Home Living in North Georgia by The Times

HOME Living in North Georgia

April | 2017

Easing your allergies with salt

PLUS: Pain relief with Pelvic Floor Therapy

CoolSculpting for sleeker curves

Also, after school with the YMCA and cool cars at Riverside Military Academy

HOME Living

In North Georgia

April 2017 5

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April 2017 5

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April 2017 Health & Fitness

The benefits of salt may be greater than you think. Clarkesville Salt Spa offers dry salt therapy to help with respiratory and skin issues.

A little extra on the hips and thighs? Freeze down the fat with the latest plastic surgery technology: CoolSculpting.

More people are talking about an often taboo topic — pelvic floor dysfunction. Find out from Shawna Anderson how physical therapy can help.

12 18

Dogs aren’t as active in the backyard as owners think. In fact, some are downright lazy. That’s why it’s beneficial to both us and our furry friends to get out for a daily walk.

Food & Drink 18

What started as a love to grow and a love to cook became Sabor Provisions, an award-winning maker of beverages and condiments.

4 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

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Charitable Living

14 30

Keeping a community’s kids safe and active takes, well, a community. The YMCA aims to do just that with its afterschool program.

A Concours d’Elegance will come to Riverside Military Academy to help raise funds for the school’s foundation for cadets. The weekend will be full of automotive fun.

Travel & Leisure 28

8 On the Cover Nothing prettier than an orchard full of peach blossoms. And despite a sudden cold snap, we may be enjoying those summer favorites in a few short months. Photo by Michelle Jameson

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has stocked the streams of North Georgia with trout from its hatcheries. Now is the perfect time to do a little fishing.

Get to Know 30

Randy and Friends has a new CEO. Dennis Scheidt brings a lot of experience to the job, but he also brings his faith and love of helping others — here and abroad.

Inside Every Issue 6 32 34

From the Editor In the Community Events Calendar

HOME Living

In North Georgia

April 2017 5

From the Editor Editor/Designer Michelle Boaen Jameson General Manager Norman Baggs Advertising Sales Leah Nelson HOME Magazine, a division of: The Times Gainesville, GA A Morris Multimedia Inc. property 345 Green St. | Gainesville, GA 30501 | 770-718-3421

www.homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com

Looking forward Jarl Echols, co-owner of Jaemor Farms, a longtime peach grower off Ga. 365 in Lula, was named Farmer of the Year at the 2017 Hall County Agribusiness Awards sponsored by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and UGA Extension. Springtime came a little earlier this year, but a sudden cold snap threatened this year’s peach crop. It seems some of them did survive and we can look forward to the sweet, juicy fruits of summer after all. In accepting his award last month, he referred briefly to the sudden freezing temperatures, which affected about half his peach crop. “We’re in a tough situation sometimes in dealing with the weather,” Echols said. “But daddy ( Jimmy Echols) told me … a long time ago that God’s more interested in growing men than he is peaches. We have a lot of rough mornings this time of year, but maybe we’ve got a good crop of peaches to look forward to.” A few other things to look forward to: iced Ruby Hibiscus tea from Sabor Provisions (page 18) a good salt cleansing (page 8) and the Riverside Military Academy Champions and Heroes Concours d’Elégance this June (page 24). As always, enjoy this issue and thanks for reading!

ichelle ameson

Michelle Boaen Jameson editor@homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @HomeMagazine NGA

6 April

2017 HOME Living

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

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Health & Fitness

Soothing salts Halotherapy offers a natural alternative for symptom relief Story by Heather Lowry | Photography by Michelle Jameson

8 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

HEALTH & FITNESS

Think you need less salt? Maybe not. There’s a new spa treatment that more homeopathic seekers are soaking up: halotherapy. Clarkesville Salt Spa, owned by Scott and Linda Crossman, offers dry salt therapy for those who suffer from allergies, sinus infections, eczema, acne, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis, plus other maladies. The antimicrobial property of salt reportedly helps rid the body of toxins and relieve symptoms. Yet it’s important to remember, it is not a medical treatment, nor a cure. But for those looking for additional support to help treat their afflictions, salt therapy offers a natural, affordable addition to medical treatment. Halotherapy uses pharmaceutical grade crystalline sodium chloride manufactured under a stringent process. It’s intended for a variety of pharmaceutical applications, including preparation of saline solutions for dialysis and injection. The finely ground salt is dispersed through a halogenerator and breathed in so the salt gets deep into the lungs’ bronchi and alveoli while coating the skin. “You can’t see the dusting or any of the

salt that is in the air,” Scott Crossman said. “We keep the room in a negative pressure to help sweep the salt across.” Scott keeps the humidity below 50 percent at all times and the temperature in the 70s. “We have some clients that come in from Apple Mountain Resort when the pollen hits. We also have some cystic fibrosis clients we have helped immensely, and they almost don’t need their daytime inhalers.” According to the Salt Therapy Association, salt has been used for healing and therapeutic qualities for thousands of years across the globe. But it has only recently gained popularity as a spa treatment. Salt therapy is said to support the immune system by thinning and reducing excess mucus while reducing airway inflammation. The body is better able to eliminate allergens and pollutants as the mucus thins and constriction in the bronchi is reduced. “They are starting to find that using this in operating rooms helps cut down on infections, mostly for outpatient procedures. Salt therapy was discovered with mining of the Himalayan salts. And Europeans also flocked to the Black Sea

for years to bathe in the salt.” Scott knows first-hand the benefits of salt therapy. He says his wife found out about it on Facebook, so he started going to help with his COPD. During his treatments, he found it not only helped ease his symptoms for a time, it also helped his sleep apnea and snoring. “I started to naturally breathe through my nose and sleep with my mouth closed. It helps a certain percentage of sleep apnea sufferers, mainly mouth breathers,” he said. Scott says the salt helps to dry anything abnormal in your nose and airways. It also helps detoxify and open airways for better breathing. As for skin conditions, if you have oily skin, the salt helps to dry it leaving behind the body’s natural lubricants. So the other phenomenon is that if you have dry skin, the salt moisturizes it. “That’s the weird thing about it. It helps with both dry and oily skin conditions,” he said. The Crossmans wanted to help others discover the healing powers of salt, so in October of 2015, they opened Clarkesville Salt Spa on the downtown square. The spa offers 45-minute sessions for both adults and families. In addition to the salt

Above: Scott Crossman, owner of Clarkesville Salt Spa, rakes his hands through pebbles of Himalayan salt covering the floor of the family room. Dry salt therapy is gaining in popularity as a natural way to reduce symptoms of skin and lung conditions. HOME Living

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Above: The adult room of the Clarkesville Salt Spa offers low light, wall-to-wall salt for maximum effect and relaxing music to help lower blood pressure and improve circulation. No shoes and silent cellphones are the only requirement. Opposite page, clockwise: Pebbles of salt feel much like being on the beach. Scott Crossman sits in one of the antigravity lounge chairs in the adult therapy room. Toys offer entertainment for children during a treatment session in the family room.

10 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

HEALTH & FITNESS

put through the halogenerator, each of the two rooms available have pure Himalayan salt floors, much like a pebble beach. Children who suffer from allergies, asthma, rosacea or dermatitis can have fun while obtaining the benefits of dry salt therapy. In the family room is a table and chairs for reading or coloring, as well as toys where the kids can play with the salt, comparable to playing in a sand box. They can also look out the open glass windows or explore the oceanic mural on the opposite wall. Parents can relax on the reclining chairs or play with the kids. The Himalayan salt pebbles are perfectly safe, Scott said. Kids inevitably try tasting the salt. The adults-only room has six reclining chairs. The back wall comprises Himalayan salt panels illuminated by two shades of violet LED lights.

Scott said the low light violet color is to promote balance and well-being. Soothing music is played to help mind and body relax. For both rooms, the 45-minute sessions start at quarter past the hour. Patients enter the room and the generator is turned on, dispersing the salt throughout. An exhaust fan keeps the room in negative pressure with low humidity to help sweep the salt across the room. As you breathe in the salt, it enters your nasal passages and lungs and coats your skin. The Crossmans are keeping this therapy affordable for everyone. One session is $30, with discounts for seniors. There is also the option to pay a monthly fee for unlimited visits. It’s easy to make an appointment; not only can you walk-in until 5 p.m., you can use

the Mind Body Connect app to schedule an appointment with one click, which guarantees you a spot. After 5 p.m., a session is by appointment only. The spa is also open on Saturdays. The only thing you need to bring, Scott said, is a clean pair of socks. Cellphones are fine so long as they are set to silent. For more information, you can call Clarkesville Salt Spa at 706-839-1436, or visit www. clarkesvillesaltspa.com. Michelle Jameson contributed to this story

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Freezing

your features CoolScuplting helps achieve those sleek, desirable contours Story by Pamela A. Keene Sometimes no amount of exercise will melt away pesky body fat, particularly on your waist, tummy or neck. Now there’s a new technology called CoolSculpting that can remove fat cells without needles, surgery or recovery time. “The technology used in CoolSculpting literally can remove fat cells in localized areas,” says Rachel Wischow, spa director at The Swan Center in Alpharetta, which has used the system for the past four years. “There’s no need for anesthesia or cutting. And it’s as permanent as liposuction without the recovery time.” The process, called cryolipolysis, uses targeted temperature reduction applied to select areas of the body to permeate and break down the walls of fat cells under the skin. “Our body’s own inflammatory system then comes in and clears away what’s left of the broken-down fat cells over several weeks,” Rachel says. “The process doesn’t stress the body’s organs and it produces visual and measurable results.” 12 April 2017 HOME Living In

HEALTH & FITNESS

“There’s no need for anesthesia or cutting. And it’s as permanent as liposuction without the recovery time.” Left: A client receives a CoolSculpting treatment. Below: Several areas can be targeting using Cool Sculpting therapy. Photos courtesy CoolSculpting. Opposite page photo illustration by Michelle Jameson.

The technology was developed by scientists at Harvard, who several decades ago discovered that children eating popsicles got dimples in their cheeks. According to the coolscuplting.com website, scientists Dieter Manstein and R. Rox Anderson, both physicians, realized that the popsicles were freezing and eliminating small pockets of fat cells. They developed high-tech cooling sensors that target the fat cells but do not affect the body’s other cells. “About 12 years ago, the FDA approved the fat-freezing process that is CoolSculpting,” Rachel says “We brought it to The Swan Center four years ago after sending our technicians to Cool University for extensive training in the technique, learning directly from the manufacturer. Since then we’ve become the largest provider of CoolSculpting in Georgia.” Prospective patients can set up an appointment at The Swan Center for a no-charge consultation. “We evaluate our patients to determine if they’re good candidates for the procedure and talk about their goals,” she says. “We’re looking at what we call ‘pinchable fat.’ The majority of patients ask about reducing their waistlines and love handles, but women also seek advice about their inner and outer thighs or their chin and neck fat.” She says that men also request procedures for their face, neck and chests. The procedures, , can be done on any part of the body and most sessions take a couple of hours, depending on the extent of the treatment. “Patients can relax and watch movies, read or enjoy conversation and snacks,” Rachel says. “Once a patient sees the results and how their body has been recontoured, they often come back to schedule additional treatments on other parts of their bodies.” She explains that with just one treatment, many patients will see a 25 percent reduction in their fat cells in the treated area. “The results are considered permanent,” she says. “Once the fat cells are gone, they’re gone, naturally eliminated by your body’s own processes once they’ve been broken down.” Typically, treatments require a follow-up visit after about 11 or 12 weeks. At that time, the center provides the patient with before and after photographs so that they can see the effects of the treatment. She said that treat-

ments begin at $750 to $1,500. Rachel urges prospective patients to make sure that the facility they’re considering uses the latest technology. “The newest equipment is much more effective and requires shorter treatment times,” she says. “And that translates to better results.” HOME Living

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Get moving! Fido needs as much exercise as you do.

Dog owners with fenced-in backyards may think their furry friends are getting all they need during their nightly exercise sessions in the backyard. While such yards provide safe places for dogs to relax and run around, the American Humane Association (www.americanhumane.org) notes that even dogs who run wild in their backyards each day can benefit from daily walks. The following are a handful of ways dogs (and you) can benefit from daily walks. Exercise: Of course, daily walks provide great exercise for dogs. Dogs who are let out in the backyard each night but are not played with may not be getting the exercise their owners think they are. Dogs left alone in a backyard may briefly run around before plopping down in the grass and enjoying the fresh air. That's not enough exercise

14 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

for many breeds, and it's certainly insufficient for dogs who may be overweight or obese. Nightly walks can help dogs lose and/or maintain healthy weights, and the AHA notes that such walks also help dogs build strength and endurance. Stimulation: According to the American Kennel Club (www.akc.org), dogs need both physical and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy (just like us!). Walks obviously provide physical stimulation, but they can stimulate dogs mentally as well. Dogs often interrupt walks when their curiosity gets the better of them, stopping to observe or investigate something while on walks, and that's mentally stimulating. Resist the temptation to pull the leash when dogs want to stop to check something out, affording them a little time to do some mental exploration before continuing the walk.

Socialization: The Animal Humane Society (www.animalhumanesociety.org) notes that puppies between three weeks and 20 weeks old are generally accepting of other dogs, and nightly walks can provide the perfect opportunity for puppy owners to acquaint their furry friends with their fellow dogs. Continued exposure after 20 weeks can help further the socialization process for young dogs. Behavior: While puppies can learn to socialize on daily walks, older dogs may or may not reap the same rewards. But daily walks can help dog owners instill better behavior in their dogs. The AHS advises that owners of older dogs use walks as opportunities to teach dogs to behave calmly in public. Bring treats to reward dogs for sitting quietly when encountering other dogs and new people along the walk.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Shawna Anderson, owner of Anderson Physical Therapy, treats pelvic floor dysfunction in men and women using a variety of methods include manual manipulation (below) and biofeedback (opposite top).

Pelvic floor therapy: Do you need it? Story by Michelle Jameson| Photography by Scott Rogers Pulled a muscle? We’ve all done it. Most of the time, it’s in our back or shoulder, sometimes our leg. But have you ever pulled a muscle you didn’t even know you had? Would you even know if you did? The symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction may not be as obvious as you’d think. Abdominal pain, difficulty with urination and groin spasms are just a few. And more people pull pelvic muscles than we realize. Shawna Anderson, owner of Anderson Physical Therapy in Gainesville and Braselton, has seen her share. Individuals who need pelvic floor therapy may have been injured playing sports — such as taking one in the family jewels during soccer practice — or in an accident (think Frida Kahlo). But most often the need arises after sexual assault, childbirth or abdominal/pelvic surgery. Home Magazine sat down with her to find out more: Question: What is, in laymen terms, pelvic floor dysfunction?

16 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

Answer: Pelvic floor dysfunction refers to a wide range of issues that occur when muscles in the lower pelvic region are weak, tight or there is an impairment of the sacroiliac joint, lower back, coccyx or hip joints which limit normal contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor musculature. Individuals who experience pelvic floor dysfunction may have problems with urination such as urgency, incontinence, painful urination or incomplete emptying of their bladder. They may also experience, constipation, straining or pain during bowel movements. Additionally, they may have pain or pressure in the vagina or rectum. Q: Who is at risk for this? A: Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs in men, women and children but is most prevalent in women. Q: What are the possible treatments? A: There are many approaches to the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunc-

HEALTH & FITNESS

tion. The most common is pelvic floor rehabilitation performed by a physical therapist which incorporates a combination of manual therapy, biofeedback and exercises for relaxation and contraction of the pelvic floor musculature. Medications such as low dose muscle relaxants in the form of a pill or suppository may be prescribed by your physician. Dietary changes are also utilized to help restore normal urinary and bowel function. Q: How long might someone need treatment? A: The length of treatment varies from individual and the condition being treated. However, it may be a few weeks or upward to one year, depending on the condition. Q: How long has this specialization been around? A: The American Physical Therapy Association established the Section on Women Health in 1977. However, the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction can be traced back to as early as 1940. Q: How long have you been practicing? A: I have been practicing physical therapy for 20 years and have performed pelvic rehabilitation for the last 10 years. Q: Approximately how many people have you treated? A: This is difficult to answer. If I had to guess, I would say that over the course of my career, I have treated more than 2,000 people with pelvic floor dysfunction. Q: Does there seem to be an increase in patients seeking treatment? If so, why? A: Yes, there has been an increase in individuals seeking treatment. I think that the internet has made it more accessible to research treatment options and communicate with others who have similar conditions. Also, physicians are using pelvic floor rehabilitation as a conservative approach and even an adjunct to their treatment of these disorders. Q: Why are there so few pelvic floor therapists in this area? A: Pelvic floor rehabilitation requires specialized training beyond the traditional physical therapy curriculum. This training incorporates internal examinations and treatments which some therapists are not comfortable in performing. Individuals who become pelvic floor specialists have a true passion and calling for this area of the profession. Q: Why is there still a reluctance to talk about such injuries? A: We, as a society, have a reluctance to discuss anything that relates to our genitalia. Such topics remain taboo and improper. Talking about problems with bowel and urinary function or genitalia pain with intercourse or examinations often makes people uncomfortable. Additionally, women have often been conditioned to believe that urinary incontinence or pains are a normal aspect of aging or childbirth when these conditions are not. (She has helped numerous women regain intimacy with their spouse and has even received flowers and “thank you” cards from grateful husbands.) However, I am seeing more women and men openly discuss their conditions with their physicians, families and friends. These discussions open the door for finding a solution to treat their condition and getting their life back. Shawna Anderson is owner of Anderson Physical Therapy with locations in Gainesville and Braselton. She earned her degree from Nova Southeastern University 1997. She resides in Oakwood with her husband Patrick Anderson and her “bonus kids,” 17-year-old twin boys Chad and Garett. For more information about her practice, call 678-866-4104 or visit www.andersonpt.biz. HOME Living

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Savoring FOOD & DRINK

food & drink

Sabor Provisions

Story by Michelle Jameson Photos courtesy Sabor Provisions Sometimes gourmands create pairings that just naturally belong together, like sea salt and caramel or goat cheese and honey. And sometimes, gourmands find themselves paired up, like Brenda Saravia and Shay Grant. The two met at Lanier Charter Career Academy while Shay was teaching agricultural science and Brenda was working as her paraprofessional and translator. “Together, we ran the Farm Market and the Farm at the Oaks at LCA, said Shay. During our lunch breaks, each of us would bring delicious food, which we would share.” Brenda came to Gainesville from La Lima, Honduras, after her marriage to her high school sweetheart brought her to the United States. Shay grew in Union Springs, Alabama, and moved to Gainesville 18 years ago to work for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service in Hall County as an Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent. Realizing what a naturally talented cook Brenda was , Shay would harvest herbs and vegetables for her and ask her to make something from them. “Each day, she would come in with another delicious sauce or dish,” said Shay. The two soon realized their combined talents should be shared with the world at large and Sabor Provisions was born. “During our lunch breaks, we enjoyed discussing different ideas. One of the ideas was to start utilizing some of the herbs and vegetables that I was growing in my personal garden to make sauces Shay said. “At the time, I had an abundance of basil, so Basil Pesto was our first sauce.”

18 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

FOOD & DRINK

Opposite page: Shay Grant, left, and Brenda Saravia with Gainesville poultry pioneer Abit Massey at the farmers market. Creamy Cilantro sauce and Ruby Hibiscus Tea cocktail mix by Sabor Provisions, owned by Grant and Saravia.

HOME Living

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FOOD & DRINK

Brenda then crafted some other sauces, like the drink. Creamy Cilantro Sauce, for friends and family to “We decided to name it Ruby Hibiscus Tea betaste. cause Ruby is the name of Brenda’s family bakery in “We began making and bottling it. Farmers Honduras,” said Shay. Markets seemed to be the best venue for us to Brenda said perfecting the bottling process took a introduce our products, so we signed up for the lot of time. Gainesville Square Market.” According to the duo, among some of it’s atBut the duo still needed a name. tributes Ruby Hibiscus Tea is caffeine-free, loaded After many different ideas said Shay, they dewith antioxidants and vitamin C, helps lower blood cided on Sabor Provisions. In Spanish, the word pressure and cholesterol, and can even speed up sabor means flavor or taste. They added Provimetabolism. sions because “we plan to add more items as our ‘It’s similar to pomegranate in its health benefits,” company grows.” Shay said. We only use 3 ingredients to make our The company is still in its infancy, and both tea, with no added preservatives.” realize there’s a long way to go. So who does what in the partnership? “A year ago, once we settled on a business name, “Brenda manages our kitchen, ensuring that each we determined that we must establish a certified batch is of the highest quality. She is also responkitchen.” sible for recipe development and packaging,” said Both attended the UGA Better Process Control Shay. School and began bottling their sauces to sell at Brenda said Shay is responsible for growing the the Gainesville Farmers Market as well as the ingredients “which we use in our products as well as Flowery Branch Farmers Market. PR. There are many other responsibilities involved In addition to their four sauces — Basil Pesto, in running our business, which we share.” Creamy Cilantro Sauce, Chimole, and ChimiSo far, the most popular products are the Creamy churri — “we made and sold savory empanadas, Cilantro Sauce and Ruby Hibiscus Tea. pastelitos, homemade lemonade, and hibiscus Coming up with ideas for more products requires tea.” much brainstorming, dreaming and “testing a lot of The hibiscus tea was just recognized with our ideas and creations on friends and family.” a nomination for the 2017 Flavor of Georgia Shay said they plan to spend the next year sustaincompetition held March 21 in which it took third ably growing the ingredients for Ruby Hibiscus Tea place in the beverage category. The tea was chosen as well as the four sauces they currently make. from 117 similar products. “We have made a Passion Fruit Drink, which our “Georgia is home to some of the best and most Farmers Market customers loved, so, right now, we creative minds in the food business, and each year are growing some Passion Fruit plants in Alabama, the Flavor of Georgia contest helps to showcase which we hope to harvest fruit from in the fall and that talent,” said Sharon P. Kane, contest coordibegin perfecting a second beverage,” said Shay. nator and economist with the UGA Center for There are several events coming up where Sabor Agribusiness and Economic Development in the Provisions will be found. College of Agricultural and Environmental SciFolks can find Sabor regularly at the Downtown ences. Gainesville Farmers Market, Flowery Branch On a hot May day last school year, Brenda Market, Heritage Park Market in Auburn, Alabama, brought a gallon of a beautifully colored drink for Market Days in Columbus, as well as the following Shay to taste. events: “She told me that it was Jamaica (pronounced • Standard Deluxe 17th annual “old 280” Boogie, hah-my-kah) Tea, which is something that they April 22 in Waverly, Alabama make and enjoy often in Honduras. I tasted it and • MADE SOUTH Atlanta festival September 29-30 couldn’t get enough” • Southern Makers (Date and location TBD) From the top: Dips made with sauces created by They decided to make and sell Jamaica Tea at • Northeast Georgia Health System Market Place Shay Grant and Brenda Saravia, owners of Sabor the Farmers Markets. Provisions. Creamy Cilantro and Chimole sauces. November 3-5 in Gainesville “Our customers (young and old) loved the Sabor Provision products may be purchased at Ruby Hibiscus Tea, a 2017 Flavor of GA finalist. drink, which we served in 10 ounce cups on ice Green’s Grocery in Gainesville as well as George’s with a fresh sprig of mint,” said Brenda. Farmers Market in LaFayette, Alabama. Sabor ProThey were also able to plant some Hibiscus sabdariffa plants and harvest visions plans to launch an online store as well as a recipe and gardening blog, the calyces — the part of the plant which protects the developing bud. The soon. Visit www.saborprovisions.com and find them on Facebook. dried calyx is the part of the plant which is boiled and steeped to make the

20 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

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CHARITABLE LIVING

Charitable Living

The who, what, where and Y Hall County parents, kids benefit from YMCA’s after-school program Story by Jennifer Linn | Photography by Erin O. Smith The sounds of children talking and laughing at Wauka Mountain Multiple Intelligences Academy are the norm each day after school lets out. The kids have a snack, then listen to a Bible reading before breaking into groups for homework and play time. It’s all part of the Georgia Mountains YMCA after-school program that provides care to children from the time they’re released from school until 6 p.m. While most schools let out at 3 p.m., most parents work until 5 or 6 p.m., leaving a

supervision gap the YMCA program fills. The program is part of a partnership between the YMCA and Hall County Schools and is offered at 19 of the county school system’s elementary schools. “We want to provide a safe and caring environment for working parents in order to help kids learn, grow and thrive,” said Amy Kienle, president and CEO at Georgia Mountains YMCA. The program primarily provides care for children from kindergarten through fifth grade

Katelyn Hill, 10, works on homework while at the YMCA after school program at Wauka Mountain Multiple Intelligences Academy.

22 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

and in some schools where pre-K is offered. Many of the middle school students are bused in to the elementary schools where the program is offered. About 1,000 students are currently enrolled in the program. The four areas of focus in the after-school program are character development, physical development, academic support and nutrition, Kienle said. “We pull different activities from all four of those categories,” she said, adding the YMCA is

CHARITABLE LIVING

starting some arts and humanities programs since often those areas are lacking during the regular school day. Kienle said the YMCA believes every child deserves the right to achieve his or her own personal potential. “We think what we do in partnership with the school helps fulfill that,” she said. “Whether that’s them doing better in school or whether that’s testing or behavior.” By having the after-school program in the schools, it offers parents the convenience of being able to pick their child up close to home. “It’s located at the schools which we feel is very convenient for the schools because Hall County is very large and geographically spread out,” said Gwen Hatcher, association child care director at Georgia Mountains YMCA, whose son participates in the program. “Rather than transporting kids to one location where parents may have to go out of their way, we’re spread out throughout the county.” After-school program counselors are selected carefully and care about the children they oversee. “I can say that because my child is in the program,” Hatcher said. “As a single parent, I see the impact and influence of our male staff members with their kids.” Once children are dismissed from their classes each day, they report to the cafeteria, where they’re checked in. Then they’re given a snack of cereal, fruit or chips and milk or juice. Then they have Bible study. “After that, second- through fifth-graders work on homework with the help of counselors,” said Rick Little, site director at Wauka for the YMCA. “Then we have the younger ones go play games in the gym or go outside. At 4:15 p.m., they switch.” At 5 p.m. children go outside, weather permitting. The program makes an impact on children and their families, allowing parents to work without worry. In addition to helping students with their education and giving them an outlet for physical activity, it also teaches social skills. “There is social time in school, but not like there is in the after-school time,” Hatcher said. “Some of the kids were not in a program or any kind of preschool so socializing with other kids is brand new to them.” Helping kids grow and progress emotionally, as well as academically, is important to program leaders. “I like to see where we make a difference,”

Kennedy Martin, 6, avoids being tagged while playing a game at the YMCA after school program at Wauka Mountain Multiple Intelligences Academy.

Hatcher said. “Where (the after-school program kids) start at the beginning of the year is not where they end up at the end of the year.” Cost for the program is $50 per week for YMCA members and $60 for nonmembers. It offers child care on teacher workdays, but not during longer holiday breaks, such as spring or Christmas breaks. The YMCA offers financial assistance to families who need help paying for the program. Kienle said a bit more than half of the children in the program receive some sort of financial assistance, which ranges from a 10 to 55 percent discount. Even if a family is approved for financial assistance, there still is some financial responsibility to the parent. “Our intent is that every family that needs care can get it at their school through the YMCA,” Kienle said. Next year, the YMCA plans to provide nine-

week special activities for no extra charge to families during after school care. Hatcher said the programs haven’t been officially selected, but will likely include activities such as tennis, guitar or karate “We feel like the kids don’t know what they enjoy until they get a chance to try it,” Hatcher said. “Some kids don’t get a chance to try it because mom’s at work.” For example, Hatcher said, while her job is fairly flexible, she can’t always get off work each week to take her son to an early-evening tennis lesson. “Some parents don’t have the flexibility or ability to pay for it,” she said. The plan is for about 20 programs to rotate throughout the county so children at every school will get to experience the activity. Hatcher said they hope to attract sponsors to help with the program. HOME Living

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CHARITABLE LIVING

Driving a legacy Champions and Heroes event will bring a cavalcade of motoring elegance to Riverside Military Academy Story by Michelle Jameson | Photos and art courtesy Riverside Military Academy Seventy percent automotive, 10 percent aviation, 10 percent lifestyle, 10 percent military and 100 percent for a good cause. That’s the emphasis of the inaugural Champions and Heroes Concours d’Elégance being held June 2-4 at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. The massive fundraiser aims to “grow the Riverside Military Academy Foundation, which supports the educational purposes and longevity of Riverside. Net proceeds and donations to the Foundation will help provide tuition assistance to cadets and their families,” said Doug Freedman of Motor Club Events, LLC. Freedman, a veteran Concours organizer and judge, is

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helping to gear up the event along with Riverside’s Amanda Willis. A Concours d’Elégance dates back to 17th century French aristocracy, who paraded horse-drawn carriages in the parks of Paris during summer weekends and holidays. The Champions and Heroes weekend will be jam packed with cars from the 1910s through 1974. Freedman chose ’74 as a cutoff date because he, like many automotive enthusiasts, consider that era the zenith of design and craftsmanship. “This is a very appealing era for racers and collectors and gentleman racers

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turned professionals. Aerodynamics was introduced during this time, “ said Freedman. Entrants and spectators will have the opportunity to experience three days dedicated to all things automotive, while enjoying what is an allencompassing and beautiful venue. Event highlights include: Riverside Military Academy Time Trial: a competitive one-mile race against the clock. The trial will culminate on Sunday with the winner with the lowest time. Riverside Military Academy Studies in Speed, Sport and Style: a juried contest of Elegance for race cars through 1974, sporting vehicles through 1974 and vehicles of exceptional style through 1974. “Not just any car can enter,” said Freedman. “Entries will be screened before acceptance in the contest.” Classes in style range from prewar to prototype and will be selected for sleek, graceful, fluid lines. These cars would have been unique in appearance when compared to other automobiles of the same period. For sports cars, the classes are from 1910 to

26 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

1974 and include both European and American GT and limited production sports cars. There will be a bevy of awards including First in Class, two Riverside’s Award, 15 Awards of Distinction for each class, a Best of Show and Board of Trustees cups. Riverside Military Academy High Jinks Rally: a three day competitive high jinks rally for a driver and navigator. Open to authentic vintage and historic cars which can broadly be described as street legal, built in or before 1974. This will be a “Road Rally” style event, where cars will run on the open road on a predetermined route. The route is a “state secret” not to be revealed until the very last minute to the rally master and navigator. This event will test the ability of the driver and navigator to compete as a team. The judges for the events, said Freedman, are “individuals in the collector community. Each team will consist of three individuals, two of whom are knowledgeable adults and one cadet. We are keen on transfer of knowledge of vintage cars and sportsmanship to cadets in order to get new blood involved.”

On Saturday, there will be a Porsche Days Corral and all and any Porsche is eligible for screened entrance. In tandem will be a BMW Days Corral for any and all BMWs, also with reviewed entrance. The vehicles will remain on view throughout the day for judging and commentary. Also on Saturday is a corral for club cars, collector cars and supercars. This is open for all those motorheads with custom built chassis, engines and interiors. For aviation buffs, the Georgia Mountain Radio Control Club will be doing demonstrations all weekend with virtually anything radio controlled including model planes, helicopters and drones. A round robin air rifle competition will take place all weekend as well as lifestyle classes in fencing, etiquette and penmanship. Throughout the weekend there will be available to attendees gourmet food trucks, indoor and outdoor food courts, a spectator relaxation zone, a regalia boutique with event memorabilia and a silent auction. There will also be seminars — “The Racers What They Raced and Where They Raced ‘em”—

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and Modern Coach Builders for Champions and Heroes to include roadsters and hotrods. An In Motion Cinema in Curtis Hall will run automotive films continuously for those seeking a break from the elements. Retroworks, a collection of automobilia and petroliana vendors, will be set up in Alumni Hall. The Champions and Heroes event will take place all across the campus of Riverside Military Academy from the fieldhouse, quad and halls to the football field. A shuttle will run from the downtown Gainesville parking deck to Maginnis Field. Guests of honor include Donald W. Osborne, who has shared his considerable knowledge and experience with millions of viewers on television in his regular feature “Assess & Caress with Donald Osborne” on the new CNBC Primetime show “Jay Leno’s Garage,” discussing collector car values and trends. He is a monthly columnist in Sports Car Market magazine and was co-host of Velocity’s “What’s My Car Worth?” in 2012, and has been published in the New York Times, Art & Antiques, The Wall Street Journal Online, and other publications. And as an Accredited Senior Appraiser he has worked with private, corporate and legal entities. He is also a talented trained opera singer, a humorous event emcee. He will sing the national anthem and “God Bless America” during the event. Keith Martin started the Alfa Romeo Market Letter in 1988 and by 1993 it had expanded dramatically into “Keith Martin’s Sports Car Market” to become “the monthly magazine for the collector car hobby”. As a successful writer, editor, publisher, television commentator, and event emcee, Martin will host the weekend’s event.

Brian Redman was on his way in the mid-1960s to an international motorsport career after being noticed in the iconic Red Rose Motors’ Jaguar E-Type. After a competitive Formula 1 career, he took to endurance racing winning nine World Championship races in the 1970s, plus the 1981 IMSA GT Championship. His sports car versatility was enormous and he finished a magnificent career in 1989 with Aston Martin; he is still vintage racing today. And like Jackie Stewart he was a track safety advocate. His recent autobiography, “Brian Redman, Daring Drivers, Deadly Tracks” is as equally entertaining as is his event commentary. And finally, London-born Alain de Cadenet, one of today’s most qualified motorsports raconteurs, will be sharing the event’s daily commentary. The son of a WWII Free French Air Force officer and an English mother, he soon sought fame as a rock band photographer only to be diverted into becoming a more famous “privateer” race car driver, and then constructor. He won two World Endurance races with Desire Wilson in 1980 in a car with his own name on the hood. Later he became a television host with Speed, ESPN and Velocity, most noted for his “Legends of Motorsport,” “Victory by Design” and “Renaissance Man” series. For more information on the Riverside Military Academy’s Champions and Heroes event and for entry forms and rules, visit rmachampionsand heroes.com. A full schedule of the weekend’s events and ticket information is available on the website. Riverside Military Academy is a 110-year-old college preparatory military school nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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In North Georgia

April 2017 27

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Travel & Leisure

Angling for

a good time Take advantage of beautiful spring weather and plan a trout fishing trip to the North Georgia Mountains. The Georgia Wildlife Resources Division and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service cooperatively stocked 40,000 trout in Georgia during the week of Mar. 6, giving anglers their first opportunity to harvest some freshly stocked trout in 2017. Regular weekly stockings for the 2017 stocking season began on March 20, with an additional 70,000. Despite the low stream flows being experienced in north Georgia, the trout stocking program is still aiming to stock one million fish this year. “With the current spring-like conditions and all trout waters open to fishing year-round, we have decided to stock trout two weeks early,” says WRD trout stocking coordinator John Lee Thomson. “Due to the mild winter, we have experienced

28 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

excellent trout growth in our hatcheries and with the continuing low stream flows, these fish have outgrown the available hatchery space giving us the opportunity to stock a few weeks early this year.” Some popular stocked streams that will receive trout during this early stocking effort include Cooper Creek in Union County, Tallulah River in Rabun County, Dicks Creek in Lumpkin County, Holly Creek in Murray County, and Johns Creek in Floyd County. The daily limit is eight trout on general regulation trout waters. Anglers are reminded to respect private property rights along streams flowing through private lands and to obtain permission before fishing on private property. Anglers must possess a current Georgia fishing license and a trout license to fish in designated trout waters and to fish for or possess trout. Anglers must also possess a wildlife management

Blue Ridge Trout Festival When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 29 Where: Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge Cost: $5 More info: www.BlueRidgeTroutFest.com

area license or Georgia Outdoor Recreation Pass in order to fish on certain WMAs. Find a list of designated areas, list of stocked trout streams, online versions the Georgia trout stream map and other trout fishing tips at www.georgiawildlife. com/Georgia-Outdoor-Recreational-Pass. Buy a license online (www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com), at a retail license vendor or buy it by phone at 800366-2661. Purchasing a Trout license plate supports Georgia’s trout conservation and stream management programs. Find out more at your county tag office.

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Get to know

Randy and Friends CEO Dennis Scheidt Dennis Scheidt taught one major lesson to his 11 children — be appreciative of what you have. When the rest of the world is trying to keep up with the Joneses, he wanted his kids to see and know what’s it’s like to grow up with next to nothing. “I’m a big believer that all young people should see what the rest of the world looks like,” said Scheidt, recently hired director for the Gainesville-based nonprofit Randy and Friends. Since the early 1990s, Scheidt has traveled the world with his kids during their high school years. His two eldest , Eric and Deke, went on their own trip to Moscow in 1991. “When they came back, they had a total attitude change,” Dennis said. That’s when he told his wife Monica he wanted to take his other nine children on similar trips to show them what it’s like in other countries, have them volunteer and preach to those who have lost hope. He and his children traveled to Croatia numerous times, even as war raged. They worked with refugees who escaped with only the clothes on their backs. And a few times, they left after giving away everything except the clothes on their own backs. They dodged land mines in rural areas as they ventured out to teach English and help orphans and prisoners. His daughter, Mandy, stayed for five years in the Ukraine as a missionary. Even now, she continues her missionary work in Bangkok. His travels with his children gave him a new perspective and prepared him for his current role, showing them you don’t have to leave the country to help others in need. The Cumming man was close to retirement from his job as the CEO of Clayton County Hospital, when he saw an open position for the director of Randy and Friends, a nonprofit organization that assists young adults with mental and physical disabilities in Gainesville. It was a perfect fit for him, for a few reasons. His experience in the hospital industry prepared him for the health aspects of the director position. And there is his work with faith-based Hope Now Ministries, the organization helping those in

Marcus Hayes, rights, chats with new Randy and Friends director Dennis Scheidt at The Rooster's Perch.

Ukraine. He wanted to share his strong faith in his new job. Randy and Friends is centered around the belief that everyone is equal in God’s eyes and are made a certain way for a reason, Scheidt said. He has experienced setback through the lens of a loved one; his sister suffered from a brain tumor and dealt with behavioral issues. “(Randy and Friends) does pull on my heartstrings, as a brother,” Scheidt said. “He’s an outstanding individual,” said Marty Owens, founder of Randy and Friends. Scheidt works closely with the clients, who are called “friends,” doing what he can to achieve the mission of the group. The idea is to put them to work in whatever capacity is a good fit, whether that be bagging groceries at Kroger or Publix or working in the fast-food industry. “They tend to like repetitive-type jobs,” Scheidt said. They also brew coffee at the organization’s own Rooster’s Perch coffee shop. The shop, located at 210 Bradford St., is run by a few friends and is

open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. It’s where Marcus Hayes has been working for the past three months. “If you want to wake up, this is where you should come,” Hayes said. Another location used to help young adults with further training and coaching in job skills is at Randy and Friends Enterprises on Oak Street. There they can learn trades like woodworking, laundry, shredding documents, refinishing furniture and cleaning services. Scheidt prefers them to focus on just one or two areas to best develop their skills. “We want to do one (aspect) well,” he said. Owens agreed, believing it made the most sense for what they are striving for: getting people into jobs. While Randy and Friends aims to place every individual into a job at which they can excel, sometimes that’s not the case. Others may be placed into jobs in-house. “It’s not 100 percent every person,” Scheidt said. HOME Living

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IN THE COMMUNITY

in the community 39th Quinlan GALA Fine Art Auction The March 4 gala featured original art from local, regional and national talents. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artist of distinction was painter Geoffrey Johnson. Auction proceeds directly funds Quinlan Visual Arts Center programming, including classes, exhibitions and community outreach.

2017 Gainesville American Values Dinner Each of the three former Boy Scouts honored at the annual American Values Dinner March 10 shared one thing in common. Honorees Sen. Butch Miller, Bob Swoszowski and Dick Valentine love their community and giving back to it. Author, traveling spokesman and Eagle Scout Alvin Townley also spoke at the dinner about what it means to be a Boy Scout and its benefits.

32 April 2017 HOME Living In North Georgia

IN THE COMMUNITY

Choices Pregnancy Care Center annual Gala Keynote speaker Marc Newman spoke during the Choices Pregnancy Care Center’s annual fundraising gala at The Venue at Friendship Springs in Braselton March 23. Newman, president of Speaker For Life, has spoken at many anti-abortion conventions in the nation. The center provides tests for pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, education about abstinence and options for pregnant clients, support for single mothers, parents of pregnant teens and those recovering from abortions.

Gainesville High School 125th anniversary celebration Scores of graduates from yesteryear toured the GHS campus, paraded past historical displays and gazed at memorabilia marked by eras — 1892-1949 at the main building’s atrium; 1950s, 1960s and 1970s at the Alumni Gym; and the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s at the cafeteria. The school celebrated its 125th anniversary Feb. 26 with live music, food and reminiscing.

Kiwanis Club of Gainesville’s 92nd annual Anniversary Celebration The highest honor the Kiwanis Club awards went to a woman who dedicated three decades to helping children. Beth Morris, a retired Gainesville Parks and Recreation youth programs manager, was given the John W. Jacobs Jr. Youth Service Award March 14 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. The award is presented to a person who has shown their dedication to the betterment of youth in the community.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

April April 1-23 Geoffrey Chaucer’s ‘The Canterbury Tales.’ The Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse, 499 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta. $15$40. www.shakespearetavern.com April 4 through May 28 ‘Pete the Cat’ Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. $10.25 members, $20.50 nonmembers. 404-873-3391 or www.puppet.org April 6-23 Million Dollar Quartet. Georgia Ensemble Theatre, Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. $30-$40. 770641-1260 ext. 236 or www.get.org April 7-8 Hall County Master Gardeners Spring Garden Expo, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 7 and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 8. Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, 1855 Calvary Church Road, Gainesville. $2. 770-5358293 or mastergardener@hallcounty.org April 8 Chipper Jones at Coolray Field. 5 p.m., Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville. $44-$51. 770-978-5154 or events@gwinnettpl.org April 8 John Conlee, Gainesville. 7 p.m. Riverside Military Academy, 2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville. www.itickets.com. April 8 Seventh annual Fur Ball fundraiser. 6-10 p.m. Braselton-Stover Event Center, 5257 Ga. 53, Braselton. $60 per person. www. HSJC.com or FurBall2017@windstream. net April 8 Evenings of Intimate Jazz featuring Davina and the Vagabonds. 8 p.m., The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SE, Gainesville. $30. 770-534-2787 or www.theartscouncil.net

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April 9 Gainesville annual Easter Egg Hunt. 2 p.m. Midtown Greenway, 682 Grove St.,Gainesville. Free to hunt; $5 photos with the Easter Bunny. 770-531-2680 April 9 Still Life with Iris. 7:30 p.m. April 6-8 and 2 p.m. Black Box Theater, 500 College Drive, Demorest. $10 adults and $5 students and seniors. www.piedmont.edu/ events/view/1073 April 14 Anita Meaders Folk Potter opening reception. 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Folk Museum, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. Free. adoll@snca.org April 15 Blue Ribbon Bluegrass. Noon to 5 p.m. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee. $10. 706-878-3300 or www.snca.org April 15 through July 15 ‘Ribbit the Exhibit’ at Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville. $8 adults, $5 children 3-12 and free for children younger than 3 and Garden member. 404-591-1550 or dflanders@atlantabg. org April 19 University of North Georgia Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band. 7:30 p.m., Riverside Military Academy, 2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville. Free. www. ung.edu/music Through April 20 Writing With Alzheimer’s. Simmons Visual Arts Center, 200 Boulevard, Gainesville. Free. 770-534-6263 or galleries@brenau. edu April 21-23 Lanier Islands In-Water Boat Show. Lanier Islands Resort, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. Free with $15 parking fee. www.lanierislands.com April 21 Frankie and Andy’s Place Inaugural Golf Tournament, 7:30 a.m. registration and 9

a.m. shotgun start. Lanier Islands Legacy Golf Course, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. Four-player scramble $400 including lunch. frankieandandysplace. org or www.facebook.com/ frankieandandysplace April 22 Atlanta Koi Club Auction. 10 a.m. Coastal Pond Supply, 2110 Tucker Industrial Road, Tucker. Free. www.atlantakoiclub.org April 29 Blue Ridge Trout Festival. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge. $5. www.BlueRidgeTroutFest.com April 29-30 18th annual Celebrate Clayton, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Downtown Clayton, Georgia. Free. www.celebrateclayton.com April 30 Dr. E.E. Butler: Medical Pioneer of Gainesville and Hall County. 2:30-7 p.m. Hosch Theatre, 305 Boulevard, Gainesville. Free. 404-401-6589 or brmuseum1@gmail.com

May May 5 Rubber Duck Derby, 5 p.m. Clarks Bridge Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville. $5 per duck. 770-532-8102 orchelsea.bgchc@gmail.com May 6 Toast of Toccoa. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Doyle Street, Downtown Toccoa. Free. 706-2823309 or scrosby@cityoftoccoa.com May 11 through Sept. 28 Cocktails in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Gardens Gainesville, 1911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville. $21.95. atlantabg.org May 12 Relay for Life of Hall County, 7 p.m. University of North Georgia Gainesville campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Free. 770-297-1176 or rena. pendley@cancer.org

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