{"filters":{"years":{"2024":{"id":"2024","title":"2024"},"2023":{"id":"2023","title":"2023"},"2022":{"id":"2022","title":"2022"},"2021":{"id":"2021","title":"2021"},"2020":{"id":"2020","title":"2020"},"2019":{"id":"2019","title":"2019"},"2018":{"id":"2018","title":"2018"},"2017":{"id":"2017","title":"2017"},"2016":{"id":"2016","title":"2016"},"2015":{"id":"2015","title":"2015"},"2014":{"id":"2014","title":"2014"},"2013":{"id":"2013","title":"2013"},"2012":{"id":"2012","title":"2012"},"2011":{"id":"2011","title":"2011"}},"categories":{"georgia-spa-news":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news","title":"Georgia Spa News","url":"blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"},"featured":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/featured","title":"Featured","url":"blog\/category\/featured"},"gives-back":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/gives-back","title":"Gives Back","url":"blog\/category\/gives-back"},"employee-spotlight":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/employee-spotlight","title":"Employee Spotlight","url":"blog\/category\/employee-spotlight"},"hot-tubs":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/hot-tubs","title":"Hot Tubs","url":"blog\/category\/hot-tubs"},"swim-spas":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/swim-spas","title":"Swim Spas","url":"blog\/category\/swim-spas"},"saunas":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/saunas","title":"Saunas","url":"blog\/category\/saunas"},"grilling":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/grilling","title":"Grilling","url":"blog\/category\/grilling"},"recipes":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/recipes","title":"Recipes","url":"blog\/category\/recipes"},"bake-recipes":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/bake-recipes","title":"Bake Recipes","url":"blog\/category\/bake-recipes"},"grill-recipes":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/grill-recipes","title":"Grill Recipes","url":"blog\/category\/grill-recipes"},"roast-recipes":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/roast-recipes","title":"Roast Recipes","url":"blog\/category\/roast-recipes"},"smoke-recipes":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/smoke-recipes","title":"Smoke Recipes","url":"blog\/category\/smoke-recipes"},"neal-boortz":{"id":"\/blog\/category\/neal-boortz","title":"Neal Boortz","url":"blog\/category\/neal-boortz"}}},"posts":[{"id":1219512,"pagetitle":"Georgia Spa Company Named PHTA Retailer of the Year","url":"\/blog\/georgia-spa-company-named-phta-retailer-of-the-year","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_389728598.jpg","alt":"Georgia Spa Named PHTA Retailer of the Year","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":4000,\"height\":1041,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_162168619.jpg","alt":"Georgia Spa Named PHTA Retailer of the Year","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":2604,\"height\":1041,\"ratio-w\":2.5,\"ratio-h\":0.4}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

Georgia Spa Company proud to\r\nannounce they are the recipient of a<\/span> 2024 International\r\nAward of Excellence from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA),<\/span> the\r\ntrade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry. Georgia\r\nSpa Company was named the 2024 Retailer of the Year. Additionally, Georgia Spa\r\nalong with our preferred contractor, Spain & Son's Construction, earned the\r\nGold Design Award for Portable Hot Tub Installation.<\/span> <\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"We are very honored to receive the PHTA Retailer of the\r\nYear award,\" said Josh Kemerling, Georgia Spa Company CEO at PHTA's International\r\nAwards of Excellence Presentation held in November in Dallas. \"The Pool and Spa\r\nindustry has tens of thousands of amazing retailers across the world. To see\r\nour team recognized as the Retailer of the Year was quite awesome! As a team,\r\nwe work daily to ensure we deliver the absolute best service and quality to\r\ncustomers! Well done team GSC!\"<\/o:p><\/p>\r\n\r\n

PHTA's International\r\nAwards of Excellence program is one of the largest, most well-renowned design\r\ncompetitions in the pool and hot tub industry. These distinguished awards\r\nrecognize exceptional installations of pools, spas, hot tubs, and water\r\nfeatures that showcase the most beautiful, creative, and innovative work in the\r\nindustry. Each year, hundreds of entries are submitted from across the\r\nU.S. and the world.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Georgia Spa Company and its preferred contractor, Spa and Son's Construction, were named the 2024 International Awards of Excellence Gold Design recipient from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance . <\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a\r\nnon-profit organization with over 3,900 members from around the world, was\r\nestablished in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of\r\nthe pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy,\r\nstandards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our\r\nmembers' professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes\r\nthe use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and\r\noutreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making\r\nswimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For\r\nmore information, visit www.phta.org<\/a>.<\/o:p><\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_389728598.jpg","grid-alt":"Georgia Spa Named PHTA Retailer of the Year"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-11-13 09:27:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443169,"title":"Georgia Spa News","url":"blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"},{"id":443168,"title":"Featured","url":"blog\/category\/featured"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news","blog\/category\/featured"]}},{"id":1186858,"pagetitle":"Gives Back: 2024 Toy Drive","url":"\/blog\/gives-back-2024-toy-drive","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_863574625.jpg","alt":"Georgia Spa Gives Back Toy Drive","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_199835017.jpg","alt":"Georgia Spa Gives Back Toy Drive","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

The Georgia Spa Gives Back Program<\/strong><\/a> is holding a toy drive across all showrooms in November of 2024 benefiting the Winder Fire Department's Empty Stocking Toy Drive. Additionally, a portion of purchases made at Georgia Spa Company in the month of November will go to supporting the Winder Fire Department<\/strong><\/a>'s Empty Stocking Toy Drive and to the Barrow County Sheriff's Office<\/strong><\/a>'s Shop with a Hero program.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"Winder<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

The Winder Fire Department's annual Empty Stocking Toy Drive was started in 1992 by former Fire Chief Ray Mattison when he was looking for a way to make children smile at Christmas. Chief Matt Whiting continued the tradition when he became chief in 2011. The drive annually supports hundreds of children with support from individuals, couples, organizations and civic groups. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Shop with a Hero program was founded by Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith, and it pairs children to shop with a\r\nfirst responder. Formerly known as Christmas with a Cop, the program has\r\nexpanded to include representatives from multiple branches of law enforcement\r\nand other first responders. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

This will mark the third year the Georgia Spa Gives Back program has supported both the Empty Stocking Toy Drive and Shop with a Hero programs, having done so previously in 2022<\/a> and 2023<\/a>. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Georgia Spa Gives Back program will collect unwrapped toys at its six showrooms as well as its pre-owned and service center. Georgia Spa Company showrooms are in Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Buford, Athens, Newnan and Augusta. Showrooms are open Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The Pre-Owned and Service Center in Auburn is open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. All locations will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Those purchasing a hot tub or spa during the\r\ndonation period can receive a discount of up to $500 on a hot tub or swim spa\r\naccessory package for donating toys (each $10 value toy = $100 discount; max\r\ndiscount $500).<\/p>\r\n\r\n

If you would like to nominate a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to be considered as a recipient of the Georgia Spa Gives Back program, please email givesback@georgiaspacompany.com.<\/em><\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_863574625.jpg","grid-alt":"Georgia Spa Gives Back Toy Drive"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-11-04 10:00:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443169,"title":"Georgia Spa News","url":"blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"},{"id":443171,"title":"Gives Back","url":"blog\/category\/gives-back"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news","blog\/category\/gives-back"]}},{"id":1135025,"pagetitle":"Employee Spotlight: Mason Takvorian","url":"\/blog\/employee-spotlight-mason-takvorian","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_506220727.jpg","alt":"Mason Takvorian","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_972567766.jpg","alt":"Mason Takvorian","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1250,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":2.5,\"ratio-h\":0.4}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

Mason\r\nTakvorian has worked seasonally as a Sales Associate at Georgia Spa Company's Newnan showroom since the summer of 2021. Mason recently graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Biomedical Engineering degree, and he is currently in a Masters program at Kennesaw State University of Prosthetics and Orthotics. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Mason has said that working at Georgia Spa has helped him gain experience talking with people and helping our customers has helped him grow significantly in that aspect of his career development. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

<\/o:p><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"I really like the atmosphere at\r\nwork,\" Mason says. \"Everyone at our store gets along really well. I really enjoy that most of\r\nour customers are frequent visitors who really enjoy the service that we can\r\nprovide. I I also like being able to help people whether it is with their water\r\ncare or finding out more about our different products. I also love that as a\r\nstudent everyone has been so accommodating to my changing schedule and always\r\nso welcoming whenever I come back to work after breaks or in between semesters.\"<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Getting to know more about Mason ... <\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Where\r\ndo you like to vacation?
<\/strong>My friends and family's favorite\r\nplace is definitely Port Saint Joe (Florida). It is located close to Panama City so you\r\nhave a lot of great beaches without the crazy tourism.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

If you\r\nhad to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
<\/strong>It would probably be home cooked\r\nshort ribs, mashed potatoes, and Brussel sprouts. Or anything from Cava if I\r\nhad to get takeout!<\/p>\r\n\r\n

What are three things you have left on your bucket list?
<\/strong>One, learn another language. Two, write a book. Three, travel to a bunch of different countries.
<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

How do\r\nyou prefer to spend your time off?
<\/strong>Usually relaxing with friends and\r\nwatching sports or playing golf.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is your favorite sport?<\/strong>
Basketball and baseball are probably my favorite to watch, but I really like watching any sport. More often I enjoy watching some of the greatest sports players more than any specific sport, so if LeBron James or Shohei Ohtani are playing I try and tune in.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is your favorite quote?
<\/strong>Recently, I heard the quote \"Don't be afraid of failure. This is the way to succeed,\" (LeBron James) and it has really stuck with me.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is\r\na TV show you like to re-watch a lot?
<\/strong><\/span>I watch a lot of different shows but\r\nmy go to rewatch is definitely New Girl. It's my ultimate comfort show that I\r\nhave probably seen way too many times.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is\r\nyour favorite movie?<\/strong>
It would probably depend on the\r\ngenre. My go-to is usually a good thriller or dumb rom-com. I also really enjoy\r\nforeign films with Parasite and City of God being two of my favorites.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is\r\nthe best advice you've ever gotten?
<\/strong>I would say the best advice I have\r\ngotten is just to not worry too much about the little things because no one\r\nelse will remember it besides you.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Do you\r\nhave any pets?<\/strong>
I have two Ragdoll cats I recently\r\nadopted. There names are Chewy and Lola. The family I adopted them from didn't\r\nknow the female cat was pregnant, so after a few weeks I ended up with six kittens\r\nwhich was both stressful and fun to deal with.<\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_506220727.jpg","grid-alt":"Mason Takvorian"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-10-17 15:01:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443170,"title":"Employee Spotlight","url":"blog\/category\/employee-spotlight"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/employee-spotlight"]}},{"id":1111310,"pagetitle":"Baker, Eubanks Named to Spa Retailer\u2019s 30 Under 40","url":"\/blog\/david-baker-adam-eubanks-named-to-spa-retailer-30-under-40","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_634627989.png","alt":"Spa Retailer 30 Under 40","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_427685487.png","alt":"Spa Retailer 30 Under 40","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

<\/figure>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Georgia Spa Company Executive Vice President David Baker and\r\nVice President of Sales Adam Eubanks have been named to Spa Retailer's 30 Under\r\n40 list for 2024.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Spa Retailer's 30 Under 40 recipients are recognized for\r\ntheir emerging talents driving the hot tub industry forward with fresh ideas\r\nand unstoppable energy. The list showcases a group of young professionals who\r\nhave a passion for and a bright future in the hot tub industry. The recipients were announced in the October 2024<\/strong><\/a> issue of Spa Retailer magazine.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n


<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Georgia Spa Company Executive Vice President David Baker with his wife, Jessica. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n

David Baker, Executive Vice President
<\/strong>Baker made a bold move in October 2014 transitioning from a\r\nsuccessful nine-year career in UPS operations management to join Georgia Spa\r\nCompany. Starting as a store manager at the Buford flagship location, he\r\ndemonstrated his capabilities, earning a promotion to sales manager within a\r\nyear. In this role, Baker played a significant part in the company's expansion\r\nto its fourth and fifth stores, showcasing his leadership and strategic vision.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

In 2020, Baker decided to explore new avenues, founding\r\nLazarus Lead Solutions, a company dedicated to reviving dead and inactive\r\nleads. He worked with over 20 companies across the hot tub industry, including\r\nThe Hot Tub Store, Texas Hot Tub Company and Ohio Pools & Spas. Lazarus\r\nLead Solutions quickly became a go-to for businesses seeking to enhance their\r\nsales and marketing efforts.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

In 2023, founder Mark Stevens sold Georgia Spa Company to\r\nthe employees, establishing one of the industry's few Employee Stock Ownership\r\nPlans<\/strong><\/a>. Recognizing Baker's potential and\r\npast contributions, the CEO, Josh Kemerling, invited him to return to Georgia\r\nSpa as Executive Vice President. Baker accepted the role, selling his share in\r\nLazarus Lead Solutions to fully commit to this new chapter.

<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Georgia Spa Company Vice President of Sales Adam Eubanks with his wife, Kristen.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Adam Eubanks, Vice President of Sales
<\/strong>In March, Adam Eubanks celebrated his 17th anniversary with\r\nGeorgia Spa Company. In 2007, the company was expanding to its then second\r\nlocation in Athens and was looking for people to fill sales roles. Eubanks left\r\nhis job constructing and selling custom saltwater aquariums and joined the team.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Eubanks' contributions have extended beyond sales. For\r\nseveral years, he took on operational responsibilities, demonstrating his\r\nversatility and commitment to the company's overall success. However, he still\r\nfinds joy in sales.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"According to my colleague and friend, Cherry (Durand), the\r\nhot tub industry is a hidden gem in the world of sales, and I completely agree\r\nwith her,\" he says. \"Our company offers top-notch wellness products that aid in\r\nour customers' relaxation, rejuvenation and overall well-being. We stock the\r\nfinest brands and provide unparalleled experiences. Who wouldn't want to be\r\npart of that as their career?\"
<\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_634627989.png","grid-alt":"Spa Retailer 30 Under 40"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-10-08 09:42:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443168,"title":"Featured","url":"blog\/category\/featured"},{"id":443169,"title":"Georgia Spa News","url":"blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/featured","blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"]}},{"id":1097728,"pagetitle":"Gives Back: 2024 Food Drive to Support Local Food Banks","url":"\/blog\/gives-back-2024-food-drive-to-support-local-food-banks","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_913017026.jpg","alt":"logo, company name","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_653084852.jpg","alt":"logo, company name","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

<\/a>Georgia Spa Company's Gives Back Program<\/a> is supporting three local Food Banks in October of 2024. A portion of Georgia Spa's proceeds from the month of October along with food collected in our showrooms throughout the month will go to support Golden Harvest Food Bank, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, and Bridging the Gap. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Food Drive can be supported by making donations at any Georgia Spa Company showroom. Donations will be accepted until October 31. Additionally, any customer purchasing a new hot tub or swim spa can get $10 off a hot tub or swim accessory package per non-perishable item donated up to a max discount of $500.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"Golden<\/a><\/strong><\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<\/a><\/strong>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

About Gold Harvest Food Bank
<\/strong>Golden Harvest Food Bank provides quality food and other grocery products to those in need. Golden Harvest does this with local community support through direct service programs, food pantries and community education about hunger. Golden Harvest's Master Table soup kitchen serves a hot lunch to more than 325 hungry people every day, 365 day per year in downtown Augusta.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

\"Food<\/a><\/strong><\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<\/a><\/strong>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

About Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
<\/strong>The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia is a network of friends working to feed the ill, needy, seniors and children of Northeast Georgia. Their mission is to work toward ending hunger as part of an overall community effort to alleviate poverty. The Food Bank of Northeast Georgia recovers donated and salvaged surplus food and distributes it to human-service agencies that then distribute the food to residents in need. The Food Bank works with local, regional, state and national product partners to bring food into the community.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

About Bridging the Gap
<\/strong>BTG Community Outreach, Inc. (locally known as Bridging the Gap) is a nonprofit organization based in Coweta County, Georgia. We provide food, clothing, and household goods to people who are struggling in our community.The mission of BTG is to provide assistance to hungry, homeless, and hurting people. Bridging the Gap achieves its mission in three ways: Feed, Serve and Restore<\/p>\r\n\r\n


<\/p>\r\n\r\n

If you would like to nominate a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to be considered as a recipient of the Georgia Spa Gives Back program, please email us<\/a>. <\/em><\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_913017026.jpg","grid-alt":"logo, company name"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-10-01 08:50:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443169,"title":"Georgia Spa News","url":"blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"},{"id":443171,"title":"Gives Back","url":"blog\/category\/gives-back"},{"id":443168,"title":"Featured","url":"blog\/category\/featured"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news","blog\/category\/gives-back","blog\/category\/featured"]}},{"id":1005572,"pagetitle":"Gives Back: Rally Foundation & CURE Childhood Cancer","url":"\/blog\/gives-back-rally-foundation-cure-childhood-cancer","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_699760822.jpg","alt":"Gives Back: Childhood Cancer Awareness","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_542931029.jpg","alt":"Gives Back: Childhood Cancer Awareness","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1250,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":2.5,\"ratio-h\":0.4}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

The Georgia Spa Gives Back Program<\/a> <\/strong>supported two organizations with a portion of Georgia Spa's proceeds from the month of September (Childhood Cancer Awareness Month): Rally Foundation and CURE Childhood Cancer.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/figure>\r\n\r\n

Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research
<\/strong>In 2005, a 17-year-old boy named William was fighting a brain tumor for the second time in two years. Rally Founder and CEO, Dean Crowe, asked a simple question, \"What can I do to help? And I will not make you dinner. This situation is so past dinner.\" William's mother replied, \"Raise money for childhood cancer research and fund the best research wherever it may be.\" The mission of Rally was born that day.

Rally Foundation<\/strong><\/a> empowers volunteers across the country to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research to find better treatments with fewer long-term side effects and, ultimately, cures.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/figure>\r\n\r\n
<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

CURE Childhood Cancer<\/strong>
CURE<\/a><\/strong> is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. CURE believes that childhood cancer can be cured in our lifetime.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

CURE's programs address the physical, emotional, financial, and educational needs of families during treatment and beyond.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

<\/figure>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_699760822.jpg","grid-alt":"Gives Back: Childhood Cancer Awareness"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-09-01 10:00:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443171,"title":"Gives Back","url":"blog\/category\/gives-back"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/gives-back"]}},{"id":1002511,"pagetitle":"Employee Spotlight: Colleen Hall","url":"\/blog\/employee-spotlight-colleen-hall","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_382380652.jpg","alt":"Colleen Hall","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_554709080.jpg","alt":"Colleen Hall","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1250,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":2.5,\"ratio-h\":0.4}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

We're thrilled to shine our Employee Spotlight on Colleen Hall, a valued Sales Associate who has made remarkable impact in her first year. <\/span>Colleen embraces her role with enthusiasm, and she continuously works to expand her product knowledge to improve her ability to assist colleagues and provide excellent an customer experience. <\/span>Her commitment to learning and growing within the company has truly set her apart.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Colleen's Georgia roots run deep. She's a true local <\/span>having grown up in Lawrenceville and attending the University of North Georgia, where she earned a degree in Film and Digital Media with a concentration in Production. <\/span>Outside of work, Colleen is a connoisseur of relaxation, enjoying tea and a good book or getting lost in her favorite TV shows and movies. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Why do you like working for Georgia Spa Company? <\/strong>
<\/span>I like working for Georgia Spa Company because of the care that the company shows their employees and customers. The company goes above and beyond for everyone that is associated with the store to make sure that they are satisfied and look forward to coming back. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is your favorite memory with Georgia Spa Company?\r\n<\/strong>
There was one time I was getting the
Endless Pool<\/strong><\/a> ready and tested, like I do every week, but I recognized that the Flower Scum Sponge<\/strong><\/a> needed to be rinsed. I was behind the swim spa and Amber was going to catch the flower to take it to the bathroom, but when I threw it bounced right off her head. We both fell on the floor laughing and we both had tears in our eyes. Everyone was looking at us like we were crazy, but you have to realize that we are like this all the time.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
<\/strong><\/span>If I could do this, and not gain anything while being in bliss, it would always be pizza. It's just a classic and you can have it so many different ways. There always has to be pepperoni. It is the best topping in my opinion. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is a TV show you like to re-watch a lot?\r\n<\/strong>
There are so many. I would say that my top show would be Bones. When I have some chores that need to get done, or even if I am working on a project, I love to put it on as background. I don't even have to watch it anymore to know what is occurring in the episodes. <\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n

What is your hidden talent?\r\n<\/strong>
I would have to say that I can actually turn my hand all the way around without bending my elbow. I have been able to do it since I was a child. Perks of being double jointed!<\/span><\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_382380652.jpg","grid-alt":"Colleen Hall"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-08-27 10:48:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443170,"title":"Employee Spotlight","url":"blog\/category\/employee-spotlight"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/employee-spotlight"]}},{"id":978104,"pagetitle":"Gives Back to Support ESP","url":"\/blog\/gives-back-to-support-esp","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_608589989.jpg","alt":"ESP","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_203452308.jpg","alt":"ESP","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1250,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":2.5,\"ratio-h\":0.4}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

The Georgia Spa Gives Back Program<\/a> <\/strong>will support esp — A Hub for People with Special Needs<\/strong> with a portion of its proceeds from the month of August. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Living life with a disability, whether it's an intellectual disability, physical disability, learning disability, or developmental disability, is like sailing across a big ocean. Sometimes the waters are calm, and other times there are big waves. It takes strength, good advice, and the right people to help navigate through.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

esp Inc., formerly Extra Special People Inc.<\/strong><\/a>, is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to serving as a beacon of support for disabled individuals and their families. As one of the leading special needs organizations in the region, esp provides vital resources and assistance to those in need.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

We are proud to be recognized as a trusted organization for the disabled population, offering advocacy, support, and inclusive programs for individuals of all abilities. Located conveniently within the Athens, Atlanta, and Rome communities, esp is among the top disability advocacy organizations committed to empowering disabled persons and fostering a more inclusive society. Whether you're searching for \"special needs organizations near me\" or \"disability organizations near me\", esp is here to provide compassionate assistance and promote the well-being of every individual we serve.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

For persons with disabilities, feeling strong and capable comes from being in a community that understands their challenges and celebrates their abilities. Join us in creating such a supportive community! <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Mission: <\/strong>esp exists to create <\/strong>transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Vision: <\/strong>esp envisions a world where every person, of every ability, in every community has universal access to transformative experiences.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Core Values: <\/strong>Unrelenting in our mission \u2022 <\/strong>Activating the abilities of all \u2022 Crazy about celebration \u2022 Connecting the unconnected \u2022 Compassion freely given \u2022 Innovating possibilities \u2022 <\/strong>Integrity every day.<\/strong><\/p>","grid-image":"https:\/\/transform.octanecdn.com\/crop\/1200x675\/https:\/\/octanecdn.com\/georgiaspacompanycom\/georgiaspacompanycom_608589989.jpg","grid-alt":"ESP"},"published":"yes","publishdate":"2024-08-05 08:17:00","year":"2024","categories":[{"id":443169,"title":"Georgia Spa News","url":"blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news"},{"id":443171,"title":"Gives Back","url":"blog\/category\/gives-back"}],"authors":[],"filters":{"years":["2024"],"categories":["blog\/category\/georgia-spa-news","blog\/category\/gives-back"]}},{"id":968421,"pagetitle":"The Rich History of Hydrotherapy","url":"\/blog\/the-rich-history-of-hydrotherapy","pagedata":{"preview-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_422898412.jpg","alt":"hot tub in a backyard","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1920,\"height\":500,\"ratio-w\":3.84,\"ratio-h\":0.26}"},"hero-image":{"imagefile":"georgiaspacompanycom_335407017.jpg","alt":"hot tub in a backyard","focal-x":null,"focal-y":null,"focal":null,"size":"{\"width\":1200,\"height\":627,\"ratio-w\":1.91,\"ratio-h\":0.52}"},"excerpt":null,"content":"

Hydrotherapy\r\nhas evolved significantly over the centuries, and one of its most accessible\r\nand popular modern applications is through the use of hot tubs. Hot tubs\r\nprovide a convenient and effective means for individuals to enjoy the benefits\r\nof hydrotherapy in the comfort of their own homes.
<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Ancient Beginnings
<\/strong>The\r\ntherapeutic use of water can be traced back to
several ancient civilizations<\/a>.\r\nIn ancient Egypt, royalty indulged in baths with essential oils and flowers,\r\nbelieved to promote health and wellness. These practices extended beyond\r\ncleanliness, as essential oil blends were also used to treat various ailments,\r\nsuch as using frankincense for asthma\u200b\u200b. In Greece,\r\nHippocrates, often regarded as the father of medicine, prescribed bathing in\r\nspring water to treat various ailments, referring to it as hydropathy, and\r\nhighlighted its benefits in his medical texts\u200b.

<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The Main Pool in the Roman Baths in Bath, England.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n\r\n

The\r\nRomans advanced hydrotherapy by constructing elaborate public bathhouses around\r\nhot springs, such as those in Bath, England. These bathhouses were central to\r\nRoman culture and were believed to alleviate a wide range of ailments, from\r\njoint pain to skin conditions. The sophisticated Roman bathing practices\r\nincluded hot, warm, and cold baths, as well as steam rooms and massage,\r\nemphasizing the health benefits of these treatments\u200b.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Middle Ages and Renaissance
<\/strong>During\r\nthe Middle Ages, the knowledge and practice of hydrotherapy were preserved\r\nprimarily by monasteries. Monks built spas near natural springs and used water\r\nto treat various maladies through a combination of bathing, drinking, and steam\r\ntreatments. This period saw a shift towards
balneology<\/a>, the study of the\r\ntherapeutic properties of mineral waters\u200b.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The\r\nRenaissance marked a revival of interest in ancient Greek and Roman texts,\r\nincluding those on hydrotherapy. European royalty and aristocracy frequented\r\nspa towns like Bath, Aachen, and Baden-Baden, seeking relief from various\r\nailments. Hydrotherapy became synonymous with luxury and was seen as an\r\nessential part of maintaining one's health and well-being\u200b.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The 19th Century and Modern Hydrotherapy
<\/strong>The\r\n19th century witnessed the professionalization of hydrotherapy as a medical\r\npractice. Vincent Priessnitz, an Austrian farmer, is often credited with\r\npioneering modern hydrotherapy. He advocated for the use of cold water\r\ntreatments, including cold baths and wet compresses, to promote healing.\r\nPriessnitz's methods gained widespread popularity and led to the establishment\r\nof hydrotherapy clinics across Europe\u200b.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

In\r\nthe United States, Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a prominent physician and\r\nnutritionist, became an advocate for hydrotherapy as part of his holistic\r\napproach to health. He founded the Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan, which\r\noffered a range of hydrotherapy treatments.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Sebastian\r\nKneipp, a German priest, significantly influenced modern hydrotherapy. After\r\ncuring his tuberculosis using hydrotherapy, he developed the \"Kneipp\r\nCure,\" which involves various methods, temperatures, and pressures of\r\nwater application. Kneipp's methods are still practiced today and have\r\ncontributed to the field of naturopathic medicine<\/a>\u200b.<\/o:p><\/p>\r\n\r\n

20th Century and Beyond
<\/strong>In\r\nthe 20th century, hydrotherapy continued to evolve with advancements in medical\r\ntechnologies. Techniques such as whirlpool baths, hydro-massage, and underwater\r\nexercises became integral to rehabilitation and physical therapy. These\r\nadvancements enhanced the therapeutic effects of water, making hydrotherapy a\r\nvaluable tool in the treatment of injuries and enhance overall well-being. Innovations such as the exclusive Moto-Massage DX jets from
Hot Spring Spas<\/a> provide unparalleled back massage for an unforgettable hydrotherapy experience.<\/p>\r\n\r\n