September 2011 Issue by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

Like Us on Facebook www.weightlosswoodstock.net

September 2011

Volume 17, Issue 5

Recent Product Recalls . . . . . 34

Vacation Photo Contest

Cherokee Co. Chamber. . . . . 28 TLBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Everyday Angels. . . . . . . . . . . 37

Check out the places that our readers took AroundAbout TowneLaker this summer.

You Can Make A Difference. . 74

50 & 51

Back To School

Clubs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

On the Cover

Catch a glimpse of the Towne Lake area’s first days of school.

Elected Officials. . . . . . . . . . . 89

Little Caesars Pizza, always Hot ‘N’ Ready with several locations to serve you.

A Tribute to a Local Veteran

Daniel Brna’s journey as a World War II Veteran.

School Information . . . . . . . . 76 Church Listings. . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Community Numbers . . . . . . 88 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Real Deals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Community Coupons. . . . . . . 93 Advertisers Directory. . . . . . . 94

Contributing Writers

Patty Ponder is the Market Director for AroundAbout — TowneLaker. She can be reached at (770) 615-3322 or patty@townelaker.com. 2

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Don Akridge..............................................15 Sharon Brewster.......................................77 Rick Coughlin............................................52 Jason Fleeman..........................................72 Karen Greisman .......................................60 Candi Hannigan........................................14 Dr. Scott R. Harden...................................56 David Hecklemoser...................................42 Mayor Donnie Henriques.........................18 Shelley Herod...........................................40 Robyn Hohensee......................................49 Sheila & Kurt Johnson...............................19 Kara Kiefer................................................46

Dr. Jared J. Lasseigner...............................58 Scott Lemmon..........................................67 Dr. Mike Litrel...........................................32 Dee Locklin...............................................75 Marietta Plastic Surgery...........................53 Abbie Parkes.............................................70 Bill Ratliff..................................................78 State Sen. Chip Rogers..............................20 Lynne Saunders........................................22 Dr. Doug Thrasher.....................................79 Dr. Sherry Weaver.....................................61 Laura Wischner.........................................48

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

Community

AROUND TOWNE 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.

People Places and Pleasures that make Towne Lake

The , The The

It’s been hard to turn on a newscast or open a newspaper without seeing some sort of grim economic report in the headlines. I, for one, am not going to look at my stocks anytime soon. However, look on this page — Towne Lake and downtown Woodstock are prospering! We have several new businesses that have opened and many more soon to open. For the month of September, AroundAbout— TowneLaker welcomed 14 new advertisers. To me, that sends a clear message that our small businesses are healthy and are gaining financial strength. This is a great sign! Keep supporting our local businesses and let’s help them keep the momentum going!

What’s Coming?

The Gifted Ferret will be opening at 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 400, next to Canine Chic. The store will specialize in gifts, wine and décor. Store owners are hoping to open in late September or early October. For more information, please visit www.thegiftedferret.com. Panera Bread will be opening a location in the former Blockbuster store on Eagle Drive. An inquiry to the corporate office regarding an opening date was not returned as of press time.

What’s New? The City of Woodstock recently installed an Electric Vehicle Charging Station in downtown Woodstock. Services are provided at no charge to the public. The station is located adjacent to the historic Woodstock Train Depot, which is the future home to Freight Kitchen and Tap at 251 East Main Street. For more information, please contact Brian Stockton, City Planner City of Woodstock at bstockton@ woodstockga.gov or (770) 592-6000, x 1601. 4

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza and Grill recently opened in downtown Woodstock at 120 Chambers Street. The restaurant menu will include small plates, a variety of entrees and, of course, pizza; they are open for lunch and dinner. The full menu as well as hours can be found at www.facebook.com/firestonepizza. Ipp’s Pastaria and Bar opened at 8496 Main Street in downtown Woodstock. A website is currently under construction but for more information, please call (770) 517-7305. Narra Maids recently changed its name to Rejoice Maids. Owner Gemma Beylouny founded Narra Maids in 2007; the business is a participating company in the charitable organization Cleaning for a Reason, which provides house cleaning for women suffering from cancer (www.cleaningforareason.org). For more information, please visit www.rejoicemaids.com. The Woodstock Hippie Shop recently opened at 1105 Parkside Lane, Suite 1324. The shop carries tie dye shirts, hemp shoes, clothing and jewelry. For more information, please visit www. woodstockhippieshop.com or call (770) 517-2620.

What’s Closed? We are sad to report the closing of Misty Mornings, which was located in the shopping center behind Longhorn Steakhouse on Towne Lake Parkway.

What’s Going on at Hobgood Park? Hobgood Park is currently undergoing a major renovation which will be completed in two phases. The renovation is funded by a park bond that was passed in November 2008. According to Michael Brantley, Parks Division Director with Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency, the first phase includes expanded parking and improved roadways, an upgrade and widening of the walking track, and erosion improvements. There will be three new pavilions added, relocation of landscaping and sewer lines, demolition of the amphitheater (to be replaced by additional parking), a new maintenance building, and additional bathrooms at the tennis courts. The second phase will include the demolition and new construction of the concession stand, restrooms and storage areas. There will be improved drainage on four of the baseball fields. The second phase is scheduled to begin in early September and completed by March 2012.

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AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Community

Community Board 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 area and served at Hillside for five years. He and his wife, Debbie, live in Eagle Watch, and they have two married children and three precious grandchildren. Doug can be reached at dthrasher@ hillsideumc.org.

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.

Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. 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 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 2,900 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. AroundAbout — TowneLaker 2449 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30189

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.

Website: www.townelaker.com Franchise Opportunities Available: www.AroundAboutLocalMedia.com

Volume 17, Issue 5 6

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Hillside Group Helps in Kentucky Kentucky Heartland Outreach, a ministry of Hillside United Methodist Church, recently traveled to Eubank, KY. Twentyseven youth and four adults replaced roofs and constructed decks and wheelchair ramps for people in need.

Local Girl Donates Locks to Charity Maya Thomas, eight years old, recently donated 11 inches of her hair to the charitable organization Locks of Love. Maya grew her hair out for a year and a half in preparation. She is in the third grade at Carmel Elementary School and is the daughter of Claudia and Robb Thomas.

Woodstock Church of Christ Welcomes New Minister Top: Kinsey Clubb Left: Zach Fabian

Cruisin’ for the Kids Fundraiser The Towne Lake Optimist Club is hosting the annual Cruisin’ for the Kids event on Lake Allatoona on Saturday, September 10. The event will benefit the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children. Local children with brain tumors will be treated to an afternoon of fun, food and entertainment aboard a spacious houseboat while enjoying a 2-3 hour cruise on the lake. There also will be a boat parade, open to the public, with the theme “Show Your Team Colors.” The entry fee for the parade will be $25. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well. For additional information, call Scott Adams at (770) 403-3661.

Woodstock Church of Christ is pleased to welcome its new pulpit minister, Matt Amos. Before to coming to Woodstock, Matt served as a gospel preacher at churches in Tennessee and Maryland. He also served for 11 years as president of the Knoxville Christian School, a K-12 private school. Matt and his wife Chris, a registered dietician, have three children: David (20), a sophomore studying law and playing football at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama; Bronwen (18), a freshman studying communications and drama at Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee; and Reagan (14), a high school freshman playing football and basketball. Woodstock Church of Christ, located at 219 Rope Mill Road, meets on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. for Bible Study, 10:30 a.m. for Worship Service and 6 p.m. for Evening Worship. For more information, call the church at (770) 9268838 or visit www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org. continued on page 10

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AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Donate Unwanted Books for Band Fundraiser The Etowah High School Band has partnered with Better World Books, an online bookseller that will donate a portion of their sales back to the band through its Green Bin program. Not only do the books find new homes and the band earns much needed cash, but any unsold book is donated to a library or is recycled, saving room in landfills. Donating is easy. A large green bin is located across the parking lot from Etowah High School on Putnam Ford Road. Drop off any number of books at any time of day. All types of books are accepted: paperbacks, hardcovers, fiction, nonfiction, textbooks, and more. In addition, consider purchasing books from Better World Books at www.betterworldbooks.com. The organization offers significant savings and every purchase supports a worthwhile cause.

Computer Repair for Cancer Fundraising In March 2010, 18-year-old Ross Pischke lost his battle with cancer. Recently, his dad Ken created Ross Pischke’s Cureforkids computer repair. Ken is using his computer repair knowledge to help cure childhood cancer. Ken will repair, upgrade, and clean your computer of viruses and other malicious software at a highly reduced rate. In turn, the money earned from each job will be donated to CURE Childhood Cancer. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — the perfect time to take advantage of this service! For more information, please contact Ken at (678) 5711458 or email him at kenmpischke@gmail.com.

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic Reaches Milestone Towne Lake Family Chiropractic recently treated its 10,000th patient, a milestone in its practice and in the community. Dr. Kirk Pusey established his practice in 1995 and was the first chiropractor in the Towne Lake area. Congratulations! 10

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

DEAR EDITOR:

As a local elected official, but more importantly as a parent and taxpayer in Cherokee County, I felt it necessary to clear the air on a few matters concerning the upcoming vote on the Education SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) renewal this November. I have read and heard people confuse this most important issue with other matters that voters will have a choice on during this and later elections. First, this ballot initiative is one that, quite frankly, the voters of Cherokee have already approved. But, because of downturns in the economy, fewer pennies were collected through Ed-SPLOST than had been projected. The project list is still the one voters have already said “yes” to, it’s just that we need to continue collecting the money to “finish what we started.” This, to me, is as simple as it gets. In 2000, I was part of the original Blue Ribbon Committee put together to determine how to cope with the massive job of providing proper schools, equipment and technology for our fast-growing population. At the time, most schools were beyond capacity and several were well over the “critically overcrowded” criteria. The Committee, made up of business, community and government leaders, unanimously voted to put a project list before the voters that was not just critical, but necessary if we were to improve the education of our students and keep up with the growth we faced. The Committee also knew, and supported, the renewal of this Ed-SPLOST for several voting cycles. The voters have already agreed three times to support an Ed-SPLOST since 1998. The school system now faces a critical juncture in this process. Not only have the majority of the projects been done, with more planned, but the incurred costs have to be met. The only reasonable way to do this is to continue on with the penny sales tax. To me, this is the best way to pay for these projects. Otherwise, the burden will shift to the property owner only, instead of being spread out to not just everyone in our County, but also even those that visit or drive through our County. Don’t let people confuse you on what’s right here. This is not about charter schools, and it’s not about tax increases. It’s about continuing the job we started in 2001 and doing what’s right for the children of Cherokee County. Vote “yes” on Nov. 8 for the Ed-SPLOST renewal. Donnie Henriques, Woodstock Chairman, Renewing the SPLOST for Cherokee’s Children

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

Community

Happy Birthday!

Mark Whitaker

The big 41 on September 16! Happy Birthday! Love, Dana, Taylor and Bryce

Faith Williamson

Paul Alejandro

Age 10 on June 7 Happy Birthday! We love you, Momma, Daddy, Annabelle, Keegan, Wyatt & Liam

Age 4 on September 1 Happy Birthday! We love you, Mama, Papi Eladio, Andrea and Kay.

Sadie Borgogna

Lucas Borgogna

Age 4 on Sept 4 Happy birthday!! Love, Mom, Dad, and big sister Deyanira

Jacob Champ

Age 3 on September 4 Son of Jacque and Jim Champ Brother of James, Jaxon, & Jason

Age 4 on Sept 4 Happy birthday!! Love, Mom, Dad, and big sister Deyanira

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

Mallory Kuykendall Age 2 on September 21 We love you! Mommy and Daddy

Luke Mason (right) Age 9 on September 22 Happy Birthday! We love you! Son of Brooke and Jason Church

David Williamson (left)

Happy Birthday! We love you so much, Tonia and your children, Faith, Annabelle, Keegan, Wyatt & Liam

Jon David Ginn

Age 3 on September 5 Happy Birthday! Love, Mom, Dad and Emily

Annabelle Williamson Age 7 on August 4 Happy Birthday! We love you, Momma and Daddy, Faith, Keegan, Wyatt & Liam

Ava Truesdale

Age 6 on September 22 Happy Birthday! Love, Mommy and Daddy

Audrey Hopkins

Age 3 on September 17. Daughter of Brooke and Jake Hopkins

Keegan Williamson

Age 6 on August 8 Happy Birthday We love you, Momma and Daddy, Faith, Annabelle, Wyatt & Liam

Ivy Arabia

Age 6 on September 23 Love, Mom, Dad and Chase

Happy Anniversary Dana and Mark Whitaker

Ryan Lobus

Nicole Lobus

Age 11 on September 8 Happy Birthday Ryan! Son of Marla and Jeff Lobus Brother of Courtney, Taylor & Nicole

Age 11 on September 8 Happy Birthday Nicole! Daughter of Marla and Jeff Lobus Sister of Courtney, Taylor, & Ryan

Aiden Evans

Age 4 on September 18 Happy Birthday Lil’ Man... We Love You!! Son of Tracy Evans Grandson of Connie and Johnnie King and Debbie and Edward Evans

Married 5 years on September 16 We love you Mom and Dad, from Bryce and Taylor.

Betty and James Douglas

Married 61 years on August 5 Happy Anniversary!

Olivia Myers

Age 7 on August 31

Mark Myers

Celebrates on Sept 29

Brooke Myers

Age 5 on September 6 Happy Birthday!

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

Birth Announcement

Contest Corner Congratulations to Cindy Pendleton (right) for being the first to find our hidden picture on page 77 of the August issue. Congratulations also to Anne Abdon (far right) for being the first to spot the phrase “Service Above Self” on page 31. Cindy won a gift certificate to Jerseys Sports Bar & Grille and Anne to Chick-fil-A.

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

“We will exceed your expectations.”

We welcome with love!

Amelia Hope Wolfe

May 25, 7 lb., 6 oz. Mommy, Daddy, Anna and Andrew

Find the hidden picture:

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. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Community

Back to School Bash Gives Kids a Chance by Candi Hannigan The 2011 Give a Kid a Chance back-to-school bash resulted in some impressive numbers, indicating increasing success. On July 16 at two locations, Cherokee County students received: • • • • • •

2,500 filled backpacks 12,000 pairs of socks and underwear 16,000 items of gently used clothing 425 haircuts 2,500 Bibles 5,000 children’s books

Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee, Inc. is a nonprofit ministry designed to help students in need start each new school year on the right foot by providing supplies and other necessary items. While the figures are impressive, the story of one five-year-old child speaks volumes about the spirit of giving, and how it’s not just for the volunteers. Ashley Bautista was among the first of the children to show up Saturday morning, excited about getting a new backpack and

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

supplies. As eager as she was, her first stop was the haircut room, where she donated most of her waist-length hair to Locks of Love. It was an act of compassion for strangers that the Kindergartener had been planning since she was three when she saw a television program about children who lose their hair after cancer treatments. Ashley’s mom said her daughter was very happy and proud after the haircut and wanted to inspire other children to do what they can to help others. Apparently others felt the same way; there were 39 other Locks of Love donations made during the event. Over the years, organizers have found that many families who have received help are now working to help others. The growing ministry served 100 students with the help of three churches in 2006. This year, 29 churches and more than 50 businesses, nonprofits and civic groups combined efforts. More than 450 volunteers worked at both locations the day of the event. To get involved, visit www.giveakidachance.org or call Barbara Fulbright at (770) 656-9209, Candi Hannigan at (770) 241-8890 or Cheryl Ruffer at (678) 372-9362.

Women and Retirement Perceptions

Will the reality of retirement live up to expectations? by Don Akridge, MBA, CPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ U.S. Marine Corps Veteran – Emory University Alumnus

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.

In January 2011, Merrill Lynch released the results of a survey asking baby boomers with $250,000+ in investable assets about their retirement hopes. There were some interesting across-theboard findings — 70% of those polled expected to work at least part-time, and 84% felt their retirements would be more comfortable and dynamic than those of their parents. Yet it was the collective response of women in the 1,000-investor study that drew the most attention.

Women envision a very active retirement.

Volunteering and travel registered as major priorities for women, more so than for men: 64% of women said they wanted to get more involved in their communities, 62% planned to devote more time to philanthropy, and 86% planned to travel when retired. Additionally, 14% of the women surveyed said that they wanted to start a business after their careers ended.

The Federal Consumer Price Index from June 2011 shows annualized inflation at 3.6%.

How are you investing and saving to pursue your retirement dream?

Is there a strategy in place with realistic objectives? A chat with a financial professional may lead to the discovery of creative new ways to pursue your retirement ambitions. 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.

Women are more concerned than men about running out of money.

While 52% of male respondents were unsure that their retirement assets would last a lifetime, 63% of women polled were worried about outliving their money. Additionally, 70% of the women surveyed said they worried about rising healthcare costs.

Will reality prove disappointing?

Too many women approach retirement unprepared, with too little saved or invested. You can cite two major reasons for that. The multiyear absence of some women from the workplace (which can coincide with peak earning years, lessening the rate of retirement plan contributions). A notable earnings gap (full-time working women earn 78 cents for every dollar men earn, which may reflect everything from gender inequality in career paths to wage discrimination). Another factor may be conservative investing. While you can take on too much risk in your portfolio and pay the price, there may also be a cost for assuming too little risk — your portfolio may not be able to produce returns that keep up with inflation. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Feature

Special

Grandparent

Memories

Grandparents are such a wonderful part of our lives! Whether they live near or far, the relationship between grandparent and grandchild is irreplaceable! Every year, a day in September is set aside to honor our grandparents. This year itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s September 11. Three of our readers, Mark Foster and Sam and Tom Johnson shared their favorite memories about their grandparents.

Susie and Ken Jackson We enjoy spending time with our Grandma & Grandpa! We play games and have fun on their houseboat. We go fishing and take family vacations to the beach in Florida. They are very special to us. Happy Grandparents Day Grandma & Grandpa, We love you very much. Love Sam & Tom Jackson.

Phyllis and Joe Alaimo My name is Mark Foster; I am very close to my Grandparents, Phyllis & Joe Alaimo, and have been since the day I was born. I am their only grandchild, and they are my only grandparents, so I have spent a lot of quality time with them. When I was growing up, I even had a bedroom in their house, aside from the bedroom I had in my own house. My favorite memories are of the annual summer vacations that I took with them, especially the year they took me to the Kennedy Space Center. Happy Grandparents Day to them from me.

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

Community

Woodstock is a Destination by Mayor Donnie Henriques After all the dust has settled from the Street Scape project, people are starting to see what we at the city of Woodstock have known for a long time... downtown Woodstock is a destination.

Donnie Henriques is the mayor of Woodstock. You may contact him by calling (770) 592-6001 or e-mail dhenriques@ woodstockga.gov.

A recent survey (very unscientific) on a Friday night showed me that more than half the cars parked in the downtown area were from other counties. People are coming from as far away as Henry and Clayton to visit the newest hotspot in the metro Atlanta area, Woodstock. Why?

Vingenzo’s was recently named one of the top 50 restaurants in the Atlanta area. Ipp’s opened its doors recently. Wink Woodstock and Fire Stone Wood Fire Pizza and Grill are just

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

days away from opening. Add these to Acru/The Copper Coin, J. Christopher’s, Canyon Burgers, Hot Dog Heaven, Magnolia Thomas (my favorite) as well as the old Right Wing Tavern becoming The Freight Kitchen and Tap, and you’ve got yourself a plethora of dining options. Oh, did I mention Pure Taqueria? — the most dynamic of them all. In between these dining delights, you can shop in some of the most unique stores this side of Little Five Points: The Wright Stuff, Val’s Happy Shack, Outspokin’, The Gallery, Honeybutter, and the most unique, The Blue Frog. If you can’t find fun in one of these, you’re just not trying. continued on page 82

How Does The Towne Lake Housing Market Look? by Sheila & Kurt Johnson Kurt and Sheila have bought, renovated, rented and sold 130+ homes for their own investment since 2000. 50+ of these transactions were through the use of IRA custodian accounts. More information about IRA investing can be found at www. KurtandSheila.com or (404) 954-2486.

Curious about how the housing market is doing in Towne Lake? Below are some useful FMLS sales statistics of detached homes. The chart below shows a noticeable decrease in the days on the market for metro area homes in the higher price points as compared to the second quarter of 2010.

The chart below shows significant improvement in the under $200K price point. Homes in this price range are considered to be in a “Seller’s Market.” This could be indicating a trend towards a more balanced market going forward if we can avoid a second housing led recession.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Community

Fall Means Football by State Senator Chip Rogers Debt battles, credit downgrades, and stock market drops all make the start of football season seem even sweeter. I normally write about public policy. This month, I ask your indulgence to talk football — American style.

Chip Rogers is the State Senator for our district. 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.

We live in the land of football. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from September to January bring joy to millions of Americans, most of whom don’t mind sharing their prognostications. And so shall I. National Football League The players and owners scared us over the summer as the thought of no NFL loomed large. In fact, at the time of the labor settlement, a poll showed more Americans were more concerned with the NFL lockout than the U.S. debt ceiling debate. Fortunately, the billionaires and millionaires came to an

agreement and the season is saved. The Falcons added one major name from the draft — Julio Jones. The incredible athlete from Alabama is expected to give Matt Ryan the final tool he needs to make the Atlanta offense unstoppable. Unfortunately, a mediocre defense that was torched by Packers QB, Aaron Rodgers, has not improved. I predict the Falcons make a run, but fail to make the Super Bowl. My pick instead is the New England Patriots. While I don’t like them, they are good. Perhaps the best coached team in the NFL and with a below-average division, the Pats should secure home field advantage in the AFC. Southeastern Conference I suppose I could title this paragraph NCAA football,

EAST COBB

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

but does it really matter? The SEC champ will win the National Championship. And if it doesn’t happen it’s only because the teams in this conference beat each other to a pulp. The clash of the conference will be in the Western division again. Alabama and LSU clearly are the two most talented teams. The Crimson Tide defense could be the nation’s best. Talent-wise, the Tigers match-up with Alabama but the coaching edge clearly goes to Nick Saban. The East should be won by South Carolina, but look out for Georgia, with the best QB in the conference, and Florida which is loaded with young talent. I predict the Alabama/LSU winner will win both the conference championship and the BCS national title. They’ll be screaming “roll tide roll” as our neighbor to the west, the state of Alabama, notches a third straight championship. Atlantic Coast Conference Not that it will matter in the national championship picture, but the ACC may return to normal this year as Florida State reemerges as the conference power. The Seminoles look to be a national top five program again, but just don’t have all the parts to challenge for a national championship. My Yellow Jackets will benefit from a much easier schedule, but there are too many holes to fill on offense. I’ll be happy with 8-4. Local High School Etowah returns an experienced and talented QB, along with an outstanding coaching staff led by Bill Stewart, but it will be difficult to repeat last season. I look for the playoffs again and another classic battle with Woodstock. Meanwhile, the Wolverines have emerged as a consistent winning program. It wasn’t so long ago that Woodstock football and losing were synonymous. Fortunately, Mike O’Brien turned things around and handed off a program that’s in great shape to Head Coach Brent Budde. The playoffs are now expected for Woodstock and if they can improve an offense that scored just 20 points per game last year, they should deliver. Sequoyah will benefit from a weak region and the Chiefs should be improved but young, only 13 seniors on the team. The strength will be on the defensive line with two 6’4” anchors in Mitchell Smith and Malcolm Simpson. A 6-4 season would be a success. River Ridge is still building a program, but don’t expect to wait long. The talent in Cherokee County is considerable and the Knights will be a good program within five years. The Lassiter Trojans will continue to play exciting, shoot-out football. Last season’s almost 28 points per game given-up must be cut in half if they want to compete for a region championship. Kell was dominant last season, losing only once. The Longhorns return 12 starters but must find a new QB. If coach Derek Cook can find stability under center, Kell will be very good again. 12-1 may be too difficult to match, but the playoffs are almost certain. Next month we can return to the pains of public policy, for now, let’s watch some football. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Community

September Job Seeking Tip:

A Winning Resume, Part 2 — Your Introduction by Lynne Saunders Today’s economic news seems to spiral out of control. The numbers state that 2.5 million jobs have been eliminated nationwide since January 2009. For those who are still employed, this number represents an uncertain future. For those who are unemployed, it is personal. Lynne is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The MastersTrainingCenter. com in the Towne Lake area. Employment Strategies classes and coaching are offered weekly. For more information, you can contact Lynne Saunders at lynneatthepantry@ yahoo.com.

As difficult as it may seem, it is important to stay positive and keep the momentum going. Last month, we began discussing how to create a winning resume, starting with header and contact information.

The next section may be the most critical. First, remember that the job of the resume is to get an interview, not to get the job. Your resume should be considered your sales piece; you are marketing your skills and qualifications — you are marketing YOU! What you put into these first few lines will make or break your initial chances. At the end of each day, how do you go through the mail? Most people give each piece a three to five second scan to determine whether or not it contains information that has any value. If not, it goes immediately into the trash. For those items that seem to have merit, the content will be looked at more closely.

For a busy and overwhelmed recruiter or hiring manager, this resembles their process of sifting through the mountains of resumes received for each open job position. This first section of the resume should be written in such a way that it triggers an emotional response by the reader… one that says, “We must speak with this person before making a final decision!” The old-fashioned structure began with an Objective. For most of us, this is no longer appropriate. The real objective is, after all, to get a job, isn’t it? You can’t write that! This section would normally contain verbiage that sounds something close to, “Seeking a position in a dynamic company to utilize my skills and experiences and provide opportunities for growth and promotions.” This one line can disqualify someone immediately. In this economy, many companies are struggling to stay open. This candidate’s expectations may seem too high. This may also give the impression that the candidate simply wants to get his or her foot in the door in hopes of getting a better job quick. It is important to communicate that you are the best candidate for the job that is being advertised. The hiring process takes a great deal of time and is expensive. The employer’s hope is to find the best person who will stay in and master that position. This first section should be your introduction. Some people name it Summary or Professional Skills and Qualifications. If space is a challenge, then a title may not be necessary. Above all, do not use the word Profile as a title. This has become a negative word in the spirit of maintaining political correctness. As an introduction, these next few lines should immediately capture your Skills, Education, and Experience that most closely match the needs of the company. Read and reread the job posting carefully. What is the employer looking for? Do you really have the qualifications they seek? continued on page 84

2011

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Community

EVENT CALENDAR: September 8 Georgia Firefighter Golf Classic

Time: Registration 7:30 a.m., Shotgun start 8:30 a..m. Location: 4991 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton Information: Proceeds will benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. $75 per person or $300 per foursome. To register, call Jim Strack at (770) 3776274 or email:jstrack@cherokeega.com or Wesley Densmore at (678) 614 - 8965 or email:wdensmore@cherokeega.com.

September 9 – 18 Charlotte’s Web

Times: September 9 & 16, 7:30 p.m. September 10, 11, 17 & 18, 3 p.m. September 15, daytime school performance. Call for details Location: City Center Auditorium, 8534 Main Street Information: All seats $9. Call (678) 4944251 or visit www.elmstreetarts.org.

September 10 Concert in the Park — The Return (a Beatles tribute band) Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Woodstock City Park Information: Free, family friendly concert. Picnics, chairs and blankets welcome, but no alcohol. Vendors will be on hand. 24

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

September September 11 Service of Prayer, Remembrance and Hope Time: Location:

7:30 p.m. Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway

September 18 Iron Horse 15K & 5K Express

September 24 Fire vs. Police Volleyball Game Time: 1 p.m. Location: G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA, 151 Waleska Street, Canton Information: $5 suggested donation. All proceeds to benefit the YMCA Partner with Youth campaign. Contact Nicole Lawson at (678) 880-3501 or email her at nicolel@ymcaatlanta.org

September 24 – 25 Riverfest Time: 7:30 a.m. Location: Start and finish at Town Center Mall, 400 Earnest Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw Information: A portion of the proceeds will benefit 65Roses, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Call Mark Vescio at (678) 895-2631 or email him at runningmanwest@bellsouth.net or visit www.locomotiveraceseries.com for registration information.

September 22 – October 2 North Georgia State Fair Times: Monday through Thursday 4 to 11 p.m., Fridays 4 p.m. to midnight; Saturdays 10 a.m. to midnight; Sundays 12:30 to 10 p.m. Location: Jim R. Miller Park, 2245 Callaway Road S.W., Marietta Information: Admission will be $5 adults, $2 students ages 7-18, free for children 6 and under. Ride tickets are additional and parking is $3. Concerts by country and contemporary Christian artists will be free with fair admission. Visit www.northgeorgiastatefair.com.

Times: Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday 10 a..m. – 5 p.m. Location: Boling Park, 1200 Marietta Highway, Canton Information: Sponsored by the Service League of Cherokee County. The event will include arts and crafts exhibitors, entertainers, children’s activities and more. Admission will be $5 for adults and free for children 10 and under. Call (770) 704-5991 or visit www. serviceleague.net.

September 30 – October 1 Eagle Watch Community Garage Sale Times:

Friday & Saturday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Send Us Your Community Calendar Events to editor@townelaker.com. October deadline is September 10.

Annual Run for Erin The annual Run for Erin will be held on September 24 at Woodstock High School, 2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive. The annual run is in honor of Towne Lake resident Erin Peters. Erin has the genetic disorder MPS III B (Sanfilippo Syndrome), a metabolic disorder that affects the heart, bones, respiratory and nervous systems. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundraising goal is $30,000, the amount needed to fund a research grant. The race will begin at 7:30 a.m., and prizes will be awarded for overall male and female winners as well as for overall Masters winners, male and female. For more information, please contact Stacy Murphy Peters at (770) 928-0853, smptrs@bellsouth.net or www.runforerin. com.

Left to right: Margaret Blair and Erin

Front: Erin Peters. Back row (left to right): Karen Schirripa, Irene Peters (Nanny Rene) and Sue Peters.

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

Community

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

www.CherokeeChamber.com

Gymboree Play and Music July 21, 2011 6764 Hickory Flat Hwy Suite 104 Canton, GA 30115-9335 770-720-1377 Children’s Activities

Lakeside Funeral Home July 27, 2011 121 Claremore Drive Woodstock GA, 30188 770-923-9755 Funeral Homes

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Community

TOWNE LAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION There are only days remaining to sign up for the Towne Lake Business Association’s (TLBA) 11th Annual TLBA Golf Tournament to be held on Wednesday, September 14, at the Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. Proceeds will benefit the TLBA’s annual Entrepreneurial Scholarships, through which two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded, one each to a graduating senior at Etowah and Woodstock High Schools. Please see our ad for more details. The topic of our August Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshop was “5 Tips for Maximizing Client Satisfaction.” We want to thank our speaker, Bernadette Boas of The Boas Group. Please join us at our next Lunch ‘N’ Workshop.

Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshop

Tuesday, September 20, 12:30 — 2 p.m.

11 G

Presentation Skills for Non-Presenters, presented by Presented by Kelly Vandever, Founder and President of Communications for Everyone, LLC.

All Workshops are held at Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills. Please RSVP to all events at (770) 615-3350. We welcome our newest members, Marston Design Studio and Synergy Strategic Solutions. Thank you for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee.”

Visit us at tlba.org

presents its

Annual

olf

ournament Benefiting the

TLBA Entrepreneurial Scholarship Fund Wednesday, September 14, 2011 Towne Lake Hills Golf Club 1003 Towne Lake Hills East, Woodstock, GA 30189

If you’re looking for a reason to spend a day on the golf course, here it is! The Towne Lake Business Association (TLBA) is hosting its 11th Annual Golf Tournament! This tournament is for experienced golfers and hackers alike. Our four-player scramble format allows everyone to enjoy the event. After 18 holes, join us at the Towne Lake Hills clubhouse for dinner, networking, raffles, door prizes and tournament awards.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Gold Sponsorship Sponsorship — $1,000 Player registration for 1 foursome Gold Sponsor sign at a prime location and more Si lver lver Hole Sponsorship Sponsorship — $125 Gold Sponsor sign at tees

PLAYER FEES $400 for a complete foursome $125 per individual player

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:30 am 4:30 pm

Range Opens Registration Shotgun Start 19th Hole — Dinner, Awards Presentation & Live Auction

FURTHER INFORMATION Jon Lamonte, Chair Marc Replogle Don Kyle

(678) 986-0140 (770) 952-5000 x20 (404) 580-6331

eesllc@ymail.com marc@thereploglefirm.com donaldekyle@gmail.com

Visit TLBA.org to sign up today! 30

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

TLBA Spotlight First Image, Inc. Since 2002, First Image Inc., has provided premier commercial cleaning services throughout Metro Atlanta. According to founder, Raymond Jackson, “My goal, passion and mission of First Image is to enhance the value of our clients’ building by offering a level of sustainability and green cleaning service unequaled in the cleaning industry.” First Image leverages the most advanced green cleaning methods, technology and equipment. Specifically, Raymond has developed a cleaning program that provides a one to one customized green cleaning service that meets the need of property managers and building owners in educational institutions, healthcare facilities, fitness centers, government and small to large multitenant offices. When it comes to quality, attention to detail, value and customer satisfaction, Raymond knows that it is these business traits that lead to loyal clients and referrals. But most of Raymond’s characteristics and attributes that he brings to the ongoing development of First Image come directly from the 20 years of experience that was obtained while serving in the United States Army. “Of course, then there is that ‘little thing’ called pride. When I look back over my shoulder after a hard day’s work and can say that I am proud of my accomplishment for that day, it’s not such a ‘little thing’ anymore and it makes tomorrow that much easier,” said Raymond. Raymond lives in the Towne Lake area with his wife of 20 years Andrea. He is the Secretary of the Towne Lake Business Association and is involved in various business associations in the area. You can contact Raymond at (404) 429-1688 or raymond@firstimageinc.com. His website is www.firstimageinc.com.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Lifestyle

Teenage Sons: Our Clueless Wonders by Mike Litrel, M.D.

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

could be proud of.

I looked out the window on a cold New York morning and decided I’d save a few lives before catching the bus to junior high. Outside, the water in my mom’s birdbath was frozen over; I knew she’d worry that the birds would suffer. I grabbed the nearest heavy object from the kitchen counter and sauntered to the bird bath to give the ice a nice hard whack. Water welled up through the ice, and in my mind’s eye the throngs of thirsty birds watching from the nearby pine trees chirped thankfully. I was a 14 year-old a mother

Two days later I found out different. “WHO CRACKED THE BOTTOM OFF MY CRYSTAL WATER PITCHER?!!” my mother shrieked. My twin brother Chris and I looked up startled from watching television. Mom brandished in her hand a familiar heavy object. I hesitated a moment before confessing — and that was the only thing that saved me. Her next sentence vaporized any inkling I had toward honesty. “This is a Waterford lead crystal water pitcher!! It cost over two hundred dollars!” Mom’s face was flushed and her eyes bulged. Thoughts flooded my mind like a dam breaking. Lead crystal! No

BugsBite.com 32

“

I had just found the remains of my $20 Ace Hardware hose nozzle scattered across the driveway.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

wonder it was so heavy! But how do you make crystal from lead? And how could anybody spend $200 on a water pitcher? Man, I am so screwed. I was just trying to save those stupid birds. Chris wore a bewildered expression on his face. He gingerly touched the crack in the expensive pitcher. He was the picture of confused innocence. My mother was glaring at us, looking for clues. I was dead in the water unless I could pull off an Academy Award performance.

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Quick as a flash my face was a mirror of Chris’ wide-eyed bewilderment. Then I let it compress into a sympathetic pout, as if to say, poor Mom — her favorite water pitcher. My eyebrows furrowed in a moment of deep concentration, then my eyes widened suddenly, as if in realization of exactly who was to blame. Then they angrily shot over to Chris — but only for a split second — because brothers should not rat each other out. I know you did it, Chris, but I’ll protect you this time! After this encyclopedic parade of emotions, I felt my face instinctively relapse into Chris’s perfect expression of bewilderment.

would be ridiculous. He used an axe.

My mom could see right through my brother’s lies. He protested, swearing up and down he had no idea what had happened, but my mother was too smart to fall for it.

Tyler was dumbfounded. Obviously, that was even better than using an axe. As we cleaned up the mess together, I casually mentioned to him that sharp metal objects left on the driveway can cause a flat tire. He was abashed, but I was careful not to make him feel too wrong or too stupid. After all, I had probably neglected some time-honored father-son bonding in Household Tools 101.

I didn’t believe him either. Thirty years later, I felt chagrinned as these less-than-proud moments come back to me. I had just found the remains of my $20 Ace Hardware hose nozzle scattered across the driveway. Still attached to the hose was a jagged remnant of my prized nozzle with its multiple settings. What in the world had happened?! Obviously this was more than the result of being accidentally run over by a car. Nor was this the work of a wild animal or malicious vandal. Without question, this was the result of the miscalculations of an unthinking teenager. Tyler confessed. The nozzle wasn’t working right. He tried to remove it from the hose but it was stuck. So he cut it off. What did you use to cut it off, Tyler — a lawnmower?! No, that

Okay, I admit an axe is a better choice than a lawnmower, but what about trying a pair of pliers? I grabbed a pair of channel locks from my toolbox. Tyler shook his head. He had tried that already. Indeed on my first attempt, the top of the hose spun around when I tried to twist the nozzle free. But a second pair of channel locks holding the hose tip steady did the trick. The jagged nozzle came off easily.

Teenagers are the epitome of clueless wonders. They are simply not experienced enough in life to reliably choose an intelligent path. The easy part of raising teenagers is letting go of our broken possessions. The hard part is governing ourselves to keep trust and communication in place. Understanding, and gentle correction, is all we can do. That — and keep our valuable possessions out of their reach. Copyright © 2011 AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Lifestyle

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).

Riding Toy

Build-A-Bear Pins

Radio Flyer, of Chicago, IL, is voluntarily recalling approximately 165,000 Scoot ‘n Zoom children’s riding toy. The riding toy can tip over allowing a child to fall forward while riding, posing a fall hazard to young children.

Build-A-Bear Workshop®, of St. Louis, MO, is voluntarily recalling approximately 26,500 (in the United States) and 2,200 (in Canada) Love.Hugs.Peace lapel pins. Surface paints on the lapel pin contain excessive levels of lead which is prohibited under federal law.

Flashlight Batteries

Dining Table

EQ3 Ltd., of Winnipeg, CA, is voluntarily recalling approximately 20 Scarpa wood and glass round dining tables. The wooden table base can split and/or collapse, causing the glass table top to fall. This poses collapse and impact hazards to consumers.

NexTorch, Inc., of Mukiteo, WA, is voluntarily recalling approximately 16,000 NexTorch™ NT123A flashlight batteries. Batteries can overheat and rupture, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Toy Keys With Remote

Battat Inc., of Plattsburgh, NY, is voluntarily recalling approximately 1,080,000 (in the United States) and 3,600 (in Canada) toy keys with remote. The metal toy keys and the plastic key ring can break, posing a choking hazard.

Flourescent Dimmable Light

Philips Lighting Company of Somerset, NJ, is voluntarily recalling approximately 1.86 million EnergySaver a/k/a/ Marathon or Marathon Classic compact fluorescent dimmable reflector lamps. The glue that attaches the glass outer envelope or globe to the body of the lamp can fail allowing the glass outer envelope to fall and strike persons and objects below, posing a laceration hazard to consumers.

Step Stool

Target Corporation, of Minneapolis, MN, is voluntarily recalling approximately 206,000 step stools with storage. The wooden step stools can break apart or collapse under the weight of the user, posing a fall hazard.

Clip-On Chair

Phil&teds USA Inc, of Fort Collins, CO, is voluntarily recalling 54,000 “metoo” clip-on chairs, which were the subject of a product safety alert issued May 6, 2011. Missing or worn clamp pads allow the chairs to detach from a variety of different table surfaces, posing a fall hazard. In addition, when the chair detaches, children’s fingers can be caught between the bar and clamping mechanism, posing an amputation hazard. Also, user instructions for the chairs are inadequate, increasing the likelihood of consumer misuse.

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. 34

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Lifestyle

“Happiness comes from giving — not getting. If we try hard to bring happiness to others, we cannot stop it from coming to us also. To get joy, we must give and to keep joy, we must scatter.” John Templeton

Recently, a young single mother of two was referred to us by her son’s school. Several years ago, her husband walked out of her life when one of her two children was diagnosed with Autism along with other associated medical problems. For the past two years, she has lived in an apartment and has struggled to keep a steady job and pay her bills since she is often called to pick up her son from school and care for him. Because of her son’s severe condition, outside help is limited. It is difficult to find someone with the knowledge and patience required to care for him properly, and she is often pulled in many directions. Her effort and involvement in her son’s life is as important

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

as paying her bills and providing for her family, and she must single-handedly do it all. The daily challenges and stress involved with raising a child with Autism can be overwhelming. She lives day-to-day, caring and praying for strength and patience. She is a courageous young lady, and we are thankful we can help her during the month of September with her utilities and groceries. If you, too, would like to share your encouragement, please send a donation or grocery card to Everyday Angels. 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.

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Lifestyle

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

Lifestyle

What Not to Do by Shelley Herod

Shelley lives in Towne Lake and owns her own interior design company. She can be reached at (770) 2355640.

Decorating is an expression of your personality and personal tastes, and using your individuality can create an appealing style. However, there are guidelines when decorating. Regardless, if you are preparing a casual or traditional look, specific “what not to do” rules need to be followed. In spite of the look that you are aiming to achieve, it is important to keep in mind the following simple rules when decorating a space.

1. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is selecting furniture that does not fit the space. Before purchasing furniture, measure the area and stick to it. Do not think that you can get away with an oversized sofa if your room is not adequate to hold it. Even placing it on an angle will not hide the fact that it is too large. 2. Have a plan when using different patterns, and do not use too many patterns and prints in one area. First, decide on your color scheme and select your main fabric. Typically, the main pattern is a larger print and it will allow you to work with other coordinates. Stripes, smaller prints, and plaids that complement the original pattern are usually good secondary choices. If you need an additional fabric, a solid with a texture is normally a flattering alternative rather than adding another pattern. 3. An area rug is a brilliant piece to pull a room together. However, an area rug cannot just float alone in the middle of a

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

room. Its intent is to add color and connect pieces of furniture. That being said, an area rug should be tucked under the front legs of the pieces of furniture that you are trying to unite. A rug randomly placed in the center of the room without being anchored is not only a tripping hazard, but it also looks like a postage stamp trying to disguise something under the rug itself. 4. Pushing all the furniture against the wall will not make the room look larger. Pulling furniture away from the wall and placing a table or walk space behind it will create a more airy illusion. It will also display the back of the furniture and allow you to flaunt accessories or a lamp for reading behind it. When the furniture is against the wall, you have created a dance floor appearance in the middle of the room, and that is not the intent that most homeowners want to obtain. 5. When dealing with your collectables, it is important to remember that less is more! Too many collectables on display only creates confusion and collects dust. Use your most important or sentimental pieces on display. If you have too many and cannot bear to depart from some, rotate the pieces out from time to time. It will create a new look without overcrowding the exhibit. 6. Using grandma’s sentimental pieces seems to be a nice touch, but do you really need to decorate like grandma? Select one special piece and use it as an accent piece. 7. Using 100 watt light bulbs might be necessary for reading, but every lamp does not require that strong of light. Determine if your fixture is to be used for task purposes or for mood lighting. continued on page 84

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

Lifestyle

AHHHH…Amarone! by David Heckelmoserr

David Heckelmoser is a Towne Lake resident and professional member of the Society of Wine Educators, Certified Specialist of Wine CSW, Atlanta Chapter Sommelier Les Marmition.

Amarone, an Italian red wine, is considered one of Italy’s three greatest red wines, along with Barolo from Piedmont and Brunello di Montalcino from Tuscany. It’s the most prestigious wine from the Veneto region. The wine comes from a region called Valpolicella (Vol-pole-ee-CHEL-la) just north of the town of Verona in northeast Italy. The name Amarone comes from the Italian word Amaro, meaning tart, bitter. The different styles of Amarone have traditionally had a distinctive raisinlike character and or somewhat of a bitter edge at times. As you taste the wine, it’s also not uncommon to taste a little sweetness from the concentrated sugars.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Amarone (Ah-ma-ROH-nay) is unique in the sense that it uses dried or shriveled grapes instead of a traditional method of picking and pressing the grapes after harvest like most wines. This unique method is called appassimento. It’s a natural way to increase the concentration of sugar in the grapes, unfortunately, at the expense of volume. It takes about two pounds of fresh grapes to make a bottle of wine. The drying process reduces the weight of the grapes by about a third, meaning that two pounds of grapes will make only a half a bottle of wine. The major grape varieties used to produce Amarone are Corvina, Malinara continued on page 82

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

Feature

Vacation Photo Contest

Irina and Slava Radchuk in Ukraine.

Crimea, Ukraine 5,773 Miles

This past summer, we asked to be invited along on our readers’ vacations, and we traveled the globe with them! Because we’re not shy and love to be included in vacation photos, we held a contest to see what reader could take us the furthest away from Towne Lake. Irina and Slava Radchuk won our contest by taking us 5,773 miles away to Crimea, Ukraine on the Black Sea. Irina and Slava won dinner for two at Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills. But our adventure didn’t stop there! We traveled 5,559 miles to Papeete, French Polynesia with Glenna and Gene Shaddix, 5,371 miles to Moscow with Marguerite Bradley and 4,571 miles to Barcelona with Melissa and Tyler Manuel.

Papeete, French Polynesia 5,559 Miles

Glenna and Gene Shaddix in Papeete.

Barcelona, Spain 4,571 Miles

Melissa and Tyler Manuel in Barcelona.

Moscow, Russia 5,371 Miles 44

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Marguerite Bradley in Moscow.

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

Lifestyle

The Test by Kara Kiefer It’s understandable that parents of children near their teenage years face this stage with a healthy amount of fear — you wouldn’t be normal if you didn’t. Your child changes, and so does the relationship you have with your child. The transition from childhood to adulthood isn’t easy on anyone. Quicker than you can imagine, those teenagers turn into juniors and seniors Kara Kiefer is the Editor in high school, graduating and moving of AroundAbout — on to the next phase of their lives. I TowneLaker. She lives think a common question parents ask in Towne Lake with her themselves as they near the empty nest husband Mike and sons phase is, “What now?” Sometimes, Brandon and Garrett. parents even look at each other and wonder, “And who are you again?” These questions are fairly common because raising children can be all consuming. My husband and I are close to becoming empty nesters. I’ve already asked “What now?” since my children don’t need me

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

as much. And while we’ve tried hard to maintain a life as a couple, there’s also a little bit of the fear of, “And who are you again?” So when my youngest was invited to spend a week in Colorado with his grandparents and my other son had plans to go to Orlando to see the final space shuttle launch, we found ourselves with a child-free week. “What now?” The beach was the answer and also a Pre-Test for our child-free years. This would be the first time we have spent seven days alone since our children were born. Would we bicker? Would we have anything to talk about other than the kids? continued on page 84

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

Lifestyle

Pulling the Plug by Lauri Wischner

Lauri Wischner is a Towne Lake resident who left her sales career behind to be a stay-at-home wife and mother. Contact her at laurihiking@yahoo.com.

A few years ago, we did the unthinkable and ditched cable TV. Back then, my husband was hooked on the FOX News channel and anything that related to hockey. My “must watch” list included the Food Network and those goofy ghost-hunting shows that feature camera crews vigorously scouring every corner of historic places for sights, sounds and evidence of ghostly spirits.

It wasn’t a philosophical or social objection that made us cut the cord. It was a practical decision as we chose to live on one income while our daughter was young. To do it, we had to cut household expenses to the bare minimum. Now only channels 1-24 are in our reach: the three major networks and an assortment of religious and shopping channels. At first, it was excruciating. I couldn’t stand not knowing the latest victim on the Next Food Network Star, and I heard an audible moan from my husband when he realized he

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

couldn’t watch every Stanley Cup game during hockey playoff season. The change has had some interesting side effects. Staying in hotels, once an ordinary experience, is now an extraordinary

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I couldn’t stand not knowing the latest victim on the Next Food Network Star... treat beyond belief because, along with our room, we get cable! After we check in, everyone in the family scrambles to the room anticipating their cable TV high. Rock, paper, scissors decides who gets to watch their channel first, and we patiently take turns in half-hour increments, cruising the channels to find, watch and savor our old favorites. It’s a miracle that we see or do anything outside our room on those trips. continued on page 84

Musings from Towne Shopping with Mother 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.

With the arrival of September and school being back in session, I am reminded of the days of my childhood when my mother would take me shopping for back to school clothes. It was an annual event that we both enjoyed. My mother would put on a nice outfit and pick one out for me to wear. Our hair was clean and styled neatly, and I was reminded to be on my best behavior. In those days, before malls became commonplace, we would drive to downtown Toledo and shop at the elegant and respectable department stores. Our favorite was Lampsons. It sold the finest clothes and housed one of the best restaurants and hair salons in the city. It was not an everyday occurrence to shop at a fine store like Lampsons, so it was truly a treat when we did.

As we walked in, mom would remind me that I could only choose four outfits and one pair of shoes. If I complained about that at any time, then I would not be able to eat lunch at the fine restaurant on the second floor and Molly, my hairdresser since I was a child, would not cut my hair in the fancy salon on the fourth floor. Molly was one of my adult heroes because she had fire engine red hair cut into a shag, like Mrs. Bradyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and she wore funky stylish clothes that I wanted to wear when I grew up. I vowed to behave myself because I would be heart broken if I missed out on a good lunch and a cool back-to-school haircut because of my childish greed. Plus, I loved riding in the elevators. My mother had (and still does) an impeccable fashion sense and knew exactly what would look good on me. She always guided me to the clothes that she knew I would like, yet were practical and probably on sale. I always chose short skirts and dresses in loud colors like orange, lime green, turquoise and hot pink. Mom insisted that my shoes must be practical and well-fitted dark brown or black leather Mary Janes and not the platform clogs that I really wanted. Those Mary Janes were ugly and I despised them. I would imagine that Molly was my mother and that she would let me have all of the crazy and fun shoes I wanted. Mom never knew what I was thinking, so I did not get in trouble. continued on page 84 AroundAbout â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TowneLaker | September 2011

Feature

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

Health & Wellness

Fun Facts About Mosquitoes by Rick Coughlin I get asked a lot of questions about mosquitoes almost everyday. This month, I am highlighting some fun facts about mosquitoes according to The American Mosquito Control Association.

Fun Facts: •

Mosquitoes are known from as far back as the Triassic Period – 400 million years ago. They are known in North America from the Cretaceous — 100 million years ago.

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

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There are approximately 2,700 species of mosquito. There are 176 species in the United States.

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The average mosquito weighs approximately 2.5 milligrams.

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The average mosquito takes in approximately 5-millionths of a liter of blood during feeding.

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Mosquitoes find hosts by sight (they observe movement) by detecting infrared radiation emitted by warm bodies and by chemical signals (mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and lactic acid, among other chemicals) at distances of 25 to 35 meters.

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Mosquitoes fly an estimated 1 to 1.5 miles per hour.

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Salt marsh mosquitoes can migrate up to 40 miles for a meal.

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Bigger people are often more attractive to mosquitoes because they are larger targets and they produce more mosquito attractants, namely CO2 and lactic acid.

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Active or fidgety people also produce more CO2 and lactic acid.

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Women are usually more attractive to mosquitoes than men because of the difference in hormones produced by the sexes.

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Blondes tend to be more attractive to mosquitoes than brunettes.

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Smelly feet are attractive to mosquitoes — as is Limburger Cheese. continued on page 82

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

The Many Medical Uses of BOTOX by Drs. Thaddeus Fabian, Keith Hanna, Keith West and Michael McNeel

Drs. Thaddeus Fabian, Keith Hanna, Keith West and Michael McNeel are all board certified plastic surgeons with Marietta Plastic Surgery, with offices in Woodstock and Marietta. 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.

The use of BOTOX Cosmetic and Dysport, both nonsurgical solutions to smooth wrinkles, is on the rise. More and more patients are seeking these minimally invasive treatments to improve their facial appearance.

These products, technically known as Botulinum Toxin Type A, are injected into targeted muscles, leading to a smoother appearance. In fact, this procedure was the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure last year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgery. When performed by a trained plastic surgeon who understands the intricacies of the human anatomy, BOTOX injections are safe, effective and provide natural-looking results. Skilled physicians know exactly where injections should be placed to achieve the most positive, long-lasting results. Good plastic surgeons also know that too much BOTOX is not a good thing. Unfortunately, the likelihood of a negative outcome increases in the hands of untrained medical professionals. Patients should always seek out skilled physicians.

The most common areas of use for BOTOX are forehead lines, frown lines and crow’s feet. It works by temporarily weakening the muscles near the target area, which then leads to the desired cosmetic improvement. You may be surprised to learn that there are many other medical uses for BOTOX that aren’t cosmetic. Underarm sweating, or hyperhydrosis, a somewhat common affliction often left untreated, responds very well to BOTOX injections. Sweaty palms can also be treated with BOTOX. Doctors treating migraine headaches with BOTOX have gotten positive results. Any condition that produces involuntary muscle movement may see improvement with BOTOX treatments. Injections have produced positive results in involuntary bladder problems like urinary incontinence. Involuntary muscle spasms associated with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy and even Parkinson’s disease have been reduced with BOTOX treatments. continued on page 82

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

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 | September 2011

Health & Wellness

Tooth Decay — Worms or Bacteria? Thank God For Modern Science. by Dr. Scott R. Harden

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.

Historical medical techniques for healing ailments of the body have always been fascinating to me. All human societies have medical beliefs that provide explanations for birth, death, and disease with a goal of healing illness. Throughout history, illness has been attributed to witchcraft, demons, adverse astral influence, or the will of the gods. Healing people was founded by beliefs rather than science.

Dentistry developed its fair share of inaccurate beliefs as well. In the 1700s, it was believed that tooth worms caused cavities starting from within the tooth and eating their way out. Sounds silly today, but cavities do actually originate below the enamel surface and are of course caused by bacteria, not worms. Bacteria dissolve your teeth, as will be explained. Your tooth is nothing more than a protective housing for the bacteria to live in, similar to a remora fish living on the belly of a shark. The remora is protected while it resides on the shark and lives on the remains of what the shark feeds upon.

and naturally heal the tooth. If there is a high frequency consumption of acidic foods and beverages, the protective properties of the saliva is overwhelmed and cavities form and often have no symptoms. There are several ways to detect cavities. Some cavities are obvious and can be seen visually. Others are not so obvious and require new breakthroughs in dental science for early detection. When a cavity is detected by an x-ray, the lesion is already about 30 percent through the enamel. X-rays aren’t able to detect early decay. We have traditionally used pointed explorers that poke at the teeth to detect decay, but these can further damage weakened enamel, and provide poor diagnosis for decay for many reasons. Instead, we check visually with an intraoral camera, take x-rays, and now use a laser that can detect cavities in the earliest stages of development. The DIAGNOdent laser scans the teeth using a reflected light that detects bacteria that causes cavities underneath the enamel surface. When a cavity is detected, there is an audible signal and a visual numeric scale that grades the extent of its progression from 0 to 99. This piece of equipment is crucial to providing an accurate diagnosis for tooth decay in today’s dentistry and can explain the differences in decay diagnosed from one dentist to another.

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Cavities can be detected early or late. We may see what appears to be a small cavity on the surface of the tooth, but great damage may already have occurred beneath the surface. Further, cavities progress in color from white chalky areas of acid demineralization (early cavities) to light brown (sustained cavities) to dark brown (advanced cavities). Cavities are simply more difficult to diagnose today because the surface enamel of our teeth is harder, and it takes bacteria more time to dissolve the tooth toward the surface. Consequently, bacteria can often form a larger cavity under the surface of the tooth before it’s detected, which creates a very strong benefit for the invention of the DIAGNOdent, so decay can be detected earlier under the surface of your teeth.

In the 1700s, it was believed that tooth worms caused cavities...

With regards to teeth, bacteria, found in the sticky white film on your teeth called plaque, can enter into microscopic holes in the grooves of your teeth. Once inside, these bacteria grow and produce acids causing decay. In actuality, tooth decay is based upon your tooth dissolving from the acid byproduct of bacteria and other acids in our diet. The bacteria live inside our teeth and live off the food we eat that gets down into the grooves where they reside. Juices, sodas, energy drinks are items that introduce acid and provide a food source for the bacteria as well. There is a fight between the healing properties in our saliva and the fluoride we introduce through water and toothpaste and the destruction done by bacteria. If the bacteria live deep enough in the grooves of our teeth, (what I refer to as “ninja bacteria”), they are not as susceptible to being neutralized and cavities form. Another consideration: if there is a low frequency consumption of acidic foods and beverages, the saliva can remineralize the enamel 56

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Be on the safe side; have a thorough diagnosis utilizing the amazing technology offered by today’s DIAGNOdent laser scanner, and get cavities restored early before they progress beyond needing a filling. When cavities progress and become deeper, the likelihood of needing a crown, root canal or both, or even an extraction increases. Don’t wait! Call and make an appointment for a thorough exam today.

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

Health & Wellness

Healthy Golfers Get on the Green! by Dr. Jared J. Lasseigne What is it that Jack Nicklaus, Jim Furyk, Fred Couples, Tiger Woods and Davis Love all have in common? What these well known golfers have in common is that they have all missed significant time on the golf course due to episodes of lower back pain. Lower back problems are the most common golf related injuries followed by elbow, wrist and shoulder complaints. For more information, contact Dr. Jared at Discover Chiropractic in Towne Lake (770) 516-9900.

Many people think of golf as a low level physical activity. This is far from the truth. The golf swing requires rotation, bending to the side and extending almost simultaneously, especially at the spine. Golf injuries most commonly involve soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments and the bony structures they are attached to. The cause of an injury depends on which of these structures are the weakest during the golf swing. Since the spinal bones, also known as vertebra, are generally strong structures, it is more likely that the muscles and tendons attached to it will tear first. This condition can happen over time or suddenly.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

The key to avoiding most golf injuries is recognizing problems early on and taking the proper actions to prevent them from worsening. In the event of a golf injury, apply ice to the injured area as soon as possible. Ice should be applied up to a max of 20 minutes per hour with a cloth barrier between the ice and skin.

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Many people think of golf as a low level physical activity. This is far from the truth. The joint positions in the lower spine are designed to flex and extend, therefore the golf swing is an unnatural motion for the human spine. Further complicating matters, golf is a “one-sided” activity causing muscular imbalances and tighter muscles on one side verses the other. The best way to prevent an injury is by stretching on a regular basis. Specific strength training exercises along with regular spinal adjustments also help to restore the proper ranges of motion. Doing these few things will help to decrease the risk of golf injuries tremendously.

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

Health & Wellness

A Happy Ending for Sally as told to Karen Greisman I was born in a small wire cage outside. That was home for 12 years. Still, I always dreamed of having a warm, comfy home with a family who loved me. I never stopped having puppies. I was very sick, but nobody cared. Then I was taken to the animal shelter. The shelter named me Granny because I was old. I closed my eyes, and dreamed that I was in a warm, loving home. A volunteer from Second Chance Rescue in Canton stopped at my cage. The door opened, and she picked me up. She kissed my head, and told me everything was going to be okay. When she touched me I felt a happiness that I never knew before. Little did I know that this was the beginning of my dream coming true. From there, I went to see Doctor Becky. She smiled at me and said, “My goodness girl, what happened to you?” I knew that Doctor Becky would take good care of me because I felt good when I looked in her eyes. Now I had hope. Then I got really sleepy. Dr. Becky operated on me for five hours. Everyone said it was a miracle that I lived through the surgery. The next day, I met my foster parents, who were going to foster me through my recovery. I started to feel that I was finally on my way to a life worth living. Their home was warm and cozy, and I even had my very own blanket to lie on. Everything was happening the way I always dreamed it would. They cooked different wonderful things for me just to get me to eat. I had never tasted such good food. I would sometimes make believe that I didn’t like my dinner, just to get yummy treats. They really seemed to love me. One day, I found the strength to walk to them and ask for affection. They were overjoyed. As you have probably guessed by now, my foster parents adopted me, and renamed me Sally. That was three years ago.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

If you saw me now, you would never even guess what my first 12 years were like. Mom and Dad say that I am very mischievous. But my antics have been misunderstood. I did chew up Dad’s money, but I was only trying to count it for him. Okay, so I chewed up my Mom’s tax return. That’s because I heard her complain about sending money to the IRS (whatever that is). I do check the trash cans several times a day to make sure Mom and Dad haven’t thrown away anything valuable. Mom and Dad never yell at me. That’s because I have them wrapped around my little paw. Life is wonderful! So you see, a little mistreated, sick, 12-year-old Beagle named Granny, became a happy, healthy, Beagle named Sally. All because of a dream. Second Chance Rescue Group can be reached at (678) 643-1066.

Are Cats Second Class Citizens? by Sherry Weaver, DVM

Recent studies show that pet owners bring their dogs to a veterinarian at least every year for medical testing, while the average cat owner only comes in every three to four years, mostly when the pet appears sick.

Dr. Sherry Weaver is the owner of The Animal Hospital of Towne Lake, located at 3105 Parkbrooke Circle. She has been in practice in the Woodstock community for more than 15 years. She can be reached at (770) 5919500.

The top reason for fewer cat visits is, “my cat never goes outside so it can’t catch anything.” Other reason is an owner’s fear of being the “bad” guy, putting the cat in a carrier, and the awful car ride to the scary place. A majority of cat owners also know how hard it is to treat and give medications to a pet that doesn’t cooperate.

Cats are uniquely wonderful creatures. They love us (on their own terms) and they purr, which is one of the most calming noises in the world, making them remarkable companions while, at the same time, being extremely independent and remarkably self-sufficient.

In the wild, cats occupy a unique place in the food chain. They are great hunters, but they are also hunted by larger animals. Because of this, they do not like to show weakness and will hide the signs of a disease until they are seriously ill. Take asthma as an example, a common illness in cats. An asthmatic human will walk across the room and will have a hard time catching their breath. An asthmatic cat just chooses not to walk across the room because it makes them feel safer. The average owner is completely unaware of a serious treatable condition. A recent study showed that most cats will develop arthritis at some point in life. Very few owners recognize the signs of pain, even in older companions, since cats rarely cry when they are in pain. continued on page 85

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Feature

Back To School The Fairways subdivision, waiting for the bus.

Samantha Burmeister, 1st grade at Woodstock Elementary.

Meagan Nocheherly on her first day of school.

Jake Brooks heading off to Kindergarten.

Bus stop, Eagle Watch. Left to right: Isaac Doese, John Weathers, Tyler Doese, Collins Sullivan, Nina Velasco, Caralynn Doese, Holly Kate O’Brien, Grace Truan, Laurel O’Brien, Mattie Truan, Meagan Nocheherly.

Addison Martin, Towne Lake Hills East. 1st day of Kindergarten. 62

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Broderick Herring, 3rd Grade, Bascomb Elementary.

Caroline S., Kindergarten and Elizabeth S., 3rd Grade, at Bascomb Elementary.

Kailani and Katie Renard hug each other goodbye before big sister Katie gets on the bus for the first day of school.

Front row, left to right: Derek Beasley, Rachel Hugenberg, Emma Bates, Dawson Heck, Anniston Drummonds, Benjamin Pierce, Caroline Pierce. Back row, left to right: Shelby Bates, Elizabeth Hugenberg, Livy Heck, Victoria Heck.

First day at bus stop in Wyngate! Front row: Justin Davis, Olivia Bryan, Morgan Dance, Amberleigh Dorsey, Avery DiGirolamo, Cooper Bryan, Paige McNabb, Ella Lazar, Caroline Kapcsos, Addison Ritchie, Chloe Price, Hannah & Charlotte Luina. Back row: Meadow Parker, Ashley Davis, Corrine Wnukowski, Ethan Ritchie, Davis Ranson, Blake & Braden Bohannon.

Caralynn Doese and Laurel O’Brien, 2nd Grade Bascomb.

Annabelle, Keegan, Wyatt and Liam Williamson, Boston Elementary.

Three Champs headed off to Bascomb this year. James, 2nd grade, Jaxon & Jason, Kindergarten.

Andrew Lenhart, a sophmore at Woodstock High School, with his brother Alden.

Andrew Ellis, 1st grade, Carmel Elementary.

Left to right: Gracie McNew, Ryan Radtke and Dylan Cole in Eagle Watch. Deer Run students Kati, Alexis and Addison.

Logan Belleza, 2nd grade and Mason Belleza, 4th grade, first day of school.

Tyler Doese, John Weathers, Nina Velasco, Holly Kate O’Brien and Collins Sullivan at Eagle Watch Colonial Drive bus stop. 3rd Graders at Bascomb.

Alexis Childers on her way to 1st grade at Carmel Elementary. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Feature

Back To School

Left to right: Hayden and Trevor Hastings.

Tyler Manuel, 7th Grade at E. T. Booth Middle.

Olivia Kirkland.

Rachel and Elizabeth Hugenberg of Towne Lake Hills East. Elizabeth attends Chapman and Rachel is at Bascomb.

Bascomb third grade students 1st day of school.

Parker Bishop starting Kindergarten at Bascomb.

Left to right: Bryce Clark, 4th grade at Carmel Elementary, Coach Darrin Clark, teacher at Woodstock Middle School, and Neva Clark, 3rd grade at Carmel Elementary.

Left to right: Nate Carter, Tyler Cossel, Mary Jane Cossel, Hannah Garrison, Ella Buehring and Kevin Buehring. 64

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Aidan Carlton, a kindergartener, and Abby Carlton, a 3rd grader at Bascomb.

Carol Ann Sanders, Pre-K4.

Parker Keeton , 1st grade, and Michael Keeton, 4th grade, at Bascomb Elementary.

Hannah Robbins, Senior, Woodstock High School

Katie (4th grade) & Connor (Kindergarten) Stickels on their first day at Bascomb.

Bascomb students, left to right: Alison Viscio, Kaleb Ornay, Lawson and Autumn Brashear.

Dylan Herod, a senior, and Connor Herod, a freshman, at Etowah High School. Caitlin Parman.

Left to right: Gavin O’Brien, Emma Davis, Grayson Davis, Dean O’Brien and Brooks Johnson.

Abby Freeman starting second grade at Bascomb.

Alexa Munoz, 1st grader at Bascomb with her bus driver Miss Tammi.

Brock O’Neal on his first day as a 1st grader at Boston Elementary.

Left to right: Charlie Boggess Pardo, Lily Norrell, Emma Blair Metlick, Parker Metlick, Jenna Wischner, Abbey Hopton, Olivia Woodard, Kade McCoy, Logan Norrell and Jonathan McDowell.

1st day of the 1st grade, Carter Daum and Riley Powell.

Ayla Takekawa, 1st day Pre-K at The Goddard School.

Back to school for these Eagle Watch kids!

“Clove Tree Gang” from Spicers Grove!

Olivia Myers as the bus approaches.

Chase and Ivy Arabia leave for their first day at Bascomb for 4th grade and Kindergarten. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Feature

Back To School

Ashlyn Deese, Auburn University and Jack Deese, Bascomb.

Tyler Crosby and Noah Turner, Bascomb.

Rachel Crosby, Chapman.

Madison Deese, Etowah High Shool.

Alex Norman, a junior at Woodstock High School.

Kaylyn Losee, 3rd grader at Bascomb Elementary.

Scott and Abby Freudenberg and Hanna Watson, Bascomb.

E.T. Booth bus stop on Winding Hills Lane in Towne Lake Hills East. 66

Bria McCready, Sydney McCready & Annie Arnold, Eagle Watch.

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

Ariana R. Griggs, 5th grader at Woodstock Elementary School.

Daniel Hogue and Tyler Deese.

Keep Feeders Clean To Reduce Risk Of Illness by Scott Lemmon Feeding birds is a very popular hobby in North America, second only to gardening. So whether you’re older, younger or in between, you’re in good company! The days of bird feeding being your grandmother’s hobby are long gone. Taking proper care of bird feeders, including periodic cleaning, is an important part of responsible bird feeding. Keeping your bird feeders clean is crucial to reducing the spread of bird illnesses and diseases. Individuals who feed the birds often do not receive complete and accurate information on bird diseases or how to safely offer food and water to the birds. It is essential for those who enjoy the hobby of backyard bird feeding to understand the importance of proper feeder cleaning.

birdbaths, hummingbird feeders and tube feeders. •

Always keep the ground below and around feeders clean. Discard seed debris and bird droppings on a regular basis.

When you provide the birds with food and water, you should think of yourself as the owner of a restaurant. You always want to properly prepare the food and beverages so your customers enjoy their meal and will return to your restaurant. Would you want to eat off of the same plate night after night for a year without washing it? Of course not, and neither do your birds.

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Give the birds more space if you notice a sick bird at your feeders. If using multiple feeders, put more distance between them. This will reduce crowding and the potential for disease transmission between sick and healthy birds.

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The following strategies will help improve the health and safety of birds:

Only use feeders that can be easily cleaned. Wooden feeders are difficult to sanitize.

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Use only feeders that do not allow the birds to stand in or directly above their food.

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Limit the amount of seed you provide. Offer only as much food as the birds will eat in a week or so. Rake up waste material in the area before refilling.

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Always discard any seed that has become wet.

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Clean bird feeders, bird baths and all hardware at least four times a year (when the seasons change) with a mild bleach solution - one part bleach to 10 parts water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to completely dry before refilling. The right brush makes the job easier. Different brushes are available for

Scott Lemmon can be reached at (770) 928-3014 or e-mail him at wbuwoodstock@comcast.net.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Schools & Sports

SCHOOL NEWS WMS Students Get Sweet Surprise Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, a Partner in Education with Woodstock Middle School, recently surprised the student body with discount cards. More than 1,000 cards were distributed, with each student finding a card in their locker. Left to right: Sixth grade students Olivia Williams, Anna Weissel and Allie Zschoche.

Etowah Band Ready for Busy Season The Etowah Marching Band has been practicing since July to get ready for football and competition season. Led by drum major Marleigh King and Left to right: Brass captain Dryn DuBois, assistant drum drum major Marleigh King, assistant drum major Abbey Deane, major Abbey Dean, and woodwind captain the band will be Melissa Gonzalez. presenting “Tribal Elements,” music with traditional native American themes and strong percussion beats. The marching band will make its debut at the football home game opener on Friday, September 9.

Etowah Student to Serve as Board Advisor Becca Hannigan, 17, a senior at Etowah High School, will serve as the 2011-12 Student Advisor to the Cherokee County School Board. She was nominated by Etowah Principal Keith Ball, who said, “Becca will serve the Board as the Student Representative with honor and integrity. She will be a sound voice for all students in Cherokee County. Becca’s big heart and intellectual prowess will bring a comprehensive student perspective to the Board. We are proud of Becca and excited about what she will do to serve the students of Cherokee County.” Becca has been a member of Etowah’s leader’s council and Student Advisory Board for four years, and is a member of the National Honors Society, Spanish Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta and was chosen as the 2010-11 recipient of the Spirit of the Eagle award for underclassmen at Etowah. She is the daughter of Candi and Glenn Hannigan.

In My Opinion

Is Television Good Or Bad? by Abbie Parkes Television can be good or bad for children. When you think of TV, do you think of cartoons, history, entertainment, comedies, reality shows, etc.? These shows can have good influences and bad ones.

Woodstock Students Learn Leadership Skills Members of the Woodstock High School Student Government attended a leadership retreat at Twelve Stone Farm in Talking Rock, GA, over the summer. The students participated in team bonding, leadership building activities a planning session for the upcoming school year as well as volunteer work for the farm.

Abbie Parkes is a lifelong resident of Towne Lake. She is in the sixth grade and enjoys history, writing and spending time with friends. She is the daughter or Stacie and Gary Parkes and sister of Delilah.

If your child’s favorite cartoon character jumps off buildings and does stunts, do you think that is a good influence for your child? What would you do if your child tried to do that type of thing? Some children break or sprain bones trying to jump off the couch, table, or chairs. Although these shows can be funny, entertaining, and sometimes educational, do you really want your child sitting in front of the TV for hours every day when he or she could be outside, playing with friends, playing sports, or just being active?

History shows are educational, so it doesn’t matter if you watch continued on page 85 70

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Atlanta Crush Girls Lacrosse Completes First Season Atlanta Crush Girls is Cherokee County’s first girls’ travel lacrosse team, sponsored by the Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association. The 13U team consists of 18 girls who attend various schools in Cherokee County. Fifteen members recently traveled to Virginia Beach to compete in the Sun & Surf tournament. They competed against teams from Maryland, North Carolina, and Virginia. They battled for two days and finished as runners-up in the tournament. In July, the team traveled to Chattanooga to challenge teams from Kentucky, Alabama and Georgia. The final face-off was against Hotlanta Lacrosse ‘s seasoned national team. After a nail-biting game that ended in a 6-7 final score with the tiebreaking goal in the last 5 seconds of the game, the Atlanta Crush finished as runners-up in the tournament. For more information on girls’ and boys’ recreation leagues and travel teams, please visit www.cherokeelacrosse.uslaxteams.org.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Schools & Sports

“O Captain! My Captain!” by Jason Fleeman One of my favorite movies is “Dead Poet’s Society” starring Robin Williams as John Keating. Though using somewhat unorthodox methods to teach, John Keating helped the children to realize their true potential in school, as well as in life. 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.

This is usually where I go into my spiel about how being a coach has meant a lot to me and how positively impacting a child’s life has been rewarding. However, you probably read that in previous articles I have written. I actually want to talk about how being a Team Captain can be rewarding, if done correctly.

It is important to note you do not need to know all the rules of tennis to be a captain, though being organized can be a bonus. Even if you are not, Internet sites such as www.netcord.com can help organize rosters, lineups, and other aspects of the team. USTA (www.ustageorgia.com) and ALTA (www.altatennis.org) post their league rules on their

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

websites so anyone can look them up. More important than this is to remember that league tennis is a team game and should be enjoyed by everyone who plays. I believe people do not volunteer to be captain as much as they because they are anxious about asking for help and delegating duties. Since league tennis is a team sport, each member should contribute to the team’s success. Consider giving each member a task for the season: Who will organize (1) team lessons, (2) match cuisine, (3) weekly informative email blasts, (4) scorekeepers etc, etc? Set up correctly from the start, a captain’s job can be very rewarding. It helps to consider this quote from Bill Cosby: “I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.” It would be difficult to have any form of leagues without people willing to donate their time and energy to making tennis a success. Personally, I donate several hours a week on junior growth as the USTA GA Junior Competition Chairman. It is a volunteer position I have held since 2006, and it is rewarding to see tennis grow throughout Georgia. continued on page 82

SPORTS Braves Take First The Hobgood Braves 9U team recently came in first place for the Spring Division. The team was coached by Jeff Wilson. Congratulations! Front row (left to right): Broderick Herring, Nick Wilson, Carter Hedrick, Charles Hicks and David Payne Kirkland. Middle row: Camden Vaughn, Brody Thompson, Noah Clendenon and Colin Malek. Back row: Coach Jeff Wilson. Not pictured: Colby Cox.

Junior USTA Teams Attend State Two local junior USTA (United States Tennis Association) teams recently competed in the State championships, which were held in Macon. The Wyngate 18U team came in second place and

the Towne Lake Hills 14U team came in fifth. Congratulations to both teams!

Left to right: Coaches Andy Schade, and Paula Parks, Jay Johnson, Jr., Kyle Schade, Tyler Parks, Rossen Parks, Kate Messerly, Jessi Dodge, Kelly Linz and Gabrielle Wood. Front row (left to right): Jordan Day, Madeline Gilmer, Ailsa Cruickshank and Keegan Casteel. Back row: Austin Stark, Max Beaham, Eric Matthews, Wes Beaham and Mark Dimilia

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

Schools & Sports

You Can Make a Difference

YCMAD Winning Entries for September 2012

Joe Lemmo’s 7th grade Language Arts students at E.T. Booth share their thoughts with the community.

You and I are completely different people - all of us, seven continents, hundreds of countries, and millions of cities. We have different weaknesses, flaws, and we all think negatively from time to time. But that’s okay, because we were all made different! We have many flaws and differences that set us apart from each other.

Zach Porter

I’m not very good at many things. I have trouble interacting with people who are different than me and have different interests than I do. Sometimes, I have a hard time getting motivated and inspired. But, it seems that in the long run, everything turns out okay because I have many friends and a supporting family to help me. I have had many flaws in the past that I have now conquered. I was able to get rid of them with the help of many people. For example, my dad helped me get back to hitting in baseball when I was in a terrible slump and my best friend, Chandler, helped me get back to shooting better when that wasn’t going so great! So basically people who are close to you can help you out with your weaknesses. Again, we are all different…made with different flaws. But if you have great friends and a loving family, you can get through the hard times you often face due to the weaknesses you have. Everybody has weaknesses. My weakness is math; someone else’s weakness may be running, and yet another’s may be catching. Anyway, we all have weaknesses. What we all need to realize is what we can do with those weaknesses. That’s right, turning weaknesses into positives by working hard and making them work. What I mean is…if you try out for the football team but don’t make it, you should not get down on yourself. You should look at the positive things you have done and make use of them – and maybe even try out again next year! Remember, not everyone is good at everything!

Alec Hundley

Changing weaknesses into positives can truly motivate you and even make you feel better. I hope you have learned something about how changing your weaknesses into positives can make a difference in your life! I’m a 12-year-old girl who is fun and crazy! I have learned that life is not easy, that’s for sure, and I have had many difficulties. One current difficulty happens to be math, though I am good at reading and Language Arts. Also, I have friends that I’ve known for some time now, but I guess I’m kind of afraid to make new ones, because I don’t know what they are going to think or say about me. I’m not the best daughter in the world, but I try my best to obey my parents, and I don’t live in a big, fancy house...I live in a trailer. Sometimes I get sad because I don’t live in a big house like my friends do, but then I realize there are some people who don’t even have a roof over their head, or electricity, food, or water. So I guess I’m pretty lucky to even have a trailer to live in!

have been through some deaths, including the loss of a baby brother before he was even born. That was Ashley Gomez- Ione of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to go through. I am happy to say though, that my mom, since Salazar then, has had a beautiful, amazing baby boy. That moment happened to be one of the happiest for me! ! My point is…nobody is perfect, and that’s certainly okay with me!

I have always tried to play sports, but I never think I can do as good as my brother. Every time I try out for a sport, I never make it! It makes me feel like I’m a loser or a wimp! My brother on the other hand makes all sorts of sports’ teams. Whether it’s lacrosse, basketball, baseball, or football, he always makes it. He wants me to play sports just like him, and he encourages me, but I can never do as well as he does – I usually fail. One time I tried out for cheer and volleyball, but I didn’t make it. Then I tried out again for both and didn’t make either… again! I got upset, and sat down to talk with my family, but I didn’t want to tell my brother because he was so excited for me to make the team. I just didn’t want to let him down. After a while, I started thinking about the good things I can do. Then it hit me – I love to make movies with my friends. Making movies with my friends was always so much fun for me! I would always gather them and write a

Kyrsten Sinclair script, make costumes, and have people operate the camera. Ever since I was nine, I have been making

movies! My whole family loves watching my videos; they also said I would be a good director! So maybe I’m not the best at sports, and I can’t be just like my brother, but perhaps one day I’ll be one of the first female directors to earn a nominee and be living in Hollywood! Beyond the flaws and weaknesses, there’s something special about everyone. My “something special” is performing and creating movies. What’s yours?

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

You’re Never a Prophet in Your Own Home by Dee Locklin

Dee Locklin is retired from Georgia State University. She lives in Towne Lake with husband Lewis and son Taylor in a cluttered home filled with love and lots of dust bunnies. Contact Dee at dlocklin89@gmail.com or follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

In the final years of my career, I achieved a fair amount of success. I was director of a university-based program and brought in boatloads of grants and contracts to conduct state and national projects. I supervised employees and graduate students who actually came to me now and again for sage advice. State and local government leaders called me when they needed help with complex organizational problems. And I taught amazing and adoring undergraduate students, both on campus and during a European Union study abroad program each May.

I’m certain I remained humble as I sat atop my throne. Let’s face it; power affects even the most unassuming prima donnas. But I never abused my diva status. Except for one or two times, but I did apologize. So those don’t count. This is why I just didn’t understand the fact that when my scepter and I crossed the threshold of our home each evening, no one in my family ever listened to a word I said. Did my husband and our little prince of a son not realize that I was adept at everything? If they would just listen to me, our lives would run much more smoothly. Who were these two ingrates, and why could I not control them?

After retirement, the situation worsened. In my family’s eyes, I became the woman lounging on the couch eating tomato and mayonnaise sandwiches and watching House reruns, who knew nothing about the ways of the world. You’re never a prophet in your own home. But now that I’ve slowed down enough to pay attention, I realize my husband is actually adept at a few things after all. He

“

Who were these two ingrates, and why could I not control them? fixed the toilet the other day with zero supervision and without my sage advice. Then, he updated all the hardware in our powder room and grilled perfect pork ribs, uncoached by me. Who knew he had these mad skills? Our son still ignores everything I say, but — as mentioned last month — I’m sitting back and letting the natural consequences roll. My mother-in-law recently asked me what Taylor, my son, thinks about my articles. This very gentle, lovely Southern lady was really asking if my telling tales of his antics hurts my son’s feelings in any way. continued on page 85

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 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: Susan McCarthy 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 Kleven Boston Elementary School 105 Othello Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 924-6260 Principal: Les Conley www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/boston-es 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 | September 2011

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

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

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

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 Cherokee Christian Academy and Cherokee Christian High School 3075 Trickum Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (678) 494-5464, www.cherokeechristian.org High School Principal: Rod Kirby Middle School Principal: Hal Scripka Elementary School: Robert Lester Furtah Preparatory School 5496 Highway 92 Acworth, GA 30102 (678) 574-6488, www.furtahprep.org Headmaster: Fred Furtah

North Cobb Christian School 4500 Lakeview Drive Kennesaw, GA 30144 (770) 975-0252 Headmaster: Todd Clingman www.ncchristian.org Omega Academy (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: Patricia Allen www.stjosephschool.org

Cherokee County School District 2011 — 2012 Calendar at a Glance September 5 September 19 - 23 November 21 - 25 December 19 -23, 26 - 30

School Holiday School Holiday School Holiday School Holiday

Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com Aspen: https://sis.cherokee.k12.ga.us/aspen/home.do School District Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

A Tribute to Local Veteran by Sharon Brewster As we enter the season of autumn, we as a family, also enter the autumn of my father’s life. On September 15, my father, Daniel Brna will be 88 years young. He was born in the small town of Dorothy (Egg Harbor) in southern New Jersey, in 1923. He had one older brother and two older sisters, and since his parents made their living chicken farming, he prepared for his day at school caring for their many coops. He had to walk quite a distance to arrive at school on time, and yes, as my generation heard the story many times, “through sleet and snow, uphill to and fro.” My father, like most men of his age, is a World War II Veteran. He is one of a select few Americans left on this earth that we should choose to remember, not only on our nation’s holidays, but every day of the year. Because he graduated high school at the age of 16, he joined the Coast Guard at an earlier age than most. By the age of 18, he joined the Army, leaving behind his family and friends. Knowing that my father arrived within the first few days of D Day on Utah Beach, the initial invasion of France, always gives me goose bumps, especially when watching old films of that day. He truly is my hero just knowing he was part of what is often referred to as “One of the Biggest Events” in the history of our nation. He was a radio operator just behind the soldiers on the front line, manning the communication radio via an Army Jeep 2x2. My father finished the war physically unharmed, and at the end of the war his title was Tech Sergeant. As a grandson, son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, husband, father of four and grandfather of seven, my father has remained true to his family and country. He is the son of immigrant parents, who came to this country as teenagers from Slovakia.

They came to live a better life, and a better life is what my father fought for all of us to have. As my own children strive to accomplish their goals, they will never know what my father, their grandfather endured. I honor my father on his 88th year life, and also my mother on her 85th. They have been married for 63 years. For all of us, if you are in the presence of a senior or veteran, male or female, while going about your day, don’t forget that they were all part of difficult times. You may see my father and mother, Sarah, around town at either the Woodstock or Canton Senior Center or at the Moose Lodge in Canton. Please acknowledge them with a simple, “hello” or “thank you” or engage them in brief conversation. I guarantee they won’t turn you away. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Faith

Marriage Moments by Bill Ratliff The answer is two coffee pots. The question is, “How do you make your marriage stronger?” Some of you are reading and thinking: ‘Has he gone off his rocker?’ Maybe so, but let me provide some background. Until ten years ago, I never drank coffee. My wife has been a consistent drinker of one or two cups of java each day since Bill Ratliff is the Senior we’ve been married. She likes it one Pastor at Towne Lake way, and I another. At various times in Community Church. our marriage, I decided I would try in a He is also a member small way to bless my wife by making of the Around About the coffee. Well that backfired, and after — TowneLaker’s Community Board. several miserable failures of either too He can be reached at strong or too weak coffee for her taste (678) 445-8766. (she is a Starbucks girl), I counted my losses and considered a new approach. I went out and bought another coffee pot as a compromise to our coffee dilemma. Our two coffee pots have solved the coffee problem in our marriage. At times, I will drink my wife’s coffee which is usually good. On rare

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

occasions, but still better than never (which is what we had before the second coffee pot), she will drink the coffee I brew. Each of us is happy with “our coffee.” Not only that, but when we have company, they have a choice, and there is always enough for everyone.

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My wife and I treasure our time in the morning over coffee. My wife and I treasure our time in the morning over coffee. On many occasions, we will pray for each other during that special time. So, you ask, has the two coffee pot approach made our marriage stronger? I don’t know except that I am blessed by the coffee moments each morning with my “smoking hot wife.”

Date Your Mate: A number of years ago, my wife and I found a little restaurant that is a getaway (secret place) experience for us. The food is consistently good and affordable. They do their best to always have the same table cleaned, ready and available to us when we walk in the door. Going to our ‘secret place’ always blesses us and is a great date. I encourage you as a couple to begin a search for your own secret place.

Prayer, Remembrance and Hope by Dr. Doug Thrasher I will never forget where I was on September 11, 2001. I was in my office at the church when my secretary told me she had just heard that a plane had flown into the World Trade Center tower. My wife, Debbie, didn’t have to go into work until after lunch that day, so I left to go home and see what was happening on television. 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.

Sure enough, on TV I saw the smoking building with the plane sticking out. About that time, another plane flew into the other tower of the World Trade Center. And then there were reports of a plane flying into the Pentagon, and of another plane crashing somewhere in Pennsylvania. Soon, I saw one tower and then the other collapse in New York, killing thousands of people.

I remember that I was stunned, angry, confused, sorrowful, scared. We opened the church for prayer that night – and it was completely filled. We kept it open the rest of the week, and every day the church filled with people praying. It took several days to sort out what had happened. We came to learn of the group called Al Qaeda. We learned the name, Osama bin Laden. We discerned that the United States had been the target of the largest terrorist attack in history. Since then, some things have changed. We have been involved in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Security has increased at airports and ports. The Homeland Security Office has worked diligently with our intelligence services to prevent another attack. And, I have sensed, that there seems to be a creeping feeling of anxiety in the world that I did not know growing up as a child. At the same time, some things have not changed. We still see men and women serve courageously in our armed forces and as police and firefighters. We still see American people who respond unselfishly to any crisis in the world. We still live as citizens in a free country. And we still see the forces of darkness in the world trying to win. But they will not. The Gospel of John 1:1, 4-5 states: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” There will be forces of darkness, but they cannot win against the power of God. To celebrate our hope and to remember that day, I invite you to a community service of prayer, remembrance, and hope on Sunday evening, September 11th at 7:30 p.m. led by the churches of our community and hosted at Hillside. I hope to see you there. AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 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. Pastor: Monty Guice www.newvicbaptist.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 | September 2011

Congregation Ner Tamid A Reform Jewish Temple (770) 345-8687, Marci, call for information Serving the Northwest Suburbs Tikvah l’ Chaim “Hope for Life Ministries” Messianic Jewish Fellowship 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (678) 936-4125 Saturday Hebrew Literacy & Bible Study: 10 a.m. Saturday Shabbat Service: 11 a.m. Rabbi Gary Maxted www.tlchaim.com (partnering with TLC Church, Woodstock, GA)

Lutheran 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 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 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

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 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

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 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 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 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

United Methodist 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 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 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: 8:25 & 11 a.m. Contemporary Services: 9:25 & 11 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 & 11 a.m Pastor: Dr. Doug Thrasher www.hillsideumc.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 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 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 Celebration Church 340 Towne Lake Parkway, (678) 461-9626 Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. 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 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 Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, (770) 924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com 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

Hasty Elementary, 205 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, (404) 557-9640 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Brian Jones www.myfriendschurch.com

Canton Ward, 3459 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton Sunday School & Auxiliary Meetings: 10:20 a.m. Sacrament Meeting: 9 a.m. Bishop Scott Harman Church of the Messiah (Non-denominational) 415 Charles Cox Drive, Canton (770) 479-5280 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Fred L. Goodwin

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 www.prayerandpraise.org

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, Acworth (770) 516-5733 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Tony Crawford www.dayspring-online.com Faith Family Church 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth (770) 926-4560 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Wednesday Service: 7 p.m. Pastor: Tommy White Freedom Church Meeting at Barber Middle School 4222 Cantrell Road, Acworth (770) 529-6006 Sunday Services: 9:45 & 11:30 a.m. www.freedomchurch.tv Pastor: J.R. Lee Jubilee Church (Newfrontiers) Meets at Kell High School 4770 Lee Waters Road, Marietta (678) 471-1930 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.jubileechurch.us Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Rd., Acworth (Cherokee Corners) (404) 663-1828 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Donna T. Lucas 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 Pointe Church, The

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: Matt Amos 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 237 Rope Mill Road (770) 926-8990 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Greg Michael

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Woodstock is a Destination continued from page 18

Add to all that, we are in the last few weeks of our 13th Annual Summer Concert Series. The last one will be Saturday, September 10 featuring The Return. This band has been reviewed as the most authentic and real cover of the The Beatles. Next year, the new amphitheater will make its debut with tiered terraces and a large, flat green for viewing, as well as a concession stand/bathrooms and a beer garden (for adults only, of course).

There are many other interesting facts as well. The mosquito can complete its life cycle from egg to adult within as little as four days, though most mosquitoes complete it within two weeks. After just two days, an adult female mosquito will start biting her first victims. They beat their wings approximately 600 times per second. Most mosquitoes do not bite when the temperature gets below 50 degrees F. I will cover more facts in the next couple of issues. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about mosquitoes, please send me an email to rick@ themosquitoauthority.com.

So, don’t say you haven’t been warned. When you visit downtown Woodstock, expect to be among many friends, both old and new.

Medical Uses of BOTOX

Amarone

Doctors have also begun using BOTOX to relax constricted airways in asthma patients. With any treatment plan, patients are encouraged to visit a specialist who is trained in the latest effective treatment options associated with their medical condition.

continued from page 42

and Rondinella. The grapes are allowed to dry for up to a few months. The dried and shriveled grapes are then pressed and fermented to produce a dry wine with dense and concentrated flavors and a rich velvety texture. The grapes’ high sugar content will result in a wine with high alcohol content with a minimum of 14 percent. The average is 15-16 percent for the finished wine. When pairing this wine with food, you will need to take into consideration that this is a full bodied, concentrated wine. The wine will be best paired with hearty foods like lamb, steak and osso bucco. The aromas/flavors of cherries, plum, coffee, licorice, bittersweet chocolate and fig are what you will find in this wine. If you are not serving a hearty course, consider paring this wine at the end of a meal with a cheese plate. The wine will work well with strongly flavored, sharp and very ripe cheeses. A few suggestions would include dried Provolone Piccante, Pecorino Romano, Parmigianino Reggiano and Gorgonzola.

continued from page 53

It’s enlightening to see the variety of positive medical uses for Botulinum Toxin Type A and to anticipate other options in the future. Under the care of the proper physician, patients may be offered BOTOX injections as part of a larger treatment plan for a variety of medical conditions. As a cosmetic solution, BOTOX is extremely effective when performed by a properly trained physician and used judiciously. Now we know it has even more far reaching medical uses.

“O Captain! My Captain!” continued from page 72

Because of my volunteer position with USTA GA, I can inform you of some major changes coming soon to junior tennis: •

USTA captains are required to submit online background checks before they can captain a junior team. “Seriously Jason, you are going to hype up being a captain and then tell me I have to submit a background check?” What this boils down to is that USTA feels that “safety of children in all USTA Georgia events is always paramount to our organization,” according to E. Hamilton, USTA GA executive director. It is an online process that only takes a couple of minutes. I have done it myself as a USTA coach and the process is very simple. Also, any fees associated with it are built into the local league fees. It does not cost the captain anything to submit.

•

ALTA’s 10U League will be using the USTA’s new 10U format starting Spring 2012. I have been promoting this format for a few years now and have seen great success with it. Using 60’ courts, 25” racquets, and low compression balls, ALTA juniors will be a part of a national “boom” in 2012.

Cheers until next time!

Mosquitos continued from page 52

•

Dark clothing attracts mosquitoes.

•

Movement increased mosquito biting up to 50 percent in some research tests.

•

A full moon increased mosquito activity 500 percent in one study.

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Shopping with Mother continued from page 49

I miss those days of shopping in downtown department stores when shopping for clothes was treated like a privilege and was done only when deserved and necessary. Even the store clerks treated your purchases like they were made of gold, wrapping them carefully in tissue paper and placing them gently in a box. I am grateful I experienced that time in history and I wouldn’t trade my memories (or mother) for all of the funky shoes in the world.

The Test continued from page 46

We headed to the Gulf Coast for the Fourth of July week, along with what seemed to be a million other people. After a six-hour drive, some through torrential rain, we were within minutes of finding our condo when the back passenger side of our car met with Jared and the front corner bumper of his truck. A car accident was not how I envisioned our vacation starting. Thirty minutes later, we arrived at our condo and headed to the beach to unwind as the sun was setting. We returned to the boardwalk after a short time, only to discover someone had taken my husband’s flip flops. Now, instead of finding a great local place to eat, we were heading to Walmart, stuck in Saturday night and holiday weekend traffic. Good times! After a rough start, I have to say, we passed The Test. We didn’t bicker. We talked about things other than the kids and had a nice, relaxing time. Now, I feel confident that when we truly become empty nesters, and I look at my husband, rather than wondering, “Who are you?” I can say, “I know you!”

Pulling the Plug continued from page 48

A while back, a cable service person came out to initiate digital channels and before he left, he mistakenly reconfigured our TV to show all 200 channels. I politely reminded him we only subscribed to the minimum, at which he looked at me, mind-boggled. “Nobody does that,” he said unbelievingly. Evidently someone else at the cable company also thought it was unbelievable because later that week, we discovered that, once again, we could view all 200 channels (maybe they felt sorry for us?). They did catch the error, though, and we were swiftly plunged back into the un-plugged world. And there we stay. I still religiously keep up with world news through the major networks, web and radio, but if you want to know the latest on the Kardashian sisters or Snooki’s latest fling, I’m not your gal. You’ll have to turn on your own cable TV for that. 84

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

A Winning Resume, Part 2 continued from page 22

Tailor this introduction section to meet the needs of the employer. Even though your job search is all about you, employers think it is all about them. If you position yourself to meet their needs, you will stand out. Include some of the key words from their job posting into this section if they match your abilities; they will immediately see that you are qualified. A paragraph or bullets are equally acceptable, although I personally prefer paragraphs. Remove all “I’s”, “My’s,” and “Me’s.” In some instances, if you have more to say than can fit into a four to five line paragraph, then the addition of bullets may be acceptable as long as they do not repeat what is said in the paragraph. This is a time to shift your current thinking. In today’s market, employers are flooded with resumes from unqualified candidates. From their perspective, it is refreshing to get a resume that actually speaks to their needs! Next month, we will continue to discuss what goes into a winning resume.

What Not to Do continued from page 40

It is important to decide how to match the lighting for the function of the space. Installing dimmer switches will allow you to have total light control. 8. Don’t select dining room chairs totally based on looks and not comfort. A dining room table is where families and friends gather, create memories and enjoy each other’s company. The chairs should fit comfortably around the table but more importantly create a relaxed space where your guests will want to stay and feel welcome. 9. Slipcovers are not made to protect your furniture but rather to be used as a decorative disguise and to camouflage outdated upholstery. Make sure when using a cover, it blends with your room’s décor and doesn’t become distracting. NEVER use clear vinyl slipcovers. They look absolutely awful and should be avoided at all costs. 10. It is not necessary to incorporate every new trend into your home’s décor. This can be very costly and your home will look very fad-ish. Select trends that blend with your existing décor not clash with it. Trends and fads will change every season, so trying to incorporate the season’s latest styles and colors is next to impossible. Rules are meant to be broken; however, choose which ones wisely. Hopefully, these guidelines will help you determine what not to do and will make your decorating experience an easier one.

Are Cats Second Class Citizens?

In My Opinion

continued from page 61

continued from page 70

We know all of the reasons cats don’t come to the veterinarian regularly. Despite what you and your vet decide are necessary vaccines, the annual exam and blood work are critical to a healthy and full life.

that type of show a lot. For instance, I am 11 years old, and I would rather watch certain history shows or HGTV programs than other shows. I usually watch TV only in the morning before school and at night when my family watches TV for an hour. I have homework to do, and then I am either doing afterschool activities or outside riding my bike.

Cats that never go outside can have many illnesses, including kidney disease, which is number one, followed by diabetes. These infirmities are not contagious and do not show up for years. If medications are required, there are many options that make it easy to find a solution that works for you and your pet. Compounding pharmacies make most medications in liquid form, flavor tablets, and even a transdermal gel that is applied to the skin inside the ear. If the car ride is a real problem, some vets offer transportation services so the veterinary staff can be the villains. Feline practitioners also recognize that scheduling cats can be difficult and sometimes you just have to get them in when they are ready. Feline medicine is one of the fastest changing areas of veterinary medicine. New knowledge surfaces almost daily, and our options to help your cat have a great life are constantly improving. It is a good idea to choose a veterinarian who is a member of the American Association of Feline Practitioners and keeps up with the most current treatments and diagnostics. With regular care, you can help your cat enjoy a long and full life.

Prophet in Your Own Home

I find that comedies and reality shows can use some bad or not nice words. You might have the best behaved, sweetest child in the world, but then he or she watches a particular show, and all of a sudden he or she is a badly-spoken and badly-behaved child. When shows have fake fights, your child might have a fight the next day at school, which is not good. After you get home from work, do you want to take a shower and just sit down? Well, you could ask your child how school was, and interact with him or her first. Maybe some days your child will even give you a massage and a thank you card for all that you do! Most parents are busy, and they don’t get to talk to their children much. Every day, you could have five minutes at least to talk to them. I think you should consider what I said. It might help with behavior, bad influences, etc. Your children could be watching the Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, and PBS Kids. Those are better for your children, and I think this might help some people and their families. In My Opinion is written by area students, K-12. Please send all submissions to editor@townelaker.com.

continued from page 75

More ways to stay connected: An excellent question. So I asked Taylor about this. He replied by rolling his eyes, shaking his head and mumbling, “I don’t even read that stuff unless you make me.” Neighbors, I meant to move on from the subject of Taylor heading off to college. But his shenanigans make him such an easy target. So indulge me another anecdote or two. Among the items I gathered for Taylor’s college dorm were dish soap and laundry detergent. After all, his suite has a kitchenette and there’s a fairly swanky laundry facility just down the hall. Shortly after Taylor found these items in his college gear, he posted the following message on Facebook: Looking for someone to do my dishes and laundry for me when I move in.

The Daily Value Videos Photos Community Events Calendar www.townelaker.com Join the TowneLaker fan page www.facebook.com/ aroundabouttownelaker Follow us on

Spoken like a future pompous professor who never listened to his mother and has zero problems with self-esteem. I’ll ponder that as I tune into tonight’s House marathon.

www.twitter.com/townelaker AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 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: Third Tuesday at 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 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 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

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 | September 2011

Cherokee Child Advocacy Council, Inc. Anna Crawford Children’s Center and Parents HELP Location: 319 Lamar Haley Pkwy., Canton Contact: Amy Economopolous, (770) 592-9779 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org

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 Animal Shelter Auxiliary Contact: (770) 704-PAWS or ccasa4paws@yahoo.com Website: www.ccasauxiliary.org

Hickory Flat Optimist Club Meeting: First & Third Tuesdays 12 noon Location: Family Tradition, Highway 140 Contact: Alan Flint, (770) 720- 9056

Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: (770) 928-5115, admin@cchumanesociety.org Website: www.cchumanesociety.org

Junior Service League of Woodstock 24 hour information line: (770) 592-3535

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 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 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 Pet Buddies Food Pantry has pet food collection bin at AroundAbout — TowneLaker offices. Website: www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.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 The Wildlife Sanctuary — Ellijay, Ga., to advance the conservation of indigenous wildlife species and habitats. Contact: (706) 276-2980 Website: www.thewildlifesanctuary.com

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 American Legion Post 316 Meeting: Third Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Location: William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road Contact: Irma Martin, (678) 662-2366

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 Towne Lake Meeting: Every Thursday at 12 noon (lunch) Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Ivan Garcia (770) 926-0105 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 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 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

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: Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Pkwy. Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli (770)592-6545 Website: cherokeeteapartypatriots.org Republican Women of Cherokee County Meeting: Second Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Call for location or check website announcement. Contact: RWCC Headquarters, (678) 520-2236 Website: www.rwccga.com

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 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 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

Singles of Towne Lake 35+ holds monthly mixers. Contacts: Lisa, (770) 597-3430 LisaR789@bellsouth.net

Hearing Loss Resource Group Contacts: Cathy, (678) 483-9135 WoodstockSHHH-info@phydeaux.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

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

Support Organizations Adoption/Infertility Support Group Meeting: First Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: First Baptist Church of Woodstock Contact: Cindy Braddock, (678) 445-3131 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 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 Canadian Women’s Club Contact: Lesley Frappier, cwcatlanta@yahoo.com 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

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

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 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 Arts Center Meeting Fourth Friday at 10 a.m. Location: 94 North Street, Canton Contact: (770) 704-6244 Website: www.CherokeeArts.org

Cherokee County Family Child Care Association Contact: Brenda Bowen, (770) 926-8055

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Melanie Williams, (770) 345-2983 Website: www.cherokeemta.org

Emotions Anonymous Meeting: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Contacts: Cindy, (770) 928-6554; Sherry, (770) 926-1889

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association Contact: Dan Baldwin, 770-846-4843 Website: www.cherokeelacrosse.com 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

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

Fellowship of Companies for Christ International Meeting: Second & Fourth Thursdays at 7 a.m. Location: Woodstock Family Restaurant Contact: Randall Hill, (770) 516-5887

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

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

Spirit of Success Career Clothing Connection Provides professional business attire at no cost. Contact: (770) 956-0711.

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

ender 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 | September 2011

Reference

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Emergency — 911 • AroundAbout — TowneLaker • (770) 516-7105 Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce (770) 345-0400 Cherokee County Government:

Animal Shelter (770) 345-7270 Business Licenses (770) 721-7810 Clean & Beautiful Commission (770) 517-7650 Commissioners (678) 493-6000 Courthouse (770) 479-1953 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) (678) 493-6077 Extension Office (770) 479-0418 Jury Phone (770) 479-9011 Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) (770) 479-1953 Planning & Zoning (678) 493-6101 Senior Services (770) 345-5312 Tax Assessors/Evaluation (678) 493-6120

Taxes:

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax Woodstock Office Voter Registration

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

Children/Family:

Anna Crawford Children’s Center (770) 345-8100 Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club (770) 720-7712 Cherokee Family Violence Center (770) 479-1804 Cherokee Focus (770) 345-5483 Child Support Enforcement (770) 720-3581 Department of Family & Children Services (770) 720-3610 The Hope Center (770) 924-0864 MUST Cherokee Ministries (770) 479-5397 Papa’s Pantry (770) 591-4730

Driver’s Licenses (Tues — Sat) (678) 413-8400 Fire Department (District 1, Station 20)

(770) 926-7155

Georgia State Patrol (770) 205-5400 Health Department (770) 345-7371 Hospitals:

Kennestone Hospital North Fulton Hospital Northside Hospital — Cherokee

(770) 793-5000 (770) 751-2500 (770) 720-5100

Battered Women Hotline (770) 479-1703 Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) (770) 345-7920 Poison Control Center — Atlanta (404) 616-9000 Outside Metro Atlanta (800) 222-1222 Probate Court Information Line (770) 704-2610 Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) (404) 250-KIDS Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center (770) 428-2666

Libraries: www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org Rose Creek (770) 591-1491 R.T. Jones (770) 479-3090 Woodstock (770) 926-5859 Non-Emergency 911 (770) 479-3117 88

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

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:

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:

Parks and Recreation:

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Atlanta Gas Light Co. (770) 907-4231 www.aglc.com AT&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 | September 2011

Reference

classifieds Childcare

Home Services, cont’d.

Services

Quality Loving Childcare in my Wyngate home. Full-time, part-time and drop-in available. Reasonable rates. (678) 230-1149.

Dance Curtain Designs. Custom window treatments and more. Call Lisa, (404) 5567481.

Garage Sale

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.

Rodan + Fields Dermatologist. Karon Beasley, Consultant. www.karonbeasley.myrandf.com. From the creators of Proactiv(R); America’s #1 selling acne system, start today and see what an “intelligent skincare” regimen will do for you. Rodan + Fields AMP-MD, featured on The View & Today Show, as the “Must have Anti-Aging product for 2011.” 60-day money back guarantee. Free shipping & discounts for preferred customers.

Eagle Watch Community Garage Sale. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Home 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.

Garage Door/Entry Door. Sales, installation, service. Best prices around. Licensed and insured. The Garage Door Man, LLC. (770) 7148952. Towne Lake resident.

Pet sitting/Services

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

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. =^..^=

Housekeeper — Shari. Laundry, iron, errands, clean, cook. Reliable, honest. 30+ years experience. (770) 517-0166.

JoAnn’s Pet Sitting. Loving in-home pet care. Bonded and insured. (770) 617-0221. Visit www.JoAnnsPetSitting.com.

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

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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 | September 2011

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

Reference

Health & Beauty

Automotive Aspen Falls Auto Spa C & T Auto Service Christian Brothers Automotive My Mechanic Joe Towne Lake’s Car Wash & Detail

91 41 67 48 41

Ember Hot Yoga Lamour Nails Salon 317 Skin Essentials by Marilyn The Sundance Massage Center

Cleaning & Home Service & Repair Carpet Dry Tech

Casey’s Painting

Chumley Contracting

Georgia Hardwood

Hammock’s Heating & Air Mom’s Helping Hand Mr. Junk Rejoice Maid Service

43 69 23 25

The Plumbing Doctor TLC Renovations

46 96

27 21 39 45 72

Lawn & Landscaping Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation

Landscape Matters

The Lawn Squad

Miscellaneous Animal Atlanta Overstock Atlanta Sandy”s Photography Tennis Trendz Woodstock Furniture Outlet

Dental & Medical

96 14 47 71 29

Restaurants & Eateries

Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation

Dr. Jerry Smith Orthodontics

Bar-B-Cutie

Park Pediatric Dentistry

Little Caesars Pizza

50,51

Pearle Vision

Maxwell’s Cigar Bar

Progressive Audiology Towne Lake Family Pharmacy

45 7

Menchies Frozen Yogurt

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

Monti’s Food Express

Oo La La Yogurt Ur Way

Tuscany

Your Coupon Could be Here!

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 | September 2011

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

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic (770) 592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com

Churches

46, Back Cover

Replogle Firm, P.C., The (770) 952-5000

Robertson Law (678) 313-0122

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

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

Bridgepointe Church www.bridgepointechurch.org

Woodstock Church of Christ

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

Automotive

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

S. Bruce O’Neal, DDS (770) 924-8848

Thad Baird & Tyler Baird, DMD (770) 517-0444

Williams Orthodontics (770) 592-5554

Education/Instruction Access Education Towne Lake Driving School 58 (678) 494-2200

Cleaning Services Carpet Dry-Tech (678) 368-5991

Bascomb United Methodist Preschool (770) 926-0397

Moms’ Helping Hand (770) 345-7134

Educational Therapy Services (770) 579-1743

ProWash 7 (404) 551-3053

Goddard School, The (770) 516-0880

Rejoice Maid Service (678) 905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

Music Together (678) 613-2048

Park View Montessori School (770) 926-0044

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

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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

Bon Vivant Salon (770) 516-9100 bonvivantsalon.com

Lamour Nails (770) 517-4757

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

Wild Orchid, The (770) 924-4010

Home Improvement/Repair & Service Advanced Stucco Repair Inc. (770) 592-1597

Bryan Plumbing Services (770) 826-5277

Casey’s Painting

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D.

Georgia Hardwood (770) 374-5555

Gilbert Designs (770) 272-4088

Hammocks Heating & Air (770) 794-0428

Handy Handyman, The (404) 316-1490

Mr. Junk

Nelson Painting & Home Improvements (678) 283-8171

Plumbing Doctor, The (770) 516-9000

PMC Building Materials (770) 427-9770

Precision Painting (678) 234-9668

Pure Home Solutions (678) 453-0200

Roswell Woodstock Plumbing (770) 663-0600

Samford Construction

Tile Masters (404) 368-3067

TLC Renovations (678) 524-6676

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

27 41

John Lutz, PhD

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

Meridian Surgical (770) 704-6101 3755 Sixes Road, Canton

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

Northside Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine 25 (770) 928-0016 20

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

Pinnacle Orthopaedics (770) 926-9112

68 75

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

Plastic Surgery Center of the South (770) 421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Progressive Audiology Center Inc. (770) 592-4744, (706) 253-7244

Towne Lake Insurance (678) 494-8038

Lawn Maintenance/Landscaping Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation (770) 827-0346, (770) 720-1727

Chumley Contracting (678) 894-5708

Dirt Tech Landscaping (404) 934-3478

Landscape Matters (770) 403-5813

Lawn Squad, The (770) 591-4745

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

Cover, 50, 51

Maxwells Cigar Bar (770) 627-2006 Menchies Frozen Yogurt Monti’s Food Express (678) 809-4333

58 17 5

TwoSome Place (770) 924-4124

Towne Lake Family Pharmacy (770) 635-7697

Mosquito Authority, The (678) 294-7597

Retailers & Miscellaneous Services Cash for Broken Cars (404) 392-7586

Inside Front

pest control

Physicians and Medical Services

Woodstock Medical Weight Loss (678) 501-5008

Restaurants/Food Services Bar-B-Cutie

Tuscany (678) 453-0888

South Cherokee Veterinary Hospital (770) 924-6746

Wellstar Medical Group (770) 592-3000

Cherokee County Animal Shelter 55 (770) 345-7270 www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA460.html 1015 Univeter Road, Canton

Woodstock Wolverines www.woodstockwolverinesfootball.com

Oo La La Yogurt Ur Way (678) 383-6129

Prose Tree Service (770) 876-7871

Animal Hospital at Towne Lake (770) 591-9500

Tennis Trendz

Rausch Family Practice (678) 384-7305 Towne Lake Eye Associates (770) 926-2858

Pet/Veterinarian Services & Supplies

Steps Dance Center (770) 516-1363

Little Caesars Pizza

Village Podiatry Centers (770) 928-9263 www.vpcenters.com

Animal Atlanta (770) 591-0007

WantTeeTimes.com 83

Pearle Vision (770) 592-7100 9801 Highway 92, Woodstock

insurance

Etowah Eagles Football www.etowaheaglesfootball.com

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

Prudential Georgia Realty (770) 365-6193, (678) 494-2953

Reflection - Lake Nantahala Inside Back www.reflectionlakenantahala.com

Recreation and Fitness Ember Hot Yoga (770) 485-5583 www.emberyoga.com

Cherokee Internal Medicine (678) 238-0301

Endless Fitness Center (678) 402-6755

Cherokee Women’s Health (770) 720-7733

Etowah Eagles Basketball www.etowaheagles.com/basketball

Econo Rides (678) 218-7170

79 9

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

Hester Photography (770) 591-6640

Justina’s Accessories Boutique (678) 494-6331

Overstock Atlanta (770) 926-3332 9872 Main Street, Woodstock

Master’s Training Center (770) 591-9588

Picture Perfect Custom Framing

Rotary Club of Woodstock

Sandy’s Photography (678) 445-2011

The Gifted Ferret www.TheGiftedFerret.com

Towne Lake Business Association

Woodstock Furniture Outlet

AroundAbout — TowneLaker | September 2011

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