12 15 tl web final by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

Brooklynnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Branches Boutiques

Boutique Experience & Affordable Styles

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

December 2015 Volume 21, Issue 8

13 Holiday Survival Guide

Ideas for baking, decorating, wrapping and snapping.

23 Christmas Destinations

Enjoy ballet, symphony, lights and historical presentations.

32 Everyday Angels

A wrap-up of past features, another chance to donate.

34 Before You Audition

It’s wise to seek quality training to address all aspects of acting.

50 Seasonal Snapshots

Gather ideas and inspiration from the JSL home tour

54 Get Plugged In

A list of nonprofits, agencies that can use help for the holidays.

56 Cross-Country Cyclist

Fundraising trip an inspiration to make a difference.

72 Saluting Our Vets

Bascomb Elementary, Woodstock High students honor veterans.

Contributing Writers Chantel Adams 46 Don Akridge 47 Christopher Brazelton 81 Michael Caldwell 28 Caron Catalán 24 Claire Frost 15-16 Delia Halverson 37 Dr. Scott Harden 64 Dr. Amy Hardin 61 Dr. Jan Henriques 61 Jenna Hill 80 Dr. Rob Holewinski 62 Toni Ann Isles 44 Dan Jape 45 Kurt & Sheila Johnson 30 Sean Kaufman 35 Josh Keenum 42

In Every Issue Jerry King Mark Kissel Venéssa Lanier Joe Lemmo Dr. Mike Litrel Rob Macmillan Rev. Carl Moore Matt Neal Gary Parkes Julius Quarcoo Bill Ratliff Lynne Saunders Jessica Leigh Smith Jodi Tiberio Tim Timmons Lynne Watts Cheryl Wolfinger

20 71 26 66 52 36 73 43 21 62 74 60 34 26 40 23 56

Around Towne

Community News

Birthdays 12 Community Calendar

Everyday Angels

Towne Lake Dining Guide 58 School News

Faith 73 Parking Map

Greenprints Trail Map

Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide

Recent Home Sales

Advertisers Index

www.townelaker.com

48 & 49 On the Cover

Brooklynn’s and Branches Boutiques photo by Joy Mansell. 2

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

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

Join the TowneLaker magazine fan page

www.facebook.com/Townelaker

www.twitter.com/Townelaker

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

AROUND TOWNE

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

We hope you enjoy all the special features included in this issue - designed to help you and your family make special memories during this holiday season. We’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!

Holiday Happenings Santa’s Mailbox will be open for those special wish lists and letters Dec. 1-17 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. Polar Express — Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale come to life as it’s read aloud. The evening also includes music, a craft, photo opportunities and refreshments. Register in advance − space is limited. Dec. 1, 6 p.m., Ball Ground. 770-735-2025 Dec. 3, 6 p.m., Rose Creek. 770-591-1491 Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m., Woodstock. 770-926-5859 Dec. 9, 6 p.m., Hickory Flat. 770-345-7565 Dec. 14, 6 p.m., R.T. Jones. 770-479-3090 For more holiday events, check out our Holiday Survival Guide on pgs. 13-21.

What’s New Park 9 Apartments has opened at Ridgewalk Parkway and I-575 (exit 9), with one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans available for lease. Amenities include a beach-entry pool, dog park, internet cafe and complimentary bike rental, with apartment interiors that feature granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, 9-foot ceilings and attached garages in selected homes. For rental information, call 1-470-226-3987. www.park9apts.com. Metamodern Music has opened at 8600 Main St., sharing a storefront with Barrel and Barley Craft Beer Market, in downtown Woodstock. Metamodern buys and sells new and used vinyl, and will soon carry CDs. Metamodern occupies the front half of the building, and carries a large selection of vinyl records. Hours are noon-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday, noon-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 12:30-6 p.m. Sunday. www.metamodernmusic.com. Also on Facebook.

What’s Moved Atlanta Communities - Woodstock Downtown Team, specializing in new home and resales, has moved their offices to 9010 Main St., Woodstock. 4

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Pennybag Emporium, formerly located in downtown Woodstock, has opened in the Georgia Antiques and Treasures building at 5101 Holly Springs Parkway (Highway 5) in Canton. Pennybag has a vendor booth that’s open daily in the 2,000-square-foot market. 678-540-6285.

What’s Coming The Joint…The Chiropractic Place is opening at 1428 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 102, (behind Longhorn Steakhouse) with a soft opening toward the end of this month, and welcoming the general public in January. The Joint is one of 25 affordable and convenient franchise clinics in metro Atlanta. Walk - ins are welcome. The clinic will be open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. www.thejoint.com. Mink’s Package has filed a zoning request for a parcel located behind the new Racetrac on Ridgewalk Parkway, according to Woodstock City Manager Jeff Moon. The parcel actually is on Old Rope Mill Park Road. The request will go before the planning commission and mayor and city council in January.

What’s Back Towne Lake is the new home for a live nativity event, formerly known as Back to Bethlehem, that has been held in previous years at Hopewell Baptist church near BridgeMill. Along with a new name - Return 2 Bethlehem - the event has a new location, New Victoria Baptist Church, 6659 Bells Ferry Road. Hours are 7-9 p.m. Nov. 28 - Dec. 6, with special Tuesday morning hours for school groups. Visitors will see Roman soldiers, tax collectors, llamas, sheep and chickens as they were during the time of Jesus’ birth. No charge to attend. For more details, visit www.return2bethlehem.org.

What’s Changed Community & Southern Bank, which has an office in downtown Woodstock, and Bank of the Ozarks Inc. are planning a merger in the first quarter of next year. America’s Service Station is now Meineke Car Care Center located at 3058 Eagle Drive.

Ribbon Cuttings Sam’s Club, 9464 Main St., Woodstock 30188. www.SamsClub.com. Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County for 28 years. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Townelaker Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Controller Denise Griffin Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3315 Market Manager Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3324 Executive Editor Candi Hannigan Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3309 Managing Editor Jackie Loudin Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3318 Art Director Michelle McCulloch Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3307 Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com TowneLaker, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,000 free copies. Approximately 15,000 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,000 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015. TowneLaker PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Powered by:

Volume 21, Issue 8

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS River Cleanup Revealed Interesting Items

Trash being hauled in from the Little River.

The local fall Rivers Alive Clean-ups in Cherokee County were a success, thanks to the 80 volunteers that worked a total of 340 hours over eight river miles. Volunteers removed more than 1,800 pounds of trash from the Etowah River and Little River. The trash collected included a refrigerator door, couch/love seat set complete with throw pillows, pool ladder, animal trap with animal bones inside, propane tank and Freon tank. Beverage containers, plastic and glass bottles and aluminum cans were among the most common trash items picked up. Volunteers picked up over 2,000 beverage containers. The event was sponsored by the Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority in partnership with Upper Etowah River Alliance, Cherokee County School District, City of Canton, Waste Management, City of Final trash pile from the Etowah River Clean-up. Woodstock, and City of Holly Springs.

Chattahoochee Tech, Valdosta State Sign Partnership The presidents of Chattahoochee Technical College (CTC) and Valdosta State University (VSU) signed articulation agreements recently that will simplify the student transition process between the two institutions of higher education. “Through this partnership with Valdosta State University, students at Chattahoochee Technical College can take their two-year degree into a four-year bachelor’s program — and do it online,” CTC President Dr. Ron Newcomb said. “This is a great opportunity for CTC’s degree graduates, and I welcome the partnership with VSU.” The Pathways Program agreement will allow Chattahoochee Technical College students with an Associate of Applied Science in one or more of the 39 articulated programs to maximize the transfer of credits in order to complete either a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership, a Bachelor of Applied Science in human capital performance, or a Bachelor of Science in office administration and technology in two years or less at Valdosta State University, according to Dr. Joseph G. Weaver, director of off-campus programs at VSU. For details, visit www.valdosta.edu or www.chattahoocheetech.edu.

City Council Reps Elected Congratulations to the winners of the November elections for the city of Woodstock. For Ward 2, David Potts ran unopposed and was elected to fill that post. The race for Ward 4 was a close one, with Tracy Collins winning with a 178 vote count against Elizabeth Baxter with 150 votes. Rob Usher, running unopposed, claimed the seat for Ward 6.

Scarecrow Winners to Leave a Legacy For several years now, the Scarecrow Invasion has brought creative design and a lot of onlookers to downtown Woodstock each October. What started as a small idea about five years ago has blossomed into a very successful annual event. This year’s competition included more than 100 participants and raised more than $4,000 that the GROW committee will use to purchase art benches for downtown. “It was a joy to me to see the people and the children being the best part of this year’s Invasion,” said resident Diane Geeslin, who took on this project several years ago and is credited with expanding it to what was seen this year. This year’s winners were: The Tomlinson Team, first place; D Tidwell Art Classes, second place; and Animal Hospital of Towne Lake, third place. www.downtownwoodstock.org/scarecrow-invasion/ 8

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

The Tomlinson Team

D Tidwell Art Classes

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Drivers Needed for Food Ministry Forever Fed’s Cans4Kids/Food4U program, which delivers hundreds of boxes of food to impoverished families in Cherokee County each month, needs drivers to help cover new delivery routes. The families are unable to travel to food pantries to get help, and must pass an eligibility screening. Drivers will need to deliver food to five to seven homes twice a month. Delivery days and times are somewhat flexible. Drivers must be 21 years old, and have their own vehicle and insurance. For more information please e-mail Carrie@ForeverFed.org.

Adrienne O’Prey discusses her job with Michael Caldwell.

Special Occasion Reunites Former Classmates Take Your Legislator to Work Day was special in several ways for Woodstock resident Adrienne O’Prey. State House Rep. Michael Caldwell, who attended school with Adrienne in grades 5 through 7, visited Resurgens Orthopaedics to see where his former classmate works. The occasion was designed to bring attention to efforts by the Georgia Council of Developmental Disabilities to get more disabled Georgians into the workplace and help them become productive citizens. Sharon O’Prey fondly remembers Adrienne’s experience in Cherokee County schools, where she was included in general classes. “It was more like the real world, where we all have to figure out our way and work with others along the way,” she said. “As a daily adult volunteer in school and at church, I enjoyed watching their growth and acceptance of one another. Our daughter was always loved and included in the fun and the learning. We said to these friends that one day they would be some of her biggest supporters. They would be the researchers, the engineers, the house contractors, the lawmakers, the doctors. She and others like her with disabilities would benefit from their education and careers. She would give back in her own ways and become independent in her own way.” 10

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

College’s Green Zones Assist Student Veterans Chattahoochee Technical College (CTC) has established a Green Zone initiative to support student veterans by helping to create awareness of, and education about, military culture and those service members trying to transition into civilian and college life. “The purpose of the Green Zone program is to serve our veterans and veteran family members enrolled at Chattahoochee Technical College as they have served and supported us in defending our country and our freedom,” said Barry Munday, the technical college’s communication and veteran services coordinator. While the term Green Zone describes a safe and secure place, Munday said it’s more about the people providing support to student veterans rather than a physical location. Participants can offer comforting reassurance and help individuals identify and connect with the appropriate resources. The college currently has 89 faculty and staff members among all eight campuses who have completed the training and are certified as Green Zone participants. “The transition from the military to the academic community can be overwhelming for these soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen as well as their families. Our increased awareness of their needs allows us to better provide support and assistance as they begin or continue their journey in college in pursuit of their personal goals and objectives,” Munday said. “Often a listening ear can make a tremendous difference.” Faculty and staff who are knowledgeable on the issues faced by student veterans and their families and the resources available to assist them are identified by a Green Zone emblem outside of their office door and/or on their syllabus. For more information, go to www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu.

New Hours for Public Libraries Sequoyah Regional Library System branches will have new hours beginning Jan. 4. Check this listing for the library nearest you. Ball Ground, 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground, 770-735-2025 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Hickory Flat, 2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. R.T. Jones, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 2-6 p.m. Sunday. Rose Creek, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Woodstock, 7735 Main St., Woodstock, 770-926-5859 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday; 2-6 p.m.

Team DSQRD

Woodstock resident Courtney Lancaster and Ben Waivol of Alpharetta.

Towne Lake residents Amber Kirchner, Sarah Denhard and Paige Dupuis.

Support Helps Family Endure Loss

Debbie Denhard’s husband Derek died suddenly this summer of a heart attack. In an attempt to make make something positive come from this tragedy, daughter Sarah and son Collin found information about an American Heart Association walk and rounded up a team to participate in the Oct. 24 event, held on the Marietta Square. The result: $3,000 was raised to donate to the heart association, and the Denhards learned just how many friends and neighbors supported them in their loss. Team DSQRD was 60 participants strong. Debbie said they’ve learned a lot from this year’s event, and plan to make next year’s showing even stronger. “We could not have pulled this off without the support of friends, family, co-workers, clients of Derek, as well as friends from the kids’ schools, the fraternities, sororities and students from Kennesaw State University,” said Debbie. For info on the next event, keep up on Facebook at Metro Atlanta Heart Walk: Team DSQRD. www.metroatlantaheartwalk.org. Debbie, Collin and Sarah Denhard.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

Celebrations!

David Henao

Age 5 on Dec. 31 Happy birthday sweet baby boy! We love you! Mommy, Daddy and big brother Daniel

Savannah Bray

Age 14 on Dec. 27 Happy Happy Birthday. Love Mom, Dad, Simmie, Sierra, and Sydney

Valerie Torres

Age 10 on Nov. 23 Happy birthday and we love you so much! Mom, Dad and your siblings are so proud of you. God bless you!

Evan Alexander Riddle

Holland Pinkerton

Age 6 on Nov. 23 Happy Birthday Sweet Girl

Max von Seeger

Age 13 on Dec. 9 Happy 13th Moo-Moo! #Teenager! Love, Mom, Dad, Brooke, Devin and Tango

Emmy Young

Age 16 on Dec. 14 Happy Sweet 16! Love, Mom and Dad

Sierra Bray

Age 18 on Dec. 20 Happy Happy Birthday. Love Mom, Dad, Simmie, Savannah, and Sydney

Brooke Redmond

Happy 12th birthday sweet girl We love you! Mom, Dad, Christian, Annie and Elvis

Elizabeth Hugenberg

Sweet 16 on Dec. 11 Happy Birthday, Elizabeth! We are so proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad and Rachel

Austin Tobias Wheeler Riddle

Age 4 on Nov. 10 Age 6 on December 15th Happy Birthday! We love you so much! Happy Birthday! We love you so much! Love, Mommy, James and Austin Love, Mommy, Daddy, Allison and Evan

Jeralyn Overstreet

Age 4 on Dec. 5 Happy Birthday Jeralyn! Daddy, Mommy and Leland love you so much!

Raelynn Ann Latchford Born Nov. 5, 2015 8 lbs 5 oz, 20 inches Proud parents, James and Laura Latchford

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Miranda Marion Abell

Age 1 on Sept. 13 Love, Franklin, Penny, McKenna, Ryan and Melanie TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Brooke von Seeger

Age 16 on Dec. 21 Happy Sweet Sixteen Brookieloo! Love, Mom, Dad, Max, Devin and Tango

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

14 15 16 16 18 20 20 21 21

Easy Guide for Santa Sightings Terrific Tablescapes Simple Wrappings Teacher Gifts in a Snap Christmas Baking Recipes Tips for Perfect Photos Chop, Chop Your Own Tree Take the Hurry Out of Hanukkah Menorah Lightings

Borgis Pro

Venti CF Bold Venti CF Medium

Uncomplicated, enjoyable and relaxing, yet fun, festive and magical—that’s what we strive for during the holidays. However, sometimes holidays can easily take on a life of their own. This year your friends at The TowneLaker have put together this survival guide as a special gift. Let’s pledge that we won’t stretch ourselves too thin this year, we won’t stress out and we will do more than just survive the holidays. We will enjoy the many blessings this special time of year brings. Remember: Simple can be beautiful. And certainly a lot more fun. Special thanks to contributing writer Claire Frost for sharing her ideas on everything from gift wrapping to festive tabletops, Gary Parkes for his perspective on Hanukkah and Jerry King for a quick photo lesson. We hope each of you has a stress-free, meaningful and memorable holiday season!

Acworth 3384 Cobb Pkwy NW Next to Panera Bread (770) 974-0880 M-F 8a-10p | S 9a-7p | Su 10a-6p

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Feature

Santa Sightings

Looking for that festive photo op with Santa this year? Here’s an easy reference for a few places where you can catch Jolly Old St. Nick before he settles in at the North Pole for the winter.

Dec. 1

A spaghetti dinner benefit with Santa and Mrs. Claus is planned for 5−8:30 p.m. at Woodstock Magnolia Hall, 108 Arnold Mill Road. The fifth annual event is hosted by Warriors’ Watch Riders in support of the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots and Woodstock Public Safety Foundation’s Shop With a Hero. Cost is either $15 per person, which will go to Shop With a Hero, or an unwrapped toy at $15 or greater, for the Toys for Tots program. Children younger than 12, law enforcement, and fire and rescue officials in uniform eat for free. RSVP by contacting WWRHippie@ att.net or TMT-1@comcast.net. A Holiday celebration will be 6−7:30 p.m. at the Woodstock Public Library. Enjoy holiday music from an Atlanta harpist. Santa will also be visiting. Enjoy crafts, face painting and refreshments for all.

Dec. 2

Here Comes Santa and Mrs. Claus, 5:30−7:30 p.m. at the Hickory Flat Library. Bring your camera and come visit. There will be crafts and refreshments along with entertainment at 6:30 p.m. by the Avery Elementary School choir, directed by David Boggs. And don’t miss the tree lighting! All ages are welcome.

Dec. 3

A visit with Santa, 6−7:30 p.m. at the Rose Creek Library. This program is for all ages and will include crafts, music and refreshments. Don’t forget your camera!

The Santa House Dec. 3, 7, 10, 14, 17 and 21

The Santa House, located at 1313 Bart Manous Road, Canton, will be open on Mondays and Thursdays in December. Doors open at 6 p.m. and stay open as long as there is a family waiting in line to see Santa. The Santa House operates on a text message alert system that allows families to receive a text when it is their turn to visit with Santa. While waiting, families can roast marshmallows in the fire pit, visit a HoHo house where guests can get a cup of hot chocolate, see Santa’s Workshop and work on a craft, and watch a movie on a drive-in screen. Santa House and all activities are free to public.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Dec. 4

The third annual March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots will be held at 7 p.m. in Ball Ground. Parade attendees are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots campaign. Collection boxes for the toys will be at City Park and at the Zeeman building. After the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available on the stage at City Park for photos. Photos are free, so don’t forget to bring your camera.

Dec. 5

The Christmas Jubilee in downtown Woodstock begins with the second annual Woodstock Christmas Run 3K and Tot Trot. Sign up at www.active.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, and 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 photos. 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 details. Bundle up for the fifth annual Canes and Cocoa 10 a.m.−noon at the largest playground, known as the Valley, at J.J. Biello Park. Children ages 1-9 will be separated into different age groups to hunt for candy canes on the field, and the small and large playgrounds. Following the candy cane hunt, families can enjoy hot cocoa and holiday snacks in the pavilion and “sleigh” rides on a tractor. You never know what special guests may appear! Registration deadline is Dec. 4. Arrive at 9:30 a.m. for check-in. Candy hunt starts at 10 a.m. In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled on Dec. 12, same time and place. The 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. 8

Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus 6−7:30 p.m. at the Ball Ground Public Library. There will be refreshments and children’s crafts. Remember to bring your camera for all those memorable pictures.

Dec. 12

Photos and Food with Santa, noon−2 p.m. at Fields Chapel United Methodist Church, 1331 Fields Chapel Road. Santa is stopping by for lunch and he wants you to join him. There is no charge for lunch or photos, however RSVP is required by Dec. 1. Call 770-479-6030 with the names and the number of people attending. There will also be a small craft and story available. Kids and youth can stay to shop for presents for parents and loved ones from our free gift shop. For more information, visit www.fieldschapel.org.

Simple Wrapping Creates a Vintage Feel

Everyone wishes to be better at wrapping presents. It’s possible to wrap a beautiful gift that is worthy of any Pinterest board if you keep it simple. Remember the song “My Favorite Things” in the musical “The Sound of Music?” There is a verse in it that you can lean on as your inspiration: “Brown paper packages tied up with strings: These are a few of my favorite things!” It’s literally spelled, or sung, out for you. All you need is brown paper and twine. Wrapping gifts like this makes them look like vintage mail, something that is simultaneously retro and modern. You can find inexpensive

rolls of plain brown paper at your local office supply store or grocery store, and twine is available at any craft store. Play around with the finishing touches to create a more polished look; pair the twine with a shiny or glittery ribbon and tie it up in a bow. For a more rustic look, ditch the bow and wrap the twine around the box a few times and tuck a sprig of tree trimming into the twine. Don’t forget about the tags. You can use clippings from old Christmas cards and calendars to create easy and inexpensive name tags.

—Claire Frost

Festive in a Flash

Creating a Holiday Tablescape Throwing a party this holiday season? A simple tablescape is an elegant way to elevate a gathering with minimal work. (Yes. The magic words: Big impact, little effort.) Well, good news, hosts and hostesses, you don’t need to spend a mint on flowers and decorations to achieve a catalog-perfect look. Here are tips for three quick and easy tablescapes that will leave your kitchen or dining room table looking festive in a flash. For a larger, rustic centerpiece, collect pine cones that have fallen in your yard or pick some up from a walk in the park, and place them in a large glass vase or a large bowl with cinnamon sticks. The cinnamon sticks add a nice smell and provide contrasting texture to the display. I like to lightly wash the

photos by Darleen Prem

pine cones, allow them to air dry, and then spray a few of them with gold glitter paint so that they catch the light. For a finishing touch, place a few of your live tree trimmings or sprigs of pine from your yard around the vase like a small wreath and then reaching down the table like little tendrils. For a table with a touch more sparkle and glamour, a mix of smaller ornaments is the perfect filler for wine glasses. (I know, I know. You’re thinking “No, Claire. Wine is the perfect filler for wine glasses.” Hear me out!) Start with a runner or tablecloth. I like to use a burlap runner for the texture. Place small ornaments (in varying finishes and complementary colors) into each wine glass. Hold them in the glasses with your hand while placing the glasses upside-down along the center of the table. Place a tealight candle atop each one. No time for pinecone collecting? No wine glasses to spare? No problem. Use a large bowl or vase to display simple ball ornaments. It’s classic, lovely and subtle. And it doesn’t have to be confined to a table top. Try it on a bar area, in a bathroom or on the mantle. The way that holiday lights reflect off ornaments can make any room feel warm and magical. With these three simple ways to bring a little holiday cheer into your home, your holiday gatherings are sure to be less stressful so you can focus on celebrating with the ones you love.

—Claire Frost TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Feature

Easy Teachers Gifts: Holiday Jars

Teachers spend a lot of time with our kids and at a minimum deserve a token of our appreciation. This time of year provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. Here’s an idea that will help your wallet survive the holidays, and it’s a cute way to give your kids’ teachers a small thank you for all their hard work: It’s all about packaging. Grab a few mason jars or empty spaghetti sauce or jelly jars. Remove the labels and clean the jars thoroughly. (Hint: Nail polish remover will completely remove any sticky remnants of the label and any markings.) Get into character. Now it’s time to decorate the jars and give them character. It doesn’t take much— just a hot glue gun, a few simple supplies and a little determination. • Snowman: Hot glue three black buttons down the front of the jar and tie a red ribbon around the lid, like a scarf. • The Grinch: Glue two white buttons down the front of the jar and tie a red ribbon or strip of felt cut into a bunting (triangle) shape around the lid. • Hanukkah: Tie a pretty blue ribbon around the lid; it looks great with a silver lid! • Rudolph: Hot glue a red button or a red pom pom to the front of the jar for the nose. Glue two brown pipe cleaners, bent to resemble antlers, to the back side of the jar. (The side will provide more surface area to glue the pipe cleaner, which will make it more stable.) • Santa: Cut a square out of gold construction paper or felt and slide a strip of black construction paper or felt through it. Voilà: Santa’s belt! Glue it in place around the middle of the jar. Tie a white ribbon around the lid.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

The sweet filling. Fill each jar with the food or snack that matches your theme. • Snowman: Yogurt-covered pretzels. • The Grinch: Green M&Ms, green Skittles, green-wrapped Hershey’s Kisses. • Hanukkah: Hershey’s Kisses in the traditional silver wrapping. • Rudolph: Chocolate covered pretzels, Whoppers. • Santa: Red M&Ms, red Skittles, red-wrapped Hershey’s Kisses. Alternate ideas. Clumsy with a hot glue gun? Think about layering items into the jars so you won’t need additional décor. Make a s’mores themed jar, for example. Alternate stacking graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate for a cute and festive look. Wrap it up with a bow and you’re done. Or create a beautiful and fragrant holiday potpourri jar with oranges, Fraser Fir sprigs, cinnamon sticks and cranberries. Add directions to boil in a pot covered with water for a home filled with the most warm and inviting scent. Hot chocolate mixes also look pretty in a jar. Prepare a customized beverage like white chocolate, dark chocolate or mint chocolate cocoa, complete with tiny marshmallows and toppings layered in the jar. Your recipient is sure to cuddle by the fire and enjoy this special treat, thanks to you. Tags and instructions. A little note should accompany any gift you give. Keep it short and cute. Here are some ideas to get you started. • Snowman: Avoid the frosty weather this season! • The Grinch: You make our hearts grow three sizes. • Hot Cocoa: You warm our hearts! • Rudolph: Thanks for lighting the way! • Santa: You’re always on our Nice List. • S’mores: Have s’more fun this season!

—Claire Frost

WANT A STYLE THAT’S easy TO MAINTAIN?

CLASSIC or TRENDY from BOB to PIXIE SPECIALIZING IN LADIES’ SHORT HAIRSTYLES

770 345 9411

7970 KNOX BRIDGE HWY CANTON, GEORGIA 30114

JYLCRAVEN.COM EXPERIENCE + SHOP TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Holiday Recipes

Sugar Cookies

Tammy Cobb, Woodstock

Grandma’s No-Bake Cookies

Cheryl Ruffer, Canton

Turtle Cheesecake

Lori Weisel, Holly Springs I’ve been making this cheesecake for about 15 years and it is one of my family’s favorites. I also try to make it for friends and family to celebrate special occasions or if someone is feeling under the weather. Food, especially cheesecake, is LOVE.

• 3 blocks of cream cheese, room temperature • 1 cup sugar • 3 eggs • 2 Tablespoons flour • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 2 Tablespoons milk • 1 package mini chocolate chips • ½ cup caramel sauce • 4 ounces chopped pecans • 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs • 1 stick butter, melted Combine melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Press in bottom and slightly up sides of well-greased 8” springform pan. Sprinkle ½ cup mini chocolate chips on top of crust. In bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until creamy. Add in eggs, one at a time, until mixed through. Add in flour, vanilla and milk, mixing well. Pour in ½ bag of mini chocolate chips and mix well. Pour cream cheese mixture onto graham cracker crust. Dollop caramel sauce on top using a spoon to make swirl patterns (try to keep caramel at least ½ inch away from sides of cheesecake to prevent it from sticking). Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and pecans on top. Place in preheated 375° degree oven for 50 – 60 minutes. Cheesecake should jiggle slightly but toothpick should come out clean when done. Allow cheesecake to sit on counter for an hour before removing ring. Place in refrigerator for six hours or overnight. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. 18

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

In heavy saucepan melt 1 stick of butter. Add 2 cups of white sugar, ½ cup milk and 4 Tablespoons cocoa powder. Bring to a boil and boil for one and a half minutes. Remove from heat and add ½ cup peanut butter, ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional), 2 teaspoons vanilla and 2 ½ cups of oatmeal (not instant). Drop by teaspoonful onto aluminum foil covered cookie tray and let cool. Try not to eat entire batch before sharing with family and friends.

Every Christmas, our family gets together for “cookie night.” We bake and decorate cookies while laughing, singing and quoting our favorite movie lines. We even have cookie decorating contests. Last year’s contest cookie was the ugly Christmas sweater. We get pretty creative and very competitive!

• ⅔ cup shortening (Crisco works best) • ¾ cup sugar • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 egg • 4 teaspoons milk • 2 cups of all-purpose flour Cream the shortening, sugar and vanilla together. Add egg and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in milk. Add flour and mix until combined well and makes a dough ball. Divide in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Chill for at least one hour. Bake at 375° degrees for six to eight minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.

Sugar Cookie Buttercream Icing

Christmas Cranberry Muffins

Susan Vanderheyden,

Woodstock

• 3 large eggs or 4 small eggs • 2 cups sugar • ¾ cup butter, softened • 1 teaspoon vanilla • 2 cups all-purpose flour • Package of fresh cranberries (12 ounces) • Zest of one orange • 1 cup chopped pecans Glaze: • 1 Tablespoon orange juice • 1 cup powdered sugar • Orange zest Beat eggs and sugar with a mixer for 5-7 minutes until thickened and light in color. Add softened butter, vanilla and orange zest. Mix well. Add flour and stir until just moistened. Add cranberries, mix until dispersed through batter. Spoon batter into paper lined muffin tin. Bake at 350° degrees for 20-25 minutes − timing depends on size of muffin. Cool and drizzle glaze over tops of muffins. This recipe can be baked as a coffee cake in a greased 9” x 13” pan at 350° degrees for 40-45 minutes.

• 1/2 cup Crisco shortening • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter softened • 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract • 4 cups sifted powdered sugar (1 pound) • 2 tablespoons milk In large bowl, beat shortening and butter with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla. Gradually add sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well on medium speed. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. When all sugar has been mixed in, icing will appear dry. Gradually add milk; beat at medium speed until light and fluffy. Hints: For pure white icing and stiffer consistency, omit butter; substitute an additional 1/2 cup shortening for butter. Keep bowl covered with a damp cloth until ready to use icing. If using a hand mixer, beat shortening, butter, if used, and liquid first, then add sugar, as above. It may be necessary to add additional sugar or milk for the correct consistency.

Granny’s M&M Cookies

Phyllis McCall, Woodstock • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter • ⅔ cup brown sugar • ⅔ cup sugar • 1 egg • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 ¾ cups M&M’s

Great–Grandma’s Christmas Cookie Favorites Bonny Spears, Canton

These are my great-grandmother Elizabeth McIlvaine’s recipes. We all called her Grandma Betty. My grandmother and mother continued to use these every Christmas for gifts to neighbors and friends, often having to make multiple batches, as our family would sneak them and deplete the supply before my mom could get them delivered.

Mexican Wedding Cakes “Sandies” • 1 cup butter • 1/3 cup sugar • 2 teaspoons water • 2 teaspoons vanilla • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup finely chopped pecans

Cream butter and sugar; add water and vanilla; mix well. Add flour and pecans; chill 3 or 4 hours. Shape in balls. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet in slow oven (325° degrees) about 20 minutes. Cool slightly; roll in confectioners’ sugar. Makes 5 dozen

Swedish Spritz

Thoroughly cream 1 ½ cups butter and 1 cup sugar. Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla and ½ teaspoon almond extract. Beat well. Sift 4 cups all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon baking powder. Add to creamed mixture; mix all smooth. Do not chill. (You may divide cookie dough and mix in different colors to tint dough red or green.) Force dough through cookie press, forming various shapes, on ungreased cookie sheet. Add sprinkles or decorative candies, if desired. Bake at 400° degrees for 5-8 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350° degrees. In a large bowl, cream butter and both sugars until they are well blended. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix to combine. Slowly add the flour to the butter and sugar mixture until combined. Fold in the M&M’s and chill the dough for one hour. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons, about two inches apart, onto a lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake eight to 10 minutes for chewy cookies and 12-14 minutes for crispy cookies.

Cheesy Pound Cake

Barbara Jacoby, Waleska Christmas wouldn’t be the same for our family without my mother’s Cheesy Pound Cake. We love our festive favorites, like gingerbread men and cookies for Santa, but the dessert that we dream of (and hoard…wrapped in foil and hidden under vegetables) is this cake. Far from fancy, the cake calls for few ingredients and takes little effort, but can’t be beat by anything else, no matter the trimmings. While delicious at any temperature, each family member finds their own perfection…for the children, that’s as soon as it’s cooled off, but the connoisseur prefers a slice after the cake has aged a couple of days in the cool of the refrigerator.

Overnight Peaches-and-Cream French Toast Emily Mikkelsen

St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, Canton • 1 8-oz. loaf French bread, sliced • 8 large eggs • 2 cups whole milk • 1/4 cup sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 15-oz. cans sliced peaches packed in juice, drained • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon • 1/2 cup heavy cream Butter a 9” x 13” baking dish. Arrange bread in a tight, flat layer in dish. In a large bowl, whisk eggs with milk, sugar and vanilla until blended; pour over bread. Arrange peaches on top and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours. Remove baking dish from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350° degrees. Pour cream into a small pan; bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until reduced by half, about 10 minutes. Drizzle over peaches and bake uncovered until casserole is lightly browned on top and just cooked through, 45 to 55 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

• 3 sticks butter • 8 ounces cream cheese • 3 cups sugar • 6 eggs • 1 Tablespoon vanilla • 3 cups flour Preheat oven to 300° degrees. Grease and flour a tube or bundt pan. Cream butter and cream cheese. Add sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, and mix until blended. Add vanilla. Add flour, one cup at a time, and mix until blended. Bake for 90 minutes. TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Feature

Tips

for Better

Holiday Photos

The holidays are fast approaching and with them come all of those special moments with family and friends you want in pictures. Here are a few tips to improve your holiday photos, whether you’re using a camera built into your smartphone or a stand-alone camera.

• Composition

Avoid placing your subjects in the center of your frame. Keeping them slightly off center creates interest.

• Change Your Perspective

• Light

Try moving around and shooting from different angles. The results could surprise you.

• Be Prepared

Don’t think too much about capturing the moment. Time waits for no one. It’s more important to take the shot than to worry about it being aesthetically appealing. There is nothing better than seeing a non-posed candid photo of Grandpa and Grandma that brings back fond memories.

Pay attention to where the light is falling on your subject. Keep the light to the side and not directly behind what you are trying to photograph. Try to avoid using direct flash from your camera. Have your camera turned on and ready. Those fun candid moments come only once, so be prepared to catch them.

• Take the Picture

— Jerry King of J King Images

Cut Your Own Christmas

Tree

Finding and cutting down the perfect Christmas tree is a tradition shared by many families. To avoid a Griswold family outing, like in the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” be prepared and you can survive this adventure with a beautiful tree and great memories of the season.

Berry Patch Farms

786 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, 30188 770-926-0561 www.berrypatchfarms.net.

Deerwoods Christmas Tree Farm 1109 Henry Scott Road, Ball Ground, 30107 770-380-3613. On Facebook as Deerwoods Christmas Tree Farm.

Sperin Christmas Tree Farm 6694 Yellow Creek Road, Ball Ground, 30107 770-893-2285.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

• Call ahead to confirm location and hours. You don’t want disappointed kids on your hands. • Take a saw. Most tree farms will likely provide cutting equipment, but better safe than sorry. • Dress for the weather. You may be spending a few hours outside, so make sure everyone is warm and comfortable. Layers of clothing work best. • Pack snacks. Some tree farms may have refreshments available for sale. If not, pack the family’s favorite snacks, along with a thermos of hot chocolate or warm cider. • Shake that tree! These trees have lived outside all year and you don’t want to bring home any unwanted house guests. Giving the tree a good shake will help remove any pests that might have taken up residence in your perfect tree. • Say cheese. Don’t forget the camera! You’ll want to take plenty of pictures to remember this special day.

Hanukkah Traditions Flexibility Helps Busy Families

The holiday season is a busy one and that goes for those celebrating Hanukkah, too. In fact, since Hanukkah lasts for eight nights, one can easily find it overwhelming. Imagine celebrating eight days in a row! Traditionally, Hanukkah gifts are exchanged each night of Hanukkah, often causing some nonJewish kids to joke that they also want to celebrate Hanukkah. Hanukkah is filled with customs and traditions that allow for some greater flexibility. For example, sometimes my family will not exchange gifts every night, but rather may double up when we are all together. Like many households, some nights we are all moving in four separate directions. The one certain thing is one of us will light the menorah each night, regardless of whether we are all present. While the gifts are often small items, the fact that Jewish children get eight gifts adds excitement to the holiday celebrating the Miracle of Lights. Like Christmas, every family has different traditions surrounding the holiday based on customs, holiday budgets, etc. A few Hanukkah staples in most homes include dreidels (small spinning tops) and Hanukkah

gelt (chocolate coins). In 2015, it is common to see Hanukkah gifts like gift cards, clothing, toys, books and games. Whether celebrating Christmas or Hanukkah, kids typically hope for similar items. With ever-growing responsibilities, I have changed a few things to maintain the traditions yet improve efficiency. Although it’s not the healthiest, eating foods cooked in oil is traditional at this time of year. Each year I make potato latkes, also known as potato pancakes. I must admit, I use a food processor now rather than hand grating each potato, saving me time and skin! The holiday of Chanukah, another spelling for Hanukkah, is fun and at the same time carries the important message of religious freedom for all. Chanukah once again reminds us that we are fortunate to live in the United States, where we can observe and celebrate our own beliefs. May your holiday celebration be one of joy. Hanukkah 2015 begins at sunset on Sunday, Dec. 6, and ends on Monday, Dec. 14.

Public

— Gary Parkes

Dec. 6

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 p.m. The event features hot latkes, menorahs, dreidels, Chanukah gelt and family events. Music by the Atlanta Jewish Men’s Choir. Sponsored by the Chabad Jewish Center and The Outlet Shoppes, 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. www.jewishwoodstock. com.

Menorah Lightings

Dec. 6 Abbie, left, and Delilah Parkes at the lighting of the ice menorah at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta in Woodstock last year.

Dec. 13

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.

Congregation Ner Tamid will hold an hour-long ceremony beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Glover Park stage at Marietta Square. The menorah-lighting ceremony will including holiday music and fun children’s games. For more information, call 678-264-8575, email info@mynertamid.org or go to www.mynertamid.org.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

Out & About

Through Dec. 19

The Cherokee Arts Center All they want for Christmas is ART member show and sale, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays at the arts center, 94 North St., Canton. www.cherokeearts.org.

Through Dec. 31

Festival of Trees will be on display at the R.T. Jones Public Library, 116 Brown Industrial Pkwy., Canton. The exhibit is a collection of trees decorated by community groups. www. sequoyahregionallibrary.org.

Dec. 4

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, 2016, will be held at 3 p.m. on Jan. 3 in the church’s choir room. www. cherokeechorale.org.

The 2014 Festival of Trees display.

Christmas tree lighting in Holly Springs begins at 6:30 p.m. at the train depot, featuring 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.

Dec. 4-6, 11-13

“The Foreigner,” a play by the Cherokee Theatre Company, will be performed at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays at the historic Canton Theatre. Tickets $18. 770-591-0282. www.cantontheatre.com.

Dec. 5

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 is $30. A Santa’s Helpers category for those wishing to contribute and get a shirt without running is $15. www.serviceleague.net. Timothy Lutheran Church holds its annual youth-sponsored craft fair, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Runners in the 2014 race dressed for the occasion. featuring more than 30 vendors selling handmade art, pottery, crafts, commercial items and more. Free admission. The church is located at 556 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. 770-928-2812. Holiday Open House 6 p.m. − 7:30 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Public Library, 116 Brown Industrial Pkwy., Canton. Celebrate the season and enjoy the Festival of Trees during the open house, featuring crafts, refreshments, a tree lighting, storytelling and songs performed by the Hasty Elementary Chorus. Welcome the holiday season with library staff and friends. All ages are welcome. 22

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Shop With a Hero begins at 7 p.m. at Walmart, Highway 92 at Trickum Road. Donations requested to help children whose families are facing financial difficulties. Local policemen and women take the children shopping. To learn how you can help, call Officer Ryan Bleisath at 678614-9104. www.WPSFoundation.org.

Dec. 12-13

Christmas in Downtown Woodstock, the last Friday Night Live event of 2015, takes place 6-9 p.m. For more details, visit www.woodstockga.gov.

Dec. 7

Dec. 11

A Christmas themed Frozen Weekend, sponsored by Thrive Chapel, will include a 15-foot snow globe for family photos, a 30-foot by 60foot outdoor ice skating rink that will hold 80 skaters with visits by Anna Elsa and Olaf from the Disney movie “Frozen,” as well as carnival games and bounce houses. Keep a check on the website www. frozenchristmas.com for location, times and other details.

Dec. 13

Christmas Cantata at Timothy Lutheran Church during the 10 a.m. combined worship service with Holy Communion. Performances by the adult choir, handbell choir, TLC Quartet, soloists, instrumentalists and Sunday School children will be featured. The church is in Woodstock at 556 Arnold Mill Road. Handbell Choir performance during the 11 a.m. service at Fields Chapel United Methodist Church, celebrating the classic sounds of Christmas. Performances by the children and youth handbell choir. The church is located at 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton. www.fieldschapel.org.

Dec. 17

Heritage Music Productions Christmas Show at the Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Tickets $20. www.cherokeearts.org.

Dec. 19

Jonathan Richards in concert at 7 p.m. at the Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Tickets $15. www.cherokeearts.org. Craft fair at Towne Lake Community Church, 132 North Medical Parkway in Woodstock, will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring handmade Christmas gifts. Call 678-445-8766 ext. 203 or email contact@tlcchurch.com for details.

Dec. 20

Christmas Pageant at 11 a.m., performed by the children and youth at Fields Chapel United Methodist Church, 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton. www.fieldschapel.org.

Dec. 21

Gingerbread House building is on the agenda at 6 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Public Library, 116 Brown Industrial Pkwy., Canton. Kids in sixth grade and up are invited to participate and also enjoy Christmas music, hot cocoa and lots of fun. All supplies will be provided at this free program. Call 770-479-3090 ext.233.

Dec. 26-Jan. 11

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

Christmas Memories in the Making BY LYNNE WATTS

‘Tis the season to make merry and ‘A Christmas Tradition’ at the historic make memories. While cold winds Earl Strand Theater in downtown blow and the whole earth hibernates, Marietta. Finish up the evening participate in one of the many local with a visit to the spectacular Lights activities that will warm your heart of Life at nearby Life Chiropractic and rejuvenate your spirit during this College, where more than a million holiday season. lights cover a mile of the campus. Experience the warm glow of There is a nativity, a menorah, Christmas past during Candlelight numerous holiday scenes, and if Nights at the Atlanta History Center. you are lucky, you might even catch Alessa Rogers at Marya and Rachel Van Buskirk as Sugar Plum Enjoy a candlelight stroll through a glimpse of Old St. Nick himself. Fairy. Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker. Photo by C. McCullers. the woods and visit three historic http://earlsmithstrand.org. houses, each lavishly decorated for the holiday season, as you are www.marietta.com/christmas-and-holiday-lights-at-life-university. transported back in time to pioneer days, the Civil War era and the No Christmas season is complete without the Nutcracker 1930s. Interpreters and special activities enhance the experience. Ballet. Dress up in your holiday best and visit the fabulous Fox www.atlantahistorycenter.com. Theater for a memorable show that never grows old. Children There is no shortage of musical performances available to help and adults will enjoy Clara and the Nutcracker Prince as they you capture the Christmas spirit. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra dance their way through a fantasy of snowflakes, right into your performs its traditional holiday concert with a cast of more than heart. www.atlantaballet.com. 400 musicians. Bring the whole family and enjoy a retelling of the greatest story every told. The Atlanta Pops Orchestra performs a special holiday show that includes a youth chorus, a drum line and Lynne Watts is an author, speaker, coach, mom and a retired Cherokee County School District counselor. She can be a jitterbugging Santa. www.atlantasymphony.org. reached at www.lynnewatts.com. Sing along to classic Christmas tunes during the performance of

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

Chocolate Wellington Squares (aka Millionaire’s Shortbread) Ingredients:

Method:

Crust:

To make caramel, place cans of condensed milk UNOPENED in a large pot of water, making sure to cover them well with water. Bring to a boil and reduce to medium low. Cook for three hours, checking every so often to make sure the water does not boil off. Allow to cool. You can do this step the day before. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Sift flour, sugar and salt into a bowl. Add chopped butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until it looks a bit like crumbs. Knead together and put in a lightly greased 15-inch by 10inch glass baking dish. Press down with your fingers. Prick holes all over with a fork. Place in oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. When shortbread is cooled, open cans of condensed milk (which is now caramel) and spread over the shortbread. Melt chocolate in a glass dish in the microwave and spread over the caramel. Refrigerate to set and leave at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares.

2 cups plain flour 2/3 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 ½ cup butter – cold and chopped into small pieces

Caramel: 2 cans sweetened condensed milk

Topping: 10-12 ounces milk chocolate (or dark if you prefer)

Chocolate and caramel are a couple of my favorite treats! In fact, when my daughter Ciara was small, in school the students had to fill out a sheet for Mother’s Day. It was the typical kind where they fill in the blanks. Here’s kind of how Ciara’s went: I love my mom. My mom is 14 years of age. My mom loves CHOCOLATE. Her favorite thing is CHOCOLATE. My mom gets mad when SHE HAS NO CHOCOLATE. My mom is very happy when SHE’S EATING CHOCOLATE. Here’s an easy yet really delicious treat to bring to a party over Caron and Alberto Catalán, owners and managers of Papa P’s, have lived in Towne Lake since 2008. the holidays or give to friends and neighbors. It has both chocolate www.papa-ps.com. and caramel. Enjoy! ~ Caron and Alberto

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Public Library Events www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

All libraries will be closed Dec. 23-26. Rose Creek Crafters Every Tuesday, 11:45 a.m. − 1 p.m., Rose Creek Bring your jewelry or other crafting supplies and meet others who share a love for everything crafty. Create something or just watch other creative geniuses at work. Knitting/Crocheting Every Tuesday, 1 p.m.-3 p.m., Rose Creek Let Mrs. Darlene help you get started on a knitting or crocheting project. Bring your needles and yarn and be prepared to have fun. No registration or prior knowledge required. The Joy of Coloring Every Wednesday (except Dec. 23), 11 a.m. − 2 p.m., Ball Ground Every Monday, 10 a.m.-noon, Woodstock Adults are invited to stop by the library meeting room to relax and rediscover the joy of coloring. Supplies are provided. 770-735-2025. Sit & Stitch Social Every Thursday (except Dec. 24), 10 a.m. – noon, Woodstock Enjoy the company of other creative people while you stitch on your current project or start a new one. Lego Club Dec. 5, 2 p.m., Hickory Flat Dec. 12, 3 p.m., Rose Creek Children can work alone or in teams to make their own special creation, which will be displayed at the library until next month’s meeting. Each month Lego Club will feature a new theme. All ages are invited; Kids 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Hickory Flat Book Club Dec. 7, 2:30 p.m., Hickory Flat For upcoming book selections and more information please call 770-345-7565. Mobile Career Lab Dec. 9, 10 a.m. − 3 p.m., R.T. Jones The Atlanta Regional Workforce Board’s Mobile Career Lab will give free assistance relating to job searches, information about training opportunities and access to computer workstations. For ages 16 and older. Woodstock Book Club Dec. 15, noon − 1:30 p.m., Woodstock Discussion of “The Orphan Train.” New members are welcome. 770-926-5859. Chess & Chat Dec. 19, 1 p.m. − 3 p.m., R.T. Jones Informal chess group meets monthly for friendly competition. The adult services desk always has chess sets available to use. Registration not required. Ball Ground Book Club Dec. 21, 11:30 a.m., Ball Ground Discussing “Still Alice” by Lisa Genova. 770-735-2025.

Library Locations R.T. Jones, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770-479-3090 Hickory Flat, 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-345-7565 Rose Creek, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-591-1491 Woodstock, 7735 Main St., Woodstock. 770-926-5859 Ball Ground, 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground. 770-735-2025 TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

A Natural Beauty BY JODI TIBERIO

I met Kaci after her husband, Preston, wrote an endearing email asking if she could be considered for a makeover. Without her knowledge, he wrote that his wife did not need a makeover because she is “a natural beauty” to him, but that she deserved a makeover. Kaci is a fulltime student, and for the past six years, she has been studying to earn her doctorate, with hopes of becoming a pharmacist. She often puts in more than 10 hours a day going to school and studying; in addition, Kaci finds time to cook great crockpot meals, volunteer with the youth at her church, and spend time with Preston as a couple. Preston explained how they are living frugally and spending a lot of time working, to eliminate college loan debt. He said that he and Kaci have a great life together. For

them, a great date night might be window shopping, going to a discount movie, or enjoying a restaurant using a coupon. He explained that Kaci does not shop for clothing and doesn’t get her hair done. She is goal-driven, and when Preston suggests she should splurge on herself, she chooses not to. She often tells him “someday…we will be able to…” Kaci has a very conservative approach to style, so I wanted to be sensitive to that, and make sure she felt comfortable while creating a look that her devoted husband would love. We started with jeggings, which are leggings that look like jeans. They are soft, comfortable, fit most people really well and are less than $15. We added a tan microsuede top and an olive microsuede cardigan; this fabric is popular and trendy right now for its comfort and feel. The cardigan comes in many colors, but the olive went really well with Kaci’s eyes and it is my favorite color this season. I can’t wait to see what the team at Salon and Spa Venéssa does next! When Kaci and Preston went to Salon and Spa Venéssa, he said that Kaci had never had a professional hairstyle before, as she always cuts her own hair. During the consultation, Kaci said the humidity in the south makes her long hair unruly and frizzy. She stated that she is beginning to seek employment as a pharmacist, and is ready for a polished, professional style. Senior stylist Mary Janos explained that Kaci’s long hair overwhelmed her features. Mary suggested cutting Kaci’s hair to the top of her shoulders to enhance fullness. Additionally, adding soft layers her natural texture would be more manageable, and will allow for movement. Mary suggested a long side swept fringe that will flow softly into the layers. Heather Tucker, a Rising Star stylist, consulted with Kaci on her hair color. Kaci requested a low maintenance hair color. Heather noticed her hair lacked shine, so she glazed Kaci’s hair with a medium rich brown color conditioning treatment, and added highlights by weaving and painting a Balayage effect. For a final touch of makeup, esthetician, Amy Chandler showed Kaci some quick techniques by applying just powder and blush, and how to create a smoky eye using a Golden Ginger shadow over her entire eye and then softly smudging Moss Eye Definer at the lash line. Fig lip color completed her look with a just a shimmer of color. Kaci truly is a natural beauty. She is now ready to transition from frugal college student to a professional career woman. Kaci, we know that “someday….you will be able to….”

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.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

GIVE

gifts that care.

Give gifts of Joy and Renewal– spa packages can be customized for everyone on your gift list. We also offer GIFT CARDS in any denomination. Let us help you to give this holiday season.

hair • skin • body • nails • makeup salon • spa hours mon & fri 9-6 tues, wed, thurs 9-9 sat 8:30-5

off-peak spa days december – THURSDAYS january – THURSDAYS stay connected.

specials & promotions

770.591.2079 • www.salonvenessa.com 8516 main street • downtown woodstock

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

We Get the Government We Deserve BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

“We get the government we deserve.” This mantra is repeated often by my friend and colleague Rep. John Pezold of Columbus, Ga. As you can imagine, we find quite a few opportunities to utter this phrase during the ups and downs of a legislative session. To deserve something can be positive or negative. You can deserve reward or you can deserve punishment. The Great American Experiment gives us a unique ability to shape our government into whatever we desire while maintaining the basic protections of a republic. Through our representative government, we are able to set tax rates, create and eliminate bureaucracy, go to war or maintain peace—all while working within the bounds set by our Constitution, which protects our basic human rights. The balance between majority rules (democracy literally means “rule of the people”) and protecting the minority from the majority (republic literally means “rule of law”) is the foundation of our experiment in selfgovernment. Issue arises when the “self” in self-government chooses not to get involved. Every year we have elections in Georgia. In the even years (2012, 2014, 2016) we hold elections for offices like state representative, governor, president, etc. In the odd years (2013, 2015, 2017) we hold municipal elections for many of our city council members, mayors, etc. Roughly one month ago, on Nov. 3,

To deserve something can be positive or negative. You can deserve reward or you can deserve punishment.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Woodstock had several city council seats up for election. Rather than discuss issues debated or winners and losers, I would like to focus on the most depressing part of this election: voter turnout. Out of 13,479 registered voters in the city of Woodstock, 329 decided it would be worth their time to vote. That doesn’t mean that 329 showed up on election day while the masses voted early or by mail. It was 329 total. Of those who had a constitutional right to make their voice heard, 2.4 percent chose to do so. To be clear, I believe that Woodstock has elected a quality council and will be represented well, but based upon the turnout that was solely due to luck. When less than 2.5 percent of voters (roughly 1 percent of the total population) care enough to make the effort to take part in choosing their government, accountability for public officials becomes a nearly unattainable dream. Knowing that only a handful of voters (whose identity will be available in the public record) will take the time, it becomes dramatically easy for elected officials to ensure they are catering to those chosen few and render themselves nearly invincible come Election Day. We owe ourselves better than that, but if we don’t make the effort then we certainly don’t deserve better. I am far from the first to write an article calling for Americans to show up to the polls. Historically, arguments about availability and election times reigned as the excuses continued on page 92 Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. Caldwell@house.ga.gov

We Cure Sick Grout!® the

GROUT Doctor

Since 1992

Tile & Grout Repair Grout Cleaning & Sealing Regrouting & Recaulking

FREE ESTIMATES

678.383.1311

jeffarnold@groutdoctor.com • www.GroutDoctor.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

How accurate is Zillow’s Zestimate? BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

If you guessed the answer to that question is “it depends,” then you would be right. Let’s explore the strengths and weaknesses of Zillow’s online value tool and whether you should rely on it for your home’s valuation. Zillow’s home valuation tool, Zestimate, has gained popularity with buyers and sellers as a way of determining a property’s value. This online tool uses data about sold homes from tax records and the Multiple Listing Service. It then uses the tax record data from similar homes to determine their average price per square foot. This average price per square foot is then multiplied against your home’s tax records to determine its value. The most common failure of this method of valuation is that the tax records are frequently not accurate. Among other errors, additions to your home’s finished square footage that weren’t permitted through the county won’t be reflected in the tax record. Another opportunity for error is the wide variation of upgrades from home to home in the pool of data that the algorithm uses. We have seen home prices in Cherokee County neighborhoods vary by as much as $20 per square foot ($40,000 on a 2,000-square-foot home) depending on what improvements and upgrades have been made.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Where and how a home’s square footage is laid out can also affect a home’s value greatly. Ranch homes in Cherokee commonly sell for 20 percent more than two-story traditionals, while a split level can sell for 10 percent less than traditional homes. Lastly, but definitely not least, is location. Location is a major factor in a home’s value. A home on a cul-de-sac will usually sell for more than the same home on a busy main road and a home on the golf course will fetch more than one that backs up to a neighboring home. Zillow’s online valuation tool does shine where the subject property and comparable properties used in the calculation are newer and have similar floor plans, upgrades and improvements. If you are thinking about selling, enlist the help of a local real estate professional that is familiar with your neighborhood’s home prices. Zillow’s tool is good for a ballpark valuation and to track your homes movement in value, but it can be inaccurate by up to 10 to 20 percent.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community. As you deck the halls, hang the rehab from her injuries as she adjusts mistletoe and trim the tree, to her new reality. ask yourself what you’ve Since sharing the story of Jacob done to celebrate Hobby’s need for a handicap-equipped the true spirit of the vehicle, the community rallied in a holidays. Remember large way. Schools, the Junior Service the reason for the League, local businesses and reader season with simple ways donations raised $28,000 to purchase a to create a deeper connection Dodge Caravan for Jacob and his mom. Scarlett Cuello with your community. As 2015 comes Former Etowah High school to a close, we would like to recap some student-athlete Joey Hume of the year’s features and the wonderful remains in Birmingham Faith McDonnell ways in which you, our as he recovers from his readers, helped children and electrocution injuries. families within our community. Everyday Angels sent Everyday Angels will continue your donated funds and to receive donations for past gas cards to his parents Brenda Carlisle features. We love surprising as they travel back and them with unexpected forth to care for him. donations. With no overhead In December, we featured Kerri, JoAnna and costs, salaries or expenses, the story of Chad O’Laughlin, 38, who died Jayce O’Laughlin Everyday Angels will continue suddenly in his sleep, leaving behind wife Kerri, to send 100 percent of your daughter JoAnna and an unborn child. Today, Joey Hume donation to the family you Jayce is healthy, happy and 7 months old! Your specify. donations of clothing, diapers and funding Last month’s feature, provided relief and encouragement to this young Brenda Carlisle, reminded family at a tragic time. Words cannot adequately us that life can change in an express her gratitude for your love and compassion instant. What she believed for them. was a simple reaction to food Everyday Angels shared two stories relating to Katelyn Fige became a battle to live. organ transplant needs in hopes of raising awareness We are inspired by her of the importance of organ donation. Faith deep faith, which arms her McDonnell successfully received her dad’s donated with the attitude, strength kidney and continues to adapt each day. Local and courage as she begins resident Brian Mott is waiting patiently for Brian Mott her battle against stage his lifesaving call from a potential kidney four lymphoma. donor. They are thankful for your prayers Your donations for and support. our October feature, Everyday Angels would like to wish you “For it is in giving Katelyn Fige, a 12-yearand family joyful holiday blessings. that we receive.” Mayyour old Woodstock Middle you remain safe, healthy, happy and Jacob Hobby School student, exceeded —St. Francis of Assisi grateful for the gift of each day. $2,000 and will be used by her family for her care as she continues Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since her battle against pineoblastoma. More funding and 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please fundraising is needed for her family. visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite In February, we shared the story of Scarlett Cuello, who was 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will involved in a near-fatal car accident on I-575. Members of our 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 compassionate community responded by sending more than aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification. $2,000 to assist with her care. She continues her recovery and 32

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

Becoming an Actor Step 5: The Importance of Training BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

In my last article, I said that community theater can offer training in how to create a character and how to act. While true, I do not want to discredit the incredible importance of quality training. Many people think acting is easy. They think all you have to do is memorize some lines and then stand there and say them. If you believe that and attempt a career in this field, you will find very quickly that you will not be successful. Successful acting involves listening and reacting, with words and your whole body. It requires vocal training (even if you are not a singer), learning how to break down a scene and an entire script, and figuring out how to create a character that is not you, without being unrealistic. If you truly want to pursue acting, you must pursue acting training. There are various levels of training. Some get a bachelor’s degree in theater from a prestigious university, some get a master’s degree. Some attend strict conservatory programs where they spend roughly two years eating, breathing and sleeping acting. Some go to independent schools to take a variety of classes that teach things like on-camera tips, acting technique or improvisation. We do not currently have a prestigious drama school or conservatory in Georgia, so if you stay here for training you will be limited to the acting schools here. Luckily, some local teachers have been through tough training programs and have brought their skills to Atlanta.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Good training is comprehensive. You need to work on your body and voice techniques, learn the differences for acting on camera versus acting on stage, improv training, and most of all, a foundation of technique such as Method Acting. It really doesn’t matter which technique you study, as long as you find one that works for you and use it. Acting is not just saying some lines; solid technique will give you the foundation you need to become a solid actor. One- or two-day workshops with a visiting teacher once a year is not considered solid training. A few months of an on-camera class is not enough. A casting director workshop is not acting class; it is a paid audition. It is fine if you choose to do that, but do not put it on your résumé as training. Even an improv class alone is not enough. Start with a foundation of technique. Once you know how to break down scenes and roles, then you can move on to oncamera work and improv training. Then you will be ready to audition and book.

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

The White Envelope Project BY SEAN KAUFMAN

The White Envelope Project was started in Atlanta in 1982 by a man who hated Christmas. He didn’t dislike the meaning behind Christmas, but rather that Christmas had become so commercialized that people were actually losing themselves. The holiday became a time of running around and stressing, with people frantic about what they are going to get everyone and spending every last dollar in their accounts to buy lastminute gifts out of desperation, because they can’t think of another thing to get their loved ones or friends. Instead of buying him a gift, his wife gave a gift to someone else – a wrestling team of kids who had a clear need. She went to a sports store, bought wrestling gear for an inner city school and donated it on his behalf. She then took a white envelope, put his name on it, wrote what she had done, and placed it in the Christmas tree. Little did she know that she had started a family tradition, begun the Christmas after her husband died of cancer. That year, she could not bear a tree without a white envelope, so she put one in the branches of the tree on Christmas Eve and dedicated it to her husband. She woke up to find three more in the tree, all placed there by her children. A family tradition of giving was started. In February of this year, I witnessed and shared the I-575 miracle with the TowneLaker readers. A beautiful young woman named Scarlett was ejected from her car and lived in a vegetative state until she came back to the world two days before Easter, remembering everything and everyone! Something caught my eye: Scarlett was in need and right here in the TowneLaker, an organization called Everyday Angels highlighted her story and asked for help. Everyday Angels in a non-profit organization that provides short-term financial relief, encouragement and hope to those in need in the Towne Lake, Woodstock and Canton communities. Let us not forget what Christmas is all about. The celebration of a man who was once asked – “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” The answer (in Luke 10:25): “Love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Everyday Angels not only locates your neighbors in need, but provides easy access to their stories and ways to donate to those who are in desperate situations. This Christmas, I will be asking my children and wife for a White Envelope in the tree. I hope to start a new family tradition that will focus on the love and care we show to our neighbors. If any of my writings have moved you this year, and you feel inspired to offer a gift of appreciation, please visit www. everydayangels.info and make a donation in my name. A Merry Christmas and holiday blessing to you and your family, and a very happy, healthy, safe, and successful New Year to all!

Sean Kaufman, an expert in behaviour change, specializes in life coaching and workforce motivation and owns The Texting Coach and Behavior-Based Improvement Solutions. sean@seankaufman.com TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Community

Rob’s Rescues This dog is Dante. He is really friendly. He is black with a little bit of white and is 2 years old. He is a Terrier mix and is pretty small. He has the tiniest patch of white on his neck. Dante came to the shelter as a stray and is very quiet. He listens well too. He really likes to sit on your lap. Mom really wanted to take him home with us. Kevin Jones, Rob and Jim Goodman.

There are five adult cats in the shelter right now. They are all free to adopt. The one in the picture is Scarlet. She is 4 years old. The other ones’ names are: Winston, Churchill, Athena and Cora. The Starbucks pet food collection was a success. We got lots of cat and dog food. I want to thank Mr. Jim who is the manager at Starbucks for having a Rob’s Rescues bin.

Rob’s Rescues

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

now has a Facebook page!

Rob gets a little distracted while writing his column at the shelter.

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

Senior Sense Gift Giving BY DELIA HALVERSON

‘Tis the season for the giving of gifts. Sometimes we, as adults and grandparents, find it easier to simply give a gift card. There’s nothing wrong with that, but we need to remember that purchasing a gift can bring warm thoughts for the other person. I remember two gifts a friend gave me for my wedding. One was a small vase that looked like two leaves holding my flowers; she knew I liked plants, and I had chosen philodendron vines as the background for my wedding bouquets. The other was a set of glasses with pheasants on them; she knew Sam hunted pheasants. What also made the glasses special was that they were purchased with peanut butter in them, and she had eaten the peanut butter! I was very sad when the last glass broke, but after 58 years I still think of her — especially when I eat peanut butter. Stopping to really think about the other person can bring a spice to the season! Maybe some list-making would help — not of what the person wants, but a list about the person. It might look something like this: JOHN • Enjoys earthy (or bright) colors. • Likes working with his mind (or hands). • Never tries anything until it’s five years old (or always tries something new). • Enjoys the ocean (consider a book of sea animals). • Got his first car last fall. It’s easier to buy a gift for someone when you have that person in mind. Last spring, my daughter-in-law complimented me on some ferns I dug up in the woods and replanted by my door. I tucked the idea away, and in September, I found the same ferns at a nursery. The gift itself is not as important as the thoughts of caring and sharing behind the gift. The gift should bring you, the giver, as much pleasure as it does the receiver. If the gift isn’t given with thought and concern, then you may as well wrap up some of yesterday’s garbage. Let’s remember that the tradition of giving gifts started with the birth of Christ, a gift we received from God. The Magi continued that tradition with gifts brought to the Christ Child when they traveled to see Him. When we help children with gift-giving, we should also suggest that they notice the joy the receiver has in opening the gift (and we should show joy when we open a gift). In our family, we open one gift at a time so that everyone can enjoy the gift.

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.

PROFESSIONAL.EXPERIENCED.RELIABLE.

PAINTING • SIDING • WINDOWS • DOORS

• Family Owned & Operated • Licensed & Insured • Professional Courteous Staff • Lifetime Repair Warranty • We Always Use the Best Products We will beat any bid from a reputable competitor.

precisionpaintingatlanta.com CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!

678-234-9668 Serving Towne Lake Since 1999 Phil Rowe, Towne Lake Resident TOWNELAKER | December 2015

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

Pregnancy and Hair Color The good, the bad and the ugly. BY TIM TIMMONS

Pregnant women sacrifice many of life’s simple pleasures — caffeine, sushi, a glass of wine — in the hope that their babies will be born healthy. During this special time, a pregnant woman often wants to look as beautiful as she feels, which is why women often ask whether hair color is safe during pregnancy. Whether coloring your hair will make you feel good or cause you to worry needlessly for nine months, it is something to think about. If you do choose to color your hair, here is the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to hiding your roots while you’re expecting. The Organization of Teratology Information Services (OTIS), which provides information on potential reproductive risks, reports their studies are reassuring, and that there are no reports of hair color causing changes in human pregnancies. OTIS also points out that very little of the chemicals in hair color are actually absorbed into your system. Their research suggests that it’s probably safe to color your hair during pregnancy. While the absorption through the skin may be minimal, another concern is that breathing fumes during the process could be harmful to the developing baby. Permanent hair color contains ammonia, which

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

carries a strong chemical fume. OTIS recommends using hair color that contains little to no ammonia. As your baby continues to grow, so too does the natural colorant industry. An increasing number of natural or nonammonia hair colors are coming into the market; additionally, more and more companies are removing ammonia and a few other toxic ingredients from hair color products. Recently, safer alternatives containing ingredients such as soy, wheat, aloe, grapefruit and natural pigments extracted from a wide range of plants have become increasingly popular. It is important to be cautious, so if you’re still concerned, consider waiting to color your hair until the second trimester or consider choosing a highlight or lowlight procedure instead of an all-over application. These procedures keep the product inside of the foils, protecting the scalp from coming in contact with the hair color. Although sometimes there is a scientific basis underpinning many of the warnings and wives’ tales, nowhere do our fear-culture roots come out in a greater show of force than when we’re wagging a finger at the mothers of tomorrow. Pregnant women have enough to cope with when considering all of the changes a new baby will bring into their lives. My advice: Do your own research and speak with your physician, and - perhaps - take those old wives’ tales with a grain of salt – and maybe even a splash of color.

During this special time, a pregnant woman often wants to look as beautiful as she feels, which is why women often ask whether hair color is safe during pregnancy.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

The Benefits of Working Out in a Group BY JOSH KEENUM AND MATT HICKMAN

With the holidays approaching and the ever-so-pressing New Year’s resolutions following shortly thereafter, how will you keep to your workout routine? Work…kids…school parties…family events…traveling…finding the perfect gift…these life events can create reasonable roadblocks to keep you from working out. A solution to keep you on track is group training. Marketing guru Seth Godin refers to like-minded individuals coming together for a purpose as a “tribe.” Inside a group training tribe, the benefits listed below not only keep you going, but get results. 1. Community – Working out with like-minded individuals that come for results. This social connection keeps you engaged and accountable. More than that, it provides a sense of belonging. Your community picks you up when you need it and celebrates your achievements. 2. Economical – The myth is that you have to spend heaps of money on private sessions to get amazing results. It’s just that — a myth. Group training allows participants to reap the benefits of personal training in a group setting. Your bank account will thank you and you’ll still get individual attention with the coach. 3. Confidence – When you start a new routine, there is always a learning curve. In a group training setting, coaches educate participants on proper technique. This foundation is key in creating competent participants, preventing injury and achieving

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

results. Eventually, participants grow more confident executing each move on their own, needing minimal technical coaching from the trainer. 4. Friendly Competition – Participants who work out in a group tend to unintentionally create friendly competitions between one another. This will motivate you to push past your comfort zone, staying in the workout longer and finishing each rep without resting. 5. Fun – The American College of Sports Medicine states that the most common reason people give up on an exercise routine is boredom. Group training eliminates solitary workouts and keeps things fresh with a variety of exercises and training partners. High-fives during and after each workout, creating friendships with like-minded individuals, and celebrating achievements keep you in the game and ready to reach your next goal. No doubt, there many more reasons to participate in group training. That said, you need to feel comfortable in the facility you select, because your comfort level can motivate or hinder your results. PLAE HARD directors Matt Hickmann, SCCC, CSCS, and Josh Keenum, Reebok Athlete, CPT. info@plaehard.com. 678-408-2241.

Christmas Memories That Really Matter BY MATT NEAL

After years of considering this, I now believe that what most parents are trying to accomplish for Christmas is to re-create those few magical Christmas moments that stand out from their own childhoods. Who knows, maybe my own magical Christmas moments from childhood were the result of my parents trying to recapture their childhood. But I do realize one problem I have, and my own parents had: believing that the magic came from some inane amount of gifts the children received on Christmas morning. What I’m trying to do is recapture memories of my own happiness from many eons ago, to try to understand what it was that made me happy at Christmas as a child. Here is what I came up with. ● My father smiling, laughing, and happy. My parents in a good mood, not worried or complaining. ● My family doing Christmas activities together, like decorating the tree, wrapping presents or driving around neighborhoods looking at decorations. ● Singing Christmas songs in the church choir, or caroling with a group of kids, going to different houses up and down the streets on a cold night. ● The smell of mom’s baking. ● Reading old Christmas stories, like Dickens or “The Night Before Christmas.” ● Watching “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and getting watery-eyed when Linus recited the nativity story. ● The scratchy sound of an old record player filling the room with Andy Williams singing “O Holy Night” and “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” ● The smell of pine from the Christmas tree that filled every corner of the room. ● Hot chocolate on a cold night, and a fire in the fireplace. ● The soft glow of colorful lights. ● The laughter of friends and family in our noisy, busy house on Christmas Eve.

What I’m trying to do is recapture memories of my own happiness from many eons ago, to try to understand what it was that made me happy at Christmas as a child.

After coming up with this list, I realized something. Getting lots of high-priced gifts wasn’t mentioned even once. Each of us should make our own lists of what’s really, truly memorable about Christmas. That’s what we need to pass on to our children and grandchildren.

Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached at www. mattnealwriter@yahoo.com. TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

Living in Tune with the Seasons: Embracing Winter BY TONI ANN ISLES

Each season possesses a unique rhythm and flow of energy. During the winter, the earth rests. The Northern Hemisphere turns colder and darker. Plants and animals hibernate, gathering energy for the brighter and more active seasons. One of the healthiest and most enlightening concepts is an ancient one that will help you restore and maintain natural balance through the year: embracing and living in tune with each season. The essential trick of this concept is conscientiously listening to one’s body. During the colder months, your body is working harder and expelling more energy to warm itself, which often results in a slightly increased appetite. Instead of binging on holiday goodies, nourish yourself with winter’s freshest seasonal root vegetables: carrots, potatoes, turnips and more. In the winter, plants store their energy deep within their roots, so take advantage of this and cook up a warm and hearty stew or vegetarian chili, packed with protein-rich legumes. Give your hard-working body a hand and consume herbs and spices that naturally generate heat: ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, cayenne and garlic. Ginger tea is not only warming but also promotes healthy digestion. It’s a perfect beverage to enjoy postdinner on a cold winter’s night.

Towne Lake Business Association Are you looking for a way to give back to the community and want to get the entire family involved? Check out our scholarship fundraiser we sponsor every year for yours and/or your neighbors high school seniors! TLBA’s second annual Bowl-A-Thon, our fundraiser benefiting the Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholarship Awards, (given to one senior from Etowah HS and one senior from Woodstock HS), will be held Jan. 23, 2016 at the newly local Stars and Strikes. The Bowl-A-Thon is a family-friendly event for ALL ages and levels of bowlers. If you are interested in supporting your neighbors, friends, or own Etowah or Woodstock student whether you are a player, sponsor, or volunteer, please contact Gloria Snyder by email at gjsnyder@ bellsouth.net. ATTENTION: No Workshop this month Please join us for our Annual TLBA Members Christmas Party Topic: “Celebrating a Wonderful Year Together Accompanied by Comrade and Networking” Bring a spouse or a guest. A delicious dinner will be provided by The Grille. Sodas/tea included, alcoholic beverages not included. Where to Be: “The Grille” at Towne Lake Hills When: Tuesday, December 15 from 6:30 p.m – 9 p.m. Cost: None! Your membership dues support this gathering. Find us on Facebook! www.Facebook.com/TowneLakeBusinessAssociation Thank You for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee” 44

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Less sunlight and the colder temperatures mean we are generally less active and likely heading indoors earlier than if it were spring or summer. Chances are you won’t see a bunch of people playing Frisbee in the park in mid-January! While you always want to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle, don’t beat yourself up for feeling pulled to go indoors and snuggle up under a comforter this season. Take your cues from nature and draw inward this winter, focusing on lighter physical and mental exercises, such as restorative yoga, guided meditation or tai chi. (As always, consult your doctor before engaging in any physical activity.) Give your body, mind and soul a chance to slow down, be mindful and regain energy, just as the world around you is doing. Balancing your energy with the earth’s and following its ebb and flow facilitates internal balance. So be kind to yourself; allow your body to rest and restore this winter season, so that you may burst forth bright and full of energy, like the verdant leaves and flowers of spring.

Toni Ann Isles is a freelance writer, executive assistant, dog- and nature-lover, and amateur photographer. www.toniannisles.com.

TLBA SPOTLIGHT Healthy Choices Make a Difference

The holidays are a season to celebrate, but the party doesn’t have to show up on your waistline. Here are some tips to avoid the pitfalls of overindulging and how to have a happy, healthy holiday: ● Focus on the relationships with the people around the table instead of the food. Being present with your friends and family will be more satisfying than an extra helping of turkey and gravy. Mary Madison’s before and ● Opt for the small plate at the buffet. after pictures show how Filling a smaller plate will give the healthy lifestyle choices can illusion of generous helpings without make a difference. the feeling of regret on the scale. ● Bring a healthy appetizer or side dish to share. Not only will the hostess appreciate the gesture, but you are sure to have better choices, instead of being tempted by less nutritious foods. ● Position yourself away from the food. You will have to make a conscious effort to go for refills, and therefore less likely to engage in mindless grazing. ● Eat something healthy before arriving so that you’re not famished at party time. You will be able to turn down calorie-laden items that can sabotage your diet. For more strategies and ideas, follow Mary Madison on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mary.madison.16 or email mary_madison@ ymail.com.

Space Heater Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know BY DAN JAPE

Do you run a space heater in your home to enhance the warmth? Space heater safety is critical because these handy units have a deadly side. According to experts, one out of every 20 fires that is started by a space heater results in death and millions of dollars in damages. The majority of the fires are caused by combustible items placed too close to the unit. If you’re intent on using a space heater, be vigilant about using it the right way. Only buy a space heater that is certified by the Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL) or another reputable testing company. Certified and tested heaters will have ideal safety features that prevent fire hazards, whereas older and used heaters won’t employ the necessary safety features. Follow manufacturer guidelines for using the heater. Isolate the space heater, and keep it away (at least three feet) from combustible items like carpeting, rugs, furniture, drapes and other household items. Make sure the heater rests on a level surface, and keep it away from foot traffic so it can’t be knocked over, increasing the risk of fire. Don’t use extension cords. If you need a longer plug, only use a high-powered extension cord that can accommodate the power of the heater. Avoid relying heavily on the heater for your main source of heat.

Use it only in short spurts, always while attended, and never when you’re sleeping and can’t keep an eye on it. If you have pets or children, be vigilant about safety when using the space heater in their presence. Never position a space heater near a water source, and never in a bathroom or near a utility sink or kitchen sink. Always turn the device off when you leave the room. Do not run the space heater in a room where a household member is sleeping. There’s a risk of knocking over the heater if the person turns over, falls off the couch or extends a limb. Always use kerosene with a kerosene space heater, and never gasoline or other fuel. Mixing fuels instantly raises the risk of a fire. Install smoke detectors in your home so that you are quickly alerted to a fire. Once they’re installed, or if you already have them, test them regularly to ensure the detectors are functional. You can safely operate a space heater in your home and reduce the risk of a fire by following these safety guidelines.

Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating & Air. He can be reached at 770-594-9969.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

Gifts

THAT GIVE BACK

BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

I love the holidays! Gifts are my love-language, so every time someone receives something from me, it’s like they’ve received a little hug, — an “I love you,” if you will. I can stress myself out over finding that perfect something. I want to purchase things I know the gift recipients will love, but I also want to purchase products that are ethically sourced and support causes that are important to me. These days, I’ve noticed that savvy consumers value quality over price, and there’s a growing trend toward the maker’s movement. I can feel good about the things I buy and do good, too!

Searching for a little something for that special teacher or babysitter? These Lily and Laura bracelets are both beautiful and affordable. The intricate designs dress up any outfit and coordinate with a wide variety of styles. Whether you’re looking for something festive, sparkly, or just plain cute, you’ll find it here. No two are alike. Each bracelet is handcrafted by village women in Nepal. Purchases help improve the lives of the Nepalese women and the children who depend on them. You can find these at Be You... On Purpose in downtown Woodstock; one for $12, three for $30.

Trendy scarves are everywhere, and some of my favorites are made locally by COLORS Freedom in Fashion. The marble oversized infinity scarf is $56 and worth every penny. The scarf warms your neck, but the story will warm your heart. COLORS employs marginalized women in Atlanta to knit the scarves, pays them a fair wage, and helps ensure a bright future. Purchases support Beloved Atlanta and 7 Bridges. The company is based in Woodstock, but you can find the entire line at www.freedominfashion.com.

Christmas ornaments are the hallmark of the holiday season. Once our family is finished decorating the tree, it’s fun to share stories about the various ornaments and how we acquired them − some as gifts, some as souvenirs from trips we’ve taken, and some that have sentimental value simply because they represent a specific season or event in our lives. Glory Haus, based in Marietta, introduced this ornament in collaboration with Third Day, a popular Christian rock band. It also makes a great hostess gift. Glory Haus is committed to community transformation and works with Daughters of Hope in India. Ornament is $13.95 at Chamberhouse Fine Gifts in downtown Canton.

3 4

I first met the founder of Sseko Designs at a conference three years ago. She was just getting her business off the ground and was passionate about women’s education. Sseko uses fashion to provide employment and scholarship opportunities to women pursuing their dreams and overcoming poverty. The company started making beautiful woven sandals, but I was happy to discover this brand new line of handmade wallets with slots for both cash and cards. The wallets are $40 and can be found at B.Loved in downtown Canton.

We’ve all heard of Tom’s Shoes. The brand single-handedly popularized the “Buy One/Give One” business model. Their original shoes were nothing more than a glorified sock, but people bought them because every purchase ensured that a person without shoes in Africa would receive a pair. Recently, Tom’s has upped its game, and the new styles, especially for men, are downright enchanting. Now everyone can be a hipster! They are $98 at RAK Outfitters in downtown Woodstock. Of course, if you’re a fan of the original arch destroyer, you can still purchase a pair in a variety of fun, new prints for about $59.

For more information about how you can purchase gifts that make a difference this year, I encourage you to visit the blog of my dear friend, Melanie Dale. Every year, she shares her top picks for #slavefreechristmas, and you can find them all at www.unexpected.org. I’d also love to hear your ideas, so please connect with me on twitter at @chanlynnadams or by email at chantel@foreverwe.org. 46

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

What’s Your Financial Health Score? Can a five-question test predict how wealthy you will become? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

In the future, will you become wealthier or poorer? Who knows, right? It seems like you would need a crystal ball to really answer that question given life’s up and downs. What if the answer is right in front of you? What if you can determine it from your present financial behaviors? Two economists present a brief questionnaire—and an audacious claim. The Center for Household Financial Stability at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis published an article titled “Five Simple Questions That Reveal Your Financial Health and Wealth.” The authors, William Emmons and Bryan Noeth, argue that your answers to these questions can effectively predict your financial future.1,2 1. Did you save any money last year? 2. Did you miss any loan or mortgage payments in the past year? 3. Did you have a balance on your credit card after the last payment was due? 4. Do liquid assets make up at least 10 percent of the value of your total assets? 5. Is your total debt service (i.e., the cash you devote each month to paying principal and interest) less than 40 percent of your income?1 The Federal Reserve has actually asked these questions of consumers for decades as part of its Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF). Studying the eight SCFs conducted from 1992 to 2013, Emmons and Noeth looked at the answers respondents provided to these questions and the level of personal wealth they reported. Their assertion: “In summary, good financial health—as measured by our simple five-question scorecard—is highly correlated with the accumulation of wealth.”2 As part of their research, Emmons and Noeth scored the answers. A financially positive answer to a question was assigned 1 point; a financially negative answer, 0 points.2 The average total score (across more than 38,000 households) was 3.01. The highest average score to a question was 0.91 (the one about debt load being less than 40 percent of income) and the lowest average score to a question was 0.27 (the one about the percentage of liquid assets among total assets).2 There was a surprising conclusion. The authors found that

When it came to being rich or poor, well-educated individuals had no leg up on lessereducated individuals.

education was no reliable indicator of personal wealth. When it came to being rich or poor, well-educated individuals had no leg up on lesser-educated individuals.2 What’s your score? If you are able to successively answer the above questions with “yes,” “no,” “no,” “yes” and “yes,” your household is probably in pretty good financial shape—or better. In simple terms, those answers would get you a 5.0. Here’s the bottom line: If you save money consistently and maintain a good cash position, if you make loan and mortgage payments on time and pay off 100 percent of your credit card debt each billing cycle, if you avoid debts that put a strain on your budget—congratulations. You are doing the right things on behalf of your financial life and promoting your chances to build wealth. If you’d like to see the precise methodology the researchers used and their definition of a “positive” and “negative” answer for each question, you can go online and download Issue 10 of the St. Louis Fed publication In the Balance (which contains the article and the scorecard) at stlouisfed.org/publications/itb/. 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 - stlouisfed.org/newsroom/displayNews.cfm?article=2390 [12/15/14] 2 - stlouisfed.org/publications/pub_assets/pdf/2014/ In_the_Balance_issue_10.pdf/ [12/14]

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.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Feature

Boutique Experience & Affordable Styles “I do what I do because I love making people happy and feel good about themselves. Doing it through fashion is a bonus,” said Jodi Tiberio, founder of Tiberio Retail, a company with four boutiques: two Brooklynn’s stores and two Branches locations. Affordability is a theme that runs through each store, where shoppers will find a mix of environments ranging from colorful and trendy to sophisticated and unique. Another trademark of the boutiques is the giveaways and specials offered throughout the year. Supporting local charities and individuals in need is important to Jodi, who has started an annual consignment sale to benefit local families in need. An October fundraiser supported breast cancer research. Jodi and husband Roger married 21 years ago and moved to Towne Lake close to 20 years ago, where they’ve raised their two children: Kadee attends E.T. Booth Middle School and Jake goes to Etowah High. “They’re my daily inspiration, why I do what I do, and my team at work is what keeps me going.” As much as hard work, determination and business savvy have secured success for Jodi, she mostly credits her devoted customer base and dedicated employees. “I couldn’t have gotten to this point without the

From left, Erica Nix, Jodi Tiberio and Mari Pineda

loyal support of our community and, of course, I have the most amazing staff. With Erica Nix as general manager and Mari Pineda managing operations, we are a team,” Jodi said. “I teach my staff to be thankful every single time someone walks in our doors. We should never take that for granted. I don’t ever stop working hard to bring people to our boutiques - for all the right reasons.”

This trendy and colorful store has two locations: 500 Chambers St. in downtown Woodstock and across from Victoria’s Secret in Town Center Mall. The popular mix of preppy, boho and country offers a mix of styles at a broad range of prices. Brooklynn’s carries $10 tops and basic styles that everyone can afford, as well as the trend collections, which feature the latest styles everyone wants. The goal at Brooklynn’s is to make everyone feel at home, and comfortable that they’ll find something they can afford. Check Facebook for Saturday specials through Christmas. The new Brooklynns Friends and Family (BFF) texting program will get customers extra VIP discounts. Text BFFSTYLE to 51660 to sign up. 48

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

This boutique has two locations, in the Kroger Shopping Center in TowneLake and 370 Chambers Street in downtown Woodstock, that stay busy with women looking for boutique styles. Jodi opened Branches in Towne Lake first, and enjoyed great support from the community. She decided to open another Branches in downtown Woodstock so that Brooklynn’s shoppers could more easily shop at both stores. Each boutique stays busy and offers local shoppers convenience and great prices. “it’s nice having neighborhood boutiques in each area,” said Jodi. • Branches has a serene feel and features styles in black and neutral colors. • Designer jewelry brands include Lenny & Eva, Gingersnaps, Bourbon & Boweties, as well as other trendy lines. Fun, new styles are displayed daily. • Articles of clothing on the racks at Branches are unique and in limited quantity. • Jodi advises shoppers to buy something if they even think they may want it. “It’s buy or cry, because if you come back for an item you liked, it may not be there.” Unlike most boutiques, each store accept returns and exchanges. See stores for details. • Branches employees go above and beyond to help shoppers find an outfit that not only looks great but also fits the budget.

Brooklynn’s shoppers will find: • Simply Southern, a T-shirt sensation clothing line that constantly releases new designs. Products range from T-shirts to sunglass holders, and appeal to all ages. • Piko tops. Brooklynn’s carries at least 20 colors all the time. The soft tops are made from bamboo, popular for their flowy style, and loved for the fact that they never pill or fade. “Some people get one of every color,” said Jodi. “It’s a good basic top that you can wear in so many ways. Throw on a scarf one day, and a necklace the next and it looks different.” • Another seasonal favorite are jeggings. One size fits most and they look good on everyone, said Jodi. “It’s ridiculous how good they look. I personally have three pairs and my daughter wants to borrow mine all the time.” • Jewelry and accessories. This season’s most popular item is the blanket scarf. • Gameday styles in your favorite college colors. We are excited to carry black and yellow now to support the new KSU football team, “ said Jodi. TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Li Cl sa a Bo rem sw or or e M th w ano ith r Fu hom n Fi e d nd e s a sig nd ned De by sig ns .

Lifestyle

Deck the and the walls

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Sh Ba el ke le ry Ga He b ro le d ho of m De e d sig es ni ign ng e W d by om en .

Halls

and the tables... Each year, many Cherokee County residents look forward to the Junior Service League of Cherokee Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Tour of Homes, where they can enjoy an early taste of Christmas and walk away with inspiration for decorating their own homes. The 19th annual event took place in midNovember, and we wanted to give you a closer look at two of the homes on the tour. Take notes and get inspired to start your decorating! Photos by Darleen Prem/www.darleempremphotography.com.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

An Angel in Disguise BY MICHAEL LITREL, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

It was Christmas Eve at Grady Hospital, my internship year just after graduation from medical school. My medical teammates all wore Santa hats to boost morale as we worked 24 hours straight. We had a ward packed full of sick patients with various conditions—cancer, strokes, heart attacks, pneumonia. One of them was Mr. Teel, a 40-ish mentally handicapped Caucasian man. He’d entered the hospital two weeks before for extreme malnutrition. He had weighed only 70 pounds. “Please find out what is wrong with Ralph,” his sister pleaded. “I can’t understand why he’s lost all this weight.” Indignantly, she told me she was under investigation for suspicion of neglect by the State Welfare Office. When I checked on Mr. Teel that Christmas Eve, he was eating voraciously. I was able to reassure his sister he was improving daily. He couldn’t talk or understand very much, and he had to wear diapers, but it was fun watching him getting better every day. Mr. Teel had an unpleasant roommate: a prisoner, shackled to his bed, healing from a gunshot wound in the abdomen. He flexed his huge tattooed arms and glared at us whenever we entered the

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

room. I was grateful for the armed guard stationed just outside. Cancer was the No. 1 suspect for Mr. Teel’s emaciation, but the studies had all been normal. We couldn’t figure out what was wrong. Mr. Teel’s sister arrived the morning of Christmas Eve, beautifully attired and bedecked with jewelry. When I told her we didn’t have a diagnosis yet she insisted on more tests. “I don’t understand why he’s so thin! There has to be something wrong.” There was something in the tone of her voice. The diagnosis suddenly clicked. “We’ve fed him for two weeks,” I said, “and he’s gained back a lot of weight. After all these negative tests, I think the problem is he just hasn’t been fed enough.” Her face clouded over and she looked away. She left the ward, uttering not a word of denial. It made for a sad Christmas Eve. Mr. Teel could have been placed in a nursing facility, but instead his sister was getting the money to care for him. My Santa hat stayed on my head, but it didn’t feel like Christmas. I kept thinking about Mr. Teel, a mentally retarded man being starved to death by his family. The hospital seemed barren of love. I stopped by Mr. Teel’s room late that night. As I drew close, I heard someone singing “Silent Night.” I peeked around the curtain and was astonished to see the prisoner, singing and spooning dinner into his roommate’s mouth. “Hey Mr. Teel,” I heard him say, “you lucked out—look at all the good things you get to eat!” His smile lit up the room. continued on page 92

Michael Litrel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS is board certified in the subspecialty female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. He is a board certified urogynecologist and obstetrician/ gynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

吀䠀䔀圀伀刀䰀䐀 ᤠ 匀䴀伀匀吀䤀一一伀嘀䄀吀䤀嘀䔀吀刀䄀䤀一䤀一䜀䔀堀倀䔀刀䤀䔀一䌀䔀

刀䔀䜀䤀匀吀䔀刀一伀圀䘀伀刀䄀䘀刀䔀䔀圀伀刀䬀伀唀吀℀ 䘀椀爀猀琀㄀琀漀猀椀最渀甀瀀最攀琀漀甀爀猀瀀攀挀椀愀氀昀漀甀渀搀椀渀最洀攀洀戀攀爀 ᤠ猀爀愀琀攀愀渀搀琀爀愀椀渀昀漀爀昀爀攀攀琀栀爀漀甀最栀琀栀攀攀渀搀漀昀琀栀攀礀攀愀爀℀ 瀀氀愀攀栀愀爀搀⸀挀漀洀

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Helping Hands

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

Feed My Lambs

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. The deadline to drop off gift packages is Dec. 11. To participate, please email Frankie Sanders at fsanders@cherokeega.com or 770-924-7768.

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.

www.cherokeega.com

Cherokee Family Violence Center www.cfvc.org

Items are needed year-round for the emergency shelter. A few special toys have been added to the list: lapadoodle lap desks for children and Crayola Color Wonders. The center has a transitional housing complex with 72 apartments and emergency shelter that accommodates 12 women and children. Officials are asking for donations of hygiene and paper products, cleaning supplies, batteries and overthe-counter medications for adults and children, feminine products, band-aids, new pajamas and underwear for women and children, and other baby supplies. For delivery details, call 770-479-4641 or email wendy@cfvc.org.

TurnAround Ministries www.turnaroundkids.org.

Turn Around Ministries, a safe haven for abused and neglected children, is in need of staple household items like paper plates, toilet paper, diapers, etc. Donations can be dropped off at Smallcakes, 2035 Towne Lake Pkwy., #110, Woodstock. For a complete list of needs, visit www. smallcakeswoodstock.com.

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. 54

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

www.feedmylambs.net

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.

During the Holiday Season Hope Center

www.hopectr.com The pregnancy diagnosis and support center can use donations of new, unwrapped toys for children ages 0-8 for the Christmas toy closet. Donations accepted through Dec. 16 at Seeds Thrift Store, 295 Molly Lane, Woodstock. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com.

North Georgia Pregnancy and Family Resource Center The Jasper agency serves North Cherokee, Pickens and surrounding counties. FREE and confidential services, include pregnancy tests, first semester ultrasounds, parenting classes and much more. The nonprofit, which serves pregnant moms and families with children up to 5 years old, has a few special needs for Christmas: Large diapers size 4-6, wipes, newborn baby items size 0-12 months, pack ‘n plays, baby shower items and financial contributions. www.babyontheway.org. Open Monday and Wednesday. 706-253-6303.

Papa’s Pantry

www.papaspantry.org The Papa Noel program gives local families a chance to sponsor a child or another family for Christmas. The pantry also is accepting donations for holiday meals, including turkeys, hams, produce and 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 MUST Ministries - Cherokee www.mustministries.org

The nonprofit provides a Christmas Toy Shop for the clients to shop, and can use donations of unwrapped new toys, as well as blankets, underwear, socks, scarves and gloves. A pair of new socks can be stuffed with hygiene items, small toys, nail polish, playing cards, etc. Volunteers are needed to set up and man the toy shop beginning Dec. 2. The toy shop will be open at New Life Church, 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton. MUST’s Canton office for donation drop is 111 Brown Industrial Parkway.

Never Alone

www.neveralone.org The Woodstock nonprofit, which helps area residents in need by distributing food and clothing, is providing Christmas hams and meal boxes. Cost to sponsor a family is $25. Donations are tax deductible. Make a tax-deductible donation online or mail a check, payable to Never Alone, to P.O. Box 1904, Woodstock GA 30188.

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.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

Cyclist Hopes Cross Country Ride Will Inspire Others BY CHERYL WOLFINGER

Editor’s note: On Sept. 5, 2015, Cheryl Wolfinger began a 3,000mile cycling journey in San Diego, Calif. at Dog Beach. Averaging 70 miles a day, Wolfinger completed the ride in St. Augustine, Fla. on Oct. 31 at Crescent Beach.

Cheryl Wolfinger averaged 70 miles a day on her fundraising bike ride.

find fun things to do to stay in shape. They made wise food choices, and seemed to complain less “If I stop and catch my breath, about aches and pains. I decided I wanted to push I can do anything.” This was the back. I wanted to fight the tendency to get weaker, answer I gave my mentor when heavier and sicker as I get older. she asked me what I had learned Eleven years ago, I was diagnosed with about myself during my odyssey. lymphoma, a cancer of the lymph system. I went Other people ask me, through a year of the typical chemotherapy and Cheryl finished the ride across America by “Why would you do it? Why radiation treatments that left me weak and, thanks dipping her front tire in the Atlantic Ocean. put yourself through all that to the 13 months of steroid treatments, about 60 pain and agony?” First and pounds overweight. I admit that I coasted along foremost, I did the ride as a fundraiser for International Sports for a few years, just glad to be alive and cancer free. Then, as Federation (ISF) volunteers who serve on mission projects I watched my mom go through her third, and what would be around the world using sports as a tool to build relationships her final battle with cancer at age 73, something changed. I on the mission field. If I am being honest, though, there were watched her get weaker and weaker for three years with no more personal reasons I felt compelled to challenge myself at recourse. I realized that I had a lot of life left to live, and if I a high level. wanted to continue to do the things I enjoyed, I needed to get About four years ago I woke up and realized I was in my late up and fight. 40s, and needed to take stock of my life and my health. Many In 2012, I started backpacking with friends, which led to people in my life were obese or worse: they were sedentary kayaking and other fun outdoor activities. I began to get and had no aspirations to change their life or their health. I stronger. I enjoyed my life more and I started to feel the noticed people wanted things to come easy, without any effort freedom that strength and stamina brought to my everyday on their part. I heard people complain about their weight life. By the summer of 2014, I found myself on a team, or their preventable health problems while doing nothing to climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. I had found my way change their nutrition or exercise habits. back to health and strength. When a friend pitched the idea However, there were other friends who seemed to always continued on page 92

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

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

CUISINE American

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS no

open

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

RESERV. no call ahead seating

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

closed

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Homestyle Cooking

closed

American no $ $-$$ open full bar Casual

special events

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

yes

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

Barbeque

$-$$

open

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

American

open

full bar

yes

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

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

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

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Mexican

open

full bar

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

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

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

call ahead seating

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

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

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

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

*NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, 678-426-7004 see ad pg. 73

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

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

*Papa P’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway

Mexican/Irish 770-592-3100, papa-ps.com see ad pg. 5 Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com

Sat.&Sun. $ $ open full bar brunch

large groups call ahead

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

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

Chinese

$-$$

open

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

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

* Denotes Advertiser

RESTAURANT

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

Towne Lake Area Dining Guide

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Lifestyle

Keep a Great Attitude During Your Job Search BY LYNNE SAUNDERS

If you are unemployed, December can be discouraging. The financial strain is accentuated by the pressure of gift giving, party going and simply decking the halls. Beware of a bahhumbug attitude that will create distance from people, rather than enticing them. Contrary to popular belief, companies do hire new employees this month; there is usually a need to replace key positions that become available. Now, that would truly be a gift! Just how do you stand out in the crowd of everyone else who wants that job? The answer is: Possess a great attitude. Attitudes can be detected in everything you say, and what you don’t say. Facial expressions and body language can speak louder than words themselves. Tone of voice can interest the listener, or make them yawn. Words printed on a cover letter and resume give permanent attitude clues. Get excited! Stretch, exercise, smile, laugh and give God thanks and praise for another day. Here are “A” few attitude tips: Appearance – Turn that frown upside down. Smile at the world and it will smile back at you. People are drawn to those who are happy. Many of us struggle during the holidays; you can be a blessing to others as well as yourself with this one simple tip. You will also feel better if you take the time each day to get out of your pajamas and dress as if you are expecting to

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

have an impressive day. Appetite – Eat healthy foods that will energize. Limit holiday sweets, large fatty meals, and alcohol that might cause weight gain and might make you feel sleepy and sluggish. Athletics – Daily exercise and physical movement often helps to ward off depression and feelings of uselessness. Your mood and attitude will lift. Staying physically fit is admirable. Amiable – Choose to be kind, encouraging and friendly to everyone you come in contact with. You never know who might hold the keys to your next job. Accentuated – When you are talking about job skills, highlight your accomplishments and successes. It’s ok to brag a bit, especially when talking to a potential employer. Animated – This is where everything comes together. Let your happy attitude shine! Your happy facial expressions and positive tone of voice will give an enthusiastic impression to all you come in contact with. Keep Making Progress!

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

Health & Wellness

The Revelations of Family Histories BY DR. AMY HARDIN

I read an article recently about showing your kids how to become giving people by showing them how much your family has been given. This month’s article in the spirit of Christmas is about many important things for which my family has been thankful. First, I’m thankful for the village priest who changed the date of my Macedonian grandfather’s birth in the church records, so he didn’t have to join the invading Turkish army. He emigrated to America where he met my grandmother. I am also grateful to The Toledo Trust Company bank for giving my other grandfather a job in the mailroom when he was 14 years old, since his alcoholic father could not keep a job. Forty-five years later, he worked his way up the ladder to become the bank’s chairman of the board. I’m thankful to my father’s teacher who told him he should go to college. No one in his family had ever gone to college, and this teacher saw intelligence in a 17-year-old boy who thought a good job would be manager of the meat market where he worked on weekends. I’m thankful to my mom and dad for teaching me that girls could get whatever job they wanted, including being a veterinarian (my high school dream) or doctor, if they worked hard enough. I’m also thankful to the doctors who went the extra mile with my mom’s colon cancer. They gave us an extra five blessed years

with her. And thank you to the hospice nurses, who showed my mom such compassion and wonderful care while she was dying of terminal colon cancer. They all taught me how to be a better doctor and person. I’m thankful to God for making me go out for dinner with my friend, Dyanne (even though I was exhausted from being on call) and allowing me to meet my husband Chris. Together, we’ve raised our awesome daughters who have loved us, challenged us and angered us. They have made us proud parents in the past, and will for many more days to come! Finally, I’m thankful for my patients for making me a better doctor. Again and again, I learn from my patients and their families, their diseases, and from my mistakes (yes, doctors do make mistakes!). I remind my patients that good doctors are never done learning. Family histories help doctors learn new things all the time…share your family history with your kids!

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

Communication Is a Two-Way Street BY DR. JAN HENRIQUES

Our sense of hearing is vital to our relationships and our connection to the world around us. The holidays are a time of getting together with loved ones. For the person with hearing loss, it can be a very overwhelming time, trying to sort through conversations among the noise that surrounds them. Picture the scene: it’s Christmas and the house is full of children. The TV is on and broadcasting a football game. Conversations are going on among several of the adults, when all of a sudden, a question is directed to you, the person with hearing loss. Inevitably, you will either ask “what did you say?” or answer based on what you thought was said, or maybe just nod yes while smiling. Even with the best of hearing aids, this can be a very trying situation, so remind your loved ones that communication is a two-way street. Here are some tips to help you or a loved one understand and communicate easier.

Try to reduce background noises. This one might not be so easy during the holiday gatherings, but in general, turn off the TV, close the windows to the noises outside, and speak face to face. Get the other person’s attention first. It’s a simple concept that makes communication a whole lot easier. When you get someone’s attention before speaking, he or she is ready to listen, likely reducing the necessity of repeating what is said. Use lip reading. Believe it or not, most of us do rely on lip reading in difficult to hear situations. Pay attention to a person’s facial expressions and gestures. Try to make your face be seen, so that you can be heard. We hope that you enjoy all of the sounds of the season and wish you and yours a safe and Happy Holiday!

Talk face to face, not from another room. Face to face is always best — it will save you both a lot of frustration from miscommunication in the long run. Speak at a natural pace. It’s best not to shout. Most hearing aids are programmed to normal speech, and yelling might come through as distorted.

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. TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Health & Wellness

Tired and Fatigued? Your Thyroid May Be Underactive BY O. JULIUS QUARCOO

If you are on thyroid medications because you have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you may still experience symptoms of fatigue, weakness, weight gain, hair loss or dry skin. That is probably because your treatment may be inadequate. The standard test of measuring TSH and T4 levels is usually not enough to make an accurate diagnosis of the real cause of hypothyroid symptoms in some individuals. The typical treatment for hypothyroid symptoms is to prescribe levothyroxine/T4. If your symptoms persist but your lab test is normal, you will be told you are fine. If you insist you are still not fine, you might be sent home with an antidepressant with no further investigation into the cause of your symptoms. For some patients, months of dose adjustments still fail to resolve their symptoms. Could there be other reasons for this? The problem of doing the standard TSH, TF and sometimes T3 levels testing (that is all most insurance companies cover) is that a malfunction of the many steps in the production, conversion and uptake of thyroid hormone may not be identified, leading to incorrect treatment of an underactive thyroid. For example, a lab test of TSH and T4 in some patients could show normal levels even though these patients do not feel well while on levothyroxine/T4-only medication. Once compounded liothyronine/T3 is added to the therapy, the patients begin to feel much better. The addition of T3 tends to relieve depression, brain fog, fatigue, weight gain and other symptoms. That is because levothyroxine/T4 is an inactive form of thyroid and it must be converted to liothyronine/T3 for it to work in our cells. Patients whose bodies are unable to do this critical conversion tend to benefit more from taking the active T3 form of thyroid. For other patients, pituitary dysfunction, abnormal thyroid binding globulin (TBG) levels, elevated estrogen and cortisol levels may be responsible for their hypothyroid symptoms. In all these cases, the standard test of TSH and T4 will be normal but symptoms persist even while on T4 thyroid medication. It is believed that prolonged under-treated hypothyroid symptoms can lead to other conditions such as adrenal fatigue, unexplained aches/pain and fibromyalgia. For a referral to physicians who specialize in balancing hormones, contact our pharmacy.

The typical treatment for hypothyroid symptoms is to prescribe levothyroxine/T4.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Dealing With Holiday Stress BY DR. ROB HOLEWINSKI

Recently, a lot of attention has been paid to the effects of stress on the immune system and weight gain. Our adrenal glands produce the hormone cortisol in response to stressful situations, and in the past this has served us well in fight or flight situations. However, our adrenal glands cannot differentiate between the stress caused by a bear chasing us versus the stress caused by family staying in our house all week. Either way, when cortisol is released our body diverts all of its biochemical resources to survival mode. The immune system is suppressed, and sugars stored in the liver and muscle tissue flood our bloodstream, preparing us to run for our lives. But what happens when we don’t run, when we’re just stressed out because we can’t find a parking spot and the mall is closing in 20 minutes? The consequences of constantly high levels of cortisol include unregulated blood sugar levels, abdominal weight gain, a suppressed immune system, fatigue and inflammation. Here are some tips to reduce holiday stress and normalize your cortisol levels. Don’t wait until January to start burning off the extra sugar and fat you’ve eaten since Halloween. People tend to push workouts to the side during the holidays because they are too busy, but sticking to your routine will help reduce the effects of stress on your body. Additionally, exercising an extra 15-30 minutes per day may compensate for any holiday treats you do eat. Get plenty of rest and schedule “me time” every day. These can be short breaks where you listen to a few songs while drinking a cup of tea, do some stretches or take your dog for a walk while looking at holiday lights. Once a week take a longer break and get a massage, see your chiropractor for an adjustment, go hiking, make a fire and watch a movie in your pajamas. Most importantly, keep to your regular sleep schedule, and if you’re tired take a quick nap. If you’re really tired, don’t be afraid to tell people “no.” Always carry a refillable water bottle with you and stay hydrated. Also, keep healthy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, cans of tuna) in your car so when you’re running around town you won’t be tempted to grab fast food. Eat home-cooked meals as much as possible and eat lots of fresh veggies, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates while reducing processed foods, sodium and fats.

Don’t wait until January to start burning off the extra sugar and fat you’ve eaten since Halloween.

Dr. Rob Holewinski is a board certified Chiropractor at Towne Lake Family Chiropractic. He can be reached at 770-592-1877.

G O

T H E

D I S TA N C E

W I T H

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Health & Wellness

A Dental Mission: Procrastination and Reality Collide BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

William found his way into my office after years of rejecting dental care. His mindset was attuned to many of life’s demands, but a basic dental check-up never rose to the top of his priority list. William’s expectations were realistic. He innately knew he was going to lose some teeth and possibly need a bridge. It was a combination of the bad taste in his mouth, bad breath and several loose teeth that guided his instincts. He did not have any pain, so that bolstered his impending denial of anything worse. Actually, lack of pain was the primary culprit for William detouring his path to the dentist, resulting in 20 long years of procrastination. His dental problems were far worse than he imagined and William soon discovered how procrastination and reality collide. His X-rays revealed severe bone loss on all his upper teeth and only a few millimeters of tooth roots still covered by bone. All his teeth demonstrated mobility, and measuring his gums further revealed a poor prognosis for his upper teeth. “I did this to myself and I have no one to blame but myself,” William said. “I wish I would have focused more on my dental health.” William had to have all his upper teeth extracted. His diagnosis of severe periodontal disease encompassing all his upper teeth was overwhelming to say the least. Periodontal disease, pyorrhea or what is most commonly

Periodontal disease, pyorrhea or what is most commonly known as gum disease, afflicts 80 percent of adults.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

known as gum disease, afflicts 80 percent of adults. The biological support of your teeth from the bone and gums is violated by bacterial acid. Periodontal disease spreads slowly and painlessly. It is easily detected by the dentist but is a disease that remains undetectable to the individual. A delayed diagnosis can provide tragic consequences, as it did for William. William’s diagnosis required an extensive assessment involving full mouth radiographs to interpret his bone support around each tooth, probing depths of his gums in six places around every tooth, tooth mobility, decay, creating stone models of his teeth, taking digital and intraoral photographs, and charting his teeth. His diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan were based on an extensive assessment that left William confident about the findings. The advancements in today’s modern dentistry are wonderful because so many new avenues of care are available for patients. Years ago, William would have been constrained to the single option of an upper denture. Today, William has a vast spectrum of restorative options ranging from the traditional denture to dental implants. Dental implants are essentially artificial roots placed into the jawbone. Implants can support single crowns or bridges. Implants can support dentures so they don’t put pressure on the gums. The end result helped William focus on a constructive process that would restore his mouth to a healthy condition.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

School & Sports

A Novel Idea: The Action of Our Writing CREATIVE WRITING ENTRIES SUBMITTED BY JOE LEMMO’S 7TH GRADE E.T. BOOTH LANGUAGE ARTS CLASS

Each month, Joe Lemmo will feature a different story element from students who are working on writing novels. This month’s focus is using strong action verbs. I fell asleep and had a nightmare about losing my dad. Joining was a big deal for him, and he spent many years training. I saw him crawling in deep red mud in a deserted area with only a few trees and thick air. I wish he was here with Erin Sweat me. Ever since he left, my family has been falling apart, and we would all be fighting or having a brawl in the living room. My Great Dane, named Dutch, has been calm through all of this commotion. He is old and deaf, but he still knows if our emotions are getting the best of us. He has been my go-to friend for comfort. His dog bed is where I want to be. It’s warm and soft with a silky outside rim. I wish I could sleep in it every day just like him. Just like I wish to be among the stars or in the clouds. That is just in my mind only because my heart was already gone. Just like my father. Every day I imagined another way to contact him, but nothing worked. He had no cell service, and no mailboxes. It was useless. He wouldn’t respond to any of my texts or letters. I had just turned 6, and I was in school learning how to read and write. The handwriting was sloppy, but it was the best I could do at the time. It took a few minutes to write each one. One day I got a letter and a box from the U.S. Military. In the bright blue package, along with the letter, was a music box with dark oak carvings and gold lettering. Inside was a father and daughter dancing to a classical song, yet the song had words. It said “Hush little Anne close your eyes. I see you when I look to the skies. Every day I see the mail piling up and I find my daughter is growing up.” He had obviously read my letters, but why wasn’t he replying? It was a question that was never answered. I set the music box on the nightstand next to my bed. I stared at it for hours without looking away. I read the letter once more. As soon as the figure sprinted towards the door, I realized it was Miranda Winders. Miranda violently threw herself against the door, I just assumed everybody thought she was either afraid of frogs, or had some sort of mental Maya Gibbins disorder. “Juliette!” I spun my head around quickly at the sound of my name, to see Vanessa, a friend of mine calling me. “Let’s try to help Miranda!” I only nodded my head, for I was still in shock. Vanessa darted to the wood door with me on her heels. Miranda continued to fumble with the metal door handle and began to knock her head against the glass window pane. I grabbed the cold and silver door handle as Vanessa jostled Miranda away from the door frame. Suddenly, and taking me by surprise, the heavy door pushed into the classroom, and unexpectedly I began to fall backwards, seemingly in slow motion. 66

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

I sit in the small stuffy classroom waiting for the bell that dismisses us from class to ring. Although our last weekend was five days ago, it feels like we have been trapped inside the same building for years. I watch the clock’s hands moving slowly across it. I can tell by the Nicole Martin eagerness of the breathing next to me that my other classmates are watching the clock, too. My eyes widen when the time is almost up. Five...four...three...two...one RING!!! I grab my backpack and sprint outside along with the other kids. It doesn’t take me long to find my bike because all of the other kids have already taken theirs and are headed home. I pedal out onto the sidewalk. I pedal fast because of how much energy and excitement I have filled up in me that is now bursting out. In less than 20 minutes, Melody will be coming over for a sleepover. That is our favorite thing to do together. I have little time to spare. I hop off my bike, leaving it on the ground, and rush into the closest shop I can find that sells gloves. (I need to buy gloves so my hands don’t freeze on my metal bike handles.) As soon as I am done, I grab my bike and ride home. There is no time to spend looking at the Christmas decorations. I just simply pedal my bike home, which is much easier to do now that I have a nice pair of gloves. Her mom was still waiting in the front of the store for Gabby to get the cart. She was a little worried as to why Gabby was taking so long, so she asked, “Gabby, are you almost done?” “Yes mom!” Gabby said in reply. She had a plan, and started to grab for her coin, but it was Micah Brooks gone! She kept on reaching in and squirming around, but it just, disappeared. When she looked up, the coin was somehow in the port, ready to be clicked. She stood for a good 20 seconds in amazement wondering how it got there. She didn’t understand, but she just went with it and pushed the coin in, FLASH!!!! The cart zoomed off the rack so fast, the wheels started sparking with fire. But the fire was sparkled with rainbow and confetti. It zoomed past the cars in the left lane of the parking lot faster than a horse charging at full speed. Gabby was hanging off the side with the tightest grip she had. Her long wavy hair was moving back and forth in the wind. She was eventually able to make it into the basket of the cart, where all she could see were cars stuck in traffic heading towards Toy World.

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

National Merit Semifinalists Cherokee Christian High school recently announced its 2016 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. Jana Pomerantz and Josh Horne were chosen from about 1.5 million juniors, in more than 22,000 high schools who entered the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors, and includes the highest-scoring entrants in Jana Pomerantz and Josh Horne. each state.

Oak Grove Hosts Community Workday Oak Grove Elementary School Fine Arts Academy recently hosted a community workday where students, parents and teachers volunteered to plant flowers, and worked to enhance the Students, from left, Mark Zaski, Selena Jones, appearance of the Michelle Mahabir, Christopher Zaski and Mary school’s courtyard Zaski plant flowers. and campus. “Everyone enjoyed playing in the dirt and taking pride in our school,” Principal Penny Valle said.

Farm Bureau Supports the Arts The Cherokee County Farm Bureau wants to provide students with an opportunity to highlight their artwork. Students in grades nine through 12 are eligible to enter the Georgia Farm Bureau art contest. Artwork should be drawn in black ink or dark soft lead pencil on an 8 ½” x 11” inch piece of white paper. The winner of the contest will receive a $100 Walmart gift card; second place earns a $75 Walmart gift card. Each first place school winner will receive a $50 Walmart gift card, and each second place school winner will

receive a $50 Walmart gift card. Drawings will be judged on how well the artwork represents modern agriculture found in Cherokee or Georgia’s agriculture industry, and on artistic merit. To enter the contest, students should contact the Cherokee County Farm Bureau for an official entry form and contest rules. All entries must be received at the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office by Feb. 12, 2016. For more information, call 770-479-1481 ext. 0.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

School & Sports

School Transportation Department Earns Blue Seal of Excellence The Cherokee County School District Transportation Department has earned the prestigious National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Blue Seal of Excellence, becoming one of the first school systems in the state to obtain this level of certification. In order to earn this recognition, at least 75 percent of the organization’s service staff must be ASE certified, and each area of service must be overseen by at least one ASE-certified professional. Automotive technicians also need to have two years of on-the-job training or one year of on-the-job training and a two-year degree in automotive repair to qualify for certification. Professionals must be retested every five years to maintain certification. The vehicle maintenance staff was recognized at a recent school board meeting. They are: vehicle technicians Brian Batson, Craig Batson, Brad Benton, John Chadwick, Terry Cochran, Cole Covington, Shane Cowart, Danny Dore, Allan Hall, Lee Makool, Neal McConnell, Steve Mraz, Ricky Padgett, Melvin Sexton, Adam Shelton, Sam Shelton, Corey Smith, Danny

Vehicle technician Adam Shelton installs a new windshield wiper blade on a school bus.

Smith, Terry Tippens and Tim Woodall; Cheryl Opdenhoff, fleet maintenance secretary; Coordinator of Fleet Maintenance David Gazaway and Director of Transportation Ken Johnson.

Scholarships Available for Agriculture Students

Friendship Bench Dedicated

A special Friendship Bench was recently dedicated for the back playground at Bascomb Elementary in memory of student Juliette Lyng. Family members, friends, Bascomb teachers and the school’s staff were on hand to mark the occasion.

The Georgia Farm Bureau and the Cherokee County Farm Bureau will award scholarships in the spring of 2016. High school seniors who plan to major in agriculture or an agriculture-related field are eligible. The Cherokee County Farm Bureau will award each applicant $75 and two county winners will receive $1,000 each. Four applicants will be chosen to compete at state level. The Georgia Farm Bureau will award a total of 12 scholarships: The top five students will each receive $3,000, and the remaining seven students will each receive $1,500. The winners will be announced April 1, 2016. For an application please call 770-479-1481 ext. 0 or visit www.gfb. org/programs/aic/scholarships. Completed applications should be sent to the Cherokee County Farm Bureau at 101 Woodland Way St., 1-B, Canton, GA 30114. The deadline for applications is Feb. 1, 2016. For additional information, contact Shirley Pahl at 770-4791481 ext. 1454.

Etowah Cross Country Team Finishes Strong The cross country team from Etowah High School finished the season at the state competition in Carrollton, Ga., where both the boys’ and girls’ varsity teams placed 10th. The team had a strong showing at regionals to qualify for state: Varsity boys took third in region and varsity girls placed fourth. The JV boys placed sixth overall while JV girls JV boys preparing for the run at regionals. placed second. 68

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Senior Kyla Resnick finished ninth for the varsity girls at regionals.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

School & Sports

Students Learn About Careers Boston Elementary School students recently had the chance to learn about community helpers and future career choices. Kindergarteners in Macy Haynes’s class chose which community helper they would like to be when they grow up. Top row, from left: Diego Martinez Cordoba and Dalton Quick; second row: Camila Castillo, Shawn Smith, Danika Holland and Ava Smith; third row: Cohen McCray, Darius Morar, Wyatte DeMarco and Jennifer AlfaroAlverez; fourth row: Abel Montelongo, Elijah Pauley, Naomi Booker and Noelle Barth; bottom row: Alex Mancilla, Angie Herrera Artiga, Adrian Castillo and Sunny Smith.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Bascomb Student Council Plans Year Bascomb Elementary School’s Student Council Representatives recently met to prepare for their 2015-16 service projects. Front row, from left: Lawson Brashear, Emma Jett, Cooper Gilreath, Katherine Piroumian, Neal O’Connor, Samantha Durst, Ellis Eilering and Haleigh Nixon; second row: Ila Prabhuram, Grant Hodges, Cade Boling, Morgan Bradley, Georgie Utendorf and Emma Tipper; back row: Counselor Lisa Morales and Principal Kathleen Chandler.

Spring 2016 Baseball Registration Registration for the spring 2016 season of Hobgood Baseball is open Dec. 1 through Jan. 20, 2016. Assessments for 6U – 12U will take place on Jan. 23, 2016, and assessments for 13U-17U will take place on Feb. 6, 2016. To register or learn more more about Hobgood Baseball, visit www.hobgoodparkbaseball.com.

What to Know Before You Buy a Drone BY MARK KISSEL

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles, also referred to as drones, is increasingly popular in the United States because of drones’ recreational, commercial and governmental uses. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permits hobbyists to fly drones for recreation; however, the equipment being sold goes far beyond the agency’s ability to control the use, and Congress is weighing in on the safety and privacy aspects of drone use. During the upcoming holiday season, the FAA anticipates more than $1 million in drone sales, and retailers are stocking their shelves with a variety of drones ranging from entry-level to high-end devices that are equipped with high-resolution cameras or claws. Online sales are also expected to be high, prompting fears that first-time users could accidentally crash them into people, buildings or aircraft. Many drones are purchased for professional purposes: real-estate agents looking to take photos of properties, and photographers using the device for event photos. If used for commercial purposes, the FAA requires the operator to file for a Section 333 Exemption, and the device must have a valid registration number. In addition, guidelines state drones:

During the upcoming holiday season, the FAA anticipates more than $1 million in drone sales...

● Must be kept within visual line of sight at all times. ● May not be flown below 400 feet. ● Must remain clear of obstacles. ● Must not fly near people or stadiums. ● Must not fly within five miles of an airport. ● Must remain well clear of, and not interfere with, manned aircraft. ● Must not exceed 55 pounds. ● Must not be operated in a careless or reckless manner (so as to endanger life or property). The use of new technology requires personal responsibility for managing and operating the device in a safe manner. Before you buy a drone, be an informed consumer. More importantly, be an informed parent if you allow your child to use the device.

Chief of Police Mark Kissel has served the Cherokee County School District since 1999 and has more than 35 years of law enforcement experience. TOWNELAKER | December 2015

School & Sports

Students Take Part in

VETERANS DAY OBSERVATIONS

Woodstock High School

Student Marina Buromskikh asks veteran Lt. Col. Robert Ledee a question, as Taylor Parks looks on.

students observed Veterans Day by participating in a StoryCorps-inspired oral history project. Students in American Government classes, taught by Jean Sellers, used their BYLD (Bring Your Learning Device) electronics and Media Center iPads to record oral histories shared by local military veterans. The project was coordinated by Media Specialists Pati Olton and Leslie Hicks, and Ms. Sellers.

Students Cody Urode, Mitchell Hynes and Aaron Arp listened to stories from veteran Irma Martin.

Veteran Michael Jensen is interviewed by students Michael Bonatucci, Blake Hunt and Elias McCall.

Taylor Astrom meets Col. Reginald Neal of the U.S. Army.

Bascomb Elementary School hosted a Veterans Day celebration with Cub Scout Pack 999 posting the colors, and offering the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem. The history of the holiday was presented by James Hughes, a 12-year Army combat veteran. Keynote speaker was Mike Satterly, a USAF Vietnam Veteran. Music specialist Ms. Melvin led a chorus of fourth graders, who sang “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “America,” “America the Beautiful,” and the “Armed Forces Medley.” 72

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Members of Cub Scout Pack 999

Faith

The Gift that Defies Description BY PASTOR CARL A. MOORE, SR.

I think I could assert, without getting any push back, that most people enjoy receiving a gift. There’s just something good, refreshing and reassuring about getting something that shows love and concern and didn’t cost us anything. Something we did not have to earn. Something that did not require us to have to struggle or put forth any effort to acquire. And isn’t that what a gift is? A gift by its very nature is something given without the expectation of getting or having to give anything in return. The very idea of a gift given or received is what sets the Christmas story and celebration apart from any other. No other action could better capture the essence of God’s love for humankind than the fact of God’s giving. Jesus Himself proclaims in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The magnitude of this action can never be fully comprehended, understood or appreciated. It’s the gift that defies description. This gift of God’s Son is beyond our capacity to fully grasp.

It is an indescribable gift, and one of mammoth proportions. It defies description, and leaves us only one response, and that is to say, “thank you, for this personal gift.” The scriptures says, “whoever believes in Him shall have eternal life.” That makes this gift a personal one. Paul stated further in Ephesians 2:8, “God saved you by His grace when you believed.” You can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Yes, it is God’s gift to each person, individually and personally. Aren’t you glad that God loved you enough to make His gift to you personal? And when you trust Him, He becomes your personal gift and Lord. Reach out your hand and heart, and receive this gift — this personal gift of God. The gift that defies description.

Carl A. Moore, Sr. has been senior pastor of Woodstock’s Allen Temple A.M.E. Church since 1993. He and wife Gloria Jean Ezekiel Moore have three children and nine grandchildren.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Faith

Marriage Moments A Foundation of Prayer BY BILL RATLIFF

My wife and I began our dating relationship in college as Christians, by religious preference, but not by a personal decision to ask Christ into our hearts and lives. Bill and Donna during their dating days. Once we made that decision, which was one of the most impactful decisions of our lives, we began praying together on a regular basis. We wrote some of those early prayers in a notebook. The most significant prayer we prayed was on top of a mountain near Camp David in Maryland. We knelt down holding hands and asked God to break us up or bring us together as a married couple. We have made many mistakes in our marriage over the years, but we got it right at the beginning. The foundation of our marriage was bathed in prayer. Prayer is not some simple practice that makes you feel better. It is actually the experience of connecting with the living God. It is hard work and something the

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

disciples asked Jesus to teach them. We began praying together on that mountain top in February and were married that same year, a week before Christmas. We have filled a number of prayer books and have spent a multitude of hours praying together over these many years. The Bible says, “The insistent prayer of a righteous person is powerfully effective.” The “super glue” of our marriage is praying together, so try it and pray together. You will be glad you did.

Date Your Mate: Before the craziness of Christmas takes over, find some moments of Christmas candlelight to pray together and reflect on what you are thankful for in your marriage.

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

Welcome to DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

Ridgewalk Pkwy

To I-575 Exit 9

Woodstock Community Church

Trolley Routes outlined in red

T Dobbs Rd

Rope Mill Rd

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

On-Street Parking - park in marked spaces only

City Center

Pkwy

Woodstock UMC (M-Sa) St

tim

Mca

bb ar d Rd

Reeves St

iley

CSB Bank (after 5PM)

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

er St

Fowler St

ry St

Reformation Brewery

Pade

n St

le St

T T Wheel

Oak St

Map

in St

Trail

E Ma

reek

Elm

Hicko

To GA Hwy 140

day C

Cham bers

Noon

T Park at City Center Arnold Mill Rd

Mill

ffee

Lake

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

Wall

Town e

painting by Kristina Laurendi Havens

To I-575 Exit 8

Mark et S t

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

Chattahoochee Technical College

Kyle St

FALL 2015 SCHEDULE:

Main

Trolley Stop

T St

Public Parking Lots

Woodstock

T Public Library

Main

The Outlet Shoppes

T at Atlanta at Nike

To GA Hwy 92

r Pe

ns ki

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Downtown Woodstock

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

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

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

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

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2016) - This approximately 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South. Rubes Creek Trail (2016) - This 1 mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 76

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 Brunch freightkitchen.com Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican no $ $-$$ open Full bar yes 9550 Main Street 678-498-8243 Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas Southern Sunday no $$$$ open Beer/Wine yes 108 Arnold Mill Rd. Brunch 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $$ $$ open Full bar 6 persons+ 405 Chambers St. Brunch 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar yes 8670 Main St. Brunch 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub no $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar no 8690 Main St. (678) 903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English no $$ no closed no yes 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 Tea room tealeavesandthyme.com Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com

Variety of Food trucks

$-$$

open

Craft Beer

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

American European

$-$$

open

Beer/Wine

limited

Italian

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

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

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Downtown Woodstock

Hero Gets a Little Help

Pat Tanner takes a rest on the art bench.

Honoring

Woodstock firefighter Rusty Beal was able to purchase a home for his family at a lesser cost than most, thanks to the nonprofit Homes for Heroes and Wendy Rutledge, a veteran and a member of the Keller Williams MW Team, which is associated with Homes for Heroes. Together, they saved the Beals $1,453 in closing costs. Rusty is a firefighter out of station 14. Homes for Heroes is a national program dedicated to providing real estate rebates and discounts to public workforce heroes when they buy or sell a home. For more information on the program, visit www.HomesforHeroes.com/affiliate/ MWTeam. Photo by Darleen Prem.

a Faithful Volunteer The sculpted tree art bench located at the railroad pedestrian crossing in downtown Woodstock was dedicated recently in honor of Pat Tanner, a longtime volunteer. The city’s GROW committee wanted to thank her for her help, which has been crucial to the success of several efforts in the downtown area.

Rusty and wife Angie with daughters Lilli and Hensley. Back row; Jan Montgomery, with Wendy Rutledge.

Veterans Ceremony

by Candlelight

The city’s annual Veteran’s Day ceremony was held on the evening of Nov. 11. Thankfully the rain held off so participants could enjoy the meaningful gathering. Photos by Darleen Prem.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

LOVELOUD 2015 Members of First Baptist Church Woodstock recently completed the threeday local mission effort called LoveLOUD, which has the vision of sharing the love of Christ while serving the community. Here are some highlights. - More than 3,000 people served in 100-plus projects. - More than $1.2 million invested in this community. - 300 people received free dental care. - Lunch served to Woodstock public servants. - More than 1,800 food boxes distributed, with 1,000 delivered to refugees in Clarkston, Ga. along with homemade fleece blankets and dolls. - 250 single moms and widows served with free haircuts, auto repair/detailing, vet clinic, wills and legal advice. - Free block party offered to local community on Sunday (inflatables, games, magicians, giveaways, face painting, etc.). - Weekend camp for foster kids. - Maintenance and landscaping for local elementary schools. - Fun day for children with special needs. PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WOODSTOCK TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Downtown Woodstock

Shop Local for the Holidays BY JENNA HILL

It’s that time of year again to start, or continue, the search for holiday gifts for friends, family and loved ones. Whether you’re shopping for the outdoorsmen, the fashionista or the foodie in your life, you can find each of them a gift in downtown Woodstock. Our downtown merchants have an incredibly diverse selection of unique treasures for everyone. You can find relaxing spa packages, creative repurposed antiques and even beautiful Native American art and jewelry, along with so much more. By shopping locally, you will not only avoid the crowds and chaos, but you will also support your local economy by keeping your hard-earned dollars local. You will experience great customer service from shop owners who sincerely care that you are there. You will get to enjoy the holiday lights, décor and festive atmosphere of downtown Woodstock. You will even be

By shopping locally, you will not only avoid the crowds and chaos, but you will also support your local economy...

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.

For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 • downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

supporting the environment — and giving your car a break — by strolling from store to store on foot, or by trolley! If you can’t figure out what to get, give the gift of variety with Downtown Dollars. It’s a gift certificate that can be used at numerous stores, again, supporting small businesses in downtown Woodstock. The certificates are available in any amount and never expire. Stop in the Woodstock Visitors Center at 8588 Main St., or call 770-924-0406 for details. To find the list of retailers and restaurants that accept Downtown Dollars visit www.downtownwoodstock.org/downtowndollars. The Woodstock Visitors Center also offers a variety of Woodstock-themed T-shirts and gift items, along with Cherokee County-themed ornaments. All items for sale at the center are fundraisers for local non-profit organizations. Hours are 10 a.m. − 5 p.m. Monday − Saturday. Take the stress out of your holiday shopping this season and support your local merchants in downtown Woodstock!

Jenna Hill is a Tourism Information Coordinator at the Woodstock Visitors Center. jehill@woodstockga.gov

Elm Street:

A Culture for Visionaries BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

At Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, we put on a ton of shows. Actually, we do more than double the number of shows performed by many other community theatres — and that doesn’t include the classes, camps, visual arts and more that are offered. While tiring, it is also fulfilling. Producing art in general is fulfilling for a multitude of reasons. Yes, the gratification that someone can give via applause, a thank you, or a smile is satisfying. Many times, I can’t sit down to watch a show because of the excitement and nervousness; a smile from audiences can do wonders for this. More than anything, it is fulfilling to see a community come together to create something. There aren’t many places where people with different backgrounds and ideas can come together and stop what they are doing, in order to focus on a project for the good of the community. They do not just work together, but create together (a huge difference, in my opinion). Even though I stand in the back of the theatre, I really do have the best seat. Just a few days before each performance, the stage was empty, and the actors and crew were probably tired, frustrated, and maybe even wondering how they were going to open the curtain in a few days. None of that seems to matter at showtime. They did it…they always do. I don’t think we knew that having “village” in the name of our organization would have such an important meaning. It really does take a village, and it’s magic to watch people create something beautiful for the community, because they strive to make our community vibrant. If I may, I’d like to thank them. While there are too many of you to name here (and I couldn’t forgive myself if I were to leave someone out) between the Friends of Elm Street (donors) and the Visionaries (volunteers), I can’t thank you enough. It’s amazing to see a group of people work so tirelessly to produce such amazing things. I really appreciate what you do to bring constant excitement, and a sense of place, to this community. It is remarkable. The latest project that all of these friends and visionaries of Elm Street have been working on is a production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” I hope you can join us throughout December to see their fine work.

It really does take a village, and it’s magic to watch people create something beautiful for the community.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

DECEMBER

11, 12, 18, 19 AT 7:30PM 13, 20 & 24 AT 2:00PM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SPRING CLASSES ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251

Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, works as the operations director for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Cherokee Photography Club

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

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

Monochromatic:

1st Peter Kilpo “Mountain Fog”

3rd Kim Bates “Ridges”

2nd Mark Mozley “Six Million Years”

HM Naomi Shively “Glacier Views”

Digital Projection:

1st Mark Mozley “Morning Coffee View” 82

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

2nd Peter Kilpo “Smokey Mountains”

3rd Tracy Porter “Magnificence Revealed”

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net. HM Karen Beedle “Red Rocks”

HM Percy Clapp “Fall Mountain”

Color Prints:

1st L.B. Bryant “The Grands”

HM Bill Bradford “Mormon Row Sunrise”

2nd Naomi Shively “Good Morning Iceland”

3rd Kim Bates “Distant Storm”

HM Peter Kilpo “St. Route 136” TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Reference

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

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

Taxes:

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

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax 678-493-6400 Woodstock Office 770-924-4099 Voter Registration 770-479-0407

Children/Family:

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

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

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

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

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:

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

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

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Parks and Recreation:

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

Pets:

Animal Control 678-493-6200 CatSnip (low cost spay & neuter) www.atlantaanimalalliance.com Cherokee County Animal Shelter — Adoptions 770-345-7270 www.cherokeega-animals.org Cherokee County Humane Society 770-928-5115 www.cchumanesociety.org Emergency Veterinary Clinic 770-924-3720 Funds4Furry Friends 770-842-8893 Lost Pets Go to www.townelaker.com. click on lost and found pet button to report missing pet Pet Buddies Food Pantry www. petbuddiesfoodpantry.org SPARE (Sterilizing Pets And Reducing Euthanasia) 770-928-5120 Second Chance Dog Rescue www.secondchancedogs.org

Post Office (Woodstock)

www.usps.com 800-275-8777

Recycling Center 770-516-4195 Sheriff’s Department 678-493-4100 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org Georgia Sex Offender Registry www.cherokeega-sheriff.org/offender/offender.htm

Utilities:

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

Urgent Care Facility

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

Woodstock, City of:

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

ParkView, Paces and certain annexed commercial parcels) . www.woodstockga.gov City Hall 770-592-6000 Fire Department 770-926-2302 Police Information 770-592-6030

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN OCTOBER

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Reference

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

1130 Bluffs Pkwy., Canton, GA 30114

202-224-3521 GA: 678-248-6444

lbahrens@cherokeega.com

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

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 770-735-8055

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

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

www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

clark.menard@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Judge Keith Wood (R)

L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman

kelly.poole@cherokee.k12.ga.us

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

Commissioners

swest@cherokeega.com

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

michael.caldwell@house.ga.gov

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

www.hollyspringsga.us. www.woodstockga.gov

r o F t p o d A

E E R F

I hope all my friends get a place to call homeâ&#x20AC;Ś.

Me too!

Sat. December 5th 10am-5pm Pet P hoto s with Sant a $5 D onat ion

**Adoptions will include regular adoption counseling and services; spaying or neutering, microchipping, initial vaccinations, Ă&#x;ea/tick treatment, deworming, sample bag of Hills Science Diet Pet Food and other services. Limit one discounted adoption per household

www.cherokeega-animals.org

TOWNELAKER | December 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

TOWNELAKER | December 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 TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Reference

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOWNELAKER | December 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 backto-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Green Shelters America animal rescue group. Contact: 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@ gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Harvesting Hope Ministries gives surgery care packs to children facing liver and kidney failure. Contact: dawn@harvestinghopeministries.org www.harvestinghopeministries.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact: Kelly 678-677-2589

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

An Angel in Disguise

We Get the Government We Deserve

Then he spotted me, and his smile vanished. The familiar glare was back. “I’m not doin’ nothin’,” he growled. “Ain’t no nurse around, and the man’s gotta eat.” I groped for a response. “I appreciate you taking care of him,” I said. “We need all the help we can get around here.” It felt like Christmas again. I stuck out my hand to shake his. “Merry Christmas, sir.” He crushed my hand in a friendly way and smiled big. “Merry Christmas, Doc! And I dig the Santa hat.” I gave him the hat. It was the perfect Christmas Eve. I witnessed a beautiful sight—a prisoner in chains feeding a starving man deserted by his own family. What better way to honor the birthday of Jesus, a man who lived among the rejected, offered hope and healing to the poor, and taught us not to judge each other, but to love.

supreme. Georgia has added extremely flexible early vote and vote-by-mail options to accommodate those of us who travel frequently. The next excuse is the difficulty of registration: Georgia now offers every eligible driver’s license applicant the opportunity to simultaneously register to vote. Otherwise it’s a simple one-page application. I’ve even had people argue that the reason we don’t vote is because it isn’t mandatory. Australia, for example, fines all non-voters. I dislike this option for several reasons. First: Freedom. Second: Mass voter turnout without any interest in the outcome isn’t any better than a low turnout of informed voters. My call to each of us is not simply to vote, but to take the time to consider the candidates. Study the issues, question those who are running for office, make our choices, and pray for those we place in leadership positions. My personal recommendation? Request an absentee (mail-in) ballot. You can vote from the comfort of your kitchen table with your laptop in hand. It’s like taking an open-book test, but rather than just earning an “A” you earn elected officials that won’t steal your freedom. I’d say that’s a win for everyone. As President Reagan reminded us: “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” We each have a duty to preserve the Great American Experiment. It starts at the polling place. If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out to me on my cell phone at 678-523-8570 or email me at Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You can also meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees with District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly!

continued from page 52.

continued from page 28.

Cherokee County Cyclist Rides to Inspire continued from page 56.

of cycling across America to raise money for ISF, I thought, “why not?” What a true test of my mental and physical fitness. In July, my mom lost her battle with cancer, and I knew I had to do it. I had to ride. I had to ride because I could. I had to ride for all those who can’t. I had to ride for me, and I had to ride for her. Now that I have completed the ride, I only hope I can use it to inspire others. There was a day not so long ago when I needed help just to make it to the car to get to the cancer center for treatment. On Oct. 31, I crossed the finish line 30 pounds lighter and substantially stronger than when I began. I truly believe that if you will just stop and catch your breath, you can do anything! You just have to keep at it, one day, one meal, one workout at a time.

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greetings Publishing Since 1996

Local Media

Connect With Us

Your Community, Your Magazine!

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

Townelaker

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING/FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.Debranski.com

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

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

AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

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

C & T Auto Service 770-928-5940 www.CandTAutoService.com

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

Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org

Thad Baird & Tyler Baird, DMD 770-517-0444 www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com

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

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Papa’s Pantry www.papaspantry.org CHIROPRACTIC Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com

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

Meineke 29 Towne Lake: 678-398-4164 Canton: 678-880-3134 meineke.com Towne Lake’s Carwash and Detail 43 770-592-8102 www.townelakescarwashanddetail.com 35

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA

Hillside United Methodist Church 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Carpet Dry-Tech 678-368-5991 www.carpetdrytech.com

Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743

Maids Unlimited 770-843-9813 www.maidsunlimitedatl.com Rejoice Maids 678-905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

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

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)

Massage Envy 770-974-0880 www.MassageEnvy.com

Advanced Dental Restorations, LLC 678-810-0881 www.BringBackSmiles.com

Salon Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com 94

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

38, 39 27

Inside Back

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

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

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

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

73 29

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

Towne Lake Academy North Campus: 770-928-6162 South Campus: 770-928-9134 Towne Lake Driving School 678-494-2200 www.TowneLakeDrivingSchool.com

FUNERAL SERVICES Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 678-574-3016 www.GeorgiaFuneralCare.com

DENTAL

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

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

COMPUTERS

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

Salon Gloss 678-483-8900 www.salongloss.biz

CLEANING SERVICES

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

EDUCATION / INSTRUCTION

CHURCHES

Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 80 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

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

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

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 11 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

HEALTH & FITNESS Plae Hard plaehard.com PHIIT Club at R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com TANC Total Aesthetic Nutrition Center 678-345-8001 www.TANCfit.com

53 1 64

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

Overstreet Lawn Care 770-861-7272 www.overstreetlawncare.com

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR

Blue Horizon Air Conditioning & Heating 678-279-2244 BHCool.com Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

PET/VETERINARIAN SERVICES & SUPPLIES 42 5

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

Coastal Interiors 404-731-5748

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

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

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

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 770-726-8948 www.NorthGeorgiaHearing.com

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

Northside Pediatric & Adolesc. Medicine 34 770-928-0016 www.northsidepediatrics.com

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

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

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

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 56 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

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

Psychologist John R. Lutz, PhD 770-592-9065 www.johnromanlutz.com

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

Rebound Physical Therapy 678-445-9799 www.ReboundPTClinic.com

SOTO Remodeling 404-376-5443

Towne Lake Family Pharmacy 770-635-7697 www.TowneLakePharmacy.com

Northside Hospital -Cherokee Inside front www.northside.com

Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage, Tara Daigle, Realtor 404-925-6351 tara@keatingbrs.com

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Tomlinson Team, The Cathy Tomlinson: 770-365-6193 or 678-494-2953, 770-517-2150 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

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

Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Magnolia Cottages by the Sea Linda B. Lee, 850-319-8050

Paragon Property Group 9 Anna Daily, 888-MNG-MNT9 ext. 1007 K.K.Lopez, 888-MNG-MNT9 ext. 1006 www.paragonga.com Southeast Mortgage 770-279-0222, ext. 719 Todd Littlejohn: 678-662-3451

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT Cruise Planners, Kathy Faisal 678-445-5235-Office 770-231-7033-Cell

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

Etowah Eagles Basketball www.etowaheaglesbasketball.com

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

NY Style Deli & Pizza 678-426-7004

Papa P’s 770-592-3100 www.papa-ps.com

Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Branches 678-540-5483

Cover, 49

Brooklynn’s 770-485-0744

Cover, 48

Dismero Red Line 678-398-4008

Rudi Fine Jewelry 678-445-2626

Spirited 57 678-214-5304 www.spritlala.com Wild Birds Unlimited 770-928-3014 www.woodstock.wbu.com

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

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

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

Donna Charitat: 770-309-0253, 770-517-2150, www.MyAgentDonna.com

WATER DELIVERY Golden Rule Spring Water 404-444-6292 www.goldenrulespringwater.com

For advertising rates & information, please contact Patty Ponder, 770.615.3322 Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com

TOWNELAKER | December 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.

We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.

TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,000

TOWNELAKER | December 2015

120 N. Medical Pkwy | Building 200, Suite 100 | Woodstock, GA 30189

770.591.7929

www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com

Make A Lasting Impression this Holiday Season. $399.00 Zoom速 Whitening Zoom Whitening procedure and 10 Units of complimentary Botox. Book your next tooth whitening today! (Offer Ends 12/23/15)

Give Back

a Smile

速

Take advantage of our Zoom Whitening offer above and a donation will be made in your honor to assist both women and men of domestic violence in Cherokee County.

We are proud participants of: Actual Patient

Join our Rewards Program and start rewarding yourself today.

Like Us on Facebook to learn about more offers!