December 2015
News from the Hamilton Mill Community Association
Hamilton Mill Contact Information On the Cover: Photo compliments of Amerine Photography
FirstService Residential On-Site Property Management Ph: 678.546.3737 1669 Hamilton Mill Parkway, Dacula, GA 30019 Office Hours: M, W, F 9am-5pm; T & TH 9am-7pm Email: PropertyManager@Hmill.com Corporate Office
(for after-hours common area maintenance emergencies)
Customer Care Center: 877.411.1165 After Hours Emergency: 678.624.9453 1235 Old Alpharetta Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30005 Activities Department Email: hmillevents@gmail.com
from the board of
directors A Message from the Board
You are welcome to contact the Activities Office via email at hmillevents@gmail.com for information on planned events, schedule an appointment to view or reserve the clubroom and/ or conference room, or to RSVP for an event. Tennis Shop Ph: 770.945.6452 Jeff Dudacek: On-Site Tennis Pro Gwinnett Police Non-Emergency Ph: 770.513.5700
We will be electing four new members of the Board in January. The deadline to submit your application is December 9th, please consider running for an open seat. Further information is included in this newsletter. Board Meetings are open to members of the association and are welcomed. The December Hamilton Mill Board of Director meeting will be held on December 28, 2015 at 6:45pm. We hope to see you there.
Street Maintenance Contact Gwinnett County at 770.822.7474 to report a problem with street, curb or sidewalk.
Hamilton Mill Board of Directors
Amenity Card Replacement Hamilton Mill Amenity Cards are available to good-standing residents. Please call 678.546.3737 or 678.546.1597 to set up an appointment. Replacement cards/tenant cards are $25 each. Check or money order ONLY. No cash or credit cards accepted.
Hamilton Mill Board of Directors Jim Stephenson, President Liz Carter, Vice President Chris Jones, Treasurer Dale Robbins, Secretary JT Taylor, Member at Large Larry Still, Member at Large Tony Hinnant, Member at Large 2 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Mailbox Replacement/Repair All mailboxes must be the same as a Community-Wide Standard: STYLE 311K • Addresses of Distinction: Ph: 770.436.6198 www.aodmailboxes.com • Imperial Mailbox Systems: Ph: 800.647.0777 These are resources only, no recommendations or assurances are made by the Association.
Lost Dog/Cats/Animal Disturbances If you have lost your pet, please email the On-Site Property Management and they will be happy to email the community. Please also contact the Gwinnett County Animal Control at 770-513-5100 to report your lost pet or a dangerous pet is running loose.
Inside This Issue
Upcoming
Events Blood Drive December 2! ............................................... Page 24 Breakfast with Santa December 5! .............................................. Page 17 Angel Tree Gift Deadline December 11! ............................................... Page 14
inside this
Issue
Contact Information .................................... Page 2 Recipes ............................................................. Page 5 Helpful Numbers .......................................... Page 6 Community Calendar ................................. Page 8 Upcoming Events......................................... Page 9 Social News & Events.............................. Page 10 Groups and Clubs..................................... Page 16 Community Information.......................... Page 21 To advertise in the Hometown Herald, please contact Bobbie Gittens at North Georgia Community Marketing - a Division of The Times 770.535.6332 - bgittens@gainesvilletimes.com The Hometown Herald is a publication of The Times. Subject matter published is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher of this newsletter. Professional advice should be obtained before making any decision in which a professional is readily available. Advertisers assume responsibility for the content of the ads placed in publication. Material published may not be reproduced without the written permission of The Times. The information and advertisements contained in this Newsletter are provided for the members of the Hamilton Mill Homeowners Association as a courtesy only. No representations are made as to information presented, the quality of the goods or services advertised, or the veracity of the statements relating to the goods and services. The printing of opinions, information or advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the Neighborhood or such opinions, information, goods or services.
Tips................................................................... Page 26 Tennis News ................................................ Page 32 Kids Corner ................................................. Page 36 Local Events................................................ Page 44 Like Hamilton Mill, A Hometown on Facebook
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 3
Hamilton Mill Association News
Experience what sets us apart. Special Hamilton Mill Holiday s uniform lu p s e s s la c 4 r fo 5 2 $ the couch” “I’m Ready to get off Ages 6 to
• No Contracts • Family & Military Discounts • Classes taught by 4th Degree Master • Real Self Defense Techniques
770-335-8062
Our Newest Residents Shawn & Megan Lesko Ryan & Leslie Kowalske Byung Duk Joe Thomas & Carmela Laffaye Dwayne White
Become a Friend of Hamilton Mill! Like the Official Hamilton Mill Facebook page to stay up to date on the latest news and events! www.facebook.com/OfficialHamiltonMill
4 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Hamilton Mill Association News
Gingerbread Men or Reindeer! ”Hansel and Gretel would have loved them.....” Ingredients 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup white sugar Directions
1/2 cup shortening 1 egg 1 cup molasses 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 1/2 teaspoons warm water
1. In large bowl, cream shortening, sugar, egg and warmed molasses. Dissolve baking soda in warm water and add to egg mixture. Beat until smooth. Mix in flour, spices and salt until well blended. Cover and chill for 24 hours. 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease cookie sheets. Roll out dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch on a floured surface. Cut out gingerbread men using cookie cutters and place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets. 3. Bake 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven, or until firm. Let cool on wire racks. 4. Decorate with your favorite icing and candies.
Panettone Bread Pudding Recipe courtesy of Ina Garten Total Time: 2 hr 25 min Prep: 20 min Inactive: 25 min Cook: 1 hr 40 min Yield: 6 to 8 servings Level: Intermediate
Ingredients 1 Italian panettone, about 1.2 pounds Unsalted butter, for greasing the dish 3 extra-large whole eggs 8 extra-large egg yolks 5 cups half-and-half 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract 1/2 cup sugar 1/3 cup sliced almonds
Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 1. Trim the dark brown outer crust from the panettone (optional). Cut the rest of the loaf in 1-inch cubes and place on a sheet pan in a single layer. Toast the panettone for 10 minutes, until lightly browned. 2. Grease a 9 by 12 by 2-inch baking dish with the butter. Place the panettone cubes in the baking dish. 3. In a large bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, half-and-half, vanilla and almond extracts and sugar. Pour this custard mixture over the panettone. Set aside for 10 minutes so the bread soaks up the custard. Scatter the sliced almonds over the top of the pudding. 4. Place the baking dish into a larger pan and add very hot tap water to the larger pan until it’s halfway up the side of the baking dish. Cover the larger pan with aluminum foil, tenting the foil so it doesn’t touch the pudding. Cut a few holes in the foil to allow steam to escape. Bake the pudding for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 40 to 45 more minutes, until the custard is set and the top of the pudding is light golden brown. Allow to cool for 15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 5
Helpful Numbers Government Services
Emergency ............................................................................ 911 Police Headquarters............................................... 770.513.5000 Non Emergency...................................................... 770.513.5700 Gwinnett Sheriff/Jail................................................ 770.619.6500 County Courthouse................................................. 770.822.8000 Dacula City Hall...................................................... 770.963.7451 Dacula Post Office.................................................. 770.962.4390 Poison Control........................................................ 404.616.9000 Fire Headquarters................................................... 678.518.5018 Station 18............................................................... 678.518.5018 Tag Office............................................................... 770.822.8801 Drivers License Services........................................ 770.995.6855 Property Tax........................................................... 770.822.8800 Voter Registration................................................... 770.226.7210 Animal Control........................................................ 770.339.3200 Gwinnett Senior Services....................................... 770.822.8850 Utilities
BFI Waste Management......................................... 678.963.2800 Water Resources.................................................... 770.376.6800 Buford Gas............................................................. 770.945.6761 Jackson EMC/Street Light Outage......................... 770.963.6166 Charter Communications........................................ 678.410.9362 AT&T....................................................................... 800.436.8638 Direct Satellite/Dish Network.................................. 678.714.1495 For a complete listing of Gwinnett County Departments, please visit www.gwinnettcounty.com/portal/gwinnett/Departments
Calling All Entries
Do you have an interesting article or picture about Hamilton Mill? If so we would love to know about it! Please send resident articles or information to Activities@Hmill.com for consideration for our next edition. 6 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Public Schools
Puckett’s Mill Elementary School........................... 678.765.5110 www.pmseonline.org Osborne Middle School.......................................... 770.904.5400 www.gwinnett.k12/ha.us/OsborneMS.home.org Millcreek High School............................................. 678.714.5850 www.millcreekhighschool.org Dacula High School................................................ 770.963.6664 www.daculahs.org Private Schools
Hebron Christian Academy..................................... 770.962.5423 Dacula Classical Academy..................................... 678.377.0080 Dominion Classical Christian Academy..................770-338-7945 Sugar Hill Christian Academy.................................678-745-4121 Greater Atlanta Christian........................................770-243-2258 Hospitals/Urgent Care
Gwinnett Medical Center.......................................... 77.995.4321 Northeast Georgia Medical Center......................... 770.219.9000 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.............................404.150.KIDS Northeast Georgia Urgent Care.............................. 770.848.6195 Recreation
Hamilton Mill Activities Office.................................... 77.546.1597 Community After Hours emergency........................ 404.835.9100 Millcreek Athletic Association................................millcreekaa.net Dacula Soccer................................................. dscrevolution.com Bogan Park (for reservations at any park).............. 678.227.0850 Gwinnett County Public Library.............................. 770.978.5154 Gwinnett County Cultural Center............................ 770.813.7500 Lake Lanier Islands...............................................800.840.LAKE Road Atlanta......................................................... 800.849.RACE
Now Offering: Non-Surgical Gastric Balloon at a Low Introductory Rate GMC’s Center for Weight Management understands that dieting and exercise alone aren’t the answer for every person. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical and non-surgical options to help you take back your health and keep it. Our latest offering, the non-surgical ORBERA Balloon procedure, is a six-month weight loss program designed for those who do not qualify for bariatric surgery or do not want a surgical solution to weight loss. Learn more at gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/balloon, or call 678-312-6200.
This is Gwinnett Medical Center. This is now.
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 7
8 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Monday
14
21
28 6:45pm Board Meeting
13
20
27
8
1
29
22
6:00PM Choi Kwang Do First Day of Winter
15
4:00PM Art with Wendy 6:00PM Choi Kwang Do 7:30PM Ballroom Dancing
4:00PM Art with Wendy 6:00PM Choi Kwang Do 7:30PM Ballroom Dancing
4:00PM Art with Wendy 6:00PM Choi Kwang Do 7:30PM Ballroom Dancing
Tuesday
30
23
16
9
2
1:00PM-7:00PM Blood Drive
Wednesday
3
31
24
17 6:00PM Choi Kwang Do
10
6:00PM Choi Kwang Do
6:00PM Choi Kwang Do
Thursday
Friday
5
Boxing Day Kwanzaa Begins
26
19 11:00AM Choi Kwang Do
12 11:00AM Choi Kwang Do
11:00AM Choi Kwang Do 9:00AM to 12:00PM Breakfast with Santa
Saturday
Meetings Swim Team
_______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
Notes
25
18
11
4
5:00PM Deadline to submit Angel Tree Gifts
Join us for any of the listed events RSVP to Hmillevents@gmail.com!
7
7:00PM Tennis Committee Meeting Hanukkah Begins Sundown
6
______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
Notes
Sunday
2015
December Fitness/Class Camps Social Events
Calendar Sponsored by: Gwinnett Medical Center See ad on page 7
Hamilton Mill Social News & Events
Upcoming Events Great opportunities for fun! dec
2
Blood Drive
look for more upcoming events in the next issue! dec
5
dec
Angel Tree
Breakfa with Sa st nta
11
Watch for these event announcements, additional details and more exciting opportunities, including RSVP deadlines, via email blast, facebook and online at www.hmill.com
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 9
Hamilton Mill Social news & Events
FALL FESTIVAL, SO FUN! by Mark LaClaire, Activities Director
Once again, the Social Committee put on one heck of a SPOOKtacular event. Happy Halloween and Happy Fall, Y’all! If you missed it, here’s a recap! You won’t want to miss it next year! So fun! The event was moved to the clubhouse and playground area due to the rain earlier in the week, but we really lucked out with the weather the day of the event! The dry overcast haze really put us all in the Halloween mood! The neighborhood kids showed up in costumes to play games, eat popcorn and have their faces painted! Let’s break it down… Back by popular demand, the PETTING ZOO was a huge hit with all kinds of cuddly animals to snuggle with (even a big alpaca)! Then, it was a short stroll to the basketball court where we had 2 huge BOUNCY CASTLES and an INFLATABLE OBSTACLE COURSE! While you were there you could test your skill with 5 CARNIVAL GAMES WITH PRIZES, including a SPEED PITCH game! Cool! But that is not all! The kids loved to get their FACES PAINTED and receive BALLOON ANIMALS FROM BUBBA while they waited for mom and dad to get them their FREE PIZZA, SODAS, WATER, & POPCORN! Yum! If that was not enough, the kids (and parents) could take pictures with any of our DISNEY PRINCESSES (including ELSA FROM FROZEN) roaming the event greeting the kids! The grown-ups had fun too, getting some early holiday shopping in from the VENDORS, including 10 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
D C H W C k
Hamilton Mill Social news & Events Discovery Kids Toys, Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple, Thirty-One, Handmade Arts & Crafts and more! We even had children’s author Nancy Craddock onsite signing books for the kiddos. What a terrific day for all!
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 11
Hamilton Mill Social news & Events
Ballroom Basics Beginner Ballroom Dance Lessons have arrived at Hamilton Mill! Dancing is a wonderful activity that will benefit your mind, body and soul
Group Lessons, Couples or Singles $12 per person per class
Tuesdays 7:30pm, Lakeview Conference Room (New Classes Opening)
Instructor: Angie Flowers 770.361.5154 • aflowersga@earthlink.net
Many years of dance in the ballroom and experienced performer Arther Murray (Biloxi, MS) Fred Astaire (Marietta, GA) Coached by Maksim Chmerkovskiy (top) and Tony Dovolani (bottom) of Dancing with the Stars
IMPROVE HEALTH, PRODUCTIVITY & FITNESS SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF GETTING FIT AND TRAINING WITH CHOI KWANG DO: Practical Self Defense Self-Confidence Respect for Others Balance & Coordination Focus and Discipline Weight Loss/Firming Stress-Relief and Release Increased Attention Span Increased Listening Skills Leadership Skills Better Muscle Tone Improved Posture Increased Flexibility A Non-Quitter Spirit Positive Attitude Optimum Health
Lakeview Clubhouse Main Activity Room CHILDREN: TUESDAY & THURSDAY 6:00-7:00PM ADULTS: TUESDAY & THURSDAY 6:00-8:00PM FAMILIES: SATURDAY 11:00AM-12:30PM
Choi Kwang Do Martial Art International’s aim is to improve the health, productivity, fitness and quality of life of its members. CKD is a martial art based on scientific truth, rather than mysticism. We continually evolve as a martial art and exercise program with a continued commitment to incorporate science for the benefit of the practitioner and mankind. Individuals training at our school focus on achieving optimum health and wellness while learning practical self defense techniques. Classes are taught in a friendly, family-orientated atmosphere and in a fun and easy to learn manner. The development of character and mental strength based on CKD’s principles is considered the most important overall goal in our training along with the attainment of proper techniques.
PERFECT FOR BACK TO SCHOOL, Single Student Monthly Rate: $79 BUILD ATTENTION SKILLS Family (2 or more) Monthly Rate: $100 Chief Insructor for Hamilton Mill CKD program is
Uniforms are $40, Protective Equipment $20 Hands, $20 Feet ($40 set)
Jerry Hughes, a 16 year resident of Hamilton Mill
To Register, Call 678-636-9779 • www.hamiltonmillckd.com 12 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
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December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 13
Hamilton Mill Social news & Events
Hamilton Mill 2015 Angel Tree For the past several years, we’ve been lucky enough to help the Gwinnett Department of Family and Children Services by offering to brighten the lives of foster children through our Angel Tree. This year we’ve adopted 15 children from the Gwinnett foster system who are counting on us to make their holidays a little merrier. Without your thoughtfulness, the disappointments, hurt and frustrations that they’ve already suffered would simply be reinforced rather than hopefully set aside for just one day. Let’s make Christmas the most memorable day of 2015 for these children. Here’s how can you help! Stop by the Lakeview clubhouse and pick one or more gifts off the tree. Each angel on the tree represents one gift for one child. These children have many needs (such as clothes, shoes and underwear), but they also have many wishes. They do not receive special gifts throughout the year, so we encourage you to band with your neighbors to purchase some of the larger priced items on the tree. Each child has only been given to Hamilton Mill and will not receive gifts other than those purchased off the tree. When you choose your angel, fill out the coordinating slip with your name and turn it in to the office so we can track which gifts have been selected. All gifts are due to the office no later than Friday, December 11 at 5:00. When you purchase your gift, please request a gift receipt. Gift receipts will be given to foster parents in case exchanges are needed. Also, don’t forget the batteries for any toys! We are so thankful to live in such a wonderful community filled with so many giving and generous neighbors. Happy holidays to you and your family. For questions, email hmillevents@gmail.com.
14 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Let
e c a e P there be h
on Eart
Let peace begin with me Let this be the moment now. With every step I take Let this be my solemn vow. To take each moment And live each moment With peace eternally.
Seasons Greetings!
Calling All Resident Business Owners!! Do you own a small business? are you looking for new ways to get your business name out there?
The social committee would love to talk to you about opportunities to sponsor upcoming neighborhood events! Several different opportunities and sponsorship levels are available! Space is limited, so reach out to us today! Contact Activities for more information: hmillevents@gmail.com We look forward to hearing from you!
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 15
Hamilton Mill Social News & Events
groups Clubs
Get Involved.
Hamilton Mill Singles group Call or email Dixie Leslie for more information. Ages 50+ ...................................................................... Call: 678-517-8509 .........................................Email: dleslie_1@bellsouth.net Interested in a Singles group for the under 50 crowd? This group needs a coordinator! If you’re interested, email activites@hmill.com.
Running Club Call or email Beth McCurdy or check our their very active facebook page, “Hamilton Mill Road Runners” ...................................................................... Call: 770-846-6731 .......................................... Email: beth262@bellsouth.net WOW Car Club of Hamilton Mill Email Ron Noreen for more information, or visit them online at www.wowcarclubhm.com ......................................... Email: RNOREEN@bellsouth.net Women’s Community Bible Study Meetings are Wednesdays at 10am and Thursdays at 7pm. Email: .......................... Liz Martinez at lizsnest@comcast.net
Empty Nest Ladies Lunch Group We are a group of 50+ women who get together once a month for lunch at an area restaurant. If you are interested in joining us or have questions please send an email to Anne Brown: anneb2123@gmail.com.
Topics Include:
Please join us
• Top 3 reasons diabetics get worse with time • A unique clinical approach that allows the diabetes to reverse • Is your treatment causing you to get worse over time? • Common drugs that may cause you to actually get worse
Tuesday, Dec. 8th Tuesday, Oct. 13th 6:00pm 6:00pm
Formerly Lawrence Chiropractic Center
Presented by Dr. Natalie Lawrence, D.C. Please RSVP to (770) 237-5534 – Reservation Required Call to Reserve Your Seat, Call from 10am - 6pm Feel free to bring one (1) guest. Seating is extremely limited Type II Diabetic Adults Only.
16 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Dr. Natalie Lawrence, D.C.
Hamilton Mill Social News & Events
Saturday December 5TH, 9AM-12PM
Breakfast with Santa
Lakeview Clubhouse FREE with RSVP!
Santa has agreed to stop in Hamilton Mill on his way up to the North Pole… WOO HOO! He will be visiting the neighborhood several times in December (more on that later), but he will also visit the kids at the Lakeview Clubhouse! On December 5th at 9:00am, Santa Claus is making a visit to the Hamilton Mill Lakeview Clubhouse to have breakfast with the kids! Santa will be reading a classic Holiday tale, but that’s not all…Santa will be taking photos with all the good little boys and girls. So dress up and get those holiday photos of the kids! There will be plenty of yummy stuff to eat, including cereal, donut holes, pastries, healthy breakfast treats, milk, juice and coffee. Get your picture taken, mingle and get ready for Santa to read a classic holiday story! We will also have some kid games, activities and crayons at the tables to keep the kids busy and entertained. How fun! So, round up the little ones and RSVP now to see the big guy himself, Santa! We have also asked Santa to visit your neighborhoods this year. He and Mrs. Claus will drive around and hand out candy canes to kids in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Watch your email for information on that later. Woo hoo! OH, AND DON’T FORGET…It’s the time of year when we need to think of those less fortunate than us. When you come to see Santa on December 5th, we ask you to bring a donation for the Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church Food Pantry. Some of the items needed most are cereal, applesauce, canned vegetables, instant potatoes, vegetable oil, diapers, toothpaste, rice, peanut butter, toothbrushes, soap and spaghetti sauce. Visit http://hmumc.org/serve/our-community/ for a full list. OK, LAST THING! PLEASE RSVP as we do not want to run out of food and candy canes for all who come. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 17
Hamilton Mill Social News & Events
Things To Do In December
Atlanta sparkles with traditional and delightful holiday events that fill the air with anticipation and excitement for the season to come. Enjoy iconic Atlanta Christmas events in addition to discovering what’s new this season. The possibilities are endless with so many things to do in Atlanta at Christmas time. Start making your plans today! Magical Christmas Shows & Parade Start your holiday season in Atlanta with the lighting of Macy’s Great Tree at Lenox Square, and while you’re there, take a ride on Macy’s Pink Pig. Add in the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s series of holiday concerts and the Children’s Christmas Parade and your list is already spilling off the page. Christmas Events Light up the Night Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden features more than one million colorful lights. It joins other beloved Atlanta Christmas events such as the Lighting of Atlantic Station, Festival of the SEAson at Georgia Aquarium and many more. Holiday Lights Abound in Atlanta Other holiday light extravaganzas include Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens, A Stone Mountain Christmas, Holiday in Lights at Centennial Olympic Park and Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier Islands. There’s something for everyone this holiday season in Atlanta! A Coca-Cola Christmas Celebration World of Coca Cola 11/21/2015 – 12/25/2015 Pemberton Place is decked out for the holidays in life-sized ornaments, holiday lights, and more. 18 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
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Hamilton Mill Social News & Events
Festival of Season at the Georgia Aquarium Georgia Aquarium 11/21/2015 – 12/25/2015 The Festival of SEAson at the Georgia Aquarium features the Holidazzle light and music show, the Scuba Claus dive show, the Symphony of Snow, and more! Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain Park 11/21/2015 – 2/28/2016 Frolic across five snowy football fields, build snowmen, and careen down the 400-foot hill in a snow tube! Plus, throw a snowball or two at Stone Mountain Park’s Snow Mountain! Garden Lights in the Atlanta Botanical Garden Atlanta Botanical Garden 11/14/2015 – 1/9/2016 The Atlanta Botanical Garden lights up for the holidays. This year, be dazzled by the Tunnel of Light, Orchestral Orbs, and Radian Rainforest. Winter Wonderland Celebration at Fernbank Fernbank Museum of Natural History 11/21/2015 – 12/19/2015 Join us every Saturday at Fernbank between 11/21 and 12/19 to celebrate the winter holidays. We’ll explore Christmas, Hanukkah and the Festival of Lights, along with many other holiday traditions. Holiday Lights Spectacular at Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta Motor Speedway 11/27/2015 – 12/30/2015 Atlanta Motor Speedway transforms into one of the area’s largest Christmas light parks! Featuring carnival rides, Santa’s Village, and over three million lights. For more ideas, visit http://www.atlanta.net/events/seasonal/christmas/
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 19
ART with Y D N E W HAMILTON MILL CLUBHOUSE AFTER SCHOOL CLASSES 6 WEEKS FOR $70 Tuesdays th December 1st through 15
Pre-K (ages 4 and 5) from 4:00pm - 4:30pm Elementary from 4:30pm - 5:30pm ek. Your child will take home a picture each we as markers, We will use a variety of mediums ... such als. watercolors, oil pastels, chalks and charco Make checks to Wendy Whitehead ithwendy@gmail.com Call Wendy at 770-963-3851 or Email artw Student’s Name:___________________________ Age:_________ Home Phone Number:_____________________________________ Cell Phone Number:______________________________________ Email Address:___________________________________________ Emergency Contact Name:_________________________________ Emergency Phone Number:________________________________ Allergies:_______________________________________________ Parents Signature:________________________________________ 20 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Hamilton Mill COMMUNITY INFORMATION
Grounds & Facilities Update
Grounds and Facilities has been working very hard this year prioritizing updates for the neighborhood. There have been many complaints about the flowers and the lack thereof. We hope everyone is happy with the present installation. Glenaire view now has a flowerbed, we are working at adding flowers back to the Parkside/Millwater intersection. Irrigation is a huge issue for us and if you presently do not have flowers at an entrance this is why. This is not an easy or quick or inexpensive fix, but we are working on it. Millwater at Hog Mtn Rd will get irrigation next spring. Entrance upgrades are being prioritized, presently Greenside and Fairway Bend are being done. We have many Leylands in the community that have outgrown their spaces, some of these will be taken down and replaced with more appropriate sized evergreens, Greenside will get Nellie Stevens hollies. These hollies are just beautiful, growth rate is moderate to quick and they can be kept trimmed. We hope everyone will be happy the refurbishments. The cherry trees along the parkway were just replaced. Over the years we lost some due to disease and the dreaded cars. Yoshino cherries were planted and the tree line straightened. Star magnolias along the soccer field were also replaced that we lost due to the drought a few years ago. Pine straw installation will begin the week after Thanksgiving. Hamilton Mill always waits for as many leaves as possible to be down before beginning.
Gwinnett County has installed sidewalks in a few areas of the neighborhood and our irrigation system is being reinstalled in many of those areas this year. Again Millwater at Hog Mountain is presently scheduled for the spring. Grounds and Facilities always welcomes new members. The minutes from our committee are always available on hmill.com and CONNECT. They are published one month after the meeting once the committee has approved. If you ever have any questions go to hmill.com, committee tab, grounds and facilities tab and you will find a link to fill out a form that comes to us. Thanks.
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 21
Hamilton Mill COMMUNITY INFORMATION
Calling all Homeowners! HMHOA Board Election
Request for Applicants to Run for HMHOA Board Election Deadline is December 9, 2015 All homeowners have an important stake in maintaining and improving the quality of life in our Hamilton Mill community. Each resident has a wonderful opportunity to advance the best interests of our community by running for a seat on the Board of Directors. Serving on the Board will allow you to have direct involvement on the issues that impact our neighborhood. Please consider the following reasons why you should consider running for the Board of Directors: 1) Giving Back to the Community - making sound decisions that have a positive impact on everyone. 2) Neighbors Serving Neighbors - extending your circle of influence through other residents on the Board. 3) Leading and Learning - enlightening your knowledge and understanding of by-laws, finances, and budgeting. 4) Protecting Property Values - improving the quality of life and enhancing property values. 5) Pipeline for Correcting Concerns - addressing issues, problems and concerns that need leadership attention. Tackling Association tasks can be fun and exciting as you work with neighbors to generate creative ideas that make our community a better place to live, work and play. Ask yourself if you have the following qualities: 1. Time and interest to serve your community 2. Ability to play fair and be consistent 3. Values of honesty and unselfishness 4. Willingness to share, collaborate and delegate appropriately. 5. A thick skin that allows you to embrace change and adaptation. If you have these qualities, please contact Melissa Parker by email or in person at the Lakeview Clubhouse. If you do NOT have the time to serve as a Board member, please consider getting involved as a volunteer for one of our HOA committees. We look forward to hearing from you by December 9th! Hamilton Mill HOA Board of Directors 22 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
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Hamilton Mill COMMUNITY INFORMATION
Board Member Duties and Responsibilities Officer Rolls and Descriptions Greetings Owners and Future Board Members! Currently, four members of the current board are up for re-election. The duties and responsibilities of a board member are intensive and require a great deal of time, dedication, and knowledge on the workings of the community. In addition, a clear understanding of the association’s covenants, restrictions, bylaws, and a working knowledge of the association’s finances, insurance requirements, and contract obligations for the vendors that work for the association will be required. Below is an overview of what roll you will play as a future board member. Please read the information below carefully and take all the information into consideration before considering a position on the Board of Directors. Thank you and best of luck in your decision!! Officers of the Association: The association acts through its officers and agents. The board of directors makes the policies for the association, but the officers and agents carry out these policies and administrative functions for the community. Some of the officers are clerical while others carry out substantive functions based on policies established by the board of directors. All of the officers have an affirmative obligation to act with utmost good faith towards the association and cannot deal in the funds or the property of the association to their own self advantage. Each association typically has a president, secretary, and treasurer and may have one or more vice presidents. However, an association may officially conduct its business with fewer officers than these, depending upon the laws of a given state. PRESIDENT The president of an association is vested with all the powers generally given to the chief executive officer of a corporation. While specific by-law provisions may vary the president’s duties, it is generally presumed that he or she will preside at all meetings of the board and the membership. The president will execute contracts, orders and other documents in the name of the association as its agent. When signing documents, the president should indicate the capacity in which he or she is signing in order to avoid any personal liability since the president’s signature, under most circumstances, will bind the association under a doctrine of inherent powers. The president also assumes general charge of the day-to-day administration of the association and has the authority to order specific actions in furtherance of the board’s policies. The president serves as spokesman for the board of directors in most matters relating to general association business. Like all officers of the association, the president has an affirmative duty to carry out the responsibilities of the office in the best interests of the association. Unless otherwise specified in governing documents, the president serves at the will of the board of directors and can be removed with or without cause at any time by a majority of the full board.
responsible for coordinating the development of the proposed annual budget and for preparing and giving the annual financial report on the financial status of the association. The treasurer does not have the authority to bind the association or the board of directors in dealings with third parties unless the board has provided express authority for the treasurer to do so. As with the association’s secretary, the treasurer does not have to perform the day-to-day record keeping functions of the association when this responsibility is transferred to a management company, but the treasurer will ultimately be responsible for insuring that the financial records of the association have been maintained properly in accordance with sound accounting practices. Fiduciary Relationship and Responsibility The members of the board of directors and each officer of the association have a fiduciary relationship with the members of the association. This fiduciary relationship imposes obligations of trust and confidence in favor of the corporation and its members. It requires the members of the board to act in good faith and in the best interests of the members of the association. It means that board members must exercise due care and diligence when acting for the community, and it requires them to act within the scope of their authority. The fact that the association is a not-for-profit corporation, or that the members of the board are volunteers and unpaid, does not relieve them from the high standards of trust and responsibility that the fiduciary relationship requires. When a member accepts a position on the board of directors, he or she is presumed to have knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of a board member. Board members cannot be excused from improper action on the grounds of ignorance or inexperience and liability of board members for negligence and mismanagement exists in favor of the association and the property owners. Each board member must recognize the fiduciary relationship and the responsibilities that the board has to the association and each of its members. The board’s duties must be performed with the care and responsibility that an ordinary prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances, and the ultimate responsibilities of these unique positions cannot be delegated to a manager, a management company or other third party.
SECRETARY The secretary of the association is responsible for keeping and maintaining a record of all meetings of the board and the membership and is the custodian for most of the official records of the association. The position of secretary is not simply a clerical position. As the custodian for the minutes and other official records of the association, the secretary is responsible for insuring access to those records by the members of the association and their authorized representatives.
A Recap of the Board Member’s Role: Acting through the board as a whole, a board member should: • Enforce the documents • Establish sound fiscal policies and maintain accurate records • Develop a workable budget, keeping in mind the needs, requirements and expectations of the community • Establish reserve funds • Act on budget items and determine assessment rates • Collect assessments • Establish, publicize, and enforce rules and penalties • Authorize legal action against owners who do not comply with the rules • Review local laws before passing rules or sending bylaws to membership for approval • Appoint committees and delegate authority to them • Select an attorney, an auditor, insurance agent and other professionals for the association • Provide adequate insurance coverage, as required by the bylaws and local governmental agencies • Inform board members of all business items that require their vote • Inform members of important board decisions and transactions • See that the association is protected for the acts of all parties with fiscal responsibilities • Attend and participate at meetings
TREASURER The treasurer is the custodian of the funds, securities and financial records of the association. When the association has a manager or Management Company that actually handles the funds on a daily basis, the treasurer’s duties will include overseeing the appropriate people to insure that the financial records and reports are properly kept and maintained. Unless the by-laws otherwise specify, the treasurer is
Operating a homeowner association carries with it many of the very same duties and responsibilities as overseeing any other business. Serving as a board member is a valuable and rewarding experience that should be undertaken by those who see it as an opportunity to serve their fellow neighbors while protecting and enhancing the assets of the community. It is serious business, but also a task worth doing well in order to safeguard the investments of all.
VICE PRESIDENT The vice-president is vested with all the powers which are required to perform the duties of the association president in the absence of the president. The vice president does not automatically possess inherent powers to act in the capacity of the chief executive officer, and may act for the president only when the president is actually absent or otherwise unable to act. The vice-president may assume such additional duties as are defined by the board of directors. Often, the vice-president will chair one or more substantive committees like that of architectural review.
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 23
Hamilton Mill COMMUNITY INFORMATION
Call for Volunteers! Do you want to be involved in helping keep Hamilton Mill a wonderful place to live? Have you ever thought about serving on the Board of Directors? Don’t have time to serve on the Board? How about a Committee? We need your help. This coming January 2016, our community will be electing 4 individuals to serve as members of the Associations Board of Directors. Come October, your current Board of Directors will be calling for candidates to submit their resumes for the upcoming election. Please start thinking about this opportunity, for yourself or someone you know who would have the time and passion to help our community. We are also looking for members to serve in one of the following committees: Grounds & Facilities Social Modifications Communications Tennis Pool Swim
for a Board or Committee
If you would like to volunteer on one of the above committees, please let a member of the Board of Directors or a Committee Chair know. Thank you!
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BLOOD DRIVE
Wednesday, December 2 1:00pm to 7:00pm Lakeview Clubhouse To schedule an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code: HAMMILL Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RedCross today to schedule an appointment. Individuals who are 17 year of age (16 with parental permission in most states), meet height and weight requirements (110 lbs. or more depending on their height), and are in generally good health may be able to donate blood. Please bring your Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID when you come to donate.
24 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
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Hamilton Mill COMMUNITY INFORMATION By Liz Carter
Honor our Veterans
Last month we celebrated Veterans Day with speeches and parades. But I ask the question, “Why do we have just a single day to honor the men and women who served this country?” The sacrifices that these individuals, along with their families, willingly took upon themselves deserve more than a single holiday. Each and everyday we should honor and show gratitude to those who served. Here are just a few ways to show your gratitude: Strike up a conversation with a veteran. There is a large cultural gap between Americans who have no relationship with the Armed Forces and those who’ve served their country. It’s time we close that gap. Every veteran has a unique story. Their military service has probably shaped them in profound ways, but that service is not who they are in totality. Check your assumptions “Veterans are very often stereotyped into two stock characters: the crying wounded or the guy who jumps the White House fence to get the President,” said Paul Rieckhoff, the executive director of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, a national nonprofit with more than 200,000 members. “Don’t treat us like victims,” said Reickhoff. “We’re not broken. We’ve been through a lot, but we’re rising out of it.” Don’t assume you know their story or what they’ve been through. Take the time to talk and get to know them. Volunteer with veterans’ programs Get involved. Go beyond a simple conversation and volunteer. Figure out what you do best and offer that skill. Here are ways you can help: • Visit a wounded veteran at the hospital. • Offer your home repair skills to a veteran or military family. • Create an online neighborhood user group that can be used to share information about neighborhood activities, recommend reliable repair companies, and find babysitters. An online group may also help identify the needs of your neighbors. • Deliver a meal or care packages to veterans. • Help a veteran tell their story through a project such as the Veteran’s History Project. You can download a VHP field kit from the Library of Congress website. • Volunteer with an organization, such as Canine Companions for Independence, that provide therapy dogs to veterans. • Offer a vet a ride or volunteer with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization, which provides free transportation to men and women unable to travel to VA medical facilities on their own. • Organizations need volunteers. Here are just a few you may be interested in – Operation Homefront, TAPS, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Fisher House Foundation, and Wounded Warrior Project. If you don’t have time, look into donating clothing, food, or money. • Have your children write thank you notes or care packages to our troops and mail them. Contact our local VA Hospital on needs or visit adoptaplatoon.org for details for those who currently serve. • Say “Thank you.” Teach your children about the sacrifices these individuals have given and why they should be honored. By honoring our Veterans, we also honor the men and women who currently serve. Without these brave individuals, we would not have the freedom and liberties this great nation has. This Holiday Season, and everyday, go beyond the “Thank you for your service!”
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 25
Hamilton Mill Tips
11 Easy Holiday Decorating Tips from Top Bloggers Style a Centerpiece with Branches “Tall berry-covered branches bring the wintry outdoors in…and don’t require the skills of a floral designer.” – Camille Styles, camillestyles.com
Incorporate a Vintage Element “Bringing in really special vintage moments will instantly bring warmth to your space. Think mismatched antique silverware, worn silver trays, and aged baskets filled with wool blankets.” – Abby Larson, stylemepretty.com
Mix Up Color “Try mixing things up with a new color palette that offers a refreshing change from the traditional holiday color schemes that we’re so used to seeing. Instead of focusing on autumnal colors for Thanksgiving, try classic blue and white. And for a whimsical take on conventional Christmas colors, try pink and teal with silver metallic accents instead!” – Nicole Gibbons, sohautestyle.com Go Seasonal “When dressing the holiday table, think seasonal rather than holiday-specific. Pair jewel-toned linens with traditional decorative accents such as a miniature pine or rosemary tree. When the style is festive and wintery, you don’t have to worry about taking it down on December 26th!” – Mandy Kellogg Rye, waitingonmartha.com
Mix Styles “I love juxtaposing natural elements with a little sparkle. And I am not afraid to spray paint something to highlight a pretty form, such as this pair of iron reindeer candelabras that received a metallic makeover!” – Danielle Rollins, danielledrollins.com
26 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Hamilton Mill Tips Find Your Color Story “For holiday decorating, color is key! Sticking to a palette of two to three colors makes decorating easy and the end result looks perfectly put together.” – Kelly Slott, fabulouskstyle.com
Try a Seasonal Scent “There’s nothing like the scent of the holiday season. The Holiday Classic Candle from Nest always gets us in the holiday spirit.” – Sally and Molly Miller, apieceoftoastblog.com
Create a Ornament Cluster “Tying the perfect bow on a wreath can be challenging, so opt for a modern ornament cluster instead. Attach a group of ribbons to the hook or the nail at the wreath’s top, then hang ornaments at varying lengths for a simple and stylish look.” – Kristin Jackson, huntedinterior.com
Go Overboard with Candles “Always, always, use candlelight as much as you can. It is so much more flattering. I love to make clusters around buffet areas, the bar, and on side tables. It makes the atmosphere especially cozy!” – Lauren Saylor, afabulousfeteblog.com Decorate With Fresh, Seasonal Elements “Use seasonal goods such as cinnamon sticks, Satsuma oranges, pomegranates, or olive branches to add a festive touch to your holiday dinner place settings. The cinnamon sticks can double as cider stirrers for later in the evening!” – Jacin Fitzgerald, lovelylittledetails.com Double a Party Favor as Décor “Hang snowflake ornaments with silver ribbon on an outdoor tree or entryway to create a floating winter wonderland. As the event winds down, let each guest choose an ornament on their way out to enjoy as the party favor.” – Krystal Schlegel, krystalschlegel.com
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 27
Hamilton Mill Tips
Fend Off The Flu
It’s the holidays, affectionately known as the most wonderful time of the year. It’s also the time of the year for runny noses, chills, fever and cough – typical cold and flu symptoms. When celebrating with family, the last thing you want is to give or receive an illness. Here are a few tips to avoid those pesky germs, and, if you have them, how to keep from giving them to someone else: EAT A HEALTHY AND BALANCED DIET. Maintaining proper nutrition may be one of your best defenses against sickness, as it can help boost your immune system. Fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates and protein should make up the majority of your diet.
WASH YOUR HANDS. And teach your kids to do it, too. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should wash for at least 20 seconds – as long as it takes to sing the chorus of “Jingle Bells.” If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer; it’s not a substitute, but it’s better than nothing. AVOID SICK PEOPLE. If a family member, a friend or a co-worker is sick, steer clear. Close contact with sick individuals increases your chances of getting sick, too. If you happen to be around someone who is sick, be sure to wash your hands frequently. IF YOU ARE SICK, STAY HOME AND GO TO THE DOCTOR IF NECESSARY You won’t win a medal for going to work or shopping while under the weather. If your sickness persists, see a physician to determine whether it’s a cold, a sinus infection or the flue. There may be treatment available. And most important, drink lots of fluids and get some rest.
The New Signature of Assisted Living & Memory Care is coming to Hamilton Mill! Join our waiting list to become a member of the Arbor Terrace Founders’ Club today! 28 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
3581 Braselton Hwy, Dacula, GA 30019 (770) 999-0421 • www.at-hamiltonmill.com
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Hamilton Mill Tips
FIRE-WORKS SAFETY New Year’s Eve is a fun time to celebrate the start of another year. But thousands of Americans, many of them children, are injured annually in incidents associated with fire-works, according to the National Council of Fireworks Safety. If you plan to celebrate with your own fireworks, please take the following precautions to help prevent injuries• Don’t let children play with fireworks. • Don’t consume alcohol when using fireworks. • Please let you neighbors know you will be doing so. (Our veterans should be given the courtesy heads up, that fireworks will be set off in their neighborhood prior to doing so.) • Follow label directions. • When handling fireworks, wear safety goggles to protect your eyes. • Don’t try to relight fireworks that have not worked properly. • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of malfunction or fire. • Make sure pets, yours and your neighbors, are inside a safe and secure location away from the fireworks and can’t escape in fear.
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 29
Hamilton Mill Tips
Holiday Season Safety Tips Shopping in Stores
• Do not buy more than you can carry. Plan ahead by taking a friend with you or ask a store employee to help you carry your packages to the car. • Save all receipts. Print and save all confirmations from your online purchases. Start a file folder to keep all receipts together and to help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in. • Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as onetime or multiuse disposable credit cards, at online stores and auction sites. • Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information. • Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package. The same applies if you are using mass transit.
Walking to and From Your Car
• Deter pickpockets. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket. • Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and around the car before getting in. • Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or, if possible, take them directly home.
Shopping with Small Children
• If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you are separated from each other. • Select a central meeting place. • Teach them to know they can ask mall personnel or store security if they need help.
Shopping Online
• Before surfing the Internet, secure your personal computers by updating your security software. • Keep your personal information private and your password secure. Do not respond to requests to “verify” your password or credit card information unless you initiated the contact. Legitimate businesses will not contact you in this manner. • Beware of “bargains” from companies with whom you are unfamiliar—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
If you have any question please contact Officer Jay Brewer at joseph.brewer@gwinnettcounty.com.
30 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
New bar with media area
New family programming
New Mill House restaurant
Refreshed patio
B E A P A R T O F T H E F U N A S W E C E L E B R AT E 20 YEARS AND NEW EXCITING IMPROVEMENTS With a million-dollar reinvention complete, the Club is better than ever. From golf to dining and year-round social activities, there’s something for everyone. Plus, membership offerings include O.N.E. (Optimal Network Benefits), providing 50% off* Member dining and access to the ClubCorp Network of more than 300 private clubs.
O U R G I F T TO YO U : Join by December 31, 2015 and receive the following gifts: » $20* initiation fee with two-year commitment » 20 free* guest passes » 20 free* lunches » Plus! Cart fees for just $20* per month for the whole family until April 2016! Contact Membership Director Steve Stonecypher at: sstonecypher@canongategolf.com | 770.880.0788
*Offer expires 12/31/2015. May require a loyalty agreement. Offer for complimentary cart fees expires March 31, 2016. Cart fees for family members listed on the current Club membership account. The O.N.E. program and corresponding benefits are subject to certain restrictions and exclusions. Membership is contingent on successful completion of the Club’s enrollment process. Participating clubs are subject to change. Reservations must be made through ClubLine for My Community and My World benefits, and are subject to availability. Guest charges and limitations to complimentary cart fees may apply. No cash value. Alcohol, service charges and applicable taxes are excluded. Benefits are subject to the benefit terms and conditions, which may be found on clubcorpnetwork.com. All offers are subject to availability. Other restrictions and exclusions apply. Call for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved.
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TENNIS NEWS
Tennis NEWS Jeff Dudacek, Director of Tennis PERFECT STORM!!! The fall Alta league playoffs started at the end of the October. USTA season started the first week of November that is a week earlier than last year? Now for the perfect storm, it rained/misted every day during same two week period. Can you say, ‘make up matches’? Some players were making up matches and didn’t even know what
league they were making up. I hope this is not a sign for the winter. It is December and winter tennis (only because they call it the winter league) is officially here. Playing in the cold/wind is not for the casual player. I believe teams would rather play on a cold/windy day in the sun on match day then make up at night during the week. I have seen water bottles freeze during matches at night. Our 15 winter USTA teams will finish in mid-January. After the holidays, the 11 ALTA mix-doubles teams will begin their season on Sunday afternoons. For those that are playing, I gave you a few tips on “how to play in the cold.” Join us for the
annual December event; Hamilton Mill Toys for Tots Tennis round-robin and Food Drive and the great deals at the annual pro-shop sale. Christie, Courtney, Daniel, Kate, Kristi, Rosie, Taylor and I want to wish all Hamilton Mill residents a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Reasons I hear around the mill, “why we play winter tennis”? • ‘Keep me in shape’ • ‘I can win the division easier because the competition is not as strong’ • ‘Burn the off the lbs. from the holiday’ • ‘My wife makes me’ • ‘Cabin fever’ • ‘When I signed the online book is was 80 degrees’ • ‘Not sure’
32 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
TENNIS NEWS FALL ALTA LEAGUE SEASON RESULTS With all the rain and newsletter deadline this is what I have for fall playoffs. Ladies Thursday- Crowe A8 1st place, Jones C5 2nd place and Oys 3rd place. Sunday- Cochran C3 1st place, Woody A5 1st place, Acevedo B6 2nd place and Kaderli B3 2nd place. Men Kopanski C2 1st place, Buick A6 1st place and Embry C1 1st place. SPRING ALTA DEADLINE I know we are just starting winter season but spring deadline is JANUARY 20TH. This is for all the teams playing Alta starting in March. Remember to sign the online book, to move teams or to be picked for a new team, before Hamilton Mill’s spring team captain meeting. The meeting is typically the first of January.
Take Advantage of our Annual Holiday Sale to shop for every Tennis Player on your list-and maybe something for yourself too!
Hamilton Mill Tennis Holiday Sale
November 30th 9amDecember 4th 2pm
• Bags 30% Off • In Stock-Shoes 25% Off (10% of New Pink T22 Lite) • Wilson Juice Rackets 30% Off • New Fall Prince and $99 Rackets get FREE Stringing • All Other Wilson and Babolat Rackets 25% Off (In stock merchandise only) Gift Certificates are also available! milltennis@bellsouth.net 770-945-6452
Hamilton Mill Tennis Toys for Tots & Canned Food Drive Round Robin Join us for tennis fun and TWO great causes. We will be holding our annual Toys for Tots Tennis Round Robin and will be holding a Canned Food Drive for The South East Gwinnett Co-Op. This is a non-profit organization run by volunteers that supplies food and financial assistance for utilities and medication. When: Friday, December 11th Time: 10:00am-12:00pm RSVP Deadline: Wednesday, December 10th Cost: New Unwrapped gift(s) for a child from infant to teen AND Food Items from the list below: Vegetables, Sweet, Potatoes, Pumpkin (not the pie making kind, just plain pumpkin),Spinach, Collard Greens, Fruits All Mandarin Oranges, Pears, Pineapple, Peaches, Applesauce, Grains, Whole Grain Pasta (any type elbow, shells etc.),Grits, Oatmeal, Flour, Baking Mix or Pancake Mix, Cornmeal, Protein, Canned meats; chicken, turkey, ham, beef, salmon, Dry Beans All kinds;, kidney, chickpea, lentils, split pea, black, black-eyed pea, northern, Chili,Canned beans; chili beans, re-fried beans, pork n beans, chick pea, black beans, Our birthday bag ministry is in need of frosting, vanilla and chocolate are requested, they would also love the ones with sprinkles that come with it. Please contact the tennis shop at (770) 945-6452 or milltennis@bellsouth.net to RSVP. **If you cannot attend the Round Robin but would like to donate a toy and/or canned goods please bring them to the tennis shop by Monday, December 14th**
December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 33
TENNIS Tips
TENNIS TIPS
Jeff Dudacek Director of Tennis Playing in the cold Here in the south, even though they call this the winter league season. The weather before the middle of December can be very manageable. After the holidays it turns ugly real fast. Because of the winter cold and wind, some matches have no strategy but just trying to survive. For all those players, not sitting by the fire and watching football, here are some tips to help you get through winter tennis in Atlanta. 1. DRESS LIKE AN ONION Playing tennis in 35 degrees as opposed to 90 degrees is definitely a change. Most importantly, you have to dress accordingly. Wear several thin layers of clothing so you can take of small amounts as you warm up. A large warm sweat shirt on over a T-shirt, you will go from one extreme to the other once you remove the outer layer. 2. SUNGLASSESS AND GLOVES I find it extremely difficult to feel the grip with gloves on during a tennis match. If you have to wear gloves, wear only one glove on your non-dominate hand. That is the hand that gets cold the fastest and use a pocket warmer for your dominate hand. If you have to wear both gloves to play it is probably better to reschedule the match. The sun is much lower in the winter so hats and visors are limited. Some people cannot play in sunglasses but it is better than being blind. 3. LOWER YOUR STRING TENSION The ball will feel like a brick. Your hands have no feel. A lower tension will give you more power on your shot. Since the ball doesn’t travel as deep in the winter, lower tension will help on getting that ball deeper in the court. I like to use the ‘trampoline effect’ for winter play. 4. STRETCH Your muscles will take longer to loosen up in the cold and you don’t want to pull any muscles. Of course stretch a little before you play as
34 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
long as your muscles are warm. If you cannot pre-stretch than warm up slowly and longer. Try to stretch now, because you do not want to pay your doctor thousands of dollars to hear the famous words, ‘you need to start stretching’ 5. COLD WEATHER SHOTS Without the hot weather and humidity, you may be able to play longer and stay in longer rallies without feeling like you are going to pass out. However, it’s important to keep in mind cold weather has effect on strings, racket and the balls. The balls tend to bounce not as high in the cold. Some of your shots you love to do might not work during the cold. The shots that are effective are drop shots, slice and flat serves and getting to the net to volley. Since the sun is lower, during the winter months, use the lob when your opponent is facing the sun. 6. ADJUSTING YOUR GAME Don’t abandon your topspin but it will not be as effective in cold weather. The cold weather takes some of the bounce out of those shots. Flat and slice keeps the ball low and it becomes even lower because of the cold. Bring your racket back early for good preparation to adjust to the low bounce. You also need to move the ball more than you would in warmer weather. Since the ball is flatter and colder it will not goes as deep in the court. Play your game accordingly to the weather of that day.
TENNIS TIPS
7. COLD WEATHER TENNIS CHECKLIST Keep the ball low except when using lob strategy. ✓ Dress like you are going to play tennis not play in the snow. ✓ Stretch! ✓ Did I say stretch already? ✓ Adjust your strokes and game plan to the weather. ✓ Get your racket strung a lower tension. ✓ Keep believing in global warming.
See ya on the courts
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December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 35
Hamilton Mill Kids Corner
My Christmas Wish List Dear Santa, My name is I’ve been good all year and this Christmas I would like you to bring me...
36 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
Merry Christmas! PENNINGTON FENCE
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WILDLIFE SERVICES
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December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 37
Saturday December 5th 11 am – 5 pm
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December 2015 | Hometown Herald | 39
Honor a Loved One. Bless a Child. Perfect for everyone on your holiday list, a gift through the Eagle Ranch Honor & Memorial Gift Program directly benefits boys and girls going through a crisis. Thanks to you, Eagle Ranch helps make life better for children and their families. To send your gift, or learn more, visit EagleRanch.org or call 770.967.8500.
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http://www.magnoliaridgedental.com/ 40 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
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Local Events
December
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play December 3rd – 20th Buford Community Center
Holiday Parade & Festival December 5th 11am – 5pm Main Street, Downtown Historic Buford Parade starts at 11am and Stage Performances from 12:30pm to 5pm Prancer’s Pancake 5K December 12th 8am Suwanee Town Center Park
Let’s go Caroling & Tree Competition December 12th 5pm to 8pm Downtown Braselton Caroling groups will be located through out Downtown with businesses offering holiday refreshments and good cheer.
New Year’s Eve Celebration December 31st 8pm Lawrenceville Square Ring in the New Year on the Square with night full of fun and fireworks.
Get out and enjoy all the community around you has to offer! 42 | Hometown Herald | December 2015
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We get you back to your life! Pain is inconvenient; Your care shouldn’t be. Northeast Georgia Physicians Group’s (NGPG) Total Spine Care Center recognizes that combining the expertise of many spine care specialists is the most effective way to treat a complex problem like back pain. We are the one-stop solution for your spine care, offering: • Centralized scheduling and location • Convenient access to Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton • Multiple specialists to identify and treat your condition – Interventional pain medicine physicians – Neurosurgeon – Physical therapists – Sports medicine physician
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