Consumer Guide 2023

We are committed to serving all of your heating, cooling, and indoor air quality needs. The Air Conditioning Specialist is a trusted name for top-quality service in residences and commercial spaces across the northern Georgia region. Our technicians deliver solutions best-tailored to your specific needs. Our locally owned and operated business has proudly helped families for more than 50 years with our trusted heating and cooling services. 100% customer satisfaction is our #1 guaranteed, and your comfort is our priority!

We are thrilled to welcome you to the Newton County area. Our team at Newton Federal is honored to be a part of this community and we’re happy to welcome you as well.

We’ve put together a digital Welcome Guide of our favorite local places to eat, shop, and play. It is one of the many ways we work to reinvest in this community.

Newton Federal is proud to of fer residents top-tier banking solutions to suit whatever their financial needs may be.

Personal Banking Options:

•  Checking and Savings

•  Money Markets

•  Certificates of Deposit

•  Retirement Accounts

•  IRAs

Loan Options:

•  Auto Loans

•  Mortgage Loans

Check out our digital Welcome Guide for our favorite places to eat, shop, and play.

•  Mobile Banking

•  ACH Origination

•  Bill Payment

•  and more!

•  HELOCs

•  Consumer Loans

Newton Federal has been voted Best Bank by Newton Citizen and Best Mortgage Lender by Covington News.

Helping you settle into your home

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With a welcoming smile and plenty of local expertise, our team at Newton Federal is ready to help you get settled in your new home whether you’re a new resident or a long-time local with a new address.

We’re a community-minded bank with deep roots in Newton County. We strive to provide a better banking experience by pairing innovative products with hometown hospitality. We live here, work here, raise our children here and want you to be just as much a part of this community as we are. We are honored to be your local banking solution. We were even voted as Best Bank by the Newton Citizen and Best Mortgage Lender by The Covington News. Our team is honored to have received these awards, and we continue to work hard to be worthy of these recognitions.

We offer wonderful banking services for those in our community. With account options ranging from Checking and Savings, to Money Markets, Certificates of Deposits,

Retirements and IRAs, our personal banking options are top-tier. We offer auto loans, mortgage loans, HELOCs and consumer loans for those looking for even more financial power.

With our community’s growth in recent years, we are ecstatic to see many more individuals and families choosing Newton County as their home. We’re proud of our hometown and all that it has to offer. Did you know that Newton County is home to 13 historical places, three rivers, two lakes, picturesque farmlands, shoals, campgrounds, historic ruins and more?

Ask anyone. Residents of Newton County love it here, and we’re pleased to be able to share our love of this area with you. We’ve even put together our own “Welcome to the Neighborhood” guide for residents who are looking for local places to shop, eat and things to do. Scan the QR code on our advertisement to see our favorite local spots.

One of our favorite things to do as a community bank is to reinvest wealth back into the community

we serve. One of the ways we’re doing this is through our 2022 Newton Federal Cookbook. This is a collection of favorite recipes from our employees and local restaurants. You can purchase one for yourself from any team member or in one of our branches. All proceeds are being donated to the Covington Food Pantry.

As we gear up for our 2023 Newton Federal Cookbook, we are accepting community recipe submissions. Want more information, to buy a copy, or submit your own recipe for the 2023 Cookbook? Visit us online at NewtonFederal. com/Cookbook.

Be on the lookout as we roll out a couple of new campaigns including a Rewards Visa debit card offering cardholders discounts around town, and Bumper Buck$ allowing customers to win cash prizes by displaying a car bumper magnet. Subscribe to our email list to receive news and updates from our team. Just go to our website, scroll all the way to the bottom, fill in your email address in the field, and click “Subscribe Now.”

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6 signs you may need a new HVAC system

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There’s no place like home, especially when that home is a comfortable safe haven. One of the ways residents find comfort in their homes is by maintaining the right indoor temperatures, which fluctuate along with the seasons. While there is much to be said about opening windows and doors to let Mother Nature do her thing, indoor comfort is often maintained with an HVAC system.

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. It can include heat pumps, furnaces and air conditioning units. It is an automated system that works by adjusting a thermostat to regulate air temperature, and sometimes humidity, in the home. According to Enviguard, a commercial contracting provider, HVAC systems also may be used to improve indoor air quality through filtration and oxygen replacement.

As with any mechanical device, an HVAC system has a life span that must be considered. Should any of the following six conditions be present, it is likely time to

consult with an HVAC technician to see if repairs or replacement of the entire system is warranted.

1. Age

If the HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it could be time to begin budgeting for a new unit. Many modern, efficient systems may last 12 to 14 years with routine maintenance. But it’s good to keep an HVAC system’s age in mind so you can readily recognize when it might start to fail.

2. Longer or constant running times

An efficient, properly working system will quickly heat or cool the home and then turn off. A system that is turning on repeatedly or having to run for a while before the set temperature is reached could be nearing the end of its utility.

3. Strange noises

Groaning, banging or loud humming noises should be addressed. While these noises may indicate that certain components need maintenance or replacement, they also could be symptoms of age

and a system nearing failure.

4.

Frequent repair visits

Knowing the HVAC company’s repair person by name is a sign that the system has required too much work in recent months. Repeated issues and repairs are probably signs that it’s to consider a system replacement.

5. Higher bills

If you encounter “sticker shock” when receiving high electricity or gas bills, that likely means the HVAC system isn’t working efficiently and might need to be replaced.

6. Poor indoor air quality

If the home is dusty or humid or even if allergies seem to have cropped up out of nowhere, this could indicate a poorly functioning HVAC system.

HVAC systems are vital to keeping indoor environments comfortable and safe. Such systems may exhibit certain signs that indicate they need to be replaced.

Call ACS for your HVAC service.

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Cremation vs. Burial – What to Know

The funeral industry has seen quite the renaissance over the past 10 years as it relates to cremation. From a national cremation average of under 40% in 2012 to a projected 78% by 2025, people choosing cremation over burial has almost doubled. From price and cultural distinctions to convenience, there is a myriad of reasons people choose cremation. But we hear from our families all the time that they do not really understand what sets cremation apart.

Many people still are under the preconceived notion that a cremation is just that – and that alone. Yet, cremation is only the final act of disposition of a deceased body. Before that, you still have many, many options for service and memorializing your loved one.

Memorial Service

The most common of cremation options is the memorial service. When a family chooses this option, they are opting for a funeral service as you normally would with a traditional burial, just without the body present. Generally, the person would be cremated prior to the service so that their cremated remains may be present at the service inside of an urn. Having the remains present is not required, however, and you may have a service without the urn present. Memorial Services may also be called a Celebration of Life, but this terminology has become commonplace for any service type. There is usually no viewing involved with a memorial service option. This is something to think about when making the decision.

Traditional Cremation

We are seeing a rise in what we call a “Traditional Cremation.” Everything about this type of cremation service is the same as a traditional burial service, just without the burial. When a traditional cremation is chosen, the

body is embalmed and prepared for a viewing, which is done either the night before, or the day of the service. Then a funeral is held with the casketed body present. After this service, instead of taking the casket to the cemetery for burial, the body is taken to the crematory for cremation. Sometimes this is done immediately after the service, or sometimes it may be the next day. Your funeral director will always work with the family directly to schedule what time works best. Some families choose to be present for the cremation itself, but this is not common. Often, the first question we hear is “what happens to the casket during cremation?” This is a great question with a couple of answers: the most common type of casket for a traditional cremation is a rental casket. Rental caskets are made so that the interior of the casket is a removeable alternative container. After the service this container, with the body, is removed from the rental casket for cremation. The rental casket is then refitted with a new interior and new inside-container for the next use. However – most wooden caskets may be cremated and casket manufacturers make caskets specifically for cremation. These containers are made of lighter, thinner materials and are easily combustible. Rest assured however – the casket materials are not mixed in with the cremated remains after the cremation is complete. All wood and fiber materials are totally cremated and nothing remains. Any metal parts of the casket are removed after the cremation.

Cremation with Viewing

Some families forgo having a service for their loved one, but still would like some time with them. We call this option a “Cremation with Viewing.” Much like a Traditional Cremation, the body is prepared, embalmed and casketed, and a time is scheduled for friends and family to visit. However, this is the extent of the option, as there is no service to follow. After this viewing

the body is cremated and the cremated remains returned to the family.

Direct Cremation

Finally, we have “direct” or “immediate” cremation. This option is for those that want the simplest, most straightforward option without farewell or service. After proper paperwork is filed, the body is cremated and the cremated remains returned to the family.

Who makes the decisions?

In the State of Georgia there is a hierarchy to who has what we call the “right of disposition” to allow for someone to be cremated. With adults, first would be a spouse. If there is no spouse, the rights would go to the deceased’s grown children. If there are no children, the rights would transfer to siblings. If there are no siblings, then the deceased grandparents would be allowed to sign. After these categories, the rights would go to the closest degree of kinship -or – to a person willing to assume the responsibilities. In all of the above instances we must have a majority signature. If there are two living parents, both must sign. If there are three children, two or more must sign, etc.

Sometimes a person may have a Durable Power of Attorney with a Health Care Directive that can supersede these relations. However, it must be explicitly stated that this person a) is to be cremated and that b) the undersigned POA has the right to make that decision. Please note that any wishes made in a will do not extend to who has power to make decisions for cremation.

We hope this information is of help to any wondering about cremation options. Our goal is always to help educate and inform our communities of how we can help in the direst of times. As always, please call us anytime if you ever have any questions. Wheeler Funeral Home, 11405 Brown Bridge Road, Covington, GA 30016. (770) 786-7111, wheelerfuneralhome.com

French Grape Seed OPCs for Diabetes, Heart, Cancer and More

blood thinning) and other cardiovascular disorders.

Protects Your Cardiovascular System

Most people probably know grape seed extract because of its benefits for the heart. There’s good reason for this. Grape seed extract reduces high blood pressure, protects the blood vessel walls from damaging free radical activity and prevents the dangerous oxidation of LDL cholesterol — one of the first steps on the road to a heart attack or stroke.

In an Italian clinical study, individuals with pre- or mild hypertension were divided into three groups: two with grape seed extract, at lower and higher dosages {150 mg and 300 mg per day, respectively), and one with a diet and exercise intervention only, serving as a control group. At the end of the four-month trial, both grape seed extract groups saw an improvement in blood pressure, although those at the higher daily dosage of 300 mg noticed more dramatic effects. In fact, blood pressure numbers normalized in 93 percent of those in the higher dosage group.

Research published in the Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences examined the vasodilating-blood vessel relaxing properties of grape seed fractions. By allowing blood vessels to open rather than restrict, blood travels with less force, reducing pressure.

This study showed that grape seed procyanthocyanidins promoted nitric oxide (NO) release and an increase in cyclic GMP levels. Nitric oxide is a molecule that is only active for a few seconds at a time in the bloodstream. Even though it is considered a free radical, it actually has beneficial effects for blood pressure, helping signal the opening of blood vessels and arteries. Cyclic GMP (cGMP) also relaxes smooth muscles, including blood vessels.

Another clinical study, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food compared the results of individuals with mildly high cholesterol taking a grape seed extract versus a placebo for eight weeks. Lipid profiles and oxidized LDL (bad) cholesterol were improved in those taking grape seed extract. The researchers concluded that grape seed extract decreased the risk of blood clotting (without adverse effects on

Other scientific studies have found similar results: grape seed extract helps prevent blood clots from forming, lowers blood pressure and shields blood vessels and arteries from free radical damage. There may be no more powerful natural medicine to protect against heart disease than French OPC grape seed extract.

Stops Diabetes and Obesity

While I believe that the single most important thing you can do to manage your weight and prevent diabetes is follow a healthy eating plan, there is no denying that grape seed extract can be a key part in getting healthy and recovering from sugar addiction. For example, a clinical study in Thailand found that grape seed extract reduced blood sugar levels after a highc a r bohydrate meal. The OPCs grape seed can help stop the sugar spikes that affect insulin levels and possibly lead to diabetes.

Another study in 2009 found that a grape seed extract reduced both buildup of abdominal fat and blood sugar. This was due, in part, to an increase of adiponectin, a protein responsible for regulating blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol, and inhibiting NF-kB activation and other inflammatory markers. Compared to the control group, the adiponectin level of the grape seed group increased 61 percent. Other scientific studies have found similar results-grape seed extract activates cyclic AMP, protects against fat accumulation, and improves blood triglyceride and plasma lipid levels.

Slows Alzheimer’s Progression and Promotes Cognitive Health and Focus

Because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, grape seed OPCs are increasingly on the cutting edge of Alzheimer’s research. Studies have shown that they protect the delicate circuitry of the brain. For example, an Indian study found that grape seed proanthocyanidins reduce the effects of oxidative stress in the aging brain and consider it a neuroprotectant to prevent cognitive loss. The nutrient’s ability was due, in part, to its blood glucose lowering as much as its free

radical fighting power. Considering the growing body of research that points to a connection between blood sugar levels and risk of Alzheimer ‘s, this is an important discovery. Other work has examined more direct effects of grape seed extract on Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

The cause of AD is not entirely known. However, certain characteristic changes in the brain are associated with this condition — accumulated clusters of a protein called beta-amyloid, (sometimes called “amyloid beta”) — and clumps of dead and dying nerve and brain cells. These clusters and clumps, call ed plaques and tangles, are believed to interfere with the proper transmission of messages between brain cells and the death of the cells themselves. As with most diseases, inflammation is also believed to be involved, causing the accumulation of plaques and tangles to have even more damaging effects.

Studies conducted by the Mount Sinai School of Medicine showed that grape seed extract inhibited the formation of plaques and tangles, and aside from preventing the buildup or clustering of beta-arnyloid, grape seed extract supported greater brain plasticity-the ability of the brain to adapt and create new neural pathways.

While further studies are needed, I think it’s very likely that we’ll see more applications of grape seed extract to bolster cognition and delay Alzheimer’s symptoms in the future.

Other OPC research has investigated the application of this natural ingredient to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD HD) in children. A placebo-controlled, double-blind study published in the journal European Child & Adolescent Psychology found that after just one month, OPCs boosted attention span, caused a significant reduction of hyperactivity, and improved motor coordination. The researchers noted that the symptoms returned one month after stopping the treatment, so OPCs would need to be part of an ongoing regimen.

Content from Terry Talks Nutrition via Natural Path/Family Health Nutrition Center

What factors should you consider when choosing an insurance agent?

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Some shopping is simple. Shopping for groceries or gifts is fairly simple. Shopping for other things, such as insurance, can be much more challenging. There is a lot that goes into selecting insurance, and a lot potentially riding on a bad insurance decision.

So how do you know where to begin? How do you know what coverage options are best for you? And most importantly, who can you trust to ensure you, your family, your business, etc. are properly protected?

A few important factors to consider: Convenience (hours/ location/speed/communication), responsiveness, experience, rep-

utation/local presence, coverage, price and offerings.

Why choose Piedmont Insurance Associates, Inc? We represent some of the top companies offering business, auto and homeowners insurance from manufactured homes to high value homes. Our staff has the experience to help you find the best policy for your needs today. We can insure the home by itself or save you premium dollars when you combine it with your auto insurance.

Piedmont Insurance Associates, Inc. is a multi-line independent insurance agency representing over 30 regional and national insurance carriers. For over 20 years, we’ve specialized in providing commercial and personal lines of insurance

while offering the best in customer service and satisfaction.

Because we’re an independent agency, we’re not limited by the products of any one company, and we believe that you shouldn’t be, either. We provide you the personal service that simply isn’t available when dealing directly with a large insurance corporation. We treat each account individually, shopping from among a variety of companies to make certain that each customer’s unique needs are adequately met.

Offering Personalized Service

Since 1948, Piedmont Insurance Associates, Inc. — a division of King Insurance — is here to serve you. Give us a call today and protect your most valuable assets.

The Importance of Regular Veterinary Visits

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As a pet owner, you desire a long and healthy life for your pet. The preventive health exam is one of the best things you can do for your pet. Many pet owners only take their pet to the vet when he or she is feeling sick or when something has happened. Regular visits to a veterinarian can help to prevent health problems before they start. Regular check-ups and vaccinations can help to keep your pet healthy and avoid diseases that could be life threatening and expensive to treat. Early detection is key. Yearly check-ups allow you to track your pet’s vital signs, so any problems

can be treated before they get out of control. Common chronic issues like diabetes and arthritis can be managed better when diagnosed early. Regular vet visits mean earlier detection, which will lengthen your pet’s healthy years.

Pets age more quickly than people do. They have a faster metabolic rate, faster heart rates and shorter life spans. Your pet can’t verbalize in words if something is wrong.

With the help of the caring veterinarians and vet techs at Animal Medical of Covington, we will work to help your animals stay happy and healthy. Let our staff offer loving and personalized attention for

routine wellness exams, vaccines, diagnostics, and more for your pet.

We know your animals are important, which is why we will do everything possible to recommend the best plan of treatment in the event your pets are sick or injured. With our state-of-the-art in-house lab, we can offer digital X-rays, ultrasounds, dentistry and more to ensure your pet is in optimal health.

Call Animal Medical of Covington today at (770) 786-0522 to schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to give your pet the best life possible.

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Prevent strains and sprains during sports play

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Scholastic sports are popular activities. While playing sports has many benefits that impact both the body and the mind, such participation is not without risk. Players must weigh the benefits against the potential for injury carefully while educating themselves about the ways to prevent injuries.

Massachusetts General Hospital Orthopedics says that the majority of sports injuries are a result of minor trauma to muscles, ligaments and tendons. These are commonly called sprains and strains. A strain is an injury to either a muscle or a tendon caused by overuse, force or stretching. A sprain is an injury to a ligament that is caused by a stretching or tearing.

According to eMedicineHealth. com, signs and symptoms of sprains and strains include pain, swelling, bruising and decreased

range of motion. Most sprains and strains can heal completely with adequate treatment, but there’s also a high risk of re-injury.

The American Academy of Pediatrics urges students (and their parents) to make sports safety a priority to reduce the incidences of sprains and strains.

Here are five recommended ways to do that:

• Wear the right gear, which includes supportive shoes, gloves, helmets, pads and other pieces applicable to the sport.

• Stretch and condition muscles, tendons and ligaments prior to play by warming up. Routine stretching also can help the body stay limber.

• Use proper form and technique. For those who are unsure, seek instruction on proper technique from coaches.

• Take breaks and time off from

sports play. Training every day may seem like the best way to improve your skills, but it could fatigue the body and increase the risk of injury from overuse. The AAP advises taking off at least one day per week and at least one month off per year to allow the body to recover.

• Do not play through pain. If you’re feeling pain, take time off and give your body ample time to heal as advised by a doctor. If you don’t sit out when feeling pain, you may do more damage, and the injuries will only take longer to heal as a result.

Sprains and strains are common sports-related injuries. By conditioning oneself, avoiding sudden increases in training intensity and wearing supportive gear, student-athletes can help avoid these painful conditions.

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Housekeeping for a healthier lifestyle

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Your home is more than just a building—it’s your sanctuary—a space where you can relax, unwind and spend time doing the things you love.

At Merry Maids®, our cleaning services go beyond what’s basic while providing you with a comprehensive clean that will reenergize your home and enhance your life. From everyday housekeeping to routine cleanings and seasonal services, our professional team members can provide you with an unrivaled experience.

Full House Cleaning Services That Improve Your Overall Health and Quality of Life

When you live in a messy environment, you’re subconsciously reminded of tasks that need to be

accomplished. Too much clutter can cause significant stress, and when stress levels rise, so does the potential of becoming sick.

On the other hand, a truly clean environment promotes a sense of relaxation and rest. A clean home signifies your day is complete once you walk through the doors. A properly cleaned space also lessens the spread of germs, helping to provide a safer environment for you and your family.

Housekeeping Services from a Trustworthy & Reliable Team

Keeping your home neat and tidy can be a challenge. You probably don’t have a lot of time to spare once you get home from the office, and you probably don’t want to spend your weekends scrubbing, polishing and dusting your way through your home. Fortunately, we have a solution. Our house-

keeping services are designed to get your space looking its best while leaving you with the time you deserve to do the things you love.

Treat Yourself to the Gift of Time

Maintaining a household can take hours each week. Why struggle to make time to clean when our team can tackle all of your household needs? From windows to flooring to furniture, we’ll get your space looking spotless while you relax, go out, or do whatever it is you enjoy.

Don’t spend every spare minute you have cleaning your home. All it takes is one call to Merry Maids, and you’ll be well on your way to a neat, tidy space without having to lift a finger. Call us today for more information about our housekeeping services or to schedule an estimate.

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French Grape Seed OPCs for Diabetes, Heart, Cancer and More Natural Path/Family Health Food Store

What factors should you consider when choosing an insurance agent?

One tree service is ‘Above All’ the rest

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If your property’s landscape is in peril, look to a Conyers-based tree service that has separated itself from the rest for help.

In business now for more than 24 years, Above All Tree Service Inc. offers a variety of services that can fit any customers’ needs, specializing in tree removal, tree trimming and stump grinding or removal.

Tree Removal

Ever wonder how much larger your yard could look and how much leaf cleanup you could avoid by removing that tree? Maybe you have multiple scrub bushes that have become an absolute eyesore.

Do you have a hazardous tree that could potentially cause serious damage to your property or to your neighbor’s if it ever were to fall? It is for dilemmas such as these that Above All Tree Service provides large-scale and smallscale tree and shrub removal. One of the company’s certified, highly experienced crews can solve these issues by removing your unwanted or dangerous trees and stumps quickly and effectively.

Above All Tree Service has various methods of removal depending on the size, location, and level

of difficulty. The company has a quality fleet of trucks, cranes and equipment. Its crews of certified climbers can make any job possible no matter how difficult it may be.

Property is treated as carefully and respectfully as possible. All removals are worry-free, clean, precise and absolutely, fully insured.

Tree Trimming

Tree pruning and tree trimming is needed to help your landscape flourish. Tree trimming addresses architectural tree care concerns such as safety, structural integrity, shape and appearance. Professional tree pruning services enhance the natural beauty of your trees and shrubs and help you preserve the strength, stature and seasonal character they add to your property.

Tree trimming is one of the most important maintenance practices in professional tree care, and can go a long way towards helping you achieve your dream landscape. There are essentially two tree care objectives in pruning trees and trimming shrubs. Hazard reduction tree pruning addresses a specific danger caused by visibly defined safety issues in your trees. Maintenance tree pruning preserves or improves tree health and structure.

Special care is taken to encourage structural integrity, appearance, tree safety and the overall health of your trees.

Stump Grinding/Removal

After you have had a tree removed, you find yourself left with an unsightly stump in your lawn or garden. Why live with this eyesore while you wait for nature to take its course when Above All Tree Service can handle it for you? Stump grinding is an affordable way to remove the stump, grinding the stump and root structure 6-10 inches below ground.

The process takes only about an hour, depending on how many stumps need grinding; leaving you only with a small fresh pile of mulch, that can be used in your home garden or flower beds.

Above All Tree Service also offers:

• Storm Damage/Emergency Service

• Dangerous Tree Removal

• Insurance Claims

• Crane Service

• Chipping/Logging

Contact the team at Above All Tree Service at 770-922-5356 for a free estimate, or visit abovealltrees.com to learn more.

Credit: Newton County Sheriff’s Office

All Above Tree Service