WGL September-October 2015

September/October 2015

Life . Art . Music . People

Home Improvement!

DIY projects for a weekend Pep up your curbside Spruce up your garden Liven up your living room Plus ...

Movie time in Douglasville Old-time Feed & Seed stores Foundations of great meals

... And much more! $3.95

Vol. 5/Issue 5

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At Southwire, we believe education is the key to success. Through partnerships with the University of West Georgia (Southwire Sustainable Business Honors Program), West Georgia Technical College (Southwire Center for Manufacturing Excellence), Carroll County Schools (12 for Life) and Carrollton High School (Southwire Engineering Academy), we are helping students build brighter futures.

It’s another way we deliver power...responsibly.

West Georgia

Li Ving

Volume 5 . Issue 5 September/October 2015 Publisher Marvin Enderle publisher@times-georgian.com

Editor Ken Denney ken@times-georgian.com

Advertising Melissa Wilson melissa@times-georgian.com

Photographer Ricky Stilley rstilley@times-georgian.com

Design Richard Swihart rswihart@messenger-inquirer.com

Contributors Laura Corley, Bob Coval, Rob Duvé, Liz Marino, Tommie Munro, Josh Sewell

F r om the E d itor

Dear Readers:

This issue is about home improvement – no, not the old TV series; we’re talking about the things we do to spruce up our homes. Whether you are interested in redecorating the interior of your home, or want a major project to make your outdoor space more livable, you’ll find plenty of information here.

We are especially thankful to our friends at Lowe’s and Home Depot, America’s largest and most successful home supply centers. Each company has plenty of how-to guides for home improvement projects, and we are very glad they have shared with us four of their DIY projects, each of which can be done in a weekend. If these ideas inspire you to do more, visit their websites.

Also, we take a look at some of the things you need to think about when getting ready to do a home improvement project. Not only are some projects technically difficult, but they also can be expensive. But that’s no reason not to tackle a challenge. We hope that we can alleviate some of the stress and prepare you for what lies ahead.

While a lot of home improvement involves hammers and nails, some involve fabric and paint. Jan Neilsen, a professional home decorator, talks with us about how you can redecorate the interior of your home, no matter your budget.

The home improvement theme is carried on through our regular contributors. Tommie Munro discusses how a few additions to your garden can really improve your home’s appearance. Rob Duvé provides us with some

basic recipes that enterprising cooks can remodel into even more sumptuous meals. And Josh Sewell discusses some Hollywood movies that have featured house-related themes. Some of those are real surprises.

Speaking of Hollywood, some of you may know that in the past couple of months Hollywood came to downtown Douglasville. It turns out that Douglas County, like the rest of metro Atlanta, is fast becoming a destination for production crews looking for new places to film movies, TV shows, commercials and even music videos. We take a look at this local phenomenon and find out exactly why west Georgia is a prime draw for Tinseltown.

We also visit with some merchants who are carrying on old-school business in this day of online ordering and big-box stores. We take a look at two old-time feed-and-seed stores in Carroll County, where you can find anything under the sun for your home – and even a few things you didn’t know you needed. And we make a visit to Mitchell’s Appliance Store in Douglasville, still looking after customers with the same zeal as when they started 60 years ago.

And there’s lots more inside. So sit down, read through these pages and take some notes.

We predict you’ll be headed off to the store afterward to pick up some building supplies.

Sincerely,

Ken Denney

To advertise in West Georgia Living, call Melissa Wilson at 770-834-6631.

West Georgia Living is a bi-monthly publication of the Times-Georgian.

Submissions, photography and ideas may be submitted to Ken Denney c/o The Times-Georgian, 901 Hays Mill Rd., Carrollton, GA 30117.

Submissions will not be returned unless requested and accompanied with a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

West Georgia Living reserves the right to edit any submission.

Direct mail subscriptions to West Georgia Living are available for $24 a year.

Copyright 2015 by the Times-Georgian

4

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

Marvin Enderle is Publisher of West Georgia Living, the Times-Georgian and the Douglas County Sentinel.

Melissa Wilson is the Advertising Director for West Georgia Living, the Times-Georgian and the Douglas County Sentinel.

Ken Denney is editor of the West Georgia Living

Ricky Stilley is the Photographer for West Georgia Living and IT Director for the TimesGeorgian.

C o ntents 12

26

30

40

45

58 Photos and Cover Art by Ricky Stilley.

On the Cover: The well-organized workshop of G.M. Denney, Carrollton

F eatures 26 Jan Nielsen offers suggestions to make your living

40 Feed & Seed stores remain vital businesses in our

30 A few subtle, inexpensive touch-ups can add to the

45 Mitchell Appliance Company has been a Douglas

space more livable

curb appeal to your home

modern day

County fixture for almost 60 years.

D epartments Cinema

Best "home improvement" movies 15

Garden Food

6

Books

A new Southern novel

66

Make your yard more fun & stylish 47 Take 5

Tamara Manny

65

Makeover these basic meals

Your September-October calendar 69

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September/October 2015

55

Events

FALL COLOR -

Doing it SOUTHERN STYLE!!

Everyone looks forward to Autumn, cool evenings begin to set in, sitting on the front porch enjoying the night air, the start of football season, and our leaves begin their spectacular fall show of color.

Brilliant reds, yellows and oranges dot the landscape in a show of force. Color may be the first thing you see, but when trees and shrubs drop their leaves they can reveal much more. Red berries and exfoliating bark can be the real show underneath all those leaves.

The Ginkgo Biloba tree is a stunning example of a bright yellow show of leaves in the fall. These trees can grow to over 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide, and make an excellent shade tree. During the year the tree has fan-shaped green leaves that flutter in the breeze. When the night temperatures begin to cool, the tree transforms into a golden masterpiece.

Perhaps you prefer red. From the Autumn Blaze Maple to a Burning bush or Firepower Nandina, you can plant something that people will see from a distance. Whereas the Maple and the Burning Bush lose their leaves, the Nandina has “staying power” and does not drop leaves during the winter so they can continue to show color.

The American Beauty Berry, a Georgia native plant, is a beautiful shrub with long stems, distinctive pink flowers that produce brightly colored purple berries for lasting color in your garden.

The Blue Muffin Viburnum, gives us year round help starting with snowy white flowers in the spring only then to produce a beautiful brilliant blue berry in the fall. This fruiting ornamental shrub also makes a great compact hedge.

begins slowing down its growth as it moves toward dormancy. As a result, it makes little demand on the roots. Therefore, the energy produced via photosynthesis during the previous season can be directed toward root growth. When spring arrives and a new growing season begins, the plant has a well-established root system ready to provide the necessary water and nutrients for optimum plant growth which is necessary for plants to survive our long, hot summers.

Soil preparation and planting are perhaps the most critical of all landscape practices. Proper planting assures rapid plant establishment and healthy growth. Haphazard planting is like sentencing plants to lifelong stress and suffering, making them more susceptible to injury, pests, drought, and cold. If you are unsure about the condition of your soil, take the time to do a soil test. Good results start with good soil.

Soil amendments might be necessary if the existing soil is lacking the proper structure, although there is no exact recipe. An ideal soil is one that contains air space for good drainage, yet has good water holding capacity, some mineral matter to provide the soil chemistry necessary for nutrient absorption, and a small amount of organic matter to supply slow-release nutrients.

Proper planting involves more than simply digging a hole and sticking a plant in it. It all starts with digging the proper hole for your plant.

Pay close attention to the width, give your plant room to put out new surface roots and make sure of the depth, not too deep, and keep the existing root ball at or slightly above the ground line. It may also be a good idea to place a light ground cover over the root ball, but be sure not to smother your plant.

So with all that said, seek out healthy plants, grab your shovel, and give your plants their best chance with careful soil preparation and planting. Then sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

It is not too late to get started with your own color landscape. In the professional landscape industry, planting goes on year-round. However, fall is the best time of year to plant in terms of root growth and plant establishment.

Unlike the tops of woody ornamental plants that go dormant and cease growth for the winter, roots continue to grow throughout the winter months. During the fall, the above-ground portion of a plant

Now is the time to “Get Growing”! Southern Home & Ranch Garden Center is the place to come for all your plants, shrubs, trees and planting needs, so turn on the COLOR, WE CAN HELP! Please be sure to “Come by and Visit”, hope to see you soon... *Excerpts from Ga. Certified Plant Professional Manual

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Tanner Health System

Tanner is Advancing Heart Health in West Georgia H ome is where the heart is — and where the region’s leading heart care program is, too.

Tanner Health System is taking a comprehensive approach to heart care, with advanced diagnostics, additional cardiac care specialists and expanded services to provide better care for area hearts, close to home.

Cardiovascular disease remains the region’s leading cause of death, afflicting almost onein-three area residents. High blood pressure, peripheral artery disease and atherosclerosis are problems that can develop with few to no symptoms, making screening and prevention critically important.

Well, well, wellness Through the Get Healthy, Live Well initiative, Tanner is working to strike at the roots of cardiovascular disease, with programs and services intended to help people live longer, healthier lives.

Get Healthy, Live Well offers a number of programs aimed at helping residents improve the health of their hearts, including the Fresh Start smoking cessation program, the Diabetes Prevention Program and Living Well courses that help people prevent or manage chronic diseases that can impact heart health.

In addition, Get Healthy, Live Well’s Web site, 8

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

More Options for Interventions

When more invasive care is needed, Tanner is ready.

Tanner performs about 500 percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) — more commonly known as angioplasty — procedures each year at the Tanner Heart and Vascular Center at Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton. And late this summer, the service is expanding to Tanner Medical Center/ GetHealthyLiveWell.org, offers free calorie tracking Villa Rica as well. and fitness opportunities to help residents stick with a healthy lifestyle that can reduce their risk of Angioplasty is a nonsurgical interventional prodeveloping heart disease. cedure that allows a cardiologist to use a balloon at the end of the catheter to clear a blockage Let’s see, shall we? found in the arteries around the heart. The treatment is often used to relieve the symptoms of a Tanner has joined the ranks of the nation’s leading heart attack and quickly restore blood flow to the cardiovascular programs with a new, state-of-the- heart, saving heart tissue. Frequently, a thin tube art cardiac PET/CT service. of wire mesh, called a stent, is then inserted into the artery to prevent future blockages.

Cardiac PET combines two powerful diagnostic imaging technologies — positron emission With two regional destinations for lifesaving tomography (PET) and computed tomography angioplasty care, the hearts of west Georgia will (CT) — to provide clear, detailed images of the be safer than ever. anatomical structure of the heart.

To learn more about how Tanner is delivering The test can help detect heart muscle that has heart care beyond measure in west Georgia and been weakened by blockages in the coronary east Alabama, visit TannerHeartCare.org. To find a arteries, helping Tanner’s team of board-cer- cardiac specialist on staff at Tanner, call 770.214. tified cardiologists if the heart muscle would CARE (2273). benefit from further treatment, such as angioplasty.

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A house is much more than a home

T

here once was a TV series called “Home Improvement,” that starred Tim Allen as the host of a local cable show. Allen’s character was a person who exuded confidence as he demonstrated do-it-yourself projects in the shop, but was likely as not to glue his forehead to a table.

expert should perhaps do: for example, I upgraded the wiring for the sake of my 21st Century electronics. But there are a thousand other things that still should be done, and which could be done by someone who knows how.

In the basement of this house is a very elaborate and well laid out workshop, an I am not that bad – really, I’m not. I have inheritance from my father. Men of his successfully put together desks from Ikea, generation grew up in the self-reliant days and even installed a new screen door without of the Depression, and on a farm besides. If having to call an ambulance. But I am no anything needed fixing in those days, people Handy Andy, that’s for sure. I can follow did it themselves or it didn’t get done – and it instructions, but don’t ask me to build anything had to get done, because everything depended from scratch. on it. So my father and his brothers learned how to do plumbing, how to do wiring, in It’s not for lack of interest. For most of my short, how to fix everything. life, I lived in apartments where the skills of a master carpenter were both unnecessary and We enjoy our modern life. We can watch unappreciated. Landlords often don’t mind sports 24/7 thanks to cable TV; we can get if you paint a room or two, but installing a a hamburger at 3 a.m.; we can text a friend Jacuzzi or cutting a new doorway can get you in Hong Kong. But the price we pay for this thrown out in the street. modernity is a loss of self-sufficiency, even independence. Is the sacrifice worth the gain?

It wasn’t until I moved back to Carrollton and into the home of my late parents that I began to People like to imagine they have control of wish my home repair skills had not atrophied. their lives, but so often we don’t. Our jobs are This house is nearly 60 years old and it is not as secure as we think, and our health can beginning to show its age. The appliances, change at a moment’s notice. People we trust for example, are Cold War relics of Atomic can prove untrustworthy, and the machines Era tastes: a push-button range and avocado on which we rely break down. The only things colored appliances. What’s worse, there are we can rely on are death, taxes and the Atlanta creaks in the floor joists and mice in the attic; Falcons, who will always disappoint us. cracks in the window caulking, and paint flaking off walls.

We build houses to enclose our lives. They are a shelter from wind and rain, to be sure, but There is a lot of things to be done around this they are also a shelter from the world itself. house, but I don’t have a lot of the skills needed to do them. The few upgrades I have already KEN DENNEY done were things that no one but a certified 10

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

Each person needs that – every family needs that: a place that holds the material things we consider precious, and a place where we can hold together the people who mean the most to us.

Fancy or plain, our houses represent ourselves.

To those who live inside, every house is a castle.

They are the sum of our accomplishments, and the foundations of our dreams.

Houses require maintenance, as do lives. And occasionally houses need updating, because the needs of our lives change. Sometimes we just want a change – a new floor, a different look in the living room, a nice place to sit outside.

We re-caulk bathtubs to prevent leaks, and we build a deck so we can cook outdoors. It’s all about making improvements, both to the house and to our lives.

The old saying is “a house is not a home,” meaning that a house is just a building; but a home is where you live. As a building, a house is fragile. Many of us have known of houses that became vacant and, being empty, soon begin to fall apart. They have lost touch with the human spirits that lived inside them., their reason to exist.

This house is the place I grew up, where all my memories reside, and everything else that defines my life. It may need some fixing up, but then again, I need a little fixing too. A house, like a life, is never truly finished, never really complete. It is part of the ongoing story of those who inhabit it, and the story can continue with new inhabitants.

A house can be strong, or it can be weak. It depends on who lives inside. WGL

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C

hurches OF West Georgia

Concord United Methodist Church, Carrollton

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September/October 2015

For 187 years, almost as long as Carroll has been a county, Concord United Methodist Church has been the anchor of the Hickory Level Community. In 1828, an Irish emigre named James Baskin deeded some of his land for a church. Since then, five structures have stood on the site, the last of which was completed in 1909.

During its history, poor farmers and rich planters have worshipped side by side. In the church cemetery is the grave of Larkin Walker, a former church minister whose tombstone notes he was "born a slave."

The church is called "concord" because of the spirit of welcome and openness that it has kept through nearly two centuries.

PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

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September/October 2015

CINEMA

10 Memorable Home Improvement Movies

H

ome improvement has been a recurring theme in movies since the days of silent film, often as a major storyline, or a subplot that serves as symbolism for characters undergoing major transformation in their lives. Anyone who has experienced the stress and (hopefully) eventual joy that results from of a major renovation project understands how the external process can also represent a big internal change.

Cary Grant and Myrna Loy draw up plans in "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House," 1948

Warner Brothers Entertainment

If you’re in the middle of a big project, or considering one, here are some movies that understand how you feel. Some of them may help you remember there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, while others will be brutally honest with you about the trials and – let’s be honest – the horrors that often accompany such an endeavor.

All of them are available in the usual formats, including Blu-ray, DVD and streaming.

“Gone with the Wind” (1939) One of the most iconic films in history is a perfect example of a story using home maintenance as metaphor. What is the famed plantation Tara if not an extension of Scarlett O’Hara’s determined, yet ultimately toxic, character? The dazzling Vivien Leigh’s undeniable performance serves as a gateway for the audience to enter the mind of a woman who values material wealth and a lavish lifestyle above personal relationships. I know many fans view Rhett Butler’s legendary final line as tragic, but I’ve always seen it as the comeuppance O’Hara has deserved for her behavior over the last four hours, particularly thanks to Clark Gable’s terrific delivery.

“Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House” (1948) Another film from Hollywood’s golden age is a monumental influence on several recent movies you’ve seen, whether you realize it or not. Cary Grant and Myrna Loy play a couple who think they can escape the craziness of Manhattan by purchasing a fixerupper in the country. As you might imagine, the process is easier said than done.

The why-didn’t-I-think-of-that premise has been applied to numerous remakes over the years, from “The Money Pit” (1986), one of

Tom Hanks’ first big comedies, to N.W.A member-turned-actor Ice Cube’s family sequel “Are We Done Yet?” (2007).

“Blazing Saddles” (1974) One of my all-time favorite movies makes this list on a technicality, but I’m up for

JOSH SEWELL

cheating a bit if it allows me to write about Mel Brooks’ brilliant western spoof. When the villainous Hedley Lamar (Harvey Korman) decides to blow up Rock Ridge to make way for a railroad, Sheriff Bart (the brilliant Cleavon Little) and his drunken gunslinger friend (a gloriously deadpan Gene Wilder) lead the townspeople in constructing a full-scale fake town in order to fool Lamar and his moronic henchmen.

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The plantation Tara represents Scarlett's persona in "Gone With the Wind," 1939 Warner Brothers Entertainment

Robert Downey Jr., a.k.a. Tony Stark, has some rebuilding to do in "Iron Man 3," 2013 ©2013 Marvel Studios It’s one of countless imaginative gags in the flick, which is downright revolutionary compared to modern comedies.

Jack Nicholson gets ready to do some demolition in "The Shining," 1980

“The Shining” (1980)

Warner Brothers Entertainment

Though I still prefer Stephen King’s novel to Stanley Kubrick’s chilling adaptation, the film is terrifying in a more cerebral way. Recovering alcoholic Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson, in one of his most wellknown performances) is hired as a caretaker for the Overlook Hotel, which will be isolated in the mountains of Colorado after winter settles in. The plan is for him to maintain the resort’s pristine appearance and make needed repairs, but evil spirits have other ideas in mind, most of them involving devious alternative uses for all those tools lying around …

“Home Alone” (1990) This Christmas favorite is best-known for the final act, when young Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) protects his home from bumbling thieves (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) using a series of MacGyver-style booby traps. It’s not exactly home improvement, but there’s definitely renovation involved. I suppose cleaning up a gigantic mess is better than having all of your valuables and family heirlooms stolen. But the McCallisters still have to deal with the fact that their young son has the twisted mind of a “Saw”-style serial killer.

“Multiplicity” (1996) Harold Ramis’ follow-up to “Groundhog Day” didn’t get the respect it deserved 16

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September/October 2015

upon release, mostly because it’s “only” really good as opposed to an all-timer. But it contains several fantastic performances from Michael Keaton as an exhausted contractor who decides to alleviate his stress by cloning himself. But that only makes things worse since the clone eventually decides he’s too stressed and decides to make his own clone. And so on. And so on.

Construction factors into a couple of subplots, mainly as a way to showcase Keaton playing four vastly different versions of the same man. Nearly 20 years later, I still quote this movie on a weekly basis. “Hi Steve!”

“The Notebook” (2004) The movie that made Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams household names remains the best cinematic adaptation of Nicholas Sparks’ sappy novel. After a torrid summer romance, Noah (Gosling) and Allie (McAdams) go their separate ways – he heads off to battle in World War II, she enrolls in a prestigious college. Upon returning home, he learns that Allie is involved with another man (James Marsden) and becomes convinced that fixing up an old house will magically bring them back together. Cue sighs and sobs from

Elsa builds a magical castle in "Frozen," 2013 Walt Disney Pictures

emotionally devastated viewers everywhere.

“The Kids Are All Right” (2010) Nic (Annette Bening) and Jules (Julianne Moore) are a lesbian couple who have two children (Josh Hutcherson and Mia Wasikowska), both from the same biological donor. When the kids get curious about their “biodad,” they track him down and discover Paul (Mark Ruffalo) is an amiable, interesting guy. Through their subterfuge, Paul ends up hiring Jules, who has her own landscaping business, to fix up his backyard.

That leads to some intense family drama, which the director Lisa Cholodenko (who co-wrote the screenplay with Stuart Blumberg) handles in a mature, realistic manner.

“Iron Man 3” (2013) This one’s a home improvement twofer.

Following his self-destructive actions in “Iron Man 2,” Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) has his massive estate back in good shape. But then he succumbs to ego and dares a global terrorist (Ben Kingsley) to come after him. He even gives the maniac his home address. This leads to one of the film’s most thrilling scenes, as Stark’s mansion is destroyed by countless missiles and he sends one of his armored suits to protect his beloved Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow). The suit eventually returns and flies him to safety, which turns out to be a small town in Tennessee. But, after that, the armor shuts down and it’s a superhero movie without a suit, as Stark must rely on

his wits to solve the narrative’s big mystery.

“Frozen” (2013) How could I write about home improvement movies without mentioning this one? I mean, Elsa builds a massive palace using her magical ice powers. It doesn’t get more obvious than that. The sequence is the film’s high point thanks to Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez’s modern classic “Let It Go” (which your kid is probably still singing two years later) and the stunning visuals from Disney’s animation geniuses. It led to a pair of welldeserved Oscars for the film, which remains one of the company’s biggest merchandising juggernauts. People can’t get enough of Anna, Elsa and cute little Olaf. WGL

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Fast Turn Around!

W

hen you first bought or built your house, it was designed for the way you lived then.

Times change, and with changing times, comes the need to update your home to reflect the new realities of your life.

Maybe you need additional room, or maybe you just need to spruce up the place and make it more modern.

Whatever, the home improvement process can be expensive and stressful - but it can also be fun and exciting. It all depends on how you approach the project.

We've decided to give you some help in planning your home makeover. Inside you'll find a lot of tips and advice on interior design, curb appeal and even financing. And, thanks to our friends at Lowe's and Home Depot, you'll find some DIY projects that can be done in a weekend.

So, pick up a hammer and prepare to get dirty. It's time for some home improvement.

September/October 2015

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E OM

H T N E M E V O R IMP I

Whether the project is big or small, home upgrades are worth the stress

mproving your home can be one of the most gratifying challenges you can tackle, or one of the most exasperating. It can involve anything from replacing a floor to building a new addition, and it can be done by yourself or by a team of carpenters. Hard or easy, cheap or mind-numbingly expensive, most homeowners will at some point want to do something to improve their house.

Some home fix-up projects are pretty straightforward. Others involve loan officers and meetings with government officials. But if you plan things properly and know what to expect – as in expecting the unexpected – your home makeover can be accomplished with a minimum of strain to both your wallet and your nerves.

One of the first questions you should ask yourself is the most basic: do it yourself, or don’t do it yourself?

The Job May Look Smaller on TV Anyone who tackles and completes a major project for their home will rightly feel a sense of accomplishment. Sure, there might be a few hiccups along the way, but solving those problems is part of the overall challenge, and part of the accomplishment.

But a homeowner has to know his or her

KEN DENNEY 20

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September/October 2015

limitations, especially if they are going to launch into something they’ve never tried before. So consider whether the job is worth your time and effort.

If your only free time is on the weekends, then a major kitchen renovation is going to take a lot of weekends to complete. In the meantime, you’ll have to spend a lot of time (and money) dining out, or bumming meals from friends. And most serious upgrades to a home involves a lot of sweat, mess and noise.

And mess; did I mention mess?

TV shows and YouTube videos are not accurate measures for how easy a job is to complete. Those are created by experienced people who know how to use a stud finder or how to clear a jammed nail gun. If you haven’t done anything like that since you were in high school – if ever – then the learning curve for handling on-site boo-boos may be too steep.

And some jobs just shouldn’t be tackled by any do-it-yourselfer. Plumbing and electrical work need skill. No one wants a botched plumbing job to suddenly manifest itself behind a wall, and certainly no one wants a trip to the emergency room.

So, when you are planning to do a home improvement, you should consider whether you are up to all the challenges. You might decide just to hire a pro to ensure that it is done quickly, expertly and within a known budget.

Money, Money, Money But maybe you are up for a challenge, or are handy with tools. The next step would be figuring out how much your project is going to cost you.

Of course, every job is going to be unique, so the best we can do here is make estimates.

The American Housing Survey, jointly administered by the Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, tracks what Americans spend for home improvement, which the agencies define as any project outside of “routine maintenance,” or what is needed to maintain the structure.

Homeowners spent $359 billion between 2009 and 2011, or a median of $3,000 on improvements to their home. Now, of course that is just a median price, covering everything from repainting, to installing new tiles, to putting in a new deck. Certainly a kitchen renovation or adding a new story to your house is going to cost a lot more.

The survey estimates that adding a garage will be the most costly project you might tackle; homeowners spent a median of $15,000 for such jobs during the survey period. A kitchen cost about $5,000, and even putting in new doors and windows can cost $1,200.

Fortunately, there are lots of websites out there that can help you estimate the cost

of your project. But take those figures with a grain of Quikrete; to be on the safe side, just assume any job will turn out to be more expensive than you thought.

Also keep in mind that if you make a mistake, your home project might wind up costing even more money.

The Economics of Home Makeovers If your project is going to take a lot of money to complete, negotiating a bank loan can be a tricky business. After years of lending to high-risk borrowers, banks have suddenly decided to be more careful with their money.

Still, if you have a good credit rating, at least 20 percent equity in your home, and proof of good income, most loan officers will eagerly welcome you inside their cubicle.

Also, home-equity interest rates are moving down, making the cost of a loan more affordable.

If you need a professional for your job, craftsmen are also cheaper. As the housing market slowly rebuilds, many tradesmen are taking smaller jobs out of necessity, and fewer construction projects also means that you don’t have to wait 12 or 18 months for a contractor to be available. That makes planning and scheduling your project a lot easier.

The slowdown in home construction also September/October 2015

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works to your benefit when it comes to costs of materials. Less demand means pallets of sheetrock and stacks of lumber are cluttering up home centers, forcing stores to scale back their prices. Granted, such things are never exactly cheap, but a deal is a deal.

Even so, most professionals would advise against getting cheap materials just because they are cheap. Buying pre-painted siding, for example, is more expensive than untreated lumber – but the first may well be cheaper in the long run. Don’t sacrifice for quality even while you are hunting bargains.

The Misery Index No matter what type of project you have in mind, there will be a certain level of stress involved, so be prepared. We’re not talking just about the pressure to come up with cash or repay a loan, but also about the mental strain the project itself places on yourself, your family and even your pets.

That’s right, pets. A lot of strangers trooping through your house spreading noise and confusion will not be appreciated by territorial dogs and cats. You may want to

keep your pets away from the house during contractor visits. And for the same reason, your kids – and maybe even yourself – might want to be away.

value of your home, and some – like a $70,000 kitchen in a $200,000 house – might actually hurt the value, because who needs that much kitchen?

And let’s not forget about cranky neighbors.

Your home project is also their home project, in the sense that the noise and trash you make will seep into their lives. For the sake of neighborhood amity, providing your neighbors a heads up would be greatly appreciated.

Still, you can expect to recoup much, if not more, of the cost of your renovation when it comes time to sell your home. Some home improvements, like roofing, could be a big plus because a buyer would know he is not buying a leaky roof. Experts say kitchen and bathroom remodels consistently represent the best investment when it comes to resale.

While your project is under way, the rest of your living space may also be affected. If you are renovating a room, then all that room’s furniture is going to have to go somewhere until the work is done. Building materials will have to be stacked and stored, possibly even in your living room. And if you are working on a bathroom, be prepared for the necessity of relocating where you answer the call of nature.

Resale Value If you are expecting your home upgrade to improve the resale value of your home, don’t bother. Most experts say few home improvement projects will increase the

The value of a home is almost always based on the values of neighboring homes. If you make your house the equal of your neighbors, then you can expect the value of your home to be reflected accordingly ••• A home improvement project can be a daunting challenge, but the end result can be well worth the price in time, effort and money.

If you do the job yourself, there is a priceless sense of accomplishment to be had, and even if you don’t, there is no reward quite like improving the way in which you live. WGL

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Remote Video 22

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September/October 2015

D.I.Y.

INSTALLING COUNTERTOPS

Photos and article courtesy of The Home Depot, Inc. Installing a Laminate Countertop

Y

our kitchen countertop takes a lot of abuse. Replacing it not only gets rid of the wear-and-tear, but it is also the fastest way to update the look of your kitchen. Putting down a new laminate product is remarkably easy, if you work carefully and follow the old rule of measuring twice and cutting once.

STEP #1

Step 1: Set and level the countertop • Set and clamp the countertop in place.

• Shim as needed to make it level.

• Check for gaps between the backsplash and the wall. If the gaps are narrow, fill them in with caulk and proceed to step 3. If the gaps are large, take the actions in steps two and three below.

Step 2: Mark the backsplash with compass • Set a drawing compass to the span of the largest gap between the backsplash and the wall.

• Set the compass point next to the wall and the marker on the backsplash.

• Pull the compass along the wall to mark what will need to be removed on the backsplash.

Step 3: Remove the countertop and clamp to sawhorses

• Remove the countertop and clamp it in place on sawhorses.

• Use a belt sander to sand the backsplash to the line drawn with the compass.

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• Place the countertop on the cabinet and ensure the backsplash is flush against the wall.

Step 4: Glue edges together • Where two pieces of the cabinet meet, glue them together with the glue from a miter-clamp kit. If the kit has no glue, apply a thin bead of silicone caulk to the edges of both pieces.

STEP #2

• Apply wood glue to the rest of the edges per instructions on the glue's packaging.

• Press the edges together.

Step 5: Tighten miter clamps • Make sure the entire surface is flush at the seam along the front edge of the counter.

• Tighten the nearest miter clamp.

• Wipe away any excess glue.

• Stand behind the backsplash and push the countertop up and down as needed to make the seam flush along the back of the counter.

STEP #4

STEP #3

• Tighten the miter clamp nearest the backsplash.

Step 6: Level the countertop • If one side of the seam is higher than the other, protect the surface with a piece of wood and tap the countertop with a rubber mallet.

STEP #5

• When the seam is level, tighten the remaining miter clamps.

Step 7: Fasten the countertop to the cabinet Note: Check the length of every screw carefully before driving it into the countertop.

• If the cabinet has a top surface, fasten the countertop by screwing up through the bottom of the cabinet top into the countertop. If the cabinets have no tops, screw through the front rail and any blocks built into the cabinet.

• Seal the seam between the backsplash and the wall with silicone caulk that matches the color of the countertop.

Your countertop installation is complete! WGL 24

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

STEP #6

STEP #7

WellStar and Mayo Clinic.

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We believe in life well-lived.

Making your Living A dream interior doesn't have to stay a dream - if you keep a few simple rules in mind.

Jan Nielsen in her kitchen.

W STORY BY KEN DENNEY PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY

hen it comes to home decoration, there’s the Ideal and the Real.

The Ideal living space is what you find on HGTV: perfectly coordinated fabrics and colors, tasteful bric-a-brac, elegant and sophisticated furniture. A world inhabited

by Martha Stewarts, or A-list celebrities.

Then there’s the Real living space, where

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September/October 2015

the rest of us live: a hodgepodge of furniture, thrown together with whatever paint scheme or carpet that came with the house. This is a world of scratching dogs, squabbling kids and stuff piled in a corner because there’s no other place to put it.

You might despair of ever living in that Ideal world. You have kids, work and a life; no time for picking and choosing styl-

g Space More Livable hourly fee, then works within a homeowner’s budget when it comes to choosing and buying items for the home.

But the expense for buying those new things may not be as high as you might imagine. Yes, you may have to pay a premium to buy good quality items, but Nielsen says a surprising amount of well designed – and affordable – items can be found at large discount department stores.

“Believe me, I use everything,” she said.

“There are things woven into everything that I do; a lamp from Target, or a rug, and T.J. Maxx and all those kinds of stores.”

Another way to manage costs is to focus on one or two rooms, and not a whole house, depending on what part of its current décor irritates you most.

“Nobody – no one – really does the whole house at once. Very few, I’d say, can do that. I couldn’t do that. This is what a plan is for, so you can pick and choose. Whatever you can’t live with another day, that’s the thing you are going to start with.”

Find Some Inspiration Everyone can affordably reach the goal of having the interior of their dreams – and the first step, Neilsen said, is the dream itself. So, seek out some inspiration.

“Have you torn any pictures out of any magazine, or looked for things online that you really love?” There are many sources of internet inspiration, from Pinterest to Tumblr to the websites of home and garden magazines.

ish sofas, chairs and drapes. However, it’s not all that difficult to bridge the Ideal and Real worlds, and create a living space that is both tasteful and fits the way you live.

Planning and Budgeting Jan Nielsen is a home decoration expert. Her company, The Design Group, is based in Car-

rollton, and she helps individuals design the interior of their homes. She has done everything from completely reimagining the interior of a $2 million home, to helping homeowners shift furniture around to make their home life easier.

Budgeting a home decoration project is tricky, she says, because most people don’t know what to expect when it comes to cost. She charges an

But don’t make the mistake of trying to replicate a photo in exact detail – it’s an impossible task, Neilsen said, and also one that leaves no room for individual taste. All you have to do, she said, is to let your photograph guide you in your search.

When you are out shopping, look for similar things in your photograph and accept the maxim of “that’s close enough.” Letting the photo be a reference point and leaving yourself open to whatever items come your way can September/October 2015

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take you to new levels of inspiration, and new directions in decorating.

“Make it your own, in that you’ve followed that palette that you have fallen in love with,” she said.

Color is the Place to Start Palette is the key word here, because Neilsen said color is the foundation of all decorating projects; the initial decision that determines all subsequent decisions. But be careful: choosing a color from a tiny swatch can lead to big problems.

“You have to be very careful with colors, because once it’s on a wall, it’s not necessarily what you saw on a one-by-two little swatch.

You can waste a lot of money – and hopefully that’s one of the things that I save you. I’ve used a lot of colors, and I can tell you right off the bat if it’s going to be garish, not going to be enough pop, or if it’s the wrong color altogether.”

Choose a color scheme for your home and everything else will fall in place. The color of the walls determines the color of the cabinets, which determines the color of the appliances, which determines the color of the chairs – and on and on. So, making the right decision about color can ultimately make the difference between a coordinated home, or a chaotic mess.

You might think, then, that the safest choice would be just a neutral shade of white or cream. But there’s a reason why homebuilders choose such boring colors for turnkey residences: they are meant to appeal to the widest possible selection of homebuyers. Many of those homebuyers often elect to keep those neutral shades, but Neilsen says there are “new neutrals” that are not only much better, but – being different – can make your home stand out.

She prefers a modern shade of gray – not the old, 70s shade reserved for Navy battleships, but a new formula of paint with undertones of brown or green that shift with the sunlight.

Know Your Dimensions A rookie mistake for most do-it-yourself decorators often occurs when choosing furniture.

Many inexperienced shoppers choose a piece based on how it looks on a showroom floor. A furniture store is quite big, with high ceilings.

If you don’t live in a warehouse, you might be disappointed when you bring your new item home.

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“The size of your room is going to dictate the size of your furniture,” said Neilsen, “I walk in a lot of homes and they’ve got these huge brown leather sofas, because they didn’t know what else to choose, and brown leather seems to be safe to a lot of people. They are way too

big for the room, and so we end up buying something that is the appropriate size to go with the space.”

A big, comfy couch may look inviting on the showroom floor, a place where you can curl up and watch TV. But when you get that sofa home, you may have to shoehorn it into place.

“If you’re going to buy a sofa, measure the room,” Neisen said. Take that measurement with you when you go to the store. It sounds simple, but many people don’t take that simple step, ending up with a sofa that doesn’t fit in the space, and becomes instead a constant source of irritation.

Furniture comes in a variety of styles, and like all styles, these flit in and out of fashion. If you have a favorite, or heirloom piece of furniture, don’t replace it – re-cover it. And steer away from faddish trends. Neilsen said that a pattern of chevrons is “in” right now, reflected in rugs and upholstery.

Stick to basics and styles that have become established classics.

Be Original When it comes to buying furniture, many people are intimidated by the experience. Most furniture galleries try to make it easy by decorating model rooms so their customers can see how various items tie together.

But this can be a trap for the budget-conscious or apprehensive shopper. Their tendency might simply buy the entire room, then try to cram the new furniture into their home. That’s a strategy doomed to fail – not only because the stuff may not fit, but because the suite of items is some other person’s concept, not the person who’s going to have to live with it.

Aim for originality “I love a surprise. Something unexpected; there’s

nothing more boring in the whole world to me than going into a home, and I already know what’s on your coffee table because it’s the same old thing everyone else has. I love to have unique surprises around that are woven into the whole picture.”

Going back to the make-sure-it-fits idea, Neilsen suggests taking measurements of furniture you’d like to buy, then take those dimensions home. Clear the room you’re decorating of all furniture, then put tape down on the floor, matching the measurements of the items on your shopping list. As a result, you can see how the items can be arranged – and how they will fit in the space.

Design for Living And when you are choosing items, think about practicalities. Do you have pets? Then probably you don’t want a rug, carpet or upholstered furniture that’s going to be the target of random accidents or claws. Do you have small children, or grandchildren likely to visit? Don’t set yourself up for aggravation by having heirloom or cherished breakables within reach of small fingers. Be conscious of how you will live in the space you are designing.

Because, ultimately, that is what we are talking about here. No one wants a house that is so well decorated that it is like a museum. No one wants a living space in which they have to watch how they live. A home is meant to be inhabited, and lived in.

The main idea of decorating a home is to enhance your enjoyment of the space.

“What you surround yourself with, it just changes your attitude.” Neilsen said. “When you come in from a day’s work, and you’re exhausted, you want to come home to something pretty, lovely or just a handsome room. I don’t care how small a home is, or where it is, or anything else, everybody likes something lovely.” WGL

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Curb Appeal and beyond How to make your house stand out on the market inside and out

Y

ou never have a second chance to make a first impression, especially when it comes to selling your house.

As a real estate agent with Chapman Hall Realtors, Villa Rica resident Lisa Naile knows first hand what a home seller must do to get the most return from their investment.

Clean, fresh and decluttered are the watchwords for getting a home ready to sell. Small details can make your home look worn without you even realizing it.

For example, a quick and inexpensive fix to freshen up rooms is to replace switch plates.

Have the carpeting cleaned by a professional, which will make it look new, Naile advises. Also, have your windows professionally washed, or spend a Saturday afternoon washing them yourself inside and out. Bringing light into a home through sparkling clean glass can be a strong selling point, so let the sun shine in!

“It is important to maximize the light in your home,” stresses Naile. “Good light is one thing that every buyer wants in their new home.”

Interior lighting is also important in showing your home at its best. Change out bright, white light bulbs for a soft and warm lighting that makes the house seem cozy and inviting.

Keep countertops clean and clutter free.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LIZ MARINO 30

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September/October 2015

Symmetry is a key element in a home's décor - both inside and out. This is demonstrated by the two friendly ferns posted on either side of the front door.

You want buyers to see that there is a large amount of counter space. But don’t forget about the inside of your refrigerator, the medicine cabinets and under the sink.

When showing a house, out of sight in not out of mind, according to Naile.

appliances when readying your home for sale, according to Naile. What is most important is to make sure they are in working order, and sparkling clean.

And, if at all possible, make sure that Fido or Miss Kitty are out of the house when a potential buyer comes a-calling.

One of the best ways to freshen up a home interior is as simple as a coat of paint, Naile says. “Paint with a nice, neutral color,” she suggests. “The potential buyer may not like the color, but they will most likely like it better than a bright color you had previously used.”

“Not everyone is a dog or cat lover,” reminds Naile. “Most buyers would prefer not to walk into your home and see a bowl of dog food or smell a kitty litter box. It gives the perception that the house is not clean.”

Naile recommends that keeping a home in tip-top condition makes the home selling process go a lot smoother. She encourages homeowners to take care of those small repairs as they occur.

Naile reminds that the exterior of your home is the gateway into the interior, and without a doubt an unkempt lawn can make a break a successful showing.

“Make sure the lawn is nice,” she says. “No matter how beautiful the home, an uncut lawn makes a poor impression.”

“Home maintenance is the most important thing a homeowner can do,” said Naile.

“Quick fixes before selling always pay off.

There are a lot of things you can do yourself, without spending a lot of money.”

She adds: “You probably won’t get your money back if you do a huge improvement project before you put your house on the market. Instead, do updates that will pay off and get you top dollar.”

When you’re ready to put your house on the market, go ahead and starting packing things up, says Naile.

“Now is the time to declutter and get rid of all of those things you’ve been meaning to discard or donate,” she says. “Clean out your closets. Women especially like to see ample closet space.”

“One of the most important things to do when selling your house is to de-personalize it,” adds Naile. “Remove family photos and personal keepsakes and pack them away.

This allows the potential buyer to better imagine turning your house into their home.”

She advises sellers to always have their house “show-ready,” because you never know when a buyer will walk through the door. Don’t leave dishes in the sink, keep trash cans emptied, keep the dishwasher cleaned out, the bathrooms

She encourages homeowners to keep the lawn and flower beds weed-free, and to trim any over-grown shrubbery.

Villa Rica resident Lisa Naile has been selling real estate in the west Georgia area for 15 years. sparkling, and make sure there are no dust bunnies in the corners.

To create a cozy, right-at-home feel, bake a batch of cookies, or light a scented candle, such as apple pie or sugar cookie, to give your home an inviting aroma.

One of the most important rooms in the house to potential buyers is the kitchen.

Naile says the quickest and least costly kitchen update a seller can make is painting and adding new cabinet hardware.

It is not necessary to provide new

As with the indoors, keep the exterior of your home neat and clutter free. Replace worn fixtures, hide garden hoses and keep unsightly trash cans out of view. Arrange outdoor furniture in a pleasing manner and add a touch of color to chairs or rockers with a bright cushion.

Your home’s front door is the focal point of its curb appeal. Make sure the front door has been thoroughly cleaned, or even better, give it a quick makeover with a pop of color.

Use metal polish on the door and lighting fixtures to give them a bright shine.

If your driveway, patio or porch is cracked or stained, or has vegetation growing from it, repair the cracks and stains and kill the weeds. Go one step further by giving your concrete an inexpensive makeover using concrete stain, which comes in a large array of designer colors.

An exterior facelift might include new paint or siding.

Often, all it needs is an economical pressure wash to spruce up the exterior, says Naile. WGL

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D.I.Y.

HOW TO CAULK

Photos and article courtesy of The Home Depot, Inc.

C

aulking is your first line of defense in protecting your home from water damage, either from rain or water splashed in your kitchen or bathroom. Doing the job correctly ensures your home will be free of rot, mold and mildew.

for manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for product-specific information.

Step 3: Cut the nozzle

Read the instructions of your selected product for how to cut the nozzle as some nozzles have a foil seal that will need to be punctured, and some nozzles also need to be removed to trim an inside seal. If using a squeeze tube, remove the cap and then trim the nozzle with scissors. For rigid plastic tubes, use a Step 1: Prepare the surface utility knife to cut the tip of the nozzle off at a 45-degree angle. The further down If you are replacing old caulk, carefully the nozzle the cut is made, the wider the cut the old caulk out with a utility line (or "bead") of caulk will be. knife, or scraper. Remove all dirt, dust, grease and debris. In the case Step 4: Apply the caulk of removing silicone caulk, ensure all residue is completely removed.

If using a rigid plastic cartridge, place the cartridge in the caulking gun.

Use a rag to wipe the joint surface with There's no need for a caulk gun if you rubbing alcohol or an over-the-counter are using a squeeze tube. disinfecting spray, rinse thoroughly with water and dry.

Applying steady pressure to the trigger (or squeeze tube, based on your TIP: If the gap you are caulking is product selection), fill the gap with an greater than 1/2", press a foam backer even bead of caulk. It is best to push the rod into the space. caulk ahead of the nozzle to ensure that it gets into the joint for a proper seal.

Step 2: Tape the area

Apply painter's tape to mask off areas around the joint where the caulk should not appear. This will give you a straight line of caulk and will improve the final appearance.

Read the product packaging fully 32

West Georgia Living September/October March/April 2015 2015

Step 5: Smooth it out For a neat and professional looking finish, it is recommended to "tool" or smooth the bead of caulk. Lightly drag a caulk finishing tool to smooth the bead. If you applied painters tape,

remove the tape prior to the caulk skinning over ("skinning over" means that the product has developed a firm skin formation on the surface which normally occurs after approximately 2-6 hours at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 50% humidity). To correctly remove the tape, lift the edge up at a 45-degree angle away from you, and carefully place in a trashcan.

Wipe away excess caulk with water and a damp cloth before the caulk dries. Excess dried caulk will need to be cut or scraped away.

TIP: Some clear caulks will apply white and dry clear in 7 to 14 days, depending on humidity and temperature. To reuse any remaining caulk on a future project, tightly reseal the cartridge and store within the manufacturer's recommended temperatures. WGL

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D.I.Y.

ARBOR AND BENCH

Photos and article courtesy of Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

I

f you love sitting and taking in nature’s beauty, this arbor-and-bench combo is for you.

Skill Level: Intermediate Estimated time: One weekend Note: Before you dig the postholes for the arbor, you will need to know the location of buried pipes and wires on your property. By law, everyone - including homeowners - must contact Georgia 811 by dialing 811 or 1-800-282-7411 at least 48 hours before beginning any mechanized digging on your property.

knotted) and straightest boards you can find.

This provides for the best appearance and easiest assembly.

Step 2

Materials • 3 - 4 x 4 x 72 pressuretreated boards (arbor) • 4 - 4 x 4 x 122 pressuretreated boards (arbor) • 8 - 3⁄4-in x 10-ft type M copper pipes, #23791 (arbor) • 3⁄4-in x 5-ft type M copper pipe, #23792 (arbor) • Liquid Nails construction adhesive, #44906 (arbor) • 2 packages of 6-in HeadLok screws (arbor) • 4 - Quikrete concrete mix, 60 pounds, #10387 (arbor) • 4 - Quickrete all-purpose gravel, 50 pounds, #10439, or Sakrete,

Prepare the Arbor Parts

Use a hacksaw or copper tube cutter to crosscut 42 pieces of 3⁄4-in copper pipe to 24 inches long.

Step 1

Step 3

Referring to the Project Diagram and Cutting List (page 35), crosscut the arbor front/back stretchers (A), arbor ends (B), and arbor posts (C) to length. To ensure identical lengths of multiple parts for a square assembly, use an auxiliary fence and a stop block on your saw.

To mark centerpoints for the holes in the arbor front/back stretchers (A) and arbor posts (C) to receive the copper pipes, place the stretchers and the posts on a flat surface with their faces temporarily clamped tight together and their bottom ends aligned. Using a carpenter’s square, draw lines across the width of the parts at the centerpoint locations where dimensioned. (The stretchers need 12 centerpoints, and the posts need 15.) Separate the parts.

TIP: Select the clearest (least 34

Tools

• Table saw or miter saw • Drill and bit set • 7⁄8-in spade bit • Tape measure • Hacksaw or copper tube cutter • Carpenter’s square • Posthole digger • Plumb bob or level

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

#293357 (arbor) • 2 - 4 x 4 x 96 pressuretreated boards (bench) • 1 x 4 x 144 pressuretreated board (bench) • 2 x 2 x 96 pressure-treated board (bench) • 3⁄4-in x 5-ft type M copper pipe, #23792 (bench) • 3-in deck screws (bench) • 1-5⁄8-in deck screws (bench) • 2 packages of 6-in HeadLok screws (bench) • Liquid Nails construction adhesive, #44906 (bench) • Cabot solid exterior stain, gallon, Arboretum (both)

Adjust a combination square to 1-3⁄4 inches (half the width of the 4x4s). Now draw lines across the centerlines to complete the centerpoints.

Step 4 With a 7⁄8-in spade bit in your drill, bore 1⁄2--in-deep holes into the stretchers and

posts at the centerpoints.

TIP: For consistently deep 1⁄2-in holes, wrap a piece of masking tape 1⁄2 inch from the tips of the cutting wings (not the center point) of the 7⁄8-in spade bit that you’ll use.

Step 5

ARBOR AND BENCH

CUTTING LIST

To assemble the arbor front/back stretchers (A), arbor ends (B), and copper pipes, squeeze a small amount of Liquid Nails interior/exterior construction adhesive into the holes in the stretchers. Insert pipes into the holes in one stretcher, and then add the other stretcher, guiding the pipes into the holes. Rotate the pipes by hand a few turns to spread the adhesive. Lay the assembly on a flat surface to cure.

Part A arbor front/back stretchers B arbor ends C arbor posts D bench front back stretchers E bench ends F bench seat cleats G bench seat slats H bench legs

Step 6

FINISHED SIZE T

31/2 31/2 31/2 31/2 31/2 11/2 3/4 31/2

W

L

65 30 1041/2 441/2 191/2 441/2 121/2 15

31/2 31/2 31/2 31/2 31/2 11/2 31/2 31/2

Material PT PT PT PT PT PT PT PT

Pcs 2 2 4 2 2 2 11 4

Materials Key: PT-Pressure treated

Place the arbor ends in position flush with the outside faces of the stretchers. Measure for equal diagonals to verify a square frame.

Now mount the arbor ends to the stretchers where shown using 6-in HeadLok screws. Wipe off any adhesive squeeze-out using a clean cloth.

TIP: The 6-in HeadLok screws used to assemble the arbor and bench 4x4s come with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spiderâ&#x20AC;? bit for driving the screws. It is

ARBOR CUTTING DIAGRAM A 4 x 4 x 6 (31/2-in x 31/2-in x 72-in) Pressure treated A 4 x 4 x 6 (31/2-in x 31/2-in x 72-in) Pressure treated B

B

4 x 4 x 6 (31/2-in x 31/2-in x 72-in) Pressure treated C 4 x 4 x 10 (31/2-in x 31/2-in x 120-in) Pressure treated (4 needed) 3/4-in

x 10-ft Copper pipe (8 needed)

3/4-in

x 5-ft Copper pipe

BENCH CUTTING DIAGRAM D

E

H

H

G

G

G

4 x 4 x 8 (31/2-in x 31/2-in x 96-in) Pressure treated (2 needed) G

G

G

G

G

G

G

G

1 x 4 x 12 (3/4-in x 31/2-in x 144-in) Pressure treated F

F

2 x 2 x 8 (11/2-in x 11/2-in x 96-in) Pressure treated 3/4-in

x 5-ft Copper pipe

September/October 2015 West Georgia Living

35

through the arbor ends (B) and into the posts (C), where shown, making sure that you position the screws so that they clear the screws that attach the arbor ends to the front/back stretchers.

ARBOR AND BENCH PROJECT DIAGRAM

Install the Arbor 1/2-in

5-in 5-in

7/8-in

hole deep, centered

3/4-in

copper pipe 24-in long

Step 1

A

5-in

B

30-in

On flat ground, mark the centers for the arbor postholes spaced 26 ½ inches apart front to back and 68 ½ inches apart from side to side.

A

B 65-in

Headlock screw 6-in long

Step 2

ARBOR TOP ASSEMBLY

Using a posthole digger, dig 6-inch diameter holes, centered on the marked locations, 30 inches deep (this includes 6 inches for a drainage gravel base).

Headlock screw 6-in long

Step 3 A

B

POST HOLE DETAIL

5-in

Slope away from post

5-in 5-in

1/2-in

hole deep, centered

C

copper pipe 24-in long

Step 4

C 6-in dia. hole

7/8-in

3/4-in

24-in

C

Concrete

1041/2-in

Mix and fill the holes with concrete, sloping the cement at the top away from the post to promote water runoff. After the concrete cures, remove the 2x4 braces.

Step 5 Stain the arbor a color of your choice following the manufacturer’s instructions.

261/2-in

C

Pour 6 inches of rock into each hole. With your partner, carefully set the arbor in place. Check and adjust the arbor for level, adding or removing rock as needed.

Prepare the Bench Parts 681/2-in

6-in

24-in

Gravel

ARBOR

not necessary to pre-drill pilot holes for the screws -- they’re designed to zip right in.

Assemble the Arbor Step 1 To assemble the arbor posts (C) and pipes (two assemblies), first cut four 30-inch-long pieces from scrap 2x4s to use as braces.

Then, with the same process used for the stretchers (A), assemble a pair of posts and pipes. After verifying they’re square, place two 2x4 braces across the faces of the 36

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

posts, one at the top end and the other near the bottom pipe. (The exact location is not important.) Drive 3-in screws to attach the 2x4s to the posts. Repeat to assemble the remaining posts and pipes. Do not remove the braces.

Step 2 Using a helper, position the top frame and post assemblies on their sides (arbor horizontal) on a flat surface, ensuring the outside surfaces of the frame and posts are flush. Drive a pair of HeadLok screws

Step 1 Referring to the Project Diagram and Cutting List, crosscut the bench front/back stretchers (D), bench ends (E), and bench legs (H) to length from pressure-treated 4x4s. From a pressure-treated 1x4, cut the bench seat slats (G) to length. Then, from a pressure-treated 2x2, cut the bench seat cleats (F) to size.

Step 2 Use a hacksaw or copper tube cutter to crosscut four pieces of 3⁄4-in copper pipe to 13-1⁄2 inches long.

Step 3 To mark centerpoints for the holes in the bench legs (H) to receive the copper pipes, position the legs with their faces tight

together and the ends aligned. Using a carpenter’s square, draw lines across the width of the legs at the centerpoint locations.

Separate the parts. Adjust a combination square to 1-3⁄4 inches (one-half the width of the 4x4s). Now draw lines across the centerlines to complete the centerpoints.

ARBOR AND BENCH PROJECT DIAGRAM

Step 4 Using a 7⁄8-in spade bit in your drill, bore 1⁄2 inch deep holes into the legs at the centerpoints.

1/2-in

15/8-in deck screw G

Assemble the Bench Step 1 To assemble the bench legs (H) and copper pipes, squeeze a small amount of Liquid Nails interior/exterior construction adhesive into the holes in a pair of legs.

Insert two pipes into the holes in one leg, and then add the other leg, guiding the pipes into its holes. Rotate the pipes by hand a few turns to spread the adhesive.

To ensure a square assembly, position it face down on a flat surface. Place a bench seat slat (G) between the legs at each end as a spacer, and clamp the assembly squarely together. Wipe off any adhesive squeeze-out using a clean cloth. Leave the assembly clamped together for at least 10 minutes so that the adhesive sets. Repeat

gap

G

121/2-in

G

3-in deck screw

E

D

3/4-in

E

191/2-in

31/2-in

D F

441/2-in

Headlock screw 6-in long

BENCH TOP ASSEMBLY

Headlock screw 6-in long

H

STEP #2 to assemble the remaining legs and pipes.

Step 2 To assemble the bench seat, use a combination square to draw alignment marks on the inside faces of the bench front/back stretchers (D) 3⁄4-inch from the top faces for aligning the bench seat cleats (F), where shown. Mount the cleats to the

H

5-in 5-in

H 7/8-in

hole 1/2-in deep, centered

15-in

3/4-in

copper pipe 131/2-in long

September/October 2015 West Georgia Living

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STEP #3

STEP #4

stretchers, keeping their ends flush, using 3-in deck screws.

screws through the slats at each end into the cleats.

Step 3

Step 4

Mount the bench ends (E) to the stretchers to complete the seat frame using 6-in HeadLok screws. Position the seat slats (G) on the seat cleats (F), spacing the slats 1⁄2-inch apart. Drive a pair of 1-5⁄8-in deck

On a flat surface, position the leg assemblies on end and place the seat frame on the assemblies, ensuring the outside surfaces of the frame and legs are flush. Drive a pair of HeadLok screws

38

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September/October 2015

STEP #5 through the bench ends (E) and into the legs (H) where shown. Position the screws so that they clear the screws that attach the bench ends to the front/back stretchers.

Step 5 Stain the bench to match the arbor, following the manufacturer’s instructions. WGL

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Simply call 811 two days before any digging project to have all your underground utilities marked. Just one FREE, easy call helps protect you from injury and expense. Knowing where your underground utility lines are buried can save lives and minimize damage to underground utilities.

Know whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s below. Always call 811 before you dig.

greystonepower.com GreyStone Power is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

July/August 2015 West Georgia Living

39

Carroll's Ol' Time F

N

ot too long ago – if 50 years is not considered “too long” ago – Carroll County was mostly agricultural, with many of her residents raising their own food, including livestock, on large farms.

Burson Feed d n a Seed, Inc.

As we near the third decade of the 21st Century, however, the cultivation of corn, beans and potatoes has given way to small backyard gardens. Fewer people raise cattle, and more are interested in raising rose bushes or azaleas.

For most modern green thumbs, the usual source of fertilizer, seeds and rakes are the several big-box retailers across the county.

But there are some old-school alternatives for those who need supplies in bulk, or for those who are simply interested in something different.

The old country feed & seed store still exists, and are well worth a visit, even if you don’t need to buy salt licks or your animal feed by the pallet-full. In Carroll County, there are two such stores that simultaneously are a throwback to yesteryear and an underutilized resource for modern day suburban farmers.

Inside Burson’s Feed and Seed in Carrollton, and E.T. Doyal & Sons in Villa Rica, a visitor will not find the rows of neatly organized product as in big-name stores. Instead, the rows of shelves are jumbled with many items that invite the visitor to slow down and explore – and maybe discover one or two things he or she never knew existed,.

There is no sales pressure or the need to hurry in these stores. In fact, the owners and customers are all too happy to converse with you on just about every subject. And, if you want to know what those spots are on your crops, the folks behind the counter will use their expert knowledge to diagnose the problem.

STORY BY KEN DENNEY PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY 40

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September/October 2015

124 Rome Street • Carrollton

T

his iconic store just off Adamson Square has been at the same address for 64 years – and has had the same phone number since at least 1960. This is a place where, if time hasn’t completely stopped, it has at least slowed down to a manageable crawl.

The building, constructed early in the 20th Century, is attached to a cavernous warehouse which once housed cotton, but now shelters pallets of fertilizer, horse feed, salt licks and other items you won’t find anyplace else. The store has no air conditioning – instead powerful electric fans stir the air inside, pushing a sharp odor outside the open doors that twitches the noses of urbanized visitors.

“A lot of city slickers come in here and they aren’t used to smelling the feed and the insecticide; the pungent aroma of it all,” says Ronald Burson, who has been behind the counter for more than 50 years, and who took over the store from his father, Henry, the original Burson of Burson Feed & Seed.

The business began its life as the Jackson Seed Store, run by A.T. Jackson. In 1950, after new federal farm programs were begun to stabilize commodity prices, Jackson moved the business to Rome Street, a larger location with an old cotton warehouse attached. J. Henry Burson was a fertilizer dealer whose entrepreneurship caught Jackson’s eye.

Not long after, Jackson offered Burson a year’s free rent if he would sell fertilizer out of the warehouse.

So successful was the venture that in 1951, Burson and Jackson’s son bought out the elder man’s interest; thereafter the business was known as Jackson-Burson Feed & Seed. By 1956, Henry Burson had taken over the business entirely.

The store’s shelves are full of small and large items, everything from nails and screws to devices to scare away varmints or decorate your yard. And the store’s longtime employees know exactly where everything is and how it should be used.

“A lot of city slickers come in here and they aren’t used to smelling the feed and the insecticide; the pungent aroma of it all." — Ronald Burson

Feed & Seed Stores

At left, an adopted cat that hangs out in the warehouse. Above, Ronald Burson in his office.

September/October 2015

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E.T. Doyal & Sons 115 East Wilson Street Villa Rica

T

here is a picture inside E.T. Doyal & Sons feed store showing a group of men sitting on a bench. The picture was made in the early 1950s. Today, the same bench is in the exact same place – the only thing different nowadays is the men who sit there.

Rudy Ralston bags an item for a customer.

Inside, a visitor can find a living museum to Villa Rica’s past. There are fixtures that date back to the 1920s, 30s, 40s and so on.

There are refrigerator units that look as if they were installed during the Truman Administration, in which are stored some of the only stock of salt fish to be found in west Georgia. Up front are the kinds of large glass cracker jars that evoke the Roosevelt years. And while this is definitely a feed and seed store, the overall feel of the place is that of an old-time country market.

The store’s owner, Jerry Doyal, is the fifth generation of Doyals who has run the place.

It has been part of Villa Rica’s downtown for 90 years.

This is only the second location for the store. For more than a quarter-century, the building stood on a corner fronting the Bankhead Highway. Then it was moved back to a warehouse which originally had been built in 1903. Next door, where a building now stands, was a hitching ground for farmers to hitch up their horses and mules while stocking up on fertilizer, seed and feed.

Farmers still make a weekly trek to the store.

It is just about the only place nearby where feed can be bought in bulk, and folks come from miles around to pick up what they need. WGL

Ricky McLendon prices some merchandise.

42

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September/October 2015

Up front are the kinds of large glass cracker jars that evoke the Roosevelt years. And while this is definitely a feed and seed store, the overall feel of the place is that of an old-time country market.

Jerry Doyle and daughter Allison September/October 2015

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43

From left, Ronald Tyson, Dallas Mayfield, Skipper Harmon and Jerry Doyle get caught up on current events.

Allison Doyle checks out Nancy Ford, center and her daughter Maria 44

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

Byron Smallwood Dallas Mayfield, left, and Skipper Harmon.

Mike and Vickie Mitchell

Providing that small town feel for nearly 60 years

M

aybe it’s because I’ve passed the half a century mark (a nice way to say I’m older than 50), but these days I tend to look for “Mayberry Moments” – those reminders of our rural roots that make me feel safe and secure in my chosen home of Douglasville; suggestions of a time when everyone not only knew your name, but also those of “your people,” and service came with the flavor that only a small town can offer.

One recent morning I had a “Mayberry Moment” as I sat on a stool embossed with the logo for General Electric, and watched the employees of Mitchell Appliance Company handle a steady stream of customers in person and via the phone.

Mitchell Appliance Company was founded in 1956 by Frank E. Mitchell. He was born in Douglas County and graduated from Douglas County High School in 1946. After service in the United States Army, Frank worked for W.D. Alexander Company in Atlanta, a GE appliance distributor. At night, Frank would return to Douglasville and complete service calls for R.L. Smith, who owned the Economy Auto store. Later, he opened Mitchell Appliance Company, taking over the rock building that originally housed West-Dodson Ford Auto Company located

STORY BY LISA LAND COOPER PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY

at the corner of Strickland and McCarley Streets.

Together, Frank and his wife Nell built a very successful business using the slogan “appliances are our main line … not our side line,” and sticking to servicing what they sold. Mitchell saved many a Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner over the years. Folks knew they could count on him to be there, and today the tradition continues with sales, custom installations, and service calls.

In fact, at 59 years, Mitchell Appliance Company is one of Douglasville’s oldest family-run businesses! Mike, Vickie, and Nathan Mitchell are the current owners.

September/October 2015

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45

Robert and Lachion Morgan shop for a fridge The brother-sister team of Mike and Vickie Mitchell learned the business from the ground up, watching their parents provide service to Douglas County residents.

Today, Mike’s wife Molly also works for the business, with the third generation represented by their son Nathan.

Mitchell Appliance began at time when Douglas County was growing in leaps and bounds, from the 1960s through the 1990s, as the farm-friendly county gradually became a bedroom suburb of the city of Atlanta. Mitchell Appliance Company was right there, working hand in hand with the group of contractors and builders who made that possible.

Vickie helps customer Amy Matz with an oven.

Today, the majority of the business at Mitchell Appliance Company comes from individuals, since so many people are into do-it-yourself renovations, and many seniors are downsizing. The company offers a complete line of GE appliances with the added values of custom installation and a commitment to servicing what they sell.

Many of the customers who walked in during my visit to their showroom were in the market for parts. Vickie Mitchell advised me that they run a huge parts business for all brands, including heating and air and plumbing parts, too. They also sell Rada Cutlery, which includes knives and serving utensils.

Of course, the longevity of the business has everything to do with service. As Vickie Mitchell advised, “We do business totally different than the big box stores.

We are more customer oriented. We zero in on the customer’s needs and meet them with small-town service and values. Our customers don’t have to come through our door. We realize that, and consider it a blessing.”

Jonathan Hollis works the front counter

Mitchell Appliance Company is located at 6701 E. Strickland Street in Douglasville, Georgia. Contact them by phone at 770-942-2337, or visit their website at mitchellappliance.com. WGL

Scott Ellis, left, jobsite supervisor, and Danny Akers, installer, load up for a delivery

Vickie Mitchell 46

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

GARDENING

Your Yard Improvement Features that add fun and style to your outdoor world

J

ust as a beautiful painting needs the right frame to looks its best, a beautiful home needs the right landscape to look its best.

The HGTV series Curb Appeal demonstrates how important a yard can be. In my opinion, improving the landscape that frames your house is one of the most important things you can do to improve the entire home.

When I started thinking about improving my yard, I was almost overwhelmed with the variety of things that can be done outside the physical house. First of course – at least from a gardener’s point of view – are the plants. But for this discussion, let’s concentrate on non-living improvements.

There are such permanent or semi-permanent structures as walls, fences, arbors, gazebos, fish ponds, fountains, potting benches, walkways and paths, built-in grills and well-houses, to name only a few. While these are attractive, they also add form and structure to the area. Along with the right plants, they can even be used to create rooms and hideaways within the garden.

Since these additions are designed to last for a long time, they take more thought and planning than more temporary or portable improvements. Lee Wyatt of gardening.tips. net reminds us to consider the purpose of the structure, as well as the convenience.

You don’t want to put a plain storage shed

STORY BY TOMMIE MUNRO PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY

September/October2015 2015 September/October

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by the front door. Be sure the building materials complement the materials in your house. Choose a design that works well with your home.

Make sure the structure, such as a greenhouse, is built and organized to be easy to use.

Walls are often one of the most prominent features in a garden.

Before building a wall, decide what your purpose is. Is it simply decorative? Do you need to hide or shelter something? Do you need a retaining wall? Then select the material you want to use. Remember that, after all of the work it takes to build a wall, you want it not only to last, but to enhance your landscape and your home.

If you are building a retaining wall, it must be strong and durable. There are five basic types of retaining walls: gravity walls, which use weight to hold the earth behind them; sheet pile walls that hold soft soils and are made of steel, vinyl or wood; concrete walls, used for a number of situations requiring resilience and solidity; 48

West Georgia Living

block can be used to enclose an area; and rock is used for leveling, among other things.

Once you have the structure you want in your garden, you can accessorize.

To my mind there are two types of accessories: those that have a function and those which are purely decorative.

Some common types of functional art are bird feeders and birdbaths. Bird feeders are a whole topic alone, but there are some general things to keep in mind. There are specific feeders for specific types of birds and bird food. Hummingbirds need feeders that hold liquid food; Baltimore Orioles - the bird, not the baseball team - need feeders that hold nectar, jelly, fruit and mealworms; there are seed feeders for Nyjer (thistle) seed, sunflower seed, safflower seed and the common seed blends.

After deciding which type(s) of feeder you need, the next big decision is do you want to put out the extra money for a squirrel-poof feeder? My answer

September/October 2015

is a resounding “Yes!” My squirrels even eat my hummingbird feed. I feel that the extra cost is cheaper than the cost of all of the bird food they eat.

Some people also put out squirrel feeders and deer feeders. Because of my relationship with squirrels, I can’t understand why anyone would want to feed them!

Birds need and enjoy birdbaths. There are types ranging from plain to ornate, so pick the one you like that complements your landscape. Do pick one that is fairly shallow, no deeper than three inches; birds can’t use a deep one very well.

When I am working in the garden, I always discover I am needing something in the storage shed. Decorated mail boxes placed around the garden make handy places to store hand tools and other useful objects.

Purely decorative accessories allow you the best opportunities to express your personality in your garden. You can find pieces that range from expensive to other people’s junk; from delicate and beautiful, to purely whimsical.

Statuary is often used, and again, the subjects range from beautiful to thoughtful to pure fun.

One of my favorites is a small, round smiling face with feet that my grandchildren gave me.

I call it my “smiley face with feet.”

While statues and other concrete pieces are often used, your imagination is your only limit. I once visited an Elvis Presley fan’s garden that had everything from statues of Elvis to guitars placed strategically around.

Surprisingly enough, it was very effective.

Old bathtubs can be used as fishponds and planters. Bottle trees can give you a splash of color in a bland area. Old bed springs can be used beautifully as a trellis, or an old dresser with a mirror used to bring depth to a small area, or against a wall.

While there is an unlimited amount of beautiful planters in the stores, all kinds of things, including worn out gardening tools, can be used as planters. Old wheel barrows make great planters, as do watering cans.

Pretty broken pots can be placed over plants in the ground for a surprising effect.

These are only a few ways that you can improve your garden and yard and thereby your home. Enjoy your garden. Do your homework and research, then let your imagination run wild and have fun. Just keep it in moderation. WGL Tommie Munro is a Carroll County Master Gardener Extension Volunteer

But be careful when selecting statues. Make sure the size of your pieces fit the space you have. Study the area and make sure your piece complements the surrounding area. We have all seen yards that were so filled with statues and art that it was hard to see the plants. They can be placed in a prominent spot as a focal point or in a shelter area as a surprise for the viewer. But remember, you want to enhance your garden – not overpower it. Also, buy good quality statues. I once bought a concrete birdbath with a cat in the center, but after the first winter, the cat was a pile of small concrete chunks.

Come By and Visit Us!

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623 Dixie Street Carrollton, Georgia 770 834-3393 • Tim Oliver, RPH Personal, Fast Service • Free City-wide Delivery

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315 Bradley Street • Carrollton, Georgia 30117 770-830-2000 • (fax) 770-830-2026 www.carrollton-ga.gov 50

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September/October 2015

D.I.Y.

BEVERAGE TABLE

Photos and article courtesy of Lowe’s Companies, Inc. With a stylish appearance and a handy beverage bucket inside, this table is the perfect piece for entertaining.

Skill Level: Intermediate Estimated Time: One weekend Step 1 Referring to the Project Diagram and Cutting List/Diagram (page 52), cut the following parts to size from pressure-treated boards, except where noted differently.

From a 1 x 8 x 8, crosscut the front/ back legs (A) to the specified length.

Rip the remaining board to 6-1/2 inches wide. Then crosscut the side legs (B) to size.

Step 2 From a 2 x 2 x 8, crosscut the leg cleats (C) to size.

Step 3 From 1 x 4 x 8s, crosscut the upper

Tools:

• Tape measure • Pencil • Table saw or miter saw • Jig saw • Corded/cordless electric drill • Drill bits: 1/16-in twist drill, 1/2-in spade bit or twist bit • Assorted clamps • #2 Phillips screwdriver or driver bit • Paint brush

Materials: • 4 - 1 x 3 x 10 cedar boards • 1 x 8 x 8 cedar board • 2 - 1 x 4 x 8 cedar boards • 2 - 1 x 6 x 8 cedar boards • 2 x 2 x 8 cedar board • 3/4 x 24 x 48 sheet treated (CDX) plywood • 1 box 1-1/4-in deck screws • 1 box 1-5/8-in deck screws September/October 2015

• 1 box 2-inch deck screws • 1 quart Olympic semitransparent stain, Redwood #704 • Titebond III 8 oz. waterproof wood glue (#627) • Trash can with locking lid (#195272)

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long slats (D) and upper short slats (E) to the listed lengths. Save the offcuts.

Step 4 From 1 x 3 x 8s, crosscut the short frame (F) members, long frame (G) members, lower long slats (L), and lower short slats (M) to the specified lengths. Identify these parts to avoid confusion.

Step 5 From a 3/4 x 24 x 48 sheet of treated (CDX) plywood, rip and crosscut the platform (H) to size. Measure the diameter of your drink bucket at the widest point under the rim.

Mark a centerpoint for the bucket hole on the platform, where dimensioned. Adjust a compass to one-half the measured diameter (the radius), and draw a circle around the centerpoint. Using a 1/2-inch-diameter spade or twist bit, drill a hole just inside the circle. Then, use a jigsaw to cut out the opening.

Step 6 Rip 1 x 6 x 8s to 5 inches wide for the top platform slats (I). Then, crosscut the slats to the listed length.

flathead screws.

Step 7

Step 10

From the 1 x 4 offcuts, rip and crosscut the drink cover cleats (J) and table cover cleats (K) to the specified width and lengths.

To position the bottom lower short slats (M), draw lines across each of the side legs (B) 5-1/4 inches from the bottom. Align the bottom edge of a slat with the marked lines at one end of the table and clamp it in place.

From inside the table, drill four mounting holes through each side leg and into the slat, where shown. Fasten with 1-1/4-inch flathead screws. Repeat to attach the other bottom slat.

Now we are ready to assemble the table: Step 8 Pair the front/back legs (A) and side legs (B) in the configuration shown. The 7-1/4-inch-wide front/back legs go against the edges of the 6-1/2-inch-wide side legs to form symmetrical L-shaped corners.

Position a leg cleat (C) inside each leg pair.

Drill mounting holes through the cleats and into each leg member, where shown, and drive 2-inch flathead screws.

Step 9 On a flat work surface, lay out the legs (A/B/C), short frame (F) members, and long frame (G) members, in the configuration shown. Verify that the outside edges of the frame members are flush with the outside faces of the legs. Keeping the joints between the frame members tight, drill mounting holes through the frame pieces and centered into the ends of the 3/4-inch-thick legs, where shown. Fasten with 1-1/4-inch 52

West Georgia Living September/October 2015

Step 11 Place the bottom lower long slats (L) in position with their overlapping ends aligned with the ends of the short slats.

Screw-mount the long slats as you did for the short slats. Using 3/4-inch scrap for spacers, screw-mount the middle tier of short and long slats, where shown. Now, use the spacers again to position the upper short slats (E) and upper long slats (D), and glue and clamp them to the edges of the frame (F/G) using waterproof polyurethane glue per the manufacturer's instructions.

BEVERAGE TABLE CUTTING LIST FINISHED SIZE Part A B C D E F G H I J K L M

T

front/back legs side legs leg cleats upper long slats upper short slats short frame long frame platform top platform slats drink cover cleats table cover cleats lower long slats lower short slats

3/4

3/4

11/2 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4 3/4

After the glue dries, drill angled mounting holes through the frame (F/G) and into the upper slats. Fasten with 1-5/8-inch flathead screws, four along the long sides and three

L

Material Pcs

113/4 113/4 113/4 42 231/4 181/4 401/2 401/2 231/8 171/8 23 42 231/4

C C C C C C C Ply C C C C C

Materials Key: C- Cedar, Ply- treated plywood Hardware: 11/4-in, 15/8-in and 2-in deck screws

CUTTING DIAGRAM A

A

A

A

B

B

B

B

1 x 8 x 8 (3/4 x 71/4 x 96) cedar D

D

1 x 4 x 8 (3/4 x 31/2 x 96) cedar C C C 2 x 2 x 8 (3/4 x 11/2 x 96) cedar

C

E

E

1 x 4 x 8 (3/4 x 31/2 x 96) cedar M

G F 1 x 3 x 10 (3/4 x 21/2 x 120) cedar G F 1 x 3 x 10 (3/4 x 21/2 x 120) cedar I

I

I

1 x 6 x 8 (3/4 x 51/2 x 96) cedar I

I

I L

L 1 x 3 x 10 (3/4 x 21/2 x 120) cedar

L

3/4

x 24 x 48 CDX plywood

M I K J

L 1 x 3 x 10 (3/4 x 21/2 x 120) cedar

H

M

M

1 x 6 x 8 (3/4 x 51/2 x 96) cedar

Step 12

W

71/4 61/2 11/2 31/2 31/2 21/2 21/2 231/4 5 3/4 3/4 21/2 21/2

4 4 4 2 2 2 2 1 7 2 2 4 4

along the short sides.

Step 13

BEVERAGE TABLE PROJECT DIAGRAM

Place the platform (H) on the frame (F/G).

Drill mounting holes through the frame members, centered across their 2-1/2-inch width, and into the platform, where shown.

Fasten with 1-1/4-inch flathead screws.

1/4-in

7/8-in

overhangs I

Step 14 For easy alignment of the top platform slats (I) on the drink cover cleats (J) and table cover cleats (K), draw a line across one face of the slats 1/4 inch in from each end (the slat overhang). Also, draw a line 1/4-inch in from one end of each cleat (the cleat projection).

With the marked sides of the slats up and spaced approximately 7/8 inch apart, align the cleats with the lines, ensuring the cleats project 1/4-inch at one end, where shown. Drill mounting holes through the cleats and into the slats, where shown.

Fasten with 1-1/4-inch flathead screws.

1/4-in

I

I

23-in overhangs I J

7/8-in

I

cleat projection

I

K 1/4-in

gaps

11/4-in deck screw

gaps 1/4-in

cleat projection

I

171/8-in 91/4-in

115/8-in

401/2-in

H

Hole cut to fit bucket 11/4-in deck screws

E

F

Now for the finishing touches:

15/8-in deck screw

D

11/4-in deck screw

G

A

Step 15 Apply Olympic semitransparent stain, Redwood #704, to the table following the manufacturer's instructions. Place your drink bucket into the opening, and set the slatted platforms in place. WGL

A D

F

G 2-in deck screws

L

3/4-in

gaps

gaps

B

11/4-in

L

3/4-in

deck screws

M 42-in

3/4-in 1 2 /2-in

3/4-in

E

C

31/2-in

231/4-in

113/4-in 51/4-in

A

B

September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

53

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An Affiliate with Carrollton Orthopaedic Clinic

705 Dallas Highway, Ste. 301 770-834-0873

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812 South Park St., Ste. 3 Carrollton, Ga 30117 770-834-0873

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Ralph E. Fleck M.D. General Orthopaedics

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Jubal R. Watts M.D.

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General Orthopaedics

E. Franklin Pence M.D. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

General Orthopaedics Joint Replacement

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Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement

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Sports Medicine General Orthopaedics

DAVID A. SCRUGGS

ANDREA MAXWELL

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Hand Orthopaedic Surgeon

Kitchen Makeovers

Art

The of Remodeling Basic Meals September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

55

FOOD

Use Your S Inspiration to Make These Dishes Even Better

hortly after my wife and I bought our house, my daughter graduated high school. What does that have to do with cooking? Good question; I’ll explain.

We had gotten a really good deal on the house because it was nearly gutted. It needed flooring, paint, trim – you name it.

And the kitchen was in desperate need of being remodeled.

Everything was accomplished in very short order, with the exception of the kitchen.

That project was put on hold. But, with a herd of relatives coming into town to celebrate my daughter’s graduation, I was suddenly under some very real pressure to get the kitchen done.

bottom baking dish with the remaining oil. Season chicken on both sides with the remaining ingredients, except wine, and let rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 425 degrees.

Place chicken in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 325 degrees and cover with a tight fitting lid or with aluminum foil. Allow to cook for another 40 minutes or until it is fall-apart tender. Remove chicken from the dish and, while still hot, deglaze the baking dish with the white wine making sure to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Set deglazing liquid aside.

When cool enough to handle, pull chicken from bones and into small strips making sure to eliminate all bones and tendons. In a large skillet, add chicken and deglazing liquid and sauté until all the liquid has been absorbed and the chicken takes on a brownish color. Set aside.

I worked late into the night, weekends included, and gave every minute (and nearly Crepes every paycheck) I had to making sure the kitchen was done to my liking. And why not? Crepes used to be common in the American It was the only room in the house that would culinary landscape; now, they have all but truly be mine. disappeared from most restaurants. Now, you usually only see them alongside fruit Throughout that entire period of laying tile and a bit of ice cream, or in reruns of a and installing slate backsplash, I would once popular sitcom where the exploding think about what I would have when crepes fueled flashbacks and revolutionary the remodeling process had finally, and thoughts. However, crepes are not just mercifully, come to an end. As so often for desserts and comedy. They are a fine happens, hard, steady work freed my mind addition to savory dishes. to think of a dish, or a sauce, then a variation on that, other ways to apply it, and so on.

Just as houses sometimes need being taken down to its core and rebuilding, certain dishes can benefit from remodeling from time to time. Here are some relatively simple, base preparations for a few dishes.

Think of them as a good sturdy structure that can be made into something more.

I invite you to let your mind wander and dream up new variations from these relatively simple meals.

Rosemary Roast Chicken Crepes with White Wine Vincotto For the chicken

Rob Duvé

2 chicken leg quarters, skinned ¼ cup finely diced shallots ¼ cup finely diced carrots ¼ cup finely diced celery 2-3 tablespoons good quality olive oil 2 tablespoon dry white wine 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves, roughly chopped 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest Sea salt and pepper to taste Rub leg quarters with olive oil and coat a heavy

56

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

Crepe Recipe

1 cup flour ¾ cup milk ½ cup water 3-4 tablespoons melted butter 2 tablespoons very thinly sliced green onion rings Pinch of sea salt and finely ground white pepper Additional butter for cooking In a blender or food processor, place all ingredients except green onions and pulse until thoroughly combined. Place in the refrigerator and let rest for one hour.

Heat a small, nonstick skillet over medium high heat and brush with a bit of butter. Pour a small bit of batter in the center and swirl until a thin coat covers the skillet. While the batter is still wet, sprinkle in a few pinches of the green onion. When the edges begin to get dry and crisp, quickly flip and finish cooking for about 30 seconds. Crepes can be stacked and stored in the refrigerator for several days, or frozen for several weeks. If they are stored frozen, thaw them on a cutting board or rack before carefully peeling apart.

PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY

Rosemary roast chicken crepes with white wine vincotto

Platter designed by west Georgia artist Paul Campbell

Crepe Quick Tip No matter the type of crepe you wish to prepare, the time it rests in the refrigerator will be the key to success. This allows the bubbles that have formed during the blending process to rise out of the batter. Since the final product is very thin, any remaining bubbles would make the crepe weak and easy to tear when flipping.

Since we are making crepes – and since some people will be dead set on trying them with something sweet – you can make dessert crepes by removing the sea salt, white pepper, and green onion, then add 2 tablespoons of natural sugar to the mix before blending. An alternative would be a simple maceration of strawberries and natural sugar, wrapped in the crepe and topped with powdered sugar. That should satisfy any sweet tooth.

White Wine Vincotto Literally translated, vincotto means “cooked wine,” and it is just that simple. The great thing about vincotto, like crepes, can be made in numerous forms to cross both sweet and savory boundaries and add a unique twist on both kinds of dishes.

3 cups dry white wine ¼ cup good local honey 2 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon fresh orange zest 4 whole cloves Pinch of cinnamon and sea salt Add wine, honey, vinegar, and orange zest to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1 cup. Turn off heat and add cloves, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk, and let rest for about 20 minutes. Remove and discard

cloves, or save for garnish.

The more traditional version of this recipe uses red wine instead of white, and red wine or balsamic vinegar instead of rice vinegar.

At that point, the seasoning becomes as interchangeable as Lego blocks. Try the following recipe, using the same cooking method as previously stated, and try over a medium rare ribeye.

3 cups dry red wine ¼ cup natural cane sugar 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons finely diced shallot 2 teaspoon cracked pepper 1 teaspoon Louisiana hot sauce Pinch of sea salt.

To finish, we need to assemble the crepes, which is as simple as laying out a warm crepe and adding a thin layer of pulled chicken to one side. Fold in half and fold again into a quarter. For a lovely presentation, pour a thin thin drizzle of vincotto over the crepe. Or, you can rest the crepe on a very small, thin pool of the vincotto and garnish with either finely chopped parsley, or thinly sliced green onions cut on an angle, or bias.

Hopefully, these presentations will give you a tad bit of inspiration to think outside of the box and create new and interesting things with some old school techniques. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes, since they can lead to very tasty things.

On the subject of mistakes, I took a great deal of time during my kitchen remodel to plan a small “Hidey Hole” in my kitchen.

The idea was to leave one of the slate backsplash tiles loose and create a space behind so I could stash valuables, or spices that are sensitive to light. I took the time to find a space that was between the studs and made sure all of the pieces fit very tightly together to the point that I had to wedge the carefully planned loose piece in.

Over the years since I made that plan, my otherwise good memory failed me and I sort of forgot where that tile is. Now I have no idea which one to pick at, since I don’t want to dislodge the wrong one.

Oh well.

As always,

Enjoy!

September/October 2015

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Movie Time in

Georgia is becoming a mecca for Hollywood, and Douglas County is in the picture 58

West Georgia Living

F

or a few days in June and July, there was a touch of Hollywood magic in the air around Douglasville.

But seeing Tinseltown A-listers could become a lot more routine, if Douglas County leaders have their way. Georgia is quickly becoming a star attraction for armies of location scouts sent out by movie and television production companies. And Douglas wants in on all the lights, cameras and action.

As excited residents watched from the sidelines, a movie crew took over a small part of downtown to shoot scenes for the upcoming film “The Founder,” a biography of Ray Kroc, the creator of the McDonald’s restaurant chain. According to Bob Smith, of the Douglas County Film Commission (yes, there is Social media was lit with reports of “Keaton one), the county is actively working with sightings,” meaning that residents had caught production companies, supplying them with a glimpse of the film’s star, Michael Keaton locations of potential places to film in the (“Batman,” “Beetlejuice”), as he amiably county, and serving as a liaison between strolled around town in between takes. those companies and local governments.

But more than that, the film office is making the hookup between local businesses who STORY BY KEN DENNEY can supply what the production companies PHOTOS BY LAURA CORLEY are looking for: electricians, landscape

September/October 2015

Douglasville Filming on "The Founder" started June 11 at a reconstructed 1950s-era McDonald's restaurant in Douglasville. The set was altered several times to represent different periods in time.

companies, equipment rental, caterers, carpenters, and the list goes on.

You see, not only does movie and TV production put a spotlight on the community, it also means jobs and money for local residents. And it also means that some Douglas County property owners might see their houses, fields, barns and woods up on the silver screen.

The process begins, Smith said, when the production company starts looking for places to film.

“The scout will start looking all around the Atlanta metro area or all over the state. This is the point where the Film Office comes into play,” Smith said. “The scout may contact us to see if there is anything in our community that might fit the

location request. If we have something of interest, the scout will come and take photos and then send them to the location manager. The location manager will forward the photos usually to the director and producer. If the location piques the interest of the director, they will come back for a second visit. If the director likes the location, then the ballgame is on.”

In the movie that was filmed this summer in Douglasville, the town “starred” as a city in Minnesota where Kroc established his restaurant chain. The town was taken back in time to the 1950s, thanks to some clever construction and the presence of some vintage cars and extras in period dress.

Actor Michael Keaton

“One afternoon back in April, I got a phone call from the location manager for “The Founder,” September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

59

The parking lot beside the old First Baptist Church on Church Street was transformed into the site of a Midwestern McDonald's in mid June, after more than a month of construction.

Smith said. “He discussed the scope of the project and what he is was looking for. The need was for a relatively small parking lot, surrounded by buildings with 1950's architecture.”

Smith said the manager had set his sights on one spot, but Smith knew that traffic control at that location would be next to impossible. So, he suggested a parking lot on the Church Street side of the old Courthouse, next to the old police department building.

“Most of the buildings in that area of Church Street were built back in the 1950's. He loved it and the director loved it. In a nutshell, that's how the parking lot became a major part of the movie.

Plus, the old Courthouse interior was used for several scenes in the movie.”

The Film Office is an umbrella extension of the Development Authority of Douglas County.

It was first organized in the early 1990's, under supervision of the county Board of commissioners. Smith said Jerry Pece and Shay Bentley-Griffin were responsible for its creation.

“Jerry is a seasoned veteran director in the film 60

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

An actor playing a 1950s McDonald's employee in the Midwest wears the kind of paper hat used by the fast-food chain in its early days.

and television Industry. He is a first assistant director, and active with the Director's Guild of America. Today, he is very much involved in national network and cable commercial spots. Jerry still sits as an active member of the Film Office. He has a deep and experienced knowledge of the film industry.

A cast member gets tips from a crew member as he chomps down on a hamburger.

“Shay began as a talent agent, launching the careers of many recognized actors from the Southeast onto national screens in soaps, television series, and feature films. She went on to become the region’s preeminent casting director, persistently encouraging producers to consider filming in the southeast region and to use regional talent for supporting roles. Shay's big start came in the 1980's with the network TV series 'In The Heat Of The Night.'"

Why has Georgia suddenly become so attractive to Hollywood? The short answer is money – or, to be more specific, tax credits.

In 2008, Georgia instituted a tax incentive program designed to lure the film industry to the state. The Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act, pushed by former Gov. Sonny Perdue, put Georgia among 40 other states doing the same thing, drawing production companies back to this country. Canada, which had offered similar tax incentives in the 1990s, had been luring those companies outside the U.S. According to published reports, the economic impact of numerous feature films, TV movies and shows – not to mention commercials and music videos – brought more than $3.1 billion into the state in 2013, representing a 30 percent increase from 2011.

“In 2014, Georgia was ranked the No. 3 film production spot in the nation,” Smith said “The film industry continues to grow in Georgia. It's really amazing to see how large this industry has grown in just the past four years.”

West Georgia has already seen some of this benefit, and we can expect more. Smith says the main assets this area has is its proximity to Atlanta and what he calls the “Film Zone.”

“The Zone is a big circle surrounding downtown Atlanta. It reaches out 30 miles from downtown in all directions. Almost every point in Douglas County sits inside the 30-mile Zone.”

The Zone is important for logistics reasons.

Production companies don’t want to pay a lot in travel and shipment costs, so they want to be near the electricians, lighting experts, caterers and other resources they need.

“When the industry started heating up for Douglas several years ago, a spot on the all-volunteer Film Commission board was

vacant. I grew up in Douglas County and have a fairly good knowledge of the landscape of the county. The second member of the Film Commission, Jerry Frost, asked me if I would be willing to fill the third spot, because of my knowledge of the area, and that's how I became involved.

“In the past couple of years, the film commission was transferred to the Development Authority of Douglas County. Georgia's film industry is a large economic machine. It was decided that moving the Film Office over the Development Authority was a perfect fit as for economic development. The name changed and we are now the Douglas County Film Office.”

It’s safe to say that there are already plans by Hollywood producers to bring new film projects to Douglas, including major films. But good luck trying to get Smith to tell you what they are – it’s secret, he says.

“The film industry is not like any other business model. It is very secretive. 'The Founder' was different, because they had established a set project that was right out in the open for everyone to see.

“Production employees sign contracts with confidentially agreements that prohibit them from discussing anything about a film project they are working on. If I am contacted by a film production, I respect their privacy, and I uphold their request. When other potential film productions see this, it gives them a better feel for coming to Douglas County. You must gain their trust.”

And sometimes, Smith said, the process is so secret that even he might be the last to know.

“Just last week, a day shoot was going on at a historic home in Lithia Springs. I received several emails from people wanting to know what was being filmed, and had no idea of

what was happening.”

It’s clear that companies that specialize in the kinds of services a film crew needs will benefit from locating in Douglas. But there are other money-making opportunities for ordinary folks, including actors, and those interested in having production companies use their property.

Actors – including non-actors who want to fill in as crowd “extras” can use the internet to search for “Atlanta Casting Calls.” And the Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office offers a link where you can enter your property/ structure information into a locations database for the film industry to look through.

And there are even more benefits for Douglas businesses that cater to the tourism industry.

“Film tourism vacations is something I would not have imagined. I got an email from a couple in England who were coming to Atlanta to trace the movie locations for "Driving Miss Daisy".

Reece's gas station on Blairs Bridge Road was used as a prominent location in the movie.”

So, just exactly how much potential is there for the film industry to really make an impact on Douglas County economics? Well, there’s a lot, Smith says.

“The potential is really there, and I would say we've already witnessed part of that potential with location film projects, not to mention cable television series and nationally run television advertisements. We tend to focus in on movies, but a large part of industry is TV and commercial advertisements.

“North Carolina ended their film tax credit program at the first of July. Georgia is definitely benefiting from this. Part of North Carolina's film community and production are moving to Atlanta.” WGL September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

61

ARTIST'S CORNER

World Class Performance

Rafael Veytsblum and his 211-year-old violin.

AS A CLASSICALLY TRAINED VIOLINIST, RAFAEL VEYTSBLUM HAS PERFORMED ALL OVER THE GLOBE ... BUT HE PREFERS WEST GEORGIA STORY BY KEN DENNEY PHOTOS BY RICKY STILLEY 62

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

R

afael Veytsblum has played violin at the Boishoi Theater in Moscow, the Royal Opera House in London, and at La Scala in Milan. He knew, or has played for, some of the greatest Russian composers of the 20th Century.

He still performs all across Europe, but one of his favorite places is here in west Georgia. When he gets a call to sit in with the talented musicians of the Carroll Symphony Orchestra, he always says yes.

Of course, he has to make some adjustments for his west Georgia appearances. When he plays outdoors, he chooses his second-best instrument – a 211-year-old German violin – so the humidity will not wreck his more expensive violin.

He has come a long way to be here.

Veytsblum (VAYS-bloom) was born in what is now the country of Azerbaijan, located on the Caspian Sea north of Iran.

When he lived there, it was part of the Soviet Union, which he fled in 1980,

before Gorbachev, and during the height of the USSR’s cold war with the West.

“In Moscow, there’s about seven major orchestras and then three opera orchestra and then four or five chamber orchestras, and they’re all full time,” he said. “When I was there, with all this bad stuff about Russia – the politics, the Communists – the only thing they did good, they supported the arts.

He can joke about it now, but when he emigrated to the West, he was forced to leave behind a cherished heirloom, a violin that had been played by his grandfather, and who had given it to Veytsblum when he began his studies as a classical musician.

“You had to go through a special department and get the necessary paperwork to take the instruments out of the country, and they would not give it to me,” he said. Instead, he was forced to leave his grandfather’s violin in the care of a relative and begin his career in the west with another instrument.

Veytsblum plays with the Carroll Symphony Orchestra during a July 4 outdoor concert.

The grandfather’s heirloom violin, made in Italy in 1747, was lost. Veytsblum estimates it could be worth $1 million today.

Veytsblum was born in Baku, the capital of what was then the Soviet republic of Azerbaijan, one of the most southern regions of the former Soviet Union. He began his training there, and received a scholarship to the Moscow Conservatory, considered one of the finest music institutions in the world, even during the Cold War. He studied with Leonid Kogan, one of the greatest Russian violinists of the 20th Century, then auditioned for – and won – a position with the Bolshoi Opera, part of the famed Bolshoi Theater in Moscow. He also obtained positions with the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra and the Moscow Chamber Orchestra. Many of the century’s greatest Russian composers premiered their work with the Chamber Orchestra, including Dimitri Shostakovich, who conducted a performance at which Veytsblum performed.

“The first time somebody called me, I said to myself ‘Carrollton?’ but I said, OK, I’ll go see."

His training and experience with such prestigious orchestras led to travels outside the Soviet Union, where he was able to perform at some of the finest musical venues in the world.

“The interesting thing about playing with Bolshoi Opera, we used to go on tour. We played all the major opera houses in the world, everywhere – Covent Garden (Royal Opera House, London) the Vienna Opera, and La Scala (Teatro alla Scala, Milan) – everywhere, you know. So I played around the world.”

But when he left the Soviet Union permanently, Veytsblum settled in the

Southeastern United States, a decision he says surprises some people “People say, you lived in Moscow, so you must be used to the cold. But I was born in the south, and the south is the south. I never liked the cold.”

Once here, Veytsblum began performing with the Atlanta Chamber Orchestra and subbing from time to time with the Atlanta Symphony. He still performs as a founding member of the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra.

Such is the life of a journeyman musician.

While some classical musicians obtain permanent positions with some orchestras, others, like Veytsblum, travel from place to place, working with several orchestras. It’s just one of the many facts about the life of professional musicians unknown to those outside the business.

Veytsblum said many people think violinists like himself own very expensive instruments, such as those made by master September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

63

craftsmen Antonio Stradivari, or the Amati family. Actually the violinists only play such multi-million-dollar instruments; the violins are owned by corporations, or orchestra donors.

Along with the Atlanta companies, Veytsblum also plays with symphonies in Chattanooga, Macon and Augusta.

He also continues to perform in Europe, and will soon be leaving for Switzerland for a music festival in Lucerne.

During his long career, Veytsblum has met many of the great composers of the 20th Century, such as Dmitry Kabalevsky and Aram Khachaturian; in fact, Veytsblum played for Khachaturian when the Boishoi Ballet performed his “Spartacus.” He also knew Mstislav Rostropovich, who, like Veytsblum, was born in Azerbaijan.

But among this stellar group of composers and conductors, few stand out more than Dmitri Shostokovich, who wrote 15 symphonies. In fact, Shostokovich once conducted his own works before an orchestra that included Veytsblum – an experience that he said left him, and the other orchestra members, both physically and emotionally drained.

“I knew all these great musicians and instrumentalists,” he said. “And the reason why I am playing with the Carroll Symphony, is Terry.”

He is referring to Terry Lowry, conductor and musical director for the 60-member Carroll Symphony Orchestra. Veytsblum has sat with the string section since the Symphony was organized 13 years ago.

“The first time somebody called me, I said to myself ‘Carrollton?’ but I said, OK, I’ll go see. And I was so impressed with Terry as a musician and as a person.”

“Some of the conductors I’ve played with … well, they’re not nice people.

With Terry, you trust him. Some of those conductors, sometimes they choose a repertoire that is not that exciting (for a musician.). But (Lowry) is talented; he plans the music and the concert in such a way that you want to play. You just want to do it.

“So, I’m really impressed with him, and every time there is a concert, I say yes, I’ll be there. I may cancel some other job, but I’ll be here.” WGL

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64

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

TAKE 5

Tamara Manny Proforma Resolution Print Management Winston, Ga. I never dreamed I would … be living in Georgia, owning a business, and enjoying married life with a wonderful husband and a son who is retired from the military. Our menagerie is complete with two dogs and an uncertain number of fish.

My best friend is … I know this will sound cliché, but my husband, David is my best friend. We have been married for many years and have become partners for life. My Uncle Bob taught me a long time ago that marriage is a partnership, and you have to nurture that relationship forever. At the time, I was very young and didn’t understand, but as I’ve gotten older I understand completely. I’m very active in the community and have made many wonderful friends with the same interests and future career goals.

If stranded on a desert Island … I’d bring Melody Carlson's “Four Lindas” series.

It is a series about four women named Linda who were in the same class, and who were reunited later in life and formed true friendships.

I’d love to share a cup of coffee with … Sandra Bullock. This probably sounds a bit silly, but I can relate to the roles that she has played in the movies, and I think we would have a lot in common off stage too. She strikes me as someone that you could sit with for hours and share stories.

My hero is …. My Uncle Bob. He has been special to me since I was a little girl. He is a wonderful role model. No matter how old I am or whatever is on my mind, he always had the time to sit and talk with me. I was involved in sports growing up, and I could always count on Uncle Bob for encouraging words and a smiling face in the stands during a game. I was honored to be the first of his nieces to make him a great uncle because he is a “great” uncle! Every child should experience that kind of support.

Most people probably don’t know that I have … finished three Goofy Races at Walt Disney World. A Goofy Race is a half marathon (13.1 miles) on Saturday and a full marathon (26.2 miles) on Sunday. It was an amazing feeling to accomplish 39.3 miles in two days.

When I have 10 minutes alone … I like to roll up my sleeves and dig in the garden.

I have found that this is great therapy after a long day. It gives me the opportunity to disconnect from a busy work day and be in my own thoughts!

My parents taught me … “Never give up on your Dreams.” This is a quote that has been on my office wall since I opened in 2003. It’s a daily reminder to keep me inspired and to never give up, no matter how difficult a day can be. Running a business is one of the most challenging tasks I have taken on. It’s continually growing and changing each year.

My personal motto is … “Treat others as you would like to be treated.” I treat people the way I like to be treated in my personal and business life. I think the world would be a better place if more people did the same. Now what do you suppose would happen if one were to try to treat those around us with loyalty, good sportsmanship, honesty, kindness, consideration, compassion, self-control, respect, politeness, dignity, admiration – and did it with integrity?

My favorite childhood memory is … growing up on a Skaneateles Lake (central New York state) and having a homemade pontoon boat. Each spring we would bring our boat out from storage to clean off what a New York winter has left behind. We took pride in painting and getting it into the water each summer. Every weekend we would pack the coolers and head to what to the “cove” to anchor out and swim all afternoon. At the end of the day, we would have a cook-out on the beach before heading home. We had many fun in the sun weekends with family and friends over the years! WGL

Photo by Ricky Stilley

September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

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BOOKS

LOVE, LOSS, and FAMILY in the Deep South Claudia Rowe Kennedy.

A Time to Sow and a Time to Reap

P

Vabella Press, 2015

eople view their lives as narratives with themselves as the heroes. We love reading other people’s stories because they help us to define our own stories.

Claudia Rowe Kennedy’s novel, “A Time to Sow and a Time to Reap,” is a story of family conflicts: of love and hate, of sin and redemption, in the tradition of Southern fiction.

The novel’s characters are all people we have probably met in person, or at least in the pages of a number of Southern novels. They are quintessentially Southern, but move beyond regional stereotypes to become archetypes.

The novel’s protagonist, Walker Hollingsworth, grew up in Atlanta where he, along with his father Samuel, and brother, Ned, run the family business, the Hollingsworth Department Store, a high-end establishment that appeals to an urban clientele. Walker’s relationship with his father and brother is contentious. After a conflict over a personnel matter, Walker 66

West Georgia Living

September/October 2015

leaves the family business to take over a business in Graymont, a south Georgia town. Thus, Walker begins his quest to find a fulfilling life on his own terms.

“the footprints of the milkman leading to and from the porch, where a wire crate holding milk and cream waited, their glass bottles beaded with moisture.” The descriptions of food throughout give the novel a particularly Southern flavor, such as a meal at the Lancaster Boarding House: “A huge platter of pork chops and gravy took center place. Bowls of butter beans, sliced tomatoes, creamed corn, and fried okra were being passed from one man to another while a basket of biscuits and corn bread circulated from left to right.”

Walker’s love interest in Graymont, Emily Vaughn, is a beautiful and passionate, if somewhat troubled young woman, reminiscent perhaps of William Faulkner’s Emily Grierson, or Tennessee Williams’ Blanche Dubois. Emily lives with her overbearing father, their relationship a Freudian Electra Complex gone wrong.

Walker and Emily’s relationship begins with overtones of a fairy tale, as Walker returns a bracelet that Emily had left at a store, like a knight errant returning a lady’s token. Their relationship develops quickly; they marry and have a daughter Celestine (Cissie). However, Emily’s complex emotional needs create turmoil, and ultimately tragedy for Walker, as their story follows the literary tradition of Southern Gothic fiction.

Perhaps the most interesting character in Kennedy’s novel is Delia Brownlee, a black woman who arrives to help Walker care for the emotionally fragile Emily and Cissie.

Delia’s character follows the tradition of African-American women in literature. Like Calpurnia in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and Dilsey in “The Sound and the Fury,” Delia becomes the calm center in the storm of the Hollingsworth household. Delia has the strength, wisdom, and compassion of an Earth Mother, and her role in the family extends beyond housekeeper and nanny, to that of a healer and a spiritual guide.

In some of the best chapters in the book, Kennedy reveals Delia’s own chaotic and violent past as the source of her wisdom and strength. She is not merely a literature stock figure; she is a fully rounded human being, who can heal others because of her own inner wounds. Appropriately, Delia has the

Such specific details create an entire, atmospheric world for the people who inhabit Kennedy’s book; interesting characters whom we all recognize.

REVIEWER BIO

The plot develops quickly, with unexpected twists that deepen the novel’s themes.

Kennedy uses the Bible as her framework, as well as literary themes, fairy tale images, and ideas from Freudian psychology. While her plot and characters have particularly archetypal overtones, they never lose their realism or their individuality. While they are Southern, they are also more generally human. Strong characters, an interesting plot line, and profound themes; combined, they are the recipe for a page turner of a novel. The reader will be left anticipating the second volume of the Walker Hollingsworth saga.

Robert C. Covel, a retired university and high school English teacher, received his Ph.D. in English from Georgia State University. He has published two books of poetry and he is also writing a novel. When not reading and writing, he enjoys playing trivia. He lives with his wife Deloris and his dog Monet in West Georgia.

last healing words of the novel, a quote from the book of Isaiah.

Kennedy’s novel is filled with interesting characters. Cora Mae Ellison, the bookkeeper for Halverson’s Mercantile in Graymont, describes herself as a “bossy, over-bearing, grumpy old biddy,” but gives Walker some stability as he takes over the business. Mavis Lancaster, who owns the boarding house where Walker lives, also adds a sense of realism and humor to the story. Kennedy’s skillful use of accents and dialect add depth to these many characters.

Reading the dialog between them, we feel we are listening to actual conversations.

Author Bio Claudia Rowe Kennedy spent her childhood on tenant farms in small middle and south Georgia towns (including time in the Graymont area.) She is a retired teacher and the mother of three. She now divides her time between the north Georgia mountains and the west Georgia area. She enjoys reading, gardening, and cooking, and she is currently at work on the sequel to “A Time to Sow and a Time to Reap.” WGL

Indeed, “A Time to Sow and a Time to Reap” is filled with vivid sensory details.

The novel’s opening in Atlanta describes

Tammie Pero-Lyle (770) 832-0911 102 Trojan Drive, Suite A Carrollton tammiepero@allstate.com tperolyle@allstate.com

821 Dixie Street, Carrollton, GA 30117

770-832-7076 Gifts Drive thru Service • Free Delivery

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September/October 2015

West Georgia Living

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West Georgia

Li V ing In the next issue.......

The Holidays Coming in November 2015

Events

Calendar of Events Taste of Carrollton, September 24.

September /October

SEPTEMBER

Saturday, September 5

Friday, September 11

Buchanan Cruise Night on the Square, 5 to 9 9/11 Day of Remembrance at The Mill, downp.m. town Villa Rica. 7 to 8:30 p.m. Free.

Tuesday, September 1 Free concert featuring Butch and the Buckheads, 8 p.m. at The AMP, 119 Bradley Street, Artists’ Choice Exhibit opens at the Doug- Carrollton. Information: (770) 832-6901.

Saturday, September 12 las County Courthouse, 3rd floor Gallery, 8700 Hospital Drive, Douglasville, 4:30 to 6 p.m. Free.

Sunday, September 6 Exhibit is open when the Courthouse is open.

Villa Rica Gold Rush Festival and free ConInformation: (770) 920-7593.

4th Annual NOVAS Invitational Exhibit, cert, 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. This year’s event feathrough September 30 at the Cultural Arts tures a 5K road race, parade, festival and conVilla Rica’s Farmer’s Market at The Mill, Council, 8654 Campbellton Street, Doug- cert. Information: www.villarica-mainstreet. downtown Villa Rica, 4 to 7 p.m. Information: lasville. Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 com/events.

(770) 883-8752. p.m. Free. Information: 770) 949-2787.

Pine Mountain Gold Museum and Scenic Trivia Night at Irish Bred Pub, 210 Adamson Railroad, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in conjunction Square, downtown Carrollton, every Tuesday with the Gold Rush Festival. 1881 Stockmar Tuesday, September 8 and Wednesday nights, 7 p.m. Information: Rd. Old-fashioned costumes, demonstra(770) 838-7774.

Villa Rica’s Farmer’s Market at The Mill, tions will be featured. Information: (770) downtown Villa Rica, 4 to 7 p.m. Information: 459-8455 or lshaw@villarica.org.

Friday, September 4 (770) 883-8752.

Bremen Car Cruise, Tallapoosa Street in downtown Bremen, 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursday, September 10 Hot Rods on Main brings revving entertainment to downtown Douglasville from 5 to 9 Lonestar concert, 7:30 p.m. at Mill Town Music Waco Fest will feature arts and crafts, games, p.m. Featuring cool hot rods, live music and lots Hall, 1031 Alabama Avenue, Bremen. Informa- live entertainment and food. Information: (770) of vendors. Information: April McKown at (678) tion: (770) 527-MILL (6455).

537-3314.

449-3102.

September/October 2015

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Sunday, September 13 Reception for the 4th Annual NOVAS Invitational Exhibit, on display through September 30 at the Cultural Arts Council, 8654 Campbellton Street, Douglasville. Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free. Information: 770) 949-2787.

Tuesday, September 15 Villa Rica’s Farmer’s Market at The Mill, downtown Villa Rica, 4 to 7 p.m. Information: (770) 883-8752.

Saturday, September 19 4th Annual Family Fun Day and Scavenger Hunt at Pine Mountain Gold Museum and Scenic Railroad, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-registration required. Information: (770) 459-8455 or lshaw@villarica.org.

September Saturdays at the Douglas County Courthouse, 8700 Hospital Drive, Douglasville. Family Day and School Expo will be featured. Exhibits, vendors, food, games, family entertainment. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. with 8 p.m. movie on the grounds. Free. Information: (770) 920-7445.

Possum Pickin’ Bluegrass Concert, Head Avenue, Tallapoosa, 7 to 9:30 p.m. Information: (770)789-5985

Thursday, September 24 24th Annual Taste of Carrollton, Adamson Square from 5:30 to 8pm. Attendees can purchase tickets to exchange for their bite-sized “tastes” from each restaurant. Tickets are valued at one dollar each and can be purchased with cash or credit cards. Regular food tickets will also be on sale beginning September 1 at the Main Street Office (115 Rome Street), Horton’s Bookstore, Southern Dental and Merle Norman, as well as at the event.

Saturday, September 26 September Saturdays at the Douglas County Courthouse, 8700 Hospital Drive, Douglasville. Heroes Day and Touch-A-Truck Day are the themes for the largest annual festival and community event in Douglas County. Free.

Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. with movie on the grounds at 8 p.m. Food, games, live entertainment, vendors Information: (770) 920-7445 The Alter Eagles, an Eagles tribute band, will perform in concert at Copeland Hall, 101 Barr Avenue in Bowdon. 7 p.m. Tickets available online by calling the Townsend Center at (678) 839-4722. Information: (770) 258-8980 or jan@ copelandhall.net.

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September/October 2015

OCTOBER Thursday, Oct 1 Gold Mine Ghost Train rides each Thursday, Friday and Saturday from October 1 until October 31 at Villa Rica’s Pine Mountain Gold Museum and Scenic Railroad, 1881 Stockmar Rd. Family hour is for younger children and families from 6 to 7 p.m. Scare time hours are 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Cost is $10 per train ride. Information: (770) 459-8455.

Toys for Tots drop-off at Pine Mountain Gold Museum and Scenic Railroad, 1881 Stockmar Rd., Villa Rica now until December 13. Drop off one toy and receive free admission to the gold museum. Drop off two toys and receive a free train ride. Information: (770) 459-8455.

Saturday, October 3 Tallapoosa City-Wide Yard Sale, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Information: (770) 574-2345.

Buchanan Cruise Night on the Square wraps up for the season today from 5 to 9 p.m.

Taste of Villa Rica at The Mill, downtown Villa Rica, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sample yummy foods from Villa Rica’s finest local restaurants. Information: www.facebook.com/A taste of Villa Rica.

Tuesday, October 6 The art exhibit “Colorful Seasons” opens with a reception at the Douglas County Courthouse, 3rd floor Gallery, 8700 Hospital Drive, Douglasville, 4:30 to 6 p.m. Free. Exhibit is open when the Courthouse is open. Information: (770) 920-7593.

Thursday, October 8 Exhibit of the works of Nathan Ralston and Ronald Bloom – “Celebrating Photography” Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 30, Cultural Arts Council, 8652 Campbellton Street, Douglasville.

Opening reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. Free.

Information: (770) 949-2787.

Saturday, October 10 Bremen Car Cruise, Tallapoosa Street in downtown Bremen, 5 to 8 p.m. This is the last show of the season.

The Carrollton Fine Arts and Crafts Mecca Festival, Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Carrollton Cultural Art Center, 251 Alabama Street Carrollton. The festival features fine artists from across

the country who have been chosen by a jury process to participate. In addition to outstanding artists, visitors can enjoy food, children's activities and quality entertainment. Information: (770) 838-1083.

Thursday, October 15 Don Williams in concert at Mill Town Music Hall, 1031 Alabama Avenue, Bremen. 7:30 p.m.

Information: (770) 527-MILL (6455.)

Saturday, October 17 Bremen Towne Festival, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Event features a parade, arts and crafts, games, food and more. Information: (770) 537-6570.

A Walk to End Alzheimer’s, West Georgia at 9 a.m. at Hobb’s Farm in Carrollton. During this 3.1 mile walk, information will be presented on this debilitating disease. Information: (404) 728-6059.

Candelight Night Hike at Sweetwater Creek State Park, 7 to 9 p.m. This easy to moderate one-mile hike goes down to the Civil War-era New Manchester textile mill ruins. No children under six or dogs permitted. Cost is $5 plus $5 parking. The park provides candle lanterns.

Information: (770) 732-5871.

Thursday, October 22 An Evening with Dailey and Vincent, 7:30 p.m. at Mill Town Music Hall, 1031 Alabama Avenue, Bremen. Information: (770) 537-MILL (6455.)

Saturday, October 24 Chili Cook-Off on O’Neal Plaza in downtown Douglasville, 6 to 9 p.m. A fundraiser for the Cultural Arts Council. Information: (770) 9492787.

Fall Festival trick or treating extravaganza, 10 to noon, Adamson Square Carrollton. Main Street is partnering with Carrollton Parks & Recreation, Cultural Arts department for the third year to haunt the square. There will be games, inflatables, music. At noon, a Halloween costume contest will take place at The AMP. Great prizes and lots of pictures.

Saturday, October 31 Downtown Villa Rica is hosting a Trick or Treat and Halloween Festival at The Mill. Information: (678) 840-1160. WGL

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Ask the Ex ert What every West Georgian should know about...

An Award Winning Dealership Walker Cadillac, Buick, GMC, Inc .............73

Can a Child Have Too Much Self Confidence Oak Mountain Academy ...........................76

Senior Pet Care Carroll County Animal Hospital .................74

Sleep Apnea

W.I.N.- Winterizing Your Irrigation System NG Turf ........................................................77

Cemetery Etiquette Ellen Wynn McBrayer/

Tanner Health System.................................75 Jones Wynn Funeral ..................................78

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What every West Georgian should know about...

An Award Winning Dealership

Q

You say Walker Cadillac Buick GMC is an Award Winning Dealership; what does that mean?

A

We have been a GM Mark of Excellence award winning dealership since the program’s inception. To receive this prestigious award, we must maintain high levels of Customer Satisfaction and increase sales year over year. Only the finest dealers who commit to unsurpassed performance and customer satisfaction are named Mark of Excellence dealerships.

Mark Foster General Manager Walker Cadillac, Buick, GMC Inc.

Qualifications Mark has a Dual BBA in Automotive Marketing/Automotive Management from Northwood University and Certification in Dealership Successorship through the NADA. Mark has 15 years experience in the automotive industry and is a community visionary who has a passion for exceptional customer service.

Q

And you sell award winning vehicles; what exactly is that?

A

Once again, Buick has claimed the top spot for Customer Service Satisfaction across all mass-market brands! This means Buick dealers just locked in position as the backto-back reigning champions of this coveted

award. As a Buick GMC Dealer, we can confidently call this our J.D. Power “3Peat” with GMC winning in 2013 and Buick in both 2014 and 2015. For 2015, GMC came in a commendable fourth place position in the mass market brands.

Q

How does Walker Cadillac Buick GMC work to maintain these levels?

A

We Dare ourselves to be Different. We challenge each co-worker to do more, better, faster. Mr. Walker makes it very clear for us to focus on “What is right for the customer” before we make any decision. It is his ultimate goal for us to stand out in the crowd as the best of the best.

LEARN MORE www.walkergmauto.com• 770.832.9602

www.walkergmauto.com

770-832-9602

1492 N Park St. • Carrollton

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What every west Georgian should know about...

SENIOR PET CARE

My pet is getting older now. Are

Q there extra precautions that I can take to help her live longer?

A

As our pets get older, we remember all the fond memories: first Christmas, kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first pet, late night visit to the vet when she had eaten a sock, etc. As our pets age, it makes it difficult to think about losing them. There are steps to take to ensure your pet lives a long healthy life: 1) Maintain your pet at a healthy weight

Jason P. Harden, DVM

Veterinarian at Carroll County Animal Hospital

Qualifications Dr. Jason Harden is a native of Carrollton, GA. He graduated from Oak Mountain Academy and continued on to the University of Georgia where he received his degree in Biology and his doctorate in veterinary medicine. His interests in veterinary medicine include surgery, exotic medicine, and ophthalmology. Dr. Harden is married to Chloe Harden, and they have 2 children, Maggie and Reese. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Animal Hospital Association. He is the chairman of the Oak Mountain Academy school board, a member of the Carrollton Lions Club, and on the board of directors of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce.

- Increases in weight will cause worsening of arthritis and other degenerative joint diseases, increase risk of cancer, and increase risk of diabetes.

2) Maintain good dental health in your pet - Dental health will not only help them to maintain their weight, but reducing the number of bacteria in their mouth will also help reduce the risk of heart disease.

- This can be accomplished with brushing your pets teeth, chew toys/treats, and having your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teeth cleaned regularly.

3) Maintain a good relationship with your veterinarian and have your pet regularly examined - Your pet ages much quicker than you, and their bodies change much quicker as well. 1 human year is equivalent to approximately 7 pet years. Having a comprehensive physical exam once a year will detect otherwise undetectable diseases.

4) Have senior bloodwork once a year

- This essential bloodwork will evaluate blood counts, kidney function, liver function, blood sugar, and some hormone levels. If these levels are normal thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great, but we look for trends in this blood work so continue to have this performed on a yearly basis. As the levels change we often intervene in disease processes much earlier than waiting for clinical signs to develop.

Enjoy each day that you have with your senior pet. They may not go for as long of a walk or play with the feathered string as vigorously, but they enjoy your companionship just the same and bring such joy to our lives.

LEARN MORE www.carrollcountyah.com 770-832-2475

Carroll County

Animal Hospital Sometimes your petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health care canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be scheduled Office Hours: Mon. - Sun. 8am - Midnight Regular Office Hours: Mon. - Sun. 8am - 6pm

NOW SERVING YOU FROM TWO LOCATIONS

(770) 832-2475

635 Columbia Dr. 1155 Stripling Chapel Rd. Carrollton, Ga. 30117 Carrollton, Ga. 30116 #OLUMBIA $R s #ARROLLTON 'A (770) 832-2475 Across from Sony(770) Music834-1000

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What every west Georgian should know about...

Sleep Apnea

Q

What is sleep apnea?

A

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder during which there are pauses or shallow breaths while you sleep. These episodes can last for seconds to minutes at a time during sleep. When this happens, your brain alerts so that breathing can improve, causing deep sleep to become light sleep.

The result is like a battery that is not getting recharged. Sometimes this cycle happens more than 300 times a night. For most, congested nasal passages or the tongue, palate or uvula at the back of the throat may block airflow. Excess weight in the upper body can put pressure on the windpipe, also blocking airflow.

Lindsey Roenigk, MD

Sleep Medicine Specialist and Pulmonologist, West Georgia Lung and Sleep Medicine

Qualifications:

Q

What are the signs that someone has sleep apnea?

Dr. Roenigk is a sleep medicine specialist and pulmonologist at West Georgia Lung and Sleep Medicine and a member of the medical staff at Tanner Health System. She earned her medical degree at Emory University in Atlanta, GA., and completed her internship, residency and fellowship in pulmonary/critical care medicine at the University of Alabama -- Birmingham in Birmingham, AL.

A

Extreme sleepiness during the day is the most common sign. In addition to feeling drowsy during the day, other symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep; morning headaches; trouble with concentration or memory; or mood changes, such as depression.

Q A

Q A

Is sleep apnea dangerous?

Sleep apnea can be very dangerous. Untreated, it raises the risk of high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, irregular heart rhythms, heart attack, stroke, memory loss and even death. If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, talk to your doctor. You may need to participate in a sleep study. This involves having your brain waves, heartbeat and breathing tracked during a night of sleep in the sleep lab.

Can sleep apnea be treated?

The most effective treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). It involves wearing a mask-‐like device that pumps air as you inhale during sleep, helping to keep the airway open. If an underlying medical condition—such as an underactive thyroid— is causing sleep apnea, medicines can help.

Mouth devices that keep the airway open and surgery are other options.

LEARN MORE: www.GetHealthyLiveWell.org | 770.812.9871

Advancing Health WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART SLEEP MEDICINE. Sleep is easy to take for granted. But it’s essential to our overall health. Sleep helps the body regulate hormones, control blood pressure and more. Poor sleep can contribute to heart attack and stroke. At Tanner, we know sleep is an important part of a comprehensive approach to health. So we’ve expanded the Tanner Center for Sleep Disorders with a new, larger location serving Carrollton, new technology to monitor how well you rest and even in-home sleep studies to keep you comfortable. Because the difference between getting enough sleep and not is like day and night.

Learn more about sleep medicine at TannerSleep.org.

MEDICINE BEYOND MEASURE

SM

Ask the Ex ert

Paula Gillispie

Head of School Oak Mountain Academy, Carroll County’s only independent, college-preparatory, faith-based, day school

Qualifications Earning her graduate degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University in Washington, DC, Paula is a lifetime educator in her fifth year as Head of School at Oak Mountain Academy. Professionally, she chairs Accreditation Teams for the Southern Association of Independent Schools, is a member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, National Council of Teachers of English, the International Reading Association, and Phi Delta Kappa. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Trustees of the Georgia Independent School Association. Paula is a member of the Carrollton Dawnbreakers Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, and she serves on the Workforce and Educ Board of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce.

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What every west Georgian should know about...

Can a Child Have Too Much Self-Confidence?

Q

How do I build my child’s selfconfidence without overdoing it?

Q

Is it possible for my child to be too self-confident?

A

Self-confidence undoubtedly has an impact on what we and our children accomplish. A healthy self-confidence can improve work and school performance, enhance perseverance, and promote social interaction. To build such confidence, Albert Bandura suggests providing opportunities for children that will help them attain mastery. Healy notes that parents should provide ways for children to master something where the success comes from hard work and effort – a valuable life lesson. Further, we must trust in our children by giving them age-appropriate opportunities to earn that trust. Next, children need to know that life can be difficult at times; however, learning how to deal with adversity, overcoming it, and succeeding is essential.

Healy advises parents to share their own experiences in addition to children identifying with fictional or historical characters who persevered. Finally, children should be praised based on their specific efforts, rather than overdone generalities. Bandura explains that a positive attitude helps children to lower stress levels and have a more optimistic outlook when tasks are difficult or discouraging. This optimism builds self-confidence.

A

Yes. Fry notes that when we offer our children unearned or undeserved praise, they tend to overestimate their capabilities, to give less than their best efforts, to take risks, and to feel an unwarranted superiority to others. To avoid too much selfconfidence, parents should applaud accomplishments that are a result of hard work, offer kind critiques when improvement is needed, and support children without excessive praise and indulgence – sometimes a difficult balance – but definitely worth the effort.

WARRIORS

OAK MOUNTAIN ACADEMY

At Oak Mountain Academy, our brand – Dream ~ Strive ~ Become – captures the essence of building a positive and realistic self-confidence in a child.

Students are encouraged to “Dream” about their futures and to seriously contemplate where they want to be at the next educational level and beyond. As a college‐preparatory academy, the stage is then set for students to “Strive” or work hard to accomplish tasks that will provide opportunities for them to “Become” all that they envisioned. A healthy selfconfidence enhances the journey toward the ultimate goal or “Dream.” A testament to that journey is the OMA Class of 2015–thirteen seniors who will all attend college in the fall and received $1.7 million in scholarship offers beyond the HOPE! Go Warriors!

Learn more at: www.oakmountain.us 770-834-6651 paulagillispie@oakmountain.us

W ELCOME W EDNESDAY Come experience us in action!

Please join us each Wednesday.

10:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.

I am a Warrior!

Can’t make it on Wednesday?

Please call 770-834-6651 to schedule your personal weekday visit!

We can’t wait to see you “on the Mountain.”

Nʝɦ acȪʑpʤʖnɒ ʋʠɿʙicaʤiʝnɡ fʝɠ ʃȱɏ 2015-2016 sɭhoɼɗ Ɇeʋɠ.

Pȵeaȿɏ cɪɸɗ ʝɠ stʝɞ ʍɨ ƵƳA!

Come see what it means to be a Warrior.

. . . . . . . . .

ADMISSIONS OPEN H OUSE EACH W EDNESDAY 1 0 : 0 0 A. M. — 1 2 : 0 0 P. M.

O AK M OUNTAIN A CADEMY 222 Cross Plains Road ~ Carrollton, GA 30116 www.oakmountain.us Oak Mountain Academy admits qualified students without regard to race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, handicapped status, or religion.

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? ?

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What’s Important Now?

THREE THINGS YOU MUST DO TO PREVENT WINTER DAMAGE TO YOUR IRRIGATION SYSTEM Winterizing your irrigation system is a must if you hope to continue to use it next spring! To keep your irrigation system safe when the temperatures dip, do these three things before the first freeze.

1. Insulate

Wrap all above ground pipes and valves in foam insulation or cover well with pine straw. These parts are susceptible to freeze damage since they are exposed directly to the air.

Helen Albrightson Business Manager Qualifications A native of Wisconsin, Helen joined NG Turf in 2001. Her responsibilities include oversight of internal functions including accounting, sales, marketing and human resources. Helen has been a Certified Turfgrass Professional since 2005.

2. Deactivate

If your system is controlled by a digital timer, set it to “rain mode” to deactivate the system. This will save all of your settings for next spring, saving time and aggravation.

If your system works with a timer dial, you should unplug it from the power source for maximum energy savings.

For either type of system, disconnect the wires that power the pump to prevent damage that can occur if the pump runs when the system is dry.

3. Evacuate

To prevent cracked pipes, removing the water from your piping system is critical. You can remove enough water by turning off the water supply and running your system through 1 complete cycle. The water in the system will run downhill to the lowest heads and drain out.

The remaining water will not be under pressure and is unlikely to cause damage when temperatures dip since the ground isn’t likely to freeze at the depth of your pipes.

An irrigation system blow-out is an advanced do-it-

yourself project. Mistakes can damage your irrigation system or cause serious injury. It’s better to leave it to the pros.

You may be wondering… “But, what does my lawn need now?”

To help your lawn bed down for winter, you should apply a winterizing fertilizer to give your warm season grass a jumpstart in the spring. Use an 18-15-20 mix in September or early October for potassium supplementation.

Dormant lawns still need water to stay alive. Aim for at least 1 inch of water every 14 – 21 days. If we experience long periods without rain, you may have to water your lawn. Just be sure to water midday when air temperatures are over 40 degrees to prevent ice from forming. Your sprinkler system is on winter hiatus… so, don’t pack the hose away! You may need it sooner than you think.

Need a rain gauge this winter?

The first 20 callers to mention this ad will receive one for free!

Call NG Turf @ 770-832-8608.

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Ellen Wynn McBrayer

Jones-Wynn Funeral Home & Crematory and Meadowbrook Memory Gardens As always, we remain “A Family Serving Families®....Since 1950”

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Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes & Crematory has served our community for over 65 years. We keep our funeral home synonymous with its name & reputation of serving & caring for families. We are three generations carrying on one tradition.

We offer the highest quality service with the most affordable options.

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What every West Georgian should know about...

Cemetery Etiquette It seems that for most people, going into a cemetery isn’t something that occurs on a regular basis. Have you ever had questions about what to do or not do in a cemetery? The next few suggestions might be of some guidance and provide overall good etiquette when visiting a cemetery.

Speak Quietly: Always speak quietly. It’s important to remember that a cemetery is a place for families to mourn and visit their loved ones. It is important to keep your voices down so that everyone can have a peaceful visit.

Do Not Drive or Park on the Grass: Remember that grave spaces with other’s loved ones buried might be near the road. Keep in mind to follow the beaten path whether it is paved, gravel, or dirt. It’s important to have respect for the grounds, and in doing so you keep the cemetery beautiful and peaceful for others.

Remember Summer - “Mowing Season”:

Often times cemeteries have a “mowing season” during the months that the grass grows the most.

This is because the grass needs to be cut and trimmed. If you have a memorial or keepsake that is free standing at your loved one’s grave site, remember to check the dates for “Mowing Season”. It’s important to have keepsakes, but it’s also important to follow the rules within the cemetery to ensure that everyone keeps the grounds as tailored as possible.

Avoid Walking over Graves: One of the many questions we get is, “can you walk across a grave space?”

Whenever possible, avoid walking over graves.

However, in some cases where the plots are very close together you may not be able to avoid it.

Use your best judgement and just be as respectful as possible. Often times people feel very passionate about this one way or the other.

One thing to always remember is respect. Keep all things calm and respect the property and everyone will be able to grieve, visit, or continue the services in a respectful manner.

www.pcgofwestga.com

Jeff Reid, M.D. Joseph Jellicorse, M.D. Mandi Del Pozo, PA-C Lindsey Roenigk, M.D. Shawna Berg, NP-C Hermogenes Pagsisihan, M.D.

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