TowneLaker January 2014 by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

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WellStar offers a range of opportunities for comprehensive weight loss and overall nutritional counseling. Medical Weight Loss: Offering a full range of medical management options including meal replacement programs (Optifast速), weight loss medications and bariatric surgery. Under the supervision of a medical weight loss physician, the team works one-on-one with program participants to promote optimal health and lifelong wellness. This comprehensive program features a registered dietitian, weight loss specialist, psychologist and exercise physiologist. Call 770-919-7050 for more information or to register for our Open House on January 23. Nutrition Counseling: The WellStar Nutrition Network offers a weight management program designed for adults aiming to lose or maintain weight through lifestyle changes. Led by a registered dietitian, this program includes an initial consultation, review of key metrics, five interactive classes and two support groups. Call 770-793-7454 for more information and to learn about the 2014 class schedule.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2014

January 2014

Volume 19, Issue 9

18 18 Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice Survey

50 & 51 On the Cover Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her Photo by Kim Bates.

A digital version of the magazine, along with information on how to contact us, submit a story or photo, or advertise is available at www.townelaker.com.

In Every Issue

Time to vote for your favorite local businesses.

Around Towne. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Tournament of Roses

Birthdays. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Nominate a couple who has been married a long, long time.

Everyday Angels. . . . . . . . . . . 26

Meet JoEllen Wilson

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

Ann Litrel introduces us to a leader at Reinhardt University.

Elected Officials. . . . . . . . . . . 88

Woodstock Band

Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Hard work and dedication paid off.

Restaurant Guide

Easy reference guide for downtown Woodstock eateries.

Community News. . . . . . . . . . .8

Church Listings. . . . . . . . . . . . 84

School Information . . . . . . . . 89

Community Information. . . . 92 Advertisers Directory. . . . . . . 94 Real Deals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Contributing Writers

Patty Ponder is the Market Director for TowneLaker. For advertising she can be reached at (770) 615-3322 or AroundAboutPatty@gmail.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Don Akridge..............................................16

Sheila & Kurt Johnson...............................20

Betty Anderson.........................................37

Kara Kiefer................................................28

Kyle Bennett.............................................80

Ann Litrel..................................................34

Michael Caldwell......................................17

Dee Locklin...............................................32

Kelly Campbell..........................................52

Northside Hospital...................................48

Caron & Alberto CatalĂĄn...........................38

Bill Ratliff..................................................68

Chicka Elloy...............................................40

Julian Reid................................................42

G. Lora Grooms.........................................79

Doug Rohan..............................................15

Dr. Scott Harden.......................................44

Lynne Saunders........................................36

Dr. Amy Hardin.........................................47

Dr. Doug Thrasher.....................................66

David Hecklemoser...................................39

Jodi Tiberio...............................................74

Robyn Hohensee......................................29

Dr. Van Tran..............................................46

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

AROUND TOWNE BY KARA KIEFER

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

What’s New?

Kara is the Editor of 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.

Gameday Grill is now open at 2990 Eagle Drive. The restaurant is a family-oriented eatery with a variety of menu options and plenty of televisions to watch your favorite team. Beach Babes Airbrush Studio opened at 1426 Towne Lake Pkwy., in the same center as Tuesday Morning. The salon is open Tuesdays through Fridays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call (770) 926-7880 or find it on Facebook.

What’s Open?

We are happy to report the reopening of Play N’Trade. The store was robbed and set afire this past September. Owner Troy Brazelton was hospitalized for several weeks with severe burns. The store, located at 2990 Eagle Drive, is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

What’s Moving?

Rebound Physical Therapy will be moving to a new location, 980 Woodstock Pkwy., by the end of this month or early February. For more information, please call (678) 445-9799.

What’s Coming?

Branch Boutique will be opening a second store in downtown Woodstock. The store will be located at 370 Chambers Street and is scheduled to open in early February.

What’s Number One?

Atlanta Magazine recently named FoxTale Book Shoppe as the Best Book Shop in its annual “Best of Atlanta” issue. Congratulations!

What’s Being Recycled?

Bring your Christmas tree to be recycled at the Bring One for the Chipper program. Trees will be recycled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Jan. 4 at Olde Rope Mill Park off Rope Mill Road. For more information, call (404) 679-1580 or email kshostak@ woodstockga.gov.

What’s Closed?

We are sad to report the closing of Bar-B-Cutie in the Rose Creek shopping center.

AroundAbout Local Media Growing in Cherokee County AroundAbout Local Media serves the residents of Cherokee County with its monthly, hyper-focused community magazines. Today, the company is proud to have three company-owned titles under its umbrella, the TowneLaker, Sixes Living and Around Woodstock, with more titles planned for the future. TowneLaker — The flagship of the company, the TowneLaker, has been publishing since 1996. The magazine was the first of its kind in the area and united a growing population within the newly developed master planned community. In addition to providing relevant, interesting and relatable editorial content to the residents of Towne Lake, the publication has been an effective vehicle for advertising for the many small businesses in the area. The TowneLaker currently prints 16,000 copies, with 14,700 direct mailed to residents. Sixes Living — While the first issue hit the mailboxes in June 2000, Sixes Living was re- launched in March 2013 with a new editor and a fresh focus on uniting residents along the Sixes Road corridor, from BridgeMill and south Canton to Holly Springs and Hickory Flat. Sixes Living is a wealth of information for residents and a solid advertising tool for the emerging business districts in downtown Canton and Holly Springs. Monthly, Sixes Living publishes 16,250 copies, 15,000 of which are direct mailed to area residents. Around Woodstock — After originally launching in 2004, Around Woodstock was re- introduced to the Woodstock community in November 2013. Serving a large portion of the 30188 zip code, Around Woodstock publishes 16,000 copies, direct-mailing 14,700 to residents, including those in Bradshaw Farms, The Woodlands and downtown Woodstock. Just like its sister publications, Around Woodstock’s goal is to deliver relevant and interesting content to its readers while helping small business grow and prosper. 4

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

COMMUNITY BOARD

Townelaker Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc.

The 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.

Ann Litrel — Ann is an artist and writer whose nationally published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives with her husband and co-author Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons in Towne Lake. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com 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 six years. He and his wife, Debbie, live in Eagle Watch, and they have two married children and five precious grandchildren. Doug can be reached at dthrasher@ hillsideumc.org. Colin Morris — Colin is a freelance writer and stay-at-home 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 13 years, and she grew up in Marietta.

G. Lora (Gay) Grooms — Gay has been teaching, writing, directing, and performing in the Atlanta area since 1990. She opened the Towne Lake Arts Center — now the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village — in 2002. She credits her four now grown children for teaching her almost everything she knows about working with creative young minds. Gay can be reached at director@elmstreetarts.org Dr. Scott R. Harden — Scott is a family dentist at Fountain View Family & Cosmetic Dentistry serving Woodstock and Cherokee County for 25 years. During this time, he has lived in the Towne Lake area with his wife, Kathy, and two children.

Market Director Patty Ponder AroundAboutPatty@gmail.com, (770) 615-3322 Executive Editor Kara Kiefer editor@townelaker.com, (770) 615-3309 Art Director Michelle McCulloch art@townelaker.com (770) 615-3307

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 and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,000 free copies. Approximately 14,700 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,300 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. 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. 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. 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 2014. TowneLaker 2449 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: (770) 615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Powered by Trustworkz Inc. Publisher’s Website www.AroundAboutLocalMedia.com Volume 19, Issue 9

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

For 17 years, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton and Woodstock. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.

Candi Hannigan Title Editor Sixes Living

Kara Kiefer Executive Editor TowneLaker & Around Woodstock

Patty Ponder Market Director TowneLaker & Sixes Living

Charlice Byrd Market Manager Around Woodstock

Michelle McCulloch Art Director

Denise Griffin Controller

Karen & Jon Flaig Owner/Publisher TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Cobb EMC Hosts Literacy Week Cobb EMC hosted its fourth annual Literacy Week. The event brought six children’s book authors and students from across Cobb EMC’s service district. Locally, Boston and Oak Grove elementary schools were able to participate. “We originally designed this event to encourage students’ love of reading and creative writing,” said Mark Justice, associate vice president of education and community relations. “Cobb EMC is committed to education, and Literacy Week inspires imaginations and promotes life-long reading habits in a really fun, interactive way.” Guest authors included New York Times bestselling author Brian Lies and local authors Gail Karwoski, Jenny L. Cote, Diane Shore, Robyn Hood Black and Rebecca Varicak.

Guest author Jenny L. Cote makes reading fun for a group of students from Boston Elementary.

Local High School Student Donates Locks Leah Miller, a junior at Woodstock High School, donated her cut hair to the organization Children With Hair Loss. It took Leah 18 months to grow her hair to the length it was before she cut it. Leah is the daughter of Kimberly and Stephen Miller.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

New Animal Organization Launches in Cherokee County A new non-profit animal organization, Cherokee County Animal League (CCAL), recently launched. The league includes pet owners, retailers, service providers, food pantries, veterinary offices and rescue groups working together to care for and celebrate Cherokee’s pets. Upcoming 2014 community projects include the Law Enforcement K-9 Memorial, Woodstock Police Department Community Art Sculpture and the Cherokee County Animal Shelter. The CCAL is a membership organization open to all businesses and residents in Cherokee County. Member benefits include community pet celebrations, monthly lunch and learn networking meetings, community pet care education and more. For more information or to become a member, visit www.CherokeeCountyAnimalLeague.org

Accounting & Tax Services 3 Business Accounting 3 Bookkeeping 3 Payroll Services 3 Outsourced CFO 3 Personal Tax Returns 3 Business Tax Returns Jeffrey L. Jackson

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Call today to schedule your appointment.

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CONTEST CORNER Sponsored by Papa P’s Mexican/Irish restaurant Congratulations to Cody Alley, (right). He was the first to find our hidden picture on page 76 of the December issue. Congratulations to Madison Martin (left). She was the first to spot the phrase “My Christmas Wish List” on page 76 of the December issue. They both won gift certificates to Papa P’s Mexican/Irish restaurant.

January Finds: If you know the answer to the contest question or find the hidden picture, be the first to e-mail editor@ townelaker.com. Please provide your name, contact phone number or email address.

Find the hidden picture: Be the first to find the phrase: “Downsize Dream Home”

Contest rules: A winner is eligible once every 12 months.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Scout Troop Partners with Optimist Club for Flag Program Boy Scout Troop 6410 has partnered with the Towne Lake Optimist Club for its Avenue of Flags fundraiser. The Thompson family helped place many flags in the Towne Lake area for Veterans Day, the final time for 2013 Avenue of Flags. Profits from the annual fundraiser are used to fund youth projects and the many other youth-based activities in Cherokee County. For a yearly subscription fee of $35, the club will place a 3 feet by 5 feet American flag on a pole in front of your home or business for the six national holidays—Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day and Presidents’ Day. To participate in the program for 2014, send a $35 check to Towne Lake Optimist Club, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, PMB 133, Woodstock, GA 30189. For more information, contact club president Charlice Byrd at (404) 557-2218 or email charlicebyrd@reagan.com

Brandon, Gabriel, Eden and Tiffany Thompson

Local Residents Save Lives in House Fire Etowah High School (EHS) junior Jesse Sullivan and his dad, James, saved the lives of a family of four from a house fire. The Sullivan family was in Chicago to visit relatives for Thanksgiving. In the middle of the night, Jesse and Mr. Sullivan realized a house neighboring their relatives’ home was on fire. They ran into the burning house and helped the four family members— including two young boys—escaped the fire. They also grabbed the boys’ favorite stuffed animals from their beds to comfort them. “I am so proud to be associated with the Sullivan family though our wrestling team,” said EHS parent Kristi Wilson, who serves as team mom for the school’s wrestling team, of which Jesse is a member. “It is amazing what people can accomplish when they see a need and put self aside.” Fellow EHS parent Beth Buckley Morgan was just as moved by the story. “With so many stories of teens heading in the wrong direction, I wanted to make sure the community was aware of this story about a hero in our midst,” she said. 10

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Furtah Seeking Families to Host Foreign Exchange Students Furtah Preparatory School has always accepted international students into its school and is currently looking to expand this program. However, the school first needs to secure host families for these students. Families do not have to have a student that attends Furtah to participate but do need to provide a spare room or bed, a place at the table, somewhere in the home to study comfortably and transportation to and from Furtah and school events. Host families will host for one school year. For further information on becoming a host family, please visit www.ForHostFamilies.com, an information resource for prospective host families.

WE’RE CHEROKEE’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL WITH AN EMPHASIS ON “COMMUNITY. ” Northside Hospital-Cherokee offers more than the latest medical treatments. Since becoming part of Cherokee County in 1997, we’ve been a devoted member of the community. We contribute to Partners in Education in Cherokee County schools and our physicians and staff have donated more than 10,000 hours of volunteer work to local organizations. In all, we’ve invested millions in local community centers, academic institutions and charity organizations in Cherokee County. We will continue to invest in and support Cherokee. Because it’s our home, too.

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS MOMS Club速 Raises Funds for Toys For Tots The MOMS Club速 of Woodstock-Towne Lake raised $687 for Toys for Tots by hosting a Show and Tell event at Latimer Hall. Members of the club participated along with other area vendors by displaying and selling products and homemade items. The club also raffled baskets with items donated by area businesses.

Left to right: David Berry, Daniel Berry and Lolly Bivens

S.A.L.T. Seeking Volunteers Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. (Senior and Law Enforcement Together) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The organization currently is seeking volunteers and taxdeductible donations. Triad S.A.L.T. seeks to alleviate fear of victimization, build confidence, enhance the delivery of law enforcement services and improve the overall quality of life to our senior population. It also works to educate individuals and businesses providing services to seniors. The group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 8:30 a.m. at the YMCA in Canton, 151 Waleska St. For more information, email cherokeetriad@gmail.com or visit www. saltcherokee.com. 12

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Revolutionary Veterinary Stem Cell Procedure Performed Locally An unprecedented in-clinic stem cell procedure was performed locally at Animal Hospital of Towne Lake. The procedure combats osteoarthritis and improves the quality of life for canines, felines and equine patients. The minimally invasive procedure harvests adult stem cells from animals that are seeking pain relief. Dr. Weaver and Animal Hospital of Towne Lake are one of 450 nationwide veterinarians to implement this new procedure. The recent patient was a seven-year-old Walker Hound who had been suffering from painful arthritis. This new technology was an alternative to expensive and invasive surgery for him. For more information, visit www.medivet-america.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

Happy Birthday!

Jacob Kish Age 13 on December 13 Happy Birthday kiddo! Love, Mom, Dad and Jonah

Austin Riddle Age 4 on December 15 Happy Birthday sweet boy! We are blessed to have you in our lives! Love, Mommy, Daddy, Allison, Kristina, Evan and your grandparents

Taylor Kimber Age 18 on December 29 Happy Birthday, Aunt Tay-Tay! Love, Peyton Riley

Engagement

Layla Marie Nixon Age 20 on November 23 On this birthday we are wishing yousuccess for you whatever you do, victory for you wherever you go and happiness for you always!

Jonathan Thompson Age 3 on January 13 Son of Marisol and Gary Thompson

Samantha Stahler Age 7 on January 25 Happy Birthday! We love you to the moon and back!

Sha-Hanna Saffold Age 21 on January 20

Maria Meyer Age 14 on January 19 We love you sweetheart! Mom, Dad and Tucker

Chase Clemmons Age 9 on January 9 Love, Daddy, Mommy and Daniel

Celebrations Anniversary

Birth Caitlin Richards and Gabriel Howe are engaged to be married. The couple will be married in Nashville, TN on February 22, 2014. Ms. Richards is a graduate of Etowah High School.

Jack Shaffer born on November 18, 2013. 8lbs., 12oz, 21.5â&#x20AC;? Welcome sweet baby boy. We love you! Mom, dad and big brothers Adrian and William.

Rosa and Michael King celebrated their 21st anniversary on December 19

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Holiday Season Primer: What to do if you are pulled over for DUI BY DOUGLAS B. ROHAN, ESQ. ROHAN LAW, PC

Please do not consider this a “how to” article to avoid a DUI. Let me start off by saying that I wish everyone would hire a cab to get home or be responsible and designate a driver before the festivities begin. I wish there were no drunk drivers. I have a family and many friends in the area, and I would be devastated if any of them were injured or killed by a drunk driver. If you Doug Rohan is a bihave been drinking or plan lingual attorney and to drink, call a cab. That will owner of Rohan Law, be the best $80 you spend PC specializing in auto because my initial retainer is accidents, workplace injuries and criminal substantially higher. defense. You can Unfortunately, we live in email him at doug@ a world where people make rohanlawpc.com. mistakes in judgment all the time. A DUI is the most complicated case to prosecute and therefore defend. There are really several cases wrapped up inside the DUI, and each of these has to be resolved in favor of the state in order to obtain a conviction. If any aspect of the arrest, investigation or trial is flawed, then the defendant must be acquitted. This includes the original reason for the stop by the officer, the roadside field sobriety evaluation, the science behind the breathalyzer test or blood analysis and the presentation of facts to the jury. Today we will focus primarily on the decisions you make after the blue lights come on in your rearview mirror. Always be polite and respectful. Answer the officer with a “yes” or “no” response and remember, you always have the right to remain silent. In my experience reviewing videotapes of the arrest, being AWARE of your right to remain silent can be hindered by your CAPACITY to remain silent. Drunk people seem to like to talk and never know when it’s time to just be quiet. More than one DUI case has turned (for the worse) on what the defendant said on video. The number one question I get at dinner parties is, “should I blow” when offered the breathalyzer. Of course the answer is: depends on what the result will be when you do blow. Keep in mind that any refusal to provide a breath sample can result in a hard one-year suspension of your driver’s license. Under the implied consent laws of the State of Georgia, if you carry a license and drive on the roads of the state, you are affirmatively implying that you will provide your breath sample if requested during a lawful arrest. Refusing to do so results in the state withdrawing your privilege to drive. So you need to think long and hard about the possible consequences.

“Do not refuse to submit to the breath test expecting that you can do a blood test instead.” I generally suggest that if this is your first DUI and you have had only two or three drinks, then it is a safer bet to go ahead and blow. I know some attorneys have a different view, but most of my clients’ first concern is the ability to drive. A firsttime DUI defendant is allowed to request an affidavit of first conviction, which generally will result in a provisional license to get to and from work and school for the first 120 days after conviction. Thereafter, you can reinstate your license after paying a fee and showing proof of completion of a Risk Reduction class (no online courses are allowed). The answer to the above question changes if you have had more than three drinks. In that case, it’s better to not blow, thereby denying the state a crucial piece of evidence for conviction. The answer also changes if it is your second DUI. You will receive no benefits of any doubt in your case, and a jury will be asking if it can give you a life sentence before you kill someone. Obviously, this can’t happen because a second DUI is a misdemeanor charge, and the maximum sentence is 12 months in custody. But the conviction rate for a second DUI is dramatically higher. Now to address a common misconception: if you want to request a blood test, you must submit to the breath test first. When you are arrested for DUI, the officer will read a script from his or her age-appropriate “implied consent” card, which includes language that allows you to request a blood test to confirm the alcohol concentration. This is a right you have under the law, but (a) it is at your expense, and (b) the right exists only AFTER you have submitted to the test requested by the officer, which is almost always the breathalyzer. Do not refuse to submit to the breath test expecting that you can do a blood test instead.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

Social Security in 2014 Next year’s small COLA isn’t the only adjustment related to the program. BY DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Here are a few things you need to know about Social Security for 2014. For clarity’s sake, here is a rundown of what is changing next year and what isn’t. Social Security recipients are getting a raise – but not much of one. Next year, the average monthly Social Security payment will increase by $19 due to a 1.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), one of the smallest Don Akridge is President annual COLAs in the program’s of Citadel CPA, Financial history. Since 1975, only seven Planning & Investment COLAs have been less than two Services founded in percent. Four of these seven 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain COLAs have occurred in the past Road between I-575 five years, however. The 2013 & I-75 in Kennesaw. COLA was 1.7 percent. Phone 770-952-6707. How does Social Security measure COLAs? It refers to the federal government’s Consumer Price Index, specifically the CPI-W, which tracks how inflation affects urban wage earners and clerical workers. Social Security looks at the CPI-W from July to September of the present year to figure the Social Security COLA for next year, so the 2014 COLA reflects the very tame inflation measured in summer 2013. Does the CPI-W accurately measure the inflation pressures that seniors face? Some senior advocacy groups say it doesn’t. The Senior Citizens League (TSCL), a nonprofit that lobbies for elders and retired veterans, contends that Social Security recipients have lost 34 percent of their purchasing power since 2000 because the CPI-W doesn’t track rising health care expenses correctly. On its website, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) admits that the CPI “differs in important ways from a complete cost-of-living measure.” The CPI measures increases or decreases in rents, transportation costs, tuition, food, clothing, prescription drug and medical care costs and the prices of consumer discretionary goods and services – 200 item categories in all. Still, some prices in the CPI rise faster than others; medical costs increased 2.4 percent from September 2012 to September 2013, and housing costs rose 2.3 percent. Chained CPI is not yet being used to determine COLAs. Some analysts and legislators would like Social Security COLAs to be based on chained CPI, a formula which assumes some consumers are buying cheaper/alternative products and services as prices rise. Supporters think that pegging Social Security COLAs to chained CPI could reduce the program’s daunting shortfall by as much as 20 percent in the long term. 16

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“Next year, the average monthly Social Security payment will increase by $19 due to a 1.5 percent costof-living adjustment (COLA), one of the smallest annual COLAs in the program’s history.” The CPI-W is still the CPI of record, so to speak. That’s good for retirees, as the Congressional Budget Office says that COLAs would be about 0.3 percent smaller if they were based on chained CPI. Perhaps this sounds bearable for one year, but according to AARP, a 62-year-old who retired and claimed Social Security in 2013 would be losing the equivalent of an entire month of income per year by age 92 if chained CPI were used to figure benefit increases. Groups like TSCL and AARP wouldn’t mind basing the COLAs on the CPI-E, an alternative CPI that the BLS maintains to track prices most affecting consumers aged 62 and up. From 1982-2011, the CPI-E showed yearly inflation averaging 3.1 percent compared to 2.9 percent for the CPI-W. Social Security’s maximum monthly benefit is increasing. In 2013, a Social Security recipient who had reached full retirement age could claim a maximum monthly benefit of $2,533. Next year, the limit will be $2,642. So is Social Security’s annual earnings limit. This limit is only faced by Social Security recipients who have yet to reach the month in which they turn 66. In 2013, retirees younger than 66 were able to earn up to $15,120 before having $1 in retirement benefits temporarily withheld for every $2 above that level. In 2014, the annual earnings limit rises to $15,480. Social Security recipients who will turn 66 next year can earn up to $41,400 in 2014; if their earnings break through that ceiling, they will have $1 of their benefits temporarily withheld for every $3 above that level. Once you get to the month in which you celebrate your 66th birthday, you can earn any amount of income thereafter without a withholding penalty. On the job, the wage base for Social Security taxes is rising. American workers will pay a 6.2 percent payroll tax on the initial $117,000 of their incomes in 2014. The 2013 payroll tax cap was set at $113,700. About six percent of working Americans will pay more in Social Security tax next year as a consequence of this seemingly insignificant adjustment 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.

Where Does Georgia Get Its Money? BY STATE REPRESENTATIVE MICHAEL CALDWELL

The short answer: you and me. Over the last two months, I have dedicated my column to discussing our state’s finances. In November, I covered differences between federal and state budgeting processes, and in December I outlined how state lawmakers spent Georgia’s FY14 budget. Several readers reached out and requested that I devote my January article to discussing the different methods Michael Caldwell is the our state uses to raise revenue. state representative for District 20, which This month, with the help of the covers Towne Lake and Governor’s original budget report Woodstock. He can for FY14, I’ll strive to present a be reached at (678) complete picture of Georgia’s 523-8570 or email revenue. him at Michael@ CaldwellForHouse.com. The total estimated state revenue in Georgia’s FY14 budget totals to just less than $20 billion coming from a variety of sources. Nearly 95 percent of Georgia’s revenue comes from what are known as “general funds.” These are taxes and fees assessed on Georgia’s residents and corporations. 01 Individual Income Tax 02 Sales Tax 03 Motor Fuel Tax 04 Corporate Income Tax 05 Title Fee 06 Tobacco & Alcohol 07 Insurance Premium 08 Motor Vehicle License 09 Property Tax

45% 26% 5% 4% 4% 2% 2% 2% 0.15%

$8.9 billion $5 billion $1 billion $775 million $733 million $400 million $356 million $325 million $31 million

These general funds account for 89 percent of the state’s income. The top source of revenue for Georgia by far is the individual income tax. Georgia uses a graduated tax ranging up to six percent of a household’s income. The general sales tax takes second place at roughly 26 percent of the state’s total revenue. Four percent of the tax consumers pay on most items in retail stores in Georgia go toward the state’s coffers. Across the above nine sources fall several excise taxes like the motor fuel tax, alcohol tax, etc. The motor fuel tax is constitutionally required to be spent only on roads and bridges in the state. Ranking in fourth place is the corporate income tax, which has been a flat six percent tax since 1969 on all corporate income generated in the state. This tax does not apply to corporate income generated outside of Georgia. One final interesting point from these top nine is that the state portion of property

“Nearly 95 percent of Georgia’s revenue comes from what are known as “general funds.” These are taxes and fees assessed on Georgia’s residents and corporations.” tax accounts for less than 0.15 percent of the state’s budget and is set to be completely phased out by 2016. 10 Regulatory Fees & sales

$1.2 billion

With the addition for the remaining regulatory fees and sales accounted for, the largest ten revenue sources for the state comprise 95 percent of the state’s annual revenue. 11 Lottery Funds 13 Other

5% $1 billion 0.75% $155 million

Lottery funds constitute the majority of non-tax revenue in the state of Georgia. By law, this income is dedicated for special programs like the HOPE scholarship for college students and Pre-K programs. The section designated “other” includes sources like the Tobacco Settlement Fund which the state has participated in since 1998, the Brain and Spinal Injury Trust fund and several other smaller sources. Georgia’s revenues are spread across a multitude of sources, but with nearly 50 percent of total revenue accounted for between individual and corporate income taxes, Georgia relies heavily on income tax. As we review and understand the methods that Georgia uses to raise revenue, we will be better able to contribute to the ongoing debate surrounding tax reform in our state and nation. Join me at 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings for my Weekly Coffee with District 20 at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you for the opportunity to represent you in our General Assembly. TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

Readers’ Choice Awards It’s time to let your voice be heard! Vote for your favorite local businesses today It’s that time of the year again! Time to vote for your favorite businesses in the North Cobb/South Cherokee areas! Please refer to the Question and Answer section below. Q: How do I vote for my favorite businesses? A: Go to www.townelaker.com. Click on the “Readers’ Choice 2014” button. You will be directed to the online ballot. Q: How many times can I vote? A: You may vote four times from the same IP address, which allows additional members of your household to cast their votes. Must vote for a minimum of 20 businesses per ballot. Q: Why are some businesses listed? What if the business I want to vote for is not listed? A: When a reader enters the name of a business as his or her selection, this selection will be added to the ballot. These selections will populate the ballot and is done strictly for the convenience of the voters and does not indicate endorsement or preference by the TowneLaker. Q: Do I have to vote online? A: If you don’t wish to vote online or don’t have access to the Internet, we will have paper ballots available at our office, 2449 Towne Lake Parkway. One ballot per person will be issued. Q: Are any photocopies of the ballots permitted? A: No photocopies of blank or completed paper ballots will be accepted. Q: How long do I have to vote? A: Voting will end on February 10, 5 p.m.

Look for this button:

Townelaker Readers’Choice

Vote Here

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

It’s easy! Just log on to www.townelaker.com and choose your favorites TODAY! Submit your votes by Monday, February 10 at 5 p.m.

Readers’ Choice Categories RESTAURANTS

Dry Cleaner

Florist

All-Around Restaurant

Electrician

Furniture Store

Asian Restaurant

Financial Institution/Bank

Garden Center

Bakery

Hair Salon

Gift/Home Décor Store

Barbecue Place

Home Improvement - HVAC

Grocery Store

Breakfast Place

Home Improvement - Flooring

Hardware Store

Coffee Shop

Home Improvement - Roofing

Home Improvement Store

Dessert Place

Home Improvement - Handyman

Jeweler

Ethnic Restaurant

Insurance Agent (specify agent)

Liquor Store

Fast Food Restaurant

Lawn Care

Music Store

Fine Dining Restaurant

Medical Doctor

Pet Supply Store

Italian Restaurant

Nail Salon

Shoe Store

Kid-Friendly Restaurant

Ophthalmologist

Specialty Foods

Lunch Place

Optometrist

Sporting Goods

Mexican Restaurant

Orthodontist

Tire Shop

New Restaurant

Painter

Toy Store

Pizzeria

Pediatrician

Seafood Restaurant

Pediatric Dentist

Sports Bar

Pest Control

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Pet Boarding

Dance Studio

SERVICES

Pet Groomer

Fitness/Health Club

Auto Repair

Plumber

Gymnastics Center

Car Wash

Photographer

Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning

Physical Therapist

Caterer

Realtor

Chiropractor

Tutoring

Cleaning Services

Veterinarian

C.P.A. Day Care/Preschool

RETAILERS

Day Spa

Boutique

Dentist

Children’s Clothing Drug Store

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

Divorcing? What are Some of the Options for the Home? BY SHEILA & KURT JOHNSON

Kurt and Sheila Johnson are Licensed Realtors with Keller Williams Realty Partners and have served Cherokee County for over 10 years. Visit them online at www.KurtandSheila.com or call (404) 954-2486.

It may not be the best decision for either spouse to keep the home after a divorce. When considering the options, it’s important to conduct a thorough analysis to determine whether the spouse left with the home can afford it, and whether the home has sufficient equity. This new household income may not be enough to cover the property’s utilities and ongoing repairs. Consider these potential arrangements when making a decision.

Sell the home (normal or short sale) PROS: • Both spouses can move on with their lives and have a fresh start with no lingering financial ties to each other. CONS: • Children may benefit from the stability of remaining in the home. Refinance the home • If both spouses are obligated to the mortgage on the home, it may be possible for one spouse to convey ownership to the other and refinance. Even without equity, some lenders are willing to accommodate qualifying borrowers.

PROS: • Both spouses can make a clean break with no lingering financial ties to each other. • The family can remain in the property with possibly at a lower house payment. CONS: • This can be a lengthy process if the property doesn’t have equity. The lender may refuse to modify the loan especially if the remaining borrower lacks sufficient income after the divorce. “Exclusive use” Under this scenario, one spouse remains in the home but both spouses have a shared responsibility for the mortgage and ongoing repairs. • This allows the children to remain in the home without much disruption • Provides more time for the home’s value to improve so that both spouses may share in the net proceeds of the sale. CONS: • This can keep the spouse not living in the home from qualifying for a mortgage on another home and keep financial ties to the ex. • Either spouse could refuse to contribute to repairs and improvements, making the home nearly impossible to sell and unpleasant to live in. Stay in the home together Some couples can’t afford to maintain two households and choose to share the home. continued on page 82

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Dr. Jamie Rollins and Dr. Shalini Shah offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle. Northside Pediatrics offers:

• Board-certified in Pediatrics. Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides attentive, complete care to children in every stage of development from infancy to adolescence.

• Timely Access. For sick patients who require immediate attention, we offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

• Efficient Follow-up. We are committed to providing timely feedback and reports to

684 Sixes Road, Suite 220,

our patients. Exams are completed in our office and tests results are usually available the next day.

Holly Springs, GA 30115 I-575, Exit 11

Call us today for an appointment (678) 388-5485

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

JANUARY EVENTS CALENDAR Jan. 7, 14 and 21

Square Dancing Lessons Time: 7:30–9:30 p.m. Location: 216 Rope Mill Road Information: Beginner square dancing lessons provided by the Cherokee Squares Square Dance Club. Each lesson will be $6 per person. Call (404) 408-3180.

Jan. 8–April 12

Unearthing the Past: Archaeology in Cherokee County Times: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Location: 100 North St., Suite 140, Canton Information: This exhibit will explore the last 80 years of archaeological investigations in Cherokee County, highlight some of the more than 1,000 archaeological sites in the area and feature rarely seen artifacts found in Cherokee County. Admission is free. www.rockbarn.org.

Jan. 18

Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Breakfast Time: 9–11 a.m. Location: Northside-Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton Information: Free event with buffet breakfast. RSVP by Jan. 3 to mlkunity@allentempleame.org.

Jan. 21

Junior Service League New Member Mixer Time: 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Location: Leaning Ladder Premium Olive Oils and Vinegars, 105 East Main Street, Suite 126 Information: Free appetizers, cash bar and a raffle drawing for free year membership for potential members. www. jslwoodstock.org.

Feb. 15

Guns & Hoses 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run Time: 7:30 a.m. fun run, 8 a.m. 5K Location: Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road Fees: $25 for 5K pre-registration, $30 after Jan. 31 to race day. $10 for fun run pre-registration, $15 after Jan. 31 to race day. Information: Registration is open for the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency’s eighth annual event to raise money for charities. The charity selected by the Cherokee County Fire Department is the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch. The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office chose the Cherokee Sheriff’s Foundation. At registration, participants can pick the team they want to represent and a portion of the fee will go to the charity. To register, visit http://gunshoses5kandfunrun.blogspot.com. For more details, contact Kate Borden at (404) 445-6931 or kborden@cherokeega.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Sequoyah Regional Library System Events www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org Rose Creek Library 4476 Towne Lake Pkwy Woodstock Library 7735 Main St. Rose Creek Story Times Family—10:30 a.m. Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28 Woodstock Story Times Lapsit—10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Jan. 8, 15, 22 and 29 Family—10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Jan. 9, 16, 23 & 30 Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. These programs often feature stories, music, rhymes and a free craft activity. Toddler Lapsit story times are designed for children, ages 1 to 3 only, with participating adults. These programs often feature books, songs and activities that encourage early literacy.

Ongoing events

Reading Dogs — Children ages 6 and older can read to dogs to help build reading confidence. Register requested by calling the library. Woodstock: 4-5 p.m. Jan. 8, 15 and 22 Knitting Instruction — Taught by a retired teacher who loves to share her knowledge of knitting: Rose Creek: 1-2 p.m. Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28 Woodstock LEGO Club — Work alone or with a team to create a LEGO structure from each month’s theme. All ages invited; 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult Woodstock: 3 p.m. Jan. 19

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Community

Ribbon Cuttings Audio Intersection

Autumn Hill

Roger D. Garrison Law Enforcement Training Center

Ivy Manor Interiors

Willows Gift Shop

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Our March Issue will have a

Scouting Feature

Roses

We are looking for the couple married the longest in Towne Lake for our

Tournament of

Contest

Winners will be featured in the February issue of TowneLaker. If you or someone you know is a contender in the Tournament of Roses Contest, send us your nomination, including the names of the couple and their wedding date, including year. Please include your name, address and phone number, as well as a phone number for the couple you are nominating. Nominations may be submitted by e-mail to editor@ townelaker.com, faxed to (770) 516-4809 or mailed to TowneLaker 2449 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, GA 30189. The deadline for nominations is Friday, January 10.

Please send photos of your troop or pack participating in activities! The March issue deadline is February 10.

Coming Soon

summer

camps

To be included in our summer camp guide please send your information to editor@townelaker.com Deadline is January 10.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

EVERYDAY

If you would like to make a donation, please visit www.townelaker.com/ everydayangels to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: 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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Angela is a local resident, wife and mom. She has two children, a son in seventh grade and a daughter in fourth. In July 2013, Angela began experiencing nausea, abdominal pain, and fever. When her problems recurred several weeks later, doctors suspected diverticulitis, a common digestive disease, but inflammation in her colon made it difficult to test and diagnose. Antibiotics temporarily relieved her symptoms. By the end of October, after returning from an out-of-town job assignment, Angela drove herself from the airport directly to the hospital. Her abdominal pain was unbearable. She has not returned home since. Angela celebrated her 40th birthday in

November while in the hospital. As this article is being written, she remains in the hospital, recovering from surgery after a partial colonoscopy revealed Stage III colon cancer. When she is strong enough, Angela will begin aggressive chemotherapy treatments in hopes of ridding the remaining cancer in her small intestine and surrounding lymph nodes. Angela and her husband have lived here since 2010; they were drawn to our community by its great schools and reputation as a great place to raise their children. Angela was raised by her grandmother and has always worked hard and never asked for assistance. She has always been a giving person. There is no extended family to assist them or rely upon. “It is just us – the four of us,” Angela said. She works full time as a free-lance photographer, often traveling out of town to photograph for large hotel chains. Her husband has been working part-time for Cobb County and has cared for the kids during the times she had to travel for her job. He is now trying to secure a full-time position. Without Angela’s income and mounting medical bills, they have many additional fears. It is most important to Angela that her children remain in their schools with as little disruption as possible. There are many unknowns ahead, but what concerns her most is her family’s well-being and happiness. Everyday Angels would like to help relieve Angela’s fears. We have covered their rent for January and gift cards for groceries over the holidays. In order to assist them further, we must ask for community support. If you would like to contribute, please see the box to the left.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

End of an Era BY KARA KIEFER

My son’s football career started because he wanted to get out of class. When he was in the sixth grade, he brought home a piece of paper announcing a football meeting for those interested in playing spring football. The meeting would be held during seventh period. After listening to the coaches, he decided he wanted to play football. That first spring was tough. Kara Kiefer is the editor The only football he had played of the Townelaker. She was a few pick-up games in the lives in Towne Lake neighborhood. He was playing with her husband Mike alongside boys who had played and sons Brandon and Garrett. since early elementary school, and there was a steep learning curve for him. But his coach assured my husband and me that my son would catch on and be OK. He was right. Over the next three years, he spent hours on the practice field in the late fall heat while we sat in the weeds swatting at insects and perspiring. We spent many Saturday mornings, afternoons and evenings in football stadiums, home and away, watching him play in games and Jamborees. Every year, he gained strength and knowledge in the game, and we looked forward to the day he would be playing under the Friday night lights of high school. The first time he dressed out and ran through the Woodstock High School Woodshed on a Friday night as a freshman gave me chills. This was what we had all waited for—the energy and excitement of playing under the lights. The ensuing years saw two knee injuries, two concussions, a few sprained ankles and plenty of bruises. But all of that only made him work and play harder. Four years passed. Four years of cold steel benches and some less than favorable visitors’ stands. Four years of volunteering and becoming part of a family. Four years of starting the season sweating profusely in the stands and ending the season wrapped in jackets and comforters. Four seasons of hard fought victories and painful losses. Before we knew it, it was Senior Night, and for us, it would also be the last high school football game our son would play. That night, we proudly walked our son down the 50-yard line—this mom just trying to hold it together. Many photos were taken that night in an attempt to preserve this brief moment in time. After the final second ticked down, and the game was over, I sat there one last time—for just a moment—as my son’s team shook hands with the opponent. This was the end. Shortly thereafter, we all joined the players on the field and not one senior’s eye was dry. 28

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“Before we knew it, it was Senior Night, and for us, it would also be the last high school football game our son would play.” Football was one of the greatest experiences in my son’s young life, and the lessons he learned will remain with him forever. He has “brothers” that will always be with him in spirit and in heart, no matter where they end up in their futures. I will always be thankful to have shared that journey with him.

Photo by Debra Frieden www.debrafrieden.com

Here’s To Good Health in 2014 BY ROBYN HOHENSEE

The year 2014 is here, and I couldn’t be happier. A new year brings with it hope and promise for good things to come. Every year, I strive to make it a good one, and this year is no exception. My main focus for 2014 is working on staying as healthy and fit as I can. I have that goal every year, but this year I plan to step it up a notch. I Robyn Hohensee has resided have a simple and common in Towne Lake with her husband Todd for 17 years. sense plan on how to achieve She is currently working on a it. No more poring over children’s book and an adult diet and health books and fiction novel. overthinking it. It isn’t as Feel free to contact her at hard as most people make it. Robyn561@yahoo.com. The first step is cutting down on carbs. Not cutting them out, as I adore them with every fiber of my being, but cutting down on them. It won’t be hard to do. It just takes a bit of organization, effort and yes, willpower. The Internet is a wonderland of fabulous recipes and tips on healthy meals, desserts and snacks that I will make full use of. It is also free! The next part of my plan is to make exercise a top priority— more so than in previous years. That doesn’t mean just going to the gym and taking a spinning class. It does mean taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away from a building and getting off of the couch and away from the computer and move, move, move! I plan on putting a ballet barre in our home gym to practice the ballet techniques I did religiously every day as a young ballerina. I will never be the

principal dancer for an elite ballet company, (that ship sailed years ago), but I will stay in excellent shape! I look forward to traveling, enjoying the country and beach, spending time with my family and friends, reading new books, enjoying my animals and hundreds of other tremendous things. All of these things are hard to do if you are sick and out of shape. The old saying goes, “if you have your health you have everything.” If you don’t, life isn’t any fun. I plan on making it as fun as possible!

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

TLBA SPOTLIGHT The Giant Event! The Giant Event is an inspiring way to show gratitude, and a “Thank You” you can see!” Is sharing the new normal? Today, more businesses consider profit “sharing” as a method to keep employees motivated and loyal, and people consider time “sharing” as a way to make vacation dream houses more affordable. It was just a matter of time before someone thought of “sharing” honors and awards. Giant Event allows businesses and individuals to pool funds to honor individuals in one elaborate and special event. There are four categories of “Giants”: business, silent (to honor someone who has passed away), individual and community leader. Splendor and affordability can be found at The Giant Event’s publicly held awards and honors ceremonies. The company provides the venue, the menu, the entertainment, the red carpet arrival, the awards and more. All you need to do is gift a top associate, salesperson, community leader, or best friend with a day in his or her honor. Then, sit back and enjoy, as the Giant Event makes this person feel appreciated and you feel proud! The Giant Event specializes in hosting award and honoring ceremonies for small businesses, communities, and individuals that want the big to-do event at a fraction of its cost. The Giant Event provides more than a new way to express gratitude, it provides a “thank you” that you can see! The next Giant Event will be held February 9, and there is still availability if you or your business is interested in honoring a special someone. Visit www. thegiantevent.com or call (404)786-9998 for more information.

TOWNE LAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION Happy New Year from the Towne Lake Business Association (TLBA)! We wish you joy, good health and prosperity in 2014. We want to thank everyone who attended the annual TLBA Holiday Gala at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills in December. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays and the close of 2013 with fellow business people in the Towne Lake area. The TLBA helps promote business in the Towne Lake area and serves as a support system for the business community. We host monthly Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshops, featuring expert guest speakers who share their experience and knowledge on a variety of business topics. Topics for 2014 will be posted in future articles and also on our website.

Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshop Tuesday, January 21, 12:15 — 2 p.m. Winning with the Honors! presented by Sharon Saffold. All Workshops are held at Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills. Please RSVP to all events by email to jstaughton@renasant.com. Help us welcome our newest members, The Doggy Dorm and The Giant Event! As always, thank you for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee.” Visit us at tlba.org. 30

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

Raising Frogs BY DEE LOCKLIN

There are comfy recliners in heaven for mothers who take on the care and feeding of pets abandoned by their kids. You moms out there know exactly what I mean because you have devotedly raised frogs, fish, mice, guinea pigs and all manner of critters over the years. Scene from the local pet store: “Mommy, I want this parakeet. Pulleeeeze. I simply can’t live without it!” Two hours later, Dee Locklin is retired we leave the store with bird from Georgia State and cage and food University. She lives and toys and other in Towne Lake with accoutrements in husband Lewis and son Taylor in a tow, the cost of cluttered home filled which could fund with love and lots box seats in of dust bunnies. the new Braves Contact Dee at stadium. dlocklin89@gmail.com Scene a month later: Mommy (who warrants this title only when progeny really wants something) is cleaning poop from every inch of the birdcage and vacuuming seed hulls that the little feathered friend has spit-balled all over the floor. I probably qualify for a job as a zookeeper because of my extensive experience caring for all the animals that my son fancied over the years. He first wanted a small water turtle. Thankfully, the law was on my side, and

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

I gleefully explained to my little prince that the sale of turtles smaller than four inches is illegal due to salmonella risks. Not to mention deplorable conditions in the mass turtle market. But that’s another article. We then acquired P.J. the cockatiel. OK, I confess. My assuming the responsibility for P.J.’s care and feeding was not completely Taylor’s fault. I simply couldn’t help falling in love with the little gray guy with orange cheeks, who would snuggle in our necks and chant, “Daddy’s BIG Bird!” I cannot count the nights that P.J. and my husband fell asleep together after watching TV on the den couch. Then came Shorty and Cosmo —the two most spoiled goldfish in all of Towne Lake. Scoffing at an ordinary cramped bowl for these two scamps, we set them up in a resort-like aquarium and pampered them well. Considering that they were—well, goldfish— this may have been our finest hour as pet owners. My friends left the country last month to visit family in the Czech Republic. International travelers know that readying for such a trip involves a lot of details, but the most challenging task was finding someone to care for their son’s two frogs. Understand that these are frogs not much larger than my thumbnail. They pretty much swim around in their little container all day, jumping off pebbles and hiding among branches of bamboo. Their son lost interest in the amphibians long ago, but his mommy took them on and continues to nurture them with love and affection. It’s what mommies do. And rewards await us, I promise.

Did you eat today? They didn’t… … until they came to MUST These little girls could be children from any street... your street. The recession has caused more families to struggle for food, housing, clothing, job training and healthcare. That’s why MUST Ministries is more important than ever. We’ve served 33,892 of your neighbors in the past 12 months, and almost half of those were children. About 81,700 meals annually are served in the MUST Loaves and Fishes Kitchen and a ton of food a day is distributed in three MUST Food Pantries.

“…I was hungry and you gave me food…” Matt. 25:35

Food · Housing · Jobs · Clothing Canton 770.479.5397 · Marietta 770.427.9862 Smyrna 770.436.9514 · Donation Center 678.581.8090 Donate online today at www.mustministries.org Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter. Watch our YouTube channel.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

Digging Up Sweet Potatoes BY ANN LITREL

JoEllen Wilson is vice president for advancement at Cherokee County’s Reinhardt University, where for the past 20 years she has served in positions of increasing responsibility, eventually becoming the school’s first female vice president. Beginning in 1997, Wilson became special assistant to the president, serving as the “familiar face” for many alumni and donors in a critical time of transition, as a succession of four men rotated through the office, culminating with J. Thomas Isherwood arriving in 2002. Currently, she oversees donor relations, marketing and fundraising for the university. This story is part of a series featuring local leaders and visionaries, some behind the scenes, who have had an impact on the community. Wilson is pictured here on the stage of the Falany Performing Arts Center. For more on this story and the accompanying art, visit www.annlitrel.com. “I told the president, ‘If I have to plan one more Homecoming, I will DIE.’ ” I suspect it’s an unusual statement for JoEllen Wilson. A half an hour into our interview, I have already mentally designated her as one of those rare people with inexhaustible reserves of energy and goodwill toward their fellow man. Wilson is referring to her first job at Reinhardt, a part-time position in Alumni Relations. “I’m a people person, so that job was perfect for me. My sons had started high school, and I was ready to get back into the workforce. “Fundraising and alumni relations aren’t about what people think; it’s not about asking people for money. It’s about the relationships. My job in Alumni Relations eventually became full time, and I loved it! But after five years, there was a point when I felt like I just couldn’t plan another Alumni Weekend or Homecoming. I was burned out. At this point, she confesses about her threat to “die” if she has to plan one more Homecoming. “I knew that might be the end of me working there.” “But fortunately, he had another job for me.” 34

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“Dr. Falany had just found out he would need to retire, for health reasons. To prepare for this change, he brought me on as special assistant to the president. I would be helping to transition him out of the office, and the next president transition in. I would make introductions and maintain relationships with donors, alumni and staff. As it happened, two more presidents came through before Dr. Isherwood arrived in 2002. It was an amazing opportunity and growing time for me. I learned something new from every one of those men, almost every day.” I asked Wilson how she first made the connection with Reinhardt. “Since I was a girl!’ she exclaimed. “My grandmother was a house mother and a nurse on campus. I used to visit Big Mama here, and I always thought I would come here so I could become a teacher. While I was earning my two-year degree, I met my husband John here, and we married. We had twin sons, and THEY both came here, and met THEIR wives here. That happens at a lot of schools. But there’s a saying we have at Reinhardt about our students and their spouses: We’re like a shoe factory—we put people out in pairs.” What part of your story do you think people relate to most? The smile disappeared for a rare moment as she paused thoughtfully. “I think it’s when people hear I finished my college degree and my master’s while working here. People will tell me they were encouraged when they hear that, and they think, ‘Maybe I can do that, too.’ “This is a people-oriented place, and even though we’ve grown, we haven’t lost that. I’m so pleased that even after adding a football team, we still have a culture of caring and respect. Those young men have been trained by our excellent coach to be ambassadors for the university. We’re a people place. “I’ll tell you something funny. Dr. Falany and I once visited a longtime supporter who was extremely wealthy—she probably could afford whatever she wanted, anything. But what she really wanted was sweet potatoes from Dr. Falany’s garden. So whenever we went to visit her, we first had to drive over to Dr. Falany’s garden and dig up those sweet potatoes, so she could have some! “I think that the personal attention at Reinhardt can’t be contained in 600 acres. It goes out into the community.” The same could be said for JoEllen Wilson. Ann Litrel www.annlitrel.com

Reinhardt Fundraiser and Vice President JoEllen Wilson Cultivates the Surprising Touches That Win Hearts for this University

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

And, We’re Off! BY LYNNE SAUNDERS

Christmas trees and lights are put away and household furniture has found its way back to normal placements. For the job seeker, starting the new year with unemployment as “normal” is a scary thing—and it should be. Finding a job that meets financial and emotional needs takes time, stamina and strategy. I am thrilled that I recently had a full Job-Seeking class at The Master’s Training Center. Lynne is the director of Participants’ goals are to come out Papa’s Pantry and the MastersTrainingCenter. of the gate Jan. 1 running! Today, com, and she is an they are learning how employers author. She can be make decisions and how to better reached at (770) 591their résumés and interviewing 4730 or visit www. skills. I am so excited with each one papaspantry.org. of them to achieve their dreams! Their enthusiasm is contagious. So is momentum. It’s almost like that image of a tiny snowball rolling faster and faster downhill, becoming bigger and bigger. If you are looking for a needed job, this “infectious enthusiastic momentum” is required to get noticed! Think of January and the employment market as you would August and the beginning of the school year…. EVERYONE is there that first week. They have new clothes, a new backpack, and a renewed excitement to rejoin their “cultural world.” Everyone in this comparison simply means your competition for the jobs in which you are applying. Now that the holidays are

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“If you are looking for a needed job, this “infectious enthusiastic momentum” is required to get noticed!” behind them, job seekers are hitting the pavement in droves with a renewed energy. Kids are back in school. Vacationing spouses have gone back to work. Empty, quiet homes suddenly inspire the need, the urgency, for action. “Cultural World” relates to aligning with others who are like minded, educated, etc. Job seekers desire to be employed with others who share similar values and goals. Being excluded from these groups can cause feelings of insecurity and even depression. The financial struggles simply magnify the obvious implications. It is time to work smarter, not harder. Smarter for the job seeker means to write résumés and apply for jobs in such a way as to guarantee getting noticed by hiring managers. The key is to, on paper, cater to the needs of the hiring company as the job posting describes. This may mean eliminating certain details that do not relate to the needs of the new, potential company. “Connecting the dots” or “dumbing it down” may not seem like nice, politically correct phrases, as we speak of how to craft the résumé; however, the concept these phrases allude to is to just keep it simple. For example, if the job requirement is to know Microsoft Word and Excel, then the résumé should clearly state “Microsoft Word and Excel.” This new year, begin with such a momentum that you cannot be stopped in your endeavors. Keep making progress!

Color Trends – What’s New for 2014 BY BETTY ANDERSON

Thanksgiving, Christmas New Year’s Day and 2013 are all behind us. As I look forward to 2014 as a designer, I begin to research what is trending and what new looks we’ll be seeing in our magazines (i.e. paints, fabrics, furniture, clothes and even cars). Did you know that color trends are decided years in advance? The trend for 2014 was decided Betty Anderson is owner/ somewhere around 2010 by a designer of Interiors at group of professionals whose Fun Finds and Fun Finds business is to create the color and Designs Home Decor Consignment in Canton, palette for the future, and Georgia. For Interiors manufacturers everywhere at Fun Finds, call (678) listen. The impact to the 880-9146 or email Betty@ design industry, of course, is interiors2751.com. For Fun paint colors, fabrics, furniture, Finds and Designs, call (770) 704-0448 or email Info@ rugs and even accessories. funfindsanddesigns.com As you may have noticed, for the last three to four years, the trend has been toward grays, our new go-to neutral. It has taken time for this to catch on, but it is now in full swing and it looks like gray, cream, and greige (combo of gray and beige) are here to stay for a while. What is changing is the accent color. These colors give that punch, pizzazz and personality to your space. We have seen the accent color evolve from warm black to chocolate brown. Brown then partnered with blue and then blue partnered with gray. The blue accent then evolved into a brighter version of itself – teal, and teal began to be partnered with the gorgeous colors of citron green and fantastic orange. One color moves into another, giving you new ideas and inspiration and keeping decorating exciting. In 2014, the color chameleon is changing again, introducing corals, moving forward into pastels. Not sure if this will catch on quickly, but you will see the trend moving in that direction. Don’t fret; everything comes back around, so if you still love your warm reds and golds, stand firm. The real secret of decorating is living with what you love, no matter what color palette you choose. Have fun watching the trends and be inspired. TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

Recipe Corner BY CARON AND ALBERTO CATALÁN

Mexican “Lasagna”

Don’t be thrown off by the name! This is a layered chicken, salsa verde and tortilla dish. It’s very easy to make and really delicious. It’s not a Mexican-Italian dish. (I think we’ve given you enough to handle with our Mexican-Irish dishes). It can be thrown together using a cooked chicken you pick up from the grocery store and canned tomatillos. Or if you prefer to make the salsa from scratch, I’ve included how to in the recipe. Enjoy! —Caron and Alberto

Caron and Alberto Catalán are the owners and managers of Papa P’s – Mexican with an Irish side, located in the Towne Lake Kroger shopping center. They have lived in Towne Lake since 2008. They have four children, Conor, Ciara, Derek and Fiona. Visit them online at www.papa-ps.com or call (770) 592-3100.

ingredients

2 lbs fresh tomatillos (or two 16 oz cans of tomatillos) 4-5 zucchini 5 fresh jalapeños (less if you want to have it less spicy)

preparation

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Peel the tomatillos and cook in a large pot of boiling water along with jalapeños (without the stalk) and garlic, for about 8-10 minutes. Drain and save the water. Place tomatillos, jalapeños and garlic in a blender and blend into a sauce, use a little of the cooking water to thin out the sauce if it’s too thick. Using the same cooking water, add the chicken, onion, bay leaf, salt and pepper, bring to a boil and then turn down to medium and cook for 20 minutes. Chicken will be a bit undercooked, but will finish cooking in the oven and won’t get dried out. Remove chicken and cool. Once cooled, shred by pulling apart from the bone and tearing with your hands or with forks. Mix the chicken with the salsa verde. Slice the zucchini long ways. Spray oil on a large lasagna dish and start to layer tortillas, chicken mixture, zucchini and cheeses. Repeat. Finish with a layer of tortilla on top sprinkled with cheese. Cover with tin foil and bake for 45 minutes.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

1 fresh garlic clove 1 bay leaf 1 medium onion, sliced 2 lbs chicken breast, preferably split breast with bone

8 ounces Oaxaca cheese, shredded 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Packet of corn tortillas Salt and pepper

New York, New York! BY DAVID HECKELMOSER

Wines produced in New York State do not always get the recognition they deserve. New York ranks as the third largest wine producing area in the U.S. after California and Washington State. New York is home to the first bonded winery in the U.S., the Pleasant Valley Wine Company, and America’s oldest continuously operating winery, Brotherhood Winery in the Hudson Valley, which has been David Heckelmoser is a Towne Lake resident wine making wine for almost 175 years. enthusiast, member of The state has four major winethe Guild of Sommeliers, growing regions: Lake Erie AVA Certified Specialist of (American Viticulture Area) on Wine (CSW) and is Wine the western end of the state, Spirits Education Trust certified (WSET). Contact the Finger Lakes AVA in the David at heck4773@ west-central part of the state, bellsouth.net. the Hudson River Region AVA in eastern New York, and Long Island AVA. An AVA is a designated wine grape-growing region in the U.S. distinguishable by geographic features, with boundaries defined by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The Concord grape variety is the most widely planted in New York. The grape can be made into wine, but it’s really the basis for the grape juice industry. New York State’s most important wine region is the Finger Lakes area in upstate New York, where four large lakes moderate the cold climate. This AVA produces about 75 percent of New York’s wines. This region specializes in sparkling wines, riesling, pinot noir and

“New York State’s most important wine region is the Finger Lakes area in upstate New York, where four large lakes moderate the cold climate.” ice wine, and is also known for its chardonnay and cabernet franc. The Long Island area seems particularly suited to merlot, but chardonnay and riesling are also planted. A high percentage of cabernet sauvignon is planted in Long Island AVA as well. The Atlantic Ocean climate has an influence on this area, which leads to lighter bodied reds. The Lake Erie AVA is mostly planted with the local Concord variety. In the Hudson River Region AVA, the most planted varieties are cabernet franc and merlot. The yearly Governor’s Cup is held to reveal the “Best of – Category” for the most coveted New York wines. Here are some of the recent winners: Best Sparkling Wine: Sparkling Pointe 2008 Blanc de Noirs Best White Wine: Keuka Spring Vineyards 2012 Riesling Best Red Wine: Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards 2010 Cabernet Franc Best Dessert Wine: 21 Brix 2011 Vidal Ice Wine Best Overall Chardonnay: Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard 2012 Steel Fermented Chardonnay Best Cabernet Sauvignon: Wölffer Estate Vineyard 2010 Cassango Cabernet Sauvignon Give the wines from New York a try next time you are out shopping! Until next time, cheers!

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

Is Technology Helping or Hurting? BY CHICKA ELLOY

A frequent topic that seems to entice good conversation is how technology is impacting the way we are connecting with others. If you take a moment to ponder and research the positive and negative impact of this connectedness, you may wish to consider the following outcomes of our connectedness. Pocket Power: Is it ironic that most media outlets now hire people full time to watch the social media trends on their phone so Chicka Elloy lives in the outlet can transfer it to the Woodstock with his wife and two sweet caramel news on the TV? While there is a daughters. He writes lot of nonsense being transmitted for USA Today Education through social media it carries and was voted #1 Daddy important information as well. No Blogger by Parents.com one needs to be uninformed. Contact him through www. thefrequentflyerfather.com. User Choice: With the social connectedness in platforms like Facebook a user can choose who to follow, what to like or if to stay in contact at all. Many users have connections with people they knew in high school, many of whom they would not be in contact otherwise. This is an ability and choice which makes breaking up or off a relationship with someone much more convenient (but not necessarily right). Instant gratification: Information once took a long time to get around. Today, social stories, news, weather, discoveries and tragedies can be found readily almost in real time. It is building expedient expectations in our culture. But is real time information outweighed by the downside? With our students and children growing up in a world that is so virtually connected, caring adults can also be an example for their

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

kids and nurture a healthy use of this need for information. Some unhealthy results of this new world of obtaining information are: Timeout Tragedies: There is precious little time in our world for thoughtful and pensive reflection. We not only have advertising information pushed on us everywhere we go, but today that noise beckons us to interact with it. Those of us (young or old) who are deeply connected to smart phones have to install a great self discipline to take personal time outs and not feel a need to check in with what else is going on or be accessible to everyone, all the time. Emotional Echoes: We can delete, block, avoid, or log off anytime we don’t like a conversation and although we feel so “socially connected” in our online profiles, in reality we are getting poorer at people skills. Next time you are in a restaurant, look for the families not on their phones – they are connecting. Evaporating Efficacy: Because we’re in constant contact with answers, we may fail to build any sense of self-sufficiency to solve a problem ourselves. Or…wait on a solution very long. We are used to quick solutions and instant gratification. I love technology, but if it diminishes my ability to be responsible to solve my own problems or take the time to figure things out on my own, it is a mixed blessing at best. Open Book: Due to our over-connection, our sense of personal privacy is lacking. Some share everything on their online pages. This may not sound devastating, but I believe a lasting, healthy public life is built upon a robust, healthy private life, where I get my bearings and sort out my values. Today, it is almost non-existent. As you consider these thoughts this month, be countercultural. Embrace online connections, but allow time for personal development. Disconnect enough to grow personally and take time for solitude and reflection when you learn something new, and ask yourself “What do I think about that news?” When a Dad is in, everyone wins.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Lifestyle

What if … You Upgraded to YOU 2.0? BY JULIAN REID

A new year brings a clean slate, new optimism, and resolutions. Hopefully, your resolutions are upgrades. Perhaps you’ve upgraded your life with a new fiancé! Maybe you’re committed to a healthier lifestyle. How about your vocational life? Have you considered upgrading to ... YOU 2.0? If not, the beginning of a new year is a GREAT time to do it! Consider this approach: Everything you’ve done in your Julian Reid has a chemical career to this point has brought engineering degree from you to your current version of Georgia Tech, a U.S. Chamber certification in You 1.0. Now, start from a broad Organization Management strategic view, and ask yourself this and several professional question: coaching and sales “If we looked at your life a year certifications. Contact him from today, what has to have at (770) 521-0698 or jreid@ esourcecoach.com. happened during that period, both personally and professionally, for you to be happy with your progress?” This question is not intended to be rhetorical, and the “we”

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

is not a typo. Take some time with your spouse, a friend, or a personal coach to answer this question at the big picture level. Challenge yourself to upgrade, and put a little pressure on yourself. Why? Remember how quickly VHS tape rental became obsolete? Blockbuster stores disappeared seemingly overnight. If YOU don’t want to risk similar obsolescence in your career, then perhaps an upgrade to YOU 2.0 is more of a necessity than you think. Next, look at your D.O.S.; your Dangers, Opportunities and Strengths, as they pertain to your upgrade. Itemizing Dangers should focus on the risks of doing nothing. Read the signs around you. Is your company ripe for a merger or downsizing? Are your expenses going up while your income is stagnant? Is your current job, boss, industry or employer causing you unhealthy stress? Your biggest discovery in considering these issues may be that the risk of standing pat is bigger than the risk of assertive change. Proactive goal-setting trumps reactive damage control. Next, do the same exercise by identifying your Opportunities. Start by NOT seeing the obstacles to your vision of what you want your lifestyle to be. Finally, list your Strengths, but let someone else, who knows your talent and skill set, edit and prioritize that list. The YOU 2.0 upgrade process concludes with writing D.O.S.driven goals. YOU take control, and discover that you like it. Happy New Year!

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Health & Wellness

What Are the Effects of Missing Back Teeth? BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

Many people have had one or more of their adult back teeth extracted and have lived with spaces where these teeth are missing. Extractions occur when a tooth cannot be restored or at a time in a person’s life when they cannot afford it. Missing teeth creates a physical dental disability that changes how your teeth function. Because of these changes, it’s important to Dr. Scott Harden is a understand why it’s important to dentist at Fountain replace missing teeth. View Family Dentistry Upper and lower teeth work and has served the together to chew. If you lose Woodstock area for more than 21 years. an upper molar, this creates a He is a dental advisor physical disability because the for two national lower molar opposite of that dental research tooth no longer will have any companies. You can reach Dr. Harden at function. For every tooth that is (770) 926-0000 or visit extracted, you lose the function FountainViewSmiles.com. of two teeth. Missing even one tooth is a problem because numerous problems develop. We have 16 back teeth and 12 front teeth. Our jaw muscles are designed to generate approximately 250 psi (pounds per square inch) of bite force. Our jaw muscles and teeth work together to provide the necessary bite force and tooth surface area to support that bite force. This allows us to properly chew. If we lose back teeth, the bite force is now redistributed to fewer teeth. Losing just two back molars (a functional loss of four molars) equates to 25 percent less back teeth chewing capacity. This puts a heavy stress on the remaining teeth. The 44

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“Losing just two back molars (a functional loss of four molars) equates to 25 percent less back teeth chewing capacity. This puts a heavy stress on the remaining teeth.” result is abnormal wear on the remaining teeth and also fractured teeth, especially those with large fillings in them. Improperly positioned teeth that have shifted following an extraction can lead to stress and pain in the jaw joint area, often referred to as TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Disorders). The jaw joint works in conjunction with jaw muscles and the teeth when chewing. Upper and lower teeth normally hit flat and smoothly slide front to back and side to side. When teeth shift into poor positions following an extraction, this causes premature contacts that disrupt smooth function and stress the jaw joint and jaw muscles, which can trigger pain and restrict a person from normal chewing. Treatment options to replace missing teeth include a bridge, an implant or partial denture. A bridge is a permanent, natural-looking prosthesis that is cemented over the teeth on either side of the missing tooth space. The false tooth is part of the prosthesis and sits on top of the gums in the missing tooth area, and looks and feels very natural. An implant is a metal fixture inserted into the bone in the region of the missing tooth. A crown is then placed on top of the implant. A partial denture is a removable appliance with plastic teeth that replace the missing teeth. Restoring a missing tooth maintains the natural order to the position and function of your teeth. It is still possible to restore teeth once they have shifted significantly, but it requires more effort.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Health & Wellness

Relief for Lower Back Pain BY VAN TRAN

Many of us have experienced lower back pain at one time or another. Lower back pain is the most common area of pain and injury in the whole spine. The lower back bears the burden of carrying the body’s weight making it prone to stress, strain and potential injury. Pain is a warning sign. Like the annoying sound from a smoke alarm, the alarm isn’t the problem. The alarm has a cause, just like every Dr. Van Tran is a board ache or pain has a cause. Some certified chiropractor with people choose to cover up the Discover Chiropractic. He can be reached at (770) pain instead of correcting the 516-9900. cause. For years, I have treated countless number of patients that experienced moderate to severe lower back pain. Some are acute, though most are chronic. The one thing that is common in all of these patients is that their problems have been there for a long time.

I remember like it was yesterday when Malcolm showed up at my office, hunched over, with severe lower back pain that had been bothering him for several months. Malcolm was an event caterer, a job that required him to stand a lot and lift and carry items all day long. One day, while picking up a tray, he noticed his back made a popping noise. From that day forward, his back gradually got worse. Malcolm stated that he was on numerous pain medications, but the pain did not ease up. His last option was to seek chiropractic care. We saw Malcolm three times a week for two months. His treatment plan included gentle spinal manipulation, electrical stimulation and ice/heat for the first four weeks. The next four weeks consisted of spinal manipulation and a lot of rehabilitation to the core muscles and joints. After eight weeks of treatment, Malcolm has responded well to care and is doing well. What can we do to avoid a situation like Malcolm’s? There are a few preventative things that will help avoid back pain. First, watch your weight. Extra weight puts pressure on your lower back. Second, get more exercise. Regular exercise will ease muscle tension and inflammation. Finally, the most important preventative thing to do is keep a good posture and get your spine checked regularly.

Northside Cherokee Cardiology is a full-service cardiology practice offering complete heart and blood vessel care. Dr. Sanjay Lall and Dr. Gregory Petro are board certified in cardiovascular disease and cardiology and have more than 20 years of experience. Northside Cherokee Cardiology offers:

Sanjay Lall, M.D.

• Expertise. In partnership with Northside Hospital, patients have access to comprehensive cardiology services. • Timely access. We’ll schedule same-day appointments whenever possible. • Efficient Followup. We are committed to clear and timely communication about your progress. Two convenient locations. Call us today for an appointment (770) 924-5095. 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 400 Woodstock, GA 30189

210 Oakside Lane, Suite 210-B Canton, GA 30114

(Near I-575, on Towne Lake Parkway)

(Exit 20, off Riverstone Parkway)

NorthsideCherokeeCardiology.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Gregory Petro, M.D.

The Facts About the HPV Vaccination BY DR. AMY HARDIN

Articles saying, “Lead Vaccine Expert Coming Clean About Safety of Vaccine,” daytime TV shows having parents on discussing how their teenager died two weeks after receiving her vaccine, friends in the carpool line shrinking away from you when you tell them your daughter was vaccinated—what has causes such an uproar across the U.S.? A vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV). This month’s article is here to spread the facts, Amy Hardin is a so you can make the best decision pediatrician in Towne Lake for your sons and daughters. at Northside Pediatrics. Human papillomavirus has been Check out Northside known for years to cause certain Pediatrics’ new website at www.northsidepediatrics. types of cervical cancer as well as com and follow them on vulvar cancer, anal cancer, penile Facebook at Northside cancer and, increasingly, head and Pediatrics! neck cancers. If you have friends who have undergone cone biopsies, cryotherapy of their cervix or had a hysterectomy at a young age, there is a good chance it’s because of this virus. Luckily, about half of us have an immune system that will clear up this virus on its own, but half of us don’t. Pap smears can catch these diseases early in women, but we all know not everyone keeps their yearly doctor check-ups. According to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, tens of thousands of women and men each year are diagnosed with these cancers and more than 4,000 deaths occur per year in the U.S. It’s also a cancer of young people, seen mainly in those in their 20s-40s. So, this virus causes a horrible and prevalent cancer in young people. Luckily, a vaccine was developed called Gardasil, and more recently, Cervarix. (Vaccines are not just given out to the general public without a lot of testing. More than seven years of initial testing was done by the vaccine companies on more than 30,000 women (90,000 doses). These studies showed NO serious side effects, so it was released to the general public in 2006. And impressively, the numbers of these cancers since the vaccine has been developed and more than 97 million doses have been given worldwide has dropped by more than 50 percent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) keeps very good statistics once vaccines are out in the general public via a system called VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System), in which if there are serious side effects, doctors can report them to the federal government. Three very large studies by Kaiser Permanente in California, The “British Medical Journal” and “Archives of Adolescent Medicine” in which more than 1 million doses of vaccine were given show no serious side effects, no problems with fertility and most importantly no increase in this number of deaths. Also, the vaccine in post-marketing studies has been shown to last at least nine years, and most likely even longer (more studies are ongoing into how long it lasts based on the initial women who received the vaccine). The only side

“Pap smears can catch these diseases early in women, but we all know not everyone keeps their yearly doctor check-ups.” effect seen was pain at the injection site, which led to a slightly increased risk of fainting, and because of this, your doctor may make you wait about 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine before leaving. Now, here’s some information regarding causal vs. coincidental occurrences. If you line up 100,000 teenagers, about 50 sadly die each year, according to the Henry Kaiser Family Foundation. Some die from cancer, some die from accidents, some die from infectious diseases and some die for no known reason. Occasionally, you will find someone has received either a flu vaccine, or an HPV vaccine or some were prescribed a medicine such as Amoxicillin or Accutane in the weeks preceding their death. This doesn’t mean that the person died from those things. This is where the above studies help us show vaccines, medicines and even things such as airbags are safe. Another issue we see with our patients is parents not wanting to think of their kids participating in ANY kind of sexual contact (at least until they have gotten their Ph.D, moved out, landed a good job and have met and married an amazing spouse in a beautiful ceremony). As someone who sees teenagers daily, I can concur with the statistics from the CDC and the Kaiser Family Foundation that almost half of high school students have had sexual intercourse. This number doesn’t include the number of kids who show their boyfriends or girlfriends they love each other through oral sex (so they can remain virgins), nor the culture we are seeing of kids “hooking up” for oral sex and sexual intercourse as a way of increasing popularity and lying about it to their parents and doctors. We truly hope your child is in the half of kids not having sex, but great kids have serious boyfriends and girlfriends, succumb to peer pressure or make mistakes, especially if alcohol or drugs are involved. And sometimes, a first sexual experience is not consensual. About 44 percent of rape victims are younger than 18 according to the Center for Women and Family. So, we have a vaccine that has a bad reputation. But it works wonderfully, is safe, can be given to children as young as 11 years old, is expected to last for at least nine years in a population of people where the sexual contact rate is about half. We pediatricians think the answer is obvious, but make sure to do your own research on sites that have scientifically based evidence to back them up. Here are a few sites to help. http://www.chop.edu/service/vaccine-education-center/alook-at-each-vaccine/hpv-vaccine.html http://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/ immunizations/Pages/Human-Papilomavirus-HPV-Vaccine-WhatYou-Need-to-Know.aspx TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Health & Wellness

Benefits of Minimally Invasive and Laparoscopic Surgery BY GRANT WOLFE, M.D. NORTHSIDE CHEROKEE SURGICAL ASSOCIATES

Dr. Grant Wolfe is a skilled and award-winning physician with extensive experience in the most minimally invasive and laparoscopic procedures. He practices at Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates in Woodstock. For more information, visit www. ncsurgicalassociates.com.

New advances in surgical technology allow surgeons to offer patients procedures that are less invasive. Laparoscopic procedures such as mini-laparoscopy, singleincision surgery and robotic surgery cause less trauma to the patient and help him or her get back to normal activities faster than ever before. Laparoscopy involves making a small incision in the abdomen, through which the surgeon inserts a small camera, called a laparoscope. The laparoscope allows the surgeon to view the abdomen, in full color, high-definition imagery and with all of the same functionality as open surgery, but with less trauma to the patient. If a problem is spotted, other surgical instruments can be inserted through other small incisions to treat the condition. Laparoscopy has been used

“Laparoscopy involves making a small incision in the abdomen, through which the surgeon inserts a small camera, called a laparoscope.” across a wide range of specialties, addressing problems such as reproductive and pelvic disease, prostate cancer, bladder problems, obesity, GI disorders, hernias and much more. Versus traditional open surgery, patients who undergo minimally invasive surgery have: • Smaller incisions and reduced scarring. • Less pain and less of a need for pain medication. • Quicker recovery times. Patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery are usually able to go home the same day, so they can return to their normal daily activities sooner. • Reduced risk of acquiring infections. • Generally lower blood loss, which reduces the chance of needing a blood transfusion.

Always Tired? You’re Not Alone

Have you had trouble getting or staying asleep? Stress, work and schedules can make getting quality shuteye feel impossible. For more than 30 years, Northside Hospital has been helping sleep-deprived patients start to enjoy the benefits of slumber again; sleep improves memory, curbs weight gain and prevents disease. Our board-certified physicians work with you to develop a plan for effective treatment, so you can experience the rejuvenation and comfort from sleeping soundly.

Board certiﬁed physicians • 3 Convenient Locations Comfortable & Relaxing Settings • 30 years of experience

CENTRALIZED SCHEDULING: (404) 851-8135

View videos on sleep disorders at northside.com/sleep

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Welcoming New Patients Stephanie Hsu, M.D.

Northside Cherokee Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is a full-service orthopedics practice that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the muscles, bones and joints. Our family-friendly practice is dedicated to providing the highest-quality orthopedic care possible, and offers head-to-toe physical therapy, comprehensive diagnostic services and effective minimally-invasive treatment procedures for all types of musculoskeletal conditions. Services Offered:

684 Sixes Road Suite 130 Holly Springs, GA 30115

Northside/Da Imaging

Exit 11 (Sixes Road)

HOLLY SPRINGS

oh ns on

Call us today for an appointment (770) 517-6636 • northsidecherokeeortho.com

Ros wel l Rd .

Travis Jones, DPM

• Adult and pediatric sports medicine & injuries • Minimally invasive and most current techniques • Diagnostic imaging services: (MRI, CT scan, ultrasound, arthrogram) • Operative and non-operative injury management for upper and lower extremities • Repair/reconstruction of torn ligaments and tendons • Adult and pediatric specialized care of the foot and ankle • General foot and ankle care • Fracture care

Fe rry

d. TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Feature

Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her and NexSlim

Out with the Old. In with Your New Team!!

Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her team (left to right): Bonnie Yornlocher, Casey Zack, Jordan Leary and in front Matt Gregory.

OK, ladies. It’s January and for many, that signals renewal and change, and one of the most common changes we set out to make or improve upon is our fitness. Especially this month, we are bombarded with the latest diets and fads promising miracles. Many of us will join a gym in order to fulfill the resolutions we made on Jan. 1. Many will try their own self made exercise plan and fail as a result of lack of knowledge and affordable training. Lack of results will lead to frustration, and many women will give up — some temporarily and some for good. But what if there was finally a total fitness approach for women that would truly make the difference between trying and achieving? What if this facility incorporated four things necessary for complete physical health: medical expertise, nutrition, affordable training and exercise? Ladies, it’s time to check out the winning combination of Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her and NexSlim Wellness.

What is Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her?

NexSlim (left to right): Christina Seahorn, Serena Kumar, Nicole Stanley and Khelia Donohue 50

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Atlanta Lady is the largest ladies only gym in Atlanta and is 100 percent geared toward women and their needs. When a member joins, she is not simply left on her own to “figure it out” but rather assigned a coach to guide, design and motivate her towards a plan for success. She will be coached and consulted by an on-site medical team to help determine any health issues that may be interfering with her overall fitness goals. From there, she will be trained by a certified trainer either in semi-private sessions, small group classes or a combination of both at a price that per week is less than a single session at any other gym! The partnership between the lifestyle (medical) and fitness (trainer) coaches will exceed a client’s expectations. All memberships are month-to-month so clients don’t need to worry about contracts but rather focus on achieving results. Affordable options are an ideal way to provide exercise alternatives to keep interest level high, break boredom, smash through plateaus and create muscle confusion. The trainers make sure all training is “scalable” which means anybody at any age and any fitness level can do it! Training together now becomes affordable, challenging, fun, and results-driven. Atlanta Lady’s most popular small group exercise is where each participant wears a heart rate monitor which will display calories burned, heart rate and level of effort displayed on 50-inch TVs so you can receive instant feedback on your results! Each workout is time efficient for those time conscious ladies and burns an incredible amount of calories. Atlanta Lady also offers Les Mills classes (Body Pump, Body Flow,

RPM Spinning, etc) Silver Sneaker program, Zumba, and yoga. Check out www.atllady.com/classes for schedule and class description.

NexSlim — Your Medical Partner

Studies have proven that exercise alone is not the single solution to long-term weight loss; diet and nutrition are just as essential. NexSlim, the sister company of Atlanta Lady, has finally put the puzzle together by combining fitness with wellness. Headed by well-known and respected physician Dr. Jeff Donohue, he is the national medical director for NexSlim and specializes in anti-aging, hormone therapy and regenerative medicine as well as being bariatric board certified. NexSlim provides a variety of health services from health screenings, nutritional counseling, cholesterol, thyroid, testosterone and metabolic testing and has an on-site lab. This support will help clients finally achieve long-term success. NexSlim offers high quality, medically and holistic supervised weight loss programs that—combined with exercise—allow clients to achieve their weight loss and fitness goals with realistic and sensible results with no “yo yo” effect that some extreme programs do. After a client has been evaluated and a plan has been established, NexSlim will mark progress and make any necessary adjustments to customize a plan that works for each client. For those who have struggled to lose weight, there may be a medical reason for the lack of success. NexSlim can help determine if this is the case through a variety of advanced testing including genetic, hormone, food sensitivity and other possibilities. Education is also important at NexSlim. Dr. Donohue and his expert staff will be doing free seminar series for members and the community on a variety of pertinent and timely health topics. Check its website for details at www.atllady.com for a topic that interests you ranging from obesity, nutrition, hormones, exercise and more.

NexSlim (left to right): Christina Seahorn, Dr. Jeff Donohue, Nicole Stanley and Khelia Donohue

Halo and Serenity Med Spa — Treat Yourself!

Members at Atlanta Lady will also get pampered and enjoy an executive-style locker room complete with dry sauna and towel service. After a workout, they can relax in the lounge and enjoy a cup of Starbucks brand coffee or a glass of healthy alkaline water, chat with fellow workout friends, watch a little TV or simply take a break. For those seeking a greater reward, they can step inside our adjoining spa. Halo provides incredible hair cut/color services by long-time resident and owner, April Kosbe. Serenity med spa offers massage services, skin care, waxing and medical cosmetic enhancements including Botox® and Juvederm®, laser services and more. As an introductory offer, clients can receive a onehour massage for $29.95 and 50 percent off all facials and waxing services. For those who question how to get in shape and stay that way, Atlanta Lady and NexSlim is your new winning combination. The best athletes in the world have coaches and now you can too. So make this your year to finally make a change that lasts. You owe it to yourself to check it out!

Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her

200 Parkbrooke Drive (770) 592-9933 www.atllady.com Hours: Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Halo (left to right): Jordan Leary, April Kosbe and Nick Clark.

NexSlim

200 Parkbrooke Drive (678) 888-0332 www.nexslimtownelake.com Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Med spa team (left to right): Beau Haney, Kay Lee, Jessica Billson, Melissa Billson and Melissa Swanson. TOWNELAKER | January 2014

School & Sports

Woodstock Marching Band Enjo BY KELLY CAMPBELL

The Woodstock High School (WHS) marching band’s 2013 season began last May. First, it was the announcement of the 2013 show—a celebration of 50 years of everyone’s favorite spy, 007 James Bond. It was also the time to meet the newest class of “rookies” who encompassed nearly a third of this year’s band. The drum line and color guard were formed. Before band members knew it, practices began—once a week for all of June and two weeks in July, with many 12-hour days! Many wonderful opportunities arose for the students before the school year even started. The drum line was invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Shoppes of Atlanta. This was quite the honor as it was the only high school asked to perform. However, the biggest surprise came while the band was performing part of its new show for parents and friends at the end of band camp. The musicians were interrupted with a very special announcement: the band had been invited to perform in the 2015 St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin, Ireland! The first competition of the 2013 season was at River Ridge High School. For it to have been so early in the season, and with so many rookies, the band performed wonderfully, earning one of the ONLY standing ovations of the day. The band earned straight superiors in ALL categories. The WHS band was the silver division (A/AA/AAA) champion and earned the second highest score out of the entire day, second by only three points to a band more than twice its size. The band then competed at the Golden River Marching Festival at Haralson County High School. Out of 23 bands in the silver division, the marching Wolverines were the grand champion band. The band received straight superiors again in all categories. Out of seven bands in the gold division (AAAA/ Open Class), the band scored higher than four other bands. The remaining three bands were the top three, and the Wolverines were just barely behind the third OVERALL band out of all 30. That marked it’s the Wolverines’ second grand champion trophy of the year! The competition season concluded in Chattanooga, Tenn., with the USBANDS Southeastern Championships. The band scored its highest score to date with a 92.975. Despite football season ending, the marching band students continue to perform. Nearly a quarter of the marchers play in the pep band for all home varsity and JV basketball games. WHS was also proud to be an integral part of the Christmas Jubilee Parade in downtown Woodstock. Many of the students have been auditioning for programs such as District Honor Band, the Governor’s Honor Program, Drum Corps International and UGA’s January High School Band Festival, all while being part of the concert season at WHS and holding down full class schedules. The WHS band program also takes great pride in providing a live orchestral pit for the annual school musical. At Woodstock High School, optimum music education is available to our area students because of our amazing Woodstock/Towne Lake community and its support. 52

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

oys Busy and Successful Season Photos provided by Tori Lawton and Skip Daugherty (www.skipdaughertyphotography.com)

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Coming Soon

summer

camps

To be included in our summer camp guide please send your information to editor@townelaker.com Deadline is January 10.

The

2013 WOODSTOCK WOLVERINES Wish you all a very Happy and Prosperous 2014 We thank you for your continued support and look forward to an exciting and action packed 2014 Season! TOWNELAKER | January 2014

School & Sports

INSIDE THE MIND OF A MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT In an attempt to connect my students with the community and to allow them to see “real world” applications of writing, I helped them organize a writing contest for some of the local Towne Lake businesses. We asked around 30 businesses to let us know how the phrase “words are powerful” impacts their business. Below you will find some reflections written by four of my students. — E.T. Booth Language Arts teacher, Joe Lemmo Having a contest for a kid can make them sometimes feel very special. But do we normally have contests for adults? Well that is what Mr. Lemmo’s 7th grade class decided to do. We wrote and sent over 25 letters to businesses around the Towne Lake area asking them to respond with how the phrase “words are powerful” has affected their business today. Gabby The one business that ended up Melnyk winning was the restaurant Papa P’s. This small family owned business, located in the Kroger Shopping Plaza, definitely had a great response. I specifically liked how they said, “The words we use with our guests are well thought out and specific.” They told us that they also use the phrase when they advertise. When they first started to advertise, they were trying to get around using the phrase “come on in. We aren’t weird.” So they came up with the quote, “Real Mexican, Real Irish, Real Fresh!” in order to make their customers feel welcomed. After they started using this quote, they recognized more people starting to come in. Another way they used it was talking to their employees. While talking to them, they have to be nice, but also be strict at the same time so they can get the best work out of them. Papa P’s is really a great business ran by amazing people.

In my language arts class this year with Mr. Lemmo, we did a contest for local businesses. They had to write a written response about the phrase “words are powerful.” This was a challenging contest to plan once we decided to start. We spent several weeks planning it and making cover sheets, rubrics, letters, and getting together stamps for all the letters. We took a lot of time figuring out who would Abby get one and how everything was presented. Cartwright After two weeks (the time we gave them to respond), we picked the winner. The winning restaurant was Papa P’s! We picked this restaurant because their paper was grammatically correct, showed creativity, followed all the expectations, and did an overall fantastic job! I really loved how the owner of this restaurant discussed how they overcame being called “weird” to being called “very successful.” This changed my view point on the phrase “words are powerful” and helped me realize that words can actually change a business. I know now that I’m going to Papa P’s soon! So should you!

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Have you ever been to the restaurant Papa P’s? Have you ever competed in a writing contest? Well I can tell you one thing; Papa P’s has competed in a contest and won! My class and I put together a writing contest to see how local businesses responded to the phrase “Words are Powerful” at the end of October. Not only did Papa P’s send back a response, but it exceeded our expectations with an essay Jacob Vande that deserved to win! Corput The owner, Caron Catalan, typed out a well written, seven paragraph response that stated every single point that we had required. They told us about all the struggles of getting people to come to their restaurant when they first started because people thought the words they used for advertising “A Mexican restaurant with a side of Ireland” were just something to smile at and call “cute”. Mrs. Catalan stated in her paper, and I quote, “One child told one of my children that her parents won’t go to the restaurant because it has ‘a stupid name’!” She also wrote about how she encourages her employees to do the best that they can, and how her employees and herself treat their customers with respect when she made the statement, “The happier the employee is, the better they work, the better experience of the guest, the higher the likelihood of repeat business.” She even gave us some insight on the fact that Papa P’s was named after what their kids call their grandfather because his name is Peter (hence the “P”). With all of this detail, I don’t see how they couldn’t have won. So thanks Caron for providing us with a great example of writing!

“Mom,” I shouted up the stairs.” I’m hungry; let’s go to Papa P’s.” My mom seemed surprised that I had asked for that but agreed anyway. “We had a contest at our school,” I explained. “Papa P’s had the best response, and they talked about how everyone thought their food was weird but that it was actually not. I thought we could try it out.” She looked at me and smiled, “Okay,” She agreed. “We can try it.” Kristin Dyson Caron Catalan, the owner, said in her entry, “The words we use with our guests are well thought-out and specific. We like our servers to be professional and polite and to use the power of words to sell our product.” See! Wouldn’t you rather go to a restaurant that is nice and values our opinions? Or would you rather have a server that frowns the whole time and never says, “Have a good day”? The nice server is the automatic choice, and that is exactly what Papa P’s has. So go to Papa P’s today and enjoy the Mexican food with an Irish side. And while you’re there, you can congratulate them for winning our contest!

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

School & Sports

Readers Are Leaders Expanding to Year Round Five years ago, Woodstock Elementary School (WES) first grade teacher Debby Pinion and academic coach Bonny Keheley contacted Woodstock High School (WHS) about starting a weekly reading program involving WHS students called Readers Are Leaders. They reached out to football head coach Brent Budde and the cheerleading coach at the time, who in turn approached the junior and senior players and cheerleaders about volunteering. Every football season, these volunteers would rise extra early to be at WES by 7 a.m. to read. The volunteers as well as the students all enjoyed the experience. “The best part of each visit was seeing their faces as we would come by them to read,” said senior Blake Jacobs. “Reading to the students was the highlight of my week. I loved seeing their reactions, and I think it was the highlight of their week too,” said senior Garrett Kiefer. Keheley said, “The purpose of this program is to show our students through these positive role models that there are a lot of opportunities waiting for them after WES.” The program has been so successful that it will expand to yearround, which will include members of the WHS lacrosse, basketball and volleyball teams. An appreciation breakfast was held for all volunteers at the end of the football season, courtesy of Chick-fil-A.

Woodstock Student Achieves Perfect Score Woodstock High School senior Rachel Steppe has earned a perfect score on the ACT college-entrance exam, achieved by only one Cherokee County School District student last school year. A perfect score on the ACT is a 36; and only about 700 of the 1.6 million high school seniors who take the ACT annually earn a perfect score, according to the testing company. The ACT exam, along with the SAT, is one of the most commonly recognized measures of achievement for high school students. Rachel was named a 2013 Governor’s Honors Program finalist for French and was named a 2013 Superintendent’s Key Scholar for scoring at the 90th percentile or above on the Grade 11 PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

Boston Recognizes Honor Roll Recipients Boston Elementary recently recognized its fourth grade and fifth grade honor roll recipients.

Cherokee Charter Girl Scouts Help Papa’s Pantry Girl Scout Troop 12417, based at Cherokee Charter Academy, collected food this holiday season for Papa’s Pantry. The girls are living out the Scout creed of building “girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.” Troop members consist of first-graders Anna Knight, Natalie Briggs, Hannah Bryant and Audrey Gundling, and third-graders Elizabeth Payne, Abby Johnson, Sofie Caraballo, Sophie Zarate, Olivia Bryant and Madelyn Jones. 58

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Principal Joey Moss recognizes fifth grade honor roll recipients. Left to right: Austin Cash, Nathan Forrester, Zachary Fowler, Parker Hammock, Jazon Coleman, Emily Richards, Olivia Laflamme, Analise Black, Emmalee Lenocker and Matthew Blaise.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

School & Sports

Etowah Student Helps Boston Elementary with Eagle Project Dylan Cash, a freshman at Etowah High School and Boston Elementary School alumnus, has created a Friendship Garden at Boston Elementary for his Eagle Scout project. Dylan is a Boy Scout with Troop 994. With the help of Dylan’s troop, family and friends, this garden has been created to foster friendships between the special needs students and the general education students at Boston Elementary. Together, these students will plant and maintain the raised beds to create a garden for everyone to enjoy.

Front row (left to right): Garrett Zamorano, Austin Cash, Dylan Cash, John Maxwell and Seth Tanner. Back row: Nick Salvino, Andy Finch, Nancy Cash, Nicholas Holly, Austin Holly, Troy Cash, Tom Rollbuhler, Michael Holly and Grier Gresham.

Cherokee Christian Collects Shoes for Orphans Cherokee Christian Schools third-graders collected new shoes to be sent to Shoes for Orphan Souls. The organization provides new shoes to the world’s 143 million orphans and to the vulnerable children living in families earning less than $1 a day.

Front row (left to right): Brooke Richards, Camden Roberson, Emme Lee, Daniella Cunningham, Tyson Mittrucker, Ben Anderson, Virginia Lawrence, Tyler Remeta, Manuel Sibaja and Emma Tyler. Middle row: Grace Mercer, Leah Brown, Brandon Hawkins, Mia Levy, Josh Trott, Lauren Ruppel, Aidan Carter and Chandler Galambos. Back row: Rachel Powell, Carson Meer, Dean Johnson, Ashley Reardon, Summer Goch, Calen Nichols, Weston Chumbley, Chloe Seymour and Trevor Babcock. 60

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Bascomb Helps Animal Shelter Bascomb Elementary School’s Student Council recently sponsored a school-wide supply drive to benefit the Cherokee County Animal Shelter. Students donated blankets, towels, liquid soap, hand sanitizer and food and toys for the dogs and cats at the shelter.

Front row (left to right): Meg Lance, Allena Rainey, Alyssa Pearson, Olivia Hare, Tyler Crosby, Will Tipton and Yasmine Qutob. Back row: Mason Lawless, Emma Lambert, Josh Hughes, Alexandra Feldman, Danielle Barnes, Ryan Raugh and Myles Lyng.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

School & Sports

Cornerstone Sports Teams Excel Cornerstone Preparatory Academy, located in Acworth, had a very successful sports season. The girls’ volleyball team won its region and placed third in the state competition. The junior varsity and varsity cross-country teams both placed third in the regional finals for their district. Senior Sabrina Frost and eighth-grader Samantha Murray placed in the top seven runners overall during the state championships.

Etowah Soccer to Host Fun Run The Seventh Annual Etowah Soccer Wonderful Winter 5K / Fun Run will be held at 8 a.m. Feb. 1. The start and finish line will be in the Etowah High School stadium, 6565 Putnam Ford Road. The entire event is contained on Eagle Mountain and away from traffic and busy streets. The cost of registration is $25 and everyone registered by Jan. 20 is guaranteed a race T-shirt. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Etowah High School boys’ and girls’ soccer teams. For information or to download the registration form go to http://www.etowahsoccer.com. Sponsorships are also available. For more information, please contact Susan Moore at (770) 8656262 or email her at smsgrad@gmail.com.

Bowen’s Competes in National Tournament Bowen’s Tiger Rock Academy recently took more than 50 competitors to the Tiger Rock National Tournament in Birmingham, Ala. Martial arts students competed in events such as traditional forms, free design forms, one-step sparring, sports sparring, board breaking and agility. Many students came back with gold, silver and bronze medals.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Woodstock Softball Helps Seniors The Woodstock High School softball team participated in the annual Adopt-a-Senior program. Teammates purchased, wrapped and delivered the gifts for local seniors.

Woodstock Wolverines Varsity Basketball Schedule Date Jan 4 Jan 7 Jan 10 Jan 11 Jan 14 Jan 17 Jan 21 Jan 24 Jan 28 Jan 31 Feb 4 Feb 7 Feb 11-15 Feb 18

Opponent River Ridge @ Lassister Roswell @ Alpharetta Etowah @Milton Wheeler Cherokee Walton Lassiter (SN) @ Roswell @ Etowah Region Tournament First Round of State

Girls 3:30 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm 6:00 pm

Boys 5:00 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 5:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

www.woodstockbasketball.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Cherokee Photography Club

Amazing Lights

Darcy Pino — Christmas Delight

Kim Bates — Bright Lights of Nashville

Dean Kelley — Desire

David Ruff — Interlude 64 TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Eillene Kirk — Ghost Train

Kim Bates — Energy Center

Bob Kelley — Jetson Holiday

Karen Beedle — Night Lights

Peter Pino — Light the Way

Linda Lester — Walking Through the Light

Club info: The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at (770) 6177595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.

Rudy Coopman — Lights in the Fountain TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Faith

So That… BY DR. DOUG THRASHER

Have you ever stopped and thought about the phrase “so that?” When you really think about it, just about everything we do hinges upon some kind of “so that.” These are a few of the things I heard growing up: “You need to eat your vegetables so that you will grow up big and strong.” “ It’s time to go to bed. You need your sleep so that you can do well in school tomorrow.” Dr. Doug Thrasher is the “Make sure and study so that Senior Pastor at Hillside you will do well in school.” United Methodist Church. He is also a member of the “Take a bath so that you won’t TowneLaker’s Community smell bad.” Board. You may contact You get the idea. We do many, him at dthrasher@ many things so that there will hillsideumc.org. be a certain result. My question then is this – what results do you want in your life? Do you want to have a good job? Do you want to have a strong marriage? Do you want your children to grow up and be good, productive people? If you do, there are things you must do so that you will see these results. Now, I am not some guy with his head in the clouds. I know every one of us faces circumstances beyond our control, and even if we do all the right things in order to get the right results, sometimes the “so that’s” just don’t

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“The Bible is filled with “so that’s” that I have seen proven true over and over again. What does this say to me? It says to me that if I want to live a good life, I need to read the Bible. I need to study the Bible. I need to live the Bible.”

work out. But what if I told you one “so that” that I have never seen fail? Would you be interested? “All scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) The Bible is filled with “so that’s” that I have seen proven true over and over again. What does this say to me? It says to me that if I want to live a good life, I need to read the Bible. I need to study the Bible. I need to live the Bible. I want to invite you to join me this year in “Living the Bible, so that…” we might be thoroughly equipped for every good work. That’s going to be the theme at Hillside this year, but it’s not something exclusive to the church. Why not make it your theme this year?

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Faith

Marriage Moments BY BILL RATLIFF

A new year is fresh with possibilities for new ideas, goals, accomplishments and ways to better ourselves. Weddings always remind me of new beginnings and opportunities for God to make a statement in the lives of the people involved. I performed several weddings recently. All of the couples were excited with the prospects and promises of a new life together. Bill Ratliff is the Senior At one wedding in particular, Pastor at Towne Lake the bride and groom were very Community Church. intentional about making a He can be reached at (678) 445-8766 or bratliff@ statement about themselves. tlcchurch.com As they gathered their family and friends around them, they were very interested in making God’s presence known and reflected in their ceremony. As special music was being sung, they asked that I pray over them. In addition, they went on to ask that all of the family and guests pray for them and their marriage during that time. It was a sweet and special moment as all of us experienced the presence of God among us. Instead of being embarrassed or afraid of what others might think, I encourage you to take a hint from this newly wedded couple. In 2014, ask some people to pray specifically

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

“Ask for prayers for you to grow spiritually, to be full of fun, to be healthy even in conflict, and be more of a blessing to each other and to others.” for your marriage. Ask for prayers for you to grow spiritually, to be full of fun, to be healthy even in conflict, and be more of a blessing to each other and to others. I don’t have to tell you that many marriages today need crisis intervention. Even healthy marriages need help and prayer. Who better to receive help from than the “wonderful counselor, almighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace! (Isaiah 9:6) Consider what the Bible says about prayer in James 5:16, “The prayer of a Godly person is powerful. It makes things happen.” Date Your Mate Take your mate out to return some gifts you got for Christmas that you don’t really need. Use the money received from the returned items to subsidize a fun date night. Please be aware that there could be some disagreement over which items to return. Also, you will need to come to an agreement about how to spend the money on the date. Perhaps this could be your first date of 2014.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

D O W N T O W N W O O D S T O C K

Spotlight PAINTINGS BY KRISTINA LAURENDI HAVENS

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Downtown Woodstock

faces and places

Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Photos provided by Kyle Bennett

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Downtown Woodstock

A Look Back BY JODI TIBERIO

Jodi Tiberio owns Branch Boutique for women in Towne Lake and Brooklynnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boutique for men and women in Downtown Woodstock. Contact Jodi at info@shopthreads.net.

Over the past 12 months, we have been fortunate to provide makeovers for several deserving women in our area. We are so proud

of them that we wanted to feature them one more time before we begin our 2014 makeovers! And speaking of makeovers, if you are interested in participating in one of our makeovers and being featured in this magazine, please contact me at jodi@tiberioretail.com.

July: Monica Roberson

August: Tammy Dorsten

January: Elizabeth Crook

February: Angie Robinson

March: Joanne Hutchings

April: Christen King

September: Nichelle Stewart

October: Chay Gantt

May: Stephanie May

June: Phyllis Miller

November: Julie Gable

December: Samantha Spennato

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Downtown Woodstock

Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide

RESTAURANT

CUISINE

BREAKFAST

SUNDAY

SPIRITS

OFFERS RESERV.

Canyons 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com

American

open

Beer/wine

Century House Tavern 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com

Modern American

$$$

open

Full bar

8 persons +

Fire Stone 120 Chambers St. 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com

Wood-fired Pizza & Grill

$$$

open

Full bar

Freight Kitchen & Tap 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com

Southern

Sat./Sun. Brunch

$$$

open

Full bar

Hot Dog Heaven 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605

American

open

Tapas/Sushi

Fri./Sat. only

open

Full bar

yes

Ipps Pastaria & Bar 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com

Italian

open

Full bar

J Christophers 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com

Diner

$-$$

$ - $$

open

J Miller’s Smokehouse 150 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com

BBQ

$ - $$

open

Magnolia Thomas 108 Arnold Mill Rd. 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com

Southern

Sunday Brunch

$$$$

open

Beer/wine

yes

Pure Taqueria 441 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock

Mexican

Sat./Sun. Brunch

open

Full bar

6 persons +

Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com

English Tea room

closed

yes

Italian

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

Ice Martini & Sushi Bar 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com

Vingenzo’s 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com

LUNCH DINNER

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

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Downtown Woodstock

January CALENDAR OF EVENTS Jan. 3 iThink Improv Troupe

Time: 9 p.m. Location: City Center, 8534 Main St. Information: All seats $5. www.elmstreetarts.org (678) 494-4251

Jan. 17 and 18, 24-26 “Tom Sawyer”

Jan. 7 Karen White, “Return to Tradd Street” book launch Time: Location: Information:

6:30 p.m. FoxTale Book Shoppe, 105 E. Main St. Free. Book purchase optional.

Jan. 8, 15 and 22 Chef Mary’s Classic Baguette and Soup Class

Times: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sunday Location: City Center, 8534 Main St. Information: All seats $10 if purchased online in advance, or $12 at the door. www.elmstreetarts.org (678) 494-4251 Time: 7–9 p.m. Location: Leaning Ladder Premium Olive Oils and Vinegars, 105 E. Main St. Information: $30 per class. Learn to make minestrone, French onion and shrimp bisque. More classes coming! Visit www.facebook.com/LeaningLadderPremiumOliveOilsAndVinegars

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Jan. 28 Wendy Webb, “The Vanishing” book signing Time: Location: Information:

6:30 p.m. FoxTale Book Shoppe, 105 E. Main St. Free. Book purchase optional.

Experience Elm Street

A Senior Project Tradition Continues BY G. LORA GROOMS

The next few months, Cherokee County high school seniors will be presenting their senior projects. If you’re not familiar with the program, students must present a special project that takes at least 15 hours to complete. Usually a student selects a category that is of personal interest to him or her - anything from learning cake decorating to planning and implementing a major fundraiser for charity. G. Lora Grooms is the We’ve had several students under director for the Elm Street our wing over the past few years. Cultural Arts Village. Last year, we had two students She has been teaching, direct and produce “The Lion, the writing, directing and Witch and the Wardrobe,” which performing in the Atlanta area since 1990. You can was extremely successful. A portion reach her at director@ of the ticket sales was donated back elmstreetarts.org to Families of Cherokee United in Service to assist with their Youth Works programming - an added bonus of our director’s Senior Projects that began with “A Little Princess” in 2012. This year, we are mentoring a handful of seniors on such projects as playwriting and screenwriting. And, as has become our tradition, the January mainstage production is being directed by a senior as a project. We’ve known student director Laura Crawford for a long time, since before we moved from the Towne Lake Arts Center location to downtown Woodstock. She has performed in several shows over the years and has served as the Elm Street Teen Actors Guild officer, organizing various events. She has experience being on stage and being in charge, but has never directed a show before. However, so far she is finding it to be an enjoyable challenge. And here’s an Interesting bit of trivia. In the same week she was running auditions for “Tom Sawyer,” sitting at the director’s table analyzing the talent pool in front of her, she was also auditioning for the spring musical at Woodstock High School and being analyzed by other directors. She is especially looking forward to working with professional actor Kurt Sutton, who will portray Mark Twain in “Tom Sawyer.” (He plays Twain all over the country and it’s always a thrill to have him on our stage.) It’s a wonderful opportunity for both to learn from each other and for our audiences to enjoy a great story while supporting a senior project.

“This year, we are mentoring a handful of seniors on such projects as playwriting and screenwriting.”

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Downtown Woodstock

Downtown Woodstock - Fitness Destination BY KYLE BENNETT

With the start of a new year, it’s time for new year’s resolutions. Every year, one of the most common resolutions is to get in shape and lose weight. If that is your resolution, then you will find that many businesses in downtown Woodstock can help with this goal. One of the most popular ways to get fit is by practicing yoga. If you are interested Kyle Bennett is the in getting started in yoga director of tourism or you’ve done it for awhile for the Woodstock and you’re looking for a local Downtown Development studio, then you are in luck Authority. He can be because there are two great reached at kbennett@ woodstockga.gov. yoga studios ready to help you get in shape. Ember Hot Yoga offers a variety of hot and non-hot styles of yoga, mat pilates, workshops and events open to members and non-members. As Ember’s name suggests, it is best known for hot yoga classes. Ember’s Hot Sequence class is an invigorating sequence of postures that works the entire body and is appropriate for all levels of experience. The class is held in a heated room with a temperature of 106 degrees and humidity of 40 percent. Ember Hot Yoga is located at 330 Chambers Street. The other studio is Sanctuary on Main, located at the corner of Main Street and Fowler Street. Sanctuary brings together yoga as stretch therapy and

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

therapeutic massage. Sanctuary on Main is located at 8744 Main Street, Suite 302. For those interested in trying out CrossFit, check out Owl CrossFit at Emerge Fitness. It offers small group classes led by a trainer who will motivate you along with the others to perform at your best. Each class is designed to challenge you physically and mentally. Owl CrossFit at Emerge Fitness is located at 8690 Main Street. Gin Miller Fitness is another great destination in downtown Woodstock that can help you with your fitness goals in the new year. Gin Miller Fitness offers small group personal training that is individualized to meet your unique fitness needs. You may participate in regularly scheduled, preprogrammed 6-week sessions, book customized sessions for a group of your own, or reserve private personal training sessions with a trainer of your choice. Gin Miller Fitness is located at 8650 Main Street. Downtown Woodstock also has many stores where you can find the gear and attire you will need to help you get fit in 2014. Outspokin’ Bicycles, located at 8594 Main St., is a great shopping destination for anyone interested in cycling, from beginners to seasoned pros. If you are interested in running, visit Natural Strides, located at 8636 Main Street. Natural Strides has a wide selection of running shoes that will help ensure you get the right pair of running shoes for you or your family members. RAK Outfitters, located at 450 Chambers Street, has the best brands in outdoor clothing and gear to help you be properly prepared and outfitted for any outdoor outings you have planned. With the help of these businesses in downtown Woodstock, anyone who made the resolution for better fitness in 2014 will have a much better chance to reaching his or her goals.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

About the Downtown Spotlight cover page Local Artist Kristina Laurendi Havens has spent more than 18 months creating a series of paintings depicting everyday scenes around Main Street in Woodstock. The paintings consist of more than 30 pieces in total. The paintings will be auctioned with proceeds benefitting the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village to help fund the next phase of development for the theater and arts center in downtown Woodstock. To participate in the auction, follow Kristina on Facebook (facebook.com/Krystyna81) or email her to join her mailing list at 81artist@ comcast.net.

Kristina Laurendi Havens

On the last Friday January -October, Main Street members and community guests visit The Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main Street, at 8 A.M. for a networking breakfast meeting. Local sponsors provide insights into their business and organization, and community programs and projects are briefed. Members and guests enjoy light breakfast fare and community networking before and after the meeting. They are currently conducting our annual membership drive. Please check out mainstreetwoodstock.org for more information.

Divorcing? What are Some of the Options for the Home? continued from page 20

PROS: • Saves money and keeps both parents in the home. CONS: • Does not allow for a break from one another and makes “moving on” difficult. “Bird Nesting” This is basically a form of child custody in which the child/ children remain in the home, and the parents spend their visitation time with the children in the children’s home. PROS: • Stability for the children. • Limited interaction between the spouses. CONS: • Difficult for the spouses to establish new relationships after the divorce. Fortunately, home prices have appreciated enough in the last two years to allow many of those facing divorce the option of any of the above methods.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

January Morning Buzz will be on Jan. 31 Welcome New Members ICE Martini & Sushi Bar

Find out What’s happening Downtown by downloading the Visit Woodstock App

Happy New Year!

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA COMMUNITY OF FAITH 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 14255 Wade Green Rd NW, Ste 120 Kennesaw, GA 30144, (678) 460-7702 Introductory Service: 1st Shabbat monthly at 11 a.m. Traditional Service: 3rd Shabbat monthly at 10:30 a.m. Rabbi: Zalman Charytan www.JewishWoodstock.com, www.Facebook.com/ JewishCenter

Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock, (770) 710-1068 Pastor: Elder Larry White www.crossroadspbc.org First Baptist Church of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, (770) 926-4428 Sunday Services: 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 Alive Groups & Worship Service: 9:30 & 11 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship Service: 6 p.m. Wednesday Services: Youth 6:30 p.m., Adults 7 p.m. Pastor: Mike Maxwell

Congregation Ner Tamid A Reform Jewish Temple (770) 345-8687, Marci, call for information Serving the Northwest Suburbs Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green Street Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta, (770) 973-3533 www.Kolemeth.net

New Victoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 926-8448 Sunday Services: 11 a.m Sunday Bible Study: 9:45 a.m. Wednesday Awana/Youth: 6:30 – 8 p.m. Pastor: John Harris www.newvicbaptist.org

Messianic Jewish

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

Lutheran

Episcopal Christ Episcopal Church 1210 Wooten Lake Road, Kennesaw, (770) 422-9114 Sunday Services: 8 & 9 a.m. (family service) & 11 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 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

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Tikvah l’ Chaim “Hope for Life Ministries” 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

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.gslutheran.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 2263 E. Cherokee Drive, Woodstock, (770) 485-0504 Sunday Divine Liturgy: 10 a.m. Priest Frederick Watson www.stelizabethga.org

Presbyterian Christ Covenant Presbyterian of Woodstock (PCA) Meets in the Rec Center of Cherokee County’s South Annex, 7545 Main Street; Bldg. 200, Woodstock Pastor: Ted Lester www.cc-pca.org

Geneva Orthodox Presbyterian Church Meets in Kings Academy Church 471 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock, (770) 833-3797 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. & 5:30 p.m., Sunday School: 11:30 a.m. Pastor: Matthew Holst www.genevaopc.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: 9 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Don Esa

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

United Methodist Bascomb United Methodist Church 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, (770) 926-9755 Contemporary Service: 9 a.m. Traditional Service: 11 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Harden Hopper www.bascombchurch.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 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 Little River United Methodist Church 12455 Highway 92, (770) 926-2495 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Bill Coady www.littleriverumc.info 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: Dr. Joe McKechnie www.sixesumc.org Woodstock United Methodist Church 109 Towne Lake Parkway, (770) 516-0371 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Claude T. Herbert

Unitarian Universalist Emerson U U Congregation 2799 Holly Springs Road, Marietta, Georgia 30062 (770) 578-1533 Services: 9 & 11:30 a.m. August – May www.emersonuu.org Rev. Jeff Jones

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 Awakening Church 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140 next to Folks Restaurant, (770) 924-4150 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.awakeningwoodstock.com Lead Pastor: Jeff Whitmire 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 230 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, (770) 517-2977 Sunday Service: 9 & 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Mat Garcia www.bridgepointechurch.org Catalyst Church 9872 Main Street, Woodstock (678) 463-6330, catalystonline.tv Sunday Services: 11 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

Northern Hills Church of Christ 4563 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton (404) 579-0885 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Ronny West www.northernhillsfamily.org

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

Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship Church 6409 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 928-2795 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Christian Living Class: 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Youth Meeting: 6:30 p.m. Pastor: Larry H. Baker www.prayerandpraise.org

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 Sacrament Meeting: 9 a.m. Auxiliary Meeting: 10:20 a.m. Bishop Phil Karski Woodstock Ward Sacrament Meeting: 11 a.m. Bishop Jonathan Ensign Church of the Messiah (Non-denominational) 415 Charles Cox Drive, Canton, (770) 479-5280 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. Pastor: Fred L. Goodwin Cornerstone Community Church 503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160 (678) 439-5108, dlkight@comcast.net Sunday Service: 11 a.m. Pastor David Kight www.ccchurchonline.org Dayspring Church 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth, (770) 516-5733 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Tony Crawford www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle Church 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock, (770) 928-7478 Sunday Worship: 10 a.m. Pastor: A.D. Hinton www.EmpowermentTabernacle.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 His Hands Church 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock, (770) 405-2500 Party on Sunday: 10 a.m. www.hishandschurch.com Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church 3431 Trickum Rd., Marietta, (770) 924-8080 Sunday Orthros: 8:30a.m., Divine Liturgy: 10 a.m. Rev. Fr. Panayiotis Papageorgiou, PhD Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Rd., Acworth, (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

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. Gene Prince www.rezwoodstock.org Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, (678) 494-2100 Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. www.sgcatlanta.org Sunnyside Church of God 2510 East Cherokee Drive, (770)-693-1018 Sunday service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Lance Turner www.sunnysidecog.com The Church at Acworth 6464 Highway 92, (770) 924-9161 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Jason Tomczak www.ctkatlanta.com Towne Lake Community Church (TLC Church) 132 North Medical Parkway, (678) 445-8766 Contemporary Family Style Worship: Sunday 10:30 a.m. The Walk — Adult Singles Worship: Saturday 6 p.m. Sr. Pastor: William S. Ratliff www.tlcchurch.com Watermarke Church Meeting at Cherokee Charter Academy 2126 Sixes Road, Canton, (678) 880-9092 Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m., 5 p.m. www.watermarkechurch.com Woodstock Christian Church 7700 Highway 92, (770) 926-8238 Sunday School: 9 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.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. 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. Pastor: Lewis Stark www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, (770) 926-8990 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Greg Michael TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Business Organizations 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: 7745 Main Street, Woodstock Contact: Laury Beesley, (678) 642-3110 www.CherokeeToastmasters.com Empowered Women Through Synergy Meeting: 3rd Thursday at 8.30 a.m. Location: J Christopher’s in Downtown Woodstock Contact: Shahida Baig 678-445-3900 Facebook: Empowered Women Through Synergy No Fee Referral Network Woodstock Meeting: Every Monday morning at 7:30 am Location: IHOP 8979 Hwy 92 www.meetup.com/No-Fee-Referral-NetworkWoodstock North Georgia Referral Network Meeting: Every Tuesday morning at 8 a.m. Location: J. Christophers, 315 Chambers Street Contact: (770) 592-5990 The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meeting: Third Thursday at 6:45 p.m. Contact: Edeline Dryden (678) 789-6158 www.thejoyofconnecting.com 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 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 www.powercore.net Women of Woodstock Meeting: First & Third Wednesday. Location: Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills Contact: info@womenofwoodstock.com www.womenofwoodstock.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Woodstock Community Business Association Meeting: Second Monday at 12 noon Location: Tuscany, 250 Cinema Way Contact: WCBusinessAssoc@aol.com

Charitable Organizations

iCOR helping orphans, seeks volunteers. Contact: Lily Colgate, (404) 992-8155 www.iCORorphans.com MUST Ministries Contact: Kendall Jones, (770) 479-5397

Ahimsa House help for victims of domestic violence who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 24-hr, (404) 452-6248, Info (404) 496-4038 www.ahimsahouse.org

Next Step Ministries provides day programs Monday through Saturday for special needs kids, teens, and young adults. Contact: (770) 592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net

Chance Afrika Contact: Eric Mwangi, Exec. Dir., ericm@chanceafrika.org, (770) 256 2280, www.chanceafrika.org

Papa’s Pantry is a year-round local food ministry. Contact: Lynne Saunders, (770) 591-4730 www.papaspantry.org

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 Cherokee County Animal League Contact: Steve Monahan at CherokeeAnimalLeague@gmail.org or (770) 712-4077

Pet Buddies Food Pantry has pet food collection bin at TowneLaker offices. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County — Call for an appointment for free child safety seat inspections. Contact: (770) 721-7808 www.cherokeesafekids.org

Civic Organizations

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

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

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.

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

Companion Animal Connection Contact: (678) 493-9847 www.cacadopt.petfinder.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. Contact: office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net

Junior Service League of Woodstock Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 7 p.m. Location: Tuscany Contact: 24 hour info line: (770) 592-3535 http://jslwoodstock.org

Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical for their pets. Contact: Gina Jeter, (770) 842-8893 www.funds4furryfriends.com

Pilot Club of Cherokee County Contact: Lynda Goodwin, (770) 393-1766, Lynda @edgoodwinassociates.com

Green Pets America Rescue animal rescue group (770) 712-4077, SteveMonahan777@gmail.com www.GPACharities.US

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

Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: (770) 345-1024 Website: www.habitat-ncg.org Hope Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. Contact: (770) 924-0864, info@TheHopeCtr.com www.hopectr.com

Hospice Advantage needs volunteers. Contact: (770) 218-1997 www.hospiceadvantage.com

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

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 Friday at 7:30 a.m. Location: Eagle Watch Golf Club Contact: Charlice Byrd, (404) 557-2218

Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meeting Second Saturday at 10 a.m. Location: William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road www.cherokeehams.com

CASA for Children Inc. provides child advocacy to abused and neglected children through trained community volunteers. Contact: Deidre Hollands, (770) 345-3274 www.casaforchildren.org

Cherokee County Arts Center Location: 94 North Street, Canton Contact: (770) 704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org

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

Woodstock Jaycees Meeting: First Tuesday & Third Thursday at 7 p.m. Location: 216 Rope Mill Road Contact: (404) 690-4452

Cherokee County Saddle Club www.cherokeesaddleclub.com

Woodstock Lions Club Meeting: Second & Fourth Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: New Victoria Baptist Church Contact: (770) 906-2958

Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey Website: www.cherokeehockey.org

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: lodge.info@woodstocklodge246.org 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: Second Thursday at 7 p.m. Location: Holly Springs Train Depot www.cherokeedems.com Cherokee County Republican Party Meeting: Second Saturday at 9 a.m. Location: Winchesters Woodfire Grill Contact: (678) 809-1411 Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli (770)592-6545 Republican Women of Cherokee County Meeting: www.rwccga.com Contact: (678) 520-2236

Recreation & Hobbies Arts Alliance of Georgia, Inc. Meeting: Second Saturday at 10 a.m. Location: Studio 101, 101 Emma Lane, www.artsalliancega.org 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 www.addlaughter.com

Cherokee Co. Social Adventures Group www.TCCSAG.org

Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Linda Lokey (770) 720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association 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 Contact: Ellen Kayton, (678) 494-6005 www.nntl.org Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization. Location: Wildlife Action, 2075 Kellogg Creek Contact: WLA Office, (770) 924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.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 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

Cherokee Co. Foster & Adoptive Parents Assoc. Contact: Marie Blackwell, (770) 378-0759, mblackwell@fosteroradopt.org www.fosteroradopt.org Cherokee County Lupus Support Group Meeting: 2nd Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Location: New Light Church Hall Contact: Pam Bennett, (404) 975-7580 C.H.O.O.S.E. of Woodstock Meeting: First Monday at 7 p.m. Contact: mailbox@chooseofwoodstockga.org Georgia Canines for Independence www.gcidogs.org Contact: (404) 824-4637 GRANDparents Raising GRANDchildren Meeting: Second & Fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m. (nursery available) Location: Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta Contact: Jeannie, (770) 919-9275 Jewish Havurah Contact: Marcia, (770) 345-8687 La Leche League of South Cherokee Meeting: First Tuesday at 10 a.m. & Third Wed. 7p.m. Location: Bascomb United Methodist Church Contacts: Marguerite, (678) 315-7686 Megan, (770) 517-0191 MOMS Club Towne Lake — 30188-30189 https://sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock/ Email: momscluboftownelake@gmail.com MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meeting: Second & Fourth Mondays at 9:30 a.m. Location: Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: (770) 924-4777 Spirit of Success Career Clothing Connection Provides professional business attire at no cost. Contact: (770) 956-0711. Tender Hearts Caregivers Support Group Meeting: Second & Fourth Wednesday at 10 a.m. Location: Hillside United Methodist Church Contact: Robin Galloway, (770) 517-5899 Towne Lake Area Moms Group www.TowneLakeArea.com Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors Meeting: First Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center Contact: Kelly (678) 677-2589 TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Reference

ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS United States Government President Barack Obama (D)

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 www.whitehouse.gov

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R)

100 Galleria Parkway, Suite 1340, Atlanta, GA 30339 http://chambliss.senate.gov

Senator Johnny Isakson (R)

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

Rep. Tom Price (R) District 6

85-C Mill St., Suite 300 Roswell, GA 30075 http://tom.house.gov

Rep. Rob Woodall (R) District 7

75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville, GA 30046 http://woodall.house.gov

Rep. Phil Gingrey, M.D. (R) District 11

100 North Street Suite 150, Canton, GA 30114 http://gingrey.house.gov

(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461 (202) 224-3521 GA: (770) 763-9090 (202) 224-3643 GA: (770) 661-0999

Sen. Brandon Beach (R) District 21 brandon.beach@senate.ga.gov Sen. Jack Murphy (R) District 27

jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov

(770) 546-7565 (404) 463-1378 (770) 887-1960 fax: (770) 205-0602 (678) 523-8570

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

(678) 576-2644

scot@turnerforhouse.com

www.cherokeega.com

1130 Bluffs Pkwy., Canton, GA 30114

(678) 493-6000 fax: (678) 493-6001

Commissioners: L.R. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman

lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Harry Johnston (R) District 1 Ray Gunnin (R) District 2 rgunnin@cherokeega.com bpoole@cherokeega.com

Jason Nelms (R) District 4 Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Roger Garrison (R)

(770) 735-8055 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org (678) 493-4100 fax: (678) 493-4228

498 Chattin Drive Canton, GA 30115 rdgarrison@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner Sonya Little

(678) 493-6400 fax: (678) 493-6420

2780 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114 slittle@cherokeega.com Woodstock Annex 155 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, GA 30188

Cherokee County School Board Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo

(770) 924-4099 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

221 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Kelly Marlow (R) District 1

(770) 479-1871 fax: (770) 479-1236 (770) 721-6298 x4369

kelly.marlow@cherokee.k12.ga.us

TBA District 22

Patsy Jordan (R) District 2

(770) 893-2970

patsy.jordan@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Michael Geist (R) District 3

Cherokee County Courts Superior Court: Chief Judge David Cannon Jr. Judge Jackson Harris Judge Ellen McElyea

State Court: Chief Judge Clyde J. Gober, Jr.

Judge W. Alan Jordan Judge A. Dee Morris

Chief Judge James E. Drane III (R) Judge Gregory Douds

(678) 493-6270 (678) 493-6260 (678) 493-6240 (678) 493-6480 (678) 493-6490 (678) 493-6480 (678) 493-6431 (678) 493-6431

Probate Court: Judge Keith Wood (R)

(678) 493-6160

Juvenile Court: Chief Judge John B. Sumner Judge Anthony Baker TOWNELAKER | January 2014

(404) 462-4950

michael.geist@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Magistrate Court:

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

jnelms@cherokeega.com (202) 225-2931 GA: (770) 345-2931

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com

(678) 493-6511

Brian Poole (R) District 3 (202) 225-4272 GA: (770) 232-3005

(404) 652-7003 203 State Capitol, 206 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.georgia.gov

(770) 479-1488

hjohnston@cherokeega.com (202) 225-4501 GA: (770) 565-4990

State Government Governor Nathan Deal (R)

Sen. Bruce Thompson (R) District 14

District Attorney Shannon Wallace Clerk of Courts Patty Baker

(678) 493-6250 (678) 493-6280

Janet Read (R) Chair

(770) 516-1444

janet.read@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Rick Steiner (R) District 4

(770) 721-4398, x4370

rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Rob Usher (R) District 5

(770) 928-0341

rob.usher@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Robert Wofford (R) District 6 (Vice-Chair) robert.wofford@cherokee.k12.ga.us City of Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

dhenriques@progressiveaudiology.com

(770) 345-6256

(770) 592-6017

Towne Lake Residential and Commercial Owners’ Association

(Covenant enforcement issues — all Towne Lake common areas) Douglas Properties (770) 926-3086 117 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30188

SCHOOL INFORMATION Public Schools Ace 3921 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs (770) 345-2005 Principal: Mr. Richard Landolt www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ aceacademy Bascomb Elementary School 1335 Wyngate Parkway, Woodstock (770) 592-1091 Principal: Ruth Flowers www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ bascomb-es Carmel Elementary School 2275 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock (770) 926-1237 Principal: Keith Bryant www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ carmel-es Cherokee Charter Academy 2126 Sixes Road, Canton (678) 385-7322 Principal: Dr. Scott Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Prey cherokeecharter.org E. T. Booth Middle School 6550 Putnam Ford Road, Woodstock (770) 926-5707 Principal: Dawn Weinbaum www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ etbooth-ms Etowah High School 6565 Putnam Ford Road, Woodstock (770) 926-4411 Principal: Keith Ball www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ etowah-hs Kleven Boston Elementary School 105 Othello Drive, Woodstock (770) 924-6260 Principal: Ms. Joey Moss www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/boston-es Oak Grove Elementary School 6118 Woodstock Road, Acworth (770) 974-6682 Principal: Les Conley www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/oakgrove-es Polaris Evening School 2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive, Woodstock (770) 926-1662 Administrator: Dr. Curt Ashley www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/polaris

Woodstock Elementary School 230 Rope Mil Road, Woodstock (770) 926-6969 Principal: Kim Montalbano www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/woodstock-es

North Cobb Christian School 4500 Lakeview Drive, Kennesaw (770) 975-0252 Headmaster: Todd Clingman www.ncchristian.org

Woodstock High School 2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, (770) 592-3500 Principal: Dr. Paul Weir www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/woodstock-hs

Omega Academy (770) 792-7431 www.omegalearningcenter.com

Woodstock Middle School 2000 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock (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 (678) 494-5464, www.cherokeechristian.org High School Principal: Rod Kirby Middle School Principal: Hal Scripka Elementary School: Robert Lester Cornerstone Preparatory Academy 4310 Moon Station Lane, Acworth (770) 529-7077 Administrator: Jeanne Borders www.cornerstoneprep.org

Furtah Preparatory School 5496 Highway 92, Acworth (678) 574-6488, www.furtahprep.org Headmaster: Fred Furtah Harvest Baptist School 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth Principal: Jamie Smithey (770) 974-9091 www.harvestbaptist.org Holdheide Education K-3 5234 Old Highway 5, Woodstock Principal: Tammy Dorsten (770) 516-2292, www.MyGiftedKids.org Lyndon Academy 485 Toonigh Rd., Woodstock (770) 926-0166 Headmaster: Linda Murdock www.lyndonacademy.org

Shiloh Hills Christian School 260 Hawkins Store Road, Kennesaw (770) 926-7729 Administrator: John D. Ward www.shilohhills.com St. Joseph Catholic School 81 Lacy Street, Marietta, (770) 428-3328 Principal: Patricia Allen www.stjosephschool.org

Home School Compass Prep Academy Director: Laura George www.compassprep.org info@compassprep.org (404) 643-9424 Homeschool Community Classical Conversations Woodstock Director: Cari Lingerfelt carinwoody@bellsouth.net

Cherokee County School District 2013-2014 Calendar at a Glance January 6 School Resumes January 20 No School February 17-21 Winter Break March 31-April 4 Spring Break Cafeteria account information: www.mypaymentsplus.com Aspen: https://sis.cherokee.k12. ga.us/aspen/home.do School District Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN NOVEMBER Towne Lake Sales for November 2013 Subdivision

Beds

Baths

Yr Built

Days on Market

Sales Price

1107 Britley Park LN

Britley Park

1995

$ 89,000.00

104.00

214 Chelsea CT

Britley Park

1995

$ 105,000.00

104.00

$ 107,900.00

203 Chelsea CT

Britley Park

2.5

1995

$ 105,000.00

97.00

$ 182,900.00

310 Santa Anita AVE

Brookshire

2002

$ 179,900.00

107.00

$ 187,900.00

306 Ashland CT

Brookshire

2.5

2001

$ 186,500.00

94.00

$ 199,900.00

182 Wallnut Hall CIR

Brookshire

2.5

2004

$ 199,900.00

95.00

$ 168,000.00

317 Chesapeake RDG

Centennial Place

1995

$ 164,000.00

102.00

$ 187,500.00

605 Lexington WAY

Centennial Place

1999

$ 179,000.00

81.00

$ 99,500.00

151 Timberland ST

Cherokee Forest

1972

$ 94,500.00

41.00

$ 139,900.00

521 Hemlock DR

Cherokee Forest

1971

$ 134,000.00

73.00

$ 248,900.00

204 Beaver Creek LN

Deer Run

3.5

1994

$ 242,000.00

83.00

$ 169,900.00

805 Eagle Glen XING

Eagle Glen

1998

$ 175,000.00

107.00

$ 300,000.00

3307 Rough Creek DR

Eagle Watch

3.5

1989

$ 300,000.00

69.00

List Price

Address

$ 91,000.00 $ 105,000.00

$$/sq ft

$ 309,900.00

523 SYCAMORE PT

Eagle Watch

3.5

1994

240

$ 306,500.00

68.00

$ 169,900.00

118 Emerald Cove DR

Emerald Cove

1985

$ 160,000.00

100.00

$ 100,000.00

507 Oakwood CT

Heartwood

1994

$ 95,000.00

79.00

$ 189,900.00

540 Arden Close

Montclair At Ridgewalk

2005

$ 175,000.00

118.00

$ 107,000.00

605 Driftwood DR

Port Victoria

2.5

1988

$ 105,000.00

50.00

$ 240,000.00

227 Sable Ridge WAY

Sable Ridge Trace

2006

$ 245,400.00

$ 175,000.00

619 SWEET BASIL LN

Spicers Grove

1994

$ 172,000.00

$ 200,000.00

401 Summerchase WAY

Summerchase

2.5

1991

102

$ 197,000.00

93.00

$ 125,000.00

2017 VICKSBURG TRL

Sumter Ridge

1976

$ 125,000.00

76.00

See all the photos and details of these sold listings at

111.00 No data

http://TLNov2013.HomeSalesData.info

$ 243,000.00

516 Fairway DR

The Fairways

1989

$ 237,000.00

75.00

$ 259,900.00

2802 Andover WAY

The Fairways

2.5

1990

$ 254,000.00

85.00

$ 329,900.00

2907 Dunhill TRL

The Fairways

3.5

1991

$ 326,500.00

78.00

$ 359,000.00

3602 OLDE PRESTWICK CT

The Fairways

3.5

1995

121

$ 345,000.00

$ 346,424.00

304 Gray Shingle LN

The Village at Towne Lake

2013

$ 346,599.00

95.00 No data

$ 148,000.00

1501 Harbor Watch CT

Towne Harbor

1992

$ 147,000.00

$ 345,000.00

1137 TOWNE LAKE HILLS DR

Towne Lake Hills East

4.5

1995

$ 268,000.00

85.00 58.00

$ 400,000.00

410 Clubview DR

Towne Lake Hills East

4.5

1996

$ 400,050.00

89.00

$ 269,900.00

349 Ironhill TRCE

Towne Lake Hills West

2.5

1995

$ 260,000.00

$ 145,000.00

303 MAINSAIL LN

Victoria Downs

2.5

1987

126

$ 146,000.00

$ $

No data 60.00

$ 189,900.00

2032 Castlemaine CIR

Waterford

2.5

2003

$ 189,900.00

$ 210,000.00

4990 Willow Creek DR

Willow Creek

2.5

1987

$ 202,500.00

$ 225,000.00

1574 Pine Creek WAY

Willow Creek

2.5

1986

$ 218,000.00

84.00

$ 229,900.00

214 Abernathy WAY

Woodland Trace

2013

133

$ 230,050.00

100.00

$ 355,613.00

342 Spotted Ridge CIR

Woodstock Knoll

2013

$ 341,000.00

109.00

$ 200,000.00

204 Deer Trace CT

Wyngate

1995

$ 195,000.00

83.00

$ 218,800.00

906 FOX CHASE CT

Wyngate

2.5

1991

$ 214,600.00

93.00

$ 250,000.00

313 Blue Ridge TRCE

Wyngate

2.5

1993

$ 250,000.00

107.00

46.48

$ 207,647.48

87.47

$ 213,258.43

AVERAGES IN NOV 2013

Higher interest rates and economic uncertainty are curbing demand slightly. As a result, the market is slowly moving in the direction of a more balanced seller/buyer market. Get your home on the market now while the supply is still low!

Data compiled by the Kurt & Sheila Team / Keller Williams Realty Partners / www.KurtandSheila.com Sales Data derived from the FMLS (Area covered by Townelaker)

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

96.00 No data

CLASSIFIEDS

You can view the TowneLaker magazine on your mobile device!

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CLEANING SERVICES

FOR RENT

All Together Clean 13 years experience in Towne Lake area. Owner run and operated, no teams! Call Mary at 770-294-0303.

It’s a new year, make that change and be your own boss Bring your clients to a salon that will make them feel at home. Unique Hair Salon has availability with 2 station and a semi private room with 2 stations and a shampoo sink and chairs for lease. A must see salon. Call Kathy @ 770-592-3562

The Dynamic Clean Team. Let us put a *SPARKLE* in your home! Weekly or Bi-weekly cleaning. Also move-in and move-outs! 10% off 1st service. 15 years experience, references available. CALL TODAY Melissa Jones, (404) 414-7743.

MUSIC LESSONS

Penny Clean “One Woman Show” moving and deep cleaning available on weekends. Over 25 years experience, reasonable rates. Licensed, bonded and insured. Free estimates. (678) 494-3602.

Voice Lessons Build your voice, don’t settle for less. 404-394-9044.

Small basement apartment utilities included. 5 minute walk to the lake $500 770-516-6633.

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Reference

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

(770) 345-0400

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

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

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax Woodstock Office Voter Registration

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

Taxes:

Children/Family:

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

Driver’s Licenses (Tues — Sat)

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

Fire Department (District 1, Station 20)

(770) 926-7155

Georgia State Patrol

(770) 205-5400

Health Department

(770) 345-7371

Kennestone Hospital North Fulton Hospital Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:

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

Libraries:

Rose Creek R.T. Jones Woodstock

Non-Emergency 911

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 Funds4Furry Friends (770) 842-8893 Lost Pets Go to www.townelaker.com. click on lost and found pet button to report missing pet 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

Sheriff’s Department

(678) 493-4100 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org Georgia Sex Offender Registry www.cherokeega-sheriff.org/offender/offender.htm

Utilities:

Hospitals:

Parks and Recreation:

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

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

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

(770) 479-3117

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

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) 592-6030

TOWNELAKER DISTRIBUTION MAP Our purpose: At AroundAbout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity; sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride; developing safety nets for those in need; and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine.

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Townelaker

Support Local Business Owners and this Magazine Tell Them You Saw Their Ad in the TowneLaker

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Burns & Speights, PC 181 E. Main St., Canton (770) 956-1400, www.bsgalaw.com

Debranski & Associates, LLC (770) 926-1957, ext 306 321 Creekstone Ridge

Hartman Imbriale Attorneys 81 (678) 445-7423, www.hartman-imbriale.com 145 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 200 Merino & Associates (770) 874-4600

Back Cover

Rohan Law, PC (404) 923-0446, www.rohhanlawpc.com

Christian Brothers Automotive (770) 926-4500 1930 Eagle Dr., Woodstock

Towne Lake’s Carwash & Detail www.townelakescarwashanddetail.com 1490 Towne Lake Pkwy.

Salon Gloss (678) 483-8900, www.SalonGloss.biz 220 Chambers St.

The Sundance Massage Center (678) 591-5066 www.SundanceMassageCenter.com

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Towne Lake Business Association

Woodstock Morning Buzz

Court Appointed Special Advocates www.casacherokee.org

CRPA Guns & Hoses 5k

Must Ministries

Papa’s Pantry www.papaspantry.org

CHIROPRACTIC

BANKING/FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC (770) 952-6707 225 Town Park Dr., Suite 440, Kennesaw

Francis, Kingsley & Assoc., CPAs (770) 310-9726, www.woodstockcpa.com

Gateway Funding Brian Duncan, (404) 860-1300

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 6390 Bells Ferry Rd. (770) 591-3630

Salon & Spa Venéssa (770) 591-2079, salonvenessa.com 8516 Main St.

Renasant Bank (678) 388-5709, renasantbank.com

Optimum Health 13 (770) 516-7477, www.optimumhealthrehab.com 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy.

CLEANING SERVICES

Back cover

Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA, LLC (678) 919-1250, www.jjacksoncpa.com

Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation (770) 516-9900, www.discoverrehab.com 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy.

Carpet Dry-Tech (678) 368-5991

Rejoice Maids (678) 905-3476, www.rejoicemaids.com

CHURCHES 9 27

New Victoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Rd., (770) 926-8448 www.newvicbaptist.org

COMPUTERS

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA

Cherokee Computer Guys (678) 749-7200, www.ccrguys.com 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock

Azure Salon & Spa (770) 345-8280 1359 Riverstone Pkwy., Ste. 110, Canton

Bon Vivant Salon (770) 516-9100

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)

Massage Envy (770) 928-0800 134 Woodstock Square Ave., Woodstock

Advanced Dental Restorations, LLC 57 (678) 810-0881, BringBackSmiles@gmail.com 1505 Stone Bridge Pkwy., Ste. 220, Woodstock

Fountain View Dentistry 45 (770) 926-0000, www.fountainviewsmiles.com 1816 Eagle Dr., Bldg. 200, Suite A

Perfect Touch Nail & Spa (678) 445-0011 2045 Towne Lake Pkwy.

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

DENTAL

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock (770) 926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com 1816 Eagle Dr. Suite 200-C

S. Bruce O’Neal, DDS 49 (770) 924-8848 2230 Towne Lake Pkwy., Bldg. 100, Ste. 100 Spillane Orthodontics (770) 928-4747, www.SpillaneOrtho.com 335 Pkwy. 575, Suite 200, Woodstock

Thad Baird & Tyler Baird, DMD 41 (770) 517-0444, www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com 4595 Towne Lake Pkwy. Towne Lake Family Dentist Inside Back Cover (770) 591-7929, www.RayMorganDMD.com 120 N. Medical Pkwy, Building 200, Suite 100 Werner Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 54 (678) 224-5722 www.ChildrensDentistWoodstock.com 250 Parkbrooke Place Suite 250, Woodstock Williams Orthodontics (770) 592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com 145 Towne Lake Pkwy., Ste. 201

EDUCATION / INSTRUCTION / COACHING Bascomb UMC Preschool (770) 926-0397 2295 Bascomb Carmel Rd.

Furtah Preparatory School (678) 574-6488, www.furtahprep.org 5496 Hwy. 92, Acworth

Music Together (678) 613-2048, www.musictogether.com

Park View Montessori School (770) 926-0044 6689 Bells Ferry Rd.

Towne Lake Community Church Preschool (678) 445-8766 ext.203 preschool@tlcchurch.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT/REPAIR & SERVICE Bryan Plumbing Services (770) 826-5277

Coleman Home Services (770) 294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. (770) 974-2390

Exact Comfort Air Cond. & Heating, Inc. (770) 912-0552 www.exactcomfort.com

Hammocks Heating & Air (770) 794-0428

Handy Handyman, The (404) 316-1490

Mr. Junk (678) Mr-Junk1

Nelson Exteriors (678) 283-8171

Pike’s Professional Painting (770) 516-0045

Plumbing Doctor, The (770) 516-9000

Precision Painting (678) 234-9668

Uptronix (770) 928-0260, www.uptronix.com

HOME INTERIORS Creative Interiors & Consignments (678) 402-8386 1428 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 100

Fun Finds & Designs 37 (770) 704-0448, www.FunFindsandDesigns.com 2765 Marietta Hwy., Canton Georgia Floors 40 (770) 516-3227 1105 Parkside Lane Suite 1338, Woodstock Interiors at Fun Finds 37 (678) 880-9146, www.InteriorsatFunFinds.com 2751 Marietta Hwy., Canton

INSURANCE The Clarke Agency (Farmers Insurance) 23 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 105 (678) 400-6725, mclarke@farmersagent.com

LANDSCAPING & LAWN MAINTENANCE OverStreet Lawn Care (770) 861-7272

RPM Landscape & Pavers (770) 597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com

PET/VETERINARIAN SERVICES & SUPPLIES Animal Atlanta (770) 591-0007, www.AnimalAtlanta.com 6449 Bells Ferry Rd.

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 66 (770) 591-9500, www.townelakevets.com 3105 Parkbrooke Circle Cherokee County Animal Shelter (770) 345-7270 1015 Univeter Rd., Canton

South Cherokee Veterinary Hospital (770) 924-6746, www.southcherokee.net 513 Sharp St.

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

Cherokee Internal Medicine (678) 238-0301, www.cherokeeim.com 1192 Buckhead Crossing, Ste. C

Keller Williams, Kurt & Sheila Johnson (404) 954-2486 www.kurtandsheila.com

Georgia Neurobehavioral Associates (770) 213-3594 140 E. Marietta St., Suite 301, Canton

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

Graham Pediatrics, Fitzroy Graham, MD, FAAP 49 (770) 485-9670, www.grahampediatrics.com 105 Mirramont Lake Dr. NexSlim 50, 51 200 Parkbrooke Drive (678) 888-0332, www.nexslimtownelake.com Northside Hospital – Cherokee www.northside.com

Northside Hospital Sleep Disorder Center 48 (770) 345-2568, www.northside.com/sleep

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Skyline Properties Group 81 (678) 978-1858, www.skylinepropetiesga.com The Village at Towne Lake Patti Bachtel, (404) 483-1814

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RECREATION AND FITNESS Atlanta Lady Fitness for Her Cover, 50,51 (770) 592-9933, www.ATLLADY.com 200 Parkbrooke Dr., Woodstock

Northside Cherokee Cardiology 46 Gregory Petro, md, Sanjay Lall, md 900 Towne Lake Pkwy., Ste 400, Woodstock 210 Oakside Lane, Suite 210-B, Canton www.NorthsideCherokeeCardiology.com (770) 924-5095

Elm St. Cultural Arts Village (678) 494-4251

Etowah Eagles Football

Etowah Tip-Off Club

Northside Cherokee Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Stephanie Hsu, md, Travis Jones, dpm 49 684 Sixes Rd., Suite 130, Holly Springs (770) 517-6636, northsidecherokeeortho.com

Woodstock Wolverines Basketball

Woodstock Wolverines Football

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 21 684 Sixes Road, Suite 220, Holly Springs 30115 (678) 388-5485 Northside Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine (770) 928-0016

Plastic Surgery Center of the South (770) 421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net 120 Vann St., Ste. 150, Marietta

Psychologist John R. Lutz, PhD 54 (770) 592-9065, www.johnromanlutz.com Rausch Family Practice (678) 384-7305

Rebound Physical Therapy (678) 445-9799

Towne Lake Family Pharmacy (770) 635-7697 2045 Towne Lake Pkwy., Ste. 110

RESTAURANTS/FOOD & DRINK Butchers Block (770) 517-2225 1025 Rose Creek Dr. Hacienda Vieja 290 Molly Lane, Woodstock (770) 517-7958

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Jump Kitchen & Saloon 21 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Woodstock (678) 388-7717, www.jumpkitchensaloon.com www.facebook.com/JumpRestaurants Papa P’s 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy. (770) 592-3100, papa-ps.com

RETAILERS

Wellstar 1 (770) 956-STAR, wellstar.org

Branch Boutique (770) 517-1505 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy.

Woodstock Physical Therapy (770) 516-9191, www.woodstockpt.com 1816 Eagle Dr., Bldg. 100 Ste.C

Diamonds R Forever 43 4200 Wade Green Rd., Ste. 212, Kennesaw (770) 422-0845, www.diamondsrforever.net

PHOTOGRAPHERS Kim Bates Photography www.KimBatesPhotoArt.com

Skip Daugherty Photography (770) 329-5807 www.skipdaughertyphotograpy.com

Gifted Ferret, The 23 (770) 693-5889, www.TheGiftedFerret.com 1910 Eagle Dr. Ste. 400 Rudi Fine Jewelry 31 (678) 445-2626, rudifinejewelry@yahoo.com 6790 Hwy. 92, Acworth TOWNELAKER | January 2014

COUPONS & SPECIAL OFFERS! These local businesses have special offers just for you!

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake

Optimum Health

Animal Atlanta

Papa P’s Mexican Irish Restaurant

Aspen Falls Auto Spa

Bon Vivant Salon

Perfect Touch Nail and Spa

Butchers Block

Carpet Dry Tech Christian Brothers Automotive Coleman Home Services

Plastic Surgery Center of the South

Rejoice Maids

Rudi Fine Jewelry

Spillane Orthodontics

Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation

Exact Comfort Air Conditioning & Heating

The Plumbing Doctor

Georgia Floors

The Sundance Massage Center

Hacienda Vieja

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Towne Lake Family Dentistry

Hammock’s Heating & Air

Massage Envy

Mr. Junk

Towne Lake Community Church Preschool

Nelson Exteriors

Werner Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock

TOWNELAKER | January 2014

Towne Lake’s Carwash and Detail

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