12 16 townelaker webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

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Jeffrey L. Jackson is a Registered Representative *Services offered through HD Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member SIPC Advisory Services offered through HD Vest Advisory ServicesSM Jeffrey L. Jackson CPA, LLC is not a registered broker/dealer or independent investment advisory firm. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

December 2016 Volume 22, Issue 8

16 The Way They Were Simpler times bring back fond Christmas memories.

18 Helping Hands

Donate time, food or cash to offer seasonal assistance.

22 Holiday Happenings

Events range from live nativity to Santa sightings, parades.

30 Lights for Lupus

Christmas display in Acworth brings awareness to disease.

52 Reel to Real

Release dates, actor interviews for locally filmed movies.

54 A Win for SORBA

Last trail run of the season raises funds for upkeep.

78 Homecoming Highlights

Woodstock High students celebrate festivities on and off the field.

87 If You Missed It

Scenes from the grand opening of Woodstock’s amphitheater.

87 Contributing Writers Don Akridge 44 Kyle Bennett 84 Bill Bingham 43 Dr. John Beyers 70 Siobhan Brumbelow 85 Carla Caldwell 30 Michael Caldwell 14 Sonia Carruthers 36 Suzie Chinal 34 Dr. Samina Fakhr 68 Dr. Scott Harden 64 Dr. Amy Hardin 66 James Imbriale 42 Dan Jape 50 Kurt & Sheila Johnson 35

In Every Issue Sean Kaufman

Around Towne

Joseph Lemmo

Birthdays

Rob Macmillan 38

Community News 10

Melissa Mintz

Everyday Angels

Dr. Christa Nelms 68

Community Calendar

Matt Neal

Library Events

Gary Parkes

TLBA 57

Kimberly London Posey

Towne Lake Dining Guide 62

Lisa Randall

Faith

Bill Ratliff

Recent Home Sales

Lynne Saunders 82

School News

Tim Timmons

Parking Map 83

Torie Winkler

Woodstock Dining Guide 88

Dr. Amber York

Directory of Advertisers 94

www.townelaker.com

48 & 49 On the Cover

Tiberio Retail Group: Brooklynn’s, Branches, Honey Belle and Madisonn Ave. 2

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

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

Twitter: @Townelaker Instagram: townelakermagazine

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

AROUND TOWNE

The

From the Editor By this point in the holiday season, I’ve been forced to make a major transition in my home. My oven is no longer a storage unit. I had to take out all the roasting pans and casserole dishes that fit so nicely inside and actually put food in them so my family could enjoy a Thanksgiving turkey, side dishes and desserts. GASP! I’d almost forgotten what it’s intended for in the first place. It has come in handy since we’ve downsized and I needed extra storage space in the kitchen. And all the while I thought the gleam in my husband’s eyes was anticipation of our children coming home. I’m sure that is part of it, but he also knows a full house means I’m going to make sure the kids don’t miss a meal. Not sure why I don’t feel as committed when it’s just the two of us. Apologies to my mother-inlaw, who gets the TowneLaker in the mailbox. Mom, this might not be the article to cut out and mail to Aunt Mary. I don’t want my failure in the kitchen to become common knowledge among the aunts, uncles and cousins. That isn’t news than an Italian family would take very well! I hope each of you is looking forward to a full house and fun holiday season with family and friends. If you’re stumped for something to do, turn to pages 22-25 and start making plans. Cherokee County is filled with parades and festivals, musicals and Santa visits. While you’re enjoying time with relatives, I’d like to recommend that you take the time to record the memories they share by taking notes or using a tape recorder or video camera. We know how precious those memories are, so we asked residents of several senior citizen communities to tell us about their favorite Christmas gifts. We hope you’ll enjoy reminiscing with them on pages 16-17. Maybe their answers will be good conversation starters with your parents or grandparents. What better gift to give future generations than a recording of relatives they may never meet. The staff at AroundAbout Local Media considers it an honor and a blessing to experience life in our community with you. We hope you have a Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake What’s New Terri Spencer has joined AroundAbout Local Media as a marketing and administrative support associate. Terri has lived in Towne Lake since 1990 with her husband Gaylord and children Jacob and Sophia, graduates of Etowah High School. Terri is a graduate of Ball State University, where she earned bachelor of science degrees in psychology and criminology. Welcome to our team, Terri! If you haven’t yet seen it, you may want to pick up a copy of Around Canton next time you visit our northern neighbors. We’re excited about the name change from Sixes Living magazine, a move we made after hearing requests from businesses and readers in the area. The new name better reflects our coverage area, which has expanded as well, and links to our other AroundAbout titles (Around Woodstock and Around Acworth). We’ve gotten a great response to the change - we hope you like it as well.

Ribbon Cutting

Southern Advisors Inc. 265 Parkway 575, Woodstock 336-682-1362 • www.southernadvisorsinc.com

What’s Coming

No Longer Bound, a nonprofit regeneration center in Cumming for men with drug and alcohol addiction, plans to open a thrift store on Eagle Drive. This will be the group’s second thrift store; the first is in Cumming. Proceeds benefit the organization. www.nolongerbound.com Oaks at Towne Lake, Assisted Living and Memory Care, is now accepting reservations and plans to open June 2017. This state-of-theart, craftsman-style community is located at 4580 Towne Lake Parkway, next to the Rose Creek Library. Family owned and operated, Oaks Senior Living has been providing senior housing in Georgia since 1998. For more information call 770-592-2195 or visit www.oaksseniorliving.com. The Blank Stage Acting Studio, is planning to open in January 2017 at 11517 Highway 92, Suite 112, Woodstock. The studio will offer professional training in the film and television industry to junior and adult actors, in addition to help build a demo reel, taking headshots, making connections and creating projects. For more information, call 470-377-6773. www.blankstagestudios.com

What’s Closing

At press time, we learned that Fitness 19 at Streetside At Towne Lake, 6424 Bells Ferry Road in Woodstock, planned to close on Nov. 14.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback. Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer. Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and co-author Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com. Dee Locklin is a Georgia State University retiree who moved to Towne Lake in 1998 with her beloved husband Lewis, now deceased, and their only son Taylor, who now lives and works in Sandy Springs. Dee joined the TowneLaker as a contributing writer in 2011 and spends much of her time catering to two pampered American Eskimo dogs, Lea and Gidget. Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County since 2000. He performs improv comedy in and around Atlanta. He lives in Woodstock with his wife Justine, his son Beethoven 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 2016

Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Controller Denise Griffin Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3315 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 Marketing Support Associate Terri Spencer Terri@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 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,200 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,200 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 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2016. TowneLaker PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com

America’s Community Magazine Volume 22, Issue 8

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Community

Celebrations!

Happy 33rd birthday, Michelle

Happy birthday Patty!!!

We love you! David, Tanner, Katie, Devon, Cooper, and all your sneaky Gal Pals

Elizabeth Hugenberg

Max von Seeger

Age 10 on Dec. 30 We are so proud of you sweet girl! Love you BIG! Mom, Daddy and Landon

E-mail to: Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com January deadline is Dec. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Age 17 on Dec. 21 Happy Birthday Brookieloo! Love, Mom, Dad, Max, Devin and T-George

Happy birthday, Emilee

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Brooke von Seeger

Daughter of Joe and Kathy Borden Love Mom, Dad, Nick, Xavier and Novalee

Age 17 on Dec. 11 Happy Birthday, Elizabeth!! We are so proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad and Rachel

Age 14 on Dec. 9 Happy birthday Moo Moo - got eem! Love, Mom, Dad, Brooke, Devin and Tango

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

YOUR LOCAL NEWS A New Library at the Trailhead BY MELISSA TATE

Alaina Brown and family enjoyed the Little Free Library (LFL) while camping at Red Top Mountain State Park, but realized LFLs were not located near their hometown. After volunteering with Greenprints Alliance and mentioning it to members, she was connected with Preston Pooser of the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. He liked the idea of installing an LFL beginning with the Noonday Creek Trail in downtown Woodstock. Alaina felt good about the support but needed help to bring the project to life. She reached out to members of the Woodstock Mommies & Minions Mommy’s Group for help. This is when I came on board. I immediately loved the idea and quickly responded that I would like to help. I worked for the Cobb County School District for more than 12 years. I resigned just a couple months ago to stay home with my kids. I work with them and try to teach them how to be involved members of the community and give back. By getting involved with the Little Free Library project, I knew this was a great opportunity for my kids to engage with one of our favorite things — reading — as well as give back to the community. I’m also excited about assisting in the maintenance and upkeep of the library, and take pride in knowing my kids were part of creating something special for their community. On the day of installation, they were very excited and couldn’t Tony Tate, left, gets help setting up the library. wait to pick out some of

Ethan and Elliott Tate help stock the shelves.

their own books to put inside for other kids to read. I contacted my father-inlaw, Tony Tate, to help with construction. He is craftsman and can make all sorts of ideas come to life. After doing Melissa Tate and daughter Elliott make it a family project. some research, he came up with the windmill idea, along with the bench for people to sit and enjoy reading. A little more than a year ago Tony was stung by a bee, and although he had an EpiPen, was unable to reach it in time. He passed out and was taken by ambulance to the hospital. Throughout the following year, he had multiple tests and saw multiple doctors. There are still a lot of unanswered questions, but the doctor has recommended that he stay engaged in activities to help keep his mind sharp and help with his recovery. I hoped the Little Free Library could be one of those projects for him. Preston has been great to work with and has even expressed some interest in continuing to work with us on another LFL project at other parks in Woodstock. The ultimate goal is to promote literacy and community in our wonderful city of Woodstock.

Still Time to Support Shop with a Hero Join downtown Woodstock businesses and community members by supporting Main Street Gives, a drive to make it possible for more than 100 children to take part in this year’s Dec. 9 Shop with a Hero. This annual event helps Woodstock families by providing gifts to children in need during the holiday season. Donations collected by Main Street Gives will go to the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, which hosts Shop with a Hero with the help of the Woodstock Police and Fire departments. While a $75 donation will enable one child to shop with a hero, any amount is appreciated. Checks can be made payable to the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, and mailed to or dropped off at The Premier Group office at 8604 Main St., Woodstock, GA 30188. On the memo line, write Main Street Gives/Shop with a Hero. Call Beth Choppa, director of community relations for the Premier Group, at 678-494-0102.

A New Way to Report Concerns The City of Woodstock has changed the way residents can notify city officials about concerns they have. Citizens can go to www.woodstockga.gov and choose the Report a Concern button, which utilizes the CivicPlus Request Tracker software. From a smartphone, type in www.woodstockga.gov/requesttracker. This tool eliminates the need for phone calls or visits to city hall to express concerns over non-urgent matters. 10

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Cherokee Chamber is Recertified The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, along with 22 other chambers, recently was recognized as a Georgia Certified Chamber during a conference held by the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (GACCE). The Georgia Certified Chamber program was created in 2011 when the GACCE board of directors wanted a way to recognize chambers that have focused internally on their operations to assess their strengths, weaknesses and opportunities to create efficient, effective organizations positioned to deliver great value. Chambers must meet standards in organization, service intent and capacity, professional administration, financial management, communications and advocacy to achieve the designation.

WE VOLUNTEER AND DONATE TO CHEROKEE SCHOOLS AND ORGANIZATIONS. BECAUSE THAT’S WHAT NEIGHBORS DO. Northside Hospital-Cherokee has given more than 10,000 volunteer hours and donated millions to Cherokee schools and charitable organizations. Because Cherokee County is not only the location of our hospital, it is our home. Most of our physicians and staff live right here. Our children go to school with yours and we shop at the local grocery stores with you. Since becoming part of the community in 1997, Northside Hospital-Cherokee is committed to keeping this county great. Because, after all, it’s our home, too.

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

YOUR LOCAL NEWS WellStar to Start Health Park Construction

Hat makers Marion Derryberry, Faithie Greene, Margie Ritter, Cyndee Fetzer and Linda Davies. Not pictured: Linda and Brian Poore.

Hat Loomers Have Productive Year Members of Bascomb United Methodist Church have been making hats for those who might otherwise be cold this winter. The Bascomb Hat Loomers made 675 hats in 2016, which they donate to MUST Ministries, Papa’s Pantry, The Hope Center, The Craddock Center and Bascomb Mission Thrift Store. www.bascombumc.org

Agency Wins District, State Awards

Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency (CRPA) was recognized by the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association (GRPA) recently for outstanding programs. On the district level, the agency was named the Class A Agency of the Year for the GRPA 5th District for all operational phases including athletics, aquatics, programming, parks maintenance and capital improvements. CRPA is among the largest departments in a Representing CRPA, from left: Andrea Johnson, district that includes all county Camille Thomas, Shawn Schumacher, Adam Fussell, Jay Worley, Cara Gordon, Bryan Reynolds, and city recreation agencies Kim Whatley, Amy Turcotte, Lindsey Collett, Neely north and west of Fulton Motiejunas and Michael Brantley. County. The Senior Adventure Camp also was recognized for Innovative Program. On the state level, CRPA won four awards: Outstanding Online Media Agency Website (www.crpa.net); Outstanding Athletic or Aquatic Program for SPLASH SPLASH; Outstanding Special Event for Paws in the Pool, and GRPA Volunteer of Year – Amy Turcotte.

Authors Dedicate Book to Special Girl The death of 11-year-old Juliette Lyng inspired Woodstock authors, and husband and wife team Darryl and Mary Rose Green, to dedicate their third book, “The Rules,” to her memory. Juliette was a friend of their daughter Tori; a portion of the book sales will be given to the Seattle Children’s Hospital to support the research of Dr. Paul Carpenter, who treated Juliette. The book, written for the kindergarten through second grade range, takes a humorous look at the rules children are exposed to, almost from the moment they are born. For more information, visit www.greenspublications.com. 12

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

WellStar Health System has announced plans to begin construction on the WellStar Cherokee Health Park in late summer 2017, with an anticipated completion date in 2018. The nearly $80 million facility will be built in two phases on a 60-acre site at Sixes Road in Holly Springs, just off I-575. With 85,000 square feet of space, Phase 1 will include physician offices, medical imaging, urgent care, a sleep center, cardiac diagnostics, lab outreach and physical therapy. Phase 1 represents a $39.6 million investment in Cherokee County. WellStar has pioneered the concept of health parks, which are designed to bring outpatient and physician services directly to the community. “Once complete, Cherokee County residents will be able to see their doctor, have necessary tests performed and get prescriptions filled in one convenient location,” said Joe Brywczynski, senior vice president of health park administration and development. The Cherokee facility is based on the Acworth and East Cobb health parks. A third park is scheduled to open in Vinings in 2017.

Northside Recognized for Heart Attack Care Northside Hospital-Cherokee has earned Disease Specific Certification for Acute Myocardial Infarction care from The Joint Commission. Acute myocardial infarction is the medical term for a heart attack. About 750,000 people in the U.S. have a heart attack each year, according to the American Heart Association. “Patients in Cherokee, who have a heart attack and call 911, are transported to the emergency department at Northside Hospital-Cherokee and receive life-saving care in our cardiac catheterization laboratory, all in less than 65 minutes,” said Beverly Hunt, chief nursing officer. Northside Hospital-Cherokee is the second-fastest hospital, out of 19, in metro Atlanta. The average length of time among all hospitals is 76 minutes. The Joint Commission’s Certification is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care. Northside Hospital-Cherokee received its two-year certification after undergoing a voluntary and rigorous on-site evaluation, demonstrating compliance with nationally developed standards for heart attack care.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Preserving the Republic One Ballot at a Time BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

As I write this article, we are but a few days away from electing a new president of the United States. As you read this article, nearly a month has passed since the new president was chosen. I’m sure there’s a clever time travel joke to be made here, but I’ll just leave that alone as a reminder of the delay between authoring an article like this and its publishing date. This election has proven one of the most contentious, unpredictable and divisive cycles in modern American history. I use the qualifier “modern” because as much as we like to pretend that divisive partisan politics is a new invention in our country, the elections between Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr, John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson, and Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas are just a few examples that prove otherwise. When election time rolls around every four years, we remember just how opinionated our nation of patriots can be. That’s the problem though: election time doesn’t roll around only every four years. If you watched public participation you might be fooled into thinking so, but we elect leaders in our government every year. I recently spent more than 45 minutes waiting in line at Rose Creek library to vote for president (and a remaining dozen candidates for other offices, including myself). For the first 20 minutes in line on an early voting day, I was filled with the typical American-exceptionalism-style hope that I try to convey in these articles each month. Thoughts like, “I’m so proud to live in a country that provides weeks of early voting opportunities but still has enough interested voters to force

We’ve proven yet again in 2016 that our people care a great deal about the future of our nation.

a line,” were my overwhelming sentiment. Then it struck me: How many other lines like this have I stood in over the past four years? The answer is zero. Since the 2012 presidential election, Cherokee County voters have had the opportunity to report to the ballot box for 16 elections (give or take one or two depending on which districts and precincts you live in). In 16 other opportunities, I have not found myself waiting in a line to cast my ballot. As a citizenry, we care dramatically about who fills the Oval Office. Our voting records show we care significantly less about who fills our city halls, the state Capitol or even our congressional offices. You may remember an article I wrote some time ago titled “We Get the Government We Deserve.” I devoted a portion of it to lamenting the turnout in the last Woodstock city election. Out of 13,479 registered voters, 329 showed up to vote. Consider that number for a moment: 329 out of 13,479. That’s 2.4 percent of those with a voice who chose to use it. Though we won’t know the actual numbers for several more days, this presidential cycle is expected to shatter both early voter turnout records and total voter turnout records. In 2012, more than 70 percent of Georgia’s voters cast a ballot and more than 85 percent of registered voters nationwide made the effort. When we see a change from 2.4 percent turnout for a city council to more than 70 percent for president of the United States, we’re missing a very serious lesson in self government. Though Fox News and CNN will always cover the actions of the federal government more closely than your state and local continued on page 82 Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. Caldwell@house.ga.gov

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TOWNELAKER | December 2016

It’s the

Most Wonder ful Time of the Year! We love spending this time of year with family and friends, and we love sharing special holiday features with our readers. This year we invite you to walk down memory lane with some local senior citizens as they remember their favorite Christmas gifts. Our Helping Hands guide offers a way for members of the community to help those who have a difficult time putting presents under the tree or a holiday meal on the table. There’s no shortage of activities for families to enjoy, and each season we make it our goal to provide an extensive list so you’ll know what our county has to offer. We hope you enjoy the holidays and will spend some time creating new traditions and memories that will last for years to come. From our families to yours − Happy Holidays! Special thanks to artist Brenda Tustian, who let us reproduce her masterpiece, “Christmas Love,” a painting that uses Cherokee County’s own hall of fame Santa Tim Cavender and his wife Pam as the models. Proceeds from the sale of the painting benefit the American Heart Association. For info, contact Brenda at 770-843-6981.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Christmas Memories Let’s take a trip down memory lane with some precious residents of senior living facilities in Woodstock. Because it’s so important to listen and preserve these memories, we’d like to challenge you to make your own photo collage this Christmas. Ask your aunts and uncles, grandparents and great-grandparents to share their favorite holiday memories; this could be the start of your own special family tradition.

John N.

Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake My mother ordered me a mechanical train from Sears-Roebuck and they sold out of it and they sent me the expensive electrical one instead. I was about 8 years old.

Betty Myers, 94

Insignia of Towne Lake My sister, Mimi, and I received a Christmas pony when I was 14. Our racehorse (which was too old to race) had a little colt. We rode it to town to pick up groceries and other supplies. We had so much fun!

Irene Fletcher, 86 Insignia of Towne Lake

My most memorable Christmas was when I was 55 years old. My husband bought me a sweeper, which was something I needed but I was upset when I received it. He made up for it though – he bought me a string of pearls and the earrings to match. He was a sweetie pie!

Mae Long, 90

Insignia of Towne Lake

About 83 years ago, when I was 7, I received a Dionne quintuplet doll for Christmas. Everyone knew about the five babies, and talked about them a lot. No one else knew that I had one of the dolls. I was so proud of that doll! My best friend, Inez, played with me and my doll. That was a magic Christmas, when everything seemed simple and magical. 16

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Marci S.

Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake

I remember I was 14 years old and got a new wristwatch.

Ann Morgan, 70

Insignia of Towne Lake One of my favorite memories is my two young sons dressed in pajamas, sitting and looking up at the Christmas tree for a few minutes before bedtime. They did this every night. My favorite Christmas gift was from my sons, Britten and Ben O’Dell when they were in college. They started my set of Spode Christmas china. I was told, “No one should want something for 20 years and not have it.” I really appreciated them doing that.

Joan McArthur

Ann’s sons Britten and Ben at a young age.

Insignia of Towne Lake My favorite Christmas gift was not that long ago … when I was 75. I received a family locket, which was a gift from children and grandchildren.

Joyce K.

Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake My first watch; I was about 7 years old. It worked really well. I was so excited to see it.

Nancy R.

Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake I always loved getting a new doll!

Eleanor B.

Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake Maybe a book or a color book, but with six siblings it was tough for my parents.

Helen C.

Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake I received a doll that opened and closed her eyes, I named her Shirley, after Shirley Temple.

Lucille Loudin

Insignia of Towne Lake

Lucille at dinner with her three children: on her left, Douglas, David and Anne.

My husband, Leonard, surprised us with a family trip to Palma de Mallorca off the coast of Spain for Christmas and New Year’s. We were living in Holland at the time, and it had been raining for over a month.The sunshine in Palma de Mallorca was wonderful. It was the most beautiful place I’ve ever been. Our son David had his 3rd birthday there. They brought us a rum cake, which had rum poured over it. After eating it, he was out for the evening! TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Helping Hands 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

The Children’s Haven

Registration for Adopt a Senior started Nov. 7. The following items are needed to fill gift bags: wallets for men, purses for women, $25 grocery gift cards and a book of stamps. Other items also accepted, but nothing perishable. Drop off donations at the senior center at 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-704-2320

The Children’s Haven promotes the health and happiness of children in Cherokee who are Canton. affected by abuse. The groupworks to ensure their safety, advocate on their behalf and respond to meet their needs. Holiday needs have been met, but officials are asking for four or five basic iPads or notebooks so volunteers can remotely log into the data systems while on home visits or in court. Also, a microwave is needed for the visitation kitchen. Items can be dropped off at 1083 Marietta Highway in. 770-345-3274

www.cherokeega.com

Hugs for Seniors www.crpa.net

The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency is collecting items for Canton Nursing Center residents until Dec. 9 for the first Hugs in a Blanket campaign. Individuals can bring a warm blanket and a pair of unisex, one-size-fits-all socks to the rec center at 7545 Main St., building 200 in Woodstock. For more information, call 770-924-7768 or email lcollett@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 household items like pots and pans, plates, cups, mugs, silverware, Tupperware, etc. For delivery details, call 770-479-4641 or email jessica@cfvc.org.

Cherokee FOCUS

www.cherokeefocus.org The agency, which works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives, has a wish list that focuses on education. Donors can give a gift to cover the cost of GED testing, college entrance fees, interview clothing, transportation, childcare, etc. 770-345-5483 18

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

www.CherokeeChildrensHaven.org

Feed My Lambs

www.feedmylambs.net The nonprofit, which offers free Christian preschools, including a location in Canton, holds Happy Birthday Jesus parties each year for the young students. The Canton party, which is expected to draw 300 children, will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Canton YMCA. Volunteers can help with setup beginning at 5 p.m. 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. For more details, call Maggie Bridges at 770-795-9349.

Forever Fed

www.hopectr.com Forever Fed is distributing 560 Christmas food boxes to families in need, a project that requires 14,000 pounds of donated nonperishable foods. Groups, businesses and individuals can donate peanut butter, jelly, canned beans, canned soups, 1-pound bags of rice, 1-pound packages of pasta, small bottles of vegetable oil, breakfast-style snacks and hygiene items. To donate, contact Susan@ForeverFed.org or phone 678-883-3314.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Helping Hands Goshen Valley Foundation

Never Alone

The holidays can be difficult times for the foster youth, who are served by Goshen Valley. 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.

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.

Hope Center

Secret Santa

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. 5 at Seeds Thrift Store, 295 Molly Lane, Woodstock. 770-517-4450 www.seedsthriftstore.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 Secret Santa at 470-235-0753 or email cherokeesanta@yahoo.com.

www.goshenvalley.org

www.hopectr.com

MUST Ministries - Cherokee www.mustministries.org

The nonprofit provides a Christmas Toy Shop where clients can shop for their families. MUST 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. 6. For more information or to schedule a dropoff date and time email: toyshop@mustministries.org. MUST’s Canton office for donation drop is 111 Brown Industrial Parkway.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

www.neveralone.org

North Ga. 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, needs diapers, wipes, baby clothes size 0-3T, pack-n-plays, baby shower items and financial contributions. 706-253-6303 www.babyontheway.org

Papa’s Pantry

www.papaspantry.org The pantry is accepting donations for holiday meals, including turkeys, hams, produce and nonperishable 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.

www.cherokeesanta.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Holiday Happenings Dec. 1-18

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

Through Dec. 4

Return to Bethlehem is an outdoor event planned for 7-9 p.m. nightly at New Victoria Baptist Church (across from Hobgood Park) at 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. Free. More than 500 volunteers and 10 churches work together to re-create the city of Bethlehem on the night that Christ was born. For more information, call 770-926-8448 or visit www.return2bethlehem.org.

Dec. 2

For King & Country featuring Lauren Daigle - Christmas Tour will be at First Baptist Church Woodstock 7-10 p.m. The church is at 11905 Highway 92. March for Toys parade for Toys for Tots will begin at 7 p.m. in Ball Ground. Attendees are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots campaign; collection boxes will be available at city park and along the parade route on Main Street. The fourth annual event will feature the dance teams from Georgia Tech and Georgia State University, the Creekview High School Marching Band, Christian Fine Arts of Forsyth Marching Band, beauty queens, floats, tractors, antique cars and more. Cosplayers from as far as Knoxville will appear as superheroes, princesses and Star Wars characters. After the parade, the cosplayers will gather at City Park so children can have their photos taken with their favorite fictional character. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their official arrival to the town and will pose for free photos. www.marchofthetoysparade.com

Dec. 2, 15

Kennesaw State University School of Music Holiday Concert begins at 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Bailey performance Center, 488 Prillaman Way NW, Kennesaw. At 8 p.m. Dec. 15, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will perform music from “The Nutcracker” and offer a festive sing-along in Morgan Concert Hall at the Bailey Performance Center, 488 Prillaman Way NW, Kennesaw. www.arts.ksu.edu

Dec. 2-3

Holly Springs tree lighting and Christmas parade. The city’s tree lighting will take place at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the train depot; enjoy hot cider and cookies after. The parade begins at 1:30 p.m. Saturday; the route goes down Holly Springs Parkway and ends at the train depot, where snacks and photos with Santa will be available. www.hollyspringsga.us

Through Dec. 22

A holiday show featuring Cherokee Arts Center members will include a reception 6-8 p.m. on Dec. 2. All artwork for sale will cost less than $100. The center is at 94 North St. www.cherokeearts.org

Dec. 2

Christmas in Downtown Woodstock is the theme for December’s Friday Night Live, 6-9 p.m. Perfect chance to Christmas shop and have some fun at the same time. Santa will be there. 770-924-0406. www.visitwoodstockga.com 22

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Dec. 3

The 20th annual Christmas Jubilee Parade of Lights in downtown Woodstock has a new route this year. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road, travels down Main Street to Sam’s Club on Highway 92. Santa will be available for visits in The Park at City Center after the parade. Also including children’s activities, float awards, free s’mores and the presentation of Woodstock’s Citizens of the Year. Presentation of “A Christmas Carol” is free for visitors at 2 p.m. at Elm Street Theater, 8534 Main St.

Dec. 3

Dec. 9-11

Christmas Craft Fair, sponsored by Timothy Lutheran Church youth, will be open 9 a.m.-3 p.m., featuring local arts, crafts and more. The church is at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Vendor applications accepted. https://timothylutheran.360unite.com

Dec. 10

The 29th annual Christmas parade begins at 6 p.m. in downtown Canton. Sponsored by the Canton Optimist Club. www.canton-georgia.com

Dec. 3-4, 9-10

Bethlehem Walk 2016 at Mountain View United Methodist Church, 2300 Jamerson Road, Marietta. No charge. www.bethlehemwalkatmountainview.org

Dec. 4

Christmas Cantata - Bascomb United Methodist Choir will be joined by an orchestra to present “Candles and Carols” 7 p.m. The church is at 2295 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock. www.BascombUMC.org

The Atlanta Christmas Musical will begin at 8 p.m. Friday, 6 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. This year’s musical is set in 1870 when the president announces the first national Christmas holiday; the focus is centered around three families whose lives are intertwined through faith, love and hope. Breakfast with Santa at Bascomb United Methodist Church will be held 9-11 a.m. The church is at 2295 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock. www.BascombUMC.org

Dec. 17

Canton Music Shoppe Christmas Recital at 6:30 p.m. at the Canton Historic Theatre. Tickets $7. The theatre is at 171 East Main St. www.cantontheatre.com

Dec. 8-23

Holiday Lights of Hope is a large scale walk-through light display and holiday activity open nightly at 6 p.m. for kids of all ages at Hobgood Park, at the corner of Towne Lake Parkway and Bells Ferry Road in Woodstock. This community event benefits the Anna Crawford Children’s Center, which serves families in Cherokee County. With almost 2 million lights and animated light displays, Santa’s Village including pictures with Santa, vendor and activity areas, concessions and more. www.holidaylightsofhope.com

Dec. 9

Shop with a Hero helps children whose families are facing financial difficulties by taking them Christmas shopping. Kids have lots of fun shopping with men and women in uniform, beginning at 7 p.m. at Walmart on Highway 92 and Trickum Road. www.WPSFoundation.org

Dec. 9-10 Photo by Darleen Prem.

Canton’s annual Art & Wine Walk is 6-10 p.m. Tickets available through Main Street events at www.cantonhdl.com.

Dec. 18

Showing of the movie “White Christmas” with Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Danny Kaye and Vera-Ellen from 1954 in hi-def Blu-ray with popcorn and drinks, chocolate bars and chips. 3 p.m. at the Canton Historic Theatre, 171 East Main St. Tickets $5. www.cantontheatre.com

Dec. 24

Eve on the Green candlelight service is set for 5:30-6 p.m. at the Elm Street Event Green, 111 Elm Street. Sponsored by Sojourn Church.

Dec. 26-Jan. 15

Christmas Tree Chip & Dip at Olde Rope Mill Park starts the day after Christmas. Trees (no flocked or decorated) are run through the chipper to create mulch, which is available for free during park hours (8 a.m.-dusk). Sponsored by the Keep Georgia Beautiful campaign and the City of Woodstock Stormwater Department. Free tree seedlings will be available 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Jan. 7. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Holiday Happenings Public Menorah Lightings Dec. 29

Abbie, left, and Delilah Parkes at the 2015 lighting of the ice menorah at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta.

Dec. 30

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

Congregation Ner Tamid will hold its second annual Menorah Lighting on the Marietta Square beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Glover Park stage. The celebration will also include holiday music, fun children’s games and hot chocolate. Ner Tamid also will have a children’s Shabbat at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 16. Rabbi Prass will tell a story, there will be potato latkas and flashing menorahs. Kid sitter will be provided and an adult service will take place at 7:30 p.m. RSVP to events@ mynertamid,org. 678-264-8575. www.mynertamid.org

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Christmas @ the Library Rose Creek

4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock • 770-591-1491

Dec. 1

Polar Express Read Aloud, 6 p.m. Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale come to life. Your ticket to an evening of festive fun, photo ops, and refreshments. Space is limited and registration is required. Call to reserve your spot. All ages welcome.

Dec. 8

Enjoy a Holiday Celebration 5:30-6:30 p.m. The air is getting colder, the holidays are near. It’s time for a celebration with those we hold so dear, our patrons! Enjoy our holiday festivities this season with the children’s choir from Bascomb Elementary. There will be crafts, face painting, and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Bring your camera; all ages welcome.

Dec. 13

Build a snowman craft without having to go outside. Begins at 10:30 a.m. Socks, stuffing, and decorations provided for participants, ages 16 and older. Call to register.

Woodstock

7735 Main St., Woodstock • 770-926-5859

Dec. 1

Enjoy a Holiday Open House 6-8 p.m. that will include Santa, the Woodstock Elementary School chorus, crafts and refreshments.

Dec. 7

Pinterest Family Edition 4-5 p.m. to make holiday themed bookmarks. For all ages.

Dec. 8

Ugly Holiday Sweater Party for teens 6-7:45 p.m. Wear your tackiest holiday sweater or T-shirt and enter the contest, design an ugly sweater cookie and make a holiday craft. For grades 6-12.

Dec. 9

STEM Holiday Lights program at 4:30 p.m., studying circuits using Christmas lights. For ages 9-12.

Dec. 15

Polar Express Read Aloud, 6 p.m. Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale come to life. Call to reserve your spot.

Hickory Flat

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

Dec. 5

Holiday Extravaganza: A Night with Santa and Mrs. Claus, 6-7:30 p.m., for a fun-filled evening including a tree lighting, crafts, face stamping and entertainment by the Avery Elementary Chorus. Bring your camera and take pictures of visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Refreshments will be served.

Dec. 14

Polar Express Read Aloud, 6 p.m. Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale come to life. Call to reserve your spot.

Dec. 20

Free Holiday Movie 1-3 p.m. Get in the Christmas spirit with a Muppet holiday classic. All ages welcome. Refreshments will be served. Rated G.

R.T. Jones

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

Dec. 2

DIY Friday: Holiday Roundup 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. for crafty holiday decorating ideas and a few take-away projects. All supplies provided.

Dec. 5

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Teens can create Fandom Ornaments 6-7:30 p.m. All supplies provided. For sixth-12th graders. Call the library for details.

Dec. 6

Free Family Holiday Movie at 4 p.m. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is coming and watching a film about an elf looking for his father. Rated PG.

Dec. 7

Celebrate the Season and enjoy the Festival of Trees during the 6-7:30 p.m. R.T. Jones Holiday Open House. Crafts, refreshments, a tree lighting, songs performed by the Hasty Elementary Chorus, and a visit from Santa. All ages are welcome.

Dec. 12

Polar Express Read Aloud, 6:30 p.m. Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale come to life. Your ticket to an evening of festive fun, photo ops, and refreshments. Space is limited and registration is required. Call to reserve your spot. All ages welcome.

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STOP BY A CLINIC NEAR YOU. Woodstock (678) 214-4449 1428 Towne Lake Pkwy Ste. 28102 Woodstock, GA 30189 *Offer valued at $39. Valid for new patients only. See clinic for chiropractor(s)’ name and license info. Clinics managed and/ or owned by franchisee or Prof. Corps. Restrictions may apply to Medicare eligible patients. Individual results may vary. © 2016 The Joint Corp. All Rights Reserved.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

JSL of Woodstock Tour of Homes Nov. 12-13, 2016

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An Fu dre n w Fi s H nd o s& m De e, d sig ec ns ora , I te nc d by .

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

by d e at or nce c de a e Eleg m Ho ble ti h rda Ve o e Aff h T

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Hottest Holiday Picks for Your Favorite Book Lovers BY GARY PARKES

The holiday season is one of the most popular for book purchasing – whether purchased for oneself or gifts for others. Here are some of the most popular books this holiday season, including something for most readers.

“Lilac Girls,” a

debut novel by Georgia author Martha Hall Kelly, is a historical fiction novel based on real people, taking place during WWII. The story is told from three different perspectives and focuses on the all-female concentration camp Ravensbrück. “Lilac Girls” shares the story of “The Rabbits,” their life inside Ravensbrück and after the War, which adds an unusual distinction to the novel.

“Faithful,” by the

prolific Alice Hoffman, is a contemporary story of a young woman trying to find her way, redemption, a purpose and more in the modern world. Lyrically written with serendipity infused, this is ultimately a book of hope.

“Commonwealth,” by Ann Patchett, is hard to describe. An innocuous christening party, a quiet encounter changes and binds two families for better or worse forever. The story follows parents and children through decades as they pay the price for a single moment. You will find yourself crying and cheering for them all.

“South of the Etowah: The View from the Wrong Side of the River,”

by Georgia Author of the Year Raymond Atkins, tells stories like no one else can. “South of Etowah” is a collection of short stories with a little satire, a touch of irreverence and everyday life experiences most go through. Laugh-out-loud funny. The Nativity Story with Star Wars’ Lando Calrissian, a few Baby Jesus’ and an assortment of characters cannot be beat. 28

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

“Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders,” is a

go-to for gift-givers looking for something for someone who has everything. Readers become armchair explorers with more than 700 of the most unusual places featured.

“The Time Traveler’s Handbook: 18 Experiences from the Eruption of Vesuvius to Woodstock,” is also

a perfect book for someone who has everything or loves exploring, history and adventure.

Harry Potter

continues to be hot in 2016 with two original screenplays published by JK Rowling, coloring books and Harry Potter and the “Chamber of Secrets: The Illustrated Edition” (Harry Potter, Book 2).

“A Child of Books,” by Oliver

Jeffers and Sam Winston has just enough words and incredible illustrations to allow children to take a new journey each time they read the story. Their imagination is their only limit.

Gary Parkes, a Woodstock resident, is a local writer and social media professional, working with small businesses including FoxTale Book Shoppe, Leaning Ladder and Tea Leaves & Thyme.

Gifts of Care.

This holiday season, why not give gifts

to be bright and to be merry.

Choose gifts that are wrapped and ready to give, or create your own custom gifts. We also offer gift cards in any denomination. Let us help you to give gifts of care this holiday season. 8516 main street downtown woodstock

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stay connected. specials & promotions. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Family Decorates To Honor Mom Who Loved Christmas BY CARLA CALDWELL

Christmastime was terribly hard for on their lights and handed out cookies Jeremy Smoot after his mother’s death and hot chocolate. More than $100 in 2007 from complications of lupus. She was donated. They were out again the loved Christmas and went all out every following weekend and another $100 Lights for Lupus/ year to decorate. was collected. Smoot Family Christmas Light Show Jeremy’s wife, Rosalind, started to By Dec. 31, $1,000 had been donated. 699 Autumn View Drive, Acworth, 30101 dread the Christmas season. “I knew The following year, $1,200 was collected. 5:30-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday how upset and down he would be,” she The goal this year is $2,000. Rosalind 5:30-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday says. “I knew we had to turn this around. estimates that about 500 people drove I was looking for ways to get his mind on by the first year and close to 800 in 2015. something else and to make Christmas a “The kids help add up the money happy time for him.” every night and we keep a running total,” Rosalind says. In 2013, the family moved to Acworth from Texas and “On Dec. 31, we go to the bank and get a money order and Rosalind went to work for Christmas Designers, which installs and drive to Smyrna, to the office of the Georgia Chapter of sells commercial-grade lights. It was then, she says, that “she put the Lupus Foundation of America. We set up a meeting so two and two together.” that the kids can present the check and someone with the Lupus Rosalind decided that the family should go all out to decorate Foundation explains to the kids that the money helps families. their home and yard and to give 100 percent of any donations “When someone with lupus (a chronic inflammatory disease) dropped into a bucket to the Lupus Foundation in honor of goes into the hospital, they can easily be there for seven to 10 Jeremy’s mother, Debbie Founds. days. If someone with lupus gets a cold, for example, it can turn “I grew up in New Jersey and it was a common thing if into bronchitis and be difficult to fight off. The money we raise can anyone did large holiday help pay someone’s setups they would take mortgage for a month, up donations for local fire or pay bills or buy and police departments or groceries.” other groups,” Rosalind says. “Jeremy grew up in Texas Left: Jeremy, Dylan, 11, and had never heard of Miya, 7, and Rosalind that. He thought it would be Smoot great to donate, but he was Below: Debbie Founds and skeptical. He had never seen grandson, Dylan. anyone donate because of a Christmas display.” In 2014, after getting approval from their homeowner’s association, the family advertised their Christmas display throughout the neighborhood and on Facebook. The weekend after Thanksgiving they turned

NOV. 24-DEC. 31

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Marinated Salmon

with Red Pepper Coulis

CONTRIBUTED BY CHEF ALAN, WWW.MYCHEFALAN.COM

Directions:

Ingredients: • 3 medium zucchini

• 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 medium yellow squash

• 2 tablespoons lemon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice • 2 teaspoons cayenne olive oil • 5 tablespoons minced shallot - divided 1 and 4

• 3 – 4 tablespoons aged dark balsamic vinegar

• 6 garlic cloves, minced, divided 2 and 4

• 5 cups coarsely chopped red bell pepper

• 8 salmon filets

• 1 tablespoon minced jalapeno

• 1 cup flour

• 1 cup no sodium chicken stock

• 2 tablespoons butter olive oil • Fresh basil • Fresh thyme • 2 tablespoons Milanese Gremolata olive oil

• Fresh chives, minced

Salmon: Combine lime juice, 1 tablespoon minced shallots, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon olive oil, salt and pepper. Whisk ingredients and add skinless salmon filets. Toss to make sure the fish is covered with the marinade. Marinate for no more than 5 minutes. Remove the fish from the marinade and dredge in flour. Heat 2 tablespoons butter olive oil in a nonstick skillet. When hot, add the salmon and sauté for 4 – 5 minutes on each side. Test for doneness by seeing if fish flakes easily. Remove from skillet to a plate and keep warm. Squash: Slice squash lengthwise into ¼ inch strips. Slice the resulting “ribbons” into narrow “noodles” but make sure the parts with the seeds are cut out and discarded. Add 2 tablespoons Milanese Gremolata olive oil to a skillet and heat. When heated, add squash noodles and sauté until wilted, making sure they do not brown. Remove from heat and add 2-3 teaspoons chopped fresh basil and 1 teaspoon fresh minced thyme (can use any fine herbs, oregano, parsley … depending on your taste). Season with salt and pepper and keep warm. Red Pepper Coulis: Heat cayenne olive oil and extra virgin olive oil in a skillet. When hot, add the chopped red pepper, 4 tablespoons minced shallot, minced Jalapeno pepper and remaining 4 garlic cloves. Sauté 4 minutes, then cover, reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes until tender. Remove cover, add chicken stock and simmer on medium high until liquid is almost evaporated. Let cool and place ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Pour mixture into a strainer over a bowl and stir to remove solids. Discard the solids in the strainer. Add aged dark balsamic vinegar to the strained mixture. Season with salt to taste. Create a ring of red pepper coulis on a round dinner plate. Place a mound of squash noodles in the center of the coulis and then place a few salmon pieces on top of the squash. Garnish with minced chives and serve immediately. Serves 8

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TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Perimeter North Family Medicine

Welcoming New Patients! Offering a full range of adult and pediatric services, our boardcertified physicians proudly offer the highest quality care to keep you and your family happy and healthy. We accept most insurance plans and offer same-day appointments and extended hours at many of our locations. Our services include:

• Physical examinations and wellness care for men, women and children • General and chronic care for geriatric patients • Immunizations • Acute illness treatment for colds, fevers, flu and more • Comprehensive women’s health services

Call (770) 395-1130 for an appointment 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 210 Woodstock, GA 30189

pnfm.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Farmhouse Style Holiday BY SUZIE CHINAL AND KIMBERLY LONDON POSEY

We like to think of the holidays as an excuse to redecorate. Why not add a chic rustic twist to your holiday décor? Farmhouse style is a huge trend in interior design today. It’s a style reflective of the love of simplicity, comfort and a DIY attitude. Light colors are characteristic for the farmhouse

style. Historically, this is due to the fact that people did not have access to colored finishes. The popular trend originally developed out of simple necessity. Farmers’ homes typically had a front porch, which was a transitional area from the outside to inside the home. The front of the house was used for a social area to welcome guests. The kitchen and bedrooms would have been found in the back of the house. Farmhouse style will easily blend with other decor styles like industrial or cottage to traditional and modern. It’s all about creating a rustic luxe look, which balances comfort and sophistication. Use accessories like wire baskets, white ironstone, anything galvanized, chippy architectural elements, burlap, grain sacks, wooden crates and boxes. Implement elements from the outdoors by bringing in greenery using boxwoods, magnolias and ivy. Birch logs, willow branches, pinecones and faux birds nests are other natural elements to use in your holiday décor. Dough bowls are always a perfect foundation to build upon. Use a vintage tobacco basket with a wreath made of simple greenery on a wall or over your mantle. Creamy white shutters can make a beautiful statement in your holiday décor and easily transition right into the next season. You could splurge on a beautiful farm table if you really want to treat yourself to the ultimate farmhouse style item. You can find inspiration on Pinterest, websites or in local antiques shops and boutique home décor stores. May this incredible time of giving and spending time with family bring you joy that lasts throughout the year. Wishing you peace, joy and all the best this wonderful holiday has to offer. Here’s to happy holiday decorating!

Suzie Chinal and Kimberly London Posey are owners and curators of the pretty things that make a house a home. www.woodstockantiques.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Invest in Real Estate with Retirement Accounts BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

Did you know you can invest in real estate with your retirement accounts? You can buy real estate for a quick resale or buy and hold it using your IRA (Individual Retirement Account), Roth IRA or SEP-IRA. With the possibility of the stock market retreating from its current highs, you may want to diversify your portfolio to include an investment in real estate. The cash flow rate of return on single-family rental homes can be more than 20 percent at today’s prices, and when the property sells, the net profit will remain in your tax deferred retirement account. You can find a good IRA custodian by searching “real estate IRA” or “self-directed IRA.” Most IRA custodians will typically allow you to purchase raw land, residential properties or commercial buildings for your portfolio. We prefer single-family residential because of its relative ease to sell or rent for an immediate return on investment. Unfortunately, Internal Revenue Service regulations will

Investing in real estate has big risks and the potential for big returns.

not permit you to use the property purchased as your primary residence or as a vacation home. The underlying premise for any IRA fund-purchased real estate investment is that you can’t have any personal benefit or use of the property. To do so may cost you plenty in penalties and taxes and call into question your other dealings with that IRA account. Your IRA custodian — not you personally — must actually purchase the property. The title will be in the name of your IRA custodian with you as the beneficiary. All repairs, property taxes and rents must be paid to and from the IRA custodian’s account. Investing in real estate has big risks and the potential for big returns. Please consult with a certified public accountant, your attorney and a Realtor experienced with these types of transactions before investing.

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 2016

Zombie Invasion Left a Path of Hope for Families BY SONIA CARRUTHERS

Zombies, humans and other assorted creatures came out in droves to participate in the 2016 Georgia Zombie Fest and Food Truck Fair in historic downtown Canton on a warm October Saturday. In its fourth year, this familyfriendly experience continues to grow in popularity with new visitors from around the state and the faithful who haven’t missed a year. This year, 8,000 people attended the fundraiser that is developed and coordinated by Cherokee FOCUS, a 501(c)3 nonprofit that has served youth, youth adults and their families for 15 years. The proceeds —$14,000 this year go directly to help Cherokee County residents. A member of the Georgia Family Connection Partnership, the work of Cherokee FOCUS began by bringing community members together to focus efforts on important community issues that could not be accomplished by one agency or organization alone. Current programs and initiatives include Cherokee Youth Works, Drug Free Cherokee, Cherokee Youth Connection, Hotel to Home and VolunteerCherokee.com. Cherokee FOCUS currently has 120 active young people between the ages of 16 and 24 in its Cherokee Youth Works (CYW) program. Participants of CYW have either dropped out of the traditional school setting or have graduated high school and are not in college and have not obtained the skills to get a job that would provide a livable wage. The staff, tutors and volunteers of CYW work on an individual level to develop a plan and set goals that will give each young man or young woman the best chance at becoming a strong, educated, employed, stable adult that gives back to their community. In order to meet these goals, FOCUS offers GED classes, college prep, life skills, work readiness classes and work experience opportunities, all at no cost to the student.

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In its fourth year, this family-friendly experience continues to grow in popularity with new visitors from around the state ... Drug Free Cherokee (DFC) is an initiative of Cherokee FOCUS that you might be familiar with through billboards, football stadium commercials or radio ads by their youth partner initiative the Cherokee Youth Council. The goal of the DFC coalition is to prevent our youth from falling prey to drugs and alcohol at an early age and educate both youth and adults on the physical and legal dangers of underage drinking and drug use. From tobacco, alcohol, marijuana and prescription pills, to the heroin epidemic, DFC partners are focused on protecting our youth from early onset of use, to the harmful outcomes that drug use can bring. For more information on the many ways that Cherokee FOCUS is helping our community visit CherokeeFOCUS.org, and to volunteer email Sonia@Cherokeefocus.org or call 770-345-5483.

Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of Cherokee FOCUS. www.cherokeefocus.org

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Rob’s Rescues I went to Rochester, Minn., to interview Roo Yori. He is an American Ninja Warrior and was a world champion with his rescue dog Wallace in Frisbee dog competitions. How were you feeling when you were on “American Ninja Warrior?” Very excited and nervous. Excited for the opportunity; I had wanted to do it for a long time. Nervous because you only get one shot. The better I do the better the chance that my message of advocating for shelter dogs can be put out there. How many dogs do you have, and what are their names and breeds? We have three very old dogs: Angus is black lab mix, Mindy-Lou is a toy Aussie mix and Scooby is a rat terrier mix. Johnny is a 2-year-old pit bull. He is a court case dog, which means that when his owner was arrested, he went to a shelter and was held as evidence in a dog-fighting case. It used to happen in these circumstances that these dogs would be routinely euthanized but Safe Humane Chicago changed that and these days these dogs are mostly able to be adopted.

World champions Roo and Wallace show off their Frisbee skills.

There are a lot of kittens at the shelter. Sixteen are ready to get adopted. All of them would make a great cat to have. This dog’s name is Puppy. He is 6 months old and is a hound Alaskan Malamute mixed breed. He is an owner surrender. Puppy has lots of energy and would be a perfect dog for someone. He likes toys.

Above, Puppy waits for his new forever home. Right: Rob with one of the many kittens available for adoption.

Rob’s Rescues 38

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Follow Rob on Facebook!

What made you think that Wallace would make a good Frisbee dog? It was my wife Clara’s idea. She suggested I give Wallace a try since he liked playing fetch at the shelter. He took to it immediately and was a natural.

Clara Yori, Rob, Roo Yori with Scooby, Mindy-Lou and Angus

Besides a pit bull, what is your best dog breed? A medium-sized mutt. When did you create the Wallace the Pit Bull Foundation? In 2014 after Wallace passed. I wanted to do something to have his memory continue. He had a large Facebook following and I wanted to continue the work we did with pit bulls and shelter dog advocacy. What does the foundation do? It raises money for donations to other dog advocacy organizations and programs. Safe Humane Chicago is one. The Pit Bulletin Legal News created the annual Wallace Award for an individual who is a voice for pit bulls. The foundation gives $1,000 to a charity of the winner’s choice. The foundation also focuses on education. I talk to schools and encourage awareness of shelter needs. Social media is also utilized to educate on the needs of shelter dogs. How can I help you? Do what you are doing. Encourage people to adopt dogs and cats in your area. Do you have a tattoo of Wallace? No. Not yet. Do your dogs right now compete in tournaments? No. Scooby used to; he is retired now. Johnny is not a competitive Frisbee dog, we just have fun in the backyard. What makes a good Frisbee dog? Dogs that like to play fetch. If a dog likes to play with toys you can sometimes teach them. Some dogs are just natural fetchers. What was your favorite and least favorite obstacle on “American Ninja Warrior?” Salmon ladder is my favorite and the rolling log is definitely my least favorite. Why do you do “American Ninja Warrior?” I enjoy the physical challenge. I have always loved obstacle courses and to see what’s possible. It is also a great platform to spread a message that I am passionate about: shelter dogs.

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. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Keeping Christmas Simple Is the Best Gift BY MATT NEAL

Congratulations! If you are in the movie “Christmas Vacation.” reading this then you have survived It’s like a marathon of spending, Thanksgiving dinner with relatives cleaning, decorating, entertaining and Black Friday. While we’re on and wrapping. But for many people, the subject, I’ll share a Christmas it’s more like an endless parade of shopping memory from my youth. things you cannot have, presents I was a teenager, standing in you cannot afford for your kids, the checkout line with my father and the pressure to spend more a few days before Christmas. We than you earn. I can tell you from got into a conversation with the experience, growing up poor was man in front of us. I remember his hardest at Christmas. The fact that clothes were a bit shabby. We were I didn’t get much didn’t bother me poor growing up, so I understood nearly as much as it bothered my A scene from “Christmas Vacation.” poor. But this man looked like he parents. They felt the pressure in was spending his last dollar on his kids’ presents. He told us ways I couldn’t imagine until I was older. how hard Christmas is, and it’s a shame people feel obligated Our world is full of far too many good, happy things that to spend so much. Then he said something I will always won’t fit under a tree and can’t be purchased with a credit remember. card. Kids already know this. Enjoying simple things comes “Sometimes I just want to run away.” naturally to them. As I write this, my son is sitting in a big A grown man with kids was considering leaving his family box he found and turned into a fort in the middle of our because he couldn’t living room. My daughter is cutting paper snowflakes and buy them presents. decorating our mantel. I know that Christmas morning will Somewhere through the be a flurry of presents, wrapping paper and discarded bows. ages, we seem to have But Christmas doesn’t start with the first present and end lost sight of what this with the last one. There is so much more to the holidays — holiday is all about. We so much more to life — that we should be teaching our kids. often put far too much pressure on ourselves to make every Christmas the be-all, end-all of Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached magical holidays, like at mattnealwriter@outlook.com. Chevy Chase’s character

Our world is full of far too many good, happy things that won’t fit under a tree and can’t be purchased with a credit card.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Injured in an Auto or Work Accident? Beware of Your Facebook Page BY JAMES IMBRIALE

Insurance company claims adjusters are checking your Facebook and other social media pages for reasons to deny your claim. What you post or say can and will be attempted to be used against you. This is particularly true if you are a plaintiff in an auto injury case or worker’s compensation claim. If you have an injury claim open, you should not be broadcasting details of your accident, injuries or medical treatment. Checking social media sites has become one of the first things an insurance company adjuster will do when you file a claim. In recent years, it has become an industry standard for claims adjustors to search publicly available content of claimants seeking any information that may build a case for them to deny a claim or lower a payout. Insurers search your Facebook pages for clues of your habits. Are you posting videos of your car racing, peeling out, drifting, etc.? This is an indication to them that you are a reckless driver. Posting photos of yourself at a bar or party? This could suggest that you are not really all that hurt or suggest a habit of drinking and driving. While a lot of this content doesn’t necessarily provide definitive proof of an activity or your injury level, the material will very well be attempted to be used in court in the event of a legal dispute about your injuries. The insurance company will attempt to cast you in as poor a light as possible if it helps them lower a settlement. Although many of these photos may be truly harmless or can be explained more accurately by your testimony, it is better to just avoid these scenarios altogether by filtering your Facebook pages. A good plaintiff attorney can provide damage control, but once the cat is out of the bag, the damage is probably already done. A picture is worth a thousand words to imaginative jurors and un-ringing the bell is impossible. This is similar to insurance investigators capturing video of you working out at the gym or swimming at the pool when you

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

have a pending claim for worker’s compensation benefits since you have claimed that you can no longer work or perform the same duties. Insurance investigators no longer have to go to the trouble of trying to find you and capturing you on video when you are providing the video on Facebook. Investigating social media content that is not protected with privacy settings is not considered an ethical breach. While ethical codes prevent attorneys and their investigators from secretive friending of targets in order to access content protected by privacy settings, these ethical codes do not extend to investigators not hired by attorneys or by insurance companies themselves. As long as attorneys representing insurance companies do not instruct non-attorney investigators to try to access private content by initiating contact with the target on false premises, then any content obtained may be used in legal proceedings. Now, this does not mean that such content will be deemed “admissible” by the judge as evidence against you in your court case, but you can sure bet that the insurance company will try their best to introduce such seemingly damaging content into the case. So, beware of your Facebook content and save yourself unnecessary worry. Because of employers’ increased scrutiny of social networks, people have started managing their public profiles more carefully. Now that insurance claims adjustors are making it standard to scour the web for reasons to deny claims, you have more reason to be more discreet with the content you share. James Imbriale and Jeff Yashinsky, personal injury attorneys at Hartman – Imbriale LLP, have strictly practiced personal injury law for the past 24 years and work and live in Towne Lake. 678-445-7423.

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Mickey Needs A New Watch BY BILL BINGHAM

As a father, consumer and self-proclaimed tech geek, I’m always fascinated by the different ways companies use technology to encourage and increase the ease of commerce. So much so that at times I’m so preoccupied with the way they got me to spend money that I almost don’t notice that I am, in fact, buying something I would otherwise laugh at the notion of acquiring. The ability to use Apple Pay for example is so enticing that my son looks for the logo at every checkout. Once found, he conveniently locates something that he can’t possibly live without. Like father, like son I suppose. I really didn’t catch on until we were out with Mama at a women’s clothing store and I caught him searching frantically for something without lace. There are, however, exceptions to the “OK, you got me; take my money” transaction. Recently the family and I went to Disney World. I should have been prepared for the constant and persistent money grab. I half expected Goofy to break out a Square adapter for easy payments after taking a picture. It is truly amazing that little Steamboat Willie aka Mickey Mouse has come so far, but why am I spending $20 per kid for a wristband that is sadly behind the times. The idea is that it holds the tickets to the park, no wait ride upgrades, credits to buy food on property, etc. BOR-ING. What is the one thing that every adult wants in the Magic Kingdom? The ability to know where their kids are! Radio-frequency identification chips in the wristbands and cheap sensors throughout the park would let you look at an app to see exactly where your child is in relation to you and the next adventure of choice. I don’t want to see every kid. Just mine. Which is totally possible now … and five years ago. Nudging the band with a ping so the child knows it’s time to return to a predetermined designated location would be great, too. Do this and I’ll gladly shell out another $20! Sadly though, this is not yet the case at The Happiest Place on Earth. Pretty disappointing tech from the company that now owns a Death Star! Just sayin’.

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Bill, who lives in downtown Woodstock, owns several tech companies and often writes about parenting with technology. media@billybnyc.com TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Funding 35-40 Years of Retirement

If you live to 100, can you avoid outliving your money? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Will you live to 100? Your odds of becoming a centenarian may be improving. Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the population of Americans aged 100 or older rose 44 percent between 2000 and 2014. The Pew Research Center says that the world had more than four times as many centenarians in 2015 as it did in 1990.1,2 If you do live to 100, will your money last as long as you do? What financial steps may help you maintain your retirement savings and income? Consider these ideas.

Turning away from equity investments in retirement may seriously hinder the growth of your savings and your level of income.

Keep investing in equities. The S&P 500 does not automatically gain 10 percent or more each year, but it certainly has the potential to do so in any year. As the benchmark interest rate is still well below 1 percent, fixed-rate investments are not producing anything close to double-digit returns. Some fixed-rate vehicles are even failing to keep up with the current inflation rate (1.5 percent). Turning away from equity investments in retirement may seriously hinder the growth of your savings and your level of income.3 Arrange some kind of pension-like income. If you can retire with a pension, great; if not, you may want other income streams besides Social Security and distributions from investment accounts. Renting out some property may provide it, though, the cost of third-party management can cut into your revenue. Dividends can function like a passive income stream, albeit a highly variable one. Even creating online content may provide residual income. Hold off filing for Social Security. If you are in reasonably good health and think you may live into your 90s or beyond – and that could prove true for you – then retiring later and claiming Social Security later can make great financial sense. If you wait to claim your benefits at Full Retirement Age (which will range from 66 to 67, depending on your birthdate), you will have fewer years of retirement to fund than if you left work at 62 and claimed benefits immediately. By continuing to work, you are also allowing your retirement savings a few more years to potentially grow and compound when they are at their greatest – so this might be the wisest step of all. 44

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If your savings are large enough, you could try living only off the interest. If your invested assets equal $1 million and your investments return 5 percent in a year, could you live on that $50,000 plus Social Security or your pension in the succeeding year? You may be able to do that, perhaps easily depending on where you choose to live in retirement. You would not be able to do that every year, of course – you would have to dip into your principal if your portfolio returned almost nothing or took a loss. For every year you manage to live off the equivalent of your investment returns, however, your principal goes untouched. Funding 35 or 40 years of retirement will be a major financial challenge. The earlier you plan and invest to meet that challenge, the better. Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA / SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge 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 - money.usnews.com/money/blogs/planning-to-retire/ articles/2016-01-22/how-to-finance-living-until-100 [1/22/16] 2 - pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/04/21/worldscentenarian-population-projected-to-grow-eightfold-by-2050/ [4/21/16] 3 - tradingeconomics.com/united-states/inflation-cpi [10/20/16]

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 2016

Coloring Outside the Box BY TIM TIMMONS

People often ask me, “What is the difference between box color at the grocery store and professional color at a salon?” There are several major differences that can produce possibly unreliable and undesirable results. Knowing the differences will help you make an educated decision when it comes to choosing between box and professional color. Many things contribute to the end result of your hair color: application, color formula, hair condition and previous color services are a few. Box color is somewhat of a one-sizefits-all solution. The box includes a specific solution and a specific developer that does not take into account what your hair condition is in or what has been done to it in the past. It provides the same solution for the client with virgin (never before colored) blonde hair and the client with resistant gray hair. The coloring process is a personal thing and hair color needs to be able to adapt. The canvas you start with will affect the outcome. To illustrate the color selection process, I have created two formulas.

1. 2.

CURRENT HAIR + BOX COLOR = UNKNOWN RESULTS CURRENT HAIR + FORMULA CREATED FOR CLIENT = DESIRED RESULT

Because the current condition of your hair affects the outcome of your new color, it is important that the formula

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

created for application is personalized so you get the results you want. For example, if someone, has dark brown hair and desires to be a bright Reese Witherspoon blonde, she will not see these results by grabbing a box of blonde coloring from the grocery store. Most likely, she would end up with light brown hair and very brassy undertones. When it comes to hair color, like most things, you get what you pay for. If you run into undesired results or end up with damaged hair, it’s time to seek a professional. The time and money spent on corrective color can be quite a sacrifice. It does not surprise us when a correction takes three to four hours. With damage, a more long-term treatment plan is needed. So, when you contemplate color options, it is imperative to decide how important it is to have healthy and beautiful hair. You may end up wanting to ditch the box all together and head straight to the salon. Stylists are trained in color, chemistry and processing of color. A personalized solution takes into account the hair’s texture, density, porosity, color and length. Even your skin tone and eye color are important in determining what is best for your hair.

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 2016

The people behind Woodstock’s Favorite Boutiques In the last four years, Jodi Tiberio has opened six boutiques and built a staff of 60 employees, many of whom are single moms and recent college graduates. This year she opened an office and warehouse. However, her proudest accomplishment as an entrepreneur is running a company of dedicated employees. “I couldn’t do this without my team; they’re beside me every step of the way.,” Jodi said, explaining that the encouragement of her staff inspires her. “I’m doing this because they want to do it. I’m excited to come to work every day because I have the best people to work with.”

The company has four concepts with a variety of apparel and accessories to fit any woman or girl. While customer service is the focus of the company, it’s not necessarily Jodi’s primary focus. Jodi is more interested in creating a positive business culture that’s unique in the retail industry. “Our employees are dedicated and care about creating a company where people are valued. I’m proud of what we have developed, with the help of faithful employees and a supportive community,” she said.

Honey Belle

Paige Rinker

The newest addition to Tiberio Retail located at 102 Fowler St. offers trendy boutique style fashions for women who need plus sizes. There’s a strong emphasis on customer service at Honey Belle, where manager Paige Rinker works tirelessly to make shoppers feel special. “One of the best things about Honey Belle is the manager, Paige Rinker,” Jodi said. “She’s funny, sensitive, caring and she loves to help people. She loves being there and you can tell it. People are drawn to her.” Jodi describes the environment at Honey Belle as very social; the fitting rooms are spacious but have a cozy feel, with a sofa and plenty of room to shop with friends. Inspiration for the store came from watching shoppers leave Brooklynn’s or Branches with only a piece of jewelry or scarf, because they couldn’t find clothes in their sizes. Paige Rinker —Manager, Honey Belle “What I LOVE about my job: my management team, co-workers and owners are extremely knowledgeable and caring. They go out of their way to help you be the best you can be.”

Brooklynn’s

Shoppers can find a popular mix of preppy, boho and country styles in two locations: the newly expanded downtown Woodstock boutique at 490 Chambers St., and the store at Town Center Mall. Customers are enjoying the extra space in Woodstock, where each customer is greeted when she walks in. Jodi describes Brooklynn’s customers as very loyal, and she regularly offers special deals or giveaways to show her appreciation. “People have no idea how grateful I am for their loyalty,” Jodi said. Brooklynn’s is opening a new store in Panama City Beach in the popular Pier Park Shopping Center this month. Another location is planned for next August and they are in discussions for two new stores in 2018. Angie Mitchell — Manager, Brooklynn’s “What makes Brooklynn’s a great company to work for is our culture. We are a company made of women who care about our employees’ professional and personal success. We are given the freedom to be creative and make choices to help our business grow. Working at Brooklynn’s is like being part of a family.” 48

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Angie Mitchell, Kayla Hatfield

Sponsored Content

Corporate Team (from left): Erica Todd, Jodi Tiberio, Samantha Kinnison, Abigail Allen, Mari Pineda, Raychale Dukeman, Brooke Hawthorne

Branches

While the clothing in Brooklynn’s is brighter and more trendy, Branches offers boutique styles in more neutral shades. Between the two locations — 370 Chambers St. in downtown Woodstock and the Kroger Shopping Center in Towne Lake — women can find timeless styles. Manager Rochelle Mang goes above and beyond for the company by caring for customers and helping them create their own sense of style. “She’s a rockstar in my mind. She always looks beautiful,” Jodi said. “Rochelle has given me everything she has. I can’t even say how thankful I am for her.” The atmosphere at Branches, as well as the other stores, is nopressure. It’s important that a customer buy only the things she loves. If there’s any doubt, company policy allows for returns within seven days or exchanges within 30. Tiberio and her team are also opening a Branches Boutique in Kennesaw next door to the new Whole Foods. The store is set to open in the spring. Rochelle Mang — Manager, Branches in downtown Woodstock “I love helping the lady that comes into our store who says she hasn’t shopped for herself in years and she walks out of the store with a smile and clothes that make her feel good about herself.”

Julie Herring, Rochelle Mang

Madisonn Ave.

Janalyn Denard, Anna Greene, Sandy Parker

The boutique is for girls newborn to age 14, stocked with everything from sweet southern classic styles to trendy clothes for tweens that follow the Brooklynn’s style. Madisonn Ave. is located at 500 Chambers St. next door to Brooklynn’s. Jodi enjoys planning fun activities, such as the free sugar scrub sundae on Sundays. “We give away balloons all the time. We have a lot of fun at Madisonn Avenue,” Jodi said. Janalyn Denard— Manager, Madisonn Ave. “My favorite part of my job is the support and encouragement I receive on a daily basis. It is a wonderful feeling getting to come to a job I love every day and work alongside people who love it as much as I do.”

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Consider Furnace Upgrade for Energy Savings BY DAN JAPE

The rising cost of gas has many people in the market for a more efficient furnace before winter weather arrives. While most homeowners think they can save the most energy dollars on their cooling bills, a furnace upgrade gives the best and the quickest return on investment. There are two furnace efficiency categories (80 and 90 percent AFUE) and three basic types of gas furnaces (single stage, twostage and variable speed two-stage). AFUE stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency with the higher the number denoting the most efficiency. An 80 percent AFUE efficient furnace, the most popular type in Atlanta, uses 80 cents of a dollarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of gas to heat your home and sends 20 cents of waste up the chimney. This furnace has no standing pilot light and uses a metal exhaust pipe to vent the unburned gas and carbon monoxide fumes. It has a blower/fan called the draft inducer that injects air into the burner chamber to help the combustion process. This type of furnace will normally save 25 percent to 40 percent of the gas consumed by an old standing pilot type. A 90 percent AFUE furnace is so efficient that it no longer uses a metal flue pipe to take the waste products away. It is vented out the sidewall of your home using PVC piping and it takes fresh air for the combustion process from the outside instead of depleting the air in your home. This type is called a condensing furnace and like the 80 percent version, it also has no pilot and it has a draft inducer fan for a good clean burn. It has two heat exchangers to help the furnace use all but a very small amount of the gas

The most efficient furnaces today are 96.7 percent AFUE and only waste 3.3 cents on the dollar of gas consumed.

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burned to heat your home. The most efficient furnaces today are 96.7 percent AFUE and only waste 3.3 cents on the dollar of gas consumed. The 90 percent AFUE furnace is so efficient that water is condensed from the flue products and has to be disposed of in a sanitary drain or a freeze proof French drain. Within these two furnace categories, the three types are very similar in what they have to offer. Most are accustomed to the single stage furnace which, regardless of the outside temperature, puts out the same amount of heat constantly. A furnace has to be large enough to warm your home on the coldest day of the year, but the winters in the Southeast can fluctuate from extreme cold to moderate, so it would be logical that this type of furnace will heat the home very quickly on anything but the coldest day of the year. This quick heating only heats the air in your home, not the articles, walls, floors and people. The two-stage furnace solves this problem by having two stages or levels of heat that the furnace can produce; low and high. The low heat setting will allow the furnace to run longer at a lower heat output, which will allow a more evenly heated home and much more comfortable occupants. The variable speed two-stage furnace has two stages of heat, but combines the efficient operation of a D/C powered variable speed furnace blower to give you just the right amount of heat needed to achieve the most comfort available from any forced air natural gas furnace today. The D/C powered variable speed blower will save you more than $200 a year in electrical costs while speeding up or slowing down to give you just the right amount of heat needed.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Reel News

With numerous film projects landing in Cherokee County, we want to make sure we keep you informed on the recent releases and introduce you to some of the actors and actresses who have local ties. Special thanks to Laureen Muller at RCM Talent & Management for help in arranging the interviews, and providing material for future stories.

Acting Bug Bit Early for Woodstock Resident BY TORIE WINKLER

Georgia has become a popular destination for film and TV projects ranging from blockbuster Marvel superhero films to “The Walking Dead.” This has been great news for Southeast actors such as Woodstock resident Jim Dougherty, who has a career spanning 10 years and was recently cast in “Ozark,” a Netflix original series being filmed in Canton. “I knew I wanted to be an actor when I was 7 years old,” Dougherty said. “I loved playing cops and robbers. When I was 7 years old I had this idea that I wanted to be other people, like the people I was seeing on TV.” But Dougherty is no ordinary actor. He is also one of the founding members of the Chicago Stunt Team. “I trained in martial arts at the Degerberg Academy, so stunt work was the next logical step for me.” Dougherty trained under stuntman John Hicks Pierce and they began the Chicago Stunt Team around the late 1980s. “Since then, my stunt work has helped me book many jobs, both as an actor and as a stunt coordinator.” During his career, Dougherty has acted on both screen and stage across the country. But the experience that shaped his acting aspirations was an eighth grade original play. “We were rehearsing a few days before and everyone was joking continued on page 82

COMING SOON to a Theater Near You The following movies were filmed in Cherokee County and metro Atlanta.

• • • •

“Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk” filmed at the Georgia National Cemetery. Released in November. “Office Christmas Party” with Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman. December release. “The Passengers” with Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt. December release. “The Founder” with Michael Keaton filmed in Canton. Limited release Dec. 16. Full release will be Jan. 20. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Woodstock resident Jim Dougherty.

Actress Deena Dill.

From Athlete to Actress BY TORIE WINKLER

Actress Deena Dill, who spends time in her Woodstock home when she’s not traveling, took an unusual track to the movie industry. The student-athlete was “discovered” while she was focusing on athletics at a Tennessee university. “I got my first opportunity to act, if you can call it that, through athletics,” said Dill, who ran Division I track and was a cheerleader at Vanderbilt University. She was contacted by a producer in Nashville who saw her in an athletic department media guide. “They asked if I would play the love interest in a country music video. It sounded like a hoot and I decided to do it.” She then went on to model for several companies, but couldn’t get acting off her mind. “I really felt like I had to give it a try or I would always regret it.” That passion for acting has led to recurring guest roles on hit shows across many networks such as ABC, Nickelodeon and the CW. Fans of “iCarly” and “Suburgatory” would recognize her. Dill doesn’t pick favorites though, and enjoys working on everything from family comedies to sci-fi shows to intensely dramatic independent films. When it comes to experiences, however, she says that children’s shows have brought her the most joy. “Some of the most rewarding experiences of my life have come from meeting amazing kids and getting to try to help them through difficult times.” Dill is also involved behind the camera. She has produced, written and created her own shows both in the U.S. and abroad. She is an executive producer of the hit CW show “Oh Sit!,” which was named the best international game show of 2013. And although she says producing is more stressful, “it’s nice sometimes to be one of the folks more involved in calling the shots.” Next up for Dill is promotion for her newest film, “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk,” a drama directed by Academy Award winner Ang Lee. The film follows a war hero and his squadron, juxtaposing the realities of the Iraq war with the halftime show that honors them when they return to America. For a more comedic viewing experience you can catch Dill in the HBO comedy “Vice Principals” in early 2017. Follow Dill on Twitter and Instagram @DeenaDill.

Torie Winkler is a Woodstock native and a public relations coordinator for RCM Talent and Management. She can be reached at toriewinkler@gmail.com.

My Hillside is being close to God when I sing.

Beneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Traditional Worship

The best gift is not under the tree. The gift of a baby in a manger brings an abundant life filled with life-saving grace, peace and joy. This gift that God has given to us is our most lasting comfort in this troubled world.

M Y H I L L S I D E

Live the exceptional life in Christ.

CELEBRATE WHAT LASTS DECEMBER 24 TH SERVICES 3, 5, 7, & 10:30 pm in our Sanctuary (Holy Communion at 10:30) 2 & 4 pm in our Celebration Hall

DECEMBER 25 TH SERVICE One service at 11 am in our Sanctuary

770.924.4777 | HillsideUMC.org | 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy | Woodstock GA 30189 TOWNELAKER | December 2016

PHOTO BY DASHING IMAGES LLC.

SORBA Woodstock Race Season Finale

A Win for Local Trails BY LISA RANDALL

Top: Martin Maldinado of Canton on the Avalanche Trail. Right: Dan, Logan and Ella Kaufman of Atlanta on the duathlon podium in the three-person division.

Angelica Gatica of Acworth competed in the trail run. 54

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

A record number of mountain bikers and runners hit the trails on Oct. 22 for the 2016 Rope Mill Dirty Duathlon and Trail Run. The soldout event was the final SORBA Woodstock/Mountain Goat Adventures event of 2016 and raised $3,500 for local trail construction and maintenance, the bulk of which came from a large donation from the event’s title sponsor, Northside Hospital-Cherokee. Participants could choose to run a 3.3-mile trail run course or an offroad duathlon which consisted of 3.3 miles of trail running and 11 miles of mountain biking. During 2016, race events at Rope Mill Park and Blankets Creek have raised a combined total of $14,000 for SORBA Woodstock, which will be used to maintain and build new trails at the two parks. SORBA Woodstock is a volunteer organization that maintains nearly 30 miles of singletrack mountain bike trails in the Canton and Woodstock area. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit sorbawoodstock.org for upcoming trail work days. No experience is required and working on the trails is a great way to give back to the community.

Juan Velasquez of Woodstock on the Mill Trails.

Marika King of Canton on the duathlon podium in intermediate solo women.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

EVERYDAY

Dec. 29 marks the fifth anniversary of Tyler Rolison’s “Alive Day,” a holiday he created to commemorate the day of his tragic car accident and his second chance at life. In 2011, Tyler was a 17-year-old junior at Etowah High School returning home to Woodstock after spending Christmas break with his grandmother. While driving on Interstate 85, a car encroached into Tyler’s lane, causing him to lose control flipping his car five times. Tyler was airlifted to Atlanta Medical Center. His spinal cord injuries left him a quadriplegic. The raw and desperate emotions were overwhelming for his mother Pam. “It was so much bigger than me,” she said, “I didn’t even know where to begin. I desperately prayed and would figure the rest out later.” Pam, a single mom, had spent her life putting Tyler before herself. After the accident, Pam lost her job and had no place to live once Tyler was released from the Shepherd Center. Everyday Angels featured Tyler and Pam in January 2012; they witnessed a miraculous response. The community rallied, donated and raised funds to help Pam and Tyler return to solid ground. Pam’s father, who was trying to sell his home in Marietta, took it off the market so they would have a place to live. A complete stranger donated and installed a handicap shower in the garage while a local family whose son was born with disabilities purchased Christmas gifts and a new Guldmann lift system. “These donations were huge for my mom and I. I still use them every day and cannot thank them enough for all they did for us,” Tyler said. The past five years have been far from easy. Tyler has overcome countless setbacks and life-threatening infections. He graduated high school with his senior class, enrolled in community college, and volunteers at the Shepherd Center to mentor those in similar situations. Pam is a nurse technician at the Shepherd Center. When she is not caring for Tyler, she is helping

Tyler and his mother Pam. 56

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Tyler with high school friend Taylor Snow of the Braves’ Tomahawk team.

other spinal patients. “She puts their minds at ease because she can share our story and experiences with patients and parents. I am so proud of my mom. She has managed to positively change her path and passion,” Tyler said. Tyler recently had tendon and nerve transfer surgery and celebrates small progress. “I can now turn a doorknob, pinch, eat with a fork, paint my name and even throw a baseball. I believe my accident has changed me for the better. Before the accident, I was a selfish kid that was on the verge of making poor decisions that could have taken me down a very bad road. I believe the accident saved me. My body may not be whole, but my heart is full and my spirit and faith are stronger than ever. I have chosen to embrace who I am and my goal is to live independently – for myself and for my mom,” Tyler said. Tyler’s favorite sports team is the Atlanta Braves. “I go to their games even when they aren’t winning. I cried during the last game at Turner Field. We have made some special memories there – especially during the past five years when I had little to look forward to. My hope is to be able to afford a few handicapped games at the new stadium and continue to support my team.” Tyler’s next big adventure is to be able to drive independently. “I have taken driving classes and am saving for a newer truck so that it can be converted for me. I was given a second chance and it is my goal to get a degree in secondary education and minor in history and make a positive difference in this world.“ Everyday Angels is so proud of this amazing young man and his daily accomplishments. Tyler’s journey is a blessing to all who follow him. We wish you all a Christmas season filled with great love and joy and always remember the power of selfless giving and a compassionate community! Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org It is time for gatherings of family, friends and business associates to celebrate the many holidays of the season. Members of the TLBA and their guests, will celebrate together on Tuesday Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. at The Grille. There will be no monthly lunch ‘n learn for Dec.

LOOKING AHEAD Tuesday Jan. 17 will be the next lunch ‘n’ learn workshop. A great start for your new year with business coach Stephanie Hines. Friday, March 24 will be our fundraising golf tournament. For more information on sponsoring and playing, please go to www.tlba.org or contact any of the TLBA board members. We at the Towne Lake Business Association would like to thank you for a wonderful year and we look forward to celebrating a New Year with you. Thank you for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee!”

TLBA SPOTLIGHT The priority of Williams Orthodontics, a longtime staple in Woodstock and Canton, is to provide outstanding orthodontic care in a family-friendly environment. The practice uses the latest technological advances and equipment in the industry, including ceramic braces and Invisalign, along with the latest in computer technology (3D digital imaging and scanning, and advanced computer graphics) to ensure that patients receive the most effective care possible. Whether you’re an adult, adolescent or child, Dr. Michael Williams and his staff are committed to helping patients achieve a healthy beautiful smile they can be proud of. Dr. Williams, a board certified orthodontist, has been practicing in Woodstock and Canton since 1997. He is an active resident of the Cherokee County community and is also very active in organized dentistry. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Woodstock and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. Williams Orthodontics works closely with local schools through the partners in education program to educate children about dental health and other topics. Dr. Williams helps with several youth athletic teams and community activities and is proud to call Cherokee County home. Williams Orthodontics is on a mission to provide affordable, high-quality treatment to fit every budget. For more information, or to schedule your complimentary initial exam, call 770-592-5554 (Woodstock) or 770-345-4155 (Canton), email info@drwilliamsorthodontics.com, or visit www.drwilliamsorthodontics.com. TOWNELAKER | December 2016 57

O u t & Ab o u t Dec. 3 UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County will present a 10 a.m. seminar on making a holiday wreath using natural materials. Location is the Senior Service Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. Participants will need to bring some supplies. Class limit of 25 participants; register by calling 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.

Dec. 4 Crossfit Etowah is hosting a competition 9 a.m.4 p.m. to benefit Bert’s Big Adventure, a nonprofit organization that provides a magical, all-expenses-paid, five-day journey to Walt Disney World® for children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families. The competition will be a family event featuring interactive, fun activities for spectators of all ages. Registration is $195 for a team of three people, any gender combination, and includes an event shirt. The competition will include two divisions, RX and Scaled. For more information and to register, visit http://bit.ly/2g1O3v8.

Dec. 8 The Exchange meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Venue 92, 12015 Highway 92, Woodstock. December’s meeting theme is: My Favorite Things Party. The Exchange is a monthly gathering of women in Woodstock and Canton who meet to explore a topic, engage it in their lives and are empowered to live on purpose and with intention. www.theexchangega.org. Also on Facebook, The Woodstock Exchange.

Dec. 11 Bascomb Mission Thrift Store is holding an open house 3-5 p.m. at 9550 Main St., Woodstock. The store offers a food pantry and quality household goods and clothing at a low price. Regular business hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.

@ the Library w w w. S e q u o y a h Re g i o n a l L i b r a r y. o r g

Rose Creek • 770-591-1491 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Tuesdays

Knitting & Crocheting Group meets from 1−3 p.m. 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.

Wednesdays

Scribbles & Scrabbles 2-4 p.m. Drop by and de-stress by playing a game of Scrabble or coloring a picture. All materials will be provided.

Dec. 10

Lego Club meets at 3 p.m. with a different theme each month. Children can work alone or in teams to make their special creation, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. All ages are invited; ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Dec. 15

Experience Tai-Chi at 5:30 p.m. Let go of your inner Scrooge and enjoy a quiet moment. All fitness levels are welcome. Loose fitting clothing and flat shoes are suggested.

Woodstock • 770-926-5859 7735 Main St., Woodstock Dec. 10

Inklings, Writer’s Critique Group 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Individuals interested in starting a new group to support their writings are invited to attend. Meetings are the second Saturday of the month.

Dec. 12

Feeder Frenzy Craft for toddlers at 11 a.m. Make a birdfeeder to keep our feathered friends full during the chilly December days. This program will be outside on the back patio and the children will be making birdfeeders out of sunbutter, honey, birdseed, pinecones, and/or toilet paper rolls.

Dec. 16

American Girl Club at 4:30 p.m. Feel free to bring a doll. For ages 7-12.

Dec. 18

LEGO Club meets 3-4:30 p.m. Lego Club has a different theme each month. Children can work alone or in teams to make their special creation, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. All ages are invited; ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Dec. 20

Book Discussion Group at noon. Enjoy coffee, conversation and a book discussion with new friends. Everyone is welcome, new members encouraged. Call for more information, including this month’s title.

Sequoyah Regional Library System 58

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

116 Brown Industrial Pkwy • Canton, GA 30014 • 770-479-3090

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

We Danced BY SEAN KAUFMAN

Stress is a funny thing. It creates a shadow like the “boogie man” chasing you. When you finally get a moment of silence, it catches up to you and seems to make you begin to run even more, never giving you a chance to breathe. That’s what it was like building up to my last business trip. Eagle Watch had just lost Dick McSween — whom both my wife and I had grown to respect and cherish — to retirement. Saddened by this and a weekend full of running here and there for three children who play for Cherokee Impact Soccer, the opportunities to breathe were minimal. I know it is hard for my wife to see me struggle. I get so consumed with where I am going and what I have to do that I literally lack the ability to see she is struggling. To make things worse, I put more weight on the family’s foundation by increasing my expectations of her instead of slowing down to appreciate her. On the way to the airport we were both stressed and sad, regretful we had not stopped for a moment to appreciate each other. We were consumed by the stress of the moment, focusing on what we didn’t have and what we would be

We tend to attack our loved ones and take them for granted.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

missing. She was hurting and I knew it, which of course hurt me. When we arrived at the departures terminal, I jumped out of our convertible, picked a love song, blasted it, grabbed my wife, and we danced right there — holding each other tight and crying together. I couldn’t have her for the next seven days, but we could have each other in that moment, and we did. We even made others cry with us! This holiday season the boogie man will be out and our stress levels will be high. We tend to attack our loved ones and take them for granted. When it becomes overwhelming, when you feel you cannot breathe, and when you feel like you just need a break, pick a nice relaxing song, grab the one you love, look him or her in the eyes, and take that chance to give up the moment and get lost together. It may not end the stress, but it will reduce it while shining light on the shadow following you around. Merry Christmas, happy holidays and blessings 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

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ReliableAir.com (770) 594-9969 TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Towne Lake Area Dining Guide RESTAURANT

CUISINE

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS

RESERV.

*Cancun Mexican Grill, 4430 Towne Lake Parkway

Mexican

open

full bar

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

American

open

see ad pg. 33

China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com

call ahead seating

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

open

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net

Homestyle Cooking

closed

GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

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

Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 Irish/Pub no $$ $$-$$$ open full bar 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net

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

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

Mexican

open

full bar

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/

$-$$

open

beer/wine

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

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Chinese

$-$$

open

Panera Bread, 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809, panerabread.com Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com Song’s Garden, 4451 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-8387, songsgarden.com The Grille at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Golf Club 770-592-9969

American $ $ $-$$ open full bar Casual

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

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

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

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

*Volcano Steak & Sushi, 2990 Eagle Drive see ad pg. 1 678-498-7888, volcanowoodstock.com

Asian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

special events

* Denotes Advertiser

Chili’s Bar & Grill, 1460 Towne Lake Parkway American no $ $-$$ open full bar 770-592-7676, chilis.com

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

770-693-4680

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Offered in Acworth, Austell, East Cobb, Marietta & Woodstock. Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to determine eligibility and to schedule an appointment.

Basic Risk Assessment – $49 • Age 18+ • BMI • Wellness survey • EKG (Afib screen) • Blood pressure • Blood work (HDL, LDL, Triglycerides, Glucose, CRP, liver function)

• Risk Screen Questionnaire (sleep apnea, PAD, AAA, CHF)

Advanced Risk Assessment – $139 • Age 40+ • BMI • Wellness survey • EKG (Afib screen) • Blood pressure • Blood work (HDL, LDL, Triglycerides, Glucose, CRP, liver function)

• Risk Screen Questionnaire (sleep apnea, PAD, AAA, CHF)

• CT heart screen (coronary calcium)* • 10 year cardiovascular disease risk score Heart Screen – $99 or $149 per couple • CT heart screen (coronary calcium)*

* Coronary calcium scores read by a WellStar radiologist.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Health & Wellness

Grinding Your Teeth Away BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

Humans typically grind their teeth during sleep as a subconscious and involuntary habit. Grinding teeth, also called bruxism, occurs at all ages and it is estimated that 30 million to 40 million children and adults are affected. Bruxism is better defined as excessive teeth grinding or jaw clenching. It is not related to normal functions such as eating or talking. Most people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time; occasional teeth grinding is not usually harmful. It is the regular habit of grinding your teeth that causes damage and other oral health issues. Teeth grinding is often associated with stress and anxiety, but it is more likely caused by an abnormal bite, missing teeth or crooked teeth. Tooth abnormalities trigger the brain into trying to correct the problem by invoking the action of grinding. It can also be activated by a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea. Grinding of teeth often occurs during sleep, so the person isn’t aware they are doing it. Awareness may happen indirectly based upon a dull, constant headache or sore jaw muscles or sore teeth. Teeth may fracture or become loose. A frequent grinder with strong intensity can wear the enamel off their teeth over time, exposing dentin, which can

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

make teeth sensitive to hot and cold. The best evidence of someone consistently grinding is when their loved one hears them and reports the problem to them. If grinding does enough damage over time, a person may require root canals, crowns, bridges, implants, partial dentures or even complete dentures. The simplest and quickest way to prevent damage from grinding is to be fitted by your dentist with a mouth guard. The most sophisticated appliances have a comfortable soft inner lining with a hard outer shell. Other techniques to reduce bruxism include alleviating stress through exercise and the use of prescription muscle relaxers. Avoid alcohol and decrease caffeine intake. Don’t routinely chew gum or other objects; which stimulate the jaw muscles used in grinding.

Dr. Scott Harden, a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry, has served Woodstock for more than 25 years. 770-926-0000. www.FountainViewSmiles.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

If Mama Ain’t Happy … BY DR. AMY HARDIN

In the 1970s, a bunch of dads were standing around talking during one of my parents’ cocktail parties. One said, “Happy wife, happy life” to which the other dads shook their heads in agreement. Flash forward to 2004 when a friend of mine gave me a plaque that I still display with pride in my kitchen, “The Golden Rule: If mom is happy, you’re golden!” Alas, this month’s article is not how to have it all, but how taking care of yourself makes you a better and happier mom. First, being a mom is HARD work! Because you’re not just a mom, are you? You’re a wife, mom, medic, taxi driver, chief scheduler, cook and 50 other roles. Both moms who stay at home and moms who work full or part time are working a giant schedule. You probably wonder: when do I have time to take care of myself? First of all, sleep is really important. Lack of sleep can cause depression, anxiety, weight gain, and difficulty concentrating. We know this is next to impossible the first year of a baby’s life, but experts say seven hours at minimum is what’s needed. DVR your favorite TV show and watch without commercials. Turn off Facebook or Pinterest. Go to bed! We know you can function

Alas, this month’s article is not how to have it all, but how taking care of yourself makes you a better and happier mom.

on four to five hours of sleep, but that doesn’t mean (especially long-term) it’s good for you. Healthy diets in moms equal healthy diets in kids. Make sure to practice what you preach, and eat a healthy diet. Spend more time in the produce aisle and less in the chip aisle at the grocery store. Exercising can be a family or solo affair. Even a quick walk back and forth from the bus stop or in the neighborhood for 20 minutes, three to four times a week, has been shown to decrease the risk for heart disease, often a silent killer of women. I remember my mom joining a racquetball league when she was 40 to get some exercise. She did great and took glee in beating the 20-year-olds! Finally, being a mom (especially in these days with social media) can be isolating. Find a group of like-minded friends, which can include family members, women in your neighborhood or church, or folks from work. We found our best friends via our kids and their parents. And those “friends” who aren’t good friends — cut them off. Toxic relationships, especially those that put you down to push themselves up, aren’t good for your kids or yourself. Life isn’t always going to be hearts and flowers, but doing even a little something for yourself makes a difference!

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

When Giving Gives Back BY AMBER YORK, DC

Gift giving is a major part of celebrating the holidays, but did you know the act of giving offers physical and psychological benefits? Each of us has a different reason for giving, whether it’s family tradition, to feel good about ourselves, to brighten someone’s day or to take advantage of a last minute tax deduction. But each of us receives much more than we give through the benefits to our health. In the chiropractic field, we talk about physical, chemical and emotional stressors in our day-to-day life that cause dysfunction, or subluxation. When subluxation is present, abnormal stress accelerates wear and tear on the surrounding spinal muscles, ligaments and discs causing pain, tenderness and decreased spinal mobility. Subluxations also have the potential to impair proper nerve function. Once this function is compromised, communication within the body becomes less effective and can alter your overall health and wellness. Reducing subluxations and their effect on our health can happen when we reduce daily stressors. In relation to the holidays and the act of giving, the old adage is true: it is better to give than receive. Multiple studies have shown that giving is good for the giver both mentally and physically. Reports of lower blood pressure, increased 66

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

self-esteem, less depression, lower stress levels, a longer life and greater happiness have all been made in correlation with those who volunteered, offered emotional support or made a charitable donation as compared with those who did not. Studies have also shown that people are more willing to give during the holiday season and a direct relationship was made between the amount of giving and the increase in general health. Meaning the more we give, the happier and healthier we are. When we lower our stress levels by giving we can decrease the occurrence of subluxations and its negative effects on our health and wellness. To stay healthy this holiday season, find time to give back to the community, donate to your favorite charity, purchase a gift for an “angel tree,” donate dog food to an animal shelter, blankets to your local hospitals, or send a package to a soldier overseas. The opportunities are endless and the rewards are priceless.

Dr. Amber York is a Life University graduate specializing in low force adjusting at Towne Lake Family Chiropractic.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Hypertension

A Silent Killer BY SAMINA FAKHR, M.D.

It’s normal for people to get symptoms and diagnose themselves with something far worse than what they actually have. But what people rarely worry about is something that kills Americans every day: hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. Physicians can help patients protect themselves against this asymptomatic condition, which can lead to multiple health problems. Protecting yourself starts with a phone call to schedule your annual physical. Blood pressure is measured as the systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. Normal blood pressure is less than 120 over less than 80. The top number is the pressure inside your arteries when your heart is contracting at the time of a heartbeat. The bottom number is the pressure inside your arteries when your heart is relaxed between heartbeats. We need to keep high blood pressure under control because it can lead to major health issues, such as: • Heart failure, causing shortness of breath and leg swelling • Stroke and brain hemorrhage, leading to long-term side effects that affect speech and activities of daily living • Ischemic heart disease such as heart attacks • Chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease • Blood vessel damage in the eyes, leading to loss of vision

We are able to recognize hypertension when we see patients for an annual physical and do a simple blood pressure measurement. When a patient has high blood pressure, first we’ll confirm if it is persistent. We also look for other possible causes of high blood pressure such as oral contraceptives, decongestants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (for example, Advil or Aleve) or even sleep apnea. Once high blood pressure is confirmed, a variety of medicines help manage it. We also encourage patients to quit smoking if they smoke, walk 30 minutes a day and lose weight. Losing just 10 pounds can make a significant difference in reducing blood pressure. One of my patients had bariatric surgery and combined with lifestyle changes, he was able to completely come off of his medication for high blood pressure. Hypertension affects nearly a third of our population and it’s believed that one in five people don’t even know they have it. It affects everyone no matter your gender or ethnicity. African Americans have slighter higher instances. But it’s manageable for all of us. You can take a step toward living a better life with something as easy as an annual physical. One call could save your life. That makes it hard to argue with picking up the phone, right?

Samina Fakrh, M.D. is a family medicine practitioner at WellStar Towne Lake Medical Center, 145 N. Medical Parkway, Woodstock. 770-592-3000.

Making Holiday Table Talk Easier BY DR. CHRISTA NELMS

As families gather to share holiday meals, it may become more apparent when a loved one struggles to hear the table conversation. Mark Ross, Ph.D. once stated that “when someone in the family has a hearing loss, the entire family has a hearing problem.” Communication involves both the listener and the communication partner. It is important to use effective strategies on both ends of the conversation to best facilitate communication. For the listener, it is important to be an active participant. Avoid using words like “huh” because they are vague and, when repeated frequently, can be frustrating for both parties involved. Instead, consider using clarification phrases such as “I heard you say” and repeat the parts of the conversation that you did understand. It is important to be clear and specific in your request for clarification. For example, instead of saying “what?” you can say “could you please slow down, I cannot understand you when speak that quickly.” Be sure to look at the person speaking to you. This can be a huge help, especially if there is excessive background noise. Controlling your environment by turning off the TV or stepping into an area that is a little quieter is a great idea.

It is important to use effective strategies on both ends of the conversation to best facilitate communication.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

For the communication partner, speak at a natural pace without raising your voice. Yelling at someone does not necessarily make the message clearer and can actually lead to distortion. Speaking slowly can help a person with hearing loss process what is being said more effectively. Be sure to get the listener’s attention first so he or she can use visual cues to help supplement the message. It is also important that you are facing the listener when speaking. Whether we realize it or not, everyone relies on lip reading and facial cues for accurate communication. Out of habit, we may cover our mouths when we speak; be sure to keep hands and objects away from hiding those important visual cues. Hearing devices are aids and are not perfect, but can certainly help you hear loved ones more clearly. Realistic expectations must be established. For example, it is not realistic to hear everyone at a 12-person table. It is, however, realistic to hear a few people next to you. Perhaps most importantly, remember to be easy on yourself! The holidays are meant to be enjoyable and a time to create positive, lasting memories. Try some of these strategies the next time you and your friends or family members are gathered and enjoy your time together.

Christa Nelms, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2000.

The Underlying Gift in a Gift Exchange BY MELISSA MINTZ

It is officially the holiday season! It is the time of year when people are cheerful and happy to get some time off work, visit family and friends, shop, attend holiday parties, and buy gifts. Lots of gifts. Finding the right gift for each person on your list can be very stressful. Will they like the gift? Am I spending enough, or too little money? What if they don’t get me a gift? What should I buy for my boss? Do I give gifts to all my kid’s teachers? We assume that everyone loves to receive gifts, but many people find it difficult to accept a gift. We may feel awkward or anxious when receiving a gift for holidays, birthdays, or even from someone expressing their gratitude or appreciation for something we did. Some of us seem to be better at gift-giving than gift-receiving. There are times we may turn down a gift or an act of kindness because we feel too uncomfortable to accept. It’s good to think about it from another perspective. Think about a past situation when your gift was rejected and how you felt. You may have felt embarrassed and possibly a little inappropriate. Did you know that when we accept a gift and offers of assistance, we are giving a gift back to the giver of the gift? The “gift” we are giving back is helping to fulfill the desire of the person wanting to do something positive for us. People have a need to help and to do good. It makes us happy. We are uplifted. We feel good about ourselves when we do nice things. You are gifting all these wonderful feelings to the giver of the gift. When you accept, this is essentially a gift exchange. You now become the gift-receiver and the gift-giver. At first, you may feel a little out of your comfort zone. But keep in mind that you are also giving a gift back to the other person by honoring their need to help you and to do good. When you accept the gift they have brought, you are helping them fulfill a purpose that makes them feel appreciated as well. Next time, look the giver in the eyes, smile and say, “Thank you” or, ”I appreciate that.” Graciously accept.

Melissa Mintz is an Energy Medicine Healer in Woodstock, GA. Melissa is the author of “It’s Just MY Nonsense” and “Excuse Me! Your Energy is Showing.” www.melissamintz.com

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facebook.com/masterscapes TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Faith

Each of Us is an Innkeeper BY THE REV. DR. JOHN BEYERS

It remains for me a favorite Christmas memory: I was chosen to play the role of Joseph in my second grade Christmas pageant! My great-grandmother, who had recently traveled to the Holy Land, made me an authentic-looking shepherd’s costume. Because of that happy memory, I love this story: It was the biggest event of the year in the little town – the annual Christmas pageant. When it came time for casting the various parts, every child was hoping to be included. On audition day, it didn’t take long to match each part with just the right girl or boy. However, there was Harold. He really wanted a part, but because of his learning challenges, the director passed him over. Undaunted, Harold kept asking for a part. Finally, the director relented and gave him the role of the Innkeeper, — the part with one simple line. Little did she know that she had set the stage for the most memorable Christmas pageant of all time. Backstage on the big night, the shepherds were putting on their bathrobes, the angels were adjusting their wings, everyone was reviewing their parts, and the director was going over the Innkeeper’s line one more time. Slowly, but surely, Harold repeated, “I’m sorry, we have no room.” As the pageant neared its end, a weary Mary and Joseph trudged up to the inn door desperately looking for shelter. Joseph knocked but nothing happened. The

When the Son of God is knocking at your door, you must make room for Him. And when you make room for Him, He enables you to make room for others.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

director whispered, “Now, Harold, now!” The homemade set began to shake as Harold was struggling to get the door open. Finally, standing there in his bathrobe, Harold listened as Joseph begged for a room. But Harold said nothing. The director whispered, “I’m sorry, we have no room.” Another long pause. Slowly, Harold struggled through his line as he slowly closed the door. As Mary and Joseph began to turn away, an unforgettable moment came. The door suddenly opened and Harold ran after Mary and Joseph. In a voice loud enough for the whole town to hear, Harold yelled, “Wait! Wait! You can have my room!” Wow! Harold understood exactly what Christmas means. When the Son of God is knocking at your door, you must make room for Him. And when you make room for Him, He enables you to make room for others. It seems that not much has changed across the 2,000 years since Jesus was born. We still live in a closed-fisted, closedhearted world — closed to the hurts of others, closed to the injustice that surrounds us, closed to the plight of the poor, closed to the cries of the needy, closed to the immigrants in our community, closed to brokenness deep in the human spirit. Is there any hope? At this happy season, the Savior who was born in Bethlehem is knocking on the door of your heart. Will you meet Him in the face of the poor, and the grieving, and the hurting? Will you make room for the Christ Child by making room for someone else in His name? This Christmas I want to be like Harold and declare, “You can have my room!”

Dr. John Beyers has served in the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church since 1987, and currently is senior pastor of Hillside UMC. He can be reached at jbeyers@hillsideumc.org.

Marriage Moments:

A Positive Influence Always Can Save Relationships BY BILL RATLIFF

Most married couples do not have any clue how much influence their marriage has on the lives of other people. As a teenager, I had a Sunday school teacher who seemed to really care about us and our struggles. When he announced to the class that he was stepping aside as our teacher because he and his wife were getting a divorce, it broke my heart. I viewed him as a good role model until this announcement. As a newly married couple, my wife and I got involved in a Bible study taught by a church leader and his wife. Most of the time the Bible study was held at their home. As a result, we also got to know and love their children. After we moved to a different state to go to seminary, we heard that this man divorced his wife in favor of another woman. Several years later he divorced again. This hurt all of us who had known and loved his family. While in seminary, I led a youth retreat and drove the bus full of youth home. When we got back to the church, I was escorted inside where I learned that the pastor was having an affair and was resigning. After a lengthy meeting with church leadership,

I was asked to preach the next day. As you can imagine, there was an ocean of hurt that next day as I led the worship service. I have also been privy to couples on the verge of divorce who decided — based on biblical principles — to re-launch their marriages. As a result some of them were able to experience deeper love and intimacy, and to greatly influence their friends and family who had given up hope for their own marriages to survive. This Christmas season, make your marriage a testimony of God’s goodness to your family and friends. Your influence does make a difference! Check out Hebrews 13:4 and Philippians 2:15.

Date Your Mate: Over the Christmas holiday, find a place where artificial snow is made so you and your mate can enjoy a winter wonderland. Stone Mountain is a nearby venue with snow and lots of holiday lights and fun.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Cherokee Photography Club

Congratulations to all the participants in the “Animal Portraits” 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 Cassandra Bickel “Strike a Pose”

2nd Russ Miller “Alligator”

3rd Rick Sapp “Feathered Friend”

HM Jay Minor “Birds of a Feather”

Color Prints:

1st Rick Sapp “Post Position” 74 TOWNELAKER | December 2016

2nd Eillene Kirk “Jessie Mae”

HM Kim Bates “Blu”

3rd Cassandra Bickel “Day in the Life of a Cat”

HM Vickie Sellers “Majestic Black-faced Suffolk Sheep”

Digital Projection:

1st Vicki Sellers “Pretty Bird”

2nd Brenda Rehrig “Beach Happiness”

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@ comcast.net. 3rd Eillene Kirk “Lobo”

HM Jay Minor “Ready for my Closeup” TOWNELAKER | December 2016

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN OCTOBER

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

School & Sports

One Act Play Produces Multiple Awards Etowah High School Drama recently won first place at the GHSA Region 4-AAAAAAA one act play competition with a presentation of “The Curious Savage.” The group also won awards for best technical crew, best actor (M.J. Smith), best actress (Kaitlyn Jones) and allstar cast members (Delaney Stemmerman and Jenna Klein).

Front row, from left: Jules Reed, Rachel Crosby, Delaney Stemmerman, Kaitlyn Jones, MJ Smith, Megan Crosby, Charlotte Forrest, Molly Foster, Logan Becker and Jenna Lehman. Middle row: Michael Keeton, Reagan Cipollina, Brandon Huynh, Adam Parbhoo, Katelyn Chupp, Madeline Periut and Vivianna Cardona. Back row: Jake Peterson, John Atwell, Brandon Cali, Autumn Tapp, Jasmin Felgueres, Paola De La Rosa, Abigale Montgomery, Ansley Coyle, Ashley Barnett, KC Phillips, Emily Nesbit, Hannah Gathercole, Alex Toler, Sam McCannon, Elizabeth Hughes, Rachel Hollingshead, Cassidy Hall, Blake Johnson, Trevor Jenkins and Jaden Jackson.

Collection of Short Stories Highlights Students’ Talents During the 2015-16 school year, students from Joseph Lemmo’s seventh-grade language arts classes wrote and illustrated a series of short stories that came together as “The Lost Journal of the Missing Thwarsh: A Collection of Short Stories That Have Nothing to do with Each Other.” Students from the project recently held a book signing party to share the anthology of their hard work. According to them, the stories are intended to “take the reader into a world of imagination and self-discovery.” The books are available at Yawn’s Books and More, 198 North St., Canton, Ga., or online at amazon.com, yawnspublishing.com and barnesandnoble.com (ISBN 978-1-943529-58-2).

From left: Claire Wright, Kiana Walker, Alexandra Feldam, Jedidiah Davis, Korbin Roberson, Jordan Fansler and teacher Joseph Lemmo. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

g n i m o c e m o H Woodstock High

Homecoming king is Kobe Overton, queen is Imani Lusega.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Students Share Appreciation for Bus Drivers Last month the Cherokee County school district celebrated School Bus Driver Appreciation and School Bus Safety Week. Some students shared what they appreciate most about their bus driver.Â

From left: Terry Morrison, Joan Conkey, Debbie Arneson (members of Towne Lake Optimist Club), Noah Minter, Josh Farrell (teacher and adviser for Robotics Club), Principal Keith Ball and Optimist Club President Charlice Byrd.

Robotics Club Receives Support The Towne Lake Optimist Club recently presented a $1,500 check to the Etowah High School FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Club, known as the Electric Eagles. FIRST is an international youth organization that helps inspire students who are interested in the fields of engineering and technology. The FIRST Robotics Competition involves teams of high school students and their mentors, who work during a six-week period to build game-playing robots that weigh up to 120 pounds. The robots compete in various tasks and awards are given for entrepreneurship, creativity, engineering, industrial design and safety, to name a few.

Woodstock Middle School sixth-grader Robert McInnis tells why he appreciates Cheri Chambers, driver of bus No. 504.

Bascomb Elementary School third-grader Cooper Hendrix appreciates the driver of bus No. 370, Brian Murray.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Effective Communication

All I Want For Christmas Is ... BY JOSEPH LEMMO

This school year, the philosophy in my language arts classroom is based on the statement ... “Effective communication is essential in order for any success to occur.” This month I asked students, “How do I effectively communicate what I want for Christmas?” I can’t wait for Christmas! Christmas is my favorite time of year! I get to see my family and celebrate! I also don’t mind getting presents. I always make a list. My list is handwritten. I like to choose what I put on my Christmas list Gabrielle Bridges carefully. Throughout the year there is always “stuff” I want. When I find something I like that I can’t get with my own money, I store that information in my brain and wait until Christmas rolls around. My choices are careful and I don’t ask for a lot because I don’t want to seem greedy. How I get my mom to read it is a different story. To help get my mom to look at my list, I write it and actually show it to her. On my list are a few special items. If there is something that I want that is not on my list, I will casually hint about it. I am a person who is not hard to please, so I like pretty much anything I get for Christmas. I make a list so that my mom won’t forget and so that I won’t forget to tell her. That is pretty much how I communicate my Christmas list effectively. Have a merry Christmas!

What is the hardest part of making a Christmas list? If you said effectively communicating what you want, I agree with you, and you’re reading the right Levi Helms thing. The first thing you will want to do is know what you want. If you don’t know what you want, how will you communicate it effectively? It would be very difficult. The second thing you will want to do is write it down, so you don’t forget. Also you should write down why you want each one. Try to make why you want it descriptive. Next, you need to tell your parents what you want and why you want it, using what you wrote down next to each word. If they say no, try using reverse psychology at a later date. Last, wait for Christmas and hope you get what you want. Follow these steps, and you will have effectively communicated what you want for Christmas to your parents.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

It’s that time of year again! Christmas! That time of year when you can just lay on the couch with your fuzziest blanket and watch Ryan Lofland classic Christmas movies. The smell of hot chocolate and the cool crisp winter air. Isn’t it wonderful? Also, there is all the presents! Waking up bright and early on Christmas Day to open gifts you have been dreaming of for months. The thing is, when you’re a kid, it’s hard to persuade your parents to give you a gift you’ve always wanted. Communicating effectively can get your parents to give you that one gift. Communicating effectively to get your Christmas wishes gives your family reasons why you should have that present. Like saying, “Can I please have a dog? I should have a dog because it will teach me responsibility.” That’s a good explanation of why you should have a dog, rather than, “Can I please have a dog? I want one super-duper bad!” That’s not giving a reason why you should have dog. Well, hopefully communicating effectively can get your parents to get your Christmas wishes! Merry Christmas!

Christmas is just around the corner! We all celebrate Christmas differently, but one thing we all have in common is that we all like presents! Christmas is my favorite holiday, so I love everything. The cold, Christmas parties, hanging around Zoe Henderson the fireplace with hot chocolate, the food, and celebrating that Jesus was born! I am writing to you today about Christmas lists and how to communicate effectively while writing one. We all want a lot of things, but let’s be honest, we can’t have everything we want. You can communicate effectively when writing a Christmas list by writing everything down on a piece of paper or something, and then go up to your parents (if you have time) and sit down with them so you can talk things through. If you just give the list to them and walk away, how will they be able to understand the specifics? When you get a chance to sit down and discuss it with someone you live with, talk about everything on the list. Narrow the things down to what you really want, so your parents aren’t wasting money on something you won’t do anything with. Then discuss the pricing, where you will get it, and the specifics (like if we are talking about clothes what color, what brand, long sleeve or short sleeve, etc.). I hope this helped you out a little! Thank you for taking the time to read this article!

Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County since 2000. He performs improv in the Atlanta area. He and his wife have one son.

A Winning Note for EHS Chorus

Congratulations to the Etowah High School Elite Chorus for winning the Southern Invitational in Statesboro.

Scholarships Offered for Agricultural Studies The Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Foundation for Agriculture is offering up to $60,500 in scholarships to Georgia students pursuing a degree related to agriculture, veterinary medicine, family and consumer sciences or a related field. Locally, the Cherokee County Farm Bureau will award $75 to each high school senior who fills out an application for one of the available scholarships, and will award a $1,000 college scholarship to two Cherokee County high school seniors who plan to pursue an agriculture related degree. Available scholarships include: • Scholarship for Agriculture - for high school students who plan to enter a college that is part of the University System of Georgia, Berry College or Emmanuel College during the 2017-18 academic year to pursue an undergraduate degree in agricultural and environmental sciences, family and consumer sciences or a related agricultural field. The GFB Foundation will award five scholarships of $3,000 and seven scholarships of $1,500. • Technical College Scholarship for Agriculture - for high school students who plan to enroll in a Georgia accredited technical college who will be majoring in an area of agriculture or agriculturally related field of study. Ten scholarships of $1,000. • Rising College Junior/Senior Scholarship for Agriculture - for college students who have at least two semesters of college work remaining to receive an undergraduate degree from a unit of The University System of Georgia, Berry College or Emmanuel College and are majoring in agriculture and environmental sciences, family and consumer sciences or a related agriculture field. Ten scholarships of $2,000. • UGA College of Veterinary Medicine Scholarship - for students currently enrolled in the University of Georgia Veterinary Medicine program specializing in large animal/food animal practice. Two scholarships of $2,500. The deadline for applications is Feb. 3, 2017. Applications and scholarship eligibility requirements may be obtained from Cherokee County Farm Bureau office or downloaded at the GFB Foundation for Agriculture website at www.gfbfoundation.org. The scholarship recipients will be announced in the spring, and the scholarships will be distributed in the summer.

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Scaling Down the Holidays for More Joy BY LYNNE SAUNDERS

As a grandmother, I try to anticipate the magic of the holidays through the eyes of my grandchildren. When Christmas trees are being put up and people light up their houses and front yards, I imagine their “ooos” and “ahhhs!” They will have a nice long break from school, and there will be new stuff to play with ... for hours! Oh, to be able to re-create that anticipation for ourselves. It may not be too late to salvage the merriment of the Christmas holidays. Being a legal pad and a list person, I create a list for just about everything. I love paper schedules, too.

Maintain that inner peace created during Thanksgiving; that feeling in your spirit when you realize there are more blessings than problems. If you didn’t write them down, create that gratitude list now.

You will need a notebook, calendar, pen and 30 uninterrupted minutes to make thoughtful lists. You owe it to yourself to make a promise not to be stressed out. It will take some preparation and not just happen on its own. Carefully describe the feelings you want on the big day. Happy? Joyful? Confident? Five basic lists to create are: budget, decorating, people, gifts and events. (These same

Preserving the Republic One Ballot at a Time continued from page 14

governments, state and local governments affect your dayto-day lives significantly more often, and should be held the most accountable. Please take this article as both a congratulations and a challenge. We’ve proven yet again in 2016 that our people care a great deal about the future of our nation. We must continue to show that at every level of government. Don’t forget: 2017 will bring city elections. 2018 will bring us a new governor and many new state constitutional officers, a new legislature, and county and local officials. This cycle will end soon. We’ll all deserve a break and some much needed rest. Then the work of preserving our Republic begins again. 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! 82

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

lists work well if you are throwing a holiday party.) Start with your budget. How much, apart from your normal household finances, is available? This may be the first step of taking a realistic, honest look at your expectations versus those of others. If cut backs are needed, it will be easier if the conversation is held early. Gift buying and wrapping should be scheduled early to avoid last minute late, harried nights. Decorating can be a chore, or it can be exhilarating. Kids generally love to be a part, so if you have access to some, use them.

Cut it all in half! Find ways to cut back, or even eliminate. Make it a manageable plan and you will experience joyful success and no guilt for not reaching an unaccomplishable goal. Merry Christmas! 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.

Acting Bug Bit Early for Woodstock Resident continued from page 52

around except me. My teacher said ‘Jim is the only one up there who is actually doing any acting!’ That was when I first felt like I had something special and could get recognized for it.” Recently Dougherty has brought his talents to the classroom as an instructor at the Southeast Actors Academy in Kennesaw. “I enjoy helping my students learn what works for them and what helps them succeed. There are so many different approaches to our craft and there is no technique that works for everyone. You can really only share your experience. I think everyone who has achieved some level of success should be sharing that knowledge with others. Everyone has that little 7-year-old kid inside.” What’s next for the actor? In addition to “Ozark,” Dougherty has filmed roles for the Netflix mega-hit “House of Cards” and the John Cho-led drama “Columbus,” both of which will be released in 2017. You can currently see Dougherty in “Reparation” and the National Geographic film “Killing Reagan” as Judge William Higgins.

Welcome to DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

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TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Downtown Woodstock Offers Convenient Shopping BY KYLE BENNETT

Holiday shopping is in full swing and downtown Woodstock offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. In our historic setting, you will find more than 30 unique shops offering a wide range of items that make perfect gifts. If you are not sure what to buy, Downtown Dollars is the answer. This one-size-fits-all gift certificate is accepted at 40 businesses in the downtown shopping district. Downtown Dollars can be purchased Monday through Saturday at the Woodstock Visitors Center, located at 8588 Main St. The visitors center also has a great selection of locally themed gift items like Woodstock shirts, ornaments, magnets, art prints and more. Also while downtown, take advantage of the Woodstock Trolley to get around. The free trolley stops at various parking

locations downtown in addition to Reformation Brewery and The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, to name a few destinations. The trolley is a program of the Woodstock Downtown Development Authority.Â For more information and the schedule, go to www.downtownwoodstock.org/trolley/. For a full listing of downtown stores and restaurants, as well as upcoming events, visit www.VisitWoodstockGa.com.

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

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

Fri. Dec. 9 Christmas Concert at Woodstock Elementary School 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 2016

Elm Street

Communicating Through Art BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW

What is it about art that is so alluring, yet controversial? So basic, yet complex? So expensive, yet ignored? The term “art” can be defined in many ways: painting, music, dance, theater, literature — the list goes on. The dictionary defines “art” as something that is created with imagination and skill that expresses important ideas and feelings. In his essay “What is Art?” Leo Tolstoy states, “Art is not, as the metaphysicians say, the manifestation of some mysterious idea of beauty or God; it is not, as the aesthetical physiologists say, a game in which man lets off his excess of stored-up energy; it is not the expression of man’s emotions by external signs; it is not the production of pleasing objects; and, above all, it is not pleasure; but it is a union among men, joining them together in the same feelings, and indispensable for the life and progress toward well-being of individuals and of humanity.” So, why art? Why do I work in such a field that some people say is dying? Why do I do what I do? It’s a form of expression. It is part of my identity. I enjoy creating productions with others. And I especially love to share art with the community. I have always communicated through my creativity and imagination. I am a dreamer at heart and my aspirations are better expressed through my artistic endeavors. Never did I think that I could pursue a career in the performing arts. And I am extremely lucky to be part of an organization that is blossoming in downtown Woodstock. Recently, I’ve been encouraged to evaluate my life’s intention. Do I really enjoy what I do for a living? During the past 15 years, I’ve received tens of thousands of praises, thank yous, and hugs from children to adults. I’ve been criticized and misunderstood, only to research more and become stronger in my artistic worth. I’ve worked alongside those who admire my works and hundreds of those that I learn something new from every day. It’s the moments when someone connects with my art, my life, and they share a part of their lives with me, that make me want to reach everyone and help them make their own connection with art. Will I ever stop? Yes, when I don’t think I have any more to give.

I have always communicated through my creativity and imagination.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK PRESENTING PARTNER:

DEC 9-24

FRI/SAT AT 7:30PM SUN AT 2:00PM DEC 24 AT 2:00PM Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SPRING CLASSES ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251

Siobhan Brumbelow is on staff at Elm Street. She currently holds a BA in Theatre from Brenau University and toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre. TOWNELAKER | December 2016

KidsFest

2016

PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

The streets of downtown Woodstock were filled with all sorts of superheroes and super-cute kids collecting candy and wowing the crowds. The annual event is a favorite among young families looking for a safe place for their children to trick-or-treat. Youngsters enjoyed moonwalks, music, magic acts and games in addition to a costume contest. Keep an eye on the city’s website, www.woodstockga.gov, under the special events tab to make sure you don’t miss next year’s event.

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

A Celebration in Woodstock Nov. 12, 2016 She said YES! Nicole Heartage and Lee Moody.

Opening night at the new Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 Brunch freightkitchen.com Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican no $ $-$$ open Full bar yes 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no 150 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios 8722 Main St madlifestageandstudios.com

Southern

Magnolia Thomas Southern 108 Arnold Mill Rd. 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Omo Fish House 12900 Hwy 92, 770-575-9920 omofishhouse.com

Scandinavian Smokehouse & Café

Pure Taqueria Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 Tea room tealeavesandthyme.com Truck & Tap Variety of 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 Food trucks truckandtap.com Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com 88

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

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$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20 * denotes advertiser

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Veterans Honoring Our

Nov. 11, 2016 Downtown Woodstock

Craig McNabb, left, Matthew and TJ Henson and Bob Eckholm.

PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Ahimsa House helps victims of domestic violence 24-hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. 404-452-6248 www.ahimsahouse.org

Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.org

Angel House Girls Home is a residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com

Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly backto-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org

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. 678-504-6388 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org

Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org

Collins Dixon Foundation: Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness and helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Contact: Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. Bethany Place is a transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. 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. 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. 770-592-8072 Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 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. Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320 www.cherokeega.com/senior-services Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847 www.adoptapet.com Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 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. 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864 or info@hopectr.com www.hopectr.com HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other homegoods. 770-517-4450 www.seedsthriftstore.com Life Connection Ministries helps empower and provide humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. Florine Russell 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com Matthew E. Russell Foundation works to establish literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. Florine Russell 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org 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. 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net

Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348 office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net

North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303 www.ngapregnancy.org

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

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. Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org

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

Pet Buddies Food Pantry helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. 678-310-9858 www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Safe Kids Cherokee County provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 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. 770-516-1108 www.servone.org The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. Tom Prior 478-397-5542 www.theblueribbonfoundation.org Volunteer Aging Council is a nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474 www.vac-cherokeega.org 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. 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 7 pm Thursday Alanon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Reba 770-516-3502 American Heart Association - Cherokee Division 678-385-2013 American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695 Caregivers Alzheimers Support Group Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday of Every Other Month at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Rd. 678-494-4500 woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House 678-459-2347 www.MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com Cherokee County Support Group provides support for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Rd, Holly Springs. Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@comcast. net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294 christystephenson@msn.com Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround 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. Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637 gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690, info@gracevalleyministries.org www.gracevalleyministries.org Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Jeannie 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770-517-0191

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. Irma Martin 678-662-2366 Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 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 Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 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 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236 citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com

MOMS Club of Woodstock-TowneLake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock

Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. Marcie Zied 770-345-8687

MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777

Junior Service League of Woodstock 770-592-3535 www.jslwoodstock.org

Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. Kelly 678-677-2589 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. 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. 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 The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 www.xperienceconnections.com/ spotlight/woodstock/ Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills. 770-615-3350 www.tlba.org Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. every Friday at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. Wendy 404-8163377 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. info@womenofwoodstock.com www.womenofwoodstock.com Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at The Grille at Towne Lake Hills; Marc Replogle 770-952-5000 ext. 20.

Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20 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 92 770-480-4179 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 92 678-428-6514

Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at Jump Kitchen & Saloon, 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Woodstock 678-882-0915 www.cherokeecounty.gop Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 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. Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922 Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236 www.rwccga.com Recreation & Hobbies Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events , outings Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625 www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners 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 Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187 www.csaimpact.com

Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991 www.serviceleague.net

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com

South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills. 770-926-3522

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

Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Eagle Watch Golf Club. 404-557-2218 www.townelakeoptimists.com Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 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 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. www.cherokeelp.org

Kingdom Riders is 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, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. 770-924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. 678-445-6518 TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Reference

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

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

AME

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

BAPTIST

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Rd, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 230 Rope 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 Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

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 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 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

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.ecamarietta.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

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. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869 www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 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

UNITED METHODIST

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.mtgilead-umc.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 Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Rd. Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193

www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com 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 Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org 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.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’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 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org 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 Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com 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 Tower Church 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 678-230-3590 towerchurch.tv 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 Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org 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 2016

Reference

TOWNELAKER DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS ACCOUNTING/FINANCIAL SERVICES

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707

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

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

ASSISTED LIVING Insignia of Towne Lake 770-592-4242 www.insigniaoftownelake.com Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com

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

Massages by Megan 678-787-8833

Salon Gloss Spa & Protégé 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz

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

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS 7

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

Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com AUTOMOTIVE

Downtown Buzz 84 770-592-6056, www.downtownwoodstock. org/downtown-buzz Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Papa’s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 39 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com 770-926-9260 Spillane Orthodontics 770-928-4747 www.SpillaneOrtho.com

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

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

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

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

Fastfix 770-372-3819 www.faxfixrepairs.com

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

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

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

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

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

FUNERAL SERVICES Poole Funeral Home & Cremation Services 678-932-2097 www.poolefuneralhome.net

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

EDUCATION / INSTRUCTION

COMPUTERS

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

Renasant Bank Towne Lake: 678-388-5709 East Woodstock: 678-388-5328 www.renasantbank.com

Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, PC Woodstock: 770-924-1083 www.nworalmax.com

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

C & T Auto Service 770-928-5940 and 770-926-4276 www.CandTAutoService.com

Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com

Georgia Banking Company 770-226-8800 www.geobanking.com

Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

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

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

BANKING

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

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Dr. Ray Morgan Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

CHIROPRACTIC

Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

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

Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations Inside front 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

HEALTH & FITNESS LightVision Wellness, LLC 770-927-7511 www.melissamintz.com

R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277 CFM Electrical 678-614-9661 Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

OPTOMETRIST Eyes on Towne Lake 770-702-5996 www.eyesontownelake.com

PET/VETERINARIAN SERVICES & SUPPLIES

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR AquaDoc Plumbing 770-516-9000, www.plumdr.com

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

21 5 33 7

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

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Sassy Paws Pet Boutique 678-275-2126 www.sassypawspb.com

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

Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

Hammock’s A/C, Inc. 770-794-0428 www.HammocksHVAC.com

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com

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

Southeast Mortgage 770-279-0222, ext. 719 Todd Littlejohn: 678-662-3451 Terrell Team, The D: 770-928-6525, O: 770-345-8211 www.RealEstateAgent.net

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

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

Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com

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

Eagle Watch Golf Club 404-960-9225 www.eaglewatchgc.com

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

Etowah High School Basketball www.etowaheaglesbasketball.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD

Northside Hospital -Cherokee www.northside.com

Butchers Block 770-517-2225

Northside Pediatrics 770-928-0016 www.NorthsidePediatrics.com

Cancun Mexican Grill 770-693-4680 www.cancunmexicangrill.net

JD Kitchens Baths & More LLC 770-516-1602 www.JDKitchens.com

Perimeter North Family Medicine 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com

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

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 40 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

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

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

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

Wellstar Cardiac Network 770-956-STAR wellstar.org

SOTO Remodeling 404-376-5443

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

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

Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910

Volcano Steak & Sushi 678-498-7888

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Blue Frog Imports 770-592-0122 www.BlueFrogImports.biz

Leaning Ladder 678-401-2609 www.leaningladderoliveoil.com

Nature’s Corner Market 41 naturescornertownelake@gmail.com www.naturescornermarket.com Tiberio Retail Group

Cover, 48, 49

Masterscapes, Inc. 69 O: 678-445-6865 or C: 404-316-8252

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

Wild Birds Unlimited 770-928-314

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

Georgia Platinum Mortgage Matt Lillquist 9 Direct 770-274-2855, Cell 770-231-7868 www.GeorgiaPlatinumMortgage.com

Woodstock Antiques www.woodstockantiques.com

Julie Lillquist, Keller Williams 9 Cell 678-313-4927, Office 678-494-0644 www.LillquistPremierHomes.com

Woodstock Market 770-517-7771 www.woodstockmarket.com

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

TOWNELAKER | December 2016

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton, Acworth 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.

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