HOME Living in North Georgia magazine

January | February 2014

Jena Sims Winder native goes from small town to big screen

KEEP YOUR RESOLUTION! We can help you find financial freedom in 2014!

Planning for a healthy and prosperous retirement that might last 20, 25 or even 30 years into the future can be a daunting task. You want to make your financial resources last for the rest of your life -- no matter how long you live -- and you don’t want to be wiped out by down markets, poor tax planning, or long-term care expenses. That being said, it makes sense to seek guidance from trained professionals for these most important financial decisions.

Scott Moore, founder and senior advisor of Moore’s Wealth Management, has been in the financial services industry for over 22 years and has developed 100’s of clients throughout the Southeast.

He has a low-risk, safe & secure philosophy toward managing his client’s retirement assets while providing a reasonable annualized rate of return over 5-10-15 years with some of the finest Private Wealth Managers in the country. Because of this philosophy, Moore’s Wealth Management has seen continued growth and success throughout 2013.

Due to tremendous growth in the North Georgia area, Moore’s Wealth Management has recently doubled the size of their Gainesville office and has continued to increase staffing in that location as well. The family owned company is growing at a rate of 100-150 clients per year and is expected to exceed this growth in 2014. Moore’s Wealth Management continues to support the community through a variety of events including Jingle Mingle, Blue Sky Concerts and 50 Plus Dancing Diners. Moore’s teaches Retirement classes at UNG Gainesville, UNG Dahlonega, & Lanier Tech Forsyth locations with an additional location at UGA Athens in 2014. An office expansion with the addition of a 5th Advisor is also planned for 2014 At Moore’s Wealth Management “We help our clients protect their financial future through a Fiduciary Standard of Care that puts their interests First.” The Firm has been built on this standard and continues to grow in the community due to its commitment to this principle. In August, Moore’s Wealth Management added it’s 4th Fiduciary Advisor (Christopher Moore joined Brian Moore, Mark Peterson, and Scott Moore) showing a continued commitment to grow and serve the North Georgia region. For more information on the ongoing educational seminars and college retirement planning courses that the firm offers, and how Scott, or one of the other fiduciary advisors in the office may be able to serve you and your family, please call one of their offices at (770) 535-5000 or (678) 566-3590. You can also learn more about the firm at www.mooreswealthmanagement.com.

MOORE’S

WEALTH MANAGEMENT “Protecting Your Future”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Who would benefit from a meeting?

Anyone who is looking for an unbiased evaluation of their current financial situation to ensure their best possible position. Anyone with an IRA, 401K, TSA, or any other investment, who would like to fully understand what they own and how to maximize these dollars. Anyone who would like a plan to bring certainty to their financial goals.

Is Moore’s Wealth Management limited to specific investment companies?

No. Scott Moore started his investment firm because he believes that each investor is unique and no single investment company is right for everyone. Moore’s Wealth Management has access to the entire universe of investment products without limitation so we can help clients get the most value for their dollar.

I already work with a financial representative why do I need to see Scott?

Ninety percent of the people who come in to visit with us already have a financial representative. Many times that representative is not a retirement planning specialist, and more often than not, that person works for a particular company rather than for the client.

How do I schedule a time to visit with Scott?

You may schedule a time to visit by calling our Gainesville office at 770-535-5000 or our Alpharetta office at 678-566-3590.

What are the office hours?

By appointment. We are normally available Monday-Friday, 9:00 - 5:00

What are my obligations for my FREE visit?

There is absolutely no charge or obligation. Your first visit is designed to answer your questions, give you ample information to decide if we can help you, and that’s it. You decide if you want to meet us again, and there is NEVER A FEE FOR OUR TIME!

What is the charge for subsequent meetings?

There is NEVER any charge for our time. Different programs have different fee structures, all of which we will help you fully understand before proceeding.

What should I bring to the face-to-face meeting?

The following items would be helpful, if you wish to bring them: Your latest financial statements such as: Mutual funds, CD’s, Life Insurance policies, annuity policies, retirement accounts (IRA, 401K, TSA, 403B, etc.) [Please bring your statements not just a spreadsheet] Wills and Trusts, A copy of your most recent Federal Income Tax Return, An estimate of your annual expenses, Any questions you may want to write down for discussion

What happens during the face-to-face meeting?

This is YOUR hour. WE will answer and address any questions you may have. By reviewing your information, WE will better understand your financial concerns and can then provide recommendations. At the close of the hour, you will decide if you want to meet again.

“We help our clients protect their financial future through a fiduciary standard of care that puts their interests first” 210 Washington St NW, Suite 106 Gainesville, GA 30501 770-535-5000

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

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

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals and one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals – and the only hospital in Georgia named to either list.

Healthgrades also recognizes NGMC as Georgia’s #1 General Surgery Hospital. NGMC offers a wide range of advanced surgeries – from robotic procedures to minimally invasive techniques. So when you or a loved one need surgery, choose a surgeon at NGMC.

See our procedures and choose your surgeon at

nghs.com/surgery | 770-219-3840

Northeast Georgia Medical Center

What’s Inside

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Winder’s own Jena Sims dishes about Hollywood, movie sets and her newest projects.

Inside Every Issue 6 38 40

From the Editor Calendar Around Town

Business Spotlight 8 Emmie Howard tells us how she

got her clothing line, Southern Proper, up and running and why graduating from Brenau University was a tremendous key to her entrepreneurial success.

On the Cover January | February 2014

Jena Sims Winder native goes from small town to big screen

Jena Sims grew up in Winder like any other small-town Georgia kid, but this beauty queen branched out — all the way to the West Coast. Now, she’s making movies and making a difference through her foundation, Has Been Beauty Queens, a nonprofit organization that works to celebrate children facing serious illnesses and challenges. Story, page 14 Photo courtesy Jena Sims

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January | February 2014

January | February 2014

22 Taste of HOME Get to Know 12 Local artist Chad Shore is heating up galleries from Atlanta to Miami, but this creative Renaissance man is just getting started.

Recreation 20 There is always something to do outdoors in

North Georgia, even in the dead of winter.

With the lake cold and dreary, why not try your hand at a sport that goes back thousands of years — archery!

Taste of HOME 22 Nothing says love like chocolate. And no one

knows more about the sweet confectionery in North Georgia than Paul Thomas. Find out what it takes to make those tasty truffles and sinful caramels.

HOME Living

In North Georgia

12 Get to Know

8

Business

36 Home and Garden

32 Charity

Health

Charity

28 You’ve seen Zumba and tried Tae Bo, but what about

32 The Quinlan Visual Arts Center provides the community

Lifestyles

Home and Garden

Ripstix or Peloton? 2014 will have us moving and shaking with new takes on spin class, stretch-the-limits yoga and some serious strength training (think CrossFit.)

with more than wine and cheese receptions. The nonprofit prides itself with bringing culture and artistic opportunity to Hall County.

30 Valentine’s Day may get many couples gushing with flowers 36 Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t fill and candies, but if you were planning an investment in jewelry, you may want to do your research first.

homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

your home with beautiful blooms. Forcing indoor bulbs is easy if you follow a few simple guidelines.

January | February 2014

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From the Editor Aim for a great 2014 The start of a new year always seems so full of promise and opportunity. We get the chance to wipe the slate and say goodbye to old habits.

I hope this issue of HOME: Living in North Georgia will inspire at least one person out there to jump in with both feet and tackle a new goal.

In this issue, we are featuring several local individuals who have taken risks to showcase their talents: from artist to actor to entrepreneur.

Our cover story features former Miss Georgia Teen USA, Jena Sims. Her story is one of a shy young girl from Winder, Ga., stumbling into the pageant circuit and ending up in Hollywood, where she became the star of Roger Corman’s “Attack of the 50 Foot Cheerleader.”

Page 8 highlights a Brenau alum whose business venture was just recently featured in the Wall Street journal. Page 11 is all about the many talents of Gainesville artist Chad Shore, who only recently returned from Miami where he was commissioned to build a surreal scene for a stage play.

Hall County, and all of North Georgia, is chock full of talented people with winning ideas and largerthan-life personalities. We also have outstanding places to showcase those talents, like the Quinlan Visual Arts Center here in Gainesville.

And wether this year has you looking for a new love, a new hobby or a healthier body, may there be at least one story in here to help you get motivated. Don’t let another year go by without doing the things that make us happy and leave us fulfilled. So here’s to 2014!

Cheers!

M

J

Publisher Dennis Stockton Editor Michelle Boaen Jameson Advertising Director Sherrie Jones Advertising Sales Trent Sexton Melisa Sizemore Graphic Design Michelle Boaen Jameson Katherine Hake April Seymour Kerri Ivie Production Support Chris Campbell Dana Erwin Betty Thompson Contributing Photographers The Times staff

HOME Magazine, a division of: The Times Gainesville, GA The Paper Hoschton, GA A Morris Multimedia Inc. property 345 Green St. | Gainesville, GA 30501 | 770-718-3421

ichelle ameson

www.homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

Michelle Boaen Jameson mjameson@homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

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

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

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January | February 2014

THE CUMMING PLAYHOUSE PROUDLY PRESENTS...

1st QTR. SHOW SCHEDULE

Carlos Reyes and Peppino ‘d Agostino Jan. 11, 2014 Sat. 3 PM and 8 PM

Monroe Crossing Jan. 18 & 19, 2014 Sat., 8 PM Sun. Mat 3 PM

On Golden Pond Feb. 13, – Mar. 9, 2014 Thurs., Fri., Sat, 8 PM Sun Mat 3 PM

Oliver Mar. 27 – Apr. 19, 2014 Thurs., Fri., Sat. 8 PM Sun Mat 3 PM

Georgia Senior Follies The Golden Age Of Television May 2 - May 18, 2014 Thurs., Fri., Sat, 8 PM , Sun. 3 PM Mat

Tarzan June 5 – June 22, 2014 Thurs., Fri., Sat, 8 PM, Sat. & Sun. Mat 3 PM

Oklahoma July 10, - Aug. 3, 2014 Thurs., Fri., Sat, 8 PM Sun. Mat 3 PM

For tickets and showtime information please visit our website playhousecumming.com The Cumming Playhouse 101 School Street, Cumming, GA 30040 playhousecumming.com 770.781.9178

home business

A proper Southern business

Brenau University grad Emmie Howard has success tied in a bow Brandee A. Thomas Real men are hard workers, likely count a trusted hunting dog as a best friend, and know the way to earn brownie points with their best gal is to show up for date night sporting a snazzy tie. And the best of the best were born Southern, by God’s grace.

At least that’s the gospel in Emmie Howard’s world.

It’s an ideal steeped in life observed by a little girl growing up on the family farm in Ripley, Tenn., about 45 minutes north of Memphis.

That ideal blossomed into Southern Proper, a regionally influenced clothing and lifestyle brand that is sold by more than 300 retailers — including A D Mathis in Gainesville and Oakleaf & Acorn in Hoschton — and online.

“My family has been crop farmers for forever and ever. Four generations — well, five if my brother decides to go that way.

It’s a tough living now, but who knows,” said the 2001 Brenau University graduate turned savvy Atlanta-based businesswoman.

“My granddad and dad worked so hard during the week getting dirty in the fields, but when we would go to church on Sundays or weddings or whatever, they would look so nice. That’s where my appreciation for (menswear) started.

“I just love a man in a seersucker suit and bow tie. It’s the classic, quintessential look and a big part of the reason why I started Southern Proper.”

Before her love of well-dressed men was launched on such a large scale, it was nurtured on Brenau’s Gainesville campus.

“One of my signature things was, if I ever dated a guy and it got a little 8

January | February 2014

serious, I would give him a nice tie because I think guys look their best when they’re in a suit and tie,” said Howard, who now saves her neckwear buying for husband and Southern Proper prototype Tommy Howard.

“It just makes you seem like you’ve got it all going on.”

Howard has learned over the years that appearances can help pave the way when know-how lags a bit behind eagerness.

“My theory has always been confidence over competence. If you don’t know it, you can learn it,” she said.

Theory was put to practice when she decided to leave behind her career in corporate America at Newell Rubbermaid to launch Southern Proper with Reagan Hardy Howell, her Alpha Chi Omega sorority sister, in 2005.

Although Howard had a business background and Howell a HOME Living

In North Georgia

home business

background in public relations, neither had a lot of insight into the world into which they were venturing.

“Neither one of us had a background in fashion, but the good news is that fashion for a guy doesn’t change as much as for a girl. We just had to get the basics down,” Howard said.

“For the first year, we focused solely on neckwear because we knew that neckwear was a great way to kind of speak to our brand in an iconic way.”

Their individual technical knowledge may have been lacking in the beginning, but they knew how to pull from their collective resources to fill in the gaps and get things off the ground.

“We went through our mental Rolodexes about who we knew that had mentioned anything about clothing or manufacturing,” Howard said.

“It happened that one of my husband’s real estate clients owned a suit manufacturing business in middle Georgia. So we asked if he’d meet us for lunch and he did.

“He gave us a list of seven or eight people to call or meet that were in the industry, so we traveled all around Georgia and the Carolinas gathering information. We found a manufacturer for neckwear, they helped us source our first items and then we were up and running.”

Much like their first lunch meeting, the ladies relied on their passion — and a good dose of Southern charm — to help make their dreams a reality.

“In the beginning, we’d hop in my Volvo station wagon and cold-call on as many specialty menswear stores as we could hit. We’d walk in with a box of neckties and bowties and they’d look at us like, ‘What is this you’re trying to sell me?’” Howard remembered with a fond smile.

“The typical salesperson in our industry is male and they’ve been in the business for 20 plus years, so I think we were a breath of fresh air coming into the stores. I think they saw the same holes in the marketplace as we did.”

The neckwear they were peddling featured Southern icons, things they intuitively thought of and images conjured through their market research. There were homages to hunting, golf and good ol’ Southern institutions like football game day.

By 2006, the ladies had their neckwear in more than 50 stores across the Southeast.

“The gentlemen were so nice when we would come in, but we got some resistance for sure,” Howard said.

“There were some people who said, ‘no,’ but they eventually said ‘yes’ after our sixth or so trip to their store. We stayed persistent.”

Today, the brand is known as much for its conversation-starting neckwear — even its black lab mascot sports a bow tie — as also being an overall “haberdashery for the Southern gentleman.” There are shirts, outerwear, pants and even essential accessories like pocket Brenau University alum Emmie Howard is enjoying the success of her business, Southern Proper, a regionally influenced clothing and lifestyle brand that is sold by more than 300 retailers — including A D Mathis in Gainesville and Oakleaf & Acorn in Hoschton — and online.

Photos courtesy Southern Proper

January | February 2014

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squares, game-day coozies and belts.

“The collegiate market has been where we’ve really concentrated our efforts from the beginning. We targeted 18- to 25-year-olds when we first started, but over the last few years, we’ve seen our market really expand,” said Howard, who is now the sole remaining founder.

“We’re seeing 12- and 13-year-olds wanting to wear our T-shirts and other more affordable pieces because they see they’ve seen their older brothers in college wearing it.

“We’ve expanded our core group for clothing, but our neckwear still remains ageless.

Gentlemen of all ages have an appreciation for it.”

Howard believes you can tell a lot about a man by the neckwear he chooses. And if he chooses a Southern Proper piece, there’s another layer to his persona revealed. He may be in a boardroom or walking to a football tailgate party, but you can bet he’s a man of character, one who’s proud of his Southern roots, she said.

“A tie can change a look totally. You can wear the same suit every day, but if you change your tie or bow tie, it almost looks like a different suit,” Howard said.

“We knew there was a niche missing in the

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January | February 2014

Neckties wait to be hung at Southern Proper’s home base.

Photos courtesy Southern Proper

marketplace. If you went to a (Southeastern Conference) school or that sort of thing, you’d see that guys still wear bow ties and blazers to football games. Guys have always dressed well in the South, but there wasn’t a regional brand that

spoke to that collegiate buyer. That’s the thing Southern Proper was born out of.

“Southern Proper reflects the South — heritage, past times, values and all.”

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home get to know

Photo by Michelle Boaen Jameson

Chad Shore: Renaissance Man

Gainesville artist uses raw talent to create everything from stage sets to clothing Story by Michelle Boaen Jameson At first glance, Chad Shore’ s art studio looks like a hodge podge of toys and tools. Every which way you turn there are shelves lined with Tim Burton-esque characters, mannequin parts and playfully decorated skulls. But there are also stacks of paint cans, brushes and miter saws.

Pieces of lumber and parts of some of the most random items you can imagine sit in neat piles of 12

January | February 2014

every available corner. And he makes use of it all.

Shore, who grew up in Gainesville and holds a BFA from Piedmont College, has exhibited his art from New York to Miami and has been featured in Jezebel Magazine, Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles and Luxist Magazine just to name a few. And chances are, you’ve seen his work without even realizing it.

He’s done graphic design for numerous local organizations to use on trailers, boats, clothing and websites. But as great as he is with the digital world, he’s even better with his hands.

His head, he says, is always full of ideas.

Hundreds at a time even. His art helps quiet the chaos of his mind.

“I’m always motivated. I never run out of motivation or creativity ever. I don’t preplan anything. I just come in here and start making stuff. I let the artwork tell me what it needs to be.

Everything speaks, you just have to listen. That’s how I live.”

Shore doesn’t stick to one genre or style of art. He does a little of it all: mulitmedia, painting, sculptures, murals, photography. You name it, HOME Living

In North Georgia

home get to know

he’s tried it.

“If I chose one, I would be limiting myself, doing myself an injustice.”

And his talents do seem limitless.

“I could write a poem right now. I could paint a painting right now. I could pick up that guitar and play a song, right now. Instantaneous action. I’ve been that way since I was a kid. I used to think it was horrible, until I got older and realized it wasn’t horrible.”

Emptying all those ideas onto canvas , or whatever medium he’s using, is a process all its own.

“I start with music. Then I build everything or just start painting. I think of a color palette I want to stay in first. Then I will walk around the studio and pick out all my paints, all my brushes, everything I want to use, and I lay it all out on the table.”

Once I start a painting, I don’t stop until it’s done — could be two hours, could be two days.”

An admitted X-Games junkie, Shore is always looking for his next adrenaline rush. His fascination with dirt bikes became inspiration culminating in his first “lifestyle” piece of art: a custom designed bike complete with leopardprint body and specially machined parts. He’s even been approached by Orange County Choppers on possible collaboration.

He also began designing his own clothing line for X-Gamers and skaters based on his art.

Sixtus Clothing has become somewhat of a side project, and orders keep coming in.

But don’t think his work is only Pop art or graphic print. He also does lots of nature pieces inspired by the lakes he spends endless hours skiing on. Geese, deer and landscapes have shown up in much of his work.

“Everything is inspiration. Sunrises, birds, clouds.”

He just completed a large triptych of a stallion and recently sold a painting of a bear to pop star and Atlanta native, Usher. In fact, a lot of Shore’s work is sold before it’s even finished.

The natural world has shown up in his functional pieces, too. He designed and handforged a decorative wrought iron gate that mimics twisting vines for a client.

Shore hopes to capitalize on the state’s burgeoning movie industry, too, by designing film sets. He disagrees with the notion that you can only be good at one thing, or you’re a Jack of all Trades.

“In the art world, we call that a Renaissance man. Look at Leonardo da Vinci. Da Vinci was an inventor, an artist, an architect.”

So what makes an artist successful?

According to Shore, it’s happiness.

“If you do stuff in all these different categories and you like it, which is what matters first, and you finish a project and think ‘That looks really good. I can’t do any better than that.’ And I’m happy with it and the client is happy with it, that’s all that matters. ... And, of course, you’re paying your bills.”

Above: A pair of surfboards given the Chad Shore treatment.

Shore does a lot of design on wake boards, surfboards, dirt bikes and helmets. Left: A caribou painting on wood panels in mixed media.

To find out more about artist Chad Shore, visit www. chadshore.com or on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ ChadShoreArt.

homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

January | February 2014

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Jena Sims Winder beauty queen goes from small town to big screen For someone so down-to-earth, Jena Sims towers in her high-heeled shoes.

The lean and leggy 2007 Miss Georgia Teen USA, and now Hollywood starlet, is only 5 feet, 8 inches tall.

But at the rate she’s going, she’s soon to become a giant — and some may say she already is.

Since moving to Los Angeles four years ago, the 25-year-old Winder native has worked hard to make a name for herself in the film industry.

Sims got her first taste of success in her first staring film role in “Attack of the 50 Foot Cheerleader.”

Story by Savannah King

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January | February 2014

HOME Living

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January | February, 2014

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She played a scientist who grew into a giant cheerleader after taking an experimental compound. The film was released in 2012 and produced by Roger Corman, known as the “King of B movies” for his campy style of filmmaking. The careers of several Hollywood elites like Sandra Bullock, Jack Nicholson and Robert De Niro were jump-started by his films. Sims had a role in the 2013 comedy “Last Vegas” starring Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Kline and De Niro.

The film follows three friends in their 60s as they throw a bachelor party for the last remaining single friend.

She also has appeared in several music videos and hit television shows such as “The Vampire Diaries,” “Dexter” and “One Tree Hill.” In 2014, Sims is set to appear in four more films.

“In L.A., if you say, ‘Oh, I’m an actress,’ the next question is ‘Oh? What restaurant do you work at?” Sims said, laughing. “It’s so hard. But now I can say that’s my only source of income. I have four (movies) coming out this year. I have a lot of stuff to talk about now and I’m proud of it.”

Sims said she’s excited to be living out her childhood dream but she doesn’t have any illusions about what it takes to make it in such a competitive industry.

In order to stay focused on her goals, Sims makes frequent trips home to see her family and friends.

“It’s humbling to (come) back and get away from the big city I live in,” Sims said. “Growing up I was like ‘Oh my God, this is awful.’ There was nothing to do, no mall, no movies. I’m really grateful I did grow up in a small town. It’s a huge part of who I am now.”

“Home Magazine: Living in North Georgia” took the opportunity to catch up with Sims while she visited her hometown over the holidays.

Photos courtesy Jena Sims

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Above and below: Jena Sims as a child in her homwtown of Winder, Ga. Sims never imagined she would star in movies as an adult.

---Question: What was it like working on the set of “Last Vegas” in Atlanta?

A: We shot in Atlanta for three weeks. I’m in the film for all of 45 seconds. (She laughs and shrugs her shoulders.) It was a wonderful experience to come home and work and stay at home. It’s really weird to see how they built the Aria Hotel in Atlanta on a sound stage.

Q: Did you get to know any of stars in the film?

A: I spent three solid weeks getting to know all four of them. Morgan Freeman was really cool, but he was really sick while we were filming.

If you listen for it, you can kind of tell his voice is a little nasally in some parts of the film. He had the flu. … He’s the one I didn’t get to know as much as I wanted to but he was really nice to me and really humble and grateful, not snobby or anything. Kevin Kline was my favorite.

Q: You said earlier that your acting has come a long way since “Attack of the 50 Foot Cheerleader.” How do you feel about that project now?

A: (Laughing) That project is really special to me because that’s where I got my first little fan base, especially since it’s a remake of an old cult classic, “Attack of the 50 Foot Woman.” I mean, walking in Daryl Hannah’s footsteps was huge. To be able to say I am a Roger Corman scream queen is so special to me because a lot of people get their start that way.

HOME Living

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Q: You’re career is starting to take off and you’ve got four more films coming out next year. Is there a specific direction you would like to take in your career?

A: Comedy is my focus. I’d like to do a sitcom. I know they don’t do “Friends” or have anything like that out now, but I’d like to follow Jennifer Aniston’s path and do a sitcom and then move on to comedic roles in films.

Q: Why comedy?

A: I just don’t feel comfortable doing drama. I struggle in my drama auditions. I feel like I’m goofy in real life and the comedy comes more naturally.

Q: Are there any actors you would just love to work with?

A: Will Ferrell and Tina Fey. Those are my two. I love (Saturday Night Live). I’m a huge fan. I watch it every week, and just knowing they got their start from it seems so cool. My dream role would be to play their daughter in something.

Q: Do you ever get star-struck?

A: I don’t get nervous really meeting actors because I am one. I mean no one would ever be star-struck meeting me … yet. (Laughing) But like especially in “Last Vegas,” people kept asking if I was star-struck getting to meet all these people, but I knew I was going to meet them.

(Sims’ smile gets bigger and her eyes light up.) Actually, I was start-struck at “Last Vegas” meeting 50 Cent. I did not know he was coming. I did not know he was making a cameo and he comes into the green room with his entourage, and he has such a presence the whole room just went silent. I couldn’t even talk. I didn’t even introduce myself to him. I was just staring at him like a child, just staring. That was one of the most memorable, recent star-struck experiences. He’s so ghetto and hot. He had just such an energy and vibe. He was putting off this insane energy.

Q: Is acting everything you hoped and dreamed it would be?

A: It is long hours. It can be 12-, 14-hour days. But it’s not that hard. It’s so much fun. Once you book something, you’re like, “Dang this is what I worked so hard to do.” You have to be thankful because you know there are so many other people who would die to be in my shoes. I see them at the auditions.

When I book something, I’m like, “Oh, there were like 300 girls there. And they didn’t get the role but I got it.” Then I’m like, “Yes. This feels so good.” It is hard but I can’t complain because I am so blessed.”

Above clockwise: Jena Sims was on the cheer squad as a teen in her hometown of Winder, Ga. Later, she would be crowned Miss Georgia Teen USA and go on to compete in L.A., where she met the televised contest’s host, Mario Lopez.

Bottom: Sims has represented the Miss Teen crown at many events in Georgia including rattlesnake roundups. homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

January | February 2014

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Q: With so many other people auditioning for the roles you’re trying to get, do you feel like you’re competitive?

A: A little bit. I know when it gets close and my agent says, “It’s down to you and a couple of others,” I can’t sleep. I’ll do anything to get it. I’m just so thirsty for it, and when I don’t get it, I’ll go online and see who got it and stalk the other girl.

(Laughing) It might bother me a lot like, “Why not me?” especially when our looks are close.

Yeah, I guess I am competitive. You have to be.

That’s how I pay my bills.

Q: So you’re not going to turn down a role, no matter what it is?

A: I’ve played hookers. I mean, I might as well do it while I can. When I’m 40, I’m not going to be playing those parts. I was a stripper

in the Lifetime movie (“Anna Nicole”), the Anna Nicole Smith movie. It aired over the summer.”

Q: Is that awkward for you or your family?

A: Not really. In acting class, they tell you not to judge your character. You have to separate yourself. It’s like I would never be those things, but playing those things you just have to immerse yourself in that role and think about why and how your character got to that point and time in her life, what she did up to that.

You just have to not judge it and not judge the writing. Trust that the writers had that in mind for that character and I’m the one to do it.

Q: Appearance is very important in the entertainment industry. How do you handle the demands on your physical appearance?

A: It’s really, really important. I know I book more when I’m smaller, when I’m slightly underweight. I just know that. It’s really crazy. …

I work out, I eat healthy. I’m blessed in that it’s not a struggle for me to be fit. I hike a lot. There are some great mountains with beautiful views and hike a lot with my friends. I do a lot of spin classes and I definitely don’t obsess over it. I eat Krispy Kreme. I love McDonald’s breakfast. I still do that a couple times a week. But I cook a lot at home, too. I trained myself to eat healthy and then splurge intermittently.

Q: How do you handle rejection?

A: A lot of people, when they come out to LA will get a lot of rejection and give up and go home. But to me it doesn’t bother me. I’m confident, maybe overconfident. (Laughing)

From left, Kevin Kline (as Sam Harris), Morgan Freeman (as Archie Clayton), Robert De Niro (as Paddy Connors), and Michael Douglas (as Billy Gherson) star in CBS Films' comedy "Last Vegas." Winder beauty queen Jena Sims has a speaking role in the star-studded movie. Photo courtesy Chuck Zlotnick/CBS Films/MCT

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cover story

But I just know it’s going to be OK. I have a positive outlook, a strong outlook. I have my goals and I just know that it’s meant to be for me. I get rejected all the time — all, all, all the time.

Q: You were the 2007 Miss Teen Georgia. Why did you decide to get involved in beauty pageants?

A: I started when I was 15. I got something in the mail actually from this scholarship pageant, America’s National Teenager. My mom gave it to me and she was like, “Do you want to do it?” I had no idea it was going to lead to doing Teen USA. I thought, “It’ll be fun, maybe I’ll end up winning money for school.” And then I ended up winning money for school. I was so painfully shy. I did a couple more, and then after Teen USA, I decided I was done. I wanted to pursue acting.

Q: Your experience in pageants inspired you to start your nonprofit, Has Been Beauty Queens, and hold Pageant of Hope for children with cancer and other challenges. What do you do at the pageants?

A: We do their hair and makeup and treat them like little princes and princesses for a day. We do little mock interviews and carry out a whole pageant with my volunteers who are “has-been beauty queens.”

And then we crown everybody at the end. Everyone gets a title, like best hair, best smile, whatever the judges come up with. I started that in 2006 before I was even finished with high school.

Q: How do you compare life in Winder to your life in California?

A: It’s the antithesis. There’s nothing really the same. The traffic in L.A. is a big thing. When I come home, I just drive. I forget that speed limits are even a thing because traffic in LA is so slow. You’re just sitting in traffic no matter what time of day it is, really. Here in Winder, it’s just wide-open back roads and I’m like, “Oh crap! I’m going too fast.”

Q: What about the people, how do they compare?

A: The people in LA are very, very selfish. They’re not as genuine as they are in the South. It’s like, “What can you do for me?” in LA. “Who are you?” But it’s good. I’ve learned to network. But in Winder, people genuinely care about you. You meet someone new in the grocery store and they’re so nice and welcoming. You meet someone in LA and it’s like, “Can you help me get here and do that?”

Q: How do you keep yourself from adopting that mindset?

A: I come home a lot. I get really homesick. I live by myself in LA and I’ve had roommates, but now I live by myself. Thankfully, my mom will bankroll all my plane tickets. (Laughing) I’m like, “Mom, I want to come home.” And she says, “OK, I’ll pick you up at the airport.

Tell me what time you’re getting in.”

Q: The end of the year is probably a pretty special time for you. You’ve got your birthday and New Year’s happening back-toback. Plus you’ve got a new condo in Atlanta you’re moving into.

Do you have any plans for the coming year?

A: I’ve always wanted to own a home and I can’t afford L.A., and I don’t want to live there forever. So much of the entertainment industry is moving out here. That’s why I bought my condo now. I’m planning on coming back. My dream is to work on a long-term project out here. … I have the condo now I just need a job. (Laughing) I would love to live here again. homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

Smiles

from start to finish

FIND YOUR SMILE AT WILSON ORTHODONTICS

WilsonBraces.com

Gainesville | Flowery Branch | Cleveland

(770) 536-0882

January | February 2014

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home recreation

Staying

on target

The art of archery is harder than it looks in movies Story and photos by Michelle Boaen Jameson

I’m not that much of an athlete. If you read about my foray into golfing, you probably know that. So I was really surprised when I discovered archery was much more physical than it appears.

I’ve watched my husband for several months get increasingly better at the sport. I gave him my father’s old Fred Bear bow for Christmas last year (the clerk at the sporting goods store was rather stunned when I asked him who Fred Bear was. All I knew was it needed that string in the middle.).

The last couple of years has seen an explosion in the interest of archery thanks to The Hunger Games and some of those survival shows on television. They make it look so easy. And hey, if a chubby little cherub can do it ...Well, it’s a good thing I’m not counting on this for my dinner.

My husband, Sam, set up the practice target and hooked the quiver to my belt. He had already taken a few shots to show me how it’s done. He handed me the bow and told me where to aim.

First things first, figure out how to get the arrow “loaded.” Once I had mastered that, so to speak, it was just a matter of pulling back and letting go, right?

Wrong.

I could hardly draw it back at all. Apparently there are different bows for different sized people. Sam got a good laugh out of that.

When I was finally able to draw back and release with some degree of skill, I soon discovered there were numerous things to take into account.

Drift, down wind, dead arrows of which he has a few, and then there was my rather poor form and stance.

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Again, I’m glad Publix is just down the road.

I knew this bow could cast an arrow a pretty good distance, I had seen that for myself. So I knew the problem lay solely with the archer.

North Georgia has several great places to bow hunt or just target shoot.

And there are no shortages of archer and bow hunting clubs, either. Even several local schools offer students archery classes as an elective. The local HOME Living

In North Georgia

home recreation

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

Local archery clubs

Amicalola Bowhunters Archery ClubDawsonville www.AmicalolaBowhunters.com Black Mountain Archery ClubDawsonville www.BlackMtArchery.com Banks County Archery Club www.BanksCountyArcheryClub.com Gainesville Archery Club www.GainesvilleArcheryClub.com Forsyth County Archery Club www.facebook.com/pages/ForsythCounty-Archery-Club/166112572556 Soul Hunters Outdoor Ministries www.soulhuntersoutdoorministry.com Etowah Archers www.etowaharchers.webs.com Source: gaarchery.org

4-H competes regularly, too.

The Gainesville Archery Club says it has an indoor range at Last Chance Archery Company in Jackson County.

The range is a converted chicken house that allows shots of 20 to 30 yards.

My first try went about 10 feet.

The Forsyth County Archery Club claims it only takes a couple of minutes to learn how to shoot. But that it takes a lifetime to really master it. I couldn’t agree more.

There is a lot of terminology to know, like toxophilite, overbowed, petticoat and something called the nocking point.

By the time I finished, about an hour or so, my arms were trembling and I lost feeling in my fingtertips.

On top of that, I had only managed to hit the target once. I spent most of my time

chasing arrows.

I do plan on sticking with it. But I think I may need to invest in a more pint-size apparatus. Maybe something that just shoots those arrows with the little suction cups.

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

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

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

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

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

5005 Friendship Road Buford, GA 30518

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

January | February 2014

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home taste

Confection

perfection

Chocolatier Paul Hoffman takes sweets to the limits Story by Amy R. Moore Photos by Times staff

Paul Thomas Hoffman estimates he has eaten at least one piece of chocolate every day for the last 40 years.

And he’s not complaining at all.

At age 72, Hoffman, owner of Paul Thomas Chocolates in Dahlonega, is delighted to run a business that is so well-received and brings people such joy.

“If people aren’t smiling when they come into the store, they’re smiling when they leave,” he said of the experience. “It’s a gift you can give to anyone because people are always happy to receive chocolate.”

Never is that truer than at Valentine’s Day, when love is spoken and shared through many shapes, sizes and flavors of chocolate.

Armed with more than 80 types of chocolates — as well as nuts, peanut brittle, truffles, fresh fruit and a slew of amazing confections — Hoffman said even as people try to be creative and think outside the box for gifts for loved ones on Valentine’s Day, the tried-and-true traditional chocolates never fail.

More than once, Hoffman has encased an engagement ring in chocolate for

a lovely proposal. He is known for the chocolate house he builds each year with milk chocolate walls, a dark chocolate roof and white chocolate on the bottom to look like snow. The chocolate creation even has a village with churches, roads and hills.

Not into chocolate construction projects? Strawberries, truffles and the all-important turtle chocolates always top the list of the most popular ways to say, “I love you.”

Hoffman has recipes that go all the way back to 1906.

But tradition doesn't have to stay the same. He said he loves experimenting with his confectionery creations and creating unique treats, especially when they come from customers’ special requests.

“I’ll try to do anything to please the customer,” he said.

Above: Paul Thomas Chocolates owners Paul and Lori Hoffman carry on the tradition of fine quality chocolates with old fashioned recipes.

Their business is located in the Hall Block Building on Historic Dahlonega Square.

Left: A batch of delicious truffles waits to be purchased at Paul Thomas Chocolates in the Historic Dowtown Dahlonega Square.

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home taste

“I love a challenge, but if you want something totally off the wall, I’ll need some time to play. You know, trial and error.”

There’s no berry he won’t try to coat in chocolate, and he has worked with vineyards to match the perfect chocolate to the perfect wine. He recently created a banana cream pie truffle as well as an herb truffle that included black pepper and sea salt.

“It’s like chemistry,” he said. “It’s fun. I like to push the envelope.”

Experimenting in his shop in Dahlonega, where he works with his family and offers tours, gives Hoffman the advantage of letting customers taste-test his new creations while providing the freshest samples on site. That’s a leap from the prepackaged, pre-frozen chocolates available from much larger manufacturers.

“There’s not many candymakers like myself anymore. There’s just a small group of us who really understand confection.”

Above: Courtney Dickerson and Paul Thomas Hoffman make several pans of pecan pralines at Hoffman’s downtown Dahonega business, Paul Thomas Chocolates. Paul Hoffman is the founder of Hoffman Chocolates of Palm Beach, Florida as well at Paul Thomas Chocolates in Dahlonega.

Right: A batch of cherry cordials rest while waiting for a final dip in chocolate at Paul Thomas Chocolates in downtown Dahlonega. homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

January | February 2014

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Above: Paul Thomas Hoffman stays busy making batch after batch of chocolate candies at his downtown Dahlonega store. Top right: A fresh batch of pecan crusted caramel apples cools on a tray at Paul Thomas Chocolates in downtown Dahlonega.

“There’s not many candymakers like myself anymore,” he said. “There’s just a small group of us who really understand confection.”

In a small industry where most candy stores are locally owned and have been for years, Hoffman said he receives and shares ideas with other candymakers from around the country.

It’s so much of a passion for him that though he retired a few years ago, he finished his honey-do list and put his apron right back on to make more chocolate treats.

“The chocolate industry has treated me very well,” he said.

“It’s pure bliss.”

To experience your own taste of Thomas’ bliss, you can visit the store at 102 Public Square North, Dahlonega, 30533, or call 706-864-6333. Or you can visit the website and order your Valentine’s Day candies at www.paulthomaschocolates.com.

A new chapter begins...

The Waterford at Oakwood is an Assisted Living and Memory Care community that offers services including: • 24-hour staffing • Medication management • Exercise programs • Recreation and entertainment programming

• Bathing, dressing and grooming assistance • 24-hour access to licensed nurses • Spacious floor plans with full sized kitchenettes

• Spacious bathrooms and walk-in showers • Emergency response system • Individual climate control • All utilities, except basic cable and telephone

4251 Hudson Drive, Oakwood, GA 30566 • 770-297-6900 • www.capitalsenior.com/waterfordatoakwood 24

January | February 2014

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In North Georgia

Make 2014 the Year of YOU When is the last time you truly did something for yourself? Get your hearing treated so you can hear the rain again, or the music you love, or the wind in the trees during your favorite season.

Call TODAY for a complimentary, hassle-free hearing screening and live demonstration to find out how you could hear every sound that 2014 will bring!

Audiology Associates of Georgia offers the expertise, superior care, and the latest technology that will help you enjoy all of the moments of your day.

Call us today!

Limited time Offer:

500 off a pair of Phonak $

4145 Lawrenceville Hwy. • LILBURN in the Kroger Shopping Center

888.879.1951 333 Jesse Jewell Pkwy. • GaINeSvILLe between the hospital and aT&T, next to Jimmy John’s Subs

877.244.0739 www.hearGA.com

digital hearing aids expires 1/31/14. Not to be combined with any other offer.

We offer our residents a private and elegant home. Residents bedrooms are individually climate controlled and have oversized bathrooms connected.

Have A Blessed 2014 We believe the King James Bible is GOD’s word.

We try to put HIM first in our lives, giving GOD honor and glory for all HE has given us.

The Dream of Providing a Safe, Happy and Loving home to those in need was achieved in 2007 when The Olive Branch opened. Rocky built The Olive Branch with the needs of its residents in mind and can accommodate six residents in six spacious bedrooms, each with its own connecting, oversized bathroom and climate control. Rooms are large enough to allow for your full size furniture, and the open floor plan enables easy walking.

Round the clock, hands-on care from carefully screened caregivers, including Kathy herself, ensures the safety and -- just as important -the emotional well-being of our residents.

We want those who live here to be happy. Residents don’t just sit. They are involved, much as they would be at home. We are very BLESSED to have wonderful, dedicated volunteers from ole time gospel singers, massage therapist, Crayola art, licensed nutritionist to the youth who fill bird feeders and help keep the yards beautiful.

The Olive Branch is located in Braselton – 639 Davenport Rd (opened 2007), located two miles from I-85 and only 3 miles from Chateau Elan.

If you are considering alternative care for yourself or a loved one, The Olive Branch just may be what you are looking for. We offer assistance with daily activities, medications and personal needs.

Please call for more information:

706-654-5700 639 Davenport Rd., Braselton, Georgia 30517 www.theolivebranchpch.com or email: theolivebranch@windstream.net

The Olive Branch also offers a magnificent view of nature in our sunroom. Enjoy the outdoors, indoor!

The Olive Branch offers: ♥ Caregivers around-the-clock (ratio 1-3) ♥ Large bathrooms/bedrooms (private & semi-private) ♥ On-site beauty shop (daily visits) & weekly manicures ♥ Country living atmosphere ♥ Dining room with home cooked meals + 2 daily snacks ♥ Laundry - Each resident’s laundry washed separately ♥ Medication reminders and assistance ♥ Sunroom activities include music, bird watching and family time And of some have compassion, making a difference ~Jude 22

Cooking at the Branch! We offer three healthy, home-cooked meals and two delicious snacks daily for our residents.

home health

New year, same resolution 2014 will bring several new fitness trends to help you stay on track Story by Savannah King If your New Year’s resolution involves rock-hard abs and buns of steel, this year’s hard-core fitness routines are right on time.

A surge of extreme, shorter and more functional exercise routines that use less equipment are arriving in 2014. Exercises like yoga, boot camp, CrossFit and other workouts centered on high-intensity interval training are showing up in gyms everywhere.

Intensity-focused workouts are especially appealing because they typically take less than 30 minutes and involve short bursts of strenuous exercise with even shorter rests between moves. The workout technique promises to torch calories by keeping the heart rate up and revving the metabolism for hours after the workout.

Basically, the workouts provide all the fitness benefits of a traditional, hourlong sweat session in half the time. According to The American College of Sports Medicine’s annual Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2014, HIIT is the most popular trend in fitness among professionals.

Dr. Darrell Scales, orthopedic surgeon with The Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine center in Braselton, said he expects to see offshoots of popular workouts like CrossFit in the next few years because people seem drawn to the idea of

Photograph: Courtesy Pound

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being physically challenged while saving precious time. Routines using body weight strength training and functional everyday motions are also gaining in popularity. “(The trend) seems a little more hard-core,” Scales said. “It seems like there is a progression away from some of the more organized machines, and it seems to be there’s a trend going more into what is natural and functional. That seems to be the trend at this point in time, but is it going to stay? Who knows?”

While traditional gyms always will be popular venues for the fitness-minded, some prefer working out in the privacy of home.

Exercise DVDs make it easy to try new routines that are popular in large cities but less likely to show up in rural areas.

Hip new workouts like Pound Rockout Workout, a fusion of core work, cardio and drumming, offer short routines on

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home health

DVD and provide additional new workouts online with a monthly membership. Pound workouts require use of lightly weighted drumsticks, called Ripstix, that help mask the tedium of repetitive exercise by focusing on pounding out a rhythm.

HIIT workouts like P90X and Insanity are available on DVD and include workout schedules, online community support and diet plans to assist with weight loss.

With new routines being developed and built upon every day, many fitness professionals offer workout videos online and post training tips on their websites. A quick search online can give a curious exerciser the chance to be one of the first to try the next popular workout, or continue a practice that’s less in vogue.

Workouts like Zumba, Pilates, spinning and kickboxing that enjoyed some popularity in past years didn’t even make the list for 2014, yet they still have a place in the exercise world, for now.

Scales said one of the most important fitness questions a person can ask when approaching a workout is “Is it fun?”

Just because a workout is popular doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone.

“For some people, a fast walk may be the best exercise for them,” Scales said. “Regardless of the trends, they need to take a look at themselves and see which exercise is the best one for them.

For some people, Zumba is fun and Crossfit may not be. If they’re not going to do the Crossfit because it’s not fun, then they need to do something that is fun.”

homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

20 fitness trends to watch for 2014

1. High-Intensity Interval Training 2. Body weight training 3. Educated, Certified and Experienced Fitness Professionals 4. Strength Training 5. Exercise and Weight Loss 6. Personal Training 7. Fitness Programs for Older Adults 8. Functional Fitness 9. Group Personal Training 10. Yoga 11. Children and exercise for the treatment/ prevention of obesity 12. Worksite Health Promotion 13. Core Training 14. Outdoor Activities 15. Circuit Training 16. Outcome Measurements 17. Wellness Coaching 18. Sport-Specific Training 19. Worker Incentive Programs 20. Boot Camp Source: The American College of Sports Medicine

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Only fools rush in Do your research before saying ‘I love you’ with expensive jewelry Story by Shannan Finke Gentlemen, have no fear. With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, picking out the perfect gift to show affection for your better half doesn’t have to be a daunting task.

And while a box of chocolates or a dozen red roses is a nice gesture, there aren’t many things women love more than a piece of fine jewelry as a constant reminder of your undying love.

Throughout the year, jewelry can serve as a wearable reminder of priceless memories: an engagement, wedding, anniversary or, of course, a special Valentine’s Day celebration.

With all these important days to commemorate, it’s no wonder purchasing a piece of jewelry signifies not only a commitment to your loved one, but also an investment in your future together.

That’s why Linda Orenstein, manager at the Gem Jewelry Co. in Gainesville, says she always advises customers to purchase a piece of jewelry the recipient will like. Sound like common sense?

Orenstein adds that in an age of fashion fads and trends that go as easily as they come, it’s important to keep the wearer’s personality and personal taste in mind.

“Jewelry as a collection goes in and out of fashion, but it never goes out of style. And gold, silver and precious stones will last forever,” Orenstein said. “Don’t buy something just because it’s a fad. You have to personally like it. If it speaks to you, then that’s jewelry, and it doesn’t matter if anyone else is buying it.”

If you’re thinking of popping the question this Valentine’s Day, diamonds are typically the most popular precious stone of choice for engagement rings, known for both their durability and timelessness. However, with the influx of colored gems being used in royal engagements and weddings throughout Europe — such as Kate Middleton’s sapphire center-stone engagement ring — the use of birthstones and colorful gems is growing increasingly fashionable in the United States.

But whether she wants something traditional or trendy, Orenstein said there’s one important idea to keep in mind when 30

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picking out a woman’s jewelry: “Any ring you put on her finger, that means ‘You’re mine and we’re getting married.’ That’s what matters.”

When you’re about to invest in jewelry for a special occasion, be it a ring, necklace, bracelet or other piece, it’s crucial to keep in mind some basic tips to get the most for your money and secure something she can wear forever.

First, no matter your budget, look for well-constructed pieces that will hold up over time. In particular, if the recipient is going to wear the jewelry daily, find a practical piece that can withstand everyday wear and tear.

Depending on your price range, Orenstein recommends a piece crafted with enough precious metals that it won’t damage easily.

“You’ll want a bracelet or a ring, for example, made with enough metal that it won’t wear through or get dented if you accidentally knock it against something or drop it,” she says. “You really want something that you can wear and not have to worry about it when you do.”

Most of the time, the price of jewelry is an indicator of how the piece was made, not necessarily the material it is made from. Therefore, the more expensive jewelry is going to contain enough metal to hold up to the occasional mishap. But you don’t need a limitless budget to purchase quality jewelry; Orenstein said you can find a well-manufactured piece that will last forever no matter your price range.

For those specifically looking to buy bracelets, ask your jeweler for pieces with substantial links. In rings, it’s important to find a band with enough metal in the shank so it doesn’t bend. With a necklace, remember a clasp is usually needed to put the piece on, so make sure to find one that will make wearing the necklace easy and enjoyable.

Regardless of what particular type of jewelry you’re looking to invest in, keep the size of the recipient in mind, paying particular attention to a piece that is proportionate to her body type.

“Some women look best in simple pieces, and others may look better wearing more prominent, bold jewelry.” Orenstein said. “It all depends on who she is and her preferences, so it’s important to remember those things.”

Finally, pick out jewelry that adheres to the wearer’s style. While it may be enticing to purchase the piece that seems most fashion-forward, nothing can outlive timelessness. Keeping her tastes in mind will ensure you’ll invest in a piece that she will be excited to wear for years to come. homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

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home charity

Quinlan Visual Arts Center

Providing beauty and culture has its challenges Story by Brandee A. Thomas Photos by Times staff Depending on the day and time of your visit, a trip to the Quinlan Visual Arts Center can be a multi-sensory experience.

In addition to a visual feast hanging in the Quinlan’s galleries, the center’s basement houses working studios where stimulating workshops are offered on everything from pottery to oil painting to photography. You also could walk in to find a lecture conducted by an award-winning guest artist or interactive presentations by performance artists.

Between its 20 annual exhibits and various hands-on classes, the Quinlan stays busy with activities aimed at opening everyone’s horizons.

And that’s just how the center’s staff members like it. They believe the arts shouldn’t be a luxury enjoyed by a few, but instead a life-enriching pleasure for the public to enjoy as often as possible.

“There are things that nonprofits have to do to survive, but then there are things they should be doing just because it is a benefit to their community,” said Amanda McClure, the Quinlan’s executive director.

“Community outreach is something that

we should be doing and that we do as often as possible. Our focus isn’t limited to within our four walls. As a nonprofit, we think it’s important to look beyond things that are only beneficial for our organization. Instead, we want to contribute to the greater good.”

Since taking leadership in 2009 at the creative hub on Green Street in downtown Gainesville, McClure has worked regularly with in-house artists and community partners to make the arts more accessible. One of the yearround partnerships the Quinlan is most proud of is its relationship with the Gainesville Housing Authority.

“The idea came from artist and instructor Jim Chapman, who used to be on our board of trustees. He was already working with the housing authority’s (tutoring program for students) and thought that they could use a

Quinlan Visual Arts Center 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. It is closed Sundays.

The Youth Art Month is for the Hall County and Gainesville middle and high school students that want to participate and showcase their art. The winner receives a cash scholarship of $2,500 toward college.

The event is from March 14 through April 14. Admission is free. Quinlan’s 36th Annual

Mary Ann Klimek, left, guides a Fair Street Elementary class through the steps for making their piece of art at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center. The field trip to the Center was a reward for the class having the best attendance.

The center provides artistic activities for all ages in the North Georgia community through workshops, sketch classes and summer camps.

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Gala Fine Art Auction Collector’s Night is set for 5:30 p.m. Feb. 27. The Gala is the Quinlan’s signature fundraiser, and its success significantly impacts the center’s ability to offer premier arts programming to the community.

For information about Quinlan, please call 770-536-2575 or visit the website, www. quinlanartscenter.org.

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Attendees of the Quinlan Visual Arts Center’s most recent gallery opening enjoy refreshments and art during a reception. Anyone can visit the gallery and attend the receptions at no cost. The center strives to bring art and art education to the residents of Hall County and North Georgia.

good art program there,” McClure recalled.

“I talked about the idea of taking art to these children with resident artist Mary Hull. Ideally, the students would come to us, but when they don’t have access to transportation, how could we get the arts to them?”

The Quinlan uses the free classes to teach creative problem-solving skills through painting, drawing, clay working and mixed-media projects.

“We know that when there are budget cuts in schools, art and music programs often suffer. I feel it is our obligation to the children and community to make sure they have access to the arts,” McClure said.

“Statistics prove that you can make a real, significant difference in a child’s quality of life through the arts.”

Children aren’t the only ones benefiting from the Quinlan’s partnerships. The group regularly joins forces with others to bring interesting exhibits, such as the touring Inspired Georgia show, to showcase art that appeals to all ages.

If all goes well, there may be a new addition this summer.

“We’re working with INK (Interactive Neighborhood for Kids), Elachee Nature Science Center and the Northeast Georgia History Center to develop a museum day for North Georgia that would allow people to visit all four places for a free or reduced entry fee,” McClure said.

“The idea for a day like that has been out there for a while. We’ve all thought that we should partner at one point or another. The concept really hit me when I was trying to plan a family day and was trying to homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

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Happy New Year January | February 2014

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The gift shop in the Quinlan Visual Arts Center in Gainesville carries work by local artists and clubs for purchase.

make sure our day didn’t compete with the day that the history center hosts.

“It hit me, ‘Why not do something on the same day? Maybe people would come from a greater distance if there were more things for them to do.’ And it just evolved from there. We’d love to be able to do this twice a year; we’ll just have to see how the first event goes. Right now, we’re looking at May.” After the Quinlan’s nearly seven decades of existence, McClure realizes the organization easily could outlive its creative prime, but she works daily to keep things fresh and interesting.

One way is by holding events like Pinterest Parties with artist Hull, Friday Sketch Club and Arty Parties.

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“Most of the projects that we do come from conversations we have in-house or with different people in the community,” McClure said.

“We’re always looking for new ideas for things to do. New ideas keep people interested in things we have going on.”

One new idea, the inaugural Handcrafted for the Holidays fine crafts fair held in December, may herald the beginning of a new direction at the Quinlan.

“We’ve built great relationships with (traditional) artists, but we’ve realized that we might be missing an opportunity to support our fine craft artists,” McClure said.

“We’re trying to grow in that area and possibly develop opportunities for these artists.”

The Quinlan’s growth and success are linked heavily to community support. Though no admission fees are charged, the nonprofit generates income from dues paid by member artist, purchases from its gift store and attendance at its annual fundraising gala.

“We are a private nonprofit. We’re sustained by the generosity of our members, as well as corporate and individual (monetary) contributions,” McClure said.

“This is our 66th year. We’ve been doing this a very long time because we are fortunate enough to be in a community that believes in and supports the arts.”

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From LASIK vision correction to cataract surgery, Gainesville Eye Associates is the region’s destination for laser eye surgery.

The physicians of Gainesville Eye Associates are highly skilled and experienced in state-of-the-art laser surgery to improve the quality of vision in patients from young adults to senior citizens. The exacting nature of laser surgery offers superior outcomes in a safe procedure with fast recovery times.

LASIK treats vision problems like near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism using a precise, computer-controlled Excimer laser. Gainesville Eye Associates customizes each treatment plan based on your desired vision goals and outcomes. We are also the first practice in Georgia to perform breakthrough bladeless laser cataract surgery . . . one of the safest, most accurate and effective procedures performed today.

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home home & garden

Amaryllis by morning

Forcing beautiful indoor blooms is as easy as 1... 2 ... 3 Story by Brandee A. Thomas Impatiens may be a type of flower, but the name could also be used around this time of year to describe gardeners who can’t wait to see their spring gardens in bloom.

Lucky for the impatient growers, some spring blooms can be coaxed into early activity indoors.

Before you head to the nursery for bulbs, keep in mind that some bulbs require a chilling period, which would delay instant gratification.

Daffodils, hyacinths and tulips all fall under that category.

According to Tammy Dellinger, a Hall County master gardener and member of the Crabapple Garden Club, these bulbs can take up to 15 weeks to bloom indoors.

If you go this chillier route, begin with 6- to

8-inch containers, she suggests.

“If you are using clay pots, they need to be scrubbed and soaked in water for at least 5 hours before you begin planting,” warns the Gainesville gardener.

“Clay is porous, so it will absorb all of your water. If you soak it first, water is allowed to soak into the pot’s pores and your plants won’t need to be watered as often.”

Next, you’ll want to place pebbles, or shards of broken pottery into the bottom of your container to partially obstruct the drainage holes in the bottom of your container.

“You want to keep the water from just gushing through,” Dellinger says.

“Next, if you’ve been composting, you can use that to fill the container half way. If you don’t have compost, use garden soil.

“Put one to three bulbs in the pot and finish

filling it up with soil. Leave about a quarter-inch of space at the top of the pot. Then water your plants.”

Remember the previous “requires chilling” disclaimer? Here’s where it comes into play.

“It sounds weird, but after you plant your bulbs, you need to put them in the refrigerator for 13 to 15 weeks,” Dellinger said.

“If you don’t have the space in your refrigerator, you can place them in a cold garage or basement. They just need to be stored in an area that remains between 45 to 50 degrees.”

Before you put your plants in the fridge next to the butter and eggs, beware that some of your produce can render your bulbs impotent.

According to the International Bulb Society, ripening fruit — like apples — give off ethylene gas, which kills the flower inside of the bulbs.

“After about 5 weeks, roots should begin to

Paperwhites begin to bud in a vase of river rock.

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home garden

Amaryllis photo by Patrick Lynch courtesy US National Arboretum

emerge from the bottom of the pots and shoots should be coming from the top,” Dellinger says.

“Once that happens you can stop chilling the plants and place them in direct sunlight in a room that has a temperature around 63 degrees.”

According to Dellinger, the plants should begin flowering within three weeks of being placed in direct sunlight.

“After you’ve enjoyed your flowers indoors, you can move them outside if you like,” Dellinger says.

If you’re looking for a faster turnaround time, go with bulbs that don’t require chilling.

Plants like amaryllis and paperwhite narcissus are good choices. Paperwhites can produce blooms in as little as three to five weeks, while amaryllis will begin blooming around six to eight weeks after planting.

After planting this variety of bulbs, for the first two weeks place the containers in indirect sunlight in a space with temperatures that hover around 50 degrees. Following this cooler period, the containers can be moved to warmer temperatures and sunlight.

Ideal temperatures are around 68 degrees, but consult with your nursery for more exact watering and temperature instructions.

Before you completely relocate your garden to your sun porch, keep this in mind: outside is a wide, open space and inside, well, it isn’t.

Heady scented blooms may be delightful outside, but a nose nuisance indoors, so tread lightly. Maybe start with a pot or two instead of a whole tray of plantings.

Spreading out your blooming bulbs to different rooms can also help diffuse the scent — and spread the springtime cheer to help chase away winter doldrums all over your home.

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An amaryllis bulb has begun to bud in a vase of river rock. homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

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1240 Jesse Jewell Parkway Suite 400 Gainesville, GA 30501 p: 770-534-1117 f: 770-503-7285 www.gainesvilleneurology.com

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home calendar

January Jan. 1 17th annual Polar Bear Swim Noon. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue.

Hosted by Lanier Canoe Kayak Club. Participants receive a bowl of chili, dessert, hot drink and T-shirt.

Registration fee is $25. Event will be held on the Olympic Finish Tower side of the venue. www. lakelanier.com or http://www.lckc. org Jan. 1 First Day Hike All across the country, state parks are inviting families to start the New Year with a “First Day Hike” and a commitment to healthy living. Last New Year’s Day, Georgia joined the national effort as a way to get people motivated to exercise in the great outdoors. A complete list of participating State Parks is available on the state parks web site; times vary from park to park. www.georgiastateparks.org, 800-864-7275 Jan. 2 through Feb. 2 “Stan the Lovesick Snowman” 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. Saturdays; 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Sundays Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. puppet.org, 404-873-3089.

Jan. 2-31 Jump Start January Crawford Long Museum, 28 College St., Jefferson. 706-367-5307 Jan. 2 Oconee Rivers Audubon Society meeting Screening of the documentary film “The Ordinary Extraordinary Junco,” which explores the important role of this common bird in research, will be held at 7 p.m., at Sandy Creek Nature Center, Athens. www.oconeeriversaudubon. org 38

January | February 2014

Jan. 1 17th annual Polar Bear Swim Noon. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. Hosted by Lanier Canoe Kayak Club. Participants receive a bowl of chili, dessert, hot drink and T-shirt. Registration fee is $25. Event will be held on the Olympic Finish Tower side of the venue. www.lakelanier.com or http://www.lckc.org

Jan. 3-15 “Timon of Athens” New American Shakespeare Tavern, 499 Peachtree St., Atlanta. $15-$36. shakespearetavern.com, 404-874-5299.

Jan. 3 through April 3 “Jerusalem” film screening Fernbank Museum of Natural History, 767 Clifton Road, Atlanta.

Adults $13, students and seniors $12, children under 12 years old $11, museum members $8. fernbankmuseum.org, 404-929-6300.

Jan. 4 Humane Society of Northeast Georgia Open Public Tour 3 p.m. These staff guided tours explore the facility, providing information about responsible pet care, animal behavior and safety, and what to consider when choosing

a pet. This tour is especially helpful if you are considering volunteering or have questions on how a shelter operates. RSVP by calling 770-5326617. www.HSNEGA.org Jan. 4 Stars Over Elachee 5:15-7:15 p.m., Chicopee Lake.

Learn about astronomy and how to use a telescope to view the night sky. You’ll receive an observing log and star chart to assist in seeing constellations, stars, planets, and even moon craters and Apollo landing sites. Prominent planets this month are Venus and Jupiter.

Suggested for adults and children ages 8 and up. Bring a flashlight and pencil. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call to register and reserve a telescope. Program fee: $10 adults, $5 for children ages 2-12. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive,

Gainesville, GA 30504. 770/5351976. www.elachee.org.

Jan. 5 through March 29 “The Taming of the Shrew” New American Shakespeare Tavern, 499 Peachtree St., Atlanta. $15-$36. shakespearetavern.com, 404-874-5299.

Jan. 6 and 8 Fifth Row Center auditions for “Fiddler on the Roof ” 7 p.m., Buford Community Center Theater, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford. www.fifthrowcenter.com Through Jan. 6 A Turtle Travels Visitors of all ages can experience what it’s like to be a turtle traveling through a local habitat as they adapt to their various environments. Free with admission to the center. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to HOME Living

In North Georgia

home calendar 4 p.m.; Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, 2020 Clean Water Dr., Buford. www.gwinnettEHC.org

series: Maria Howell Trio 8 p.m., The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, Gainesville. $30. 770534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net

Jan. 6-28 No Small Measure: Collaborations between Artists & Poets Reception: January 16, 5 -6:30 p.m., Bob Owens Art Gallery University of North Georgia Dahlonega Campus, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. Free. gallery@ung.edu, 706-864-1400.

Jan. 11 Carlos Reyes and Peppino ‘d Agostino 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse , 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com

Jan. 9 South Hall Business Coalition 8-9 a.m. Join the South Hall Business Coalition at Elachee Nature Science Center for an update on the 1,400-acre nature preserve and its newest additions – the Elachee Nature Preschool and the alternative energy demonstration E-House. Elachee celebrates 34 years of building environmental literacy through educational experiences, museum exhibits and special programs. ghcc.com.

Jan. 9 “Memphis” 7:30 p.m. The Classic Center Theatre, 300 N. Thomas St., Athens.

706-357-4444, ClassicCenter.com Jan. 8-10 “Wisdom’s Voice” 7 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse , 101 School St., Cumming. 770-7819178, www.playhousecumming. com Jan. 10 Evening in Bloom 6:30 p.m. An elegant evening event at the museum to kickoff the Art in Bloom festivities. Enjoy the fabulous floral arrangements paired with favorite pieces from the permanent collection. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be served. NonMembers $75/Members $65, High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta. 404.733.HIGH, www. high.org.

Jan. 11 Evenings of Intimate Jazz homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

Jan. 14-16 “En Mis Palabras” (In my own words) Produced by The Atlanta Opera 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse , 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com Jan. 15 Women in Business Noon to 1 p.m. 2106 Old Pendergrass Road, Jefferson. Recognition of women’s positive Influence in Jackson County through dedication, service and diversity. Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce. jacksoncountychamber.com.

Jan. 15 Ed Gilliam: Works from the Thomas E. Scanlin Collection 1:15pm. Reception and artist talk.

Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Free. gallery@ung.edu, 678-717-3438.

are for adults. Habersham Community Theater, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. All seats are $20.00.

Reservations may be made at 706839-131, habershamtheater.org.

perform with festival artists from different genres. 6:30 p.m. Woodruff Arts Center,1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4900, www.garoots.org/

Jan. 16-19 “Fools: A Dumb Fairy Tale” 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16-18 and 2 p.m. Jan. 19. Jefferson High School William Duncan Performing Arts Center.

The Jefferson Community Theatre is producing this Neil Simon play. www.jeffersoncommunitytheatre. com, 706-367-5714

Jan 17-March 2 SNCA Gallery: Wood and Wool Show Rug Hookers and Wood Artists.

Hallway Invitational — Georgia Rug Hookers exhibit Sautee Nachoochee Center, Ga 283 Ga 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee, 706-8783300, www.SNCA.org.

Jan. 18 Georgia Roots Music Festival The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Georgia Humanities Council, in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution and University of West Georgia Center for Public History, will present a free, one-day event celebrating Georgia’s extensive musical heritage which will include concerts, discussions, exhibits, and opportunities to interact and

Jan. 18-19 Monroe Crossing 8 p.m. and 3 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse , 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com

THEY DON’T GO FOR STATUS QUO!

Jan. 16 Business After Hours 5-7 p.m. Lakeview Academy, Gainesville. Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, ghcc.com.

Jan. 16-26 Avenue Q A hilariously gut-busting modern musical focusing on a group of unique 20-somethings making their way in the big city, seeking their purpose in life. Akin to Sesame Street, Avenue Q is a place where puppets are friends, Monsters are good and life lessons are learned. The only difference is the lessons learned on the Avenue

Through Jan. 18 Abstract Part 2 Marcia Wood Gallery, 263 Walker St., Atlanta. Free. marciawood gallery.com, 404-827-0030.

Our 2013-14 Corps of Cadets consists of over 430 cadets from 20 countries.

Campus Open House February 23

At Riverside Military Academy, we change what our cadets think is good enough in terms of effort and achievement. Please call today.

800.462.2338.

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home calendar Through Jan. 18 The Art of the Louvre’s Tuileries Garden The Art of the Louvre’s Tuileries Garden brings Paris to Peachtree Street, with picturesque boxed holly trees on the piazza, sculpture drawn directly from the grounds of the Tuileries, Impressionist paintings, and a three screen video of a stroll through the garden. High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St. N.E., Atlanta. 404.733.HIGH, www.high.org.

Jan. 23 Annual Awards Banquet 6 p.m. Jefferson Civic Center,

65 Kissam St., Jefferson. Jackson County Chamber’s annual banquet to recognize outstanding individuals in the business community. Chamber Member Admission $50, nonmember Admission $65. Member Full Table of Eight is $400. www. jacksoncountyga.org, 706-387-0300 Jan. 24-26 28th Annual Southern Gardening Symposium Learn from an outstanding group of experts at this three-day symposium devoted to gardening in the South. Designed for all gardeners, this jam-packed schedule offers

lectures, demos, workshops and a one-stop gardening marketplace Callaway Gardens Ga. Hwys.

18/354, Pine Mountain. 706-663228 Jan. 24-26 Mardi Gras Third Annual Musical Variety Show 2014 “Magic Jukebox” 8 p.m. and 3 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse , 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www. playhousecumming.com

February Feb. 1 Beach Daze 6:30 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center Grand Ballroom. The Voices of North Georgia’s mid-season fundraiser Join Voices of North Georgia as they celebrate all things seaside.

Featuring party foods, beverages, dancing, prizes, and of course Voices of North Georgia’s presentation of beach tunes from years gone by.

Cost is $15; $12 for seniors/students.www.voicesofnorthgeorgia. com/concerts Feb. 1 First Saturday Hike at Elachee 10-11:30 a.m. Join a naturalist on a guided hike in the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. Program fee: $5 Adults, $3 Children ages 2-12. Children under 2 and Elachee members free. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 ELachee Drive, Gainesville.

Feb. 3-27 Appalachia Here and Now: Jeff Marley Artist talk and workshop: Feb. 26, time TBA. Reception: February 27, 5 -6:30 p.m., Bob Owens Art Gal-

lery University of North Georgia Dahlonega Campus, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. Free. gallery@ ung.edu, 706-864-1400.

Feb. 5 Lunch and Learn program.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Featuring Sue Quinn from Ferranti’s Cakery, demonstrating cake decorating tips just in time for Valentine’s Day. This is a free program offered for the community. Bring your own lunch or pre-order a sack lunch for only $5 by calling 706-367-5307. Crawford Long Museum, 28 College St., Jefferson.

Feb. 8 Fasching: German-style Mardi Gras Helendorf River Inn Suites & Conference Center, 33 Munich Strasse Helen. www.helenchamber.com, 706-878-1908 Feb. 10-22 “Chicago” 7:30 p.m. Feb.10-15 and 18-22; 2:30 p.m. Feb.16 and 22. Free stage tour 6 p.m., Jan. 28. Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre in the John S. Burd Center, 429 Academy St., Gainesville. Tickets are $22-$24 for adults, $20-$22 for seniors and $12/$14 for students. www. gainesvilletheatrealliance.org, 678717-3624\ Feb. 11 Buy Local Business Expo 2-7 p.m. The Greater Hall Chamber’s annual expo will highlight the many products and services in Gainesville-Hall County. Gainesville Civic Center, Green St. Open to the public; cost is $10. www.ghcc. com, 770-532-6206 Feb. 13-22 “The Glass Menagerie” 7:30 p.m. Feb.13-14 and 16, 18-22; 2:30 p.m. Feb. 15. Free stage tour 6 p.m., Jan. 30. UNG-Gainesville’s

Through Jan. 4 Look What’s in the Garden art exhibition Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. $18.95 adults, $12.95 children 3-12, free to children 3 and younger and to Garden members. 404-876-5859, atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

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home calendar Feb. 22 Evenings of Intimate Jazz series:Tempest Little Big Band 8 p.m., The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, Gainesville. $30. 770534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net The von Trapps 7 p.m., Atlanta Symphony Hall.

800-745-3000 March 6 - April 18 Hal B. Rhodes Student Exhibition Reception: April 18, 5-6:30 p.m., Bob Owens Art Gallery University of North Georgia Dahlonega Campus, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. Free. gallery@ung.edu, 706-864-1400.

Ed Cabell Theatre, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Tickets are $18/$20 for adults, $16/$18 for seniors and $12/$14 for students. www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org, 678-717-3624 Feb. 13-March 9 On Golden Pond The Cumming Playhouse , 101 School St., Cumming. 770-7819178, www.playhousecumming. com Feb. 14 “Love Letters” A Valentine’s Day Dinner Theatre Jefferson Civic Center, 65 Kissam St., Jefferson. www.jeffersoncommunitytheatre.com, 706-367-5714 Feb. 14 “The Iran Job” 7 p.m. film screening. Director Q&A will follow. “The Iran Job” follows American basketball player Kevin Sheppard as he accepts a job to play in one of the world’s most feared countries: Iran. Part of the Tour of Independent Filmmakers.

Tickets: $7 Adults, $5 Seniors; $5 Students. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. www.theartscouncil. net/independentfilms homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

Through Feb. 15 “Grounded in Nature: A Survey of Paintings by Paige Harvey” Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Free. qvac.org.

March

Through March Imaginary Worlds: Plants Larger Than Life 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. $18.95 adults, $12.95 children 3-12, free to children 3 and younger and to Garden members. 404-8765859, atlantabotanicalgarden.org March 1 Quinlan’s 36th Annual Gala Fine Art Auction Collector’s Night, 5:30 p.m. Feb. 27. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Free. qvac.org.

March 2 ASO Presents welcomes Pink Martini with special guest

March 8 Evenings of Intimate Jazz series: Bonaventure Quartet 8 p.m., The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, Gainesville. $30. 770534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net March 7-9 Folk to Fine Arts

Festival & Expo An indoor arts show featuring both fine artists and folk artists from the Southeastern United States. Commerce Civic Center, 110 State Street Commerce. 706334-2954 March 14-16 Dahlonega Trail Fest An annual celebration of Dahlonega’s Appalachian Trail Community designation. Hancock Park, North Park Street & Warwick St., Dahlonega. 706-867-9742 March 28-30 Fort Yargo Colonial Market Faire During this 18th century living-history event, tradesmen and artisans will demonstrate crafts and knowledge of the time. 210 S. Broad Street, Winder. 770-867-4632

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home around town 22nd annual Marketplace

Nov. 6, 2013 Nearly 500 people attended the Marketplace Preview Party. Through the support of sponsors, all of the proceeds raised through the 22nd and 23rd annual fundraising events presented by The Medical Center Auxiliary will go to benefit Safe Kids Gainesville/Hall County. The event aims to raise $275,000 through both fundraisers. Many of the people in attendance carried full bags from booth to booth, and some checked off names from lists of gift recipients. The event featured more than 70 merchants from eight states selling everything from clothing and home decorations to gourmet food.

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home around town

2013 Jingle Mingle Nov. 21, 2013 Presented by Main Street Gainesville and the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, the three-hour event featured extended shopping hours, food, drinks and festive fun. Attendees, most with young children, were also treated to holiday music from Gainesville First United Methodist Church’s concert band, which performed in the Main Street Market at Sweet Magnolia’s, and Brian Ulrich, who performed at Frames You-Nique.

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Humane Society of Jackson County’s eighth annual Mimosas for Mutts Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013 This year’s fundraiser at the Jefferson Civic Center had an new component with the addition of felines and Margaritas for Meow-Meows.

The event featured a champagne and fiesta lunch buffet plus a fashion show.

2013 Taste of Jackson & Business Showcase

Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2013 The holiday-themed event at the Commerce Civic Center featured cuisine from a variety of restaurants throughout Jackson County, and a jumpstart on holiday shopping by visiting business vendors.

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The Junior League of Gainesville-Hall County’s 62nd Annual Charity Ball

Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013 Charity Ball is the Junior League’s largest fundraiser; proceeds from the event support the Feeding Our Future program, through which the League provides more than 100 boxes of food each month to needy families in the community. This year’s ball at Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville featured the band Yacht Rock Schooner.

Each year, local civic organizations sponsor a belle candidate who is responsible for raising money on behalf of the Junior League. This experience gives high school or college-aged girls what is perhaps their first experience of community service by encouraging them to raise money that will be given back to our community. This year’s belles and sponsoring clubs were: Gainesville Rotary Club Carey Sartain Gainesville Jaycees Kelly Holt Harrison Gainesville Elks Lodge Rebecca Pannek South Hall Rotary Club Sydney Phillips Kiwanis Club of Gainesville Morgan Reece Lanierland Civitan Club Caroline Perrott Pilot Club of Gainesville-Hall County Sara Hayes

Belle of the Ball, Morgan Reece.

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“A Toast to Braselton” 2013 Nov. 13, 2013 More than a hundred people turned out to the A Toast to Braselton held at the Braselton-Stover House. The evening began with wine provided by Chateau Élan. Guests had the opportunity to sample an assortment of wines including chardonnay, merlot and a variety of muscadine-based flavors. The silent auction allowed guests to wander through the selection of items and bid at ease. Dinner was provided by Cornbread and Caviar catering, and was followed by the announcement of door prize and silent auction winners. The event benefits the Downtown Development Authority.

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Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2013 Woman of the Year Nov. 20, 2013 The Woman of the Year honors individuals who have achieved professional excellence, mentored, actively served the community and helped other women to reach their leadership potential. This year’s luncheon was held at the Braselton-Stover House and the 2013 WOY recipeint was Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly, who is owner of Moonlight Realty Investments. Special guest was author Ronda Rich.

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Quinlan Visual Arts Center 66th Annual Members Exhibition Oct. 24, 2013 Quinlan Visual Arts Center recognized local artists for their skills and creativity during the 66th annual Members’ Exhibition opening reception in Gainesville.

Earning awards were: best in show, Carol Christie; first place, Dana Ross; second place, Chris Hammond; and third place, Durward Pepper. This year’s Members’ Exhibition was a considerably larger event than previous years because it coincided with the “Inspired Georgia” exhibition and The Traveling Show, both of which helped bring more than 350 people to the reception, about 150 more than last year. The reception included artwork from the two exhibitions as well as performances by the contemporary dance group gloATL who are part of The Traveling Show, which also includes public art organization Living Walls.

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Come experience the uniqueness of historic downtown Braselton where guests and locals enjoy some of the best shopping in Northeast Georgia. Whether you are perusing one of our many outstanding antique store, enjoying an afternoon at the day spa, visiting our local artist gallery or dining at a local restaurant, downtown Braselton has something for everyone.

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