11 15 sixes living web final by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

November 2015 Volume 3, Issue 8

14 Faces and Places

Downtown Canton is a hub for race, chili cookoff and Zombies.

18 Turkey Day Dishes

Tasty recipes to try for your Thanksgiving meal.

20 Tackling the Commute

On a mission to attract businesses, cut travel time for workers.

25 Saluting Our Vets

Meet some brave men and women who live nearby.

28 Becoming an Actor

Community theater offers great experience for the big screen.

32 Creative Mothers

Women find a balance in being artists and moms.

50 Homecoming Time!

Cherokee, Woodstock students take the field in their finery.

54 Special Olympics Album

Photos show the joy of competition, love and support on the field.

In Every Issue

Contributing Writers Chantel Adams

Kurt & Sheila Johnson

Around Sixes

Don Akridge

Leslie Kerns

Christopher Brazelton

VenĂŠssa Lanier

Community News

Dr. Mike Litrel

Rob Macmillan

Cherokee Office of Economic Development 20

Birthdays

Community Calendar

Joe McKechnie

Everyday Angels

Susan Schulz

Jessica Leigh Smith

Faith

School News

Rebecca Devane

Micah Fowler

Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry

Delia Halverson

Dr. Scott Harden

Jodi Tiberio

Donnie Henriques

Scot Turner

Recent Home Sales

Dr. Jan Henriques

Lynne Watts

Ad Index

wwwSixesLivingMagazine.com

36 & 37 On the Cover

Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop. Angel Rivera Photo by J. King Images 2

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

ADVERTISING Market Manager Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com

Join the Sixes Living magazine fan page

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SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

AROUND SIXES

People Places and Pleasures that make Sixes/Canton/ Holly Springs

The , The The

What’s New Mancini’s Italian Traditions has opened at 250 East Main St. in Canton, the former location of The Study. Follow Mancini’s on Facebook. All About That Bowtique has opened at 3502 Sixes Road, Canton, featuring clothes for women and teens, formal wear and accessories, jewelry and gift items. The boutique is a Simply Southern authorized dealer. Also featuring thread and vinyl embroidery. Hours are 10:30 a.m.- 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. Friday - Saturday. 770-720-3343. Look for All About That Bowtique on Facebook. Downtown Woodstock officials have announced new trolley stops for the holiday season. Stops include Reformation Brewery, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, Woodstock Public Library, Woodstock Community Church and several locations along Mill, Main and Chambers streets. See the map on page 59.

What’s Open Salon W Parkside is open in the location of the former Kara Christian salon at 105 East Main St., Suite 130, Woodstock 30188. Salon hours are 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. Tuesday- Friday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday. 678-445-2658. Look for Salon W Parkside on Facebook. Truck & Tap is now open at 8640 Main St., Woodstock, featuring a rotating selection of food trucks and craft beer and wine. For the food truck schedule, visit http://truckandtap.com. Find them on Facebook under Truck & Tap.

What’s Coming Main Street Woodstock has organized the fourth annual Downtown Restaurant Week for Nov. 1-8, an event designed to be “a celebration of our unique collection of restaurants and food stores,” according to Mitzi Saxon, downtown program manager. Participating businesses will offer special menus and discounts. For details on the specials, visit www.woodstockrestaurantweek.com or contact Mitzi at msaxon@woodstockga.gov. Planet Fitness will be opening in the former Office Depot location at 299 Molly Lane in Woodstock. 678-903-8849. www.planetfitness.com.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

OMO Fish House should be open by mid-November at 12900 Highway 92, in the former Zaxby’s location. OMO will have a smokehouse where the owners smoke fresh fish. Burger King is replacing Blimpie’s inside the Walmart at Trickum Road and Highway 92.

What’s Closed The Noonday Creek Trail at Reeves Street in downtown Woodstock will be closed for about six months, until nearby construction is completed. A detour is marked with signage directing trail users to existing sidewalks along Reeves and Maple streets in the Woodstock West neighborhood. Contact Woodstock Parks and Recreation at 770-517-6788 with any questions about the temporary trail closure.

Kudos Canton has once again been awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. Canton has been named the most beautiful city in the Peach State by The Culture Trip, in its recent 10 Most Beautiful Towns in Georgia listing. Read the report at www.theculturetrip.com.

Cherokee County Ribbon Cuttings Peachtree Orthopaedic Clinic, 120 Stone Bridge Parkway, Suite 440, Woodstock 30189. www.pocatlanta.com. Nationwide Insurance – The McClain Agency, 111 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 208, Canton 30115. www.nationwide.com/mattmcclain. Outpost Training Co., 2472 Marietta Highway, Canton 30114 www.outposttraining.com. AFLAC – Teena Hardwick, P.O. Box 1381, Woodstock 30188 678-267-4901. Foster Gift Shop, 100 Hospital Road, Canton 30114. www.fostergiftshop.com. Chattahoochee Technical College – Woodstock Campus, 8371 Main St., Woodstock 30188 www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu.

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Sixes Living. She has lived in Cherokee County for 28 years. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community Board The Sixes Living Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders who assist us as contributors to the magazine, judges for the annual Trailblazer award and advisors who offer valuable feedback. Pat Gold moved to Canton 33 years ago when she married Dr. Homer (Nugget) Gold. After 18 years with Delta Airlines and another 12 working for the Cherokee County School District, Pat began volunteering. She serves on the boards of the Cherokee County Arts Center, the Canton Main Street Program, Canton Tourism, Inc., and chairs the Canton Planning Commission. Pat and her husband have four children and four grandchildren. Pharmacist Dale Coker owns Cherokee Custom Script Pharmacy in Holly Springs and lives in Woodstock with wife Susan. The University of Georgia graduate is vice president of the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists. His community involvement has included Cherokee County Habitat for Humanity, youth league coaching and church leadership. Dale’s latest achievement is co-inventing the patented TopiCLICK, a topical metered dosing device. Cindy Crews is a longtime Cherokee County educator. She joined the Sixes community as assistant principal of Sixes Elementary School in 2011 and is now principal. Cindy and her husband, Andy, have lived in Woodstock for 20 years, and they have two young adult daughters. Her motto: Children are the future of the human race; teach them well. Dr. Joe McKechnie senior pastor of Sixes United Methodist Church, grew up in Cobb County. After earning a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Georgia, Joe spent six years as a television sportscaster. He has a master’s degree from Asbury Theological Seminary and a doctorate of ministry from Southern Methodist University. Joe and wife Catherine have two children, David and Grace Ann. Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of Cherokee FOCUS and the Cherokee Youth Works program, based in Holly Springs. The Cherokee County native grew up in Canton and has lived in Woodstock with her son and daughter for the past 17 years. She is very active in the community and currently serves with local and regional organizations to strengthen families and children. Chantel Adams is the founder and CEO of Forever We, Inc., a socially responsible toy company that believes every child deserves a forever family, safe housing and a healthy body. She has a biology degree from the University of Evansville, serves on the Executive Board of Highland Rivers Health, and volunteers with the Cherokee County Juvenile Court. Chantel and her husband, Gavin, live in Canton and have four children. 6

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Sixes Living 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 Sixes Living, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Sixes, Holly Springs and Canton areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 16,500 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 15,200 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 1,300 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. Sixes Living welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Sixes Living 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 2015. Sixes Living PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Christie Deese, 770-615-3324 Website: www.sixeslivingmagazine.com Powered by Volume 3, Issue 8

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Happy Thanksgiving from the staff of AroundAbout Local Media SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Canton Moose Lodge Honors Local Firefighters The Canton Moose Lodge, located at 208 Moose Loop Road, honored several firefighters and staff members with Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services during its annual Community Service Awards Banquet. Public Information Officer for Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services Tim Cavender was the guest speaker. Honorees are: ● Battalion 1 Firefighter Award – James Laughlin Youth of the Year Amber Toole, left, and Laura Mikszan with Keisha Day, executive director of the Malon D. Mimms Boys and Girls Club.

Charity Event Benefits Cherokee County Youth Organizers of the 12th annual charity roast, a fundraiser for the Malon D. Mimms Boys and Girls Club in Canton, were pleased with the results - at press time, close to $100,000 was tallied from the benefit. Business and civic leaders from around Cherokee County gathered at the October event to roast Billy Hayes, CEO of Northside-Cherokee Hospital.

● Battalion 2 Firefighter Award – Capt. Kevin Lanier ● Battalion 3 Firefighter Award – Chris Ginn ● Volunteer Firefighter Award – Michelle Ice ● EMS Employee of the Year Award – Scott Coppola ● Fire Administration Award – Michael Priest ● Special Operations Award – Todd Weidman ● Explorer of the Year Award – Zach Robinson

School Supplies Collected at Reinhardt Headed to Kenya Children living at the House of Hope orphanage in Kenya, a mission started by Canton-based nonprofit SERV International, will receive the 3,461 items collected by Reinhardt University students, faculty and staff. Dr. Joann Adeogun, an assistant professor of business, organized the collection, which includes 1401 pencils, 224 pens, 600 crayons and markers, 163 pieces of chalk, 672 notebooks or paper items, 113 dictionaries and thesauruses, 243 erasers, and miscellaneous items like packs of rubber bands, rulers and pencil sharpeners. The supplies will be delivered to Kenya as part of a mission trip conducted by SERV. For more information on SERV, visit www.servone. org or call 770-516-1108. For more on Reinhardt, visit www.Reinhardt. edu or call 770-720-5600.

Board members Amy Turcotte, left, and Laura Mikszan, right, with Jamie Billy Hayes, CEO of NorthsideBendell, a comedian who was the Cherokee Hospital, was the honoree. event’s emcee.

Honoring Vets Who’ve Lost Their Eyesight The Georgia National Cemetery was the site of an American flag monument dedication, attended by more than 80 veterans from the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans Foreign Wars, U.S. Submarine Veterans and Georgia Fallen Firefighters Foundation along with Lions and Rotary club members. This is the second braille flag at a national cemetery; the first is in the welcome center at Arlington Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Members of local Hightower Trail Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Cherokee Rose Society, Children of the American Revolution (CAR) were among those who raised funds for the monument. The braille flag has a dual purpose: to honor the 125th anniversary of the founding of the DAR and to honor veterans and active service men and women who suffer from ocular trauma and premature blindness. The Blinded Veterans Association reports more than 132,000 American veterans have lost their sight in defending our freedoms. 8

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Local Fire Marshal Gets Statewide Award Chad Arp, Deputy Fire Marshal for Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services, received the Outstanding Coordinator Award 2015 during the annual Safe Kids Georgia Awards Breakfast. Safe Kids Georgia supports 29 local coalitions throughout the state that provide multiple programs aimed at keeping children safe and injury-free. Arp has been the coordinator for Safe Kids Cherokee since 2003. “It was under Chad’s leadership that in 2012, Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services was recognized as the outstanding lead agency by Safe Kids Georgia,” said Cherokee County Fire Chief Tim Prather. “Chad is definitely an asset for Cherokee County.” Safe Kids Cherokee County presents numerous events each year to help prevent injuries to children, including car seat checks, Dwayne Garris, on left, the Georgia bike safety, water safety, State Fire Marshal, presented Chad Arp with the award. fire safety and more.

Scott V. Merritt, DMD Member: GDA, ADA, AGD, AACD

BridgeMill Dentistry Team

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3682 Sixes Road, Canton, GA 30114 bridgemilldentistry.com â&#x20AC;˘ (770) 704-1812 SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Hospital Selected for Baby-Friendly Initiative

From left: Bob Long of the Laurel Canyon Optimist Club with fellow Optimist member Jim Walz, teacher Sarah Weiss, Regina Kiewit of the Rotary Club of Cherokee County and Shirley Pahl.

Grants Awarded to Hasty Elementary Kindergarten Class Cherokee County Farm Bureau (CCFB) Program Coordinator Shirley Pahl recently spoke at the Laurel Canyon Optimist Club and the Rotary Club of Cherokee County. Pahl told the two groups how CCFB is using the Farm to School Program to promote agriculture in schools by donating raised garden beds, sponsoring teacher workshops to show them how they can incorporate curriculum-based ag lessons in their classes, and awarding grants to teachers for ag-focused activities. Following Pahl’s presentation, the Laurel Canyon Optimist Club awarded a $500 grant to Sarah Weiss, a kindergarten teacher at Hasty Elementary School; the Cherokee County Rotary Club awarded a $100 grant to her, as well. Last year, Weiss created a project called “Grow Carrot Grow” with her students; this year, Weiss and Hasty Elementary plan to use the $600 grant money to plant more vegetables and learn about them.

Northside Hospital-Cherokee is participating in the EMPower Breastfeeding Initiative to enhance maternity care practices and raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding. The Cherokee hospital is the only one in northwest Georgia selected to participate. Gwinnett Medical Center is the only other hospital north of Macon participating. The initiative is a 30-month process and officials hope to complete it and receive the Baby Friendly USA© designation around the time that the new hospital opens sometime in 2017. www.empowerbreastfeeding.org.

Sharing a Love for Reading Preschoolers at The Goddard School in Canton participated in a book drive that included the 26 other Goddard School locations in metro Atlanta. Of the 28,905 books collected, Canton students contributed 1,921. The books were donated to Children Read Atlanta, a nonprofit organization that gives books to low-income families to encourage reading at a young age. Goddard School students Brayden B., from left, and Luke S., with education director Sara Davis.

Cherokee Leadership Graduates Class of 2015 Congrats to the Leadership Cherokee Class of 2015, who recently completed a nine-month course on a range of topics that included economic development, infrastructure, government, justice, arts, education, recreation, tourism, public safety, healthcare and social/ human services. Leadership Cherokee is a program of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. Shane West earned the Bob Frongillo Magic Spark Plug Award and Greg Erdely was the Cristal Stancil Leadership Award recipient. West and Erdely are with Cherokee Fire and Emergency Services. Counting this recent group, the program has more than 550 graduates in 27 years.

The leadership class, front row from left: Shane West, Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services; Rachel White, WellStar Health System; Jeremy Smith, City of Holly Springs; Jennifer Simonis, Healing Hands Youth Ranch; Lindsey Roberson, Southeast Restoration Group; John Black, 1 Man Geek, LLC; Tracey Satterfield, Live Clean, Inc.; Jenny Wood-Harris, Goshen Valley Foundation; Abby Roach, Roach, Caudill & Gunn, LLP; Angela Reece, Mauldin Body Shop; Brittany Duncan, City of Woodstock; Kathy Lambert, Chart, Inc.; Ginger Fowler, Georgia Probation Management; Jennifer Davo, Studio 5 Salon, and Kendall Jones, MUST Ministries. Back row, from left: Bill Sebring, Cherokee County School District; Jeffrey Pourchier, Reinhardt University; Greg Erdely, Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services; Kelly Geiken, Edward Jones; Kim Whatley, Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency; Scott Rule, Chattahoochee Technical College, and Chad Atkinson, Cherokee FOCUS. 10

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL-CHEROKEE IS WORKING TO KEEP CHEROKEE GREAT. BECAUSE, IT’S OUR HOME,TOO. Northside Hospital-Cherokee has served the residents of this county for many years. And our commitment to bring you the very best possible care goes well beyond our walls.

BEING NEIGHBORS Most of the people who work at Northside Hospital-Cherokee live in Cherokee. They’re not just your doctors or nurses, they’re your neighbors.

INVESTING

VOLUNTEERING

We’ve invested more than $100 million to bring the best the medical world has to offer right here to Cherokee.

Our employees and physicians have volunteered more than 10,000 hours to Cherokee County schools and organizations.

CONTRIBUTING We contribute to Cherokee County schools and support local venues and community activity centers.

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Celebrations!

The Lodge at BridgeMill

Celebrating November birthdays are Flora Ella McIntire, Jean Walker and George Falkenstein. Not pictured are Bob Womack, Dulcy Saunders, Pat Buchanan, Robert Gallagher and Christine Sebring.

Alex Hopkins

Age 4 on Nov 5 We love you and are blessed to have you in our family! Love, Daddy, Mommy and Audrey

Carli Fendley and Andy Marinelli were married June 27, 2015 at Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Farm at Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge

Shirley Deering

Also celebrating a November birthday at The Lodge at BridgeMill

Hudson R. Pless

Age 3 on Nov. 16 You are such a blessing and we love you very much! Mommy, Daddy, Noah, Wyatt and Phoenix

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Wyatt and Noah Pless

Age 9 on Oct. 16 Happy Birthday to our favorite nine-year-olds. We love you to the last number! Love, Mom, Dad, Hudson and Phoenix

Micah Mulvihill

Happy second birthday, Micah! Mommy, Daddy and Annie love you very much!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com December deadline is Nov. 10. Please specify Sixes Living magazine.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

photos by Gary Mullet

Community

A Day Of

Food

Fun

BY MICAH FOWLER

Students from the Canton Gymnastics Academy.

Judges Choice winner: Micah Fowler presents trophy to Dorrisa Shackelford of Team Apalachee GeeChee Goos. 14

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

While Oct. 10 was a hectic day in downtown Canton, it was fun to be part of the busyness. Originally, there were two Main Street events planned for that day, but after a rainout the night before, the First Friday celebration was added to the mix. Logistically, we knew it would be tricky to pull off, but the day had the potential of being three times the fun. Saturday started like

People’s Choice winner: Team Cold Beer and Hot Deer.

usual, with the quaint Farmer’s Market in Cannon Park. By 9:30 a.m., though, the city was in full swing. The chili cook-off chefs showed up to prep their delicious concoctions, and Cannon Park was soon filled with the sounds of good people and the smells of good food. As the chili cook-off and block party vendors geared up for the day’s main event, The Orange Walls rocked the crowd with acoustic rock favorites; there were only two musicians on stage, but they dominated it. During the afternoon, everyone was treated to the sounds of Black Wolf Moon playing classic rock hits. The chili cook-off judges awarded the judges’ choice honor to Team Apalachee GeeChee Goos, and the people’s choice winner was Team Cold Beer and Hot Deer. After the cook-off, the second annual pin-up contest took center stage. All in all, downtown Canton was filled with festivities for more than nine hours. Main Street organizers were pleased with the day, and hope area residents also enjoyed the event.

Zombie Fest

2015

photos by Gary Mullet

The third annual Zombie Fest, a fundraiser for Cherokee FOCUS, brought about 6,000 fans to downtown Canton last month. Cherokee FOCUS, is a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of children and families in our county. www.cherokeefocus.org.

A Michael Jackson impersonator performed on stage at the third annual Zombie Fest. Photo by ZeroedN Photography/Monica Helsby.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Reinhardt University’s

photos courtesy of Reinhardt University

for A DAY

The inaugural 5K for A DAY to benefit Reinhardt University drew 126 participants and raised more than $12,000 to fund student scholarships. “I am pleased to say that our first 5K for A DAY was a success,” said Dale Morrissey, director of fundraising campaigns and church relations. “With the help of our supporters, student lives are enriched through scholarships. When students benefit, we all benefit.” A DAY for Reinhardt is an annual community initiative that generates grants for Cherokee County students attending Reinhardt University. A DAY underwrites the University’s Cherokee County Grant program, which provides eligible students with as much as $8,000 during their four years at the University. Since 1988, A DAY for Reinhardt has raised more than $3.5 million in financial assistance for local students.

Cherokee SWAT team members with Dale Morrissey, director of fundraising campaigns and church relations.

Georgia Thrasher ran in the race, while her friend, Peyton Brown, helped at the finish line.

Male winners, from left: Landon Deckert, third place; Mitch Navy, first place, and Mike Otis, second place.

Female winners, from left: Torie Williams, third place; Olivia Tucker, first place, and Reverie Berger, second place.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Coloring the Campus in

photos courtesy of Reinhardt University

BLUE & GOLD

More than 70 Reinhardt University students, faculty and staff members worked on Campus Beautification Day. Volunteers helped to color the campus blue and gold by landscaping around the administration building with Blue Creeping Thrift, Blue Metal Grass and Sunshine Gold Ligustrum, and along the sidewalk from the student center to the library with Popcorn Drift (Yellow/ Gold Colored) Dwarf Roses and “Blue Heaven” Dwarf Butterfly Bushes. The four Welcome to Waleska signs on Highways 140 and 108 were landscaped with the butterfly bushes and ligustrum. All together, more than 200 plants were installed on campus and in the community. Beautification efforts also included cleaning up the volleyball court and around campus.

MEDICAL ASSOCIATES of NORTH GEORGIA

Anne B. Todd Family Practice Physician

Medical Associates of North Georgia is dedicated to providing quality medical care to the individuals and families of the metro Atlanta and North Georgia communities. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Anne Todd brings over a decade of experience practicing in the North Georgia community, and offers exceptional, compassionate care to keep you and your family healthy. Conveniently located on Valley Street in the Northside Ball Ground Medical Building, we offer same-day appointments for sick visits, early morning and late afternoon appointments, and an on-site pharmacy.

We offer a full range of services, including: •

Adult and Pediatric Care

•

Immunizations

•

Annual, Sports & School Physicals

•

Sick and Well Visits

•

Total Family Care

•

EKG’s, Lab Testing, & Spirometry

470 Valley Street, Suite 200, Ball Ground, GA 30107 (770) 737-2770 • medassoc.com SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Happy Thanksgiving! Since we can’t invite each of you to join us for a festive dinner, we thought the next best thing would be to share our favorite recipes. We hope you enjoy - and wish each of you a blessed holiday with family and friends.

Ja ckie Lou di n

Patty Ponder

“Cannolis are a favorite Italian dessert we always enjoy during our holiday meals. Our family Thanksgiving is a combination of American and Italian traditions, with turkey and lasagna, and pumpkin pie and cannolis for dessert.”

Cannoli

“I was really nervous the first time I cooked my own turkey. I think I must have called my mother at least a half-dozen times to ask her questions about the process. And yes, I did remember to remove the bag of giblets from inside the turkey prior to cooking it. A few years ago I started brining my turkeys (soaking the turkey in a solution of salt and water). Try brining your bird this year. It will change your world, I promise – or at least it will change your turkey. You won’t be disappointed!” Family meal at the Ponder home.

• 1½ pounds Sargento Ricotta Cheese

(It is important to use Sargento because it is a dry ricotta, versus Polly-O, which I love in my lasagna, but is too wet for cannolis.)

• 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar • ½ bag miniature chocolate chips • 1 teaspoon vanilla • Empty cannoli shells

(I usually get mine at Publix and ask for chocolate-dipped shells.)

Mix all of these ingredients together. Spoon into cannoli shells just before eating; you shouldn’t do this too early because the shells will get soggy.

Christie Dee se

“This recipe is special to the Deese family because it came from my husband’s grandmother more than 22 years ago. It is an all-time favorite that I am required to make every single year, specifically for my husband James, my dad Terry Schmitz and my uncle Mike Cooper. I just know that I’m not allowed to show up on Thanksgiving without this dish. Even if I must miss Thanksgiving dinner due to other family obligations, I send this dish to my husband’s side of the family as a peace offering — works every time! I think of sweet Granny Deese, and smile as I prepare this dish so everyone can devour it while offering never-ending compliments.”

Sweet Potato Souffle

• 3 to 4 cups sweet potatoes, boiled and mashed. • 1 cup sugar • ⅓ stick butter, melted • ½ cup milk (or cream) • ½ teaspoon salt • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 teaspoon vanilla Topping: • ⅓ stick of butter • 1 cup brown sugar • ⅓ cup self-rising flour • 1 cup chopped pecans Mix sweet potatoes and next six ingredients and place in a baking dish. Mix topping, sprinkle on top of potatoes and bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. 18

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Turkey Brine

• 1 cup sea salt • ½ cup sugar • ½ cup brown sugar • 5 bay leaves

• 2 tablespoons black peppercorns • 1 tablespoon garlic powder • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary • 1 tablespoon rubbed sage • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds

Dissolve sugars and salt in 2 quarts of boiling water. Once it is dissolved, add the other spices and let simmer for about 20 minutes. Add in 1-2 quarts more water (depending on the size of your bird). Place your turkey in a large Ziploc storage bag (one of the big ones designed for holding sweaters). When the brine solution is cool, pour over bird (you can add a bunch of ice cubes to speed up this process). Add more water if necessary you want the entire turkey fully submerged. Let bird sit in brine for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. If your bird won’t fit in your refrigerator, put it in a cooler and cover with ice. When you are ready to cook your turkey, remove it from the Ziploc bag, then rinse and roast as you normally would.

Michelle McCu lloch

“I’ve been making this bread since I was 9 years old. I had a book called “Cranberry Thanksgiving,” which is the story of a grandmother who loses her secret recipe. The book set my imagination on fire, I just had to try the recipe, which was included in the book. It was a big hit.”

Cranberry Bread

• 2 cups sifted flour • 1 cup sugar • 1½ teaspoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon baking soda • ¼ cup butter softened • 1 egg beaten • 1 teaspoon orange peel • ¾ cup orange juice • 1 cup chopped walnuts • 1½ cups fresh cranberries, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix butter, sugar, egg, orange juice and orange peel together. In a separate bowl mix dry ingredients and add to the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly, fold in cranberries and walnuts. Pour in a greased and floured loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour and 10 min.

From our tables to yours Ca n di Ha n niga n

“Be prepared for your family to ditch the traditional pumpkin pie in favor of this dish.”

Better than Pumpkin Pie • 1 16-oz. can pumpkin • 1 cup sugar • 1½ cups milk • 3 eggs • ½ teaspoon salt • 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1 teaspoon lemon extract • 1 pkg. yellow cake mix • 1 ½ sticks butter, melted Topping: • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 tablespoon brown sugar • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Pour into a well-greased 13 x 9 in. pan. Sprinkle dry cake mix over the top, then drizzle butter evenly over cake mix. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour until lightly browned. Serve with whipped topping. Serves 10-12.

Denise Griff i n

“This is my mother-in-law’s (Betty Griffin of Thomasville, GA) recipe, and the one my husband looks most forward to.”

Brown Rice

• 1 cup rice • ¾ stick melted butter • 1 can French Onion soup (not the mix) • 1 can beef consommé • 1 can sliced mushrooms

Mix all ingredients in a Corning Ware™ dish, then cover. Bake at 350 for one hour.

L a u ra L atchford

“Growing up in Maryland, a Thanksgiving Dinner is not complete without a side of fresh local seafood. With crab season gone, this would leave us with oysters from the Chesapeake Bay. I still try to carry on this tradition and have fried oysters every Thanksgiving day.”

Fried Oysters

• 1 qt. fresh oysters • 2 eggs • 1 tablespoon Old Bay® Seasoning • 16 ounces cracker meal • 16 ounces seafood breader • Canola oil

Mix all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk the two eggs in a separate bowl. Strain and rinse the oysters, adding them to the whisked egg. Remove the oysters one by one from egg to the dry mix, coating each oyster well. Deep-fry in canola oil at 375 degrees until golden brown.

K a ren F la ig

“My mom Shirley is 75 years old, and has been making our family’s Thanksgiving dressing all of my life. She never used an exact recipe - just a little of this and that — and it made perfect sense to her. Last year the torch was nervously passed to me, since standing in the kitchen all day is becoming difficult for her. I knew this day would come and I also knew that despite my best effort, my dressing would not measure up. I needed courage, confidence and time (all of which I lack), along with exact instructions. It wasn’t my momma’s dressing, but the following recipe was a big hit; it has become our new tradition – and it’s foolproof. ”

Cornbread Dressing

• ½ cup butter • 2 cups chopped celery • 2 cups chopped leeks • 1 tablespoon minced garlic • Buttermilk Cornbread, crumbled (recipe follows) • 3 cups cooked crumbled Karen’s mom (left) and aunt Joan. biscuits (I used Sister Shubert’s frozen) • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled • 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth • 2 large eggs, slightly beaten • 1 cup sour cream • 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning • 1 ½ tablespoons ground sage • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper • I also add shredded rotisserie chicken

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease a 13 x 9 in. baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, set aside. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat until it melts. Add celery, leeks, garlic, cook 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, biscuits, bacon, broth, eggs, sour cream, poultry seasoning, sage, salt and pepper. Stir just until crumbs are moistened. Spoon into prepared baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes until center is set.

Buttermilk Cornbread • 6 tablespoons butter • 2 cups buttermilk-flavored self-rising cornmeal mix • 2¾ cups whole buttermilk Preheat oven to 425. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet, heat butter until melted. In a medium bowl, combine cornmeal mix and buttermilk. Spoon batter into hot skillet and bake 30 minutes. SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Eliminating the Daily Commute. Mission Impossible? BY THE CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

It’s 7 a.m. and you’re getting on the road for another commute to work. Coffee in the cup holder, radio on and the same thought runs through your head, “I wish I worked closer to home.” You are not alone. In fact, 78 percent of Cherokee County residents leave the county to work every day. Why? Because the jobs they are looking for are not available in Cherokee — yet. The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) is working to change that. During COED’s 2015 strategic planning process called Opportunity Cherokee, nearly 2,400 residents from the community were engaged to provide insight on developing an economic development strategy that will decrease the outcommute. Ninety-five percent of the out-commuters surveyed stated they would like to work in Cherokee, however only 64 percent of those were willing to take less pay to do so. If they traveled more than 45 minutes each way, they were more likely to consider a reduction in pay to be closer to home. The overwhelming majority of these individuals earn $50,000 or more annually, they work in the professional and technical services sector, and their commute takes most of them to Cobb County or north Fulton County. These positions include engineering, information technology, design and advertising, which are available in Cherokee but not in the quantity needed to support the population. To facilitate a positive change in the out-commute trend, the community must first have available property and buildings to recruit prospective businesses and for existing business to expand. Second, Cherokee should capitalize on the talented and skilled workforce living in the community to attract new businesses that will create future employment

options. “One of our biggest assets is our impressive workforce,” said Misti Martin, COED president. “Our office has been working diligently to bring companies to the county that would provide new opportunities to our residents.” While the percentage of the out-commuting population has decreased in the past several years, it is still too high. The data collected in the Opportunity Cherokee plan will be a valuable tool in recruiting the companies that will keep the Cherokee talent local. The Opportunity Cherokee plan is a strategic blueprint for the next five years. The mission is clear, the plan is underway and the community is ready. Follow COED on Twitter @CherokeeOED and Facebook.com/ cherokeeofficeofeconomicdevelopment to stay up to date on economic development news.

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

Allowing the Free Market to Work BY SCOT TURNER

Sometimes the government does inexplicably stupid things. For example, imagine that you are the owner of a handcrafted shoe manufacturing company. You are very proud of the shoes you make, and you should be: they are made locally, crafted with the finest materials, are stylish, and made completely by hand. The process to make your shoes takes hours and you have a small staff, so you are able to make only a few hundred pairs per year. Now imagine that the state you live in has a law that requires all shoes to be sold to a distributor. The distributor would then sell your shoes to retailers and you would not be allowed to sell the shoes directly to a consumer or retailer. The law would further state that you would be allowed to sell to only one distributor and no others. All of the distributors in the marketplace have established rules for minimum quantities of 10,000 pairs just for them to consider doing business with you. If you cannot meet their demands, you are out of luck. 20

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

So you and other small business owners who make shoes decide to figure out a way to sell your shoes and lobby the legislature to change the law to allow you to sell a single pair at a time directly to the consumer. Doesn’t sound like that should be a big deal, right? But the distributors are threatened by this and decide to fight you by lobbying against your proposed changes to the law. A compromise is struck and what comes next defies logic and common sense. In our hypothetical scenario, the General Assembly writes a new law that reads that you, the shoemaker, are not allowed to sell your product directly to your customer. Instead, you can continued on page 69

Scot Turner is a small business owner and the State House Representative for District 21. He can be reached at 678-576-2644 or www.facebook.com/turnerforhouse.

November Heralds Holiday Festivities BY LYNNE WATTS

November is the time of year when Mother Nature packs up her paintbrush and palette of sienna, ochre and scarlet to make way for Old Man Winter to arrive. Close out the last days of fall and set the mood for the upcoming season by attending some of the holiday festivities in Atlanta. Gather up the kids and head out to the Center for the Puppetry Arts to see “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” a holiday classic presented Nov. 12-Dec. 27. While you are there, be sure to stop by the museum to learn about the history of puppetry through an amazing collection of more than 2,000 puppets and posters. www.puppet.org/perform/rudolph.shtml “Cirque Dreams Holidaze” at the fabulous historic Fox Theatre is both circus and holiday spectaculars rolled into one. With more than 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 artists, adults and kids alike will be enthralled with a show that includes stunts, illusions and singers performing both holiday favorites and original music. http://foxtheatre.org/shows-and-events/ Visit the annual Winter Wonderland exhibition at Fernbank Museum, where you can enjoy two floors of festive trees and displays reflecting the diverse cultural traditions of North America, South America, Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Weekends from Nov. 29 to Dec. 21 will feature special Holly Jolly activities for the kids, including a puppet

factory hosted by the Center for Puppetry Arts. Adults can attend the Martinis and Imax evening, where they can sample small plates, sip on a yuletide toddy and view a holiday movie. www.fernbankmuseum.org/visit-fernbank/ Every little girl’s favorite character, Madeleine, from the book by Ludwig Bemelmans, is back for the sixth year at the Horizon Theatre. Join Madeleine, Miss Clavel, and Madeleine’s 12 best friends in “Madeline’s Christmas.” When all the girls come down with the flu, they are faced with the possibility of their upcoming trip home for Christmas being cancelled. This musical is a treat for the whole family. www.horizontheatre.com/plays/family-series/ Want an adult night out from the same venue? Leave the kids at home and get ready to be entertained as Horizon Theatre performs the outrageous holiday comedy, “The Santaland Diaries,” written by NPR comic genius David Sedaris. It is the tale of Crumpet, an out-of-work elf who shares his story of the life of an out-of-work Macy’s department store elf. www.horizontheatre.com/plays/the-santaland-diaries/

Lynne Watts is an author, speaker, coach, mom and a retired Cherokee County School District counselor. She can be reached at www.lynnewatts.com.

COME HERE. FEEL BETTER.

5 Locations Serving Atlanta Metro • Canton • Cartersville • Woodstock • Marietta • Buckhead

770-427-0368 | www.nw-ent.com Canton Location: 13 Reinhardt College Pkwy Canton, GA 30114

Woodstock Location: 960 Woodstock Pkwy | Suite 100-101 Woodstock, GA 30188 SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Out & About

Nov. 7

Veterans Day celebration in Canton will begin at 10 a.m., and is taking the place of the monthly First Friday event. Canton officials and the local American Legion are sponsoring the event, which will include two guest speakers, a flag retirement ceremony and a parade featuring veterans. www.cantonhdl.com.

information, email Cara Reeve at creeve@mustministries.org.

Nov. 28

Artisans Arts and Craft Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at His Hands Church, 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock, will feature handmade crafts, jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, wood, metal art and more. Get updates on Facebook at Latimer Hall Arts and Crafts Show.

Photos with Santa for children and pets will be available 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Pet Supermarket, 12185 Highway 92, Woodstock. Guests will receive photos the same day. Appointments can be made by calling Judy Davila at 770-432-9075 (between 6 and 9 p.m. Monday-Friday). The event is a fundraiser for the Cherokee Volunteer Aging Council, which supports the safety and well being of senior citizens in the county. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

Cartoon Christmas Celebration, 1-6 p.m. at Autumn Hill Nursery, 4256 Earney Road, Woodstock. Free activities including a Grinch maze, “Frozen” karaoke, Minion photo booth, Rudolph scavenger hunt, a hay ride with Snoopy as he hunts for the Red Baron, a visit with Santa and storytelling with Mrs. Claus.

Merry Market at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, will be open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and will feature arts and crafts and boutique gift items. For updates, check Merry Market at Canton First Methodist on Facebook.

Santa’s Mailbox will be in the gazebo at The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, so children in the community can drop off their letters to Santa. They can expect a personalized letter from Santa before Christmas! www.woodstockga.gov.

Nov. 11

Veterans Day Ceremony, candlelight ceremony begins at 7 p.m. in The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Dirty, torn and retired flags unfit to fly can be dropped off for proper disposal at collection boxes located in the parking lot of the Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, and next to the memorial in The Park at City Center.

Nov. 13

Jingle Bell Shop, sponsored by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, will be held 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Northside Hospital Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. Vendors will have gift and craft items for sale, and guests can visit with Santa. www.cherokeechamber.com.

Dec. 1-17

Dec. 4

Lighting of the Holly Springs Christmas tree begins at 6:30 p.m. at the train depot with seasonal songs and light refreshments. 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. www.hollyspringsga.us.

Dec. 4-6

The Atlanta Christmas Musical “What Are You Looking For?,” 8 p.m. Dec. 4, 6 p.m. Dec. 5 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at First Baptist Church Woodstock. The original musical drama was written by Karen Kleinschmidt and Patrick Walker. Original music written by Brad Cox, Jerald Hill (both First Baptist members) and Eva Wilson. Orchestration by Dove award winner Cliff Duren. www.fbcw.org.

Nov. 14

Dec. 4-6, 11-13

Safe Sitter – Babysitting Training and More is offered 8 a.m-4:30 p.m. at Northside Hospital - Cherokee education department, 130 Oakside Court, Canton. To register, call 770-345-2295 or email lana.mayfield@northside.com.

Dec. 5

The Cherokee Music Teachers Association meeting begins at 10 a.m. at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center in Waleska. For more info, please contact Linda Lokey at 770-7201701 or linda@lokey.net.

Nov. 15

Polo and Play is a fundraiser for the Cherokee Theatre Company, beginning at 2 p.m. with a polo match, silent auction at 4:30 p.m. and murder mystery dinner theatre “Cappuletti v. Montecelli” at 5:30 p.m. The venue is Chukkar Farm, 1140 Liberty Grove Road, Alpharetta. 770-591-0282. www.cherokeetheatre.org.

Nov. 17 - Dec. 19

Cherokee Arts Center Holiday Show and Sale will be open to the public during regular gallery hours, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. Saturday. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds will benefit the arts center. Members who want to participate can contact info@cherokeearts.org or call 770-704-6244. The center is at 94 North Street in downtown Canton. www.cherokeearts.org.

Nov. 26

13th annual Gobble Jog on the Marietta Square benefits MUST Ministries. The Gobble Jog is MUST’s largest fundraiser. Every Thanksgiving, thousands of people converge on the Marietta Square for a 10K or 5K run before Thanksgiving dinner. For 22

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

“The Foreigner,” a play by the Cherokee Theatre Company, will be performed at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the historic Canton Theatre. Tickets are $18. 770-591-0282. www.cantontheatre.com. Christmas Jubilee in downtown Woodstock begins with the second annual Woodstock Christmas Run. Sign up at www.active. com or www.WoodstockChristmasRun.com. The parade of lights starts at 5:30 p.m. at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road, travels up Main Street to Towne Lake Parkway to Mill, Market and Fowler streets back to Main Street, ending at the school. For road closures and a parade map, visit www.woodstockparksandrec.com. After the parade, a festival will be held at The Park at City Center where the city’s mayor and Santa will flip the switch to light the park and Christmas tree. Santa will be available for visits, and the winners of the best holiday and most original floats will be announced. Music by Ronnie the DJ. Free marshmallow roast and activities for the entire family. Movie in the Park starts at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.woodstockparksandrec.com for more Jubilee details. Holly Springs Christmas parade begins at 1:30 p.m., and will wind through downtown on Holly Springs Parkway and end at the train depot. After the parade, visit with Santa and get a complimentary photo. Outdoor activities include entertainment, hot cocoa and treats and a children’s craft. www.hollyspringsga.us.

Dec. 6

Run for the Children 5K race and 1-mile Reindeer Run, sponsored by the Service League of Cherokee County, will be held in downtown Canton. Race-day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. in front of the gazebo. Registration before Nov. 29 is $25, and $30 after. A Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Helpers category for those wishing to contribute and get a shirt without running is $15. www.serviceleague.net. Ice menorah lighting at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta will begin at 4:15 p.m. with an ice carving, followed by the lighting ceremony at 5:15. The event features hot latkes, menorahs, dreidels, chocolate Chanukah gelt and family events. Music by the Atlanta Jewish Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choir. Sponsored by the Chabad Jewish Center and The Outlet Shoppes, 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. www.jewishwoodstock.com. Chanukah family day and Lego menorah 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Chabad Jewish Center, 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Suite 500, Kennesaw. Featuring crafts, refreshments, games, prizes, Judaica and more. Help build a Lego menorah and watch as it is lit. RSVP office@JewishWestCobb.com. www.jewishwestcobb.com.

Dec. 12-13

Cherokee Chorale Christmas concerts will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Canton First United Methodist Church. Auditions for the 2016 spring concert, which will take place on March 20, will be held at 3 p.m. Jan. 3 in the choir room at Canton First UMC. www.cherokeechorale.org.

Reinhardt University Performances Falany Performing Arts Center For ticket prices and more details, call 770-720-9167 or visit www.reinhardt.edu/fpac.

Nov. 3

Jazz Ensemble presents its fall concert at 7:30 p.m., with selections from classic Big Band hits to blues to contemporary works, under the direction of Anton Harris.

Nov. 5

Brass Extravaganza will present Strike Up the Brass, featuring two versions of the George Gershwin work. Includes brass quintets, trumpet ensembles, low brass and full brass ensembles.

Nov. 15

The University Concert Choir, under the direction of Martha Shaw, will perform at 3 p.m. The 100-member student choir performs throughout the state for community outreach, and in February of this year performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The Chamber Singers also are performing in this concert.

Nov. 10

The University Percussion Ensemble performs at 7:30 p.m. These students must learn to perform at a professional level and to rely on each other to perform their pieces.

Nov. 12

The University Symphonic Winds concert begins at 7:30 p.m., directed by Rob Opitz and featuring close to 90 students.

Nov. 23

The University Symphony Orchestra performs at 7:30 p.m. with approximately 60 students under the direction of Jere Flint. SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Heroes Need Help, Too BY SUSAN SCHULZ

Veterans have spent much of their lives putting themselves in harm’s way as they fight for our freedoms. They’ve sacrificed so much to ensure our safety. It’s good to know there’s a group of caring volunteers dedicated to taking care of them. Jim Lindenmayer is director of the Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program for American Legion Post 45. The plight of veterans who either don’t have a home, or have housing that’s in disrepair, is something that has kept him awake many nights. Veterans also struggle with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, substance abuse, loss of work, and a host of other challenges that contribute to loss of stable housing. Lindenmayer launched the Veteran program last November and has already served at least 100 veterans, mostly from the Vietnam era. The program has expanded from helping homeless vets to include vets who are financially challenged. A few success stories: • A Korean War veteran with limited funds needed a new air-conditioning unit. The Homeless Veterans Program received a $50,000 grant from Home Depot, and as a result, was able to provide a new air conditioning system for this vet. • A homeless Vietnam-era veteran contacted the program for help in improving his employment situation. Program volunteers contacted MUST Ministries, which found a local shelter for him to stay. Volunteers are working with the Georgia Department of Labor’s Veteran placement team to get him into a suitable job. • Another Vietnam-era veteran was relying on electric space heaters to warm his home. The Homeless Veterans Program’s utility assistance arrangement paid his outstanding utility bill, and is working with a volunteer group to make

Volunteers build a ramp for an Army veteran whose son is wheelchair bound. 24

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

repairs to his HVAC system. “We have learned that homeless prevention, jobs, benefits assistance and mental health support are also needs of the veterans we serve. With winter coming, we want to stay ahead of the needs of our veterans,” Lindenmayer said. Cherokee County has the seventh largest veteran population in Georgia, with about 700 vets currently living in the county. Many of them do not have the resources necessary to get to the Veterans Administration facilities to receive help. Lindenmayer has accomplished much by working with other non-profit groups, such as MUST Ministries and Habitat for Humanity, to get the help these heroes need. Last July, a partnership was formed with Give an Hour, a national nonprofit organization providing free mental health services to military members, veterans, and their loved ones. All involved celebrated over the impact this partnership will have on behalf of the veterans who served faithfully and now need help. “We believe coordination and collaboration between agencies and organizations within communities is crucial,” said Dr. Barbara Van Dahlen, founder and president of Give an Hour. “Our mental health professionals — whether they are giving direct counseling services, helping to raise awareness, or providing education — play a vital role in the health and well-being of the communities in which they live.” All honorably discharged veterans - not just those who have served in war - are eligible for service through the Homeless Veterans Program. If you know someone who needs assistance, please contact jlindenmayer80@gmail.com. There are many ways to help if you want to be involved: donate time, offer housing, help with utility bills and repairs, build 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.

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

Back row, from left: Robert Edwards, William Blount, Willis West Jr. , Steven Witkorski Jr., Kendrick Shedd, James Slaughter, Frank Ponticello and Paul Santinelli. Barbara Swaine in the middle. Front row, from left: Rodney Beauchamp and Emory Herrin.

Saluting Local Veterans Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s difficult to put into words the gratitude we have for the brave men and women who have fearlessly defended our freedoms over the years. We want to honor some very special residents of The Lodge at BridgeMill in Canton - all veterans who bravely served their country, protecting the freedom we Emory Union Herrin U.S. Marines 1954 Barbara Swaine U.S. Navy 1944-1946 J. Richard Dowis U.S. Army 1953-1955 Robert Gallagher U.S. Navy 1944-1946

William Blount U.S. Air Force 1950-1953 Bob Edwards U.S. Air Force Vietnam War Steven Wiktorski Jr. U.S. Army 1959-1962 George Buchanan U.S. Navy 1946-1949 U.S. Army 1949-1952

Frank Ponticello U.S. Navy 1952-1956 Willis West Jr. U.S. Army - 45th Infantry Division 1950-1952. Robert White Gillman U.S. Army 1956-1958

sometimes take for granted. Please thank them for their service if you encounter them in the grocery or local coffee shop! Special thanks to Marissa Robertson, resident services coordinator at The Lodge at BridgeMill, for gathering the photos and details from these very special veterans.

Don Techentien U.S. Army 1951-1953

William Thomas Dotson U.S. Navy 1949-1976

Msgt. Rodney Beauchamp USMC Ret. U.S. Army/ U.S. Marine Corps 1945 WWII, 1950-1956 Korea, 1962-1971 Vietnam

Floyd Barcus U.S. Army/U.S. Air Force 1945-1949 James L. Slaughter U.S. Army WW II Kendrick A. Shedd U.S. Army June 1946-1949 Paul Santinelli U.S. Air Force 1951-1955

Veterans Day Celebration Join the residents of The Lodge at BridgeMill for a special event planned for noon-1 p.m. Nov. 11 in the Dining Room & Pub. The Reminiscents will perform 1940s wartime music as Rosie the Rivetors. Lunch available for purchase at the restaurant. The Lodge at BridgeMill is at 10451 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. RSVP by calling 770-479-4639. www.thelodgeatbridgemill.com. SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Woodstock Native Opts for Bold Hair Color BY JODI TIBERIO & VENÉSSA LANIER

Ali Soumas, our November makeover model, is a native of Woodstock. She is from a well-known Woodstock family — her dad is the fire chief of Woodstock. Ali told us that she does not change her look often, but she wanted to “spice up” her style to surprise her boyfriend of more than seven years. Ali visited Brooklynn’s to pick out a new poncho for the fall. Jenna, our assistant manager, had fun showing Ali the

many choices for this season. Ponchos are popular because they are not only soft, cozy and trendy, but they also fit almost everyone. Ali and Jenna decided on this popular cream-colored poncho with fringe. Monogrammed boot cuffs from MudPie add another fun element to this outfit. These boot cuffs are a popular favorite and are readily available in most letters. With some skinny jeans and boots, this look is fabulous-made-easy. Salon and Spa Venéssa’s Rising Star stylist Kara Wood consulted with Ali. Collectively, they decided to do a bold color change. Kara used hair painting techniques to lighten Ali’s natural (virgin) medium-brown hair. Since Ali has never had dramatic hair color before, Kara kept the lightened hair away from Ali’s natural hair color at the scalp, which will allow for her hair color to be easily maintained, and grow out looking natural. After the color processed, Kara glazed Ali’s hair with a color conditioning treatment to even out the tone and add shine. The end result was a shiny, golden-blonde color that brightened Ali’s face and gave her the “spice” she was looking for. In order to maintain this Balayage color through the fall, Ali will visit the salon again to freshen-up her color with the same treatment. As her hair grows out, a few “babylights” can be added around the front for even more brightness. Ali’s new hairstyle was complete with a healthy trim. Kara cut Ali’s long hair into a v-shape, adding long layers for movement. As for her makeup, Kara chose the new Sublime Spirit fall makeup collection to enhance Ali’s natural beauty. Kara showed Ali how to do a dramatic smoky eye, and how to create soft and natural-looking lips. Since her eyes are blue, Ali was surprised that Kara used a Blue Lapis eye shadow. Kara explained that with the correct shadow color and placement, the color can actually enhance her blue eyes. Finally, a nude Sandstone lip color gave her lips the perfect amount of color and shine to finish the makeover. We only hope Ali’s dad knows how to put out the sparks when her boyfriend sees her new look.

Ali told us that she does not change her look often, but she wanted to “spice up” her style.

Jodi Tiberio owns Branches and Brooklynn’s boutiques. Contact her at Jodi@tberioretail.com. Venéssa Lanier owns Salon and Spa Venéssa, and can be reached at salonvenessa@gmail.com.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

A Ritz Cracker Kind of Guy BY DR. MIKE LITREL

My doctor partners and I take turns being on call for the holidays. Two years ago, my turn fell on Thanksgiving, and as I looked across the table at my loved ones and listened to their loud and animated conversation, I remember noticing they all seemed to be in various states of inebriation. I began to wish the hospital would call me. Nothing is more annoying than being the only sober one at the dinner table. Especially when you paid for all the wine. I realized there were three ways to handle my unhappiness. One, I could make sure I wasn’t on call the following year so I could join in the frivolity. Two, I could cultivate new friends and family who were less inclined to intoxicate themselves at holiday meals. Or three, I could view this moment of unhappiness as a spiritual lesson and walk more strongly the path of Love. The decision was easy. I decided not to be on call again. Holidays are stressful, but particularly so for women. Women are more aware of the subtleties of celebration. They put effort into aesthetic touches that would never dawn on a man. The intention, I believe, is to manifest beauty. But sometimes the result is marital conflict. Every Thanksgiving, Ann makes six dozen homemade crackers called “Cheddar Crisps” that come in three flavors: cracked blacked pepper, caraway seed, and something called nigella seed. Ann carefully sequesters her crackers in a tin box to be doled out at the right moment. Every guest is given three crackers just after saying grace, one of each flavor - and a bowl of butternut squash soup. It’s such a big deal to Ann that we handle each cracker like Grandma’s antique tea cup. Unfortunately, I am more a Ritz cracker kind of guy, accustomed to shoveling large quantities into my mouth until I am full. So for me, this homemade cracker stuff is holiday stress. How do I express genuine appreciation for the work my wife has put into this pre-Thanksgiving snack, without conveying my true thoughts? Stop wasting so much time already – they’re just crackers! Instead, I channel Effete Cracker Connoisseur, solemnly critiquing the subtleties of each flavor and commenting about how the steam from the soup opens up the palate so one can fully appreciate the differences. But truthfully, I just wanted Ann to stop making them Last year I got my wish. I was not on call, and no homemade crackers were to be found! But I noticed a few things. Free to imbibe a glass of wine, I found I did not want any, but instead chose sparkling water. And the sodden idiots inclined to boorish conversation I remembered from the year before were actually beautiful people I am so very blessed to have in my life.

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continued on page 69 Michael Litrel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS, is double board certified in ob-gyn and urogynecology with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Woodstock and Canton. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Becoming an Actor Step 4: Building a Résumé BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

It isn’t easy to get an agent without quality credits on your résumé, so let’s talk about how to build your résumé without having an agent. Even if you hire an agent, you’ll need to know how to find and/or create your own work, to set up habits you’ll always keep. Theatre training is the easiest credit to obtain. There are community Local Theater Options theatres in • Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, www.elmstreetarts.org just about 8534 Main St., Woodstock, 678-494-4251 • Cherokee Theatre Company, www.cherokeetheatre.org every city in Performances are held at the Canton Historic Theatre, America where 171 East Main St. 770-591-0282 aspiring actors • STARS Community Drama http://stars-community-drama.webnode.com can hone tagotte9394@aol.com their skills. • Broadway Bound Productions, Community www.broadwayboundproductionsinc.com. 770-720-2698 theatres offer • Atlanta Theatre Collective a well-rounded www.atlantatheatrecollective.com education, and Performances at the Canton Theatre. they typically hold open auditions...anyone can audition for any show, regardless of experience. In addition to adding credits to your résumé, theatre work will give you a chance to practice the art of acting. This is especially helpful if you cannot afford training. Theatre roles are much

more intensive than film and television roles, and performing in plays can give you a wonderful education in how to craft a character. While theatre is important for a strong résumé, you also need to add some television and film experience to your list of credits. It is likely you won’t be able to score an audition for bigbudget projects without an agent, but don’t let that discourage you. Instead, work on finding independent projects; the best way to find such auditions is through acting groups on Facebook and ActorsAccess.com. Stay away from Craigslist, since many projects found there are not safe or of good quality. You may hope to get big auditions immediately, but remember that small projects are great practice for the bigger stuff. You do not want to be in front of major casting directors until you’re ready. If you want to make a career as an extra, you can find just about all the work you want in and around Atlanta. However, if you want speaking roles, treat your work as an extra only as continued on page 69

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

Buying New Construction BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

Before the market showed signs of improvement, it wasn’t feasible or practical to buy a newly constructed home. With the current lack of inventory of single family homes, it’s becoming more of a necessity. In Towne Lake, for example, there are only 129 single family homes on the market for sale, which is fantastic for sellers but problematic for buyers. With homes that are priced to market selling in under a month, it can be difficult for buyers to get the home they want. Buying a new home from a builder is more feasible now, since builders have adjusted to the rising demand and have built up some inventory. The number one thing to do when buying any home is to hire your own real estate agent. Having an understanding as to the price direction in the community, recent sales prices and buyer incentives is essential to you getting the best deal. When interviewing a buyer’s agent, make sure they have sold new construction and worked with builders and understand the new home buying process. Additionally, you should have your own representation; a builder’s on-site agent is paid to represent the builder’s best interests, as your agent would do for you. Also, a good buyer’s agent will be able to insure that contingencies and cancellation rights are built into your new home contract. The correct contingencies are especially important when you 28

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have a home to sell before the completion of the new home. The good news is that your buyer’s agent will be compensated by the listing agent to represent you and look out for your best interests. Hiring a licensed, accredited individual to perform your own home inspections is also recommended. A pre-drywall inspection would be very advisable, as it is the last chance to see how the plumbing, electrical and framing were completed. No builder is perfect, and construction workers are human and occasionally make mistakes. A good builder should correct any problems found by your inspector without hesitation. If you are considering new construction for your next home, good planning will be a necessity. The construction process can take four to six months, so contact your local real estate professional to discuss getting your current property on the market, and to devise a plan for your transition.

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

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owne Lake Primary Care provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for the entire family. Our board-certified physicians, Dr. Loe, Dr. Mercando and Dr. Hewling offer exceptional knowledge while serving with the empathetic touch and attention to detail you and your family deserve. Towne Lake Primary Care offers same-day appointments for sick visits and accepts most insurance plans.

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SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Planning for Retirement When You Are Single

If you aren’t married, you should consider these potential expenses and needs. DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

How does retirement planning differ for single people? At a glance, there would seem to be no difference in the retirement saving effort of an individual versus the retirement saving effort of a couple: start early, save consistently and use vehicles that allow tax-advantaged growth and compounding of invested assets. On closer inspection, differences do appear—factors that single adults should pay attention to while planning for the future. Retirement savings must be built off one income. Unmarried adults should save for retirement early and avidly. Most couples have the luxury of creating retirement nest eggs from either or both incomes. They can plan to build wealth with a degree of flexibility and synchronization that is unavailable to a single saver. So when it comes to building retirement assets, a single adult has to start early, save big and never let up, as there is no spouse around to help in the effort and only one income from which savings can emerge. The Social Security claiming decision takes on more importance. An unmarried person’s Social Security benefits are calculated off his or her lifetime earnings record. Simple, cut and dried.1 Married people, however, have an option that the unmarried lack. Once their spouses begin to collect Social Security, they have a chance to claim a spousal benefit as early as age 62 rather than wait for benefits based solely on their own earnings. In fact, they may be able to claim this spousal benefit at age 62 even if they are widowed or divorced. If they are caring for a son or daughter from that marriage who is also receiving some form of Social Security benefits, they may be eligible for a spousal benefit before age 62.2,3

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

All this means that a couple can potentially rely on two Social Security incomes before both spouses reach what the program deems full retirement age. An unmarried person cannot exploit that opportunity, so the decision to claim Social Security early at reduced monthly benefits or postpone claiming to receive greater benefits becomes critical. An unmarried person may someday have a huge need for long-term-care insurance. If there are no adult children or spouse around to serve as caretakers in the event of a debilitating mental or physical breakdown, an unmarried individual may eventually become destitute from costs linked to that sad consequence. Long-term-care coverage is growing more expensive and fewer carriers are offering it these days, so many married baby boomers are wondering if it is really worth the expense; in the case of a single, unmarried baby boomer retiring solo, it may be. Housing is often the largest expense for the unmarried. In an ideal world, a single adult could pay half of the monthly housing expense of a married couple. That seldom happens. Relatively speaking, housing costs usually consume much more of an individual’s income than the income of a couple. This is true even early in life: according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, married folks in their late 20s spend $7,200 per person less on housing expenses annually. So a single person would do well to find ways to cut down housing expenses, as this frees continued on page 69 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.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Women Find Balance in Being Artists, Mothers BY REBECCA DEVANE

At some point in their lives, most people have been moved by a piece of artwork. Perhaps they were moved enough to wonder who created the art, what inspired the artist or if there was a story behind the work. There’s a unique story behind some paintings that were created for Falany and Hulse Women’s Center in Towne Lake. The project, a commission by the physicians group, was a combined effort of the members of Creative Mothers, a new art group in Towne Lake. The fact that the paintings are the result of a group effort makes each piece part of a beautiful puzzle, intricately layered with the talent and style of women that make up the diverse group. A puzzle is a fitting analogy, as these mothers seem to fit together perfectly to create moving artwork. The Creative Mothers formed through Facebook this summer, after DeAnna Headrick noticed many of her friends were in need of a pick-me-up. “I became a stay-at-home mom recently and the more I visited my friends I realized that we need something that isn’t just changing diapers. When I asked if anyone wanted to make art together I had an overwhelming response,” said DeAnna, a Canton mom with two young children. DeAnna has an art degree from Kennesaw State University and has a strong network of friends in Cobb and Cherokee counties. The group has approximately 15 core members, all artists and mothers. Some women in the group have had formal training in the arts, while others are self taught. However, art is the connective force that brought them all together and gave them

Catherine Pawiak, mom of Callie and Cas, with the paintings “Genesis of a Hue.” The abstract artwork has 15 layers of acrylic paint and textured media.

an opportunity to share their passion for creating. The goal of the group is to utilize all forms of art to create beautiful experiences that unify people. The Creative Mothers want to build a forum where all mothers have an outlet to express themselves. The members look forward to being involved in public art programs, murals and art installations for businesses in the future. Each member takes a turn managing a project. Currently, there are a half dozen new projects in the works, including a Creative Mother’s Day art show that is planned for Mother’s Day weekend in 2016. If you would like to join Creative Mothers, or keep track of the group’s progress, go to Facebook.com/thecreativemothers.

Senior Sense: Thanksgiving Time BY DELIA HALVERSON

With passing years, we often lose sight of the original meaning of a holiday. The Thanksgiving season has two strikes against it. The first is the expansion of the Christmas season. It seems more and more Christmas activities are pushing into the Thanksgiving season. When I was a child, the stores shocked us by displaying Christmas merchandise around the first of December. Now, Santa and the products of his workshop fight with Halloween masks and skeletons for space on the shelves. In fact, on Sept. 30 I saw Christmas trees in the aisles at a local wholesale club! Personally, I do enjoy a three to four-week Christmas season. It only comes once a year. But would an earlier Thanksgiving offer more opportunity for real thankfulness? After all, thankfulness is what it’s all about. Perhaps we could incorporate our honor of veterans into the day and also offer thanks for peace in our nation. The second strike against Thanksgiving is the time lapse between the actual close of harvest and the date. Growing up in Florida, I never knew the true feeling of harvest time; it seemed to me that Thanksgiving was just an arbitrary date because harvest occurred year round. In fact, the height of the pickling season came in early June, and by mid-July, the gardeners gave up, unless they replanted. When I lived in the Dakotas, I enjoyed a true harvest. Like a 32

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squirrel preparing for winter, I pickled, canned and froze every tidbit our laboring garden produced. I even suffered the thorns of the buffalo berry bush for its translucent red-pink berries to make jelly. At the end of all that work and turmoil, I truly felt thankful. Then, I had to wait six weeks for my Thanksgiving dinner. In the Dakotas, we often picked the green tomatoes before frost and wrapped them in newspaper to ripen them. One year I tried to keep a few tomatoes in the refrigerator for Thanksgiving Day, so that I could enjoy something fresh from the harvest. Today, everything for a Thanksgiving dinner comes directly from the grocery store. Shouldn’t Thanksgiving be more than planning a big dinner and bursting at the seams while we watch football? I do appreciate the opportunity to get together as a family, but we seldom really think about just what we are thankful for. It becomes rather matter-of-fact. Maybe this year we will ask everyone at the table to mention at least one thing they are thankful for before the meal.

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.

Restoring a Woman’s Anatomy Inside & Out

woman’s body is never the same after having children. Who better to fix your anatomy than the doctors who not only deliver thousands of babies, but are also reconstructive surgeons? Breaking new ground with a higher level of services for the community are the physicians of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, who have delivered more than 10,000 babies since the practice opened in 1993. Subspecialty Board Certified Reconstructive Surgeons Doctors Michael Litrel, Peahen Gandhi and James Haley have achieved board certification in the subspecialty female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS, also known as urogynecology). They specialize in treating conditions women commonly experience from having children or aging, including incontinence, pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction. Along with OB/GYN colleagues Dr. Britton Crigler and Dr. Kathryn Hale, the five physicians make up the only obstetricsgynecology practice in Georgia with multiple board certified pelvic reconstructive surgeons. Addressing Women’s Hidden Suffering FPMRS surgeons correct disorders to the pelvic floor, which refers to the muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that hold a woman’s bladder, rectum and female organs inside the body. “Motherhood is a tough road,” comments Dr. Litrel. “Pregnancy and labor can cause damage to a woman’s anatomy. Later on, as you age, you can have pain or bleeding, a leaky bladder, or even changes in female anatomy or appearance. These things can affect your relationship - the way you and your husband relate to each other.” Dr. Gandhi adds, “Because we’re OB/GYNs, we’re not cosmetic surgeons who concentrate only on the outward appearances. We repair interior anatomy as well. This includes problems like incontinence, pain, pelvic floor prolapse and vaginal laxity, as well as distorted labial anatomy.” Reconstructive and Cosmetic Gynecologic Surgery Many life-changing therapies can be performed in the offices of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, including vaginal rejuvenation, labiaplasty and breakthrough technologies such as Thermiva. This painless office procedure uses thermal energy to rebuild tissue and tighten vaginal muscles. Dr. Haley says, “Lots of women make the mistake of believing that pain and discomfort are natural as they age. That’s not the case. Surgical techniques and the understanding of women’s

anatomy have increased tremendously in the past 20 years, making the new specialty [FPMRS] necessary.” From left, Ultrasonographer Brenda Peters, Dr. Britton Crigler, Dr. Kathryn Azelia Hale, Dr. Peahen Gandhi, Dr. James Haley, Susan Griggs, CNM, Dr. Mike Litrel. Photo by J King Images.

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists OB/GYN and UROGYNECOLOGY

Canton: 227 Riverstone Drive Woodstock: Towne Lake Overlook Medical Building 100 Stoneforest Drive, Suite 200

770-720-7733

8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1:30-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Facebook: CherokeeWomensHealth Twitter: @atlantaobgyn A Powerhouse Team for Obstetrics Pregnant women who come to Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists will find a holistic practice with a significant depth of knowledge combined with technological advances. Each physician has the expertise to manage high-risk obstetrics. Four-dimensional ultrasound services are nationally accredited by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. Healthy pregnancies are confirmed with advanced technologies for noninvasive testing, including Nuchal Translucency or Cell Free DNA testing. Additionally, Drs. Hale and Crigler are experts at noninvasive muscle floor pelvic strengthening options. Both vegans, they build on the mind-body-spirit approach of the practice. Certified Nurse Midwife Susan Griggs rounds out this team of providers to complete the picture of a practice with total dedication to the health of their patients, before and after childbirth. Treating Patients As We Would Our Loved Ones “It’s ingrained in our practice to treat each patient as we would a family member,” says Dr. Litrel. “It’s a fact that every one of us loves our work and feels it’s our calling. It’s our privilege to always do our best, and strive to be our best—for our patients, and for this community we live in.” SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Helping Others Because many of our friends and neighbors struggle financially every day, there are many charities that work hard to help people in need. Here’s a list of local nonprofits that have additional needs for the holidays. To learn about many other ways to help throughout the year, visit www.volunteercherokee.org.

Cherokee County Senior Services

Cherokee Family Violence Center

The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency, Cherokee County Senior Services and the Volunteer Aging Council are working together on the annual Adopt-A-Senior 2015 program. Volunteers are asked to “adopt” a senior who receives services through Cherokee County Senior Services and provide him or her with a cardigan sweater, $25 gift card and a book of stamps. Sizes and gender information will be assigned when volunteers register on Nov. 9. Deadline to drop off gift packages is Dec. 11. To participate, contact Frankie Sanders at fsanders@ cherokeega.com or 770-924-7768.

The center has a transitional housing complex with 72 apartments and an emergency shelter that accommodates 12 women and children. The Thanksgiving wish list includes turkey or ham, fresh or boxed potatoes, gravy mix, corn or other canned vegetables, pasta, pumpkin pie mix, instant coffee, hot chocolate mix, fresh fruit and rolls. For delivery details, call 770-479-4641 or email jessica@cfvc.org.

www.cherokeega.com

Cherokee Thanksgiving Hosted by Canton First United Methodist Church. Volunteers will serve approximately 2,000 meals in Cherokee and Pickens counties on Thanksgiving. Delivery, dine-in or pickup. This dinner is for anyone who needs a meal, does not want to eat alone or simply isn’t able to prepare Thanksgiving dinner. Local area emergency service personnel and hospital emergency staff members will Cherokee Thanksgiving volunteers prepare receive dinners. To turkey for the dinner plates. order a meal, call 770877-2601. Dinners are delivered between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. To dine in or pick up, also call 770-877-2601 to reserve your meals. Dine in starts at noon. Volunteers for delivery can email ctdrivers007@gmail.com. Allow a few days for response. Opportunities to volunteer to assist with meal prep and serving start the week before Thanksgiving; email CTvolunteers2015@ gmail.com or call Barbara at 770-656-9209 for more information. Allow a few days for response. Food or monetary donations also are needed. Mail a check to CFUMC, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton, GA 30114. Indicate Cherokee Thanksgiving in the memo line. 34

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www.cfvc.org

The Children’s Haven

www.CherokeeChildrensHaven.org The Children’s Haven is a local nonprofit that promotes the health and happiness of children in Cherokee who are affected by abuse. The group works to ensure their safety, advocate on their behalf and respond to meet their needs. Holiday needs include new coats, socks, pajamas and underwear. Target or Walmart gift cards are welcome. Items can be dropped off at 1083 Marietta Highway in Canton. 770-345-3274.

Feed My Lambs

www.feedmylambs.net

The nonprofit, which offers free Christian preschools— including a location in Canton—holds Happy Birthday Jesus parties each year for the young students. Individuals or groups can sponsor a child: $10 gets a Happy Birthday Jesus shirt, $25 gets the child a shirt, gift bag, balloon, cake and drink. Groups may be interested in sponsoring a party by providing a portion of party needs (new unwrapped gifts, cupcakes, drinks or T-shirts) or show up to volunteer at the party. For more details, call Maggie Bridges at 770-795-9349.

Forever Fed

www.foreverfed.org The mobile food ministry needs donations of kid-friendly soups and boxes of granola bars for the Food4U/Cans 4 Kids food boxes that are distributed to children at risk of food insecurity in Cherokee County. Each box contains seven meals and seven snacks for one child. For details, call 678-883-3314 or email susan@foreverfed.org.

During the Holiday Season Give Canton the Bird

Never Alone

www.givecantonthebird.com

www.NeverAlone.org

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and once again, Action Church is asking Cherokee County residents to donate turkeys and other supplies to the Give Canton the Bird campaign. The goal is to give away 1,000 complete Thanksgiving meals to families in need this holiday season. A complete list of items needed is available online.

The food pantry needs financial donations (tax deductible) to provide Thanksgiving turkeys and family meal boxes to 600 local families who are having a rough time financially. Never Alone’s partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank allows it to purchase food at greatly discounted prices. Donate online or by check, made payable to and mailed to: Never Alone Outreach, P. O. Box 1904, Woodstock, GA 30188.

Goshen Valley Foundation www.goshenvalley.org

The holidays can be difficult times for the foster youth that Goshen Valley serves. The youth can use a little extra support from their community, and area residents can help by providing meals for the youth and house parents. “Frozen casseroles are a huge blessing for our house parents who are having to prepare three meals a day when the boys are out of school,” says Zach Blend, executive director of Goshen Valley. Individuals or small groups are encouraged to donate frozen meals. You can even deliver them in person and take a tour of Goshen Valley. Gift cards from Walmart, Target and Amazon can also help to fill many Christmas wish lists. Another need is artificial Christmas trees for the homes. These can be small, tabletop trees to full-size trees. For more information, email Carley Jacobs at cstephens@goshenvalley.org or call 770-345-9535.

MUST Ministries - Cherokee

www.mustministries.org

Thanksgiving boxes will be given to more than 1,000 families this year. The agency is looking for donations of cans of corn, green beans, cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes; boxes or packets of mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cornbread mix and stuffing; packets of gravy mix, frozen pies, and turkeys. Non-perishable items can be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Nov. 3-13 at MUST’s Canton location at 111 Brown Industrial Parkway. Frozen turkeys and pies can be delivered 8-9 a.m. Nov. 23-25. It helps to let MUST know what items you’ll be bringing, so please call Ranettia Beasley at 770-576-0359 or e-mail at cherokeeholiday@mustministries.org.

Operation Christmas Child

www.samaritanspurse.org

Representatives will be collecting donations of filled shoeboxes Nov. 16-23 at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, collects boxes filled with toys and hygiene items and ships around the world to children in need. Collection times are: noon-2 p.m. Nov. 1620, with an additional time 5-8 p.m. Nov. 18; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 21, noon-3 p.m. Nov. 22 and 9-10 a.m. Nov. 23.

Papa’s Pantry

www.papaspantry.org

Donations of turkeys, hams and produce are needed, as well as non-perishable food items. A list of seasonal needs is kept up-to-date on the website. Papa’s Pantry is a food and stability training organization for Cherokee residents. For details, call 770-591-4730.

Secret Santa

www.cherokeesanta.com

The Secret Santa program of the Department of Family and Children’s Services for Cherokee County offers a way for individuals, businesses or larger groups such as Sunday school classes or scout troops to help the more than 350 children in foster care this year. Sponsors can donate as much or as little as they can. All size donations are appreciated. For more details, call the Secret Santa phone line at 678-427-9393 or email cherokeesanta@yahoo.com.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

A One Stop

Pit Stop

Sixes Pit owner Angel Rivera

Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop 10511 Bells Ferry Road, Canton GA 470-765-6748 • www.sixespit.com Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced bike rider, the Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop is ready to serve your needs. Owner Angel Rivera says all levels of cyclists are welcome at Sixes Pit, and as he likes to say, “You put in the miles, we’ll provide the smiles.” Rivera says Sixes Pit brings more to the table than your regular bicycle shop. In addition to traditional bike sales, rentals and repairs, his shop offers a unique service to customers; consignment sales for riders who want to upgrade to a new bike. Customers who sell their bikes through the shop can apply 100 percent of the sale toward a new bike purchased at Sixes Pit. As an added bonus, all new bikes purchased at Sixes Pit receive lifetime adjustments. Custom builds are also available on any of the leading bicycle brands in the shop. Customers can combine any color options on parts, as well as professional airbrush art, creating a one-of-a-kind bicycle. Customer service and building relationships are key for his business. “We don’t just want to sell a bike to the customer,” he said. “We want to build a friendship with them, and we want them to have a positive experience.” Rivera said customers come back time after time because of the warm, friendly environment. “We only hire people who love the industry and have a passion for it.” When they enter the shop, customers are greeted with smiles, a welcoming atmosphere and by friendly, experienced employees. All of the employees at Sixes Pit are certified bike repair mechanics, and their focus is on helping biking enthusiasts to be the best they can be – at any level. The team at Sixes Pit knows bikers have to get started somewhere, and they love teaching and educating people. In fact, Rivera said that’s one of the things that sets his shop apart from others. “We enjoy teaching our customers how to change a tire or fix a broken chain,” he said. For him, it’s about sharing the joys of biking. Rivera is not a professional biker, but he is super passionate about the sport. He grew up in South Florida and has been an avid rider since 1999. He moved to Georgia 10 years ago with his wife, and attended Southern Polytechnic University for mechanical engineering. He dreamed of starting his own business and had a passion for biking, so he created a mobile bike shop. “Life is about being

sales • Rentals • Repairs 36

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Emmett Ryder preparing a customer’s bike for delivery.

happy and doing what you love,” he said. Working out of a trailer that he designed, he travelled to popular bike trails, providing bikes sales, rentals and concessions. He soon outgrew the trailer, found the need for retail space, and Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop was born. The store mainly focuses on mountain biking because of the close proximity to the Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trail System on Sixes Road. In 2015, Blankets Creek was voted the best mountain bike trail in Georgia by singletracks.com, and is one of the most visited trails in the country, according to Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) of Woodstock. “We have maintained a very close relationship with SORBA

and have been very involved with maintenance of Blankets Creek,” said Rivera. He and his employees help maintain the skills yard and courses by cleaning and mulching areas around the trails. Community involvement is important to him, and this is just his way of giving back. Sixes Pit also co-sponsored a recent bike rodeo, which was a free event that focused on teaching children ages 5 and older how to ride, and promoting bicycle safety. Sixes Pit even offered a free bicycle inspection. Raffle tickets were sold for the chance to win a new Orbea bike; proceeds from the raffle went to the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, a home for boys ages 11-18 who are in the State of Georgia’s foster care system. While mountain biking might be the main focus, the shop also carries hybrid, road and electric pedal assist bikes, as well as accessories, parts, and apparel. Sixes Pit is a one-stop bike shop for everyone. “I believe we are the best bike shop in town,” said Rivera. Whether you are an experienced bike rider or someone who has toyed with the idea of hitting the bike trails, Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop should be your first stop. “SORBA Woodstock is a non-profit chapter of IMBA/SORBA serving Woodstock and Canton. All members of the board of directors are volunteers. We build and maintain the trails at Blankets Creek and Rope Mill. We also hold monthly social rides for all ability levels, monthly work parties to maintain the trails, and we have quarterly meetings to get together and talk about what is happening with our trails. Please check our website (sorbawoodstock.org) or Facebook pages (SORBA Woodstock Social and SORBA Woodstock) for details about our events and how to become a SORBA Woodstock member.” Angela Chambers, SORBA Woodstock, Events Director

photos by J.King Images

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Doug. He listens well and sits and snuggles with you. He does not jump on you. He is really gentle and calm for a big dog. He is a pointer mix and about 3 years old. At the moment there are four adult cats at the shelter and quite a lot of kittens. This cat’s name is Tippi. She is gray and white and is 7 years old. She is a domestic short-haired mix. Tippi is big and lazy. She winds herself up into a ball and she is very soft and snuggly. Anagrace and Davis Watson used their birthday money to buy cat and dog food for Rob’s Rescues, which I took to the shelter.

Rob’s Rescues

now has a Facebook page!

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community. Everyday Angels would like to share the story of Brenda Carlile, 45, who is a wife, mom of four, and one of the godliest women you will ever meet. Prior to early August of this year, life was simply perfect for Brenda. She was blessed with an amazing husband, four healthy children (ages 19, 12, 6 and 3) and she spent her days joyfully homeschooling her kids. Brenda was also teaching sewing for Timothy Ministries, a homeschool support ministry. On July 30, Brenda and her two younger children headed to Waycross, Ga., to spend her birthday weekend with her parents; her husband Chris had to work. The night before she left, Brenda woke up to abdominal pain and bloating. “I had a few similar episodes over the past few months and I thought it was simply a foodrelated reaction to what I had eaten the night before,” said Brenda. “We loaded our car and began the drive despite my pain. However, the pain didn’t subside, and 34 hours later, my husband insisted that I go to the emergency room. “ER immediately performed a CT scan and sonogram of my abdomen,” she continued. “Tests revealed a 9 cm solid mass right above my left kidney, with inflamed lymph nodes surrounding it. Emergency room doctors suggested that I see an oncologist on Monday. I made the decision to [keep my plans to visit] with my parents and extended family that long birthday weekend, as we celebrated through lots of prayer! Once we returned home to Canton, the roller coaster ride began.” Brenda’s faith is evident in this Facebook post from Sept. 30: “Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Had a nice visit with Dr. A this morning, and for once, all test results were back, and final! He gave me all the good news first - it’s large B cell, fairly common lymphoma, with all the affected lymph nodes contained in one area. Then, the not-so-good report: the bone marrow biopsy came back positive so I’m stage 4 because of that, and it’s a little more difficult to get into remission. The battle begins at 8 a.m. tomorrow, with treatments every three weeks. Six treatments scheduled and then all the testing to see the results. This road is only unknown to us, but my faithful God has already traveled it - and He will hold my hand the entire journey - of this I 40

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

have no doubt. He knows what the future holds, and He doesn’t want us to worry or be anxious, but only to trust Him. So I will do that. But I may have a big ole cry first.” Seven years ago, Chris lost his concrete business during the economic downturn. Financial struggles are nothing new for the Carlile family. Chris is now working for Quick Response Force, which specializes in home restoration and water damage repair. He has always worked hard for his family, but health insurance had become a luxury that they simply could not afford over the past few years. “We will likely be on a payment plan for the rest of our lives,” Brenda said. “We may not have a lot of money but we have a lot of love.” Brenda’s physical battle began recently, and her faith is stronger than ever. “Since the beginning, our amazing friends, family and church family has been a great source of love, comfort and food,” she said. Despite her bad days, Brenda’s strong faith and family encourage her. “Please pray that God would be glorified with my response throughout this trial,” she said. “So, we wait….but I’ve got a comfortable spot Under His Wings!” May we all have the strength, courage and faith of Brenda Carlile. Please keep her and her family in your daily prayers. See the details below if you would like to make a donation. 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.

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SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Community

A HEAD START ON THE

Holidays

BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

November might be my favorite month of the year. By this time, the kids have found their groove at school, the dog days of summer are far behind us, and we’re just beginning to think about the upcoming holiday season. It’s not quite here, which means we’re not knee-deep in the pit of crazy…yet. While you’ve still got time to catch your breath, I wanted to introduce you to a few of my favorite new pieces for entertaining this season.

Every home needs a bar cart, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. I love Target’s Threshold line for the home. In addition to this handy bar cart for just $129.99, you can get everything you need to stock it (sans the hard liquor) at Target, too. The simple, gold lines will complement any decor and can carry you through the new year in style. Target, off I-575 at Exits 7 and 19.

Gold and white is an elegant color combination that mixes well with red and green, and I see this rustic burlap everywhere these days. One of my favorite places to go for unique pieces that are both durable and beautiful is Willow in the Canton Marketplace shopping center. This gold and white serving platter and the coordinating mugs have me yearning for brunch with friends. Don’t forget your hostess. These would also make a stunning gift. Platter and serving spoon $40.95, mugs $16.95 each. Willows Gift Shoppe, 2022 Cumming Highway, Canton.

Looking for something special to serve the family during the holidays? When I found out that a pasta called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue actually exists, I couldn’t resist featuring it here. The pasta is festive and colorful. Cook it to al dente perfection — with just the right amount of bite — and, like me, you’ll be giggling under your breath with every mouthful. $13.50, Leaning Ladder.

4. These salts, with their fancy names and intriguing

4 42

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

suggested uses, caught my eye last weekend. If used liberally, I wouldn’t be surprised if more than one guest asks you to share your recipe’s secret ingredient. You can smile coyly, wink, and say, “Ahh...it’s just a sprinkle of Santa Salt.” In addition to the products you see here, I also found others, called “Magic Unicorn” and “Friends Forever.” How fun is that? $11 for a sample pack of five, 105 E. Main St., Woodstock, Leaning Ladder.

Health & Wellness

Pets Can Experience the Pain of Arthritis BY DR. JONATHAN GILVARRY

As we change seasons into the cooler months, the temperature in North Georgia can get downright chilly. The cooler weather can mean stiffer joints, which often produce aches and painsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;for humans and our pets as well. As dogs and cats age, the incidence of arthritis becomes much more common. It has been estimated that more than 20 percent of all animals are living with symptoms of arthritis. The pain and discomfort caused by arthritis can take many forms. Signs of arthritis in pets can range from subtle symptoms such as slowing down, increased panting or slowing to sit or get up from a resting position, to much more severe symptoms as not being able to walk or use a leg. Other observed symptoms of arthritis can manifest as tiredness, irritability, muscle weakness, licking, chewing and biting. Most pets will not outwardly vocalize as many pet owners would think. Instead, they tend to hide their signs and symptoms. There are various treatment options that exist once arthritis has been identified and diagnosed by your veterinarian. Although arthritis will not permanently disappear, treatment options are targeted to help pets feel less pain and discomfort. Treatment options include weight loss plans for overweight animals, animal-approved joint lubricants such as glucosamine and labeled prescription diets for arthritis, and special dog-only anti-inflammatory medications that are commonly referred to

as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It is important to remember that no human aspirin, acetaminophen or similar human medication can be given to dogs or cats. They are extremely toxic and can be lethal to pets, even in small dosages. Newer non-traditional treatments for arthritis are producing excellent results and include the use of therapeutic cold lasers and acupuncture. Therapeutic cold lasers have proven to provide amazing results for arthritis pain relief and even offer numerous benefits to many other ailments that plague our pets. The therapeutic cold laser provides increased blood supply and oxygen, and stimulates a number of the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal defense mechanisms to provide relief to the affected area while not burning or harming the skin. Pets that have been unable to walk have shown dramatic improvement after a few laser therapy treatments. Acupuncture also helps regulate the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centers for pain and relief. If you notice the signs of signs of arthritis, please contact your veterinarian; a treatment plan can be formulated to help provide as much comfort as possible for your pet.

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

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Health & Wellness

Smile! It Increases Your Face Value BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

Most people become aware of their appearance in their teenage years. They are more self-aware because they want to be accepted by their friends, impress other people they might date and generally feel confident about themselves. They become concerned about anything that improves their looks. Boys start lifting weights and girls learn about hair and makeup. During this stage of self-reflection, many teenagers get braces to straighten their teeth. This is not their favorite idea and cramps their style, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a coming-of-age ritual they tolerate on the road to straighter and healthier teeth and better looks. Overall, people start caring about their appearance as teenagers and they never stop throughout their entire life. A very important part of looking good is wearing a smile you like and feel confident about. A bright, attractive smile generates a stunning first impression. Without uttering a single word, your smile can convey confidence, optimism and a friendly personality. Aside from the physical effects of your smile, your smile also provides major psychological and emotional influences on your personality. If you are self-conscious and unhappy about the appearance of your smile, it can create a barrier and affect how others perceive you, making you appear timid, hesitant, removed, unhappy or even angry. An inadequate smile may create feelings of unattractiveness and insecurity.

Fortunately, advances in cosmetic dentistry allow people to benefit from smile makeovers that involve facial esthetics, gingival esthetics, microesthetics and macroesthetics. The physician will use photographic tools to analyze facial muscles, lips, gum tissue, teeth color and texture, function, tooth proportion, midlines and teeth angulaton. A smile makeover is a personalized process that involves review of models, photographs and a powerful pre-smile wax up that demonstrates a 3-D smile result in advance. I had the privilege recently of performing a smile makeover for a woman in her 70s who was getting remarried. It was an amazing experience to participate in her desire to look good. If you are among the lucky people born with a beautiful smile, consider yourself blessed. If your smile falls short of your expectations, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to know there is a solution that can provide you with the attractive smile you desire. A smile makeover can create a feeling of being younger, more attractive and confident in your everyday lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;personally and professionally.

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

Leukemia: Prompt diagnosis and expert care BY LESLIE KERNS

A leukemia diagnosis can cause fear and uncertainty, and alter the lives of both the patient and family members. Leukemia is a progressive cancer in which the bone marrow and other blood-forming organs produce increased numbers of immature or abnormal cells. This diagnosis can bring profound changes, and treating leukemia is complex and demanding. People diagnosed with acute leukemia can feel well one moment and face a serious diagnosis requiring immediate intervention in the next. Someone is diagnosed with a form of blood cancer every four minutes, according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. In 2015, there will be 54,270 newly diagnosed cases of leukemia in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Changes in red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are what cause leukemia symptoms, which can include fatigue, shortness of breath, excessive bruising and bleeding, fever and headache. The only way to diagnosis leukemia is through a careful, prompt and comprehensive evaluation. Often this requires admission to a hospital and evaluation by an oncologist. The 44

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accurate diagnosis of leukemia is critical. Current testing methods to obtain this diagnosis can be complex and timing is critical. Much of the testing done today helps predict the course of treatment that each individual patient needs to achieve the best outcomes. Oncologists and hematologists who specialize in the treatment of patients with leukemia will often have access to these specialized tests. Treatment for acute leukemia typically requires an initial admission to a hospital that can support the unique needs of leukemia patients. Support services such as nursing, blood banks, nutritionists, therapists and navigators help patients optimize their journey through treatment. Although the journey is complex and overwhelming, prompt diagnosis, focused treatment and specialized support can help patients survive.

Leslie Kerns is the director of the Leukemia Program at Northside Hospital which provides patients with the exceptional quality care needed to treat their bloodrelated malignancy. Visit www.northside.com/leukemia for more information.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Health & Wellness

Please Pass the Stuffing BY DR. JAN HENRIQUES

“Dad, can you carve the turkey?” “Mom, please pass the gravy.” “Did you see that catch?” “Grandpa, I love you.” These are just a few snippets of conversation that can take place at a family gathering for Thanksgiving. Some people feel out of the loop in regards to what is being said around the family table. Some just pretend to hear and sit back and let the conversations happen around them. Others avoid these situations because they feel left out. Withdrawing from social situations is very common for people with untreated hearing loss. Whether you are struggling with work meetings, conversation around the card table or family occasions, hearing is an integral part of communication. According to the Better Hearing Institute, addressing hearing loss can help better maintain vitality in life by nurturing relationships and social connections. Studies reflect that the use of modern hearing aids not only helps people with their overall ability to communicate, but also has a positive effect on their relationships and participation in group activities. Improved hearing can often keep employees in the workforce longer, since untreated hearing loss can affect job performance. Hearing loss treatments can also protect cognitive function and aid in keeping the blues away. A 2014 study

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

found that hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of depression in adults of all ages, particularly 18-69. A study from the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University found that hearing aids may slow cognitive decline tied to hearing loss. Earlier studies have linked hearing loss to dementia. If you suspect hearing loss, your first step is to have your hearing tested by a licensed audiologist. Don’t miss hearing “I love you” during the holidays, along with all the other important sounds of life.

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.

Which Of These Neuropathy Symptoms Do You Suffer From?

If You Suffer From A Single One Of These Torturous Symptoms – Numbness, Tingling, Or Sharp Nerve Pain – THEN THE FACTS BELOW MAY BE THE MOST IMPORTANT YOU HAVE EVER READ IN YOUR LIFE! Neuropathy affects every part of your life -walking, sitting, and even sleeping. Maybe you've had multiple tests, only to find out no one has any idea what you have. Maybe you've even been put on a drug with heavy side effects.

Do you have any of the following symptoms... • • • • •

Pins and needles feeling Numbness in the hands or feet Tingling or burning sensations Weakness in the arms or legs Sharp shooting or burning pains

If so you may have a condition called peripheral neuropathy. My name is Dr. Amy Valente, and I've been helping people with neuropathy and nerve problems for years. More than 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral neuropathy, a problem caused by damage to the nerves that supply your arms and legs. This painful condition interferes with your body's ability to transmit messages to your muscles, skin, joints, or internal organs. If ignored or mistreated, neuropathy can lead to irreversible health conditions. Why not get help by those trained to correct the major cause of peripheral neuropathy? Data from the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners' Job Analysis of Chiropractic lists arm and leg neuropathy as the second most common nerve problem treated by chiropractors. Often neuropathy is caused by a degenerating spine pressing on the nerve roots. This can happen in any of the vertebral joints from the neck all the way down to the tail bone. The Single Most Important Solution To Your Neuropathy By using gentle techniques, I'm able to release the pressure that has built up on the nerve. This allows the nerve to heal and the symptoms to go away. Listen to what some of our patients have to say about it:

“I came into NCS&N with extreme leg pain that caused a lack of sleep and decrease in activity. Now that I have been getting care I have a lot less pain and I am able to be more active. What amazed me the most is that I don’t have to take any medication and I feel that my nerves have healed a lot! Thank you, Billy Johnston I originally came into the office seeking relief for symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy. Since receiving treatments I have less pain, tingling and numbness in my legs and feet. I can walk longer, farther and my mobility has really improved! The doctors and staff here are very friendly and I am thankful for their concern of my wellbeing. Thanks, Theresa Oglesby

How To Find Out If This Will Work For You It’s time for you to find out if chiropractic will be your neuropathy solution.

solution, like it has been for so many other patients. The appointment will not take long at all. And you won't be sitting in a waiting room all day either. Here's What To Do Now The offer is only good until Oct. 15th. Call today 678-574-5678 and we can get you scheduled for your consultation, exam and x-rays as soon as there’s an opening. Our office is located at 3451 Cobb Pkwy Suite 4. Acworth, GA 30101 (on the corner of Mars Hill and 41).

For 14 days only, $20 will get you all the services I normally charge new patients $250 for!

When you call, tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Neuropathy Evaluation so she can get you on the schedule and make sure you receive proper credit for this special offer.

What does this offer include? Everything. Take a look at what you will receive:

Sincerely, Amy Valente, D.C..

• An in-depth consultation about your health and well-being where I will listen…really listen…to the details of your case.

P.S. At our office, we have specialized treatment programs for treating patients who suffer from neuropathy.

•

A complete neuromuscular examination.

• A full set of specialized x-rays to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or symptoms… (NOTE: These would normally cost you at least $100). • A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. • You’ll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain

Why suffer with years of misery? That’s no way to live, not when there could be an easy solution to your problem. Don't live in pain when we may have the solution you've been looking for all along.

North Cobb Spine and Nerve Institute 3451 Cobb Pkwy Ste # 4 Acworth, GA 30101

Call Today...678-574-5678

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Faith

New Steeple Sixes United Methodist Church celebrated the memory of a longtime Sixes resident and church member recently by adding a steeple to the church’s structure. The church, founded in 1832, was very dear to Ronnie

Hoover and his family, who thought the steeple would be a fitting tribute. “Ronnie was very instrumental in getting this facility built, and a steeple seems like the perfect way to honor his legacy,” said Dr. Joe McKechnie, pastor of Sixes for the past three years. Hoover’s immediate family attended the ceremony, along with several relatives who traveled from North Carolina. McKechnie notes that the steeple was usually the tallest structure in town, allowing Christians to easily locate the nearest church. And just as the architecture of the steeple draws one’s eyes upward, it’s a power reminder of how we must always pursue God. “It’s a beautiful addition to an already wonderful building, and I pray that the church will continue to be a beacon of hope, peace, joy, and love.

Change Can Lead to Freedom BY DR. JOE MCKECHNIE

There must be some unwritten rule that states that the older one gets, the faster time goes by. In some ways, it seems like only yesterday I was a student at the University of Georgia. (It wasn’t; I graduated 24 years ago!) I am amazed at the changes that have taken place in my lifetime. Each year, staff members at Beloit College in Wisconsin provide some insight for the freshmen class. Students headed off to college were, for the most part, born in 1997, the same year as the death of Princess Diana. Today’s college freshmen have never licked a postage stamp. They have always had Google. The Atlanta Braves have always played at Turner Field. Today’s college students view Wi-Fi as a necessity. For today’s college freshmen: • Splenda has always been a sweet option in the U.S. • Hybrid automobiles have always been mass produced. • Email is the new “formal” communication, while texts and tweets remain enclaves for the casual. • The airport in Washington, D.C., has always been Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. • CNN has always been available en Español. • They have never seen the Houston Oilers play football. • Teachers have to insist that term papers employ sources beyond those found online. • TV has always been in such high definition that they could see the pores of actors and the grimaces of quarterbacks. Life is full of change, and to fight change is, therefore, to fight life. Granted, I’m beginning to feel like an old man when I lament 48

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

that today’s generation needs to “get out and play” like mine did. Change can be difficult. But change can also be beautiful. About 700 years before Jesus was born, a prophet named Isaiah was trying to bring news of hope to a nation that had been defeated, kicked around, exiled and left in ruins. He is sharing his hope-filled message with people who were desperate for any good news. “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18-19) The Israelites had a choice. They could view their past and the problems of their present, or they could focus on what God wanted to do in their lives. God had already set into motion the events and people who would lead Israel out of captivity and back into the land of blessing. But it was still up to them to decide if they wanted what God was offering. If they refused God’s plan, if they refused to follow where God was leading, then they would be doomed to remain in their captivity. The same is true for us. We aren’t being held captive by another nation, but we are held captive by our fears, doubts, sin, anxiety, worry, pain, guilt, frustration, loneliness, insecurity and shame. God had already set into motion the events and people who will lead you to a new place of freedom. We need to understand that God is far more interested in our future than He is in our past.

Dr. Joe McKechnie is the senior pastor of Sixes United Methodist Church, and a member of the Sixes Living community board. Email him at joe@sixesumc.org.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

School & Sports

CHEROKEE Homecoming

Homecoming King and Queen, Christian Vines and Emily Smith.

Isabelle Dillon, Clair Alexander, Sarah Good, Amber Medley.

Mitch Dillon and Shanetta Cummings .

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

School & Sports

WOODSTOCK Homecoming

Seniors Blake Heyer and Emma Dixon.

Michaela Thomas and Zack Wallace.

ROTC prepares to present the homecoming court.

Alyssa Moffitt with her dad, Chad. 52

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Madison Reeg with dad, Michael.

Joe Burnett, Michael Gustafson, Julia Tulley, Blake Ventura.

Seniors Savannah Krapf, Olivia Harrison, Alex Shugart and Danielle Rubin.

Kelley Shareef with dad, Dave.

Jordie St. Pierre and Abir Sharma.

Sam Gill, Ally Bullock, Isaac Condrey, Joey Felder, Makayla Powell.

Taylor Savors and dad, Zachary.

Beta club members participated in the parade.

Elizabeth (Lizzie) Beatty, Queen and Jackson Beasley, King

Purchase your tickets online at: ksuowls.com

Purchase your tickets online at: reinhardteagles.com SIXES LIVING | November 2015

School & Sports

A Special Day in Woodstock More than 1,000 people, including athletes, staff and student volunteers, attended the Cherokee County School District’s Special Olympics Awareness Games on a recent October day. River Ridge High School hosted the event, which included participants from almost every elementary, middle and high school in the county. The athletes competed in various track and field events, along with other fun activities, to promote

Sequoyah High student Iain Anderson knocks the ball off the tee in a field event.

Matthew Taylor of Cherokee High participates in the bean bag toss.

the year-round Special Olympics program. The games opened with a parade of athletes, presentation of the colors by River Ridge JROTC, the Special Olympics oath, the national anthem, and a special song performed by a group of athletes. The annual event is coordinated through the county’s office of educational programs, and organized by adaptive physical education teachers Dave Martinez and Amy Aenchbacher and assisted by Jennifer Merges.

Event Co-Coordinator Dave Martinez welcomes the crowd, as Master of Ceremonies Anton Zellman looks on.

Viviana Cristobal of Cherokee High takes her turn at the ball toss.

School board chair Kyla Cromer, left, and fellow board members John Harmon and Kelly Poole watch the parade of athletes. 54

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Woodstock High students, from left, Manolo Mejia, Jeremiah Moore, Ana Lisa Lopez and Kimmy Dominguez, prepare to sing for the opening ceremonies.

Andy Meredith of Woodstock High and Mitch Dillon from Cherokee High.

Hanna Graves, left, and Elizabeth Botsford with Jacob Donley on the winner’s podium.

Sequoyah Regional Library System Events Ongoing

Nov. 18

Knitting & Crocheting Group, 1-3 p.m. every Tuesday at the Rose Creek Library. 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.

Nov.

Rose Creek Crafters, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. every Tuesday at Rose Creek Library. Bring jewelry or other crafting supplies. Create something of your own or just watch other creative geniuses at work.

Nov. 4 & 18

Adult Coloring Group, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Adults are invited to stop by the library meeting room to relax and rediscover the joy of coloring. Supplies are provided. 770-735-2025.

Nov. 5, 12 & 19

Sit & Stitch Social, 10 a.m.-noon at the Woodstock Public Library. Enjoy the company of other creative people while you stitch on your current project. Take time to finish a work in progress. Get inspired to try something new. Meet new people and have fun!

Nov.

Book Repair estimates, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Book lovers who want to bring new life to old books or Bibles will receive free estimates on restoration. Jack Kyle, a retired book binder, will be available to explain how he can restore and rebind your cherished items. 770-735-2025.

DIY Burlap Pumpkin, 4 p.m. the Hickory Flat Library. Materials will be provided. Registration is required by calling 770-345-7565.

Nov. 9

Open Craft Night, 6-7:30 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Share your projects, tips and ideas, and enjoy the company of other crafters. Bring whatever project you’re working on, drop in, and join the group. Beginners welcome. Participants must bring their own supplies. For ages 14 and older. 770-479-3090.

Nov. 10

Author Event, 6 p.m. with author Larry Cavendar at the Ball Ground Library. The Ball Ground native will share excerpts of his first published book, “A Patchwork Quilt.” 770-735-2025.

Nov. 12

Tree Planting Workshop, 4 p.m. at the Woodstock Library. Learn about selecting, planting and caring for trees from Joshua Fuder, Agricultural and Natural Resources Agent. Call 770-926-5859 to register.

Nov. 16

Book Club, 11 a.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Discussion of “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins. New members are welcome. 770-735-2025.

Nov. 17

‘Minute To Win It’ challenge, 4 p.m. at the Hickory Flat Library for ages 9-12. Get ready for an afternoon packed with fun and challenging games based on the popular TV show. Space is limited; registration is required by calling 770-345-7565. Registration begins Nov. 4.

Chess & Chat, 1-3 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Informal chess group that meets once a month to play. Chess sets available at the adult services desk. No need to register.

Nov. 25

Career Lab will be parked at the R.T. Jones Library. The Atlanta Regional Workforce Board’s mobile lab will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for free assistance with job search, information about training opportunities and access to computer workstations. Services are available for age 16 and older.

Nov. 30

Nerd Trivia for teens, 6 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Teens and tweens in grades six and up are invited for fandom trivia, free snacks, and fun. 770-479-3090 ext. 233.

Dec. 2

Here Comes Santa, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Hickory Flat Library. Bring a camera to snap a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy crafts, refreshments and entertainment by the Avery Elementary School choir, directed by David Boggs at 6:30 p.m. All ages are welcome.

Dec. 3

The Polar Express & Santa Visit, 6-7:45 p.m. at the Rose Creek Library. Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale “The Polar Express.” Also enjoy crafts, music, refreshments and a visit from Santa. Registration begins on Nov. 19; Reservations required by calling 770-591-1491. All ages are welcome.

Dec. 7

Holiday Open House, 6-7:45 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Celebrate the season and enjoy the Festival of Trees as well as crafts, refreshments, a tree lighting, storytelling and songs performed by the Hasty Elementary Chorus. All ages welcome.

www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org • RT Jones Library

116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090

Bookmark Book Club, 4 p.m. at the Woodstock Library. Earn four accelerated reader points by joining this discussion about current Georgia Book Award nominee “The Fourteenth Goldfish” by Jennifer L. Holm. Registration required by calling 770-479-3090 ext. 233. For ages 9-12.

• Hickory Flat Public Library

Ceramic Demonstration, 6 p.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Back by popular demand, Helene Maloy, owner of A Piece of Time, will demonstrate ideas for creating ceramic holiday gifts. Optional: Bring $5 to paint an ornament to take with you. Registration required by calling 770-735-2025.

• Woodstock Public Library

2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565

• Rose Creek Public Library

4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491 7735 Main Street, Woodstock, 770-926-5859

• Ball Ground Public Library

435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground, 770-735-2025 SIXES LIVING | November 2015

School & Sports

Woodstock Middle Using Desk Cycles Rosa Frederick, an eighth-grade language arts teacher at Woodstock Middle School, has added desk cycles to her class curriculum. After reading an article about how small, constant movement can improve brain function and focus, she knew she wanted to try it out in her classroom. “I sent our librarian the article, and we decided to write a grant to get this underway,” Frederick said, noting that in a 2008 study, students who conducted light exercise during a class period were able to sustain focus throughout complicated mental tasks, such as reading or problem-solving. After additional research, Frederick and media specialist, Wendy Cope, wrote a grant to DonorsChoose.org for 12 desk cycles for Frederick’s Students Jessie Cook, left, and Abisai Bocanegra pedal during class. classroom. The grant was funded in only two months. Not one to miss an opportunity for learning, Frederick created her own STEM challenge for her literature/composition students; not only did they have to put the desk cycles together, but they also had to improve upon the instructions included with the packages. The miles have racked up; one student, pedaling on the bike, participated more in class and rode 15 miles in one day. Another student, who had previously had difficulty completing assignments, finished a challenging task within one class period. Classes even compete to improve their mileage over that of the previous class. Attendance is up, too. Frederick’s homeroom has the highest attendance of any homeroom at Woodstock Middle School. Beyond increased student engagement, the desk cycles will be incorporated into the writing curriculum through Skype sessions with classes around the country based on how far students have ridden. Students will write interview questions and use their listening and speaking skills during the Katie Renard pedals as she works. sessions.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Bingo Supports Marching Band The Woodstock High School Marching Wolverines will hold their annual bingo night from 6 to 10 p.m. on Nov. 6. There will be a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, bingo prizes, food, drinks and a bake sale. Everyone who attends will receive a ticket for the door prize drawings. All proceeds from the event will be used by the Woodstock Wolverines Band Boosters to provide funding for the marching band. Contact Thelma Woodburn at woodburnjm@aol.com or 770-516-6395.

Pumpkin Painting Party Sixes Elementary School kindergarteners, in Kate Hacker’s class, celebrated a week of learning about pumpkins with a pumpkin painting party.

From left:: Brissa Bautista-Hernandez, Lucas Steffers, Isabella Perezcassar, Sophia Johnson and Brennan Lewis.

Student Photography Contest The Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority (CCWSA) is conducting a photography contest where the photograph depicts the beauty of Cherokee County’s water resources. The contest is open to all Cherokee County students, including homeschool, in grades kindergarten through 12. The Etowah River is the source of drinking water provided to CCWSA customers. Photographs must be taken within the Upper Etowah River Watershed (see map). Students are encouraged to take pictures that include people enjoying the water or wildlife (above or underwater) that depend on the water resources. The photograph must be original and taken by the student. All entries must be in digital format. Digital effects and collages created by the student are accepted. Entries must be e-mailed to lori. forrester@ccwsa.com along with title of picture, student’s name, school and grade, and an explanation (50 words or less) of where/ when the photograph was taken and what that water source means to the student. Pictures without a title and/or the explanation will be disqualified. If faces are recognizable in the photo, a signed release form must accompany the photo. A photo release will be e-mailed to participants upon request. Deadline for contest entries is Dec. 18. There will be a kindergarten through sixth grade winner and a seventh through 12th grade winner. The winning photographs will be replicated and framed for display in the entrance of the CCWSA main office, and at other CCWSA facilities, for one year. The winning entrants will receive a $50 prize, as well as a framed 8-inch by 10-inch print of their winning photo. Questions about the contest can be directed to Lori Forrester, environmental affairs specialist, 770-479-1813 or lori.forrester@ccwsa.com.

Woodstock High School football players Ethan Chamberlin (88), right, and, from left, Trent Paschal (76), Corey Long (35) and Liam Byrne (2) cheer on elementary school students as they walk to school.

International Walk to School Day

Woodstock Elementary School recently celebrated International Walk to School Day, with 183 students participating. The event was supported by parents, the Cherokee County School District Police Department, Woodstock Police and Fire departments and Woodstock High School’s football team. The football players welcomed the students who walked to school, cheered them on and passed out “Walk to School” armbands and stickers.

Learning the Importance of Bus Safety Kindergartners at Liberty Elementary School recently learned about school bus safety through an annual program presented by the Cherokee County School District Transportation Department.

Cayden Stafford, Michael Walker and Ashton Commodore practice getting off the bus safely with guidance from Jean Spencer. SIXES LIVING | November 2015

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Welcome to

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

The Outlet Shoppes

T at Atlanta at Saks

Fifth Avenue Off Fifth

- park in marked spaces only - parking in Woodstock UMC lot is M-Sa only - Chatt Tech parking is limited until early 2015

Trolley Routes T outlined in red

Chattahoochee Technical College

Parks Cir

Trolley Stop

Public Parking Lots

Rope Mill Rd

Dobbs Rd

Kyle St

On-Street Parking - park in marked spaces only

Woodstock UMC (M-Sa)

Arnold Mill Rd

ek Tr

ail

er St

Mca

Reeves St

S er

Hu ar d Rd

r Pe

e Rd

tim

CSB Bank (after 5PM)

Dupre

L iley

Main

Mark et S t

n St

Fowler St

ry St

Sat 1:45-4:15

Wheel

Oak St

Hicko

Reformation Brewery

T Fri 6:00-8:15

Elm

Pade

in St

to Cre

le St

To GA Hwy 140

Map

Pinehill

Park at City Center

ffee

Pinehi ll Dr

E Ma

Mill

Town

City Center

Pkwy

Lake

Cham bers

To I-575 Exit 8

Wall St

Town e

To GA Hwy 92

ns ki

Fow le

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Download the Visit Woodstock App for info on downtown businesses and events!

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Downtown Woodstock

Elm Street:

Making it Palatable - The Engagement Factor BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

CITY CENTER DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

NOVEMBER 13-15 FRI AT 7:30PM SAT/SUN AT 2:00PM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SPRING CLASSES

When I was in college (go ‘Noles!), I decided to start a nonprofit theatre company. While I had many reasons for doing this, I was able to hone the skills I was learning in lectures, and apply them outside of the classroom. I learned a lot, but one of the passions I discovered was that I didn’t want shows to be ephemeral, particularly to guests who didn’t visit the theatre that often. Now, you might think that connecting with people who have never been to a theatre or art event before would require making it easy to comprehend, bite-sized and entertaining; in other words, make a show to be palatable. You wouldn’t be wrong with this thought; initially, I believed the same thing. My team and I set out to do a lot of research and perform an IMMENSE amount of trial and error (mostly error) to figure out how to make a performance, a piece of artwork or art in general, palatable to those who didn’t frequent the arts world. As you can imagine, it was quite a challenge, and although there isn’t a code, we did discover a few things. The most important discovery we made was that palatability does not require keeping things on a surface level for easy comprehension and/or connection. The REAL challenge was to add flavor and depth to really enthrall those who don’t want to be there. That something extra was engagement: going the extra mile to meet people, regardless of their interest, and bringing them into the story being told. Extra spectacle, or changing the story, actually diluted or took away flavor. Like most theatres, there are several departments: lights, sound, costumes, etc. However, we now have a new addition in every show we do: Engagement. For “Ghost Tales & Trails,” we turned downtown Woodstock into a giant Clue board game. For “Flat Stanley” later this month, we will have a TON of kindergarten classes coming to learn about Stanley’s adventures before we open the show to the public. We aren’t diluting these stories to make them palatable...we are enhancing them to create a better flavor.

The most important discovery we made was that palatability does not require keeping things on a surface level for easy comprehension and/or connection.

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251 Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, works as the operations director for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

My Message is Simple: Wear the Gown! BY DONNIE HENRIQUES

I was pleased and honored to have been asked to contribute to this issue by writing an article relating to men’s health. I would like to share my personal story in the hopes that it will increase awareness among men about the need for regular checkups. You see, in August, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. While the doctors tell me it was caught early, there is still apprehension on my part. By the time you read this, I will have had the surgery to correct the situation and hopefully will not need radiation or chemotherapy. The one thing that may have saved my life was my annual physical where, in addition to the exam, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test was performed. While my PSA was barely above the threshold for concern, the percentage increase from last year was significant. I credit my internist, Dr. Alan Mills, with raising the concern, and my urologist, Dr. Carl Capaluto, with catching it early.

You see, in August, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

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.

I’ve been sharing my story with friends and family members with the hope of sparking an interest in getting a prostate exam. I know of a few people who have taken the hint, and have gone to their doctors, asking specifically for the exam. That, in itself, is the thing that pleases me the most. The takeaway is that all men should be checked annually, whether or not they have had symptoms. I did not have any to speak of; that’s why I consider myself lucky. If a man is diagnosed with this disease, there are many different options available. I chose surgery because I want ISIS—the name I’ve given it— out of my body and I don’t want to take the chance for a reoccurrence. So, my message is simple. – As Channel 11 states during its public service announcements, “ Wear the Gown!”

Donnie Henriques started his community service as a city council member in 1999, and is serving his third term as Woodstock’s mayor.

OB/GYN Offices Located in Canton and Towne Lake

Get back to living your life.

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

For heavy periods, cramps, bladder leakage, fatigue, mood swings, pelvic discomfort and vaginal rejuvenation, we can help. Contact us for simple solutions that will get your life back on track.

770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com www.facebook.com/cherokeewomenshealth SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Reference

SIXES AREA HOMES SOLD IN SEPTEMBER

A partial list of recent homes sales.

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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 202-225-2944 9898 Highway 92, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188 GA: 770-429-1776 loudermilk.house.gov

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com

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

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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

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

Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com

Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 www.crossroadspbc.org

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com

Faith Community 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org 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

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.com

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

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

EPISCOPAL

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

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 SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Reference

SIXES AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Business Organizations Canton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club Meets: Noon on third Thursdays at Canton IHOP Contact: Glenda Hinton 770-345-1751

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

Canton Communicators Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Thursdays at the Canton YMCA Contact: Steven Van Schooten 770-366-8224 www.toastmasters.org

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

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

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

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

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 800-334-2836 option 2 www.cfvc.org 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

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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 back-to-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 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 Parkway. 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 petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County Provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. Contact: 770-721-7808 www.safekidscherokeecounty.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

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 BridgeMill-Sixes Service League Contact: Marlyn Patouillet 770- 345-7941 www.bssl.org 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

Canton Lions Club Contact: 678- 224-7878 www.lionsofcanton.org Canton Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Canton IHOP Contact: canton_optimist@hotmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/cantonoptimistclub/ home Canton Rotary Club Meets: Noon Tuesdays at the Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs www.cantongarotary.org Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org Cherokee County Service League 770-704-5991 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 Service League of Cherokee County Contact: 770-704-5991 http://serviceleague.net

Political Organizations Cherokee County Democrat Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursdays at Holly Springs Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 8:30 a.m. first Saturdays at IHOP, 3010 Northside Parkway, Canton 30014. Contact: 770- 345-3489 www.cherokeedemocrats.com/d2. Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. Contact: http://cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. second Saturday at Winchesters Woodfire Grill Contact: 678-809-1411 Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall in Woodstock. Contact Conrad Quagliaroli 770- 378-8232 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

Recreation & Hobbies Allatoona Gold Panners Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the Lake. Contact: Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net 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 Cherokee Community Chorale A community of singers from all walks of life including housewives, teachers, retired professionals, office managers and professional musicians who love the art of choral singing. 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

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

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.

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

Les Marmitons Is for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.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 Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.seniorsoftball.com Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton www.cherokeechapter.com William G. Long Senior Center Offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Contact: 678-445-6518

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 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

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 Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Contact: Jeannie 770-919-9275 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 in the Woodstock area. Contact: nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com 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 770-517-0191 MOMS Club of Canton, West GA (serving Canton, Ball Ground, Waleska and Holly Springs) http://momsclubofcantonwest.webs.com MOMS Club of Woodstock - Towne Lake 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 SIXES LIVING | November 2015

Reference

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County Government Building Permits, Business Licenses Commissioners Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) Environmental Health Extension Office Jury Phone Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) Planning & Land Use Senior Services Voter Registration

770-345-0400

www.cherokeega.com 770-721-7810 678-493-6001 678-493-6077 770-479-0444 770-479-0418 770-479-9011 770-479-1953 678-493-6101 770-345-2675 770-479-0407

Taxes

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax – Canton office Woodstock office Renewals online https://mvd.dor.ga.gov/tags/ Tax Assessors/Evaluation

678-493-6400 770-924-4099 678-493-6120

Children and Family

Anna Crawford Children’s Center 770-345-8100 Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club 770-720-7712 Cherokee County Foster & Adoptive Parents Assoc. www.fosteroradopt.org 770-378-0759 Cherokee Family Violence Center 770-479-1804 Cherokee FOCUS 770-345-5483 Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) www.casacherokee.org 770-345-3274 Division of Family & Children Services 770-720-3610 Goshen Valley Boys Ranch www.goshenvalley.org 770-796-4618 Hope Center www.hopectr.com 770-924-0864 MUST Ministries - Cherokee www.mustministries.org 770-479-5397 Never Alone www.neveralone.org 770-363-5272 Next Step Ministries www.nextstepministries.net 770-592-1227 North Georgia Angel House www.angelhousega.com 770-479-9555 North Georgia Pregnancy Center www.ngapregnancy.org 706-253-6303 Papa’s Pantry www.papaspantry.org 770-591-4730 Timothy’s Cupboard Food Bank www.tlcwoodstock.org 770-591-5515

Hospitals

Kennestone North Fulton Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24-hour help lines

Battered Women Hotline Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) Poison Control Center Poison Control Center (outside metro Atlanta) Probate Court Information Line Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

Parks and Recreation

BridgeMill Athletic Club Callahan Golf Links Cherokee County YMCA Cherokee County Soccer Assoc. www.csaimpact.com

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

770-793-5000 770-751-2500 770-720-5100 770-479-1703 770-345-7920 404-616-9000 800-222-1222 770-704-2610 770-427-3390 770-345-5500 770-720-1900 770-591-5820 770-704-0187

Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency www.crpa.net. 770-924-7768 (Includes Aquatic Center, Barnett Park, Blankets Creek, Cherokee Mills, Field’s Landing Park, Kenny Askew Park) Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com North Atlanta Soccer Association: www.nasa-ga.org 770-926-4175 SCRA Baseball www.scrabaseball.com Wildlife Action, Inc. www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com 770-924-7464

Pets

Animal Control 678-493-6200 Animal Shelter & Pet Adoptions www.cherokeega-animals.org 770-345-7270 Cherokee County Humane Society www.cchumanesociety.org 770-928-5115 Emergency Veterinary Clinic 770-924-3720 Funds 4Furry Friends 770-842-8893 Lost Pets: www.townelaker.com. (click on lost and found pet button to report missing pet) Pet Buddies Food Pantry www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Community Veterinary Care www.communityveterinarycare.com 678-640-3512

Post Office locations Canton Holly Springs Lebanon Woodstock

Police Departments

Canton Holly Springs Woodstock Sheriff’s Office www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

Utilities

Atlanta Gas Light Co. www.aglc.com Canton Water www.canton-georgia.com Cherokee Water & Sewerage Auth. www.ccwsa.com Cobb EMC www.cobbemc.com Georgia Power www.georgiapower.com Woodstock Water www.woodstockga.gov Recycling Center

770-720-8164 770-345-6318 770-591-9467 770-591-0364

770-720-4883 770-345-5537 770-592-6030 678-493-4100

770-907-4231 770-704-1500 770-479-1813 770-429-2100 888-660-5890 770-926-8852 770-516-4195

Free, Reduced-Price Health Care

Bethesda Community Clinic www.bethesdacommunityclinic.org Cherokee County Health Department www.nghd.org/CherokeeHealth

Urgent Care Facilities

M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine, off Riverstone Pkwy, 720 Transit Ave., Suite 101 Canton Northside Cherokee Urgent Care, off exit 11 at I-575 SHEFA Urgent Care 2000 Village Professional Dr. #110 Canton 30114 Wellstar Urgent Care off exit 8, 120 Stonebridge Pkwy. Woodstock, 30189

678-880-9654 770-345-7371

770-720-7000 678-426-5450 678-661-3166

678-494-2500

Planning for Retirement

Allowing the Free Market to Work

up more money that can be potentially assigned to retirement saving.1 Saving when single presents distinct challenges. In fact, saving for retirement (or any other financial goal) as a single, unmarried person is often more challenging than it is for a married couple—especially in light of the fact that spouses are given some distinct federal tax advantages. Still, the effort must be made. Start as early as you can, and save consistently.

sell a tour of your shoe-making factory. You would be required to show your customers your drafting tables where the shoes are designed, the cutting room where the components are collected, and the manufacturing tables where the finished product is assembled. At the end of this tour of your factory, you would then allow the customer to pick out a free pair of shoes to take home. Sounds crazy, right? Well, that is exactly what the General Assembly put into place this year in the form of SB 63, also known as the Craft Beer Bill. Craft brewing is a growing industry, with creative entrepreneurs setting up shop all across our country and putting people to work in small businesses. And in an attempt to allow these small local businesses to sell just a six-pack of their product to their own customers, they have to sell a tour of their breweries and give their beer away as a souvenir. It is so incredibly dumb. So why don’t we let the free market take over here? What is standing between getting government out of the way of industry so that jobs can be created in the market place? There’s just one catch: one of the largest political donors in the state of Georgia just happens to also be a beer distributor. And to be blunt, the donor undoubtedly feels threatened by changes to a system that has created a state-sponsored monopoly that benefits the donor. We would not tolerate these kinds of onerous laws and regulations for other types of business, and we shouldn’t accept them for small craft breweries either.

continued from page 30.

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya, Inc. or MarketingPro, Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro, 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. Citations. 1 - mainstreet.com/article/retirement-planning-for-singles-howgoing-it-alone-makes-saving-different [9/17/15] 2 - oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2015/09/dont_miss_out_on_ spousal_socia.html [9/21/15] 3 - ssa.gov/planners/retire/applying6.html [9/24/15]

A Ritz Cracker Kind of Guy continued from page 27

But what surprised me most was that I actually missed Ann’s homemade crackers. It’s not always easy for a man to appreciate the attention to detail an effortful woman brings into her family’s life. Sometimes, what she does seems frivolous — and God knows, sometimes it’s expensive. But there is a reason for a woman’s efforts, and this I understand – as a father, as a husband of 28 years, and also as a physician who has listened to women carefully over the years. A woman gives life to her children, brings beauty to her home, and creates ties in her community. A woman makes life more beautiful for us men….Whether we want her to or not.

continued from page 20

You have so much ... they have so little

Becoming an Actor Step 4 continued from page 28

on-set experience. You may want to do it once or twice, just to have the opportunity to see what it is like to be on a major set — but you do not want to put extra work on your résumé. Putting “extra” on your résumé does not tell a casting director anything about your ability to act, and trying to beef up your experience by putting “featured” or “Bar Patron” usually won’t make a difference in any hiring decision. The casting director and agents will know you did not audition

Donations needed now

Financial donations New socks and Underwear · Blankets Canned meat

www.mustministries.org 1407 Cobb Parkway N. Marietta, GA 30061

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ANIMALS/PETS BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org www.findingrover.com

ASSISTED LIVING Windsor House Assisted Living 3 678-880-9856 www.WindsorHouseAssistedLiving.com AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906 Cherokee County Toyota 770-704-9525 www.CherokeeCountyToyota.com

CLEANING SERVICES Amy’s Professional Cleaning 404-397-5044 www.AmysProCleaningService.com Rejoice Maids 678-905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Junior Service League of Woodstock

Holiday Tour of Homes www.JSLWoodstock.org

Must Ministries www.mustministries.org

CHIROPRACTIC North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute 678-574-5678 70

SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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

DENTAL (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric) BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812 www.BridgeMillDentistry.com

Dentistry at Hickory Flat 770-213-8166 www.HickoryFlatDentist.com

Fountain View Dentistry 770-926-0000 www.FountainViewSmiles.com

FUNERAL HOME South Canton Funeral Home 770-479-3377 www.thescfh.com

Azure Salon & Spa 770-345-8280 www.azuresalon.net

LaVida Massage 770-345-1200 www.LaVidaMassageCantonGA.com Salon Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTS & REPAIR

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

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

Williams Orthodontics Canton: 770-345-4155 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

Glass Source 404-695-1054 www.YourGlassSource.com

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

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

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION Goddard School, The 770-720-3003 www.goddardschool.com/atlanta/ canton-prominence-point-ga

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

Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com

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

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

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

Xteriors of Atlanta Concrete & Beauty Design 678-663-1408 www.CBDAtl.com

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

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

FINANCIAL SERVICES 47

Schuckers and Associates 706-745-2475, 770-329-8873

HAIR SALON/MASSAGE/SPA

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 27 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Downtown Buzz 770-592-6056 www.downtownwoodstock.org/ downtown-buzz

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

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 33, 61 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Marietta Plastic Surgery Inside Front 770-425-0118 or 678-494-2380 www.MariettaPlasticSurgery.com Medical Assoc. of North Georgia 770-737-2770 www.medassoc.com

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 13 770-726-8948 www.NorthGeorgiaHearing.com North Georgia Foot & Ankle Reconstruction, Dr. Bret Hintze 7 770-999-0804 www.NGFARcom Northside Hospital – Cherokee www.northside.com

Northwest ENT and Allergy Center 770-427-0368 www.NW-ENT.com Plastic Surgery Center of the South 770-421-1242

www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Towne Lake Primary Care Family Medicine 678-445-0819

PHOTOGRAPHERS J King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.JKingImages.com

City of Holly Springs 49 www.hollyspringsga.us/christmasparade Cruise Planners, David Chance 770-975-2581 www.DavidsTravel.blue Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org

REAL ESTATE Keller Williams, Kurt & Sheila Johnson Back Cover 404-954-2486 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Magnolia Cottages by the Sea Linda B. Lee, 850-319-8050 linda.lee@pelicanproperty.com

City of Canton 770-704-1548

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

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

Cherokee Theatre Company www.CherokeeTheatre.org 770-591-0282

GobbleJog 71 678-218-4521 www.GobbleJog.org Kennesaw State University www.ksuowls.com Reinhardt University www.reinhardteagles.com

Teachers! the Musical

RETAILERS Rudi Fine Jewelry 678-445-2626

Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop 470-765-6748 www.sixespit.com

Cover, 36, 37

For advertising information contact Christie Deese 770-615-3324 • Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com

2015

Presenting Sponsors

November 26, 2015 • Marietta Square

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SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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.

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SIXES LIVING | November 2015

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