Check out our September newsletter!
Justice MONTHLY
229-888-0888 • www.puttingpeoplefirst.law
SEPTEMBER 2024
How Our Firm Aims to Make a Difference COMMUNITY COMES FIRST
Growing up in Albany, I’ve seen the struggles and triumphs of our residents firsthand, and I firmly believe that our firm’s success isn’t just measured in court victories but in how we lift those around us. Sept. 5 is the International Day of Charity, and it’s the perfect time to talk about the heartbeat of our law firm here — giving back to the community that’s given us so much. One cause that’s particularly close to my heart is The Anchorage, a faith-based rehab that’s been helping men battle alcohol and drug addictions for over 70 years. Having lost two dear friends — one to opioids and another to alcohol — The Anchorage’s mission resonates with me in a way I’m sure so many of us can, unfortunately, relate to. It’s personal. Every contribution we make to them feels like we’re doing more than donating; we’re actively fighting against the crisis that took my friends too soon. I have the utmost respect for those struggling with addiction and working toward a new life, and I want to help in whatever way I can to make that journey smoother. Then there’s our work with the local Humane Society. We spotlight a “Pet of the Month” on our Facebook page every month, hoping to find forever homes for cats and dogs in need. It’s heartwarming to see these animals find loving families, and supporting society’s goal to become a no-kill shelter is a win for these animals in need and our community. We’re also involved with Liberty House, a domestic violence shelter that provides a safe haven and vital services to victims and their children. It’s been an anchor in our community since 1981, and by
backing them, we help ensure these crucial services continue. No one deserves to live in fear of harm, and I couldn’t agree more with the organization’s belief that domestic violence isn’t a private problem; it’s a responsibility we have as a community to keep one another safe.
And let’s not forget about the local Boys and Girls Club. Beyond just donations, we provide practical support, like football tickets for the kids and winter coat drives. It’s a fantastic way to keep young kids engaged and offer them opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. This club has done wonders in giving local kids role models and a safe space to grow when violence and drugs are just around the corner. Education is another big focus for our firm. We partner with schools like Lake Park Elementary, where we’ve helped organize supply drives and even supported a family to rebuild their life after a tragic house fire. Being a “Partner in Excellence” with these schools means we’re helping equip our young people with the tools they need from the start. Looking ahead, we’re excited to ramp up our involvement even more. We’re planning things like the KeepSafe 5K to raise funds for children’s car seats — a cause that could save lives. I also hope to have more volunteer opportunities for my team and me, giving more than just money but also our time and physical support. For me, this is more than just running a law firm — it’s about being a good neighbor in the place I’ve always called home. It’s about making a difference where it counts. As we celebrate the International Day of Charity, I’m reminded how much impact we can have when we come together for the greater good. —William F. “Trey” Underwood III
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Baskets of Fun Apple Picking With the Whole Family
Most of the apples you find in stores are ripening now, making September prime apple-picking season! When green apples begin to turn yellow and red apples brighten in color, they are ready to be gathered up. If you are looking for a great excuse to get out in nature with your family or just hankering for some fresh produce, then apple
picking is the thing for you. Orchards all over the country have a you- pick season so you can bring home your own fresh apples. Here is how to get in on the apple-picking trend right now! How do you like them apples? If you and your kids aren’t paying to pick apples, and you don’t have the owner’s permission, that’s stealing. If you (or someone else) pay your kids to pick apples, that is child labor, which is, sadly, also illegal. Kidding aside, for the most part, to pick apples at an orchard, you must pay for the privilege. Orchards all across the country have different varieties of apples ripening all the time. Whether you’re in Maine, Michigan, California, or somewhere in between, you are likely ready to go on an apple-picking frenzy with family! Enjoy the fruits of your labor. After a long day of picking apples and making memories, you need a place to put them. Sure, if you want to dig into your apples right away, a bowl on the counter is fine. But if you want to store these apples for safekeeping (or making pie, apple crisp, apple sauce, or myriad other things), keep them somewhere nice and cool, like a refrigerator. If you keep your apples cool, they’ll stay good for weeks, ensuring you can enjoy the fruits of your labor all month!
School Zone Safety 101
How to Keep Our Kids Safe in School Zones This Fall
School bells are ringing, and the roads around our schools become bustling hubs of activity. This increase in foot traffic, especially with little ones heading to class, calls for heightened awareness and vigilance in school zones. We’re committed to the safety of our communities, so we’d like to offer five practical tips to ensure kids and other pedestrians stay safe as the new school year continues.
No. 2 — Avoid Distractions In school zones, keeping your full attention on the road is vital. Avoid using your cell phone or other devices that could divert your focus — even hands-free technology can take your mind off driving. Children can be unpredictable, and your full concentration might make all the difference in preventing an accident. No. 3 — Respect School Bus Rules When a school bus stops and extends its stop sign arm, drivers in both directions must stop. This law protects children who might be crossing the street from the bus. Never pass a school bus loading or unloading children — it’s not just unsafe; it’s illegal. No. 4 — Practice Extra Caution in Bad Weather Rainy weather can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, adding extra risks for pedestrians. On bad weather days, slow
down more than usual and keep a sharper lookout for children in school zones. No. 5 — Educate Your Kids Safety is a two-way street. Teach your children the importance of crossing at crosswalks, looking both ways, and making eye contact with drivers before crossing. Encourage them to be especially attentive in school zones and around buses! When every driver follows these tips, we can all contribute to a safer environment in our school zones. Let’s keep our kids safe and give parents peace of mind as another busy school year begins. Together, we can make a difference in the safety of our communities.
No. 1 — Obey Speed Limits and Signs
The most critical step you can take as a driver is strictly adhering to school zones’ speed limits. These areas have reduced speed limits because lower speeds give drivers more time to react to the unexpected, which can be crucial if a child steps into the road suddenly. Kids and teens aren’t always the most observant pedestrians, so it’s up to you to stay aware of school zones and drive slowly.
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Family Fun From Community Markets to Murals! Experience Albany’s Autumn Charm
mostly flat courses with a few gentle hills to keep things interesting. Not only will you have a fantastic day on your bike, but you’ll also be supporting bicycle advocacy in the region.
of 5th Street and Monroe in Albany’s oldest park for a vibrant gathering of local vendors and artisans. Explore a delightful assortment of fresh produce, unique crafts, and mouthwatering food options. There will even be live entertainment as you browse through the talents of local artists and craftsmen. Perfect for family outings or a solo adventure, the Tift Park Community Market promises a fun and fresh experience in the heart of our community. The Nut Roll Fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 14 NutRoll.RaceRoster.com Love to cycle? Join the Nut Roll, a celebration of cycling and Southern hospitality in Southwest Georgia! Experience a day filled with scenic back road rides, delicious food, and lively fun. The 100-mile route takes you through low-traffic areas to Plains, GA — President Jimmy Carter’s hometown. Enjoy well-marked,
Macon Mural Festival Sept. 13–15
Fall in Georgia is a season of vibrant colors, crisp air, and an exciting community event lineup that showcases the state’s rich culture and spirited hospitality. From Albany’s bustling markets to Macon’s artistic streets, there’s something magical about experiencing Georgia during this enchanting time of year. Prepare to immerse yourself in Southern charm — Georgia is ready to celebrate the season with open arms and warm smiles. Tift Park Community Market Every Saturday, Sept. 7–28 Facebook.com/TiftParkMarket Discover the charm of the Tift Park Community Market! Every Saturday this month, you can head to the intersection
MaconArtsAlliance.org/MuralFestival Experience the vibrant transformation of Downtown Macon at the Macon Mural Festival. Witness the city come alive as talented muralists paint breathtaking murals, partnering with local businesses to celebrate Macon as a burgeoning arts and cultural hub. Kick off the weekend by watching artists at work on Friday, and join the excitement at the Mural Celebration Party on Saturday — free for all, with special VIP perks for Macon Arts Alliance members. Finally, you can end the weekend with the grand unveiling of completed murals on Sunday. Art lovers better start planning their weekend getaway now!
We Value You! At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., the trust we build with our clients is our most valuable asset. To show our appreciation, we would like to thank our clients who have referred others to us since our July newsletter:
PERFECT PEACH COBBLER
Ingredients • 6 cups sliced fresh peaches • 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
Kenneth Singletary Robert Foster Darion Bradford
• 2 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into pieces • 1/2 cup milk • 2 tbsp butter, melted
Your recommendations are treasured by everyone at our office. Clients can also leave their comments about our services through Google Reviews! These statements give us critical feedback and help other clients who are facing stressful life situations so they can find dependable lawyers. Previous and current clients can also receive free notary services at our office. Learn more about this service by giving us a call at 229-888-0888.
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375 F and grease an 8-inch square baking dish. 2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, 2 tbsp flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg; mix until blended, then spoon into prepared dish. 3. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. 4. Cut in butter with forks or pastry knife until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 5. Add milk and stir until just blended. 6. Drop dough by spoonfuls onto peach mixture and drizzle melted butter on top. 7. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Thank you for trusting us to serve you!
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Discover the Local Causes Close to Our Hearts PAGE 1 The Joy of Apple Picking School Zone Safety Every Driver Needs to Know PAGE 2 Fall Events You Can’t Miss in Albany and Beyond Perfect Peach Cobbler PAGE 3 Weather Myths Debunked! PAGE 4
COMMON WEATHER MISCONCEPTIONS!
What You Thought You Knew Might Surprise You
Weather has been mystifying human beings for thousands of years, so it’s no wonder countless misconceptions surround it. Does science back up any of these superstitions, or are they all just a bunch of bunk? Let’s bust three common myths! Myth 1 — Groundhogs can predict the weather. Despite what Punxsutawney Phil wants you to believe, a groundhog’s annual behavior on Feb. 2 does not indicate whether or not there will be six more weeks of winter. Historians traced the origins of this tradition back to the ancient Celtic people, who marked the beginning of their seasons with holidays on the first of certain months. February was a time for lighting candles and predicting how long the winter would last. As people immigrated to new lands, they crossed paths with Germanic people, who introduced the addition of an animal weather prophet, though initially it was a badger and, at one point, a hedgehog!
Eventually, the tradition solidified into what we know today.
the metal cage of the vehicle that conducts and directs 300 million volts of electricity safely into the ground. Did you believe any of these common myths about weather? These certainly aren’t the only misconceptions about our weather world — and since some appear to be rooted in fact, it’s good to do your own research using reputable sources, just to be sure.
Myth 2 — A tornado is coming if the sky turns green. Sometimes, light can play tricks on us when refracted through certain clouds. In rare cases, dark storm clouds can hit sunbeams at a certain angle, scattering the light so the light looks green. However, this is not a great indicator of a tornado on the horizon. Myth 3 — Lighting never strikes the same place twice. Lightning can strike the exact location repeatedly, even in the same storm. Take, for example, the story of Liu Nan, a Chinese man struck by lightning twice in the same spot in less than five minutes. Miraculously, the man survived. Additionally, the Empire State Building gets struck by lightning approximately 25 times yearly! While we’re on the subject — it’s not your car’s rubber tires that protect it from lightning strikes but
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