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SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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March 2015

Volume 2, Issue 12

16 Adventures in Scouting

Photos show boys, girls enjoying indoor and outdoor activities.

19

19 Everyday Angels

Teachers make a plea for wheelchair accessible van for student.

21 Healing Through Habitat

Women rally to raise money to build home for family.

23 It’s Fishing Time

Allatoona Lake is prepped, ready for spring anglers.

34 Consignment Sales

Take advantage of new and nearly new bargains.

45 Living Gluten Free

A guide to alternative flours with a bonus pretzel recipe.

46 Parents Be Aware

Dangerous drug is being disguised as lip balm.

47 Summer Camps

Options for children include dance and science themes.

50 Easter Eggstravaganzas

Decorating, hiding and hunting events for adults and children.

16

47

Contributing Writers Chantel Adams Don Akridge Kyle Bennett Siobhan Brumbelow Amy Cobb Cindy Crews Mitchell Grexa Jessica Guinn Delia Halverson Dr. Scott Harden Jan Henriques Leisa Jennings Kurt & Sheila Johnson Mark Kissel

38 31 54 58 23 46 41 56 20 42 44 32 30 46

In Every Issue Dr. Mike Litrel Rob Macmillan Rev. Joe McKechnie Carrie Mueller Matt Neal Lynne Saunders Susan Schulz David Silverman Jessica Leigh Smith Matthew Thomas Jodi Tiberio Scot Turner Lynne Watts

EDITORIAL questions and comments Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com

36 & 37 On the Cover Reliable Heating & Air 2

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

ADVERTISING questions and comments Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com

27 33 52 44 18 40 21 57 45 15 26 14 22

Around Sixes 4 Community News 8 Birthdays 12 Everyday Angels 19 Community Calendar 24 School News 48 Faith 50 Parking Map 53 Woodstock Dining Guide 55 Greenprint Trail Map 61 Recent Home Sales 62 Classifieds 69

Contact us and view the magazine online at

wwwSixesLivingMagazine.com

Join the Sixes Living magazine fan page

www.facebook.com/SixesLivingMagazine

www.twitter.com/SixesLivingMag


SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

AROUND SIXES The People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Sixes/Holly Springs What’s Open

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

Las Palmas Restaurant has opened at 2210 Holly Springs Parkway in Holly Springs. Agent Melissa Bassett has opened an American National Insurance office at 113 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 104, in Canton. Georgia Eye Partners opened an office at 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 312, the fourth office in the metro Atlanta area that includes Northside, Emory, Midtown and Johns Creek. 404-953-4044. www.GaEyePartners.com.

What’s Coming Vendor applications are being accepted for the May-October 2015 Woodstock farmers market season, sponsored by the Bank of North Georgia. Spots will fill quickly, so apply right away if you’re interested. http://bit.ly/1MrGqVE. The Tuesday market will be moved to Market Street, where the Saturday market is held. Tuesday hours will be 4:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday hours will be 8:30 a.m.-noon. For more info, contact Kyle Bennett at kbennett@woodstockga.gov or 770-924-0406. Woodstock city officials are reviewing construction plans for a 33,000-square-foot addition to The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta. Construction should begin late this spring. Marlow’s Tavern will open at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta this summer. Marlow’s features American tavern fare. A Which Wich Sandwich Shop will be built beside Marlow’s Tavern. Woodstock City Council approved Mad Life Studios to open at 8722 Main St., downtown Woodstock. Mad Life will be a combination restaurant, recording studio and live performance venue. Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. March 8, the time

when clocks should be set forward an hour. It’s also a good time to check batteries in home smoke detectors, flashlights and weather radios, and perform maintenance on home safety equipment. Fall is the projected opening date for a new Pollo Tropical restaurant at 188 Molly Lane, in what is now an empty parking lot in front of Hacienda Vieja Mexican Restaurant along Highway 92 near I-575. The interior of the 3,600-square-foot facility will feature a Caribbean style with wood-framed walls and wood trusses, along with a coastal exterior.

What’s New Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage associate broker Patti Bachtel and the Woodstock Downtown Team have opened a downtown Woodstock office at 102 Fowler Street. Email dlgorshe@gmail.com or visit www.gorsheteam.com Christie Deese has been named market manager for Sixes Living magazine. Christie joined AroundAbout Local Media in July 2014 in a marketing support role.

What’s Changed Fun Finds - Your Consignment Marketplace at 2765 Marietta Highway in Canton is now owned by Jeff and Lisa Bosworth.

Ribbon Cuttings Community & Southern Bank location at Copper Coin Coffee on Chambers Street in downtown Woodstock. Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency - Rec Center, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768 Falany & Hulse Women’s Center, P.C., 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 404, Woodstock. 770-720-8551 Brookdale Canton, an assisted living facility at 125 Riverstone Terrace, Canton. 770-720-9669

The Dirty Guv’nahs have been called a “fiercely soulful band” by the Boston Globe. 4

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

Greenprints Alliance is planning for Trailfest 2015, set for 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 2 and featuring musical headliner The Dirty Guv’nahs as well as David McCoy and The Coming Attractions The sixth annual event will take place on the Resurgens Orthopaedics Community State at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village adjacent to the start of the Town to Creek Trail. In addition to the concert, the event includes a 5K race, 1-mile Fun Run, food and beer vendors. Trailfest is the largest fundraiser for Greenprints Alliance. www.woodstocktrails.com/trailfest.


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

BridgeMill Dentistry Team

L. Michael Cox, DMD Member: GDA, ADA

Voted t entis Best D in a rs a e Y 10 Row

Complete Family Care Cosmetic Porcelain Veneers Implant Restorations Tooth Colored Fillings & Bondings Laser Teeth Whitening Cosmetic Imaging & Treatment Root Canal Therapy

Conveniently located just outside the main entrance of BridgeMill

3682 Sixes Road, Canton, GA 30114 bridgemilldentistry.com • (770) 704-1812 SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community Board

Sixes Living Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc.

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

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ALM President, Marketing & Advertising Sales Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Market Manager Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3324 Executive Editor Candi Hannigan Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3309 Assistant Editor Jackie Loudin Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3318 Art Director Michelle McCulloch Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3307 Graphic Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com Sixes Living, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Sixes, Holly Springs and Hickory Flat areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 16,250 free copies are distributed monthly; 15,000 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 1,250 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. Sixes Living welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Sixes Living is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015. Sixes Living

PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Dr., Ste. 620, Woodstock, GA 30189

For Advertising: Christie Deese, 770-615-3324 Website: www.sixeslivingmagazine.com Powered by TrustWorkz Inc. Volume 2, Issue 12


New Location, Accepting New Patients

We are proud to announce that we are expanding to provide services in both the Holly Springs and Woodstock communities. Our family friendly practice is dedicated to providing the highest-quality care possible, and offers treatment for sports-related injuries, concussion management and effective, minimally-invasive treatment procedures for all types of musculoskeletal conditions.

Northside/Da Imaging

Services Offered:

HOLLY SPRINGS WOODSTOCK

d.

Exit 11 (Sixes Road)

Jo

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sw ell R

• Treatment of pediatric, adolescent and adult patients • Prevention, evaluation and treatment of athletic injuries • Diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the upper and lower extremities • Total joint replacements (hip, knee, ankle & shoulder) • Diagnosis, evaluation and management of concussions • Fracture care

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NEW 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 320, Woodstock, GA 30189 son Fe rr y Rd 684 Sixes Road, Suite 130, Holly Springs, GA 30115 . (770) 517-6636 • northsidecherokeeortho.com

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Woodstock Recognized for Successful Planning The city of Woodstock is one of 10 communities recognized by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for excellence in community planning. The city has earned the state’s first “PlanFirst” designation, which acknowledges communities that have a proven record of implementing their plan and a history of good plan development. “Good planning by local communities is the hallmark of economic growth,” said Gretchen Corbin, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. “These are communities that can serve as statewide models for others in how to actively and strategically implement a vision for the future.” The designation, which went into effect Jan. 1, will last for three years and allows the city to take advantage of incentives that include public visibility, eligibility for funding and certain reduced interest loans. Search www.dca.ga.gov for more info about PlanFirst.

A Plea to Help Humane Society Eagle Watch resident Randi Drinkwater is collecting donations, March 10-April 30, for the Cherokee County Humane Society. Her goal is to raise $2,500 to support medical needs and vaccinations at the shelter. Here’s a list of supplies needed: paper towels, dog and cat food, cat litter, dog and cat toys, chew bones and treats, rope toys and squeaky balls, and blankets, towels, sheets and carpet pieces. Contact Randi at randid@bellsouth.net.

Equine Therapy Volunteers Needed Horse Talk, a therapeutic riding center for special needs children, needs adult volunteers to groom and saddle the horses, lead horses or walk next to children riding the horses to guard their safety. Shifts of varying lengths are available, between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Training is offered. The location is Green Acres Equestrian Center, 345 Bluebird Acres Road, Woodstock. For details, call 770-517-5154 or email greenacresonline@bellsouth. net. www.greenacresonline.com.

Leadership Cherokee Class of 2015 The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce has selected the 22-member Leadership Cherokee Class of 2015. This 27th anniversary class was chosen following participation in a nomination, application and interview process. Over the next nine months, the class will participate in sessions that will focus on topics that include economic development, infrastructure, government, justice, education, recreation, tourism, public safety, healthcare and social/human services. Chamber President and CEO Pam Carnes said the knowledge gained from programs such as these will prepare the class members for a more active role in the community. After nine months of leadership training, the class will graduate during a September ceremony. A 20-member Teen Leadership Class was chosen from high school sophomores who applied for the program. Students will participate in four class sessions and complete an individual project, addressing topics such as community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development and team building. The mission of Teen Leadership Cherokee is to develop the knowledge and leadership skills of young people in Cherokee County so they may confidently become our leaders of tomorrow. A graduation ceremony and dinner will be held in late March to honor the class. For more info, call 770-345-0400 or visit www.CherokeeChamber.com. 8

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

Adult leadership class, front row, from left: Kathy Lambert, Angela Reece, Jennifer Simonis, Jennifer Davo, and Kim Whatley. Second row from left: Jeffrey Pourchier, Jeremy Smith, Tracey Satterfield, Abby Roach, Lindsey Roberson, Brittany Duncan, Jenny Wood-Harris, Rachel White, Ginger Fowler, and Kendall Jones. Back row from left: Bill Sebring, Chad Atkinson, Kelly Geiken, Scott Rule, Greg Erdely, Shane West, and John Black.

Teen leadership class front row, from left: Leslie Reece, Yejin Heo, Austin Griffin, Cecelia Fornuto, Temi Adekunle, Olivia Klinger, Sydney Miracle, Nieves Ristuccia and Caroline Avery. Back row from left: Jordan Mason, Kurt Mueller, Camdon Presley, William Oswald, Jordenn Dorsey, Mitchell Ketcham, Alex Franklin, Isabelle Riddle, Roman Vish, Caitlin Moak and Aubrey Gerber.


Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Dr. Jamie Rollins and Dr. Shalini Shah offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle. Northside Pediatrics offers: • Board-certified in Pediatrics. Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides attentive, complete care to children in every stage of development from infancy to adolescence. • Timely Access. For sick patients who require immediate attention, we offer same-day appointments whenever possible. • Continuous Care. Patients are able to see the same provider at each visit to ensure continuous and seamless care for your child.

684 Sixes Road, Suite 220, Holly Springs, GA 30115 I-575, Exit 11

Call (678) 388-5485 to schedule an appointment Shalini Shah, MD

Jamie Rollins, MD

northsidecherokeepediatrics.com

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Reinhardt Chooses New President Reinhardt University has chosen Dr. Kina S. Mallard to be the institution’s 20th president. Introducing Mallard during a recent press conference, Board of Trustees chairman William Hasty said, “We were looking for someone who could increase our endowment and enrollment, as well as encourage community outreach, not only here in Cherokee County but also in Atlanta … that’s what we were looking for, and of course, we’ve found her.” An experienced academic leader, Mallard comes to Reinhardt from Carson-Newman University, Jefferson City, Tenn., where she has served as executive vice president and provost since 2012. She was Carson-Newman’s provost and William Hasty introduces Kina Mallard to the crowd vice president for academic affairs from 2009 to 2012. Prior gathered to hear the University to Carson-Newman, she has held academic leadership posts announcement. at Gordon College, Wenham, Mass., and Union University, Jackson, Tenn. Her teaching career began in 1982 as a graduate teaching associate at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn. She also taught fine arts at North Greenville College, Tigerville, S.C., in the mid-1980s. Mallard has a Doctorate in Communication and a Master of Arts in Organizational Communication from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenn., and a Bachelor of Science in Speech and Theatre from Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tenn.

It’s Time to Buy the Cookies Just when you thought you had conquered your resolution to eat healthy, it’s Girl Scout cookie time! Look for cookie booths in the community through April 1, or go online at www.GirlScoutCookies.org to find a booth location near you. Here’s a breakdown of where the $4 per box goes: five percent covers the costs of sales incentives; 17 percent is given back to the troops; 24 percent goes to pay the baker; and 54 percent funds local program opportunities, camp operations, and etc.

Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services’ Explorer Post 469 did well at the 41st annual Winterfest competition recently. Twenty one youth and 14 advisors made the trek to Gatlinburg, TN and returned with first and second place in the Z-Drag competition, first and fourth place in the Table Top Display competition, and fifth in the Cherokee Drill competition. The Z-Drag competition consisted of a team of four explorers who had to rescue a victim using technical rescue techniques in a timely yet precise manner. The Table Top Display competition involved the explorers using their knowledge and marketing techniques to share their passion about the fire service. The Cherokee Drill, which was hosted by the Cherokee County Fire Explorer Post 469, is a timed event involving a team of four explorers in a relay type drill that included performing tasks such as quick dress, forcible entry, hose deployment, hose crawl, victim removal, and egress through a restrictive passage. The completion times between first and fifth place in this event were only a few seconds apart. Explorers Post 469, first row from left: FAO Michael Sims, FF Trent Nations, FAO Jordan Seda, Sgt. The explorer program is a career-based Mike Caglioni, Battalion Chief Tom Pellitier, Sgt. Stan Ice, FF Michele Ice and Sgt. Brad Gravitt, Fire Chief Tim Prather. Second row from left: Lake Arrowhead Chief Rebecca Strobl, Operations Chief learning opportunity open to young men Greg Erdely, Lt. Scott Deal, Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Robinson, Cadet FF Ashton White,Cadet FF and women ages 14 (and completed the Emily Blackwell, Cadet FF Ethan Sanders, Cadet FF Chris Caglioni, Cadet Sgt. Nick Leslie,Cadet Sgt. Josiah Gnanamuttu, Cadet FF Zach Robinson, Cadet FF Sujki Jules, Cadet Lt. Kenny Robinson, Cadet 8th grade) and not yet 21 years old with an interest in learning more about careers in FF Chad Barday, Cadet FF William Logan and Captain Bill Hamby. Third row, from left: Cadet Sgt. the field of fire and emergency services. For Jake Pohlman, Cadet FF Zach Ray, Cadet FF Brendan Schmitter, Cadet FF Dalton Hamby, Cadet FF Sarah Logan, Cadet Captain Chris Simmons, Cadet FF Morgan Leslie, Cadet Lt. Brooke Ice, Cadet FF more info, contact Michael Sims at 678-644Chris Dawson, FAO Destiny LaBossiere and FF Corey Deal. 1377 or mrsims@cherokeega.com.

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

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

Happy Birthday!

Cameron Riley Palmer Age 1 on Jan. 23 Happy 1st Birthday!

Hannah Lea Brandt

Madeline Elizabeth Imler

Ethan Josiah Palmer Age 7 on Feb. 26 Happy 7th Birthday!

Age 8 on March 15 We are so proud of you! Love, Dad, Mom, Penny, Eisenhower and Buttons

Hannah Young

Camden Tate Hinkelmann

Joseph David Marshall

Age 5 on March 31 Happy birthday to our beautiful, outgoing princess. You are such a joy and a blessing! We love you to the moon and back. From your entire family

Age 6 on March 12 Happy Birthday big sister! Love Mom, Dad and baby sister Abby

Age 7 on March 31 Love Mom, Dad, Emily and Kailey We all love you! Happy birthday

Lyla Kate McInnish

Presley Renee Roe

Age 6 on March 20 Happy Birthday Little Britches! Love, Nana, Poppy, Beth, Amy, Mommy and Daddy

Announcements are free! E-mail to: Candi@ AroundAbout Magazines.com April deadline is March 10.

Age 8 on March 6 Happy Birthday to our little ball of fire! We love you! Mom, Dad, Kylie and Finley

Engagement! Ricky and Brooke

Will tie the knot and say “I Do” on March 12 Thank you to our friends and family for all the love and support!

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Age 11 on March 31 Happy birthday Baby Girl! We are proud of all you do!! We love you! Mommy, Daddy and Alden

Prejaé Aaliyah Williams Age 10 on Feb. 25 Happy birthday to my beautiful daughter! Sabré Williams

Gwendolyn Joy

Age 15 on Feb. 26 May your birthday be a reflection of you. Happy, warm, loving, generous, joyful, and especially exciting! Love, Mom, Dad and Amanda

Wyatt Eli Conley

Age 5 on March 25 Happy Birthday Wy Wy!!! We love you bunches! Mommy and Daddy

Celebrating March birthdays at The Lodge at BridgeMill

(back row, from left): Phyllis Day, Christine Beard, Eileen Smith, Pauline Durkee, Callie Aschmeyer, Lorraine Roote and Mario Mesa. From row, from left: Gladys Provan, Joyce Duncan, Marjorie Bennett and Betty Clinton. Not pictured: Shirley Chatham, John Jordin, Ruth Allen, Jack Satcher, Juanita Poitier, Sandra Bullard, Jodie West and Carolyn Dill.


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Community

Regulating Insurance to Cover Autism BY SCOT TURNER

I have written in the past about our family and our dealings with autism. And while the initial news that we had to face this neurodevelopmental disorder came as a shock, we have settled in and are now doing great. That’s because autism is a treatable medical condition, and because we had insurance from out of state, my son was able to receive therapy Scot Turner, an IT professional, lives in covered under that insurance. the Sixes community However, if I had insurance from with his wife and two children and the state of Georgia, my son would is the State House not have received the therapies Representative for District 21. You can he has benefited from and I reach him on his cell imagine his life would be on a phone at 678-5762644 or follow him much different trajectory because on Facebook at insurance is not required to cover www.facebook.com/ turnerforhouse. autism in Georgia. Before I take any action as a legislator, I always ask myself two questions: Can I do this and should I do this? Another way to ask the “can I” question is to ask myself if I have the authority to do something. In the case of regulating insurance, I look to our state’s constitution, which grants the General Assembly specific authority to regulate it as an industry. So the next question is, should I regulate insurance in order to deal with autism? In order to answer that question I must ask others, such as: What is the nature of the problem? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of 68 children in the United States is diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum, and in Georgia, one out of 47 boys now have the condition. The children, if left untreated, cost up to three times as much to educate while in the public school system. And as they grow into adulthood, the likelihood that they will become dependent upon government assistance, instead 14

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

of becoming tax-paying income earners, is much higher. The advocacy organization Autism Speaks estimates that if left untreated, an autistic individual will cost our society more than $3 million during the course of his or her lifetime. So I see autism as a growing health crisis that the state has an interest in dealing with in the most costeffective manner possible. And since it is vital that autistic children begin receiving treatment as early as possible, we cannot wait for them to enter public school to deal with this issue. And since 38 other states have mandated that autism be covered in health care insurance policies, we know that the cost to insure these children is roughly 33 cents per month. With that kind of value, I can find no more cost-effective manner for dealing with this problem than to use the authority granted to the General Assembly by our state’s constitution to regulate insurance. So in my time at the Capitol this session I have been actively working on convincing my conservative brethren that we have an obligation to act, have the authority to act, and can do so in a way that respects the resources of the taxpayer. If you would like to learn more about autism, please visit the Autism Speaks website at www.autismspeaks.org.

“According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of 68 children in the United States is diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum, and in Georgia, one out of 47 boys now have the condition.“


Infrastructure Investment Spurs Economic Development BY MATTHEW A. THOMAS

The not-so-shiny side of economic development is infrastructure. Just as laying the necessary foundation is important for building a home, infrastructure lays the groundwork for private investment, business retention and business recruitment. Infrastructure is the physical support system necessary for the delivery of goods and services. This includes water, sewer, roads, bridges, Matthew A. Thomas telecommunications and sewage became the city of Canton’s Economic treatment plants. Infrastructure Development supports existing businesses, increases Coordinator in 2013. He oversees productivity, improves quality of life, business retention and achieves competitive advantage, assists recruitment, business development, and in economic diversification and links tourism programs for regions. In fact, almost all businesses Canton. and residents ask about existing roadways, telecommunication speeds, and water and sewer access. One thing that helps Canton improve its economy and attractiveness to future investment is the initiative we have taken to invest in our infrastructure. Even up to the end of last year,

we were repairing roads, sidewalks and park space. We do it not because it is simply our duty, but because we recognize its importance for present and future growth. To highlight two in particular: •The Marietta Road Streetscape was a $1.8 million construction project completed last fall. It included road resurfacing, drainage improvements with curb, gutter and storm drain installation, and improved pedestrian access, including sidewalks accessible under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and additional street lighting in the commercial area. •The Main Street Pedestrian Connector included resurfacing roadways, restriping parking spaces, landscaping and decorative street lighting. Construction began in the spring of 2014 and the project was completed at the end of 2014. The city received $1 million in federal funds and a combination of state and local funds in the amount of $250,000 to construct the project. I must also mention the Hickory Log Creek Reservoir and the Etowah River Park as significant additions and improvements to our infrastructure network within recent years. These improvements may not seem as exciting as the announcement of a large industry moving into the area, but they lay the groundwork for enticing businesses and meeting the needs of citizens and businesses.

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Feature

SCOUTING

Brownie Troop 12411 (third-graders) and Junior Troop 6027 (fifth-graders) attended the 3-Day Breast Cancer walk to cheer on participants.

Girl Scout troop 2353 participated in Hillside UMC’s Great Day of Community Service in October 2014 preparing food to hundreds of volunteers.

American Heritage Girls Troop 2012 from left, Ansley Richards, Lacy Grace Moore, Brynnley Beaudrie, Abigail Moore, Sienna Stevens and Elizabeth Thomson.

Woodstock Brownie Troop 12435 completed a service project for Our Pal’s Place pet shelter.

Thomas Howard, Wolf in Den 12, won First Place Design Overall at the Pinewood Derby.

Troop 14611 members Abby Searcy, Adyson McClure, Addie Liakakos, Ava Guthrie, Morgan Stewart, Jolie Gutmann, Angelina Miller and Ashley Sipes.

Junior Troop 6027 members enjoyed Camp Timber Ridge during the Hogwartsthemed Halloween weekend. 16

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The Cadettes in Troop 2353 practiced biking and map reading skills at central Florida’s Camp Wildwood.

Troop 2724 took a mother/daughter trip to Universal Studios in Orlando to celebrate the last of their nine years together.

Boy Scout Troop 994 members after working on Austin Holly’s Eagle Scout Project at New Victoria Baptist Church.


ADVENTURES

Brownie Troop 12411 camped at Camp Meriwether in December 2014.

Members of Cub Scout Pack 125 in Holly Springs on an Etowah trail hike.

Junior Troop 11410 members Carly, Allie, Grace, Lydia, Neva, Evie, Camille, Marin and Bela learned the importance of bicycle helmet safety.

Girl Scout Troop 14629 members Claira, Vanessa, Samantha, Kate, Madelyn, Shelby, Hannah, April and Zoe in the Holly Springs Christmas Parade.

Boys in Woodstock’s Cub Scout Pack 2010 wait for the annual Pinewood Derby to start.

Troop 10385 earned the “playing the past” badge at the Indian PowWow at Stone Mountain.

Members of Cub Scout Den 1 of Pack 994 sold popcorn at a “Go See It” event in downtown Woodstock.

New Daisy Troop 14655 held its first parent meeting and Junior Troop 10437 helped by making fire SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallit Affectionately Pinned Somewhere).

Junior Troop 7011 from left: Tanya O’Connor, Kristen Brunelle, Madison Brunelle, Jessica Acord, Lorelei Sanders, Abby Goodwin, Caitlin O’Connor, Megan Lee & Lori Goodwin. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Feature

Grant Holman, a Wolf in Den 12, receives his third place award for Speed for the Wolves from Jamie Wallace.

Brownie Robyn Copeland helps Felicia Ciulla, a Daisy Girl Scout, sell cookies for the first time.

Troop 2819 members Anne Greer (left), and Emily Holubetz (right) earned their Silver Awards. Shown here with Rachel Rich and Chelsey Odendahl.

Troop 12143 members observing World Thinking Day are Alyssa, Amelia, Dakota, Nicolette, Clara, Emma, Tara, Madison S., Stella, Madison M., Emily, Mollie and Katie.

Cullen Stacy, a Tiger Scout in Den 8 of Cub Scout Pack 2010, enjoyed his night out at the Tennessee Aquarium.

Troop 638 Boy Scouts, from left, William Jones, Jacob Hall and Trent Crawford complete the God and Church Program at the Heritage Presbyterian Church with interim pastor Arch Baker and Scout Master Brad Crawford.

Scouting Builds Self Esteem, Expands Horizons BY MATT NEAL

There was no moon that night. The only light was from our campfire. A dozen yards beyond its flickering flames were dark woods. Screams cut the night. A pack of children ran by, then disappeared into the darkness. Seconds later the performance was repeated. All the children wore their Cub Scout uniforms, all except my 8-year-old daughter who was right in the middle of them, yelling and chasing Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived and having the time of her life. in Woodstock with his I snuck away from the group and wife since 1999. He has a daughter who headed into the woods. When the kids turns shoeboxes into were near, I grunted and roared. dollhouses, a son who fights those stealthy “Bigfoot!” they yelled. ninjas, and a wife, Diane, I tried to hide, to stay out of the who provides patience, compassion and a kick in beams of their flashlights. But the pants when needed. eventually the bravest of them found mattnealwriter@yahoo. com me, and they were off on another adventure, again with my daughter in tow. That’s when we realized she needed to be in scouting as well. 18

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

What we found is that scouting offers much more than we originally thought. Cub Scouts isn’t just about which dad can build the better Pinewood Derby car. Girl Scouts is more than just selling those yummy cookies. My son has gotten patches and awards for everything from archery to chess. Cub Scouts allows my son to expand his horizons. It teaches him more than I could on my own. Girl Scouts lets girls get together in a safe environment with other girls. They are provided the opportunity to develop leadership and self-esteem. They can meet away from the peer pressure of school. It lets them be themselves without worrying about what others think. Our backyard creek was always the favorite play area for both my kids, and family camping trips were something we all looked forward to. They both loved the outdoors. But the older they get, the more they prefer to spend time with their friends. Scouting gives them a chance to do that and still enjoy the great outdoors. They learn to make s’mores the old fashioned way, not in a microwave. They can hike through the woods looking for frogs, hopping across streams, and skipping stones. And most importantly, they learn the fine art of weenie roasting. Far too soon they will be grown and gone. Let’s help them make the most of their childhood.


EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our 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 DR., Ste. 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.

Everyday Angels is thrilled to be chosen as this year’s charity recipient for the Junior Service League’s annual Give a Child a Mulligan golf tournament. The proceeds from the tournament will be used to buy a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for Jacob Hobby. The JSL chose Jacob after Everyday Angels received a letter from two caring therapists: Brianne, a physical therapist, and April, an occupational therapist. They treat students with physical and cognitive disabilities at many schools in the Cherokee County School District. They say that each child touches their hearts, but Jacob is a special young man. Here’s a portion of their letter. “Jacob Hobby is a 10-year-old boy in fourth grade at Clark Creek Elementary School. He is just like any typical 10-year-old who loves going to school, learning and playing with his friends at recess. Jacob has an infectious personality and people are instantly drawn toward him. When you see Jacob’s class walking down the hall at school, you’ll notice that Jacob isn’t walking. This is because Jacob can’t walk any more. When Jacob was four years old, he was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). SMA is an inherited disease that causes severe muscle damage and weakness, which gets worse over time and eventually leads to a premature death. This disease robs children of being able to participate in ‘normal childhood activities’ like their friends. Not only has this horrific disease taken away Jacob’s ability to walk, but he also can’t write or perform simple tasks

at school without assistance. “Jacob began this school year in a manual wheelchair that he had outgrown. The sides had to be removed so he could sit in it and his muscle weakness required others to push him. Before Christmas, Jacob’s motorized wheelchair was delivered to school. We were able to see a spark in Jacob’s eyes that we haven’t seen all year. His ‘new set of wheels’ gave him the independence that he’s needed for a long time. With his new motorized wheelchair, Jacob no longer has to rely on someone else if he needs to go somewhere. Plus, his friends thought his wheelchair was pretty cool. He could ‘run’ around with them at recess again! “We were all jumping for joy for Jacob’s independence at school, but that’s where his independence stops. Jacob’s mom, Gina, is a single mom who only has a pickup truck and doesn’t have a way to transport the wheelchair home. Wheelchair accessible vans are expensive and Gina cannot afford one. His bus cannot drop Jacob off at his doorstep because he lives down a gravel road a half mile from the bus stop. His cumbersome daily routine consists of transferring out of his motorized wheelchair at school, getting into his old manual chair, having someone push him to the bus, using the lift to get on to the bus, transferring out of the manual wheelchair and sitting in a regular bus seat, then transferring back into the manual wheelchair at his bus stop, riding the lift down to get off the bus, then his mom has to assist him to get into her pickup truck (which will be impossible as he gets older and more muscle weakness sets in). Then this routine is repeated in the morning to get on the bus and go to school. It is exhausting for both Jacob and his mom! “This family NEEDS a wheelchair accessible van. Not only would this solve the problem of getting his motorized wheelchair home, but it would allow him to get out into the community with his family. Currently he is limited to two worlds- school and home. It’s hard to imagine what Jacob and his mom deal with on a daily basis fighting this horrific disease. I hope each of you can find it in your hearts to help this well-deserving family. If you met Jacob, he would be smiling, but let’s make that smile bigger! He needs us!!!!” Be sure to sign up to play in the April 24 tournament. If you aren’t a golfer, Everyday Angels is accepting donations for the van. See the information in the box on the top left of the page.

www.jslwoodstock.org

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

Senior Sense: The Homemanager BY DELIA HALVERSON

Long ago, when I was young, women were expected to stay at home and be housewives. I never liked that term because I was wife to Sam, not wife to a house. The term I used was homemanager. In his book “The Peter Prescription,” Dr. Laurence Peter writes that “Whenever you consciously influence the behavior of another human being, you are a manager – as a mother directing the activities of her Delia has written children, a teacher instructing a class, more than 25 books, leads workshops and a conservationist promoting ecological has trained teams awareness, or a concerned individual in the Congo and Mozambique. She and influencing other citizens to support an her husband have lived action group.” If that statement does not in eight states, but now reside in Woodstock, define the vocation of homemanager, I’ll and have a daughter, eat my copy of Peter’s book! son, daughter-in-law and four grandchildren In the home, I was a manager and living in Cherokee organizer, creator and decorator, County. counselor and teacher, lover and friend. I had opportunity to reach out into the community in everything from scouts to politics – experiences that affected myself and my family. I could write letters to those who

Presents

had done a good job for the community or even run for office to correct things that needed changing. Today, stay-at-home-mom is a popular term, and mothers at home recognize their importance. But when I stayed home with our children, society was urging women to step out of the home and make other careers for themselves. In fact, those of us who didn’t began to feel useless and unimportant. Maybe that’s why I coined the word “homemanager.” As a housewife, I felt trapped and pushed under. As a homemanager, I saw myself as professional, improving the status of the job. Young girls today are urged to prepare for careers outside the home, and they should. Women are very capable of most any career. In fact, in most professions I know of, women are more capable of the job than some of the men. Equal opportunity and equal pay are important! But more important is for a woman (or a man – and there are stayat-home-dads) to choose to be a homemanager if that is what she or he finds important at that time.

“In the home, I was a manager and organizer, creator and decorator, counselor and teacher, lover and friend.”

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Women Rally Behind Habitat Build BY SUSAN SCHULZ

Chemotherapy rooms are sacred places. Lives change. Ideas are born. Beauty rises from the ashes of illness. Cheryl Mosley knows these truths all too well. While in treatment for breast cancer, she picked up a magazine and read about a woman minister who also was in a battle against cancer. The woman decided to give to others as part of her therapy by building a house for Habitat for Humanity. Cheryl thought, “I would love to do the same thing.” On the other side of the world at the same time Cheryl sat in that chemo room reading the Habitat article, a woman named Esther Par was Michael Young fleeing from her home country Memorial Habitat of Burma with her three Motorcycle Ride on children under the age of 5. March 28, in memory After a temporary relocation of Michael, a lifelong in Malaysia, they arrived in member of CFUMC. the United States in 2008. She For details, call fled because her husband was 678-296-7297. imprisoned for preaching the gospel. After his detainment, their home was constantly watched and ransacked. Esther arrived in Atlanta, began working as a hotel housekeeper, and ended up with a job in Cobb County in 2012, working for an auto parts manufacturer. Esther’s husband, Sial Khup, immigrated in 2013 to join his family in a small apartment in Clarkston. The family worked diligently to be approved for a Habitat house and is now working toward its completion and waiting patiently to move. The family’s current neighborhood has high rent, high crime and is poorly maintained. One of their sons has shared how grateful he will be when he and his siblings can attend school where it is safe. The children (Jason, 11, Willie, 10, and Vanesa, 6) are looking forward to new friends and schools in Cherokee County. Six years after completing cancer treatment, Cheryl presented the idea to her church, Canton First United Methodist, Even though she got a lot of “no” answers at

Motorcycle Ride

first, Cheryl persevered. In faith she moved forward and signed a contract with Habitat, promising to raise $40,000 by March 2015 to cover half the cost of the Par-Khup family’s house. Cheryl’s contract with Habitat is an ecumenical build, meaning fundraising for the Par-Khup home is a collaborative effort of local churches. In this case, five other churches (Hickory Flat, Hillside and Mount Zion United Methodist churches, St. Clements Episcopal and Cumming First Baptist) and a Jewish synagogue (Temple Beth Tikvah) have partnered with Cheryl and First United Methodist and are responsible for the other half of this house. Cheryl went to work with the women of her church by her side. Fundraising kicked off with a Valentine’s Day Hugs for Habitat idea initiated by Lisa McRae, wife of Canton First UMC’s pastor. Next up was the Daughters of the King spring banquet, followed by the Merry Market holiday bazaar, headed up by Bonny Organist Joe Seidel and Spears. The market included pianist John Baker will bake sales, a breakfast café, “Make a Joyful Noise silent auctions and more Unto the Lord” at 3 p.m. to benefit the build. While March 8 at Canton speaking to Cheryl and her First United Methodist helpers, I noticed a repeated Church, 930 Lower Scott theme: women coming Mill Road. Love offering together, all with different will be taken to benefit talents and abilities, to the Habitat build. impact our community in mighty ways. A second Women Build in our county is underway, managed by Sabrina Kirkland, manager of faith relations and community investment for Habitat for HumanityNorth Central Georgia. A Women Build is a nationwide Habitat for Humanity initiative to empower women to build Habitat homes and change the lives of families within their community. House construction is seen as a traditionally male activity, so the goal of this program is to remove the intimidation factor of the construction site and make women feel comfortable. Cheryl’s ecumenical build was led entirely by women—men helped, of course—but women brainstormed and implemented all fundraising efforts. If you would like to donate to the Par-Khup build, mail a check made payable to: Canton First United Methodist Church to 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton, GA 30115, 770-4792502. www.habitat-ncg.org.

Benefit Concert

The First Nail photo participants are, from left: Mike McArthur of Hickory Flat UMC, Willie, age 10, Sial Khup, Jason, age 11, Esther Par, Vanesa, age 6, Cheryl Mosley, and Tommy Lee of Mt. Zion UMC. Photo Courtesy of Russell Hayes. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

Destinations: Celebrating the Human Spirit through Storytelling BY LYNNE WATTS

Lynne Watts is an author, speaker, coach, mom and counselor for Cherokee County schools. Follow her at http://acalledwoman. com/, http://lynnewatts. com and http:// wyatthewonderdog. com.

“Oh, you’ve got a story and I’ve got a story. We’ve all got a story to tell. Oh you’ve got a story and I’ve got a story. It’s one we know so well. You tell me yours, and I’ll tell you mine. And we’ll put ‘em all together And spice ‘em all up, And we’ll have a storytellin’ time.”

So begins every production of the folk play, “Swamp Gravy” in Colquitt, Ga. And what a story it is! “Swamp Gravy” performances take place each weekend in March and October. The current production is entitled “Lost and Found.” The stories of some things lost are touching, others are silly and funny but all together they weave a story of the many losses and blessings of life in rural Georgia. How “Swamp Gravy” started is a story in itself. It began as a vision on the part of Joy Jinks as a way to preserve the rich history of the area. She met New York City director Richard Geer, and together they created the framework for the production that has

“Swamp Gravy” performances attract theatergoers from across the state. 22

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lasted 20 years and is still used today. A storytelling team gathers true stories from local residents and a playwright pulls the stories together into a production around a central theme. Original music, period costumes and a cast of over 100 local volunteer actors are added to create each production. Actors in the play range from young children acting for the first time to veteran volunteers who have been in the play every year for 17 or more years. It is truly an example of a community effort. “Swamp Gravy” has its own history as well. First performed in a local elementary school in 1992, it now has its own venue, a renovated cotton warehouse called Cotton Hall Theater, located on Main Street in downtown Colquitt. Designated the official folk-life play of Georgia, the production has been performed in many locations including the Seven Stages Theater in Atlanta and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. In 1996 it was a cultural Olympiad event. Wonder where the name “Swamp Gravy” comes from? Swamp gravy is a local side dish made from the drippings left in a pan after frying fish. Add some onions, potatoes, tomatoes or anything else you like and you have a delicious addition to a fish fry dinner. In keeping with the story-telling theme, downtown Colquitt showcases five exquisite murals that represent the rich history of this predominately agricultural community. They each portray a vital part of the local community such as Saturday on the Square, Neighbors, Ghost Story Alley, Nuthin’ But a Will and Summer in the Swamp. Each mural creates a detailed visual of the history of the town. The Tarrer Inn is a bed and breakfast located in the heart of downtown Colquitt and in easy walking distance from the Cotton Hall Theater. Built in 1904 and restored in 1996 as a labor of love, it provides guests with 12 individually decorated bedrooms and a southern style breakfast. Relax on the lovely upstairs veranda or in the private courtyard before walking to a “Swamp Gravy” performance. “Swamp Gravy” began as a grassroots effort to revitalize and preserve a small-town way of life, and has truly accomplished its mission of empowering individuals, celebrating the human spirit and bonding the community. www.swampgravy.com


Habitats Created to Attract Fish and Fishermen BY AMY COBB

Fishing is one of the most popular pastimes at Allatoona Lake. With springtime quickly approaching, it’s a perfect time to start planning a trip. Allatoona Lake offers fishermen numerous opportunities in terms of locations to fish and fish species. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages convenient boat ramps and day use areas situated around Allatoona Lake, and with Park Ranger Amy Cobb campgrounds starting to open in March, is a Georgia native and has been a Corps you can enjoy a full outdoor experience Ranger at several close to your own backyard. In fact, the locations around the South. Sweetwater Campground opens March 20, followed by McKaskey Creek, Payne and Victoria campgrounds on March 27. By May 15, each of the eight campgrounds operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be open. Park rangers and volunteers at Allatoona Lake have been busy preparing for fishing season. Over the past few years, we have been placing structures in the lake bed to create and enhance places for fish to live, eat and spawn near popular fishing areas including Bethany Bridge, Galt’s Ferry Day Use Area and Victoria Day Use. Each structure, or fish attractor, is designed with the fish and the

angler in mind. Some habitats are created by anchoring old Christmas trees to underwater concrete structures. Close to 700 Volunteers Dorri Eilbeck and Warren and Betty Christmas trees Lautenschlager prepare Christmas trees donated for fish habitats. were donated this year, many from local Lowe’s stores. Other structures are made from bamboo, which spreads quickly and easily, choking out undesirable vegetation. Most attractors are located within easy casting distance from the shore for bank fishermen, and their construction makes them readily visible on most depth finders for boat fishermen. Attractor locations are not secret. Signs denote the presence of all fish attractors maintained by the Corps and are usually located on a nearby shore. Anglers can expect spotted bass, largemouth bass, sunfish, crappie and catfish around the attractors at various times of the year. For questions about the Allatoona Lake Fish Habitat Program, or fishing or launching locations, call 678-721-6700 or visit www.sam. usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/Recreation/AllatoonaLake. aspx.

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Community

Out & About March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 Knitting instruction from a retired teacher begins at 1 p.m. Tuesdays at the Rose Creek Library, 4476 Towne Lake Pkwy. Bring your yarn and knitting needles. To register 770-591-1491.

March 6 Bingo at Sixes Elementary School, sponsored by the PTA, will be held 6-9 p.m. in the school cafeteria. Popcorn, candy and drinks will be sold. Bingo cards are $1 for one, $5 for six, $12 for 15 or $20 for 25. The school is at 20 Ridge Road.

March 7, 21 Income Tax Preparation Assistance available through the Sequoyah Regional Library System. In Woodstock 2-6 p.m. by appointment only (call 404-509-2856), March 1, 8, 22 and 29. In Hickory Flat, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 7, at R.T. Jones 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 21, and Rose Creek 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 28. George Russell, formerly with the IRS, will offer assistance. AARP - Income Tax Preparation Assistance will be available 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. March 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Hickory Flat. Noon4 p.m. March 5, 12 at the Woodstock library.

March 7, 21

Master Gardener seminars: 10 a.m. March 7 (pre-register by March 4) on home-grown fruit and veggies at Buckeye Creek Farm, 2115 Jep Wheeler Road, Woodstock. 10 a.m. March 21 (pre-register by March 18) on beginning vegetable gardening at the Cherokee County Senior Services Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. Noon March 21 (pre-register by March 18) on organic gardening at the Senior Services Center. Pre-registration number is 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.

March 11

Free skin cancer screening 6-8 p.m. at the Medical Associates of North Georgia, 320 Hospital Road in Canton. Sponsored by the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. Medical professionals will provide skin assessments in a private setting. Appointments required by calling 404-531-4444.

March 13-15, 20-22

“The Dining Room,” a production of Cherokee Theatre Company, is set for 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Auditions begin March 16-17 for “Everybody Loves Opal.” Performances at the Historic Canton Theatre at 770-5910282. www.cherokeethreatre.org

March 15

Woodstock LEGO club meets at 3 p.m. at the Woodstock library. Work alone or in teams to construct a special creation matching the current month’s theme. All ages invited; ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

March 18

Free prostate screenings, sponsored by Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute, will be held 6-8 p.m. at the Medical Associates of North Georgia, 320 Hospital Road in Canton. Appointments required by calling 404-531-4444.

24

SIXES LIVING | March 2015


March 18

Magical World of Harry Potter: Children ages 3-8 are invited to a Fancy Nancy soiree at the Rose Creek library at 4 p.m. Play stupendous games, enjoy a snack and make a craft inspired by Fancy Nancy. Call 770-926-5859 to register.

March 19

The AG Expo will be held 4-7 p.m. at the City Center in Woodstock at 8534 Main Street. Participants will discuss the importance of agriculture, horticulture and related businesses in the county. Displays, petting zoo, refreshments. Event is free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau, Cherokee County Extension Office, the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and the city of Woodstock. www.cherokeegaexpo.info. Bascomb preschool registration for the 2015-16 school year begins at 9 a.m. at the preschool of Bascomb United Methodist Church, 2295 Bascomb Carmel Road in Woodstock. 770-9260397. www.bascombpreschool.com.

March 20

Free notary training session, 10:30 a.m.-noon, at the Frank C. Mills III Justice Center, 90 North Street, Canton. All notaries welcome but space is limited. Call 678-493-6523 for reservation.

March 21

Next Step Ministries, Inc. and Gold’s Gym of Woodstock will host the second annual “Run, Walk or Roll: Take the Next Step 5K” fundraiser for Next Step’s programs for people with special needs. Event takes place at First Baptist Church of Woodstock, 11905 Hwy. 92. Registration begins at 7 a.m., race time is 8 a.m. $25 entry fee includes race T-shirt and goodie bag. 770-5921227. nsm@nextstepministries.net. www.nextstepministries. net.

March 21, April 25

The Artisans Arts and Craft Show will be held at His Hands Church, 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock. Vendors can contact mainstreetcraftshow@gmail.com for applications and details.

March 24-29

Book sale at the Woodstock Public Library, sponsored by Friends of the Library, begins with a preview sale for Friends members 3-6 p.m. and open to the public 6-7:30 p.m. March 24, 10 a.m.5:30 p.m. March 25-27 and noon-5 p.m. March 29. Closed March 28. www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org.

March 31

Drop-In Crafternoon 2-4 p.m. at the Rose Creek library. Materials provided. For all ages who enjoy crafting with paper, glue and crayons. Requires participating adult. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

25


Community

A Second Chance at Life BY JODI TIBERIO

Nikki Adams has had a second chance at Jodi Tiberio owns life and is determined Branches Boutique to make the most of for women in Towne Lake as well as a it. Even though some second Branches of Nikki’s friends location and contacted us on her Brooklynn’s boutique behalf, we asked in downtown that Nikki contact Woodstock. Contact Jodi at jodi@ us. When we are tiberioretail.com. planning a makeover, it’s important to make sure that the recipient is willing and eager for the experience. We were happy to hear from Nikki, who told us that she was ready to make a change and we were excited to help. Nikki’s story was submitted to us in the form of a video, detailing a saga of violence and redemption. Our entire staff was moved to tears as we watched the video. (See the link at the end of the article.) She really appreciates every second she is given because she has a chance to tell her story and help others heal. Inspired by Nikki’s bravery and desire to help others, we wanted this makeover to be a very special experience. We went to work selecting an outfit that she could wear for a date with her boyfriend, with pieces that she could wear in multiple ways. Layering is important this time of year, thanks to our unpredictable weather. Nikki is a jeans and T-shirt girl, so we wanted to go in a different direction for this outfit. We tried on lots of tunics, leggings and jeans. We really had a ball playing dress up! This black dress with crochet detail from Brooklynn’s works for so many occasions. Nikki can wear it with or without leggings, with booties or cowgirl boots, and can add a kimono or cardigan for a put-together looking outfit. Crochet trim and detailing is so on-trend right now. This spring you will see lots of fun lace and crochet pieces at both Branches and Brooklynn’s. The lace vest we selected for this outfit also will look great when paired with jeans and a cute top. The smile on Nikki’s face told me that this outfit was the one! After having her hair and makeup done at a local salon, she was ready to shine. She has worked hard to find herself again after her ordeal. While she struggles each day with sadness, loneliness and fear, her message is strong and 26

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

clear - she wants to help others. She wants to make a difference. There is help for anyone who needs it; there’s no need to fight your battle alone. Don’t be a victim, be a survivor. I am truly honored to have been able to do something for Nikki, to celebrate her strength. Being able to help her feel beautiful and confident was her gift to me. To see the beaming smile on this woman’s face gave me a renewed purpose as well. To learn more about Nikki’s story, watch her video on YouTube: http://bit.ly/1ypRSXj. RAINN, an organization set up to support victims of sexual abuse, can be reached at 1-866-656-HOPE or www.rainn.org.


A Prescription to Love BY MIKE LITREL, MD

It was Marsha’s first appointment at my office. She wasn’t making eye contact, her eyes kept flicking to the door, and she could only mumble her answers to my questions. Marsha had come to me for a second opinion. A surgeon had recommended removing her uterus and ovaries to treat the severe pelvic pain she often experienced. For a childless woman in her early 30s, this solution is drastic and Dr. Mike Litrel has authored hundreds of irreversible. articles and two books Marsha managed to communicate she on the faith-health connection. He is a didn’t want another examination from a board certified OB/GYN male doctor. I let her know it was easy and specialist in pelvic reconstructive surgery to reschedule her with a female doctor, at Cherokee Women’s but that an exam was essential to finding Health Specialists in Roswell and Woodstock. the cause of her pain and to give her the Dr. Litrel can be second opinion. Agitated and hesitant, reached at www. herokeewomens Marsha finally decided to let me take health.com care of her. A few weeks after her exam, I took her into surgery. As I’d foreseen, her pelvic organs were virtually glued together with scar tissue. I cleaned out the scar tissue that was most likely causing her pain, leaving the uterus and ovaries intact. After the surgery, Marsha’s pain dissipated almost entirely. Yet Marsha’s follow-up appointments revealed that she suffered from another problem, one that surgery couldn’t fix. In her mid-30s, she was estranged from family, living by herself with almost no social contact beyond work and trips to the grocery store. Marsha was alone in the world. Marsha’s story came out in bits and pieces over the following months, as her trust in me grew.

For as long as she could remember, Marsha’s male relatives— including her father and her brothers—had forced sexual relations upon her. It had begun when she was 5 years old, and had continued until she was 15—old enough to finally fight them off, and shortly afterward, to move out of the house forever. Removing scar tissue from the human body is technically difficult, but it’s simple compared to removing the scars of childhood abuse. When you remove abnormal tissue, the remaining healthy tissue comes together and heals. But how do you remove unholy, festering memories? Marsha was physically healed, but unable to resume the act of living. I couldn’t see how Marsha could learn to love other people, when those who should have given her those first lessons were the source of her earliest injuries. I recommended counseling, the church and volunteer work to Marsha, but my suggestions were met with her deep mistrust for all people. I prayed for her, but truthfully, seeing Marsha as a patient made me sad, because I couldn’t see how to help her. Then one day, I decided to write Marsha a new prescription. On my pad I wrote: Do one good thing for someone else today. Write down what it was. Repeat daily. I told Marsha it didn’t matter what she did, or when she did it, or who she did it for: just keep the love in her heart, and look for the opportunity to help someone else in need. Once a day. I had no idea what Marsha would do with her “prescription.” Throw it in the nearest trash can, I suspected. Two months later Marsha returned for her next appointment. I was pleasantly surprised to hear that she had made a friend. She had helped someone at the store with her groceries. She attributed it to her new prescription, and promised she would continue to follow it every day. Six months later, I learned she had made some more friends. She had even joined a book club and was attending a local church.

continued on page 60

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

27


Lifestyle

Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to all the winners in the January competition, “Angles.” If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to Dean Kelley for the website. deankelley@windstream.net

Digital Projection:

1st Eddie Myers “In the Net”

3rd Mark Mozley “Man vs Nature Angles”

2nd Carole Dubuc Ohlemueller “Sky Painting”

HM Naomi Shively “Proud Tree”

Color Prints:

1st Vicki Sellers “Hidden Palms” 28 SIXES LIVING | March 2015

2nd David Ferguson “Marquis Angles”


HM Peter Kilpo “Covered Bridge”

3rd Joey Thompson “Pyramid Scheme”

Monochromatic:

1st Peter Kilpo “The Glass Tower”

2nd Martin Longstaff “90 Degrees”

3rd Naomi Shively “Ominous”

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. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

29


Lifestyle

Selecting An Agent To Sell Your Home BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

Kurt and Sheila Johnson are Keller Williams Top Producing Agents (over 80 deals in 2014) and have been serving Cherokee County for more than 10 years. www. KurtandSheilaTeam.com

Selecting the right agent to sell your home is critical. The difference between a great agent and an average agent can mean thousands of dollars made or lost. Discerning between the two can be tricky, so we have prepared a list of questions, in no particular order, to ask agents you are considering. What is your average days on market and average dollars per square foot for your sold listings? The data shows us that homes that sell faster sell for more money. Find an agent that outperforms the market average.

How many homes did you sell in the last 12 months? The top producing agents in Cherokee County sell at least 40 homes per year, and this gives them the necessary cash flow to spend on marketing your home. It also gives them firsthand knowledge of your home’s competition. Do you have a strong presence in my market? In other words, when buyers think of purchasing a home in your

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community, are they going to call this agent for assistance? Top agents in a given market tend to sell the majority of real estate, and the reason is simple - well-marketed listings attract buyers and top agents with buyers sell more homes. Do you have a team supporting you? The team approach in real estate allows a specialist to handle each aspect of the selling process, thereby providing you the highest level of personalized service. How will people interested in my home contact you? Do the calls go to the agent on duty or voicemail at the Broker’s office or does the agent answer the call on his or her cell phone? You do not want calls from people interested in your home unanswered or answered by someone unfamiliar with your home’s features. Can this agent promote my listing to other top agents in my market? Selecting a top agent from a local successful brokerage is like hiring every top agent in that office. What method do you use to determine the right price for my home? The analysis of your home’s value should be so thorough that there are no questions remaining as to its market value.


Accentuating the Positive Retiring? Saving for retirement? Here’s some good news. DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CPA/PFS, CFP® U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Are 90 percent of articles written about retirement pessimistic? Sometimes it seems that way. Repeatedly, we are reminded that most baby boomers haven’t saved enough for the future. There’s no denying this, but the media are giving short shrift to other, more positive developments that may be improving the economic Don Akridge is and retirement outlook for many president of Citadel Professional Services, Americans. Here are a few worth LLC, an independent noting. firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently 401(k) savings have rebounded located off Chastain tremendously from Great Recession Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. lows. For older savers, the recovery Phone 770-952-6707. is especially pronounced. Fidelity just released its latest quarterly retirement snapshot. Looking over account data from its retirement plans, it says that the average third-quarter 401(k) balance for employees who had contributed to their accounts for at least 10 straight years was $241,800, compared to just $130,700 in the first quarter of 2009, when the recession was ending. That’s an 85 percent increase.1,2 Data from Principal Financial Group point out similar gains. Earlier this year, it noted that the average balance in its 401(k) plans had risen nearly 70 percent since the market trough of 2008. Also, new research from the Investment Company Institute shows that if an employee made consistent perpaycheck contributions to a 401(k) during 2007-12, the balance on such accounts increased an average of 6.8 percent annually

(and this is not even considering the great year the market had in 2013).3,4 Incomes finally seem to be rising. This recovery has been marked by a lack of wage growth— a factor that has made it shallower than many analysts expected. That may be changing at last, as the Census Bureau’s employment cost index increased 0.7 percent for the second quarter. That is solid. In fact, it is the biggest quarterly boost seen in six years.4 Hiring has picked up in some crucial industries. ADP’s latest employment change report shows October payrolls swelling by 28,000 workers in the construction industry and 15,000 in the factory sector. There were 5,000 new hires at businesses with more than 500 workers, 102,000 new hires at small firms and 122,000 fresh hires at medium-sized companies.5 Americans aren’t living on margin as much as they once were. In 2008, total U.S. credit card debt reached $866 billion. In 2013, that fell to $660 billion.4 Fewer Americans are letting consumer debt linger. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York says the latest debt delinquency rates are the lowest in more than six years—the 90-day-plus delinquency rate was at 4.8 percent in the second quarter. During 2010, it reached 8.7 percent. Additionally, overall household debt declined $18 billion in the second quarter, and mortgage debt decreased $69 billion.4,6 Medicare spending didn’t rise in the last federal budget year. It was flat for FY 2012-13 and while that may not hold true in successive years, it is certainly interesting. According to Medicare actuaries, fewer Medicare recipients than forecast went to hospitals for care during that budget year, and many of those who did used cheaper services. (Per-beneficiary Part continued on page 60

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Lifestyle

Fighting Pet Obesity BY LEISA JENNINGS

Obesity is a common health concern for people and pets alike. It can be an underlying factor for many medical conditions: arthritis/joint disease, diabetes mellitus, respiratory compromise, hepatic lipidosis in cats, and decreased life span. Conditions caused or exacerbated by poor weight management can also be treated with good weight management. How Dr. Leisa Jennings is are our pets overweight when we a Georgia native and a graduate of the provide the best food and feed the University of Georgia. recommended amount? Obesity is a She has a special interest in birds/avian multifaceted condition with a number medicine. of common pitfalls that sabotage our good intentions. The first factor is the type of diet. Many pets receive at least some table-food. In some cases table-food or home prepared food comprises the entire diet. Pet foods vary widely in ingredient types, ingredient quality, caloric content, nutrient percentages, etc. If nutritional info is provided on the label, it can be difficult to decipher. Food companies add to the confusion by often providing incomplete information. Dietary requirements vary widely based on factors such as breed, age, individual genetics, activity level, environment, lifestyle, medical

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conditions, and being spayed or neutered just to name a few. Therefore, one diet does not work for all dogs or cats. A second major factor is the quantity fed. I often hear my clients say that they are feeding what the bag recommends. There are several ways that the “recommended” amount may be incorrect for your pet. The bag recommendations are often overestimated for the majority of pets. Many people also feed based on their pet’s current weight. If your pet is overweight, you should feed based on their ideal or target weight. Lastly, when the bag specifies a “cup” it is referring to an actual measuring cup. One Solo cup may actually contain two to four measuring cups of food based on kibble size. A third contributing factor is treats. We use food treats as rewards and expressions of affection. Our pets have done an outstanding job transforming many of us into well-trained treat dispensers. High calorie, fat, and flavoring content are the key elements that convert average

“Obesity is a multifaceted condition with a number of common pitfalls that sabotage our good intentions.”

continued on page 60


Rob’s Rescues

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 www.robsrescues.com

This dog’s name is Nellie. She does not come when you call her, she is very jumpy too but she is friendly. She has very long legs. She is 3 years old and has been at the Shelter since Christmas. She is a Coonhound, Walker mix. Someone will really like her.

This cat is named Francisco. He has lots of gray stripes and is quite small. He is 1 ½ years old and is a Grey Mackeral Tabby. He is a really nice cat and is friendly with other cats and humans. My brother’s friend, Dillon Watson, made a video for Rob’s Rescues. You can see it at:

www.robsrescues.com

If you want to support Rob’s Rescues more have a look at this flyer!

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

33


Lifestyle

CONSIGNMENT SALE GUIDE Step into your most comfortable shoes, fill up your gas tank and head out into Cherokee and neighboring counties with this guide to help you find bargains in gently-used children’s clothes and toys.

MARCH 4-7 Little Saints

Times: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday ($5), 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: St. Teresa’s Episcopal Church, 5725 Fords Road NW, Acworth. Info: Little Saints Consignment on Facebook.

MARCH 5-7 All 4 Kids Cobb County Fairgrounds

Times: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: Cobb County fairgrounds, Jim Miller Park buidlings A, B and the Equestrian Center. Info: http://all4kids.com

MARCH 12-14 All 4 Kids Woodstock

Times: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m.6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: 299 Molly Lane, Woodstock. Info: http://all4kids.com

Due West Treasure Chest

Times: 9:30 a.m.-7.p.m. Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday. Location: 3965 Due West Road, Marietta. Info: www.duewest.org

Angel’s Attic

Times: 4-8 pm. Thursday (volunteers and sellers only), 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: John’s Creek UMC, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road. Info: www.johnscreekumc.org

MARCH 6-7 The Blessing Line

Times: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday Location: First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. Info: www.blessingline.com

Canton First Baptist

Times: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday Location: Canton First Baptist Church, 1 Mission Point. Info: www.fbckidssale.com

Wildwood Kidz-Sense

Times: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Wildwood Baptist Church, 4801 Wade Green Road, Acworth Info: www.kidzsense.org

Roswell UMC

Times: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday Location: Roswell UMC, 814 Mimosa Blvd. Info: www.roswellumc.org/rumck

CCC MOPS

Times: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Cumberland Community Church, 3110 Sports Ave., Smyrna Info: www.cccmopssale.com

Pass It On

Times: 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Acworth United Methodist Church, 4340 Collins Cir. Info: www.acworthumc.org/passiton/

MARCH 7 Tots to Tweens

Times: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Sandy Plains Baptist Church, 2825 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta. Info: www.nowamom.org 34

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MARCH 13-14 Hillside UMC

Times: Thursday shopping for vendors, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock. Info: www.womenofhillside.com

Clothing Kids for the Kingdom

Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday Location: Summit Baptist Church, 4310 Moon Station Lane, Acworth Info: www.summitchurch.org.

Lil’ Blessings

Times: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: Kennesaw First Baptist Church, 2958 North Main St. Info: lilblessings@kfbc.org

MARCH 20-21 Canton FUMC

Times: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. Location: Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road Info: 770-479-2502

All 4 Kids East Cobb/Marietta

Times: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Location: Mt. Paran North Church of God, 1700 Allgood Road, Marietta. Info: http://all4kids.com


SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Feature

Loyalty, Innovation Fuel Growth and Expansion at Reliable

O

ver the last 37 years, Reliable Heating & Air has morphed from the small business that owner Dan Jape started in his basement to a 24-hour operation that is the largest Trane dealer in North America two years in a row. The Woodstock-based company employs more than 320 professionals, manages a fleet of 300-plus trucks, operates one satellite location in Fayetteville and serves a 26-county territory. While the numbers don’t tell the full story, they paint a picture of a successful, growing company that places an importance on relationships among the employees and with valued customers. Owner Dan Jape has a commitment to his employees, some of whom have been with Reliable for more than 20 years. That sense of loyalty and connection extends to his customers, who are finding that they can count on Reliable for more than heating and cooling systems. The range of services offered by Reliable includes duct cleaning, etc. Once they purchase a new system, the relationship continues — even as long as the lifetime of the units. “Customers seem to like knowing the faces behind the business,” said owner Dan Jape. “Many of Reliable’s customers have been with us since the beginning. They know who they’re dealing with and who they’ll be dealing with in the future. Customers can’t build that kind of relationship and familiarity with corporations or a large retailer like they have with us at Reliable.” Dan believes customers also choose Reliable because the company has been family-owned for decades and will continue to be around for many years to come as Dan’s son, Daniel, prepares to take over the business one day. Sales Manager Jeff Moulder, who has been a Reliable employee for 19 years, explains that the connection with the customer doesn’t end at the point of sale. “Long-term peace of mind is our main goal. We want to make sure our customers know that whatever happens, we are here to take care of it,” said 36

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Jeff. “If it’s a new customer that we are dealing with, I will tell them that we are here to develop a 50-year relationship.” Customer service continues long after the day shift leaves for home at 8 p.m. That’s when the overnight crew comes in – three employees who take service calls throughout the night. “Water, plumbing, heating and air conditioning problems can’t wait,” said Dan. “Our customers do not have to leave a message with an answering service. We have someone answering the phones 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” The company’s growth in establishing a variety of services has been guided by customer requests over the years. “We found that more and more of our customers were asking us for referrals for their plumbing, electrical and other needs because they trusted us,” Dan said, “but, oftentimes, the work performed by those outside vendors didn’t meet our standards.” Ultimately, Dan made the decision to bring those areas in-house. “Many customers asked if we could become their ‘one-stop’ service provider, and we finally decided it was time.”

DUCT CLEANING

Alex Pelaez is manager of this newest division, which has three dedicated trucks and six technicians. “It’s very fulfilling to help people who struggle with respiratory problems like allergies. We can help make a difference in their quality of life,” Pelaez said.

PLUMBING

Master Plumber Chris McKinney has more than 10 years of experience and directs the plumbing division, which specializes in emergency sameday service and repair of all plumbing systems. Reliable’s plumbers must be licensed by the state of Georgia as a journeyman or master plumber.

ELECTRICAL

Master Electrician and Manager Mike Grayeski, who has more than 19 years


of experience, leads a team of highly trained and certified electricians. Mike has been in Woodstock for eight years and owned an electrical company until it was acquired by Reliable in May 2012.

HOME PERFORMANCE

Air tightness and thermal efficiency in the home is the focus of this division, led by Jason Bouchard. Members of this team are Building Performance Institute (BPI) certified auditors and members of the National Comfort Institute. The goal is to identify leaks around attic doors, ducts, lighting excessive dust and other issues that make your home a poor performer. Auditors compile a complete, detailed report from diagnostic testing and present clients with a written report of changes that can be made to increase comfort level and decrease energy consumption. Reliable’s certified, trained technicians can make all the necessary corrections, including areas of caulking and sealing, duct insulation and tightening, crawl space, can light and attic door sealing. They also can add insulation in any area that is needed. The technicians also perform a complete health and safety inspection to identify any issues a home may have with proper

combustion of gas appliances and the correct drafting of carbon monoxide from furnaces, water heaters and kitchen appliances. “Whether people have comfort issues in a home, such as high and low humidity, excessive dust build up and/or drafty, cold homes and rooms, they are calling us to help, and we are bringing fantastic results,” said Jape.

HEATING AND AIR

Reliable’s HVAC technicians are certified Trane Comfort Specialists. Reliable is also NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certified, which means Reliable’s technicians have passed the NATE test that certifies technicians as having the most knowledge and experience in servicing and installing heating and cooling systems. Dan also requires that technicians wear booties, put down drop cloths and clean up debris so customers’ homes are treated with respect and care. “The people at Reliable are the sum of the company,” he said. “We’re honest, up-front and provide complete pricing so customers aren’t surprised by hidden fees.”

RELIABLE HEATING & AIR

11075 Highway 92, Woodstock • 770-594-9969 • www.reliableair.com SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Lifestyle

Jump O N S P R I N G C L E A N I N G

A

BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

Winter in Georgia doesn’t last very long, but I’m a Southerner through and through, so it’s long enough. By March, I’m digging out the extra large trash bags to purge closets. Although I’m also ready to clean windows and dust off patio furniture, it’s first things first. The priority is to get things under control inside. This month, I’m thrilled to share my secrets for keeping things fresh and organized. If you can’t go out, at least you can feel good about inviting people in.

1.

First, the fridge. I enjoy tossing out leftovers and wiping down drawers and bins. When I discovered these fridge and freezer bins, my life got even easier. After I went to the grocery store and rearranged everything, even my husband noticed and remarked that everything looked more appetizing. Of course, the downside is that everything looks more appetizing, so if you’re dieting, beware. The bins are available starting at $7.99 at Bed, Bath & Beyond near Target at Canton Marketplace.

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Next, the floors. My neighbor has the shiniest floors. Granted, she doesn’t have a dog or allow shoes in the house, but I can see my face in her floors. And they’ve been that way for the past six years. She swears by this solution from Holloway House. This product, however, is not for everyday use because it will cause buildup if not used correctly. Use just twice a year for the perfect shine. Holloway House Quick Shine Floor Finish, $5.47, Walmart Supercenter, 2200 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs.

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3.

Confession: I first saw the Scrub Daddy while watching an episode of the TV show “Shark Tank.” I ordered it immediately. Although the Scrub Daddy looks like a simple sponge, it’s actually a flexible cleaning tool. I love using it to clean my enamel cookware, but I’ve also found that it does an equally good job eliminating the grime on my kids’ tennis shoes. A pack of three nonscratch sponges sells for $9.99 at Bed, Bath, & Beyond, Canton Marketplace, 1810 Cumming Highway, Canton.

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4. Cluttered counters? I like having

everything out where I can see it, but the obsessive-compulsive in me prefers things to be tidy and organized. Luckily, glass apothecary jars are all the rage right now. I found these at TJ Maxx starting at $7.99. The store carries all shapes and sizes. Arrange on a rustic wood tray for a chic display in the master bathroom.

5. Sometimes I wish my entire house were

covered in hard surfaces, but since wall-to-wall carpeting upstairs is my lot in my life, I spend a lot of time reminding the people I love to remove their shoes. Although we have the rugs professionally cleaned twice a year, tiny spills and doggie accidents happen. I can’t tell you how many times this product has saved me. I buy six bottles at a time because I’m afraid they might discontinue it without telling me. I’ve yet to discover any other product that even remotely compares to this carpet spot remover. A Folex 36-ounce spray bottle sells for $5.79 at Home Depot, Sixes Road, Canton.

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39


Lifestyle

Spring Fever Brings a Renewed Effort BY LYNNE SAUNDERS

Each month ushers in new opportunities. Daffodils boldly spring forth, encouraging us to believe something new is on the way. Even when the temperatures drop, these flowers are resilient. Job seekers, be strong and don’t get distracted. A lady who recently attended an employment class at The Master’s Training Center stopped by, vowing to get serious about her job search again. Lynne is an author She admitted to falling off the proverbial and the director of Papa’s Pantry and the wagon when the temperatures warmed MastersTraining Center.com. She can up. Suddenly she realized she was one be reached at (770) week closer to needing a paycheck. 591-4730 or visit www.papaspantry.org. Not all job-seeking tasks need to be performed indoors behind a computer screen. In an age when applying for jobs online is predominant, most job seekers complain there is no personal touch. Maximize good weather days - expand your job search and make contact with potential employers in person. This strategy is known as cold calling and works in many scenarios. The secret to a successful day is researching, planning and preparing. Be focused. • Determine what kind of job you intend to apply for. Don’t

communicate that you will do “anything,” even if you think it. Apply for jobs for which you are qualified. • Research the companies you are interested in. Evaluate their hiring processes to be sure they do not have “do not call” or “do not solicit” policies. • Map the driving route to maximize time and gasoline. Start your day with a clean car inside and out. Avoid visiting companies at the beginning of the day, at lunch time or near closing time. • Cafeterias in professional buildings can be an informative place. Careful, yet respectful eavesdropping can help you learn of potential job openings. • Prepare resumes that feature your skills and qualifications for the job you want. Add a cover letter that introduces you personally. Take a legal pad and pen to write names and contact information of key people you meet. • Start the day with clean, professional clothing, confidence, a warm smile and a firm handshake. • The goal of the day is to introduce yourself to potential employers and open the door for future conversations. • Follow up with thank you phone calls and/or emails to the people who took time to talk with you.

Specialists in the Detection and Treatment of Digestive Diseases, Hepatitis and Colon Cancer

Our New Location Is Now Open! 900 Towne Lake Parkway | Suite 308 | Woodstock, Georgia 30189 [In the Northside Cherokee | Towne Lake Medical Campus]

770.926.5459 [Same phone number]

Basil S. Al-Awabdy, M.D. • Bruce T. Kalmin, M.D. • Nandha Kanagarajan, M.D. Marc D. Rosenberg, M.D. • Jon V. Trankina, M.D.

www.atlantagastro.com

With our new location in Woodstock, taking charge of your health has never been easier. AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

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Health & Wellness

Understanding Nutrition and Diet BY DR. MITCHELL GREXA D.C.

March is National Nutrition Month. This is not a call to arms for the carrot and celery brigade, but a chance to understand the importance of knowing what we eat and why. The majority of Americans view nutrition as an evil word and associate it with the “D” word - diet. These words are better understood when we look at their simplest definitions. Nutrition is the Dr. Grexa graduated from act or process of nourishing or being Life College in 1994, with a Doctor of Chiropractic nourished; specifically, the sum of the degree. He is currently processes by which an animal or plant practicing in Canton Georgia, and has taken takes in and utilizes food substances on the role of a wellness (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). Diet consultant. is defined as food and drink regularly provided or consumed (MerriamWebster Dictionary). By accepting these definitions, we understand that every living thing is on a diet and uses some type of nutrition. When friends or loved ones recommend that you go on a diet, you can look them straight in the eye and say, “I already am!” Now that you have declared that you are on a diet, it does not necessarily mean that it is a proper or good diet. America as

a whole is slowly poisoning itself with processed foods. There have been stories told about fast food products not being what they claim to be: apple pies made with potatoes and chicken nuggets made with chicken byproducts. Modifications to the hamburger, the icon of American fast food, have made it a source of poor nutrition at best. America’s sweet tooth is also being satiated by adding pounds and pounds of sugar to foods served in fast food restaurants and foods marketed as low fat. Sugar has been substituted for the fat to retain flavor. To improve your diet and get better nutrition, make meals at home using fresh or frozen vegetables (organic would be best). Limit the amount of red meat protein by eating fish or poultry with the occasional pork product. Cut back on fatty foods, starches (breads, pastas, and potatoes), and sweet and salty snacks. Pack your own lunches and limit the microwave usethe microwave diminishes the nutrients in food. Moderation is the key. Start by slowly changing your diet and introducing new foods that have higher amounts of vitamins and minerals, and are lower in carbohydrates and fats. Make fast food a treat or a reward. If you are craving a cheeseburger, have one but only take a few bites and put the rest aside. By doing this you will satisfy your craving but not ingest all the calories, fats and sugars. By setting limitations on the “bad” foods and concentrating on the “good” foods, you will see an improvement in your overall health and wellness.

YOUR HOMETOWN

CANCER ANSWER

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gacancer.com SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Health & Wellness

Scaling and Root Planing: Best Solution for Gum Disease BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

One of the most prevalent diseases in the world is gum disease. Seventyfive to 80 percent of people have some level of gum disease, known as periodontitis. The availability of treatment has improved but the prevalence of the disease has remained the same. Our bodies have an amazing system of defense mechanisms to warn us about threats to our health. Dr. Scott Harden is a dentist at Fountain These threats can range from the View Family Dentistry obvious (cuts, scrapes, lacerations, and has served the Woodstock area for punctures, burns, sprains, fractures) more than 21 years. You to less obvious threats involving can reach Dr. Harden at 770-926-0000 or visit microorganisms (like bacteria that FountainViewSmiles. can cause strep throat, pneumonia, com. diphtheria, pertussis, tuberculosis and meningitis) and viruses responsible for encephalitis, chickenpox, smallpox, rabies, mononucleosis, polio, flu, measles and hepatitis. Our bodies have an early detection system: the immune system. It is primarily an army of cells, called antibodies,

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that attacks enemy cells called antigens. There are two types of antibodies: lymphocytes that remember and recognize previous invaders, and phagocytes that are cells that chew up and destroy the invading organisms. Our immune system is so remarkable that it can remember when we contract chicken pox and, if these microorganisms enter our “Despite our immune body again, it destroys them immediately and system’s defense prevents us from getting mechanism, gum that disease again. Despite our immune disease still prevails system’s defense because of its mechanism, gum disease still prevails because complex process.” of its complex process. Periodontitis is a disease because it can ultimately destroy the jawbone resulting in the need to extract teeth. Gum disease circumvents our immune system with a collection of bacteria known as plaque, which adheres to teeth and gums and causes inflammation and infection. Plaque transforms into a hard substance called continued on page 60


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Health & Wellness

Let Nutrition Fuel Your Training BY CARRIE MUELLER, MS, RD, CDE

Nothing starts my day better than a good run, and I’m not alone. About 19 million Americans are recreational runners like me. We’re a community of like-minded enthusiasts, and sharing best practices is what a community does best. As a registered dietitian and longtime runner, I’ve learned several nutrition hacks along the way that will fuel your training for the upcoming race and help Carrie Mueller is a you achieve your best performance. Northside Hospital registered dietitian and Hydration is key for any runner in a diabetes nutrition training, so drink lots of water. I typically instructor. For more information, visit don’t consume sports drinks during runs www.northside.com/ unless they are longer than an hour. nutrition or call 404-851-8000. However, sports drinks can be beneficial post-run to rehydrate and replenish lost electrolytes. While commercial sports drinks will work, try unsweetened coconut water as a natural source of potassium and magnesium, and add a quarter teaspoon of salt to replenish sodium. If muscle cramps are a problem, proper stretching and rest are important. Try adding a banana smoothie with a splash of milk as a delicious way to stay hydrated and help restore electrolyte imbalances. Other potassium-rich foods you can include are

oranges, potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and avocados. Feel free to enjoy a cup of coffee before your run. Caffeine has been linked to improved athletic performance, but it can also stimulate your digestive tract. Make sure you know its effect on you before trying it on race day. When we eat is just as important as what we eat. For longer training runs, include a carbohydrate replacement to keep your energy up. A refreshing way to get sugar while running is to keep a bag of frozen grapes handy. Within an hour of finishing your run, you need to refuel with a snack containing both carbohydrates and protein. Try eating half of a whole grain bagel with peanut butter or fruit with half a cup of yogurt. Even two percent chocolate milk will work if eating is difficult after a run. You may not feel hungry, but it is important to consume something to start stabilizing blood sugar levels and aid in recovery. What works for one person may not be optimal for another, so learn what works best for you and avoid trying something new the day of a race. Good nutrition should be part of your ongoing training, not something you start in the days leading up to a big race.

Hearing Loss: The Invisible Disability BY JAN HENRIQUES AU. D.

How well do you see at night? It’s not often we find ourselves in complete darkness. Even if we don’t turn on a light, streetlights, the moon, the stars or light from a distance can help us find our way in the dark. It’s much the same for individuals with a hearing problem. Most people with hearing loss have enough hearing to stumble through conversations. Dr. Henriques is They can ask people to repeat what’s a board certified been said or turn up the television to audiologist and lead provider at North hear it more clearly. Georgia Audiology in Hearing loss is often referred to as Woodstock. She has been practicing since the “invisible disability” because you 1985, after earning a cannot see just by looking at a person doctorate in audiology from the University of that he or she cannot hear. If someone Florida and a master’s is in a wheelchair or walking with a degree from LSU Medical Center. cane, you might be sympathetic and hold open a door. But if someone with hearing loss approaches you and doesn’t understand you because he or she can’t hear you well, that person can be unfairly judged as being aloof or senile. Why is it that if we are having difficulty seeing we have it 44

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checked out? According to the National Institutes of Health, there are 15 million adults in the U.S. ages 18-64, or six percent of the population, who have less than 20/20 vision. Of these, about 85 percent use corrective glasses. In contrast, there are 26 million adults ages 1864, or 11 percent of the “Hearing loss is often population, with mild to profound hearing loss and referred to as the only 16 percent reach out ‘invisible disability’ to get help with hearing. because you cannot I often use the analogy of the first time I got see just by looking at glasses. I was 10 years a person that he or old and remember the drive home from the she cannot hear.” optometrist’s office. I was amazed to see the leaves on the trees! It wasn’t that I hadn’t seen the trees or the leaves before, but now they were so much more defined and clear! The same happens when you hear sounds again that have been long missed: the blurriness of the speech goes away. The nuances of speech and music become fuller and more vibrant. Don’t miss out on the sounds of life. Have your hearing tested. You might be surprised at what you have been missing.


A Lesson On Gluten-Free Flours BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

If you have taken the gluten-free plunge, you most likely have found yourself in the middle of a flour storm, meaning you have discovered the variety of flours available and necessary to live a tasty gluten-free life. We GFers are actually lucky, in my opinion. Our flours are healthy and, when blended together well, are tastier. Let’s learn some of the flours that will become staples in your kitchen, and in your vocabulary. Jessica Leigh Smith lives in Cherokee Brown rice flour: Nutty taste, adds County with her texture, high in protein and insoluble fiber. family. Jessica is also an actress and Buckwheat: Contrary to its name, it producer. www. does not contain wheat. It’s excellent for JessicaLeighSmith.com and Facebook.com/ pancakes and yeast breads, contains high NotFinishedInc. levels of zinc, copper, manganese and potassium, and is very high in protein. Chia: Great for flatbreads, high in protein, soluble flour, omega 3 fatty acids and calcium. Cornstarch: Very little flavor, used as a thickener, is low in fat but high in calories, so proceed with caution. Flaxseed: Nutty, strong flavor, retains moisture and provides a spring to baked goods. It’s high in omega 3 fatty acids, lignans

(antioxidants) and fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Some call this the world’s healthiest food. Millet: Powdery texture, sweet flavor, great for muffins and flatbreads. High in protein, antioxidants, vitamin B3, magnesium and fiber. Nut flours: (almond, pecan, etc): Add flavor, texture and various nutritional values. Potato starch: (do not confuse with potato flour): Weak in flavor, low in calories and great for retaining moisture and providing a soft, light texture. Quinoa: Slightly mild nutty flavor, a perfect balance of all nine amino acids essential for nutrition as well as a large dose of fiber and iron. Sorghum: Nutty, sweet flavor that’s a good source of niacin. Teff: Similar in taste to hazelnuts, high in fiber, low in sodium and fat. Tapioca (cassava): Sweet flavor, adds texture, sodium free. White rice flour: Not as dense as brown white flour, high in protein and insoluble fiber. In almost every case, you will need to combine two or more in order to create traditional gluten-filled type foods for your new lifestyle. The effort put in now to understand which flours work well with each other and with you will pay off tremendously in superb taste, thus helping you stick with your new diet.

Gluten-Free Pretzels

One of my all-time favorites before going gluten-free was a pretzel—the big, bready ones that you get at a ballgame or the mall. After 3 ½ years, I am thrilled to report that I now know how to make carbon copies of the yummy-in-my-tummy mall pretzels (my non-GF husband even prefers mine).

Ingredients 3 cups GF flour

(plus more by the tablespoon, if necessary)

1 ½ teaspoon xanthan gum

(unless it is already in your flour blend)

3 teaspoons instant yeast ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar ¼ teaspoon baking soda ¼ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 5 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 egg whites 1 cup warm milk Melted butter Coarse salt for sprinkling

Baking Soda Bath 6 cups water 1 tablespoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt

Method Mix the first six ingredients. Then add in the salt and mix again. Add the vinegar, butter and egg whites and mix. Add the warm milk in a slow stream. If needed, add in more flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Divide into small balls, roll out and twist into pretzel shapes. Place on baking sheet and allow the pretzels to rise for roughly 40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Bring the baking soda bath to a boil in a large pot over high heat. Soak each pretzel in the bath, roughly a minute per side. While still warm, brush each pretzel with the melted butter and if desired, sprinkle with salt. Remember that salt will retain moisture and that gluten-free goods don’t keep well for more than a couple days, so consider not adding salt in order to keep the pretzel tasty for as long as possible. Bake the pretzels in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until light brown. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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School & Sports

More Information About a Dangerous Substance BY MARK KISSEL

A few months ago, I wrote an article giving parents, school administrators and law enforcement officers information about the latest challenge in the fight against drugs, marijuana wax. More information has been gathered as law enforcement agencies across the United States investigate this new trend that is finding its way into our schools and college campuses. Chief of Police Mark When we hear the word marijuana, Kissel has served the most of us think of the green leafy Cherokee County School District since substance that is smoked. As I pointed 1999 and has more out in my previous article, this new than 35 years of law enforcement substance looks like lip balm and is experience. very easy to hide. Other descriptions now being offered are butter, oil or amber-colored glass. On the street, or among users, the drug goes by many names: dabs, butter, amber, honey, oil, or BHO, which stands for butane honey oil or butane hash oil. Where the street-level term “420” is used as a universal, unofficial symbol for the use and appreciation of marijuana, the new identifier “710” can be found on clothing and other items to identify marijuana oil; the term OIL is turned upside down and used in a numeric form.

These photos may help you recognize this new street drug:

Cherokee County School District schools all are considered Drug Free Zones, and the 2014-15 CCSD Discipline Code prohibits a student from possessing, using, offering for sale, or the transfer of any drug while on school property, on school buses, at bus stops or while Photos courtesy of Officer Jermaine Galloway, State of Idaho attending school functions.

Stressing the Test? Or Testing the Stress? BY CINDY CREWS

It is normal for children to worry about tests, but when is worrying too much of a bad thing? Today we are assessing students often enough that some of them aren’t worrying much at all. In fact, some teachers have anxiety about whether or not too much testing creates test apathy in students. Soon Georgia students will take the new statewide assessment, the Georgia Cindy Crews is principal Milestones, which is a summative of Sixes Elementary School, and has been an test spanning grades three through educator in Cherokee high school. It will measure how well County for 20 years students have learned the state content standards in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The Georgia Milestones replaces the Georgia Criterion Referenced Competency Tests (GCRCT) and will look very different than the previous statewide assessment. The open-ended responses and writing components have created some anxiety in parents, teachers and administrators this school year. It is critically important for the adults involved to watch for signs of test anxiety in children. And more importantly, not to unknowingly add stress. Schools are increasingly judged by their test scores, which increases anxiety levels within schools. Parents 46

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feel a sense of responsibility to push their children to perform well, which adds to anxiety levels within homes. We can stop the insanity by looking for the signs. In the days leading up to a big test, look for changes in eating and sleeping patterns, distractibility, crying over small things or upset stomach. Be aware of your child putting himself down or suddenly not wanting to go to school. Parents and teachers can help children avoid or lessen anxiousness over testing. Parents, start by asking an important question of yourselves: Am I the prime contributor? Often, parents don’t even realize they are piling on the stress by talking about the test frequently or measuring their child’s self-worth in terms of the score they believe their child will earn. Finding a balance is critical. Yes, parents want good scores on these tests. So do the teachers. But other pursuits are important too, such as the arts and sports and relationships. Parents can support their children at home by helping them create good study habits. Check homework, read with them, ask them to explain or defend their answers. Model making good life choices. Teachers have a bag of tricks completely different than what parents can provide. I witness teachers engaging with students in positive self-talk daily. They use positive slogans, poems, visualization strategies, and even some silliness to help students get rid of the testing jitters. continued on page 60


GET SET FOR SUMMER This summer could be a busy one for your children, from the looks of this comprehensive guide. Many of these camps also have spring break offerings.

Adventures Express & Special Needs Camps

The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency offers Adventures Express, a camp with weekly excursions that begins open registration at 9 a.m. April 14. K.A.O.S. is an exclusive camp for special needs children, and has a 1:3 ratio of experienced counselors to participants. Cost is $130 weekly. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.

Elm Street Drama

Art of Living at Community of Hope

Write, produce and perform at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, where trained counselors lead campers in performance and creative thinking skills that will serve campers in whatever profession they eventually choose. Each camper gets a T-shirt, script and video of the final performance with sessions available weekly June 8-July 31. Junior division for ages 5-7, senior division for ages 8-14. 678-494-4251. www.elmstreetarts.org.

Brainy Bytes Tech 4 Kids

Sessions for children ages 3-12 are held 7 a.m.-6 p.m. weekly June 1-July 31 at 105 Arnold Mill Park, Woodstock. 770-516-2654. info@ ga-allstars.com. www.ga-allstars.com.

Art camp for ages 7-12 will be 9 a.m.-noon June 14-19, 22-27, July 6-10, 13-17. $135. Camp also available for teens. For details, call Patricia Reeves at 770-479-6961. www.patriciareeves.com. Creative technology camps include LEGO robotics, video game creation, Minecraft Mod Design, stop-motion movie making, web design and more. Half-day and full-day sessions available June 1-July 31 throughout Cherokee and Cobb counties for children ages 6 and older. Cost is $210 half day, $310 full day. 770-826-0449. www.bbtech4kids.com.

Georgia All-Star Gymnastics Kids Time Academy

Adventure and Exploration Camp has weekly themes with field trips and activities for ages 4-12. Camp includes full meal plan. 9562 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. www.kidztymeacademy.com.

Camp Gideon

The Christian camp on Lake Allatoona is offering Impact youth leadership camp is June 20-26, Discovery day camp is June 22-26, June 29-July 3 and July 6-10. Overnight camp for ages 7-13 will be July 13-17. Camp Gideon is in Acworth at 3545 Walden Lane. Costs vary. www.campgideon.com.

Canton Golf Club Junior Golf Camp

Learn the fundamentals of golf for ages 7-16, 8:30-11:30 a.m. June 8-10 with PGA Class A instructor Craig King. Games and prizes. Snacks and beverages provided. Cost is $165. Call or text 404-285-7557.

Cherokee Junior Tennis Camps

Five sessions offered June 8-July 30 with tiny tots sessions for children younger than 8, and day camp for older children, at the Cherokee Tennis Center, 155 Brooke Blvd., Woodstock. Cost is $50 tiny tots, $160 day camp. Multiple child discounts offered. 770-592-4582. Proshopctc@gmail.com. www.cherokeetenniscenter.com.

Cherokee YMCA

Campers ages 4-15 will have the opportunity for day camp experiences with highly trained staff on 225 acres on Lake Allatoona or at the indoor YMCA in Canton. Outdoor activities include water skiing, canoeing, arts and crafts, rock climbing, archery and more. Registration opens March 1 for weekly sessions June 1-July 31. Scholarships available. 770-3459622. www.cherokeeymcaregistration.com.

“Seussical” summer camp performance at Elm Street Drama Camp.

Paper.Scissors.Cake

Campers ages 4-15 can choose from dozens of themes. Sessions held 9 a.m.-4 p.m. throughout the summer at Cherokee Charter Academy, 2126 Sixes Road. www.clubscientificatlanta.com.

The children’s art studio will offer mixed media camps for children ages 6-12 that will include time for sketchbooks and stories, painting, drawing, collage and more. Small class sizes. Bring a lunch. Toddler and preschool camp Crafternoons also available on select Tuesdays during the summer. 6687 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 404-867-1630. Check Paper.Scissors.Cake’s Facebook page.

Core Camps Plus

Safety Town

CRPA Fishing Camp (10th anniversary edition)

Teams of Sports & Science

Club Scientific Summer Camps

Half-day sessions for elementary through high school students covering math, science, robotics, improve SAT/ACT preparation, rapid reading, and more at Cherokee Christian School, 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock. www.corecampsplus.com. The basics of fishing, strategies and tactics, and other skills will be taught to campers ages 9-14 June 1-5. Campers will travel to new destinations each day. A cookout and fish fry will wrap up the week. Cost is $150. Contact Jay Worley at jworley@cherokeega.com or 770924-7768. www.crpa.net.

Dance Imagination Fairytale Ballet

Offering sessions 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 16-July 24 for children ages 2 and older at 119 Mill St., Woodstock. Cost is $40/day. Discounts available on weekly rates. Also planning camp for older girls. 678-445-2731. www.danceimagination.com.

Offering three 9 a.m.-noon sessions throughout June that cover water, fire, strangers, school bus, poison, traffic and pedestrian safety. $75 fee includes T-shirt and daily snack at Bascomb Elementary School in Woodstock. www.cherokeecountysafetytown.org. Offering sessions 7 a.m.-6 p.m. June 1-July 24 for ages 5-12 at Allen Temple Church, 232 Arnold Mill Road. Cost is $125 per week, Registration fee $40 per child. www.allentempleame.org.

Towne Lake Community Church

Weekly themes change for children ages 4-10, with sessions 9 a.m.-2 p.m. June 8-26 and July 6-24 at the Woodstock church at 132 N. Medical Parkway. Cost is $90 per week or $25 per day. One-time registration fee is $20 per child or $25 per family. camp@tlcchurch.com. 678-445-8766, ext. 203. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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School & Sports

Science Grant Offers Hands-On Experience Freedom Middle School recently won a PPG Industries grant that funded a science program for sixth-graders. The Public Education Leadership Community grant gives schools the opportunity to apply for financial support up to $1,000 for projects that directly benefit classroom instruction. The grant allowed Freedom sixth-graders to participate in High Touch High Tech’s Meteorology Mayhem in-school field trip. High Touch High Tech is a science-oriented program that takes scientists to the classrooms, where they provide interactive, hands-on activities and experiments. The program included lessons about air pressure, Bernoulli’s principle and demonstrations of weather predicting equipment such as anemometers, barometers, thermometers and sling psychrometers.

Woodstock High Sophomore Wins State Design Contest

Jordie St. Pierre displays her winning entry.

Woodstock High School sophomore and secondyear graphic design student Jordie St. Pierre won the 2015 Georgia Science and Engineering Fair (GSEF) pin design contest by the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education’s Office of Academic Special Programs. Her design will be on the cover of the 2015 GSEF program and on the pin that GSEF participants will receive at the fair later this month.

Students Honored for Water Focused Projects

Nicole Rubin (left) and Allison Keonhothy participate in the interactive science activities provided by the grant.

Sequoyah Poet Advances in Poetry Competition Sequoyah High School sophomore John Haas is advancing to the March 15 state finals of the Poetry Out Loud national recitation competition. The event is sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation to encourage students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation and assist students in John Haas developing public speaking skills, selfconfidence and greater knowledge of literary heritage. www. poetryoutloud.org. The state winner receives $200, a $500 grant to purchase poetry books and an all-expenses-paid trip with an adult chaperone to Washington, D.C. to compete for the national championship. A total of $50,000 in student prizes and school grants is awarded annually at the national finals. 48

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

Cherokee County Water and Sewage Authority (CCWSA) honored six students with a certificate, gift card, and water quality materials at the Northwest Georgia Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Four students from Woodstock High School (Silvana Bravo, Adrea Mueller, Paula Ruiz, and Alexandra Melehan) were honored for their water-focused projects. Silvana’s project explored bioremedation of BPA, Adrea investigated bacteria as an indicator of decomposition, Paula researched the use of vibrio fischeri as an indicator of water quality, and Alexandra analyzed nitrate reduction. Nathan Cottrell, a sixth-grader from Freedom Middle School, conducted a tap versus bottled water taste test and learned about the process that tap water goes through by visiting a water treatment facility. Carrington Chun, a senior at Sequoyah High School, designed and built an instrument that could potentially retrieve water quality data from locations that cannot be reached by scientists.

Woodstock High School winners with Lori Forrester, CCWSA Environmental Affairs Specialist. From left, Adrea Mueller, Paula Ruiz, Forrester, Silvana Bravo and Alexandra Melehan.


Woodstock Middle Headed to State Science Bowl

Cherokee Schools Recognized By State of Georgia

A team from Woodstock Middle School is headed to the state Science Bowl after winning first place at the Georgia Sub-Regional Science Bowl Competition. Team members are Laney Broussard, Greg Carroll, Katie Gilliam, Andy Jiang and Camilo Rincon. Coaches are Brandi Miller and Heidi Switzer. Eleven teams competed in seven rounds at the subregional event, where the Woodstock team went undefeated through the competition. The state champions will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. for the national competition.

All of Cherokee County School District’s high schools have been named AP (Advanced Placement) STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Schools and AP STEM Achievement Schools for the third consecutive year. The AP STEM School designation, awarded by the Georgia Department of Education, recognizes high schools that test students in at least two AP math courses and two AP science courses; the AP STEM Achievement School designation recognizes schools where at least 40 percent of those test-takers earn a score of three or higher. The challenging college-level course exams are scored from one to five, with five being the highest score; most colleges and universities require a score of at least three in order for students to receive course credit. Only 121 high schools in the state earned the AP STEM Achievement School designation; 198 earned the AP STEM School designation. Cherokee, River Ridge, Sequoyah and Woodstock high schools have earned the state’s newest designation – AP Humanities School, which began this school year to recognize high schools that offer at least one AP English language arts course, two AP social sciences courses, one AP fine arts course and one AP world language course.

Team members, from left: Camilo Rincon, Andy Jiang, Greg Carroll, Katie Gilliam and Laney Broussard.

School District Recognizes Athletic Scholarship Signees Eighty-six Cherokee County School District studentathletes were recognized in a ceremony at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center in Canton for signing scholarship commitment letters to compete at the college level. Included in the group were twin brothers who will be playing for the same college football team, brother and sister twins who signed for baseball and softball at two different schools, and the first equestrian scholarship won by a Cherokee County student. In the six years the school district has held the event, this was the largest group of scholarship signees Signees recognized from Cherokee, Creekview and Sequoyah high schools. recognized. Students, along with their parents, coaches, athletic directors and principals, were honored at a brunch for making their college choices for a variety of sports on National Signing Day. Cherokee County students were recognized for commitments to play baseball, basketball, golf, tennis, lacrosse, softball, soccer, swimming, diving, volleyball, tennis, cross country, track, wrestling and equestrian. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Faith

Community of Faith Missionary to Speak The Rev. Alan Morris, a missionary with North Central Area Missions, will speak at 6 p.m. March 8 at Sutallee Baptist Church on 895 Knox Bridge Hwy. www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com.

Easter Musical at Hopewell “24 Hours that Changed the World” is the title of the Easter musical planned for 6 p.m. March 22 at Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. (770) 345-5723. www.hopewellbaptist.com.

Church of the Messiah Adds Service Sunday mornings at Church of the Messiah will feature two services, beginning March 15. The 9 a.m. service will have blended traditional/contemporary music followed by Holy Communion at 10 a.m. The second service, beginning at 11 a.m., will have contemporary music. Children’s worship also will be held at 11 a.m. The church is at 415 Charles Cox Drive in Canton. www.churchofthemessiah.net.

cole slaw, beverage and dessert. Proceeds benefit the church’s outreach efforts. Last year’s series raised $6,000, and was spent to help about 120 families in need in the community. The church is at 2795 Ridge Road, Canton. www.stclementscanton. org.

Celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day A Saint Patrick’s Day dinner-dance, sponsored by the Knights Of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, will begin at 7 p.m. March 14 in the Parish Hall of Our Lady of La Sallette Catholic Church, 2941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton. Irish food, door prizes and dancing. Tickets are $8 for one, $20 for three, children age 5 and younger are free. Wear something green. www.lasallettecanton.com.

Free Community Meals

Lenten Meals on Fridays

Mt. Zion Baptist hosts a free community meal 5:30-7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month in the Family Life Center. Everyone is welcome. Sponsored by the SALT Community Missions Team. The church is in Canton at 4096 East Cherokee Drive. www.mtzb.org.

St. Clement’s Episcopal Church’s largest fundraiser is the annual Lenten Fish Fry Series, held 5-7 p.m. Fridays through March 27. Adult meal ($7) has three pieces of tilapia, two hushpuppies, baked beans, cole slaw, beverage and dessert. Child’s meal ($3) includes one piece of fish, mac ‘n’ cheese,

Woodstock United Methodist will host a free Italian dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. March 9 at the church’s Latimer Hall. The menu includes homemade lasagna, salad, garlic bread, beverage and a selection of homemade desserts. 770-516-0371. Latimer Hall is in Woodstock at 103 Towne Lake Parkway.

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Easter Eggstravaganzas March 7, 21

Eastern European-style Easter egg decorating using the batik method will be hosted at 10 a.m. by Saint Elizabeth Orthodox Church. Materials will be provided for the two-hour class. Reservations required by March 14. Light traditional Lenten foods will be served for lunch. The church is at 2265 East Cherokee Drive. To register, call 770-485-0504 or email fatherdutko@gmail.com. www.facebook.com/ SaintElizabethOrthodoxChurch

March 28

The 29th annual Easter Eggstravaganza at Northside Hospital-Cherokee will be held at the hospital campus, 201 Hospital Road, Canton. Activities other than the egg hunt include petting zoo, moonwalks, carnival games, face painting, arts and crafts, food, music and more. Egg hunts begin at 1:30 p.m. for children up to age 3 and for those who have special needs or require assistance. 1:45 p.m. for ages 4-6, 2 p.m. for ages 7-9 and 2:15 p.m. for ages 10 and older. Registration is free online at https://give.northside. com/EasterEggstravaganza. Activities and food are free. Photos with the bunny are $5 for two. T-shirts are $10 each. Proceeds benefit the Northside Hospital Foundations NICU (special care nurseries). Rain date will be March 29. Participants encouraged to bring donations of baby products for MUST Ministries. The city of Holly Springs will hold its 14th annual Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m. at Barrett Park, 120 Park Lane. Arrive early for photos with the Easter Bunny. Each family will receive one picture. More than 12,000 eggs will be hidden for children from infants to age 12. Every child will receive a special prize. Rain date is April 4. 770-345-5536. www.hollyspringsa.us/ easteregghunt

April 11

Aquatic Center Eggs-traordinary Extravaganza will begin with an underwater egg hunt 2:30-5 p.m. for ages 4-10. Children will search for eggs in the shallow water while ages 6-10 will dive for eggs in the deeper water. Bring a swimsuit, towel, goggles and a change of clothes. Baskets provided, prizes for all participants. An outside egg hunt will be held at 2 p.m. for ages 1-3, who must bring their own baskets. From 2 to 5 p.m., participants can enjoy inflatables, face painting, egg decorating, contests, prizes and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Cost of registration is $10 per child before April 3, or $12 after. www.crpa.net

Happy Easter!

Easter AT WOODSTOCK

CELEBRATE EASTER WEEKEND AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WOODSTOCK

SATURDAY

APRIL 4

3PM - WORSHIP CENTER 5PM - THE CHAPEL

SUNDAY

APRIL 5

9AM - WORSHIP CENTER 11AM - THE CHAPEL

SPECIAL MUSICAL GUEST NEWSONG IN ALL SERVICES

easter ALL experience for kids! KIDS K-3RD GRADE ARE INVITED TO KIDZPLACE

SATURDAY APRIL 4 AT 3PM & SUNDAY APRIL 5 AT 9AM & 11AM

11905 HIGHWAY 92 WOODSTOCK GA 30188 770.926.4428 // FBCW.ORG FIRSTBAPTISTWOODSTOCK

FBCWOODSTOCK

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Faith

Faith is a Vital Part of Life BY DR. JOE MCKECHNIE

Let’s begin with a movie quiz. I’m going to give you a famous line, and you try to guess the movie or TV show it’s from. 1. “Just the facts, ma’am.” 2. “Luke, I am your father.” 3. “Play it again, Sam.” How did you do? Let’s check out the answers. 1. Many of you probably responded by naming “Dragnet,” Dr. Joe McKechnie is the TV series that originally aired the senior pastor of Sixes United Methodist from 1951 to 1959. But guess Church, and a member what? This quote was never used in of the Sixes Living the TV show. Joe Friday, the main community board. Email him at character, said, “All we want are the joe@sixesumc.org. facts, ma’am.” 2. Did you guess “The Empire Strikes Back?” Believe it or not, this quote, as famous as it has become, was never used in the movie. Darth Vader says to Luke Skywalker, “No, I am your father.” 3. The classic 1942 film “Casablanca” is well-known for the line, “Play it again, Sam.” Or is it? Again, no one in the famous movie ever uttered those words. Ingrid Bergman’s character did say, “Play it once, Sam, for old times’ sake; play ‘As Time Goes By.’” As a pastor, I often run up against folks who have similar misunderstandings about various statements from the Bible. Many folks cite the phrase, “God will never give you more than you can handle.” But you won’t find this in Scripture. To the contrary, God will often allow us to go through times that we can’t handle on our own. That’s why faith is such a vital part of life. Psalm 38:4 cries out, “My wrongdoings are stacked higher than my head; they are a weight that’s way too heavy for me.” In the book of 1 Kings, we read of

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Elijah being told by an angel: “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” Throughout Scripture we encounter people overwhelmed by what they are facing. They realize that they cannot handle it on their own. In 2 Corinthians, Paul is writing about his experiences in Asia when he laments, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God” (2 Corinthians 1:9). What these verses teach us is that it’s OK to feel like we can’t handle it. And when we do this, we find God—the one who, in the person of Jesus, suffers with us. What Paul does is remind us that the sufferings are not something apart from God. They are not tests sent by God, but rather opportunities to encounter God. When we become aware that life will give us more than we can handle, we find a promise: God is faithful to meet us in the mess and in the pain. And when He does, we learn to recognize our constant need to depend on Him. While we would like to think that God won’t allow us to face more than we can handle, it’s necessary that we understand the opposite to be true. If God is only giving me what I can handle, I’ll never have to be dependent on God. If God is only giving me what I can handle, I’ll never leave my comfort zone. If God is only giving me what I can handle, I’ll never grow. If you want God to use your life for something great, it’s going to be more than you can handle. God’s plans are huge! If God’s plans for my life rested solely on my abilities and strength, I’d be in trouble!

“To the contrary, God will often allow us to go through times that we can’t handle on our own. That’s why faith is such a vital part of life.”


Welcome to

photo by Darleen Prem

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

The Outlet Shoppes

T at Atlanta at Saks

Fifth Avenue Off Fifth

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

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Chattahoochee Technical College

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Woodstock UMC (M-Sa)

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to Cre

le St

Ln

To GA Hwy 140

St

Map

Pinehill

Park at City Center

T

ffee

Pinehi ll Dr

T

E Ma

Mill

Town

City Center

Pkwy

St

Lake

Cham bers

To I-575 Exit 8

Wall St

Town e

To GA Hwy 92

ns ki

St

Fow le

r St

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

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

53


Downtown Woodstock

Mark Your Calendars for Friday Nights in Woodstock BY KYLE BENNETT

2015 is sure to be a fun and exciting year in downtown Woodstock, thanks to the Friday Night Live series. Friday Night Live has proved to be a wildly popular event; each year the crowds grow larger and larger. Spend the first Friday of every month, March through December, in downtown Woodstock and enjoy the many restaurants and stores that the area has Kyle Bennett is the to offer. director of tourism Many downtown merchants are open for the Woodstock Downtown Development from 6 - 9 p.m. on these Fridays and Authority. He can be have special activities related to the reached at kbennett@ woodstockga.gov. Friday Night Live theme. Friday Night Live also features bands that play on the sidewalks downtown, adding a street festival feel to the event.

The 2015 Friday Night Live Series March 6: St Patty’s Fest - Celebrate St. Patty’s in downtown Woodstock as we kick off the 2015 Friday Night Live series. April 3: Roaring 20s Night - Travel back in time to the 1920s and celebrate the spirit of the Roaring 20s. May 1: Superhero Night - Celebrate all things superhero-

related. Be Superman, Batman, or one of the Avengers. This night is guaranteed to be super fun! June 5: Dog Days of Summer - Find relief from the dog days of summer in downtown Woodstock. Bring your dogs and participate in the dog-related contests we have scheduled. July 3: Downtown Block Party to kick off the Fourth of July weekend. Aug. 7: Summer of Love - No pond bathing here, but we can promise a summer-lovin’ time. Break out the tie-dyes and headbands as the history of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival is celebrated - peace, love, and rock and roll! Sept. 4: The Great Downtown Tailgate - Put on your team colors, strike up the band and come out to support your favorite team. Oct. 2: Hollywood Night - Celebrate all things Hollywood in downtown Woodstock at this Friday Night Live. Nov. 6: Downtown Art Walk - Downtown Woodstock will have an artistic flair this night. Dec. 4: Christmas in Downtown - The spirit of Christmas can be found downtown at Christmas on Main Street. It’s a perfect chance to Christmas shop and have fun at the same time. Santa has already sent his RSVP. Friday Night Live events start at 6 p.m. and include live music, food and activities.

You have so much ... they have so little Donations needed now Financial donations New socks and underwear Canned meat · Blankets

www.mustministries.org

1407 Cobb Parkway N. Marietta, GA 30061

54

SIXES LIVING | March 2015


DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT Canyons 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com

CUISINE

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

SUNDAY

SPIRITS

RESERV.

American

no

$

$

open

Beer/Wine

no

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

Modern American

no

$$

$$$

open

Full bar

8 persons +

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

Wood-fired Pizza & Grill

no

$$

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Southern

Sat./Sun. Brunch

$$

$$$

open

Full bar

no

American

no

$

no

open

no

no

Tapas/Sushi

no

Fri./Sat. only

$$

open

Full bar

yes

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

Italian

no

$$

$$

open

Full bar

no

J Christopher’s 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com

Diner

$-$$

$ - $$

no

open

no

weekdays only

BBQ & Southern Sandwiches

no

$ - $$

$ - $$

open

Beer

no

Freight Kitchen & Tap 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com Hot Dog Heaven 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com

J Miller’s Smokehouse 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas 108 Arnold Mill Rd. 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com

Southern

Sunday Brunch

no

$$$$

open

Beer/Wine

yes

Pure Taqueria 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock

Mexican

Sat./Sun. Brunch

$$

$$

open

Full bar

6 persons +

Seafood

Sunday Brunch

$$

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

limited

English Tea room

no

$$

no

closed

no

yes

Italian

no

$$

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

Reel Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Vingenzo’s 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

55

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

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants


Downtown Woodstock

Growth Continues in Downtown Woodstock BY JESSICA GUINN

With 2015 well underway, it’s clear that Woodstock will continue to grow as one of metro Atlanta’s premiere communities, offering a wealth of living, shopping, dining and recreational opportunities for diverse lifestyles. Business is booming, the Greenprints Trails are expanding and new neighborhoods are preparing to welcome future residents. Jessica Guinn has The Highway 92 and Main Street been community corridors are bustling with construction development director for the activity. Stars and Strikes, a family city of Woodstock bowling and recreational center, is since 2013. She is a graduate of Kennesaw renovating the former Ingles location State University, and on Highway 92, and expects to open a member of the American Institute of in May, just in time for summer break. Certified Planners. The former Walmart location was demolished this winter, and construction has begun for a new Sam’s Club, projected to open this fall. These exciting new additions will be conveniently located near one of Woodstock’s newest mixed-use communities, South on Main. Building on the success of downtown Main Street, South on Main will bring a mix of single-family homes, townhomes and multi-family residences, as well as a variety

OB/GYN Offices Located in Canton and Towne Lake

Get back to living your life.

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

770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com www.facebook.com/cherokeewomenshealth 56

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

of neighborhood scale retail and office uses to Main Street, just south of the downtown core. Residents will enjoy various amenities, including direct access to the Noonday Creek Trail. Since opening in 2014, Woodstock’s Noonday Creek Trail has been a popular destination for walkers, runners and bicyclists. As the weather warms up, the city and its residents can look forward to the opening of the Rubes Creek Trail, as well as additional trail connections through many of the city’s newer neighborhoods. In late 2014, Woodstock welcomed new restaurants, including Johnny Rockets and Applebee’s, and the city’s culinary offerings will continue to expand in 2015. Salt Factory, a gastropub with locations in Roswell and Alpharetta, is putting the final touches on its Main Street location. Another metro Atlanta favorite, Marlow’s Tavern, will soon open on Ridgewalk Parkway, offering American cuisine. For those seeking south of the border flavor, Mexico Lindo will open its fourth location on Main Street, just south of Highway 92. This spring promises to be an exciting time in Woodstock, with new neighborhoods completed to welcome future residents, restaurants to appeal to a variety of palates, and shopping and entertainment destinations. Be sure to check the city of Woodstock website, www.woodstockga.gov, for project updates, and like Woodstock Planning on Facebook to find out more about future additions to the city!


Key Lime Tart BY DAVID SILVERMAN EXECUTIVE CHEF/OWNER OF REEL SEAFOOD

Attend a Running & nutRition Workshop!

Help peyton’S FigHt AgAinSt CAnCeR! Registered Dietitian and Elite Runner Kaye Anne Starosciak is raising money by racing in the Publix Marathon for Peyton, a Rally-Kid battling cancer. Kaye Anne is conducting workshops for anyone who is interested in learning how to achieve their running and nutrition goals. The workshop is absolutely free, with each attendee encouraged to give a donation to help Peyton, Rally and childhood cancer research.

[

Tart Shell

1 quart ground vanilla wafers 1/4 cup softened butter

1 quart ground shortbread cookies

Grind down cookies in blender until smooth. Mix in butter thoroughly by hand. Lightly oil (food spray works) 4 inch individual tart shells. Pack crust mixture into shells, pressing firmly to fit to inside wall of shells. Be sure to leave about a 1/4 inch impression in center for filling.

Topics Include: 4 Setting Goals and Getting Motivated 4 Avoiding Injuries 4 Eating Healthy for Running and Life

WHen: Sunday, March 8th 3:30 – 4:45 thursday, March 12th 10:00 – 11:15 & 6:00 – 7:15 WHeRe: BridgeMill Fire Station #22 Community Center 9550 Bells Ferry Rd. in Canton

]

Each participant will receive a FREE 12-week training plan for a 5K or 10K race! Please R.S.V.P. to Kaye Anne at kastarosciak@gmail.com or (678) 877-7976.

Donate Today at: http://rallyfoundation.org/campaigns/kayerunsforpeyton/

Bake crust in 325 degree conventional oven for 15 minutes. Allow to cool.

Filling

1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 whole egg

1/4 cup key lime juice 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest

Whisk above ingredients thoroughly. Ladle filling into crust shells and spread to outside. Be sure to leave a little crust from the walls exposed. Bake at 325 degrees again for 15 minutes. Allow to cool.

Berry Coulis 1/4 cup water

1/4 cup raspberries

1/2 cup sugar

1 large basil leaf

1/4 cup strawberries Bring above ingredients to a steady rolling boil. Mix in 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixture (1 teaspoon cornstarch to 1 teaspoon cold water). Allow to boil. Cool down in ice bath. Remove basil leaf. Puree smooth in blender. Strain through fine mesh strainer. Carefully work tart out of shell. Use a fine tip knife to get under tart shell to free it. Place in the center of plate. Place a tablespoon of whipped cream on center of tart. Grate a little lime zest over it. Using a spoon, drizzle desired amount of berry coulis over tart or onto plate around the tart. SIXES LIVING | March 2015

57


Downtown Woodstock

Experience Elm Street Once Upon A Time... BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW

Fairy tales and folklore alike begin with the same four words: “Once upon a time...” The stories that follow take our imaginations on a journey through majestic worlds full of adventure, excitement and romance, ending with an uplifting moral and a “happily ever after”— but what makes a fairy tale magical is between the “once” and the “after.” Siobhan Brumbelow Anything can happen. Houses can has been involved be made of gingerbread. A princess with Elm Street since 2002 and holds a can turn a frog into a prince. A fairy BA in Theatre from can change a wooden puppet into a Brenau University. She toured for a year with real boy. Before fairy tales became Missoula Children’s written lore, they were enacted and Theatre and she currently manages dramatized by storytellers. and performs with the My involvement in an improv iThink Improv Troupe troupe allows me to do one of my favorite things - make up stories. I love pretending to be a superhero who has an obsession with her feet, or a waitress who wants to be a sideshow clown, or a fortune teller who is not very good at reading premonitions. The audience gives me story ideas and I make them up. Since 2002, I’ve collaborated with many children and have created a collection of stories. As a drama instructor, I began with blank paper and brainstormed characters, settings, and juicy plots with my students. Some of the ideas we came up with were a group of princesses deciding to become pirates, a mash-up fairy tales with Lil’ Red, Goldilocks and a Big Bad Pig, and your complete, balanced breakfast taking over all of TV—just to name a few. I’m happy to say that Elm Street continues to create stories from scratch with children (ages 5 and older) in their summer camps and year-round classes. Elm Street not only creates its own dramatic and kooky tales in an educational atmosphere, but produces quality plays and musicals for children throughout the year as well. This month’s performance is “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” the classic tale about a greedy king who cares only about his appearance and two swindlers who convince him to wear the latest invisible fashion. This show runs two weekends in March.

“Elm Street not only creates its own dramatic and kooky tales in an educational atmosphere, but produces quality plays and musicals for children throughout the year as well.”

58

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

CITY CENTER • WOODSTOCK

MARCH

13 & 20 AT 7:30PM 14, 15, 21, 22 AT 2:00PM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SUMMER CAMPS ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251


SIXES LIVING | March 2015

59


Fighting Pet Obesity

Accentuating the Positive

food into a desirable treat. Just a treat or two can easily add up to an entire meal’s worth of fat and calories. Table-foods are another contributing factor. Giving “just one bite” of your hamburger to your 10 pound shih tzu is the equivalent of you eating “just a couple” of burgers. Using veggie substitutes such as green beans or carrots and breaking one treat into four or five smaller pieces will make an appreciable difference to your pet’s waistline. Your veterinarian can assess your pet’s weight and offer dietary and exercise recommendations. Weight loss is challenging for all species. It is often a long and difficult road that requires dedication and perseverance. Yet, the result of a longer, healthier life for both ourselves and our pets is worth the effort.

A spending fell for a second consecutive year in FY 2012-13; enrollment in Part C plans expanded.)7 This lack of an annual spending increase led Medicare’s trustees to adjust their forecast of when Medicare’s main trust fund might run dry. It is now projected to do so in 2030, four years later than previously estimated.7 Baby boomers may be in for a more enjoyable retirement than the media assume. Last summer, T. Rowe Price surveyed recent U.S. retirees and found that 89 percent were somewhat or very satisfied with their quality of life. This level of retirement satisfaction surfaced even though the average respondent was now living on 66 percent of his or her preretirement income, with 85 percent of respondents saying that they didn’t require as much money as they once did to maintain their standard of living.8 There you have it: a roundup of good news about the economy and the outlook for retirement. Stay positive and plan actively for your future.

continued from page 32

A Prescription to Love continued from page 27

And a year later she went on her first date. Ever. Over the past several years, Marsha’s health has improved so much that now I see her only from time to time. Recently she sent me a card. She wanted to let me know she was getting married. And across the bottom of the card, in a small and hopeful postscript, was a note that she was hoping to have a baby. I have no idea why Marsha decided to take her “prescription” seriously. Maybe it was the fact that it was written on an official pad. Or maybe she could feel the desperation in my last-ditch effort to help her. But perhaps it’s simply that Marsha recognized the truth. I believe that we are hardwired to recognize the truth when we see it, and the truth is this: Love is the necessary ingredient for a healthy life, and it is not always the love we receive that heals. More often, it’s the love that we give.

Scaling and Root Planing: Best Solution for Gum Disease continued from page 42

calculus or, more commonly, tartar. Tartar creates a rough sandpaper-like surface on the roots of a tooth and permanently prevents gum tissue from attaching to the root. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing or flossing and requires a dental hygienist to to perform a procedure known as scaling and root planing. This procedure smooths the root surface and permits gums to reattach; a requirement in the reversal of gum disease. Bacteria in plaque can also produce enough acid to separate gums from a tooth’s roots. In addition to scaling and root planing, it is essential for patients to maintain a daily brushing and flossing regimen, as well as use a water irrigation device at night. 60

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

continued from page 31

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. Phone 770-952-6707. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya, Inc. or MarketingPro, Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note: investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations: 1 - istockanalyst.com/business/news/7063858/fidelity-s-quarterly-retirementsnapshot-average-balances-increase-year-over-year-record-contributions [4/29/14] 2 - blogs.marketwatch.com/encore/2014/04/29/older-savers-pull-ahead-in-the401k-race/tab/print/ [4/29/14] 3 - blogs.marketwatch.com/encore/2014/06/03/survey-401k-savings-ratesspiked-in-2013/ [6/3/14] 4 - bloomberg.com/news/2014-08-05/how-to-stay-optimistic-about-retirementread-this-article.html [8/5/14] 5 - thestreet.com/story/12941709/1/adp-report-shows-hiring-picking-up-jobgrowth-in-right-places.html/ [11/5/14] 6 - newyorkfed.org/microeconomics/hhdc.html#2014/q2 [11/4/14] 7 - bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-28/medicare-s-financial-condition-improveson-reduced-costs.html [7/28/14] 8 - news.investors.com/investing/073014-711065-people-adjust-to-lowerincome-in-retirement.htm [7/30/14]

Stressing the Test? Or Testing the Stress? continued from page 46

Working together, schools and families can make the new Georgia Milestones a pleasant experience for students. Having been in the Cherokee County School District as a teacher for 23 years and an administrator for four years, I can say with complete confidence that our students are among the best prepared in the state.


Reference

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

Town to Creek Trail - This 0.57 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street. It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with the Noonday Creek & Towne Lake Pass trails. Noonday Creek Trail - This 0.86 mile paved trail is a continuation of the Town to Creek trail meandering along Noonday Creek. It intersects the future Towne Lake Pass trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2015) - This approx. 1.2-mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the interesection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South. Rubes Creek Trail (2015) - This 1-mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails.

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

61


Reference

SIXES AREA HOMES SOLD IN JANUARY

Sixes Living Sales for January 2015 List Price

Address

Subdivision

Beds

Baths

Yr Built

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

147,500.00 179,900.00 225,000.00 229,900.00 240,000.00 259,000.00 304,900.00 314,999.00 395,000.00 409,900.00 405,000.00 438,600.00 450,000.00 499,900.00 152,900.00 229,900.00 201,000.00 200,700.00

4916 Jonathan WAY 350 Pinehurst WAY 4026 Gold Mill RDG 953 Bridge Mill AVE 920 Bridgemill AVE 211 Wildwood WAY 4046 Gold Mill RDG 308 Gold Mill TRL 440 LAKEPOINT TRCE 125 Gold Springs CT 5146 Millwood DR 329 Westbridge LN 1384 BRIDGEMILL AVE 1325 BRIDGEMILL AVE 550 Broughton DR 144 Cherokee Reserve CIR 517 RUBY LN 506 Crestmont LN

Apple Orchard BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill BridgeMill Canton Heights Cherokee Reserve Copper Creek Crestmont

3 3 4 4 4 5 5 4 5 6 5 5 5 5 4 3 4 4

2 2.5 3 3 2.5 4 3.5 3.5 5 5.5 4 5.5 5 4.5 2.5 3.5 3.5 2.5

1990 1998 2004 2000 2001 2001 2003 2005 2002 2006 2003 2004 2000 2000 2014 2014 1999 2008

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

160,000.00 167,900.00 214,900.00 389,900.00 199,000.00 214,900.00 210,000.00 245,000.00 238,500.00 237,587.00 259,000.00 303,880.00 150,000.00 125,000.00 195,000.00 199,900.00 229,990.00 236,201.00 142,000.00 145,000.00 167,900.00 150,000.00 254,900.00 155,000.00 132,000.00

309 Stone Valley XING 164 Diamond Ridge AVE 313 Garden CIR 602 Bentley Falls CT 105 GREYSTONE WAY 822 Durham CT 621 Syemore PASS 609 Lorimore PASS 100 EDINBURGH DR 201 South Village SQ 305 Hamilton WAY 699 Lorimore PASS 530 Kensington Park DR 1460 Longbow CT 295 Springs XING 512 Waterfall DR 155 Providence Walk DR 329 Providence Walk WAY 146 Swanee LN 153 Swanee LN 333 ALCOVY WAY 210 Brook Hollow DR 120 Willow Overlook 800 Yonah DR 161 Ilex DR

$ 242,036.21

AVERAGES IN JAN 2015

Days on Market 13 90 132 164 83 32 128 13 27 18 101 182 35 31 0 53 222 116

Sales Price

$$/sq ft

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

$ 89 $ 104 $ 97 No data $ 101 $ 91 $ 77 $ 119 No data $ 68 $ 97 $ 96 $ 76 $ 85 No data $ 100 $ 80 $ 66

144,500 177,500 220,000 228,900 237,000 254,500 300,000 314,999 395,000 400,000 403,000 420,000 437,000 498,000 155,775 240,000 201,000 174,777

See all the photos and details of these sold listings at http://SLJAN2015.KurtandSheilaTeam.com Diamond Ridge Diamond Ridge Eagle View At Prominence Falls Of Cherokee Greystone Village Harmony On The Lakes Harmony On The Lakes Harmony On The Lakes Harmony On The Lakes Harmony on the Lakes Harmony On The Lakes Harmony On The Lakes Holly Mill Indian Springs Preserve at Holly Springs Preserve at Holly Springs Providence Walk Providence Walk Rivers Edge At River Park Rivers Edge At River Park Rivers Edge At River Park Shady Brook The Preserve View At Holly Mill Village at Holly Mill

3 4 4 5 5 4 3 4 3 3 3 4 3 3 4 5 4 4 2 3 3 3 3 3 3

2 2.5 3 5 3 3.5 2.5 2.5 3 2.5 3.5 2 2.5 3 2.5 3 2.5 3 2.5 2.5 2.5 2 2 2.5 2

2004 2014 2014 1995 1995 2007 2007 2013 2007 2014 2007 2014 2001 1985 2005 2005 2014 2015 2003 2003 2012 1991 2014 2004 2003

Seize this opportunity to sell. Rates can only go up from here which will make homes less affordable for buyers using financing.

24 207 185 25 59 68 4 67 56 240 44 128 51 14 27 98 227 8 74 72 30 994 123 7 12 99.63

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

140,000 167,900 216,700 361,000 185,000 209,000 210,000 229,000 230,000 235,000 249,000 295,090 138,500 123,000 194,000 200,000 229,990 238,465 138,000 140,000 166,000 143,000 243,000 151,000 132,000

$ 87 $ 89 No data $ 82 No data $ 63 $ 106 $ 89 $ 109 $ 107 $ 136 $ 69 $ 93 $ 102 $ 79 $ 79 $ 80 $ 83 $ 112 $ 87 $ 83 $ 86 $ 122 $ 76 $ 101

$ 236,432.47

$ 91.21

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

62

SIXES LIVING | March 2015


COMMUNITY INFORMATION Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

770-345-0400

Cherokee County Government www.cherokeega.com Building Permits, Business Licenses 770-721-7810 Commissioners 678-493-6001 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) 678-493-6077 Environmental Health 770-479-0444 Extension Office 770-479-0418 Jury Phone 770-479-9011 Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) 770-479-1953 Planning & Land Use 678-493-6101 Senior Services 770-345-2675 Voter Registration 770-479-0407 Taxes

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

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

Children and Family

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

Hospitals

Kennestone North Fulton Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24-hour help lines

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

Parks and Recreation

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

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

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

Pets

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

Post Office locations Canton Holly Springs Lebanon Woodstock

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

Police Departments

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

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

Utilities

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

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

Free, Reduced-Price Health Care

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

Urgent Care Facilities

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

678-880-9654 770-345-7371

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

678-494-2500

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

63


Reference

SIXES AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Business Organizations Canton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club Meets: Noon on third Thursdays at Canton IHOP Contact: Glenda Hinton 770-345-1751 Canton Communicators Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Thursdays at the Canton YMCA Contact: Steven Van Schooten, 770-3668224. www.toastmasters.org Cherokee Area Business Connection Meets: 7:15 a.m. Wednesdays Contact: Marci Zied, 770-345-8687 customerservice@aloveoftravel.com Cherokee B2B Network Meets: 8 a.m. second and fourth Thursdays at Best Western, 705 Transit Ave., Canton 30114 Contact: 770-781-3452. www.CherokeeB2B.com

Contact: Marie Blackwell 770-378-0759 www.fosteroradopt.org Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. Contact: 770-345-2675 www.cherokeega.com Cherokee County Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org Cherokee County Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. Contact: 770-479-1703, in Spanish 770-720-7050, www.cfvc.org

Cherokee Toastmasters Club. Meets: noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock 30188. Contact: Richard Stacy at (843) 697-5189, richbstacy@ gmail.com. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com

Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Contact: Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org

Empowered Women Through Synergy Meets: Third Thursday at 8.30 a.m. at J Christopher’s in Downtown Woodstock Contact: Shahida Baig 678-445-3900 Facebook: Empowered Women Through Synergy

Cherokee FOCUS works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Contact: Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org

Woodstock Business Networking Group Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Atlanta Bread Company, 180 Woodstock Square Ave. Contact: Lee West 770-591-7101

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

Charitable Organizations Ahimsa House for victims of domestic violence who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 24-hour line 404-452-6248 Info 404-496-4038. www.ahimsahouse.org American Heart Association - Cherokee Division Contact: 678-385-2013 American Red Cross metro chapter Contact: 770-428-2695 Angel House Girls Home is a residential facility for girls 12-18 to learn self-sufficiency. Contact: 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com Anna Crawford Children’s Center a child abuse and prevention program for children and adults. Contact: 770-345-8100 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org CASA for Children, Inc. needs volunteers to help advocate for children in the court system. Contact: Deidre Hollands 770-345-3274 www.casacherokee.org Cherokee County Animal League is an association of pet owners, retailers, pet service providers, pet food pantries, veterinary offices, and rescue groups working together to care for and celebrate pets. Contact: Steve Monahan at 770-712-4077 www.CherokeeCountyAnimalLeague.org Cherokee County Foster & Adoptive Parent Association of GA supports foster parents.

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SIXES LIVING | March 2015

Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. Email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com 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 Georgia Animal Project offers high quality, lowcost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. Contact: 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.org Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash where thousands of children in need are given filled backpacks, haircuts, socks, underwear, gently used clothing and health screenings to prepare them to go back to school. www.giveakidachance.org Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. Young men ages 8-21 call the ranch their home. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Habitat for Humanity North Central GA Contact: 770-345-1879 www.habitat-ncg.org Harvesting Hope Ministries, Inc. raises money to send surgery care packs to children facing liver and kidney transplants. www.harvestinghopeministries.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful

environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses to find hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org Hope Center offers pregnant teens, single women pregnancy testing and counseling, childbirth and parenting classes, budget counseling, provision of maternity and baby supplies. Contact: 770-924-0864, www.hopectr.com Hope Center — Baby & More Thrift Store Contact: 770-517-4450 www.babyandmorethriftstore.com HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950, www.hqmg.org international City of Refuge (iCOR) exists to share God’s love, hope and healing with children in need by providing loving homes with emphasis on family unification when appropriate. Contact: Lily Colgate 404-992-8155 http://icor-orphans.org Iron Hearts is a therapeutic horsemanship program for children and adults with special needs. Contact: 678-493-5775 www.ironhearts.org MUST Ministries offers clothes closet, employment services, GED prep classes, food pantry for Cherokee residents. Contact: Kendall Jones 770-479-5397 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 offers food and clothing assistance to residents of Cherokee County. Apply online or by calling 770-363.5272 www.neveralone.org Next Step Ministries provides day programs Monday through Saturday for special needs kids, teens, and young adults. Contact: 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. Contact: (706) 253-6303 www.ngapregnancy.org Papa’s Pantry partners with individuals facing a critical shortage of food or finances due to an unexpected crisis or job loss. Offers life skills, job classes, food pantry. Contact: 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org Safe Kids of Georgia offers free child safety seat inspections. Contact: 770-721-7808 www.cherokeesafekids.org SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal


distributions worldwide. Also offers mission trips. Contact: 770-516-1108. www.servone.org

Civic Organizations BridgeMill-Sixes Service League Contact: Marlyn Patouillet 770-345-7941 www.bssl.org Canton Lions Club Contact: 678-224-7878. www.lionsofcanton.org Canton Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Canton IHOP Contact: canton_optimist@hotmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/cantonoptimistclub/ home Canton Rotary Club Meets: Noon Tuesdays at the Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs www.cantongarotary.org Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org Cherokee County Service League 770-704-5991 Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. (Senior and Law Enforcement Together) Council works to alleviate fear of victimization, build confidence, enhance delivery of law enforcement services and improve quality of life for senior population. Contact: Dale Walz at dale.walz@yahoo.com www.saltcherokee.com Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Sidelines Grille on Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton Contact: 770-683-1327. www.cherokeerotary.org

Political Organizations Cherokee County Democrat Party meets 7 p.m. 2nd Thursdays at Holly Springs Depot, 164 Hickory Rd., Holly Springs. 8:30 a.m. 1st Saturdays at IHOP, 3010 Northside Pkwy., Canton 30014. Contact: 770-345-3489 www.cherokeedemocrats.com/d2 Cherokee County Libertarians meet 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. Contact: http:// cherokeelp.org Cherokee County Republican Party Meets Second Saturday at 9 a.m. at Winchesters Woodfire Grill Contact: 678-809-1411 Cherokee Tea Party Patriots meet at 4 p.m. the third Sunday at Latimer Hall in Woodstock. Contact Conrad Quagliaroli, 770-378-8232 Republican Women of Cherokee County Contact: 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com

Recreation & Hobbies Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the Lake. Contact Rob Kelly, rrkelly@ bellsouth.net. Arts Alliance of Georgia, Inc. Meets: 10 a.m. second Saturdays at Studio 101, 101 Emma Ln., Woodstock 30188 www.artsalliancega.org

Blue Skies Laughter Club Meets: 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays at Northside Cherokee Medical Offices, 100 Stoneforest Dr., first floor conference room, Woodstock 30189 Contact 770-517-3363 ext. 3 www.addlaughter.com

Contact: Rich Sanford 770-926-1944

Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 30189 www.christianauthorsguild.org

Breast Cancer Support Group: Cancer Support Community Atlanta Contact: 404-843-1880 http://cancersupportcommunityatlanta.org

Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. second Saturdays at the William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 30188. www.cherokeehams.com

Celebrate Recovery Christ-centered program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups • 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org • 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678459-2347, http://MinistryHouse.org. • 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton, GA 30114 678-764-8660

Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton 30115 Contact: 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org Cherokee Community Chorale, a community of singers from all walks of life including housewives, teachers, retired professionals, office managers and professional musicians who love the art of choral singing. Contact: 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners: 770-479-0418 www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/ mastergardeners/ Cherokee County Saddle Club www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee Music Teachers Association: Contact: Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.cssasoftball.com The Funk Heritage Center Book Club Meets: 2 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Funk Heritage Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Pkwy., Waleska 30183. Contact: 770-720-5970 www.reinhardt.edu/funkheritage Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton 30114 www.cherokeechapter.com

Support Organizations AA Meetings Meets 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, noon Monday-Friday, 7 p.m. Monday, 4 p.m. Sunday (for women) at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Rd., Canton 30115 Contact: 770-479-6961 Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Meets: 8 p.m. Thursdays at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Rd., Canton 30114; Al-Anon at 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Al-A-Teen at 7 p.m. Thursdays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 30189; Al-Anon at 6 p.m. Wednesdays at Studio 121, 121 Brown St., Canton 30114. Contact: 770-516-3502 AARP Woodstock Chapter Meets: 11:30 a.m. 2nd Tuesdays at Featherstones, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E, Woodstock 30189

Alzheimer/Dementia Support Group Meets: 3rd Thursday at Emeritus Woodstock Estates, 1000 Professional Way, Woodstock 30188 Contact: 770-926-0119

Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. the last Wednesday of the month at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Dr., Woodstock 30189, www.cherokeeministers.org Diabetes Support Group Meets 3rd Tuesday at 9:30 & 11 a.m. at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Rd., Woodstock Linda Watson, 770-793-7818 Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. Contact: (727) 251-7690 www.gracevalleyministries.org Hearing Loss Association of America meets 2-4 p.m. on the last Sunday of the month at the William Long Senior Center in Woodstock. Lupus Support Group meets 2nd Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. in the New Light Church hall on New Light Road. Contact: Pam Bennett at 404-9757580 MOMS Club of Canton, West GA (serving Canton, Ball Ground, Waleska and Holly Springs) http://momsclubofcantonwest.webs.com Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday Respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. Contact: 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples for parents of multiples meets 7 p.m. second Mondays at North Metro Church on Barrett Parkway. www.NOWAMOM.org Recovery Meetings in downtown Canton 9 a.m. Sunday 11th Step; 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays “Serenity Sisters” 6 p.m. Wednesdays “Wednesday Night Wisdom” at Studio 121, 121 Brown St., Canton 30114 Contact: 770-479-696 Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center Contact: Kelly (678) 677-2589 SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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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 Woodstock, Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Hwy., Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 www.crossroadspbc.org Faith Community 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.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 South Cherokee 7504 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.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

Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.lifewaylink.com

Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Dr., Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org

CHURCH OF GOD

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

Timothy Lutheran (LC-MS) 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.TLCWoodstock.ctsmemberconnect.net

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

ORTHODOX

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

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-733-2585 www.mormom.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.annunciationepiscopal.org

Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com

Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org

JEWISH

SIXES LIVING | March 2015

Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org

Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com

First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com

Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com

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Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org

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

Chabad Jewish Center 4255 Wade Green Road NW, Suite 120, Kennesaw 678-460-7702 www.jewishWoodstock.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org

St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Dr., 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, Woodstock 770-926-3558 www.heritagepres.com Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074 www.woodstockpcusa.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC

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 Pkwy., 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 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.ngumc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 770-516-0371

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

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Awakening 180 Pkwy. 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 Ste. 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Ste. 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.ngca.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-733-2585 www.mormom.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Cornerstone Community 503 Hickory Ridge Tr., Ste. 160, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Dayspring 6835 Victory Dr., Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Dr., Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org

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 30102 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta Street, Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Trail Hill, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Community Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com 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

Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560

Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Pkwy., Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com

Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Dr., Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.info

Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com

God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org

Watermarke 2126 Sixes Road, Canton 678-880-9092 www.watermarkechurch.com

His Hands 550 Molly Ln., Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Life Church 224 Brown Industrial Blvd., Suite 103A 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly Street, Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 110 Londonderry Ct., Ste. 130, Woodstock

Woodstock Christian 7700 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org SIXES LIVING | March 2015

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Reference

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

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

Sen. David Perdue (R)

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

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)

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

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

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

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

State Government Governor Nathan Deal (R)

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

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

404-463-1378

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

678-523-8570

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

678-576-2644

Rep. Wes Cantrell (R) District 22 wesley.cantrell@house.ga.gov

404-656-0220

Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R) District 23

404-656-0254

scot@turnerforhouse.com

mandi.ballinger@house.ga.gov

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

Commissioners

L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman

lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Steve West (R) District 1 swest@cherokeega.com

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R) District 11 238 Cannon House Ofc. Bldg., Washington DC 20515 202-225-2944 9898 Highway 92, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188 GA: 770-429-1776 loudermilk.house.gov

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com

1130 Bluffs Pkwy., Canton, GA 30114

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

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

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

Cherokee County Coroner

Earl W. Darby 770-735-8055

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

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

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

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner Sonya Little

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

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

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

Kyla Cromer (R) District 1

678-493-8088

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

770-893-2970

Superior Court

John Harmon (R) District 3

404-462-4950

Chief Judge David Cannon Jr. 678-493-6270 Judge Jackson Harris 678-493-6260 Judge Ellen McElyea 678-493-6240

Janet Read (R) Chair

770-516-1444

State Court

Rick Steiner (R) District 4

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

404-656-0287

Cherokee County Courts

Judge W. Alan Jordan 678-493-6490 Judge A. Dee Morris 678-493-6480 Magistrate Court Chief Judge James E. Drane III (R) 678-493-6431 Judge Gregory Douds 678-493-6431

Probate Court Judge Keith Wood (R) 678-493-6160

kyla.cromer@cherokee.k12.ga.us

john.harmon@cherokee.k12.ga.us janet.read@cherokee.k12.ga.us

rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-721-4398, x4370

Clark Menard (R) District 5

770-928-0341

Mike Chapman (R) District 6 mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-345-6256

clark.menard@cherokee.k12.ga.us

City Government Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood

770-704-1544

Chief Judge John B. Sumner 678-493-6250 Judge Anthony Baker 678-493-6280 District Attorney Shannon Wallace 770-479-1488

Holly Springs Mayor Timothy Downing

770-345-5536

Clerk of Courts Patty Baker 678-493-6511

Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

770-592-6001

Juvenile Court

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SIXES LIVING | March 2015

www.canton-georgia.gov www.hollyspringsga.us. www.woodstockga.gov


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STOP SMOKING WITHOUT WITHDRAWAL www.georgiahypnotherapy.com or 678-938-7274 for more information LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT DIETING with hypnosis www. virtualgastricbandgeorgia.com or 678-938-7274 for information

Classified ads will be discontinued after March.

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted. For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at (770) 592-6056. Business Membership Information: $80 investment per year (2 reps) + $30 investment per year for each additional rep Subscription to email newsletter Main Street Woodstock decal Downtown Buzz meeting (monthly) Individual and nonMember appreciation event profit memberships Access to workshops also available Directory listing on website Ribbon cutting or groundbreaking Hobnob - a social event (quarterly)

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ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ANIMALS/PETS BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com 9560 Bells Ferry Road, Canton

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Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

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ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Hartman Imbriale Attorneys 678-445-7423 www.hartman-imbriale.com 145 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 200, Woodstock Kathleen McGillick, Attorney 770-591-5956 www.KathleenMcGillick.com

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BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Downtown BUZZ

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

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MiniMaid 56 770-656-2726, www.minimaid.com CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Must Ministries

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CHIROPRACTIC Grexa Chiropractic & Structural Wellness 15 770-213-7602 www.GrexaChiropractic.com 1750 Marietta Hwy., Canton North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute 678-574-5678 3451 Cobb Pkwy, Ste. 4, Acworth 70

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Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 31 1000 Wyngate Pkwy., Ste. 200, Woodstock 770-592-1877, www.townelakechiro.com CHURCHES First Baptist Church of Woodstock 770-926-4428, www.FBCW.org

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BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812 www.bridgemilldentistry.com 3682 Sixes Road, Canton 30114 Fountain View Dentistry 770-926-0000 www.fountainviewsmiles.com 1816 Eagle Drive, Bldg. 200, Ste. A, Woodstock

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FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC 1 770-952-6707 225 Town Park Drive, Suite 440, Kennesaw 42

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION Goddard School, The 770-720-3003 310 Prominence Point Pkwy., Canton

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Rally Foundation Workshop

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HAIR SALON/MASSAGE/SPA

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 51 770-926-9260 PediatricWoodstockDentist.com 1816 Eagle Drive Suite 200-C, Woodstock Riverstone Dental Care Inside Front Dr. Ruximar Linkous, 770-479-3846 www.riverstonedentalcare.com S. Bruce O’Neal, DDS 24 770-924-8848, 2230 Towne Lake Pkwy., Bldg. 100, Ste. 100, Woodstock Spillane Orthodontics 33 770-928-4747 www.SpillaneOrtho.com 335 Parkway 575, Suite 200, Woodstock Werner Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 35 678-224-5722 www.ChildrensDentistWoodstock.com 250 Parkbrooke Place Suite 250, Woodstock Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554

145 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 201, Woodstock 770-345-4155 205 Waleska Road, Suite 1A, Canton www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

Schuckers & Associates, PC 770-329-8873 or (706) 745-2475 3760 Sixes Rd., Ste. 126 #127, Canton Schuckers.Consulting@gmail.com

DENTAL (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)

AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906

Ribley Chiropractic Inside front 2453 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 770-592-2505, www.ribleychrio.com

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Azure Salon & Spa 42 770-345-8280 www.azuresalon.net 1359 Riverstone Pkwy., Suite 110, Canton Bambu Salon 7 770-345-0027 www.BambuSalonAveda.com 150 Prominence Point Pkwy., Suite 700, Canton 30114 HOME IMPROVEMENTS & REPAIR Alcaraz Drywall 3 678-949-8689, fidelalcaraz@yahoo.com Blue Horizon Air Conditioning & Heating 13 678-279-2244, BHCool.com Grout Doctor, The 678-383-1311 www.groutdoctor.com

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

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Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com

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Cover, 36 & 37

Uptronix 770-928-0260 www.uptronix.com

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Envision Therapy Dr. Rosalyn Coleman 678-540-6680 envisiontherapycenter.com 117 Mirramont Lake Dr., Woodstock Georgia Cancer Specialists www.gacancer.com

INSURANCE Clarke Agency, The (Farmers Insurance) 23 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 105 678-400-6725 mclarke@farmersagent.com LANDSCAPING/LAWN CARE Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710, www.excavationandlandscaping.com

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Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346 www.calvarylandscaping.com

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Soil Sense Landscape Group 5 678-483-5185, soilsenselandscape.com PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Gastroenterology Assoc. 40 770-926-5459, www.atlantagastro.com 900 Towne Lake Pkwy., Ste. 308, Woodstock Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301, www.cherokeeim.com 1192 Buckhead Crossing, Ste. C

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

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

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Inside back

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kim Bates Photography KimBatesphotoart.com

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REAL ESTATE

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 1 770-560-4775, NorthGeorgiaHearing.com 203 Woodpark Place, Ste. B-100, Woodstock Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 678-388-5485 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com 684 Sixes Rd., Holly Springs

www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net 120 Vann St., Ste. 150, Marietta

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

Back Cover

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT City of Canton 770-704-1548

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Northside Orthopedics 7 & Sports Medicine, Dr. Matthew Simmons 770-517- 6636 northsidecherokeeortho.com 684 Sixes Road, Ste. 130, Holly Springs

City of Holly Springs Egg Hunt

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

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Northside Hospital – Cherokee 770-720-5100, www.northside.com 201 Hospital Road, Canton

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 58 678-494-4251, www.elmstreetarts.org

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Northwest ENT and Allergy Center 3 770-427-0368 www.NW-ENT.com 134 Riverstone Terrace, Suite 202, Canton 960 Woodstock Parkway, Suite 101 Woodstock Plastic Surgery Center of the South 770-421-1242

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RETAILERS/SHOPPING Max Video Games & More 35 770-924-9300 6424 Bells Ferry Rd., Ste. 124, Woodstock www.facebook.com/maxvideogames Rudi Fine Jewelry 30 (678) 445-2626, 6790 Hwy. 92, Acworth

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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton and Woodstock. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine. At AroundAbout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. Candi Hannigan Executive Editor

Michelle McCulloch Art Director

Jackie Loudin Assistant Editor

Laura Latchford Page Designer

Patty Ponder ALM President Marketing & Advertising Sales

Denise Griffin Controller

Sixes Living Distribution Map Circulation: 16,250

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SIXES LIVING | March 2015

Christie Deese Sixes Living Market Manager

Karen & Jon Flaig Owner/Publisher

It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. It’s your community. It’s your magazine.


Tumors have nowhere to hide Patients now have somewhere to turn The future of cancer treatment is here. And it’s only available at WellStar. WellStar is the only health system in metro Atlanta to offer TomoTherapy® and CyberKnife® for the treatment of both cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.

TomoTherapy

CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System

Unlike conventional systems, which allow radiation to be delivered from only a few directions, TomoTherapy rotates in 360 degrees, meaning that treatments can be delivered continuously to the tumor from every angle. More beam directions give physicians more control in how they plan treatments – and more assurance that the dose will be confined to the tumor.

The CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System involves no cutting, and for many, can offer a non-invasive alternative to surgery for the treatment of tumors. The system is composed of a radiation delivery device, which is mounted on a flexible robotic arm which enables CyberKnife to deliver radiation to tumors anywhere in the body. Its exceptional tracking ability eliminates the need for patients to have stabilizing head frames or limited breathing during treatment.

For more information, call 770-793-7550 or visit wellstar.org/cancercare.



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