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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

January 2016 Volume 21, Issue 9

8 Forgotten Plague

Documentary explores the challenges of life with chronic fatigue syndrome.

14 To Your Health!

A collection of healthy recipes to kick off the new year.

21 Time to Build

Plan outlines best areas for growth in Cherokee County.

37 Growing Together

New film and TV education opportunities in Woodstock.

43 Thanksgiving Miracle

A woman in need and the perfectly timed turkey purchase.

54 Game Day Recipes These favorites are sure to score big with football fans.

61 Seniors on the Move

Silver Roamers offer a variety of trips, activities for senior citizens.

79 Shop With a Hero

Police officers, firefighters treat kids to a shopping adventure.

Contributing Writers Chantel Adams Don Akridge Kyle Bennett Katie Bishop Christopher Brazelton Michael Caldwell Caron Catalon Claire Frost Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry Delia Halverson Candi Hannigan Dr. Scott Harden Dr. Amy Hardin Dr. Jan Henriques Matt Hickman Harden Hopper Kurt & Sheila Johnson Kendall Jones

52 44 82 21 81 34 56 16 63 60 37 64 68 66 31 71 19 43

In Every Issue Sean Kaufman Josh Keenum Mark Kissel VenĂŠssa Lanier Joe Lemmo Ann Litrel Dr. Mike Litrel Rob Macmillan Matt Neal Chris Purvis Julius Quarcoo Bill Ratliff Jim Ray Dr. Carla Roberts Lynne Saunders Susan Schulz Jessica Leigh Smith Tim Timmons

70 31 62 26 76 46 28 30 59 32 68 71 33 67 41 50 36 40

Around Towne

Community News

Birthdays

Ribbon Cuttings

Community Calendar 22 Everyday Angels

Towne Lake Restaurant Guide

Faith

School News

Parking Map

Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide

77 80

Greenprints Trail Map 83 Recent Home Sales

Ad Index

www.townelaker.com

48 & 49 On the Cover Anytime Fitness photo by Danny Griffin. 2

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

ADVERTISING Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

AROUND TOWNE The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake From the Editor

It’s clear to me that we live in a very compassionate and supportive community. Scrolling through Facebook, I’ve seen photos of local teens giving backpacks filled with food and toiletries to homeless men and women in downtown Atlanta. We have a few loyal teachers in the community who spend time after school tutoring children; these special ladies arranged a Christmas party for those kids last month and helped them build their first gingerbread houses. In December, I tagged along with photographer Darleen Prem as she captured the joy and excitement of children taking part in Shop with a Hero. It was hard to tell who was more excited - the children or the police officers and firefighters who scoured the aisles at Walmart with the children, looking for just the right toys and gifts. You can see a sampling of her pictures on page 79. Our goal every month is to pack these pages with positive and uplifting stories, so that you will feel encouraged and a little more in touch with your neighbors and community. Most of us know that Woodstock First Baptist Church has an incredible creative arts ministry … but did you know several of those volunteers have created a way to take the creative arts to children and families who lived in impoverished areas of Africa? Susan Schulz introduces us to them on page 50. As you start the new year with fresh ideas and a renewed interest in keeping those resolutions that often go by the wayside, don’t forget to look around you. And let us know what you see. We’d love to share about the caring people and uplifting stories in our community, to applaud them and to encourage others.

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Sixes Living. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

What’s Coming

At press time, Cancun Mexican Grill was on track to open at the first of the year in the Rose Creek Shopping Center at 4403 Towne Lake Parkway. Owner Ricky Roman will be serving traditional Mexican cuisine from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday. Permits have been issued for Eddie Bauer and The Cosmetic Store at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta. Pigtails and Crewcuts has been issued a permit for one of the spaces in the outparcels at The Outlet Shoppes. July Massage has obtained a permit to build at 3342 Trickum Road, Woodstock. Aydin’s Fine Jewelry has obtained a permit to build at 9940 Highway 92, Woodstock. Camellia Place, an assisted living and memory care community at 294 Rope Mill Road, is planning to open in March. Andrew McFall was recently Representing Camellia Place are, from left, cohired as executive founders Denise Swords and Lauren Clifton, Andrew director, joining a McFall, Lisa Hatton and Nathan Brandon. leadership team that includes Nathan Brandon as director of marketing and communications and Lisa Hatton as director of sales management. The 96-suite facility was created by Denise Swords and Lauren Clifton to offer the area a unique style of senior care: six distinct one-story homes that will house 16 residents. The community model is designed to promote a sense of hospitality, social cohesion and fulfillment for residents who need assisted living, memory and respite care. www.camelliaplace.com.

What’s Moved

Cherokee Computer Guys have moved to 3725 Sixes Road, Canton. 678-889-5900.

What’s Closed

Reports are that Cold Stone Creamery on Buckhead Crossing is closed.

Kudos

Local artist Kristina Havens has been named the 2015 Barbara G. Ingram Citizen of the Year. She was honored by Preservation Woodstock for her efforts to preserve Woodstock’s history through her art. Havens has been instrumental in raising money to revive the Reeves House, a part of the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, by selling a series of art she created that was inspired by the people, places and objects in downtown Woodstock.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback. Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer. Ann Litrel 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 in Towne Lake with her husband and co-author Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com. Dee Locklin is a Georgia State University retiree who moved to Towne Lake in 1998. She and husband Lewis are the proud parents of KSU student Taylor. Dee joined the TowneLaker as a contributing writer in 2011 and now is focusing her energy on caring for her beloved husband as he battles late-stage cancer. Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County for the last 15 years. He performs improv comedy with the iThink Improv Troupe out of the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Theatre in downtown Woodstock. He lives in Woodstock with his wife Justine, and his cat, Wasabi. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Dr. Scott R. Harden is a family dentist at Fountain View Family & Cosmetic Dentistry serving Woodstock and Cherokee County for more than 25 years. During this time, he has lived in the Towne Lake area with his wife, Kathy, and two children. 6

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Townelaker Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Controller Denise Griffin Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3315 Market Manager Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3324 Executive Editor Candi Hannigan Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3309 Managing Editor Jackie Loudin Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3318 Art Director Michelle McCulloch Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3307 Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com 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 15,000 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,000 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 2016. TowneLaker PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Powered by:

Volume 21, Issue 9

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Bringing Awareness to a ‘Forgotten Plague’ Like most parents, Tom and Mary Prior of Woodstock are proud parental pride. This film is a little bit about how Ryan of their son. Ryan Prior, a 2012 graduate of University of Georgia, is making delicious lemonade from rotten lemons.” has worked as a reporter at The Daily Beast and USA Today. He According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, spent two years filming a documentary that “myalgic encephalomyelitis is a devastating and recently showed to a sold out theater at Atlanta complex disorder that produces overwhelming “Forgotten Plague: Station. fatigue, muscle pain, impaired memory or mental These accomplishments are enough to make concentration, insomnia and post-exertion M.E. and the Future of any young man (and his parents) proud. But malaise lasting more than 24 hours.” Medicine” Ryan also fights a daily battle with ME/CFS The disorder can be acquired at any point in Showing Jan. 8th (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue life when the individual’s immune system breaks at 7:30 p.m. syndrome) which makes his achievements all down. Ryan was diagnosed in October 2006 and Sixes United Methodist Church, the more remarkable. he feels he is in a unique position as a journalist 8385 Bells Ferry Road, The young journalist has taken his health continued on page 87 Canton 30115 challenges and created the 70-minute film “Forgotten Plague: M.E. and the Future of www.sixesumc.org Medicine” to educate medical professionals www.forgottenplague.com and the public about the illness and support fundraising efforts to find a cure. Tom and Mary attend Sixes United Methodist Church, which is hosting a showing of the film on Jan. 8. It hasn’t been an easy journey to get to this point. Here’s how Tom describes the experience of having a child with ME/CFS: Ryan Prior spent two years, 2013-15, working on the documentary. “Chronic fatigue joined our family in 2006 and propelled Ryan in never-imagined directions. Joining Ryan on this incredible nineyear journey led to knee-bending heartbreak and overwhelming

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

G O

T H E

D I S TA N C E

W I T H

BMW and MINI Specialists 204 Bell Place, Woodstock, GA 30188 770.310.2381 bavarianrepair.com service@bavarianrepair.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Tea Party Says Thank You Sheriff Roger Garrison of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department was presented with a thank-you card by Cherokee Tea Party representative Conrad Quagliaroli. The fivepage card thanks law enforcement officers for their 24-hour service to county residents. “We so appreciate that every day, they leave their families to protect ours.” The card also was signed by Congressman Barry Loudermilk and Cherokee County Commission Chairman Buzz Ahrens. Quagliaroli said the original Quagliaroli with Sheriff Garrison. card will stay in the sheriff’s office and copies will be sent to the chiefs of police departments in Woodstock, Holly Springs and Canton, “so that everyone in their departments will also have something to remind them of how much members of the Cherokee Tea Party and the community appreciate their efforts.”

Service League Hosts New Member Event The Junior Service League of Woodstock is holding a new member mixer at 7 p.m. Jan. 19 at Marlow’s Tavern, 881 Ridgewalk Parkway, Suite 108, Woodstock. The league, which welcomes women of all ages, is a diverse group with the common goal of improving the community through volunteerism and fundraising. Members of the board will be at the mixer to answer questions from those interested in more information. RSVP to jslofwoodstock@gmail.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ jslofwoodstock.

New CASA Volunteers Ready to Serve CASA for Children Inc. presented seven volunteers to presiding Juvenile Court Judge John B. Sumner to be sworn in as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for children placed in the state’s custody because of abuse or neglect. These volunteers participated in a pre-training interview, state and national criminal and child welfare background checks, 30 hours of pre-training workshops and 10 hours of courtroom observation. Judge Sumner accepted and welcomed the new CASA volunteers. He thanked them for their willingness to serve abused and neglected children in Cherokee’s foster system, helping them to find safe, permanent homes where they can thrive. CASA volunteers advocate for the best interests of children in Cherokee County who have been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. Advocates work with parents to access services they need to stabilize their lives and improve their parenting skills so that family can be reunited. When reunification is not appropriate, advocates help to quickly find relatives or adoptive parents who can provide a permanent and stable home. Bringing urgency to a child’s needs, both in and out of a courtroom, CASA volunteers promote safety, permanency and well-being through their independent assessment and recommendations. Last year, 95 CASA volunteer child advocates served 290 children placed in the foster care system in Cherokee County. For more information about the CASA program in Cherokee, visit www. casacherokee.org, call 770-345-3274 or email info@casacherokee. org. To learn more about the CASA organization in Georgia, visit www.gacasa. org or call 404-874-2888 New CASA Volunteer Child Advocates, from left, Patti Whiteside, Marge Koeser, Sirlene Felkins, Sharon Biondo, Pam DeVictor, Nadeen Archer and Savita Persad are sworn in by presiding Juvenile Court Judge John B. Sumner. or 800-251-4012. 10

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

WHERE CAN YOU FIND A NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL -CHEROKEE DOCTOR? AT A PTA MEETING. The physicians and staff of Northside Hospital-Cherokee are some of the most talented and professional individuals the world of medicine has to offer. They are also your neighbors. Most of our team lives right here in Cherokee County. Northside HospitalCherokee is devoted to supporting local community organizations, venues and schools. It’s because we live here, too.

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Another Busy Season for Santa Tim Tim Cavender, director of public affairs for the Cherokee County Fire Department, and wife Pam are always busy during the holiday season, portraying Santa and Mrs. Claus for children around the metro area. One of their favorite events is Christmas at the governor’s mansion, where for the first time this year the public was invited to view all the mansion’s Christmas trees. Tim and Pam pose with Cherokee County residents “Tim brings so much joy visiting the governor’s mansion. and delight to the thousands of children and their families. Tim looks just like the traditional Santa Claus and is so perfect to make photographs with the visitors to the governor’s mansion,” said Joy Forth, executive director of the mansion. The mansion was decorated with trees for each governor who has lived in the mansion since it was built in 1967. The trees featured ornaments from each term of office.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest Part of the fun during the December Friday Night Live Christmas in Downtown event was an ugly Christmas sweater contest. The winner was Hailey Heneghan for her cat sweater, with Rachel Miller coming in second place.

Holiday Cheer from Girl Scout Troop Girl Scout Troop 14655 of Bascomb Elementary worked with The Garden and 7 Bridges to Recovery to help provide clothes and toiletries to the homeless during the holiday season. The mission of Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence and character who will make the world a better place. If you would like to get your daughter connected with the Girl Scout community, contact Kirby Lewis-Hobba at khobba@gsgatl.org.

Kathryn Flannery loads donations in the car. 12

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Hailey Heneghan.

Rachel Miller.

Totes 2 Tots Honors Dr. King’s Legacy Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) and Northside Hospital are collecting backpacks and suitcases for foster children in Georgia as part of the 14th annual totes 2 tots suitcase drive. More than 11,600 children, from infants to teenagers, are currently in the foster care system in Georgia. Many of these children shuffle their belongings in garbage bags when they are removed from their homes. Since totes 2 tots was launched in 2003, the annual volunteer event has collected and distributed more than 41,000 bags.totes 2 tots was originally held on Martin Luther King Day as a way to honor Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision of philanthropy and give back to the community. The event is now held on the preceding Thursday, Friday and Saturday to kick-off a weekend of service in Dr. King’s honor. Donations of new or nearly new backpacks and suitcases will be accepted at the Georgia Cancer Specialists office at 228 Riverstone Drive in Canton. Call 877-716-2273 for drop-off times. Financial donations may be made securely online at give.northside.com/totes2tots. All donations are tax deductible.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Feature

TO YOUR HEALTH! In the spirit of cooperation and support of those of you who are trying to make a lifestyle change to better eating habits, here is a collection of healthy recipes from folks we know are diligent about eating well and staying healthy. Enjoy!

Oven Roasted Butternut Squash From Jeaneen Mitchim

Slow Cooker Aloo Gobi

(spiced cauliflower and potatoes) From Ann Litrel

Slightly adapted from “The Indian Slow Cooker,” this recipe serves eight.

• 1 large cauliflower, cut into 1-inch pieces • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced • 1 medium onion, peeled and diced • 1 medium tomato, diced

This dish is very high in vitamins A and C, potassium and fiber.

• One butternut squash • 3 Tablespoons olive oil • ¼ teaspoon pepper • ¼ teaspoon sea salt • 1 tablespoon cinnamon Cut the squash into cubes, toss with olive oil, pepper, salt and cinnamon. Shake it all in a gallon size zipper food storage bag. Spread onto a roasting pan and bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

• ½ can coconut milk • 1 2-inch piece of fresh ginger root, peeled and grated • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and grated • 1 ½ teaspoon Thai chili garlic paste • 1 Tablespoon cumin seeds • 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste • 1 Tablespoon garam masala • 1 Tablespoon kosher salt • 1 teaspoon turmeric • 3 Tablespoon canola or vegetable oil • 1 cup frozen peas • 1 heaping Tablespoon fresh cilantro, roughly chopped In a 4- or 5-quart slow cooker, combine all ingredients except the cilantro. Stir well to distribute the spices. Cook on low for four hours, stirring once or twice if you’re around. Thirty minutes before serving, add 1 cup of frozen peas and stir in to cook. Add the cilantro just before you’re ready to serve the aloo gobi with jasmine rice or naan.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

The Best Paleo Brownies From Joni Gommo • 1 cup almond butter • 1/3 cup maple syrup • 1 egg • 2 Tablespoons ghee • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 1/3 cup cocoa powder • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Heat the oven to 325 degrees. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond butter, syrup, egg, ghee and vanilla. Stir in the cocoa powder and baking soda. Pour the batter into a 9-inch baking pan. Bake for 20-23 minutes, until the brownie is done, but still soft in the middle. I substitute maple syrup with Cary’s sugar free syrup, and I substitute the ghee with the same amount of Kerrygold butter.

Asparagus, Egg and Bacon Salad From Laura Mikszan • 2 grilled chicken breasts • 1 large hard boiled egg, peeled and sliced • 1 ⅔ cups chopped asparagus • 2 slices cooked and crumbled center cut bacon

Shredded Kale Salad

with Pecan Parmesan and Cranberries From Ann Litrel

Recipe by Angela Liddon http://ohsheglows.com. Vegan, gluten-free, grain-free, soy-free

If you are making this salad for more than four people, I suggest doubling it. I felt like I could’ve had half of the lot just on my own.

Salad Dressing: • 2 medium bunches destemmed Lacinato/dinosaur kale, finely chopped (8 cups chopped) • 2 large garlic cloves • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)

• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 3-4 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, to taste

• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (just eyeball it)

• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

• 1-2 handfuls dried sweetened cranberries, for garnish

• Pinch salt and pepper to taste Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the asparagus and cook 2-3 minutes, until tender yet firm. Drain and run asparagus under cold water to stop it from cooking further. Set aside. In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, oil, vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange the asparagus on a plate, top with egg, bacon and chicken, and drizzle with the vinaigrette.

Cauliflower Pancakes From Joni Gommo • 1 small head cauliflower, steamed (8-10 minutes) and riced • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten • 3/4 cup grated cheddar or Monterey jack • ½ teaspoon garlic powder • ½ teaspoon sea salt • ¼ teaspoon black pepper • 3 Tablespoons grass fed butter (I use Kerrygold) • 2 Tablespoons almond flour • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

• 1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt

Pecan Parmesan: • 1 cup pecan halves, toasted • 1 1/2 Tablespoons nutritional yeast • 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil • 2 pinches fine grain sea salt Heat the oven to 300 degrees. Spread the pecans onto a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove the stems from the kale and discard. Finely chop the kale leaves. Wash the kale and spin dry. Place dried kale into a large bowl. For the dressing: In a mini food processor, process the garlic until minced. Add the lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper and process until combined. Adjust to taste. Pour the dressing onto the kale and mix it for about one minute with your hands or toss with spoons. For the pecan parmesan: Rinse the mini processor and pat dry. Add the pecans into the processor and process until the pecans are the size of peas or a bit larger. Add in the nutritional yeast, oil and salt and process again until it’s a coarse crumb. Be sure not to over-process; you want a nice crunchy texture. Sprinkle the pecan parmesan all over the salad. Toss on a handful or two of dried cranberries. Wrap and place in the fridge for 30-60 minutes to soften. Note: 1) Instead of a mini processor, you can chop/whisk the dressing and pecan parmesan by hand. 2) For a nut-free version, try using breadcrumbs instead of pecans.

Mix all ingredients except butter until well blended. Melt butter in pan and drop batter by spoonfuls into buttered skillet. Fry until edges are golden, then flip. Serve with sour cream. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

Healthy, Quick Meals for the New Year

One-Pot Mexican Quinoa

BY CLAIRE FROST

New year, new you—again. This will be the year we stick to all those resolutions from last year, right? I have quite a few goals for 2016: Stop chasing perfection, spend more time outdoors, try spin class again (get ready for a comedic review of that!) and at the top of that list is sitting down as a family and having a healthy dinner more often. What does that mean? For me, it means I need to build an arsenal of kid- and husband-friendly dinners that can be ready in a flash, or that cook themselves in a slow-cooker with no supervision. I’m a big fan of slow-cooker recipes and anything that can be cooked in one pot. (In the case of dishes, less is always more.) With just a little Googling you can collect quick, easy and healthy recipes that will get your family off to great start in 2016. Here is a recipe for Mexican quinoa that we all love in our house. Yup, all three of us. (Five if you count the dogs, since there are always a few pieces that are “set free” by our daughter.) If you’re in the market for a healthy meal in a pinch and you’re tired of salads, try this one-pot Mexican quinoa. It’s filling, delicious, healthy, and it’s ready in 30 minutes.

Claire is the editor of House of Frost, a blog juggling family, fashion, food and furnishing with a little sparkle. HouseFrost.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

• • • • •

2 Tablespoons olive oil 3 Tablespoons minced garlic 3 Tablespoons minced jalapeño 1 cup quinoa 1 1/2 cup vegetable broth (keep handy, you may need more) • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained • 1 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes with peppers) • 1 cup corn, drained

• • • • •

2 teaspoons chili powder 1 Tablespoon cumin salt and pepper, to taste lime juice, to taste fresh cilantro, chopped (or cilantro paste)

Optional toppers: • • • •

avocado sour cream cheese salsa

• Heat olive oil on medium high in a skillet, add garlic and jalapeños. Stir frequently to keep garlic from burning. • After one minute, throw in everything else. (Except optional toppers.) • Bring to a boil and reduce the heat to medium low, cover pan, and pour yourself a glass of wine. Sit back and relax for 20 minutes. • Come back and take a look. If it’s starting to dry, add more broth. (You can use water if you’re running low on broth.) • Serve over avocado slices and add sour cream, cheese or salsa as desired.

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Community

Celebrations!

Ava Myers

Leon Brinson Jr.

Age 50 on Jan. 11 Best husband, father and Grandpa ever We love you!

Maria Nicole Meyer

Jacob Kish

Age 1 on Dec. 30 Happy first birthday! Mommy and Daddy love you.

Age 16 on Jan. 19 Happy sweet 16 baby girl! Love, Mom, Dad and Tucker

Happy 15th! Let’s celebrate with fish fingers and custard. Mom, Dad and Little j.

Rylee Hall

Lydia VanDemark

Skylar Wallace

Age 7 on Jan. 7 Happy birthday, Rylee! We love you very much! Love, Daddy, Mommy and Hadley

Age 2 on Jan. 11 Happy second birthday to our spunky little girl! We love you so much! Dada and Mama

Age 16 on Jan. 4 Happy sweet sixteen! We love you to the moon and back! Love, Mom, Dad and Cullen

Madison Dunlavey

Age 5 on Jan. 20 Happy birthday sweetheart! With all our love, Mommy, Daddy, Cooper and Clyde

Mandy Whitesides, her sons Taylor and Triston, and Vance Courson became one family as they exchanged vows on Nov. 29. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Vance Courson from the Gibsons.

Audrey Myrick

Age 7 on Jan. 27 Happy birthday, Audrey! With love from Mom, Mimi, Papa and Auntie

Ethan David Esmat

Born October 21, 2015 7 pounds, 6 ounces 21.5 inches Proud Parents Adam and Tiffany Esmat

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Happy 5th birthday Carley! Many more… much love Gramma and Papa

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

James Alexander Moody

Age 1 on Dec. 26 Happy First Birthday! We love you so much! Mommy and Daddy

E-mail to: Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com February deadline is Jan. 10. Please specify Around Woodstock, TowneLaker or Sixes Living.

Who Wants the Home in the Divorce? BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

We routinely hear from single parents who got their home through a divorce. Lately these calls have been more about solving the problem of their home ownership than the excitement of selling their home so they can upgrade in this great buyer’s market. It may not be the best decision for either spouse to keep the home after a divorce. When considering these options, it’s important that a thorough analysis is done that considers what a single parent’s income (or spousal support) can afford and whether the home has sufficient equity. This new household income may not be enough to cover the property’s utilities and ongoing repairs. Below are some possible arrangements to consider when making these decisions. • Sell the home (normal or short sale): Pro: Both spouses can move on with their lives and have a fresh start with no lingering financial ties to their ex. Con: The children may have benefited 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 have him or her refinance the home. Even without equity, there are some lenders willing to accommodate qualifying borrowers. Pro: Both spouses can make a clean break with no lingering financial ties to their ex. Pro: The family can remain in the property and possibly at a lower house payment. Con: This can be a lengthy process if the property doesn’t have equity and 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. Pro: This allows the children to remain in the home without much disruption. Pro: Provides more time for the home’s value to improve so that both spouses may share in the net proceeds of the sale. Con: This can keep the “non-use” spouse from qualifying for a mortgage on his or her own home and keep the spouse financially tied to the ex. Con: Either spouse could refuse to contribute to repairs and improvements, making the home nearly impossible to sell and unpleasant to live in.

continued on page 86

Kurt and Sheila Johnson are Keller Williams Top Producing Agents and have served Cherokee County for more than 10 years. www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

Ribbon Cuttings • Planet Fitness

299 Molly Lane Woodstock, GA 30189-3713 www.planetfitness.com/gyms/woodstock-ga-1233

• MaThCliX MaTh Learning CenTer 1105 Parkside Lane, Suite 1322 Woodstock, GA 30189-5380 www.mathclix.com

• Adult Night Care of Woodstock 604 Industrial Court, Suite A Woodstock, GA 30189-3530 www.adultnightcareofwoodstock.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

A New Year, A New Plan — Let’s Build BY KATIE BISHOP

After nearly a year of research, surveys, stakeholder groups and hard work, the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) unveiled the Opportunity Cherokee Plan. This five-year strategic blueprint will guide COED’s economic development efforts moving forward. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to jump start a new plan! The plan, developed by Boyette Strategic Advisors (BSA), details Cherokee’s opportunities and where the potential for the county lies. Some key items identified were new target sectors where business markets are projected to see the most growth. These include:

Health care and entrepreneurship were also identified as areas of focus. BSA considered concentrations that would help attract these target markets, and in turn, would aid in reducing Cherokee’s staggering out-commuting workforce. How do we put this plan into action? COED has an implementation strategy detailing more than 80 action items that will set Cherokee’s path of growth, innovation and sustainability. Some items will take the collaboration of local partners, such as the industries, schools, colleges/ universities and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. Other action items are internal, for example increasing the awareness of the importance of economic development and the positive change it can make. Matching this economic development strategy to county and city land planning and business site identification will be critical in attracting these targets. The thing to remember is this is a five-year plan. We would like to snap our fingers and make everything happen all at once, continued on page 86

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is Cherokee’s leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention and expansion.

Expert Surgical Care for the Cherokee Community

Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates is a full-service practice specializing in general surgery. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Grant Wolfe, uses the latest minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic techniques to treat the full spectrum of abdominal, thyroid, and soft tissue disorders. Grant Wolfe, M.D.

Treatments offered for: • Hernias

• Skin and soft tissue lesions

• Gallstones and gallbladder problems

• Thyroid and parathyroid disease

• Breast masses and cancer

• Diverticulitis and colon cancer

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernias

• Stomach, adrenal gland, pancreas and spleen disorders

(770) 924-9656 • ncsurgicalassociates.com 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 412, Woodstock, GA 30189 TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

Out & About Through Jan. 11

Through Feb. 26

Registration is open for adult spring softball, flag football and basketball leagues at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.

Jan. 3, Feb. 7

Sunday Wibit Days at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1-5 p.m. Price of daily admissions. Open Wibit days are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Feb. 15 and 17. Children must be able to pass a 25-yard swim test to use the Wibit. The center is at 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Holly Springs. 770-924‐7768. www.crpa.net.

Jan. 8

“Forgotten Plague, M.E. and the Future of Medicine” is a documentary made by Ryan Prior son of Woodstock residents Tom and Mary Prior that will be shown at 7 p.m. at Sixes United Methodist Church, 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. Free admission. To watch the movie trailer: www.forgottenplague.com.

Jan. 10

First Aid, CPR and AED class is offered noon-6 p.m. for ages 15 and older. Cost is $80 per person. Class is held at the Cherokee County Recreation and Parks Annex, 7545 Main St., Woodstock. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Christmas Tree Chip & Dip gives area residents a chance to dispose of Christmas trees in an environmentally friendly way. Bring Christmas trees to Olde Rope Mill Park, where they will be fed into a chipper. No flocked or decorated trees will be accepted. The following week, bring a shovel during park hours (8 a.m.-dusk) to get free mulch. Sponsored by the Keep Georgia Beautiful campaign and the City of Woodstock Stormwater Department, which also offers free tree seedlings at the park from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2016.

Jan. 14

Joe Gransden and his Big Band will perform beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University. Gransden, a New York native who lives in Atlanta, has been compared to Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra. 770-720-9167. www.reinhardt.edu/fpac.

Jan. 15

Christy Nockels will host a Night of Worship beginning at 6:30 p.m. at First Baptist Woodstock, 11905 Hwy. 92. Tickets are $20, children free when accompanied by a parent or grandparent. Free childcare for infants through age 5. www.fbcw.org/upcomingevents.

Jan. 16

The 18th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Breakfast will be held 9-11 a.m. at the Northside-Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton. The keynote speaker will be Douglas R. Hooker, the first African-American executive director of the Atlanta Regional Commission. Ebony Steele, a national television and radio host, is mistress of ceremonies. Free admission; arrive early to get a seat.

Jan. 21

The Glenn Miller Orchestra concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University. The 18-member ensemble, led by Nick Hilscher, continues to perform many of the original Miller arrangements from the civilian band and the American Air Force Band libraries, as well as modern selections arranged in the Miller style and sound. 770-720-9167. www.reinhardt.edu/fpac.

Jan. 22-23

Skillet Lickers Country Music Down Yonder Theatre Show at the Canton Historic Theatre, telling the true story of the band. After a sellout show in August the band is back by popular request. $15; seating is limited. The theater is at 171 E. Main St. 770-704-0755. www.cantontheatre.com. Book sale by the Friends of Cherokee County Public Libraries will be held 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at Canton’s R. T. Jones Library at 116 Brown Industrial Parkway. A preview day for Friends members will be 3-5:30 p.m. Jan. 21. Non-members can join at the door for an individual fee of $15 and a couple for $25. This will be a large sale of donated materials. Proceeds will be used for youth materials and audio materials.

Jan. 29

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, celebrating its 70th season, will perform at 8 p.m. at the Falany Performing Arts Center at Reinhardt University. The orchestra performs more than 200 concerts each year for a combined audience of more than 500,000 in a full schedule of performances that also features educational and community concerts. 770-720-9167. www.reinhardt.edu/fpac.

Jan. 30, Feb. 27

Once Upon a Dive In Movie begins at 6 p.m. at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center. The center will provide floats or you can bring your own noodle or clear inner tube. The center is at 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Holly Springs. 770-924‐7768. www.crpa.net.

Feb. 5-7, 12-14

[Title of Show] - The Musical, a play by the Atlanta Theatre Collective, will be presented at the Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St. The musical received a Tony Award nomination for Best Book of a Musical in 2009. Begins at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 3 p.m. Sundays. Adults $15, seniors and children ages 10 and younger $12. info@ atcwoodstock.com. www.atlantatheatrecollective.com/tos.

Feb. 15-19

February Break Camp for ages 5-12 will be held at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. Daily field trips are planned. Children will need two snacks and a drink daily. Hours will be 7-9 a.m. drop off, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. camp activities, 4-6 p.m. pickup. Cost is $130. To register, call 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.

Feb. 15-18

American Red Cross Lifeguard Class for ages 15 and older will give the participant an American Red Cross Lifeguard/First Aid/CPR for Professional Rescuer, nationally recognized certification. Must be able to swim 300 yards continuously, tread water for two minutes legs only and retrieve a 10-pound brick from seven feet of water to take the class. Cost is $200. www.crpa.net.

Feb. 27

Guns and Hoses 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Fun Run will be hosted by the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency, and participants can choose the team they wish to support: the Cherokee County Fire Department (Hoses), which will give proceeds to the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch; or the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department (Guns), which will donate to the Cherokee Sheriff’s Foundation. Cost: Fun Run is $10 before Feb. 12, and $15 after. 5K is $25 before Feb. 12, and $30 after. For more details, call Kate Borden at 770-924‐7768 or email kborden@ cherokeega.com. http://gunshoses5kandfunrun.blogspot.com/ TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

At the Library www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org Sit & Stitch Social: Thursdays, 10 a.m.-noon, Woodstock

Enjoy the company of other creative people while you stitch your current project. Take time to finish a work in progress. Get inspired to try something new.

Rose Creek Crafters: Tuesdays, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Rose Creek

Come and bring your jewelry or other crafting supplies to the library. Meet other crafters and share your love for everything crafty. Create something of your own or just watch other creative geniuses at work.

Knitting/Crocheting Group: Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m., Rose Creek

Let Mrs. Darlene help you get started on a knitting or crocheting project. Bring your needles and yarn and be prepared to have fun. No registration or prior knowledge required.

Drop-In Crafter-Noon:

Jan. 2 and 16, 2-4 p.m., R.T. Jones For all ages who enjoy crafting with paper, glue and crayons. All materials will be provided. This drop-in program requires a participating adult.

LEGO Club:

Jan. 2, 2 p.m., Hickory Flat Children can work alone or in teams to make a special creation that will be displayed at the library until next month’s meeting. Each month Lego Club will feature a new theme. All ages are invited; 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

LEGO Robotics STEAM Team:

Jan. 4, 2-3 p.m., R.T. Jones Create, build, control and play with LEGO Robotics. This program is for ages 9-14. Registration is required by calling 770-479-3090, ext. 233.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Mobile Career Lab:

Jan. 6 and 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., R.T. Jones The Atlanta Regional Workforce Board’s Mobile Career Lab offers free assistance with job searches, information about training opportunities and access to computer workstations. Services are available for age 16 years and older.

Author Event, Amanda Kyle Williams:

Jan. 9, 1 p.m., R.T. Jones Friends of Cherokee County Public Libraries, Inc. is hosting author Amanda Kyle Williams, a mystery/thriller writer from Decatur. She is the author of “The Stranger You Seek,” “The Stranger In the Room” and “Don’t Talk To Strangers.” She is currently working on her fourth book. Her books have been on the short list of the Shamus Award and praised by Publishers Weekly. She has an inspiring story about her life with dyslexia and her recent battle with cancer. Friends of Cherokee County Public Libraries will be presenting the Susan White Award at the beginning of this event. Immediately following the event will be the annual Friends of Cherokee County Public Libraries meeting.

The Civil War in Cherokee & North Cobb counties:

Jan. 9, 3 p.m., Hickory Flat Local author Gerald Flinchum of Woodstock will discuss Civil War skirmishes in Cherokee and North Cobb counties in 1864.

Bookmark Book Club:

Jan. 12, 4 p.m., Woodstock Rack up eight Advanced Reading points and join a fun discussion about current Georgia Book Award nominee “Nickel Bay Nick” by Dean Pitchford. Registration is required. Call 770-479-3090, ext. 233, to sign up or gain more information. For ages 9-12.

Crayon & Watercolor Design:

Jan. 12, 6 p.m., Woodstock Teens/Tweens in sixth grade will get to tap into their creativity as they learn how to use resist techniques with crayons and watercolors as they create awesome artwork. For more details, call Ms. Lindsay at 770-479-3090, ext. 233.

Woodstock Book Club:

Jan. 19, noon, Woodstock New members are welcome for discussion of “The Walk.” For more details, call 770-926-5859.

Chess & Chat:

Jan. 23, 1 p.m.-2 p.m., R.T. Jones Chess & Chat is an informal chess group that meets once a month. No need to register, just drop by and see who is interested in playing a game.

Potato Chip Taste Off:

Jan. 25, 6 p.m., R.T. Jones Calling all potato chip connoisseurs! Teens and tweens in sixth grade and up will taste and decide on the best potato chip and will also have a chance to create their own potato chip flavor. For more details, call Ms. Lindsay at 770-479-3090, ext. 233.

Kids’ Magic and Illusions:

Jan. 26, 4 p.m., Woodstock Kids ages 9-12 will learn fun and easy magic tricks and create their own optical illusion artwork at this fun program. Space is limited. Registration begins Jan. 12; call 770-926-5859 to sign up.

DIY Friday:

Jan. 29, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., R.T. Jones Do you knit? Bring your yarn and needles. Do you create jewelry? Bring your tools. This program is a great chance to work on your craft of choice, meet other crafters, share your DIY skills and maybe learn some new ones. Brown-bag lunches welcome.

Interaction Sundays:

Jan. 31, 2-5:30 p.m., R.T. Jones Sunday is a great time to escape to the library for an afternoon of board games with new and old friends. If games aren’t your style, pick an adult coloring page. A selection of games is available to use as well as pencils, crayons and coloring pages. Most games are appropriate for ages 10 and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Light refreshments provided. For more details, call 770.479.3090 ext. 228.

Family Storytime:

Tuesdays: 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., R.T. Jones Public Library 10:30 a.m., Rose Creek Public Library Wednesdays: 10:30 a.m., Woodstock Public Library Thursdays: 10:30 a.m., Ball Ground Public Library 10:30 a.m., Hickory Flat Public Library 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Woodstock Public Library Saturdays: 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones Public Library

Lap Sit Storytime,

designed for ages 1-3: Wednesdays: 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., R.T. Jones 10:30 a.m., Rose Creek

Library Locations: R.T. Jones, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770-479-3090 Hickory Flat, 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-7565 Rose Creek, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-591-1491 Woodstock, 7735 Main St., Woodstock. 770-926-5859 Ball Ground, 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2025 TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Practicing What She Teaches Melanie puts fear aside and goes for a new look. BY VENÉSSA LANIER

The Makeup Palette

To create a simple fall inspired look, Amy used a deep green eyeliner, Night Ivy. The eye shadow is a neutral soft shimmer of Sandalwood. The look was completed with soft pink cheeks and Pink Clover lip gloss.

As a teacher who is passionate about mentoring and motivating her students, Melanie encourages them to step outside of the box and try new things. She recently realized that she is not practicing what she tells her students. Melanie admitted that she has not gotten a haircut for four years and needs a change. She said her excuse is that her hair is thinning and she does not want to lose it or ruin what she has. Because of fear, Melanie did not have the courage to visit a salon. She admits to cutting her own hair and that her hair ended up “in a ponytail thingie” every day anyway. Senior stylist Dawn Futch listened to Melanie’s concerns about her thinning hair and eased her fear of her hair looking thinner after being cut. Dawn explained that by bringing the length up to above the shoulders, Melanie will feel more fullness in her hair. After six inches of length was cut, Dawn cut long soft layers by freehand slicing Melanie’s hair, which allows for movement. Stylist Bethany Renner brightened Melanie’s natural brown hair with light golden highlights and warm chocolate lowlights. Adding depth and brightness brought out the color of her beautiful eyes. Bethany explained to Melanie that adding hair color adds texture as well as volume to fine hair. Amy Chandler, our lead esthetician, showed Melanie some fast ways to enhance her eyes and still get out the door quickly every morning. Amy started with softly lining Melanie’s eyes at the lash line with Night Ivy eyeliner. She brushed a neutral shimmer of Sandlewood shadow on her eyelids from lashline to brow. Amy explained a touch of Pink Clover lip gloss is a must for looking fresh and ready for the day. Melanie is overjoyed with her new look, and told us she wishes she had done it sooner. The team at Salon and Spa Venéssa is happy she found the courage to change and allowed us to make the transformation. Melanie has newfound confidence to inspire young people to grow, change and be fearless!

Venéssa Lanier is the 24-year owner of Salon and Spa Venéssa, which is committed to providing personalized services to guests in a luxurious setting located in downtown Woodstock. www.salonvenessa.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

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N�� Loca�i��!

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics is proud to announce the addition of a new office in the Northside Towne Lake Medical Building to better serve the Woodstock community. Currently offering back to school check-ups and physicals, our board-certified physicians 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.

Dr. Shalini Shah Welcoming new patients!

Norths I

Northside Pediatrics offers:

• Continuous Care. Patients are able to see the same provider at each visit to ensure continuous and seamless care for your child.

new office

HOLLY SPRINGS WOODSTOCK

l Rd .

• Timely Access. We offer same-day appointments whenever possible for sick patients.

Exit 11 (Sixes Road)

oh ns Second Location: on

Ros wel

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

900 Towne Lake Parkway, erry R d. Suite 306 Woodstock, GA 30189 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

A New Year, a New Miracle BY MICHAEL LITREL, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

He gurgled, struggling to take a breath. The newborn scrunched his eyelids in protest as I suctioned the amniotic fluid from his mouth. His cries, now gurglefree, reverberated through the operating room. The neonatal nurse lifted his small body from the bloodstained sterile drapes to the Ohio Bed Infant Warmer. This 30-second adventure through the cold operating room was enough insult to propel him into some much needed exercise of his lungs. Finally able to inhale, he found his voice within a few seconds, gathering his energy for a long loud wail. The volume of his complaints after his forced eviction from the warm cocoon of his mother’s body left no room for debate: This patient of Northside Hospital–Cherokee was one very unsatisfied customer. Twenty years later, my memory of that delivery is still clear. I was called in late New Year’s Eve. Darkness and cold pushed against the hospital windows. Even the operating room seemed colder than usual. I pictured my young wife, warm at home, with our infant son and 3-year-old Tyler sleeping in the next room. I had first arrived to this hospital six months earlier, on July 1, the very day after completing my eight years of medical training at Emory. I was coming to work for Dr. James Cross. Within five minutes of meeting Dr. Cross, I knew I wanted to work for him. He told me, “If you come here, Dr. Mike, you’ll

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

make a big difference.” Hearing those words, I knew that Cherokee County was where God wanted me to serve and grow as a doctor. Performing my first C-section at my new hospital, I immediately fell in love with the operating room. It was the only OR I’d ever seen with windows: the glass revealed a carpet of lush green trees, unfurling into the distance to wrap the distant mountains. The mountaintops kissed a clear blue sky. Throughout that long January night, I looked out those windows into the dark and wondered if I’d made the right choice, coming to this rural hospital. As morning drew near, a light gathered on the horizon. And at the very moment I pulled the baby’s head from his mother’s body, the sun, like a glorious proclamation, burst over the horizon, gilding the mountains with sparkling ribbons of orange and gold. And the unsatisfied customer began to cry. The operating room was no longer so cold, courtesy of a perfect sunrise. A new life. A new miracle. A Happy New Year. Michael Litrel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS is board certified in the subspecialty female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. He is a board certified urogynecologist and obstetrician/ gynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Community

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Amber. She is a girl and 2 years old. She was brought in as a stray. She is really big and strong and looks like a tiger. She is a boxer mix. Amber is friendly and nice and she is thin. She sometimes listens to you and she is always listening to what is outside the door. She really wanted to sit on my mom’s lap. I collected so much food that it filled up the car. I hope that you could do the same. Ms. Debi Fife had a big party called “Chicksgiving.” The giving part was food for Rob’s Rescues and they also gave pet toys and money, and I think the chicks part was about eating chicken for dinner. In the picture - celebrating “Chicksgiving: (from left) Irene Macmillan (kneeling), Sarah Carney, Kelly Ingram, Alison Cox, Cadie Eure, Terri Zahorodny, Kristin Brown, Jean Landmesser, Lisa Stock, Kathleen Atkins and Debi Fife (with Kahlua). There are eight kittens in the shelter right now. Three of them are free and all of them are good. All of them are cute, too. The one in the picture is Xander.

Rob’s Rescues

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

now has a Facebook page!

I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com

10 Keys to Achieving Your Goals BY JOSH KEENUM AND MATT HICKMANN

As coaches, helping people understand their fitness goals and how to achieve them is an integral part of our jobs. Implement these 10 keys to achieving your goals and know what your focus is in order to maintain your resolutions throughout 2016. Choose a few, important goals to focus on this year. Setting goals can be overwhelming. Too many and you’ll burn out. Evaluate how much time and resources you have to devote to your goals and choose accordingly. Make sure these are your goals, not someone else’s. Goals lose their meaning when set with other people in mind. Pick goals you can be passionate about. You are in control of your future, so enjoy the process and journey. Write them down. Next to each goal, write something you can do NOW that will help you achieve that goal. Keep it simple. Give your goals a realistic timeframe. Deadlines are powerful. Setting a date always raises the stakes. “I’m going to lose 20 pounds by April 1, 2016.” Make a plan of action. Plot a roadmap to success. Be as specific as possible with each step. Being vague leaves room for negotiation. Don’t give yourself an out. Be realistic. We talked about this, but it’s worth repeating. Stretch yourself, but not too far. Step out of your comfort

zone and learn to get comfortable being uncomfortable, but know your limits. Never be afraid to fail. There is always honor in trying. Working toward something and not quite making it just means you’re closer to success than when you started. Get back up. Dust yourself off. Try again. Review your goals – often. This is key. Wherever you’ve written them down, make sure you see them on a daily basis. Keep them at the forefront of your mind. Check your progress, reevaluate and make changes to your plan along the way. Share your goals. But be selective. Only share with people who will help you achieve those goals and push you toward success. Seek out people with similar aspirations and dreams. You can keep one another accountable. Our recommended goal: be the healthiest you’ve ever been. If fitness isn’t a part of your life, you need to check yourself. Your health should be top priority. It’s not a maybe. It’s a must. Use our tips to create a plan for your year and be sure to factor in a goal for your health and wellness.

7. 8. 9.

10.

PLAE HARD directors Matt Hickmann, SCCC, CSCS, and Josh Keenum, Reebok Athlete, CPT. info@plaehard.com. 678-408-2241.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Changes and Opportunities Ahead on the Lake BY CHRIS PURVIS

Allatoona Lake is one of the busiest U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes in the nation with an estimated 6.5 million visitors every year. The Corps manages numerous boat ramps and day use areas situated around the lake, and our eight convenient campgrounds offer great opportunities for a full outdoor experience close to your own backyard. With springtime quickly approaching, it’s a perfect time to start familiarizing yourself with new programs on the lake and changes with the Corps recreation program. Every Kid in a Park Federal Pass Program Calling all fourth graders! The Every Kid in a Park program is a federal initiative to get kids out to our national parks. All fourth graders or children age 10 and younger can receive a free annual pass that covers entrance fees at all federal lands and waters for a full year. Kids can obtain a pass by visiting www.everykidinapark. gov, playing the online game, and downloading and printing a personalized voucher. Vouchers can be exchanged for the annual passes at the Allatoona Lake Project Management Office. Federal Pass Program Changes Starting Jan. 4, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will begin selling and issuing the following federal America the Beautiful Passes from the Allatoona Lake Operations Project Management Office: • Interagency Annual Pass • Senior Pass

• Access Pass • Military Annual Pass • Every Kid in a Park Pass Visitors who hold one of these passes will now receive free admittance in our Corps-managed day use areas and ramps. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders will also receive 50 percent off on camping. All other passes will continue to be charged full price for camping. There will be a price increase to $40 for the Corps of Engineers Annual Pass. The Corps Annual Pass is accepted only at Corps of Engineers-managed day use and ramp areas. We look forward to seeing you out on the lake this summer! As always, when you are participating in any activities in or near the water, please remember to be safe and wear a life jacket. If you have questions about Allatoona Lake or the Federal Pass Program, please contact the Allatoona Lake Operations Project Management Office at 678-721-6700 or visit www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/ CivilWorks/Recreation/AllatoonaLake.aspx.

Chris Purvis is the lead ranger at Allatoona Lake over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.

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Make Applying to College Easier – Part 1 BY JIM RAY

Now that you’ve decided to pursue a college education, the unending list of things to do may seem daunting, especially when normal life itself is already hectic. We have a few tips that we think will make the college application process easier. Please check back for the conclusion of this article in the March 2016 issue. • Get career counseling to help you choose a major field of study. This will be valuable at the beginning of your decision-making process and make it easier to narrow down school choices. Get real answers about what occupation fits your personality and interests by using career planning software. This should list every career imaginable and describe what you’ll be doing along with the training required in each career to get hired. It should also give you an idea of the salary in each field, and how many new jobs are created each year. • Narrow your choices to a list of schools you could see yourself happily attending. Simply put, your resources are valuable. By making an organized list of schools that fit your personality/style, you’re ensuring that time and money are spent wisely. Read school mission statements, visit the college and envision what it would feel like to attend. If everything looks and feels good, then add the school to the list of where you’ll apply. • Find ways to improve student positioning. Starting early and building what we call a “brag sheet,” will save you time in the long run. Throughout high school, seek ways to make your coursework more challenging. Volunteer, participate in extra-curricular activities and keep track of significant awards and achievements. Keep a written record of these things so when the time comes, you have something to show. Maintain detailed accounts of who you participated with, dates you were there, and what you accomplished. Keep in contact with people that can verify your hard work and give you a good reference. The ultimate goal is to move you into a position where you’ll stand out from competition during the college admissions process. We want schools to potentially pursue you, instead of you pursuing them. • Prepare for the SAT and ACT. Study and practice, practice, practice. SAT/ACT scores truly matter to colleges! This too is an integral part of student positioning; sadly, all the volunteering in the world won’t mean much if a student has low SAT scores. Put in the effort, find study groups and take the SAT a few times if needed. Find practice tests and seek out resources, like the SAT website.

Jim Ray, president of J Ray CPA, PC, a full-service CPA firm, has an office in Woodstock as well as virtual offices. 404994-5102. www.jraycpa.com. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Forty Days in the Life of a Legislator BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

This month, 236 citizen legislators will congregate in Atlanta for the 2016 legislative session. This session is the second half of a two-part biennium, the two-year legislative term of the 153rd General Assembly of Georgia, which is made up of our House and Senate. In addition to some cliché warnings to “hide your wallet” and “keep an eye on us,” I’d like to use this article to teach you some of the insider terms, processes and institutional knowledge surrounding the ongoings of our legislative session. Per our state constitution, the General Assembly must convene for its annual legislative session on the second Monday in January. For 2016 that means we will be convening in both the House of Representatives and the Senate on Jan.14. Our constitution permits us a legislative session that may last no more than 40 days. The session typically spans from January until early April (as these days are not consecutive and are often purposefully staggered to accommodate committee hearings, issue studies, etc.). As a citizen legislator (someone who has to work a real job to feed my family in addition to the time I spend representing our community in the Georgia House), one facet of the session can be particularly frustrating. The session schedules never match year to year, and we don’t receive that schedule prior to the start of the session. For instance, we’ll typically know the first five or 10 legislative days at the start of session, then we’ll

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

be notified of days 11-18, 19-25, etc. every few weeks. It can be very challenging to sort and schedule your day job and your family life around a constantly shifting, unpredictable legislative schedule. House and Senate leadership have fortunately been sensitive to this, and have been giving us large portions of the schedule at a time to facilitate working members like me. Typically the first week of session is a five-day week. The second week (starting with a state holiday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day) historically has been devoted solely to budget debate without burning actual legislative days. In recent years, we have been burning the candle at both ends and utilizing the latter half of the week for session days too. It appears that will be the pattern this year as well. It is after this point in the session that most of the standing House committees start to meet and consider general legislation. That means keeping schedules sorted while running between committees that a member sits on and committees before which that member will be proposing legislation. Some continued on page 86 Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. Caldwell@house.ga.gov

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Woodstock Location: 960 Woodstock Pkwy | Suite 100-101 Woodstock, GA 30188 TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Becoming an Actor:

What Happens in an Audition BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

“Did you have to audition for that?” I get that question often. Yes, of course I had to audition. That is almost always a requirement for any role. To help out beginning actors, I would like to share what happens at the audition. Typically, you receive an email from your agent one to two days before the audition with the time, location, role, lines (we call them “sides”) and any other information the casting director thinks you need to know. Make sure to read the email thoroughly and follow all directions. Prepare for the audition by learning the role and deciding on your outfit. The rule is to dress to suggest the character, not be the character. If the role is a nurse, do not wear scrubs and a stethoscope. Simply wear slacks and a blue T-shirt. If the role is of a police officer, do not wear a uniform; wear slacks, a blue button up and a tie. Show up to the audition five to 15 minutes early. Never arrive more than 15 minutes before the audition and never right on time. As they say, “on time is late.” If you are en route and running late, call your agent and let him or her call the casting director. Traffic is not a valid reason for being late; you know Atlanta traffic is bad, so plan for it. Have the mindset that you will accept whatever appointment time you are offered. It should be a rare occasion that you ask your agent to have your audition time rescheduled. The time may not be convenient, but it is the nature of the business that you do not get to choose. Once you arrive, you will sign in by computer or paper. Take some time to freshen up in the restroom and do some last minute prep work. Use this time to stretch your muscles, loosen up, work on some vocal exercises, mentally prepare your

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

character, go over lines with your scene partner, if you have one, and do do some relaxation and breathing exercises. When your name is called, walk in with confidence. Stand up straight, smile and be pleasant, but don’t be overly conversational. Do not shake hands unless a hand is offered to you; casting directors meet hundreds of actors every day and they don’t want to get sick. Listen to directions and follow them. Speak with a strong voice and exhibit confidence. You may be asked if you have any questions. Almost always your answer to that should be “no.” If you have read your audition email extensively you should know everything you need to know. Don’t hold anything back during your audition. Make strong choices and deliver on them. When you’re finished, make a confident exit, knowing you have done your part. Some roles will be booked off the first audition and others will involve callbacks. If you get a callback, your agent will contact you. If you don’t get a callback, you will not be contacted. You will hear from your agent if you book a role. If you book 5 percent of your auditions, you’re doing well. That means that typically you will not hear anything on about 95 percent of your auditions. Don’t let this business be your everything. Don’t let it devastate you when you don’t book. The audition is part of the job. Treat it as such and bookings just become the icing on the cake. Love the art of auditioning and you will succeed.

Jessica Leigh Smith lives in Cherokee County with her family. Jessica is also an actress and producer. JessicaLeighSmith.com and Facebook.com/NotFinishedInc.

New Film, TV Education Opportunities in Woodstock BY CANDI HANNIGAN

Judging by the success of a more than 500 attendees recent Meals 4 Monologues had donated close to 2,100 event, held on a Saturday in pounds of items that were December, Woodstock could given to the food pantry at St. be a step closer to becoming Michael the Archangel Roman a popular destination for Catholic Church in Woodstock. location shooting of the Downtown businesses also many film projects coming to got in the spirit by collecting Georgia. donations. Area casting At least that’s the hope of directors from Feldstein/ Laureen Muller of RCM Talent Paris Casting, OAS Casting, & Management, who helped Big Picture Casting and Ingulli Meals 4 Monologue participants add to the 2,100-pound food pantry donation. organize the event. RCM Casting donated their time to has entered into a partnership Photo courtesy of Detour Entertainment see the actors. with Elm Street Cultural Arts Village and Chattahoochee Technical “The support from the acting community and the local College to bring more movie industry education, from acting to vendors and neighbors was incredible,” Laureen said. “We had technical crew, to local residents. people stop by who heard of the event and wanted to just be a The goal of Meals 4 Monologues was twofold: to give actors part of the donation. At a time when donations are lowest, it felt a chance to present a two-minute monologue in front of casting great to kick off the month with so much generosity.” directors based in the Southeast, and to show off vibrant and Meals 4 Monologues takes place in cities around the country. arts-friendly downtown Woodstock to actors and members of the Laureen, a Woodstock resident, asked Elm Street to be a host film and TV industry. because, “I heard about the development plans at Elm Street and The only cost to participants was a donation of two nonthought RCM and its partners would love to work with Elm Street perishable food items. Actors came from as far away as Virginia, and grow as they continue to grow.” Texas, Indiana and Ohio to participate. At the end of the day, continued on page 87

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䈀刀䤀一䜀吀䠀䤀匀䤀一䘀伀刀䄀䘀刀䔀䔀圀伀刀䬀伀唀吀 ℀ 刀攀搀甀挀攀䘀愀琀 ∠ 䤀渀挀爀攀愀猀攀䰀攀愀渀䈀漀搀礀䴀愀猀猀 ∠ 䤀洀瀀爀漀瘀攀匀琀爀攀渀最琀栀愀渀搀䔀渀搀甀爀愀渀挀攀

嘀椀攀眀挀氀愀猀猀猀挀栀攀搀甀氀攀愀琀瀀氀愀攀栀愀爀搀⸀挀漀洀℀ TOWNELAKER | January 2016

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Bald is the NEW BLACK

Embrace the changes happening to your hairline. BY TIM TIMMONS

Inevitably it happens to most men at some point. You notice that the little wad of hair clogging the drain in the shower is getting bigger and bigger. Reality begins to set in. You are starting to go bald. By age 35, about two-thirds of men will experience noticeable hair loss. And by age 65, 85 percent of men are significantly thinning. We take it seriously and somehow we feel less attractive and less confident. Just because you are becoming follically challenged doesn’t mean that you have to be stylistically challenged as well. Think of hair loss as an opportunity to freshen up your image and try new things. Now that you’ve decided to make the most of what you’ve got, here are some general rules: Keep it shorter. The more your hair recedes and thins, the shorter you’ll want to go. Follow Daniel Craig’s and Jude Law’s lead and change up your hairstyle using textured and spiked techniques, messy layers or a Caesar cut. Never, ever do a comb-over. Think Donald Trump. Don’t grow a ponytail and sport a look like Willie Nelson, which makes it seem that your hair just slid back on your head. Please, never ever choose an accentuated widow’s peak like Steven Seagal. Now that we have covered the worst of the hair don’ts, let’s review a few hairstyles for receding hairlines that have worked well for a few of these famous faces. Textured and Spiked: Keep the sides short, maybe even an aggressive high fade and more length on top as a distracting element. Think Sting and Bradley Cooper here. Daniel Day-Lewis totally uses this style to draw attention

Daniel Craig, above, and Daniel Day-Lewis, right.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

away from his receding hairline. Layered Bruce Willis, above, and George Shag: If Clooney, left. you are just beginning to thin and notice your hairline starting to push back and are not yet ready to go super short, consider some light, textured layers. Think Keith Urban, John Bon Jovi and Johnny Depp. It’s a tousled style that will lend an intentionally disheveled look. Caesar: Sides are kept a little longer with a structured mid-length look and the front is point cut with a horizontal bang and styled forward. Inspired by the Roman Emperor and made fashionable by George Clooney. Clean-Shaven/ Bald: We were all born bald! If all else fails, take it back to its roots (No pun intended)! Just as the headline says, bald is the new black! A clean-shaven man exudes confidence, sexiness and power, like Vin Diesel, Bruce Willis and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Also, note that keeping a little facial hair like a 5 o’clock shadow or goatee will add a stylish element and also will take the focus away from any thinning or receding hair. The best thing to do is simply embrace a receding hairline as part of the aging process. Resorting to snake oils and ripping up your scalp like a sod farmer is expensive and, in the end, futile. If you don’t make a big deal out of how much hair is on your head, no one else will either. Whatever you decide, do it with confidence and know that your manhood and stature are not determined by the length or thickness of your hair. If you’re looking for the best results, consult a men’s hairstylist and adopt a style that is right for your hair and facial features, and never look back.

Think of hair loss as an opportunity to freshen up your image and try new things.

Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss Woodstock. Tim’s industry experience includes positions as trainer/educator, celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and MTV video music awards.

Today’s Job Tip:

Recharging Your Emotional Tool Kit BY LYNNE SAUNDERS

Just last week, a lady who was sitting in the lobby of Papa’s Pantry asked, “Are you the one who wrote the article last month in the TowneLaker about keeping a good attitude while looking for a job?” “Yes,” I replied, happy that she had read the article and remembered it. “You know, it is really hard,” she said. Then her lower lip quivered as she held back tears. I stopped to talk with her further. It was obvious she had emotionally hit bottom and was doubting herself. She went on to say that she tried to act positively during a recent job interview, but I think she was already running on empty. If this describes how you feel, please know that there is hope. Last month I listed some As for ATTITUDE. This month, let’s focus on the Bs for BELIEFS: What is a belief? It is the combination of thoughts and convictions that each of us holds that determines how and what we think, which directs the way we make decisions and speak. Many times, religious faith is where our beliefs are grounded. What do you believe about yourself down deep inside? Beauty: Look around and take a minute to identify those things that you find beautiful. Pause, take it in and appreciate it. Do you think you are physically attractive? That is a form of beauty, but it can be superficial. A beautiful face may be a

mask that prevents people from seeing the real you, inside. Inner beauty will draw others to you. Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No matter how plain a woman may be, if truth and honesty are written across her face, she will be beautiful.” You are beautifully and wonderfully made! Buoyancy: You have the ability to keep bouncing back when trouble strikes. Remember, no person or circumstance can keep you down without your permission. Prayer helps. Find that place of strength and determination God placed inside of you. Bounty: Give yourself permission to deserve good things. Many times we sabotage ourselves with thoughts of inadequacy. No self-bullying allowed! Fill your mind with personal affirmations and push aside thoughts of fear. Spend your energy on those things that will produce positive results and give you hope. Keep Making Progress!

Lynne Saunders is director of Papa’s Pantry (www.papaspantry.org) and the Master’s Training Center. She can be reached at 770-591-4730.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.

“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’ Day.” — Edith Pierce

Happy New Year! We always love the holidays and all of the chaos surrounding them. Then, suddenly, it is over. The New Year resets the calendar and we have a clean slate in front of us. It is once again time for resolutions and new intentions. This year, make it your intention to constantly, consistently - not just conveniently make a difference in the lives of others. To go out of your way to make someone feel special, whether it is through a simple smile, phone call or helping physically or financially – because you can. Make it your intention for 2016 to focus on others before yourself and see what the new year brings. We would like to share the note below from the Fige family. Thanks to all who generously donated in support of sweet Katelyn as she continues her battle with pineoblastoma. Dear Everyday Angels: This year has been a major challenge for our family and we just want to say, THANK YOU for all you have done for Katelyn and our family. The donated funds paid every one of our bills for the month of December and all of January. We 42

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

live very thrifty so we can make it go a long way. It makes things a lot easier during the holidays knowing we don’t have to worry about bills not being paid and allowing us to focus on Katelyn’s daily care. We are now at the beginning of the end of her aggressive chemo treatments. We return on December 29th for a MRI and spinal tap to check cancer treatment progress. There is still a great deal ahead of us. Please continue to pray for our daughter. David Fige Everyday Angels has had a busy December. The holidays typically present needs that are much bigger than our small organization. Last minute desperate calls from school counselors concerning students and families keep us scrambling and scratching our heads. It never fails that right before we make the call informing them that we cannot assist this year, an email arrives, proclaiming “You’ve got cash!” through our paypal account, or an envelope arrives in our mailbox with exactly what is needed. God often reminds us that HE is in control and that we simply serve as His hands and feet, sharing His love and the hope we have in Him, even during life’s toughest trials. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, 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.

Turkey in the Freezer is a Timely Gift BY KENDALL JONES

PROFESSIONAL.EXPERIENCED.RELIABLE.

It seems each year that among all the blessings we see from the Thanksgiving Food Box Program, a story emerges that shows yet again God’s blessing and provision. This year was no different. Every year we receive donations for the Thanksgiving program. Several years ago an Atlanta Gas Light Gift Certificate to Kroger for a turkey for $15.74 was donated. Since we buy turkeys in large quantities from Walmart and because it didn’t make sense to make a separate trip to buy just one turkey, the gift certificate has just been sitting in the safe. I decided that, since I pass by a Kroger every day to and from work, I would take it home with me and buy a turkey the night before the Monday that distribution begins. So, Sunday night (Nov. 22) I bought a turkey and put it in my freezer. After posting several notes to remind myself, I got the turkey out of the freezer the next morning and dropped it off by our office at 7 the next morning on my way to pick up the Monday allotment of turkeys from Walmart. When I returned to the office I immediately jumped into the activities of the day and did not think of that turkey until the afternoon. When I went down to tell Dale it was in the freezer, she said “Let me tell you the story about that turkey.” It seems that when she arrived at the office at 7:30 a.m. that morning, there was already a lady waiting at the door. She was a client who had her hours cut at work and was afraid she might lose her home because of the reduced income, so she had been coming to our employment services and had been very diligent about searching for a job. Through her diligence and Karen’s assistance, she was able to find a full time job, but her first day was Monday and she had to be at work at 8 a.m., so she couldn’t come later to get her Thanksgiving dinner. Dale explained to her that I was gone at that moment to pick up the turkeys so she didn’t think we would have one for her. “However,” she said, “let me take a look just in case.” She opened the freezer where the pies were and, lo and behold, there was the turkey I had just put there not 30 minutes ago! She gave the lady the turkey and her box of non-perishable items for her dinner and she went thankfully upon her way to take it to her home on the way to work. How like the extravagant grace of God to provide a gift certificate that was donated two years ago, to buy a turkey the night before and put in the freezer just in time so that someone who needed it at just that time could receive it! I am reminded of scripture: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Matt. 10:29-31

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continued on page 86

Kendall Jones is program director at MUST’s Cherokee Program Services Center, 111 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 30115. 770-721-2923. kjones@mustministries.org www.mustministries.org TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

When a Saver Marries a Spender, Every Penny Counts DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

If you’re a penny pincher but your spouse is penny wise and pound foolish, money arguments may frequently erupt. Couples who have opposite philosophies regarding saving and spending often have trouble finding common ground. If you’re a saver, you love having money in the bank, investing in your future and saving for a rainy day. You probably hate credit card debt and spend money cautiously. Your spender spouse may seem impulsive, prompting you to think, “Don’t you care about our future?” But you may come across as controlling or miserly to your spouse who thinks, “Just for once, can’t you loosen up? We really need some things!” Such different outlooks can lead to mistrust and resentment. Your money habits may have a lot to do with how you were raised and your personal experience. Being a saver or a spender may come naturally; instead of assigning blame, try to see your spouse’s side. Start by discussing your common values. Recognize that spenders may be more focused on short-term goals, while savers may be more focused on long-term goals. Ultimately, whether you’re saving for a vacation, a car, college or retirement, your money will be spent on something. It’s simply a matter of deciding together when and how to spend it. Sometimes couples avoid talking about money because they

Towne Lake Business Association You’re Invited to the TLBA Bowl-a-thon, a fundraiser for the Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholarship Awards, (given to one senior from Etowah HS and one senior from Woodstock HS at the end of the school year). This family-friendly event is for ALL ages and levels of bowlers. If you are interested in supporting your neighbors, friends, or own Etowah or Woodstock student whether you are a player, sponsor, or volunteer. When: Saturday, Jan. 23 Where: Stars and Strikes! on Hwy 92 Cost: $100/Team of 6 or $20/Person. Includes shoes, pizza, and soda’s. Register: Email gjsnyder@bellsouth.net TLBA’s Lunch-N-Learn Workshop Speaker: Susan L. Morely ECE, CARES of Parent Coach Atlanta Topic: “Strategies for achieving a balance in our busy schedules of home life and work.” Workshops are presented by leading business speakers geared toward our local business owners and supporters. Lunch is included. Where: “The Grille” at Towne Lake Hills When: 12:15-2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19 Cost: $12 www.Facebook.com/TowneLakeBusinessAssociation Thank You for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee!” 44

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

are afraid to argue. But talking about money may actually help you and your spouse avoid conflict. Scheduling regular money meetings could help you gain a better understanding of your finances. To help ensure a productive discussion, establish some ground rules. Communication and compromise are key. Don’t assume you know what your spouse is thinking, and be willing to negotiate. You can make savings an “expense” and allow some room in the budget for unexpected expenses. Having regular meetings to go over your finances will enable you to celebrate your financial successes or identify areas where you need to improve. Be willing to make adjustments if necessary. Finally, recognize that getting on the same page is going to take some work. When you got married, you promised to love your spouse for richer or poorer. Maybe it’s time to put your money where your mouth is.

continued on page 86

Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.

TLBA SPOTLIGHT Christian Brothers Automotive

Christian Brothers Automotive opened in June 2009 at 1930 Eagle Drive in Towne Lake. This industry-leading, faith-based automotive business is centered on honesty and integrity, every day and on every vehicle. This shop is locally owned and operated by longtime Cherokee County resident and veteran Danny Branom. Friendly office staff members James Browning and Nathan Branom are dedicated industry professionals ready to help with your automotive needs or concerns. The technical staff includes two full-time ASE certified master technicians; local Towne Lake resident Mark DeSantis and Rich Wagener, supported by ASE specialists Josh Stone and Blake Riddling. These service professionals work on all vehicle makes and models, utilizing factory computer diagnostic equipment for fast repair done right the first time. Their state-of-the-art facility and tools allow them to perform anything from simple oil changes to transmission and engine replacements. Christian Brothers Automotive has been voted Readers’ Choice for Best Auto Repair in Towne Lake for 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. This award-winning shop also provides complimentary shuttle service for local residents to and from work, home, or wherever needed so there’s no need to wait in the customer lounge. Customers who wait while the vehicle is being serviced will enjoy a positive atmosphere, squeaky clean facilities and comfortable seating. For more information, call 770-926-4500.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Closing the Door. Where Will You Go? BY ANN LITREL

On Dec. 1, I closed my studio in downtown Woodstock. I’d opened 10 years ago, when Woodstock was a ghost town. For the past four years, I shared the space with fellow artist Kristina Laurendi Havens. We painted, held classes, hosted other artists, opened the doors wide for the public every first Friday of the month. Unfortunately, our landlord Kevin got an offer on the building he “couldn’t refuse,” and the new owner needed both floors. We had to move out. The question I got most was: Where will you go? Packing up, I wasn’t sure how I felt. I’m actually kind of stupid about my feelings when they’re negative. Sometimes my husband Michael knows how I’m feeling before I do. He’ll suggest that I’m sad. Or mad. And when he says it I realize, “Yes!!! I am!!” The empty studio was beautiful, stripped to her bare bones. Century-old wood floors reflecting light from the windows. Bare bricks and plaster like an abstract painting. Wooden support columns, solid as ships’ masts. Kristina’s daughter Ari pirouetted across the floor, enjoying the large open space. My heart skipped a little, feeling light as it followed her steps. I’ve been an artist all my life. When I was 3, I began drawing every day, filling stacks of small lined tablets with childlike stick figures. I wasn’t especially talented. I just drew. A LOT.

The main place I drew was the kitchen table. By the time I was 6, I had begun saying, “When I grow up, I want to be an artist.” I learned from a few patronizing smiles not to say that I wanted to “be in museums.” By age 14, I had mastered the first step: being able to draw things to look “real.” As an adult artist, I’ve had a commercial studio in Decatur, and now in Woodstock. But I’ve ALWAYS had a place to paint at home, even when it was just a drafting desk in a tiny condo. Watching Ari dance in the studio, I felt my heart rise at being unburdened with “stuff.” I thought about painting at home. There my windows look into my little yard, my gardens. Birds, dragonflies, lizards—sparks of life flitter past. I answer them on canvas with color and light, mirroring life with a flick of the brush. My dream of being an artist has changed. Painting in my “ivory tower” downtown 10 years ago, I gradually realized I was lonely. I fumbled my way to connections, I sold my work to raise money for local nonprofits. I volunteered at the Cherokee Arts Center. And finally I joined other artists—planners and dreamers both—to help grow the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village in downtown Woodstock. On that four acres, a world unto itself has taken root—an outdoor stage, an historic home to be restored, artist studios, galleries, gardens. My childhood dream hasn’t left me; I will always paint. And I am part of the wide world through the Internet. But where my child eyes saw only my work upon the kitchen table, now I Early kitchen table art. see there are artists and dreamers all around me, at Elm Street and beyond. We paint together on a much bigger canvas: the community. The question I’ve been asked most: Where will you go? The answer? Nowhere. And everywhere. Find out more about the four-acre world of Elm Street at www.Revive the Reeves.org.

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village: restored Reeves home, artist’s concept. 46

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Ann is an artist who lives in Towne Lake with her husband Dr. Michael Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached in her studio Ann Litrel Art in downtown Woodstock, or at Ann@annlitrel.com.

Introducing the new Cancer Center at WellStar Kennestone Hospital. Redesigned inside and out to ensure our vision of world class cancer care is experienced by both patients and families. By changing patient flo , adding new services and enhancing the overall care experienced, a new focus on Mind/Body/Spirit has arrived. With a recognition by Becker Hospital Review’s “100 Hospitals and Health Systems with Great Oncology Programs”, our redeveloped cancer program offers: •

Cyberknife and Tomotherapy: the only health system in Georgia offering both forms of radiation therapy.

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Feature

Better Health a

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he staff at Anytime Fitness, located on Towne Lake Parkway, has a primary focus, providing the highest level of customer service possible. That includes making sure clients have a facility that is clean and comfortable, with an inviting atmosphere. Owner Brennan Archer, who has more than 10 years experience in the health and fitness industry, opened the gym in the summer of 2015. “I wanted to give the Towne Lake community a gym that provided more attention to detail; member satisfaction is my No. 1 priority,” he said. He even guarantees a 24-hour response time to customer concerns or questions.

keeps members safe and secure; panic buttons are located throughout the gym for added security.

Work Out When and Where You Want Anytime Fitness is open for members 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. If you join the Towne Lake location you also have access to more than 3,000-plus locations around the world, at no additional charge. This makes it convenient for local members to find additional gym locations near work or when traveling on business or vacation.

Classes include: Zumba - a fun Latin-inspired dance fitness party. Spin classes - a high energy, low impact workout on a stationary bike. Plyo-Barre - a combination of Pilates, yoga and ballet. Anytime X Fit - boot-camp style circuit training. Total Body Conditioning - a high intensity workout that includes strength, cardio, interval training and core.

Keeping Members Safe The club is protected by a state-of-the-art security system and only members can gain entrance with their membership key. A round-the-clock surveillance system

Archer said the gym should have a yoga instructor soon. Anytime Fitness members can maximize their memberships with 24/7 access to Anytime Health—an online resource designed to enhance fitness goals by

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

More Than Just a Gym Anytime Fitness is equipped with the essential workout equipment for strength training and cardio to make sure you get the best possible workout. Personal training sessions are available at an additional cost for those who want to take their workout to the next level or just need help getting started. A monthly calendar is filled with group fitness classes that are available to members as a part of their monthly fee.

and Fitness, Anytime providing a diet planner, fitness tracker and a community of support where you can share your challenges and successes. Encouraging Fitness Within the Community Brennan says he offers a 10 percent “hero” discount to members of the military, fire and police departments, and first responders. He believes it is important to give back to the community where his family lives, works and plays. Anytime Fitness also offers a discount to Cherokee County Board of Education employees. Get to Healthier Place No matter who you are or how far you have to go on your quest for a healthier lifestyle, Archer and his staff at Anytime Fitness are committed to helping you achieve your goals. “Everybody starts in a different place,” he said. “As long as people are seeing progress, whether it is losing weight or toning up - even sometimes when people don’t see body changes immediately - they feel better.”

to join will receive one month free. Archer said he is going to donate every dollar collected through this limited offer to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Current members are encouraged to give a dollar and their name will be put on the “Dollar Wall” in the gym.

What members are saying about Anytime Fitness: “What a difference it makes in your workouts when you can find a gym that makes you feel at home and that is exactly how I feel about Anytime Fitness!” — Danielle Arehart

“Joining was best decision ever. Started with personal training sessions with Justin to get ‘up to speed’ and now taking advantage of classes.” — Jane Gill “Amazing machines and outstanding customer service!” — Sara Harati Skeen

photo by Danny Griffin

January Special During Jan. 11-15, new members can join Anytime Fitness for only $1. Existing members who refer someone

You Choose

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Helping Hands

to Africa From Woodstock

Using creative arts as a call to action

H2A missionaries perform in Mkholombe,

BY SUSAN SCHULZ

owned property covered with shacks made of wood, cardboard, tin, and other scrap material with no modern conveniences. Three mission trips per year are made from the United States to Africa to empower and invest in the lives of these precious young people who live in abysmal poverty. H2A has served the Xhosa tribe in Masiphumelele and the Zulu tribe in Mkholumbe. Karen remembered a particularly moving scene in the Mkholombe Squatter Camp. “I noticed a Zulu woman washing her clothes near the community water tap; close to where the youth had set up outside to perform. I spoke with her and asked her thoughts about the H2A youth. Smiling she said, ‘Those young people are doing it right! I hope more youngsters will follow what they are doing.’ She stayed washing her clothes for the remainder of the performance. When it was finished, a few of the H2A team members made a point to speak to her and ask how they could pray for her. It was a simple moment which reminded me, as an outsider, of the impact our youth are having on their communities, and the importance of living a life worth following.” H2A has three full-time indigenous workers: Vuyo and Thulani, who lead the art and leadership camps, and Bongi, who has been designated as the H2A Compassion Ambassador. Vuto and Thulani meet with the students twice a week for Bible study and lead monthly performances for the community, while Bongi identifies extreme physical needs in the community. Hope2Africa leaders Becky and Karen with Mkholombe For more information directors Vuyo and Thulani. about H2A, email becky@ hope2africa.com or visit www. hope2africa.com. The ministry accepts donations and volunteers for the missions teams. All funds donated to H2A go to meet the needs of their youth and pay the stipend of their African staff. No one in the United States receives a salary from donated funds. ramps, provide clothing or make a financial donation. All financial support is tax deductible (501(c)19 Veteran Program). For more information, visit www.legion.org or call American Legion Post 45 at 770-479-4405.

For centuries, treasure hunters have scavenged the continent of Africa in search of hidden gems. Many have dug deep and searched tirelessly to cash in on the riches hidden deep within her soil. It’s been said that the greatest treasure in all of Africa is its people. Becky Harris, a Woodstock resident and president of Hope2Africa, believes this without a doubt. She beams when she speaks of the African youth she has served during her more than 30 trips to the continent. Becky leads Hope2Africa (H2A) with Karen Kleinschmidt, also a Woodstock resident. Becky and Karen are also heavily involved in the drama ministries at Woodstock First Baptist Church. H2A uses the creative arts to share the redemptive story of hope through Jesus to the people in their native languages. Volunteers organize arts day camps, leadership retreats, weekly Bible studies and rehearsals. Creative arts cross cultures and teach the youth invaluable life skills. For example, performances require organizational planning, patience, and lots of hard work. The process instills a sense of pride, and so much more when done. Programs run from January through November; incorporating 22 young Africans on each yearly team. More than 150 students have been through the program. There are three camps per year: two art camps and a leadership and business camp. Becky often visited Africa on mission trips, and in 2007, she felt compelled to set up an official ministry. Within a year, H2A was a registered nonprofit. The youth they serve live in squatter camps, which are settlements on government-

Audience at Mkholombe enjoys a performance. H2A youth performance. 50

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Watermarke Church.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Cozy! 1

LET’S GET

BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

I’m a Southern girl through and through, so when January arrives, I just want to curl up into a ball in my house and take the proverbial “long winter’s nap.” The wind is howling, and the trees are barren, but I’m choosing not to be too mopey about it. Today, I’ve curated some of my favorite picks for a cozy day at home.

Since I spend so much time indoors in the winter, I find that I care a lot more about the little details inside my house. All that time inside means more exposure to germs, which requires more reminders from mom to “wash your hands.” Forgo the Purell and do yourself a favor. Stop by Woodstock Market and pick up one of these sweet, winter scented soaps. The Sugar Pear and Winterberry is my favorite! $3.99-$6.99 at Woodstock Market, corner of Bells Ferry Road and Hwy. 92 in Woodstock.

Who would have thought leg warmers would be making a comeback? I haven’t seen them on anyone yet, but I’m having flashbacks to “Flashdance,” circa 1983. I was in the third grade and didn’t look cool in leg warmers. Unfortunately, now I’m 41, and my kids are skeptical that I can pull off this look even now. It’s January. It’s cold. It’s our time. Who’s with me? You can find these warmers at Be You...On Purpose in downtown Woodstock for $15.

If I had to choose my favorite activity, it would probably be reading a good book. I love all books − history, fiction, fantasy. You name it, I love it. I usually begin the new year with a giant list of books I can’t wait to read. On any given day, you’ll find me with one in my purse, another on the nightstand, some half-finished on the Kindle, and more heaped upon my desk. But this is the one that starts my day. Shauna Niequist’s words leap off the page of “Savor” and into my heart. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to slow down and savor life, then this book is for you. Available at FoxTale Book Shoppe in downtown Woodstock for $16.99.

4 52

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Don’t have a fireplace? Did you use all your wood over Christmas? Tired of sweeping up ashes? Don’t worry! These WoodWick candles simulate a real fire and even crackle as they burn. Best of all, they’re scented. I like the warm vanilla bean. Instead of eating more cookies, I’ll spend my January working off all those extra pounds and dreaming about the ones (or dozens) I ate over the holidays. WoodWick candles can be found at Branch Boutique in downtown Woodstock for $27.99.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

GAME DAY

Recipes

Every team has its go-to play when the game is on the line and every fan has his or her favorite food that makes watching the big game even better. There’s no need for you to throw a Hail Mary pass at your game-watching party; try one of these recipes, from moms who know football, and score big with friends and family!

Antipasto Salad Kabobs Cari Kilgore, Woodstock

Cari cheers for her son Weston and the Woodstock Wolverines on Friday nights during the fall. On football Sundays in the winter, her family enjoys these delicious kabobs.

• 1 9-ounce package of three-cheese tortellini, cooked according to package directions • 1 can pitted black olives, drained • 1 jar green olives, drained • 2 12-ounce containers marinated mozzarella cheese balls • 30 slices of salami, sliced in half • 1 cup balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing • Wooden skewers Mix all ingredients together, cover and refrigerate at least one hour. Toss and add more dressing (if needed) before making kabobs. Stack alternating items onto a skewer, using the pointy end. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Green Bean Dish Kelly McDonnell, Woodstock Kelly is a football mom whose son Joseph plays for The King’s Academy Knights. This is a family favorite and must have when they watch the big game together. It’s also the only way she can get her lineman to eat his green beans.

• 6 cans Del Monte Blue Lake cut green beans • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar • 2 Tablespoons chopped garlic • 1 1/2 sticks melted butter • 4 Tablespoons soy sauce • 10-12 slices of (cooked) bacon Joseph McDonnell with his dad Drain beans and pour into baking dish. Pour brown sugar, and coach, Scott. garlic, butter and soy sauce over beans. Crumble bacon on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

Goulash Kim Hunter, Woodstock

Kim is the proud mom of Colton, who plays center for Etowah High School’s varsity football team. Their family enjoys a hearty dish when it’s time to sit down and watch football together. Try this filling dish when it’s time for kick-off.

• 1 pound ground beef • 1 box pasta • ½ cup chopped bell pepper • ½ cup chopped onion • ½ cup chives • ½ cup cilantro • ½ cup jalapenos (optional) • 1 can Rotel • 1 cup sour cream • 1 small package Velveeta cheese

Sophomore Weston Kilgore is a middle linebacker at Woodstock High School. 54

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Colton and his biggest fans; sister, Autumn, left, and his mom, Kim.

Brown ground beef and drain off excess oil. Boil pasta and drain. Mix ground beef, pasta and remaining ingredients in a large pot and warm until all ingredients are melted, mix thoroughly.

For more than a century, Piedmont physicians have been providing care for Georgia families as part of the Piedmont Healthcare system — a comprehensive network of hospitals, care centers and specialists. So whether you need a routine checkup or critical care, you can rest assured that Piedmont Healthcare has the resources close at hand to get you the care you need. Great doctors, convenient locations – meet your new Piedmont primary care physician, Dr. Samyuktha Muralidhara.

Samyuktha Muralidhara, M.D. Family Medicine

Piedmont Physicians at Towne Lake 970 Woodstock Parkway • Suite 100 Woodstock, Georgia 30188 678.388.5750 piedmontphysicians.org 05083-1115

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole with a Twist 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (or a cooked chicken from the store if you’re stuck for time)

2 cups shredded Monterey jack cheese

1 1/3 cups white rice

Salt and pepper

1 can condensed chicken soup 1 can condensed mushroom soup 1 chopped onion

2 cups shredded cheddar

1 cup salsa

1 2/3 cups water 2 bay leaves

2 cups broccoli 1 cups sliced mushrooms

Boil water, add rice, bring back to boil, reduce to low and cover. Cook for 20 minutes. In a large pot of water, add chicken, bay leaves and salt and pepper. Boil for 20 minutes or so, depending on how thick the chicken breasts are. Remove once cooked and allow to cool. Shred the chicken into strips. Boil broccoli for 2-3 minutes in a pot of water with a little salt added. Mix cheeses together in a bowl. Mix soups and salsa together in another bowl. In a glass baking dish, layer half of the rice, chicken, broccoli, mushroom, onion, soup mixture and cheese. Repeat with the other half. Cover in foil and bake in oven at 350 degrees for 25 minutes, remove foil and cook 15 minutes longer. I love casseroles; they warm the soul. This is an easy, tasty and filling dish that’s perfect for cold winter days. You can leave off the salsa if you like, but in our house we are fond of salsa. Enjoy! ~ Caron and Alberto

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Caron and Alberto Catalán, owners and managers of Papa P’s, have lived in Towne Lake since 2008. www.papa-ps.com.

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Cheeseburger Bobby’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200, cheeseburgerbobbys.com

CUISINE American

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS no

open

Chili’s Bar & Grill, 1460 Towne Lake Parkway American no $ $-$$ open full bar 770-592-7676, chilis.com China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Corner Bistro, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-1202, cornerbistrotl.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net Featherstone’s Grill, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Golf Club 770-592-9969 GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com

RESERV. no call ahead seating

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

closed

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Homestyle Cooking

closed

American no $ $-$$ open full bar Casual

special events

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

yes

JD’s Barbeque, 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730, jdsbbq.com

Barbeque

$-$$

open

Jersey’s Sports Bar, 6426 Bells Ferry Road 770-790-5740

American

open

full bar

yes

Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Mexican

open

full bar

Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Townelake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com

La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com

LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway Steakhouse no $ $$ open full bar 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com

call ahead seating

Marco’s Pizza, 2068 Eagle Drive 678-213-2100, marcos.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Mellow Mushroom, 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331, mellowmushroom.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, 678-426-7004

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Panera Bread, 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809, panerabread.com

*Papa P’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway

Mexican/Irish 770-592-3100, papa-ps.com see ad pg. 8 Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com

Sat.&Sun. $ $ open full bar brunch

large groups call ahead

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Song’s Garden, 2068 Eagle Drive 770-928-8387, songsgarden.com

Chinese

$-$$

open

The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

Tuscany, 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888, mytuscanyrestaurant.com

* Denotes Advertiser

RESTAURANT

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

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

Towne Lake Area Dining Guide

Lifestyle

Winter Weather Advice:

Be Prepa red

A strong El Niño is causing weather forecasters to predict a colder and wetter than normal winter for the Southeast, including Georgia. Remember the catastrophic ice storm that hit metro Atlanta in early 2014? Commuters were stuck overnight on the highways. Students had to sleep in their school gyms because buses couldn’t run and parents couldn’t get to the schools to pick up their children. It’s a scenario that isn’t easy to forget and certainly one that no one wants to repeat. We could face another significant winter storm, so it doesn’t hurt to follow the old Boy Scouts’ motto: “Be prepared.” These guidelines were recently released by the National Weather Service. Keep this page handy just in case!

Travel Safety Kit

Winter Weather Safety

A major key to preparedness is having a ready kit—a portable emergency supply kit of basic items you may need if a disaster occurs.

The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “deceptive killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. Be sure to follow winter weather safety rules during winter storms and extreme cold.

• Batteries • Blankets • First aid kit • Pocket knife • Tow rope • Shovel • Road maps/GPS equipment • Ice scraper/brush • Sand/cat litter for traction • Water/non-perishable food • Mobile phone/charger

Terminology Here’s a weather dictionary to help us understand the watches and warnings given by meteorologists. Winter Storm Watch: Issued 12-48 hours in advance of an event for a 50 percent or greater chance of conditions favorable for a significant winter storm (including heavy sleet, heavy snow or an ice storm). Winter storm conditions include two or more inches of snow, a half inch or more of sleet or a quarter inch or more of freezing rain. Winter Weather Advisory: Issued up to 36 hours before an event for an 80 percent or greater chance of a winter precipitation event (snow, freezing rain/drizzle, sleet or blowing snow) that causes inconveniences but does not meet warning criteria. Winter Storm Warning: Issued up to 36 hours before an event for an 80 percent or greater chance of a winter weather event that meets at least one of these criteria: two or more inches of snow, half inch or more of sleet or quarter inch or more of freezing rain.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

During winter storms and extreme cold: • Stay indoors during the storm. • Walk carefully on snowy, icy walkways. • Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack, a major cause of death in the winter. Use caution, take breaks, push the snow instead of lifting it when possible and lift lighter loads. • Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly. • Drive only if it’s absolutely necessary. If you must drive: travel in the day; don’t travel alone; keep others informed of your schedule; stay on on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts. • If you become trapped in your car, pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window. • Remain in your vehicle, where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful; distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close, but be too far to walk to in deep snow. • Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning.

Turning 13, and Everything Changes BY MATT NEAL

Something happened since the last time you heard from me. I now have a teenager living in my house. Fortunately for us, my daughter was kind enough to spend the last year since her 12th birthday preparing us for the transition. I think back to that time in the distant past when I turned 13. For the first time in my life, I was far more concerned about what my friends thought of me than of what my parents thought. In fact, I completely expected my parents to accept me without fail, no matter what crazy and idiotic things I did. But the acceptance of my peers was by no means guaranteed. It was a hard-fought battle just to not be ostracized. And I had to fight that battle every day, with every article of clothing I wore, with everything I said. Life was tough at 13 when peer pressure ruled my very existence. It was a time when what other people thought of me shaped how I viewed myself. It would shape the kind of person I became. What a shame that no matter how good the parents are, it’s the unknown and unnamed peers that really take charge of creating the personality of a teenager. The cool kids in school rule the roost as far as teaching the newly minted teens how they are to think, how they are to dress, and how they are to view themselves. So now I have to change my strategy for parenting. If things go bad in school I can no longer say, “It’s OK, daddy loves you,” and play tickle monster with her. In fact, all my old tricks are out the window. Everything makes her feel awkward, even in our own home. She acts as if there are spies peering through the windows, and if they see me give her a hug they will report back to the rest of the school and her reputation will be in tatters. Parents are naturally such embarrassing creatures, anyway. It’s not like we can help it. It’s an old cliché that some parents will try to be the cool mom or the fun dad. I know I have no chance of that. So whenever I meet her friends I can see the anxiety on her face. I can read her thoughts. What will he do to embarrass me? Therefore, I do the only thing I can think of in those situations. I reach out and grab her nose, then say, “Look, I got your nose!”

What a shame that no matter how good the parents are, it’s the unknown and unnamed peers that really take charge of creating the personality of a teenager.

Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached at www. mattnealwriter@yahoo.com. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Lifestyle

Senior Sense

Creating a Good Atmosphere BY DELIA HALVERSON

Have you ever felt that you didn’t want to be around someone because he or she just made you tense or unhappy? And have you found that some people seem to bring the sunshine right into the room by their attitude? It’s amazing how one’s attitude can make a difference in the atmosphere and in our relationships. Twice a week, I work in the clothes closet at the Cherokee facility for MUST (Ministries United for Service and Training). Often we have families come in for clothing with several children in tow, and at times the children are tired and restless, crying or hanging onto the clothes racks. Some volunteers refuse to work in the clothes closet. We’ve had some short-tempered volunteers. And then we have some who can turn off the noise and inconvenience in their minds and simply smile and give the clients a cheery word, later picking up the clothing the children may have knocked down. Those are the volunteers who are easy to work with. They make a difference, not only for the clients, but also for the other volunteers. They make a difference in the atmosphere. I recently heard a story of a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and discovered she only had three hairs on her head. She said, “I think I’ll braid my hair today!” She did and had a wonderful day. The next day she

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

looked in the mirror and only had two hairs on her head. She said, “I’ll part my hair in the middle today!” She did and had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up and only had one hair on her head. She said, “Today’s the day for a ponytail!” She fixed her one hair in a ponytail and had a wonderful day. The next morning she woke up with no hair on her head. A smile spread across her face and she said, “Great! I don’t have to worry about how to wear my hair today!” And she had a wonderful day. The life we live depends on our attitude. We can blame someone else for the type of day we have, but in reality, it is up to us to make the day a good day for ourselves and those around us. As we get older, our aches and pains seem to get worse, but we can still bring joy to ourselves and to others (even in the midst of aches and pains) when we face each day with a positive attitude.

Delia writes books and leads workshops internationally. She and her husband settled in Woodstock after living in eight states. Their children and grandchildren live nearby.

Football, Artistry and History Included in Senior Tours

The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Department offers an active group for senior citizens called the Silver Roamers. For a $24 yearly fee, members can attend monthly gatherings for fellowship and to discuss upcoming events. Members get discounts on trips and events, and win prizes through the Roamers Mileage Club. Non-members can take part in day trips but the cost is $10 more than a member. Overnight excursions are the same price. For more details, call Frankie Sanders at 770-924-7768, www.crpa.net.

Jan. 14

College Football Hall of Fame/STATS A visit to the 94,256-square-foot College Football Hall of Fame is a self-interactive and self-guided tour that is absolutely amazing. STATS is the location for lunch. Cost is $50 for members, $60 non-members.

Jan. 28

The Lewis Grizzard and Erskine Caldwell Museum/Historic Moreland Mill The trip to Moreland, Ga., includes a tour of the Lewis Grizzard and Erskine Caldwell museums. Lunch will be served at the historic Moreland Mill built in 1890, a hosiery mill complex that is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Cost is $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

Feb. 11

Folk Pottery Museum/Bernie’s Restaurant and Nacoochee Valley Guest House A trip to Northeast Georgia includes a guided tour at the Folk Pottery Museum to see the showcases of handcrafted skills of one of the South’s premier grassroots art forms, and the historical importance and changing role of folk pottery in southern life. Lunch at Bernie’s Restaurant and Nacoochee Valley Guest House. Cost is $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

Feb. 25

“Peter and The Starcatcher” at Georgia Ensemble Theatre This is an adult adventure story along with musical performances. Cost is $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

March 11

Canton Theatre “Mama’s Wake”/Downtown Kitchen A night at the historic Canton Theatre includes dinner at Downtown Kitchen before the show “Mama’s Wake,” a comedy about a caregiver who finds a life she never knew she could experience. Cost is $50 for members, $60 for non-members.

March 24

Social Circle Tour/Blue Willow Inn A drive through Social Circle includes several stops, along with a tour guide who will share the history of the area. Topics include: how the town was founded and grew over the years, how the Civil War changed the town, along with the roles played by the railroad and cotton industries. We will also learn about the architecture and notable residents, and of course, a drive by the cemetery to include ghost storie. Lunch at the famous Blue Willow Inn. Cost is $45 for members, $55 for non-members.

Classes at the Cherokee County Annex 7545 Main St., Building 200, Woodstock

Gentle Joints (Low Impact): 8:30-9:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in the aerobics room. The low impact aerobics and strength training class is designed for mature adults and individuals with joint challenges. Class format varies among instructors. The class may include hand weights, stability balls, and various resistance equipment such as bands, Pilates circles, and miniballs. The class focuses on balance, flexibility, strength, posture, cardiopulmonary fitness, and exercises to target bone density, mobility and joint issues. Cost is $30 per month. Zumba Gold: 9-10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays on the annex stage. Zumba Gold is a Latin inspired, dance-fitness class that creates a dynamic, exciting exhilarating, and effective fitness system. Zumba Gold also tones and sculpts the body using an aerobic approach for cardio and muscle-toning benefits. Cost is $30 per month.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Health & Wellness

Know the Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana BY MARK KISSEL

In 2012, Gov. Nathan Deal signed people because these products are cheap, legislation prohibiting the sale of synthetic intoxicating and don’t show up on drug marijuana in Georgia. Within months of the tests. law going into effect, the Cherokee County According to the 2014 Monitoring the Multi-Agency Narcotics unit seized close Future survey of youth drug-use trends, to 9,400 packages of fake marijuana from “the use of synthetic marijuana by eighth-, various locations throughout Ball Ground, 10th- and 12th-grade students declined Canton, Holly Springs and Woodstock. nationally in 2013 with a very sharp decline Synthetic marijuana had been banned among the 12th-graders. This trend twice before in Georgia, but manufacturers Photo courtesy of pazoo.com continued into 2014 and were significant were able to manipulate the molecular structure in order to avoid for both 10th- and 12th-graders.” Even with the decline nationally, the law; the chemists can work faster than the legislators. teens see the over-the-counter products as safe even though they Synthetic marijuana is a mixture of dried plants and herbs laced are not. with psychoactive chemicals, usually synthetic cannabinoids, but Protecting your children from the dangers of synthetic marijuana with other dangerous products like acetone. The cannabinoids are is not easy, especially since the drug goes undetected by a standard chemically related to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, but drug test, but here is some advice: the effects actually can be considerably more powerful and more •Know what you are looking for. If you know what synthetic dangerous than marijuana. Users can experience anxiety and marijuana looks like, you will be able to recognize it more easily. agitation, nausea and vomiting, high blood pressure, shaking and continued on page 86 seizures, hallucinations and paranoia, and they may act violently. Sold under various brand names like “Spice,” “K2,” and “No More Mr. Nice Guy,” synthetic marijuana products can still be Chief of Police Mark Kissel has served the Cherokee found in retail outlets as herbal incense, potpourri, bath salts County School District since 1999 and has more than 35 years of law enforcement experience. or jewelry cleaner. The use is exceptionally high among young

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Make a Weight Loss Plan for Your Pet BY DR. JONATHAN GILVARRY

Happy New Year to you and your family! Often with the beginning of each fresh new year, we make resolutions to make changes in our lives. These new promises frequently involve making alterations in our personal habits and our relationships with friends and family. People making resolutions need to identify a goal and develop a plan to reach their objective. The resolutions also can involve our pets. Many pets are overweight and are in dire need of a weightloss plan. It has been estimated that more than 60 percent of all pets are excessively overweight. Obesity can be very dangerous to our pets’ health. Overweight pets are in higher jeopardy of getting heart diseases, respiratory diseases, joint and arthritic pain, and metabolic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. It is imperative that our heavy pets lose weight to live healthy long lives. Weight loss treatment plans can be developed with the assistance of your animal health team. Typical plans start with a health screening from your veterinarian and involve special diets that are high in fiber and low in calories and a mild to moderate exercise schedule. Exercise

plans can be as simple as a 10−minute walk. Success can be achieved by setting reasonable goals on an appropriate time schedule. Another good New Year’s resolution is to spend more quality time with our pets. Often with the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, we lose the opportunity to connect with our pets. By making a special commitment to spend 10 to 15 minutes each day with our pets for personal time, we can strengthen that bond and enjoy their presence. This can be accomplished by playing with a toy or a ball, brushing and combing, or going for an extra walk. It can also be beneficial for us; allowing us to decompress after a long stressful day. The New Year also starts the coldest part of the year. Please remember to take special precautions when the temperature starts to drop; provide extra bedding and blankets and bring in pets when freezing temperatures are expected.

Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry is a new associate veterinarian on the BridgeMill Animal Hospital Team.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Health & Wellness

Diet Soda Habit Harmful For Your Teeth BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

I am amazed that as we make more strides in modern science, there are still things that impede our progress. In dentistry, we have improved preventive dental care by using tooth sealants, but the increase in soda consumption has compromised this progress significantly. A study published in May 2013 in the journal “General Dentistry” stated that the heavy consumption of diet soda can damage teeth as badly as methamphetamine or crack cocaine. When comparing meth mouth with coke mouth, it is startling to see the similarity in the intensity and extent of damage, according to Dr. Mohamed Bassiouny, a professor of restorative dentistry at the Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia. Although this is a radical comparison, it does place emphasis on a common factor: acid and the destruction it causes to teeth. Soda contains citric and phosphoric acids, and constant exposure can rot teeth. Dr. Bassiouny found a woman in her 30s who drank 2 liters of diet soda daily for three to five years had the same serious tooth decay as a 29-year-old methamphetamine addict and a 51-year-old habitual user of crack cocaine. There are several interesting facts about the diet soda drinker. The woman chose diet drinks because she had concerns about weight gain. She felt there was less sugar, which shouldn’t be

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a problem for her teeth. This is a common belief held by many people. Diet drinks have chemical properties that demineralize the enamel in your teeth. This woman would sip her diet sodas and hold it in her mouth before swallowing, which causes much worse tooth destruction, because teeth are exposed to the acid for longer periods of time. The soda’s acid destroys the tooth’s enamel, causing the enamel to look mottled and brown. The acid destruction also reduces the bite surfaces of all the teeth and will eventually lead to a collapsed bite. In the case of this particular patient, who did not receive regular checkups for many years, her teeth were completely eroded and all of her teeth had to be removed and replaced with dentures. For soda drinkers, prevention is the best approach to avoid tooth erosion and decay. How often, how much and how long the soda is in your mouth are all key factors. The best advice is not to drink sodas, but that is a bit extreme. The second best piece of advice is to drink water immediately after a soda to wash away some of the acidity. Always clean your teeth promptly after drinking a soda.

Dr. Scott Harden, a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry, has served Woodstock for more than 21 years. 770-926-0000. www.FountainViewSmiles.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Health & Wellness

Don’t Procrastinate It’s Sound Advice BY JAN HENRIQUES AU. D.

Procrastinate; we all do it. Many people with hearing problems procrastinate for years about seeking help. When they do seek help, it is often because family members have become frustrated with having to work so hard to be heard. Many people with hearing loss put off getting help because they don’t want to be seen wearing hearing aids. After one patient’s hearing was evaluated, we knew hearing aids could help him, and his family, find relief from the frustration caused by his hearing problem. Thanks to modern technology, we were able to digitally program hearing aids, on the spot, for him. Instantly, he could hear many of the sounds he had been missing. For him, hearing was believing! After a few weeks with his new hearing aids, he loved

Many people with hearing loss put off getting help because they don’t want to be seen wearing hearing aids.

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what he was hearing, and was surprised by how few people noticed them. His son didn’t even notice the hearing aids, until they were pointed out. His son was so excited, he gave his dad a big hug and told him how long he had wanted his dad to get help. Now they will be able to enjoy the ball games on TV together without arguing over the volume. Today’s hearing aids are small, inconspicuous and highly sophisticated digital instruments. However, not all hearing problems are the same, and not everyone receives the same degree of benefit from hearing aids. Individuals with hearing problems deserve a caring professional, committed to helping him or her solve the issue with the best possible solution. Don’t put off getting the help you need to hear the sounds of the new year!

Jan Henriques, Au.D. a board certified audiologist and lead provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock, has been practicing since 1985. www.YourHearingLink.com.

Stress Linked to Infertility in Some Women BY DR. CARLA ROBERTS

Stress can have a big impact on your health and, for many women, it may also lead to infertility. In one study, those with the highest level of stress biomarkers had double the risk of not conceiving. It’s a vicious cycle because for many women trying to get pregnant, a failure to do so leads to even more stress. It’s certainly easier to say, lose the stress and your chances of getting pregnant may increase, but research now backs this claim: Stress can be mental at times. For example, a woman going to college for the first time becomes homesick and stressed with the courses she’s taking. Shortly thereafter, her menstrual periods stop for six months, and from a fertility standpoint, she’s no longer making eggs. Stress on the body comes in physical forms as well. If a woman’s percentage of body fat is too high or too low, she could have trouble conceiving. Certain diets that cut too many calories can have an effect, as well as exercising to excess. But stress in small doses is not always bad. Stress is an expression of the body’s natural instinct to protect itself. While this may warn a woman of immediate danger, such as a fast-approaching car, prolonged stress can negatively affect emotional and physical health. Experts say in some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches you how to decrease your stress can improve your fertility, as long as the ovaries are healthy and perimenopause is not in sight. Acupuncture and other relaxation techniques that increase blood flow to the ovaries also can help alleviate stress. Other strategies for lowering stress can include yoga, Pilates, and breathing techniques, such as meditation. Tips for reducing stress include: • Get a massage. • Go on walks. • Eat well. • Get a good night’s sleep. • Participate in hobbies you enjoy. Your doctor can help you create a plan on how to better manage your stress.

Dr. Carla Roberts is a reproductive specialist, gynecologist and endocrinologist at Reproductive Surgical Specialists. ReproductiveSurgicalSpecialists.com. 770-292-2670. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Health & Wellness

Remedies for Troublesome Winter Skin BY DR. AMY HARDIN

Winter is here and with it comes dry and cold weather. One of the common “by the way” complaints I see with kids in the office in for something else is that their skin is “ashy” or “itchy” or “rashy.” Dry skin is due to lack of moisture in the upper layers of the skin, which comes along with the cold and dry weather. This can be seen all over a child’s body—even in babies—and can look like tiny red bumps. After several weeks of dryness, the appearance can change to lighter (or darker on people of color) patches on a body due to the loss or overstimulation of melanocytes at that area. Luckily with proper treatment, the skin’s color will even out. Eczema is a common, inherited version of dry skin that is typically seen in families with allergies or dry skin. Kids with eczema suffer year round, but winter is a really bad time for them. Eczema can appear in many places, but particularly shows up as red and inflamed patches in the inner elbows and behind the knees. The first step in treating this condition is to add moisture back to the skin by using unscented and dye-free soaps such as Dove sensitive, Aveeno or Cetaphil. It’s also important to find a cream or ointment that kids will use. I always remind parents and kids the cream that will work is the one that doesn’t just sit on the counter. Kids who have really irritated skin complain

that creams and lotions burn; ointments such as Aquafor or even Vaseline are better tolerated. Creams and lotions that our patients like (many of which have generic versions) include Eucerin, Cetaphil and Aveeno. If you’ve tried moisturizers and they haven’t helped, try adding a 1 percent hydrocortisone cream or ointment. Bathing with cooler water and bathing only two or three times a week can help decrease the dry patches. If itching seems to be a big problem and your child is older than 2, an over-the-counter long-acting antihistamine like Claritin or Zyrtec can really make a difference, especially for kids who itch at night. If the rash is not getting better after a few days of treatment or it seems to be getting crusty, blistered, or if there’s ever a temperature with the rash, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician. Luckily winter’s dry and cold weather leads to spring’s warm rains and kids’ skin improves. But then here come the allergies, which is another month’s article.

Dr. Amy Hardin has been a pediatrician at Northside Pediatrics in Woodstock for more than 20 years. www.northsidepediatrics.com.

Treatment Options for Arthritis and Joint Pain BY O. JULIUS QUARCOO

Arthritis is characterized by joint pain and stiffness that can make movement difficult and painful. Some of the treatment options include taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) orally. They are effective at reducing pain and inflammation. However, their side effects can wreak havoc on the body. Some of the serious adverse effects include stomach problems like bleeding, ulcer and stomach upset. They cause fluid retention and increase the risk of high blood pressure, strokes and other heart problems. Over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs are not safer. People who assume OTC NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) are safe and therefore take them chronically for joint pain may be causing irreversible damage to their kidneys. When NSAIDs are indicated and therefore necessary to be taken for arthritic pain, compounding pharmacists can compound transdermal creams that can transport the medication through the skin, thereby avoiding oral administration of the medicine. This treatment option requires the use of a much smaller dose of the medicine compared to the oral dose. The gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and other organs are bypassed as a result, eliminating or drastically reducing the side effects of these medications. Some arthritis patients may require additional medications like muscle relaxants, which can cause drowsiness and dizziness when taken orally. By combining the muscle relaxant with NSAIDs in a simple-to-use topical cream base, side effects are mostly eliminated. The use of compounded topical pain creams can also 68

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reduce the need for narcotic drugs, which can be habit forming. Nutritional supplements that reduce pain and inflammation can be taken as alternatives to prescription painkillers. One such product combines collagen peptides and flavocoxid to offer potent antioxidant protection to reduce joint deterioration, stimulate joint repair and provide the building blocks for cartilage and ligaments. It is even safe for patients on blood thinners like warfarin, because, unlike NSAIDs, flavocoxid has little or no effect on prothrombin time (PT). Other nutritional supplement combinations that I have found effective for slowing down the progression of osteoarthritis have a proprietary blend of glucosamine sulfate (not HCL), MSM, curcumin (turmeric), hyaluronic acid and a tissue regeneration factor (TRF) that activates the cartilage-forming process.

Compounded topical pain creams can also reduce the need for narcotic drugs.

O. Julius Quarcoo, a pharmacist for 22 years, is owner of Towne Lake Family Pharmacy, which offers compounding and regular prescriptions. 770-635-7697. townelakepharmacy@yahoo.com.

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Faith

Kick Off Changes with a 40-Day Fast BY SEAN KAUFMAN

Life is tough. Change is even tougher. As we live, we establish habits and sometimes those habits are unhealthy. Recognizing the things that are not working in your life is easy. Doing something about what is not working is where we struggle. Five years ago, it was my marriage. Four years ago, my job. Three years ago, my family. Two years ago, my health. Last year, my relationship with God. What if 2016 became the year you learned how to change? Change requires several things, and the greatest of these is support. This is why a trainer at the gym, a good friend and high levels of spiritual faith can increase the success of change dramatically. The second thing change requires is time. It is not uncommon for us to want to see improvements immediately. Also, changing old habits can be scary because it leads us outside of what we consider normal. It takes time to develop a “new normal” and during this time you may experience failures. You must forgive and be kind to yourself as you are changing. It may take weeks, months, or even years to see the benefits of your “new normal,” so patience is also needed. The third thing needed for change is a commitment, a desire, an “I’m all in” approach. In my opinion there is no better way to do this than a 40-day fast, not of food, but of what you are attempting to change. For example if you wanted to decrease fat intake, possibly committing to no fast food for 40 days may

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be a good idea. Want to reduce sugar and carbonated drinks? Stop drinking them for 40 days. Want to increase your water intake? Fill a thermos and make sure to drink it for 40 days straight. Want a closer relationship to God? Take time every day for 40 days and pray. If you don’t make 40 days, start over again at day 1. Fasting doesn’t only stop behaviors, it starts them. For example, you will find alternatives to fast food that may be better for you. You will learn how to pray or discover drinking options other than soda. These lessons will be very important, as you learn more about yourself and increase the control of your day-to-day routines. The final thing needed for change is a funeral. Take a piece of paper and write the words, “I can’t.” Go outside, share some words about the role of “I can’t” in your life, bury the piece of paper and start saying, “I can” instead. This may be the most important step of all. The year of change is here! I wish all of you a very happy, healthy and successful 2016.

Sean Kaufman, an expert in behaviour change, specializes in life coaching and workforce motivation and owns The Texting Coach and Behavior-Based Improvement Solutions. sean@seankaufman.com

New, Every Year BY REV. HARDEN HOPPER

At this time every year, media of various sorts recall prominent people and events from the previous year. “Experts” predict what they expect to happen in the year ahead. Some even make predictions 10, 20 or more years ahead. A few of these predictions have been amazingly accurate, while others could not have been more wrong. In 1967, the sages predicted that by the year 2000, technology would have taken over so much that the average workweek would be 22 hours. As a result, one of our biggest problems would be deciding what to do with all our leisure time. Somehow, I do not have that problem; many of us are very busy, even in retirement. One retired member in our congregation did not know how he had ever had time to work before retirement. We seem to always be pressed for time, but to what end? As we begin 2016, will we be as busy? A better question is, will we make better use of our time? That sounds like the start of a good resolution. But where would you begin? A

As we begin 2016, will we be as busy? A better question is, will we make better use of our time?

good first step would be to begin or return to associating with the Christian community through one of our local churches. Simply attending worship will begin to increase the flow of God’s grace in your life, leading to better things in and through your life and thereby making better use of your time. A word of warning though: there are no perfect people in our churches. Perhaps that is a comfort, remembering that we all need God’s love, which comes to us and through us in Jesus Christ, giving us new life. When the days of the coming year are over, I pray that we will look back with joyful, humble satisfaction that we made a loving difference in the lives of others: our families, our friends, our community, and in the world through the ministry of Christ. I predict and believe in serving others in this way; we will stand at this point in 2017 with anticipation of even greater things the Lord has in store. For now, let us embrace Christ at work in our lives, allowing Him to make each new day better than the one before. Have a Happy New Year!

Rev. Harden Hopper is senior pastor at Bascomb United Methodist Church and a retired Lt. Colonel in the Army Reserve. He can be reached at harden.hopper@ngumc.net.

Marriage Moments: Living Life Abundantly BY BILL RATLIFF

Winter brings thoughts of outdoor sports for those who are adventurous. You can find skiing or snowboarding within a few hours of Atlanta. I would recommend riding a snowmobile if you can find one. I did that once with my wife and it was an unforgettable experience. We were leading a marriage retreat at a ski resort called WISP in the mountains near Cumberland, Md., some years ago. At that time, snowboards were not popular or readily available or maybe not even invented yet. While the others in our group had chosen to go skiing, my bad back kept me from considering that option. As a result we chose the other three options. The hot tub was a no-brainer. Sipping hot chocolate in front of the fire while watching the skiers on the slopes was irresistible. The third option was snowmobiling, which led me to talk with God. As soon as we both got on the snowmobile, I knew it could be trouble. I was told that the brakes did not really stop the vehicle, just slowed it down. Using God’s wisdom, I chose not to tell my wife about that feature of our ride. I knew there would be no ride if she was aware of that. Instead, I confidently (with great apprehension) plowed forward and we enjoyed one of the most uncontrollable thrill rides of our lives. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I came that you might have life and that you might have it more abundantly.” That was an extra special marriage retreat. My wife and I were inspired by looking at God’s plan for marriage with other couples at the retreat. We were also glad to be alive after the snowmobile excursion and experienced an adventure we have never forgotten.

Date Your Mate: During these cold January days, try one or all of the three options mentioned to break through the bleakness of the winter. I would start with the skiing or snowboarding option. I’m not sure you can find a snowmobile unless you go farther north. After your outdoor adventure, the other two options will soothe your aching body. If you are near a ski resort you will find plenty of warm hot tubs to soak in or perhaps you have one at home. A roaring fire won’t be hard to find either. Add plenty of marshmallows and whipped cream to your hot chocolate.

Bill Ratliff is the senior pastor at Towne Lake Community Church. He can be reached at 678-445-8766 or bratliff@tlcchurch.com. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Cherokee Photography Club

Congratulations to all the participants in the October “Mountains” competition.

If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to: deankelley@windstream.net

Monochromatic:

1st Eillene Kirk “Fall Finale”

2nd Martin Longstaff “Jasper Falling”

3rd Naomi Shively “Time for Fall”

Digital Projection:

1st Rick Sapp “November Afternoon” 72

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2nd Greg Watson “Blue Ridge Cabin”

3rd Eddie McClure “Upon the Water”

HM Cassandra Bickel “Time Stands Still”

Color Prints:

1st L.B. Bryant “Peek-a-Boo”

2nd Rick Sapp “Pathway to Autumn”

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 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.

3rd Vicki Sellers “Vintage Pumpkin”

HM Bill Bradford “Amicolola Detail” TOWNELAKER | January 2016

School & Sports

Program Helps Reduce Food Waste

Petra Deweese, left, and classmate Emma Eagle store donations in a refrigerator between lunches.

An E.T. Booth Middle School 7th-grader has started a new school-wide program to help others and to reduce food waste. After seeing students discard uneaten snacks, Petra Deweese began “Leave a Snack, Take a Snack” as part of the school’s #BeKind initiative. She set up containers in the cafeteria where students could donate unwanted prepackaged snacks from their lunch, such as fresh fruit, packaged carrots, cheese sticks and milk. Students who have forgotten their lunch or are still hungry may take snacks from the containers. Because of Petra’s creativity and determination, school officials said food waste is down, and students are benefiting from the program.

Students Earn Statesman Awards Woodstock High School students recently competed at the DECA State Fall Leadership Development Conference, and seven won the Statesman Award. In addition to competitions, the conference included team-building and leadership activities, inspirational and motivational speakers, and networking opportunities. DECA is a co-curricular student organization that promotes the principles of marketing, management and entrepreneurship, and supports emerging leaders through studentcentered activities and competitive events. Woodstock was represented by DECA chapter President Cydney Moore, Vice-President of Communications Stivens Salazar, Vice-President of Finance Patrick Nolen, VicePresident of Membership Kara Landsiedel, Vice-President of Community Service Ryan Brusie, Vice-President of Social Activities Michael Papadimitriou and members Maverick Borges, Tahj Brown and Ben Warwick. The Statesman Award test assesses students’ knowledge about national and state DECA; Woodstock High School students who earned this honor are: Maverick Borges, Tahj Brown, Kara Landsiedel, Cydney Moore, Front row, from left: Tahj Brown, Cydney Moore, Kara Patrick Nolen, Michael Landsiedel and Ben Warwick. Back row: Patrick Nolen, Papadimitriou and Stivens Michael Papadimitriou, Stivens Salazar, Maverick Borges and Ryan Brusie. Salazar.

Junior Eagles Win Tournament The fifth grade Etowah Junior Eagles basketball team participated in the Gerald Martin/Carson Tool Thanksgiving Basketball Tournament and won the division with a 6-0 record. The team finished the regular season and playoffs 10-0. Team members included, from left, Josh Sebring, Benjamin Pierce, Sawyer Lofstrom, Rand Miller, Kyle Tipper, Mason Etter, Chase Clemmons, Ryan Tipper and Brandon Rechsteiner. Not pictured: Dalton Silverman.

Spring Lacrosse Sign-up Begins in January Cherokee Youth Lacrosse (Recreational Youth Lacrosse) 2016 spring season registration is open through Jan. 15. Register online at crpa. net or in person at the Cherokee Recreation Center. Late registration will take place Jan. 18–22 to fill remaining spots. For more information visit the website at www.crpa.net or call 770-924-7768. Registration is open for the spring lacrosse season for boys in grades four through eight and who live in the Woodstock High School district. The cost is $275 per player with discounts for siblings and friend referrals. All players must be members of US Lacrosse. For more information, email Emily Whitlock at wolverineyouthlax@gmail.com. 74

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Bascomb Raises Funds for Animal Shelter Bascomb Elementary School recently raised more than $650 for the Cherokee County Animal Shelter. Students contributed the money through a Hat Day fundraiser sponsored by the school’s Paws and Claws Klub (PACK).

Academic Bowl Winners Woodstock Middle School’s team won the Cherokee County School District 2015 Middle School Academic Bowl. The team, led by captain Michael Brown, includes Dayne Bergman, Abby Borland, Laney Brussard, Caitlan Callahan, Tess Cope, Abi Halls, Bryce Hunter, Daniel Jackson, Camilo Rincon and Matt Rudolph. The coaches are teachers Charmaine Spink and Rosa Frederick The competition was among the seven district middle schools and for the first time in the school district’s history, there was a three-way tie for first place; which was finally decided by a three-question tiebreaker. The team will represent the district at the PAGE Regional Academic Bowl Competition this month.

Front row, from left: Zane Gibson, Cooper Nelson, Lana Fischer, Katie Gantt, Abbie Smith, Ashlyn Forrester and Kaylynne Barfield; back row: Jaidyn Novak, Gavin Groef, Lynn Robertson, Ty Phillips, Memphis Sorrels, Sophia Berry, Nate Watson, Ashlin Melton, Elaina Lee, Gracye Lamb and Breanna Welton.

Boston Students Support Wounded Warriors Project

Front row, from left: Abby Borland, Daniel Jackson, Michael Brown (captain), Laney Broussard and Caitlyn Callahan; back row: Dayne Bergman, Abi Halls, Tess Cope, Bryce Hunter and Matthew Rudolph.

“Star Wars” STEM Night Makes Learning Fun Woodstock Middle School recently hosted a “Star Wars” themed STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) night with more than 200 students and their families participating in the learning fun. Students traveled from station to station learning STEM concepts through activities that incorporated the “Star Wars” theme. Media specialist Wendy Cope said the idea came from the school’s Maker Monday student group, which also led the activities for their classmates and families. Through “Star Wars” snowflakes, inspired by graphic designer Anthony Herrera, students learned about snowflake design and had the opportunity to replicate Herrera’s designs or design their own. Other popular stations included creating structures, like a 3-foot-tall Death Woodstock Middle School Star, made of dry spaghetti and mini 8th-grader Townes Bolt marshmallows, building droids with takes part in the Death Star spaghetti engineering Legos, trivia, photography and more.

Boston Elementary School’s Junior Beta Club recently raised $380 for the Wounded Warrior Project through a candy gram sale. The Junior Beta Club is an organization that promotes the ideals of academic achievement, character, leadership and service. Teachers Lynn Robertson and Teri Gresham sponsor the club. Nate Watson, a veteran and former Wounded Warrior Project assistance recipient, accepted the donation on behalf of the organization and spoke to the students about its mission.

Students Helping Others Woodstock High School students in the Interact service club and Spanish Honor Society, sponsored by teacher Sonya Breaux, have been busy helping others in their community. The students recently delivered coats they collected to North Fulton Charities. In addition to helping others stay warm, the students Brittney Zambrano selects a coat to match a practiced their Spanish-speaking skills recipient’s size. during the distribution event. They also visited residents at the Colbert Square assisted living center in Woodstock to celebrate the holidays and fall birthdays. The festivities included serving residents sugar-free desserts. Preparing desserts are, from left, Matthew Waldroop, Brittney Zambrano, Shamya Versey, Joselynne Jaimes, Jacob Eastridge and Claudia Miklosik. Rekaiya McCall and Leslie Salazar also attended the event.

challenge.

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School & Sports

A Novel Idea: Character Conflict

CREATIVE WRITING ENTRIES SUBMITTED BY JOE LEMMO’S 7TH GRADE E.T. BOOTH LANGUAGE ARTS CLASS

Each month, Joe Lemmo will feature a different story element from students who are working on writing novels. This month’s focus is on creating conflict between characters. I got pushed and shoved by the people surrounding me. I pulled my body off of the squeaky seat and started toward Fennec. “What’s going on?” I demanded to know. “Don’t worry yourself, everything will be much clearer later.” Fennec assured me. “Now follow me,” he Alexandra Feldam added dryly. I followed Fennec reluctantly as I shuffled my feet across the smooth floor. I followed him into a narrow hall guided by dim flickering lights. My eyes shifted in all directions, something didn’t feel right. A man came limping out of one of the rooms connected to the hallway. “You! You!” he yelled angrily as he pointed a bony finger at me. “It’s all your fault!” He added looking at me in disgust. His loud voice echoed through the hallway, bouncing off the walls. “What did I do?” I asked, slightly raising my voice. “You know what you did! You exposed us!” He yelled as he shoved me. Anger spewed out of his mouth. His face turned red with anger. Before he could do anything worse, Fennec tugged at my arm. “We need to go,” he urged. I nodded, pulling away from the furious man in front of me, avoiding eye contact. We twisted and turned through the winding hallway. I continued to follow him until we reached a splintered door that stood tall in the center of the hallway. I turned the doorknob and forced the door open. The room was empty, all except a small bed that sat in the corner of the room, and the nightstand that stood beside it. The room was dark, but had a small glass window covered by light drapes. Fennec turned toward me. “This is where you will be staying for the night. We move by sunrise.” And with that, Fennec left the room and closed the door behind him. The flowing water echoed through the hallway as the boys walked into the final room of the temple. There laid piles of gold, silver and platinum coins. Large gems sat on the floor, looking very old, but also shiny. In the center of the room, there was a large copper and gold coffer containing the five silver Alex Smith coins that Steve and Ben were searching for. Steve picked up the large metal artifacts, but then he exclaimed, “We don’t have enough room for these in the backpack! It’s full of the samples we collected earlier, and our exploring gear!” Ben quickly replied, annoyed, “We can’t carry these on our own, they are too heavy.” “Should we take the slime samples and research them when we get home, or should we complete the task we were hired for and bring back the coins?” asked Steve, thinking hardly about the decision at hand. “We should remove the toolkit and just carry it,” said Ben. “But I lost the case and it’s a ton of individual pieces,” groaned Steve. “It would be a pain to carry all 39 parts of that portable chemistry set.” “What about the slime samples?” Ben questioned. “We don’t really need them.” Steve hastily replied. “No. We need to research those for science.” As the boys tried to find something to remove from their backpack, the glow of the setting sun barely visible above began slowly dimming, until fading into an eerie darkness. 76

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Waynlor’s father’s impatience and anger grew and grew whenever his son was unable to grant his false wishes. Eventually, his father became so blind with utter hatred for his son that he crept into his room one night, the night before his seventh birthday, and kidnapped him! Waynlor, being asleep, did Jedidiah Davis not know what was happening. In the outskirts of the town in which he and his family lived, Waynlor was taken to a run-down orphanage. Not wanting for his son to remember his powers, his father woke him up and attempted to knock him unconscious. He screamed when he saw a large figure stooping before him. He had no idea that it was his father! Waynlor’s father dove toward him, and despite his struggles, was able to smack him in the temple and Waynlor’s body went limp. Waynlor was left all alone, abandoned and abused by his greedy father, lost and grieved for by his mother (his father never told her the truth about Waynlor), and living in a filthy shack full of rowdy and selfish young children. Every night, when going to sleep on a bed of pine needles in the basement, Waynlor would hope that his parents would find him, though he did not know who they were or what they were like. Day in and day out, Waynlor was teased, bullied, and friendless. He never got enough food and was mostly ignored by the manager of the orphanage. Sometimes, he would feel imprisoned, and would go mad, throwing tantrums. As he cried in bed one night, Waynlor saw a shooting star through the broken planks of the ceiling. Carefully sneaking out of the basement and outside, Waynlor saw a meteor shower! He kneeled down on the grass, closed his eyes, and gained hope. When I got home, I went up to my room and saw the boxes for the move. I couldn’t believe it was happening so soon. My mom told me if I didn’t start packing immediately, I would get a smaller room than my brothers. I tried packing, but I didn’t have the urge to do it. I Lauren Saale felt like I had two people on my shoulders: the angel and the devil, and I couldn’t understand which side I was on. The angel side was telling me to pack because moving to Miami could be a great opportunity, and if I didn’t, I would get a smaller room than my brothers. So I started to pack, but all of a sudden, the devil side spoke up and said that I shouldn’t pack, because I’m just leaving my friends and home. He told me to take a stand and show my parents I don’t want to move. Then the angel side said that the move could be a good thing. After a while they just kept bickering back and forth. In the end, I decided to just pack because I doubt that I would be able to change my mom’s mind anyway.

Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County for the last 15 years.

Welcome to

photo by Darleen Prem

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

Ridgewalk Pkwy

To I-575 Exit 9

Woodstock Community Church

Trolley Routes outlined in red

T Dobbs Rd

Rope Mill Rd

- park in marked spaces only - parking in Woodstock UMC lot is M-Sa only

On-Street Parking - park in marked spaces only

City Center

Pkwy

Woodstock UMC (M-Sa) St

Trail

er St

n St

Mca

ar d Rd

Reeves St

tim

CSB Bank (after 5PM)

ry St

iley

Pade

Fowler St

Hicko

Reformation Brewery Fri 6:00-close Sat 2:00-close Sun 2:00-close

Wheel

Oak St

le St

T T

Elm

Map

in St

reek

E Ma

day C

To GA Hwy 140

Noon

T Park at City Center Arnold Mill Rd

Mill

ffee

Lake

Route and schedule subject to change Check downtownwoodstock.org/trolley for more info

Cham bers

Town e

Wall

To I-575 Exit 8

Mark et S t

Fridays 6-10 PM Saturdays 2-10 PM Sundays 2-6 PM

Chattahoochee Technical College

Kyle St

FALL 2015 SCHEDULE:

Main

Trolley Stop

T St

Public Parking Lots

Woodstock

T Public Library

Main

The Outlet Shoppes

T at Atlanta at Nike

To GA Hwy 92

r Pe

ns ki

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Downtown Woodstock

Christmas Parade 2015: Behind the Scenes

Participants put finishing touches on their floats before the Woodstock parade. Director of Tourism Kyle Bennett said the parade began in 1997 as the Woodstock Centennial Parade to celebrate the anniversary of the day the city received its charter from the state of Georgia - Dec. 8, 1897. The parade is always held on the first Saturday of the month to be as close as possible to the anniversary date. Photos by Darleen Prem.

Giving Backâ&#x20AC;Ś One Song at a Time

Students at Woodstock Elementary School shared some Christmas cheer with the firefighters at Station 10. Photos by Darleen Prem.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

SHOP

With a Hero

2015

Thanks to the generosity of donations to the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation and a grant from Walmart, 154 children were able to spend $75 each at the Shop with a Hero event in December. Representatives from the Woodstock fire and police departments spent time helping each family shop. Photos by Darleen Prem.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Downtown Woodstock

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 Brunch freightkitchen.com Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican no $ $-$$ open Full bar yes 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas Southern Sunday no $$$$ open Beer/Wine yes 108 Arnold Mill Rd. Brunch 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $$ $$ open Full bar 6 persons+ 405 Chambers St. Brunch 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar yes 8670 Main St. Brunch 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub no $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar no 8690 Main St. (678) 903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English no $$ no closed no yes 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 Tea room tealeavesandthyme.com

Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com

Variety of Food trucks

$-$$

open

Craft Beer

Village Market & Cafe 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Vingenzo’s 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com

American European

$-$$

open

Beer/Wine

limited

Italian

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

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

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Elm Street:

Movies and Theater - Are they the same? BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

Over and over we hear “acting for the stage” and “acting for the camera” grouped into the same category. It’s a fun thing to think about really (if you are a nerd like me). Actually, if you think about it, acting for the stage and camera are quite different. For instance, acting for the stage requires you to be “in character” for sometimes hours on end without breaking, truly a testament of mental endurance (if you think otherwise, I dare you to come out and audition). Conversely, acting for the camera is equally hard, going in and out of character the instant someone says “action” or “cut.” Particularly, it is intriguing to see how the gap from stage to camera or vice versa is being closed. The most noticeable bridge is the rise of NBC’s live musicals, like the recent production of “The Wiz.” Fox will join the action with a live performance of the musical “Grease” at the end of this month. There is also a growing trend in London, where theaters produce small live broadcasted performances online. And of course, we have seen successful movies based off Broadway shows, most notably “Chicago” (2002), “Hairspray” (2007) and “Into the Woods” (2014). The merging of the film into theater performances is growing, and I believe this is ultimately good for the theater community. Even when a musical movie flops, more often than not it helps a mainstream culture that accepts these live shows, when perhaps before it was not accepted into pop culture. But we have to be careful that these movies or live broadcasted productions don’t upstage the theater itself. How? Focus on the story being told and not on the spectacle. Yes, some stories are just written for the stage (or film) and maybe shouldn’t cross media, but they will inevitably. A perfect example of this comes with “On Golden Pond.” Most people know and remember it as a movie, but few know that it was actually a successful play two years before the movie’s release. Both were received quite well, which can be attributed to the fact that when the play was adapted into a screenplay, the focus remained on the relationships and the vulnerability of the story, not on all of the new realistic places they could go since they were filming. Elm Street will be producing the stage play “On Golden Pond” and this group has tried to capture those genuine moments. We hope you will join us during those shows to create some new spectacular moments.

The merging of the film into theater performances is growing.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

JANUARY

15, 16, 22, 23 AT 7:30PM 17 & 24 AT 2:00PM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SPRING CLASSES ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251

Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, works as the operations director for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Downtown Woodstock

History is Not

Just a Thing of the Past BY KYLE BENNETT

Anyone interested in the history of Woodstock should consider becoming involved with Preservation Woodstock, Inc., an organization dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of the city for future generations by sponsoring activities that focus attention on historic events, locations and people who have contributed to the city. Preservation Woodstock’s roots date to the city’s centennial celebration in 1997. At that time, the organization was known as the Woodstock Centennial Commission and members helped plan centennial-related activities, such as the publication of “Georgia’s Woodstock: A Centennial Tribute.” The decision was made to change the name to Preservation Woodstock based on the organization’s historic focus and its goal of continuing to spotlight the city’s history. One of Preservation Woodstock’s most visible projects is the placing of plaques explaining the history of the city’s oldest buildings. The group also helps organize exhibits that focus on unique aspects of Woodstock history. Past Preservation Woodstock exhibits have focused on the Woodstock Train Depot, women in Woodstock History, the Cherokee Atomedic Hospital and Woodstock Elementary School. Preservation Woodstock also offers crucial support to the

Dean’s Store, first Coca Cola fountain.

Woodstock Visitors Center at the historic Dean’s Store. This venue gives residents and visitors the chance to experience the look and feel of Woodstock in earlier decades. Historical themed ornaments, magnets and books that are fundraisers for Preservation Woodstock are also available for purchase at the visitors center. The next time you are in downtown Woodstock enjoying a meal at one of the great new restaurants, shopping at the wonderful stores or having fun at a festival, keep in mind that you are standing among the history that has helped shape the Woodstock we all know and love. If you are interested in becoming involved with Preservation Woodstock, Inc., please call 770-924-0406 or check out the website at www.preservationwoodstock.com. Preservation Woodstock meets at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of January, March, May, July, September and November at the Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Kyle Bennett is the director of tourism for the Woodstock Downtown Development Authority. He can be reached at kbennett@woodstockga.gov.

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

Date: January 29 Topic: State of the City Address Speaker: Mayor Donnie Henriques For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 • downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, ÂŠ OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.

It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2016) - This approximately 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South. Rubes Creek Trail (2016) - This 1 mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails.

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN NOVEMBER

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

A New Year, A New Plan — Let’s Build

When a Saver Marries a Spender

but this is a blueprint. In order to build a strong structure, we must use the plan, starting with one building block at a time. Luckily Cherokee has a strong foundation to build on, including a talented workforce, unique cities, great infrastructure and strong leadership. Once complete, we will be able to step back and look at what has been created—a stronger Cherokee with a thriving workforce working in their home community, a culture where entrepreneurs have the tools to grow, and a county that is a leader in the region. There are so many opportunities! Let’s work together as a community and build.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Content prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note: investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

continued from page 21

Who Wants the Home in the Divorce? continued from page 19

• Stay in the home together: Some couples can’t afford to maintain two households and choose to share the home. Pro: Saves money and keeps both parents in the home. Con: 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 children remain in the home and the parents spend their visitation time with the children in the children’s home. Pro: Stability for the children. Pro: Limited interaction between the spouses. Con: Difficult for the spouses to establish new relationships after the divorce.

Know the Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana continued from page 62

There are various brands of synthetic marijuana. It looks like traditional dried herbs, which can be green, brown, red or blonde, and the packages are generally two-by-three-inch foil pouches or zipper-lock bags. •Watch your teen’s spending. Synthetic marijuana costs anywhere from $20 to $60 a package. If your teen is going through an unusual amount of money, ask questions. •Talk to them! Let your children know how dangerous synthetic marijuana is and your expectations that they will not use it or any other drugs.

Turkey in the Freezer is a Timely Gift continued from page 43

During this holiday season we were reminded that God loved us so much that He gave: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16 May we give to others the same extravagant grace and speak words of life to all we meet. 86

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

continued from page 44

Forty Days in the Life of a Legislator continued from page 34

of the busier committees even divide into subcommittees to better tailor their debate, which can also lead to a doubling of the number of meetings held by those committees’ members. From there, it’s relatively smooth, unpredictable sailing until we arrive at day 30, which is known as crossover day. This is because it is the final day that a bill is able to cross over from the House to the Senate (or vice versa). That means if I file a bill in the House, it must be passed by the House by the end of day 30 or it will be lost. Prior to day 30, the House can consider House or Senate bills. After day 30, it can consider only Senate bills. This keeps the chambers moving and prioritizing bills that have passed the halfway point and have a potential to reach the governor’s desk in the last 10 days. Days 39 and 40 are expectedly swamped. All of the work of each member and committee from the session has been stacked and awaits us on these two days. We plan to be in session in the chamber debating legislation until after midnight on day 39, and up until midnight (which is when we are constitutionally required to stop, as the 40th permitted day has expired) on day 40. The 40th day is traditionally known as “Sine Die” (Latin for the last day). As the clock strikes midnight, you can hear the majority leader yell the words “Sine Die” and our constitutionally permitted role for the year has come to an end. As you can imagine, we devote a tremendous amount of effort and heart into the legislative session. I ask that you please devote some time to praying for those in our state Capitol this year as we strive to represent our families wisely and do the right things to establish a strong, prosperous Georgia. If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out to me on my cell phone at 678-523-8570 or email me at Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You can also meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees with District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly!

Bringing Awareness to a ‘Forgotten Plague’

New Film, TV Education Opportunities

to tell the story of his suffering and educate viewers about the devastation caused by M.E., which “is denigrated as chronic fatigue syndrome” by the CDC. In 2012 while reporting for USA Today, Ryan wrote a piece about his battle with ME/CFS. This piece struck a galvanizing chord across the patient population and the outcry from readers was intense,” according to the film’s press release. “The response prompted Ryan to enter a much deeper investigation of the historic roots of the disease and into current and future research seeking its cause and ultimate cure.” Throughout the film, Ryan interviews doctors, scientists, journalists and patients to better understand this perplexing condition. He discovers breakthrough research that can finally objectively diagnosis the disease. At the same time, he sees more and more that the illness is far worse than he imagined, and he is continually shocked by the heartbreak and loss he sees firsthand. According to the Washington-based National Academy of Science, between 836,000 and 2.5 million Americans live with this afflicting disorder. Ryan also has established the nonprofit The Blue Ribbon Foundation to promote education on ME/CFS and coordinate medical internships for ME/CFS training. There is no admission charge to see the documentary. Ryan will be available for an informal question and answer session following the viewing. For more details, email Mary marymaprior@gmail.com or Tom Prior tomprior135@gmail.com.

Elm Street’s involvement in the event is the beginning of the partnership that will bring film professionals to Woodstock. Through her contacts in the movie industry, Laureen will arrange for professionals to lead workshops at Elm Street and be guest speakers for classes at Chattahoochee Tech. By bringing more professionals to this area, she hopes to generate interest in attracting film and television projects to Cherokee County. Chattahoochee Tech is offering two film classes beginning this month: The Business of Show Business and Acting for the Camera. Additional classes will be added in the future. Laureen and guest instructors currently working in casting, production and editing will teach the Business of Show Business class. At Elm Street, a self-taping workshop, set for this month, will teach actors how to create their own audition tapes. The instructor will be Jim Dougherty, a filmmaker and actor with IT certifications who has successfully booked roles via self tape and live auditions on “Chicago P.D.,” “The Inspectors” and “Carol.” Christopher Brazelton, operations director for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, said he is excited about the partnership. “We are happy to get our foot in the door of the film and TV industry that’s growing so much in the Atlanta area and Georgia in general. We were happy to host the event and look forward to offering classes and educational forums at Elm Street.” For more information, visit www.elmstreetarts.org and www.chattahoocheetech.edu and on Facebook at RCM Talent Workshops.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Reference

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce 770-345-0400 Cherokee County Government:

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

Taxes:

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 678-493-6400 Woodstock Office 770-924-4099 Voter Registration 770-479-0407

Children/Family:

Anna Crawford Children’s Center Bethesda Community Clinic Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club Cherokee Family Violence Center Cherokee Focus Child Support Enforcement Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) www.casacherokee.org Department of Family & Children Services The Hope Center MUST Cherokee Ministries Papa’s Pantry

770-345-8100 678-880-9654 770-720-7712 770-479-1804 770-345-5483 770-720-3581 770-345-3274 770-720-3610 770-924-0864 770-479-5397 770-591-4730

Driver’s Licenses (Tues — Sat) 678-413-8400 Fire Department (District 1, Station 20) 770-926-7155 Georgia State Patrol 770-205-5400 Health Department 770-345-7371 Hospitals:

Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000 North Fulton Hospital 770-751-2500 Northside Hospital — Cherokee 770-720-5100

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 Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

770-479-1703 770-345-7920 404-616-9000 800-222-1222 770-704-2610 770-428-2666

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Parks and Recreation:

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 www.cherokeega-animals.org 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:

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

Urgent Care Facility

American Family Care, 6440 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-200-1220 Northside Cherokee Urgent Care, 900 Towne Lake Pkwy 404-851-6577 SHEFA Urgent Care 2000 Village Professional Dr. #110, Canton 678-661-3166 Wellstar Urgent Care 678-494-2500

Woodstock, City of:

(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

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

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

Sen. David Perdue (R)

B40D Dirksen Senate Ofc. Bldg., Washington, DC 20510 perdue.senate.gov

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)

131 Russell Senate Ofc. Bldg., Washington DC 20510 3625 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 970, Atlanta, GA 30339 isakson.senate.gov

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

202-456-1414 fax: 202-456-2461 202-224-3521 GA: 678-248-6444

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

State Government Governor Nathan Deal (R)

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

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

404-463-1378

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

678-523-8570

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

678-576-2644

Rep. Wes Cantrell (R) District 22 wes@cantrellforhouse.com

770-722-7526

Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R) District 23

404-656-0254

scot@turnerforhouse.com

mandi.ballinger@house.ga.gov

Rep. John Carson (R) District 46 john.carson@house.ga.gov

404-656-0287

Superior Court 678-493-6260 678-493-6270 678-493-6240

State Court Judge W. Alan Jordan Judge A. Dee Morris

678-493-6490 678-493-6480

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

L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman

lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Steve West (R) District 1 Ray Gunnin (R) District 2 rgunnin@cherokeega.com

Brian Poole (R) District 3 bpoole@cherokeega.com

Scott Gordon (R) District 4 sgordon@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby

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

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

678-493-6431 678-493-6431

Probate Court 678-493-6160

Sonya Little

2780 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114 slittle@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County School Board Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo 221 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

www.cherokeega-sheriff.org 678-493-4100 fax: 678-493-4228

678-493-6400 fax: 678-493-6420 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us 770-479-1871 fax: 770-479-1236

Kyla Cromer (R) (Chair)

678-493-8088

Kelly Poole (R) District 1

678-895-9044

Patsy Jordan (R) District 2 patsy.jordan@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-893-2970

John Harmon (R) District 3

404-462-4950

kyla.cromer@cherokee.k12.ga.us

john.harmon@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Rick Steiner (R) District 4

rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Clark Menard (R) District 5

770-721-4398, x4370 770-928-0341

Mike Chapman (R) District 6 mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us City Government Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood

770-704-1544

Juvenile Court

770-735-8055

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

clark.menard@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Judge Keith Wood (R)

Commissioners

kelly.poole@cherokee.k12.ga.us

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

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

swest@cherokeega.com

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R) District 11 238 Cannon House Ofc. Bldg., Washington DC 20515 202-225-2931 9898 Highway 92, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188 GA: 770-429-1776 loudermilk.house.gov

michael.caldwell@house.ga.gov

1130 Bluffs Pkwy., Canton, GA 30114

www.canton-georgia.gov

Chief Judge John B. Sumner Judge Anthony Baker

Holly Springs Mayor Timothy Downing

770-345-5536

District Attorney Shannon Wallace

678-493-6250 678-493-6280 770-479-1488

Clerk of Courts Patty Baker

678-493-6511

Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

770-592-6001

www.hollyspringsga.us. www.woodstockga.gov

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Reference

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org

AME

Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org

BAPTIST

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 www.crossroadspbc.org Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 230 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org

River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will Baptist Church 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.lifewaylink.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.com

Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org

ORTHODOX

St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564 www.cherokee-pca.org.

First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org

Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org

First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org

EPISCOPAL

Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us

First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org

New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448 www.newvicbaptist.org

Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.annunciationepiscopal.org Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

JEWISH

Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org

Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869 www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-3558 www.heritagepres.com Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074 www.woodstockpcusa.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC

Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org

Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com

New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org

UNITED METHODIST

BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org

North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombchurch.org Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.ngumc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.ngca.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572 www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Cornerstone Community 503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.info Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 110 Londonderry Court, Suite 130, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv

Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Trail Hill, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Community Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Soul Medicine 3725 Sixes Road Canton Soulmedicinesunday.org Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Watermarke 2126 Sixes Road, Canton 678-880-9092 www.watermarkechurch.com Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | January 2016

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont Contact: Jacqueline Miller Van Hook, 678-493-3618 Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. every Wednesday at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock Contact: Marci Zied 770-345-8687 Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock www.cherokeetoastmasters.com

Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Contact: Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: 770-928-5115 or admin@cchumanesociety.org www.cchumanesociety.org Cherokee FOCUS works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Contact: Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org

Empowered Women Through Synergy Meets: 8:30 a.m. third Thursday at J Christopher’s, 315 Chambers Street, Woodstock Contact: Shahida Baig 678-445-3900

Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. Contact: 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320 www.cherokeega.com/senior-services

The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations Contact: Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 http://xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/

Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. Contact: 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com

Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: 770-615-3350 www.tlba.org

Companion Animal Connection Contact: 678-493-9847 www.adoptapet.com

Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7:15-8:45 a.m. every Friday at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock Contact: Marc Replogle 770-952-5000, ext. 20 or 404-816-3377 www.powercore.net Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: info@womenofwoodstock.com www.womenofwoodstock.com Charitable Organizations Ahimsa House helps victims of domestic violence 24-hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 404-452-6248 www.ahimsahouse.org Angel House Girls Home is a residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. Contact: 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com Anna Crawford Children’s Center is dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. Contact: 678-504-6388 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Bethany Place is a transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. Contact: 770-479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.org CASA for Children promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. Contact: 770-345-3274 www.casacherokee.org CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Contact: 770-592-8072 Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. Contact: 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. Contact: aaeverydayangels@gmail.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. Contact: 770-795-9348 office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Contact: Gina Jeter 770-842-8893 www.funds4furryfriends.com Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. Contact: 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.org Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly backto-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Green Shelters America animal rescue group. Contact: 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@ gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Harvesting Hope Ministries gives surgery care packs to children facing liver and kidney failure. Contact: dawn@harvestinghopeministries.org www.harvestinghopeministries.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org

HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. Contact: 770-924-0864 or info@TheHopeCtr.com www.hopectr.com HOPE Center — Baby & More Thrift Store offers adult and children’s clothing. Contact: 770-517-4450 www.babyandmorethriftstore.com MUST Ministries offers groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org National Alliance for Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org Never Alone Outreach provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. Contact: 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. Contact: 706-253-6303 www.ngapregnancy.org Papa’s Pantry is a year-round local food ministry, which also includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. Contact: Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org Pet Buddies Food Pantry helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. Contact: 678-310-9858 www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. Contact: 770-721-7808 www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Also offers mission trips. Contact: 770-516-1108 www.servone.org Volunteer Aging Council is a nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. Contact: 770-310-3474 www.vac-cherokeega.org VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. Contact: Irma Martin 678-662-2366 Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. Contact: Andrew Yrabedra 404-663-4663 CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills. Contact: Rich 770-926-1944 Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room) www.saltcherokee.com

Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org

Recreation & Hobbies Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events , outings Contact: Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net

Citizen Oversight and Education Contact: 678-520-2236, citizenoversighteducation@ yahoo.com

Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com

Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. Contact: Marcie Zied 770-345-8687 Junior Service League of Woodstock Contact: 770-592-3535 http://jslwoodstock.org/ Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20 Contact: Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@ edgoodwinassociates.com www.pilotinternational.com Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 770-480-4179 Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Featherstone’s Grille at 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock www.townelakerotary.com Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 678-428-6514 Service League of Cherokee County Contact: 770-704-5991 http://serviceleague.net South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills. Contact: 770-926-3522 Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Eagle Watch Golf Club. Contact: 404-557-2218 www.townelakeoptimists.com Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. Contact: 770-926-8336 Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Contact: 770-906-2958 POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs Contact: 770-345-3489 www.cherokeedemocrats.com Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock http://cherokeelp.org Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at Jump Kitchen & Saloon, 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Woodstock Contact: 678-882-0915 http://cherokeecounty.gop Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli 770-378-8232, conradquag@gmail.com www.teapartypatriots.org/groups/cherokee-tea-partypatriots/ Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton Contact: 770-592-7811 or jkconkey@gmail.com Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at the Chick-fil-a on 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall Contact: Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922 Republican Women of Cherokee County Contact: 678-520-2236 www.rwccga.com

Cherokee Community Chorale Contact: 678-439-8625 www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton Contact: 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners Contact: 770-721-7803 www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/ mastergardeners Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Soccer Association Contact: 770-704-0187 www.csaimpact.com Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org Kingdom Riders, a forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons is for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org

Breast Cancer Support Group Meets: 10 a.m. - noon first Thursday of each month at Northside Hospital—Cherokee, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center Contact: 404-843-1880 Celebrate Recovery Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. Contact: 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist Contact: 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House Contact: 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton Contact: 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com Cherokee County Support Group Provides support for people with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, etc. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Rd, Holly Springs Contacts: Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@ comcast.net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294 christystephenson@msn.com Cherokee County Special Olympics Provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association For pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock www.cherokeeministers.org Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock Contact: Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence Contact: 404-824-4637, gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org

Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. Contact: 770-924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com

Grace Valley Ministries Connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. Contact: 727-251-7690, info@gracevalleyministries.org www.gracevalleyministries.org

Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton www.cherokeechapter.com

Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Contact: Jeannie 770-919-9275

William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Contact: 678-445-6518

Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter For people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. Contact: nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. http://www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton Meets: 8 pm Thursday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen 8 pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Contact: Reba. 770-516-3502 www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.php?district=17 American Heart Association - Cherokee Division Contact: 678-385-2013 American Red Cross metro chapter Contact: 770-428-2695

La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church Contact: Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770517-0191 MOMS Club of Woodstock-TowneLake Contact: momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: 770-924-4777 Unlimited Possibilities Support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center

Contact: Kelly 678-677-2589

TOWNELAKER | January 2016

Townelaker

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING/FINANCIAL SERVICES

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707

Hill & Hill Financial 770-672-0402 www.hillandhillfinancial.com

J RAY, CPA, PC 404-994-5102 www.JRAYCPA.com

Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA 678-919-1250 jjacksoncpa.com

Hartman Imbriale Attorneys 678-445-7423 www.hartman-imbriale.com

Limbocker Law 678-401-6836 www.limbockerlawfirm.com

55 9

Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 19 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com Towne Lake’s Carwash and Detail 43 770-592-8102 www.townelakescarwashanddetail.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA Azure Salon & Spa 770-345-8280 www.AzureSalon.net

Jyl Craven Hair Design 770-345-9411 www.jylcraven.com

Salon Gloss 678-483-8900 www.salongloss.biz Salon Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com 94 TOWNELAKER | January 2016

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Spillane Orthodontics 770-928-4747 www.SpillaneOrtho.com

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Dr. Ray Morgan 770-591-7929 www.RayMorganDMD.com

Joint Chiropractic, The 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

Optimum Health 770-516-7477 www.optimumhealthrehab.com

Above Grade Learning Center 678-313-3301 www.AboveGrades.com

Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com

Goddard School, The 770-516-0880 www.GoddardSchool.com

Grant Academy, The 770-926-7827 www.thegrantacademy.net

Master’s Training Center, The 770-591-9588

Hillside United Methodist Church 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org

CLEANING SERVICES Carpet Dry-Tech 678-368-5991 www.carpetdrytech.com

Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743

Rejoice Maids 678-905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

COMPUTERS Cherokee Computer Guys 678-889-5900 www.ccrguys.com

DENTAL

Music Together 678-613-2048 www.musictogether.com

North Cobb Christian School 770-975-0252 www.ncchristian.org

Ralph Iossa, Piano Instructor 973-519-6863 www.woodstockpianolessons.com

Towne Lake Academy North Campus: 770-928-6162 South Campus: 770-928-9134

Towne Lake Driving School 678-494-2200 www.TowneLakeDrivingSchool.com

FUNERAL SERVICES

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Advanced Dental Restorations, LLC 678-810-0881 www.BringBackSmiles.com

Inside Back

EDUCATION / INSTRUCTION

CHURCHES

AUTOMOTIVE

Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com

44, 87

CHIROPRACTIC

Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.Debranski.com

Bavarian Repair 770-310-2381 www.bavarianrepair.com

Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

Downtown Buzz 770-592-6056 www.downtownwoodstock.org/ downtownbuzz

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 62 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com

Fountain View Family Dentistry 770-926-0000 www.fountainviewsmiles.com

Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations Inside front 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com HEALTH & FITNESS Anytime Fitness 877-MY-ANYTIME www.anytimefitness.com Plae Hard plaehard.com

Cover, 48,49

PHIIT Club at R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR 30

AquaDoc Plumbing 770-516-9000 www.plumdr.com

Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

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Coastal Interiors 404-731-5748

Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.AnimalAtlanta.com

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com

Wellstar 770-956-STAR (7827) wellstar.org

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Danny Griffin Photography 404-500-9019 www.DannyGriffinPhoto.com

Inside front 47

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Towne Lake Family Pharmacy 770-635-7697 www.TowneLakePharmacy.com Towne Lake Primary Care Family Medicine 678-445-0819

PHOTOGRAPHER

Cloud Communications & Security 678-576-3076 cloudtelecominc.com

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

PET/VETERINARIAN SERVICES & SUPPLIES

Atlanta Prestige Flooring 770-516-3227 www.atlantaprestigeflooring.com

Blue Horizon Air Conditioning & Heating 678-279-2244 BHCool.com

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

Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com

Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage, Tara Daigle, Realtor 404-925-6351 tara@keatingbrs.com Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Tomlinson Team, The Cathy Tomlinson: 770-365-6193 or 678-494-2953, 770-517-2150 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

Donna Charitat: 770-309-0253, 770-517-2150, www.MyAgentDonna.com Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.DrFixitPHD.com

Grout Doctor, The 678-383-1311 www.GroutDoctor.com

Hammocks Heating & Air 770-794-0428 www.HammocksHVAC.com

North Georgia Foot and Ankle Reconstruction, Dr. Bret Hintze 770-999-0804 www.NGFAR.com

Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com

Northside Hospital -Cherokee www.northside.com

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Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.MrJunk1.com

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 678-388-5485 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Northside Cherokee Surgical Assoc. 770-924-9656 www.ncsurgicalassociates.com

Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com

Northside Pediatric & Adolesc. Medicine 51 770-928-0016 www.northsidepediatrics.com

Papa P’s 770-592-3100 www.papa-ps.com

Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com

Northwest ENT & Allergy Center 770-427-0368 www.nwent.com

Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910

SOTO Remodeling 404-376-5443

Piedmont Physicians 678-388-5750 piedmontphysicians.org

INSURANCE Insurance Group of the Southeast 770-854-0385 www.insurancegroupse.com

Rausch Family Practice 678-384-7305 www.judithrauschmd.com

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea Linda B. Lee, 850-319-8050

Southeast Mortgage 770-279-0222, ext. 719 Todd Littlejohn: 678-662-3451

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 36 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Psychologist John R. Lutz, PhD 770-592-9065 www.johnromanlutz.com

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 770-726-8948 www.NorthGeorgiaHearing.com

Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org

Etowah Eagles Basketball www.etowaheaglesbasketball.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD & DRINK Butchers Block 770-517-2225

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Dismero Red Line 678-398-4008

Rudi Fine Jewelry 678-445-2626

Spirited 29 678-214-5304 www.spritlala.com WATER DELIVERY

Golden Rule Spring Water 404-444-6292 www.goldenrulespringwater.com TOWNELAKER | January 2016

photo by J King Images

Since 1996, 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.

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.

From left Michelle McCulloch, Patty Ponder, Jon and Karen Flaig, Candi Hannigan, Denise Griffin, Laura Latchford, Jackie Loudin and Christie Deese.

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. Look on page 6 for our contact information.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2016

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