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Kevin’s Peace of Mind
www.kevintharpe.com (770) 503-1022
October 2024
CELEBRATING THE HEART OF MY PRACTICE
A TRIBUTE TO MY PARALEGALS
Oct. 23rd is National Paralegal Day and I can’t help but reflect on the incredible team of paralegals who form the backbone of my law practice. I want to spotlight these remarkable women and share a bit about the invaluable roles they play in our office. My journey with each paralegal has been unique, and it all started with Fonia Miles. Fonia has been with me the longest, and our professional relationship goes back many years. I first met Fonia as an adjunct professor at the University of North Georgia, where I taught in the paralegal program. Fonia was one of my first students, and it quickly became apparent that she had a special gift for understanding and supporting families going through some of the toughest times in their lives. Fonia’s expertise is in Medicaid planning. When our clients, including my own parents, enter a nursing home, Fonia’s compassion and deep understanding of the Medicaid process are invaluable. She has an extraordinary ability to connect with clients and guide them through the often overwhelming process of applying for Medicaid and navigating its intricate rules and regulations. In fact, Fonia has become so adept at handling these cases that many clients, Medicaid caseworkers and nursing home personnel now ask for her by name. She handles everything from the initial application to communicating with the government and nursing home personnel.
Stephanie’s responsibilities. She has a warmth and character that clients immediately connect with and she manages much of the estate planning process, including deed preparation and filing. She excels in every aspect of her role, and I’m constantly amazed by how seamlessly she integrates into our team. It feels as though she’s been with us for decades. Diane Gilland, another one of my former students, works with us part time and provides much-needed support in scheduling and estate planning. She is crucial in keeping everything running smoothly, especially when things get hectic. As we approach National Paralegal Day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Fonia, Carolina, and Diane. They are the heart of my practice, and I am incredibly fortunate to work alongside such talented and caring individuals. These professionals may work behind the scenes, but their contributions are absolutely vital to the success of this office. Thank you, Fonia, Carolina, and Diane, for everything you do. Our clients and I are so much better off because of you.
I often joke that if she ever leaves, I will be going with her.
Another key member of my paralegal team is Carolina Frederick. Carolina joined our practice in September 2023, stepping into some very big shoes left by our beloved Stephanie Dixon, who tragically passed away in 2023. Losing Stephanie was a blow not just to our hearts but to the very fabric of our practice. But, when Carolina came on board, she was a gift sent to us at just the right time. She required very little training and quickly took over many of
—Kevin
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NEUROSCIENCE-BACKED TIPS FOR A SHARPER MIND Supercharge Your Memory
In today’s fast-paced world, having a sharp and reliable memory has become more critical than ever. Fortunately, recent advancements in neuroscience have revealed new techniques to help us improve our cognitive abilities and retain information more effectively. Here are four scientifically backed tips to transform your memory and unlock your full potential. Exercise your brain and body. Numerous studies have shown that regular physical exercise can profoundly impact cognitive function. When you engage in aerobic activities such as running, cycling, or swimming, you improve your cardiovascular health and stimulate the growth of the hippocampus — the area of the
brain responsible for learning and memory formation. Meditate for a sharper mind. Did you know mindfulness and meditation can improve your memory? Researchers have discovered that individuals who practice meditation regularly, even just a few minutes a day, exhibit increased brain volume in the hippocampus, resulting in enhanced memory performance. Nourish your brain with the right fuel. The saying “you are what you eat” is true for brain health. A diet rich in low-sugar, low-refined carbs and healthy protein and fat sources can support optimal cognitive function. These foods provide the building
blocks your brain needs to keep your memory sharp and thinking clear. Practice improves memory. Practicing regularly is one of the most effective ways to improve your memory. Whether memorizing song lyrics, reciting poetry, or even just trying to recall your daily tasks, the more you challenge your brain to store and retrieve information, the better it will become. So, what are you waiting for? Start exercising, meditating, fueling your brain, and practicing today — your future self will thank you.
Playing Cards and the Calendar
AN UNEXPECTED SYNCHRONICITY
The humble deck of playing cards has remained relevant in a world filled with digital screens and instant gratification. Beyond card games, however, these pocket-sized wonders have a captivating history. The Calendrical Connections As we explore the history of playing
deck’s components and the modern calendar. From the two primary colors representing day and night to the four suits corresponding to the four seasons, the parallels are uncannily precise. The Rhythmic Resonance of the Cards Dive deeper, and you’ll find the 13 card values, from Ace to King, align seamlessly with the 13 weeks in a quarter and the 13 lunar cycles. When you add the numeric values of all the cards, the total is 365 — the exact number of days in a year, with the addition of the Joker card representing the leap year. Behind the Mysteries of the Court Cards But the synchronicity doesn’t stop there. The 12 court cards, comprising the Kings,
Queens, and Jacks, mirror the 12 months of the calendar year, adding another layer of intrigue to the connection. Embracing the Timeless Allure of Playing Cards Whether this remarkable alignment is a coincidence or deliberate, the relationship between playing cards and the calendar is a fascinating and thought-provoking revelation. For ardent card enthusiasts, this knowledge adds another dimension to their hobby. Rediscovering playing cards can be a refreshing and enlightening experience in a world that often prioritizes the digital and the instant. So, the next time you find yourself shuffling a deck, take a moment to ponder the hidden secrets that lie within.
cards, we uncover the intricate relationship between a standard
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TAKE A BREAK
The Supreme Court Shakes Up the Administrative State
AUTUMN BOO CANDY COFFEE FOLIAGE
A Seismic Shift in the Balance of Power
In a landmark decision sure to reverberate across the nation, the Supreme Court has struck down the longstanding Chevron doctrine, a ruling that significantly curtails the power of federal agencies. This monumental shift in the legal landscape promises to have far-reaching implications, from environmental regulations to health care policies. The Chevron Doctrine Toppled For over four decades, the Chevron doctrine has been the bedrock of federal administrative law, granting agencies the authority to interpret ambiguous statutes they are tasked with enforcing. However, in a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court overturned this precedent, calling the doctrine “fundamentally misguided.” This decision marks a dramatic departure from the previous deference afforded to federal agencies, empowering the courts to rely on their own interpretation of the law. Implications Across the Spectrum Environmental regulations, health care costs, and economic policies are just a few domains that will face increased judicial scrutiny, as courts now have the authority to second-guess agency decisions. This shift could lead to more challenges to federal actions, potentially slowing the pace of regulatory changes and altering the balance of power between the branches of government. A Call for Vigilance and Engagement Citizens, businesses, and policymakers must closely monitor the implications of this landmark decision. Staying informed and engaged will be key as the courts grapple with the boundaries of federal agency authority. Only by remaining vigilant and actively participating in the process can we ensure the delicate balance of power is maintained and that people’s needs are effectively addressed. The Supreme Court’s ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo and its companion case, Relentless, Inc. v. Department of Commerce , has sent shockwaves through the administrative state, fundamentally reshaping the relationship between federal agencies and the courts. This seismic shift will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences, and it is up to all of us to stay informed, engaged, and ready to navigate the evolving legal landscape.
GHOST GOURD MOON SPOOKY SOUP TAILGATE TOUCHDOWN
Ultimate Baked Ziti
Loaded with rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this is a family favorite perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
• 1 (16 oz) package of dried ziti pasta • 1 onion, diced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (14 oz) can
diced tomatoes • 1 cup ricotta cheese • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. 2. Cook ziti according to package instructions. 3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the onion and garlic until softened. 4. Add marinara sauce and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. 5. Stir in the cooked ziti and season with salt and pepper. 6. Transfer mixture to baking dish. 7. Top with ricotta and mozzarella cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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(770) 503-1022 www.KevinTharpe.com 405 Broad St. Gainesville, GA 30501
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Why My Paralegals Are the Best in Georgia
1
Neuroscience-Inspired Strategies for a Sharper Mind
2
The Secrets of the Deck
Ultimate Baked Ziti
3
Supreme Court Upends Federal Agency Power
Tracing the Court Jester’s Origins
4
Medieval Mischief-Makers THE ANTICS OF COURT JESTERS
Jesters: Entertainers and Advisors While the jester’s primary role was to entertain royalty through stories, music, acrobatics, and flatulence, they were also often highly intelligent advisors. Jesters could critique political decisions and social norms under the guise of humor, providing valuable feedback to the nobility. They even accompanied soldiers to the battlefield, distracting the enemy and delivering dangerous messages. The Evolving Jester By the 17th century, as live theater was booming, jesters began transitioning from court entertainers to professional actors and comedians. Figures like Richard Tarlton, the beloved jester of Queen Elizabeth I, became renowned performers in their own right. As jesters found fame outside the court, they paved
When we think of court jesters, we often picture colorfully clad figures in pointed hats dancing and jesting for the entertainment of royalty. However, these medieval performers’ roles and responsibilities were far more complex than today’s caricatures. The Origins of Court Jesters We can trace the court jester’s roots to the comedic actors of ancient Rome. As the Roman Empire cracked down on these outspoken performers, many became traveling entertainers, sowing the seeds for the Middle Ages and Renaissance court jesters. Historical references to these “fools” became more common between the 12th and 15th centuries, with the term “jester” gaining popularity in 15th and 16th centuries.
the way for generations of comedians, satirists, and performance artists. Though the court jester institution largely died out by the 18th century, the legacy of these multifaceted performers lives on. From Shakespearean fools to modern stand-up comedians, the spirit of the court jester continues to entertain, provoke, and enlighten audiences. So, the next time you see a fool in a pointy hat, remember the rich history and complexity behind this enduring archetype.
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