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THE DEFENSE REPORT
FEBRUARY 2024
BEYOND THE SHADOW INTRIGUING ORIGINS OF GROUNDHOG DAY
Groundhog Day, celebrated annually on Feb. 2, is a fun and quirky tradition that blends folklore, weather prediction, and community festivities. This holiday is always fun, and I’d like to share some of the intriguing history and facts surrounding this whimsical day — it’s always exciting to wake up and find out whether or not the groundhog saw his shadow. ORIGINS AND TRADITIONS Groundhog Day has its roots in ancient European customs, specifically Candlemas, a Christian holiday marking the midpoint between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Candlemas was observed as the day when clergy blessed candles and distributed them to ward off evil spirits. It was also associated with weather predictions. As a proverb goes: “If Candlemas Day be fair and bright, winter will have another fight. If Candlemas Day brings cloud and rain, winter won’t come again.” The weather lore associated with Candlemas intertwined with German folklore, where a hedgehog was believed to predict the weather. German immigrants settling in the U.S. brought this tradition, substituting the more readily available groundhog for the hedgehog. PREDICTIVE GROUNDHOGS The most famous weather-forecasting groundhog is Punxsutawney Phil from Pennsylvania. Every Feb. 2, Phil emerges from his burrow at Gobbler’s Knob. Legend says that if Phil sees his shadow due to clear weather, he’ll scurry back into his burrow, predicting six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow because of overcast skies, spring will arrive early.
Punxsutawney Phil’s fame skyrocketed after the 1993 movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray, which brought the tradition to international attention. Despite his celebrity status, Phil’s predictions aren’t remarkably accurate, averaging around 40% accuracy. But that doesn’t deter the celebrations; they continue with fervor each year. FOLKLORE AND GROUNDHOG LORE Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, belong to the squirrel family and are expert burrowers. Contrary to their title, they don’t chuck wood but are excellent diggers with curved claws and strong legs. These rodents hibernate during the winter, relying on stored fat to survive until spring. LOCAL CELEBRATIONS While Punxsutawney Phil is the most famous, other groundhogs share the limelight in various U.S. regions. For instance, Buckeye Chuck in Ohio, Staten Island Chuck in New York, and Wiarton Willie in Canada join the prognostication fun, each with its own local festivities.
Happy Groundhog Day! Whether it’s six more weeks of winter or early spring, may it bring you laughter, warmth, and enchantment! –Jim Yeargan
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FROM BANKRUPTCY TO GLOBAL RECOGNITION HOW DANNA PRATTE BECAME A LEADER IN HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Dale Carnegie once said, “Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.” Failure is always challenging, especially in business. You spend money, passion, time, and energy on any business venture, and failure can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are countless success stories to draw inspiration from. One example is Danna Pratte, the CEO of the global supplement company NBPure. When she acquired NBPure in the early 2000s, it was on the verge of bankruptcy, but Pratte knew the wellness industry was about to take off and, through hard work, brought the company back from the brink.
company, which was operating on razor- thin margins, Pratte set out to use only pure ingredients, making her an innovator. By doing this, Pratte slowly brought the company back from the edge. Now, this formerly unknown company is a multimillion-dollar juggernaut and one of the largest female-run companies in the health and wellness industry. Thanks to her success and hard work, Pratte has learned some valuable lessons, which she has distilled into three pieces of advice to help anyone on their journey toward success: NO. 1: Always value yourself and your health. You need to be at your best to do your best. As the adage goes, if you don’t have your health, you don’t have anything.
NO. 2: Make your work ethic a priority. This helps you persevere when things are difficult.
NO. 3: Ensure you invest your time and energy in yourself and those who believe in you. Having the right team members and cheerleaders makes all the difference. This is especially true on difficult days. Like Pratte, you can transform your passion, personal experiences, and failures into a vibrant and viable business. Don’t let failure hold you back. Keep trying, and you may one day be a leader in your respective industries. CAN I AVOID A GEORGIA DUI CHECKPOINT BY TURNING AROUND? Yes, you can. However, executing an illegal U-turn or appearing to evade a DUI checkpoint might prompt law enforcement to pull you over regardless. WHAT SHOULD I DO AT A DUI CHECKPOINT IN GEORGIA? The key is to remain as composed as possible. Keep interactions with officers limited to answering the initial questions. While you must provide ID, driver’s license, registration details, and proof of insurance, refrain from saying more than necessary. Some officers may attempt to search your vehicle without valid cause. Politely refuse their request. Another tactic police might use is shining a flashlight inside your vehicle. As they lack the legal right to enter your vehicle at the checkpoint, politely ask them to refrain from invading your space. If you or a loved one needs legal guidance regarding a DUI or DUI checkpoint, don’t panic. Contact us at Yeargan & Kert for a free consultation today!
When she started, they had trouble making a name for themselves. So, in revamping the
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS NAVIGATING DUI CHECKPOINTS FOR THE BEST OUTCOME
DUI checkpoints are often present near events that draw heavy traffic, like big games, the start of long weekends, or holiday seasons. Understanding your legal rights is crucial to ensure the best possible outcome regardless of how often you’ve encountered DUI checkpoints. WHAT IS A DUI CHECKPOINT? Also known as “sobriety checkpoints,” DUI checkpoints are typically fixed locations on roads where officers stop drivers to assess if they’re driving under the influence. Usually, officers ask a few questions before allowing drivers to proceed. They may request your name, driver’s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. While you’re legally obliged to provide this information, you’re not required to answer anything beyond that — even if the officer persists. WHAT IF THE POLICE ASK FOR A FIELD SOBRIETY OR BREATH TEST? We recommend that you politely decline. Even if you haven’t been drinking, consenting to
these tests can be risky and offer little benefit. Breathalyzer tests are known for yielding false positives, influenced by body chemistry and common medications. Similarly, field sobriety tests aren’t entirely reliable. However, the silver lining is that refusing these tests cannot be held against you in court. While your driver’s license may face temporary suspension, a competent DUI attorney can likely expedite its return. ARE DUI CHECKPOINTS LEGAL IN GEORGIA? Yes, they are. The U.S. Supreme Court addressed the issue of DUI checkpoints in 1990. During their deliberation, the justices focused on how these checkpoints align with the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. Their ruling essentially stated that if the stop is “minimally intrusive,” it’s constitutionally permissible.
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BEYOND SPEEDING
LAUGH IT OFF
THE DANGERS OF AGGRESSIVE DRIVING IN GEORGIA
In Georgia, there’s a common misconception that road rage and aggressive driving are interchangeable terms. However, these charges entail distinct differences. Studies show that aggressive drivers instill more anxiety in others on the road than impaired drivers. Many are unaware that aggressive driving encompasses various risky behaviors, including excessive speeding, running red lights, tailgating, and unsafe lane changes. Understanding crucial details and state laws can make a significant difference. INSIGHTS ON AGGRESSIVE DRIVING STATISTICS Research from the American Automobile Association’s Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAA) reveals that 56% of fatal motor vehicle collisions stem from aggressive driving. Alarmingly, in 2023, 92% of people witnessed an act of aggressive driving. When faced with an aggressive driver, avoiding engagement is best. Interacting with such drivers is rarely a wise choice. This includes disregarding any offensive gestures they make. If possible, note the driver’s license plate and promptly report it, along with relevant details, to emergency services. PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR AVOIDING AGGRESSIVE DRIVING ACCIDENTS To steer clear of aggressive driving incidents, these proactive steps can be taken:
CLASSIC CHEESECAKE
This classic cheesecake recipe is simple yet decadent and will leave your mouth watering!
INGREDIENTS
• • •
Display considerate behavior toward fellow drivers. Offer apologies for mistakes made while driving. Refrain from engaging in competitive driving with aggressive drivers.
• 24 graham crackers, crushed • 1/4 cup butter, melted • 3 8-oz packages of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar • 3 large eggs • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour • 1 cup sour cream
• Avoid confrontations with aggressive drivers by staying in your vehicle. • Abstain from provoking or antagonizing other drivers. • Adhere strictly to all traffic laws. • Yield the right of way to drivers showing signs of aggression. • Maintain a composed demeanor, avoiding any form of aggression. • Show appreciation toward other drivers. • Steer clear of making eye contact with aggressive drivers. At Yeargan & Kert, LLC, our attorneys are committed to vigorously defending individuals facing aggressive driving charges. With a track record of successfully representing clients charged with various crimes, our legal team specializes in crafting robust strategies for favorable case resolutions. For top- notch representation, contact Yeargan & Kert, LLC today and benefit from our experienced lawyers.
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Combine graham cracker crumbs and butter; press onto the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. 3. Beat cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. 4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until blended. 5. Add vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream; mix until blended. 6. Pour into prepared pan. 7. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is almost set. 8. Cool completely before serving.
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INSIDE
Exploring the Origins of Groundhog Day
A Business Leader Who Persevered
Know Your DUI Checkpoint Rights
Preventing Aggressive Driving on Our Roads
Classic Cheesecake
Exploring Europe’s Hidden Gems
DISCOVERING EUROPE’S OVERLOOKED BEAUTIES EUROPE’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ESCAPES
Europe, with its rich tapestry of cultures, history, and landscapes, offers many different experiences for travelers. From the cobblestone streets of quaint villages to the bustling avenues of cities, the continent beckons with a blend of the old and new. Places like London, Paris, and Berlin are all hugely popular, but these four hidden gems deserve recognition despite being often overshadowed by their more famous counterparts. GHENT, BELGIUM This medieval city is a treasure trove of history, with its well-preserved architecture and charming canals. The Gravensteen Castle, a stone sentinel standing since the Middle Ages, offers a glimpse into Ghent’s storied past. Art lovers can appreciate the Adoration
of the Mystic Lamb, an iconic piece of religious art housed in St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
PORTO, PORTUGAL Known for its port wine and stunning Douro River views, Porto captivates with its colorful buildings and intricate azulejos (ceramic tiles). The Livraria Lello bookstore, with its spiraling staircase and ornate woodwork, seems straight out of a fairy tale and is a must-visit for bibliophiles.
KRAKOW, POLAND The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to Krakow’s historical significance. The Wawel Royal Castle, with its eclectic mix of architectural styles, dominates the city’s skyline. Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter, brims with character and a poignant history. Europe’s lesser-known cities offer a unique blend of charm, history, and culture. Each city, with its own distinct personality, tells a story that enriches the tapestry of European heritage. So, the next time you plan a European adventure, consider veering off the beaten path to explore one of these hidden wonders.
LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA This small but vibrant city is a blend of
Baroque and Art Nouveau styles with a touch of modernity. The Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the city, and Tivoli Park is a green oasis perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
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