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TOWNELAKER | August 2015

August 2015 Volume 22, Issue 3

Summer’s Over

It’s not all sadness as students look forward to school.

22 Acting 101

A suitable headshot can make a big difference in your success

32 Christmas in August

Towne Lake resident looks ahead to help Goshen Valley for the holidays.

39 Day Trips or Overnights

Senior citizens lace up their traveling shoes for road trips with friends.

52 Georgia’s Grand Canyons

Tallulah Falls and Providence Canyon are within a short drive from home.

55 Consignment Sales

A chance to sell clothes and build a new wardrobe for your growing students.

67 Summer School for Teachers

Dedicated educators spent a fair share of time in the classroom.

75 Contributing Writers

Chantel Adams Don Akridge Dr. John Beyers 75 Reeves House Redo Architectural renderings show a blend JoAnn Blair Boatright of modern and history for Woodstock Christopher Brazelton Michael Caldwell home. Caron Catalon 78 The Faces of Woodstock Amy Cobb Highlights of summer concert, Rick Coughlin and a damp July 4 downtown. Claire Frost Christy Good Delia Halverson Dr. Scott Harden Dr. Amy Hardin Dr. Jan Henriques Jenna Hill Rev. Harden Hopper Toni Ann Isles

44 53 8 32 77 20 35 30 56 50 8 38 58 62 64 76 70 54

In Every Issue Dan Jape Kurt & Sheila Johnson Sean Kaufman Joe Lemmo Dr. Mike Litrel Rob Macmillan Scott C. McInturff Matt Neal Frank Petruzielo Julius Quarcoo Bill Ratliff Lynne Saunders Susan Schulz Jessica Leigh Smith Jodi Tiberio Lynne Watts Sherry Weaver Amber York

46 36 42 66 41 37 57 40 26 61 71 51 34 22 18 52 45 60

Around Towne

Community News

Birthdays

Community Calendar

Everyday Angels

TLBA

School News

Faith

Parking Map

Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide

GreenPrints Trail Map

Recent Home Sales

Towne Lake Dining Guide 91 Advertisers Index

www.townelaker.com

48 & 49 On the Cover Reliable Heating & Air. 2

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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

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TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

AROUND TOWNE

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

What’s New

Great American Cookie has opened at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta. www.greatamericancookies.com. Marlow’s Tavern has opened at 881 Ridgewalk Parkway, next to The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta. The restaurant serves American tavern fare. www.marlowstavern.com. Phase two of the Chief Eddie Robinson Fire and EMS Training Center at 3985 Holly Springs Parkway is now open, including large and small classrooms, offices, library and meeting room. The first phase opened in December 2013 and includes a burn building, training tower and apparatus building. The facility was recently named in honor of Cherokee County Assistant Fire Chief, Eddie Robinson, for his dedication in training new fire recruits in Cherokee County. Chief Robinson came to work for the county fire department in 1999.

What’s Coming

Construction should begin soon on a restaurant new to metro Atlanta: Load-A-Spud. Company officials have chosen 3333 Trickum Road, Woodstock for the first location. No completion date was available at press time. According to the website www.loadaspud.com, the restaurant offers an alternative to sub sandwiches. The basic potato comes in 20 signature ways with a variety of meats, veggies and sauces to add. The Pie Bar is planning to open at 8720 Main Street, Suite 130, in Woodstock later this summer. The location was the former home of Dive Georgia, which moved to 168 Towne Lake Parkway in June. The Woodstock store will be the company’s first retail location. To keep up to date on the move, visit www. orderpiebar.com.

What’s Changed

Jennifer Lacuzong and Jovelene Sengrath are the new owners of Pro Nails, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. The hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. 770-592-1919. A section of the City Center in downtown Woodstock, at the corner of Towne Lake Parkway and Main Street, has been demolished. The project is taking place to renovate the lobby and restrooms at City Center and to allow for future site and pedestrian improvements. 4

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

What’s Moved

Northside Hospital has expanded Northside/Riverstone Imaging in Canton and relocated to 720 Transit Ave., Building 200, Suite 201. Northside/Riverstone Imaging offers digital screening mammography, ultrasound, bone density testing, multi-slice CT and digital X-ray services. Relocating allowed the imaging center to install the latest bone density and digital X-ray technology. In addition, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) services were added for brain, spine and orthopedic exams. 404-851-6577.

Congratulations!

Woodstock ranked 89th among the top 100 Best Small Cities for Working Parents, a study compiled by NerdWallet. The Cherokee city was one of three in Georgia to make the top 100. Alpharetta placed 18, Peachtree City landed at 22 and Roswell at 79. To come up with the list, NerdWallet reviewed 961 places across the U.S. with populations ranging from 25,000 to 100,000. “We looked at small cities because they are most often the places that offer the best environments for middleclass families,” according to a NerdWallet report. “The places that topped our list are cities that offer the best mix of income potential, affordability and top-notch schools.” For more details of the study, visit www.nerdwallet.com.

Ribbon Cuttings

Metro Atlanta Signs, 12926 Highway 92, Suite 200. Woodstock. Huntington Learning Center, 6244 Old Highway 5, Suite C, Woodstock (Holly Springs). http://woodstock.huntingtonhelps.com. Sequoyah Regional Library System – Hickory Flat, 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565. Stars and Strikes, 10010 Highway 92, Suite 180, Woodstock. 678-965-5707. www.starsandstrikes.com Sam’s Club, 12186 Highway 92, Unit 107, Woodstock. 678-445-3198. www.samsclub.com Cherokee County Fire Training Facility – Phase II, 3985 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs. The Snug Gastro Pub, 190 E Main Street, Canton. 770-213-4814. www.thesnuggastropub.com

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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

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

Volume 21, Issue 4 6

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

A Pastoral Word of Concern The following is a letter written by Dr. John Beyers, senior pastor of Hillside United Methodist Church, and Christy Good, the church’s director of missions and outreach, in response to the overwhelming number of calls Hillside has received from concerned Towne Lake residents.

Our hearts break for the homeless, especially those in our community. Homelessness is a growing problem in our county. We are now experiencing homelessness right in our community. The Bible has much to say about helping those in need: “Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.” - Matthew 5:42 (NLT) “Share your food with the hungry and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them,and do not hide from relatives who need your help.” - Isaiah 58:7 (NLT) “If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord-and he will repay you!” - Proverbs 19:17 (NLT)

Many have reached out to try to help one particular lady who has found her way to Towne Lake and spends quite a bit of time on the sidewalk in front of Hillside, at Publix, and now at the Rose Creek Library. She also has come to worship twice, received Holy Communion, and been warmly received. Sometimes, those with the greatest needs refuse to be helped. This is what we have found with this individual.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Many in our community have tried to help, some have given money, some have put her in a hotel for a few nights, some have offered food and water, and some have offered to take her home with them. Many have wondered if Hillside has done anything to help her. The answer is YES! We have spoken with her on several occasions. Hillside has assisted in helping her to stay at a motel for a week. We have offered to connect her with MUST Ministries, a faith-based organization that offers programs for the homeless and can get her into a secure, safe place to stay. Regrettably, she has refused. We have offered her food and water, which she has mostly refused. She does not want the type of help we have to offer. Our county government has also offered to provide her with a place to stay while officials contact other government agencies. She has refused. The county continues to work on options for her. Hillside continues speaking with other helping organizations. At this point, we ask that you keep her in your prayers, that she will trust others and be open to the help that is available to her in our caring church and county. If you have questions or suggestions, you are welcome to contact Christy Good at cgood@hillsideumc.org or the Cherokee County Marshal.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Agency Employees Volunteer Time Former Allstate agent Brit Vincent and several current Cherokee County agents recently spent time touring the Anna Crawford Children’s Center to learn ways to help prevent child abuse and encourage the community to take a stand against child abuse. The center depends on grants, donations and fundraisers to be able to offer child abuse prevention and treatment services at no cost to clients, who are referred by local law enforcement and the Cherokee County Department of Child and Family Services. Many Cherokee County Allstate agents serve as ambassadors and volunteers and have encouraged organizers of the center to apply for a $1,000 grant from the Allstate Foundation.

Allstate agents who participated include: Brit Vincent, Tommy Suggs, Shirley Jervis, B.K. Kellerman, Suhas Uppalapati, Amy Economopoulos, Kim Bennett, Ferran Lee, Roteasha Washington, Tabatha Martin, Carol Hurt, Santa Espinosa-Jones, Lori Bray and Kelley Vincent.

Woodstock Chef Wins Springer Farms Award Executive chef and partner Daniel Porubiansky of Woodstock’s Century House Tavern has won the Springer Mountain Farms Celebrate the Chef Award. Porubiansky’s technique and locally sourced cuisine, combined with his Daniel Porubiansk dedication and impressive culinary background made him the top contender for the award. Porubiansky previously worked at Bacchanalia and Star Provisions and has been with Century House since 2013. Springer Mountain Farms, located in Mt. Airy, Georgia, is known for humanely raising chicken without antibiotics, and presents the award each quarter to one Atlanta-area chef who represents a top-tier restaurant, provides superior service and features its chicken on the menu. The award is part of Springer Mountain Farms’ commitment to supporting local, independent restaurants. View the video announcing this award at www.centuryhousetavern.com. 10

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Registration for Pack 994 Cub Scout Pack 994, which meets at Hillside United Methodist Church, is planning the upcoming year. Scouts take part in year-round indoor and outdoor adventures. At the family camping trips, boys get to ride bikes, explore nature, have campfires, do skits and share jokes. Pack 994 also takes a trip each winter and participates in community service projects such as the Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup. Pack 994 scouts build their own vehicles for the Pinewood Derby, Space Derby and Raingutter Regatta. For more info on the pack, contact Beth Berwald at bethberwald@ gmail.com or 770-354-4372. Also check online at www.pack994. org or Facebook page: Cub Scout Pack 994 - Woodstock GA.

Rotary Club Donation Helps Habitat The Rotary Club of Canton recently made a $1,000 donation to Habitat for Humanity-North Central Georgia, an amount that will help sponsor the 2015 Women’s Build home currently under construction in the Park Creek subdivision in the Hickory Flat area of Cherokee County. Club members also volunteered time painting the home, one of three that will be dedicated on Aug. 15. Holding the big check are, from left, Habitat board member Peter Gleichman, Habitat marketing and administrative assistant Jennifer Taffe, Habitat resource development director Colleen Fogarty and Rotary Club President Jerry Cooper.

WE SUPPORT LOCAL SCHOOLS, ORGANIZATIONS AND VENUES. BECAUSE CHEROKEE IS OUR HOME,TOO. 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 and support Cherokee. Because it’s our home.

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Chamber Employee Earns Recognition

Nichole Parks

Nichole Parks has graduated from the Institute for Organization Management (IOM), a leadership training program produced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Parks is membership manager of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. The IOM recognition signifies the individual has completed 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. “Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Northside Hospital-Cherokee Recognized for Quality Heart Care Northside Hospital-Cherokee has been recognized for providing high quality cardiovascular care through the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline and Get With The Guidelines programs. The hospital earned the bronze level recognition award that recognizes its commitment and success in implementing exceptional standards of care for heart attack patients. “Northside Hospital-Cherokee is committed to improving patient outcomes and providing prompt consistent care to our heart and vascular patients,” said Beverly Hunt, chief nursing officer of Northside Hospital-Cherokee. “We are very proud of our heart and vascular team and the Cherokee County Emergency Management team for everything they’ve done collaboratively to raise the level of care that our patients receive.” www.northside.com/heartandvascular.

Students Create a 51st State American Legion Post 316 sponsored nine Woodstock area high school students at the American Legion Boys State program, held at the Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Boys State is a week-long program in how state and local government functions. Attendees take part in forming a mythical 51st state and get the opportunity to learn the political processes and build their state from the city, county and state levels. Graduation was held at the end of the week, and Christopher Gouin was selected as a Boys Nation Senator to From left: Eric Eternod, Blake Heyer, Christopher Gouin, Porter Enloe, Griffen Hedrick, Neil Pauquette, represent Georgia at the American Russell Smith and Graham Smith. Legion’s Boys Nation program in Washington, D.C. Russell Smith was chosen as a Boys Nation Senator Alternate. Both young men are honor graduates of the program. Christopher, who attends the Johnson Ferry Christian Academy, has been involved in The King’s Academy Army Junior ROTC program since 2012. Christopher hopes to attend the United States Military Academy, West Point when he graduates. Russell, a River Ridge High School student, is a member of the Beta Club and Chick-Fil-A Leadership program and will be a group leader for Habitat For Humanity this school year. Russell would like to attend a university or college that offers a U.S. Army ROTC program and plans to get a commission and enter the Army upon graduation from college. Other participants were: Blake Heyer of Woodstock High School, who served on a city council and served as a state senator; Porter Enloe of The King’s Academy, who was named the state commissioner of insurance; Griffen Hedrick of River Ridge was a state senator; Neil Pauquette of River Ridge was a county superior court clerk, and Graham Smith of River Ridge served on a city council. James Shaw, an Etowah High student, also attended Boys State but wasn’t sponsored by Post 316. For more details, visit www.legion.org. 12

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Saying Goodbye to

Katie R.

Age 9, fourth grade Best part of summer: Spending time with my cousins. Best part of going back to school: Meeting my new teacher and classmates.

Owen S.

Age 9, fourth grade Best part of going back to school: I like baseball so I’m looking forward to rec ball starting up again. It’s a lot of fun.

Jacob F.

Age 14, ninth grade Best part of going back to school: I’m looking forward to seeing my friends and I’m excited to see the difference between middle school and high school.

Chloe F.

Gracie F.

Age 8, third grade Best part of summer: It was nice and warm and I got to go to the pool. Best part of going back to school: Meeting new friends and doing science. 14

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Age 5, kindergarten Best part of summer: Going in the pool. Best part of going back to school: Meeting lots of friends and playing with them all the time!

While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sad to see summer come to an end, there is a lot of excitement among local students as they head back to the classroom.

Samantha R. Age 6, first grade

Best part of summer: The pool! Best part of going back to school: Seeing my friends and making new ones.

Brayden W. Age 9, fourth grade

Best part of summer: Playing baseball. Best part of going back to school: Seeing my friends again.

Shelby R.

Age 9, fourth grade Best part of summer: Going on my first trip on a plane with my mom to Texas! Best part of going back to school: Seeing my friends and making new ones.

Grace L.

Age 8, third grade (shown here with 15-year-old sister Brooke) Best part of summer: Kayaking on Lake Allatoona. Best part of going back to school: I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see my friends.

Andrew R. Age 9, fourth grade

Best part of summer: Meeting an astronaut! Best part of going back to school: Going to a new school that teaches robotics and making new friends. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Celebrations!

Joe and Phyllis Alaimo

Aug. 27, 1960 - Aug. 27, 2015 Happy 55th anniversary! Love, Kim and Mark

Kathy Borden

Peyton Falk

Age 67 on Aug. 3 Happy Birthday Mama! You are our rock and our sounding board. We love and appreciate you more than youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ever know! Joe, Papa, Michelle and Nick, Xavier and little miss Novalee

Age 8 on Aug. 14 Happy birthday! Love, Daddy

Haylie Franz

Leslie Flores

Age 10 on Aug. 18 Happy birthday! Love, Grandma, Grandpa, Mom, Dad and Madalynn

Age 15 on Aug. 14 Happy Birthday! We love you so much! Mom, Dad, Diego and Maria

Greg McCulloch

Age 16 on Aug. 3 Happy birthday! Love, Mom, Dad, and George

Liam Parisio

Age 3 on Aug. 11 Happy birthday, Buddy! Mommy and Daddy love you very much!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Maria and Ben Blackburn Married on June 30 Congratulations!

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

An Updated Look for Busy Young Professional BY JODI TIBERIO

Meghan Castaldo came into our lives as a business associate assigned to help us make payroll changes. After an afternoon of work, Meghan left and Branches manager Mari turned to me and said, “She needs us!” I knew exactly what she meant. Meghan was the perfect makeover candidate. She had a great personality and had mentioned that she wanted to come back and shop because she struggles with style. Mari called Meghan the next day and asked if she was interested. She was over-the-moon excited to do it. Meghan has a serious boyfriend and the two enjoy going out and spending time with friends. We wanted to give

her an outfit that was versatile and fun. We gave her a beautiful pair of new Cello jeans from Brooklynns. This denim brand is known for its reasonable price (around $30) and clean style. These skinnies with a mid-rise fit are perfect for any occasion. We added a lace-detailed top from Monoreno that is delicate and beautiful. This brand has always been a favorite at Branches for its unique details. We completed the look with some accessories and a great pair of wedges. Mari and I could not wait to see what Venessa and her team did with Meghan. Meghan is an outgoing, energetic professional who is on the go and doesn’t spend much time on her hair or makeup. She admits to being in a rut with her hair and makeup, and wants an easy-to-maintain yet trendy cut and color to fit her active lifestyle. Meghan’s hair is thick and wavy and has a rich, warm brown color. She had four inches trimmed before stylist Melissa Kirk gave her light golden Balayage highlights that reflect a sun-kissed brightness through the back and sides, and bright babylights around her face. Stylist Ashley Henson cut the final shape into Meghan’s hair, adding long, soft layers throughout and creating face-framing layers. Removing the weight allows Meghan the ability to still pull her hair up and eases her styling time. Finally, Meghan’s hair was styled using a weightless smoothing cream in order to smooth the cuticle and reduce frizziness during these humid summer months. Esthetician Amy Chandler created a natural day look with Meghan’s makeup. Meghan’s skin tone is naturally creamy and even, so Amy simply enhanced Meghan’s eyes using shimmery golden tones and applied a light gray eyeliner smudged at the lash line. She completed Meghan’s look by lining her lips with a Lip Liner Minus Color to allow for longer wearing gloss and to plump her lips before applying a Mango Juice Lip Glaze. Meghan’s new look is natural and fresh, yet lighter and brighter just like her personality. Afterward, Meghan looked so confident and happy, and knew she looked great. She texted me later to say she had never felt this way before and was thrilled with her transformation. Her boyfriend was really blown away, too. We were grateful that Meghan was so open to trying something new. If you are looking to change your style, let us know. Maybe you could be next!

Jodi Tiberio owns Branches and Brooklynn’s boutiques. Contact Jodi at jodi@tiberioretail.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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Community

Incumbency Advantage and Consecutive Term Limits BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

In 2012, after my election and prior to being sworn into my seat in the Georgia House of Representatives, I introduced a constitutional amendment that would bring consecutive term limits to members of our Georgia House and Senate. Discussing term limits isn’t always the most popular conversation starter in a room full of incumbent legislators, but over three years it is my hope that my colleagues have come to understand and respect my passion for the issue. Since the 2012 introduction with just one co-sponsor, we’re now nearing a dozen others who have signed on. In the past, I have written in this publication about my preference for consecutive term limits over absolute term limits for legislative bodies. Absolute term limits, as we have placed on our governor and our president, limit the number of terms a person can hold an office in his or her lifetime. Consecutive term limits, as have been placed on state legislatures like Arizona’s and I am proposing for Georgia, limit the number of terms a person can hold an office in a row. When arguments are made for term limits, people tend to focus on the need to pull greedy politicians out of their lifelong seats. Counter arguments are made that the process can throw the baby out with the bath water. Typically each side goes back and forth with variations of these arguments until one is out of breath or both are frustrated to exhaustion. Either way, as long as it is done consecutively, I believe we’re missing the heart of the benefit that comes from limiting terms. Our proposal would require that representatives and senators serve no more than four two-year terms in a row. That would mean the legislator would serve eight years. After taking two years off from the office, the legislator could then choose to run again. Consecutive term limits in this model provide two main benefits to the electorate in my opinion. First, it requires an incumbent to spend two years each decade remembering what it’s like to have someone else pushing the buttons on that voting machine on his or her behalf. Second, and most importantly, it requires at least once each decade that each incumbent runs against a currently sitting incumbent. The issue that drives my passion with term limits is an issue known as incumbency advantage. Incumbency advantage is difficult

to quantify, but it is widely accepted that those who hold an office receive a tremendous advantage in the polls simply for being in the office. Many will think it ironic to read an elected official writing about an advantage that he receives by default by currently holding office. I have always found it upsetting to think that I have an advantage over a challenger not because I have performed one way or another, but simply because I hold a title. In campaigning these past several years, we have made several decisions to minimize our incumbency advantage. The first is by returning my war chest at the end of each election. When we have money left in our campaign account at the end of an election, we send it back in equal amounts to our donors to give them the choice about whether or not to donate again. This puts me back on a level financial playing field with a new challenger. The second is by term limiting myself. This means that at the end of eight years (at max) I will voluntarily leave my House seat to sit out a term. If I were to decide to come back after that term, it would force me to run against a sitting incumbent representative. If a returning candidate can win back the seat without the incumbency advantage, that candidate has earned back the support of the voters. By implementing consecutive term limits, we are able to effectively eliminate incumbency advantage for each legislative office at least once a decade. This is what makes me passionate about the issue. How do you feel about term limits? If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to call me at 678-523-8570 or email me at Michael@ caldwellforhouse.com. You can also meet me at one of my weekly coffees with District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock.

By implementing consecutive term limits, we are able to effectively eliminate incumbency advantage for each legislative office at least once a decade.

Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael@ CaldwellForHouse.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Park-Hopping through the Cities Cherokee County municipalities offer many parks where you and your family can enjoy outdoor recreation

Woodstock

Parks and Recreation Department was awarded Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) accreditation in October 2013. www.woodstockga.gov.

• The Park at City Center: In downtown

• Springfield Park: A heavily shaded facility just

• Dupree Park: Located on Neese Road south of

• Olde Rope Mill Park: At the end of Rope Mill

• Dobbs Road Park: Off Main Street, just east of

• Woofstock Park: Dog park on Dupree Road with

Woodstock, features a gazebo, benches, a Woodstock War Memorial and park fountain.

Arnold Mill Road, the park has a large playground, restrooms, four tennis courts, two basketball courts, 1/4 mile walking trail, a fishing pond and two park pavilions.

Chattahoochee Technical College. the park features a 1/4 mile walking trail, park benches and a community garden.

north of Highway 92 on Springfield Drive with picnic tables, benches and a small playground. Road, the area features multiple mountain bike and multiuse trails, park benches, picnic tables, park pavilion with grill and a scenic overlook/ fishing platform.

shade structures, fountains, and large and small breed off-leash areas.

Holly Springs

Provides recreational and leisure opportunities for the whole family. The city offers such facilities as playgrounds, walking trails, a ball field and a picnic pavilion. 770-345-5536. www.hollyspringsga.us.

• Barrett Park: Holly Springs’ first major recreational

area features a playground and a walking trail, which meanders through a scenic natural area. The 13-acre park is located on Park Lane, just off Hickory Road across from Holly Springs Elementary School.

• JC Mullins Park: Includes a regulation-sized

baseball field that is home to several teams. Surrounding the ball field is a walking trail, tot lot and picnic pavilion. Located off Holly Springs Parkway behind the Crossroads School.

• J.B. Owens Park: Named

for the late James Baxter “J.B.” Owens, the last agent at the city’s historic train depot. The 33-acre park, features a playground, a pavilion for public use, natural and concrete trails and an open play field. Located on Hickory Road near Harmony on the Lakes subdivision.

Canton

Offers community events in area parks to bring the community together, inspire physical activity, social growth and create pride in the city. Parks are open daily 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 770-704-1500. www.canton-georgia.com.

• Boling Park: Includes a gravel walking track with

exercise stations, tennis courts, three baseball/softball fields, outdoor basketball court, playground area, pavilion available for rental, picnic areas, soccer fields, handball/racquetball courts, hiking trail and restroom facilities. On Marietta Highway near Cherokee High.

• Brown Park: Playground area and toddler swings, picnic tables and gazebo on E. Marietta Street.

• Burge Park: Features basketball court, swings and slide. On Burge Street.

• Cannon Park: Gazebo and benches in the center of historic downtown.

• Etowah River Park: Located at 600 Brown

Industrial Parkway. Facilities include rectangular field for athletic activities, 1/2 mile walking track, canoe/kayak

Cannon Park.

launch, bridge crossing over Etowah River, amphitheater available for rentals, pavilion available for rentals, playground area, restroom facilities and concessions.

• Harmon Park: Two baseball/softball fields, batting cages, restroom facilities and concessions.

• Heritage Park: Multipurpose path in downtown Canton.

• McCanless Park: On Muriel Street. Includes picnic pavilions and a small building.

• Paw Park: Dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs to run and play. 135 Juniper Street.

• Reservoir Park: Boat/canoe/kayak launch. Located

near the intersections of Bluffs Parkway and Fate Conn Road. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

First Step to Becoming an Actor: Headshots BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

A good headshot does two things: It gets you an audition and it looks like you. Let’s suppose your headshot looks like a 21-year-old hippie college student, but you walk in the room looking like a 27-yearold lawyer. You have ensured you will not get the part of the college student, annoyed the casting director for wasting his time, and possibly prevented yourself from getting the role for which you are actually perfect. First, you must decide who you are; what types of roles can you play? What is your age range? What makes you unique? No one can play every role. No one is going to ask me to play a drugged-up prostitute. And even if I could work really hard on portraying that character, someone else is going to walk into that audition looking exactly right for the part, so it is useless for me to expend energy trying to be someone I am not. Are you a great mom? What kind of mom are you? Stern? Loving? Would you make a great bodyguard or police officer? Then don’t try out for the white collar CEO roles. You also need a good handle on how old you look. Your age range is the five to seven year span that others think you fall into. Don’t rely on your own judgment. Ask at least 20 people who don’t know you very well how old they think you are and what adjectives they feel describe

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

you. Tally the answers and that will give you an idea of your age range and type. Then, look at current TV shows and films. Watch for the smaller roles and use those adjectives to discover which types of roles you would play. You can search online for local photographers, but check out their websites before committing to one - they should have a gallery of work. Your acting headshots will not look like corporate headshots. Interview a few photographers. Talk with each of your favorites over the phone to make sure you have a connection, in order to have a relaxing and fun shoot. You can expect to spend between $250 and $400 for two to three looks. You need at least one film shot and one commercial shot. Take a lot of outfits to your session, and with the help of the photographer, pick two or three sets of clothes. These are your “looks.” While wearing each outfit, take both film and commercial shots. continued on page 80

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Out & About Through Sept. 26

Digging for Treasure: A History of Mining in Cherokee County exhibit at the Cherokee County History Museum, 100 North Street, Suite 140 in Canton. The exhibit explores many types of mining, beginning with the Gold Rush of 1829. 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org.

Aug. 3

Skillet Lickers Country Music Down Yonder will be performed at the Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street. All seats $15. For box office inquiries, call 770-704-0755.

Aug. 7

Friday Night Live’s theme is Summer of Love. Event is from 6-9 p.m. in downtown Woodstock. Break out the tie dyes and headbands as the history of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival is celebrated. www.woodstockga.gov. Canton First Friday with a Motown theme is 6-9 p.m. in downtown Canton, and features live music from 1st Generation Band. www.canton-georgia.com.

Aug. 8

The Rupert’s Orchestra will perform at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Woodstock Concert Series, held at The Park at City Center. www.woodstockga.gov. 6 Hour Race to Sunset at Blankets Creek, presented by OutSpokin’ Bicycles, takes place on the 15 miles of flowy, rolling singletrack at the park on Sixes Road. Register at www.mountaingoatadventures.com. Chick-fil-A Connect Race Series 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, benefitting the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and Cherokee County Special Olympics, begins at 8 a.m. in downtown Canton. www.CFARaceSeries.com.

Aug. 14 & 15

Alice in Wonderland performed by Star Troupe (children’s theatre) at the Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street. Tickets $10.

Aug. 16

The Hunt for Old Rex McBride’s Treasure is a treasure hunt held at Hobgood Park from 2-4 p.m. Boys in grades 1 through 5 and their families are invited. This free event is an introduction to the Boy Scouts of America’s Cub Scout Pack 2010 in Woodstock. Throughout the year, Pack 2010 participates in special activities that include meetings in a Boeing 747, a sleepover at Zoo Atlanta, archery, B.B. gun shooting, four weekend campouts, an Atlanta Braves pitching competition and more. www.cubpack2010.com.

Beginning Aug. 20

Congregational care classes at Hillside United Methodist Church include Beyond the Broken Heart for those grieving a loss, DivorceCare for those in hurtful relationships, Safe People for those looking for relationships with people who are good for you, and Healing is a Choice, for those seeking physical, mental, emotional and spiritual healing. For more details, or to register for a class, call Rev. Doug Mills, director of congregational care, at 770-924-4777 ext. 105 or email dmills@hillsideumc.org. 24

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Aug. 20

Fundraiser for Atlanta Boxer Rescue at GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive, Woodstock, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. GameDay will donate 10 percent of customer checks to the rescue organization, and raffle tickets will be available for purchase. The organization has rescued more than 1,000 Boxers since it began rescues in 2008. www.atlantaboxerrescue.org. For more info, contact Angela at angela@canyonslife.com. New member mixer for the Junior Service League of Woodstock will be held from 7-9 p.m. at Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill. www.jslwoodstock.org.

Aug. 21-23, 28-30

Vanities by the Cherokee Theatre Company at the Historic Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street. Shows start at 8:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets $15. 770-591-0282. www.cherokeetheatre.org.

Aug. 29

Football/cheerleading fundraiser takes place from 9 a.m. -noon at Dress Up boutique in downtown Woodstock. The store is giving the The King’s Academy Varsity Football/Competition Cheerleaders a percentage of sales during the fundraiser.

Aug. 31

Deadline to reserve a space at the Saint Elizabeth Orthodox Church’s community-wide yard sale on Oct. 3. E-mail SEOCGA@ yahoo.com for registration forms and information, or call 770485-0504. The church is located at 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock.

Aug. 31, Sept. 1

All That Glitters and More consignment sale for homecoming dresses, prom dresses, etc. will be held from 4-6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at The King’s Academy, 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. The fundraiser is held for The King’s Academy Varsity Football/Competition Cheerleaders. To be a consignor, call Valerie Hoover at 770-317-8726 to receive a seller number and packet. Drop off your items to sell from 9:00 - 11 a.m. on Aug. 29.

Thursdays in September

The September Brown Bag Concert Series of free lunchtime concerts will take place noon-1 p.m. Sept. 3, 10, 17 and 24 at The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road. Bring your lunch and a chair, and enjoy free music. www.woodstockga.gov.

Sept. 12

The Cherokee Music Teachers Association will hold its first meeting for the 2015-16 season at 11 a.m. at the Cherokee Arts Center. Events for the year will be discussed over brunch. All visitors and those interested in the association are invited. For more details, contact Linda Lokey at linda@lokey.net.

Sept. 19

Cherokee Fest, a fundraiser for the International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association, is looking for sponsors and vendors for this year’s event, set to take place in downtown Woodstock. For details, call 678-372-4321 or email info@cherokeefest.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Cherokee Leads in Special Needs Graduation Rates BY DR. FRANK R. PETRUZIELO, SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

This summer, a story appeared on the front page of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution regarding Georgia’s low graduation rate for special needs students. It indicated that only 36.5 percent of this population statewide earned a high school diploma within four years. While the Cherokee County School District (CCSD) is not mentioned in the article (“Is Georgia Failing Its Disabled Students?” June 15, 2015), I want to let our community know that CCSD special needs students are performing well in this regard. Cherokee County has the highest graduation rate for special needs students in the 10-county metropolitan Atlanta area at 56.8 percent, an increase from 50 percent over the prior year. Please keep in mind that the graduation rate is determined the same for this subgroup as it is for regular education students—students must earn a regular education diploma within four years to count toward the graduation rate, no matter the type of learning disabilities or other challenges they may face. While leading the metro area is noteworthy, it does not mean we are content with our special needs graduation rate. We continue to explore ways to help special needs students be successful. One of our most promising programs is the expansion of the pilot Competitive High School Options In Careers and Education (CHOICE) program at Cherokee High School, which provides tutoring, mentoring and other additional services to aid special needs students in earning regular education diplomas. In the

Cherokee County has the highest graduation rate for special needs students in the 10-county metropolitan Atlanta area.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

first year (2013-14), Cherokee High targeted 12 rising seniors for the program, nine of whom graduated—a rate of 75 percent. In 2014-15, 16 of 19 students selected for the CHOICE program graduated, a rate of 84 percent. Grants from the Cherokee County Educational Foundation and the Cherokee County Service League helped to fund CHOICE. In grades 9-11, special needs students most at risk for not graduating are targeted for additional assistance through the state’s GraduateFIRST program. The Cherokee school district supports all our high school students by providing them with choices to assist them in reaching the goal of graduation through multiple options, such as ACE Academy, our alternative day middle school/high school program; Polaris Evening Program, our evening high school program; C3 Academy, our expanded online middle school/high school program; and summer school initial credit and credit recovery courses. Graduation is the culmination of many years of hard work by not only students, but also the parents, 2014 Graduation Rates grandparents, for Special Needs Students teachers, counselors, Cherokee County..................56.8 % administrators, Cobb County.......................... 51.7 % support staff, Fayette County...................... 49.2 % business partners Henry County........................ 44.3 % and volunteers Fulton County........................ 42.4 % who together Gwinnett County................... 38.3 % prepare every one Georgia average................... 36.5 % of our community’s Rockdale County.................... 36.4 % children for future success no matter Douglas County..................... 35.3 % the path they choose DeKalb County...................... 24.6 % or the challenges Clayton County...................... 23.8 % they face.

FIGHT FAT! GET #PHIIT 24/7! 678-809-7833 1025 Rose Creek Drive

Marcus Shanahan

Bill Burke

hat can you do in 28 minutes? You can get a few extra minutes of sleep, grab a quick bite of lunch from a drivethrough, watch a rerun of a favorite sitcom. Or you can begin taking control of your health and fitness – 28 minutes at a time. That’s all it takes to get started at the exclusive, patented Personalized High Intensity Interval Training program, also known as PHIITClub located inside R2 Total Fitness. The boutique-style, express club offers members the ability to get results through modern designed cardio, strength equipment and personalized training. Almost half of the members at R2 Total Fitness use PHIITClub to burn an average of 300 percent more calories than standard programs. The result is faster fat loss and higher metabolism. The program provides weekly predetermined workouts in a functional

“The biggest I remember being was 308 lb but I wouldn’t be surprised if I got heavier than that. Bill and Marcus were very interested and supportive in helping me accomplish my weight loss goals. Less than a year later I’m 195 lbs. now and almost to my goal! Besides being healthy again I have a renewed self confidence thanks to my family, friends and R2 Total Fitness.” — David B.

/r2totalfitness www.r2totalfitness.com www.gymwoodstockga.com Hours: 24/7 access Staffed 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Sat.

“The mission of PHIITClub is to engage our community and individuals alike in an exclusive, energetic and fitness-focused relationship through significant personal attention to health and wellness goals, while providing personal training results in a membership format offered 24 hours a day in less than 30 minutes with a fun, dynamic and evolving workout experience.” training environment that utilizes unique cardio-based lateral trainers, core stability spin bikes and rowers, plus kettlebell, TRX suspension, plyo-metric, body-weight and Olympic movements – burning up to 500 calories in less than 30 minutes. PHIITClub is part of the platinum membership, which also includes unlimited hydro-massage, 24/7 key card access, and — best of all — the ability to train with intensity, results and focus, without time restrictions. Owners Marcus Shanahan and Bill Burke opened R2 Total Fitness in August 2014 and are passionate about providing members with an exceptional health club experience through the outstanding service and programming of R2 Total Fitness. With 25 years’ experience in personal training, consulting and health club management, Marcus has brought innovative tools to hundreds of club owners and thousands of clients coast

to coast. The key has been making a difference by changing hearts and minds about the approach to fitness. In 2012, Marcus and Bill created the patented 28 Minute PHIIT System to address a missing segment in the industry. PHIITClub is available exclusively at R2 Total Fitness in Towne Lake. “Based on our 12 month study, PHIIT burns 200 percent more calories than weight/circuit training or cardio/aerobics,” said Marcus. Bill discovered his passion for the health and wellness of others while studying kinesiology at Penn State University. He joined the fitness industry in 1995 and has held high-level positions in some of the largest personal training organizations in the U.S. bringing his expertise and experiences to positively impact hundreds of clients nationwide.

photos by J King Images

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community. Jacob Hobby

(Featured March 2015) received his handicapped accessible van.

John Lemoine

(Featured December 2014) has made amazing progress with therapy. “Our family would like to thank you for sharing his story and thank those who donated toward his therapy. John’s therapy and strong determination is paying off. He is now able to stand with a walker without assistance, perform lunges with help, push-ups, and can leg press 75 pounds. This has helped him gain independence and live a fun life. He continues therapy three days a week at Project Walk Atlanta and Shepherd. He is now driving and is able to spend time with all of his good friends.” ~ Lori

Faith McDonnell

(Featured May 2015) received her daddy’s kidney on June 30, 2015 “In November, we learned that our daughter Faith would require a kidney transplant within the year. Thankfully her daddy, Scott, was a match, and the fast and scary process began. On June 30, Scott donated his kidney to Faith. Today, Faith’s kidney function is better than it has been in four years and improving every day; Scott is back to normal. We want to thank all of our friends, neighbors and church family for their love, prayers, support and food! We want to thank everyone whose donations to COTA allowed this to happen quickly for us! We especially glorify God!” ~ Kelly McDonnell

Thank You...

Together we make a difference! 28

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

“Jacob and I have so many people to thank for making this possible. First, we must thank Jacob’s school therapists, April and Brianne, who cared and shared Jacob’s story with Everyday Angels. Thank you to the Junior Service League for bravely selecting Jacob as their recipient for this year’s golf and tennis tournaments; raising $8,000 toward the purchase of the van. We must also thank the students, families, administration, and PTA of our great school, Clark Creek Elementary and Chuy’s restaurant, that rallied, donated, and fundraised. Collectively, a total of $28,000 was raised in five months! Finally, we must thank Mobility Works in Marietta for helping us find a van and working within our budget. Jacob is now able to get around and enjoy life thanks to your generous donations. It gives us such a warm feeling to live among people with such good hearts. Thank you for making life much easier for my sweet boy and our family.” ~ Gina

Chase Doss

(Featured April 2015) received his service dog, Brooklyn. “For the past three months Brooklyn has been in our home with Chase and the family. In that time she has detected a seizure episode, allowed our family to be more active in the community, and has traveled with us. Thank you to everyone who has supported our efforts in providing a service dog for our son!” ~ Michele Doss

Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Rangers Gear Up for Hunting Season BY AMY COBB

It may still be summer, but park rangers at Allatoona Lake are gearing up for another season that some of our visitors enjoy— hunting season! Archery season for deer opens statewide on Sept. 12 and on Sept. 13 in Corps areas. The Great Allatoona Lake Cleanup is on Sept. 12 and the Corps does not allow hunting on that day. All other open season times can be found at www. georgiawildlife.com/hunting. Many people may not be aware, but hunting is actually critically important to our wildlife population. While that may sound illogical, hunting helps to maintain populations at levels compatible with the available habitat. Without this type of population control, certain wildlife could overpopulate and starve when their food becomes scarce. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers tries to manage the hunting program to provide benefits both to the wildlife population and the sportsmen. This year, as A sportsman in a wheelchair enjoyed a successful hunt last year using one of the hunting blinds in previous around Lake Allatoona. years, only 400 hunting permits will be available to allow for authorized hunting activities on almost 3,000 acres of public land around Allatoona Lake. Permits are issued on a first-come-first-served basis, a $20 special activity fee is charged for each permit, and of course all Georgia state hunting regulations still apply. This permit is not valid for the Allatoona Wildlife Management Area or the Durham’s

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Pasture Cobb County Hunting Area. We are also eagerly anticipating an archery-only deer hunt for sportsmen who use wheelchairs and youth sportsmen again this year, with hunters selected by lottery. Adults will need a Georgia state hunting license, and youth younger than 16 will need a licensed adult hunting with them. We had an impressive turnout last year and made some great memories for many of our participants. Information and instructions on how to apply for a permit, or information on the managed hunts, can be found by calling our office at 678-721-6700 or going to http://www.sam.usace.army. mil/Missions/CivilWorks/Recreation/AllatoonaLake.aspx. Hunter Safety Tips • Never rely on your gun’s safety. Treat all weapons as if they’re loaded and ready to fire. • Never cross a fence, climb a tree or stand or jump in a ditch with a loaded gun. • Never load or carry a loaded weapon until you are ready to use it. • Watch your muzzle so that other individuals don’t have to. • Wear hunter orange so you can be seen. A blaze orange hat and at least 400 square inches of hunter orange above the waist-line should be worn during all gun deer seasons. • Never shoot unless you are absolutely sure of your target and what is beyond it. • Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting firearms.

Park Ranger Amy Cobb is a Georgia native and has been a Corps Ranger at several locations around the South.

Restoring Freedom From Foot And Ankle Pain Treatment and Surgery for All Ages • Heel Pain, Bunions • Foot and Ankle Fractures • Sports Injuries • Work-related Injuries

DR. STEVEN WEISKOPF

• Custom Orthotics WOODSTOCK 1198 Buckhead Crossing Suite D Woodstock, GA 30189 ph. 770.928.9263

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Helping Hands

Getting a Head Start on Special Christmas Wishlists BY JO ANN BLAIR BOATRIGHT

For most families, Christmas is about decorating, buying and wrapping presents, baking goodies and finding that one blown bulb that is keeping the tree dark. The holidays should be a time for celebration and joy, but they can be difficult for some. Last year I felt an urge to celebrate my blessings by helping others. That search led me to the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, tucked away in the Waleska countryside. The ranch is home to approximately 40 young men ages 8 to 18, who are in the something many experienced for Department of Family and the first time in their lives. The boys Children Services (DFCS) learned that there are still people with custody due to parental neglect good hearts, and I learned that I can’t or abuse. The boys live in wait until October to get started for homes with house parents on a this year. beautiful 300-acre ranch filled As the newly appointed volunteer with love and compassion. But donation coordinator for the Secret as the song says, there’s no Santa 2015 Christmas Drive, I’m place like home for the holidays. excited for the boys and can’t wait to Christmas, in particular, is see how our community will outdo last emotionally hard for the youth year’s success. who now call Goshen Valley There are several ways to help Jo Ann with her son Michael. their home. with the Christmas 2015 initiative. I knew about Goshen Valley Contact Goshen Valley’s director of development, Carley Stephens, at because a small group at our cstephens@goshenvalley.org or 770-345-9535, or contact church had been involved with the ranch by organizing me at joannblpc@gmail or 770-820-4751 for a list of small projects and outings and sharing their faith. My specific items you wish to donate or to arrange pick-up of mission became clear. your gifts. Goshen Valley will supply you with an in-kind Last October I visited the ranch to ask for a Christmas donation receipt for tax purposes. I would like to thank list from each boy. With more than 40 lists in hand, I everyone in our community for their generosity last year, began seeking contributions from family and friends. and I look forward to another amazing outpouring of love When I realized the enormity of the task, I decided to and generosity this year! go door to door for donations and approach Cherokee County merchants. The overwhelming generosity and support shown by our community last Christmas is why I call Cherokee County my home. Christmas 2014 was a Jo Ann Blair Boatright, a licensed professional counselor huge success, and the young men at Goshen Valley felt and a distinguished National Board Certified Counselor, lives in Towne Lake with husband Chad and son Michael. the love and warmth from their Cherokee County family, 32

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Helping Hands

Teaching Many to Fish BY SUSAN SCHULZ

The coolest thing about Papa’s Pantry is that it represents both sides of the proverbial saying: “Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he will eat for the rest of his life.” Since 1998, Papa’s Pantry has always been much more than a food pantry. Its mission is to partner with hard working men and women to help them get on their feet. The Masters Training Center, the educational division of Papa’s Pantry, is a holistic program where staff members work with families at their immediate point of need until they reach stabilization. Almost two decades ago, Papa’s founder, Lynne Saunders, came home from a mission trip to India with a new perspective on hunger. She vowed to do something to help those in our community who are in a food crisis; she understood that hunger and lack of nutritious foods are only symptoms of much deeper problems. Lack of funds, along with the inability to successfully manage household income, contributes to one of five households in Cherokee and Cobb counties that do not have enough food to eat, according to recent statistics. Lynne began collecting food and giving instructional classes to those in trouble, and those initial investments in helping disadvantaged families grew into the ministry that remains a vital part of our county today. Papa’s Pantry celebrates its 17th anniversary this year! The classes offered at The Master’s Training Center are open to everyone in the community, not just those in the food assistance program. Included in the stability training classes are Resume Writing, Interview Coaching, Creating a Professional Image, and Budgeting. Lynne Saunders started Papa’s Pantry in 1998. Papa’s Pantry also offers additional 34

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classes on Computer Basics, Mentoring and Organic Gardening, as well as camps for kids on healthy choices and childhood literacy. There is much to celebrate at Papa’s Pantry. Fifty-six percent of their clients experience success at attaining household stability, with a much higher rate (75 percent) for those who stay involved in Papa’s programs. One graduate said to the ministry, “I remember feeling so embarrassed when I called that first time for help. Your staff made me feel welcome and actually seemed excited to meet and talk to me. Your employment training is the best. In the interview, I felt as if my instructor was with me. I even sat the way she taught. I totally aced it and I am so excited to say, ‘I got the job!’” Another woman who left her abusive husband in Florida and brought her three children with her, ended up homeless and staying in various shelters. Despite living through all of that, she faithfully attended the employment strategies classes and landed a good-paying job. In her first budgeting meeting she said, “I don’t even have pots and pans to cook a meal.” Her instructor then realized she had left everything behind in Florida. This single mom’s confession launched an all out campaign to get this family’s apartment furnished. With help from Papa’s supporters — mission accomplished! There are many ways to get involved with this valuable ministry. Stocking the food pantry and tending to its organic garden are a couple of ways to volunteer for this multi-faceted ministry. Papa’s Pantry is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that operates on tax deductible gifts. No government funding is sought. Visit papaspantry.org for more information, or call 770-5914730 to find out how you can help.

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

Sangria BY CARON AND ALBERTO CATALAN

The first time I tried sangria was in Spain in the early 1990s. I lived in Spain for a few months with one of my aunts, in order to learn more Spanish. Little did I know that I would end up marrying someone who, back then, didn’t speak much English and that my Spanish would come in very handy. Alberto and I speak Spanish 100 percent of the time, unless we are speaking with others who don’t. Anyway, the sangria was so flavorful and fun that it became one of my favorite drinks. Here is a recipe for red sangria, which is my favorite.

Ingredients: 1 bottle of red wine (I prefer merlot) 1/4 cup triple sec 1/4 cup brandy 2 oz orange juice

1 oz lemon juice 1/4 cup sugar 1 lemon, sliced 1 orange, sliced 1 lime, sliced

Mix wine, triple sec, brandy and juices with sugar in a large pitcher. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add slices of fruit and stir. Leave in refrigerator for 24 hours then serve over ice. Enjoy! Caron and Alberto

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

I TO U Q S MO R IT Y O H T AU

678.294.7597 BugsBITE.com TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Why Should I Be Represented When Buying a Home? BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

Perhaps the best reason to enlist the help of a buyer’s agent is that their commission is paid for by the seller. In a traditional real estate transaction, the seller pays the total commission to the listing agent, who is representing them and their best interests; the listing agent shares their commission with the buyer’s agent after closing. When the property sells, the buyer’s agent receives a portion of the listing agent’s commission to bring their buyer to the property and represent the buyer’s best interests.

offer a variety of financing options that match their buyers’ down payment and monthly budget. • Networks with other agents and knows the available inventory and can find out about listings sometimes even before they hit the Multiple Listing Service. • Knows the property values in the area, and can prepare a comparative market analysis of recent sales, and advise their buyer on how to make the right offer and negotiate on terms.

A good buyer’s agent… • Will point out obvious issues with a property during the initial showing, so that the buyer can decide if going forward with an inspection and appraisal makes sense.

• Can help the buyer through the closing process by coordinating the lender, the seller and the closing attorney, to ensure that there are no last-minute surprises which might prevent a successful closing, or jeopardize the buyer’s earnest money.

• Is available at the buyer’s convenience. Many buyers can only preview homes in the evenings or during weekends.

If you are in the market to buy a home, select your buyer’s agent, your lender and then your home. An experienced buyer’s agent can save you valuable time and money.

• Has their client’s best interests in mind, and seeks to find the right property at the best price while protecting the buyer’s earnest money. • Should have no financial incentive to sell their own broker’s listings. Select an agent that will show you any property on the market. • Will direct their clients to knowledgeable lenders who can

TOWNE LAKE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION In June, the annual election of officers was delayed and during the July Workshop, the Towne Lake Business Association (TLBA) elected our new officers for the 2015 — 2016 fiscal year. They all will be introduced to you in next month’s issue. The TLBA’s second annual Bowl-A-Thon, benefiting the Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholarship Awards, now will be held on a date to be determined in January 2016. Our inaugural BowlA-Thon in 2014 was a fantastic family-friendly event for all levels of bowlers, including kids, and this year’s event will be even better. If you would like to sign up to play, sponsor or volunteer, please contact Gloria Snyder by email at gjsnyder@bellsouth.net. More information will be available in upcoming issues and on our website. The topic of our July Workshop was “Bankruptcy - Protect Yourself and Business.” We want to thank Gai Lynn McCarthy, J.D., for the presentation.

Lunch ‘N’ Learn Workshop Tuesday, August 18, 12:15 — 2 p.m. Please check our website at tlba.org for further information on the topic and speaker. All Workshops are held at Featherstone’s Grille at Towne Lake Hills. Please RSVP to all events by email to jstaughton@renasant.com.

As always, thank you for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee.” Visit us at tlba.org.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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

TLBA SPOTLIGHT The Mike Perry Allstate Agency Mike Perry has been a resident of Cherokee County for more than 26 years. As the former tennis director for BridgeMill and Towne Lake Hills, Mike has forged many ties with the community, including hosting special events and serving on the board of the Boys and Girls Club. In April 2013, Mike bought an established Allstate agency in Sandy Springs and relocated it to Woodstock. Because he is licensed in property and casualty, life and health and securities (series 6 and series 63), he has become a trusted advisor to his clients for their most Mike Perry important assets. The Mike Perry Allstate Agency offers insurance for homes, autos, boats, motorcycles and many other “toys,” as well as a variety of commercial products. Allstate also offers financial products and life insurance to its clients, in addition to supplemental health benefits for employers and employees. The Mike Perry Agency offers an exclusive personal financial expert to assist clients with planning for their future and the future of their families, free of charge “We have a broad spectrum of products to offer our clients. Our goal is to build a wall of protection around them and their loved ones. We take the time to know our clients, and from there, we can design a coverage plan that is suitable for their individual needs. In other words, we treat them like family,” said Perry. Visit Mike Perry at 236 Creekstone Ridge in Woodstock or e-mail mikeperry@allstate.com. No one knows a local like a local. 404-255-7330.

Rob’s Rescues This dog is Greg. He is about 3 years old. He likes squishy toys and is very sweet. He likes toys and treats and kids. He is very fast. Greg has been at the shelter since April. This cat’s name is Nessa. She is very snuggly. She lay down on my book so I couldn’t write and she wouldn’t get off. She is 2 years old and is very fluffy.

I really liked judging the dog show at Woodstock Dog Days of Summer. There is a pet food collection bin at the Visitors’ Center in downtown Woodstock. I am going to be collecting pet food for the River Church food pantry. People who go to the food pantry might need dog and cat food too.

Rob’s Rescues

now has a Facebook page!

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Community

Senior Sense Remembering School Days BY DELIA HALVERSON

This time of year brings back many memories for those of us watching our grandchildren prepare to go back to school. In addition to my own memories, I have some that my mother shared with me about her experiences as a student. She went to school with her father as her teacher in New Mexico. Her mother stayed on the land where they homesteaded, and my grandfather took my mother with him to the one-room school where he taught. They lived in the back of the school during the week. One of the eight schools I attended had two rooms. My son also went to a two-room school in a town of 92 people and had only one other child in his first grade. Then we moved to two different towns of about 2,000 people. When we moved to East Cobb, our children’s high school had more than 2,000 students—quite a difference. Schools have changed greatly since then, but I imagine that any of you reading this column can remember a special school you attended. School reunions are interesting if you enjoy people watching. I never attended my early school reunions because all the people seemed to do was talk about how far they had gone in their careers or how wonderful their children were. Then

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I decided to go to Key West for my 45th reunion. What a surprise! We talked about the “remember when’s” and it was really a joy! Since then I’ve attended a couple of 50th reunions, one for a high school where I spent only two years. It was a reunion for the entire school because the classes were so small. One graduating class had only 13 members. The school also consolidated with another small-town school a couple of years after my class graduated. As we grow older, we begin to realize the importance of our friendships of previous years. I have no real close friends from high school since we moved a lot, but I do appreciate those with whom I can say, “Remember when...?” I also realize the importance of passing those memories down to my grandchildren. That’s a part of their heritage!

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

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

Aug. 13

Oct. 23

Appalachian Outfitters Chestatee River/Shenanigans Irish Pub

Country Living Fair

A two-hour beginner kayak class down the Chestatee River, with far and few gentle rapids, remote, and beautiful scenery. Lunch at the Irish pub after the river trip. Bring a towel, snacks, water and a change of clothes. Meet at 8 a.m. at the Recreation Center or 8:30 a.m. Boys and Girls Club. Cost is $55 for members, $65 for non‐members.

Travel to Stone Mountain to see what this Country Living magazine event has to offer. Shop for antiques, vintage, specialty food, handcrafted jewelry, home décor’, clothing, art, pottery, pocketbooks, seeds, plants and attend seminars, cooking demos and more. Lunch is on your own with on-site vendors. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at Boys and Girls Club or 9 a.m. at the Recreation Center. Cost is $25 members, $35 non-members.

Aug. 27 Center for Civil and Human Rights/Mary Mac’s Tea Room

The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the civil rights movement in the U. S. and the broader worldwide human rights movement, and is designed to be a safe space for visitors to explore the fundamental rights of all human beings so that they leave inspired and empowered to join the ongoing dialogue about human rights in their communities. Lunch after the museum tour. Meet at 8:30 a.m. the Boys and Girls Club or 9 a.m. at the Recreation Center. Cost is $50 for members, $60 for non‐members.

Sept. 11 Mansell House and Gardens/Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant

A trip to the Mansell House and Gardens in Alpharetta, a beautiful and unique 1912 Queen Anne style house with collections of Alpharetta and old Milton County historical and genealogical information. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Recreation Center or 9 a.m. at the Boys and Girls Club. Cost is $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

Sept. 17 Jaemor Farms/Sweet House BBQ

Visit to Jaemor Farms in Alto, nestled in the North Georgia mountains, for apple picking, behind the scenes tour of the farm, honeybee hive, gift shop and more. Restaurant is on site. Meet at 8 a.m. at the Recreation Center or 8:30 a.m. at the Boys and Girls Club. Cost is $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

Oct. 5-8 Lexington, KY (overnight trip)

Non-members also are welcome to go on this road trip, the cost of which is $550 for a double room or $750 for single. Nonrefundable deposit due right away with final payment due Sept. 30.

Senior citizens visit the Tate House.

Nov. 12 Earl Smith Strand Theatre/Marietta Local

Guided tour covers three unseen floors at the theatre. Lunch at Marietta Local after the tour. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Boys and Girls Club or 9 a.m. at the Recreation Center. Cost is $45 members, $55 non-members.

Never Roam Alone Water Club Stay active, healthy, socialize, and have fun at the Cherokee Aquatic Center and walk in the Recreation Pool. Please check in at the front desk before entering the pool. 2-3 p.m. daily through Sept. 30. Free to Silver Roamers members.

Gentle Joints Low impact aerobics and strength training class designed specifically for mature adults and individuals with joint challenges. Class format will vary among instructors. The class may include the use of hand weights, stability balls, and various resistance equipment such as bands, Pilate’s circles, and mini‐balls. The class is geared toward issues relevant to this age group such as balance, flexibility, strength, posture, cardio‐pulmonary fitness, and exercises to target bone density, mobility and joint issues. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Fridays in the aerobics room of the Recreation Center. Cost is $30 per month. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Lifestyle

Treasure Hunting Turns Up Summer Gold BY MATT NEAL

“Nearly 200 years ago,” I told my son, “people were in our backyard. Gold miners, looking to get rich.” We squatted at the creek behind our house. My son held an old pickax he’d inherited from his grandfather, and I held a gold mining pan. What were we doing in such a strange circumstance? We were bonding. My son and I were finding common ground in our interests—my love of history and his typical boyhood interest in looking for treasure. He dug up the rocks and then we swished them around, but found nothing. That’s not quite true. We didn’t find gold, but we struck paydirt on memories. I told him the history of gold mining in North Georgia. Until the California gold rush that began at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, this was the place to be if you had that gleam in your eye. I told my son about various other gems that people find in the foothills of the oldest mountains on Earth. He was enthralled. He found pieces of broken glass and was sure they were “gem shards.” With his sister away at summer camp, this was his time to have my attention. I took him to a spot a few miles up Bells Ferry Road. It was an old cemetery behind a church. We don’t normally make cemeteries a regular part of our family adventures, but this one was different. It held the bodies

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

of some of those old miners. People who lived nearly two centuries ago had tried to find gold in the very spot where he builds forts and catches minnows. Boaters and fishermen on Lake Allatoona are often unaware that right along the shore are the remains of an old stamp mill and an old smelter. They look quaint; the remaining brickwork is covered in vines. I told my son that eventually gold miners realized Dahlonega had better pickings. The local history of gold mining is all but lost to antiquity. My son was fascinated. I think a trip to Dahlonega is in store for us. In the great scheme of things, our children’s lives with us are fleeting. Every minute wasted is a memory we will never have. Find a common interest, anything to continue strengthening that bond.

We didn’t find gold, but we struck pay-dirt on memories.

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

Entitlement State BY MIKE LITREL, MD

I walked outside to pick up the Saturday morning paper, and I suppressed an expletive as my bare foot met with a prickly Georgia pine cone. A storm the night before had strewn the yard with them. Stepping gingerly on my injured extremity, I thought of my two boys inside, comfortably glued to the television on this beautiful summer morning. Inspiration struck. Limping into the family room, I declared an employment opportunity: a fee to pick up the pine cones on the front lawn. Ensconced before the boob tube, the boys were at first reluctant. But in the end I was persuasive, and they emerged, interested in lining their pockets to the tune of a nickel per cone. Two boys and a yard full of pine cones—there was the inevitable laughter, screaming and a bit of crying. The boys competed, throwing for distance, accuracy, and of course, trying to nail each other from time to time. But they were flushed from the exercise and appeared happy when they dragged their bags of pine cones to me for final inspection. As I surveyed my cone-less lawn and counted what they had collected, I silently congratulated myself for my fatherhood leadership. I was unaware of the impending conflict. Tyler, 12 years old at the time, had collected twice as many pine cones as his 9-year-old brother Joseph. At final count, Tyler had earned close to $10, and Joseph $5. I considered this darn good pay for unskilled and undisciplined labor. But Joseph looked at the five dollar bill in his hand with deep unhappiness. It wasn’t fair that Tyler had gotten more! Tyler, exuberant in his brother’s misery, gloatingly shoved his Alexander Hamilton in Joseph’s face. I chased Tyler away and sat down with Joseph to explain, to make sure he understood. Yet, no matter what I said to him, Joseph couldn’t—or

wouldn’t—see the fairness. He persisted with his question: He‘d worked just as long as Tyler; why did Tyler get twice as much? Frustrated, I finally resorted to sarcasm. “Well, Joseph, I guess you figured it out,” I said with great sincerity. “The real reason is because I love Tyler... twice... as much... as I love you.” I held up two fingers for emphasis. Any concern I‘d harbored in the back of my mind about causing Joseph emotional trauma was alleviated by his immediate response. “No, Dad, really,” Joseph said. “Tell me the truth!” Okay, Joseph. I’ve thought a lot about this. The truth is that life is not fair. Some people are luckier, some are stronger, some smarter, and some just work harder. I heard myself going into my “American lecture.” Joseph, you’ve been given the freedom to succeed. But an opportunity is not a promise of an outcome. You are not guaranteed the fruits of your brother’s labor. I realized the words were as much for myself as for him. Stop whining. Be grateful for your blessings. And next time, pick up more pine cones.

You’ve been given the freedom to succeed. But an opportunity is not a promise of an outcome.

Dr. Mike Litrel, author of two books on faith-health connection, is a board certified OB/GYN and specialist in pelvic reconstructive surgery at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshelth.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Lifestyle

Teaching Our Children to Respect Law Enforcement BY SEAN KAUFMAN

Not all officers are nice. Few of them abuse their power, take advantage of situations, and use their job to push personal agendas. However, the media using YouTube videos showing an officer misbehaving – and then using it to label a profession – is wrong, and socially irresponsible. My brother was a police officer for 10 years. He loved his job, but quit law enforcement, saying, “I am not going to work for a city which does not work to protect me when I put my life on the line day in and day out.” I can only imagine how many officers are feeling this way right now. The United States of America is a country of laws. We follow the law or we face the consequences. You take those consequences away, and we become a nation where corruption, violence, and survival of the fittest – and richest – rule the nest. Parents have a huge impact on how their children choose to act with police officers. Several weeks ago at the Kroger in Towne Lake, my kids noticed someone arguing with a Woodstock police officer. Later, we overheard the person describing the incident to others, saying the officer was harassing. The story this person told was received with understanding and affirmation. Do I live in the “Twilight Zone?” The person telling the story was breaking the law, and was being held accountable for it; still, that person had the nerve to call it harassment.

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I used this experience to teach my children about respecting the laws of this country and those who spend their lives enforcing them. I went home and pulled up the viral YouTube videos. After asking my children several questions, it was very clear to everyone that even when officers misbehaved, they did so as a result of individuals being disrespectful and non-compliant with police commands. So much could have been avoided if those people in the videos that were being detained by officers demonstrated restraint and respect toward law enforcement. There is a time and place to fight injustice, but it’s a recipe for unintentional disasters when doing so while adrenaline is flowing, and officers feel threatened, forcing them to make decisions in an instant. Teach your children this and teach them now! Fact is, I go to work in a suit. They go to work in a bulletproof vests. I am armed with a pen. They are armed with a gun. I say, “See you tonight.” They pray to return home at night. My family thanks all law enforcement officers in Cherokee County. We believe your service is heroic, and appreciate all you do. Sean Kaufman, an expert in behaviour change, specializes in life coaching and workforce motivation and owns The Texting Coach and Behavior-Based Improvement Solutions. sean@seankaufman.com

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Lifestyle

Thrifty Finds FOR NIFTY MINDS BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

I have never been called thrifty, but with the school year upon us, I have found myself a bit cash-strapped, what with all the school fees and school supplies and school clothes and what-not. This shopping guide is my attempt to work the system… in a good way!

You’ve probably heard tales of people finding things like genuine fur coats and valuable depression glass at places like Goodwill. I’ve never been that lucky, but on a recent trip to the Canton store I did score these books. At just $0.77 a piece, you can donate them to your local library or build your own. Dick and Jane, plus these three highly acclaimed books written by award-winning authors. All the books I found here were in excellent condition and at 90 percent off, you can’t beat the value.

2. My daughter had a third grade teacher who gave the kids

a peppermint before every test. The teacher swore that the peppermints helped the kids remember and regurgitate important information. It may or may not be true. I later found out my daughter hoarded her mints in her desk all year. Of course, I’m willing to try anything that will help my kids do better in school. You can shoot me an email and let me know if this one is just an old teacher’s tale or if it really works. Purchase a giant tub of mints for $9.49 at the Staples next to Ingles supermarket in Canton.

3. The big kids are going back to school, but that’s no reason for the little ones to

feel left out. You can make your little guys feel included by gathering supplies at the Dollar Tree in Canton on Marietta Highway or in Woodstock at the corner of Bells Ferry Road and Eagle Drive. These buckets and bins can be customized with a dryerase marker and filled with crayons, pencils, notebooks and glue sticks. Available in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, you can coordinate the color scheme to match your house. Everything you see here was just $1 each.

Now that everyone is back from vacation, my pantry and fridge are quickly shrinking. Recently, I popped in to the local Aldi. Aldi is definitely not your fully stocked, full service grocery store, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that in addition to the enormous boxes of fruit chewies and cookies, the store also sells organic produce. Yes, organic! And you won’t believe these prices. Lunch boxes and snack time, rejoice!

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Straight Talk about Canine Influenza BY SHERRY WEAVER, DVM

Cherokee County has its first case on record of the canine influenza virus. I have been answering a lot of questions and addressing concerns of patients, and I’d like to share what I’ve learned about this outbreak and how best to protect our fourlegged family members. First the facts. In an April 2015 post, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated: “Canine influenza H3N8 virus originated in horses, has spread to dogs and can now spread between dogs. The H3N8 equine influenza (horse flu) virus has been known to exist for more than 40 years.” The virus is very similar to one of the more severe human influenza viruses, causing high fevers, loss of appetite, respiratory problems that include coughing, and, in some cases, pneumonia. It is extremely contagious from dog to dog, especially those housed in kennels or shelters or that visit dog parks. There are several confirmed cases in Georgia and likely more cases that have gone undiagnosed. Since most dogs with the virus are treated but not tested, we know that there are many other undocumented cases. There are some reports of it spreading to cats, guinea pigs and ferrets, but not humans. According to the CDC: “The percentage of dogs infected with this disease and then die is very small.”

The advice I have been giving about pets is similar to what your health care provider would offer concerning human patients. • Wash your hands, clothes and even leashes well after interacting with other pets you do not know. • Avoid other dogs that are showing respiratory signs. • If you need to board your dog, be sure the facility has a policy of isolating dogs with respiratory signs and a separate place to do it. Ask what cleaning and exposure protocols are in place to protect your pet. There is a vaccine for canine influenza, and there is some evidence that it protects against the current strain, but there is no proof. Depending on your pet’s risk factors, decide with your veterinarian whether you should use the vaccine. The good news is that with supportive care and treatment, very few of the influenza patients have succumbed to the virus. For more information, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association’s website at www.avma.org.

Dr. Sherry Weaver is the medical director at Animal Hospital of Towne Lake and the Cat Clinic of Woodstock. She can be reached at 770-591-9500.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

HVAC Terms Homeowners Need to Know BY DON JAPE

It’s not fair, really. When your furnace or air conditioner breaks down, you are at a disadvantage when talking to a contractor about heating and cooling. You’re not an expert in heating. You haven’t gone to air conditioning school. To get to the root of the repair or understand what features you want in your upgrade, you need a crash course in HVAC terms. • Air handler. The component of the heating and cooling system that helps move air through the ducts and into your home. • BTU. The unit of measurement that is the amount of energy required to increase temperature. For cooling, it is the amount of heat that’s removed from the home. • Compressor. Used by an air conditioner and heat pump to move refrigerant through the system to cool the home. • Condenser coil. The outdoor coil that releases heat from refrigerant. • Ducts. The HVAC system component that has flexible tubes that snake throughout the home. Heating and cooling are delivered through the ducts to the living spaces. • Evaporator coil. The indoor coil that absorbs heat energy inside the living spaces. • Load calculation. An analysis of the home’s heating and cooling requirements, or how much heat the furnace is required to produce to make a comfortable home, and how much cooling and dehumidifying is required from the air conditioner. • SEER. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio shows the cooling efficiency of an air conditioner or heat pump. • HSPF. The heating seasonal performance factor rates the efficiency of heat pumps in heating mode. • AFUE. The annual fuel utilization efficiency number shows the efficiency of a gas furnace, rating its effectiveness at converting gas to energy. This rating is the easiest to understand, as a 95 percent AFUE-rated furnace uses 95 percent of the fuel to generate heat energy, while losing only 5 percent up the flue, or elsewhere. • Two-stage cooling (or heating). This type of unit can operate at two “stages” of heating or cooling. One is higher and uses more energy, while the other is lower and uses less energy. The unit automatically adjusts the comfort stage based on the heating and cooling requirements. • Variable-speed motor. Much like the two-stage heating/ cooling system, the variable-speed motor adjusts the capacity at which it operates, based on the load. Its advantages include temperature consistency, better dehumidification and reduced operational noise. • Zoning. A strategy for grouping areas of the home with similar heating and cooling modes to drive efficiency and comfort. It works in conjunction with thermostats installed in the zones and dampers installed in the ductwork, which open and close as necessary to release or prohibit the flow of conditioned air into the zones.

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

COME HERE. FEEL BETTER.

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

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

Woodstock Location: 960 Woodstock Parkway | Suite 101 Woodstock, GA 30188

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Feature

Loyalty, Innovation and Trust Fuel Growth at Reliable

From left: Sales manager Jeff Moulder, Owner Dan Jape, President Daniel Jape and Lowe’s sales manager John Zent. Photos by Kim Bates.

any things have changed over the 37 years Dan Jape has grown his business, Reliable Heating & Air, from a startup in his basement to the 24-hour operation it is today. The foundational principles, though, remain the same. • The personal attention that comes with a family-operated business. Customers know that tradition will continue as Dan’s son Daniel prepares to take over the business one day. • A staff of loyal and well-educated professionals, some who’ve worked at Reliable for more than 20 years. “Customers like knowing the faces behind the business, and some of our employees have been with us for more than 20 years,” Dan said. “They know who they’re dealing with now and 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.” As more and more of Reliable’s customers have asked for referrals for plumbing, electrical and other needs, Dan has made the decision to bring these services in house. “Our customers were asking for referrals because they trusted us,” said Dan, “but, oftentimes, the work performed by those outside vendors didn’t meet our standards. Many customers asked if we could become their ‘one-stop’ service provider, and we finally decided it was time.”

Home Performance

Air tightness and thermal efficiency in the home are 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 48

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Institute. The goal is to identify leaks around attic doors, ducts, lighting, or excessive dust and other issues that make your home a poor performer. Auditors compile a 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 caulking and sealing areas, installing and tightening ducts, and improving the seals in crawl spaces, and attic doors. 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.

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.

770-594-9969

11075 Highway 92 Woodstock www.reliableair.com

The largest Trane dealer in North America for two consecutive years! Plumbing

Master Plumber Chris McKinney has more than 10 years of experience and directs the plumbing division, which specializes in emergency same-day 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.

Heating and Air

Customer Service: 24/7/365

Once a customer buys a new heating and air system, the relationship continues — even as long as the lifetime of the units. 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,” says Jeff. “We want to make sure our customers know that whatever happens, we are here to take care of it.” Customer service continues long after the day shift leaves for home at 8 p.m. That’s when the overnight crew comes in—three Reliable employees who work through the night in the Woodstock headquarters and take service calls at all hours. “Water, plumbing, heating and air conditioning problems can’t wait,” says business owner Dan Jape. “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, 365 days a year.”

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.”

FAST FACTS

• More than 320 employees • Fleet of more than 300 trucks • Service area of 26 counties • Call station open 24 hours a day, seven days a week • Largest Trane dealer in North America for two consecutive years

Reliable’s 24-hour call center TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Lifestyle

An Adult Rendition of a Childhood Treat BY CLAIRE FROST

For so many years, the beginning of summer has been marked by the arrival of the ice cream man. He’d come into the neighborhood with the very Americana, yet somewhat wonky, electronic melody playing and all the children would stop their kickball games to get a smooth, cold, tasty treat. As an adult living in my first apartment, I remember walking to the corner with friends on Sundays to get organic, naturally made popsicles from The King of Pops, a local vendor who perched on a stool under a rainbow umbrella with a cart and a smile. It never dawned on me that I was still marking the beginning of summer with frozen treats, even in my mid-20s. With flavors like mint grapefruit, orange hibiscus and chocolate sea salt, we couldn’t resist those pops. I once played in a charity tennis tournament at a lovely swim and tennis community. From the courts I could hear children squealing with delight as they played on the water slide, a joyous sound of summer that was soon pierced by the electronic “ding, dong, ding” of an approaching ice cream truck. I was only mildly embarrassed that I shouted “Guys, it’s the ice cream man!” Once I looked around and realized only children were rushing to the truck, it took all of my adult strength not to leave the courts for a taste of childhood. I longed for a Chipwich or an Orange Creamsicle. After being stuck in the middle of that tennis match, unable to run for a treat from the ice cream truck, I went home and found my grandmother’s homemade ice cream recipe to cool me off. Homemade ice cream will tide me over until the next time the ice cream truck rolls by. Wait—do you hear that? I have to go.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Homemade Chipwich Ice Cream 4 eggs 2 1/2 cups sugar 6 cups milk 4 cups light cream 2 tablespoons.vanilla 1/2 teaspoon salt Chocolate chip cookies (optional) Semi-sweet chocolate chip morsels (optional)

Instructions Beat eggs until light. Add sugar gradually, beating until mixture thickens. Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Freeze in ice-cream freezer. Spoon ice cream in between two soft chocolate chip cookies. (Roll on edge over semi-sweet chocolate chips if desired.) Place in freezer to harden.

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

Job Tip: Reconnect with Old Friends BY LYNNE SAUNDERS

This week, I unexpectedly found myself out of town, in a place where I summered as a teen. It is a small town in upstate New York on Lake Ontario, where I learned to sail and realized that I have the spirit to succeed in competition. I had opportunities to crew on sailboats that were owned and skippered by my aunt’s and uncle’s friends. It was during this time I found endurance, confidence and the benefits of taking risks … characteristics I have pulled from many times in my life. Recently I was in a gathering of friends and family celebrating the life of my aunt as we said goodbye. People came - some from long distances - to join us as we told stories and heard multitudes more. I re-met many salty old sailors who remembered me from 40 years ago. I could sense their sincere interest to catch up and their pride that I turned out “all right.” They seemed honored to give financial donations in lieu of flowers to my organization, Papa’s Pantry. It was clear; they remembered me well, they were proud of my accomplishments, and wanted to help “my cause.” These concepts are at the core of successful networking, and can be emulated in the job search market. Many times, gems of all colors and depth can be found in treasure boxes of abandoned relationships. You can polish each one to reveal its true beauty. Networking is not just showing up to a weekly meeting. It is

reaching out to past friends, colleagues, and bosses…the people you had relationships with during a time when you had the world by the tail. Those are the people who will remember you in your successes. Job-seeking can be scary and depressing. Don’t get overwhelmed; instead, make a list of people who can share powerful stories of your accomplishments and grit. Pick up the phone or send an email to those people and let them know that you are beginning a new chapter in your life. If you are calling old friends, don’t ask for help on the first phone call, but simply enjoy reconnecting. There will be time during your reacquaintance to solicit a reference, or ask for leads on decisionmakers for jobs. What do you have to lose? Even if the people you choose to reconnect with can’t help, you will regain lost confidence as you walk down memory lane together. Keep making progress!

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Lifestyle

Georgia Canyons are Natural Wonders BY LYNNE WATTS

If you weren’t able to visit the Grand Canyon this summer, you may want to see two of Georgia’s own canyons, which offer spectacular views, fascinating history and challenging hiking trails. Providence Canyon is 150 miles south of Atlanta and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia. Known as the Little Grand Canyon, it was created by poor farming techniques in the late 1800s that resulted in soil erosion and massive gullies, some as deep as 150 feet. While you are there, check out the gift shop where you can watch a video detailing the history of the canyon. Visit during the month of August when the rare plumleaf azalea is blooming against the backdrop of the natural soil colors of pink, orange, red and green to create a photographer’s paradise. Enjoy views of the canyons from the rim or follow the trails to explore the deepest canyons below. The more adventurous can pitch a tent and camp out along a back country trail that winds through mixed forest. Camping, cottages and efficiency units are also available nearby at Florence Marina State Park on the 45,000-acre Lake Walter F. George. http://gastateparks.org/ProvidenceCanyon. Another of the state’s natural wonders is Tallulah Gorge in the northeastern part of the state. A canyon formation that is three miles long and 1,200 feet deep, the gorge was created by a series of waterfalls that were dammed by the Georgia Power Co. in 1912. The name Tallulah comes from a Native American word for “terrible,” since tradition had it that the gorge was a

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

home for evil spirits. Today the evil spirits are replaced with day visitors and outdoor adventurers. Tightrope walkers have twice been challenged to cross the gorge and the towers used by Karl Wallenda on his 1970 walk are still visible. Visit the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, where you can learn about the rich history of this Victorian resort town. Visitors can hike along the rim and venture across a suspension bridge that sways 80 feet above the rock bottom for outstanding views of the river and waterfalls. There is also a paved path that is perfect for strollers or bicycles. A permit is necessary to hike to the bottom of the gorge. Mountain bikers can enjoy a challenging 10-mile trail. The park offers monthly guided experiences including a quartermile hike to the site of Wallenda’s tightrope walk across the gorge. Are you a night owl? Sign up for a full moon hike that will take you down the stairs, across the suspension bridge and along the rim under the full moon. http://gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge.

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

The New Gradual Retirement Working a little (or a lot) after 60 may become the norm. DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Do we really want to retire at 65? Not according to the latest annual retirement survey from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, which gauges the outlook of American workers. It found that 51 percent of us plan to work part time once retired. Moreover, 64 percent of workers 60 and older wanted to work at least a little after age 65 and 18 percent had no intention of retiring.1 Are financial needs shaping these responses? Not entirely. While 61 percent of all those polled in the Transamerica survey cited income and employer-sponsored health benefits as major reasons to stay employed in the “third act” of life, 34 percent of respondents said they wanted to keep working because they enjoy their occupation or like the social and mental engagement of the workplace.1 It seems “retirement” and “work” are no longer mutually exclusive. Not all of us have sufficiently large retirement nest eggs, so we strive to stay employed—to let our savings compound a little more, and to leave us with fewer years of retirement to fund. We want to keep working into our mid-60s because of two other realities as well. If you are a baby boomer and you retire before age 66 (or 67, in the case of those born 1960 and later), your monthly Social Security benefits will be smaller than if you had worked until full retirement age. Additionally, we can qualify for Medicare at age 65.2,3 We are sometimes cautioned that working too much in retirement may result in our Social Security benefits being taxed, but is there really such a thing as “too much” retirement income? Income aside, there is another question we all face as retirement approaches. How much control will we have over our retirement transition? In the Transamerica survey, 41 percent of respondents saw themselves making a gradual entry into retirement, shifting from full-time employment to part-time employment or another kind of work in their 60s.1 Is that thinking realistic? It may or may not be. A recent Gallup survey of retirees found that 67 percent had left the workforce before age 65; just 18 percent had worked longer. Recent research from the Employee Benefit Retirement Institute fielded roughly the same results: 14 percent of retirees kept working after 65 and about half had been forced to stop working earlier than they planned due to layoffs, health issues or elder care responsibilities.3

Not all of us have sufficiently large retirement nest eggs, so we strive to stay employed.

If you do want to make a gradual retirement transition, what might help you do it? First of all, work on maintaining your health. The second priority: maintain and enhance your skill set, so that your prospects for employment in your 60s are not reduced by separation from the latest technologies. Keep networking. Think about Plan B: if you are unable to continue working in your chosen career even part time, what prospects might you have for creating income through financial decisions, self-employment or in other lines of work? How can you reduce your monthly expenses? Easing out of work and into retirement may be the new normal. Pessimistic analysts contend that many baby boomers will not be able to keep working past 65, no matter their aspirations. They may be wrong. Just as this active, ambitious generation has changed America, it may also change the definition of retirement. 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 - forbes.com/sites/laurashin/2015/05/05/why-the-newretirement-involves-working-past-65/ [5/5/15] 2 - ssa.gov/retire2/agereduction.htm [6/11/15] 3 - money.usnews.com/money/blogs/planning-toretire/2015/05/22/how-to-pick-the-optimal-retirementage [5/22/15]

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Lifestyle

Gardening for a Gluten-free Lifestyle BY TONI ANN ISLES

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Send Us Your Back to School Photos! Deadline is August 5 Send to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com Please identify children from left to right.

Gluten-free (GF) products are, on average, 242 percent more expensive than their gluten counterparts, according to a study conducted by the National Center of Biotechnology Information. If you’re gluten intolerant, you’re all too familiar with this statistic. GF products often require specialty ingredients, such as expensive flour substitutes. Combine costly ingredients with a bit of price gouging, and you’ve got yourself a pricey product. What’s a cost-conscious GF-er to do? Get to gardening, that’s what! Maintaining a small home garden is an easy way to enjoy healthy foods without spending a fortune. Ripe, juicy fruits, freshly-picked vegetables, and tasty legumes are all naturally gluten-free and packed with vitamins, minerals, and disease-fighting antioxidants. Not to mention, a home garden yields far more per dollar than what you’d spend on supermarket produce. And saving money on fruits and vegetables leaves you with extra cash for other GF goodies, such as bread or cereal. Getting started is simple. First, determine your plant hardiness zone, which indicates what plants are capable of growing in your region. Because Cherokee County is in Zone 7b, the best plants to sow in August include beans, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber and kale. If you sow in September, you’ll want to plant carrots, lettuce, radishes, spinach and/or turnips. Before digging in, make a mental note of where and how much sun shines in your yard. As a quick tip, broccoli and cucumbers prefer full sun (about six to eight hours per day) while beans, lettuce, spinach and carrots enjoy partial sun. Select seeds or pre-sown plants from a farmer’s market or nursery. Sow them in a row pattern, be sure to leave sufficient space between the seeds or plants. Remember to read the seed package instructions or chat with a local nursery owner, if purchasing presown plants. Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor with this refreshing GF recipe: Cucumber Watermelon Salad 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 3 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 seedless watermelon, cut into cubes 3 small cucumbers, seeded and cut into cubes 1 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cup mint leaves, thinly sliced Salt and pepper, to taste Directions: Mix red onion with lime juice in a bowl; set aside to marinate at least 10 minutes. Stir olive oil into mixture. Toss watermelon, cucumbers and feta cheese together in a large bowl. Pour the red onion mixture over the watermelon mixture; toss to coat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle mint over the salad and toss.

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Consignment Sale Guide Outfitting your children with new back to school clothes is a little easier with bargains found in consignment sales. If you check ahead of time, you may be able to consign outfits your children have outgrown and get a new wardrobe at the same time!

July 30-Aug. 2

• All 4 Kids Woodstock - www.all4kids.com Times: 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: To be announced

Aug. 6-8

• All 4 Kids Cobb County Fairgrounds - www.all4kids.com 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, 2245 Callaway Road, Marietta

Aug. 14-15

• Canton First Baptist Kids Sale - www.fbckidssale.com Times: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday Location: Canton First Baptist Church, 1 Mission Point • Lil’ Blessings - lilblessings@kfbc.org Times: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Kennesaw First Baptist Church, 2958 N. Main St.

Aug. 20-22

• Lil Lambs Closet - www.lil-lambs.org Times: 6-8 p.m. Thursday ($5 admission fee per adult), 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Marietta First United Methodist Church, Whitlock Avenue

Aug. 21-22

• The Blessing Line - www.blessingline.com Times: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday Location: First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. • Wildwood Kidz-Sense - www.kidzsense.org Times: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Wildwood Baptist Church, 4801 Wade Green Road, Acworth • All 4 Kids East Cobb/Marietta - www.all4kids.com 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

Aug. 22

• Tots to Tweens - www.nowamom.org Times: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Sandy Plains Baptist Church, 2825 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta

Aug. 27-29

• Due West Treasure Chest - www.duewest.org 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 • Green With Envy - www.greenwithenvykids.com Times: Private preview event Thursday, 9 a.m-6 p.m. Friday, 9 am.-5 p.m. Saturday Location: Lakewood 400 Antiques Market, Cumming

Aug. 27-30

• Restoration Kids - www.restorationchurchna.org Times: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday ($5 per family), 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday, 8:30 am.-2:30 p.m., 1-4 p.m. Sunday Location: Restoration Church of God, 410 Rucker Road, Alpharetta/Milton/Roswell

Aug. 28-29

• Pass It On - www.acworthumc.org/passiton/ Times: 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday Location: Acworth United Methodist Church, 4340 Collins Circle

Sept. 10-12

• Angel’s Attic - www.johnscreekumc.org 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

Sept. 11-12

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Health & Wellness

Can Bats and Birds Control Mosquitoes? BY RICK COUGHLIN

Whenever the subject of mosquito control comes up, someone gives an argument for installing purple martin houses and bat houses. Stores that cater to bird enthusiasts often tout the purple martin houses as the best solution for keeping a yard mosquito free. Bats are suggested because they consume hundreds of mosquitoes per hour. But the truth is, neither purple martins nor bats provide any significant measure of mosquito control; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to say that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eat mosquitoes - they do, but mosquitoes make up a very small percentage of their diet. Multiple studies of wild bats have consistently concluded that mosquitoes are less than 1 percent of batsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; diet. In purple martins, the percentage of mosquitoes in their diet is slightly higher, at an estimated 3 percent. A bird or a bat that feeds on insects must invest considerable energy in flying around and catching bugs in mid-air; they are seeking the biggest caloric bang for the buck. Given the choice between a mosquito morsel, a beefy beetle, or a mouthful of

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

moth, they will look right past the mosquito. With that said, there are many effective ways to control mosquitoes in your yard. Make sure you eliminate any and all standing water, especially since we have been getting a lot of rain lately. It is important to go outside after each rain shower, and dump rain that has accumulated in any containers. The most effective way to eliminate the pesky mosquitoes is to hire a professional company that practices integrated pest management. They will dump excess water, apply larvicide and spray a mild chemical that will keep the mosquitoes away for about three weeks per treatment.

But the truth is, neither purple martins nor bats provide any significant measure of mosquito control.

Rick Coughlin is the owner of The Mosquito Authority. Email him at rick@bugsbite.com.

Preventative Care Can Ward Off Sports Injuries BY SCOTT C. MCINTURFF

Kids have a better chance at preventing non-contact injuries if they follow safety rules, build in periods of rest and use proper technique. But even straightforward prevention techniques will take a student athlete only so far. Overuse is the most common injury I see in young athletes. It happens from doing too much of one type of activity, leading to increased stress on the body. Parents are often surprised when I recommend preventing overuse by enrolling children in multiple sports. What we’re doing is avoiding specialization: playing one sport year-round. Injury can also be caused by not being active in the offseason. How else can student athletes prevent sports injuries? Unfortunately, there is no simple, onesize-fits-all answer to prevent all injuries. That’s because most sports injuries are not as simple as just a twisted ankle. Many injuries have a deeper origin that caused the problem. For example, if you run with a rock in your shoe, you compensate how you run to make it less painful. Athletes are like that. If they have a problem with mobility or stability, they develop alternative strategies and cheat on how they move. Some of these movement cheats can be recognized during a routine sports physical. I

Overuse is the most common injury I see in young athletes. It happens from doing too much of one type of activity, leading to increased stress on the body.

recommend they get a good, quality physical with a trained pediatric specialist. I don’t see patients until they’re already injured, but at that point, I evaluate them using movement as the foundation. I look at each athlete as an individual. I include a functional movement screen to analyze seven fundamental movement patterns. For example, one of my patients broke his arm when he fell off his bike. During consultation, he indicated he wanted to return to football. Screening the body head to toe, I found he had limited ankle mobility, which affected his deep squats so much that he was compensating and using the tips of his toes to complete the movement pattern. I gave him corrective strategies to work on. He came in for a broken arm, but now he has the knowledge to become a better athlete and move smarter, not harder. Preventing injuries is not as easy as 1-2-3. But quality preventative health care including a thorough sports physical with a trained pediatric specialist, proper movement technique and staying active year-long in varied sports are a few ways to help your student athlete decrease his or her chances of sports injuries.

Scott McInturff, PT, is the clinical supervisor at OrthoSport, a pediatric and young adult rehabilitation center at WellStar Pediatric Center off Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Health & Wellness

The Fluoride in Our Water: Good or Bad? BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

A patient named John from South Africa told me he had very bad teeth because he grew up on well water without fluoride. He knew he would need extensive dental and cosmetic work because he had avoided fixing his smile until now. John is 38 and an active businessman who is in front of clients every day. He told me he was embarrassed by his smile and wanted to improve it. An examination revealed substantial decay and unsightly spots caused by bacteria, more extensive damage than the typical patients I see who have benefitted from fluoridated water. Fluoride was first added to drinking water as a large-scale public health measure in 1945 in Grand Rapids, Mich. Research shows that the benefits of fluoridation outweigh the risks, and remain a cost-effective way of reaching an entire community, according to Howard Pollick, a professor at the school of dentistry at the University of California in San Francisco. Children from poorer families with less access to dental health care have fewer cavities, thanks to fluoride. The American Dental Association believes that fluoride also can reverse early decay by enhancing remineralization, the rebuilding of tooth enamel. The levels of water fluoridation have been reduced in recent years based upon the populationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s access to fluoride in toothpastes, mouthwashes and rinses, as well as professional

Research shows that the benefits of fluoridation outweigh the risks, and remain a cost-effective way of reaching an entire community. . .

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

fluoride applications of gel, foam or varnish. There are activists who believe any level of fluoride increases the risk of fractures, brain damage and cancer, among other health concerns. But according to the National Cancer Institute, many studies provide evidence that exposure of humans and animals to fluoridated water demonstrates no association with risk of cancer. Further, the risk of fractures is extremely rare at the fluoride levels found in the United States. The most common adverse reaction of fluoride ingestion is dental fluorosis, an interruption in normal enamel formation that leads to tooth discoloration ranging from white to brown spots. The majority of cases, known to affect one in four Americans, are mild and only about 2 percent are considered moderate. Less than 1 percent is severe. Fluorosis is not a disease but often requires correction by cosmetic treatment. Fluorosis has prompted recent actions to reduce water fluoridation levels to help avoid this side effect.

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Health & Wellness

Treating the Athlete BY AMBER YORK, DC

With summer sports winding down and fall activities gearing up, we are reminded of how common sports injuries are. Whether you are first string on the field, cheering on the sideline or a weekend warrior, over time you may find yourself faced with a variety of sports-related injuries. The injury can occur while playing your beloved sport or simply exercising. It can result from a hard hit or by not warming up or stretching properly. Low back pain, muscle strain, tennis and golferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elbow, plantar fasciitis and bursitis are just a few of the conditions we find in our athletes. The question is, how do we take care of the problem before the beloved activity becomes a lost pastime? Chiropractors can focus on how everyday wear and tear on your body decreases your function. We thoroughly assess every condition and utilize a variety of treatment options to keep you on the field and playing at your optimum potential. Physical, emotional and chemical stresses all cause subluxations, or misalignments of the spine and extremities (your arms and legs). When the bones are not in their proper position, there may be abnormal nerve function and abnormal motion that can affect the athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strength, endurance and range of motion. By realigning the spine and extremities with specific adjustments, we allow the body to function the way that it was designed.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Now you can throw the ball farther, hit the ball harder or run a little longer. It is also important to address the surrounding soft tissue since the most common sport injuries are musculoskeletal in nature, meaning there is a muscular and skeletal component. When you start feeling that overall tightness or aches and pains during or after your big event, soft tissue therapies such as hot or cold packs, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, Kinesiotape and sport specific stretches and strengthening routines can help. These types of treatments are known to increase range of motion, decrease inflammation, spasm and pain all while helping to accelerate the healing process of the soft tissue. Just like the chiropractic adjustment, these treatments are specific to you and your individual needs. By focusing on both the spinal alignment and soft tissue, chiropractic care can help alleviate pain as well as detect and help prevent future injuries.

Whether you are first string on the field, cheering on the sideline or a weekend warrior, over time you may find yourself faced with a variety of sportsrelated injuries.

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

Rebalance Cortisol for Optimum Health BY O. JULIUS QUARCOO

Stress is an inherent part of life, and no matter how hard we try to resist or control it, it seems to linger. Experts tell us we must learn to control our stress levels, which leave us wired and burnt out. While cortisol, often called the stress hormone, has a bad rap, it is needed to keep the body in a life-sustaining state of balance. In both actual and perceived threatening situations, a surge of cortisol is released (flight or fight mode), causing a rush of glucose to the muscles to prepare to fight or run. Blood pressure is also increased to maintain a good supply of oxygen to the brain to help us think more clearly. Non-immediate bodily functions like digestion, sexual arousal and immune functions take a temporary back stage to enable energy and resources to flow to vital functions. That’s why people who are chronically stressed tend to have digestive issues and slow bowel movements, as well as other hormonal issues. When the threat subsides, the cortisol is shut off and the body reverts to a state of calm, recovery and readiness for the next alarm. Because of the constant stressors in our lives, our cortisol levels can stay constantly surged, causing fatigue, heart disease, sleep problems, indigestion, depression, memory impairment, weight gain and unhealthy skin. This leads to adrenal fatigue, when the adrenal glands are unable to keep up with demands. Nutritional support and a fitness regimen are essential in balancing cortisol, and helping us cope with life’s stressors. Unless you live the life of a monk who meditates all day, chances are you may be deficient in magnesium, because our cells dump magnesium during stress. We actively push the mineral out of our bodies as a way to rev up our nervous system and cope with daily life. Magnesium supplements are my favorite stress-busters. If you don’t take the right kind, it will just sit in your gut and cause diarrhea, while not being absorbed into your cells, where it is

needed. I recommend magnesium glycinate or malate. Adults need approximately 800 mg per day. Magnesium prevents excessive cortisol, and lowers blood sugars by sensitizing insulin receptors. Better insulin control means fewer sugar cravings. Magnesium, an anti-inflammatory, is necessary for thyroid production, and helps with sleep. Without magnesium, vitamin D cannot do its job, as it is involved in more than 300 other enzyme activities. Other supplements that help to lower cortisol include a high quality fish oil, rich in omega 3’s, and high doses of vitamin B and C. A group of supplements generally called adaptogens, enables people to cope with stress better. A few of these supplements include L-theanine, phosphatidylserine, ashwagandha, rhodiola, taurine, valerian, and passion flower. For a recommendation of supplements - and the right amounts - to take, please contact your pharmacist.

While cortisol, often called the stress hormone, has a bad rap, it is needed to keep the body in a life-sustaining state of balance.

O. Julius Quarcoo, a pharmacist for 21 years, is owner of Towne Lake Family Pharmacy, which offers compounding and regular prescriptions. 770-635-7697. townelakepharmacy@yahoo.com.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Health & Wellness

Empty Nesting It BY DR. AMY HARDIN

As we head into August, we will soon be sending our youngest, Ellen, off to join her sister at the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!). Roommates, dorms and classes have been chosen. Fight song music practice abounds because she’ll be joining her sister in the Redcoat Marching Band. Off she goes. Now what? Because we have two kids with very different personalities, we expect different experiences with Ellen than we had with Margaret over the past two years. As empty nesters, my husband and I will have different experiences as well. This summer, Chris and I had a preview of empty nesting because both girls were out of town most of the summer. Margaret has been following her dreams as a Congressional intern in Washington, D.C., and Ellen has spent her third year in North Carolina at YMCA Camp Greenville as a counselor. It’s actually been fun “dating” the man I’ve been married to for the past 22 years! We’ve tried out new restaurants, ridden our bikes on a few of the trails I’ve found, played Words With Friends (he routinely beats me), shared a couple of books, watched some awesome shows on Netflix and gone on a couple of road trips. We’ve also enjoyed catching up with friends. We continue to, and always will, talk of what the girls are up to, but world news and things happening at work are

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

steadily creeping back into our conversations. Ellen has been ready for at least the past two years to fly the coop, just like her sister. As we send her off, we will make sure she knows we will be here and be good listeners when relationships are floundering, tests haven’t been aced, she’s had a bad day, or if she needs the occasional kick in the pants. My days of being a full-time mom are now transitioning into part time, and bittersweet as it is, the sense of excitement for both our wonderful daughters and their futures help us fill our empty nest with love and anticipation of what the road ahead will bring! Good luck to others in our new club, and give us a nod if you see us in our new roles.

This summer, Chris and I had a preview of empty nesting.

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

WellStar and Mayo Clinic. Working together. Working for you. Achieving our vision of world-class healthcare is even closer now that we are a proud new member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, an innovative collaboration which brings the expertise of Mayo to our patients. As the first and only member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network in metro Atlanta, our depth of specialty care will be enhanced with new resources and tools while keeping patient care right here at home. Innovation. World-class care. WellStar. For more information, please visit wellstar.org/mayo. For physician referral, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).

The vision of WellStar Health System is to deliver world-class healthcare through our hospitals, physicians and services. Our not-for-profit health system includes WellStar Kennestone Regional Medical Center (anchored by WellStar Kennestone Hospital) and WellStar Cobb, Douglas, Paulding and Windy Hill hospitals; WellStar Medical Group; Urgent Care Centers; Health Parks; Pediatric Center; Health Place; Homecare; Hospice; Atherton Place; Paulding Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; and the WellStar Foundation.

We believe in life well-lived. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Health & Wellness

Be a Satisfied Patient and a Savvy Consumer BY JAN HENRIQUES AU. D.

I am saddened as a doctor of audiology that so many people with hearing loss do not know they have options that will significantly improve their lives, or for various reasons, choose not to take advantage of them. And many of those who do seek help often end up on a path leading to poor results and wasted money. When seeking help for hearing loss, the choices can vary from seeing a doctor who specializes in patient hearing care to a salesperson with no formal training. Like fingerprints, no two ears are the same, and a doctor of audiology can diagnose and determine what is missing in an individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of hearing. Nine out of 10 first-time hearing aid users do not consult with an audiologist and/or choose their device based solely on the price. Most people purchase aids in retail stores or from warehouse clubs where the devices are displayed next to the tires and office supplies. Or they will buy sound amplifiers marketed online as hearing aids, from TV infomercials or magazine ads. It is not all about the hearing aid! Before I recommend a brand or model, I ask questions and get to know my patients and the type of life they live. Then, after getting a complete, diagnostic hearing profile, we choose the best option together. Professional audiologists and personalized technology make all the difference in getting and keeping patients hearing at their very best. Getting started is easy, painless, and in most cases, covered by insurance. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to remember to choose an office that has an in-network provider, in which case all testing will be covered by a co-payment at most. More and more insurance plans now cover all or part of the cost of hearing devices. Both young and old are sometimes reluctant to consider hearing aids, thinking they make them look older, weaker or less than normal. But 90 percent of devices used today are almost invisible and wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be noticed unless the wearer points them out.

Professional audiologists and personalized technology make all the difference in getting and keeping patients hearing at their very best.

Dr. Henriques, a board certified audiologist and lead provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock, has been practicing since 1985.

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

School & Sports

The Adventures of Grammar Guy - Part II BY JOE LEMMO

Each month during the year, I’ve challenged my students to write creatively. While school was out, I decided to rise to the same challenge I offer my students. I hope you enjoy.

Continued from last month… After a lengthy silence, Grammar Guy responded at last. He chose his words carefully, knowing that this moment would never again show its face. He knew that the youngster represented so many others out in the world with whom he was constantly battling. If he missed this opportunity, he may be finished, done, kaput, retired. He said, in a low soothing tone, “Because our world is in great danger, and soon we will be calling on the entire planet to fight, armed only with their words.” The boy looked partially perplexed. “Huh?” was his reply. “Basically, the configuration of language as we know it, is in danger of extinction!” Grammar Guy continued. “How?” uttered the lad. “Well, there was a time when people used to sit down and write letters, and then the telephone was invented and people spent more time talking than writing. Soon computers were developed and spoken language diminished as the primary form of communication. Now, pretty much everyone communicates using small hand-held computers known as cell phones. Each time we’ve seen a change in communication style, we’ve also seen the ripple effects of those changes. Prognosis: a severe weakening of the beauty within the

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grammatical structure of the English language.” “But how are we in danger and with whom are we going to have to fight?” spoke the now-trembling lad as he walked into Grammar Guy’s apartment. Grammar Guy spoke eloquently into what appeared to be a speaker in the wall and the apartment transformed back into his lab. “Wow!” gasped the young boy as his eyes met the various buttons, screens, and equipment on the walls and counters. “You are about to be privy to some top secret information,” Grammar Guy said with a serious tone. “I will need to swear you in before we proceed.” “Swear me in? What does that mean?” questioned the boy. “If I’m going to share this information with you, I will need to know that I can trust you to keep it confidential until the time is absolutely necessary to share it with the rest of the world. I will also need to know that I can count on you to assist me with all matters connected to this serious event.” The boy began to walk around the apartment. After a brief silence, he finally spoke. “When you say ‘assist’ do you mean that I will become a superhero just like you?” “Yes, you will. And you will need to keep your identity secret, even from your family and friends.” The boy walked around some more, and finally, with an ear-to-ear grin he held out his hand in the direction of Grammar Guy and said, “I accept!” Grammar Guy continued on page 80

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

Many Teachers Reported to Class During Summer Break While school was out for students, many Cherokee County teachers were back in class to get up to speed on the latest tools and techniques in classroom instruction. The Cherokee County School District offers more than three dozen classes during post-planning and summer break, covering topics from teaching strategies to classroom technology. While in the past Georgia teachers were required to attend courses to keep their teaching certificates current, state legislation suspended the requirement during the recent recession as a budget accommodation for school districts. However, hundreds of Cherokee teachers attended classes without the pressure of a state requirement, continuing to learn out of professional interest and the desire to become better teachers. Among the sessions attended: • EdCamp Cherokee: About 130 K-12 teachers shared, in small groups, how they were using technology in the

classroom. The more than two dozen topics generated by the participants included starting a school technology club, iPads in the classroom, favorite apps, and copyright and digital citizenship. • Building and Sustaining the School Garden: Two-day class at Woodstock Elementary and Buckeye Creek Farm was coordinated by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau and Cherokee County Extension Service, and involved Master Gardeners and Cherokee County Water and Sewer Authority. Teachers learned about Farm to School, STEM gardens, water quality and other agricultural science topics. • Summer Mathematics Academy:Two-day program for K-8 teachers with a focus on hands-on activities, revisions to standards, technology as a learning tool, and more, conducted by the Georgia Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Latonya McGruder, left, and Nicole Bayler, fourth grade teachers from Sixes Elementary, arrange shapes in a hands-on activity during a class on math instruction strategies. Karina Bailey from Holly Springs Elementary STEM Academy leads an EdCamp class about using technology with early learners.

Jodie Hulsey, left, a third grade teacher from Ball Ground Elementary and Kim Brown, a third grade teacher at Indian Knoll Elementary STEM Academy, work together on a problem in a summer math academy class.

Liz Porter, right, with Buckeye Creek Farm, talks to teachers about growing vegetables and some of the challenges of a school garden.

Trish Rice, right, from Murray County Schools, draws out her group’s presentation with Beky Frost of Johnson County schools and Bonita Pettersen of Lumpkin County schools during a class at Freedom Middle School that drew teachers from across north Georgia.

Leslie Elliott of ET Booth Middle, and Amanda Shafer of Mill Creek Middle, check a water sample at Buckeye Creek Farm. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

School & Sports

Building Memories with Mom and Dad Boston Elementary School students recently enjoyed building projects donated by The Home Depot. During the Building with Dad and Memories Autumn Hunter and her mom, Kim with Mom events, Hunter. students built tool boxes and flower planters with their dads and made wooden flowers, butterflies and picture frames with their moms.

Grant Approved for Cherokee School District Cherokee County School District (CCSD) has been awarded funding in the latest round of Georgia’s Connections to Classrooms grant program. The district is eligible for up to $1,448,307.46 in grant funding in this round to upgrade wireless access points in classrooms across the district. The final amount received depends upon Federal ERate approval. Georgia’s Connections for Classrooms Grant provides enhanced wireless connectivity to K-12 institutions throughout the state and to improve the core data infrastructure needed to prepare school districts to receive additional Internet bandwidth. The grant is being awarded in multiple tiers. During the October 2014 initial award rounds, CCSD received almost $1.2 million. These funds are being used to upgrade data equipment that facilitates the connections to the Internet at all schools and education support service centers.

Etowah Junior Attends Science, Technology Congress

Students Cinnamon McConnell, Spencer Evans and Jackson Evans with Jayne Moore of The Home Depot.

Etowah Chorus Members Perform with Foreigner As part of Foreigner’s ongoing charity partnership with the Grammy Foundation, the Etowah High School chorus was invited to perform with the band on the 1984 hit “I Want to Know What Love Is” at Aaron’s Amphitheater at Lakewood Amphitheater last month. Foreigner also donated $500 to the choir to use for the music program. Foreigner has partnered with the Grammy Foundation to support its mission of maintaining and restoring music education in North America’s public schools, and raising awareness about the importance of music as part of each child’s complete education. “As far as I’m concerned, music is not only the most powerful form of communication between the peoples of the world, it provides a gateway that opens up a fantastic new dimension of feeling and creativity. Anything we can do to provide our young ones with the tools to express themselves through music, is our goal in this partnership,” Foreigner guitarist and founding member Mick Jones said. 68

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Austin Holly, a junior at Etowah High School, attended the June Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders in Boston this summer. The honors-only program is for high school students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct Austin Holly the top students in the country who aspire to be scientists and technologists to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal. www.scitechleaders.com.

Woodstock Student Attends Space Camp Evan Barker of Woodstock recently attended SPACE CAMP® at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, NASA’s official Visitor Information Center for Marshall Space Flight Center. The weeklong educational program promotes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), while training students and adults with hands-on activities and missions based on teamwork, leadership and decision-making. Evan was part of the Space Academy Program, which is designed for middle school students who have a particular interest in science and aerospace. Trainees spent the week with a team that flew a simulated space shuttle mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Once aboard the ISS, the crew participated in experiments and successfully completed an extra-vehicular activity (EVA), or space walk. Evan and crew returned to Earth in time to hear retired space shuttle astronaut Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger speak at their graduation. Evan Barker

Teachers Selected for National Program

Media Specialist is Regional Winner Woodstock Middle School media specialist Wendy Cope is the regional winner for North Central Georgia and will be in the running for the statewide honor to be announced in October. Cope was named winner at the county level in March. Wendy Cope Cope earned a bachelor of arts degree in English and a master of education degree, both from the University of Georgia, and a specialist degree in library media and information technology from the University of West Georgia. She previously served as a classroom teacher at Woodstock Middle School and River Ridge High School.

Middle School Student in National Competition Emma Hunt, a seventh-grader at E.T. Booth Middle School, competed in USA Climbingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sport Competition Series (SCS) National Climbing Competition in Kennesaw this summer and is ranked Emma Hunt 30th in the U.S. for her age group in sport climbing. This was her first time competing in the sport climbing series and she was one of the younger girls in her age group. She is coached by professional climbers Lisa Rands and Wills Young.

Each June, Advanced Placement (AP) teachers and college faculty members from around the world gather in the United States to evaluate and score the freeresponse sections of the AP exams. During the June 2014 scoring sessions, more than 12,500 AP readers evaluated more than 4.2 million AP exams. Eighteen AP teachers from the Cherokee County School District were chosen to participate in the College Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2015 readings. Etowah High School teachers were: David Armistead, government; Dr. Claudia Larrotta, Spanish; John Murnan, biology; Rebecca Schwartz, U.S. history; Mary Shell and Kristy Szpindor, world history. Woodstock High School teachers were: Kelly Burke, physics 2; Allen Domenico and Dan Page, human geography; Maria Gogarty, Spanish; and Chris Shields, world history.

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Faith

Why Church? BY HARDEN HOPPER

Recently I read some data produced by MissionInsite, which indicated 35 percent of those in our community consider themselves conservative evangelical Christians. More generally, 44 percent consider themselves spiritual people. Yet, only 18 percent think it is important to attend religious services, and only 13 percent consider their faith personally important. This begs the question: why do we need the Church? Or maybe, the data answers the question. While not one of us is perfect, we grow better together through Christ; and, the concept of church is a community of Christians who worship, serve and grow together individually and collectively with the intention of transforming the world. Still, many who claim the name Christian do not see the need to attend church, perhaps offering they can worship in their own way without being connected to a church. My thoughts are to remember Jesus Christ organized his followers, promised to build a church upon the faith and witness of Peter and the other apostles, and sent the Holy Spirit to empower this community. Jesus initiated the Church as part of God’s plans for the world, which makes it integral in the lives of individual believers. The apostle Paul writes that the Church is the body of Christ, and charged with being his hands, feet and heart in the

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world today. One body, many parts, as the vehicle of God’s transforming work in the world. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” In fact, the entire New Testament presupposes Christians will live out their faith in community. Where would Christianity be today if believers had not gathered for the last 2,000 years? Imagine what it would be like for a single Christian to try to follow Christ and change the world, as opposed to a network of people combining resources and gifts for ministry, not to mention the encouragement from one another turning good intentions into actions. Through worship, fellowship, discipleship and service, we grow and become the people God longs for us to be, personally and together. Being part of a healthy congregation is a means of joy and spiritual growth for all. My prayer is that if you are not presently part of a local congregation, you will visit one of our fine churches to claim your place in God’s beautiful plan for this world.

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

Marriage Moments Start Asking Questions BY BILL RATLIFF

I wonder if this ever happens to you: Does your husband or wife ever do something that just drives you crazy? Mine does me and I do her, and it is not just us! I realize that not every marriage has this issue, however, many celebrities, athletes, business people, church people, rich and poor people and others find it to be true. My wife hates it when I eat peanuts in front of her. (Please take note that my doctor recommended that I eat legumes to help with thyroid issues, so I chose to consume peanuts.) My wife doesn’t like the smell of the peanuts. She dislikes the way I shake them in the container. She also despises the sound that is created when I loudly munch and crunch on them. When I eat peanuts, I drive her crazy. I hate it when my wife and I are out to dinner and without warning she decides to try a bite from my plate. I would gladly give her a taste of my entrée, but instead she invades my space and forages through my dish. She drives me crazy when she attempts to eat off my plate without asking. Other couples have issues that drive them crazy, too. For example: should the toilet paper be pulled from the top or the bottom? Should the toothpaste be squeezed or rolled? Where should they eat for dinner? What temperature should the thermostat be set on and many many others. The issues in our marriage that drive us crazy are not usually major ones. They are minor inconveniences that can be overcome by a loving, committed relationship where thankfulness for one’s spouse is the norm. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 1:4, “I always thank my God concerning you…”

Date Your Mate: Sometime in the future, when you are ready for some hard work, plant a garden with your mate. Share the space, share the must-do tasks, and share the disappointments stemming from weather, bugs and animals. Share the bumper crop that we in Georgia almost always enjoy. So far this year my wife and I have been blessed with an abundance of cucumbers. She has made a load of pickles. What we enjoy most is the anticipation of going to the garden together and discovering the newly ripened veggies. What a treat!

Bill Ratliff is the senior pastor at Towne Lake Community Church. He can be reached at 678-445-8766 or bratliff@tlcchurch.com. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Faith

AUGUST 2 AT HILLSIDE Welcomes our new Contemporary Worship Leader, Shawn Cox, ...................................................................................................

Begins our New Sermon Series

Featuring a special Back to School Blessing of the Backpacks. ...................................................................................................

JOIN US IN WORSHIP AT 8:25, 9:25 OR 11 AM 4 4 7 4 T o wn e L ake Pk wy | W o o d st o c k , G A 3 0 1 8 9 | w ww. h ills i d eu mc . or g

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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

Trolley Routes outlined in red

Chattahoochee Technical College

Parks Cir

Trolley Stop

Public Parking Lots

Dobbs Rd

Rope Mill Rd

Kyle St

On-Street Parking - park in marked spaces only

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Arnold Mill Rd

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S er d ar

CSB Bank (after 5PM)

Dupre

Reeves St

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Main St

Mark et

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Sat 1:45-4:15

T Wheel

Fowler St

Hicko

Reformation Brewery

T Fri 6:00-8:15

Pade

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To GA Hwy 140

Elm

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Pinehill

Park at City Center

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Woodstock UMC (M-Sa)

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Download the Visit Woodstock App for info on downtown businesses and events! TOWNELAKER | August 2015

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Camasini’s Italian Sicilian Grill Italian no $ $-$$ no Beer/Wine yes 9425 Highway 92 #100 d a e *se 770-672-6996 pg. 47 Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. American 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. Brunch 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas Southern Sunday no $$$$ open Beer/Wine yes 108 Arnold Mill Rd. Brunch 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $$ $$ open Full bar 6 persons+ 405 Chambers St. Brunch 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar limited 8670 Main St. Brunch 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub no $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar no 8690 Main St. (678) 903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English no $$ no closed no yes 8990 Main St. Tea room 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Vingenzo’s Italian no $$ $$$ closed Full bar yes 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com What A Dog no $ $ open no no d Chicago style *see a Hotdogs 9595 Highway 92 0 5 . pg 770-485-3411 74

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

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Plans Unveiled for Renovation of Historic Home Architectural designs recently released for the Revive the Reeves campaign show a juxtaposition between honoring the history of the old home that was built around 1898, and the new development the community has supported for the past few years. Reviving the Reeves is in the second phase of development within the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village in downtown Woodstock. The historic Reeves House will be renovated to include a variety of art spaces, and is a complement to the Event Green and outdoor Resurgens Orthopaedics Community Stage that was completed in Phase I. Funding for Phase II is moving forward via broad-based community partnerships, including a grassroots brick campaign that facilitates the participation of individuals and small groups. “We are extremely excited about the Reeves House and its potential to bring vibrancy to the community,” said Shawn McLeod, president of the Elm Street board of directors. “We are also excited to make this a community effort.” “Elm Street has always been rooted in the community, and this is just another example of why that community is special,” said Elm Street Operations Director Christopher Brazelton.

Once completed, the Reeves House development will include: • Approximately 1,000-square-foot gallery space for local and international artists to display their work • Four studio work spaces for artists in any discipline to use • Approximately 600 square feet of community space for lectures, large shows, special events, etc. • 1,200 square feet of shared studio/class space for easels, kilns, pottery wheels, etc. • A 200-square-foot catering kitchen to help support events hosted at the Reeves House, and to provide space for the culinary arts • An open porch and deck for special events and connectivity to the culinary/community gardens • A 450-square-foot computer arts lab to include explorations in photography, graphic/web design and software engineering If funds continue to come in at their current rate, construction should begin in January 2016, with the opening of the Revived Reeves House anticipated in August 2016. For more information, go to www.revivethereeves.org

1, 2, 3...

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Downtown Woodstock

Scavenger Hunt a Unique Way to Explore City BY JENNA HILL

The third annual Discover Woodstock Scavenger Hunt is just around the corner. Soon, locals and tourists alike will have an exciting opportunity to experience Woodstock through a scavenger hunt, which is a free activity that takes participants on a journey through various areas in Woodstock; you will learn things and explore new and familiar places. Participants must complete as many of the 100 photo challenges included in the hunt as they can between Aug. 21 and Sept. 5. The winner will receive $100 in Downtown Dollars to spend at their favorite place in downtown Woodstock, along with various other prizes. Contestants can expect a variety of challenges during the scavenger hunt. You will learn about the history of Woodstock, perform an amusing task or make a funny face in your pictures, all while having a great time. The scavenger hunt is a great excuse to take family and friends to restaurants, shopping destinations, parks and places in the Woodstock area you may have never been. Past team members say that they have discovered new favorite restaurants they never tried or a trail to hike on they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know existed.

You may find a new favorite shopping spot, eatery or Woodstock recreational facility that you love. Since the scavenger hunt takes place over a week, you will have plenty of time to fully explore this wonderful town. The photo challenges are scored on a scale depending on their degree of difficulty. Although you probably will not be able to finish all 100, choose wisely so you can get the most points out of each challenge. This is a great way to be creative and have fun with friends and family. Participants take photos with a camera or cell phone to have visual proof of completing the challenges in the scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt activity list will be available at 9 a.m. Aug. 21 on www.visitwoodstockga.com and the Downtown Woodstock Facebook page. Printed copies will be available at the Woodstock Visitors Center at 10 a.m. For more information contact the Woodstock Visitors Center 770-924-0406.

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

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted. For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770592-6056 â&#x20AC;˘ downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz Presentation:

August 28

Topic: Cherokee Office of Economic Development Speaker: Misti Martin, President Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

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Elm Street: A Culture for Visionaries BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

In Manchester, England, there is quite a buzz around a new arts venue called “Home: five cinemas, two theatres, a gallery space.” The venue is magnificent, but the talk centers around two elderly women who responded, “Well, what is there for us?” Over the past few years, many arts administrators have asked this questions of their guests. One thing is clear: having a theatre or gallery does not make people want to go there, especially those who have never been before. This isn’t exactly radical, I know; but to be fair, it wasn’t always the case. In fact, Greek society came up with two important structures that shape the western world: Democracy and Theatre. The Greeks viewed it as their civic duty to attend a play. I love the Greeks. At Elm Street, our mission is to engage community with relevant art experiences every day. We strive to be rooted in the community, but realize that while it’s important to offer a gallery or a theater, it’s irrelevant unless we can engage the community. Existence does not equal engagement. We believe that a gallery is important, but not so that we can hang art for our guests to observe. We believe a new theatre venue is essential, but not to have guests simply sit and watch in silence and then leave. We truly believe it’s vital for a community to have a cultural home, where professional artists and community members are working on the same projects, and where a professional director can help a first-time actor discover something new. We have strived to engage the community by making programs to connect Cherokee residents with opening receptions, making programs relevant like with Curtains (opening this month),where the community will be able to partake in a mystery dinner theatre prior to the show. We are also creating a group of visionaries – volunteers particularly engaged to create culture and want to share that. We are rooted in the community, but our effort is to have the community create the culture. Really, the art is about engaging the community. If we’ve missed that, we’ve created a culture for observing. We want a culture for visionaries.

At Elm Street, our mission is to engage community with relevant art experiences every day.

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

CITY CENTER • WOODSTOCK

AUGUST 14-30 Fri/Sat @ 7:30pm Sun @ 2pm

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

FALL CLASSES

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Downtown Woodstock

July 4 Freedom Run, Fireworks

Photos by Darleen Prem.

Fireworks display in Woodstock. Photos by Darleen Prem.

Photo courtesy of Woodstock Police. 78

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Summer Concert Series

Pho . to by Darleen Prem

The crowd, one of the top 10 largest of the series, according to a city official, was estimated to be between 10 and 12,000. Photo by Darleen Prem.

Woodstock police reserve unit officers, from left, Brittany Duncan, Heather McElroy, Scott Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Meara and Matt Murano. Photo courtesy of Woodstock Police.

Photo by Darleen Prem.

Departure, a Journey tribute band, and Electric Avenue, an 80s pop hits band, performed for the crowd. Photo by Darleen Prem. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Downtown Woodstock

First Step to Becoming an Actor

The Adventures of Grammar Guy - Part II

Professional headshots are typically very close shots, usually from the top of your head to no lower than your collarbone. Some might be ¾ shots to your waist, but stay in the tight frame, because a lot of casting is done online, and tight shots make better thumbnail images. Another reason for the tight shot is that the people making the casting decisions want to see you, and what your eyes are saying. Your shots need to be your face looking directly into the camera, expressing who you are. To express yourself, you will need to create ideas about how to identify your characters. Find roles that you can play, and either create your own lines for that role, or use some from a movie. Go to the headshot session with those lines in your head, and mentally say them while the photographer is snapping away. This way, you can be certain that something is “going on” in your photos. You may decide to enlist a professional for hair and makeup. It has been said that your headshot should be “you on your best day.” Whatever you have done in your shot, you should be able to replicate that look on your own. You will want a makeup artist who will make you look like you, naturally. Headshots are not glamour shots, so be sure that the result is not too perfect. After your photographer has edited your agreed-upon shots, print your photos and send them to agents, representation and/or casting directors for auditions. Above all, have fun! It will show in the shots, making you someone they want to see.

immediately shared the details with the young boy. “There is an evil villain from another planet who is threatening to wipe out language by making it so choppy and unconnected that humans can’t even communicate with each other. The result: complete and utter chaos between humans. His primary means of accomplishing this task will be via social media outlets.” “So how can I help?” the boy questioned. “You will need to start using proper grammar throughout all forms of communication. I will provide you with a special phone to be used to complete this task. This phone will allow secret coding to transfer from your phone to all others. The transferring will continue as each new person communicates with someone else. For that reason, I will need you to start immediately, and you will need to reach out to a minimum of 100 people a day. Can you do this?” The boy responded, “Yes, I can!” As he was leaving Grammar Guy’s lab, he received some more details about the plan. They said their goodbyes, and the boy was on his way. He was quite excited as he walked back down the main road towards town. He kept thinking about the mission, and felt confident that he could make a difference. But then he began to get nervous and a bit paranoid. He felt as though someone was following him. He quickened his step, and just as he was about to open the door to his house, someone grabbed his arm!

continued from page 22

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continued from page 66

To be continued next month…

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Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners in the June competition, “Abandoned!” If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to: deankelley@windstream.net

Digital Projection:

1st Mark Mozley “Last Rays of Light 2”

3rd Jane Wimmer “Looking In”

2nd Frank Mills “Must Not Abandon”

HM Judy Vlass “Hagan”

Color Prints:

1st Cory Mitchell “Lost Fun” 82

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2nd L.B. Bryant “Last Sunday”

3rd Percy Clapp “Log House”

HM Brenda Clapp “Looking Through Door”

HM Bill Bradford “Wheel of Time”

Monochromatic:

1st Kim Bates “Wrenched”

2nd Martin Longstaff “Boiled Nuts” The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@ comcast.net.

3rd L.B. Bryant “Lathamtown Nobody’s Home”

HM David Ferguson “Tuscany Ruin” TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Reference

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

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

AME

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

BAPTIST

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

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

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

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

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

Faith Community 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org

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

First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com

EPISCOPAL

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

JEWISH

Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

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

LUTHERAN

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

ORTHODOX

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

PRESBYTERIAN

Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564 www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869 www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-3558 www.heritagepres.com

Chabad Jewish Center 4255 Wade Green Road NW, Suite 120, Kennesaw 678-460-7702 www.jewishwoodstock.com

Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074 www.woodstockpcusa.com

Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org

ROMAN CATHOLIC

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

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

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

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

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

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com

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

Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.ngca.org

Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com

CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-733-2585 www.mormon.org

Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org

Church of the Messiah 415 Charles Cox Road, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net

Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org

Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org

Cornerstone Community 503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org

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

Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.ngumc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

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

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org

Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com

Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Trail Hill, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Community Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Soul Medicine 3725 Sixes Road Canton Soulmedicinesunday.org

The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org

Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org

Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com

Thrive Chapel 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com

Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.info Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth

Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Watermarke 2126 Sixes Road, Canton 678-880-9092 www.watermarkechurch.com Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org

Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org

Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org

Momentum 110 Londonderry Court, Suite 130, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv

Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com

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

Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont Contact: Jacqueline Miller Van Hook, 678-493-3618 Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. every Wednesday at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock Contact: Marci Zied 770-345-8687 Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock www.cherokeetoastmasters.com Empowered Women Through Synergy Meets: 8:30 a.m. third Thursday at J Christopher’s, 315 Chambers Street, Woodstock Contact: Shahida Baig 678-445-3900 The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations Contact: Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 http://xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/ Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: 770-615-3350 www.tlba.org Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7:15-8:45 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Marc Replogle 770-952-5000, ext. 20 or 404-816-3377 www.powercore.net Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: info@womenofwoodstock.com www.womenofwoodstock.com Charitable Organizations Ahimsa House helps victims of domestic violence 24-hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 404-452-6248 www.ahimsahouse.org Angel House Girls Home is a residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. Contact: 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com Anna Crawford Children’s Center is dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. Contact: 678-504-6388 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Bethany Place is a transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. Contact: 770-479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.org CASA for Children promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. Contact: 770-345-3274 www.casacherokee.org CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Contact: 770-592-8072 Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. Contact: 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Contact: Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: 770-928-5115 or admin@cchumanesociety.org www.cchumanesociety.org Cherokee FOCUS works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Contact: Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. Contact: 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320 www.cherokeega.com/senior-services Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. Contact: 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com Companion Animal Connection Contact: 678-493-9847 www.adoptapet.com Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. Contact: aaeverydayangels@gmail.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. Contact: 770-795-9348 office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Contact: Gina Jeter 770-842-8893 www.funds4furryfriends.com Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. Contact: 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.org Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly backto-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Green Shelters America animal rescue group. Contact: 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@ gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Harvesting Hope Ministries gives surgery care packs to children facing liver and kidney failure. Contact: dawn@harvestinghopeministries.org www.harvestinghopeministries.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy.

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

Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org Citizen Oversight and Education Contact: 678-520-2236, citizenoversighteducation@ yahoo.com Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. Contact: Marcie Zied 770-345-8687 Junior Service League of Woodstock Contact: 770-592-3535 http://jslwoodstock.org/ Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20 Contact: Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@ edgoodwinassociates.com www.pilotinternational.com Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 770-480-4179 Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Featherstone’s Grille at 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock www.townelakerotary.com Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 678-428-6514 Service League of Cherokee County Contact: 770-704-5991 http://serviceleague.net South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills. Contact: 770-926-3522 Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Eagle Watch Golf Club. Contact: 404-557-2218 www.townelakeoptimists.com Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. Contact: 770-926-8336 Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Contact: 770-906-2958 POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs Contact: 770-345-3489 www.cherokeedemocrats.com Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock http://cherokeelp.org Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. second Saturday at Winchester Woodfire Grill, 110 Mountain Vista Blvd., Canton Contact: 678-809-1411 www.cherokeecountygop.com Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli 770-378-8232, conradquag@gmail.com www.teapartypatriots.org/groups/cherokee-tea-partypatriots/ Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton Contact: 770-592-7811 or jkconkey@gmail.com Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at the Wendy’s in Holly Springs, 5343 Old Highway 5, Woodstock Contact: Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922 Republican Women of Cherokee County

Contact: 678-520-2236 www.rwccga.com Recreation & Hobbies Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events , outings Contact: Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com Cherokee Community Chorale Contact: 678-439-8625 www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton Contact: 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners Contact: 770-721-7803 www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/ mastergardeners Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Soccer Association Contact: 770-704-0187 www.csaimpact.com Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org Kingdom Riders, a forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons is for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. Contact: 770-924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton www.cherokeechapter.com William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Contact: 678-445-6518 SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. http://www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton Meets: 8 pm Thursday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen 8 pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Contact: Reba. 770-516-3502 www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.php?district=17 American Heart Association - Cherokee Division Contact: 678-385-2013 American Red Cross metro chapter Contact: 770-428-2695

Breast Cancer Support Group Meets: 10 a.m. - noon first Thursday of each month at Northside Hospital—Cherokee, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center Contact: 404-843-1880 Celebrate Recovery Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. Contact: 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist Contact: 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House Contact: 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton Contact: 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com Cherokee County Support Group Provides support for people with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, etc. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Rd, Holly Springs Contacts: Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@ comcast.net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294 christystephenson@msn.com Cherokee County Special Olympics Provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association For pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock www.cherokeeministers.org Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock Contact: Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence Contact: 404-824-4637, gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org Grace Valley Ministries Connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. Contact: 727-251-7690, info@gracevalleyministries.org www.gracevalleyministries.org Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Contact: Jeannie 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter For people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. Contact: nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church Contact: Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770517-0191 MOMS Club of Woodstock-TowneLake Contact: momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: 770-924-4777 Unlimited Possibilities Support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center

Contact: Kelly 678-677-2589

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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

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

Sen. David Perdue (R)

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

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

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

1130 Bluffs Pkwy., Canton, GA 30114

Commissioners

L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman Steve West (R) District 1

131 Russell Senate Ofc. Bldg., Washington DC 20510 202-224-3643 3625 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 970, Atlanta, GA 30339 GA: 770-661-0999 isakson.senate.gov

Ray Gunnin (R) District 2

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

bpoole@cherokeega.com

State Government 203 State Capitol, 206 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.georgia.gov

404-652-7003

rgunnin@cherokeega.com

Brian Poole (R) District 3 Scott Gordon (R) District 4 sgordon@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby

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

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

404-463-1378

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

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

678-523-8570

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

678-576-2644

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

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

770-722-7526

Cherokee County School Board Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com scot@turnerforhouse.com

Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R) District 23

404-656-0254

Rep. John Carson (R) District 46

404-656-0287

mandi.ballinger@house.ga.gov john.carson@house.ga.gov

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

678-493-6260 678-493-6270 678-493-6240

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

221 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-735-8055 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org 678-493-4100 fax: 678-493-4228

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

Kyla Cromer (R) District 1

678-493-8088

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

770-893-2970

John Harmon (R) District 3

404-462-4950

kyla.cromer@cherokee.k12.ga.us

john.harmon@cherokee.k12.ga.us

TBD (Chair) 770-721-4398, x4370

rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

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

678-493-6431 678-493-6431

Probate Court Judge Keith Wood (R)

Sonya Little

Rick Steiner (R) District 4 678-493-6490 678-493-6480

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

lbahrens@cherokeega.com swest@cherokeega.com

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)

Governor Nathan Deal (R)

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

City Government 678-493-6160

Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood

770-704-1544

Juvenile Court

www.canton-georgia.gov

Chief Judge John B. Sumner Judge Anthony Baker

Holly Springs Mayor Timothy Downing

770-345-5536

District Attorney Shannon Wallace

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

Clerk of Courts Patty Baker

Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

770-592-6001

678-493-6511

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

www.hollyspringsga.us. www.woodstockga.gov

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

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

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street. It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2016) - This approximately 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South. Rubes Creek Trail (2016) - This 1 mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN JUNE

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

RESTAURANT

CUISINE

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS

RESERV.

American

open

Chili’s Bar & Grill, 1460 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-7676, chilis.com

American

$-$$

open

full bar

call ahead seating

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

closed

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Homestyle Cooking

closed

American Casual

$-$$

open

full bar

special events

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

yes

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

Barbeque

$-$$

open

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

American

open

full bar

yes

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

American Casual

Sun. Brunch

$-$$

open

full bar

yes

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Mexican

open

full bar

LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com

Steakhouse

open

full bar

call ahead seating

Marco’s Pizza, 6424 Bells Ferry Road 678-213-2100, marcos.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

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

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

*NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, d 678-426-7004 *see a

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Mexican/Irish

Sat.&Sun. brunch

open

full bar

large groups call ahead

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

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

Chinese

$-$$

open

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

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

Town Lake Diner, 2290 Eagle Drive 770-675-3390

American

$-$$

open ‘til 3

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Corner Bistro, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-1202, cornerbistrotl.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net Featherstone’s Grill, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Golf Club 770-592-9969 GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Townelake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com

Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com *Jump Kitchen Saloon, 1085 Buckhead Crossing d 678-388-7717, jumpkitchensaloon.com *see a Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com

pg.30

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

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

*Papa P’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-3100, papa-ps.com Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com

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

pg. 40

d *see a 8 . g p

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

* Denotes Advertiser

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

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

Towne Lake Area Dining Guide

Reference

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County Government:

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

Taxes:

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax Woodstock Office Voter Registration

Children/Family:

770-345-0400

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

678-493-6400 770-924-4099 770-479-0407

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

770-345-8100 678-880-9654 770-720-7712 770-479-1804 770-345-5483 770-720-3581

770-345-3274 770-720-3610 770-924-0864 770-479-5397 770-591-4730

Driver’s Licenses (Tues — Sat)

678-413-8400

Fire Department (District 1, Station 20)

770-926-7155

Georgia State Patrol

770-205-5400

Health Department

770-345-7371

770-793-5000 770-751-2500 770-720-5100

Hospitals:

Kennestone Hospital North Fulton Hospital Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:

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

Libraries:

Rose Creek R.T. Jones Woodstock

Non-Emergency 911

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

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

www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org 770-591-1491 770-479-3090 770-926-5859

770-479-3117

Parks and Recreation:

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

Pets:

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

Post Office (Woodstock) www.usps.com

800-275-8777

Recycling Center

770-516-4195

Sheriff’s Department

678-493-4100 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org Georgia Sex Offender Registry www.cherokeega-sheriff.org/offender/offender.htm

Utilities:

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

Urgent Care Facility

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

Woodstock, City of:

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

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

photo by J King Images

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton and Woodstock. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.

At AroundAbout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home.

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

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

TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,000

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Townelaker

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 321 Creekstone Ridge

Hartman Imbriale Attorneys 45 678-445-7423, www.hartman-imbriale.com 145 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 200 Limbocker Law 5 678-401-6836, www.limbockerlawfirm.com 2230 Towne Lake Pkwy, Bldg 800, Ste.140 AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 6390 Bells Ferry Road, 770-591-3630

Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500, 1930 Eagle Drive

C & T Auto Service 46 9336 Main St.,Woodstock, 770-926-4276 2348-B Bascomb-Carmel Rd., Woodstock 770-928-5940 Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 25 678-505-8907, FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com 9817 Main Street, Woodstock Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 9285 Main St., Woodstock 770-926-3898

BANKING/FINANCIAL SERVICES

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA Azure Salon & Spa 29 770-345-8280 1359 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 110, Canton Marie Miller Spa Services 47 678-653-0443 www.mariemillerspaservices.com 1105 Parkside Lane, Suite 1000, Woodstock Salon Spa Venéssa 19 770-591-2079, , www.salonvenessa.com 8516 Main Street, Woodstock BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Downtown Buzz

Towne Lake Business Association

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS 76

CHIROPRACTIC Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation 23 770-516-9900, www.discoverrehab.com 2295 Towne Lake Parkway

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

Ribley Chiropractic 2453 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-2505, www.ribleychrio.com

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 70 1000 Wyngate Pkwy., Ste. 200, Woodstock 770-592-1877, www.townelakechiro.com

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Dr. Ray Morgan Inside Back 770-591-7929, www.RayMorganDMD.com 120 N. Medical Parkway, Bldg. 200, Ste 100 Werner Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 40 678-224-5722 www.ChildrensDentistWoodstock.com 250 Parkbrooke Place, Suite 250, Woodstock

City on a Hill Church 7745 Main street, Woodstock www.COAHUMC.org

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554, www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com 145 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 201

Hillside United Methodist Church 770-924-4777, www.hillsideumc.org 4474 Towne Lake Parkway

Bascomb UMC Preschool 38 770-926-0397, 2295 Bascomb Carmel Rd.

The Factory Church 9872 Main Street, Woodstock www.thefactoryministries.org

CHURCHES

EDUCATION / INSTRUCTION

CLEANING SERVICES Carpet Dry-Tech 678-368-5991

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

COMPUTERS

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 56 770-952-6707 225 Town Park Drive, Suite 440, Kennesaw

Papa’s Pantry www.papaspantry.org

Optimum Health 13 770-516-7477, www.optimumhealthrehab.com 2360 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 104

Cherokee Computer Guys 678-889-5900, www.ccrguys.com 10511 Bells Ferry Road, Canton

Kings Academy Knights Batallion 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 404-444-7683, www.tkajrotc.org

Music Together 678-613-2048

Ralph Iossa, Piano Instructor 973-519-6863

The Goddard School 3115 Parkbrooke Circle, Woodstock 770-516-0880, GoddardSchool.com

The Grant Academy 1 770-926-7827, www.thegrantacademy.net 102 Springfield Drive, Woodstock Tutor Doctor 770-308-6300 www.InHomeTutorNorthAtlanta.com

DENTAL (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Advanced Dental Restorations, LLC 8 678-810-0881, www.BringBackSmiles.com 1505 Stone Bridge Parkway., Suite 220, Woodstock Byrd Dental Group Inside front 770-926-8200 2035 Towne Lake Parkway., Suite 130 Fountain View Family Dentistry 59 770-926-0000, www.fountainviewsmiles.com 1816 Eagle Drive, Bldg. 200, Suite A

HEALTH & FITNESS Anytime Fitness 2340 Towne Lake Pkwy., www.anytimefitness.com 877-MY-ANYTIME

PHIIT Club at R2 Total Fitness 1025 Rose Creek Drive 678-809-7833, www.r2totalfitness.com

TANC Total Aesthetic Nutrition Center 678-345-8001, TANCfit.com 2990 Eagle Drive

Vitality Wellness Center 25 225 Creekstone Ridge, Ste. 11, Woodstock 678-648-8809, www.vitalitywellnessonline.com

Spillane Orthodontics 66 770-928-4747, www.SpillaneOrtho.com 335 Pkwy. 575, Suite 200, Woodstock

Atlanta Prestige Flooring 26 770-516-3227, atlantaprestigeflooring.com 1105 Parkside Lane, Suite 1338, Woodstock

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com 1816 Eagle Drive Suite 200-C

Thad Baird & Tyler Baird, DMD 43 770-517-0444, www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com 4595 Towne Lake Parkway

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR

AquaDoc Plumbing 770-516-9000

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

Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

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

LIFE COACHING The Texting Coach Text 770-500-9844 www.thetextingcoach.com

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

Glass Source 19 404-695-1054, BrianMartineau@bellsouth.net

PEST CONTROL The Mosquito Authority 678-294-7597, www.BugsBITE .com

Design Options 866-595-FLOOR

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

PET/VETERINARIAN SERVICES & SUPPLIES Animal Atlanta 42 770-591-0007, www.AnimalAtlanta.com 6449 Bells Ferry Rd.

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

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 58 770-591-9500, www.townelakevets.com 3105 Parkbrooke Circle

Hammocks Heating & Air 770-794-0428

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668

Precision Plumbing 47 678-758-3493, PrecisionPlumbingPros.com Reliable Heating & Air Cover, 48, 49 770-594-9969, ReliableAir.com VWS Construction 770-635-8421, vwsga@yahoo.com

HOME SECURITY RLC Security 678-346-5557

23 INSURANCE

Insurance Group of the Southeast 7 770-854-0385, insurancegroupse.com 4595 Towne Lake Parkway, Bldg. 300, Ste. 130 LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346 www.calvarylandscaping.com

Garden Artist Designs 64 770-713-9298, www.gardenartistdesigns.com Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.landscapemattersinc.com

Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 3 770-726-8948, NorthGeorgiaHearing.com 203 Woodpark Place, Suite B-100, Woodstock Northside Hospital www.northside.com

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

Back Cover

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea Linda B. Lee, 850-319-8050 linda.lee@pelicanproperty.com

Paragon Property Group Anna Daily, 888-MNG-MNT9 ext. 1007 adaily@paragonga.com K.K.Lopez, 888-MNG-MNT9 ext. 1006 klopez@paragonga.com www.paragonga.com

The Village at Towne Lake Inside front www.TheVillageAtTowneLake.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301, www.cherokeeim.com 1192 Buckhead Crossing, Ste. C

Berkshire Hathaway, The Tomlinson Team 71 770-365-6193, 678-494-2953 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates 23 770-924-9656, ncsurgicalassociates.com 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 412 Northwest ENT & Allergy Center 47 770-427-0368, www.nwent.com 13 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 30114 Plastic Surgery Center of the South 35 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net 120 Vann Street, Suite 150, Marietta Psychologist John R. Lutz, PhD 64 770-592-9065, www.johnromanlutz.com

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT Cherokeefest

Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251

Etowah Eagles Football

Woodstock Wolverines Football

RESTAURANTS/FOOD & DRINK Butchers Block 770-517-2225, 1025 Rose Creek Drive

Camasini’s Italian Sicilian Restaurant 9425 Hwy. 92, #100 770-672-6996

Jump Kitchen 30 678-388-7717, jumpkitchensaloon.com 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Woodstock Hudson Grille 2500 Cobb Place Lane NW Suite 900, Kennesaw, 770-420-2500 www.hudsongrille.com

Rebound Physical Therapy 678-445-9799, ReboundPTclinic.com 980 Woodstock Pkwy., Woodstock

Towne Lake Family Pharmacy 770-635-7697 2045 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 110

Village Podiatry Center 1198 Buckhead Crossing, Suite D 770-928-9263

Wellstar / Mayo Clinic 770-956-STAR (7827) wellstar.org/Mayo

What-A-Dog 9595 Main St., Woodstock 770-485-3411

NY Style Deli & Pizza 40 678-426-7004, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway Papa P’s 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-3100, papa-ps.com

Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 2035 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 110 678-324-1910

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Overstreet Lawn Care 770-861-7272

J King Images www.jkingimages.com

Dismero 470 Chambers Street, 678-398-4008

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

Kim Bates Photography www.KimBatesPhotoArt.com

Spirited 8670 Main Street, Suite 2, Woodstock 678-214-5304, www.spritlala.com TOWNELAKER | August 2015

5 38

COUPONS & SPECIAL OFFERS! These local businesses have special offers just for you! Animal Atlanta

Marie Miller Spa Services

Aqua Doc Plumbing

Mr. Junk

Aspen Falls Auto Spa

NY Syle Deli & Pizza

Optimum Health

Plastic Surgery Center of the South

Precision Plumbing

Anytime Fitness

Blue Horizon Air Conditioning & Heating

Butchers Block

Byrd Dental

Inside front

Camasini’s Italian Sicilian Grille

Rejoice Maids

Carpet Dry Tech

RLC Security

C&T Auto Services

Spirited 38

Christian Brothers Automotive

Discover Chiropractic

Garden Artist Designs

Hammock’s Heating & Air

Jump Kitchen

Vitality Wellness Center

Landscape Matters

V.W.S. Construction

TANC 57 The Grant Academy Towne Lake Family Dentistry

Shop Local! 96

TOWNELAKER | August 2015

1 Inside back 25 1

770.591.7929

www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com

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