The popular Where’s My Refund feature on the IRS website allows you to see the status of your refund after filing your income tax return.
t What you should know
Refunds of e-filed returns usually take 10 to 21 days to process. Paper returns take longer than e-filed returns. The IRS states that 90 percent of refunds are processed within this 21-day time period. Original refund processing projections can change. This can be due to processing backlogs, or errors on your tax return.
Sometimes a delay is a good thing. The IRS acknowledges there is a huge increase in identity fraud as thieves attempt to steal tax withholdings.
The IRS is using data match programs to catch as much illegal activity as possible. Because of this, if the IRS is suspicious of fraudulent activity, they will hold up processing your refund.
t Checking your refund status
In the meantime, if you’d like to check on the status of your refund, visit irs.gov/refunds and click on Check My Refund Status.
t When to check
24 hours after an e-filed tax return confirmation is received and four weeks after a paper-filed tax return is mailed.
t What you need to provide
• Social Security number;
• Filing status;
• Exact refund amount.
Remember, the information provided to you by the IRS is not a guarantee of payment. So please resist the urge to spend your refund before receiving it.
Unfortunately, no amount of calling or checking will change the speed of returning your money. With 150 million tax returns processed each year, sometimes all you can do is wait.
Christine Hinton, CPA | www.ChristineHintonCPA.com | 706-522-3025
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Local CPA tells when to expect a refund from the IRS and why it may be delayed.
How to protect yourself from malware, phishing and scandalous emails.
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Feeling lonely? Read these tips on how to connect and socialize with other people.
Food & Drink
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4 ON THE COVER: Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry
Celebrating 50 years serving Dawson County, Dr. Enoch and Dr. Michelle Morrow created a legacy and standard of care for the patients that Dr. Bilal Manzur continues to provide today at Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry.
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Follow these tips the next time you cook fish.
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Try this margarita with a spicy twist.
Celebrate Mother’s, Father’s Day with the perfect gift.
/dawsonnews
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Celebrating 50 years serving Dawson County, Dr. Enoch and Dr. Michelle Morrow created a legacy and standard of care for the patients that Dr. Bilal Manzur continues to provide today.
Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry has grown and flourished into a well-respected practice that
continues to offer quality dentistry at an affordable price.
Originally founded in 1973 by Dr. Enoch Morrow, when asked to visit Dawson County to perform dental screenings by the school board, he was the first licensed dentist in the county.
A real-life foreshadowing of his care for his practice, he brought his own equipment and supplies then declined any and all compensation for the service.
Seeing the great need of Dawson County residents for dental care, Dr. Enoch Morrow continued seeing patients for two days a week until he passed the practice down to his daughter, Dr. Michelle Morrow, in 1985. She expanded
the hours to begin accepting patients for six days a week and added after hours, following in her father’s footsteps of providing excellent care.
Dr. Michelle, as she was known in the community, was a 10-time winner of Best of Dawson. In 1998, Dr. Michelle built a new building, Dawsonville Professional Center, in order to better accommodate her patients.
Continued, Page 6
Over the years, Dr. Michelle befriended Dr. Bilal Manzur. Earning great respect and trust for him, Dr. Michelle passed the practice on to Dr. Manzur when she retired on November 15, 2015.
Now, 50 years after its original establishment, Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry is stronger than ever and Dr. Manzur provides the same excellent standard of care as Dr. Morrow and Dr. Michelle over the last four decades.
This level of care shows as his patients have voted Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry as Best of Dawson for the last two years. Carrying the title of Best of Dawson is an honor and a compliment to the level of care they provide.
Dr. Manzur is a huge advocate of technology and the conveniences that it offers to patients. Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry uses digital technology to make digital impressions which means no more nasty alginate impressions.
This same digital technology allows him to provide his patients with sameday crowns that are made while you wait. Recently, they have added 3-D printing that allows them to print nightguards, bleaching trays, and retainers in-office.
Aside from technology, Dr. Manzur also provides services like Root Canal Therapy, Implant dentistry, Oral Surgery, and Invisalign clear aligner therapy.
By providing these additional services, it alleviates the need to refer patients out to specialists, which is time-consuming for the patient and makes it difficult for Dr. Manzur to follow the patient’s care.
Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry is an avid community supporter. Dr. Manzur supports many local non-profit organizations such as the Rotary Club, Dawson County Parks and Recreation, Lions Club, and many more along with the local schools and the Big Canoe Community.
Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry is not only a place to receive excellent care but is
also a great place to work as many of their employees have left behind legacies of their own.
Dr. Manzur believes that if you take good care of your employees, then your employees will take even better care of your patients. Dr. Manzur says, “Your employees can make or break a practice, no matter how good I am. You have to show them that they are appreciated and valued.”
When Dr. Michelle was in practice, her excellent customer care earned her Best of
Dawson for 10 years in a row. Now, Dr. Manzur has followed that path and earned the Best of Dawson for his second year in a row.
With his care for his patients, employees, and community, he is truly carrying on the original legacy of Dr. Morrow and Dr. Michelle.
Fifty years have come and gone in the blink of an eye and Distinctive Dawson Dentistry is looking forward to continuing to provide excellent care, quality service, and community support.
As a lawyer many people approach me to discuss what steps they can take to punish those who engage in cybercrimes. Unfortunately, most cybercrimes are too small for effective and economical legal action to be taken.
As an example, Google blocks close to 100 million scandalous, phishing emails a day. Yet, there are still 3.4 billion spam emails being sent out daily all around the world which jeopardize individuals› and business email accounts on getting hijacked. The words malware, phishing, and scandalous emails all connect by the same idea. These words reflect the “art” of crime called cybercrime. Phishing, being the leading cybercrime in 2023 thus far, is a cybercrime caused by individuals opening malicious links and websites. This causes personal information and even credit card numbers to be released. Malware is directly linked to phishing because of the effect of the scandalous emails on the electronic devices which cause unwelcomed software and viruses. Although this all sounds scary, there are ways you can prevent and protect yourself from phishing, malware, and scandalous emails.
One way to protect personal and business email from malicious emails is by not clicking unknown links. Another is to click on the address purporting to be from someone you know. Most often phony addresses will hide underneath a legitimate looking name.
Clicking only on the purported name shows the actual email address hiding underneath. Links sent by people trying to commit fraud are not lawful nor safe. Refrain from opening links that look suspicious. In addition, take the warning sounds and symbols before you click on a
rudimentary link seriously.
Many links that your computer does not trust will put up a warning before you go to the unknown website. Take measures in making sure all spam or potential spam emails get sent to your junk folder.
Identity Theft is way too common to ignore. Social Security numbers, dates of birth and credit card information are often under attack. Hackers find ways to steal your information so they can sell personal information. They look for new targets by sending out emails disguised as yours.
These hackers find information from you from phishing. Phishing leads to more phishing if you do not take the precautions of safely protecting your email account. An important key is NEVER to open an email asking you to open a bank account or other financial transaction. Use a bank’s own app to transact business.
If you have a Microsoft email account, check the rules in the software to make certain it has not been altered with rules you did not authorize. Use secure links to banks and financial persons so as to stop sending personal information through unprotected emails and websites.
Cyberpunks are those criminals that use people whom they know you are close to with tricks to have them open infected links. This causes their information to be stolen or lead viruses to their devices. Under the Identity Theft statute of Georgia, it is a felony to steal someone else›s identity even though there are thousand upon thousand hackers today who flaunt the law.
Steps like changing password settings can help stop phishing attempts and ultimately can save your email account and identity. Although malware and phishing can seem spine-chilling, using the right tools and skills to prevent such activity can help overcome the fright of hackers.
Good wishes in keeping your email safe!
Though many moms may insist they don’t want anything beyond spending the day with their children, gifts are a big part of Mother’s Day. No two moms are the same, and though standards like flowers and greeting cards will always have a place on Mother’s Day, the following are some gift ideas that can put smiles on the faces of moms from all walks of life.
Some moms simply love to get in a good workout. Shoppers whose mothers or wives love to break a sweat might want to look into home gym equipment, as many fitness enthusiasts transformed part of their homes into exercise areas during the pandemic.
If that sounds like the mom on your shopping list, then a suspension training system won’t take up much room but can provide an intense, full-body workout. A new yoga mat, some wireless Bluetooth headphones or a compression stretching mat are some additional gifts that might make exercise-loving moms smile this Mother’s Day.
There’s no end to the gift options for mothers who love to curl up with a good book. Of course, some new books may delight Mom, but gifts that can improve the reading experience also merit consideration.
For example, an ergonomic backrest reading pillow can make bedtime reading sessions more comfortable and ensure mom’s neck and back get ample support as she reads the latest pageturner.
A nightstand book holder also can be ideal for moms who can’t seem to keep track of their bookmarks.
Moms whose children still live under the same roof may not have much opportunity to travel, but empty nesters and grandmothers might.
For such moms, a foldable, hanging travel bag can make it easy and convenient for mom to carry all her toiletries and access them without taking up what’s often minimal hotel room counter space.
For moms who want to document their excursions, a leather travel journal encourages them to note their experiences and gives them something they can revisit for years to come.
Of course, some new luggage can make the perfect gift for newly retired moms who can’t wait to start visiting places on their travel bucket lists.
Millions of moms manage to juggle the obligations of family life with a challenging career. Mother’s Day can be a great time to recognize that balancing act. A self-heating coffee mug can ensure mom’s morning cup of Joe doesn’t go cold as she traverses her way through a hectic morning routine.
Another great gift is a charging mouse pad that can charge all of mom’s devices even while she’s working. If you want to help mom remain calm as she navigates her way through a day filled with personal and professional obligations, an essential oils diffuser can create a sense of relaxation on the most hectic of days.
No two moms are the same. Fortunately, great gifts can be found for moms from all walks of life this Mother’s Day.
This Father’s Day, families will gather to thank dads for all they do. Gifts often are part of Father’s Day celebrations, and here’s a list of gift ideas for dads with various interests.
The draw of popular video games doesn’t abate for some men as they get older. If your dad is at home with a game controller in hand, then gifts that feed his hobby can be ideal. Virtual reality has made great strides. Devices that enable VR game play and other entertainment may appeal to Dad. There are a few options on the market, like the Oculus, Pico Neo, HTC Vive, and Valve Index.
Another option is to give the Nintendo Switch Console, which enables your dad to play at home connected to the television or on the go with the handheld controller and screen combination, so he never misses a chance to engage in game play.
Tap into your father’s love of sports with gifts tailored to his passion. Baseball and soccer are played during warm months, so tickets to a game are something dads and their children can do together. You also can cheer his team on in front of a new big-screen television he gets for being such a great dad.
If your dad is mostly at home with a fishing pole and tackle box, kayaking a nearby body of water, or hiding in a tree stand during hunting season, then gifts that cater to his love of the great outdoors are perfect.
Insulated thermoses, waterproof bags for storing phones or wallets, multitools, backpacks, and hiking boots make great gifts.
Does the idea of the latest “smart” offering get your father all revved up? Then purchase gifts that cater to his love of gadgets. Maybe he can use a new tablet or laptop that bridges the gap between home and office. Could it be time to upgrade his smartphone?
A doorbell camera or home security kit can help Dad keep an eye on the comings and goings around the house when he’s away.
Or help him create surround lighting effects that can react to content on the screen or music being played with LED smart lighting strips.
Some fathers don’t want flashy gifts, instead prefer ones that can be used every day.
Think about a new paper shredder or identity block roller stamp to keep sensitive information safe.
If Dad takes long road trips, then he might be able to use a car visor extender or a smartphone holder. Shelving, racks, or storage straps for the garage also may put a smile on his face.
This year, Father’s Day a smash hit with gifts that cater to Dad’s interests.
In it, Barbara Streisand sang how people who need people were the luckiest people in the world. It was a hit song for the singer, but it also gave us some truths about how people truly do need one another. We’ve learned over the course of the last few years how being isolated and away from others can impact our overall well-being.
Being unable to socialize and connect with others took a hard toll on many of us, even the introverts to a degree. Even prior to the pandemic, there had been numerous studies about how despite all of our technological advances in being able to communicate, at least 17 per-
cent of the population struggled with feelings of loneliness and one researcher even called it a modern day epidemic.
Then we encountered a disruption to our everyday lives and those feelings of isolation were magnified. We didn’t have connection, we didn’t have interaction, and in our seclusion, we soon learned that it made life a bit harder simply because we didn’t have people around us.
Even though that isolation was meant as a means of selfpreservation, for many it proved harmful. In fact, loneliness can be detrimental to our overall health and wellbeing in many ways.
How loneliness hurts us
Before we dive into looking at how loneliness can affect our health, it’s important to also recognize the difference between being lonely and being alone. Loneliness can be the absence of connection to others or to things that give us that sense of belonging, care, and purpose.
Being alone can differ in that there may be more of a choice to be by oneself to use it as a time for reflection, solitude, and to recharge. Being alone is often not a lengthy period of time either, whereas loneliness may be prolonged.
Loneliness begins by affecting us on an emotional level, and from a whole-person perspective, we can see that spill over into other areas of our lives as well. Depression is a serious result, as when we’re depressed we tend to withdraw even further from things and people we love and that perpetuates the cycle.
As that depression grows, we may see ourselves gaining or losing weight, disruptions in our sleep cycles, and can lower our immune system, making us sicker as a result. We’ve heard of people dying from a broken heart, but perhaps there is some truth to that as loneliness does make our heart weaker.
Further impacts can include cognitive decline, increased cortisol (the stress hormone), which can also trigger inflammation that leads to other chronic health risks.
On a social level, when people are struggling with any of these concerns, it can make it hard to want to connect with others – even when that is what they may need the most. Interpersonal interactions may be challenging or strained, as most people do not want to admit they are lonely or that they are having a difficult time.
How to connect with others
Probably the most challenging step is reaching out to others and letting them know you’re feeling lonely. Maybe that’s what
Streisand meant when she sang that they are the luckiest people in the world; they knew they needed those connections and had people to reach out to.
Finding some social supports can be incredibly beneficial. If there are any interests or hobbies you enjoy, you can look to see if there are any local community groups that you can join. Church can be a great resource for support, too; even if you aren’t affiliated with a specific denomination, there may be some events or groups that are open to the public. Volunteering can be a great idea, as feeling and being needed can be very beneficial!
Having a pet can also help alleviate some of the effects of loneliness. Pets provide interaction and companionship, and knowing there is a little soul counting on you can give us purpose and meaning too.
And, if someone you know has maybe had a life change or circumstance that has caused them to be isolated lately –medical issues or even loss of spouse or partner are two big reasons that keep people homebound – try to check on them. Even a phone call can help them feel connected and help offset some of the loneliness.
It’s not just older populations who are lonely
While typically older populations are the most predominantly impacted by loneliness, younger people may feel isolated and disconnected as well. It’s easy to think they are interacting with friends because technology does make it easier, but it can also feel more isolating when someone isn’t responding –you may worry if you’ve been ‘ghosted.’
Finding ways to overcome loneliness can take time and compassion – we all need each other and those connections with others in so many ways.
Fish and other seafood may not be part of individuals’ normal dietary routines, which can lead to uncertainty regarding how to prepare and cook the ingredients they find at the supermarket or local fishmonger. These tips can set the course for success when cooking fish.
t Seafood should have a mild, fishy aroma. If it is overpowering, the fish may be spoiled. It’s acceptable to ask the person at the fish counter how long the fish has been there. In regions where fish must be transported inland great distances, it may be best to purchase frozen fish so it’s less likely to be past its prime.
t Most fish is cooked when the center is opaque and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Fish can be fried, poached, steamed, baked, or grilled.
t Baking fish is one of the easier methods to master, particularly if you’re prone to overcooking fish. Set the oven to 450 degrees to cook the fish fast and evenly. Thin fillets need around 8 minutes, while thicker cuts may require 15 to 20 minutes.
t Resist the urge to manipulate the fish too much; otherwise, it will fall apart since it is very delicate. Try to flip only once.
t Pat the fish dry before cooking, as extra moisture can cause the fish to steam instead of sear, resulting in a mushy final product.
t Choose the right fish for the recipe. For example, chowder or paella will require a sturdier fish, such as cod, while a more delicate fish will fall apart if simmered.
t If you want crispy skin on fish, start it in the pan with the skin side up. Afterwards when you flip the fillet, it will crisp nicely.
t Choosing a variety of seafood in a recipe might mean managing different cooking times. Investigate your ingredients and figure out when to add them to the mix. Shrimp or mussels, for example, cook rather quickly, so they tend to be added during the final phase.
t If you are frying fish, make sure not to overcrowd the pan so that the temperature remains consistent and will produce crispy results.
t Watch for bones. Some fish, including trout and salmon, have a double rib cage, and that means small pin bones. Remove the bones by pressing the flesh with your fingers and using a tweezer to grab the pin bones.
t For more professional flipping results, purchase a fish spatula, which can get underneath fillets without tearing them apart.
~Tim & Lindsay White
Cinco de Mayo is a great opportunity to dance, eat and make a little noise. Often some well-crafted cocktails help celebrants to shake off their inhibitions and make the party a bit more festive.
Many revelers may insist that no Cinco de Mayo celebration is complete without margaritas. In Spanish, margarita refers to a daisy flower.
Some believe that the margarita is a variation of the Daisy cocktail, which mixes citrus, orange liqueur, a spirit, and soda. Others attest that the margarita has always been its own unique drink, and was developed in the Mexican city of Acapulco when a Texas socialite combined blanco tequila with lime juice and Cointreau.
Tequila is a spirit made from the agave plant, a succulent that grows in arid climates, which are common in areas of Mexico. Agave produces a sweet nectar that some people use as a sugar substitute. Blue agave juice can be fermented and turned into tequila. Agave also makes other spirits, including mezcal, sotol, and baconara.
Everyone should know how to make a margarita, especially those who plan to host Cinco de Mayo events. This version, courtesy of Liquor.com, puts a unique and spicy spin on the flavor profile of margaritas.
t 1 lime wedge
t 2 jalapeno coins, seeds removed
t 2 ounces blanco tequila
t 1/2 ounce orange liqueur
t 1 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
t 1/2 ounce agave syrup
Optional: garnish rim with salt and jalapeno coin
Rub the rim of a rocks glass with lime wedge, dip the rim in salt to coat (if desired), and set aside. Add the jalapeno coins to a shaker and gently muddle. Add the blanco tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave syrup, plus ice, and shake until well-chilled. Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a jalapeno coin if desired.
At John Megel Chevrolet, we have an excellent selection of new and pre-owned vehicles. You can also enjoy the current financing specials and lease offers we have on all of the most popular Chevy models in the lineup. We pride ourselves in being the used car dealer that has options for almost every kind of driver and budget.
When you want to shop with a car dealer that cares about customer satisfaction, you should find your way to us. Over time, we have served the automotive needs of many customers who were looking to find a car dealership they could trust to offer a full-service experience.
