Consumer Guide 2024

2024

Consumer Guide

A Special Publication of

From big to small, there’s only one tree service that’s ‘above all’

There are plenty of tree services across the state of Georgia, but only one that is “above all” the rest.

Above All Tree Service Inc. is a tree service designed to assist those in need with any tree troubles that may persist. The Conyers-based tree service has served the metro-Atlanta area for over 30 years with a staff of trained and certified professionals designed to get the job done.

Their dedication to hard work, value and professional service has made them stand out above the rest in building a solid foundation with the community.

Some services that Above All Trees provides include tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding and root removal, pruning and emergency tree services.

Tree Removal

At its core, Above All Trees is known for their efficient handling of tree removals.

From small trees that are just years old, to massive trees that span centuries, Above All can handle just about any tree that may be causing an issue.

The trained arborists will assess each tree on a case-by-case basis to determine if it is damaged or diseased. From there the arborists will make the proper call on what the best course of action is for the tree.

No matter the situation, Above All Tree Services is committed to ensure whenever a job is put in front of them that they do it the right way.

Tree Trimming & Pruning

Don’t want the whole tree taken down? Above All Trees also handles trimming

maintenance, too.

Tree trimming is one of those maintenance services that are available. Overgrown branches may cause devastation to a dream landscape, and Above All Trees provided expert trimming services to prevent any unwanted limbs.

Pairing with its trimming services, tree pruning services are equally as important for a dream landscape.

Pruning services are best done proactively and not reactively. Regular pruning allows the tree to maintain its health and maintenance as well as prevents the risk of potential accidents.

Regular trimming and pruning are essential, and Above All Trees provides those services to the best it can possibly be.

Stump Grinding/Removal

Dealing with tree stumps can be a tedious task in the tree service industry, but it is not a job too difficult for Above All Trees.

Stumps can be split up into two categories – stump grinding and stump crushing. Stump grinding is considered to be a difficult activity that typically requires hardware to get the job done. Stump crushing is considered to be a more nov-

ice task, but if left in the wrong hands can become dangerous.

Not only can it be dangerous, but it can be an unappealing eyesore that may decrease your property value.

No matter what stump service, it is best to leave stump care in the hands of trained professionals who can tackle any task, big or small.

Emergency Tree Services

Above All Trees wants to go above and beyond for its customers. That’s why they provide 24-hour emergency support for situations that may warrant it.

It’s no secret that nature takes its course whenever it pleases. Storms, floods and natural disasters can strike at any moment and tree damage can threaten the safety of you or your loved ones.

Damage from trees has no timeline, but Above All Trees is committed to ensuring around-the-clock accessibility if or when an emergency happens.

Contact Information

For more information on what Above All Trees can provide for you, call 770922-5356 for a free estimate. You can also visit abovealltrees.com to learn more.

Cremation vs. Burial: What to Know

SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

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 cho-

sen, 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

NATURAL PATH FAMILY HEALTH FOOD STORE

Curcumin: A Powerhouse antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

Curcumin is a powerhouse antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It can help soldiers suffering from PTSD by impairing “fear memories” or studies show that curcumin helps relieve arthritis pain, too.

It is the most potent component of turmeric — a plant that has been used in India as both a spice and a medicine for centuries.

But, why is curcumin good for so many problems?

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s and arthritis have something in common: unchecked, destructive inflammation.

Curcumin is also a potent antioxidant, able to neutralize unstable, reactive free radicals.

Free radicals are molecules with a missing electron that stabilize themselves by “stealing” electrons from neighboring molecules, creating another free radical in the process.

This chain reaction of free radical formation is known as a free radical cascade and it can result in cellular damage (called oxidative stress) leading to inflammation and chronic disease, including cancer.

Curcumin, like other antioxidants, is able to stop free radical cascades without becoming unstable itself. Its ability to neutralize free radicals is extraordinarily strong. In fact, a specially prepared extract of curcumin has an antioxidant value of over 1,500,000 per 100g.

Curcumin helps fight the following diseases:

1. Cancer

a. Breast, Prostate, Colon and more.

2. Lung

a. Bronchitis, Cystic Fibrosis, Asthma and more.

3. Endocrine

a. Diabetes, Hypothyroidism

4. Heart

a. Atherosclerosis, Hyperlipidemia and more

5. Skin

a. Eczema, Scabies, Psoriasis and more.

6. Brain and Nervous System

a. Alzheimer’s Disease, Depression, Epilepsy and more.

7. Musculoskeletal

a. Arthritis, Fatigue and Osteoporosis

8. Gastrointestinal and Live

a. Hepatitis, Pancreatitis, Gastric Ulcer and more.

Curcumin Safety

No toxicity issues have been reported for curcumin, even when used in doses as high as 10 grams or more daily. Because it is safe and non-toxic, curcumin therapy is something to consider for almost any condition, especially conditions involving inflammation.

The information provided here is meant to be used in conjunction with the advice of a healthcare practitioner, who can help develop a treatment plan that is designed to address your unique health concerns for an optimal outcome.

Visit the Family Health Store at 3144 Hwy. 278 NW (Kroger Shopping Center) in Covington.

PIEDMONT INSURANCE ASSOCIATES, INC.

Choosing the right insurance agent?

SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

When you are choosing an insurance agent, price and coverage are essential considerations—but what about customer service, convenience, responsiveness, and experience?

Definitions, conditions, coverages, exclusions, endorsements, and deductibles can be overwhelming and confusing. 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 and/or your business are properly protected?

Choosing a LOCAL INDEPENDENT AGENT is the best way to clear the confusion and get you the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

What are the Benefits of using an Independent Insurance Agent?

· They are Locally Focused – Local agents are familiar with your area. They are well versed in the state and local requirements and know what coverage is best suited to protect you and your assets.

· They offer More Coverage Options - This might be news to you, but no single insurance company can lay claim to being “the cheapest.” Why?

Because your life, car, home, or business insurance premium is based on a number of different factors : your age, marital status, address, business type, and many others. So how do you know which insurance company will give you the best rates? You get quotes from

several different companies. But who has that kind of time? Local independent insurance agents do! You can turn dozens of calls into just one by giving your info and coverage needs to your agent. They will do the work for you and come back with the best quotes for you to choose from. You will be getting the exact coverage you need at the most competitive price.

· They are Your Advocate - Your independent insurance agent is called “independent” because they work with many different insurance companies, but they work for you. They also have access to insurance companies that you may never even heard of. Auto-Owners, for example, is only available through a local independent insurance agent.

· They Give Expert Advice - Independent insurance agents live, think, and breathe insurance, so they are able to explain any complicated policies or rate changes in a way you can understand. Plus, they are familiar with lots of different insurance companies, so they are used to how each one works. If you are having issues contacting the insurance company to file a claim, you can speak to your independent insurance agent for advice. (And you won’t have to sit on hold for 45 minutes, either.

They Know You - Local independent insurance agents are a trusted choice for many households because they can custom-fit your insurance coverage to your unique needs. Being able to whittle down your insurance needs to hit that perfect balance of “not too much, not too little,” means you will only be paying for the coverage you need. Having an insurance agent that knows you also means getting answers to basic

questions easier. Drop in, call, or shoot us an email. (Try that with the corporate office and see how far you get.)

Piedmont Insurance Associates, Inc. which merged with King Insurance Partners in 2021 is a multi-line independent insurance agency representing over 30 regional and national insurance carriers and have locations from Boston to Miami. Because we are an independent agency, we are not limited by the products of any one company, and believe that you should not be, either. We provide you the personal service that simply is not 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, now a division of King Insurance, is here to serve you. Give us a call today and protect your most valuable assets.

OAK HILL |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Consumer Guide 2022

ANIMAL

Keeping your pet’s health a top priority

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As loving pet parents, we want our animal companions by our side for as many years as possible. At Oak Hill Animal Hospital, we believe the best way to ensure this happens is by making a commitment to their ongoing wellness. By bringing your pet in for regular checkups, you’ll help protect him or her from many of the common ailments that can affect companion animals. You’ll also give us the opportunity to identify and address potential health problems early, before they have a chance to develop and worsen. These simple things can add years to your furry or scaly friend’s life.An Ounce of Prevention

Our wellness services are comprehensive and extremely thorough, because we want to do everything in our power to keep your loved one healthy. At each visit, the doctor will examine your pet from nose to tail, looking for anything out of the ordinary. We will also develop and implement a customized preventative care plan tailored to your best friend’s unique needs, lifestyle and risk factors. This will include vaccines, blood testing, parasite control, nutrition and weight management and anything else we deem relevant to your companion. We also recommend nutraceutical supplements that may be of holistic benefit.

Ongoing Health Management

Wellness visits also provide us with regular snapshots of your pet’s health status at each appointment. We can then compare this information against previous exams to identify any changes. This allows us to detect the signs of illness early and develop an effective treatment plan in a timely manner. With many ailments, an early diagnosis can vastly improve the outcome for your pet. For seniors over 8 years of age we strive for biannual visits every six months because the more we stay on top of these things, the better chance we’ll have of extending and improving the quality of your companion’s life.

Getting to Know You

Finally, annual and biannual visits give all of us at Oak Hill Animal Hospital the chance to truly get to know you and your pet. Developing

a relationship with you and forging a bond with your animal friend is an integral part of the care we provide. This allows us to partner with you in managing your loved one’s health, and also makes visiting the vet a more positive experience. The more we understand your companion’s needs, the more precisely and effectively we can develop a health care plan.

You want to see that beloved companion enjoy many wonderful years. We’d love to help you achieve that goal.

To schedule an appointment call 770-728-9976. Visit https://www. myoakhillvet.com to learn more about all services offered. Oak Hill Animal Hospital is located at 5274 GA Hwy. 20 S in Covington.

Content from Oak Hill Animal Hospital

10 | Consumer Guide The Covington News | February 2022

GEORGIA DERMATOLOGY OF CONYERS

Skin Cancer: What you need to know

What Is Skin Cancer? Skin cancer is the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost skin layer, caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations. These mutations lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. The main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

What Does Skin Cancer Look

Like? Skin cancers can look quite different from one person to another due to skin tone, size and type of skin cancer and location on the body. See our Skin Cancer Pictures page for a selection of photos to help you understand what skin cancers can look like. View pictures.

What Causes Cancers of the Skin?

The two main causes of skin cancer are the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and using UV tanning beds. The good news is that if skin cancer is caught early, your dermatologist can treat it with little or no scarring and high odds of eliminating it entirely. Often, the doctor may even detect the growth at a precancerous stage, before it has become a full-blown skin cancer or penetrated below the surface of the skin.

Early detection saves lives. Skin Cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and world-wide. Learning what to look for on your own skin gives you the power to detect cancer early when it is easiest to cure, before it can become dangerous, disfig-

uring or deadly.

Your skin is the largest and most sensitive organ in your body. Skin covers the body and protects us from germs and helps regulate your body temperature.

Follow these tips to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays and reduce your risk of skin cancer:

· Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.,

· Wear sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection, when possible.

· Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Use sunscreen whenever you are going to be outside, even on cloudy days.

· Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from tanning beds can cause

skin cancer and premature skin aging. Consider using a self-tanning product if you want to look tan, but continue to use sunscreen with it. · Perform regular skin self-exams to detect skin cancer early, when it is most treatable, and see a board-certified dermatologist if you notice new or suspicious spots on your skin, or anything changing, itching, or bleeding.

No one knows your skin better than a board-certified dermatologist. Dermatology experts can diagnose precancerous skin conditions, such as actinic keratoses, which, if caught early, can be removed, or treated to prevent them from becoming skin cancers. Dermatology providers can also diagnose and treat skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas and malignant melanoma. Once diagnosed, the skin cancers should be treated or removed based on the needs of the individual patient.

John Fountain, MD Darryl Hodson, MD Jeff Moulton, PA-C Katharine Simmon, PA-C Madison Tanner, PA-C

HAMMERTIME ROOFING & RESTORATION

Signs a roof must be repaired or replaced

SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

The exterior components of a home, such as the siding and the roof, help to protect its occupants from the elements. While many roofing materials can last for decades, at some point in time homeowners will likely have to repair or replace the roof on their home.

Roof wear and tear may not always be so evident, particularly because most homeowners do not make it a point to get on their roofs very often. The first sign of roof damage typically is a leak that is noticeable from the indoors. It may include a browned spot on the ceiling or even pooling water in the attic. Leak from storm damage or something minor like a water intrusion through a nail hole or from a lost shingle typically can be repaired easily enough. However, additional indicators may necessitate a complete roof overhaul. Here are some signs a roof is in need of repairs or replacement.

· Sagging roof: If the roof is sagging, it could be due to excess loads, such as water-damaged shingles or even weakened roof structure. A professional will need to restore the integrity of the roof.

· Cracking and buckling: It is likely that shingles will have to be replaced if there is cracking or if shingles are buckling and warping.

· Exposed nails: Exposed nails may rust and contribute to a leaky roof, says Family Handyman. How long the nails were exposed could indicate if the roof can be repaired or if everything should be redone.

· Lost granules: Asphalt roofing shingles have small granules on the surface. Over time these granules will slowly degrade and fall off. If there are many granules in gutters or if one can see that portions of the shingles are bare, it is likely time for a new roof.

· Visible light: Homeowners who can see light streams coming into the home need roof repair. This is indicative of holes, cracks or spaces in the roof.

·Growth on the roof: Mold and mildew on the roof is a sign that the roof needs to be repaired or replaced. Such growths contribute to rot that jeopardizes the integrity of the roof.

A durable roof protects a home from the elements. Various symptoms signal that it is time to repair or replace a roof. Noticing any of these symptoms? We’re here to help, providing complimentary inspections and estimates. Our aim is to ensure that any damage resulting from storms or age is properly addressed, and we even advocate for necessary repairs or replacements with insurance companies. Our team is fully licensed and insured, so you know that when you work with HammerTime Roofing, you’re working with a group you can trust with your home.

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NEWTON FEDERAL BANK

A beacon of Community-Centric banking

SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

Located in the heart of Covington, Georgia, Newton Federal stands as a beacon of community-centric banking, deeply rooted in the values and aspirations of Newton County. With a commitment to providing unparalleled service, innovative products, and a genuine hometown hospitality, Newton Federal is not just a financial institution; we are your trusted partner in your financial success.

At Newton Federal, the ethos is clear: “Bank where you belong.” This motto reflects our dedication to understanding the unique needs of our customers and this community we serve. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer to Newton County, here at Newton Federal, we pride ourselves on our ability to connect with each customer on a personal level. After all, our team members are not just bankers; they’re your neighbors, friends, and fellow

community members.

Understanding that banking is more than just transactions, Newton Federal emphasizes the importance of investing in our customers’ success stories. With a collaborative approach, we work with individuals and businesses to develop tailored financial solutions to help you achieve your goals and dreams. From a wide range of personal checking and savings accounts to business loans, Newton Federal is committed to being a catalyst for growth and prosperity in the Covington and Newton County community.

In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is paramount. While many banks push for online-only interactions, here at Newton Federal, we believe in offering the best of all worlds. Whether you prefer face-to-face interactions at one of our two local branches, a phone call with a friendly representative, or the convenience of online banking, Newton Federal ensures that banking

fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.

The dedication and excellence of Newton Federal and our hometown team have not gone unnoticed. This year, we were honored as the Best Bank and Best Mortgage Company by the Rockdale/Newton Citizen for 2023 as well as earning the prestigious titles of Best Bank and Best Mortgage Lender in The Covington News’ Best of Newton Reader’s Choice award for 2024.

As Newton County’s premier financial institution, Newton Federal remains steadfast in our commitment to serving the community with integrity, reliability, and a genuine passion for helping our customers thrive. Whether you’re planning for the future, purchasing a home, or starting or expanding your business, we are here to support you every step of the way. After all, at Newton Federal, your success is our success.