Gò0dNews for Money Matters

Smart Money by Tina Christein

Smart decisions and costly pitfalls to homeownership

here are a lot of ways to be smart with your money. I am here to help you with the biggest purchase you will most likely ever make in your lifetime. When purchasing or refinancing a home loan, there are decisions to be made: low rate or lower payment? Lessen your term? School district or close to work? Fixer upper or ready to move in? These scenarios vary from one person to another; however, there are some things that everyone should and should not do. WHAT TO DO: • Communicate with your loan officer – if you have any changes in your life since the original application was taken, be honest and call your loan officer. • Get pre-approved if you are purchasing a home. A seller is more likely to accept an offer from you if they know you are pre-qualified for a home loan. • Know what your credit looks like - there are free credit reports for consumers. Check for errors or any identity theft that could show up on your credit report. This should be done yearly. WHAT NOT TO DO: • Again communication with your loan office is key to a smooth closing. Do not change jobs without informing your loan officer. The day of closing a final verification is done to make sure no changes have been made. • Large non payroll deposits need to be sourced. Keep records of any sales or deposits. Large cash deposits can cause questions. • Don’t make any large purchases on credit without consulting your loan officer. Purchasing anything on credit can change

10 // May 2016

your debt to income ratio during the loan process. DAVE RAMSEY Dave is the 3rd largest radio talk show host in the United States, and he has a proven track record in financial management and consulting for decades. In fact, Dave Ramsey is renowned for his 7 baby steps to financial freedom: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

$1000 emergency fund Pay off all debt with the snow ball effect 3-6 months expenses in savings Invest 15% into your retirement account College funding Payoff your home Build wealth and give

Dave has classes that teach Financial Peace. You can find these on his website, www. Daveramsey.com Dave only endorses one mortgage company, Churchill Mortgage. Churchill Mortgage helps educate consumers on how to become debt free by following this plan. I work with consumers daily who may not be in a position to obtain a home loan now. I help them plan on how to refinance or purchase in the future. In summary, smart money comes from a smart plan. Dave Ramsey has long taught financial plans for the future, so the 7 Baby Steps are a good plan to follow. Additionally, there are smart decisions and costly pitfalls to homeownership. Please give me a call if I can help assist you in any way. Tina Christein got her start in the mortgage industry in 1994. She is a loan officer, mortgage banker, as well as the branch manager for Churchill Mortgage in Chattanooga. She stays involved in the Real Estate community by maintaining memberships in the Chattanooga Women’s Council of Realtors and the Tennessee Association of Mortgage Professionals.

EquiTitle, Inc. EquiTitle, Inc. is a full service real estate title company servicing all of Tennessee. We offer title insurance, purchase and refinance closings.

Our Office Locations Cleveland

175 Mouse Creek Road NW It’s mid-morning and I still haven’t Cleveland, TN 37312 washed or had my breakfast... 423.614.3100

Chattanooga 423-316-1178 7625 Hamilton Park Drive, Ste 23

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Gò0dNews for Men

The Real Man of God By John Garrod

The salt in a world that reveres fancy spices

lost a friend right off the bat this year. I hadn’t seen Dave in several years, but the loss was still hard. You see, Dave was one of the first “real” people I met when I got saved. I had a lot of preconceptions and misconceptions about church people and churches. From the gloomy thought that “you people” never have any fun, to the old “they’re all hypocrites,” I had it ALL figured out. I was a little vague on terminology, and I had rites, rituals, and what I later learned was doctrines confused between Baptists, Pentecostals, Jews, Catholics, Buddhists and probably the N.B.A. And if you asked me what a “man of God” looked like, well that was easy, too. He wore a slick, expensive suit, with shoes he paid someone else to shine (Not a badge of honor to this old soldier). He was always smiling, always pressing the flesh and kissing the babies like a politician, and Sunday mornings, he was the guy behind the pulpit, talking about which sin was going to send ME to hell this week. That’s what a man of God was to me. And then I met Dave. Dave was one of those guys that met people at the front doors of the church on Sunday mornings. Every Sunday morning. Rain or shine, hot or cold, there was Dave. He certainly didn’t look like my idea of a man of God. He had tattoos, almost never wore a suit, and shaking his hand told you he was no stranger to real

12 // May 2016

work. He talked with you, not down to you. He looked you in the eyes, and when he said “Welcome,” you got the feeling that maybe, just maybe, you really WERE welcome at this church. I never saw Dave teach a Sunday school class or preach a sermon. That’s not who Dave was. But if you needed an usher, Dave was there. Need a set built for the children’s Christmas play? He was the ever-willing master carpenter. Struggling in your walk with God? Dave was by your side, at the altar or one-on-one. Ever trustworthy, never judgmental. Dave was glad to be saved, happy to serve wherever he found himself, and ready to do whatever fell before his hands to do. He was salt, in a world that reveres fancy spices. When you agree to be salt, you don’t choose where you are sprinkled; you season wherever you are dropped. Being salt comes with a recognition that the very value of salt as a seasoning is in where and how the salt is used. True men of God are not just those who fill the pulpits and reflect the spotlights. They are those who, with the gifts, talents and testimonies they have, season the world around them. That was my friend Dave. Well done, Dave. Thanks for showing me what a man of God should look like.

John Garrod is a father of six, husband of one, Army veteran, and a resident of Tennessee for the past four years. He is a member at South Cleveland Church of God.

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Gò0dNews for Women

Arrows in the Hands of a Warrior by Deven Wallace

Your neighbor may not realize the threat you really are, but the enemy certainly does.

uring the early years in my walk with God, I truly wanted to become everything He desired and purposed for me to be. I wanted to be a vessel of honor as 2 Timothy: 20-21 states, not just for common use, but for special use. I focused so much on becoming a beautiful vessel for Him, and yet the call that God had placed upon my life, didn’t seem to have much glamor or beauty or honor. I continually seemed to be fighting uphill battles. Just being someone God has called to preach, at times, removed the glamour of the pretty vessel I desired to be. I had the revelation one day as I asked the Lord, “will it always be a battle? Will it always be such a challenge?” God responded, “Deven, I didn’t create you to be a pretty vessel, but I made you to be a weapon in My hand.” That was the day my perspective changed, and the warrior inside of me was awakened. Weapons are made to destroy and conquer. Beauty is not their goal, but breaking down strongholds and making way for advancement is their priority. Protection and advancement is the reason for their creation. Isaiah 54:17 is the famous text, which declares,

14 // May 2016

“no weapon formed against you will prosper”, but in verse 16, we see that the Lord is over the blacksmith and the forge and He is forming weapons Himself. You, and your children, are those weapons, and that makes you a warrior. Psalms 127:4 says that children are like arrows in the hands of a warrior! An arrow is a fierce weapon designed to inflict harm to its target. It is sharp, swift, and deadly. Who is that mighty warrior? That would be you! Your neighbor may not realize the threat you really are, but the enemy certainly does. You are a protector of the next generation. Who would have ever thought of a mother or father as a warrior? That is what God expects of us as parents: to not only shape our children as weapons in His hands, but to be skilled warriors with the weapons He has entrusted to us. If we are walking below our own Kingdom potential, how can we ever expect our children to hit their intended target? We must be in position, with the strength to pull back our bow and the vision to see clearly the intended target in order to launch our children toward success. We want them to hit their target!

Deven Wallace and her husband Bishop Kevin Wallace, co-pastor Redemption Point Church (RPC) based in Ooltewah, Tennessee. Under their leadership, RPC has grown from a single location in Ooltewah with 34 attendees in its first service, to over 1200 with multiple locations in just 11 years.

1309 Panorama Drive, Suite 109 Chattanooga, TN 423.710.8376 “If your car needs fixin’, go to Hixson Transmission.” • 30/60/90K Maintenance • Tire Rotation and Balancing • Brakes • Alignment • Headlight Restoration • Emission Repair • Check Engine Light

“If your car needs fixin’, go to Hixson Transmission.” • 30/60/90K Maintenance • Tire Rotation and Balancing • Brakes • Alignment • Headlight Restoration • Emission Repair • Check Engine Light

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6116 Shallowford Rd, Ste 117 Chattanooga, TN

Gò0dNews for your Taste Buds

Mom’s Blessed Banana Nut Bread by Deana Thompson

The hard and difficult times are all worth it. “Her children arise and call her blessed” (Proverbs 31:28)

Banana Nut Bread

ow many times, Mothers, have you wished for that? Especially those of you who have multiple children under the age of seven! We go through the day being cook, washerwoman, maid, teacher, referee, nurse—and the list goes on and on—and we wonder if what we are doing really makes a difference. Will one day our children actually stand up, unashamedly, and call us “blessed”? Will they see that the hand of God was with us through the discipline, the tears, the curfews, and the hard decisions? Yes, they will. Although I still have two children under the age of 7, I have older children ranging up to 19 years old. And when I hear the older children bragging to others about “Mom,” my heart swells in thankfulness, and I again realize that the hard and difficult times were all worth it. Mother’s Day is usually a day when children “call us blessed,” with breakfast in bed, handmade cards and gifts, and hugs and kisses to go around. As you bask in the day, remember that “in all labor, there is profit” (Proverbs 14:23). What you put in—all the time, effort and sacrifice—will be rewarded. And it may come in an unexpected moment when your child arises and calls you blessed!

2-1/3 c. freshly-milled soft white wheat flour, or 2 c. all-purpose flour 1 Tbsp. baking powder ½ tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt ½ c. (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ½ c. raw honey 3 large eggs 3 large, ripe bananas, mashed 1 tsp. pure vanilla ½ c. chopped walnuts, plus extra for topping

Yield: 1 loaf

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9x5 loaf pan. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and honey with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. 4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. 5. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla. Mix well. 6. Gradually beat in the flour mixture until well blended. Stir in the ½ c. nuts. 7. Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts. 8. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 9. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool.

Variations Mini loaves: Bake for 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. (These are great for gifts!)

16 // May 2016

Muffins: Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.

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Chattanooga Church Directory Anglican

Anglican Church of the Redeemer 423.892.1101 104 McBrien Rd, 37411

Assembly of God

Calvary Church 423.629.1200 1212 South Seminole Drive, 37412 Fresh Fire Awakening 423.255.3103 Chattanooga, 37421

Baptist Bayside Baptist Church 423-344-8327 6100 Hwy 58 Harrison, TN 37416 Covenant Baptist Church 423.892.5542 1640 N. Joiner Rd, 37421 Duncan Park Baptist Church 706.899.3707 1609 Glowmont Dr, 37412 New Haven Baptist Church 423.855.4910 1058 Graysville Rd, 37421 Middle Cross Baptist Church 423.877.5742 4009 Norcross Rd, 37343 Heritage Baptist Church 423.499.5060 2934 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Ridgeview Baptist Church 423.899.1530 6 Moore Rd, 37411 Spring Creek Road Baptist 423.894.0700 1312 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 Alpine Baptist Church 423.875.3522 4720 Stagg Rd, 37415 Ashland Terrace Baptist Church 423.877.4392 906 Ashland Terrace, 37415 Avondale Baptist Church 423.344.2208 5479 Hwy 58, 37416 Bartle Baugh Baptist Church 423.344.5207 6129 Champion Rd, 37416 Berean Baptist Church 423.629.1634 1614 Kirby Ave, 37404 Bethel Baptist Church 423.875.9107 632 Lullwater Rd, 37405 Bethlehem Baptist Church 423.266.5484 101 Lawn St, 37405 Bible Way Baptist Church 423.624.2149

18 // May 2016

2003 Elmendorf St, 37406 Brainerd Baptist Church 423.624.2606 300 Brookfield Ave, 37411 Brainerd Hills Baptist Church 423.892.6645 6611 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Calvary Baptist Church 423.875.8154 5201 Dayton Blvd, 37415 Central Baptist Church 423.624.4678 901 Woodmore Ln, 37411 Charity Baptist Church 423.267.6576 2340 Rossville Blvd, 37408 Clifton Hill Baptist Church 423.867.4887 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Concord Baptist Church 423.892.9313 7025 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Brainerd Baptist Church 423.892.4235 1047 Graysville Rd, 37421 East Lake Baptist Church 423.698.1597 3315 12th Ave, 37407 East Ridge Baptist Church 423.698.2421 4201 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Edgewood Baptist Church 423.629.5821 3604 Ringgold Road, 37412 Empowerment Church 423.355.5576 1203 Blocker Lane, 37412 Faith Baptist Church 423.344.9712 8834 North Hickory Valley, 37416 Fellowship Baptist Church 423.894.8080 5335 Clemons Rd, 37412 First Baptist Church 423.265.2257 401 Gateway Ave, 37402 First Baptist Church 423.629.1950 1228 Latta St, 37406 First Baptist Church 423.265.3229 506 East 8th St., 37403 First Calvary Baptist Church 423.267.5159 300 Bell Ave, 37405 Grace Baptist Church 423.892.4869 7815 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Greater Beulah Baptist Church 423.624.0418 1301 Commerce St, 37404 Harmony Baptist Church 423.629.9660

3832 Youngstown Rd, 37406 Hickory Valley Baptist Church 423.892.1916 2320 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of the Highlands 423.493.4111 6621 Hunter Road, Harrison, TN 37341 Hillcrest Baptist Church 423.867.2812 3300 East 42nd St, 37407 Independent Baptist Church 423.875.3054 2624 Lyndon Ave, 37412 International Baptist Church 423.624.8638 1512 Old Ringgold Rd, 37404 Kings Point Baptist Church 423.624.5202 2834 Harrison Pike, 37403 Kingwood Baptist Church 423.624.7301 3522 Ringgold Rd, 37412 LifeSpring Baptist Church 423.892.8469 1701 Hickory Valley Road, 3742 New Hope Missionary Baptist Church 423.697.7000 3777 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Lookout Valley Baptist Church 423.825.5335 23 Lilac Ave, 37419 Macedonia Baptist Church 423.267.6915 1156 East Main St, 374081 Mission Ridge Baptist Church 423.624.0424 302 Shallowford Rd, 37411 Morris Hill Baptist Church 423.892.2071 1804 Morris Hill Rd, 37421 Mount Paran Baptist Church 423.629.2377 1319 Moss Dr, 37411 New Grace Baptist Church 423.899.5510 7861 Lee Hwy, 37421 Orchard Knob Baptist Church 423.629.6115 1734 East 3rd St, 37404 Philadelphia Baptist Church 423.629.5786 2230 East 18th St, 37404 Pilgrim Rock Baptist Church 423.894.7548 1726 Church Rd, 37421 Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 423.892.0237 1441 Crawford Rd, 37421 Prospect Baptist Church 423.698.4149 734 Dodson Ave, 37404

Resurrected Reformed Baptist 423.698.8086 2230 East 18th Street, 37404 Ridgedale Baptist Church 423.499.0994 1831 Hickory Valley Road, 37421 Rose of Sharon Baptist Church 423.629.9534 2001 Blackford St, 37404 Second Baptist Church 423.629.6039 1619 East Main St, 37404 Shiloh Baptist Church 423.267.3131 1708 Carr St, 37408 Silverdale Baptist Church 423.892.2173 7236 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37421 Standifer Gap Baptist Church 423.892.8596 8159 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 Stanley Heights Baptist Church 423.867.8060 1512 Mcbrien Rd, 37412 Temple Baptist Church 423.622.1913 3200 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Terra Vista Baptist Church 423.892.3879 4412 Oakwood Dr, 37416 Tucker Baptist Church 423.510.9684 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Washington Park Baptist 423.899.9408 1823 Shepherd Rd, 37421 Westview Baptist Church 423.899.0127 9516 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 Woodland Park Baptist Church 423.899.9185 6735 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421

Church of God East Chattanooga COG 423.894.7926 4924 Hwy 58, 37416 East Lake Church of God 423.698.6522 2949 East 29th St, 37407 Brainerd Hills Church of God 423.892.2092 410 Friar Rd, 37421 City Church of Chattanooga 423.894.6982 7122 Lee Hwy, 37421 Church of God of Prophecy 423.899.4074 3927 Webb Rd, 37416 Church of God of Prophecy 423.894.0597 2201 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of God Seventh Day

423.899.5490 7504 Old Lee Hwy, 37421 East Brainerd Church of God 423.899.4755 8312 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 The Crossing Church 423.867.7287 7501 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421 East Side Church of God 423.624.8797 2105 Citico Ave, 37404 Fellowship Church of God 423.867.3194 3426 Clio Ave, 37407 Holy Temple Church of God 423.629.2649 2311 Bliss St, 37406 Joyful Noise Church of God 423.698.1813 1614 Foust St, 37404 Pure Holiness Church of God 423.622.4667 420 North Holly St, 37404 Redemption Point 423-855-7321 3831 Ooltewah-Ringgold Rd. Ooltewah, TN 37363 Redemption Point Highland Park 423.855.7321 1907 Bailey Ave, 37404 Temple of Faith Church of God 423.698.2700 2139 East 27th 37407 United Temple Church of God 423.624.1037 2418 Dodson Ave, 37406 Vision Church of God 423.624.7170 4901 Midland Pike, 37411 Woodmore Church of God 423.899.0827 1115 North Moore Rd, 37411 Word Center Church of God 423.867.3330 4803 13th Ave, 37407

Nazarene Alton Park Church of the Nazarene 423.756.2468 4004 Dorris St, 37410 Nazarene Calvary Church of the Nazarene 423.892.5771 4400 Bonny Oaks Dr, 37416 East Brainerd Church of the Nazarene 423.499.8643 8101 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Church of the Nazarene 423.894.8656 1202 Spring Creek Rd, 37412 First Church of the Nazarene 423.624.2679 2099 East Main St, 37404

Community Church Cosmopolitan Community Church 423.622.3217 3031 Wilcox Blvd, 37411 Friendship Community Church 423.698.3471 7 North Tuxedo Dr, 37411 Metropolitan Community Church 423.629.2737 1601 Foust St, 37404

Lutheran

Ascension Lutheran Church 423.698.5047 720 South Germantown Rd, 37412 First Lutheran Church Pastor Mark McCrory 423-629-5990; www.first4u.org 2800 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Good Shepherd Lutheran Rev. H. Christopher Sheets 423.629.4661 www.gslcflock.org 822 Belvoir Ave, 37412 Saint Phillip Lutheran Church 423.267.1475 51 West 25th St, 37408

Methodist Jones Memorial UMC 423.624.6073 4131 Ringgold Rd, 37412 Mount Crest UMC 423.881.4165 8206 Cicero Tr, 37421 St John UMC 423.892.2257 3921 Murray Hills Dr, 37416 Wesley Memorial UMC 423.892.6446 6314 E. Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge UMC Pastor Ken Sauer 423-892-8451; eastridgeumc.org 1601 Prater Road, East Ridge, TN 37412 Stanley UMC 423.624.6729 501 Dodson Ave, 37404 Washington Hills UMC 423.892.8050 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Cleveland Trinity UMC 423.892.6926 9028 Warbler Ln, 37421 East Lake UMC 423.624.4921 2903 East 37th St, 37407 St Elmo UMC 423.855.0807 3030 Towerway Dr, 37406 Lake Vista UMC 423.892.4941 6216 Hadley Dr, 37416 Saint Mary CME Church

423.622.2742 1417 Wheeler Ave, 37406 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.855.2004 515 Airport Rd, 37421 Sheares Memorial UMC 423.698.4114 400 Glenwood Dr, 37404 Tyner UMC 423.892-0444 6805 Standifer Gap Rd, 37421

Non-Denominational Christian Family Church 423.774.8888 88 Hunt Drive Rossville, GA 30741 Celebration Church 423.892.8979 6425 Lee Highway, 37421 The Sacred Heart Mission of Chattanooga 423.238.3835 3914 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Faith Connection Church 423.933.6986 7312 Shallowford Rd, 37421 Metropolitan Tabernacle 423.894.3377 2101 West Shepherd Rd, 37422 Carpenters Cowboy Church 423.867.4232 3616 Rossville Blvd, 37407 Brainerd Hills Chapel Church 423.899.3098 5931 Pinegrove Tr, 37421 Chattanooga Church 423.892.2888 6188 Adamson Circle, 37416 Christian Church of Hope 423.855.0767 2330 Hickory Valley Rd, 37421 Church of Jesus 423.629.5051 2118 Wilson St, 37406 Church of the First Born 423.756.0704 3418 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Church of the Lord Jesus 423.265.8235 200 West 19th St, 37408 Mount Summit of Peace Church 423.899.0434 6925 Shallowford Rd, 37421 New Covenant Church 423.867.2121 3700 Clio Ave, 37407 New Covenant Fellowship Church 423.899.8001 1326 North Moore Road, 37411 Walker Avenue First Church 423.622.2982 2101 Walker St, 37404 Worlds Church of the Living God 423.622.2992 2110 Glass St, 37406

Pentecostal Emanuel Pentecostal Church 423.821.5261 4204 Ohls Ave, 37410 Sharon Pentecostal Church 423.867.7088 1400 East 48th St, 37407 Virtuous Church Pastor Richard O. Smith 5952 Brainerd Road Chattanooga, TN 37412 (423)521-4440 www.virtuouschurch.org Word of Pentecost Church 423.624.2620 1722 Newton St, 37406

Presbyterian First Cumberland Presbyterian 423.698.2556 1505 North Moore Rd, 37411 Central Presbyterian Church 423.629.1401 1815 McCallie Ave, 37404 Covenant Presbyterian Church 423.899.5377 8451 East Brainerd Rd, 37421 East Ridge Presbyterian Church 423.867.2717 4919 Court Dr, 37412 First Presbyterian Church 423.267.1206 554 McCallie Ave, 37402 New Hope Presbyterian Church 423.892.0853 7301 Shallowford Rd, 37421 North Minster Presbyterian 423.894.3773 4791 Hal Dr, 37416 St Elmo Presbyterian Church 423.821.1424 4400 St Elmo Ave, 37409 Second Presbyterian Church 423.266.2828 700 Pine St, 37402

Vineyard Vineyard Christian Fellowship 423.704.2188 10615 London Ln, 37302

Seventh-Day Collegedale Community 9503 Four Corners Place Collegedale, TN 37363 Hamilton County Church 7997 Shallowford Rd Chattanooga, TN 37421

Wesleyan Faith Community Wesleyan 7725 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, TN 37421

issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 19

FEATURED COVER STORY

ABRA Auto Body & Glass

by Emily Dawe “Right on the first time, on time.”

BRA Auto Body and Glass began in 1984. ABRA provides vehicle repair services, and specializes in collision repair, auto glass repair, and replacements. Currently, ABRA has 337 collision repair centers in 22 of the fifty states. Out of the 281 corporately owned stores and 56 franchise operations, the ABRA of Chattanooga and Cleveland is the largest franchise group within ABRA. This company is growing quickly through new markets of corporately owned stores and franchise centers. ABRA is committed to conducting business based on responsible business practices, including implementation of environmentally sustainable initiatives, health, safety, and a commitment to the communities it serves. ABRA plans to continue growing and expanding as it is doing now and has done in the past. They want to include new repair centers and build up their industry leading operating systems. Already, ABRA is

20 // May 2016

the leading competitor in the nation for cycle time and customer service. Keith Clingan says that “if you take care of your customers, your business should always grow.” As their customers continue to return, their business continues to grow. ABRA Auto Body and Glass has a set of values that the owners and employees embody. They strive to demonstrate honesty, integrity, and respect in every situation. They develop their talents and build a culture of teamwork among the other employees. They always fulfill the commitments they make to their customers: “Right on the first time, on time.” They also provide a safe workplace and protect the environment with all of their work. With these values at the forefront of their minds, each employee daily makes ABRA the customer’s choice for Auto Body and Glass repair and replacement. The Chattanooga market, which opened in 1996, is owned and operated locally by BTG and it was in

the summer of 2000 that the Cleveland, TN location was opened in a brand new building. In 2004, ABRA expanded into the Hixson area when they converted an older building. And in 2010, the Chapman Road location was opened. At each of the four locations in the area, while the te4chnicians work on the customer’s vehicle, the helpful customer service staff will answer customer questions and deliver the best service possible. ABRA Auto Body and Glass is known for their customer service and they vow to give their customers detailed attention and the top notch service they deserve. It is their goal to make sure the customer is happy and their car is returned to its pre-accident condition. Their technicians are highly trained in every aspect of the vehicle repair industry and they also use state-of-the-art technology in all of their repairs. Their employees, paired with the technology, and the quality products help ensure the customer’s vehicle will be delivered back in its pre-accident condition. Each of the four locations in the Chattanooga and Cleveland area is fully staffed with a team of customer service professionals. Between the four stores, they have 84 highly-qualified employees. These employees are available to answer any questions the customer may have and are highly trained to help bring the customer’s vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. Many customers have commented on how professional ABRA’s staff is and how the employees are willing to go the extra mile. Janila B said, “I really appreciate the extra mile [ABRA] went in [repairing] the rust and applying corrosion protection to the area under the bumper.” Paul R comments on his appreciation for how the employees treated his wife: “My wife and I have been very pleased with the service we received at ABRA. From the greeting by the receptionist, to the professional friendly treatment from Bryan, to the gracious treatment of my wife when she picked up her car. The entire experience speaks highly for [ABRA’s] organization.” Most of the customers who get work done at ABRA go home feeling satisfied and taken care of by a professional staff. Each location is filled with updated technology and modern lounge areas. ABRA prides itself with providing customers with clean, modern, and customer-friendly lounge areas. They include drive-up-claims area, car rental assistance, and early bird and after hours drop off. The luxury of a customer being able to drop off

his or her car before the store opens or after it closes is something that most people are not able to enjoy. ABRA makes a point of being available to their customers even when the stores are closed. ABRA also offers foreign language assistance, a 24-hour contact center, estimates, I-CAR and ASE certified technicians, windshield technicians, and a lifetime warranty that is honored at all ABRA locations nationwide. They all have an auto glass in-shop service at all of their collision facilities. Every month, approximately 14% of the vehicles are return customers. Also, within the month, they repair approximately 650 collision vehicles and repair and replace 270 auto glass vehicles. With all of these vehicles, ABRA still maintains a 9.6 in the customer satisfaction. Their score ranks them within the top ten for customer service. ABRA aims to have every customer walking out of the store with a smile on their face, knowing their vehicle is back to its pre-accident state. ABRA Auto Body and Glass have placed or won Best of the Best Collision Repair in Chattanooga for the last five years and counting. They have also won the Torch Award with BBB, Hot Picks in the City, and many other awards in the last few years. ABRA Auto Body and Glass is a proud sponsor of the Make a Wish foundation, St. Jude, and many other local and national charities.

issuu.com/goodnewschatt // 21

Gò0dNews for Parents

Divisive Devices by Mark Aitkenhead

Families divided by tiny little electronic influencers

-Pods, I-Phones, Blackberrys, Samsungs, Tablets and I-Pads, Wiis, X-Boxes, and the like. Oh Boy! Have they changed our world! But, I fear, the biggest change is in our little ones. Behavioral changes are now happening at a rate never before seen in our history as we explode into the information age. We have started seeing a trend in the world today where kids are becoming more introverted, self-absorbed, selfish, and demanding. Could it be from the innocent “I-Devices”? I titled the article Divisive Devices because I am seeing this more and more. Families becoming divided by tiny little electronic influences in our homes. Kids spending way too much time in dark rooms playing games or searching an unmonitored internet. It seems that parents have also become far more self-absorbed and, “Hey, if the kids are quiet, what’s the harm?” The problem is the long term effect on the physical, mental, and emotional health of the individual. Kids should be kids and allowed to go outside for refreshment in the open air. Those little one eyed “demon” devices are stealing a generation of children who desperately need interaction with other real kids and some creative mentorship. The Lord admonishes us to train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it. Can you imagine a world where all the adults are completely led by devices, unable to make creative and rational decisions, stunted in their emotional expression because they can get their fix from internet porn. Or, a world that can’t write creatively anymore because they can’t communicate effectively. I know that if I saw the phrase (tnx hv a gr8 dy) in my 20’s I would not h a v e known what it meant.

22 // May 2016

(For those that still don’t understand it, it means “thanks, have a great day”). Oh, what to do? Well, here are some ideas. Make sure that your child reaches a certain age decided by both parents before a device is brought into their world. This includes baby devices now available on the market at kid’s shops. How much time? I think you should think minimalistic. Minutes rather than 10’s of minutes or hours per day. The hard part is to get other adults to agree. Spouses have to be on the same page or there will be strife. This should be decided way ahead of time. Consistency in keeping the timeline is vital. The moment one parent, grandparent, or sitter caves, the battle is lost. As the child celebrates another birthday more minutes can be added each year. The best would be to research well-known child resources to find out what is considered best for your child. Here is the hardest one of all. Parents, be the example. If you are spending too much time on your device what are you telling your little one? We have to stand strong in the face of a new world of devices if we are going to raise functional and powerful world-influencers.

Dr. Mark Aitkenhead is a pastor, business owner and family man. He loves God with all his heart and loves people.

6 1 20 R E MM

SU MPS CA

All Summer long!

AUDUBON ACRES WILD WATER SUMMER CAMPS

• 900 N. Sanctuary Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421 • 423-892-1499 • lgrabowski@chattaudubon.org • Chattanoogaaudubon.org • Ages: 6-9 (Week 1), and 10-13 (Week 2), and 14 and up can apply to be counselors and attend camp at no charge, if they are accepted. • Boys, girls, or both: Both

BALLET TENNESSEE YOUTH DANCE CAMP • 3202 Kellys Ferry Roads, Chattanooga, TN 37419 • 423-821-2055 • Ballettennessee.org • Ages: 7-13 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

BAYLOR SUMMER CAMP

• 171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405 • 423-267-8505 • Baylorschool.org/summer • Ages:5-16 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

BELVOIR CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

• 800 Belvoir Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37412 (located off I-24, Germantown Road/Belvoir Ave. exit, East Ridge) • 423-622-3755 • Admissions@bcalions.org • www.bcalions.org • Ages: PK 3- 8Th grade • Boys, girls, or both: Both

BOYD-BUCHANAN SUMMER CAMPS • 4650 Buccaneer Trail, Chattanooga, TN 37411 • 423-622-6177 • rmcentyre@bbschool.org • Bbschool.org • Boys, girls, or both: Both

BRICKS 4 KIDZ

• Chattanooga, TN • 423-567-5439 • kmacbride@bricks4kidz.com • Bricks4kidz.com/Chattanooga • Boys, girls, or both: Both

CAMP BRIGHT

• 1950 McDonald Lane, Chattanooga, TN 37405 • 423-265-0024 • Campbright@brightschool.com • Brightschool.com/campbright • Ages: 4 and up • Boy, girls, or both: Both

CAMP JABEZ

• 7 Spilt Rock Trail Morganton, GA 30560 • 706-374-6374 • brian@campjabez.com • CampJabez.com • Boys, girls, or both: Both

CAMP JULIETTE LOW

• 321 Camp Juliette Low Rd., Cloudland, GA 30731 • info@CJL.org • CJL.org • Ages: 7-17 • Boys, girls, or both: Girls

CHALLENGE ISLAND

• Chattanooga, TN • 423-567-5439 • Chattanooga@challangeisland.com • Challenge-island.com • Boys, girls, or both: Both

CHATTANOOGA THEATRE CAMP • 400 River Street, Chattanooga, TN • 423-267-8534 • boxoffice@theatrecentre.com • Theatrecentre.com • Ages: 4-18 ( Pre-K through high school) • theatrecentre.com

CHILDREN’S MUSIC & ARTS CAMP • Gateway Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37402 • 423-648-2543 • Fbcchattanooga.org/music-and-arts-camp • Ages: 7-12 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

CAMP WILL FILL UP F SO SIG AST, N TODAY UP !

CREATIVE DISCOVERY MUSEUM • 321 Chestnut St., Chattanooga, TN, 37402 • 423-756-2738 • Cdmfun.org • Ages: 3-12 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

GIRLS INC. SUMMER CAMP

BEST SUMMER

GIRLS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

YMCA SuMMer CAMp

• Brainerd United Methodist Church 4315 Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37411 • 423-624-4757 • Girlsincofchatt.org/camps.html • Ages: 6-18 • Boys, girls, or both: Girls • 205 Island Ave., PO Box 4736 Chattanooga, TN • 423-634-3457 • kleffew@gps.edu • summercamp.gps.edu • Boys, girls, or both: Girls

GRACE BAPTIST ACADEMY

• 7815 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, TN 37404 • 423-622-6900 • SpeechHearing.com • Ages: 3-18 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

HIGH POINT CLIMBING AND FITNESS CAMP

• High Point Downtown: 219 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402 • High Point Riverside: 1007 Appling Street, Chattanooga, TN 37406 • High Point Downtown: 423-602-7625 • High Point Riverside: 423-475-6578 • info@highpointclimbing.com • riverside@highpointclimbing.com • HighPointClimbing.com • Ages: 5-14 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

KAREN HORTON SCHOOL OF DANCE • 3517 Hixson Pike, Chattanooga, TN 37415 • 423-875-6720 • Freewebs.com/karenhorton • Ages: 6 and up • Boys, girls, or both: Both

EVER!

is the place to be this summer!

We offer your child a well-rounded camp experience with activities such as daily swimming, indoor and outdoor games, arts & crafts, fun and engaging learning activities, field trips, and much more! The YMCA is committed to building assets in youth of all ages. YMCA Day Camp creates positive experiences that help children live, learn and thrive. YMCA Day Camp also offers inclusion opportunities for campers with special needs who can function in a group environment. Please contact the camp director to determine if we can safely accommodate your special needs camper.

You can also register today for

BOLD/GOLD An outdoor education program that develops leadership skills in teens through wilderness experiences.

info@campocoee.com • 423.338.5588

campocoee.com

Contact Brice Percy at bpercy@ymcachattanooga.org ymcachattanooga.org/bold/gold

YMCA OF METROPOLITAN CHATTANOOGA ymcachattanooga.org

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN ATTRACTIONS • 800-825-8366 • LOOKOUTMOUNTAIN.COM/GROUPS • Ages: 3-18 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

MYSTERY DOG RANCH HORSE CAMP • 975 Wooten Road, Ringgold, GA 30736 • 706-935-5559 • Mysterydogranch.com • Boys, girls, or both: Both

PRIMROSE SCHOOLS OF CHATTANOOGA

• 5170 Preschool Lane, Hixson, TN 37343 • 423-870-4840 • Primroseschools.com/Hixson • 1619 Gunbarrel Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421 • Primroseschools.com/EastBrainerd • Ages: 5-10 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

PRIVATE YOUTH SAILING CAMP

Summer at St. Nicholas Camp is an incredibly FUN time for kids ages 4-12. Activities include swimming, art, music, gardening, sports, games and weekly field trips. Additional enrichment classes are offered at various price ranges.

STNS.org/summercamp

COOKING

GoodNews Christian Magazine 1/4 Page 3.8125” x 5.125”

CAMPS SUMMER CAMPS AGES 8 -17 Enjoy

15 OFF

To redeem, enter: goodnews15

Learn Culinary, Baking, and Pastry skills in Chattanooga’s only cooking classroom.

Give us a call! 423.661. 8750

• Privateer Yacht Club, Hixson, TN 37343 • 423-667-2493 • csps@epbfi.com • Privateeryachtclub.org • Boys, girls, or both: Both

RAILROAD SUMMER CAMP

• 4119 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421 • 423-894-8028 • Tvrail.com • Ages: 7-17 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

REFLECTION RIDING ARBORETUM & NATURE CENTER • 400 Garden Road, Chattanooga, TN 37419 • 423-821-1160 ext.112 • education@reflectionriding.org • Reflectionriding.org • Ages: 7-13 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

RIVER CITY ARCHERY

• 1304 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37404 • 423-551-3055 • Rivercityarchery.com • Ages: 10-16 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

SILVERDALE BAPTIST ACADEMY

• 7236 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37421 • 423-892-2319 • Silvedaleba.org • Ages: 7-14 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

SPEECH & HEARING CENTER SUMMER IEP CONTINUATION • 600 N. Holtzclaw Ave. Ste. 200; Chattanooga, TN 37404 • 423-622-6900 • SpeechHearing.com • Ages: 3-18 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

ST.NICHOLAS SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

• 7525 Min Tom Drive, Chattanooga, TN 37421 • 423-899-1999 • kdaugherty@stns.org • Stns.org • Ages: 4-12 (Day Camp) and 12 (Day and Enrichment Camp, Camp Leadership Program) • and 13-15 (Leadership Camp) • Boys, girls, or both: Both

STELLAR THERAPY

• 6172 Airways Blvd. Suite 122, Chattanooga, TN 37421 • 423-622-1551 • info@stellartherapy.com • Stellar Pediatrics.com • Ages: 4-12 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

TECHTOWN

• 325 Market Street, 2nd Floor, Chattanooga, TN 37402 • 423-308-7730 • contact@gotechtown.org • Gotechtown.org • Ages: 7-17 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

THE SWEET & SAVORY CLASSROOM

• 45 E. Main Street Suite 112, Chattanooga, TN 37408 • 423-661-8750 • chefjeff@sweetandsavoryclassroom.com • Ages: 8-17 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

VALLEY VIEW RANCH EQUESTRIAN CAMP • 606 Valley View Ranch Rd., Cloudland, GA 30731 • 706-862-2231 • info@valleyviewranch.com • Valleyviewranch.com • Ages: 8-17 • Boys, girls, or both: Girls

UTC YOUTH UNIVERSITY

• University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Campus • Utc.edu/continuing-education • Ages: 6-13 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

YMCA METROPOLITAN CHATTANOOGA SUMMER DAY CAMP • 301 West 6th St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 • 423-265-8834 • Ymcachattanooga.org • Ages 5-15 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

ZOO CAMP

• 301 North Holtzclaw Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404 • 423-697-1322 • education@chattzoo.org • Chattzoo.org • Ages: 3-14 • Boys, girls, or both: Both

Gò0dNews for Seniors

Nursing Homes and Assisted Living -- It’s All the Same, Right? Wrong! by Karen Brummer

“I wish I had moved here sooner!” In the field of senior living, the first hurdle we generally face is a senior population who believe Assisted Living is merely a synonym for Nursing Home. But nothing could be further from the truth! While both, mostly, house individuals aged 80 and above, and provide meals, supportive care, and recreational activities, that’s pretty much the end of the similarities. With a lifetime of experiences of having older friends or family members perhaps living in nursing homes (as that was historically the only option), this misperception is understandable. So let’s take a moment to clarify the differences. Nursing Home: A facility with patients living in rooms (usually shared). Nursing home patients generally have much greater medical needs requiring very frequent hands-on care. Assisted Living: A Community of Residents Living in Private Apartments Assisted living is for individuals for whom it is no longer advisable to live at home. This may be due to safety issues, health concerns, lack of mobility, social needs or merely the difficulty in ‘keeping house’ with advancing age. Assisted living residents generally need some ‘assistance’ with activities of daily living (ADLs) and may require some nursing care. Examples of nursing needs might be for medication management or monitoring of a

28 // May 2016

medical condition. Resident assistants are available to those needing help such as bathing, dressing, getting in and out of bed, or toileting assistance. Each resident has unique needs and resident care is tailored to the individual. Again, the primary focus is on assistance. The upside: assisted living is like a combination of a home, a hotel, and a cruise! Apartments usually contain a small kitchenette, but daily meals are provided and served in inviting dining rooms where people socialize on a daily basis. Housekeeping is provided as is linen service and laundry in some cases. Help will be as close as a pull cord or the push of a pendant button. You will generally find a wealth of recreational activities on a daily basis, and transportation will be provided for outings, shopping, and doctor visits. Some communities, such as The Terrace at Mountain Creek, even provide a concierge, beauty parlor, and physical therapy on-site. Admittedly, most current Assisted Living residents were fearful about moving; change is difficult and fear of the unknown affects us all. But ask current residents about their opinions of Assisted Living now and you will most often get the response, “Oh, I wish I had moved here sooner! This is a fabulous way of life!” Residents feel relief! Relief from the burdens of home maintenance, housekeeping, cooking, boredom, isolation and oftentimes feeling fearful or insecure in their home. And families feel relief no longer having to worry about their loved ones! So when it’s time for Assisted Living, don’t be afraid; it’s a wonderful way of life! Maybe it’s time NOW! Karen Brummer is the community relations liaison at The Terrace at Mountain Creek, where she can show her passion for seniors. She not only educates the public on the many aspects of senior living, but she also has a rich history of face-to-face contact with prospects, residents, and their families. This experience, combined with her real-life role of daughter to parents in their 80s, gives her firsthand understanding of seniors and the challenges they face.

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Gò0dNews for Teens

Am I Good? by Fernando Alejandro

We cannot afford to allow negative thoughts or comments to seep into our student’s minds.

ave you been the kid, or seen that kid, that causes all of the trouble in the classroom, at the playgrounds, or at the birthday parties? We can all think of one, or several, individual(s) that are. You probably, or maybe the adults, refer to these kids as the “bad kid(s).” We probably haven’t put much thought into the fact calling a child bad has any negative affect on them, right? You’re just referring to their bad behavior or attitude. It’s the same language you use to your pets when they do something bad, correct? So, what’s the issue with using “bad kid”? It’s not just a figure of speech that is used and there cannot be any harm in using it. I would have to say there is a negative effect that it causes when a child/student hears this consistently. If a student is only referred to as the “bad kid” don’t you think they will begin to act in that manner because that is what is expected of them? I know there is a time for discipline and correcting a students behavior, but there needs to be more positive communication being poured into them than there is negative. Imagine of all of the changes that teens are experiencing daily. They’re trying to figure out who they are at school, home, in the church, and in God. Teens are consistently s elf-evalu a tin g themselves daily and most of the

30 // May 2016

time it’s because of negative responses/comments they’re receiving from peers or family members. “You look really bad today, fix yourself up” or “you can do better than this, haven’t we taught you anything?” These are only two of several comments that students may hear throughout their day. As parents, mentors, youth workers, or someone that has an influential voice in a teen’s life, they need to hear positive, life-giving encouragements to combat the negativity that teens are facing in today’s culture of perfectionism. What are some ways that teens can hear more life-giving encouragement? 1. Each day tell them that they’re valued in your eyes and in the eyes of Christ. 2. Remind them that they’re good. 3. Say, “I love you.” 4. Quote scripture or send a text with scripture within it. (1 Peter 5:7; Jeremiah 29:11; 1 John 3:2; Ephesians 2:5-6) 5. Share how you overcame negativity and be the example of God’s provision through your hardships. As Christians, we are here to uplift one another and be the light to this world. This world is full of negativity and hurt, and we cannot afford to allow those thoughts or comments to seep into our student’s minds. We must be the voice that penetrates the world with life, hope, and the Word of God to reveal to them that Jesus came to reconcile humanity back to God. As Ephesians 4:29 states, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.” (NASB)

Fernando Alejandro is a recent graduate of Lee University and is now pursuing a Master of Arts in Ministry Studies with an emphasis in Youth and Family Ministry. He is currently a youth worker at The Element Student Ministries at Westmore Church of God.

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Gò0dNews for Couples

The Miracle of the Marriage Feast by Mike Shreve

A Symbolic, Prophetic and Practical Application Jesus’ first supernatural miracle was performed at a marriage feast in Cana; he turned water into wine (see Jn. 2:1-11). So the Messiah started His ministry by taking something good and making it better. Though it seemed to be just the solution to a basic need (they ran out of wine), most likely, the event was divinely orchestrated to be highly prophetic. For this Age of Grace (that began with this literal marriage feast) has continued as an ongoing “marriage feast” spiritually for almost two millennia. For everyone who receives salvation is “married . . . to Him who was raised from the dead” (Ro. 7:4). Then after we open the door of our hearts to Him, He promises to feast with us (see Rev. 3:20). So quite possibly, this event was a symbol of what Jesus came to do spiritually in this world— how in the instant He arose, He would: • Change the “water” of the Old Covenant into the “wine” of the New Covenant. • Shift the emphasis from something good to something better: from the law to grace, from fear to love, from bondage to liberty, from external demands to internal transformation, from religion to relationship, from a Master/servant emphasis in the Old Covenant era to a rapturous Bridegroom/bride relationship in this present age. When this era comes to a close at the return of Jesus, we will move up to an even more spectacular level of fulfillment, for there will be a final marriage feast that God Himself will conduct. The Biblical

32 // May 2016

description is glorious: And I heard, as it were, the voice of a great multitude, as the sound of many waters and as the sound of mighty thunderings, saying, “Alleluia! For the Lord God Omnipotent reigns! Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.” And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb! . . .’” (Revelation 19:6-9) So on an absolute, eternal level, the “best” will be saved for last. As I ponder this high-flying theology, though, my mind reverts to a much simpler, more practical application of this story. This first miracle of Jesus is also indicative of what God can do in the marriage of a man and a woman—turning “the water” of love, friendship, and commitment over a period of years into “the wine” of a final “oneness of heart” that crowns a couple’s latter years with even great glory. Yes, if God is really in a marriage, it should be deeper, stronger and more beautiful in its later stages than at its start. My wife, Elizabeth, and I can attest to this truth. We have been married since 1989, and in our lives, God really has saved “the best wine for last.” We pray the same for you! Mike and Elizabeth Shreve pastor “The Sanctuary” in Cleveland and oversee Deeper Revelation Books, a Christian publishing company. Mike also has written 14 books, including the best-selling “ 6 5 Prom is es f rom G o d for You r C h i l d.” www.shreveministries.org

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Gò0dNews for Life

Pregnancy Outside of Marriage is Still Pregnancy by Delaney Walker

“Whenever I see an unmarried woman carrying a child, my first response is one of respect. I know she could have taken the quick fix without anyone knowing, but she chose instead to let an innocent child live.” -Randy Alcorn

ou don’t know her story. Perhaps you see an unmarried pregnant woman in the grocery store or at the gas station or enjoying a movie. You see the baby bump, but there is no ring on her left hand. You see her sitting with her friends at the local high school’s football game as they cheer in the student section. You see what appears to be so much, but in reality it is not enough to know her story. What circumstances led to her pregnancy? Who is standing by her side as she tries to adjust to motherhood in nine months? How many hopes and dreams and plans has she delayed or pushed to the side? What is her name? There are so many unknowns. Here is what you know for sure: she has chosen life for her child. At the end of the day, that’s all you really need to know. Pregnancy is one of the few instances where o u r l i fe cho i ce s are visible to everyone. Clearing internet search history or swearing someone to secrecy will not take care of the issue.

34 // May 2016

In a crisis pregnancy situation, abortion is a very attractive option to someone who may be scared, alone, or overwhelmed. Whether by pill or procedure, young and old ladies alike are promised their life will go back to normal. It takes love and strength of will for an unmarried woman to decide she will put up with the two-sided talk, whispers, and looks for the sake of her child. Here is something else you may not know: while there are many instances of supportive loved ones standing by the woman in a crisis pregnancy situation, there are just as many ladies who are being advised by their friends and family to abort. There is no way for you to know any of this when you run into an unmarried pregnant woman in public. In spite of all these unknowns, there is a blueprint for how you should react. Ask yourself one question: how would I respond if I saw a ring on an expecting mother’s finger? Would you continue walking without a second glance? Would you smile? Would you ask her how far along she is? Whatever your normal response would be, that is the appropriate one.

Delaney Walker is the development director at New Hope Pregnancy Care Center. She is an avid fan of reading, exercising, and making silly faces at babies in the grocery store.

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Gò0dNews for Everyone

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Made Beautiful by Mead Vest

There is a direct connection between the things that most frustrated me and the things I hold most dear.

s I look back on the past many years, I can vividly remember when my children were much younger and I would get utterly frustrated about a few key things in my life: sleep deprivation, mountains of laundry, constant noise, and eternal messes all over the house. This was of course when I had seven young children under the age of 15 at home. Some would say that this is the bad part of raising children. There are also some really fabulous memories from when my children were all much younger. When my toddler would be freshly bathed, dressed in clean pajamas and all ready for bed, she would come to sit on my lap so I could read her a story. Also, when my year-old baby would knock over a stack of blocks as tall as he was and laugh at himself. I remember when my child would climb in bed with me at 4am, and she would fall back asleep very quickly while I lay awake listening to her breath. In addition, there were many times when my three year-old would come up to me out of the blue, with no ulterior motive, just to say, “I love you, Mom!” and then run off to play some

36 // May 2016

more. Most would say this is the good part about raising children. Of course those wonderful memories are so worth the 16 years of sleep deprivation and the estimated 21,840 loads of laundry I will have done by the time my last one leaves home. They are worth all of the blocks and Legos, dolls and board games, shoes and clothes, school books and science projects, that have been left out for the past couple of decades. And that doesn’t even account for the non-stop talking we experience in our house. With 9 people living in one house, that mathematically gives us the equivalent of 36 potential interactions at any given moment between all of the different individuals not including group interactions. That is a lot of noise. But the memories are still worth it. Looking back, it is plain to see that there is a direct connection between the things that most frustrated me and the things I hold most dear. If I did not have the children I have, then I would not have had the sleepless nights, or the piles of laundry, or the toys always left out, or the house full of noise. In essence, I would not have had all of the bad things associated with raising children. Of course then God could not have used those frustrations as opportunities for me to grow beyond the ugly part of myself and allow God to shape me and mold me into His image. And of course, it is the contrast of the good that makes the bad bearable.

Mead Vest is married with seven children. She is passionate about classical education and serves on the school board of Candies Creek Academy associated with Candies Creek Baptist Church. She has homeschooled for over twenty years and is in leadership with a non-profit that promotes competitive speech and debate for high school students. She is an avid organizer and an essential oils enthusiast.

Gò0dNews from the Tech Shop

What is Your Treasure? by Chris Isbill

It is that “thing” that holds us hostage to the keyboard.

t’s late at night. You are in the chair. Lights are dim. Everyone is in bed. Yet the keyboard is bright and glowing. Why? Have we ever stopped to ask why? What is it that is so important that its power would keep us from laying down with our spouse, enjoying a goodnight story with our kids, or keep us up in an insomniac state while we try to clear our eyes so that we can bang on the keyboard a little more? For you, what is that “thing” that holds us hostage at the keyboard’s end. Maybe it’s budgets or budget cuts. Maybe it’s work reports, emails, or late night sales proposals. Maybe It’s the craving of something lustful outside of what God has given you. Maybe, just maybe whatever it is, it is simply that powerful because it is where your heart is. I’m not saying giving something your all is bad, sometimes though, we give our all to the wrong something. That something

has to get done, it can’t wait, nor seldom does it. Once again what is your something? For many, it is sitting looking through old photos and reliving the past. For many, its money based. For others it is traps. Still one thing is for sure: we all have hard times escaping whatever that “something” is in our life. I believe mostly it is because that something consumes us and for that short period it becomes our God. It becomes our idol. Our heart becomes dead set on it and our mind consumes it and before long it is the habit we have fallen into and turns into the golden calf that lays in our laps. Jeremiah 17:9 (HCSB) shows us that “the heart is more deceitful than anything else, and incurable” and then asks “who can understand it”. Then Matthew 6:19-21 (HCSB) says “Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves won’t break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Is it clear to see now, what we allow to happen to ourselves? So I ask, where is your treasure and why is it keeping you up at night? In the rest of Matthew 6, it talks about how we can only serve one Master, God, and nothing else. Not worry, not depression, not anxiety, not heartache, not fleshly love, not pride, not temptation, not money, not power, not video game scores, not sales presentations, not jobs, not careers, not stocks, not possessions, not silver and gold, not our husbands or our wives, not our family, not our needs, not our wants, not our desires. simply put: NOTHING. Anything we give all our attention to is an idol. So I ask, what is your treasure?

Chris Isbill is the owner of Isbill Tech Services and enjoys spending time with his wife Chelsie and their dog Maggie.

38 // May 2016

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