July 2011 Issue by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

July 2011

Volume 17, Issue 3

Featured Articles

Summer Camps

Get a glimpse of the summer camp fun.

In Every Issue Around Towne. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Community News. . . . . . . . . . .8 Birthdays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Event Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . 24

50 & 51 On the Cover Towne Lake Family Dentistry and Art of Cosmetic Dentistry are here to help you maintain your best accessory — your smile.

4th of July Events

Check out the happenings going on for the 4th of July weekend.

Woodstock High School Prom

A night of celebration.

WHS and EHS Graduation

Commencement exercises were held for the graduating class of 2011.

School Walk Through Events

Preparing for the August 1st start date for Cherokee County schools.

Cherokee Co. Chamber. . . . . 27 Recent Product Recalls . . . . . 28 TLBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Everyday Angels. . . . . . . . . . . 37 School Information . . . . . . . . 76 Church Listings. . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Clubs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Community Numbers . . . . . . 88 Elected Officials. . . . . . . . . . . 89 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Real Deals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Community Coupons. . . . . . . 93 Advertisers Directory. . . . . . . 94

Keep up-to-date with our community!

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Patty Ponder is the Market Director for AroundAbout — TowneLaker. She can be reached at (770) 615-3322 or patty@townelaker.com.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Join the TowneLaker fan page www.facebook.com/ aroundabouttownelaker

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Wines For Grillin’ and Chillin’ David Hecklemoser

Mona Lisa’s Smile Dr. Scott R. Harden

Local College Student Gets Taste of Entrepreneurship Kara Kiefer

Filp-flops: Fashionable Risk For Heel Pain Dr. Steven Weiskopf

Bucket List Kara KIefer Miniature-sized Miracle Lauri Wischner

How’s Your Hearing? Ask and Audiologist Dr. Jan Henriques

New Perspective Cindy Morrow

Squirrels: Feed Them or Defeat Them Scott Lemmon

A Bloody Interview Dr. Mike Litrel

Musings From Towne: Sam Is A Girl Robyn Hohensee

Is Your Child Protected? Dr. Amy Hardin

60 61

Water Is Essential Dr. Jared J. Lasseigne

Will Technology Replace Teachers and Schools? Tim Grady

Ten Weird Mosquito Control Ideas Rick Coughlin

Making A Difference Joe Lemmo

Moms and Kids Colin Morris

Five Tips To Choosing The Right Plastic Surgeon Marietta Plastic Surgery

Athletic “Hot Beds” Jason Fleeman

77 78

Marriage Moments Bill Ratliff

Fire Up Those Grills Shelley Herod

54 Early Detection of Breast Cancer Wellstar

God’s Math Doug Thrasher

When Will The Debt Ceiling Affect Stocks? Don Akridge

Are You Chasing The Real Estate Market? Sheila & Kurt Johnson

Charter Schools: To Be or Not To Be State Sen. Chip Rogers

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

AROUND TOWNE

The People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

by Kara Kiefer

Kara is the Editor of AroundAbout — Townelaker magazine. She lives in Towne Lake with her husband Mike and their two sons Brandon and Garrett. Feel free to send your comments or questions to editor@townelaker. com.

Do you notice anything different about us this month? Hopefully, as you peruse through this issue, a few things will stand out. The first change you will notice is the look and feel of the magazine. We have switched to a new paper which allows for more vibrant colors and a smoother feel. Secondly, we’ve changed the physical layout of the pages, creating more visual appeal and readability. We’d love to hear what you think! E-mail editor@townelaker.com with your thoughts!

What’s New? Elite Nails recently opened in the Southpoint shopping center. The salon is located in the former location of Towne Lake Nails. For more information, call (770) 926-6222.

Monti’s Food Express has new expanded hours for summer. Mondays – Wednesdays 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Thursdays – Saturdays 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sundays 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Also, owner Tom Heinen added Italian Ice to the menu. Monti’s is located at 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, next door to Enterprise Rent a Car. For more information, call (678) 809-4333.

Contest Corner Congratulations to Vanessa Foster (right) for being the first to find our hidden picture on page 64 of the June issue. Congratulations also to Debbie Loizzo (far right) for being the first to spot the phrase “A Paris Flea Market” on page 20. Vanessa and Debbie both won gift certificates to Chick-Fil-A.

“Fresh Fruit Smoothies”

TwoSome Place, Organic Tea and Bakery, recently opened on 2485 Towne Lake Parkway, next to Goodyear and Kani House. The eatery offers breads and pastries, baked daily, organic tea, coffee, smoothies and lunch sandwiches and salads. For more information, please call (770) 924-4124.

What’s Coming? Oo La La Yogurt Ur Way will be opening at 2990 Eagle Drive in the Eagle Point shopping center. The shop is a self serve “create your own” frozen yogurt eatery. Wink Woodstock will be opening in downtown Woodstock at 380 Chambers Street. The restaurant will offer wine, martinis, cheese and desserts. Follow the eatery on Facebook at www.facebook. com/winkwoodstock. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group will be meeting at City on a Hill United Methodist Church starting this fall. City on a Hill is located at 7745 Main Street (formerly Woodstock Public Library). For more information on the group, contact coordinator Amy Powers at (678) 978-1377 or visit www.mops.org.

What’s Moved? Licensed Massage Therapist Lisa Schudel recently moved her practice to Price Permanent Cosmetics and Spa, 120 N. Medical Parkway, Building 100, Suite 202. For more information, call (678) 361-2580 or visit www.lisalmtfertiltiy.vpweb.com.

Who’s Celebrating? Salon and Spa Venéssa is celebrating 20 years of business in Woodstock. To help celebrate, the salon will be presenting gifts and offering special discounts on products and services for its clients. For more information or to book an appointment, call (770) 591-2079.

Who’s a Super Gardener?

July’s Finds: Be the first to find the phrase:

SeekingSitters, an on-demand babysitting referral business recently opened. Members can request a sitter, online, for last minute, one-time, part-time or full-time child care needs. All sitters are background checked, CPR and first aid trained. For more information, call owner Debbie Caldwell at (678) 276-9843 or visit www. seekingsitters.com.

Find the hidden picture:

Greg Helstowski’s Impatiens project is a “huge” success. The below photos were taken in April and June. Greg and his wife Ellen live in Wellesley.

If you know the answer to the contest question or find the hidden picture, be the first to call (770) 615-3325 or e-mail editor@townelaker.com. Please provide your name, contact phone number or email address. Contest rules: A player is eligible to win once every 12 months. 4

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

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Don’t miss another great deal! AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

Community Board Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. The AroundAbout-TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders, from different walks of life. Our Board assists us in many ways including contributing to our magazine, judging our annual Trailblazer award and providing valuable feedback. Our Board consists of five members: Dr. Doug Thrasher, Debi Radcliff, Colin Morris, Bill Ratliff and State Senator Chip Rogers.

Dr. Doug Thrasher — Doug is the Senior Pastor at Hillside United Methodist Church. He has lived in the Towne Lake and served at Hillside area for four years. He and his wife, Debbie, live in Eagle Watch, and they have two married children and two precious grandchildren. Doug can be reached at dthrasher@ hillsideumc.org.

Market Director Patty Ponder

patty@townelaker.com, (770) 615-3322

Executive Editor Kara Kiefer

editor@townelaker.com, (770) 615-3309

Art Director Michelle McCulloch

art@townelaker.com, (770) 615-3307

Graphic Artist Leslie Proctor

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

Digital Marketing Director James Ball

james@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3310 Debi Radcliff — Debi and her family have lived in Towne Lake since 1996. Debi served as a member of the Cherokee County Board of Education, Post 6. Debi was a full-time stay at home mom for 26 years and was an active parent volunteer, and she also has a background in office administration. Debi can be reached at radfam5@bellsouth.net.

Colin Morris — Colin is a freelance writer and stay-athome mom to three children whom she describes as “two ninja sons and one dog-loving daughter.” She and her husband have lived in Woodstock for the past 12 years, and she grew up in Marietta. Colin is monthly contributor to AroundAbout-TowneLaker, with her column “Moms and Kids.”

Trust Agent Kevin Ekmark

kevin@aroundaboutmagazines.com, (770) 615-3302

Video Correspondent Brandon Schultze AroundAbout — TowneLaker, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It is distributed free to approximately 12,500 homes by mail to all Towne Lakers. An additional 1,900 are placed in racks around the community. AroundAbout — TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below.

Bill Ratliff — Bill currently serves as the lead Pastor for Towne Lake Community Church. He has a Masters of Divinity degree and has served in Kentucky, Florida, Maryland and Georgia over the past 25 years. Bill and his wife Donna have two children, Christine and Scott and three grandchildren.

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 — TowneLaker 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.

Chip Rogers — Chip presently serves as our Senate Majority Leader. He has lived in metro Atlanta for 40 years, Cherokee County for 10 years, with his wife and four children. His mother, father and brother also live in Cherokee County.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker 2449 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30189 Website: www.townelaker.com Franchise Opportunities Available: www.AroundAboutMagazines.com

Volume 17, Issue 3 6

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Volunteers Help Spruce up Elm Street Volunteers from CarMax and its volunteer program, CarMax Cares, recently donated several hours of time to the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village in Woodstock. The volunteers painted and spruced up the rehearsal room. CarMax employee and volunteer Andrea Jeffrey nominated Elm Street for a CarMax Cares event because “Ms. G. Lora Grooms and Siobhan Brumbelow work tirelessly to keep the arts alive and bring quality theater and educational programs to our community.” Of the event, G. Lora said, “Thank you CarMax for your community mindedness, your generosity and your smiling team members. Our rehearsal rooms will be much more friendly and bright for our camp programs because of you.” CarMax Cares also made a $2,000 donation from the CarMax Foundation on behalf of the volunteer teams.

The Rotary Club of Towne Lake recently donated $1,300 to the Anna Crawford Children’s Center. The donation was a result of a recent Poker Tournament fundraiser. The Anna Crawford Children’s Center is a child advocacy group helping physically and sexually abused children in Cherokee County. The Rotary Club of Towne Lake meets at noon every Thursday at Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills. Visitors are welcome.

Brownies Advance to Next Level Congratulations to Girl Scout Troop 2363 as they transitioned from Brownies to Junior Girl Scouts.

Left to right: Sheridan B., Abbey H., Ciara C., Rhianna V., Madeline S., Grace T., Kierra D., Ashley P. and Sophia L. Left to right: CarMax volunteers Rico Williams and Andrea Jeffrey brighten up the rehearsal room at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.

Rotary Donates to Children’s Center

Woodstock Grad Receives Vet Degree Michelle Lord Grasso, a 2002 graduate of Woodstock High School, recently received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Georgia College of Veterinarian Medicine. Michelle earned her undergraduate degree from Shorter University in 2006. She will be working for Best Friends Veterinary Hospital in Braselton, Ga. Michelle is the daughter of Pamela and Rhys Lord. continued on page 10

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Woodstock Youth Earns the Rank of Eagle Scout Colton Rollbuhler recently received the Eagle Award by the Boy Scouts of America. Colton earned 21 merit badges and completed his service project of “The Green Gulley Stairway and Drainage System” at Wildlife Action family camping area on Kellogg Creek Road. Colton is a member of Troop 994 and will receive his Eagle Award in a Court of Honor presentation at Hillside United Methodist Church. Colton also has achieved a Black Belt ranking at the Yong-In Tae Kwon Do school. Colton is the son of Kim and Tom Rollbuhler. Colton recently graduated from Etowah High School and will be attending Texas Tech in the fall where he will study Political Science and Econometrics.

Local State Farm Agent Receives Prestigious Award State Farm® Agent Steve Cannon recently received the company’s prestigious President’s Club and Chairman’s Circle awards. In addition to recognizing an agent’s outstanding sales ability, these top awards honor agents who align their business with the long-term direction of the company and who act as advocates for their customers. Only a few agents within State Farm receive this honor annually because there are strict qualifying criteria and sales goals that must be met. According to Tim McFadden, Southern Zone Senior Vice President, “As one of our top agents, Steve consistently supports our goal of providing high quality service to our customers. His outstanding performance makes it possible for State Farm to continue to be the leading insurance and financial services provider here in Georgia.” Steve has been with State Farm for 23 years. Congratulations! 10

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Progressive Audiology Donation Speaks Volumes About Community Support Dr. Jan Henriques, Dr. Christa Nelms and Dr. Lawrence Bridge and the staff at Progressive Audiology recently presented a check for $875 to the family of baby Gabriel Sierra, with funds raised through their April hearing aid sales.

Left to right: Dr. Jan Henriques, Gabriel Sierra, Erika Sierra, Dr. Lawrence Bridge, Pam Usher and Reneė McClelland.

Gabriel is the son of Erika and Macho Sierra, and grandson of Woodstock Fire Chief David Soumas. At his sixmonth check-up in September, Gabriel was diagnosed with Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor (AT/RT), an extremely rare, aggressive form of cancer which affects the central nervous system.

For more information about how you can support the Sierra family, visit www.HelpGabriel.org, or make a donation at any Regions Bank location to account number 0135933135.

Woodstock Grad Receives Dental Scholarship Woodstock High School graduate Katie Parham recently received the Fountain View Family Dentistry Scholarship, presented by Dr. Scott R. Harden. Applicants were judged based Left to right: Dr. Scott R. Harden and Katie on submitted Parham. essays, GPA, school and community involvement and specific career focus within the healthcare field. Katie has aspirations of attending dental school and eventually becoming an orthodontist. Congratulations!

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

Happy Birthday!

Chase Arabia

Matthew Vidrine

Parker

Age 9 on June 23

Age 5 on July 8 Happy Birthday! We love you, Mom, Dad, Rhianna, and Joshua

Age 4 on July 27 Son of Kristine and Steven

Kolton Thornton

Payton Rhinehart

Victoria “Tori” Green

Age 7 on June 17 Son of Shannon and Clay Truesdale Brother of Cameron and Jesse

Rachel Boling

Age 3 on July 9 Happy Birthday! Love you, big sis Breanna, Mommy & Daddy

Age 6 on July 5 Happy Birthday big girl. Love Mommy, Daddy & Lauren

Christopher Olsen Age 7 on July 1 Son of Tammy and Chris Olsen

Age 7 on July 27 Happy Birthday Tori! We love you angel! Love Mommy, Daddy, Allie, Bart, Caribou and Snickers

Brooke Olsen

Age 9 on July 17 Daughter of Tammy and Chris Olsen

Madeline Dodd

Age 8 on July 18 Daughter of Michelle and Steven Dodd Sister of Madison and Steven

Ryan Tracy

Harrison Hammonds Age 4 on July 7 Son of Lisa and Richard Hammonds

Noah Rodgers

Happy 13th Birthday! Love, Mom, Dad and Tyler

Age 10 on July 6 Son of Alysia and Matt Rodgers Brother of Ava

Lucas Ludwiczak

Chris McCulloch

Age 9 on July 11 Son of Angela and Tomasz Ludwiczak Brother of Amelia and Alex

Age 12 on July 6 Son of Michelle & Jim McCulloch Brother of Bryan

Wedding, Birthday and Anniversary Announcements are Free! E-mail to: editor@townelaker.com August deadline is July 10. 12

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Happy Anniversary

Kimberly & John Sepe

Celebrated 17 years of marriage on May 21

Cee Cee and Todd Fisher

Celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary on July 12th

When you go on a vacation this summer, take AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker with you. Submit a photo of yourself holding the magazine. Two contest winners will be determined by the contestant who travelled the farthest in the U.S. and in the world

Deadline is August 10.

Weddings

Mandy Glazebrook & Mike Kirn

Were married on May 14, 2011 at Transfiguration Catholic Church Parents: Linda & Mike Glazebrook and Pat & Ed Kirn

Email to editor@townelaker.com. Mail in or drop off at 2449 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30189 Please identify where you are, city, state or country and people in photo from left to right. AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

When Will The Debt Ceiling Affect Stocks? Will the markets feel stress as the deadline to raise the debt limit approaches? Don Akridge, MBA, CPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ U.S. Marine Corps Veteran – Emory University Alumnus

August 2 looms.

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) 952-6707.

That is the absolute deadline for raising the federal debt ceiling, according to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner. The U.S. actually reached the $14.3 trillion ceiling on May 16, but took “extraordinary measures,” in Geithner’s words, to avoid default. (Those measures included suspension of Treasury payments to the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund and the Federal Employees’ Retirement System Thrift Savings Plan.) While Congress will surely vote to raise the debt cap by August 2, our politicians are mostly transmitting contention.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Will other nations start to lose confidence in us? Our markets are pretty confident that Congress will resolve the issue. Still, the mere prospect of a default could end up doing some damage on Wall Street (and Main Street). The longer Congress dallies, the more the world questions how serious our politicians are about reaching an accord. Remember

the headlines about the debt crises in Greece, Spain, Ireland and Portugal? Remember how that instability weighed on Wall Street? We could give global investors a sense of déjà vu.

“

...taxpayers could collectively be on the hook for up to $500 million per month. Bond yields could rise. We last hit the federal debt limit in 1995. Before Congress hiked it, Treasury yields rose in the preceding months. Some analysts think that if they head north just a quarter-percent as a result of this current impasse, taxpayers could collectively be on the hook for up to $500 million per month. If Treasury yields rise, businesses big and small will feel the pain. They want and need loans; they need to repay existing

debts. They don’t need pressure on interest rates.

The world isn’t walking away from us yet. Our debt remains very attractive to foreign investors. Foreign ownership of U.S. Treasuries climbed from 37 percent in 1997 to 57 percent in 2010, and foreign governments were responsible for most of the increase. The dollar is still the world’s reserve currency. That fact alone will insulate us a bit in the short term. (What other currency could serve as a benchmark? The euro? Look what’s going on with that.) When S&P downgraded the U.S. credit outlook this year, did global markets correct? No. Other economies hold a great deal of faith in ours. If our legislators get their act together, we can avoid anything reminiscent of what occurred recently in Europe. 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.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

Are You Chasing The Real Estate Market? by Sheila & Kurt Johnson How important is it that you price your home correctly in a buyer’s market? The above chart is evidence that the best offers come in the first weeks a property listing is active. It also shows the progressively declining percentage of Sales Price to Listing Price ratio in each successive week after a listing became active in 2010. Median home prices in the first quarter of this year were down an average of 13.8 percent as compared to the first quarter of 2010. Reducing your home’s price as prices adjust downward is called chasing the market.

Kurt and Sheila have bought, renovated, rented and sold 130+ homes for their own investment since 2000. More Towne Lake sales statistics can be found at www.KurtandSheila. com. (404) 954-2486.

With this much price fluctuation, you can probably see the importance in pricing your home to be competitive with what is on the market now versus what sold over the last few months. Furthermore, after listing your home, it is important to stay current on what homes are coming on the market and what homes are showing and selling. Ask your realtor to set up a neighborhood listing notifier that will e-mail you as homes come on and off the market. This tool can be very effective because it will also notify you of price reductions and final sales price information of homes in your neighborhood.

Provided By ChartMaster Services, LLC exclusively for Keller Williams Realty

Determining the right price for your home is more a science than an art form when properly analyzed using a detailed analytical approach that takes into account recent sold properties’ dollars per square foot, sold price to assessed value analysis and sales price to listed price ratios of comparable properties. True analysis of the market is critical to maximizing your property’s sales price and getting it sold in the least amount of time. Time on the market in a buyer’s market equals price reductions and declining interest by available buyers. 16

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

Charter Schools: To Be or Not to Be by State Senator Chip Rogers

Chip Rogers is the State Senator for District 21. You can call him at (404) 463-1378 or fax him at (404) 657-9887. You also can e-mail Chip at Chip@ SenatorChipRogers.com. Chip also serves on the AroundAbout — TowneLaker Community Board.

Better than 97 percent proficient in reading, 94 percent proficient in math, and a perfect 100 percent in writing. These are the most recent criterionreferenced competency test and Georgia 8th grade writing assessment scores for Ivy Preparatory Charter School located in Gwinnett County, a suburb of Atlanta. In a state where K-12 education results are not often highlighted, one would think such scores to be a cause for celebration. Think again. Until recently, Georgia law had only allowed a charter school to exist if the local school system authorized it. As you might suspect, such an approval mechanism has resulted in little more than the status quo. Those rare charter schools that have been created are often just an extension of the local system. Perhaps slightly better, but not the groundbreaking movement we

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

need in education. The approval system was so bad that in 2007, 28 charter school applications were submitted to local school systems throughout Georgia. Only two were approved. So in 2008, the legislature fixed the obvious problem by creating a state commission where charter applicants turned down by local school boards could potentially be granted a state charter. Ivy Prep was one of the first schools to receive a state charter. It has a 94 percent minority student population. Ivy Prep receives around 75 percent of the typical funding of its neighboring schools in Gwinnett County. Despite receiving considerably less money, the educational results of Ivy Prep students have been nothing short of spectacular. Less money, better results: it’s exactly what educational freedom advocates have claimed would happen if students are given more educational opportunities. Unfortunately, the fate of Ivy Prep and all other charter schools created by the state commission looks dim. Gwinnett County Schools, along with other public systems, filed suit in 2009 to stop state chartered schools. The legal claim was money; essentially, they didn’t want local tax dollars to follow the child if a

student moved from public school to public charter school even in the same county. This is a curious position, especially when one considers that the same taxpaying parents are paying the bills in each situation.

both state and local tax dollars. The Georgia Supreme Court ruling went much further, ruling that local school systems have “exclusive” authority in public education and that the state has no authority to create public schools.

As the legal case made its way through the Georgia courts, the

Surely these Justices have not so easily forgotten Georgia’s shameful past, where local school systems once created “white only” schools. Back then, it took state action to prevent ongoing educational apartheid in Georgia.

“

Surely these Justices have not so easily forgotten Georgia’s shameful past... primary issue ultimately shifted away from the funding issue to whether the state could create general “state chartered” schools at all. Yes, I realize the suggestion that the state, which creates all local systems, would be prohibited from creating “state chartered” schools appears to be a farce, but that is exactly what the Georgia Supreme Court ruled in a 4-3 decision overturning a state court judge ruling. The majority opinion was so ill-conceived that it rested on arguments even the plaintiffs weren’t willing to make. Recall that the original thrust of Gwinnett County Schools was that the state schools should not be allowed to fund a students’ education through the use of

If one follows the majority’s argument to its ultimate conclusion, the legislature, the state school board, and even the state school superintendent are essentially prohibited from all public policy in K-12 education. The majority Justices must also ignore the fact that local boards of education are not even mentioned in the Georgia Constitution until 1945. Sadly, the ideology that has hindered our state for generations continues. This time, it is thanks to the Georgia Supreme Court. It is important to note that some local systems, like Cherokee County, have done the right thing and reconsidered a Cherokee Charter School that was scheduled to open in August. Lawmakers, parents and students will continue the fight when the General Assembly returns to session in January. A constitutional amendment will be offered to correct the flawed court decision. In the meantime, let’s hope the children of Ivy Prep don’t get discouraged. We will eventually get education right in Georgia if we acknowledge this single most important principle of America – freedom. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Laura was ready for a change. She had been going to the same hair salon for more than five years, and she had become increasingly discontent. The drive was far, and when she would explain that she was looking to change her hairstyle, she felt her stylist wasn’t really listening, because she would end up with the same cut and same color. As she was driving down Towne Lake Parkway, she spotted The Wild Orchid Salon. She recalled that one of her friends was a client, and Laura had always admired her hairstyle and color. Laura decided to give The Wild Orchid Salon a try and walked in. From the minute Laura entered the salon, she knew this was going to be a unique experience. The Moroccan-style décor that included billowing fabric along the ceiling made her feel calm and relaxed. After being greeted and offered a beverage, she met with owner Liza Goodwin, who began to talk with Laura about what she wanted in a hairstyle. Liza learned that Laura was a busy mom of three, liked her hair left longer so she could put it up if needed, but wanted fullness and body when it was left down. She learned that Laura loved the look of highlights but not the maintenance or the cost. After learning all of these things and looking at a few photographs, Liza went to work. Liza left Laura’s length but gave her long layers for body and fullness. She used a highlighting technique called Balayage, best described as hand -painted highlights. Liza loves this color sweeping technique because it lasts longer than traditional foil highlights, and root touch ups look seamless. Many clients can go months before needing a new application, which is extremely cost effective. Laura loved the results and loved the way she was treated. She felt Liza really listened to her, and she got exactly what they had discussed. She was pampered every step of the way with a complementary paraffin wax hand treatment and relaxing scalp massage. Liza taught Laura how to style her new look so she could replicate it at home. Laura knew that as she left The Wild Orchid, she would be back. She had found her new salon. Photos courtesy of Deborah Fleishel

The Wild Orchid Salon is a full-service salon offering cut, color, hair texturing (straightening and perms), Keratin treatments, up-dos and waxing. In addition, on site esthetician Martha Hopson, skin care specialist offers custom skin care, waxing and make up application, all delivered in a calm spa-inspired room. She also sells Dermatological products. Liza sells her own brand of products as well as REF, a Swedish product that penetrates all the layers of the hair and skin for incredible results. “The most important thing to me is earning client trust,” said Liza. Booth rental is available at The Wild Orchid Salon, and during the month of July, clients can receive 20 percent off their visit when they book online. The Wild Orchid Salon 2340 Towne Lake Parkway (770) 924-4010 www.thewildorchidsalon.com (online appointments available)

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Hours: Tuesday – Friday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Feature

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

EVENT CALENDAR: July 10 Play for Tay

Time: 1 p.m. Location: Dupree Park, Woodstock Information: 1-Pitch tournament and home run derby to benefit 15-year-old Taylor Flannigan, currently in remission from leukemia. The cost will be $125/ team and $5 for the home run derby entry. Call Ladd Yeomans at (770) 6159503 for information or to RSVP.

July 12 and 14 Learn to Quit Smoking Through Hypnosis

Times: 4 – 5 p.m., July 12 7 – 8 p.m., July 14 Location: Georgia Hypnotherapy Associates LLC, 6478 Putnam Ford Drive Information: Free. Pre-registration required by calling (678) 938-7274 or e-mail georgiahypnotherapy@live.com. Everyone in attendance will be eligible to win a $50 gift certificate.

July July 17- 21 Singing and Drama Camp

Time: 6 – 7:30 p.m. Location: Sixes United Methodist Church, 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton Information: For ages 5 – high school. Details and registration at www. sixesumc.org or by calling (770) 3457644. Free.

July 18 – 22 Vacation Bible School

Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Location: Bascomb United Methodist Church, 2295 Bascomb Carmel Road Information: For ages 4 through 4th grade. Registration is $10/child. Visit www.bascombumc.org or www. bascombpreschool.org to download the registration form or visit the church.

July 13-27 Elm Street Players “Cinderella”

July 22 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra at Falany

Times: Wednesdays 10 a.m. Saturdays 3 p.m. Location: Woodstock City Auditorium, 8534 Main Street Information: All seats $9. For tickets, call (678) 494-4251 or visit www. elmstreetarts.org.

Time: 8 p.m. Location: Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska Information: Tickets range from $20 $45 and be purchased by calling the box office at (770) 720-9167 or visit www. reinhardt.edu/fpac.

July 23 American Red Cross Blood Drive

Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Location: Woodstock Christian Church, 7700 Highway 92 Information: Appointments can be made by calling (770) 926-8238 or Pam Prescott at (678) 403-1692 or visit www. redcrossblood.org/make-donation.

American Red Cross Blood Drive

Time: 7:30 a.m. Location: Atlantic Station Information: Proceeds will benefit local research regarding brain tumors. Join local Towne Lake team Team Lauren (O’Prey) by visiting support.sbtf.org/ goto/teamlauren or donate support.sbtf. org/goto/laurenoprey.

July 26 – 28 Cherokee County Choral Clinic

Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Location: Sixes United Methodist Church, 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton Information: For girls grades 6 – 12. Details and registration at www. sixesumc.org or by calling (770) 3457644. Free

Send Us Your Community Calendar Events • editor@townelaker.com• August deadline is July 10. 24

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Feature

of July

Events

The Fourth of July is a day chock full of events from parades, festivals and of course, fireworks. There are plenty of activities from which to choose, some that are close to home and others that require a short drive. We’ve compiled a list based on approximately how long it will take you to arrive to your destination from the Towne Lake area.

15 Minutes or Less

45 Minutes or Less

One Hour or Less

The City of Woodstock:

Centennial Olympic Park:

Stone Mountain:

Parade at 10 a.m. followed by activities in City Park from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Fireworks will be in the Kohl’s/Target parking lot at dusk (www.woodstockga. gov).

Activities start at noon with music starting at 5 p.m. Fireworks begin at dusk (www.centennialpark.com).

Park attractions open at 10 a.m. Be sure to arrive early to view Lasershow Spectacular and fireworks (www. stonemountainpark.com).

Lenox Square: Dixie Speedway (July 2): The Speedway will host full racing followed by fireworks (www. dixiespeedway.com).

Music and festivities start at 6 p.m. with fireworks at 9:30 (www.lenoxsquare. com).

Turner Field: 30 Minutes or Less The City of Woodstock: Parade starts at 10 a.m. starting at Roswell Street Baptist Church. Carnival games and concessions will be available starting at 10 a.m. Fireworks will begin at dusk (www.marietta.com/fourth-of-july).

Braves verses Colorado Rockies at 7:10 p.m. followed by post-game fireworks (www.atlanta.braves.mlb.com).

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

New Perspective by Cindy Morrow I met Chelsey Wilkes when one of my daughters referred me to her for a haircut. I was a little nervous; she is young and very trendy. She has an asymmetrical hairstyle: short on one side, long on the other. Could she channel a middle-age, lowmaintenance hairstyle for me? Turns out I didn’t need to worry. Cindy writes freelance from Woodstock where she has lived since 1990. She welcomes ideas for her column and can be reached at cindy. morrow@gmail.com. Her website is www. cindymorrow.net.

Chelsey is a Georgia native. She’s been married for three years and lives in Canton. When I asked her how long she and her husband dated, she laughed. “Not long,” she said. “We were committed to abstinence until marriage, so it was a short engagement!”

She is only 22 but has accomplished a lot in those years. After graduating from Vogue Beauty School with a Master Cosmetologist degree, she worked at Toni and Guy salon at Town Center for four years followed by working from her home. After a year cutting hair from her home, she opened Bloom Hair Design in Canton. Starting a new business is stressful when you are the picture of health, but Chelsea took on the challenges with a unique perspective. Soon after her daughter’s birth, she had an unforgettable experience. Chelsea has Lupus Anticoagulant Syndrome, a disorder of the immune system characterized by excessive blood clotting. On May 1, 2010, she hemorrhaged at

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

home, losing forty percent of her blood; she actually died before the EMTs arrived. “I remember I could no longer feel my arms and legs,” she said. “Everything went blurry and looked as if it were inside a fish bowl and I was so sleepy. I remember my husband Jason on the phone with 911 and slapping my face as he tried to keep me awake. I remember I wanted to tell him to remarry and find Linley another momma. Then everything went white.” “I was never officially pronounced dead, it all happened SO fast. But I knew as it was happening that it was death settling in. The ambulance actually went to the wrong house first so they were in a huge hurry when they got to me.” She remembers being in the ambulance. “I know that me still being alive today is the work of God.” Once at Northside Hospital-Cherokee, the doctors performed emergency surgery. Family and friends were very upset, crying and worried for her then, but also for her if she ever got pregnant again. One year later, though her blood counts are a little off, her body is mostly back to normal. Since this syndrome is connected to blood clotting issues, Chelsey knows she is at a higher risk if she ever becomes pregnant again. But the whole experience changed her perspective. “I learned life is too short to worry about silly little things, and to cherish every minute with those you love. And that we are all on earth for a purpose, and when you find that purpose it is really amazing.” Since her death-to-life event, Chelsey tries to embrace the unexpected and to, “Let go of the life you think you want, so the life you are supposed to live can take the reigns.” And now, you’ve met Chelsea.

P.O. Box 4998 3605 Marietta Hwy, Canton, GA 30114 770-345-0400 www.CherokeeChamber.com

Acru

400 Chambers Street Woodstock, GA 30188 770-517-1235 Financial Services

Play! Music and Art

6768 Hickory Flat Highway Suite 112 Canton, GA 30115 770-345-7529 Art & Music School

Automotive Enhancement 144 Bluffs Court Canton, GA 30114 678-794-3891 Automobile Body Shop

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

RECENT CONSUMER PRODUCT RECALLS AroundAbout — TowneLaker 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). American Girl Crafts Jewelry Kit EKSuccess Brands, a division of Wilton Brands Inc., of Woodbridge, IL, is voluntarily recalling about 75,000 American Girl Crafts Pearly Beads & Ribbon bracelets kits. The surface coating on some of the beads contains excessive levels of lead, which is prohibited under federal law. Musical Shaker Instrument Woodstock Percussion Inc., of Shokan, NY, is voluntarily recalling about 9,400 (in the U.S.) and 700 (in Canada) Gripper Shaker musical instruments. The handle can detach from the shaker, exposing a rough edge and posing a laceration hazard. The detached handle also exposes small steel pellets and a plastic plug which pose choking hazards. Notebook Computer Batteries Hewlett-Packard Company, of Palo Alto, CA, is voluntarily recalling about 162,600 additional Lithium-ion batteries used in HP and Compaq notebook computers (54,000 and 70,000 batteries were previously recalled in May 2010 and May 2009, respectively). The recalled lithium-ion batteries can overheat and rupture, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers. Bicycle Helmets Bell Sports, of Scotts Valley, CA, is voluntarily recalling about 31,100 (in the United States) and 2,500 (in Canada) full-face bicycle helmets. The plastic buckle that connects the chin straps can fail, causing the helmet to come off the wearer’s head. This poses a head injury hazard to riders in the event of a fall.

Counterfeit Smoke Alarms Distributed in Atlanta The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is urging consumers in the Atlanta area to check their homes for counterfeit smoke alarms. About 18,500 counterfeit photoelectric smoke alarms were distributed for free in the Atlanta area between 2006 through May 2011 as part of the Atlanta Smoke Alarm Program. The smoke alarms can fail to alert consumers in the event of a fire. Zooper Strollers Lan Enterprises, LLC, of Hillsboro, OR, is voluntarily recalling about 2,300 strollers. The opening between the armrest bar/snack tray and seat bottom of the stroller can allow an infant’s body to pass through and become entrapped at the neck, posing a strangulation hazard to young children when a child is not harnessed. Yard Power Products STIHL Inc., of Virginia Beach, VA, is voluntarily recalling about 2.3 million Gas powered STIHL trimmers, brushcutters, KombiMotors, hedge trimmers, edgers, clearing saws, pole pruners, and backpack blowers that utilize a toolless fuel cap. The level of ethanol and other fuel additives can distort the toolless fuel cap, allowing fuel to spill, posing a fire and burn hazard. GE Food Processors Walmart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, AK, is voluntarily recalling about 255,000 General Electric® food processors. The safety interlock system on the recalled food processor can fail; allowing operation without the lid secured which poses a laceration hazard. In addition, the product can emit smoke, or catch fire, posing a fire hazard.

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. 28

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Community

The TLBA welcomes our new officers for the 2010 — 2011 fiscal year. Congratulations to President Gloria Snyder, VP Membership Jon Lamonte, VP Programs D.D. Lee, Secretary Raymond Jackson and Treasurer Don Kyle. The topic of our June Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshop was “Your Client’s Perception EQUALS Your Increased Profits.” We want to thank our speaker, Rico Pena, CEO of Pena Global. Please take a look at our upcoming events.

Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshop Tuesday, July 20, 12:30 — 2 p.m. Ignite Your Success with a Brand that is Uniquely YOU!, presented by Mac Martirossian, CEO of MThree Advisory, LLC. Mac will discuss what it takes to differentiate your personal Brand in a crowded marketplace. All Workshops are held at Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills. Please RSVP to all events at (770) 615-3350.

Annual TLBA Golf Tournament Wednesday, September 14, 11:30 a.m. Shotgun Start at the Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. Thank you for supporting our community and local businesses, thus “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee.”

Visit us at www.tlba.org.

Towne Lake Business Association Member Spotlight:

Hardwood Services, Inc. Bruce Lindsay and Pat Wells, co-owners of Hardwood Services Inc., have been installing and finishing hardwood floors in Georgia with more than 15 years of experience. Hardwood Services Inc. is one of the few members in Georgia that is a member of the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA). This association represents all segments of the hardwood flooring industry, from manufacturers, to distributors, to retailers, to installers. Hardwood Services Inc. uses the NWFA guidelines for all install, sanding and refinishing of wood floors. Wood floors are the right choice if you are looking for a beautiful, long-lasting, durable, hypoallergenic floor which requires very little maintenance. The Environmental Protection Agency has said that indoor air quality is one of our top health threats. Installed in the home or elsewhere, wood floors help contribute to a healthy living environment because they do not trap or harbor dust

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

home. Ask your realtor. Wood floors sell!

mites or molds. Another concern for the home environment is the off-gassing of toxins that results from some synthetic materials. Hardwood floors will also increase the value of your

Hardwood Services Inc., with its affordable pricing, is also known for its quality and service after the sale and has a reputation that relies on your happiness; there is no standard warranty time. If any problems arise with your floor, they will be addressed to your satisfaction—no questions asked. Hardwood Services Inc. is fully insured and bonded with free estimates and references available upon request. To learn more about Hardwood Services Inc., please visit www.hardwoodservicesinc.com or call (770) 871-0322.

Squirrels: Feed Them or Defeat Them by Scott Lemmon Songbirds and squirrels have similar tastes in food, so it’s no surprise that they are a constant companions to backyard bird feeding. However, there are a variety of ways people can feed and enjoy the birds, even when there are squirrels around. People tend to react to squirrels in one of two ways. Either they see them as cute and entertaining, or they make keeping the critters out of their bird feeders a lifelong quest.

Fun Facts About Squirrels Adult Squirrels can consume about one and a half pounds of seeds and nuts each week, which is roughly the equivalent of their own body weight. Squirrels’ favorite natural foods are hickory nuts, pecans, black walnuts, and acorns. Their favorite feeder food is black oil sunflower seeds, their least favorite feeder food is Nyjer® (thistle) seed.

Squirrels can be accommodated by setting up a few feeders that are strictly for the birds and then having a separate feeder for the squirrels. These feeders can be filled with less expensive food such as peanuts or corn. This approach helps pull squirrels away from bird feeders and give them an area of their own.

Squirrels must drink water at least twice per day.

The simplest way to prevent squirrels from eating all the birds’ food is to offer safflower seed in your bird feeders. Many songbirds love to eat safflower, but squirrels typically do not. Squirrel-proof feeders are also very effective. Many of these feeders feature weight-sensitive feeding ports that close when heavier animals, like squirrels, try to get seed.

In an hour’s time, a squirrel can collect and bury 25 nuts. Unable to remember each nut’s location, they find them again by using a highly developed sense of smell.

If you already have a feeder that is not squirrel-proof, adding a baffle or dome can help keep them away. Baffles are mounted on a bird feeding station to prevent squirrels from climbing up the pole to reach the feeder. Domes, which are hung above feeders, are used when feeders are hung in an area close to an object from which squirrels can jump. Squirrels can jump up to about five feet vertically, and they can leap 8 to 10 feet between objects.

Squirrels will have a litter of three to four young around early January and again in early August. The average life expectancy of these youngsters in the wild is approximately one year, although some captive squirrels have lived up to 15 years.

A squirrel’s scalpel-sharp incisors grow about six inches per year. As with all the other members of the rodent family, squirrels must constantly gnaw on hard materials to keep them short and sharp.

The name “squirrel” originates from the Greek words for shade and tail.

The Gray Squirrel uses its tail as a shield when fighting, as a blanket in cold weather, and sometimes as an umbrella during rain storms. Scott Lemmon can be reached at (770) 928-3014 or e-mail him at wbuwoodstock@ comcast.net.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

A Bloody Interview by Mike Litrel, M.D.

Ann and Mike Litrel and their sons, Tyler and Joseph. Dr. Mike Litrel practices with his fellow OB/GYNs at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Canton and Woodstock. Dr. Litrel lives in Woodstock with his wife Ann and their two sons, Tyler and Joseph. E-mail Dr. Litrel at www. mikelitrelmd.com.

I was nervous about my first college interview. My mind was racing as I stared at my reflection in the hotel room mirror. If they figured out the truth, there was no way I’d be accepted: a lazy teenager trying to get by. A rejection letter would undoubtedly be in the mail before I even left the building.

I wished I was more than what I was. Why couldn’t I be one of those brilliant nerdy teenagers who liked learning just for learning’s sake? Certainly that person would be accepted by this reputed academic institution. Not someone like me, who preferred television and hanging out with his girlfriend to homework. What does one say to an admissions officer to suggest that an apparently ordinary 17-year-old boy is, in actuality, a great intellectual? I pondered this question as I shaved with my $.20 disposable Bic. How could I pull the wool over their eyes? Suddenly I had an inspiration. A year earlier my science teacher had assigned Gary Zukav’s The Dancing Wu Li Masters, a book describing the relationship between the physics of the atom and Eastern spirituality. It was sort of interesting - I guess - for an academic assignment, but I resented reading it on principle alone, as I did all schoolwork at the time. It came to me in a flash that I should somehow steer the interview deftly to the wonders of quantum physics, and then strongly imply that I routinely devoured complicated intellectual books just for leisure reading. Watch

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

any television? Absolutely not: such a wasteful activity would take too much time away from my pursuit of knowledge. Have a girlfriend? No, no, no! I’m too occupied with my deep intellectual thoughts. Ha! Those academic patsies would be eating out of my hand. But in the midst of all my conniving, disaster suddenly struck. I cut myself with the disposable Bic. Even though I had only been shaving for a year or so, I knew in an instant this was no ordinary cut. My eyes welled with tears and my nose began stinging fiercely. I stared at myself in the mirror. With horror I saw that I had just cut the tip off my right nostril. Forget about convincing strangers I was an intellectual - I just wanted to stop the bleeding. Moistened toilet paper didn’t work; it became blood soaked in an instant. Each time I took the washcloth off my nose, blood dripped down my face. This was a disaster. How could I impress anyone with my intellectual prowess if I couldn’t shave my face without cutting my nose? I lay on the bed holding pressure on my nose and cursed myself for my stupidity. I checked the mirror every 15 minutes to see if the bleeding had finally curtailed. After an hour it did, just enough so the toilet paper would stay on. As I got dressed for the interview, painstaking efforts were required to prevent blood from getting on my clothing. I showed up 15 minutes late. I was not an intellectual. I was not even a lazy teenager. I was just an embarrassed kid with a wad of blood-crusted toilet paper stuck on the end of his nose. My interview went as well as could be expected. My interviewer pointedly looked everywhere but at my nose. I don’t remember the questions he asked, but I do know what he didn’t ask: How did you cut your nose, Kiddo? I don’t remember any of my responses. Certainly I didn’t weave any

tall tales about my academic prowess or intellectual pursuits. My mind was too occupied wondering what to do if the toilet paper suddenly fell off.

Business Been Slow?

Six weeks later I received a letter from the University. I opened the envelope with trepidation. I was accepted - crusted toilet paper and all. No one was more surprised than me. This fall, my son Tyler will head off to his first college interviews. I wonder what advice I will give him. The social stuff matters, I guess - good eye contact, a firm handshake, a nice tie, and even hiding a yawn after a boring question. But I hope he already understands the real life lesson he needs to know… God grants each of us purpose that brings meaning to our life. Our task is not to pretend to be someone we are not, but rather to be, and become, the best person we can. When you live this way, you will never feel shame or embarrassment or the need to pretend you are someone you are not. And you will be happy. Oh, one last thing you really need to know – Pay attention to what you are doing when you have a razor blade in your hand.

Call

NOW to Advertise! 770-615-3322 Email: patty@townelaker.com Deadline is the 10th of the month for the next month’s issue.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Will Technology Replace Teachers and Schools? by Tim Grady Every year, in schools across every continent, teachers present subject matter to students. Classroom technology and course content have changed little in the last 150 years, until recently. However, the way children are learning is changing dramatically.

Tim Grady is a Towne Lake resident and senior strategist and business advisor at NetMark International Inc. for businesses and consumers. For more information, you can reach him at 888-605-6400 or tim@ netmarkadvisors.com.

In my opinion, children are more comfortable with an e-reader or a tablet PC than a book or pencil and paper. Textbook publishers are converting physical books to digital form. These are matchsticks about to light a forest fire. This is what I believe could happen over the next 20-50 years:

• Most teachers could become obsolete. How many teachers do you need to teach English, math, history, geography, or other basic subjects when a few teachers could record the entire year of content with canned Q&A, and stream it across the Internet? • The playing field will level. No longer will schools in impoverished areas have tragically outdated textbooks, or unqualified teachers stumbling through the subjects, and every student will have access to current information.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

• Schools will become more green. The use of paper, pencils, books and many other school supplies will be unnecessary when a student can read, write and submit their work digitally. • Schools may become obsolete. Physical content will be displaced by digital content. Home schooling may sweep the land, and new social outlets will need to form, although many will be digital, such as Skype and Facebook. Hands-on classes, like art, science and music, and team sports, may need a physical facility. In-home tutoring for children with learning differences may become a hot new business for displaced teachers.

“

...paper, pencils, books and many other school supplies will be unnecessary ... • There will be an economic shift across this country. The need for local, county, state and federal taxes to pay for school operations will plummet as the need for “live” teachers and brick-and-mortar schools falls. • All of the businesses that exist because their customers are continued on page 85

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Moms and Kids by Colin Morris We have lived in our house for 10 years. At the pool last week, I was noticing that the kids in my neighborhood are growing up. My oldest son was 2 when we moved into the house, and my daughter was 9 months old. Now, they are 12 and 10. I guess I Colin Morris with her children (left to should not be surprised right) Patrick, Micaela and Gabriel. that all the kids who were 7 and 8 years old when we moved in are now graduating high school. I should not be surprised, but somehow, I still am. They were so young. It seems like just yesterday. Time is flying by. All those phrases that I thought old people said, now, I am saying them! I even told my son as he finished sixth grade this year that he was halfway to graduation. How can that be? My own astonishment aside, here are some suggestions for processing graduation with your younger kids. My youngest cousin graduated this June. When we received his graduation announcement in the mail, my kids were very curious. Graduation announcements are rather odd with their formal double envelopes and fancy emblems and full names written in script. I enjoyed talking with my kids about the different elements

“

By now, graduation is looking extremely attractive to all my kids. of the announcement, and explaining that everything is very formal because high school graduation is an important life event. Of course, my kids were fascinated by the fact that our cousin is completely finished with high school. They could barely fathom that concept—particularly my first grader who only just started school. Next, we went out and bought my cousin a gift and a card. By now, graduation is looking extremely attractive to all my kids. Not only is high school finished, but people send you presents? That sounded better than Christmas to my kids! Naturally, I had to put in my two cents, that finishing high school is a time of celebration and a chance for us to express how proud we are of his accomplishments. I am not sure that my kids really understood that an iTunes card is not much compared to the hard work that a diploma represents. Finally, we had to do some talking in our house about college, and what life is like when people you love go to college. My cousin is not going to disappear from their lives, but it will be different. I am thankful that my cousin graduated. His success was a family effort, and we are proud of him! 36

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Everyday Angels receives many e-mails concerning community needs. We felt the following is an inspirational reminder to live for today. Today is a gift and tomorrow is merely a mystery. Dear Everyday Angels: I am writing to you as a concerned neighbor and friend. Carolyn has lived down the street from me for 15 years. She and her husband has successfully raised their kids, sent them all to college and was eager to begin the second part of their life enjoying one another and traveling. What was supposed to be her easy, relaxing years have turned into her most difficult. Several years ago, Carolyn’s husband was diagnosed with cancer. She put everything on hold – she quit her job, canceled her trips and plans they had saved for and continuously cared for her husband for over three years. They fought his battle together exhausting their nest egg for medical bills. They even sold things in order to take one last vacation together before his passing. She never asked for help or sympathy but instead courageously adjusted her life and met each circumstance head on. After her husband’s passing, with little time to adjust, she had to immediately find a job in order to keep her home and pay her bills. She then moved her aging mother in to live with her for companionship for both of them. However, shortly after she moved in, her mother suffered a severe stroke which left her in a wheelchair and unable to care for herself.

She is constantly taking her to all of her doctor’s appointments and making sure she is comfortable and happy. She recently shared with us her financial concerns and the emotional difficulty of these past years. The cost of gas, food and constant medical bills can certainly overwhelm you. I wanted to share her story with you but also would hope that we could raise some funds to provide her and her mom with financial relief during these times. Any amount of assistance would be a welcome encouragement for such a special person. I hope that whoever reads this is not only inspired but also reminded that we must live each day to the fullest today – not wait until the future to experience our dreams. Despite our best plans for our future – no matter how well prepared – can be interrupted in a moment – sometimes over and over again. It is my hope that Carolyn will one day go on those trips that she planned and enjoy the second part of her life. We are accepting gas and grocery cards for Carolyn. If you would like to donate, please send them to Everyday Angels, 2449 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock GA 30189. Everyday Angels has a new web page that will allow you to donate online through Paypal. Please visit www.everydayangels.info or send your donations to our new address: Everyday Angels, 2449 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Allatoona Pass after the battle

The Battle of Allatoona Pass, located in Bartow County, was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. The Battle of Allatoona Pass was fought on October 5, 1864, five weeks after the fall of Atlanta. CSA General John Hood wanted to recapture Nashville and ordered General Samuel French to march north from Big Shanty to Allatoona Pass and take the forts there. French was also ordered to fill the pass with debris and then march further north to burn the Etowah River Bridge. Union General Sherman learned of the movement and sent troops from Rome to aid those in Allatoona. French arrived at approximately 3 a.m. and a few hours later, what would come to be called a ‘needless effusion of blood’ began. French’s troops made four assaults on the forts and came very close to taking them. However, when French learned that Sherman was sending more reinforcements, he decided to withdraw. Of the 5,301 men engaged in the battle (2,025 Union and 3,276 Confederates), there were 1,603 casualties. To learn more about the Battle of Allatoona Pass, join us at our History Program on Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at the Rock Barn. The guest speaker will be Robert Jones, president of the Kennesaw Historical Society. Mr. Jones has written several books, including “Retracing the Route of Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign” and “Images of America: Kennesaw.” The program will be offered at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. The Rock Barn is located at 658 Marietta Highway, Canton. Refreshments will be served.

Cherokee County Historical Society (770) 345-3288 — www.rockbarn.org 38

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Up Those Grills by Shelley Herod Outdoor patios and decks can create a serene escape from rest of the world and are only a few steps away. An outdoor space is where you can go with a cup of coffee and newspaper in the morning to wake, fire up the grill for dinner with family and friends, or just share a summer beverage with a few neighbors. Shelley Herod, Designing Women, LLC (770) 235-5640

A few simple decorating tips can help you make your deck/patio an extension of your indoor living space. Use these pointers to create coziness and visual charm.

1. Choose a style or theme Regardless of your theme, the fundamental elements are a dining table and chairs with a few additional seats and side table. If your patio is too small to hold all of that, a couple of Adirondack chairs and side tables will complement the space. If you have a small area, your guest list may reflect the space, but you can accommodate more guests by placing a table surrounded by chairs in your yard. Decide on your theme; an outdoor living area is a wonderful place to use some of your favorite random items. Whatever your taste might be (examples: an outdoor BBQ, a beach theme, or a classic approach) design your own deckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own personality and spend the rest of the summer with friends and family enjoying your stylish new patio. 2. Create shade If your patio or deck is not currently covered, it is important to create a shady escape from some of the southern summer heat. An umbrella over a dining table or a gazebo will give you a place to escape from the summer sun. Another solution is plant shade trees that will grow large enough to add not only privacy but a natural canopy. I would advise you to check with your local landscaper as to what type of tree would grow most successfully in your space.

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

3. Paint a colorful picture

Saturate your deck with vivid plants and flowers. Use an assortment of pots, plant stands, flower boxes, and hanging baskets to create interest and dimension. Be creative and plant in something that coordinates to your theme/style; for example, use a large conch shell to plant in if beach is your approach. However, make sure to place your plants according to the amount of shade or sun that they require. 4. Layer from the ground up If a concrete patio is your preference, paint companies have formulated many stains and paints designed for concrete. Be creative and paint a brick, stone, or marble design on the floor. However, if painting is not your cup of tea, use an oversized outdoor rug.

5. Lighting and Lanterns When the sun goes down, it is necessary to have some type of lighting to make the area more relaxing and pleasing. Soft lighting is usually preferred; most people do not desire bright overpowering lights after dusk. If you are in a covered area put a dimmer switch on a ceiling fan light in order to control its brightness. Use festive, rope, or specialty shaped lights to add an interesting touch to your summer themed gathering. Suspend lanterns or illuminate them on various tables and corners for a glamorous affect. Solar powered outdoor lighting is another option if you are seeking a greener route. 6. Water and fire A serene fountain or an appealing chiminea is just the ticket in continued on page 82

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Wines for Grillin’ and Chillin’ by David Hecklemoser Grab your charcoal and your corkscrew…grilling season is here! A common question that I am asked: “What should I pair with BBQ and grilled foods?”

Wines for Ribs and Other Grilled Meats David Heckelmoser is a professional member of the Society of Wine Educators, Certified Specialist of Wine CSW, Atlanta Chapter Sommelier Les Marmition.

You need a wine with a bold-enough structure to stand up to various types of meats, and stronger wines to stand up to the powerful flavors of smoky foods. A great choice is a rich, fruity, red Zinfandel, which will work well with barbeque sauce, steak sauce and mild salsas. If there is too much spice in the sauce, the two will compete, and both the wine and the sauce end up tasting

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

flat. The smoky flavors from the grill allow the red Zinfandel’s black pepper spice, acidity and ripe tannins to work with the fats in the meats. Merlot is usually fruity and rich, sometimes with a little spice, and also is a good choice with ribs and other grilled meats. A Cabernet is a great choice for a steak or chop. Wine and food should compliment rather than dominate each other.

Wines for Grilled Veggies

If the vegetables are served solo, pair them with a dry but fruity rosé. The hint of red fruit will match the grill marks without overpowering the more delicate flavors of the veggies. If serving grilled vegetables as an accompaniment, match the wine to the meat, fish or poultry part of the meal. Here are a few other options that might fit your favorite wine. Chardonnay work wonderfully with grilled fish and chicken with creamy sauces, and grilled corn on the cob with lots of butter! Butter is the key here to match the Chardonnay. Riesling would be a great choice for grilled brats, shrimp, continued on page 84

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Local College Student Gets Taste of Entrepreneurship by Kara Kiefer As most students do in their senior year of high school, Michael Ehmann took his standardized tests in order to get accepted into college and scored impressively in the 99th percentile. Michael realized his score would get him accepted to Georgia Tech, the university of his choice. What he didn’t realize at the time was that it also would lead to an opportunity to open his own business. Michael, was contacted by Ivy Insiders, an SAT/ACT tutoring company, about opening a branch in Woodstock. “This was the perfect opportunity for me because it was a mix of the three things I enjoy: business, helping the community and tutoring.” Michael was responsible for securing a location and marketing his branch. “Starting my own business from the ground up has been hard work, but the entrepreneurship experience has been great.” Founded in 2003 by Harvard undergraduates, Ivy Insiders is revolutionizing the SAT-prep industry by sticking to one belief: the best way to beat standardized tests like the SAT and ACT is to learn from the very same students who scored in the 99th percentile on them just a few years ago. During the past eight years, Ivy Insiders programs have helped more than 10,000 students raise their SAT scores and an average of 254 points.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

“What most kids don’t realize is that doing well on the SAT and ACT isn’t about being smart, it’s about being adequately prepared,” Michael said. “Unfortunately, there can be a bit of an educational inequality because proper preparation often boils down to whether or not parents have hundreds to even thousands of dollars to put towards traditional test prep programs. This puts kids from less affluent families at a huge disadvantage.” In an effort to make the program available to every student, Michael has pledged to offer Ivy Insiders scholarships, so no one will be turned away due to an inability to pay. “That’s what makes Ivy Insiders different. Because I am a college undergraduate, I am not interested in making a gigantic profit like a large test prep company. I am primarily focused on gaining business experience and, most importantly, helping as many kids as possible conquer the SAT and ACT with an affordable, guaranteed program,” he said. Michael will offer both SAT and ACT group courses, private tutoring, free workshops, and free practice tests in the Woodstock area through the end of July. Interested students can e-mail Michael at michael_ehmann@ ivyinsiders.com or visit his website at www.revolutionprep. com/ivy/michael_e_1.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Bucket List by Kara Kiefer

Kara Kiefer is the Editor of AroundAbout — TowneLaker. She lives in Towne Lake with her husband Mike and sons Brandon and Garrett.

My “bucket list” is filled primarily with travel adventures as opposed to scary adventures, such as bungee jumping or sky diving. My husband and I will discuss adventures in the context of, “Would you do this? Would you do that?” While he said a definite no to spelunking (cave exploring), he said yes, without reservation, to skydiving. So, for Christmas, I decided it was time to put his money where his mouth is. I purchased a gift certificate for him to go skydiving at Skydive the Farm, in Rockmart, GA.

It took us two tries to actually make it happen. The first try was on his birthday in April. We woke up early and piled into the car for the two-hour drive, only to be told there was a wind delay for all dives. We

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

waited for several hours and finally decided to reschedule. The next attempt turned out to be perfect day sunny and calm winds. Judging by the number of tents pitched around the Farm, it was obvious many of the skydivers spend the weekend diving and socializing. Because we already had a trial run a month earlier, we knew to bring a cooler of food and drinks, which came in handy during our 3½-hour wait. Why so long? Each flight consists of certified solo skydivers and only a few tandem divers. And even though we had an appointment, it was first come first served. As it turned out, the wait put my husband more at ease as he heard fellow tandem divers describe the experience. When it was my husband’s turn, he boarded a bus, along with his tandem buddy Elvardo, and headed to the airport. Approximately continued on page 85

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lifestyle

Minature-sized Miracle by Lauri Wischner It’s only the size of a miniature-sized candy bar, but it’s a gadget I recently discovered helps thwart identity theft and, at the same time, boosts your mood almost as much as eating a whole Godiva chocolate bar in one sitting. Well, maybe not everyone’s mood will be lifted that much, but that was the result in our household. Here’s how it happened. Lauri Wischner left her sales career behind to be a stay-at-home wife and mother.

My husband is a stickler for doing everything under the sun to prevent identity theft, so each day when the mail came, we’d religiously rip our address information off all the catalogs, letters, junk mail, and etc. We’d place these little bits of paper in a not-so-neat stack on our kitchen counter. The stack of wayward paper pieces continued to pile up as we added more bits day by day. Then, every few weeks, one of us would take the stack up to the office and shred it. I know this is extremely counterintuitive to the “simplify your life” movement, since it involves too many steps and a lot of clutter, but, in the name of keeping our identity safe, we did it for years, even if

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

begrudgingly. This arrangement worked perfectly when we both shared the duty of hauling the address stack upstairs and shredding it. However, I suspiciously noticed that as time went on, it was me who was doing most of the “remembering” to take the stack upstairs. Over time, this became a huge pet peeve of mine. You know how this goes. A particular stack of things in your house grows and grows and goes completely untouched until the most uptight person in the house (in our house, that’s me) can’t stand it anymore. Then the uptight person ends up cleaning the mess even though he or she is steaming mad about it. So every few weeks, steaming mad, I continued to make the continued on page 85

Musings from Towne Sam Is a Girl by Robyn Hohensee

Robyn Hohensee is a fiction writer and poet who is a member of the Georgia writers Association. She has lived in Eagle Watch for the past 16 years with her husband Todd and two sons. You can contact her at Robyn561@Yahoo.com.

Sam has been by my side for 14 years. She came to me in a cardboard box from a co-worker who did not want her. The first time I saw her, I knew I wanted her. Her trustful green eyes looked up at me expectantly and I scooped her little body into my hands and held her to my cheek. I whispered to her, “You have a home now.”

I could feel her tiny heart pumping quickly. She was afraid and vulnerable. I gave her a kiss on her perfect head to calm her and promised I would take make everything alright. I put her back in the cardboard box where she stayed by the front desk until my shift was through. I couldn’t wait to get her home. My two sons Joal and Wesley decided upon seeing her that her name should be Sam. Never mind that everyone who meets Sam assumes “she” is a” he.” I have seriously thought of having a T-shirt made that says Sam is a Girl! to inform everyone of that fact. Her name does suit her though. She is somewhat of a tomboy and delights in running and playing rough. She is also a

lady with class and dignity, but if you make her mad, she will give you a verbal scolding like you have never heard. Throughout the years Sam has been a constant anchor in our crazy world. She is always there. She loves us unconditionally. She has shared in all of the monumental moments of our lives. She has seen us all at our worst and our best. She knows our secrets. She is loyal and would never leave us given the chance. For me personally she has been nothing but a gift from God. It has been an honor and a privilege to be given the chance to share our lives with her. Recently my youngest son followed his older brother in moving out to be on his own. I was standing in his empty room feeling sad and nostalgic. Where did all of the time go?, I asked myself. Visions of my boys as children flooded my mind and the longing for those days brought me to tears. I could see and hear them playing with Sam when they all were a lot younger. Those were such wonderful memories. Sam came into the room and gently rubbed against my leg. I believe she understood my feelings of loss as she loved both Joal and Wesley too. She had shared her life with them through all of the good, bad and ugly of the growing up years. Now it was just her and me standing in an empty room once occupied by a growing boy. I picked Sam up into my arms and said, “Well, I guess it is just us now.” I kissed my cat her on her perfect head and walked out of the room, shutting the door.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Feature

T owne Lake Family Dentistry

and

The Art of Cosmetic Dentistry

n 1987, Towne Lake’s development was in its infancy. The first neighborhoods were being constructed, and commercial businesses were only in the planning stages. The earliest residents had one grocery store, a handful of restaurants and one gas station to patronize. But they also had a dentist, Dr. Ray H. Morgan, Jr. Dr. Morgan established his dental practice on the south end of Towne Lake with the goal of providing dental care for the entire family in a warm, caring and patient-centered environment.

create a foundation for a lifetime of positive dental experiences,” said Annie Reeves, Practice Administrator. Towne Lake Family Dentistry is proud to provide generational dentistry. Dr. Morgan stated, “Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than seeing my patients grow, change and share their lives with our team. It touches me when I meet their new child and later it becomes their grandchild. I celebrate their happiness, success and have compassion for their challenges. Creating results and relationships that last makes it all worth it for me.”

More than 24 years later, Dr. Morgan is still in the same location and is still serving some of those first patients. His practice’s focus is on one thing — family oral health. He offers dental services that care for, protect, enhance and repair a myriad of dental concerns. In those 24 years, Dr. Morgan has added two additional dentists, Dr. Dennis Radcliffe and Dr. Adam Barefoot. Dr. Barefoot is the Dr. Adam J. Barefoot latest to join the practice and will celebrate his one-year anniversary in August. “Dr. Barefoot in the last year has shown us an intense desire to learn and grow with our practice. He recognizes that as a new dentist nothing compares to experience. My team and I appreciate his thorough, meticulous approach and concern for patient satisfaction,” said Dr. Morgan.

Dr. Barefoot explained how dentistry has become revolutionized over the past 30 years, which is especially important to those who have a fear of going to the dentist. “Patients visiting our office can be assured that our use of dental technology such as digital x-rays, digital impressions, lasers, diagnostic photography and clear treatment planning will help them comprehend their dental conditions. Comforts such as a warm environment, caring people, televisions and Nitrous make for an overall enjoyable experience. Our patients appreciate the mix of personalized attention and latest technology. It’s our goal to create a low stress environment.”

The practice offers dental treatment, delivered by an expert group of professionals who have been part of the team for many years. Services include general and cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, limited oral surgery and endodontics. Patients appreciate the convenience and simplification of having multiple services available under one roof. Towne Lake Family Dentistry serves all ages, including the very young. “We provide complete care for children age three or younger if a parent has a concern. It’s our goal to

Actual Patients

New Location

For several years, Dr. Morgan has entertained patient requests to have a second office in the Atlanta area, and has decided to make it happen. “We are excited to announce our second location, the Art of Cosmetic Dentistry in Atlanta will be opening early August 2011,” said Annie. “The new office is distinctly different than Towne Lake. It is modern, more intimate and Dr. Dennis L. Radcliffe almost futuristic in design. Just as at Towne Lake, every inch was inspired by Dr. Morgan, with special attention placed on the details. It has unique features to be appreciated by current and new patients alike. I am honored to be a part of this process.”

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

The new office is located in the Terminus building at the intersection of Piedmont Road and Peachtree Road in Buckhead. Terminus is a “Work, Live and Play” concept, and Dr. Morgan’s office fits in perfectly with the modern, city environment. “A new Atlanta location gives me the opportunity to challenge myself in a new arena. It allows me to reach patients outside our area and give patients that work in Atlanta a quality option for their dental care.” Dr. Morgan continued, “I want everyone to know that I will remain devoted to my loyal patients in Woodstock. I plan to practice in both locations equally. I am so appreciative of my patients allowing me to serve as your dentist for the last 24 years.” Dr. Morgan will be available to his patients two days per week at each location, and some of the same smiling staff members will serve patients at both locations. Kristi Wilson, Dr. Morgan’s dental assistant for more than 14 years stated, “I feel the Towne Lake patients and dental team are my family. We have shared so much happiness and success together. I am excited to join Dr. Morgan in Dr. Ray H. Morgan, Jr. the Atlanta office because I and Kristi Wilson, CDA feel we will raise the standard of cosmetic dental care while bringing a fresh, personable and humble approach to our relationships with patients. My goal is to connect with them in a very real way and as a result patients enjoy their dental experience more.”

Patient Incentives

Patients who choose Towne Lake Family Dentistry can expect a warm welcome by many familiar faces, consistent and gentle care, innovative technology and products as well as more innetwork options than ever. Michelle Noonan stated, “I have been a part of the team for three years and I am excited to take on a new role as the office manager. My goal is to make the experience of coming to the dental office as effortless and easy as possible. Our dental team is exceptional and unique because they truly care about every patient’s satisfaction.” New products include whitening services that take less time and less money. Another product, OraVerse, quickly lessens the

Woodstock location: Towne Lake Family Dentistry 120 N. Medical Parkway Suite 100 Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 591-7929

Atlanta location: Art of Cosmetic Dentistry Terminus Building 3333 Piedmont Road Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 816-8200

www.RayMorganDMD.com

effects of oral anesthesia, allowing patients to get back to their lives much quicker. The office is planning some very exciting new patient and existing patient rewards debuting in July. These will be the most competitive in the current market. “Opening a new office, I wanted to give patients more reasons than ever to newly visit and keep patronizing my Towne Lake office,” said Dr. Morgan. Towne Lake Family Dentistry continues to respond to families during these difficult economic times. The practice is now in-network with Aetna, Assurant and Delta Dental, and it offers cash discounts for patient portion even with insurance. “I appreciate our team’s support in me joining the Aetna, Assurant and Delta Dental Insurance networks. I believe this puts our patients needs within reach. We Actual patients want to provide patients the comprehensive care they need and deserve,” said Dr. Barefoot. The office encourages patients to take advantage of Complimentary Cosmetic, Orthodontic and Clear Correct Consultations. The doctors and team at Towne Lake Family Dentistry and Art of Cosmetic Dentistry are here to help you maintain your best accessory — your smile. And if you are not satisfied with your smile, this team of professionals can give you the smile you can truly be proud to show off. Call today for a free consultation!

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Health & Wellness

Ten Weird Mosquito Control Ideas by Rick Coughlin I recently read an article by Brie Dyas on DIYLife.com and it gave me a good idea for the subject of an article. The article highlighted some of the weirdest ways to get rid of mosquitoes and whether the methods worked. Since I get asked about some of these “remedies” quite frequently, I will list some of the myths regarding eradicating mosquitoes and whether it’s been proven to be true or simply a myth.

Rick Coughlin is the owner of The Mosquito Authority. If you have any mosquito related questions, e-mail Rick@ themosquitoauthority. com.

Weird Tip #1: Drink Lots of Beer Rumor. The rationale behind this gem isn’t to have a good time, but that the alcohol and yeast are not appealing to a mosquito. Actually, according to backpacker.com, the opposite is true. A mosquito actually prefers the blood of a beer-drinker over anyone else. You can try to trick them by leaving out open cans of beer around your yard, but it’s more likely that Uncle Kenny will just drink the buggy brews instead. Weird Tip #2:

Machine

Fire up a Bubble

True. Though I suspect that this tip was actually submitted by a five-year-old who desperately wants to improve his bubble output tenfold, mosquitoes are repelled by soap solutions. So it’s less about bubbles and more about the suds.

Weird Tip #3: Mix Up Some ‘Dew True-ish. Someone suggested mixing Mountain Dew and dish soap, then leaving the solution out in cups around the yard. Again, the mosquitoes were probably repelled by the soap rather than the soda. So save it for the refreshment stand and swap in water instead. Weird Tip #4: Wear Only White Rumor. According to DIYLife.com, the thinking is that bold and dark colors dark absorb heat, which raises your body temperature, turning you into a buffet for bugs. But if it’s hot out, you’re going to have a higher body temperature no matter what you wear. Weird Tip #5: Rub Chives on Your Pulse Points True. Mosquitoes hate the scent of chives. continued on page 82 52

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Five Tips To Choosing The Right Plastic Surgeon by Drs. Thaddeus Fabian, Michael McNeel, Keith Hanna and Keith West

Drs. Thaddeus Fabian, Michael McNeel, Keith Hanna and Keith West are all board-certified plastic surgeons with Marietta Plastic Surgery, with offices in Marietta and Woodstock. As members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, they are skilled in the latest techniques and procedures in the field of plastic surgery. For a private consultation, contact www. mariettaplasticsurgery.com.

Summer brings lots of free time. It is also a great time for many to schedule cosmetic surgery procedures. Choosing a reputable plastic surgeon, whether for a facelift or BotoxÂŽ injections, can be challenging and requires lots of research and comparison shopping. So how does a patient choose the best plastic surgeon among the many? Here are five critical points to help make that decision.

1. Make sure he or she is board certified in plastic surgery.

Any doctor can take courses and train themselves in cosmetic surgery procedures, but only a board-certified plastic surgeon has had at least six years of specialized training, ongoing education and re-certification tests in plastic surgery. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the only legitimate plastic surgery board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. There is no substitute for this mark of distinction. Make sure you know if your surgeon is perhaps an ENT or dermatologist who is calling himself a cosmetic or plastic surgeon.

2. Ask if he or she has hospital privileges at reputable area hospitals.

Reputable hospitals (WellStar, Northside, Piedmont, St. Josephs) will not grant privileges to surgeons unless they are adequately trained. In fact, surgeons have to prove that they have the continued on page 84

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

Health & Wellness

Early Detection of Breast Cancer Digital Mammography Currently, the best method to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages is a mammogram, a safe, low-dose X-ray of the breast, also known as digital mammography. Digital mammography involves the use of electronic images that give radiologists a better visibility of the breast tissue. The technology allows physicians to zoom in and view with unprecedented clarity specific areas of the breast that traditional mammography X-rays cannot offer. “To the patient, the mammography procedure will not change much,” said Brant Vincent, M.D., a radiologist with Quantum Radiology and member of the WellStar medical staff. “The X-ray and digital mammography machines are similar in construction and pictures of the breasts are still obtained in the same way.” Digital mammography still relies on the traditional mammogram positioning models; breasts are imaged in the same way. The difference with digital mammography is the detail in which physicians can study the breast tissue and that it requires no film development.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a relatively new addition to the approach to screening for, diagnosing and monitoring breast cancer. A breast MRI takes multiple pictures of a breast. Using a computer, these images are combined to create detailed pictures. MRI uses radio waves and a magnet to create detailed images of the inside of the body. The American Cancer Society recommends that women at high risk of breast cancer undergo yearly breast cancer screening with breast MRI in addition to mammography. These recommendations were prompted by several studies of MRI screening of women at high risk of breast cancer. While these studies found that the addition of MRI to mammography increased the frequency of false-positive test results compared to mammography alone, it also produced important improvements in breast cancer detection.

“

The American Cancer Society recommends that women at high risk of breast cancer undergo yearly breast cancer screening with breast MRI in addition to mammography.

“Digital mammography has been shown to be as accurate as

film mammography and, in fact, seems to be more accurate in dense breasts, which can sometimes mask tumors,” Dr. Vincent said.

Breast MRI should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, screening and diagnostic mammography and breast ultrasound.

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www.2GOCHECKING.com *Unlimited nationwide ATM fee refunds when qualifications are met. **Annual Percentage Yields (APY) disclosed are accurate as of 05/26/11. Minimum to open account is $100. Rate tiers are as follows: 1.00% reward-rate APY applies to all balances if qualifications are met. 0.05% base-rate APY applies to all balances if qualifications are not met. Rates may change after the account is opened. Fees may reduce earnings. No minimum balance required. No monthly service charge. Available to personal accounts only. Patent Pending, BancVue. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Health & Wellness

Mona Lisa’s Smile by Dr. Scott R. Harden

Volunteering as a chaperone for school functions through the years has always been a great way of sharing new experiences with my children and also getting to know their friends and teachers. Now in high school, the trips have advanced, and recently involved a phenomenal trip to Paris, France. Dr. Scott Harden is a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry and has served the Towne Lake area for more than 21 years. He is a Dental Advisor for two nationally renowned dental research companies. You can reach him at (770) 926-0000 or visit FountainViewSmiles. com.

Mona Lisa’s smile.

Getting off the bus, walking through the Louvre and standing face to face with the painting of Mona Lisa was an amazing moment in my life. I stared at this famous painting by Leonardo de Vinci, realizing it is one the most popular paintings in the world, and the center of many artistic, religious, and theoretical debates. The work of art depicts an mysterious woman gazing at the viewer; her eyes follow you as you move across the room. I asked myself, “What made this painting so famous”? Is it her facial expression, the direction of her eyes or perhaps her smile? My attention quickly focused on her smile;

Then came the revelation — Mona Lisa does not display any teeth. Would de Vinci paint Mona Lisa differently today and display her teeth based on today’s esthetics? Open any magazine today or look at the movie stars and what do you notice? Besides all those designer gowns and tuxes, all these stars seem to have been born with perfectly straight pearly white teeth. Great genetics, blessed with great teeth, you may think. Well, think again. With a visit to a competent cosmetic dentist, many of these stars could have received a smile to rival that of Mona Lisa. The only difference is they are definitely flashing their teeth for the paparazzi.

to toe? What a difference the dental restorations made to improve the looks of these candidates. Cosmetic dentistry is used for improving our self image, as well as for treating any number of dental maladies, from rotted and broken teeth to congenitally missing teeth, to large gaps and spaces in between teeth. Various techniques are used in cosmetic dentistry. After a consultation with your dentist, you will decide which one is right for you. Sometimes a combination of two or more techniques is used for optimal esthetic results. The simplest and easiest way to make a dazzling change in your smile is teeth whitening, which can be done in a dental office or at home using tray based bleaching products. Bleaching done in the dental office is the quickest and most effective way to whiter teeth. Some dentists will provide patients bleaching kits to take home for self-use. Usually these kits work faster than the ones bought over the counter because they contain stronger amounts of the whitening agent and the trays are custom fitted which helps to prevent gum irritation from excess whitener on the gums.

“

Your dentist may use porcelain veneers, the best treatment for chipped, weakened or discolored teeth. The veneers are very thin shells of porcelain that are actually bonded directly to your teeth with a very strong adhesive. There are several types of veneers available. Porcelain veneers will not discolor and can last 10 to 15 years. Some dentists opt for porcelain or ceramic crowns that are like the porcelain veneers but encase the entire tooth. Sometimes composite resins are used to gently reshape teeth and to strengthen a weakened tooth. This is called dental bonding. This composite is matched exactly to your tooth color, and can be done in a single visit, often without anesthesia. Composites

The simplest and easiest way to make a dazzling change in your smile is teeth whitening...

Cosmetic dentistry is following on the heels of cosmetic surgery. Remember the makeover show ABC’s Extreme Makeover, where they took a person for 30 days and did a complete makeover, and I mean COMPLETE - from head 56

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

continued on page 85

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Health & Wellness

Flip-flops — Fashionable Risk for Heel Pain by Dr. Steven Weiskopf

Dr. Steven Weiskopf is a board certified podiatrist specializing in treatment and surgery for the foot, ankle and lower leg. His office is located at 1190 Buckhead Crossing in Woodstock in the Townelake community. For more information, call (770) 928-9263 or go to www. villagepodiatrycenters. com.

Many of us are enjoying the hot days of summer by sporting flipflop sandals. However, their popularity among teens and adults is responsible for a growing surge in heel pain. I’m seeing more heel pain than ever, especially in patients 15 to 25 years old, a group that usually doesn’t have this problem. A major contributor is wearing flip-flops with paper-thin soles every day. Most flip-flops have no arch support and can accentuate any abnormal biomechanics in foot motion, which eventually brings pain and inflammation. For all ages, I recommend wearing sandals with reasonably strong soles and arch support. If you want to wear sandals most of the time, you’ll avoid heel pain if you choose sturdier styles.

It’s estimated that 15 percent of all adult foot complaints involve plantar fasciitis, the type of heel pain caused by chronic inflammation of the connective tissue 58

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

extending from the heel bone to the toes. Being overweight and wearing inappropriate footwear are common contributing factors. Plantar fasciitis pain is most noticeable after getting out of bed in the morning. It tends to decrease after a few minutes and return during the day as time spent on the feet increases. Not all heel pain, however, is caused by plantar fasciitis. It also can occur from inflammation of the Achilles tendon, bursitis, arthritis, gout, stress fractures, or irritation of one or more of the nerves in the region. Diagnosis by a podiatrist is needed to rule out other causes. Initial treatment options for plantar fasciitis should include anti-inflammatory medications, padding and strapping of the foot, and physical therapy. Patients should stretch their calf muscles regularly. Wearing flat shoes and walking barefoot should be avoided. Custom or over-the-counter arch supports and heel cushions are helpful for relief of heel pain and prevent recurrence. Most patients with plantar fasciitis will respond to non-surgical treatment within six weeks. However, surgery is sometimes necessary to relieve severe, persistent pain. Anyone who has suffered from recurring heel pain will certainly agree that it’s a pain you’ll want to avoid. Choose your shoes wisely.

How’s Your Hearing? Ask An Audiologist by Jan Henriques

Dr. Henriques is a Board Certified Audiologist and leads a team of Professionals at Progressive Audiology Center, Inc. She can be reached at (770) 5924744.

conversation.

Our senses are priceless. If you suffer from damage to your hearing, consider for a moment how much this is affecting you or those around you. It is your hearing that allowed you to learn to talk and to understand a language that your eyes could later learn to read. Your hearing tells you what is going on around you. It warns you of footsteps from behind. It tells you water is boiling over on the stove. When you don’t hear kids or grandkids, you realize they’re probably into something they shouldn’t be. Your hearing even works for you when you’re asleep. You hear the phone or the doorbell ringing from the other end of the house. You hear and understand the quiet whisper of a

According to Sergei Kochkin, Ph.D. of the Better Hearing Institute, there are more than 30 million Americans today with permanent hearing loss. Here are some general guidelines regarding the incidence of hearing loss: l 3 in 10 people over age 60 have hearing loss. l 1 in 6 baby boomers (ages 41-59), or 14.6 percent, have l a hearing problem. l 1 in 14 Generation Xers (ages 29-40), or 7.4 percent, l already have hearing loss. l At least 1.4 million children (18 or younger) have

hearing problems. It is estimated that 3 in 1,000 infants are born with l serious to profound hearing loss. l l

Of these 30 million, only 20 percent have sought help for their hearing problem. But is it their problem, or someone else’s? There are many reasons why a person might not seek help for their hearing impairment, including denial, embarrassment, lack

“

Blindness separates us from things, but deafness separates us from people. of information or the expense of a hearing aid. However, there are compelling reasons why one should seek treatment. A recent John Hopkins’s study and the National Institute on Aging found a strong correlation between hearing loss and dementia. It found that adults with hearing loss are much more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing. It also found that hearing loss increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. They state that this could be due in part to the social isolation that goes along with untreated hearing loss, or the fatigue that goes along with trying to understand and continued on page 82

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Health & Wellness

Is Your Child Protected? by Dr. Amy Hardin

Dr. Amy Hardin is a pediatrician at Northside Pediatrics in Towne Lake. She and her husband are raising two teenage daughters the best they possibly can through the trials and tribulations of middle school and high school.

Approximately 19 years ago, one of my dear family friends, Kristen, was coming home from the grocery store with her husband (who was driving) and their three-week-old son Steven. Steven was riding backward in his car seat in the back seat of their car. Steven started crying, so Kristen unhooked her seatbelt to see what was going on. Her husband was distracted by the crying and they had a horrible car crash. Kristen and her husband both died of their injuries. Their son was unharmed.

A seven-yearold boy in Idaho and his mom were on the way home from her doctor appointment. He was in the back seat with a seat belt on, but no booster seat. His mother fainted and drifted over the middle line of the road. Their car was hit head on. His mother’s airbag deployed, and she had minor cuts and scrapes. The boy broke his neck and is now a quadriplegic, living the rest of his life on a ventilator and in a wheelchair. His family now advocates for mandatory booster seats for children. I tell these stories because they are true, and they happened to normal people who, in a moment, had their lives irrevocably changed because they were improperly restrained. I don’t want you to become a statistic. While I’m driving around Towne Lake, Woodstock and Canton, I see little kids not using seatbelts, let alone car seats. I see them wandering around the back seat while their parents are driving. I told the mom of one patient about the time I saw her husband driving with the young child in the front seat. I’m sure they had a fun conversation that evening! Any time we see a patient who was in an accident, one of the first questions we ask is whether the child was properly restrained. If the child has bad bruises or other injuries, often they weren’t. 60

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Here are some helpful guidelines for restraining children. Infants should remain backward in car seats until the age of two, according to American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The newest studies report that even if children are “squished” in with their legs bent, they are much less likely to have a spinal cord injury riding backward. Several of the new car seats have been modified to help with this rule. You can find the latest “good” car seats on the AAP website at www.aap.org. If you visit www.carseatlady.com, you will find good videos that show how to make sure a car seat is properly in the car and baby properly secured in the car seat. Kids should be moved out of a car seat and into a booster seat at about 40lbs. Each of my two kids was riding in a booster seat up to fourth grade. The only other two kids who were in booster seats then also were doctor’s kids. The new law in Georgia requires children to remain in booster seats until age 8, but it’s safer to wait until they are 4’9”. You can get a ticket if your child is not properly restrained. If your child is not in a booster seat and should be, think of the tragedy involving the boy from Idaho. Then get that booster seat out of the attic and put it in your car, or buy a new one. You can blame me and the police! “Sorry, Jack…Dr. Hardin is making me put you back in your booster seat because it’s safer and we don’t want to get a ticket!” I ask all our elementary school patients in for a checkup to tell me the age they are allowed to ride in the front seat. The correct answer is 12, not 8, not 5 with a booster seat, or not even 11 if it’s “just in the neighborhood.” One of our patients was riding in the front seat to the neighborhood pool at age 8. A teenager ran into their car, and his eyeball was severely burned by the airbag. Just in the neighborhood. Luckily it was an injury that healed, and not a broken neck, which is the injury sustained by many underage kids hit by a deployed airbag from riding in the front seat. Finally, be a good role model for your kids and teens. ALWAYS wear your seat belt! Also, make sure that you tell your kids to remind you to put yours on. My kids do because even I sometimes get distracted and forget. I always say, “Thanks!” when they remind me. It shows them that I also think this is important. We all know how quickly accidents happen. We want you to be the safest you possibly can be! Help me be proud of our community while seeing you drive around with your kids. Safe is the way to be.

Water is Essential! by Dr. Jared J. Lasseigne

For more information, contact Dr. Jared at Discover Chiropractic in Towne Lake (770) 516.9900

Did you know that the human body is estimated to be made up of 70 percent water? Tissues and organs are mostly made up of water. Your body needs water to regulate body temperature, remove waste, and protect the joints. The functions of water in the body are vital. Every cell in your body â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from head to toe - needs water. That is why it is so important to drink enough fluid. Consider for a moment that your brain consists of 90 percent water. If you do not supply enough water to your body, your brain will not function as well, and as a result you can have frequent headaches. So, if you feel fatigue or a headache coming on, it may be the sign of dehydration. So how much water should you drink in a day to avoid dehydration? A common daily recommendation is to

drink eight glasses of water a day. Some experts believe you can estimate the number of ounces of water intake that is needed daily by using your weight in pounds and dividing that number in half. That would give you the number of ounces you may want to drink each day. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, it is recommended that you drink at least 80 ounces of water per day. If you get bored with plain water, add a bit of lemon or lime for a touch of flavor. Common symptoms that can indicate a need for more water include:

Chronic pains in joints and muscles Lower back pain l Headaches l Constipation l Darkened urine l Dry skin l Thirst l Hunger l Fatigue l l

Dehydration can be caused by the use of diuretics, such as caffeine pills, some prescribed medications, and alcohol. A strong odor to your urine, along with a yellow or amber color, can also be a sign that you are not giving your body enough water. Remember, water consumption is essential to living a healthy lifestyle. Make a conscious effort to carry water with you at all times. AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

Schools & Sports

Summer CYLA Lacrosse Heats Up

Cherokee Raptors Dominate Tournament The Cherokee Raptors, a select level team for the Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association (CYLA), recently traveled to Birmingham to participate in the Dan Anderson Lacrosse Classic. The Raptors faced and won against local Alabama teams followed by teams from the Carolinas and Florida. The Raptors ultimately faced and won against the historically strong Walton program in the championship game.

Atlanta Crush Crowned Blast Champions The Atlanta Crush U13 recently competed in the Rocket City LAX Blast tournament. The team made it to the championship round and defeated its biggest rival, the BamaLax from Birmingham. The Atlanta Crush is a summer lacrosse travel program formed to showcase the growth and quality of the Cherokee County area lacrosse. Crush teams compete against other lacrosse organizations from Alabama, Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia and Maryland.

Inaugural Crush Team Wins Tournament This is the first season for the Atlanta Crush U11 team, but already, the team is making its mark. During the recent Summer Jam tournament, the Crush came out champions; the tournament was only the second time the team had competed in a tournament. Coach Robert Beaham said, “The bracket dictated that the boys play four games on Saturday, and three more games for playoffs on Sunday. The boys left ‘it’ all out on the field and we ended the tournament as the Champions!”

Congratulations to all the teams in the CYLA for their early summer successes! The Crush teams invite you to come out and cheer for them July 2 – 3 in the Spirit in the Stick Tournament. The tournament will be held at J.J. Biello fields off Arnold Mill Road and will host teams from several states and also will serve as a fundraiser for the Brain Injury Association of Georgia organization. For more information on the CYLA, visit www.cherokeelacrosse.uslaxteams.com. 62

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Together We Will Save More Lives Cherokee County Animal Shelter One of 50 in ASPCA $100K Challenge Thanks to more than 3000 local animal lovers who voted for the Cherokee County Animal Shelter, the local animal care facility won a spot in this year’s ASPCA $100K Challenge, competing for grants from ASPCA totaling $300,000, including a top prize of $100,000. THe 2011 ASPCA $100K Challenge is a nationwide competition for animal shelters and their communities aiming to get more animals adopted or returned to their owners than ever before. Taking place from August 1 to October 31, 2011, Cherokee County Animal Shelter will compete to find homes for more cats and dogs than they did during the same period in 2010. Competing against 49 other shelters, their goal is to save at least 300 more animals. The employees and volunteers of Cherokee County Animal Shelter are working hard to care for and promote the animals at the shelter. They are asking the community to open up their hearts and homes and join in their efforts because Together We Will Save More Lives! CCAS will host the following themes/events during the contest period Aug. 1 - Oct. 31, 2011: Dog Days of Summer Week Kitty Meow Luau Week Dr. Doolittle Days Lady & the Tramp Week Superstars Week Zumba Seniors Week & a Zumbathon Dog’s Just Wanna Have Fun Week Help US Help THEM Week It’s Raining Cats & Dogs Week Cats in Hats Week and a Halloween Week full of fun!

For more information visit us online at: www.cherokeega.com under “departments” and “animal shelter”

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Feature The 2011 Woodstock Junior-Senior Prom was held Saturday, May 21, at the Northside Cherokee Conference Center. The theme was “Come Sail Away” as the conference center was transformed into a cruise ship. Justin Tolliver and Katie Lehto were crowned Prom King and Queen.

Zach Mauldin, Kayla Mauldin, Allison Griffin, Nick Nani, Amanda Thompson, Sarah Dailey, James Tyson Lauren Dill, Kayla Maldin, Katie Shepherd, Rachel Mauldin

Lauren Dill

Skyler Kelley Photo credit It’s Your Day Photography

Prom Queen Katie Lehto and Prom King Justin Tolliver

Hunter Dean and Hannah Blalock

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Jacob Bruce and Mattie Dotson Prom Court: Taylor Vassey, Anthony Troche, Jonathan Amador, Kristen Sellers

Kristen Sellers and Sawyer Banet

Katie Burke and Tyler Moura

Morgan Aszman and Dan McNeil

James Tyson, Sarah Dailey, Nick Nani, Mandy Thompson, Zach Mauldin, Danielle Savage, TJ Byrd, Rachel Mauldin, Katie Shephard, Kala Mauldin, Lauren Dill, Allison Griffin, Charlie Lawton, Kimi Leonard, Tanner Southwick

Nick Nani and Amanda Thompson Thomas Snowden, Stephanie Long, K J Reid, Justin Granville, Debra Harmon

Jennifer Maimone Rachel Mauldin and Danielle Tuck

Meredith Bauer and Amanda Jernigan

Zach Minor, Zoe Yurchuck, Erika Staskevicius, John Barrows

Commencem en of Woodstock t exercises were held at Firs for all Chero kee County Sc t Baptist Church weekend of May 27-29. Co-Valedicto hools during the School were rians for Etow Kelly McCah ah H ill an was Kimberl ey Cramer. Fo d Sydney Perlotto. Salu igh tatorian r Woodstock Emily Ward an , the Valedic d torian was Croft and Em Co-Salutatorians were A imee ma Graf. Co ngratulation to the class o s f 2011!

Schools & Sports

Making a Difference by Joe Lemmo As a teacher I recognize the importance of setting a good example. My students watch everything I do, and listen to, well, most of what I say. What we say in casual conversations can be as important as the teaching moments.

Joseph Lemmo is a 7th grade English teacher at E.T. Booth Middle School. Follow his blog yourwordsmakea difference.blogspot. com to learn more about his thoughts on teaching, or you can email him at joseph. lemmo@cherokee.k12. ga.us to share ways you have witnessed people making a difference in the world.

The casual conversations often revolve around difficult choices they have to make nowadays. Though I enjoy these conversations tremendously, I often hear teachers complain, “We should not be expected to teach these kids values and manners!” My response would be: “You don’t have to teach them anything about values and manners; you simply need to live a life that models the values and manners you wish them to possess.”

my alumni hockey game to arrive. We weren’t sure if our coach would make the drive, but we definitely did all we could to encourage him. The book had been created after two years of work, and the only thing left to do was deliver it. I couldn’t wait to give it to my coach. I couldn’t wait to make a difference in his life. Even more than that, I couldn’t wait to share the experience with my students. The game was a lot of fun, but I kept thinking about giving the book to my coach. He got a hold of a microphone at the ice rink and basically provided commentary the entire game. It just made the whole experience that much sweeter. We had our coach back! After the game, I asked him to come to the locker room. I spoke for a moment, and then presented him with the book as well as a DVD that my buddy Jay made. He couldn’t believe we did this for him. He began looking through the pages and made little comments about everything he saw! His eyes were so big and wide, and I couldn’t help but get a bit emotional as I watched him. Of course, I could have claimed my eyes were watering from the nasty smell in the locker room!

There is one thing I work hard at, and that’s showing my students they can make a difference. They have We had a reception at a local shared their thoughts in this restaurant that evening, and our magazine, and hopefully have coach was surrounded the whole realized the power of their words. time with old friends. I glanced I had the opportunity to tell them over at him from time to time just to about the experience I went through see him laugh, but I wondered if this creating a book for my old hockey experience would begin to fade for him coach. The story goes like this: It was after he left. Several days later, Jay and I the summer of 2008. I was in New Jersey received the following text from our coach. celebrating my friend Jay’s wedding, and in walked my old hockey coach. He was considerably Left to right: Joe, Coach Sam “Just unbelievable! You have no idea how the overweight and very shaky. He didn’t look at all Kelly and Jay Schlow. two of you have touched me. I have fallen into like I remembered him. After some conversation, I a pit so far that words like hope and faith have learned he had been out of work for several years, been long forgotten. The two of you have always and was battling health issues. He appeared to be depressed, been there, and continue to reach right into that pit to grab and was clearly concerned about his future. We spent a great me and remind me how a coach is remembered. Jay, with deal of time talking the rest of the evening, and I enjoyed what you have seeing him smile as we reminisced about the old days when he reminded me coached me in college. As a matter of fact, he was definitely of many times happiest when we shared old hockey stories. over the years This experience inspired me to create a book for him – complete with pictures, newspaper articles, and letters. I wanted to give him something tangible as a constant reminder of good times we shared, and of what a great influence he was in our lives. Last summer I wrote an article that attempted to capture my experience creating this book. This article is meant to share the moment in which I delivered it. It was February of 2010, and I had been waiting anxiously for

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

about trying to stay positive, and with your perfectly timed calls to see how I was, especially over the last five years. And Joe,

continued on page 82

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Schools & Sports

SCHOOL NEWS Recent Grad Excited to Serve Country Travis Frocione, a recent graduate of Etowah High School, will enter the U.S. Army boot camp in August as a Private E3. Travis signed with the Army in June 2010 and during his senior year, completed a year’s worth of training and has earned two promotions. Travis will be stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri and will receive job training after boot camp. While in the Army, he will hold a Military Police position and plans on obtaining a degree in Psychology and pursuing a career in federal law enforcement. Travis is the son of Sheila and Ernie Frocione.

Booth Student Chosen as Junior Miss Lauren Debranski, a student at E.T. Booth Middle School, recently was chosen as Junior Miss Marietta and received a trophy for Most Photogenic in her age group. Lauren is a member of her school’s chorus and is active in the Elm Street Players, appearing in many performances. Lauren is the daughter of Andrea and Ron Debranski and was sponsored in the pageant by her grandparents.

Boston Celebrates Honor Roll Students Boston Elementary School recently honored its fourth-graders who made the Honor Roll with all As for the final quarter of the 2010-11 school year. Left to right: A.J. Anderson, Keeley Thayer, Jamila Otieno, Kristin Dyson, Arianna Medina, Keiran Black, Jared Smith and Kayla Stevens. Not pictured: Logan Droke. 70

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Etowah JROTC Receives Distinction Award The Etowah High School JROTC unit is one of 461 units nationwide to receive the 2010-11 Air Force Junior ROTC Distinguished Unit Award, which recognizes units that have performed above and beyond normal expectations, and distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school and community. Congratulations!

Students Honored at Scholars Banquet The Cherokee County School District and School Board recently honored the Class of 2011 Valedictorians and Salutatorians during the 11th annual Scholars Banquet, which featured speeches by the honorees and their favorite teachers, the presentation of gifts and a buffet dinner. The students and teachers were congratulated by the School Board and Superintendent Dr. Frank R. Petruzielo. Each student received a plaque, handcrafted commemorative mug, laptop computer and external hard drive. Each teacher received a plaque and $100 grant for classroom supplies. Etowah High School honored Co-Valedictorians Kelly McCahill and Sydney Perlotto, Salutatorian Kimberly Cramer and teachers Dr. Tina Wilkins, Rebecca Schwartz and Mary Shell. Woodstock High School honored Valedictorian Emily Ward, Co-Salutatorians Emma Graf and Aimee Croft and teachers Pati Olton, Kelly Burke and Dr. Debbie Kohler.

Woodstock DECA Students Attend International Conference Three Woodstock High School students, Ana Bravo, Emerald Alexis and Rani Tilva, recently attended the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) International Career Development Conference (ICDC). The students earned positions to attend the event through an earlier state DECA competition. “Taking part in ICDC was an amazing experience,” Ana said. “I met and competed against people from all over the world, and I got to expand my network with leaders within the DECA community. The knowledge gained and the memories made will stay with me forever.” Emerald attended the Senior

Management Academy, a two-day workshop that helps seniors transition to their next stage of life, whether it be business or college. Emerald said, “Going to ICDC gave me something truly priceless... confidence in both business and life.” To help prepare for a position as next year’s Vice President of Finance for the Club, Rani Left to right: Rani Tilva, Emerald Alexis and attended the Chapter Ana Bravo. Management Academy, also a two-day workshop that gives students the opportunity to learn officers’ skills for running an effective chapter. “Chapter Management Academy has given me a better understanding of the marketing strategies and various ideas to improve our chapter,” Rani said.

Carmel Students Participate in Science Olympiad Seventeen Carmel Elementary students recently participated in the state Science Olympiad held at Kennesaw State University. The team tied for 12th place out of 65 teams. Jacob Kish and Mason Schulze received a first place finish in Paper Rockets and Greg Carroll and Hannah Everest received third place in Grasp a Graph, which helped Carmel in its overall state position. Carmel was the highest placing team from Cherokee County. Front row (left to right): Sophia Loconto, Olivia Woodard, William Skeens, Wyatt Graham and Anna Spruell. Middle row: Mason Schulze, Jacob Kish, Kyle Pederson and Greg Carroll. Back row: Bethany Norman, Veronica Sanders, Katie Basford, Jody Erber, Hannah Everest, Abbie Parkes, Andrew Cunningham and Riley Cunningham.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Schools & Sports

SPORTS

from Etowah both received Honorable Mention. Etowah coach Bob Decan was named Coach of the Year and Vincent Delise was named Player of the Year.

Left to right: Vincent Delise, Marshall Brown, David Draghiceanu, Max Singleton, Jake Sebring, Craig Borne, Marshall Reeves and Josh Bertram.

Angels and Rockies Diamond Battle In Hobgood 8-year-old baseball, the Angels defeated the Rockies in the end of season championship game.

Twin Creeks Express Wins Invitational

Bascomb Runners Participate in Peachtree Junior The Bascomb Elementary School Running Club recently had 12 members participate in the 2011 Peachtree Jr. 3K race held at Piedmont Park in Atlanta.

The Twin Creeks Express recently won the 2011 Sandy Springs All Star Invitational, finishing with a 6-0 tournament showing. The team hit a total of nine homeruns (Abbie Granson 4, Sydney Osada 2, Emma Worley 1, Annie Ormsby 1 and Darla Berry 1). Front row (left to right): Sarah Squillace, Emma Brown, Carley Taylor, Hailey Schultz, Lizzie Williams amd Darla Berry. Middle row: Maggie Messerly, Abbie Granson, Maddie McCroskey, Sydney Osada, Emma Worley, Sammi Phipps, Madi Cox and Annie Ormsby. Back row: Jimmy Messerly, Tim Phipps, Jay Worley and Kelly Granson

Left to right: Chandler Riggs, Harper Cox, Daniel Cox, Grayson Riggs, Brayden Morgan, Hailey Schultz, Beth Leak, Ryan Braggs, Trey Lewis, Emily Lewis and Coaches Lynn Choquette and Nettie Mosteller. Not pictured: Maggie Messerly.

Local Players Named to All County Team Congratulations to the 2011 Cherokee All County High School Tennis team: Vincent Delise, Jake Sebring and Marshall Reeves from Etowah, Josh Bertram and David Draghiceanu from Woodstock, Marshall Brown and Max Singleton from Cherokee and Craig Borne from Creekview. Will Coons and Jake Welsh 72

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

See page 13 for details.

Hobgood Cardinals Celebrate Championship Congratulations to the players and coaches of the Hobgood 7-year-old Cardinals, who won the championship in their division.

Left to right: Joshua Roberts, Matthew Elledge, Dylan Holcomb, Joshua Vidrine, Cooper Carney, Toby Thompson, Chase Wilson, Aidan Estabrooks, Max Eichenberger, Jacob Staton, Preston Gibbs and Karsen Embrey. Not pictured: Head coach Anthony Embry, assistant coaches Ron Wilson, John Echenberger, Jason Gibbs and Jet Thompson.

Etowah Junior Eagles League Champions The Etowah Junior Eagles fifth grade basketball team recently celebrated its league championship in the Cherokee County Youth Basketball of America league. Front row (left to right): Nick Nagy, Camden Cozart, Grayson True and Austin Hedgeman. Back row: Coach Larry Cohen, Akili Sheppherd, Andrew Stimpson, Maurtez Broadnax, Adrian Cohen, Caleb Greiner, Coach Kirk Nagy and Coach Sheb True.

AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | July 2011

Schools & Sports

Summer break is in full swing with a good four weeks left of vacation. But with an August 1 start date for all Cherokee County schools, walk through events will be held starting in late July.

Walk Through

EVENTS

Elementary Schools Bascomb

Boston

Carmel

July 28: 4th grade 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. 3rd grade 10 – 11 a.m. 2nd grade 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. July 29: Kindergarten 12 – 1 p.m. 1st grade 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.

Middle Schools July 28: 1st – 2nd grade 8 – 9:30 a.m. 3rd – 4th grade 9:30 – 11 a.m. Kindergarten 5 – 6:30 p.m. July 27: Kindergarten, 2nd and 4th grade 5 – 7 p.m. July 28: 1st, 3rd and 5th grade 5 – 7 p.m. July 29: 5th grade 8 – 9:30 a.m. 6th grade 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Oak Grove

July 28: 1st and 2nd grade 8 – 9 a.m. 3rd and 4th grade 9:30 – 11 a.m. Kindergarten 5 – 6 p.m.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

July 28 3 – 5 p.m.

Woodstock

Chapman Intermediate

E.T. Booth

July 29 3 – 5 p.m.

High Schools Etowah

July 28 1 – 3 p.m.

Woodstock

July 28 (Freshmen only) 9 – 11 a.m.

Passion and Perseverance Pay Off for Young Athlete points. Coaches from all over tell me how impressed they are with how well I have coached Josh. I cannot take all the credit because Josh sets up weekly match play and trains the way a

If you were to describe Josh Raab in just three words, those words would be passionate, dedicated and talented. Josh, a nine-year-old tennis player, recently was named the number one USTA seed in the 10U division for Georgia. Not only is this an amazing feat, but it’s even more amazing considering Josh has only been playing tennis for two years! Josh started working with four other boys at Eagle Watch in September 2009, when a 10U Academy was introduced by tennis pro Jason Fleeman. Jason recalled that from the beginning, Josh was extremely dedicated to tennis. In addition to the Academy and weekly lessons, Josh would play daily, for hours, with his mom Christy. Josh also took the initiative to contact members of the Etowah High School tennis team to play matches with him. Josh played his first USTA sanctioned 10U tournament in January 2011 and won, securing his first standing at #135 for 10U in Georgia. Then Josh set his sites at increasing his ranking. Even though Josh was playing baseball at the time, his passion for tennis only increased. Since January, Josh has played a tournament at each of the five tournament levels and has not lost a single set. His most accomplished win was the Georgia State Qualifier, which, according to Jason, is the strongest tournament of the year. Josh won the Qualifier for his age division, securing him the number one seed for the summer and possibly for 2011. Josh recently attended a tennis camp at Clemson after being awarded a scholarship to attend, and in early July, he will be attending the prestigious Bollettieri Tennis Camp in Florida. “I’ve been blessed to work with talented athletes, especially at Eagle Watch. However, it is truly remarkable how you can just watch Josh move quickly around the court and construct

Josh & Coach Jason after winning first USTA Sanctioned tournament in January 2011

Taylor Barie, Marshall Reeves, Jake Pollack & Josh at Clemson

Josh before winning Georgia Level 2 in Bainbridge, GA.

champion needs to. Josh is special, but when juniors train hard, they get results they train for,” said Jason.

Josh is the son of Christy and Mike Raab.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Schools & Sports

SCHOOL INFORMATION Public Schools Bascomb Elementary School 1335 Wyngate Parkway Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 592-1091 Principal: Ruth Flowers www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ bascomb-es Carmel Elementary School 2275 Bascomb-Carmel Road Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 926-1237 Principal: Keith Bryant www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ carmel-es Chapman Intermediate School 6500 Putnam Ford Road Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 926-6424 Principal: Dr. Pam Colvin www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ chapman-es E. T. Booth Middle School 6550 Putnam Ford Road Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 926-5707 Principal: Dawn Weinbaum www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ etbooth-ms Etowah High School 6565 Putnam Ford Road Woodstock, GA 30189, (770) 926-4411 Principal: Keith Ball www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ etowah-hs

Polaris Evening School 2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA. 30189, (770) 926-1662 Administrator: Bob Hahn www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/polaris Woodstock High School 2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 592-3500 Principal: William Sebring www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ woodstock-hs

Oak Grove Elementary School 6118 Woodstock Road Acworth, GA 30102 (770) 974-6682 Principal: Dr. Jennifer Scrivner www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/oakgrove-es 76

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Lyndon Academy 485 Toonigh Rd. Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 926-0166 Headmaster: Linda Murdock www.lyndonacademy.org

Woodstock Middle School 2000 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189, (770) 592-3516 Principal: Mark Smith www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/woodstock-ms

Private Schools American Heritage Academy 2126 Sixes Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 926-7779, www.ahacademy.com Principals: Maryann Radnovich (PreK & K) Sharon Day (1 — 12 grade) PTO President: Fran Chandler Cherokee Christian Academy and Cherokee Christian High School 3075 Trickum Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (678) 494-5464, www.cherokeechristian.org Principal: Hal Scripka Furtah Preparatory School 5496 Highway 92 Acworth, GA 30102 (678) 574-6488, www.furtahprep.org Headmaster: Fred Furtah

Kleven Boston Elementary School 105 Othello Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 924-6260 Principal: Les Conley www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/boston-es

Harvest Baptist School 3460 Kellogg Creek Road Acworth, GA 30102 Principal: Jamie Smithey (770) 974-9091 www.harvestbaptist.org

North Cobb Christian School 4500 Lakeview Drive Kennesaw, GA 30144 (770) 975-0252 Headmaster: Todd Clingman www.ncchristian.org Omega Learning Center 5330 Brookstone Drive, Suite 320 Acworth, GA 30101 (770) 792-7431 www.omegalearningcenter.com Shiloh Hills Christian School 260 Hawkins Store Road Kennesaw, GA 30144 (770) 926-7729 Administrator: John D. Ward www.shilohhills.com St. Joseph Catholic School 81 Lacy Street Marietta, GA 30060 (770) 428-3328 Principal: Pat Allen www.stjosephschool.org

Cherokee County School District 2011 — 2012 Calendar at a Glance

August 1

First Day of 2011-2012 School Year Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com Aspen: https://sis.cherokee.k12.ga.us/aspen/home.do School District Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

Athletic “Hot Bed” by Jason Fleeman

Jason is a USPTR professional, a USTA Georgia Tennis Professional of the Year and director of junior tennis programs at a local club. Jason can be reached at jasonfleeman@gmail. com.

I recently read “The Talent Code: Greatness Isn’t Born. It’s Grown. Here’s How” by Daniel Coyle. The author visits talent hot-beds around the world where exceptional athletes have been produced. I am not a book critic or interested in writing the Cliff Notes, but I wanted to share my thoughts on how I believe Cherokee County is a talent hot-bed.

In junior baseball alone, Cherokee County is thriving! In recent years, a lot of the schedule conflicts I have are working around schedules for other sports. Years ago, this really bothered me. I felt if a coach of another sport expected a child to attend every practice and be on time, I should be permitted to expect the same. At times, I presented ultimatums “tennis or … (insert sport here)” because I felt a child needed to follow a very strict path to success in tennis. Tip to coaches: This is a BAD idea! A majority of the time, the child chose the other sport and the ultimatum backfired. The children who did make the commitment to tennis either burned out or were recruited by other academies. Luckily, my passion for working with children took another, more positive, turn. I started encouraging children to play other sports. It can be very difficult on my schedule but I felt it was worth the risk. Recently, I realized I should look for the best athletes, rather than the best tennis player. Saints quarterback Drew Brees used to beat Andy Roddick in junior tournaments (www.protennisfan.com): “I remember the most annoying thing was that Drew played about twice a week,” Roddick said. “I was hard-core; I was playing every day, every weekend. I could never beat the guy.” So why do I think Cherokee County is a talent hot-bed for

tennis, as well as the other sports? ALL children are adaptive! A child can take a tennis lesson at 4:00, go to lacrosse practice at 5:30 and play a baseball game at 7:00 and hit, throw, catch, etc. the way they have been instructed without even a second thought. To my knowledge, none of the boys I teach go to baseball practice after a tennis lesson and hit topspin line drives, slice home runs, or volley bunts. Just because we as adults struggle to make the necessary adjustments to adapt in sports, does not mean our children do.

“

Just because we as adults struggle to make the necessary adjustments to adapt in sports, does not mean our children do. Recently, I was asked to do a group tennis lesson for a 10U baseball team. I could not resist the chance to try and teach 10-12 athletes who had never played tennis before (with the exception of 1 or 2). In just over an hour, I had the entire group playing tennis with relative success and having FUN in the process! It was not just my coaching; I credit the boys for adapting so quickly. One of the team members is now the #3 tennis player in Georgia in the 10U and hits doubles and triples on a weekly basis in his baseball games! As coaches (and parents), it is our job to “grow” the interest our young athletes have in sports. We need to think “outside the box” to find ways to expose children to what each sport has to offer and work positively together so that a child has a good experience. I would like to dedicate this article to one such great athlete. This athlete has seen success with every sport he has attempted and he is only 12 years old. A sports related injury turned his life upside down in early May, side-tracking his love for playing sports. Out of respect for him and his family, I will not mention his name, but I want him to know I truly admire his fighting spirit and pray for his speedy recovery. I know ALL of his coaches feel the same way.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Faith

Marriage Moments by Bill Ratliff

Bill Ratliff is the Senior Pastor at Towne Lake Community Church. He is also a member of the Around About — TowneLaker’s Community Board. He can be reached at (678) 445-8766.

Several months ago my mother was diagnosed with non-smokers lung cancer. This has created a rare condition that has shut down her body neurologically. Amazingly through faith, prayer, a humble doctor, and a fairly new medication, her body is slowly regaining strength, including the ability to speak. A month ago, she was able to speak about one sentence per day. Although it has not completely returned, her ability to talk has been coming back in a profound way.

On one occasion recently, she was in her special wheelchair, and we were on her back porch, talking. I brought up her wedding to my dad, and the fact that they experienced one of their worst arguments on their wedding night. Mom, with her dry sense of humor, said, “When you get married, they never tell you about all the thorns among the roses.” Those of us with her burst out laughing, aware of

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

the truth of her statement. If anyone had told you exactly how difficult it was going to be for you to commit yourself to another person for the rest of

“

...they never tell you about all the thorns among the roses. your life, would you have made that commitment? After 34 years of marriage and in the midst of one of the most trying times of my life, I would respond with “yes.” It most definitely has been worth it. My life with my wife has been rich and full and reminds me of something Jesus said in John 10:10; “I came that they might have life and have it more abundantly.” Date Your Mate: Take your mate to a movie and sit in the middle section of the very back. Kiss and hug like you did when you were teenagers. If people tell you to stop, show them your wedding rings.

How Did They Do That? by Dr. Doug Thrasher The 4th of July in upon us, the day of our celebration of our independence as a nation. Every year around this time, I find myself reflecting on the precious freedom that we enjoy in America. And we should celebrate and enjoy our freedom on this special day.

Dr. Doug Thrasher is the Senior Pastor at Hillside United Methodist Church. He is also a member of the AroundAbout — TowneLaker’s Community Board. You may contact him at dthrasher@ hillsideumc.org.

But, this year, I’ve been thinking, “How did they do it? How did the people of America win our independence and our freedom?”

I imagine plenty of people must have thought Americans were crazy. We declared independence and prepared to fight for it against the greatest military and naval power of that day. And, indeed, the war for independence did not go especially well for America. We lost a lot of battles and a lot of people. One source I read stated that one of every 20 men in America at that time was killed in the Revolutionary War. That is a

staggering statistic. In our present day, that would amount to more than 3 million casualties. On top of that, America was not totally united in its war for independence. During the time of the revolution, one out of every five people in America actually supported the British. Despite all this, America won the war. How did they do it? I’m sure that there are many reasons that I am unaware of, but let me tell you what I believe was a major reason America won. We won because we had an ideal and freedom that resonated to the very soul of the people of that day. And freedom was so huge in people’s lives and hearts that the Americans persevered in their pursuit of freedom. They lost many battles, but won the last battle because they persevered. We need to celebrate the freedom that was so important that many fought for and persevered and toughed it out, even in the darkest circumstances. And so, I want to invite you to celebrate. Hillside is holding a special worship service on the 3rd of July at the lake at 9 a.m. We will be at the YMCA Outdoor Camp located off of Bell’s Ferry Road and across from Little River Marina. You can come by car or you can come by boat. Just remember to bring a blanket or lawn chair. I don’t know exactly how they did it, but they won the war for independence. Let’s celebrate it! AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Faith

TOWNE LAKE AREA RELIGIOUS SERVICES Baptist

Jewish

Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, (770) 592-7007 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Sunday Morning Bible Study: 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Bob Goodner

Chabad Jewish Center 1635 Old Hwy 41 NW, Suite 112-265, Kennesaw (770) 771-9952, info@JewishwestCobb.com Introductory Service: 1st Shabbat of each month at 11 a.m. Traditional Service: 3rd Shabbat of each month at 10:30 a.m. Rabbi: Zalman Charytan www.JewishWestCobb.com

First Baptist Church of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, (770) 926-4428 Sunday Services: 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Pastor: Dr. Johnny M. Hunt www.fbcw.org Hillcrest Baptist Church 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth, (770) 917-9100 Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. Wednesday Services: Youth 6:30 p.m., Adults 7 p.m. Pastor: Paul Vance New Victoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 926-8448 Sunday Services: 10:50 a.m Sunday Bible Study: 9:45 a.m. Wednesday Awana/Youth: 6:30 – 8 p.m. Pastor: Monty Guice www.newvictoriabaptistchurch.org South Cherokee Baptist Church 7504 Highway 92, (770) 926-0422 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7 p.m. Pastor: Steven Lambert

Episcopal Christ Episcopal Church 1210 Wooten Lake Road, Kennesaw, (770) 422-9114 Sunday Services: 8 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School: 9:15 a.m. Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. praise music, 7 p.m. Eucharist Rector: Doris Graf Smith Christ the Redeemer Charismatic Episcopal Church 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton, (770) 479-1778 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Morning Prayer: Sunday at 8:30 a.m. Rector: Kurt Wheeler Christ the Redeemer Charismatic Episcopal Church 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton, (404) 395-5003 Saturday Service: 5:30 p.m. Priest: Stephen Hunter Episcopal Church of the Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta, (770) 928-7916 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Rector: Rev. Paul McCabe www.annunciationepiscopal.org Saint Clement’s Episcopal Church 2795 Ridge Road, Canton, (770) 345-6722 Sunday Eucharist Services: 8, 9 & 11 a.m. Christian Education: 10 a.m. Wednesday Eucharist Service: 6:30 p.m. Rector: James B. Stutler 80

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Tikvah l’ Chaim “Hope for Life” Messianic Jewish Fellowship 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock (678) 936-4125 or (678) 445-8766 Shabbat Services — Saturday’s 10 a.m. Rabbi Gary Maxted www.tlchaim.com (partnering with TLC Church, Woodstock, GA)

Sixes Presbyterian Church Meeting at our Fellowship Hall at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, (770) 485-1975 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Lucas Pina www.sixeschurch.org Woodstock Presbyterian Church 345 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 926-0074 Adult Sunday School: 10 a.m. Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Dr. Jake Marshall

Roman Catholic

Lutheran

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church 490 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 516-0009 Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Masses: 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m. & 12:45 & 5:30 p.m. Sunday Spanish Mass: 2:30 p.m. Pastor: Larry Niese www.stmichaelthearchangelwoodstock.catholicweb.com

Celebration of Grace Lutheran Church 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton (770) 503-5050 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Nursery available Sunday School: 9 a.m., Faith Formation: 9 a.m. Pastor: Virginia Krekling www.CelebrationofGrace.org

Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Rd. NE., Marietta, (770) 977-1442 Saturday Vigil Mass: 5 p.m. Sunday Masses: 8 & 10 a.m. & 12 noon Sunday Spanish Mass: 2 p.m. Pastor: Monsignor Patrick Bishop www.transfiguration.com

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 1208 Rose Creek Drive (770) 924-7286, sheeptalk-gslc@comcast.net Sunday Services: 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 & 11 a.m. Thursday Youth Activities: 6:30 p.m. Pastors: Paul Baumgartner & Justin Ask www.goodshepherdwoodstock.org

United Methodist

Timothy Lutheran Church (LC-MS) 556 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 928-2812 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. Pastor: Stephen Constien

CITY ON A HILL United Methodist Church 7745 Main Street, (678) 445-3480 Sunday Service: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. Pastor: Chris Bryant www.coahumc.org

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

Presbyterian

Bascomb United Methodist Church 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, (770) 926-9755 Contemporary Service: 9 a.m. Traditional Service: 11 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Millie Kim www.bascombumc.org

First United Methodist Church of Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, (770) 926-6440 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship: 11 a.m. Over 50s meet 1st Saturday each month at 11:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Claude Herbert Hillside United Methodist Church 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, (770) 924-4777 Traditional Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. Contemporary Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 & 11 a.m Pastor: Dr. Doug Thrasher www.hillsideumc.org

Cherokee Presbyterian Church, PCA 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton, (770) 704-9594 Sunday Services: 9 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Sunday School: 11 a.m. Pastor: Alan Lutz www.cherokee-pca.org

Liberty Hill Church at the Mill 141 Railroad Street (678) 493-8920 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. Nursery available Pastor: Jamey Prickett www.libertyhillumc.org

Heritage Presbyterian Church 5323 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 926-3558 Sunday Services: 9 & 11:10 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Sid Gunter www.heritagepres.com

Sixes United Methodist Church 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton, (770) 345-7644 Sunday Services: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. Pastor: Jim Buckman www.sixesumc.org

Other Churches Allen Temple, AME Church 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, (770) 926-6348 Prayer Time: Friday, 7:14 — 8:14 p.m. Sunday Services: 8 & 11 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:45 a.m. Pastor: Carl A. Moore, Sr. www.allentempleame.org Bells Ferry Church of God 6718 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 592-2956 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7 p.m. Pastor: Ted Wooldridge www.bellsferry.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth, (770) 917-4964 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7 p.m. Pastor: Steve Pettit www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe Church Meeting at Woodstock Middle/High School (770) 517-2977 Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m. Pastor: Mat Garcia www.bridgepointechurch.org

Church of the Messiah (Non-denominational) 415 Charles Cox Drive, Canton (770) 479-5280 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Fred L. Goodwin Cornerstone Community Church 503 Hickory Ridge Trail Suite 160 (678) 439-5108, dlkight@comcast.net Sunday Service: 11 a.m. Pastor David Kight www.ccchurchonline.org Covenant Christian Center 330 Adam Jenkins Memorial Blvd, Canton (770) 345-0307 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7 p.m. Pastor: Apostle Kito J. Johnson www.CityOfCovenant.org Dayspring Church 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock (770) 516-5733 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Tony Crawford www.dayspring-online.com

Celebration Church 340 Towne Lake Parkway, (678) 461-9626 Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m.

Faith Family Church 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth (770) 926-4560 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7 p.m. Pastor: Tommy White

Cherokee Seventh Day Adventist 101 Rope Mill Road (770) 591-7304 Saturday Worship: 11 a.m. Sabbath School: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7:30 p.m. Pastor: Jonathan Williamson

Freedom Church Meeting at North Cobb High School 3400 Old Highway 41 NW, Kennesaw (770) 529-6006 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.freedomchurch.tv Pastor: J.R. Lee

Christ the King Church of Greater Atlanta 6464 Highway 92 (770) 924-9161 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Larry Tomczak www.ctkatlanta.com

Jubilee Church (Newfrontiers) Meets at Kell High School 4770 Lee Waters Road, Marietta (678) 471-1930 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.jubileechurch.us

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, (770) 924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com

Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Rd., Acworth (Cherokee Corners) (404) 663-1828 Sunday School: 9 a.m. Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Donna T. Lucas

Church at North Gate 9876 Main Street, Suite 250 (behind NAPA) (678) 494-2193 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Program: 7:30 p.m. Pastor: Marc Lawson www.ngca.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Allatoona Ward, 2205 Bascomb Carmel Road Sunday School & Auxiliary Meetings: 12:30 p.m. Sacrament Meeting: 2:15 p.m. Bishop Phil Karski Canton Ward, 3459 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton Sunday School & Auxiliary Meetings: 10:20 a.m. Sacrament Meeting: 9 a.m. Bishop Scott Harman

Momentum Church 110 Londonderry Court Suite 130, Woodstock, on Hwy 92 — ½ mile east of Hwy 5 (678) 384-4919 Sunday Service Times: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. Pastor: Ross Wiseman www.MomentumChurch.tv Northern Hills Church of Christ 4563 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton, (404) 579-0885 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Ronny West www.northernhillsfamily.org

The Pointe Church Hasty Elementary, 205 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, (404) 557-9640 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Brian Jones www.myfriendschurch.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship Church 6409 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 928-2795 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Christian Living Class: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Youth Meeting: 6:30 p.m. Pastor: Larry H. Baker http://www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican Church 231 Arnold Mill Road (770) 591-0040 Holy Communion: Sunday 10 a.m. Christian Education (all ages): Sunday 9 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Greg Goebel www.resurrectionwoodstock.org Towne Lake Community Church (TLC Church) 132 North Medical Parkway (678) 445-8766 Contemporary Family Style Worship: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Messianic Jewish Fellowship (Tikvah l’Chaim): Saturday 10 a.m. The Walk — Adult Singles Worship: Saturday 6 p.m. Celebrate Recovery: Friday 6 p.m. Sr. Pastor William S. Ratliff www.tlcchurch.com Unity Christ Church 2871 Cherokee St., Kennesaw (770) 422-9552 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Terrence Padgett www.unitycc.com Woodstock Christian Church 7700 Highway 92 (770) 926-8238 Sunday School: 9 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Sunday Small Groups: 6 p.m. Wednesday Meal: 6 p.m.; Worship: 6:40 p.m.; Program: 7 p.m. Pastor: Lynn Eynon www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road (770) 926-8838 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Servico En Espanol Domingo: 10:30 a.m. Aprenda Ingles Gratis (Free ESL): Lunes 7 — 9 p.m. Ministro: Rafael Uzcategui, (770) 926-8271 Pastor: Bryan Collins www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 924-4499 Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Program: 7 p.m. Pastor: Greg Brown www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 8534 Main Street (770) 926-8990 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Greg Michael AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

How’s Your Hearing? continued from page 59

decipher what is being said in very noisy situations. Better hearing is a quality of life issue. Helen Keller is quoted as saying, “Blindness separates us from things, but deafness separates us from people.” A large part of how we communicate with others is with hearing. When that is impaired, then our relationships with others can be impaired as well. When a person has accepted the fact that he/she has a hearing deficit and is motivated to improve his or her ability to communicate, then moving forward with treatment can be successful. The immediate positive benefits of correcting a hearing loss are plentiful. You can enjoy your loved ones again, improve your interpersonal relationships, develop a more positive outlook on life, feel secure again and reward yourself with personal self-confidence. You will be surprised at what you have been missing! Do you or someone you love suffer from hearing loss? You might if you answer yes to the following questions: 1. Others complain that the TV is too loud 2. I often ask others to repeat themselves 3. People seem to mumble 4. I hear conversations but don’t always understand, especially in background noise 5. I have noises (ringing, buzzing) in my ears. If you answered YES to any of these you may have hearing loss. It is recommended that you see an audiologist for a hearing examination.

Making a Difference continued from page 68

with your thoughts about your faith, and about being inspired, you two have handed me a few torches to help light that dark well. Torches named hope and faith, at least faith in the two of you. Today I had to start back with blood treatments again, but it wasn’t just me going in for a session, the two of you came with me. You guys are my role models. You keep me from drowning!” Knowing this book had the impact it did on my coach, makes me quite happy. I look forward to more moments like these in the future. Thank you so much for taking the time to read about my experience. Be on the lookout for your opportunities to make a difference in someone’s life through the power of your words. It shouldn’t be difficult – they present themselves daily!

Fire up Those Grills continued from page 40

creating your backyard escape. Just like your fireplace inside the house, either of these will create a focal point to your outdoor living room. The sound of water generates a very spa type relaxing area. A fire pit or chiminea allows you to use your outdoor space longer into the fall. They also form a conversation setting and a fun place for the kids to roast marshmallows. 82

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

8. Barbeque is an essential Every deck, patio, or porch needs a barbeque grill. It is an addition that you will enjoy with your family and friends for years to come. Fire up those grills for the hamburgers and hotdogs; July 4th is only a few days away! Your patio or deck might not count as square footage; however, this outdoor living room will make your home feel larger and create numerous opportunities for entertaining. The secret to great outdoor entertaining is to design a impressive outdoor space; many homeowners do not think about enhancing the outdoors. With adequate seating and a stylish flare this outdoor room might become your family’s new most desired room in and out of the house.

Ten Weird Mosquito Control Ideas continued from page 52

Weird Tip #6: Eat

of Garlic

Plenty

True. Points to the reader who painted a terrible picture in my head by writing, “Eat garlic until it oozes out your pores.” Lovely. But if you happen to be eating a garlic-laden meal, mosquitoes will leave you alone. Weird Tip #7: Vacuum Them Up Real. Of course, if you have the reflexes and the eyesight to be able to vacuum a mosquito mid-air, then I suggest you try out for the next “Karate Kid” movie. Weird Tip #8: Try This App Real, but with reservations. There’s a few iPhone apps on the market designed to emit a noise that repels mosquitoes. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work on all varieties. And, it drives cats and dogs crazy. cats and dogs nuts. Weird Tip #9: Rub Yourself With Fabric Softener Sheets Real. It goes back to tips #2 and #3. Mosquitoes don’t like the taste or scent of soap. But use caution, since this idea sounds irritating to the skin. Weird Tip #10: Spritz with Mouthwash Rumor. A popular email forward from a few years back states that if you spritz yourself with a 10 to 1 mix of water to Listerine, you’ll will repel mosquitoes. While the menthol and eucalyptus doesn’t appeal to the critters, the dilution won’t be enough to make much of a difference. (And directly applying Listerine to skin will just dry you out.) The two easiest and most effective ways to repel mosquitoes is to either spray Deet directly to your body or to have a barrier spray applied to your yard, protecting everyone and everything that enters. If you have a weird mosquito control trick, I would like to hear about it. You can send it to me along with any questions you may have at rick@themosquitoauthority.com.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Wines for Grillin’ and Chillin’ continued from page 42

barbecue chicken, grilled pineapple and a variety of grilled veggies. Sauvignon Blanc with grilled chicken that has been doused in Italian dressing or a citrus marinade will be unbeatable. Likewise, roasted peppers, veggies in fresh herbs, grilled fish with dill and lemon would be right at home with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Pinot Noir is a flexible varietal that is known for being extremely food-friendly. A Pinot Noir can go with a variety ranging from grilled fish to a juicy burger. It is an ideal candidate for grilled fish – especially salmon. If you just aren’t sure if what wine will work with your grilled dinner, Pinot Noir will likely be your best bet. Until next time, cheers!

Choosing The Right Plastic Surgeon continued from page 53

proper training and experience to gain those privileges. Only top plastic surgeons are granted hospital privileges at major hospitals, so if your surgeon doesn’t have them, it is cause for concern — you may want to dig deeper.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

3. Check the number of years in practice and medical training received.

It’s crucial that your surgeon has experience in plastic surgery and the procedure you are considering. Research his educational background. Also, keep in mind that top-notch universities and residency programs produce extremely talented plastic surgeons, so even if they don’t have many years under their belts, they were trained by the best. Credentials matter.

4. See if disciplinary actions have been taken.

Do your own research as well. Look online, make phone calls. Unfortunately, there are stories of educated people choosing surgeons who aren’t reputable, but they didn’t know it because they only chose the doctor based on fancy ads. Online physician rating sites can be somewhat arbitrary, but if they have several negatives about a surgeon you are interested in, look further.

5. Make sure you are not rushed during your consultation.

Come with a list of questions and feel satisfied that they have been answered. Also, be wary of “free” consultations — highly skilled plastic surgeons often don’t give away their time for free. Make sure you feel comfortable with the staff and doctor. For even more helpful tips, visit www.mariettaplasticsurgery. com/content/news.

Mona Lisa’s Smile continued from page 56

generally last from seven to 10 years and do not discolor. Dentists designing “smile makeovers” are in demand for more than their technical skill in placing crowns, veneers and implants. Today’s sophisticated consumers want naturallooking teeth, and a dentist with good taste as well as good hands. Creating a new smile that is right for each patient means that you look at the person’s age, the shape of the face and lips, the color of the skin, even the body type. Creating a natural appearance means creating subtle variations that you see with natural teeth. The dentist can place one tooth at a slightly different angle, a slightly different plane, or create a slight overlap -- all of which creates an authentic look. Patients should look for dentists who are aware of these esthetic components. Ask your dentist for photos of smile makeovers that they have done to get a comfortable basis for what they can achieve and what they can do for you. Mona Lisa’s smile has become legendary in history. Consider the value of your smile and what it can do to improve your life

Now when the mail comes each day, I use the stamp to quickly camouflage our address on all pieces of incoming mail. Done. Voila! It takes all of two seconds. It makes me feel victorious against those obnoxious piles of itty-bitty paper pieces stacking up in my kitchen and has boosted my mood by 300 percent. Now if it only came gift wrapped with Godiva chocolate….

Technology Replace Teachers & Schools? continued from page 34

teachers or school districts will take an enormous hit. Desks, chairs, tables, blackboards, lights, lockers, buses, bricks, mortar, you name it, won’t be consumed by schools that no longer exist, or aren’t being built or expanded. There will be passionate discussions why teachers, classrooms and schools must survive. The argument for maintaining the system could run out of gas as the innovative digital presentation of subject matter expands and drains students from public institutions, and the potential to balance government budgets through educational change grows in appeal, potential and reality.

Bucket List continued from page 46

20 minutes later, we heard his plane and started searching the sky for the green and purple parachute and finally, there it was, floating down to earth. My husband loved every minute of it. He said when you are free-falling, which is for approximately one minute, it seems like you are suspended in the air- no sensation of falling whatsoever. He was in charge of pulling the parachute cord, but was so wrapped up in the moment, he forgot. Good thing he had Elvardo! We purchased a video of the dive, which I highly recommend.

www.thedailyvalue.com

to receive money-saving group coupon offers in your email inbox featuring only local businesses!

Now that he’s done it and had such an amazing experience, I have added skydiving to my bucket list. I purchased my gift certificate from LivingSocial.com, which saved me half off the regular price. Several of the group coupon sites offer similar deals on a fairly frequent basis, in case skydiving is on your bucket list.

Minature-sized Miracle continued from page 48

trek upstairs with those darn labels. This was irking me to no end until the magical day when The Container Store catalog appeared in my mailbox. It touted a self-inking stamp called ID Guard that, when pressed, places a series of illegible characters on the paper so your address can’t be seen underneath. I ordered one the next day and had it sent overnight (some things are worth the price of next-day shipping).

Don’t miss another great deal! AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Business Organizations ABWA-Women Empowered Through Synergy Meeting: 3rd Thursday at 8:30 a.m. Location: J Christopher’s in Downtown Woodstock Contact: abwasynergy@hotmail.com American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter Meeting: Third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Contact: Jacqueline Miller Van Hook, (678) 493-3618 Cherokee Area Business Connection Meeting: Every Wednesday at 7:15 a.m. Contact: Marci Zied, (770) 345-8687 Cherokee Financial Women International Contact: Mitzi Saxon, (770) 479-3400 Cherokee Toastmasters Meeting: Every Wednesday from 12 noon Location: Keller Williams Realty, 220 Heritage Pkwy Contact: Steve Monahan, (770) 712-4077 Website: www.CherokeeToastmasters.com No Fee Referral Network Woodstock Meeting: Every Thursday morning at 7:30am Location: Corner Bistro off Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: Stephanie Natarus, (770) 928-2700 stephanie@livinginsured.com Website: http://www.meetup.com/No-Fee Referral-Network-Woodstock/ North Georgia Referral Network Meeting: Every Tuesday morning at 7:30 a.m. Location: Zest and Zing, 6687 Bells Ferry Road Contact: Dr. Steve Green, (770) 427-2799 Together We Rise Meeting: Second & Fourth Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. Location: Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Pat Snipes, (404) 569-5280 Towne Lake Business Association Meeting: July 19, 12:30 p.m. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: (770) 615-3350 Website: www.tlba.org Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meeting: Every Friday at 7:15 — 8:45 a.m. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Marc Replogle, (770) 952-5000, X20 (404) 816-3377 Website: www.powercore.net Woodstock Business Networking Group Meeting: Thursdays at 7:45 a.m. Location: Atlanta Bread Company on Highway 92 Contact: Lee West, (770) 591-7101 Woodstock Community Business Association Meeting: Second Monday at 12 noon Location: Latimer Hall Contact: info@woodstockcba.com Women of Woodstock Meeting: First & third Wednesday. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Stephanie Natarus, (770) 928-2700 stephanie@livinginsured.com Website: www.womenofwoodstock.com

Charitable Organizations Ahimsa House help for victims of domestic violence who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 24-hour, (404) 452-6248, Info (404) 496-4038 Website: www.ahimsahouse.org Chance Afrika Contact: Eric Mwangi, Exec. Dir., ericm@chanceafrika. org, (770) 256 2280, www.chanceafrika.org 86

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Cherokee County Animal Shelter Auxiliary Contact: (770) 704-PAWS or ccasa4paws@yahoo.com Website: www.ccasauxiliary.org Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: (770) 928-5115, admin@cchumanesociety.org Website: www.cchumanesociety.org CCHS Thrift Store located at 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth, (770) 592-8072, accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for CCHS. Cherokee County Special Olympics Meeting: First Monday at 7 p.m. Location: CrossRoads Middle/High School Contact: Colleen Konwick, (770) 517-7101 Cherokee Child Advocacy Council, Inc. Anna Crawford Children’s Center and Parents HELP 319 Lamar Haley Pkwy., Canton, (770) 345-8100 Contact: Amy Economopolous, (770) 592-9779 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Companion Animal Connection Contact: (678) 493-9847 Website: www.cacadopt.petfinder.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. Contact: Candice Knight, (770) 795-9349 Website: www.feedmylambs.net Genesis Adoptions Contact: Lindsay Kirk, (770) 517-0043, Website: www.genesis-adoptions.org Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia. Contact: (770) 345-1879 Website: www.habitatncg.org Hope Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. Contact: (770) 924-0864, info@TheHopeCtr.com Website: www.hopectr.com Hospice Advantage needs volunteers. Contact: Shari Koch, (770) 218-1997 Website: www.hospiceadvantage.com iCOR helping orphans, seeks volunteers. Contact: Lily Colgate, (404) 992-8155 Website: www.iCORorphans.com Pet Buddies Food Pantry has pet food collection bin at AroundAbout — TowneLaker offices. Website: www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org MUST Ministries Contact: Kim Loesing, (770) 479-5397 Papa’s Pantry is a year-round local food ministry. Contact: Lynne Saunders, (770) 591-4730 Website: www.papaspantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County — Call for an appointment for free child safety seat inspections. Contact: Chad Arp, (678) 493-4343 Website: www.cherokeesafekids.org

Civic Organizations AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone 50 and older. Meeting: Second Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Rich, (770) 926-1944

Hickory Flat Optimist Club Meeting: First & third Tuesdays 12 noon Location: Family Tradition, Highway 140 Contact: Alan Flint, (770) 720- 9056 Junior Service League of Woodstock 24 hour information line: (770) 592-3535 Kiwanis Club of Woodstock Meeting: Every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: (678) 494-4841 Website: www.kiwanisofwoodstock.org Rotary Club of Woodstock Meeting: Every Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. Location: IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: Gary Floyd, (404) 506-6878, glfloyd@ southernco.com Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meeting: Every Thursday at 12 noon (lunch) Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Ivan Garcia (770) 926-0105 Sewrifics of Cherokee Meeting: Third Tuesday at 7 p.m. Location: Sixes United Methodist Church, Canton Contact: Sheri Torch, (770) 591-8335 Sons of the American Legion Meeting: Third Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Woodstock Community Church Contact: Charles Tucker, (678) 643-0794 South Cherokee Optimist Club Meeting: Every Friday at 7:30 a.m. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: (770) 926-3522 Towne Lake Optimist Club Meeting: Every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Terry Morrison, (770) 715-3375 Woodstock Jaycees Meeting: First Tuesday & third Thursday at 7 p.m. Location: 216 Rope Mill Road Contact: (770) 926-8336 Woodstock Lions Club Meeting: Second & fourth Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: New Victoria Baptist Church Contact: (770) 906-2958 Woodstock Masons Lodge #246 F. & A.M., Inc. Meeting: Second & fourth Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. Location: Corner of Air Acres Way & Arnold Mill Rd. Contact: (770) 993-3145 or (770) 926-0627 Woodstock Midday Optimist Club Meeting: Every Wednesday at 12 noon Location: Folks Contact: Johnny Young, (770) 345-6158 Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meeting: Second Tuesday at 7 p.m. Location: Woodstock Senior Center Contact: Andrew Yrabedra, (404) 663-4663

Political Organizations

American Legion & Auxiliary Meeting: Third Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Location: Woodstock Community Church Contact: Charles Tucker, (678) 643-0794

Cherokee County Democrat Party Meeting: Third Monday at 7 p.m. Location: The Holly Springs Train Depot Contact: Judy Hamilton, (770) 380-7071, jkmailbox@yahoo.com Website: www.cherokeedems.com

Beta Sigma, Kappa Chi Chapter Meeting: Third Thursday at 7 p.m. Contact: Maria Kuhn, vccibaker@aol.com or April Bolle, (678) 327-7233

Cherokee County Republican Party Meeting: First Saturday at 9 a.m. Breakfast served Location: Lodge at BridgeMill, 10451 Bells Ferry Rd. Contact: (678) 809-1411

Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meeting: Second Sunday at 4 p.m. Location: Woodstock Library, Main St. Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli (770)592-6545 Website: cherokeeteapartypatriots.org

Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization. Meeting: Third Sunday at 1 p.m. Location: Wildlife Action, 2075 Kellogg Creek Contact: WLA Office, (800) 753-2264

Republican Women of Cherokee County Meeting: Third Wednesday, Dinner at 6 p.m., Speaker at 7 p.m. Location: Cherokee Co. Conference Center, Canton Contact: (678) 520-2236 for reservations Website: www.rwccga.com

Adoption/Infertility Support Group Meeting: First Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: First Baptist Church of Woodstock Contact: Cindy Braddock, (678) 445-3131

Recreation & Hobbies Airstream Caravan Club Website: http://home.windstream.net/topofga/ Contact: Rob Kelly, (770) 516-7044 Allatoona Gold Panners Location: Creeks around Lake Allatoona Contact: Rob Kelly, (770) 516-7044 rrkelly@bellsouth.net

Support Organizations

Alzheimer/Dementia Support Group Meeting: First Thursday at 7 p.m. Location: Atria, 1000 Professional Way Contact: Atria Woodstock, (770) 926-0119 Autism Parent Support Group Meeting: Second Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Cherokee County Community Service Center, BridgeMill Fire Station, Canton Contact: Sharon Jones, (770) 345-6551

Arts Alliance of Georgia, Inc. Meeting: Second Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Location: Woodstock Art Center 205 Arnold Mill Rd. Contacts: Madeline Hall, (678) 754-8482 woodstockartcenter@comcast.net

Breast Cancer Support Group Meeting: First Thursday of each month Time: 10 a.m. — 12 noon Location: Northside Hospital — Cherokee, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center Contact: (404) 843-1880

Blue Skies Laughter Club Meeting: Every Wednesday 7 — 8 p.m. Location: Northside-Cherokee Medical Offices 100 Stoneforest Dr., 1st floor conf. room Contact: Craig Whitley (404) 520-0221 Website: www.addlaughter.com

Canadian Women’s Club Contact: Lesley Frappier, cwcatlanta@yahoo.com

Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meeting First Saturday at 10 a.m. Location: BridgeMill Community Center Contact: Jim Millsap, PIO, (770) 928-8590 Website: www.cherokee-ares.org/ccars Cherokee County Arts Center Meeting Fourth Friday at 10 a.m. Location: 94 North Street, Canton Contact: (770) 704-6244 Website: www.CherokeeArts.org

CASA for Children Inc. provides child advocacy to abused and neglected children through trained community volunteers. Contact: Deidre Hollands, (770) 345-3274 Website: www.casaforchildren.org Cherokee Autism Spectrum Support Group A support group for families with children on the autism spectrum. Contact: Heidi at hcf67@comcast.net or Renee at mrjperrelli@yahoo.com Cherokee County Family Child Care Association Contact: Brenda Bowen, (770) 926-8055

Cherokee County Saddle Club Meeting Third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Family Tradition, Hickory Flat Contact: Tamma Trump, (770) 655-0819 Website: www.cherokeesaddleclub.com

Cherokee County Foster & Adoptive Parents Assoc. Contact: Marie Blackwell, (770) 378-0759, mblackwell@fosteroradopt.org Website: www.fosteroradopt.org

Cherokee Fencing Club Meeting: Beginners, Wednesdays at 5 p.m.; Club, Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Location: Recreation Center, Main Street Contact: Andy McCann, (678) 494-9750 Website: www.cherokeefencingclub.com

C.H.O.O.S.E. of Woodstock Meeting: First Monday at 7 p.m. Contact: mailbox@chooseofwoodstockga.org

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association Contact: Dan Baldwin, 770-846-4843 Website: www.cherokeelacrosse.com Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Melanie Williams, (770) 345-2983 Website: www.cherokeemta.org Crossfit WOD Club Meeting: Daily for the “Work Out of the Day” Contact: www.crossfitgarage.com Les Marmitons is for men interested in culinary arts. Meeting: Third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Chattahoochee Tech Contact: Larry Lodisio, (770) 516-5197 Neighbors & Newcomers of Towne Lake Meeting: Third Tuesday Contact: Carolyn White, (770) 926-6756 Singles of Towne Lake 35+ holds monthly mixers. Contacts: Lisa, (770) 597-3430 LisaR789@bellsouth.net

Depression and Bipolar Support Group Meeting: Second Tuesday at 7 p.m. Location: 8534 Main Street, Woodstock Contact: (770) 560-7112, healthymoods@aol.com Website: www.Myspace.Com/healthymoods Emotions Anonymous Meeting: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Contacts: Cindy, (770) 928-6554; Sherry, (770) 926-1889 Fellowship of Companies for Christ International Meeting: Second & fourth Thursdays at 7 a.m. Location: Woodstock Family Restaurant Contact: Randall Hill, (770) 516-5887

Hearing Loss Resource Group Contacts: Cathy, (678) 483-9135 WoodstockSHHH-info@phydeaux.org JDRF Cherokee Pickens Family Support Group for families of children with Juvenile (type 1) diabetes. Meeting: Second Saturday Location: River Green Subdivision Facilities Contact: Tom, (770) 345-4864, Tom@brushwithart.com Jewish Havurah Contact: Marcia, (770) 345-8687 La Leche League of South Cherokee Meeting: First Tuesday at 10 a.m. Location: Bascomb United Methodist Church Contacts: Marguerite, (770) 926-2791 Megan, (770) 517-0191 Miracle Mothers is for women trying to conceive or adopt. Contact: Melissa, (770) 516-1078 Website: www.miraclemothers.org MOMS Club Towne Lake — 30189 Contacts: www.momsclubtownelake.com momscluboftownelake@gmail.com MOMS Club Woodstock — 30188 Contacts: momsclubwoodstockn@yahoo.com MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meeting: Second & Fourth Tues. a.m. or Wed. p.m. Location: First Baptist Church of Woodstock Contact: (770) 926-4428, www.fbcw.org Mothers & More Meeting: First & third Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Kroger at Towne Lake Contact: Michelle Wise, (770) 720-8834 Website: www.woodstockmm.com National Alliance for Mental Illness Family Support Group Meeting: Second & fourth Tuesdays, 7 — 8:30 p.m. Location: Hillside United Methodist Church Contact: Jill, (404) 394-1229 or Patrick, (678) 654-2091 Website: www.nami.org National Psoriasis Foundation Support Group Meeting: First Tuesday at 7 p.m. (call for directions) Contact: Scott Bell, (404) 218-6626 Website: http://support.psoriasis.org/woodstock NWAtlantaMommies.com Play dates, mom’s night out, and online support Meeting: Weekly Contact: Stephanie Peterson, (678) 653-1418 admin@nwatlantamommies.com Website: http://www.nwatlantamommies.com Overeaters Anonymous Meeting: Every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Location: H.O.W. Place, behind fire station on Bells Ferry Road at Old Bascomb Court Contact: Lois, (770) 592-6421 Spirit of Success Career Clothing Connection Provides professional business attire at no cost. Contact: (770) 956-0711.

Georgia Canines for Independence Meeting: First Monday at 6:30 p.m. Location: 6683 Bells Ferry Road, Suite H Contact: Ramona Nichols, (404) 735-3647

S.N.A.P. offers resources for children with special needs. Meeting: Second Monday from 10 — 11:30 a.m. Location: 100 Hickory Circle, Holly Springs Contact: (770) 720-4068

Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meeting: 2nd & 4th Tuesday at 7 p.m. (nursery available) Location: Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta Contact: Jeannie, (770) 919-9275

Tender Hearts Caregivers Support Group Meeting: Second & fourth Wednesday at 10 a.m. Location: Hillside United Methodist Church Contact: Robin Galloway, (770) 517-5899 AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Reference

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Emergency — 911 • AroundAbout — TowneLaker • (770) 516-7105 Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

(770) 345-0400

Parks and Recreation:

Animal Shelter Business Licenses Clean & Beautiful Commission Commissioners Courthouse Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) Extension Office Jury Phone Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) Planning & Zoning Senior Services Tax Assessors/Evaluation

(770) 345-7270 (770) 721-7810 (770) 517-7650 (678) 493-6000 (770) 479-1953 (678) 493-6077 (770) 479-0418 (770) 479-9011 (770) 479-1953 (678) 493-6101 (770) 345-5312 (678) 493-6120

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax Woodstock Office Voter Registration

(678) 493-6400 (770) 924-4099 (770) 479-0407

Cherokee County Government:

Taxes:

Children/Family:

Anna Crawford Children’s Center Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club Cherokee Family Violence Center Cherokee Focus Child Support Enforcement Department of Family & Children Services The Hope Center MUST Cherokee Ministries Papa’s Pantry

Driver’s Licenses (Tues — Sat)

(770) 345-8100 (770) 720-7712 (770) 479-1804 (770) 345-5483 (770) 720-3581 (770) 720-3610 (770) 924-0864 (770) 479-5397 (770) 591-4730 (678) 413-8400

Fire Department (District 1, Station 20)

(770) 926-7155

Georgia State Patrol

(770) 205-5400

Health Department

(770) 345-7371

Kennestone Hospital North Fulton Hospital Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:

Battered Women Hotline Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) Poison Control Center — Atlanta Outside Metro Atlanta Probate Court Information Line Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

Libraries:

Rose Creek R.T. Jones Woodstock

Non-Emergency 911

Pets:

Animal Control (678) 493-6200 CatSnip (low cost spay & neuter) www.atlantaanimalalliance.com Cherokee County Animal Shelter — Adoptions (770) 345-7270 Cherokee County Humane Society (770) 928-5115 www.cchumanesociety.org Emergency Veterinary Clinic (770) 924-3720 Lost Pet Hotline (770) 615-3333 Pet Buddies Food Pantry www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org SPARE (Sterilizing Pets And Reducing Euthanasia) (770) 928-5120 Second Chance Dog Rescue www.secondchancedogs.org

Post Office (Woodstock) www.usps.com

(800) 275-8777

Recycling Center

(770) 516-4195

Schools: see www.townelaker.com for complete listing Board of Education (770) 479-1871 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us Sheriff’s Department (678) 493-4200 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org Georgia Sex Offender Registry www.cherokeega-sheriff.org/offender/offender.htm Utilities:

Hospitals:

BridgeMill Athletic Club (770) 345-5500 Cherokee County Outdoor YMCA (770) 591-5820 Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency (770) 924-7768 www.crpa.net Cherokee Soccer Association (770) 704-0187 www.cherokeesoccer.com Eagle Watch Golf Club (770) 591-1000 Hobgood Park (770) 924-7865 North Atlanta Soccer Assoc. (770) 926-4175 www.nasa-ga.org SCRA Park (770) 926-5672 Towne Lake Hills Golf Club (770) 592-9969 Wildlife Action, Inc. (800) 753-2264

(770) 793-5000 (770) 751-2500 (770) 720-5100 (770) 479-1703 (770) 345-7920 (404) 616-9000 (800) 222-1222 (770) 704-2610 (404) 250-KIDS (770) 428-2666

www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org (770) 591-1491 (770) 479-3090 (770) 926-5859

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

(770) 479-3117

Atlanta Gas Light Co. (770) 907-4231 www.aglc.com A T & T (404) 780-2355 www.bellsouth.com Cherokee Water & Sewerage Authority (770) 479-1813 Comcast (770) 926-0334 Cobb EMC (770) 429-2100 www.cobbemc.com Georgia Power (888) 660-5890

Urgent Care Facility

Wellstar Urgent Care

Woodstock, City of:

(678) 494-2500

(in Towne Lake, only applies to Avonlea, Deer Run,

ParkView, Paces and certain annexed commercial parcels) . www.woodstockga.gov City Hall (770) 592-6000 Fire Department (770) 926-2302 Police Information (770) 592-6025

ELECTED & 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

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R)

Senate Russell Courtyard-2 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: http://chambliss.senate.gov e-mail: use contact form on website

Senator Johnny Isakson (R)

1 Overton Park, Suite 970 3625 Cumberland Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov

Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6

P.O. Box 425 Roswell, GA 30077 Website: http://tom.house.gov e-mail: use contact form on website

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

Commissioners: Buzz Ahrens (R), Chairperson

e-mail: lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Harry Johnston (R), Post 1 (202) 224-3521 fax: (202) 224-0103

e-mail: hjohnston@cherokeega.com

Jim Hubbard (R), Post 2

e-mail: jhubbard@cherokeega.com

Karen Bosch (R), Post 3 (202) 224-3643 GA: (770) 661-0999 fax: (770) 661-0768

e-mail: kbosch@cherokeega.com

Jason Nelms (R) Post 4

e-mail: cnelms2@gmail.com (202) 225-4501 GA: (770) 565-4990 fax: (770) 565-7570

Cherokee County School System

Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo

Rep. Rob Woodall (R), District 7

P.O. Box 769, 110 Academy St., Canton, GA 30114 Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us e-mail: drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

State Government:

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Roger Garrison (R)

Website: www.woodall.house.gov

Governor Nathan Deal (R)

(404) 652-7003 fax: (404) 652-7123

498 Chattin Drive Canton, GA 30115 Website: www.cherokeega-sheriff.org e-mail: rdgarrison@cherokeega.com

Senator Chip Rogers (R), District 21

(404) 463-1378 fax: (404) 657-9887

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner Sonya Little

State Capitol, Room 111 Atlanta, GA 30334 Website: www.gov.state.ga.us e-mail: chip@SenatorChipRogers.com

Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27

e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov

Rep. Charlice Byrd (R), District 20

e-mail: charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov

Rep. Sean Jerguson (R), District 22

e-mail: sean.jerguson@house.ga.gov

(678) 493-6001

(770) 887-1960 fax: (770) 205-0602 (404) 656-0126 fax: (404) 463-2793 (404) 656-0287

Cherokee County Courts:

100 North St., Canton, GA 30114 e-mail: slittle@cherokeega.com Woodstock Annex 8681 Highway 92, Woodstock, GA 30189

(770) 479-1871 fax: (770) 479-1236

(678) 493-4200 fax: (678) 493-4228

(678) 493-6400 fax: (678) 493-6420 (770) 924-4099 fax: (770) 924-9567

Board of Education: Robert Wofford (R), Post 1

(770) 704-4398, x4374

Mike Chapman (R), Post 2

(770) 704-4398, x4372

e-mail: robert.wofford@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Superior Court: Chief Judge Frank C. Mills, III Judge Jackson Harris Judge Ellen McElyea

(678) 493-6270 (678) 493-6260 (678) 493-6240

State Court: Chief Judge Clyde J. Gober, Jr. Judge W. Alan Jordan

(678) 493-6480 (678) 493-6490

e-mail: janet.read@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Magistrate Court: Judge James E. Drane III (R)

(678) 493-6431

e-mail: rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Probate Court: Judge Keith Wood (R)

(678) 493-6160

e-mail: rob.usher@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Juvenile Court: Judge John B. Sumner

(678) 493-6250

Kim Cochran (R), Post 7 (Vice-Chair) e-mail: kimgcochran@gmail.com

Clerk of Courts: Patty Baker

(678) 493-6511

City of Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

e-mail: mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Michael Geist (R), Post 3

(770) 928-3315

Janet Read (R), Post 4

(770) 516-1444

e-mail: michael.geist@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Rick Steiner (R), Post 5 (Chair)

(770) 704-4398, x4370

Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby

90 North Street, Suite 310Canton, GA 30114

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners 90 North Street, Suite 310 Canton, GA 30114 Website: www.cherokeega.com

Rob Usher (R), Post 6

e-mail: dhenriques@progressiveaudiology.com (404) 362-1600

(770) 592-7864

(770) 592-6017

Towne Lake Residential and Commercial Owners’ Association (Covenant enforcement issues — all Towne Lake common areas)

(678) 493-6000 fax: (678) 493-6013

Douglas Properties

117 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30188

(770) 926-3086

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Reference

classifieds Free to Good Home

Home Services, cont’d.

Pet sitting/Services

Penny Clean "One Woman Show." Residential, commercial, moving and deep cleans. Reasonable rates, 25 years experience. Licensed, bonded and insured. Free estimates. (678) 494-3602.

Pet Au’ Purr Professional Pet Sitting Services. Since 1998. Bonded and insured. Member of Pet Sitters International. Owner operated and Towne Lake resident. For more information, please visit www.petaupurr.com. (770) 3104814. =^..^=

(these ADS ARE FREE)

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.

Custom Home Decor Sewing. Window treatments, pillows, bedding, etc. Call Caron, (404) 372-1706, www.caroncreates.com.

Greg The Painter. Foyers, bathrooms, decks, exteriors. No crews to make a mess of your home. I do it all, start to finish, references. (678) 531-7500.

to receive money-saving group coupon offers in your email inbox featuring only local businesses!

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

Home Services Local High School Student Available for lawn care and pet sitting. References available. Responsible, dependable and reasonably priced. Call Garrett Kiefer at (404) 862-1756. Garage Door Distributor. Sales, installation. Prices start at $189. Horizon Steel Structures, (770) 874-4703. Bells Ferry Rd. $

w ww.t he d a ily v a lu e. co m

instruction/tutoring Reupholstery Classes. Summer quarter begins July 12th. Day/evening classes offered. Carolyn Mills, instructor. Phone, (770) 516-2562.

Looking For A Loving Home For Your Pet? You can place your Ad for FREE!

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City, State, Zip: Daytime Phone: AroundAbout TowneLaker 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.

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AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

If you’re a small business, did you know you could be spotlighted on the AroundAbout-TowneLaker website… for free? This is a great opportunity to introduce your business to the community. The only thing we ask of the business is to provide a give away. Readers become eligible for the give away when they leave a comment at the end of the story. If you’re interested, email editor@townelaker.com to check for availability or visit www.townelaker. com, click on “Community” and “Business Spotlight.”

Past Spotlights include: • Shurt Clips • O’Neill Landscaping and Supplies • Angela Calderon Photography • Doodlebug Boutique • Snowie Joes • Sunzyme • SeekingSitters

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www.twitter.com/townelaker AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Reference

Animals & Pets Animal Atlanta

Health & Beauty 47

Automotive Aspen Falls Auto Spa Christian Brothers Automotive My Mechanic Joe Towne Lake’s Car Wash & Detail Wood & Fullerton Goodyear

16 75 43 21 84

Azure Salon & Spa Endless Fitness Center Salon 317 Skin Essentials by Marilyn The Sundance Massage Center

Lawn & Landscaping Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation

The Lawn Squad

Cleaning & Home Services Carpet Dry Tech Georgia Hardwood Mom’s Helping Hand Mr. Junk

Medical & Dental 43 37 17 39

Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation

Dr. Jerry Smith Orthodontics

Park Pediatric Dentistry

Heating & Air Hammock’s Heating & Air

35 17 19 73 33

Restaurants & Eateries 83

Home Improvements

Bar-B-Cutie

Maxwell’s Cigar Bar

Monti’s Food Express

Tuscany

Casey’s Painting

Wow Cafe & Wingery

Garage Floor Coating of Atlanta

Zest & Zing

JDH Electric

Liberty Roofing

The Plumbing Doctor TLC Renovations

46 47

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Affordable Coupon Advertising that gets customers in your door! AroundAbout TowneLaker Advertisers who can benefit from coupons:

• Auto services

• Carpet cleaning

• Restaurants

• Hair salons

• HVAC

• Jewelers

• Clothing store

• Nail salons

• Pet sitting

• Retail

• Spa services

• Medical/Dental All advertisements in the Community Clipper must be a coupon offer(s) only. This page cannot be used for regular advertising.

Total Distribution: 15,400 Over 12,500 direct mailed to homes and businesses in the Towne Lake area.

To reserve your spot, call (770) 615-3322 or email patty@townelaker.com today! AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Reference

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic (770) 592-1877

Attorneys/Legal Services Kathleen McGillick, Attorney at Law Merino & Associates, LLC (770) 874-4600

33, Back Cover

Robertson Law (678) 313-0122

Woodstock Day School (770) 926-8838

Churches Bridgepointe Church www.bridgepointechurch.org

Computers Automotive Aspen Falls Auto Spa 6390 Bells Ferry Road (404) 626-9926

C&T Auto Service (770) 926-4276

Christian Brothers Automotive (770) 926-4500

My Mechanic Joe (770) 591-6640

Towne Lake’s Car Wash & Detail (770) 592-8102

Wood & Fullerton Goodyear (770) 928-5959

Banking/Financial Services Citadel Professional Services, LLC Inside Front (770) 952-6707 225 Town Park Drive, Suite 440, Kennesaw First Cherokee State Bank www.2gochecking.com

Cleaning Services Carpet Dry-Tech (678) 368-5991 Moms’ Helping Hand (770) 345-7134

43 17

Chiropractors Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation (770) 516-9900 www.discoverrehab.com 94

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011

Cherokee Computer Guys (678) 749-7200 www.ccrguys.com

Dentists/Orthodontists Dr. Jerry Smith, Orthodontist (678) 905-0300

Fountain View Dentistry (770) 926-0000 www.fountainviewsmiles.com 1816 Eagle Drive, Bldg. 200, Suite A

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock (770) 926-9260

61 48

Thad Baird & Tyler Baird, DMD (770) 517-0444 4595 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock

Williams Orthodontics (770) 592-5554

9 78

Health & Beauty Azure Salon & Spa (770) 345-8280

Salon 317 (678) 887-1393, (678) 710-5020

Salon & Spa Venessa (770) 591-2079

Skin Essentials by Marilyn (770) 928-1314

Sundance Massage Center, The (678) 591-5066

Home Improvement/Repair & Service

S. Bruce O’Neal, DDS (770) 924-8848

Towne Lake Family Dentistry & The Art of Cosmetic Dentistry (770) 591-3345 www.raymorganmd.com

Park View Montessori School (770) 926-0044

Cover, 50, 51

Education/Instruction/Counseling Access Education Towne Lake Driving School 39 (678) 494-2200 Educational Therapy Services (770) 579-1743

Goddard School, The (770) 516-0880

Advanced Stucco Repair Inc. (770) 592-1597

Bryan Plumbing Services (770) 826-5277

Casey’s Painting

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D.

Garage Floor Coating of Atlanta (678) 294-8266 www.garagefloorandmore.com

Georgia Hardwood (770) 374-5555

Hammocks Heating & Air (770) 794-0428

Handy Handyman, The (404) 316-1490

JDH Electric (770) 607-6900

Liberty Roofing (678) 797-5325

Mr. Junk

Nelson Painting & Home Improvements (678) 283-8171

Cat Clinic of Woodstock (770) 780-2800

Plumbing Doctor, The (770) 516-9000

Precision Painting (678) 234-9668

Cherokee County Animal Shelter 63 (770) 345-7270 www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA460.html 1015 Univeter Road, Canton

Roswell Woodstock Plumbing (770) 663-0600

South Cherokee Veterinary Hospital (770) 924-6746

Southern Roofing Solutions (770) 899-0003

Tile Masters (404) 368-3067

TLC Renovations (678) 524-6676

Wood Floors Are Us (678) 977-1327 Zachos Construction, Inc. (770) 365-7276

15 48

insurance Mountain Lakes Insurance (770) 926-9444 www.mountainlakesinsurance.com

Piedmont Financial Group /Scott Brandt (770) 551-3432

Towne Lake Insurance (678) 494-8038

Lawn Maintenance/Landscaping Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation (770) 827-0346

Lawn Squad, The (770) 591-4745

pest control Mosquito Authority, The (678) 294-7597

Physicians and Medical Services Cherokee Internal Medicine (678) 238-0301 John Lutz, PhD

Marietta Plastic Surgery (678) 494-2380 www.mariettaplasticsurgery.com

Northside Hospital – Cherokee (770) 720-5100 201 Hospital Road, Canton www.northside.com

Pet/Veterinarian Services & Supplies

Animal Atlanta (770) 591-0007

Animal Hospital at Towne Lake (770) 591-9500

Recreation and Fitness Endless Fitness Center (678) 402-6755

Etowah Eagles Basketball www.etowaheagles.com/basketball

Etowah Eagles Football www.etowaheaglesfootball.com

Steps Dance Center (770) 516-1363

Woodstock Wolverines www.woodstockwolverinesfootball.com

Restaurants/Food Services

Northside Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine 84 (770) 928-0016

Bar-B-Cutie (770) 924-9491

Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills (770) 926-6097

Monti’s Food Express (678) 809-4333

Tuscany (678) 453-0888

Plastic Surgery Center of the South (770) 421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net

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

TwoSome Place (770) 924-4124

Rausch Family Practice (678) 384-7305

Zest & Zing (770) 591-4000

Synergy Medical Center 3889 Cobb Parkway NW www.synergymedicalweightloss.com

WOW Cafe & Wingery (770) 926-9225

Towne Lake Eye Associates (770) 926-2858

Econo Rides (678) 218-7170

Georgia Patio (770) 751-5800 www.georgiapatio.com

Wellstar Medical Group (7700 592-3000

Keller Williams, Kurt & Sheila Johnson Back Cover (404) 954-2486 www.kurtandsheila.com Lake Nantahala (828) 321-3101 www.visitlakesend.com

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

Retailers & Miscellaneous Services

Real estate & related services

Reflection - Lake Nantahala Inside Back www.reflectionlakenantahala.com

Inside Front

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village (678) 494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org

Maxwell’s Cigar Bar (770) 627-2006

Picture Perfect Custom Framing (770) 924-3242

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w w w.town elaker.com Join the TowneLaker fan page www.facebook.com/ aroundabouttownelaker

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | July 2011