February Issue by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

room Show side In Pass

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

February 2011 Volume 4, Issue 10

7 Featured Articles

Race Series Kicks Off A great opportunity for local runners.

23 - 26 On the Cover

16 Readers’ Choice

Home Improvement Guide Nelson Painting and

20 Tournament of Roses

Home Improvements, The Fireplace Company, Direct Buy Flooring, Atlanta Architectural Cabinets, Reliable Heating & Air and Maid Brigade. AroundAbout — East Cobb is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25% recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.

Time is running out to vote for your favorite local businesses!

Revalee and Lonnie Ayers — married 71 years.

28 High School Basketball

Highlights from Lassiter and Wheeler High Schools.

In Every Issue Birthdays............................................ 8

Elected Officials................................ 40

Community Calendar........................ 14

Clubs & Organizations....................... 42

Everyday Angels............................... 15 School Information........................... 33

Community Numbers....................... 44

Humane Society............................... 37

Classifieds........................................ 46

Houses of Worship........................... 38

Advertiser Directory......................... 47

Contributing Writers Lee Ann Jones is the Title Manager for AroundAbout — East Cobb. She has more than 20 years experience assisting clients grow their businesses. Look for her out and about in East Cobb! You can reach her at (770) 615-3318 or leeann@ aroundaboutmagazines.com. 2

Don Akridge....................................11

Kara Kiefer.......................................18

James Ball........................................ 4

Doug Rohan.....................................12

Dr. Cristi Cheek................................15 Allison Duffy....................................34 David Hecklemoser..........................18

Becky Smith....................................22 Myles Smith....................................36

Judson Hill.......................................10

Derin White.....................................34

Jennifer Jarosick..............................22

Alison Wiebe...................................12

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

www.aroundabouteastcobb.com Keeping you plugged into the latest online happenings Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc.

Why Facebook?

Owners Karen & Jon Flaig

by James Ball

Executive Editor Kara Kiefer

Facebook is perhaps the most widely used social network on the planet. Many of us understand the value of connectedness and two-way communication. We like to check in on our family and friends, see what’s happening in our community, and let our connections know what is going on in our own lives. Facebook has truly woven itself into the fabric of daily life and culture across the globe.

kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3309

Advertising Director Leslie Proctor

leslie@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3304

Title Manager Lee Ann Jones leeAnn@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3318

Art Director Michelle McCulloch

Facebook has provided the means for us as a company to stay in touch with our readers in real time. We hear about lost pets and can immediately act and rally our readers for help. We can inform and be informed about events and happenings in the community between issues of the magazine. Our readers learn about us, and we learn more about our readers and their lives. We feel this medium has brought us closer to our readers, and we appreciate the participation and input! Facebook as a company has done a great job at providing a space that’s easy for us to use and to navigate. Furthermore, it really is a fun way to spend a few minutes each day in order to stay in touch. Facebook has become an invaluable way for us to connect and interact with those that are important to us, our readers! Facebook has become a very important communication tool for us here at AroundAbout Local Media, but only because you, our readers have taken the initiative to connect with us there. If you are not already connected to us on Facebook, please consider it today; we value the opportunity to be able to share and communicate with all of you, our valued readers and fans!

www.Facebook.com/AroundAboutTowneLaker www.Facebook.com/AroundAboutCumming www.Facebook.com/AroundAboutEastCobb

michelle@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3307

Digital Marketing Director James Ball

james@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3310

Photographers C & W Photography • www.candwphotos.com Rod Kaye • www.rodkaye.com AroundAbout — East Cobb is a franchisee of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the East Cobb area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It is distributed free by mail to approximately 18,000 homes and businesses and 3,000 in racks throughout the East Cobb community. AroundAbout — East Cobb welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 15th of the preceding month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send payment to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. AroundAbout — East Cobb is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2011.

AroundAbout — East Cobb 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 340, Woodstock, Georgia 30189 Fax: (770) 516-4809

Advertising: leeann@aroundaboutmagazines.com Editor: kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com Website: www.aroundabouteastcobb.com Franchise Opportunities Available: www.AroundAboutMagazines.com

www.twitter.com/aroundaboutec

AroundAbout — East Cobb

Volume 4, Issue 10 FEBRuary 2011

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Community

Wheeler Graduates Earn Eagle Ranks Four 2010 graduates of Wheeler High School and members of Boy Scout Troop 713 have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. In 2008, Brian Boda earned the rank in 2008, followed by Peter Moot, John Franklin and Ian Agnew in 2010. Led by long-time scoutmaster Larry Bishop, Troop 713 is based at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church on Holt Road. Brian’s service project was a redesign and update of the playground at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection on Paper Mill Road. Peter renovated a greenhouse facility and built several garden beds at Eastvalley Elementary School. John designed, constructed and installed six picnic tables at East Cobb’s Sewell Mill Park, and Ian designed, constructed and installed six bat-and-helmet racks for East Marietta National Little Leagueat Sewell Mill Park. The graduates are now college freshmen: Brian at Furman University in Greenville, SC; Peter at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA; John at Southern Poly in Marietta, and Ian at Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville.

Advocacy Center and MUST Ministries, all located in Georgia. “We are acutely aware that many people are struggling and we are dedicated to helping with that need,” said Leggett. “Local charities are seeing greater demand than ever before and donations to provide basic necessities are harder to come by. All the money from our foundation goes to local organizations that provide the basic necessities of life—food, shelter, and clothing—and other vital services.”

Temple Kol Emeth to Hold Avodah Award The Temple Kol Emeth (TKE) will hold its Lights of TKE, Avodah, Evening of Honor 7-11 p.m. March 5 at The Pavilion of East Cobb. The evening will be a tribute to Cynthia Bowman and Ellen and Paul Lopez. Cynthia Bowman, a realtor with Georgia Prudential Realty, has served in many capacities at the temple, including a member of the Caring Committee for more than 15 years. She also has been a member of Tritt Elementary School’s PTA and has served on the Regency Lake Homeowners Association. Cynthia is a member of the Atlanta Board of Realtors. Ellen Lopez is a registered nurse and has years of experience in critical care and hospice. She has chaired many fundraising events for TKE and was given the Woman of Achievement Award by the Jewish Federation of Atlanta in 2007. Ellen has also volunteered for MUST Ministries and Northside Hospital.

Left to right: Scoutmaster Larry Bishop with Eagle Scouts Brian Boda, Ian Agnew, Peter Moot and John Franklin.

LGE Foundation Donates to Several Charities The LGE Foundation, a 501(c)3 charity, has raised $35,968, and made donations to a number of local charities and families in need. Created in 2010 by employees of LGE Community Credit Union headquartered in Marietta, the foundation is funded through the efforts of LGE employees and volunteers.

For more information, visit http://tkeavodah2011.eventbrite.com or call (770) 973-3533.

“Emperor’s Tomb” Author to Visit Library

Left to right: Lane Henderson

At LGE’s annual celebration with MUST Ministries and breakfast, CEO Chris Chris Leggett. Leggett presented checks to representatives of Calvary Children’s Home, Safepath Children’s 6

Paul Lopez is the managing member of Element Holdings, LLC. He serves on the graduate faculty in the Executive MBA program of Kennesaw State University. Paul is also the Chairman of the Board for MUST Ministries and serves on the Professional Advisors Committee to the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia.

Steve Berry, the author of “The Emperor’s Tomb,” will visit Mountain View Regional Library, 7 – 8 p.m. February 24. The library is located at 3320 Sandy Plains Road. Berry is the New York Times bestselling author of 10 novels including, ”The Balkan Escape,” “”The Paris Vendetta,” and “The Charlemagne Pursuit.” His books have been translated into 37 languages and sold in 50 countries. The free event is open to the public. Canton Book Exchange will have books available for purchase and signing at the event. For information, call (770) 509-2725.

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Locomotive Race Series Start in February The Locomotive Race Series will kick off on Sunday, February 20 with the Locomotive Thunder 5K. Other races in the series are the Freight Train 5-Miler on May 22, Iron Horse 15K and 5K Express on September 18. The Locomotive Half Marathon, set for Feb. 19, 2012, will conclude the Kennesaw series. The Locomotive Thunder 5K will start and finish at Town Center Mall, 400 Barrett Parkway. Registration before February 17 is $22 for timed, $20 for un-timed, and $27 and $25 respectively after February 17. Register online at www.active.com or in person at any Big Peach Running Co. store. A portion of the proceeds will go toward 65 Roses, a Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

About the Founder Series founder Mark Vescio (right), has run more than 500 races, including marathons and half marathons. But he wasn’t always a runner. When Mark was 15, he weighed more than 300 pounds. “I couldn’t even walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath,” he said. Mark was told that if he didn’t change his life, he wouldn’t live long. Both of Mark’s parents ran for exercise, so Mark decided to give it a try. At first, he could only run to the end of the road. Then he stretched it to one block, then two, then three. He started jogging around the track at school and started to notice a difference, not only in his appearance but in his thoughts. “I was not tormenting myself in my own head for being a failure. I gained strength, confidence and resolve which I have carried forward with me in my life.” Mark hopes his story will inspire others to overcome their own adversities. Mark can be contacted at runningmanwest@bellsouth.net or (678) 895-2631.

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Community

Happy Birthday!

Brandon Kiefer

Happy Anniversary!

Age 19 on February 24 Son of Kara & Mike Kiefer Brother of Garrett

Chelsea Marie Cooper

Rachel Hugenberg

Ethan & Andrew Harris

Age 22 on February 14 Daughter of Cecelia & Brian Cooper

Age 9 on February 5 Daughter of Missy & Adam Hugenberg Sister of Elizabeth

Age 4 on December 5 Sons of Katie & Craig Harris

Surprise your loved one with a free birthday or anniversary wish! Mail to: Around About â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 340 Woodstock, GA 30189

e-mail: kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com Clyde & Audrey Mason Celebrating their 50th Anniversary on February 18

February deadline is February 18.

Holding a Summer Camp? Reserve your space now in our Summer Camp Section Our readers use this section to plan their summer. E-mail information to: cumming@aroundaboutmagazines.com To advertise in this section, call (770) 615-3318. To be listed in our special Summer Camp Section for the March issue, the deadline is February 18. 8

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Community

Privatize Selected State Services before Raising Taxes by State Senator Judson Hill Last year, I wrote an article that analyzed the Georgia State Constitution and identified core functions of state government as set forth in our Constitution. State leaders must be fiscally wise and responsible. At no time, but especially during tough economic times, does it make economic sense for the state to engage in any services that fall outside of its core functions. Citizens do not need their state government to provide non-essential services when the state is struggling financially to offer constitutionally required services. We should and must take a long and hard look at all services the state provides. We must identify non-essential functions and agencies that we might eliminate, privatize or consolidate. We must take the opportunity to pass into law legislation to periodically examine every state agency’s function to justify the need for their existence. This article addresses the general areas of our state operations that may be privatized, as well as how to begin the evaluation process and the possible impact. Privatization means shifting some or all aspects of the delivery of government’s services from the government to private sector providers. The objective is to lower the cost of government services and achieve more efficient performance and better outcome with the same tax dollars.

“ Government’s role is not to provide services but to see that essential servies are created and provided.”

Government’s role is not to provide services but to see that essential services are created and provided. Other state governments have successfully privatized numerous services. For example, transportation projects such as bridge and road repairs and planning, road maintenance and toll road operations have been privatized. The construction and operation of correctional institutions as well as information technology and infrastructure services are often privatized. In addition, numerous park operations and school maintenance and cafeteria functions are outsourced across the country. And, why would government ever run a golf course? For years, many local governments have outsourced numerous services. Local government officials have no other viable choice and realize that they would never have the sustainable need or financial resources to operate certain services. There are at least seven ways that privatization may benefit taxpayers. 1. It is well documented that governments can achieve between a 20 and 50 percent cost saving through out sourcing. 10

2. Governments can access the best and brightest experts when needed but it does not have to pay their ongoing costs year round. 3. Competition is proven to provide better outcomes as individuals and businesses freely compete for service contracts, thereby improving the quality of services rendered. 4. Taxpayers do not have to bear the risk of delayed projects and other hazards because that burden is shifted to the private sector. 5. Innovation is incentivized and outcomes improve as private groups strive to perform better, faster and more cost effectively. Unfortunately, such factors often have little to no influence on government bureaucrats. 6. During times of peak demand for services, the government can hire proficient experts for a season, without hiring those people and incurring higher long-term costs. 7. Since time is money, the need to make a profit is an incentive for the private sector to complete the same job faster, which saves money. To avoid mistakenly outsourcing too many services. it is important to create a thorough process for screening skilled private service providers. So how does a state government begin the process to privatize services? The most common methods are to contract out services, franchise services for a lease fee or lump sum payment, offer vouchers that can be redeemed elsewhere, and divest through selling government assets.

State officials should determine which services require the most state resources, and analyze those services by using a business evaluation. Examining goals, costs, benefits and overall impact will help leaders determine which services need state involvement and which ones are best performed by the private sector. The business evaluation for each agency must include benchmarks so that real data can be analyzed and reviewed to determine true benefits and results. The rationale and justification for privatizing should be examined to make sure all alternatives are considered. The methodology must be clear and documented to thoroughly assess the best options. The performance metrics for evaluation are critical to establish from the beginning. Any recommendations and changes should have all stakeholders engaged. Once this information is collected and assessed, accurate recommendations can be made so that both present and future leaders can score the impact of actions taken or foregone. To start in Georgia, both legislative and executive solutions are required. Georgia should pass sunset legislation that

AroundAbout — East Cobb

continued on page 41 FEBRuary 2011

Investor Alert – The New IRS Reporting Rules They affect anyone with a brokerage account. by Don Akridge, MBA, CPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ U.S. Marine Corps Veteran – Emory University Alumnus Are you going to purchase stocks in 2011? If your answer to that question is yes, there’s an important IRS rule change you should know about.

many investors favor the specific ID method, in which they identify specific shares they want to sell. Using this method enables you to sell your highest-cost shares first, which can be tax-wise.

If you buy a stock in 2011, your broker must report the gain or loss when you sell it. In fact, this will be true for the following investment classes as of the following dates:

More details worth noting. According to the Wall Street Journal, the new reporting rules will also apply to REITs, foreign stocks and foreign ETFs classified as stock in 2011. In 2012, the

Individual stocks you buy after January 1, 2011 Mutual fund shares you buy after January 1, 2012 l Bonds, options and other securities you buy after January 1, 2013 l l

Prior to 2011, reporting the gain or loss triggered by the sale of an investment was your responsibility – but the IRS wasn’t satisfied with that. It’s all about the cost basis. To properly tax your investment when it is sold, the IRS has to know what you initially paid for it. In financial jargon, this acquisition price is known as the cost basis. It isn’t always easy to figure the cost basis – factors like splits, mergers, reinvestment of dividends and inherited or gifted investments can make things hazy. The IRS simply doesn’t want to rely on your math anymore – federal government studies estimate that the agency loses up to $25 billion in tax revenue each year because of cost basis errors. Your broker will send Form 1099-B to the IRS. Each sale of a stock bought in 2011 will generate a 1099-B. You will get a copy; the IRS will get a copy. On that 1099-B form, the gain or loss will be characterized as long-term or short-term. The key here is to make sure your broker uses the accounting method you prefer as gains or losses are reported. Most brokerages report individual securities using the FIFO method, as that is the IRS default method.3 FIFO is an acronym for “first in, first out” – that is, the shares bought first are the shares sold first. With the FIFO method, you end up selling your cheapest shares first. In a down market, that’s okay – but in a rising market,

reporting rules will apply to most ETFs and DRIPs in addition to mutual funds. In 2013, the reporting requirements may also apply to derivatives and partnerships. Remember, this does not apply to shares and investments bought before 2011. You will still have to personally track the cost basis of these investments and report the realized gains and losses to the IRS. By the way, these new IRS reporting rules do not apply to taxsheltered investment accounts such as 529 plans and IRAs. Don Akridge is President of Citadel CPA, Financial Planning & Investment Services founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. Phone 770-9526707. Securities offered through 1st Global Capital Corp. Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through 1st Global Advisors, Inc. Created by 1st Global or Peter Montoya, Inc. for use by our financial advisors.

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Community

“I Can Lose My License for That . . . ? by Doug Rohan, Esq. Castan & Lecca, PC A few years back, I conducted an informal poll of the high schoolers in my Boy Scout troop and was shocked to learn that, in their opinion, an estimated 80 percent of students had at least tried illegal drugs. I don’t know if that number is accurate, but it should be shocking. Even at half that number, we have a serious problem. When I was a teenager, I always battled my parents on issues of discipline. My particular issue was cigarettes. I didn’t have a serious habit, but I thought it was cool. When my parents caught me, they would say, “We can’t make you quit, you have to want to quit,” and no other consequence was threatened. I always thought to myself: “Well, there are one or two things I can think of that would make me quit…” One day, they had enough, and as if they had read my mind, they told me the next time they caught me, they would take away my driver’s license. So, I unceremoniously quit smoking that day. The Georgia Department of Driver Services has applied those same parental instincts by suspending the driver’s license of anyone who is caught with marijuana or a controlled substance. A misdemeanor charge for having even less than an ounce of pot on you (whether or not you are driving) will result in a suspension of your driver’s license for at least 120 days. You will recall from my article on underage drinking that consuming a substance can still result in “possession” under the law. And no, pleading nolo contendere will not save your license. So talk with your kids and explain just how cool it would be to have to ask you for a ride to the movies on Saturday night. Maybe we can keep that percentage of teen experimenters down well below the 80 percent mark. In case you are interested, here are other ways to lose your driving privilege:

When An Emergency Happens Tips on planning ahead for your next trip to the ED by Alison Wiebe, RN, director of emergency services, Northside Hospital It’s the moment you hope never happens – a fall off a bike, tightness in the chest, an asthma attack or a burn – a few of the things that may require a trip to the emergency department (ED). Understanding your options and making a plan before that emergency occurs can reduce the time it takes to get help. Do your homework – locate the hospital nearest you and call to ask questions…

Who is on staff in the ED? Are staff specially trained for emergency situations? Does the ER have PALS (pediatric advanced life support) certified nurses to treat children? How long will the wait be? When is the ED busiest? Are patients seen on the severity of their situation? What about insurance? In case of an emergency, always call 911 first. For emergent cases, any hospital ED will treat you, regardless of what insurance you have. However, should your condition require admission to the hospital or follow-up care, it’s important to know which hospitals and services are covered under your plan. Long before you ever need to go to ED, call your insurance provider for this information.

Set your route. How accessible is the hospital to major highways or roads? Figure out multiple driving routes based on time of day, traffic congestion and possible roadwork, and plan ahead. Don’t wait for an emergency to happen first. Bring a copy of your medical information. With your caregiver, it’s important to share your medical history and any prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins or herbal supplements you are taking. Keep up-to-date medical information cards handy for each family member and bring them with you to the hospital.

Take notes. In an emergency, it’s sometimes difficult to remember your doctor’s name or instructions you are given. Bring a pad and paper with you to take notes and give you something to refer back to.

Racing

Driving without insurance

A DUI conviction

Refusing to take a chemical test for intoxication

Committing any felony while driving

Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer

Fraudulent use of a license (i.e. buying beer with a fake ID)

Hit and run or leaving the scene of an accident

Bring something to read. If your injury is non-life threatening, sometimes you may experience a wait before being seen. Bring something to read to help relieve anxiety and make time pass more quickly. If you have a child with you, bring books or toys. Alison Wiebe, RN, is the director of emergency services at Northside Hospital. For more information about Northside’s emergency services in Atlanta, Forsyth and Cherokee, visit www.northside.com.

continued on page 41 12

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Recent Consumer Product Recalls AroundAbout — East Cobb wants to help keep you and your family safe. The following items have been recalled by their manufacturers in cooperation with the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC). Baby Socks and Leg Warmers. BabyUnited LLC dba BabyLegs of Seattle, WA is voluntarily recalling approximately 4,500 baby leg warmers and socks. The leg warmers and socks have a heart appliqué that can detach, posing a choking hazard to small children. Dune Buggies. BB Buggies, Inc. is voluntarily recalling approximately 9,300 classic buggies. The off-road vehicles can accelerate without warning, posing a risk of injury to the user and/or bystanders.

skillets. Small pieces of the enamel coating can pop off when the skillet is heated, posing a burn hazard to consumers. Children’s Camping Combo Pack. Target Corp. of Minneapolis, MN is voluntarily recalling 1,500 Circo Children’s Space Camp combo pack. The floor of the tent failed a flammability test and poses a fire hazard.

Ceramic Banks. Oriental Trading Company, Inc. of Omaha, NE is voluntarily recalling approximately 220,000 ceramic piggy and lion banks. The yellow surface paint on the banks contains excessive levels of lead which is prohibited under federal law. Portable Butane Stoves. The Sterno Group LLC of Des Plaines, IL is voluntarily recalling approximately 37,500 Sterno portable butane stoves. The stove’s “on-off” valve can fail to close completely when turned to the “off” position, causing butane to leak from the stove. This poses a fire and burn hazard to consumers. Electric Heaters. Wal-Mart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, AK is voluntarily recalling approximately 2.2 million Flow Pro, Airtech, Aloha Breeze & Comfort Essentials heaters. The heaters can malfunction resulting in overheating, smoking, burning, melting and fire. Toddler Girl Garments. American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. of Pittsburgh, PA is voluntarily recalling approximately 1,200 Toddler Girl pants and shorts. The metal clasp at the waistband can detach from the garment, posing a choking hazard to young children. Cast Iron Skillets. QVC of West Chester, PA is voluntarily recalling approximately 7,500 Enamel-coated 8-inch cast iron

Teakettle. Meyer Corporation, U.S., of Vallejo, CA is voluntarily recalling approximately 59,000 Rachael Ray™ Brand two quart teakettle. Water heated in the teakettles can spill and spray while being poured, posing a burn hazard. Night Lights. American Tack & Hardware Co., Inc. (AmerTac), of Saddle River, NJ is voluntarily recalling approximately 272,000 Forever-Glo® cylinder nite lites. An electrical short circuit in the night light can cause it to overheat and smolder or melt which can burn consumers or result in a fire. Cabinet Swing Locks; Latches. Learning Curve Brands, Inc. d/b/a The First Years, of Oak Brook, IL is voluntarily recalling approximately 41,300 cabinet locks. The installed latches can break and children could gain access to contents of a cabinet, posing the risk of exposure to hazardous items. Zoom Buggy Cars and Dream Pillow Stars. Kindermusik International, Inc. of Greensboro NC is voluntarily recalling educational toys: approximately 7,000 Zoom Buggy cars and 300 Dream Pillow stars sold in the United States, and approximately 1300 Zoom Buggy cars and 100 Dream pillow stars sold in Canada. The wheels on the Zoom Buggy cars and plastic beads on the Dream pillow star can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

For more information on these and many other warnings issued by the Consumer Products Safety Commission, visit www.cpsc.gov or call 1-800-638-2772. FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Community

Community Calendar: February Through February 18

Elementary School Tennis League registration Information: Offered through the Cobb Tennis Centers. The following schools are scheduled to participate: Addison, Davis, East Side, Garrison Mill, Keheley, Kincaid, Murdock, Nicholson, North Cobb Christian School, Shallowford Falls, Tritt, and Rocky Mount. Contact Lola Wilburn at (770) 591-3151 or visit http://prca.cobbcountyga.gov/ ElementarySchoolLeague.htm.

February 11

Master Gardeners Lunch and Learn: Roses Time: 1 p.m. Location: Cobb County Central Library, 266 Roswell Street Information: Call the Cobb Extension Office at (770) 528-4070 or visit www.cobbmastergardeners.org.

February 15

Barage String Group Time: 7 p.m. Location: Hightower Trail Middle School, 3905 Post Oak Tritt Road, Marietta Information: A high-octane string group that features an international, multitalented cast performing an eclectic mix of music, song and dance. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students. For tickets, call Kathy Dillard at (770) 5787225 ext. 226 or e-mail her at susan. brown@cobbk12.org

February 21 – 25

Driver Education Class Time: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Location: Safe America Foundation, 2480 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta Information: The class includes 30 hours of classroom plus six hours of on-road training. Members of the Georgia PTA receive a $50 discount. To register, visit www.drivers.safeamerica.org or call (770) 973-7233. 14

Winter Break Camp Locations: Cobb County Recreation Centers Information: Visit http://prca. cobbcountyga.gov/recreationcenters.htm. Space is limited.

February 23

East Cobb Civic Association Meeting Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: East Marietta Library, 2051 Lower Roswell Road Information: The speaker will be Faye DiMassimo, director of the Cobb County Department of Transportation. Visit www. eastcobb.net or e-mail Jill Flamm at jill@ flammga.us.

March 4 – 6

Woodstock Market and Show Times: Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Location: 9464 Main Street, Woodstock Information: Outdoor market featuring vendors selling vintage and antique items, arts and crafts, produce, furniture and more. Visit www.woodstockmarketshow. com

March 5

Pope High School Greyhound Gala Time: 6 p.m. Location: Waverly Renaissance Hotel, 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta Information: Gala benefits the Pope High School Foundation. Visit www. popehighschoolfoundation.com

March 8

Cobb Summer Camp Expo Time: 11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Location: Cobb Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Parkway Information: Contact Wendy.Collings@ cobbcounty.org or call (770) 528-8885.

AroundAbout — East Cobb

March 11 – 12

Mt. Bethel Children’s Consignment Sale Times: Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. – noon Location: Mt. Bethel UMC, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Information: No children or strollers allowed on the sales floor until noon on Friday (except babies in slings). Childcare is available for nominal fee. Visit www. mtbethelccs.com.

Holding a Summer Camp?

Reserve your space now in our Summer Camp Section. Our readers use this section to plan their summer. E-mail information to: kara@ aroundaboutmagazines.com. To advertise in this section, call (770) 615-3318.

To be listed in our special Summer Camp Section for the March issue, the deadline is February 18.

FEBRuary 2011

Are You a Tooth Grinder? by Cristi Cheek, DMD Over the past few years, I have awakened several times during the night from the same terrifying nightmare – my teeth are crumbling into pieces and falling out in my hand. Luckily those were only bad dreams, but I did discover (after several years of being a dentist) that I grind my teeth at night. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is fairly common in today’s anxious, overstressed society, and the damage caused by bruxism can be costly. Why do people grind their teeth? There may be one or multiple factors contributing to someone’s bruxism, but improper occlusion (the way the teeth “bite”) and stress are the two most common. Often people aren’t aware of nighttime grinding, which is the most common time for it to occur.

“Teeth grinding can be treated by different methods, but the most common is wearing a night time hard occlusal guard . . .”

Teeth grinding can cause not only damage to the teeth but also to the facial muscles, jaw joints, and bone. Teeth may develop cracks that require crowns or possibly even extraction of the tooth entirely. Teeth may become worn and unattractive, and the gums may recede, exposing some of the tooth roots. Sensitivity to hot or cold and loosening of the teeth may occur. Sometimes grinding causes muscle soreness or spasms resulting in facial tiredness, pain when chewing, or headaches. Bruxism can also damage the temporomandibular joints, which may be evidenced by a clicking or popping noise when you open or close your mouth, pain around the ear, or a jaw that gets “stuck” or “locks.” Teeth grinding can be treated by different methods, but the most common is wearing a night-time hard occlusal guard custommade for you by your dentist. Sometimes corrections of your “bite” through placement of new restorations and/or selective recontouring of your teeth can be helpful. Occasionally muscle relaxers are prescribed along with relaxation therapy. If you notice soreness of your teeth or facial muscles when you wake up, teeth that look flattened or chipped, or any of the other before-mentioned signs and symptoms, see your dentist. It may save your smile! Dr. Cristi Cheek, DMD, is the owner of Cristi Y. Cheek, D.M.D., P.C., Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Cheek is also a member of the AroundAbout — East Cobb Community Board. You may contact her at (770) 993-3775 or visit www.cheekdental.com.

Dear Everyday Angels, Taylor has just finished her second round of chemo and is responding well to the treatment. At this moment, we are at home on a two week break from the hospital and she is amazed at the snow we received last night. There are still three more courses of chemo to go, along with numerous lumbar punctures and bone marrow biopsies but Taylor is dealing with everything with strength, courage, faith, a beautiful smile and a positive outlook. Taylor, Jenna and I would like to thank everyone for the generous amount of support and genuine caring we have received since Taylor’s diagnosis. This wonderful little community we live in has wrapped their arms around us like family and that has helped get us through the first few months of Taylor’s journey back to health and a long, fulfilled life. The words “thank you,” are inadequate to express the relief and comfort that we have been given, but those are the words that come to mind over and over again. I have always believed that deep down people are good and are just looking for a chance to show it. Thank you all for confirming that belief. With love and prayers, The Flanagans Our community has overwhelmed Taylor Flanagan’s family with support, encouragement and relief! Your generous donations have allowed Michelle, Taylor’s mom, to concentrate on caring for her daughters without the fear of losing her home. Everyday Angels, through you, has assisted with three months of her mortgage payments! What a blessing and a difference you have made during this difficult time. Readers, you truly inspire me! In 2010, Everyday Angels worked closely with school counselors to provide gently used clothing to identified students and families. We are excited to partner with Give A Kid A Chance in their clothing ministry initiatives for 2011. Be on the lookout for more information in the upcoming months concerning this endeavor, God willing. Thank you for another wonderful season of GIVING and May God’s love continue to flow through you daily in 2011.

Everyday Angels is a nonprofit organization that provides short-term funding (currently up to a maximum of $500 per month) to those in need in our community. If you would like to offer assistance, please send your donations or gift cards to Everyday Angels, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 340, Woodstock, GA 30189. No amount is too small. To contact us, please call (770) 615-3349 or email AAeverydayangels@ gmail.com. The organization now has a Facebook page where you can follow what they are doing.

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Feature

Readers’ Choice Awards It’s time to let your voice be heard! Vote for your favorite local businesses today It’s that time of the year again! Time to vote for your favorite businesses in the East Cobb area! We’re doing things a little differently this year so please refer to the Question and Answer section below. Q: How do I vote for my favorite businesses? A: Go to www.aroundabouteastcobb.com. Click on the “Readers’ Choice 2011” button. You will be directed to the online ballot. Q: How many times can I vote? A: You may vote four times from the same IP address, which allows additional members of your household to cast their votes. Q: Why are some businesses listed? What if the business I want to vote for is not listed? A: When a business receives a vote, it will appear on the list of choices. The population of these businesses is done strictly for the convenience of the voters and does not indicate endorsement or preference by AroundAbout-East Cobb. If you don’t see your business listed, enter the name of the business in the place marked “other,” and the vote will be counted. Q: Do I have to vote online? A: If you don’t wish to vote online or don’t have access to the Internet, we will have paper ballots available at our office, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock, GA. One ballot per person will be issued. Q: Are any photocopies of the ballots permitted? A: No photocopies of blank or completed ballots will be accepted. Q: How long do I have to vote? A: Voting will end on February 20, 5 p.m.

Look for this button: AroundAbout Community Magazines

Readers’Choice

Vote Here

It’s easy! Just log on to www.aroundabouteastcobb.com and choose your favorites Today! Submit your votes by Sunday, February 20 at 5 p.m.

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Readers’ Choice Categories Restaurants

Home Improvement/Repair

Hardware Store

All-Around Restaurant

Insurance Agent (specify agent)

Home Improvement Store

Bakery

Lawn Care

Jeweler

Barbecue Place

Medical Doctor

Liquor Store

Breakfast Place

Nail Salon

Music Store

Coffee Shop

Optometrist/Ophthalmologist

Pet Supply Store

Dessert Place

Orthodontist

Shoe Store

Ethnic Restaurant

Painter

Specialty Foods

Fast Food Restaurant

Pediatrician

Sporting Goods

Fine Dining Restaurant

Pest Control

Tire Shop

Italian Restaurant

Pet Groomer

Toy Store

Kid-Friendly Restaurant

Plumber

Lunch Place

Photographer

Mexican Restaurant

Physical Therapist

Recreation and Entertainment

New Restaurant

Print Shop/Copy Center

Dance Studio

Oriental Restaurant

Travel Agency

Fitness/Health Club

Pizzeria

Tutoring

Golf Course

Seafood Restaurant

Veterinarian

Gymnastics Center Movie Theater

Sports Bar

Retailers Services

Boutique

Auto Repair

Children’s Clothing

Residential Development

Car Wash

Convenience/Gas Station

Apartment Community

Caterer

Custom Automotive

Subdivision

Chiropractor

Drug Store

C.P.A.

Electronics/Appliance Store

Day Care/Preschool

Florist

Day Spa

Frame Shop

Dentist

Furniture Store

Electrician

Garden Center

Financial Institution/Bank

Gift/Home Décor Store

Hair Salon

Grocery Store

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Lifestyle

Snow-Pocalypse

Riesling

by Kara Kiefer

by David Heckelmoser

The day before the most recent snow event, we went to the grocery store as did all of East Cobb. Yes, we needed bread, milk and beer, but the day before the predicted Snow-Pocalypse also happened to be our bi-monthly trip to the grocery store. Therefore, we didn’t have a choice but to be out with the masses. I expected the bread and milk supplies to be annihilated, but didn’t expect the produce section to be void of about everything I needed — specifically green peppers and celery. What is about an impending snow storm that made people rush to stock up on those two items? I tried a second store and found one misshapen, runty green pepper but still no celery. The lonely runt came home with me. That night was filled with the anticipation of the storm that was promising to dump several inches of the fluffy stuff. I felt like a kid on Christmas Eve! The snow gods did not disappoint! I haven’t seen that much snow since I lived in Colorado, more than 18 years ago. School was cancelled and no one could get out to go to work. Neighborhood kids and their parents took to the streets and grassy hills to go sledding. And if you didn’t have a sled, pieces of cardboard, air mattresses and trash can lids sufficed. Kids came home wet, cold and happy, especially when they heard school had been cancelled for another day. Good thing my husband purchased the “snow day” pizza rolls! By Snow Day #2, cabin fever set in and the joy of having everyone around was wearing off. I worked remotely from our home office, which has the distinction of being the coldest room in the house. But at least I had a window where I watched the cars spin their tires endlessly in the attempt to get out of the neighborhood. They either had cabin fever or they ran out of green peppers and celery. Snow Day #3 found me still working from home and trying not to eat everything in sight. I finally laced up my boots and ventured on a walk. Snowball fights and sledding had been replaced by semi slushy streets and ice coated snow. Everyone I passed on my walk said the same thing, “I can’t take it anymore! I had to get out of the house!” On Snow Day #4, I didn’t care what it took; I was getting out of the neighborhood and going to work. Yes, I was excited and determined to go to work rather than the other way around. That’s what multiple snow days will do to a person. By the end of the week, the kids were back to playing video games and annoying one another. Mail delivery resumed, businesses were all open and the grocery store shelves were replenished of junk food, bread and milk. I was even able to find green peppers and celery! I think the lesson learned this week was, “Be careful what you wish for!” Kara Kiefer is the Editor of AroundAbout — East Cobb. She lives in southwest Cherokee with her husband Mike and sons Brandon and Garrett. 18

The first comment most people have when I mention Riesling is, “I don’t like a sweet wine.” Let’s dig a little deeper into the Riesling grape variety from Germany. Riesling, a white grape, is Germany’s leading grape variety that originated in the Rhine region. German wines are categorized by the degree of ripeness, which is determined by the sugar content measured in the grapes at harvest. If you don’t see Riesling on the label, then there is little chance that the Riesling grape was used in the wine. Riesling is an aromatic grape variety displaying flowery, almost perfumed aromas. It is almost never fermented or aged in new oak, which means that Riesling tends to be suitable to a wider range of foods because it’s a lighter weight and has a balance of sugar and acidity. Become familiar with the ripeness levels listed below in order of increasing potential alcohol, which generally translates into body or sweetness. Also, you can look for these words on the bottle.

Kabinett: This is a light semi-dry wine, generally low in alcohol (8-10 percent).

“Riesling is an aromatic grape variety displaying flowery, almost perfumed aromas.”

Food pairing: Asian food, seafood, and shellfish. Spatlese: (Late Harvest) These grapes are picked after the normal harvest. These wines will have more body and be intense in flavor. You might see the words halbtrocken (medium dry) to trocken (dry) on the label.

Food pairing: pork, scallops Thai food, Crème Brulee, smoked salmon.

Auslese: (Select Picking) This is the harvest of selected extra ripe grape bunches. Again this will yield a more intense

AroundAbout — East Cobb

continued on page 41 FEBRuary 2011

Valentine’s Day Is Not Enough! by Paul Samuels Valentine’s Day has grown into a day when women look for a sign of love from their men. Woe to the guy who forgets, especially if his wife works with other women who are receiving their flowers and cards. Sadly, many guys think a Valentine’s delivery will make up for not showing love all year long. The truth is, Valentine’s Day is not enough! Three hundred and sixty four other days are at your disposal with practical acts that cost little or nothing and mean more than you can imagine. The key word is “cherish.” Cherish her in the best and worst of times. Remember those vows? When trouble strikes, don’t retreat into your man cave; talk with your queen. Let her see the depth of your concerns and feelings. Pray with her! Then, in the midst of any challenging times, you assure your wife that you are a team. Cherish. You’ll be surprised at the truth of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, “Two are better than one…..” as you face problems together. Cost: zero. I owe it to you, my fellow married men, to call more ideas to your attention. You single guys need to pay attention too, because if you’re not careful, your newly-in-love, attentive behavior will slip away, especially in the midst of financially stressful times. Things slip away. The mortgage is due. Passion dims. Respect gets hazy. Conversations turn into arguments. Companionship gives way to loneliness. Selfishness overshadows our lives. I’ve walked down a few marriage-breaker roads. But by the grace of God, I have learned to love and be the kind of husband God wants me to be. In fact, February 14 has lost its significance because my wife and I celebrate our love every day. After a God-rescued marriage, I believe I’ve earned my “bonafides” to talk about marriage. Notice I didn’t say that I’ve arrived. I know it all. I’m saying I’ve been down the roads, and I can see the signs far enough in advance to make the necessary detours. Ephesians 5:21-31 helps me define how we become one in love; it will help you, too. Give “LOVE.” This is the essence of cherishing. And giving love is essential in hard times. Remember back to the beginning of your relationship? You just wanted to spend time with her. She was on your mind when you weren’t with her. You planned dates hoping she would love the concert, rave about the restaurant, and only gravity was keeping you grounded as you walked along holding her hand! What happened? How did we allow our love life to settle into something “comfortable?” In reality, we don’t live our lives in the same

intensity. But why not something close to it? When my wife enters the room, my heart still skips a beat. I feel the flutter! When I look into her eyes, I still get lost in their beauty. When I hold her hand, I still need gravity. And what makes this possible for me, in part, is her response to the love I give. What DO I give? The most important point is to know what pleases her (and him, ladies). For that, I highly recommend two books that changed our relationship: Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus by Dr. John Gray, Ph.D. and The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. But whoa, guys! This is not a “go buy the book and everything will be ok” prescription. The books just give you something to sink your teeth into. And while you are learning about the differences in male and female personalities and discovering about her (and about him, ladies) from the books, look for opportunities to show your love in the day-to-day ordinary things. As I said, the best ways to show love cost zero. Hold her hand, touch her when you talk, massage her shoulders when you are watching TV. When she asks you to change a light bulb, jump on it. Clean the toilet, put down the seat! If you have children, get a baby sitter and just go get coffee instead of an expensive dinner out. Change diapers, hop to it with the midnight feedings. Pay attention when she talks, without trying to fix everything. Just listen! Look in her eyes and rediscover the woman you fell in love with. Go grocery shopping together. If you do have a little extra money, look for sales in her favorite store and invite her on a shopping date. Don’t be afraid to give her a limit. Try this guys. “Honey, I can afford $50 (or whatever your budget will allow,) then walk around with her until she’s filled your hands full of what she wants to try on. Stay near the dressing room so she can come out and show you how she looks. You get the idea. Find ways to enter her life. You cannot imagine how she treasures that. Sure, a diamond is always a great surprise, but we can’t buy diamonds every day. One of the hardest things for men to do is to honor her with our eyes. When we look at that beautiful young woman passing by, daggers lodge in our wife’s heart. This will drive a wedge between you that may take a long time to remove. Matthew 6:22 tells us, “The eyes are the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light.” If your eyes are on your spouse, that too is showing love! Blessing her truly sums up what cherishing your Queen is all about. I have no greater pleasure than to see joy on my wife’s face. It’s the look that says, “I know you love me! I know you cherish me … thank you!” And remember, your love will sustain you even when the finances don’t! Happy Valentine’s day all year long!

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Feature

2011 Tournament of Roses Winners Revalee and Lonnie Ayers Married 71 Years

very now and then, you will come to know a couple who seem as one. One unit. One heart. One love. He lives for her, and she lives for him — they are soul mates in the true sense. If you’ve never met a couple like this, it’s time you got to know Revalee and Lonnie Ayers, who will have been married for 71 years on March 24. The longevity of their union has earned them the 2011 AroundAbout-East Cobb Tournament of Roses winners.

The Engagement Revalee and Lonnie grew up in Toccoa, Georgia, and a fortuitous afternoon with a cousin led Lonnie to who would eventually become his bride. Lonnie went along with his cousin to visit Revalee’s sister. When Lonnie first set eyes on Revalee, he recalled saying, “That’s the girl I’m going to marry.” He asked her out that very night and by August, 1939, the two were engaged. Revalee recalled that Lonnie proposed on their second date. Short and to the point, Lonnie simply stated, (not questioned) “I want to marry you.”

The Wedding The wedding, March 24, 1940, took place on Easter Sunday. Revalee was 17, and Lonnie was 21. “It rained. There was thunder and lightening and it snowed!” recalled Lonnie. The weather may have been indecisive but marrying each other was the best decision either one ever made, they agreed. They were married at their pastor’s home in Toccoa with only Revalee’s sister serving as a member of the wedding party. The newly married couple didn’t honeymoon as it wasn’t as common place as it is today.

Their Life and Love Revalee and Lonnie have raised six children, Lonnie, Ron, David (now deceased), Brenda, Linda and Deborah. Revalee had her first child when she was 20 and her last, Deborah, when she was 41. They have eight grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. In fact, Deborah was born the same year as Revalee and Lonnie’s first grandchild! Daughter Linda said, “They are a good team. He worked

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Top left: Revalee and Lonnie celebrating their 60th anniversary. Top right: Revalee and Lonnie with their children (left to right) Linda Wallace, Ron Ayers, Deborah Baker, Lonnie Ayers and Brenda Irby. Bottom left: Lonnie and Revalee with daughter Deborah. Bottom right: Lonnie’s 86th birthday celebration.

two jobs to provide for his family, and she kept the house and the family, and eventually, they became one unit.” Lonnie worked for a variety of places including Lockheed, where he worked for 51 years until he retired in 1984. His second job was as a piano and organ tuner, some of which he still does today at age 92! While Lonnie worked outside the house, Revalee had her hands full with the six children. “The biggest part of my life was raising my family,” she happily stated. Linda and Deborah both recalled how their mom was always there when they came home from school; she was room mother and engaged in everything having to do with her children. The family celebrates Revalee and Lonnie’s anniversary every year. In fact, on their 60th , they spontaneously renewed their vows. “One of our party guests was a pastor, and he asked if we wanted to get married again. So actually, we’ve been married twice but to the same people,” joked Lonnie.

Their Secret Of course, when you meet a couple that has been married many, many years, you have to ask what their secret is. Lonnie was very clear in what he felt the secret was. “ I learned early on to say, ‘Yes, Dear.’” Revalee noted fairly that marriage is full of ups and downs, especially after 71 years. “However, you have to be able to sit down and work through the down times instead of just giving up,” she noted. Revalee also feels her large family helped keep their union strong as it continues to do so today. The Ayers’ enjoy an active church life with the Roswell Street Baptist Church. They also have enjoyed traveling in the years since Lonnie’s retirement. One of their sons lives in California which has enabled them to fully explore that state. Congratulations Revalee and Lonnie! Your story is an inspiration to us all!

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Lifestyle

Yours, Mine and Ours . . . Tales from the Blender

Diaperpails and Pigtails Consignment Time

Is it that time already? Talking to kids about sex.

by Jennifer Jarosick It’s time. If you’re lucky, someone is watching the kids and you are diaper -bag free. You have the extra large shopping bag and cash in your pocket. It’s consignment time! I don’t know if you get as excited about consignment sales as I do, but the thought of buying decent hand-me-downs at cheap prices is more tempting than heavenly hash ice cream.

by Becky M. Smith Talking to my kids about sex is one of those things I thought would be years down the road, like perhaps maybe the eve of their wedding? Some of you from my generation may recall “the birds and the bees” talk from our parents lasting about a minute and a half. However, in today’s culture sexually suggestive song lyrics, fashion and media images have made it imperative that we educate our children far earlier than we might prefer. Even some of our favorite family shows leave me cringing. If only I could hide all of my kids in a big, blissful, naive bubble! Obviously that’s unrealistic. So what are we to do? One of the earliest steps we can take is promote a parent-child connection in which a close relationship is forged through parenting that is caring, approachable, credible and respected. My husband and I try to parent by being highly caring and supportive but with moderate supervision and control. In this way, we have developed a sense of openness so we can talk openly about anything, including sex, with our kids. It’s important to take your child’s cues when talking about sex. Answer questions and elaborate only if asked. When our daughters approached us with questions about sexuality, my husband and I were both involved in answering their questions and they appreciated the male/female perspective. Fortunately for my family, my husband could address the medical consequences of sexual activity as well. Equipping our kids with a strong faith background in which our family values and beliefs are clearly defined has helped them to understand their boundaries and set goals for themselves. I know there has been controversy through the years about sex education programs in our schools. I look at it as one of many tools to educate our kids about sexuality, rather than the only source. Most churches and synagogues have faith-based programs to help foster parent-child conversations. While you need to keep the conversation age-appropriate, your kids may ask you questions you aren’t expecting. Lay the groundwork early to strengthen that parent-child connection and your kids will look back on those conversations as positive experiences instead of awkward and embarrassing moments. Becky Smith is the energetic mother to a large “Yours, Mine & Ours” blended family with kids ranging from age 15 to 5 months. E-mail questions or comments to bsmith0808@yahoo.com.

In today’s economy, a consignment sale is a win-win situation for both sides. The sellers get to make a little money and the buyers get to stock up on decent children’s items for dirt cheap. Lucky for us, the spring consignment season has just begun. Churches, moms groups, and local fundraising organizations are having spring sales between now and early May. Typically, the sales have a plethora of spring and summer clothing and accessories for newborns to six-year-olds. In addition to clothes, other items for sale include baby swings, high chairs, toddler beds, strollers, outdoor toys and more. If you’re looking for a big ticket item, make sure you show up before the sale starts and get in line, because those items are the first to sell. If you’ve never been to a consignment sale, you’re in for a fun experience. Each group sets its own guidelines, like no strollers before noon, whether they accept credit cards or if they offer half price on the last day. Make sure you check out the seller’s website before you jump in the car. These sales are often crowded and there’s usually not a lot of room between tables and racks, so leave the kids home if you can. Before you begin shopping, be aware that not all consignment sales are created equal. Most groups require items to be in good condition, but there are a few groups that sell items in any condition, which is something I learned through experience. There are a couple of great websites to help you get started. One of my favorites is www.thebargainwatcher.com, which lists sales by county or date, and provides website links. Also, check out www.craigslist.com. So book a sitter, grab a friend and head to the sales. You just might walk out with an entire spring wardrobe for your little ones. Happy shopping…and selling! We learn so much from each other. If you have any consignment sale shopping tips, please e-mail me at jenniferjarosick@yahoo. com or visit www.facebook.com/aroundabouteastcobb. Jennifer Jarosick, a former teacher and MOMS Club chapter president, is the mother to three children ages five and under. E-mail her at Jenniferjarosick@yahoo.com.

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Home Repair & Improvement Guide Over the past year, our area has experienced significant highs and lows with our weather. From the high temperatures and humidity of this past summer, to the brutal cold, ice and snow of this winter, our homes have taken a beating! If it’s not the weather attacking our homes, it’s age. A majority of the homes in the East Cobb area are at least 20 years old, and like most things, they need maintenance and TLC. On the exterior, our home may need new cabinetry, new paint, gutters or upgraded windows. Interior needs may include new paint, flooring, an updated fireplace or a thorough spring cleaning.

It may also be time to increase the energy efficiency in our homes, especially if your heating and air conditioning units are out-dated. Whatever your needs may be, whether they be small or large, now is the perfect time to start planning for those home improvement projects, which is why we’ve included this Home Improvement guide to help you get started! This guide includes five local businesses, all with different specialties and all capable of handling your home improvement needs.

The Fireplace Company

Direct Buy Flooring

Maid Brigade

Nelson Painting and Home Improvements

Atlanta Architectural Cabinets

Reliable Heating & Air

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Feature

The Fireplace Company

is geared for indoor/outdoor entertainment and enjoyment,” said owner Kathy Heeth.

(770) 427-6636

www.thefireplacecompany.com info@thefireplacecompany.com

“We aren’t limited to just one expertise,” said Kathy. The company offers Peterson-Real Fyre logs and Empire Comfort Systems vent-free logs and heaters. Grill manufacturers include Profire, Fire Magic, Viking, Broilmaster, Broil King and Weber. Customers can find a selection of natural, propane and charcoal grills and Primo smokers.

There are few things more relaxing and mesmerizing than a fire in the fireplace. We are fortunate to live in a climate where we can enjoy indoor fireplaces in the winter and outdoor fireplaces year-round. The Fireplace Company can give you the indoor or outdoor fireplace of your dreams, plus so much more. The Fireplace Company began more than 30 years ago in a 500-square-foot sublease on Canton Road. Today, the company boasts an 8,000-square-foot showroom where customers will find fireplaces, gas logs, gas grills and lights, fireplace accessories and parts, unique decorative home furnishings and grill accessories and parts that include natural charcoal and flavored woodchips. “Everything we have to offer

If you’re renovating or simply want to replace your existing fireplace, The Fireplace Company has a wide variety of beautiful and functional models from which to choose. One of the most popular and desirable features in homes today is an outdoor living space that may consist of a cozy and intimate fireplace or an entire living area that also includes a kitchen. The Fireplace Company can make this homeowner dream a reality. Stop by the showroom, located at 2493 Canton Road, or visit them on the web.

Direct Buy Flooring

(678) 764-5877

2260 Northwest Pky Marietta, GA 30067

Carpet • Hardwood • Porcelain Tile • Natural Stone • Area Rugs

• Direct Buy Flooring grants access to ProSource, Atlanta’s Leading Wholesale Builder Design Center. • Visit: www.directbuyflooring.net • Direct Buy Flooring is Georgia’s largest certified flooring installation company. (Important: Over 95% of Georgia’s flooring installers are not certified).

Beat the Big Boxes

*Basic Carpet Install *Visit showroom for details

Showroom Pass: ProSource Wholesale Flooring Access Code: Direct Buy Flooring Ends on April 30th

20% off all Hardwood, Tile and Stone Coupons not to be combined with other offers * No Interest Financing Available

Atlanta’s Leading Flooring Education Source

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Maid Brigade

(770) 794-7299 (estimates) (770) 974-9047 (customer care) www.maidbrigade.com Everyone enjoys living in a clean home, but the act of cleaning often lands at the bottom of the “favorite things to do” list. After all, life is busy with jobs, children and their activities -not to mention any activities you may enjoy. If you are looking for one company that you can trust to clean your home while using cleaning supplies that are safe and healthy for you and the environment, check out Maid Brigade. Maid Brigade began in 1979 in Toronto, Canada, the company relocated to Atlanta in 1984 and started offering franchising opportunities. The franchise serving East Cobb has been operating since 1990 and is owned by Mike Smithyman. Maid Brigade offers residential, office, move in/move out and seasonal cleaning services on a weekly, bi-weekly, monthly and multi-day basis. The company responded to reports from the Environmental Protection Agency that indoor environments are up to five times more polluted than the outdoor environment by launching its proprietary Green Clean Certified® system company-wide in 2007. The company is committed to consumer advocacy, helping consumers

Nelson Painting and Home Improvements (678) 283-8171

nelson-painting@nelson-painting.com www.nelson-painting.com Nelson Painting and Home Improvements is a local, familyowned company with more than 33 years of experience. This company believes in treating your home as if it were its own. Steve Nelson started Nelson Painting in 1977 as a small family business. Steve’s son, Scott, started working in the business at the age of 13, working throughout high school. At age 19, Scott took over the reins while attending UGA. After graduating in 2000, he incorporated the company and added additional services. Nelson Painting and Home Improvements offers more than interior

understand the potential health risks associated with chemicals in traditional cleaning regimens so that they may make the most informed decisions possible for their families. Mike is proud of his company’s thoroughness and consistency of service. “We provide extensive team training on effective and predicable cleaning methods. We have a quality control program to ensure customer satisfaction after every cleaning, and we incentivize our employees based on customer satisfaction.” Maid Brigade uses company cars and multiple teams, which helps the business consistently meet customer commitments. All employees are screened through background checks, and are bonded and insured. The company is a member of the Northeast Cobb Business Association, and has donated its house cleaning services to Habitat for Humanity. If cleaning your home is far from your favorite thing to do, call Maid Brigade today for a free estimate!

and exterior painting. Their other services include pressure washing, window replacement, gutters, trim carpentry and siding replacement. Hiring one company that can handle a number of interior and exterior services is a time-saving convenience for the consumer. “Many of our products not only increase the energy efficiency in your home, but also enhance the value, which is vital in today’s real estate market,” said Scott. Nelson Painting and Home Improvements strives to do the best job possible while providing excellent customer service. “We are different because not only do we have a foreman for each job, but we also assign a supervisor to each project. The addition of a supervisor means that there is one more set of eyes on the project, which provides for a higher level of quality control as well as customer satisfaction,” said Scott. “We will work our hardest to make sure you are satisfied with our work. We always strive to keep our promises.”

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Feature

Reliable Heating & Air (770) 594-9969 www.reliableair.com

Don’t Wait Until It Breaks!

Hundreds were left in the cold with January’s ice and snow when their furnaces broke down. Take that worry out of the long cold winter by replacing your old furnace with a new TRANE Variable Speed heating system that will save you money in the winter and the summer! There are many companies from which to choose when you need such services, so why should you call Reliable Heating & Air? Because you can trust them to do the job right at a fair price! Dan Jape, owner of Reliable Heating & Air, has provided a quality service experience for thousands of metro Atlanta homes and businesses since 1978. His commitment to customer satisfaction has been an integral part of Reliable’s business philosophy from the beginning. “Our desire is to provide the best products and services at a fair and reasonable price,” explained Dan. “I always treat my customers like I would want to be treated — with fairness and respect.” To achieve this high level of service, Dan has established the correct combination of skilled company staffing, the best and newest tools for Reliable’s technicians and quality customer service offering the best available products. When a customer buys a new heating and cooling

system from Reliable, they are given a one-year planned maintenance contract. A lifetime warranty will be provided for as long as the maintenance agreement is kept in effect. Reliable Heating & Air makes it easier to deal with the unexpected for repair or replacement services. “We work on existing homes and retrofit or replace existing equipment,” shared Dan. With the extension of the tax stimulus package, Reliable can select the proper system that will earn a tax credit to help pay for a new comfort system. “This is a great time to replace your old, inefficient system with all the energy incentives available,” Dan added. You don’t have to wait until your system breaks — Dan, Daniel, or one of their experienced sales professionals will come to your home, free of charge, to advise you on how to be more comfortable while saving money on your system. Reliable will go above and beyond your expectations. For more information or to receive a free in-home, on-thespot estimate, call 770-594-9969 or visit www.reliableair.com.

Atlanta Architectural Cabinets (770) 405-0094

brian@atlantacabinets.net www.atlantacabinets.net Beautiful cabinetry can make or break the look of any room. When the time comes to replace cabinets or add them to any room, you have choices. You can go to the big home improvement store and try to imagine what the cabinets will look like in your home. But if you are looking for a company to come to you with door and color samples as well as expert and individualized design services, the choice is easy — Atlanta Architectural Cabinets.

Architectural Cabinets offers complete design services and remodels for areas other than the kitchen.

Atlanta Architectural Cabinets is owned and operated by Brian Barie. Brian started the company four years ago after being part owner of a building company as well as a home design company. Combining the two was a perfect fit for him.

“By coming directly to the customer’s home with samples, we save that customer time. It also allows us to see the scope of work and exactly what the project will entail,” said Brian. “Designing a kitchen or any living space is a process, one that involves not only the space but the people who will be using that space. A kitchen layout should work with how the homeowner works.”

Atlanta Architectural Cabinets offers high-end cabinets with an endless selection of colors and doors at very affordable prices. Cabinetry wood choices include birch, oak, maple, cherry, knotty alder and lyptus. In addition to cabinets, Atlanta

Atlanta Architectural Cabinets wants to be your go-to source for cabinets, design services or a remodel job. “We are local and offer a very high end product at a very reasonable price. We enjoy what we do, and we do it well.”

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Feature

Lassiter Basketball

Photos by C & W Photography 28

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Feature

Wheeler Basketball

Photos by C & W Photography 30

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Schools & Sports

Tritt Names Spelling Bee Winner Fifth grade student Alex Smolyar recently won this year’s spelling bee at Tritt Elementary School. Emily Patterson, also in fifth grade, was runner-up. The winners from the Cobb County schools will compete in the county spelling bee. Left to right: Alex Smolyar and Emily Patterson.

Wheeler Awarded Grant Wheeler High School’s library has been awarded a grant from DonorsChoose.org. The funds will enable media specialists to add to the fiction collection, encouraging students to meet their English Language Arts standard (ELA9-10RC1) to read a minimum of 25 grade-level appropriate books per year. The new books will include thirty titles from Walter Dean Myers, Ellen Hopkins, the Bluford High Series, and the Blue Bloods Series. To search for information on any of the books in the library’s collection, visit WheelerLibrary.com.

Cobb Schools Recognized By State For Improvement and Achievement Thirty-five Cobb County schools recently were honored for academic success by the Georgia Department of Education and the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement. The awards are based on student performance on the 2009-10 CriterionReferenced Competency Tests (CRCT, for elementary and middle schools) and the Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT, for high schools). These state assessments help determine a school’s status under federal No Child Left Behind. Each award has four honor levels - Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze - that correspond to a school’s consistent performance and Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) status. The Greatest Gains award is given to schools that showed the greatest improvement in CRCT or GHSGT scores and had a significant percentage of students exceeding standards. Locally, Mabry Middle School received a Platinum Award. The Highest Performance award is given to schools that have a very high percentage of students meeting test standards. Platinum: Garrison Mill, Mt. Bethel, Murdock and Timber Ridge elementary schools; Dickerson Middle School; Lassiter, Pope 32

and Walton high schools. Gold: East Side, Mountain View, Rocky Mount, Shallowford Falls and Tritt elementary schools; Dodgen and Hightower Trail middle schools. Silver: Simpson Middle School. Bronze: Addison Elementary School and Mabry Middle School. Mabry Middle School is one of just 17 schools in the state to be recognized for both Greatest Gains and Highest Performance. Information about the awards and the Report Card is available at The Governor’s Office for Student Achievement Web site at http://www.gaosa.org.

Hightower Trail Student Raises Money to Help Local Child in Need Twelve year-old Marc Gelernter of Marietta continues to get closer to his goal of raising enough money to fund the care and training of a German Shepherd companion and service dog for a local Atlanta child with a physical or emotional disability. ARFkids, based in Crockett, Texas, breeds puppies from the popular WWI Rin Tin Tin German Shepherd Dog bloodline. These puppies can be trained to pick things up, open doors, alert to seizures, and perform many other tasks specific to a child’s needs. Marc has learned that many children with disabilities do not have the opportunity to simply play with friends. Owning, training, taking care of and loving a companion dog can change a child’s life forever. A litter is expected in the Spring of 2011, and Marc will be working with the local ARFkids board member to help select the recipient family as well as help the family get used to their new puppy. ARFkids is a 501c3 organization and relies solely on the donations of individuals, corporations, and organizations. Care and training can be $2,000 plus for each dog. Marc has already raised $1000 by educating family and friends about ARFkids and how owning one of these dogs can make a lifelong difference for a child with a disability. If you would like more information about ARFkids, or would like to make a donation to Marc’s campaign, please go to www.ARFkids.com. If you would like your family, or know of a family that has a child 8-18 with a physical or emotional disability, and would like for them to be considered as the recipient of a Rin Tin Tin companion dog, please email info@ ARFkids.com.

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

School Information Elementary Schools Addison Elementary School 3055 Ebenezer Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 578-2700 Principal: Genie Byrd Davis Elementary School 2433 Jamerson Road, Marietta, GA 30066 East Side Elementary School 3850 Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 578-7200 Principal: Elizabeth Mavity Garrison Mill Elementary School 4111 Wesley Chapel Road Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 642-5600 Principal: Paula Huffman Mount Bethel Elementary School 1210 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 578-7248 Principal: Joan Johnson Mountain View Elementary School 3448 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 578-7265 Principal: Angela Huff Murdock Elementary School 2320 Murdock Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 509-5071 Principal: Natalie Richman Rocky Mount Elementary School 2400 Rocky Mountain Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 591-5050 Principal: Gail May Shallowford Falls Elementary School 3529 Lassiter Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 642-5610 Principal: Dr. Doreen Griffeth Timber Ridge Elementary School 5000 Timber Ridge Road, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 642-5621 Principal: Dr. Tracie Doe Tritt Elementary School 4435 Post Oak Tritt Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 642-5630 Principal: Dr. Rebecca Rutledge

Middle Schools Dickerson Middle School 855 Woodlawn Drive, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 578-2710 Principal: Carole Brink Dodgen Middle School 1725 Bill Murdock Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 578-2726 Principal: Robin Lattizori

East Cobb Middle School 380 Holt Road, Marietta, 30068 (770) 578-2740 Principal: David Chiprany Hightower Trail Middle School 3905 Post Oak Tritt Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 578-7225 Principal: Dr. Hilda Wilkins Mabry Middle School 2700 Jims Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 928-5546 Principal: Merrilee Heflin Simpson Middle School 3340 Trickum Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 971-4711 Principal: Andrew Bristow

High Schools Kell High School 4770 Lee Waters Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (678) 494-7844 Principal: Trudie Donovan Lassiter High School 2601 Shallowford Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (678) 494-7863 Principal: Chris Ritchie Pope High School 3001 Hembree Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 578-7900 Principal: Rick Beaulieu Sprayberry High School 2525 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 578-3200 Principal: Ed Wagner Walton High School 1590 Bill Murdock Road, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 578-3225 Principal: Judith McNeill Wheeler High School 375 Holt Road, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 578-3266 Principal: David Chiprany

Private Schools Cobb County Christian School 545 Lorene Drive, Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 434-1320 Grades: 3 – 12 Director: Gloria Kelley East Cobb Christian School At East Cobb Presbyterian Church 4616 Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30062 www.eccs.org Grades: K — 8 Principal: Teresa Staley

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

www.cobbk12.org

Eastside Christian School 2450 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 971-2332, www.eastsidechristianschool.com Grades: K – 8 Principal: Judy Cripps Faith Lutheran School 2111 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 973-8921, www.FaithLCMS.org Grades: Pre-K – 8 Principal: Jack Hibbs Mt. Bethel Christian Academy 4385 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta, GA 30068 (770) 971-0245, www.mtbethelchristian.org Grades: K-prep – 8 Head of school: Dr. Bob Burris Lower School principal: Vivian Lovett Middle School principal: Jack Grimm North Cobb Christian School 4500 Lakeview Drive, Kennesaw GA 30066 770-975-4543, www.ncchristian.org Grades: K3 – 12. Head of the School: Todd Clingman Admission: Beth Wright Omega Private Academy 2960 Shallowford Road, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 529-1717 Grades K – 12, Certified Teachers, SACS Accredited/GSNS Approved Director: Kathy Keeton www.Omegaprivateacademy.com Pathways Academy 4010 Canton Rd. Suite 120, Marietta, GA 30066 (770) 973-5588, www.pathwaysacademy.org Grades: 1 – 5 Director: Tina Gross Shreiner Academy 13402 Terrell Mill Road, Marietta, GA 30067 (770) 953-1340, www.shreiner.com Grades: 2K – 8 Director: Sharon Wilensky St. Joseph Catholic School 81 Lacy Street, Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 428-3328, www.stjosephschool.org Grades: K – 8 Principal: Pat Allen The Walker School 700 Cobb Parkway, Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 427-2689 , www.thewalkerschool.org Grades: Pre-K – 12 Headmaster: Don Robertson Woodacres Day School 1772 Johnson Ferry Road , Marietta, GA 30062 (770) 971-1880, www.wacds.com Grades: Pre-K – 8 Head of school: Judith Thigpen 33

Schools & Sports

Why It’s Important to Prepare Your Child for the CRCT

Secrets of a Long Marriage Revealed

by Allison Duffy

by Derin White The best way to understand the secrets of a good marriage is to spend time with those who have true experience. “If you haven’t celebrated your 50th wedding anniversary, then you are still just a newlywed!” quipped Everett M. Actually, most of the elders with whom I spoke made similar observations. “We’ve been married forever, but it still feels like yesterday.”

How important is the CRCT to your child’s future? Is it necessary to prepare them for it? How would you go about doing that if need be? Keep reading if you have these questions, and more, about the CRCT. When students take the CRCT, the main goal is for schools to know how much the student learned and retained over the course of the school year. Georgia has a set of requirements called the Georgia Performance Standards that outline what the expectations are for instruction, assessment, and student work. These standards differ from grade to grade, and even subject to subject. The CRCT is given each year to make sure students are meeting these standards. Schools use the students’ test scores to see how their teachers are performing, and also to see the school’s success as a whole. The state of Georgia has designated benchmark years when the students are held accountable for their scores, and must pass by a certain margin to be promoted to the next grade.

“These standards differ from grade to grade, and even subject to subject.”

Georgia’s benchmark years are 3rd, 5th, and 8th grades. When the students take the CRCT in these grades, they must pass the Reading/Language Arts and Math portions to move to the next grade. Even though it’s especially critical to pass in these years, students in every grade want to succeed on this test to determine if they are where they need to be in terms of the curriculum standards. Students may need some assistance when preparing for this test, because the subject material covered is so extensive. As a parent, how do you guarantee that your child will pass this critical test? The best way is to find a CRCT prep program that is in tune with Georgia state standards. Students can learn how the questions are asked and practice answering. If you choose to use a prep program, make sure the sessions are led by certified teachers. It’s better to practice with a teacher than alone at a home computer. As parents you can help your child succeed on this important test. Allison Duffy is the education coordinator for Omega Learning Center and a certified teacher. For more information call (770) 529-1717.

So what has kept couples together for more than 50 years? Gladys N. and her husband have been married almost 65 years. “Compromise and respect” are two of the key ingredients that Gladys has on her list of success factors. “We met at UGA, but we waited until after the war (WWII) to get married.” They worked together on their plans for their future, “and everything turned out alright.” Jinny and Jack will celebrate 68 years of marriage this month. Jinny’s answer to this simple but daunting question: “Taking it one day at a time is what has kept us together, and I guess that is what will keep us together going forward!” They have climbed many mountains and faced many obstacles, but their focus is on today. “Being friends and lovers” is the balance that made Esther’s marriage so wonderful. She lost her husband of more than 60 years just three years ago. “We were always on the go. He was my husband and my best friend. I miss him, but we had a good life together and I am thankful for that.” Her advice to couples today: “Enjoy each other. Don’t get caught up in the small stuff.” “I let her be the boss! I was the boss at work, but she was the boss at home and that worked just fine.” Mickey B. is retired from the military where he was in charge of many men and shouldered loads of responsibility. “She took care of things, and she took care of me!” No one indicated that they had the perfect marriage. I asked if they were given the opportunity to do it all again and be married to the same person, would they? They all answered, “In a heartbeat!” What will you remember of true love and claim as the keys to a successful marriage when you reflect back after 50+ years of marriage? Are you enjoying the journey? Derin White is the Director of Market Development at Savannah Court of Marietta Assisted Living and Memory Care Community. Call (770) 977-4420

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

www.cheekdental.com FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb

Planning 101: The First Step to a New You and the Promise That is Your Life! by Myles Smith Life holds so much promise for each of us. Our problem is that we have a limited amount of time to realize our potential. By learning to prioritize, we can cut out a lot of wasted time and truly live the lives we are meant to live. In today’s world, where even toddlers have hectic schedules ahead of them, it is imperative that we learn the techniques necessary to make the most of every minute. It will help to learn new skills, especially the ability to plan. To learn how to plan effectively — you have to learn a few things about yourself. Are you a right-brained, creative thinker, or a left-brained, analytical person? Your answer will provide insight into how you process thoughts. At what pace do you do things? Knowing how fast you work will help you set goals and make plans that can be accomplished within our limited time. You also need to understand the influences in your life. Are they external and within your control, or internal and beyond your control? The company of others, your physical surroundings, current opportunities and limitations are factors you must consider when planning. And most important: find out what drives you. Without an idea of your mission and purpose in life, you will be like the traveler who starts a journey with no idea where he is going and no map showing how to get there. Set specific objectives for each day. Don’t schedule too many tasks, or you will take longer to finish them and you may become disheartened and lose your drive for improvement.

Doing many things at once is called multitasking and is not recommended. The overall quality of your life will suffer because multitasking takes more time than completing one task at a time. By not multitasking, you will be surprised at how fast you can accomplish the tasks and goals you have set for yourself. Plus, you will be more inspired to continue to move forward when you can see the immediate results of your efforts. While your objectives should be attainable and realistic, they also need to be measurable and time-bounded. You should limit a certain task to the shortest possible time needed to get the job done but do not overly restrict the allotted time for a task. By learning ways to improve your planning skills, you are ensuring that you will reach the goals you have set for yourself. Also, when something tumbles into the path of your plans, you are better prepared to make that last minute detour and keep moving forward without any real deviation from your true goal. Planning is a skill that we all use to some extent every day. Generally, we only use it at home in our day-to-day activities and at work in our hectic business schedules. It is a very important skill to master, and when accomplished, will allow you to make the most of your time. It is imperative that we use planning to provide a direction and time frame for our lives and all that we want to accomplish with, and in, our lives. Myles H. Smith lives in Marietta, GA and is a Life and Empowerment Coach who helps people live the lives they want and deserve. You can connect with Myles at myles@empoweredtransitions.com.

Business A Little Slow?

Call

NOW to Advertise! 770-615-3318 Email: leeann@aroundaboutmagazines.com

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Faith

East Cobb Area Houses of Worship Anglican The Church of Our Redeemer 2625 Canton Road (770-421-1928) Rector: Fr. James Danford www.ourredeemeracc.org

Apostolic Northside Apostolic Church 2115 Northfield Court, (770) 975-3001

Baha’i Faith Baha’i Faith of Marietta 2601 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 509-0070

Baptist Bible Baptist Church 2025 Eula Drive, NE, (770) 592-2660 Pastor: D.L. Cooper Chattahootchee Baptist Church 375 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 977-2058 Pastor: Rick Shoup http://cbc.us.com

Liberty Hill Baptist Church 1053 Liberty Hill Road, NE, (770) 422-1406 Pastor: Amos Williams Mt. Arbor Baptist Church 2235 Morgan Road, NE, (770) 971-9339 New Life Baptist Church 4010 Canton Road, (770) 592-6880 Pastor: Roger Brink www.thenewlife.org New Providence Baptist Church 3740 Providence Road, (770) 971-3519 Pastor: Charles Whittaker www.newprovidencebc.com Piedmont Baptist Church 570 Piedmont Road, Marietta, (770) 422-2566 www.piedmontchurch.tv Sandy Plains Baptist Church 2825 Sandy Plains Road (770) 971-8525 Pastor: Dr. Alvin Southerland www.sandyplains.org

Cornerstone Baptist Church 1506 Sawyer Road, (770) 422-3579 Pastor: Carl George

Sewell Mill Baptist Church 2550 Sewell Mill Road (770) 971-3746 Pastor: David Watson www.sewellmill.org

Crossview Baptist Church 1100 Piedmont Road, (770) 973-0063 Pastor: Greg Belcher www.crossviewbaptist.org

Shady Grove Baptist Church 1654 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 428-0216

East Cobb Baptist Church 1940 Shallowford Road, (770) 928-2233 Pastor: David York Eastside Baptist Church 2450 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 971-2323 Pastor: Dr. David H. Chauncey www.ebcfamily.org Eastwood Baptist Church 1150 Allgood Road, (770) 973-9011 Pastor: Mike Hatton www.eastwoodbaptist.org Elizabeth Baptist Church 315 Kurtz Road, (770) 427-3325 Pastor: Steve Echols Galilee Baptist Church 2050 Bentley Lake Road (770) 422-6487 Holt Road Baptist Church 675 Holt Road, NE, (770) 971-3052 www.holtroadbaptist.org Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 973-6561 Pastor: Bryant Wright www.johnsonferry.org

Shallowford Free Will Baptist 1686 Shallowford Road, (770) 926-1163 Pastor: Len Blanchard www.shallowfordchurch.com

Catholic Holy Family Catholic Church 3401 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 973-0038 Pastor: Darragh Griffith www.holyfamilycc.org St. Ann’s Catholic Church 4905 Roswell Road, (770) 552-6400 Pastor: Tom Rielly www.st-ann.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road, (770) 977-1442 Pastor: Monsignor Patrick Bishop www.transfiguration.com

Christian Chestnut Ridge Christian Church 2663 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 971-8888 Pastor: Byron Wells Northside Christian Church 3535 Shallowford Road, (770) 565-6613 Pastor: Jason Burchfield

AroundAbout — East Cobb

Walking By Faith Christian 1821 Kinridge Road, (678) 560-1144

Christian and Missionary Alliance Marietta Alliance Church 1787 E. Piedmont Road, (770) 973-2189 Pastor: David Hayes www.macweb.org

Christian Science Christian Science Churches & Reading Rooms 2641 Old Sewell Road, (770) 565-7271

Church of Christ Church of Christ at East Cobb 5240 Roswell Road, (770) 587-5888 Pastor: Ray Hawkins Church of Christ-Piedmont Road 1630 Piedmont Road, (770) 971-9933 Minister: Neil Richey www.pr-coc.com Emmanuel Tabernacle Christ Church 2692 Sandy Plains Road, #A32, (770) 422-3268 Pastor: Dwight Graves

Church of God Church of God of Prophecy 3393 Canton Road, (770) 427-5923 First Church of God 592 Shannon Drive, (770) 461-1925 Mount Paran North 1700 Allgood Road, (770) 578-9081 www.mtparan.com Town Center Church of God 1040 Blackwell Road, (770) 424-4004

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 3195 Trickum Road, NE, (770) 509-9074 Pastor: Bishop Ho Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints — Paper Mill Ward 95 Holt Road, (770) 578-8734

Community Churches Cobb Community Church at Highlands 4649 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 992-3330 Pastor: Alan Daniels www.cobbcc.com FEBRuary 2011

Shallowford Falls Community Church 3662 Shallowford Road, (770) 565-7468 Pastor: David White www.shallowfordfalls.com Vineyard Community Church 2692 Sandy Plains Road, #A25, (770) 565-1505 Pastor: Tommy Papevies

Episcopal Episcopal Church of St. Peter & St. Paul 1795 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 977-7473 Rector: The Rev. Dr. Robert G. Certain www.peterandpaul.org Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, (770) 928-7916 St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church 571 Holt Road, NE, (770) 971-2839 Rev. Jim Nixon www.stcatherines.org

Greek Orthodox Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church 3431 Trickum Road, NE (770) 924-8080 Rev. Father Panayiotis Papageorgiou www.HolyTransfiguration.info

Jehovah’s Witness Jehovah’s Witness 2065 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 427-1881 Pastor: Hope Torkornoo www.watchtower.org

Jewish Chabad of East Cobb 4450 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 565-4412 Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills Pkwy, (770) 973-0137 Rabbis Shalom Lewis and Paul Kerbel www.etzchaim.net Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, (770) 973-9205 Rabbi: Stephen Lebow www.kolemeth.net

Korean Bethany Korean Presbyterian Multi-cultural (Korean, Brazilian and American) 4644 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 643-1459 Pastor: Byeongho Choi www.bethanykorean.org Korean Covenant Presbyterian 2100 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 565-4777 Pastor: Paul Sim www.sungyahk.org Korean United Methodist Church 945 Old Canton Road, (770) 321-0020

Lutheran Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church

2240 Shallowford Road, (770) 928-7919 Pastor: John Guse www.bslc.us Faith Lutheran Church 2111 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 973-8877 Marietta, GA 30068 Pastor: Carl Schneidert www.faithLCMS.org Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 2922 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-4600 Pastor: Ronald Grunke www.holytrinitymarietta.org Lutheran Church of Resurrection 4814 Paper Mill Road, (770) 953-3193 Marietta, GA 30068 www.lcrmarietta.org

Methodist East Cobb United Methodist 2325 Roswell Road, (770) 971-3643 Pastor: Brian Germano www.eastcobbumc.org Mount Bethel United Methodist Church 4385 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 971-2880 www.mtbethel.org Mountain View United Methodist 2300 Jamerson Road, (770) 928-0050 Sunday Services at 8:45 and 11 a.m. Sunday School at 10 a.m. Pastor: Bill Burch www.mvumc.org Mt. Zion United Methodist Church 1770 Johnson Ferry Road (770) 971-1465 Pastor: Dr. Joe Peabody www.mtzionumc.org Powers Ferry United Methodist Church 245 Powers Ferry Road, (770) 973-5271 Pastor: Jane Nugent www.powerumc.com Sacred Tapestry UMC 3000 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 605-5083 www.sacredtapestry.com St. Andrew United Methodist Church 3455 Canton Road, (770) 926-4961 St. Paul United Methodist Church 244 Kurtz Road, (770) 422-1089 Pastor: Dana Overton-Garrett Wesley Chapel United Methodist 4495 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 993-4919 Pastor: Jim Bocian www.wesleychapelumc.com

Non-Denominational Marietta Vineyard Church 1492 Roswell Road, (770) 977-9496 Pastor: Jeremy Graves www.mariettavineyard.org

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

North Atlanta Church 2800 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 518-0303 Overcomers World Church 2300 Shallowford Road, (770) 924-0607 Pastors: Allison and Isaac Crawford overcomerswc.org Restoration Life Church 2692 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 509-1481 Pastor: Ken Kessler www.lifeschoolinternational.org

Orthodox St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church Sunday Divine Liturgy: 10 a.m. Service at the Woodstock Funeral Home Chapel 8855 Main Street, Woodstock (Olde Towne), (770) 485-0504 Priest Frederick Watson www.stelizabethga.org

Presbyterian Christ Presbyterian Church 495 Terrell Mill Road, (770) 956-7572 Pastor: Legree Finch www.christpreschurch.org East Cobb Presbyterian 4616 Roswell Road, (770) 973-4114 Pastor: Richard Holmes www.ecpca.org Eastminster Presbyterian Church 3125 Sewell Mill Road, (770) 977-2976 Pastor: Dr. Tim Erskine www.epres.org Geneva Orthodox Presbyterian 3605 Sandy Plains Road #240-161, (404) 786-9815 Pastor: John Fesko www.genevaopc.org Hope Presbyterian Church 4101 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-4673 Pastor: Martin Hawley www.hopepca.org Ray-Thomas Memorial Presbyterian Church 4644 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 998-9321 Pastor: Carrie Scott www.rtmchurch.org

United Church of Christ Pilgrimage Church UCC 3755 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-0007 Pastor: Kimberleigh Buchanan www.pilgrimageucc.org

Unitarian Universalist Emerson Unitarian Universalist 2799 Holly Springs Road, NE, (770) 578-1533 Pastor: Rev. Jeff Jones

Unity Unity North Atlanta Church 4255 Sandy Plains Road, (678) 819-9100 Temporary Minister: Stephanie Seigh www.unitynorth.org

Reference

Elected and Appointed Officials United States Government: President Barack Obama (D) 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov

(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) (202) 224-3521 Senate Russell Courtyard-2 fax: (202) 224-0103 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: www.saxby.org e-mail: Saxby_chambliss@chambliss.senate.gov Senator Johnny Isakson (R) 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 3625 Cumberland Blvd,

(202) 224-3643 GA: (770) 661-0999

Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov

fax: (770) 661-0768

Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6 3730 Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30062 Website: http://tom.house.gov e-mail: tom@tomprice.com

GA: (770) 565-4990 fax: (770) 565-7570

Rep. Phil Gingrey (R), District 11 219 Roswell Street Marietta, GA 30060 Website: www.gingrey.house.gov e-mail: gingrey.ga@mail.house.gov

(202) 225-2931 GA: (770) 429-1776 fax: (770) 795-9551

State Government: Governor Nathan Deal (R) 203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334

(404) 656-1776 fax: (404) 657-7332 www.gov.ga.gov.com

Senator Chip Rogers (R), District 21 chip@SenatorChipRogers.com

(404) 463-1378

Senator Judson Hill (R), District 32 judson.hill@senate.ga.gov

(770) 565-0024

Rep. Sharon Cooper (R), District 41 sharon.cooper@house.ga.gov

(770) 956-8357

Rep. Don L. Parsons (R), District 42 repdon@gmail.com

(770) 977-4426

Probate Court Chief Judge Kelli Wolk

(770) 528-1900

Juvenile Court Presiding Judge James Whitfield

(770) 528-2220

Director of Juvenile Court Services Michele Marchant-Wellmon

(770) 528-2290 fax: (770) 528-2214

Solicitor General, Barry E. Morgan

(770) 528-8500 fax: (770) 528-8578

District Attorney, Patrick H. Head cobbda@cobbcounty.org

(770) 528-3080 fax: (770) 528-3030

Cobb County Coroner Brian Frist 150 North Marietta Pkwy Marietta, GA 30060 Cobb County Board of Commissioners 100 Cherokee Street Marietta, GA 30090 www.cobbcountyga.gov

(770) 528-2200

(770) 528-3300 fax: (770) 528-2606

Commissioners: Tim Lee, Chairman tlee@cobbcounty.org

Helen Goreham, District 1 hgoreham@cobbcounty.org

(770) 528-3313

Bob Ott, District 2 bob.ott@cobbcounty.org

(770) 528-3316

JoAnn Birrell, District 3 joann.birrell@cobbcounty.org

(770)528-3317

Woody Thompson, District 4 woody.thompson@cobbcounty.org

(770) 528-3312

Cobb County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Sheriff Neil Warren 185 Roswell Street, Marietta, GA 30060 www.cobbsheriff.org

(770) 591-6240

Rep. Matt Dollar (R), District 45 matt.dollar@house.ga.gov

Board of Education Kathleen Angelucci, Post 4 kangelucci.boardmember@cobbk12.org

(404) 656-0254

David Banks, Post 5 dbanks.boardmember@cobbk12.org

Scott Sweeny, Post 6 ssweeny.boardmember@cobbk12.org

Superior Court Reuben Green

(770) 528-1800

Magistrate Court Chief Judge Frank R. Cox

(770) 528-8900

(770) 499-4600

Cobb County School System www.cobb.k12.ga.us Superintendent, Fred Sanderson 514 Glover Street, Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 426-3453 fred.sanderson@cobbk12.org fax: (678) 594-8559

Rep. Bobby Franklin (R), District 43 bobby.franklin@house.ga.gov

County Government:

(770) 528-3300

City of Marietta:

Mayor Steve Tumlin stumlin@mariettaga.gov

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb

(770) 794-5501

FEBRuary 2011

Reisling

Privatize Selected State Services

continued from page 18

continued from page 10

flavored wine. Most Ausleses are lush, with some sweetness.

requires every state agency to be thoroughly analyzed every 10 years. Georgia should also consider creating an independent privatization commission that will make recommendations to lead in this initiative. Under Governor Sonny Perdue’s administration, the One Georgia Authority was created and successfully divested many state assets. We should take an important next step to consider agency consolidation options. Earlier this year, Governor Perdue vetoed an agency sunset bill. So I have pre-filed a similar bill for the 2011 legislative session because I believe we must reduce both the size of government and state spending. Tax increases should really never be an option, especially if privatization and agency sunset options have not been fully explored.

Food pairing: rich cheses, desserts (peaches, pears and apple). Beerenauslese: (Berries Select Picking) These grapes are picked out individually from the grape bunches. This level of wine becomes truly sweet. These are the very rich dessert wines for which Germany is noted. Food pairing: Foie Gras, desserts. Trockenbeerenauslese: (Dry Berries Select Picking) The harvest of selected individual grapes that are overripe and shriveled like raisins. These wines are rich and resemble the sweetness of honey. These will be the most expensive wines. Food pairing: Salty cheese (i.e. Blue), fruit desserts and Foie Gras. If you have not tried a German Riesling in a while, give it another try! It is a great, versatile food-friendly wine.

Senator Judson Hill serves as the Republican caucus vice chairman. He represents the 32nd Senate district which includes portions of Cobb and Fulton counties. He may be reached at (404)656-0150 or judson.hill@senate.ga.gov.

I Can Lose My License for That . . . ? continued from page 12

Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, canceled, or suspended registration

Until next time, cheers! David Heckelmoser is a professional member of the Society of Wine Educators, Certified Specialist of Wine CSW, Atlanta Chapter Sommelier Les Marmition.

Driving on a suspended license (your driver’s license will be suspended for six more months)

If you fail to appear in court or respond to a citation, your license may be suspended indefinitely

Accumulation of 15 points within 24 months under the point system, including violations committed out of state

Send Us Your Community News email: kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com Deadline is February 18.

10 or more unexcused absences from school for a driver under 18 years of age

Doug Rohan lives in East Cobb with his wife, Julia, and daughters Vivian and Claudia. He is a bi-lingual attorney with the law firm Castan & Lecca, PC where he specializes in Criminal Defense and Workers’ Compensation claims. He also is a member of AroundAbout — East Cobb Community Board. You can email doug at doug@caslec-law.com.

Holding a Summer Camp? Reserve your space now in our Summer Camp Section Our readers use this section to plan their summer. E-mail information to: kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com To advertise in this section, call (770) 615-3318. To be listed in our special Summer Camp Section for the March issue, the deadline is February 18. FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Reference

East Cobb Area Clubs and Organizations Business Organizations

Cobb County WWII Veterans Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 1 p.m. Location: Windy Hill Senior Center Contact: Bill Hill, (678) 354-7059

Contact: (770) 977-2088 www.vfwwebcom.org/ga/post2681

East Cobb AARP Meeting: 1st Thursday at 1:30 p.m. Location: East Cobb Senior Center 3332 Sandy Plains Road Contact: Martha Boyce, (678) 290-9895

Cobb County Democratic Party Committee Meeting: 2nd Saturday at 9 a.m. Location: Piccadilly Cafeteria, 536 Cobb Parkway Contact: (770) 420-7133 ccdc@cobbdemocrat.com

East Cobb Open Networking A referral network for professionals Meeting: Fridays at 7:30 a.m. Location: Capozzi’s NY Deli, 4285 Roswell Road Contact: Tim Langley, (770) 289-9711

East Cobb Civic Association Meeting: Last Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Government Services Center 4400 Lower Roswell Road Contact: Jill Flamm, President www.eastcobb.net

Cobb Democratic Women Meeting: 2nd Thursday at 6 p.m. Contact: Beverly McMurry, (770) 426-6916 btmcmurray@comcaStreet.net

East Cobb PowerCore Team Meeting: Thursdays at 7 a.m. Location: IHOP, 3130 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Mitch Lovell, (404) 572-1278

East Cobb Civitans Meeting: 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 12 noon Location: Parc at Piedmont, 999 Hood Road Contact: Mary Karras, (770) 422-6485

Joy of Connecting A networking dinner for professional women Meeting: 7 p.m., call for date Contact: Betty Goodman, (770) 906-3391 Bsg1011@bellsouth.net www.thejoyofconnecting.com

East Cobb Community Friends for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Contact: Suzanne Strickland, (770) 992-2882

The Association for Holistic Wellness Meeting: First Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Location: Meditating Mantis - Historic Roswell Contact: Chris Kell - Chris@ah-we.com East Cobb Business Association Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. Contact: Susan Hampton, (404) 218-6216 www.eastcobbba.com

Northeast Cobb Business Association Meeting: Third Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Location: Piedmont Church, 570 Piedmont Road Contact: crba@cantonroadba.org or (770) 423-1330 Y Business Network Y membership not required. Meeting: Every other Friday, 7:30-8:45 a.m. Location: Northeast Cobb Y, 3010 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Rosemary Macmillan, (678) 569-9622

Charitable Organizations Aloha To Aging, Inc. Support Programs for Seniors and their families. Contact: Dawn Reed, (678) 439-1177 Animals Deserve Better, Inc. Animal rescue and adoptions Contact: Kimberly Brenowitz, (770) 402-0297 kimberlyadb@aol.com Boys and Girls Clubs Contact: (770) 427-0418 Meals on Wheels Contact: Shelia Perkins, (770) 528-5381 MUST Ministries Contact: (770) 426-7667 SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, Inc. Contact: Elizabeth Underwood (770) 801-3465

Civic Organizations Children of the American Revolution Contact: B. Schilling, (770) 643-1010 Cobb American Association of University Women Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 7 p.m. Contact: www.aauwcobb.org

East Cobb Lions Club Meeting: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Eastside Baptist Church 2450 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta Contact: Susan Hampton, (404) 218-6216 East Cobb Optimist Clubs Meeting: Mondays at 7 p.m. Location: Shillings on the Square 19 N. Park Square NE, Marietta Contact: Jim David, (404) 683-0196 Kiwanis Club of East Cobb Meetings: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Scalini’s, 1205 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Johnny Johnson, (770) 977-2026 www.eastcobbkiwanis.org

Political Organizations

Cobb Young Democrats Meeting: Wednesdays at 12 noon Contact: webmaster@ydcobb.org www.ydcobb.org East Cobb Democratic Alliance Meeting: 1st Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Spaghetti Factory, Delk Road Contact: David Lombrozo, (770) 649-8330 Cobb County Libertarian Party Meeting: 1st Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Location: Council Chamber Marietta City Hall Contact: Ted Skirvin, (770) 795-1331 www.cobblp.org Cobb County Republican Party Meeting: 1st Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Location: Williamson Bros. BBQ, Marietta Contact: (770) 421-1833, scottj@applebank.net www.cobbgop.org Cobb County Republican Women Meeting: 4th Friday at 11:30 a.m. Location: Marietta Conference Center 500 Powder Springs Street Contact: (770) 785-2522, www.ccrwc.org

Support Groups

Kiwanis Club of Marietta — Golden K Meetings: Thursdays at 10 a.m. Location: East Cobb Senior Center 3332 Sandy Plains Rd. Contact: Joe Van Horn, Sr., (770) 428-3419 gajosbarb@comcast.net

Al-Anon Meeting: Location: Contact:

League of Women Voters of Marietta-Cobb Meeting : 2nd Monday Location Various Contact: mariettacobb@lwvga.org or Elizabeth at 770 592 0625

Alzheimer’s/Dementia Support Group Meeting: 2nd Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Location: Savannah Court, 866 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Derin White, (770) 977-4420

Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling

Rotary Club of East Cobb Meeting: Wednesdays at 7 — 8 a.m. Location: Indian Hills Country Club Contact: (770) 971-2605 www.eastcobbrotary.com

Autism Support Group Meeting: 3rd Thursday at 9 a.m. or 7 p.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road, Room F002 Contact: (770) 971-2880

President’s Club Toastmasters Meeting: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Location: East Cobb Government Services Building, 4400 Lower Roswell Road Contact: Sean Ryan, sean_ryan@comcast.net

Blended Families Support Group Meeting: 3rd Sunday at 7 p.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Contact: (770) 971-2880

VFW Post 2681 Location: 140 Powers Ferry Road

Breast Cancer Support Group Meeting: 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 7 p.m.

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Location: Contact:

St. Andrew United Methodist Church 3455 Canton Road Sandy, (770) 926-3488 sandy@thepumpkinchurch.org

Cancer Support Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Mondays at 7 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling Career Quest Ministry Meeting: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. Location: St. Ann’s Catholic Church 4905 Roswell Road Contact: (770) 552-6400 x 6104 Caregivers/Alzheimers Support Group Meeting: 1st Monday at 10:30 a.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Contact: (770) 971-2880 Codependents Anonymous Meeting: Monday and Thursdays at 7:30pm Location: Unity North Church, 4225 Sandy Plains Road (Administration Bldg upstairs) Contact: Janet D. 770-578-6368 Website: northgeorgiacoda.org Compassionate Friends support group for bereaved parents, grandparents and siblings. Contact: Kathy, (404) 429-4953, tcfmarietta.kathy@hotmail.com Erica, (404) 539-4287, erica_beltz@yahoo.com Website: www.tcfmarietta.org Dad 2 Dad, For stay-at-home dads Contact: Richard Collins, (770) 579-5445 Diabetes Support Group Contact: Wellstar, (770) 793-7828 East Cobb CHADD For parents with children who have ADHD. Contact: east-cobb@chadd.net Website: www.chadd.net/300 East Cobb Moms For stay-at-home moms Contact: www.eastcobbmoms.com Family Caregiver & Alzheimer’s Support Group Meeting: First Monday at 10:30 a.m. Location: Aloha To Aging, Inc. , Mt. Bethel Community Center, 4608 Lower Roswell Rd., Contact: (678) 439-1177 Foundation for Ensuring Access and Equity Contact: Mychal Wynn, (678) 395-5825 or (678) 620-3685 Website: www.accessandequity.org Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Meeting: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7:15 p.m. Location: Transfiguration Catholic Church Blackwell Road Contact: Jeannie DeCarlo, (770) 919-9275 Grief Support Group Meeting: First Monday at 2:30 p.m. Location: Mt. Bethel Community Center, 4608 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta Contact: (678) 439-1177. Grief and Loss Support Group All faiths are welcome. Meeting: 6 session format

Location: Contact:

Jewish Family & Career Services, 1501 Johnson Ferry Road Suite 100 Yael Stein, 770-677-9305, ystein@jfcsatlanta.org.

Job Seekers Meeting: 1st and 3rd Saturdays at 8 a.m. Location: Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3125 Sewell Mill Road Contact: (770) 977-2976 MOMS Club of Marietta Northeast Meeting: 1st Monday at 9:30 a.m. Location: Hope Presbyterian Church 4101 Sandy Plains Road Contact: lcstokes@bellsouth.net

Road to Recovery Divorce Support Group Meeting: Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church 4385 Lower Roswell Road Mission House Contact: (770) 971-2880 Sexual Assault Support Group Meeting: Mondays at 7 p.m. Location: YMCA of NW GA, 48 Henderson St, Contact: Susan Roberts, (770) 427-3390 Single’s Ministry Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 973-6561, www.jfbc.org

Moms In Touch — East Side Elementary Meeting: Mondays at 10 a.m. Contact: Movita Stallworth, (770) 321-1783 Mo633@bellsouth.net

Single Adult Ministry Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Contact: (770) 971-3447, www.mtbethel.org

Mothers and More Meeting: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Saint Catherine’s Episcopal Church, 681 Holt Road Contact: www.mmeastcobb.homestead.com

Treasures in Heaven (miscarriage/infant death) Meeting: 4th Monday at 7 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling

Newcomers of Cobb County Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 10 a.m. Location: John Knox Presbyterian Church, 505 Powers Ferry Road Contact: Christine, (770) 234-5068 newcomersofcobbcounty@yahoo.com

VOICE Today survivors of child sexual abuse Meeting: 1st & 3rd Tuesday at 7 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church Room 334 Contact: Tom Scales, (678) 578-4888 Website: www.voicetoday.org

Next Century Youth, Inc. Location: 791 Mimosa Boulevard, Roswell Contact: Mary Brooks Green, (678) 278-9278 Website: www.nextcenturyyouth.org

Widowed Helping Others Meeting: Twice each month Location: St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 4905 Roswell Rd Contact: Marguerite Williamson, (770) 977-8438

Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples Club Meeting: 2nd Monday at 7 p.m. Location: North Metro Church on Barrett Pkwy. Contact: (678) 404-0034, www.NOWaMOM.org. Overeaters Anonymous Meeting: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10 a.m. Location: St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 4905 Roswell Rd Contact: Betsy, (404) 226-4931, www.oa.org Parents of Prodigals (children with selfdestructive lifestyle) Meeting: 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling Parkinson’s Disease Support Group Meeting: 2nd Sunday at 4 p.m. Location: Roswell UMC, 814 Mimosa Blvd., Bldg. A Contact: Robin Cleveland, (678) 819-3915 rcleveland@visitingangels.com Parents Without Partners Contact: Ted Perskey, (770) 973-4087 www.Pwpchapter698.org PASA (Parents of All Stages and Ages) Meeting: Fridays at 10 a.m.Free child care available Location: East Cobb UMC Lower Level Activities Building, 2325 Roswell Road Contact: Lisa Hunt (770) 984-0699

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

Recreation and Hobbies American Needlepoint Guild Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. Location: Mountainview Library, 3320 Sandy Plains Road Contact: Penny Boswinkle, (770) 394-0065 Bridge Club Meeting: Mon. – Fri. 10:30 a.m., Mon. – Sat. 7:30 p.m. Location: 1089 Roswell Road Contact: (770) 973-7717 Cobb Alley Cats, people who help stray cats Contact: Sue Verner, (770) 436-6758 Cobb County Special Olympics Contact: (770) 819-3223 www.prca.cobbcoga.org Cobb County Stamp Club Meeting: 2nd Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Location: Jewish Towers, 3160 Howell Mill Rd Meeting: 4th Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Central Cobb Library, 266 Roswell St. Contact: C. Rejent, (770) 330-0790 crejent@stampsclubs.com www.stampclubs.com/cobb Dog Hikers of Georgia Meeting: Sundays at 10 a.m. Contact: Dan Batchelor, (770) 992-2362 Sope Creek Garden Club Meeting: 1st Wednesday at 10 a.m. Contact: Karin Guzy, (770) 955-1303

Reference

Community Information Numbers & Websites Emergency — 911 • AroundAbout — East Cobb • (770) 615-3318 Cobb County Chamber of Commerce Driver’s License Health Department Post Office www.usps.com Recycling Center

(770) 980-2000 (678) 413-8400 (678) 784-2180 (800) 275-8777 (770) 528-2500

Cobb County Government: Business License Keep Cobb Beautiful Commissioners Engineering Office Traffic Signals Extension Office Jury Phone — State Court Jury Phone — Superior Court Planning and Zoning Senior Services Tax Assessors/Evaluation Taxes: License Plates/Tags Property Tax Voter Registration CCT Bus Service

(770) 528-8410 (770) 528-1135 (770) 528-1000 (770) 528-1616 (770) 528-1600 (770) 528-4070 (770) 528-2626 (770) 528-1804 (770) 528-2004 (770) 528-5355 (770) 528-3100 (770) 528-8247 (770) 528-8600 (770) 528-2581 (770) 528-8465

Children/Family:

Aloha to Aging, Inc. www.alohatoaging.org Department of Family and Children’s Services Next Steps (Child/Adolescent) Mothers Making a Change Child and Adolescent Services Meals on Wheels MUST Ministries Child Support Enforcement YMCA of Northwest GA, Rape Crisis Center

(678) 439-1177 (770) 528-5000 (770) 514-2300 (770) 499-2422 (770) 514-2300 (770) 528-5381 (770) 427-9862 (770) 528-2410 (770) 427-3390

Clubs/Groups:

AARP Kiwanis Club Lions Club Rotary Club

(678) 290-9895 (770) 912-9632 (404) 218-6216 (770) 422-7551

(770) 528-8000

(770) 205-5400 (770) 499-3900 (770) 499-4600

Hospitals: 44

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital North Fulton Hospital Northside Hospital Atlanta

Poison Control Center Cobb Judicial Victim Assistance Domestic Violence Unit Drug Tip Public Outreach/Programs

(404) 589-4400 (770) 528-3047 (770) 499-4665 (770) 590-5520 (770) 499-4719

Libraries:

East Marietta Merchant’s Walk Gritter’s Mountain View Regional

(770) 509-2711 (770) 509-2730 (770) 528-2524 (770) 509-2725

Parks and Recreation: Main Office Aquatic Centers: Mountain View Sewell Park East Cobb Park Mount Bethel Park Sweat Mountain Park Fullers Park Harrison Park Harrison Tennis Center

YMCA

(770) 528-8800 (770) 509-4927 (770) 509-2741 (770) 591-3160 (770) 509-2748 (770) 591-3160 (770) 509-2737 (770) 591-3150 (770) 591-3151

(770) 977-5991

Pets:

Animal Control Animal Shelter and Pet Adoptions Cobb County Humane Society Emergency Veterinary Clinic Cobb County Animal Control Good Mews Animal Foundation

(770) 499-4136 (770) 499-4136 (770) 428-5678 (770) 424-9157 (770) 499-4136 (770) 499-CATS

Schools: Board of Education www.cobbk12.org

(770) 426-3300

Utilities:

Public Service: Fire Departments: 2905 Library Lane 4431 Trickum Road 3892 Oak Lane Georgia State Patrol Non-Emergency 911 Sheriff’s Department www.cobbsheriff.org

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:

(770) 793-5000 (770) 751-2500 (404) 851-8000

AT&T Residential Phone Service www.att.com AT&T Broadband/Comcast www.comcast.com Atlanta Gas Light Co. www.aglc.com Cobb County Water System water.cobbcountyga.gov Water Emergency Cobb EMC www.cobbemc.com Georgia Power www.georgiapower.com

AroundAbout — East Cobb

(888) 757-6500 (404) 266-2278 (770) 907-4231 (770) 423-1000 (770) 419-6201 (770) 429-2100 (888) 660-5890

FEBRuary 2011

Affordable Coupon Advertising Gets Customers In Your Door!

This Space Could Be Yours! To reserve your spot, call (770) 615-3318 or email leeann@aroundaboutmagazines.com today!

Call NOW!

Phone NOT ringing off the hook?

Start Generating Calls For Your Business! Contact

today to advertise! 770-615-3318 Email: leeann@aroundaboutmagazines.com FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; East Cobb

Classifieds BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

home services

Would you or someone you know like to make your community a better place to live? Well now you can! AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. is offering franchise opportunities! This is the opportunity to take a leadership role in your community. For more information, please call (770) 615-3276, visit www. aroundaboutmagazines.com.

E.P. Pressure Wash. Reasonable rates, free estimates, insured. (770) 380-2325.

FREE TO GOOD HOME (These Ads Are Free)

instruction/classes

TLC’s Professional Maids LLC. Quality you can count on. Eco-Cleaning products. Call today for your free estimate, (770) 598-7417 or www. tlcsprofessionalmaids.vpweb.com.

Guitar Lessons — East Cobb, Columns Area. 1 hr. sessions. Purchase 1 hr. or save with 4 hr. segments. Excellent references. Call DJ, (248) 210-1382.

FREE TO GOOD HOME Three Beautiful Cats that I must give free to a good home. They are indoor cats and have been well cared for. Please call Karen. (404) 431-6900.

instruction/classes SOHOtech Computer & Network Services. Flatrate set up, repair, virus removal. Onsite or free pick-up/delivery. (678) 310-SOHO (7646). Looking For A Loving Home For Your Pet? You can place your ad here for FREE! Classified Deadline is the 20h of the month for the next month’s Issue.

Classifieds Work! You’re Reading Them ... Aren’t You?

1/Word

(10 WORD MINIMUM)

CLASSIFIED FORM

PLEASE PRINT Month(s):  Jan  Feb  Mar

PLEASE CHECK ALL THAT APPLY

 July

 Aug

 Sept

Mail this Form with your Payment to: AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 340 Woodstock, GA 30189 • Fax: (770) 516-4809

1/Word

(10 WORD MINIMUM)

(All Fields Must Be Completed)

 Apr  May  June  Oct  Nov  Dec

Category: Word Count:

¨ ADD A PICTURE (2.375" X 1.50") FOR ONLY $39 (Per Month).

, $1/word, per month (10 Word Minimum)

Box numbers, phone numbers, zip codes and abbreviations are counted as one word each.

Email picture to admanager@townelaker.com.

Ad Wording (please include contact info):

Please make checks payable to AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. Form of payment: ¨ Cash or Check ¨ Visa ¨ Master Card ¨ American Express CC Account #

Exp:

¨ Discover

Sec. Code (CVC):

Credit Card Authorization Signature: Name:

Street Address:

City, State, Zip: Daytime Phone: AroundAbout East Cobb Classifieds is a monthly feature. All ads are accepted and placed under categories at the discretion of the publisher. Rates are only $1 per word, per month, with a 10-word minimum. “Pet Lost and Found,” “Ride Share” and “Free to Good Home” pet placement ads are FREE.

NEXT CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS THE 20 th FOR THE FOLLOWING MONTH'S ISSUE! 46

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Automotive E.H. Sellars Goodyear (770) 973-8737

Banking/Financial Services

Nelson Painting& Home Improvements Cover, 25 (678) 283-8171 www.nelson-painting.com 35

Dentists/Orthodontists 35

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Front Dr. Ray Morgan (770) 591-7929 www.raymorganmd.com 120 No. Medical Parkway, Woodstock

Education/Instruction/Counseling Chattahoochee Technical College (770) 528-4545 www.chatttahoocheetech.edu Kennesaw State University, Cont. Ed (770) 423-6765 www.kennesawedu/coned.com

Cover, 24

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners

Cristi Y. Cheek DMD, P.C. (770) 993-3775 www.cheekdental.com

The Fireplace Company (770) 427-6636 2493 Canton Hwy., Marietta

Citadel CPA & Wealth Care Services (770) 952-6707 175 Town Park Drive, Kennesaw

Carpet Dry Tech (678) 368-5991

Georgia Hardwood (770) 374-5555

Direct Buy Flooring/Pro Source (770) 612-9996 www.prosourcemarietta.com

Cover, 24

Reliable Heating & Air (770) 594-9969 www.reliableair.com

Cover, 26

Health & Beauty Patrick Carmen NR.9 Salon (678) 427-8000

Lake Nantahala (828) 321-3101 www.visitlakesend.com

Reflection - Lake Nantahala Inside Back Cover www.reflectionlakenantahala.com

REstaurants/Food SErvices Good Measure Meals (404) 815-7695

Cover, 26

GET CONNECTED!

Maid Brigade of NW Atlanta (770) 794-9047 www.maidbrigade.com 2440 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta

Pet/Veterinarian Services & Supplies 37

Progressive Audiology Center Inc. (770) 592-4744, (706) 253-7244

Resurgens Orthopaedics (678) 591-4215 www.resurgens.com

Wellstar Health Systems (770) 956-7827 www.wellstar.org

Cover, 25

Pineapple Park (678) 494-8494

Stella’s House Awareness

Physicians and Medical Services Aloha to Senior Solutions (678) 777-7241

Connect with friends and keep up to date on what’s happening right here in East Cobb!

Decorators Den (770) 509-8773

Business Been Slow?

Call

Home Improvement/Repair & Service Atlanta Architectural Cabinets (678) 779-6078 www.atlantacabinets.net

Inside Back Cover

Services/Retailers Miscellaneous

Humane Society of Cobb County (770) 428-9882 www.humanecobb.com 148 Fairground St. SE, Marietta

Real estate & related services

NOW to Advertise!

770-615-3318

Email: leeann@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Visit our new and improved website

www.aroundabouteastcobb.com Join the AroundAbout East Cobb fan page www.facebook.com/ AroundAboutEastCobb

FEBRuary 2011 AroundAbout — East Cobb

AroundAbout — East Cobb

FEBRuary 2011

Paid for by Friends of Chip Rogers