Cobb In Focus September October 2023

We are a well-rounded community alive with community spirit, a touch of urban chic and plenty of down-home natural charm.

Nestled among lush trees, you’ll feel at home in our diverse neighborhoods. Residents and visitors enjoy access to indoor and outdoor amenities, from boating on the Chattahoochee, to biking, walking, or running along our trails, watching baseball at the Battery, or catching good vibes in our downtown.

Chattahoochee Technical College Celebrates 60 Years

Chattahoochee Tech continues to offer a comprehensive array of programs and services for student career development.

12 HEALTH

Naturopathy is a health system based on the idea that the body can heal itself when you supply it with the necessary materials and environment.

16 EDUCATION

Joanne Telcide-Bryant is on a mission to teach various growth-mindset themes that encourage young readers to think critically using Social-Emotional Learning skills.

26 IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Find

A glimpse at some of the fall festivities and Halloween events happening in Cobb in September and October.

8 BUSINESS

SDS Wireless Consulting is in the business of helping cut wireless costs for businesses, governments, nonprofits, and healthcare providers across the country.

This year marks Three-13 Salon’s 13th annual Angels of Life Hair and Fashion Show at Cobb Galleria.

28 SENIOR LIVING

While it’s never an easy decision to determine if a senior living community is the correct move for yourself or your loved ones, the right community can help in making that choice.

31 ARTS AND RECREATION

The Marietta Business Association is excited to host the 3rd Annual MBA Golf Tournament on Oct. 20, 2023.

32 FINAL FOCUS

Wishing a not-so-fond farewell to the record heat we experienced this past summer.

From left to right: Taylor Smith,

Officer; and Dexter Beck, Dean of Arts and Sciences.

Photo:

foreSight

New South Publishing Inc.

President

Larry Lebovitz

Vice President

John Hanna

Publisher Jamie Ryan

Account Executive Sherry Gasaway

Editor

Cory Sekine-Pettite

Associate Editor

Amy Meadows

Often on this page, I draw your attention to commonalities among the articles in the magazine. Usually, these parallels (or themes) are pre-planned, but sometimes we come by them accidentally. Either way, I also try to relay to you how these issue themes have some meaning in my own life. Typically, that’s the purpose of an editor’s letter.

This issue was set up largely to be timely regarding certain events, such as the 13th annual Angels of Life Hair and Fashion Show at Cobb Galleria (see page 26), all the local fall festivals and Halloween events (see our calendars on pages 5 & 6), and in recognition of the 60th anniversary of Chattahoochee Technical College, which is our cover feature (beginning on page 20).

It’s great to see so many festivals and events taking place this year, because autumn is my favorite season. I hope you get out there and enjoy what Cobb County has to offer this year. And I humbly request you consider supporting the Angels of Life event. The money raised supports the Georgia Transplant Foundation, which provides crucial support to patients and families recovering from transplant surgeries.

I also call your attention to the remarkable growth of Chattahoochee Tech, which today has more than 14,000 students and provides education and career training in more than 50 disciplines. They are a shining example of what makes Cobb a great place to live. Speaking of education, in this issue we also spotlight the work of educator and author Joanne Telcide-Bryant and her company, Josh & Nelly’s Publishing (page 16). She’s on a mission to improve academic success for local students.

So, how does any of this tie into my own life? Other than the fact that I’m excited to present all of this to you, I’m not sure exactly. But I continue to be impressed by our community. Our neighbors, business owners, and schools are first-rate and incredibly giving. I celebrate you all!

Contact Cobb in Focus

We want to hear from you! Share your story ideas and comments with our editor. Visit cobbinfocus.com or send your suggestions to: cory@newsouthpublishing.net or New South Publishing, Attn: Cory Sekine-Pettite 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350

Graphic Designer Jack Simonetta

Contributors

Jennifer Morrell, Writer

Michael J. Pallerino, Writer

Lindsay Field Penticuff, Writer

LaRuche Photo, Photography

Production Coordinator/Circulation

Amy Fine Controller

Marilyn Walker

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Cobb in Focus™ is published six times a year by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA, 30350. Direct all editorial queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 100. Direct all circulation queries to (770) 6501102, ext. 130. Direct all advertising queries to (770) 650-1102, ext. 142. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Material in this publication may not be reprinted without written permission from the publisher. Copyright 2023 by New South Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Photo by LaRuche Photo

LGE Community Credit Union Ranked #1 in Georgia

LGE Community Credit Union was recently named the top credit union in Georgia by Forbes in the publication’s 2023 Best-in-State Credit Unions list. LGE was one of only five credit unions in Georgia to receive the Best-in-State designation.

Join Cobb’s Emergency Response Team

Cobb’s Emergency Management Agency is ready to train the next group of Community Emergency Response Team members. The agency will offer 24 hours of free instruction designed to prepare volunteers for possible disasters. Once they complete training, Cobb EMA will include the new CERT members in future opportunities to help the community. Learn more at cobbcounty.org/ emergency-management/training.

Cobb EMC Named Georgia’s Most Affordable Electricity Provider

Cobb EMC is now ranked #1 in Georgia for having the lowest electric rates in the state among all 90 electric utilities, according to the Georgia Public Service Commission’s summer 2023 rate survey. The survey showed that Cobb EMC members’ monthly bills are averaging approximately $97.50, which is $40.76 lower than the average for 1,000 kWh consumption.

Powder Springs Receives Grant for Art Project

The City of Powder Springs has been selected to receive a 2023 AARP Community Challenge grant, being one of only 310 grantees selected out of more than 3,600 applications. The grant will fund the Powder Springs Bike Rack Art Project, in which the city will partner with the South Cobb Arts Alliance to design, create, and install five permanent bike racks/ murals throughout downtown Powder Springs.

Town Center Community Opens Nominations for 2023 Townie Awards

Town Center Community announced nominations are open for the 2023 Townie Awards. The annual ceremony recognizes community members, leaders, and businesses for contributions to Town Center Community. “From transformational projects and innovation to economic prosperity and growth, we have so much to celebrate,” said Tracy Styf, executive director of the Town Center CID. Learn more at towncentercid.com.

Kennesaw Historic Preservation Commission to Host Historic Walking Tours

The City of Kennesaw’s Historic Preservation Commission will host free walking tours of the Historic Downtown on Friday, September 22, and Saturday, September 23. Two tour times will be offered each day with Friday’s tours beginning at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Saturday’s tours beginning at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn more at kennesaw-ga. gov/?s=walking+tour.

Credit Union of Georgia Celebrates Back to School

Credit Union of Georgia donated countless hours celebrating their local schools, teachers, and the kick-off of the 2023-2024 school year. Leaders from the Credit Union sponsored and attended over 30 Back to School events in Cobb and Cherokee Counties during the months of July and August. “We cannot thank our teachers and staff enough for all that they do for the children of our communities,” said Brian Albrecht, President/CEO of Credit Union of Georgia.

Cobb Young Professionals Names Next Generation Award Winners

Cobb Young Professionals, the Cobb Chamber’s networking and development group for professionals in their 20s and 30s, named the winners of the 2023 Next Generation Award at the Chamber’s August Marquee Monday event: Dr. Tiffany Barney and Alex Almodóvar. Barney is the director of the Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy, which fosters the next generation of healthcare heroes. Almodóvar is development director for the City of Acworth, where he addresses labor shortages and fosters economic growth.

‘Roaring 20’s Casino Night’ to Benefit Cobb Library Foundation

Don’t miss out on the Cobb Library Foundation’s 2nd Annual Casino Night! On, Saturday, November 4, get ready to step back in time to the 1920’s for an evening of music, hors d’oeuvres, prizes, and fundraising efforts to support the Cobb County Public Library. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Atlanta Country Club in Marietta. More details are available at https://e.givesmart.com/ events/xnt/.

a snapshot of what’s going on in your community.

SEPTEMBER

Editor’s note: Due to evolving community needs, these events are subject to change or cancellation.

9/7-28

Brown Bag Lunch Concert Series

Thursdays in September, bring your brown bag lunch down to the Hardy Family Automotive Amphitheater to enjoy live music by local artists! More info: cityofpowdersprings.org

9/12-26

Food Truck Tuesdays

Smyrna’s Food Truck Tuesdays at Taylor-Brawner Park conclude in September. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. More info: smyrnaga.gov

9/16-23

Tyler & Taylor Foundation 5K

The 6th Annual Tyler & Taylor Foundation 5K in honor of Tyler Lamar Greene will take place virtually from Sept. 16-23. The Foundation offers educational scholarships to East Paulding High School seniors and swimming lesson scholarships to youth in the community. More info: tylerandtaylorfoundation.org

9/23

Rivers Alive

Rivers Alive is an annual litter cleanup in Smyrna along the tributaries that run into the Chattahoochee River, which supplies drinking water for millions in the metro Atlanta area. More info: keepsmyrnabeautiful.com/rivers-alive

10/3

National Night Out

This free event at Thurman Springs Park in Powder Springs is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. More info: cityofpowdersprings.org

10/7

Smyrna’s Birthday Celebration

Smyrna is pulling out all the stops this year for its 151st birthday. Festivities begin in the Village Green at 11 a.m. This year’s concert features Goo Goo Dolls, The Wallflowers, and 10,000 Maniacs. More info: smyrnaga.gov

10/21

‘Que & Brew

BBQ lovers will congregate in Smyrna for this annual event to benefit LiveSafe Resources. More info: livesaferesources.org

9/9

Pizza, Pints & Pigskins

The event takes place at Logan Farm Park and features pizzerias from all over Cobb County. More info: acworthtourism.org

9/16

Taste of Smyrna

Experience a wide selection of foods and big helpings of entertainment, too. Taste all that Smyrna restaurants have to offer in one place! Admission is free. More info: smyrnaga.gov

9/11

Bullock House Golf Fore Hope

The 12th Annual Golf Fore Hope Tournament at Brookstone Country Club benefits Bullock House, which helps patients receiving cancer treatment. More info: bullockhopehouse.org

9/16-17

Shootout for Soldiers

The lacrosse event benefiting American veterans is again coming to Kennesaw Mountain High School. More info:

27th Annual Horace Orr Post 29 Charity Golf Tournament

Join fellow golf lovers at Dogwood Golf and Country Club to benefit local veterans.

Cobb Chamber Taylor English Golf & Tennis Classic

Chamber members can enjoy a day on the course or courts at Indian Hills Country Club with business friends, clients, or prospects. More info: cobbchamber.org

9/25

Sweetwater Mission Golf Tournament

Join sports celebrities in an exclusive event to benefit Sweetwater Mission in its ongoing efforts to stabilize families by providing basic needs, and transforming lives through education and job-readiness programs. More info: sweetwatermission.org/golf

10/6

OCTOBER

Chip In For Children’s

Enjoy a crisp fall day on the course at Marietta City Club while supporting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. More info: choa.org

10/14

Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life

Join your fellow cyclists in downtown Powder Springs from 7 a.m. to noon for this charity ride. More info: cityofpowdersprings.org

10/21

Kaiser Permanente Health Mobile

Kaiser Permanente will be providing health screening free to the community in the main Smith-Gilbert Gardens parking lot. More info: kennesaw-ga.gov

9/30

Autism Speaks

Atlanta Walk

The Autism Speaks Walk is back. It begins at 8 a.m. at The Battery Atlanta. Teams and individuals can register.

More info: autismspeaks.org

10/7

Taste of Acworth

This annual event showcases many local restaurants. This event benefits numerous local schools and charities in our community. More info: acworth.org

10/14-15

Chalktoberfest

This local favorite in Marietta Square returns with renowned artists, beer tents, and more! All proceeds go to the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art. More info: chalktoberfest.com

10/28

Nightmare on Main 5K

Part of the KGP Race Series, this race promises a fun day out for the entire family. More info: kennesawgrandprix.com

Fall Family Fun

9/15

Family Fun Glow Night

Bring the family out from 6-8 p.m. at the Smyrna Community Center and enjoy quality time creating fun, glow-in-the-dark masterpieces! All paint supplies and refreshments will be provided!

More info: smyrnaga.gov

9/16, 10/21

Pop-In For Family Fun

Come and explore the Marietta History Center on the 3rd Saturday of every month with family fun activities. September’s topic is “Books, Books, Books,” and October’s topic is “Halloween.”

More info: mariettahistory.org

9/21 - 10/1

North Georgia State Fair

The 2023 Superior Plumbing North Georgia State Fair returns to Jim R. Miller Park with fun rides, concerts, and great food. More info: northgeorgiastatefair.com

10/7

FALL-O-WEEN

Celebrate the fall season at SwiftCantrell Park in Kennesaw from 3-9 p.m. More info: kennesaw-ga.gov

10/15

‘Fall In For Fall’ Family Festival

Aloha to Aging’s crafts market and business expo includes local vendors, live music, and a pickleball clinic. More info: alohatoaging.org

10/21

Halloween Jambooree

Come out to Logan Farm Park for games, rides, food, music, and lots of Halloween fun! More info: acworthtourism.org

10/21

Trunk Or Treat

Wear your favorite costume and scare up some tasty treats at Thurman Springs Park starting at 10 a.m.!

More info: cityofpowdersprings.org

10/21

HarvestFest

The festival includes the HarvestFest Arts & Crafts Show, Pie Eating Contest, Touch-A-Truck, Scarecrows In The Square, Costume Contest and Halloween Happenings kid’s festival. More info: marietta.gov

Saving Time And Money

SDS Wireless Consulting is in the business of helping cut wireless costs for businesses, governments, nonprofits, and healthcare providers across the country.

By Lindsay Field Penticuff

For Steven Small, president of SDS Wireless Consulting, his work is all about helping businesses, governments, nonprofits, and healthcare systems, save time and money. Which can indirectly help save taxpayers, and patients save money, as well.

Mr. Small has been in the wireless industry since 2001 and has worked with all the major wireless providers, including Nextel Communications, Sprint Corporation, Verizon Wireless, and AT&T. “I was an investment adviser and was looking for something that didn’t have an end to it, and hopefully didn’t have the peaks and valleys that I was experiencing in the industry I was in,” Small recalls. “And I was right, because the wireless industry is ever expanding.”

In 2012, he founded his own company, SDS Wireless Consulting. The business was initially headquartered in Cobb County before Small relocated to Summerville. However, his business colleague and brother, Earl Small, is a longtime Kennesaw resident who formerly worked as a CPA and then for Yamaha Motor Corp. He came out of retirement to help his brother operate SDS.

Small says he started SDS because he learned from his experience in the wireless industry that customers are routinely overcharged for their wireless service. “I know that’s a strong statement, but it’s true,” he

says. “So, we work with businesses, municipal governments, county governments, organizations, and medical centers to help them lower the cost of their wireless bills.”

And they provide this service without any of these entities having to change their wireless provider. “We work with our customers to find the pricing that they should be getting by helping them choose the right plans, buy the appropriate data that matches their usage and cleaning up their accounts,” he says.

When SDS reviewed a large Atlanta area county government’s administrative account, for example, it identified more than 30 percent in wireless savings. The company has worked with several county governments in Georgia, including Bartow, Walker, Fannin, and Chattooga, as well as audited municipal and businesses accounts from Florida to Washington state. SDS does not require a

contract or any commitment to do an initial audit. “It’s about making sure the customer is comfortable going in and knowing what the potential savings are before we even move forward with a contract,” Small says.

Their average savings? “We’ve never audited a bill that we couldn’t find as least 20 percent in savings,” he adds.

Since starting the business, Small has been most proud of two large savings he found for clients: Floyd Medical Center in Rome was able to lower their bill by about 43 percent, saving them approximately $60,000 annually in wireless costs. And with Davey Tree Expert Company, one of the largest tree services companies in the United States, SDS not only identified $150,000 a year in savings, but secured the company a $100,000 credit. “That was a major achievement, and the one that really got us going!” Small says.

When SDS first launched, the focus was on saving clients money by looking at the minutes they used monthly. At that time, clients were buying minutes, based on the usage reports from their wireless carrier, which included on-peak and off-peak minutes, which were free. So, the customers were continually over-buying minutes. “We would go in and separate the off-peak from the onpeak minutes and put them on the plans with the correct number of minutes,” says Small.

Since then, it’s become all about the amount of data that clients are buying since people are using smartphones, tablets, and hotspot devices. Small has specifically noticed when working with law enforcement clients, for example, that the hotspot devices in their vehicles connected to their computer system, may only be using .001 gigabit of data per month.

“If an officer is using that little data, they don’t need pay for an unlimited data plan like so many of our clients may have,” Small says. “There are data plans for as little as $12 a month that the client should be using.”

As auditors of data and wireless usage, Small and his brother initially review 12 months of a client’s wireless usage, reviewing each line to see what the exact usage is. Then, they will look even closer at the past six months to get a better reflection of the usage to make sure everyone is on the right wireless plan.

Another important piece of the puzzle has been SDS’ relationship with carriers and understanding what plans are available. “Even though we are kind of taking money out of their pockets, we’ve built relationships because they know that we are also taking very good care of their customers, and they aren’t likely to leave if they are happy customers,” says Small.

“We work with businesses, municipal governments, county governments and medical centers to significantly reduce the cost of their wireless billings.”

—Steven Small, President, SDS Wireless Consulting

As auditors of data and wireless usage, Small and his brother initially review 12 months of a client’s wireless usage, reviewing each line to see what the exact usage is. Then, they will look even closer at the past six months to get a better reflection of the usage to make sure everyone is on the right wireless plan.

“Floyd Medical Center has been using the wireless cost reduction services of SDS Wireless Consulting since January 2017. Since that time, SDS has lowered our Verizon bill by 43 percent ($60,000/ year). Floyd Medical Center would not have received these savings on our wireless account if it had not been for Steven Small’s detailed work and dedicated efforts on our behalf. Steven and SDS have always been professional, detailed, and easy to work with. I enthusiastically recommend Steven and his team at SDS Wireless Consulting.” –Kim

Plant-Dixon, Executive Assistant, IS&T, Floyd Medical Center

“As the Sole County Commissioner of Chattooga County, Georgia, I realize and appreciate the difficulty of raising revenue and managing our county’s budget. Steven and SDS Wireless Consulting performed their wireless cost reduction services as promised. I highly recommend Steven Small and SDS Wireless Consulting to any municipality or county government interested in procuring significant wireless savings. They are very professional, easy to work with, take a very small amount of your time, and are in no way disruptive to our wireless services.” –Jason Winters,

Sole Commissioner, Chattooga County

And Small adds that SDS is “carrier agnostic,” meaning they work with all the wireless carriers. However, he did add that most of his clients use Verizon or AT&T- 1st Net, especially first responders since both now offer discounted plans for them. “They are specially priced and get priority connectivity if there’s an emergency,” he adds. “They will be able to get wireless service when no one else can.”

“SDS gives our customers money, because we only get paid if they save money and then

we receive a percent of that savings,” Small concludes. “We also save them time because we have included a detailed report of the savings allocations. The reporting saves the client’s accounting group time and effort by proving customized allocations of costs and savings by number, cost center, or department. With this service we can help our clients save money as well as time.” n

Editor’s note: This article is reprinted and updated from the Sept/Oct 2022 issue of Cobb In Focus

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What Is Naturopathy & What Can It Do For You?

By Lis Whitton-Frey, ND

Naturopathy is a health system based on the idea that the body can heal itself when you supply it with the necessary materials and environment. It uses natural and non-invasive techniques to strengthen the terrain of the body, mind, and spirit. Its primary goal is to seek out root-cause imbalances and find natural ways to restore that balance, promoting long-term health instead of the all-toocommon approach of masking symptoms.

Why did I choose Naturopathy?

I have always been fascinated by the natural world. In fact, I started foraging and making my own medicines around age 7 after my parents let me pick out an item at a gift shop and I chose a Native American Natural Remedies book. But my journey into Naturopathy really began at age 19, after my own health struggles as a teenager. I had migraines, arthritis, asthma, IBS symptoms, leaky gut, food allergies, seasonal allergies, hypothyroid, fibromyalgia, etc. I can vividly remember the moment I opened my drawer full of prescription medications and thought “there has to be a better way.”

I found my way, with the help of some wonderful, local naturopaths and herbalists. My health dramatically improved and I became passionate about researching everything I could get my hands on. But Naturopathy really solidified as a career path a decade later, at age 30, when I began working with the brilliant Seneca Anderson, one of the Naturopaths who helped restore my health in my teens and early 20’s. I couldn’t ask for a better education than the 10 years

I spent under his instruction and guidance. In addition to my hands-on training, I earned my doctorate in Traditional Naturopathy through a five-year online program from New Eden School of Natural Health. I believe my own past has equipped me to become a uniquely compassionate and trauma-aware naturopath, and that my own progress in healing allows me to remain hopeful and tenaciously resourceful for every client.

How can Naturopathy help you?

Because Naturopathy focuses on the strengthening of the body’s innate functions, like detoxification, digestion, immunity, and tissue repair, it is a one-size-fits-all approach. If you have a body, you will benefit. It truly is as simple as that. However, each body is beautifully different, and you will receive a customized plan as unique as you are! I particularly love helping those with chronic and autoimmune health concerns, reproductive wellness, sports performance, PTSD, and anyone highly motivated to enjoy a better quality of life. The way I see it, health is not the most important thing;

Coming in 2024!

A.G. Rhodes is building a new home at our Cobb location which will improve the quality of care and safety of elders, particularly for those living with dementia.

This new home will include:

∗ Private bedrooms

∗ Sunroom to connect with the outdoors

∗ Centralized community kitchen

∗ Living room with an inviting hearth

∗ Dining room for family-style meals

∗ Outdoor gardens

Learn more and get updates on our progress: www.agrhodes.org/legacyofcare

love is. But health allows us the freedom to show up for those we love the way we’d like, to show up to life the way we want to, so we can create a life we love.

How do I customize your health plan?

I utilize three different types of testing, all run in-house the same day as your consult. I use full-body AlfaSight 9000 thermography, Qest4 bioenergetic testing, and urinalysis. Each test gives us a unique perspective, and together we get a three-dimensional view of your body, allowing me to confidently guide you on your health journey. After we immediately receive the test results, I review them with you and formulate a lifestyle and supplement plan suited to your needs. I may also recommend some additional therapies, if needed, such as infrared sauna or simple things you can do at home such as Epsom salt baths.

What can Naturopathy do for me today?

As we are on the brink of cold and flu season,

I’d like to give you a few ideas through a naturopathic lens of things you can do to help you and your family stay healthy this year.

The first healthy thing you can do is expect to get sick. That’s right. Probably not what you wanted to hear. But a healthy adult would ideally have one to two fevers per year, and children, especially young ones, quite a lot more. Why is this important? A fever is a sign that your immune system is working properly under the threat of an invader. Additionally, a fever promotes natural detoxification and can clean house through cellular apoptosis and provide an immune reset.

The human body and its relationship with its environment is all a bit more nuanced than we’ve been led to believe. We tend to think “germs bad/sterile good.” But we’re coming to understand more and more that, just like there are good fats/bad fats, good sugars/bad sugar, there are good germs and bad germs. And maybe everything has its place within balance of the whole. Viruses are no different. They inform and strengthen our immune systems, give us a yearly or bi-yearly purge. And there is evidence that people whose immune systems do not properly produce fevers in the exposure of germs are more likely to develop cancer. There are even cutting-edge cancer treatments that inject viral cells into cancer tumors, effectively killing cancer cells. Could this possibly suggest that viruses, within reason, could be beneficial to human health?

My goal isn’t to never get sick, but rather to have a balanced immune system and to be as healthy as possible so that I don’t get

sick often. And when I do fall ill, my body is prepared and resilient.

Let’s look at some factors for why people catch more viruses during the fall and winter, so that we can then reverse-engineer our way to a healthier holiday season:

• Research shows that sugar spikes can decrease immune system activity by 50 percent within 1-2 hours after eating sugar, lasting up to 5 hours

• Additionally, we know that Vitamin D is hugely important for our immune systems and sun exposure goes way down in the winter.

• A recent study showed that cold temperatures lead to a decline in the immune response elicited by cells in the nasal cavity to viruses.

So, is it really that there are more germs during the colder months or is it that our bodies are weakened through lack of sun exposure, less blood flow to the sinuses due to colder temps, and an increase in sugar consumption, making us more susceptible to germs?

Here are some simple tips to stay healthy through the holidays:

1. Take some immune support two to three days leading up to holiday gatherings. Your immune system will take multiple hits at holiday parties: through exposure to germs during cold/

flu season and because of the increase in sugar consumption. My favorite is a product called Viracid by Orthomolecular, which can also be used at high doses at the first onset of symptoms.

2. Minimize your sugar spike by choosing desserts over candy and sweet drinks. Even though desserts still have sugar, they also typically contain some fat, protein and fiber, making the sugar spike a little less extreme.

3. Be sure to eat your meals first and the order in which you eat your food matters. For instance, if you eat your protein first at a meal, you can eat the exact same number or carbs with a 75-percent decrease in sugar spike when compared to eating carbs/ sugars first.

4. Take a digestive enzyme. This will help you break down your rich holiday food more efficiently, having less negative impact on the GI tract, leading to less food stagnation which causes mucus and dysbiosis.

5. Take a probiotic. Maintaining good gut bacteria will help to combat candida that can lead to digestive dysfunction that lasts weeks after the holidays.

6. Before consuming alcohol, take glutathione or NAC (which raises glutathione levels). There are more than 500 vital functions associated with the liver. And it’s estimated that these functions go on pause for eight hours for every alcoholic drink you consume. This means a major back up of hormones, fats, toxins and so much more, every time you drink alcohol! But if we can raise glutathione levels before alcohol consumption, your liver will be able to process more efficiently so that the rest of the liver’s functions aren’t on pause for so long.

7. Before a serious splurge, take activated charcoal. Charcoal acts as a sponge and soaks up what it encounters, so it can slow and inhibit absorption of the sugar and other impurities in our food and drinks.

My goal isn’t to never get sick, but rather to have a balanced immune system and to be as healthy as possible so that I don’t get sick often. And when I do fall ill, my body is prepared and resilient.

—Lis Whitton-Frey, ND

8. Stay hydrated and keep moving!

This will make sure your lymphatic system is moving properly, which increases your chances of throwing off any virus or bacteria with which you come into contact. Think about the difference between a flowing river and a stagnant pond — they may both come into contact with the same number of germs, but the one that is stagnant becomes a breeding ground and the one that is moving stays much cleaner.

Eat seasonally and stay warm. Although cold foods like watermelon and ice cream may be incredibly refreshing on a hot summer’s day, cold foods can seriously dampen digestive fire, increasing mucus production and weakening our systems. Hot teas, ginger, your grandma’s chicken soup, and a pair of warm socks will go a long way in making sure you’re still healthy this cold and flu season. Ayurvedic medicine even teaches that you should regularly soak your nose in hot water during cold weather! n

Lis is a 7th generation Cobb Countian who recently realized her longtime dream of starting a natural health center, Down To Earth Health, downtoearthhealth.co. In 2021, she married the love of her life. They each have a son and daughter: Izzy, Owen, Henry and Sylvie. Their blended family lives in a bustling home in Marietta, filled with four dogs, a cat, and lots of love. They enjoy hiking, gardening, yoga, art and live music, cooking healthy foods, and traveling whenever they can!

Get a Head Start

The Queen Bee

Author Joanne Telcide-Bryant visits 1st graders at a public school.

to educator, Joanne

By Michael

In “I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee,” award-winning children’s book author Joanne Telcide-Bryant follows the life of a young worker bee determined to change the hierarchy of the life in front of her and achieve her dreams. The heroine of the story, Nastassia, has her sights on setting and sticking to her plan. The satisfaction of believing in her abilities and self-determination will earn her the life she wants sits at the heart of every story Telcide-Bryant tells.

Written and published amid the pandemic, the book is far deeper and personal than any other Telcide-Bryant has written. By mirroring Nastassia’s search for personal freedom with the author’s own attempts to deal with the loss of freedom she experienced during the lockdown, “I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee” is a study in surviving and beating the odds.

As the founder of the family-owned Josh & Nelly’s Publishing, Telcide-Bryant has been on a mission to teach various growthmindset themes that encourage young readers to think critically using Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) skills. With more than 20 years as an educational specialist, speaker, presenter, and ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) educator, she works with students with speech impairments, and tutors

others as a reading comprehension specialist for the academically at-risk. “Reading children’s books to my students brings joy to my heart. Growing one’s imagination proves that early intervention is essential for achieving academic success. I love it when children develop reading skills and become confident readers.”

As a first-generation Haitian-American, and bilingual English and Haitian Creole speaker, Telcide-Bryant says it is important to promote cultural sensitivity and to provide optimal awareness of cultural diversity as a component of her writing.

In case you are wondering, along with Telcide-Bryant, Josh & Nelly’s Publishing features the inspiration and work of her family, including her children, Josh and Nelly (chief content advisors); and her nephews, Micah Guillet (content advisor), James Telcide (illustrator), Brittany Pradere (chief editor) and Lauwenda Telcide (editorial support).

Josh & Nelly’s books are strategically designed to set up young learners for success.

For example, each book includes a prologue, glossary, and set of comprehension questions — learning targets embedded in one location to provide young readers with the tools necessary to feel and be confident when reading the books.

“Our readers are building their knowledge, reasoning skills, and developing their dispositions regarding the story theme, story characters, and story outcomes. I remember times when I present my book, ‘No, I Am Not! Says Kenny the Koala.’ Children were asked to reflect on why Kenny is angry throughout the story. Our young learners explain various perspectives as to why he displays multiple moods and how they believe he can better express himself as the story unfolds.”

Telcide-Bryant says parents often attend the Storytime and Activity presentations she conducts with their children, which incorporate an array of learning targets such as story read-along, vocabulary building, comprehension/critical skills activity, arts/crafts, and show and tell children participation.

From children’s book author

Telcide-Bryant is helping give academically at-risk children the gift of self-expression.

Pallerino

“Reading children’s books to my students brings joy to my heart. Growing one’s imagination proves that early intervention is essential for achieving academic success. I love it when children develop reading skills and become confident readers.”

—Author and Educator Joanne Telcide-Bryant

on to vocabulary and literacy rules, and building academic confidence and independence relating to shaping perspective and interpretation is vital. It helps provoke an intrinsic motivation that assists with making sense of words and word structuring,” Telcide-Bryant says.

As a teacher who typically coaches young readers who struggle with literacy, exposing them to these types of fun stories help pique their interest. It provokes, what Telcide-Bryant says is, an intrinsic motivation that assists with making sense of words and word structuring. “Children reading early in life can better form social-emotional skills through their imagination that develops as they read. The best way to address literacy challenges is exposure to fun stories that are presented in diversified ways. It is for this reason that I present story read-along and crafts. Differentiation in literature is a way of meeting

Reading time with Josh & Nelly’s

Learn more about Josh & Nelly’s at joshnellyspublishing.com, and consider adding the following titles your child’s reading list:

• “Nelly’s BFF”

• “I Am Going to BIG School”

• “No, I Am Not! Says Kenny the Koala”

• “The Best Time of the Year”

• “I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee”

students where they’re performing while assisting them along the way to improve skills and increase their knowledge.”

With the pandemic mostly behind us, Telcide-Bryant says it is encouraging to see the world opening up again. She believes this will allow people to congregate and socialize without restrictions. “This is wonderful for all of us. As children struggled academically during the lockdown, my work as an author and storyteller was aided in bridging the literacy gap through thoughtful and interactive read-along presentations. I feel a great sense of eagerness to share my passion for creative storytelling in a variety of learning modes through entertaining ways.”

Like the heroines in her story, Telcide-Bryant will continue to direct the focus on giving every child, every family, an equal opportunity to not only learn, but feel comfortable and incentivized to do so. n

“The parents are able to witness the courage their children exhibit about sharing ideas, knowledge, and drawings that help explain their perspectives.”

Each of Telcide-Bryant’s stories feature a growth-mindset theme presentation that focuses on SEL strategies. The interactive segments afford students the opportunity to shape their ability to manage emotions and behaviors and set and achieve positive goals. The SEL competencies include self-awareness, self-management, responsible decisionmaking, social awareness, and relationship skills.

The presentations encourage children to participate in social activities centered around each story’s theme. “Exposing children early

Literary Recognitions

Ms. Telcide-Bryant is the proud recipient of the following literary awards:

• The 2023 Bookfest Award and The 2023 Literary Titan Gold Award for “I Am Going to BIG School,” Published 11/2021.

• The 2023 Bookfest Award and The 2023 Children’s Book International Finalist for “No, I Am Not! Says Kenny the Koala”, Published 2/2022.

• The 2023 Speak Up Talk Radio International Firebird Book Award for “The Best Time of the Year,” Published 10/2022.

• The 2023 Literary Titan Gold Award for “I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee,” Published 4/2023.

Telcide-Bryant with students for storytime of “I’m Just Dying to Be Queen Bee” at Art at the Avenue in July 2023.

Chattahoochee Tech’s Taylor Smith, Dexter Beck, and Annette Sinclair in the college’s new Health Sciences Building.

Chattahoochee Technical College Celebrates 60 Years

Chattahoochee Tech continues to offer a comprehensive array of programs and services for student career development.

By Jennifer Morrell

In 1963, Chattahoochee Technical College

(Chattahoochee Tech) opened its first campus on South Cobb Drive in Marietta.

Through the cooperation of many, the school is 60 years strong today and continues to flourish.

Chattahoochee Tech was known originally as Marietta-Cobb Area Vocational Technical School. Through the joint efforts of the Marietta City Board of Education and the State Board of Vocational Education, the school opened with 120 students and offered programs of study in electronics, electricity, machine drafting/design, practical nursing, radio/television repair, machine shop, cosmetology, and business education.

Each of the boards played a significant role in the development of the first school. The Marietta City Board of Education furnished the land, half the cost of the building, and necessary equipment. The State Board of Vocational Education paid teacher salaries and the other half of the building costs. The final tally for the facility was $636,000.

Developing a workforce

Since its humble beginnings, the school has grown and flourished. Chattahoochee Tech has focused consistently on offering programs of study designed to meet Georgia’s workforce needs. Classroom space was added at the Marietta Campus early on, to accommodate growing student enrollment. The college then established additional campus locations. The college’s South Cobb Campus opened in 1995, followed by the opening of the Chattahoochee

Tech Paulding Campus in 1996. In 2000, the Mountain View Campus in East Cobb was added. The name of the school changed from Chattahoochee Technical “Institute” to Chattahoochee Technical “College” after the Georgia State Legislature accredited all technical institutes to technical colleges.

“For sixty years, Chattahoochee Tech has been helping students gain the skills and experience they need to become ready for the next step in their professional careers,” says Dr. Ron Newcomb, president, Chattahoochee Technical College. “The college awards associate degrees, diplomas and certificates in programs of study linked to the state’s fastest growing, high-demand career fields. We are very proud of the fact that our graduates are

meeting the demand from local employers for highly skilled employees to fill well-paying jobs available in our community.”

Newcomb says the school’s mission is to strengthen both individuals and businesses through workforce training, welcoming all students and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to be successful. The programs offered at Chattahoochee Tech give students the skills and experience they need to prepare for the next step in their professional or academic careers.

“Students move easily between local high schools, Chattahoochee Tech, and four-year colleges, thanks to the many partnerships and relationships we have built throughout the region and state,” Newcomb says. “The college also offers customized workforce training, continuing education classes, and adult education programs that include free GED preparation.”

Milestone moments of growth

Newcomb says one of the most significant milestones in the 60-year history of Chattahoochee Tech happened in 2009, when the school merged with Appalachian Technical College in Pickens County and North Metro Technical College in Bartow County. Appalachian Technical College was established in 1967 as Pickens Area Vocational Technical School in Jasper, while North Metro Technical College was established in 1989 as North Metro Technical Institute. Representatives from the Board of Directors of the three colleges adopted Chattahoochee Technical College as the name for the single college.

“For sixty years, Chattahoochee Tech has been helping students gain the skills and experience they need to become ready for the next step in their professional careers.”

—Dr. Ron Newcomb, president, Chattahoochee Technical College

An inviting space in which to study. Students prepare for the next step in their careers.

As a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia, Chattahoochee Tech is now the largest technical college in the state. In addition to the Chattahoochee Tech campuses in Bartow, Cobb, Paulding and Pickens counties, there are two campuses in Cherokee County. One Cherokee County campus is in the heart of downtown Woodstock, and the other is in Canton.

The Canton Campus opened in January 2011 at the Bluffs at Technology Park. This 62,500-square-foot facility is located on 25 acres within The Bluffs, a 700-acre, mixedused development. The Woodstock campus sits on the site of the former Woodstock Elementary School. The property was leased from the Cherokee County Board of Education in 2004, then deeded in 2013 to the state for use by Chattahoochee Tech. Built in the 1930s, the Chattahoochee Tech Woodstock Campus underwent an extensive, $5.3-million renovation in 2013, reopening for the fall semester in 2015.

In 2020, Chattahoochee Tech celebrated the opening of its newly constructed, 71,716-square-foot Health Sciences building at the Marietta Campus. Then in 2022,

a 20,001-square-foot Center for Advanced Manufacturing was opened at the college’s North Metro Campus. Chattahoochee Tech also celebrated the opening of the Superior Plumbing Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center at the Marietta Campus that same year. This facility,

which is one of the state’s two VECTR Centers, serves as a gateway for veterans and their families who are transitioning into postsecondary educational institutions and into the civilian workforce.

An additional Chattahoochee Tech campus is currently under construction in Paulding

Superior Plumbing Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center

County for the college’s Aviation Training Academy. Specific programs of study planned for this 55,000-square-foot facility include aviation maintenance technician-powerplant and aircraft structural technology. Airframe and powerplant (A&P) mechanics are trained to repair, service, and maintain parts of an aircraft that include the engine, landing gear, brakes, and air-conditioning systems.

A difference maker

Currently, 302 Cobb residents are employed as faculty or staff by Chattahoochee Technical College. With an enrollment of more than 8,000 students in recent fall and spring semesters, Cobb County residents consistently accounted for the largest percentage of the school’s graduates. In the spring of 2023, 213 of the college’s graduates were residents of Cobb County.

The saying “Where there’s a will, there’s a way” rings true at Chattahoochee Technical College. Newcomb says the school is dedicated to helping students find a way to pay for college, offering a variety of financial aid

programs that include grants and scholarships that are non-repayable.

“We are very grateful to our community partners for their generosity in helping so many of our students fund the educational training they need in order to launch successful careers and build productive lives,” he says. “Chattahoochee Tech does not participate in any Federal Stafford/Direct Loan programs or the Federal PLUS program, but we are committed to educating students and families throughout their financial aid process.”

Newcomb adds that all prospective and current students are welcome to visit any of the Chattahoochee Tech financial aid offices located on all campuses. He and the entire staff at Chattahoochee Tech are proud to provide students with a high-quality college education at a fraction of the cost of other colleges and universities.

Creating the right fit

Newcomb says Chattahoochee Tech has a successful track record of partnering with

The History of Chattahoochee Tech

1961

Construction begins on the first building for The Chattahoochee Technical Institute in Marietta.

1963

The school’s first facility opens with 120 students.

1995

Chattahoochee Tech begins its expansion with the Austell Campus located in South Cobb on Veterans Memorial Parkway.

1996

The college adds its Paulding Campus located in Dallas on Nathan Dean Blvd. This campus features the college’s Associate of Science in Nursing program.

2000

The Chattahoochee Tech Mountain View Campus opens in East Cobb off Shallowford Road. Popular programs of study based at this campus include Film and Video Production Technology, along with Design and Media Production Technology.

2009

Appalachian Technical College and North Metro Technical College merge with Chattahoochee Tech, further expanding the college’s reach.

2011

The Chattahoochee Tech Canton Campus opened in January 2011 at the Bluffs at Technology Park. Featured programs

the local workforce to develop and build programs of study. The college works to assure programs reflect those most common skill gaps known to local high school systems, labor departments, workforce job boards, and the community.

“Every program at Chattahoochee Tech also has an advisory board made up of industry partners and employers of our students,” he adds. “This keeps our curriculum up-todate, strengthening what we teach in those fields. It also gives us great feedback about how we design, use, and equip our facilities.”

To help connect graduates with the right employer, the Chattahoochee Tech Office of Career Development offers a comprehensive array of programs and services that support and facilitate career development for all students. The school assists enrolled students and alumni in implementing career goals by creating opportunities to connect with potential employers. Chattahoochee Tech also cultivates and maintains partnerships with local employers. Local workforce development partnerships serve as an additional

include Occupational Therapy Assistant and Air Conditioning Technology.

2015

The Woodstock Campus opens on the former site of an elementary school, following an extensive renovation. In addition to general core classes such as English and Math, students can take classes in

the popular Interiors and Cybersecurity programs.

2020

Health Sciences Building at the Marietta Campus opens.

2022

Center for Advanced Manufacturing opens at the North Metro Campus.

VECTR Center at the Marietta Campus opens.

Marietta Campus 1960s

catalyst in connecting the college’s graduates with gainful employment in their career fields within the Cobb community.

“Our students are becoming well prepared for careers in the medical profession, with 100 percent of recent graduates in five of the college’s health science programs routinely achieving first-time pass rates on their national licensure and certification exams,” Newcomb says. “The Chattahoochee Tech programs of study in which all of our graduates earned this achievement include medical laboratory technology, paramedicine, physical therapist assistant, radiography, and surgical technology.”

The Associate Degree Nursing program at Chattahoochee Tech also has been ranked consistently as one of Georgia’s top programs for nursing by NursingProcess.org. Data factoring into this ranking includes pass rates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. After the successful completion of this exam, program graduates are granted state licensure to practice nursing as an RN.

Chattahoochee Tech has been designated

consistently as one of the nation’s top military friendly schools by Victory Media, a national leader in connecting the military community to educational and career opportunities. Areas of assessment for determining this ranking include military student support and retention; financial aid and assistance; culture and commitment; and graduation and career success. One in 12 students at Chattahoochee Tech is either a veteran or the family member of veterans.

60 years and beyond

A celebration of the college’s 60th anniversary culminated with a festive, public celebration at the Marietta Campus in mid-September. Throughout the year, Chattahoochee Tech is partnering with local Chambers of Commerce to commemorate the college’s 60th anniversary at Chamber events throughout the community in Cobb’s six-county service area.

“The future is bright for Chattahoochee Tech,” Newcomb says. “We have a strong history of preparing students with the workforce skills and experience they need to achieve successful careers, and we will continue to build on that success. Chattahoochee Tech also remains committed to meeting the needs of local business and industry in a changing environment and providing opportunities for lifelong learning for all members of the community.” n

Chattahoochee Tech Marietta Campus

In the Eye of an Angel

Three-13 Salon strives for millions in donations for the Georgia Transplant Foundation.

By Jennifer Morrell

For almost 50 years, Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique has been a landmark in Cobb County. The business started in 1974 on Canton Road in the Piedmont Walk Plaza with only nine employees. Nearly 50 years later, Three-13 is located in a 13,000-square-foot space on Canton Road, employing more than 80 people.

“In 2021, we started a full renovation of our beautiful facility with new floors, equipment and décor, and the newest technology available to salons and spas,” says Christina Herrera, director of operations and Angels of Life co-chair. “Experience is our middle name, and we are known for our community involvement. We truly believe that if you love and support your community, they will love and support you!”

As for the name, “Three-13” was created to represent the salon’s three owners, combined with No. 13, which the partners find to be a special number for many celebratory reasons.

Angels among us

Herrera and her team consider those who donate organs to others to be true Angels of Life, hence the organization’s name. But the mission runs especially deep for the salon and its employees. In December 2010, Lester E. Crowell, Jr., managing partner, was awakening from his second heart transplant feeling inspired and full of gratitude. Organ transplantation is near and dear to the hearts of all who work at Three-13.

Crowell’s fight against a congenital heart defect known as Idiopathic Hypertrophic

Subaortic Stenosis (IHSS) began at the age of 13. When he was 43, when his native heart could no longer fight, he received his first heart transplant. Crowell was feeling better than ever when, nine years later, he developed Coronary Artery Disease, a common threat to all transplanted organs. Essentially, he was suffering a chronic rejection in his transplanted heart. In 2010, after one year on a heart transplant list, Crowell received the lifechanging call that a heart was found for him.

Angels of Life was born as Crowell began sending messages from his hospital bed to Herrera about holding an event to help people struggling while waiting for and recovering from an organ transplant. He asked Dr. John Vega, director of Emory Healthcare’s Heart Transplant Program, “If I were to win the

lottery, who would I donate to?” Dr. Vega’s reply was the Georgia Transplant Foundation (GTF).”

From there, a partnership was formed. Crowell’s mission became bringing awareness of the transplant world to others and helping the transplant community. Three-13 held its first Angels of Life event in July 2011, with proceeds benefitting the GTF.

“Our first donation to GTF was on Aug. 16, 2011, for $31,313,” Herrera says. “During the last 12 years, we have learned a lot about transplants of all kinds, struggles and family challenges. This makes us more compelled to continue Angels of Life. This

is our thirteenth year, and we are so excited that we have a chance to reach $1 million in donations this year.”

Shaping a company

To be sure, Three-13 would look a lot different were it not for organ transplantation. Supporting the cause is meaningful to the entire staff. Crowell is considered not only “the boss,” but a person to whom they could turn for personal or professional advice and guidance.

Herrera says that, although not required, every employee participates in some way to the Angels of Life event. “Either they are baking items for the bake sales, collecting items for the silent auction, asking for donations in the form of Guardian Angels, selling tickets to the event, working on hair and makeup for the fashion show models, or setting up and breaking down the event space. Without the help of our staff, we would not have such a successful event and ability to donate to GTF.”

Fashion for a cause

This year marks Three-13 Salon’s 13th annual Angels of Life Hair and Fashion Show at Cobb Galleria. Herrera and her team hope to reach the $1 million mark in donations to the GTF. The GTF is an organization that assists individuals before and after an organ transplant with mortgage or rent payments, medicine costs, health insurance costs, lodging and scholarships. The

foundation helps more than 3,500 Georgians each year. In 2022, GTF helped 352 people in Cobb County by providing $285,064.58 in direct financial assistance.

The Angels of Life event draws more than 700 guests and has contributed $850,313 to date. Stages of the event include a bake sale, and silent and live auctions. This year will highlight a series of inspiring testimonies from THREE transplant recipients who have had THREE hearts, by way of heart transplants, including Crowell’s own testimony for the first time at the event.

During the event, Three-13 has four highenergy fashion walks by the models that the Three-13 artistic team has prepared, showing the latest trends in hair, makeup and clothes. Four boutiques donate their clothes for the evening, and this year, those boutiques are Tootsie’s of Buckhead, Fox’s of Sandy Springs, The Ivy Lane in Marietta, and Fashion Cupcake in Woodstock.

Each year, the salon presents the Halo Award to recognize and honor an individual or group that has demonstrated compassion, leadership, and true caring by spreading angel wings for the good of Angels of Life and GTF. This year, Dr. Andrew Krantz from Krantz Chiropractic will be the honoree for the award.

Future without limits

In March 2024, Three-13 Salon will celebrate 50 years in business. The company will hold a celebration to commemorate the occasion, with events and specials to thank guests and employees for making it possible.

“We will continue to provide the highest level of guest service, while continuing to educate our staff with only the most elite educators from all over the world to ensure that the most current skills and techniques are being delivered to our valued guests,” Herrera says. “As the salon continues to grow both in terms of success and staff members, the staff members have continued enthusiasm.” n

Above: The 2022 Angles of Life event.

Left: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique.

Below: Salon partners Lester E. Crowell Jr. (left), Marian Crowell, and Tony Lacey.

Photo by Steve Lyons

Choosing A Senior Care Facility

Gaines Park Senior Living in Kennesaw eases the burden.

By Cory Sekine-Pettite

While it’s never an easy decision to determine if a senior living community is the correct move for yourself or your loved ones, the right community can help in making that choice. Since 1997, Gaines Park Senior Living in Kennesaw has eased this burden by showing families a compassion for care and offering an excellent list of amenities, which include life enrichment activities, well-balanced dietary services, private residences, and a personal level of commitment to the health and well-being of every resident.

Cobb In Focus recently spoke with Executive Director Bonnie Galluccio to learn more about what makes Gaines Park Senior Living so special. First, Galluccio knows that placing your family member in the care of others can evoke a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainties. Above all else, you want to ensure their happiness, comfort, and safety — and you deserve to experience peace of mind knowing that your loved one is thriving and receiving the utmost care. This is where Gaines Park shines, she says. “Coming from someone who has been involved in this industry for literally decades, I can wholeheartedly state without reservation that Gaines Park is absolutely different,” Galluccio says. “While we are definitely not the newest community, from the moment you walk through our doors, it’s inviting and homelike. The staff members welcome you, and it’s truly a genuine welcome. It’s worth mentioning the longevity of our staff members, some of whom have been Gaines Park employees for over two decades. That in and of itself speaks volumes given today’s unstable workforce post-COVID.”

So, when is the right time to move to a senior living or assisted living facility? Sadly, Galluccio says, so many seniors put assisted living and skilled

nursing facilities in the same box, often referring to these communities as “a home.” As a result, many times there’s an intense aversion as they view a senior living community as a 1970’s, dreary nursing home. “Obviously, that is the furthest thing from the truth with all the beautiful options out there today,” she says. “To that end, many wait a long time, sometimes too long, to make the move to assisted living. One should explore assisted living if they’re residing in an unsafe environment at home, secondary to physical or cognitive decline; or to avoid isolation, especially after the passing of a spouse, which can lead to depression, malnutrition, dehydration, and falls.”

The living options at Gaines Park consist of personal care and memory care. The facility is licensed for a capacity of 68 residents.

Gaines Park aids with activities of daily living inclusive of bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, medication, housekeeping, and laundry. “It’s important to mention that some of our residents require minimal to no assistance,” Galluccio says. “I make mention of this because it’s important to understand that people do live in senior living communities and are fully functional. They elect to move in for socialization and the simple fact of no longer wanting to live alone but rather in a community setting with friends and people within reach 24/7, if need be.”

The apartments at Gaines Park do not have kitchens, she adds, because the facility does the cooking for residents. They provide three meals per day (Galluccio says the meals are “pretty darn delicious!”). Additionally, the community’s new activities director is “hitting it out of the park,” according to Galluccio, in keeping residents engaged in a vast variety of activities. “Hearing our residents laughing throughout the day is pretty awesome and contagious,” she says.

More than just fun hobbies, these social activities for seniors play a crucial role in supporting their overall health and wellbeing. The physical perks, cognitive health advantages, and emotional benefits cannot be underestimated. On any given day at

Photo courtesy Gaines Park Senior Living

Photo courtesy Gaines Park Senior Living

Gaines Park, one may find residents participating in walking tours, dance classes, fitness classes, arts and crafts workshops, gardening clubs, and much more. “In the supportive environment of Gaines Park Senior Living, seniors can consistently engage in social activities, paving the way for a lifestyle characterized by health, happiness, and fulfillment,” the facility’s website reads.

Further, families can rest assured that each resident is safe and secure in their apartment. Gaines Park has state-of-the-art security, is very well lit throughout (which reduces the risk of accidents) and has a well-trained safety team committed to creating a secure senior living environment. In fact, that team regularly partakes in safety drills and emergency response scenarios to ensure preparedness for any situation. In turn, residents and their families are provided with peace of mind regarding their wellbeing.

Speaking of preparedness, Galluccio encourages families who are considering assisted living to simply visit communities or facilities unannounced. “I always tell people that it’s best not to schedule an appointment for a tour so when you walk in, you see the real deal,” she says. “Just show up! Is the community clean and inviting? Do the residents look happy and well-kept? Look past the oversized chandelier and granite countertops. While that may be important to some, and that’s OK, it’s the care the resident receives and the stability of the team that takes priority.”

Clearly, communication and transparency are at the heart of creating a truly caring and secure senior living environment at Gaines Park. That’s why the facility has many communication channels to keep residents and their families informed. Regular updates and communication foster a sense of trust and peace of mind among residents and their

Gaines Park is Expanding

families. They also allow for immediate feedback and quick resolution of any concerns, which is key to fostering a peaceful, safe, and secure assisted living environment, administrators say. Residents also are encouraged to voice their experiences, concerns, and suggestions. Their feedback is invaluable in evaluating the community’s safety measures and making improvements to provide residents with peace of mind.

Finally, if you’re currently considering a senior living community, then cost may be among your chief concerns. According to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey, assisted living in our area averages about $4,000 per month, whereas in-home care costs slightly more and nursing home care can average almost double that amount. However, a personal home care facility such as Gaines Park, which assists with activities of daily living like bathing, getting dressed, transfer assistance, and personal hygiene (but does not provide skilled medical care as you would receive in a nursing home) is a more affordable option for many. With prices starting at $3,700 per month, imagine benefiting from these services:

• Personalized health care plans

• Assistance bathing, eating, grooming, and more

• Medication management and administration

• Personal emergency response

Gaines

Park Senior Living

1740 Old 41 Highway NW

Kennesaw, GA 30152

770.288.5847

gainespark.com

Executive Director Bonnie Galluccio says Gaines Park is nearing completion on its Memory Care neighborhood. “In our zeal to make the neighborhood welcoming and not overwhelming, we opted to limit it to only sixteen residents,” she says. “We selected a part of the building that’s airy and bright with only one hallway to navigate. It’s important to mention that, when it’s an active and engaging memory care community, it should never be viewed as the end of the book but rather another chapter; one that should be filled with purpose, fulfillment, laughter and a whole lot of love.” To learn more, visit gainespark.com

• Round-the-clock support

• Housekeeping and maintenance service

• Scheduled transportation for appointments and entertainment

• Wellness and fitness programs

• Three chef-inspired meals every day.

When you weigh that against trying to provide all these benefits yourself for your family member in need of elder care — in addition to all the health advantages of socialization for seniors — then the cost becomes less of a worry. To determine if Gaines Park Senior Living is right for your family, give them a call 770.288.5847, visit gainespark.com, or even better, just stop by! n

Photo courtesy Gaines Park Senior Living

3rd Annual MBA Golf Tournament Tees Off On Oct. 20

The Marietta Business Association (MBA) is excited to host the 3rd Annual MBA Golf Tournament on October 20, 2023, sponsored by Associated Credit Union. This is an excellent opportunity to promote business and community engagement in Marietta and the surrounding area. There will be great food and beverage from local vendors and many businesses engaging with golfers throughout the tournament. This tournament is meant to be a fun and relaxing event with exciting twists and turns throughout the day.

The MBA gives back to the community through collaborative efforts on projects in education in the City of Marietta, Cobb County and the State of Georgia. Their purpose is to promote the civic, social, commercial, economic welfare, and business goals of members. Join them in their goal to build relationships, grow businesses, and to add value to the economic welfare of local businesses and community.

This tournament benefits the MBA and its various programs. Throughout the course of 2023 the Association has been involved with numerous organizations in the Marietta area to show support and build community relations. The organization has proudly donated to and volunteered with the following organizations:

• Marietta City Schools

• Glover Park Concert Series

• SPLASH at White Water

• Marietta Police/Fire/EMS

Without the support of the members of the MBA, involvement in these programs would have been difficult so MBA offers a big thank you to everyone who donated and volunteered. The funds raised from this golf tournament will continue to fund the MBA and these programs as it continues its Year of Perseverance.

The tournament will be held at the Marietta City Club with registration starting at 7:30 a.m. on October 20. The MBA is looking for both golfers to play and sponsors who would like to promote their business. Whether you are the “ringer” for your team or the business leader to cheer them on, the MBA looks forward to seeing you there. Book your spot now.

Sponsorship opportunities available

**All sponsorships include promotional materials in player goodie bags.

Presenting Sponsor ($2,500) — Includes Presenting Sponsor rights, one foursome in the tournament, VIP on-course promotion at the hole of your choice, logo on all signage.

Gold Sponsor ($1,000) — Includes one foursome in the tournament, VIP on-course promotion at the hole of your choice, Sponsor of Awards/Silent Auction or Meal.

Putting Contest Sponsor ($1,000) — Includes VIP promotion on putting green, corporate signage and foursome in the tournament.

Cart Sponsor (2) ($500) — Sign on beverage cart during tournament and at drink station at awards.

T-Box Sponsor ($500) — Sponsor set-up on T-box with 10 x 10 tent, table and chairs.

Long Drive/ Closest to the Pin Sponsor ($500) — Includes VIP promotion on select holes and one player in the tournament.

Hole Sponsor ($100) — Includes corporate signage on one hole or tee box. n

3rd Annual MBA Golf Tournament

Friday, October 20th City Club Marietta 510 Powder Springs St. Marietta, Ga. 30064 mariettabusiness.org/ golf-tournament

Preparing For Weather Extremes

By Cory Sekine-Pettite

At the start of this year, I used this space to write about the recordcold temperatures we were experiencing last winter and how — even though I grew up in a colder climate — I was more-than-acclimated to the typically warm South where I was born. Well, now I’m here to wish a not-so-fond farewell to the record heat we just experienced this past summer. (OK, summer doesn’t technically end until September 23.)

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Climate scientists say the Northern Hemisphere just endured the hottest summer ever recorded. And while Georgia didn’t quite reach the temperatures recorded in Death Valley National Park (129 degrees) or Phoenix, Arizona, which recorded about 20 straight days of 110+ degrees, it still was “dang hot,” as we like to say. We had multiple (and consecutive) days of highs in the high-90s, with the heat index putting us above 100 degrees. In fact, as I write this, we currently are under another heat advisory for the state. The National Weather Service (NWS) is reporting that the majority of Georgia, from Atlanta and Athens down through middle and south Georgia, is under an “Excessive Heat Warning,” which means residents can generally expect at least two days of 105-degree minimum heat indexes.

So, what do we make of these recordbreaking seasons? First, these extreme temperatures (hot and cold) can be lethal. Second, they can result in more violent storms and wildfires. Third, we should accept that, “Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning,” as U.N. Secretarygeneral António Guterres stated this past July.

Finally, as governments, scientists, and industry figure out how to address the larger questions of climate change, the rest of us should start preparing for crazier weather. We must prepare for extreme heat and cold, poorer air quality, flooding from hurricanes, and damage from tornadoes. A good place to start is the Operation Weather Survival site from the NWS: weather.gov/lsx/ows. After all, climate scientists and meteorologists predict that an “historically strong” El Niño means much of the United States could experience an awfully cold and snowy winter in 2024. n

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This year, Cobb EMC members’ bills are $40 lower per month than the state average, and we’re ranked #1 in Georgia for low rates among all electric utilities*.

Cobb EMC is also ranked #1 in the nation for restoring outages quickly and for providing reliable power.** Reliable power from us means more time for you to focus on the moments that matter most. To learn more, visit cobbemc.com/value.

*According to the Georgia Public Service Commission summer rate survey based on 1,000 kWh consumption.

**According to the IEEE’s 2023 benchmark year study results.