[ Contents March 2011 ]
Volume 2, Issue 9
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24 18
The Best of the Best Results
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The Concierge Approach to Orthodontics
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Are you ready for summer?
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Help Your Child Become a Stronger Writer
AroundAbout-Cumming is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25% recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.
Julie Brennan is the Publisher of AroundAbout Cumming magazine. She is a native of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Julie may be reached at julie@ aroundaboutmagazines.com 2
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The online votes are counted and the results are in.
Walton Orthodontics features top-of-the-line orthodontic care for all ages. Summer camps are ready for you!
Tips for parents and caregivers.
Keep up-to-date with our community! www.aroundaboutcumming.com Join the AroundAbout Cumming fan page www.facebook.com/aroundaboutcumming AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
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MARCH 2011
Community
7 News from
Senator Murphy
2011 Session Attractions.
Lifestyle
Faith
21 Organizing your Life
38 The Time in Between
and Home
Tackling the Kitchen.
Viewing the times of waiting differently.
12 A Simple Plea for Woody 21 Focus on Appreciation 38 A New Way of Being One of Forsyth’s Finest Needs our Teaching vs. Defeating.
Help.
17 Events for a Cause
Walk, Bowl, Run! And help in the process.
20 Attention All
Swimmers!
An Aquatic Center is coming to Forsyth.
23 Tax Time
A great time to talk.
26 Oral Cancer
Grown Up
The world of possibilities.
41 The Country Preacher
Day and night shall not cease.
Are you at risk?
28 Family Muse
The lighter side of life.
In every issue
schools
10 14
Birthdays
16
Community Calendar
Forsyth County Government News
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Humane Society
30 Science Olympiad and Science Engineering Fairs Held
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School Information
32 Counselors of the Year
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Houses of Worship
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Clubs & Organizations
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Community Numbers
Bain, Glude and Winkler recognized for their work.
33 Heritage Days
A Celebration of Cultures from Around the World!
46 Elected Officials MARCH 2011
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Publisher Julie Brennan julie@aroundaboutmagazines.com (678) 614-8583
EDITOR Jennifer Paire
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Melissa Barton
Graphic Design Pixelution Studios Josh Murtha & Samantha Angeli (678) 945-730 www.pixelutionstudios.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates www.kimbatesphotoart.com AroundAbout — Cumming, a franchisee of AroundAbout Community Magazines, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The mission of the magazine is to build a sense of community and pride in the Cumming area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. 18,500 copies are distributed free by mail and 3,000 copies are placed in key distribution points in area businesses. AroundAbout — Cumming welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication. 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. AroundAbout — Cumming 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 2011.
AroundAbout — Cumming 5485 Bethleview Road, Suite 360-135 Cumming GA 30040 Phone: (678) 614-8583 Fax: (770) 888-1511 Franchise Opportunities Available www.aroundaboutmagazines.com
Volume 2, Issue 9 4
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Community
I
have lived in Cumming for a little over two years and absolutely love the area! It’s a small town atmosphere with a busy city flair, with great shops, restaurants, and activities. Plus, living 20 minutes from the outlets doesn’t hurt either.
Meet
Melissa Barton Social Media Manager for Around About Cumming
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Prior to moving to Cumming, I worked at the Augusta Chronicle with our advertising department team. In my free time, I love to shop, travel and read. I am always on Facebook; it’s a great way to keep up with friends and family.
As the Social Media Manager, I will be responsible for bringing YOU local deals from OUR lo- I look forward to staying in touch cal businesses. I look forward with you! to getting to know you through Let’s get social – Facebook and Twitter. If you haven’t already, make sure you follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Melissa
AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
MARCH 2011
Community News from Senator Murphy [ by Senator Jack Murphy, R-GA 27th District] ATTRACTIONS FOR THE 2011 SESSION As you read this article, the 2011 Georgia general assembly will be twothirds finished. Let’s take a look at our five objectives for this session. 1. The Budget – The only legislation the Georgia general assembly is required to constitutionally pass is a balanced budget. Unlike the federal government, we cannot print money to balance our budget. Hopefully, we will have dealt with the approximately 1.5 billion-dollar shortfall in our State. Our agencies will have stepped up to the plate and adjusted their budgets accordingly. All Georgians, including myself, have had to make changes. 2. Education funding – Hopefully, we have made the necessary adjustments to education that will not include any further teacher furloughs; but will include meaningful steps to keep our State moving forward in K-12, technical colleges and higher education. 3. Jobs – While our State is still lagging in job recovery, we are making progress in bringing high tech companies to our State. Forsyth County issued 1,200 building permits in the first quarter, which is a positive move toward helping our construction industry. Hopefully, this trend will continue. 4. Immigration reform – There are several bills pending in the house and senate. SB 40, authored by me, and HB 87 are currently being debated and revised. SB-40 deals primarily with public and private e-verify systems for verification of employment. The State of Georgia spends millions of dollars on benefits to illegal aliens and suffers a loss of tax revenue. We have to pass meaningful, enforceable legislation that does not compound the current drain on Georgia’s financial resources. 5. Transportation – If Georgia is to remain an economic option for companies to locate, we are going to have to do everything we can to solve our transportation needs; from adopting a one cent local option sales tax to securing public and private partnerships. Because I am a member of the State’s transportation round table, Forsyth County has a seat at the table. These problems can be solved and we will solve them. It is never easy, but we can get through these times. Remember “Tough times never last; tough people do.” May God bless you and your families and the Great State of Georgia.
Senator Jack Murphy (R-GA 27th District) may be reached at 404-6567127 or jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov.
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Community
News Around Cumming Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Welcomes Community Advocates, Business Leaders to Forsyth/North Fulton Community Board
Chick-fil-A Reeves Awarded Top Honors Gene Reeves recently received one of the Chick-fil-A’s top honors: Symbol of Success, Chick-fil-A’s highest award given to an Operator and his team. A business leader, community supporter and service-minded individual, Reeves is admired by many. Terri Noth, Principal at Piney Grove Middle School, describes Reeves as a fabulous friend to and supporter of the schools in Forsyth County.
“Gene genuinely cares about our students here at The Grove, and how they are doing academically. When we first sat down to discuss what our partnership would encompass, it was quite obvious to me that Gene wanted to make an impact on our students’ day-to-day learning. That is why he has championed our “Eat More Chicken! Read More Books” program for as long as we have been partners. This program rewards our students for reading books and writing reports on them each week and each quarter. The class that reads the most books each 9 weeks gets a “field trip” to Chick-fil-a and a terrific luncheon. Also, each week of the school year, he rewards one Piney Grove student, who has completed a book that week, and his/her entire family with a free lunch or dinner at his restaurant,” Noth explained. A trip to Chick-fil-A always finds Gene talking to his customers and finding out what is going on in their lives or sharing a funny story. His sense of humor is priceless and is always great for a big smile or a good laugh. It is so obvious that he genuinely cares about people. “He’s a cleaning Tasmanian devil!” said Dutch Walker, a daily customer at the restaurant. Team members describe Gene as a great leader in every sense of the word, with a great work ethic and an efficient way of managing the daily operations of his restaurant. Relationships are very important to Gene. Customers are guests. Vendors are friends. Employees are family. Congratulations on a well-deserved honor. 8
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is proud to announce the founding members of its Forsyth/North Fulton Community Board. Led by active community volunteer and lifelong Forsyth County resident, Mary Helen McGruder, the 22-member board will seek to spread awareness of Children’s new Forsyth facility within Cherokee, Dawson, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Hall and Lumpkin counties. Board members will also serve as advocates, liaisons and fundraising ambassadors for the not-for-profit pediatric health-care system. “Each member of our board recognizes the importance of Children’s to our community, and we are looking forward to sharing our appreciation for this great organization with our friends, neighbors and associates,” said Mary Helen McGruder. “As the area’s founding board, we will be active advocates in our counties for Children’s as we work together to support the mission of love and healing that has made Children’s such a unique institution in the North Georgia area.” Members of the Forsyth/North Fulton Community Board: • Jack Allen – Ingram Funeral Home, Owner • Chantal Bagwell – Community Volunteer • Apollon Constantinedes – Lakeside Pharmacy, Owner • Beth Daffin – Community Volunteer • Cindy Elliott – Bill Elliott Racing • Paula Gault – Retired Forsyth County Schools, Superintendent (2001-2007) • Judi Jenkins – Forsyth County Schools, Business and Community Relations Facilitator • Jason Joseph – Hibernian Pacific Holdings, President and Chief Executive Officer • Panyavee Kahn, M.D. – Cumming Pediatrics, Physician • John Lauth – Courier Connection, Founder • Rev. Shawn Lovejoy – Mountain Lake Community Church, Pastor • Mary Helen McGruder [Chair] – Community Volunteer • Chris Mixon – Bank of North Georgia, Senior Vice President and Community Executive • Adam Orkin – Orkin & Associates, Chief Executive Officer • Wendy Parker – Community Volunteer • Tim Perry – Citizens Bank, President and Chief Executive Officer • Tad Phelps – Radiant Systems, Vice President Marketing • Keith Porter – Dawson County Schools, Superintendent (2006-present) • Kevin Tallant – Miles Patterson Hansford Tallant, LLC, Partner • Randall Toussaint – Cumming/Forsyth Chamber of Commerce, Vice President Economic Development • Rick Wallace – Air Tran, Pilot • Amanda White – Etailpromotions, Owner Located in The Avenue Forsyth, Children’s newest and northernmost facility will begin providing care specialized for children in June 2011. The facility will provide outpatient services, including immediate care, rehabilitation, sports medicine, orthotics and prosthetics, and X-ray and laboratory services. Pediatric physicians in the following specialties will also see patients in the new location: pediatric surgery, orthopaedics, hand surgery, allergy/asthma, ophthalmology, ear, nose and throat, and several other services. The largest clinical pediatric provider in the United States, Children’s is the 10th largest employer in the State of Georgia and was named by Fortune magazine as one of America’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
MARCH 2011
Bagwell Family gives $150,000 Matching Challenge Grant
Tommy and Chantal Bagwell, the owners of American Protein, have given Abba House the largest gift in its history to build the Abba House Women and Children’s Center. They gave a $150,000 matching grant to call to arms this community. The Bagwells matched each donation on a dollar for dollar basis. The Bagwells made this challenge to the community of North Georgia to help Abba House reach their goal of $300,000. The Rural Development Department of the USDA has approved a $1.55 million Community Facility loan to enable Abba House to build the first phase of the Abba House Women and Children’s Center. Abba House plans on breaking ground in the first quarter of 2011. The Abba House Women and Children’s Center will be one of the largest facilities of its kind in our country and will be dedicated to helping women deal with life-controlling problems in a therapeutic way. The new center will enable Abba House to provide more than four times the number of beds they presently have. This new center will house up to 67 women and their children.
Sawnee EMC Foundation Giving Reaches Milestone With the recent award of over $29,000 in General and Bright Ideas donations, Sawnee EMC reached over $1 million dollars in donations to organizations in Forsyth County and neighboring communities served by the electric membership company. Donations to the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, CASA of Forsyth County and Forsyth County Schools were recently presented. According to Michael Goodroe, President and CEO of Sawnee EMC, the members who participate in Operation Round-Up, a program that started in 2003, have made these contributions possible. A nine-member Foundation Board, composed of community volunteers, carefully review every application submitted. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that exists to assist charitable organizations in the communities served by Sawnee EMC. Donations include general gifting, bright ideas, and youth scholarships. Visit www.sawnee.com/ round_up for a full list of gifting and Bright Idea recipients, in addition to recent Foundation annual reports.
Abba House is very grateful to Tommy and Chantal Bagwell for partnering with them to provide hope of a new life for women and children and for their commitment to continually improving our community.
Leadership Forsyth Class 2011’s Project Underway Forsyth County Parks and those who enjoy walking through their paths will soon notice something new. Members of the 2011 Leadership Forsyth Class have chosen the Born Learning Trail as their class project and are currently gearing up to begin posting interactive markers at selected locations in at least six parks in Forsyth County. This project is a United Way program developed to encourage families to interact with young children. “The trail is a community change strategy, helping to boost children’s language and literacy skills in an active way, outside, with no fees involved,” explained Sheila Joy Castelein, a member of the Communications Team of the Leadership Forsyth Class of 2011. Born Learning puts research-driven products – along with tools and templates for education and outreach – into communities through a national grassroots network that’s creating innovative ideas to help local children. The program’s goal is to inspire everyone who impacts young children to make the best possible decisions to boost school readiness, while aiming to give each of them the tools to make long-lasting community change.
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Colin Robert Hanes Age “1” on March 25 Son of Rob and Amy Hanes Brother of Brennan Grandson of Phil and Alina Boldyn
Happy Birthday! Sophia and Stu Kent March 9th & 22nd With Love, Mommy, Holly, Rachel, and Lauren
Glenda Cronan March 31 Love from Logan and Skyler
Reagan Coon Happy 6th Birthday!!! March 17th Daughter of Michelle & David Sister of Dylan
Stacy L. March 21
Suzanne Hendricks March 15 Christina L. March 19
Katie Diem March 30th
Andrew Leytze Age 30 on March 8
Wedding, Birthday and Anniversary Announcements are Free! E-mail to: cumming@aroundaboutmagazines.com. Deadline for April is March 18th. 10
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Community
A Simple Plea for Woody Norman “Woody” Woodward is a 45 year old man whose career with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office was cut short due to a debilitating illness. He has been married to Cindy for 17 years; they have two daughters, 12 year-old daughter Katie and 16 year-old Abby. To his friends, he is a man distinguished by courage, nobility and strength. To his family, he is the husband and father they sorely miss.
Woody was hospitalized last year after a massive heart attack, which debilitated his body. The severity of his illness made it necessary to place his name in a heart transplant list last October. Due to his condition, Woody is unable to work. The generosity of friends, co-workers and caring individuals have helped with the medical bills, hospitalization and medications that are now part of Woody’s daily life.
in Cumming. Sadly, he returned to the hospital for treatment due to complications. “At least he got to come home for a day,” the tenacious and ever-hopeful Cindy stated.
“No person should have to endure what Woody has gone through during this past year. Sometimes it seems as if he takes one step forward and two steps back,” stated Forsyth County Sheriff Department’s Capt. Frank Huggins (Retired), who worked with Woody until his retirement. “Most men who have suffered what Woody has gone through would have given up long ago. Yet Woody, because of the man he is, has maintained a positive attitude and even today looks forward to his recovery and a trip out West with me in our Harleys. I hope and pray that he improves and gets that new heart he desperately needs. He certainly deserves it.” Sheriff Paxton agreed. “Each day, all of us at the Sheriff’s Office pray for Lt. Woodward to have a successful and speedy recovery. We ask everyone in the community to keep Lt. Woodward in their prayers and continue their support of him and his family.” Recently, the family welcomed Woody home after donations and volunteer labor made it possible for a ramp to be built at his home
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Abby, Cindy and Katie Currently, Woody is undergoing treatment at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Atlanta. Donations are needed. If you are able to help, please send your gift to: The Woody Woodward Transplant Fund, P.O. Box 3351, Cumming GA 30028.
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MARCH 2011
Community
Livin’
La Vida Local Where can you Find Something for Everyone? [ by Shelly Kent ]
It’s rare to find a spot that everyone will enjoy. When you do something for the young ones, the older kids roll their eyes. When you do something for tweens, the younger kids want in on the fun. Even corporate leaders who are looking for a new twist in a world of been-there-done-that for their employee meetings or customer appreciation days will find the idea intriguing. It’s a place that is in tune with its customers and has both pre-structured and create-your-own events either onsite or at your place. With their mobile freezer, everyone from schools and business associations to box retail stores have called upon Ice Cream Social to cater sundaes, cupcakes, and cakes for their events. And with customized colors and flavors, any theme goes! Parents love it as a venue to host birthday parties or just pick up themed cakes and ice cream for their own functions. Kids go gaga over the party room, where owner Cinda Reid morphs the space into a themed room befitting the occasion. For hard to entertain tweens, Ice Cream Social has black light parties where the kids can paint themselves up with neon paints or take to the graffiti wall and express themselves with glow-in-the-dark paints. For kids of all ages, there is open karaoke and gaming each Friday night. Kids can choose from many genres of music or bring their own CDs. As for the cherry on top? They can earn a free ice cream topping for singing karaoke. Cinda can organize any party theme and also hosts “Adults’ Night Out” events including painting classes and stationery-making. Even home-based business consultants host their parties at Ice Cream Social for the great atmosphere and extensive space it allows. Don’t be fooled by their name. While Cinda and her husband, Warren Reid, craft many of their own flavors and offer extensive ice cream choices and toppings, Cinda’s greatest talent lies in baking and decorating. Formally trained in Australia, she has been making award-winning cakes and frostings since 1977. Pick from her cake and cupcake specialties or design your own flavors and color combos to add a special touch to any occasion. Some of the regulars on the menu are the Elvis Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter with gourmet chocolate guitars on top, Lemon Sour Cream, Boston Cream, German Chocolate, Coconut Cream, and Cheery Cherry—all of which come as beautifully decorated cakes and in cupcake sizes if you’re just hungry for a nibble! So what’s next on your list? Toddler party? Corporate event? Tween night? Family fun day? Check out how Ice Cream Social can liven things up for your crowd.
Ice Cream Social
5910 Bethelview Rd, Cumming Hours M-F 11:30 am–8pm, Sat from 11:30 til 9 or 10, Sundays 1-7 www.ice-cream-social.com MARCH 2011
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Community
Forsyth County Government News 110 E. Main Street, Suite 210 • TV Forsyth — Comcast Channel 23 • www.forsythco.com Community Invited to Attend Future Development Map Workshop The Forsyth County Planning and Development Department is inviting the public to attend an upcoming workshop for the Comprehensive Plan update.
Parks and Recreation Spring-Summer Activity Guide Looking for the latest information on recreational and athletic activities and camp programs available this spring and summer? The Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department’s 2011 Spring-Summer Activity Guide releases March 1 and can be viewed online at www.forsythco.com.
The meeting will provide scenario options for the state-required, future development map and will be held in an open house format. The workshops are scheduled at two different locations to facilitate convenience and will cover the same content. Monday, March 14, 2011, from 5 to 8 p.m. Coal Mountain Elementary School cafeteria 3455 Coal Mountain Drive, Cumming, GA To receive additional information and learn more about further options for public input, access http://compplan.forsythco.com or call 678.513.5866.
Forsyth County Fire Department Holds Fire Safety Poster Contest The Forsyth County Fire Department is inviting local third grade students to display their artistic talents while promoting a commitment to fire safety by participating in the Forsyth County Fire Safety Poster Contest. Hurry – posters should be submitted by March 18! All third grade students in Forsyth County public and private schools, and home-schooled students are encouraged to submit their own original designs and artwork.
Shady Grove Campground Improvements Await Campers Forsyth County residents do not have to look far for camping opportunities in 2011. Shady Grove Campground, located at 7800 Shadburn Ferry Road in Cumming on the shores of Lake Lanier, will open its more than 110 campsites for the season this spring. Assistant Director of Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Tommy Bruce said campers will immediately notice significant improvements completed during the off-season at the 109-acre campground. “We have improved the campground’s infrastructure to allow more space for today’s larger recreational vehicles and carried out significant shoreline restoration,” Bruce said. “We have also expanded some of the pads to allow campers to get full use of their awnings. We are really excited about this upcoming camping season.”
Three winners will enjoy a pizza party with their class and local firefighters. The three winners and three runners up will have their artwork displayed in county buildings.
The approximately $1 million in improvements were made possible by the $100 million Parks, Recreation and Green Space Bond approved by voters in February 2008.
Poster submissions and a completed release form should be sent no later than March 18, 2011 to: Fire Department of Forsyth County • Attn: Michele Cranford 3520 Settingdown Road • Cumming, GA 30028
“We want to express our gratitude to all Forsyth County voters for making the improvements to Shady Grove Campground possible,” said Parks and Recreation Director Jerry Kinsey. “We look forward to seeing campers take full advantage of this wonderful amenity.”
For more details about the Fire Safety Poster Contest visit the Fire Department page at www.forsythco.com or call 770.781.2180 ext. 4028.
For more information about Shady Grove Campground, visit the Parks and Recreation Department page at www.forsythco.com.
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Community
[ by Ruth Goode ]
When first lady Michelle Obama visited Alpharetta last month, she spoke to a large crowd about her campaign to fight childhood obesity. She calls it, “Let’s Move!” It’s about eating healthier meals, eating less and exercising. Eating healthy and getting exercise is not a new idea, but one that deserves our attention now more than ever.
Here’s why. According to the CDC, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years. More and more children are now at risk for Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, several types of cancer and osteoarthritis which used to be considered adult health problems. Obese children are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, suffer from sleep apnea, have social problems and low self-esteem. According to the 2009 Robert Wood Johnson study, 37 percent of Georgia’s children ages 10-17 are overweight or obese. There’s a program right here in Forsyth County whose mission is educating and preparing young girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. Girls on the Run was established nationally in 2000 and has expanded to approximately 173 cities across the nation. Girls on the Run Forsyth was established in 2005 and had 350 girls enrolled for the Fall 2010 season at over 21 sites in Forsyth, Hall and Cherokee Counties. To be eligible for enrollment, girls must be between the ages of 8 and 13. The GOTR season is 12 weeks long and consists of two hour-long lessons per week. It is available as an after school activity or weekend program. Spring session runs from February through May and Fall session runs from August through November. The program combines uplifting life lessons with real workouts, and prepares girls for a 5K run/walk celebration at the end of the season. This prevention program helps preteen girls develop a healthy self-esteem and a life-long commitment to good nutrition, exercise, teamwork and community service through running.
So, Let’s Move!
If you would like more information on this program, please contact Cathie Brugnoli, Executive Director at 404-667-4101. United Way of Forsyth County provides funding for scholarships for those who qualify. MARCH 2011
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Community
Community Calendar Courageous University Date: March 30, April 6, 13 and 20 Time: 8:15 a.m. Information: This Bible study for women on heroic sacrifice is the perfect antidote to society’s message that it’s okay to be selfish. Through the example of saintly women who are the antithesis of selfishness, this study will show you how to practice courageous generosity and be the woman God has called you to be. The accompanying book may be purchased in advance at Pinecrest, Bldg. A. Contact Skotti Frese at sfrese@pinecrestacademy.org for more information and directions, or call (770) 888-4477. Open to all women.
2nd Annual Boulder Dash Date: April 16 Time: 9 a.m. Information: Run, walk or stroll through the LaFarge Quarry. Sponsored by LaFarge and Northside Hospital Forsyth, the event benefits the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation and the “Envision a Fit Forsyth” Program. Events include a 5K Run, Walk, T-shirt contest and more. For more information and to register, visit http://boulderdash5k.com. 16
Georgia Senior Follies Date: April 7-10, 14-17 Time: Shows at 8 p.m. Thursday.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sunday Location: Cumming Playhouse, 100 Main Street Information: This 3rd annual Broadway-style musical extravaganza salutes the birth of Rock and Roll, starring a talented cast of seniors aged 55+ in a glitzy, family-friendly production staged at the historic Cumming Playhouse. For tickets call the box office at 770 781-9178 or visit www.playhousecumming.com Flavors of Forsyth Date: May 19 Time: 5 to 10 p.m. Location: The Avenue Forsyth, 410 Peachtree Parkway Information: Enjoy the delicacies of Forsyth County’s finest restaurants at Flavors of Forsyth! Enjoy samples of local fare from all over town while children laugh and play in the Kids Zone. Relax under umbrellas and jam to music from Last Five Standing. Support United Way of Forsyth County by joining us for a fun-filled, tummy-filled evening at Flavors! Free Admission. Food samples are $.50 each and restaurants participating in Flavors will charge $1-3 per food sample. Food tickets are available for purchase at the event. For more event information, visit www.UnitedWayForsyth.com, phone 770.781.4110.
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Community
Events FOR a cause!
As warmer weather peaks and flowers bloom, opportunities to be part of events that help various causes are plenty. Here are a few that you may consider being a part of this year. CASA Superhero Run When: Saturday, March 26 Time: 8 am Where: Fowler Park, Cumming More info: www.forsythcountycasa.com Every child needs a hero, but abused children need Superheroes! Inaugural Run at Fowler Park - located at the corner of Highway 9 and Castleberry Road. Come run or walk as yourself or as your favorite superhero. Event T-shirts for all 5K registrants, awards and lots more. CASA of Forsyth County Inc serves abused and neglected children by advocating for each to have a safe, loving and permanent home. Forsyth County Relay for Life When: Friday, May 13 Time: 6 pm Where: Cumming Fairgrounds, Cumming More info: http://forsythrelayforlife.com An overnight team event that provides a way for our communities to take up the fight agains cancer. This is the signature activity of the American Cancer Society. Join hundreds of cancer survivors during this fun and heartwarming event. Last year Relay for Life Forsyth had over 1300 participants, 89 teams, and engaged over 300 cancer survivors. Take up the fight and join us! BOWL FOR KIDS When: Saturday, May 14 Time: 9:30 am – 11:30 am | 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm Where: Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center More info: www.mentormenorthga.org Laugh, Smile and have FUN! If you care about kids and can spare a little time for fun, then Bowl for Kids is right up your alley! Join us for our largest annual fundraiser Bowl for Kids! Start thinking of whom you would like on your Mentor Me bowling team. There will be lots of prizes this year for those who collect a certain number of pledges. Bowlers will receive 2 hours of bowling, shoe rental and a pizza lunch.
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Services
Restaurants All-Around Restaurant Bakery Barbecue Place Breakfast Place Coffee Shop Dessert Place Ethnic Restaurant Fast Food Restaurant Fine Dining Restaurant Italian Restaurant Kid-Friendly Restaurant Lunch Place Mexican Restaurant New Restaurant Oriental Restaurant Pizzeria Seafood Restaurant Sports Bar
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Taco Mac Dutch Monkey Doughnuts Jim ‘n Nicks Waffle House Starbucks Dairy Queen Kani House Chick-fil-A Tam’s Backstage Provinos Chick-fil-A Lenny’s Chepes Cheeky’s Pacific Spice Mellow Mushroom Norman’s Landing Taco Mac
Auto Repair Car Wash Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning Caterer Chiropractor C.P.A. Day Care/Preschool Day Spa Dentist Dry Cleaner Electrician Financial Institution/Bank Hair Salon Home Improvement/Repair Insurance Agent (specify agent) Lawn Care Medical Doctor Nail Salon Optometrist/Ophthalmologist Orthodontist Painter Pediatrician Pest Control Pet Groomer Plumber Photographer Physical Therapist Print Shop/Copy Center Travel Agency Tutoring Veterinarian
AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
Wright Auto Imports 4 Minute Car Wash Carpet Cleaning Plus Smokejack Southern Grill and BBQ Discover Chiropractic Becky Brown Goddard School Massage Envy Jordan Dentistry Chris’ Cleaner & Clothes Spa Arc Angel Wells Fargo Great Clips Home Depot Taggart Bohen King Green North Atlanta Primary Care, Dr. Michelle Jenkins American Nails Cumming Eye Clinic, Dr. Suzanne Hewitt Dr. James Whitney All About Painting Roswell Pediatrics - Cumming Allgood Pest Solutions Spa Bow Wow Rooter Plus In & Out Photo Champion Physical Therapy Office Max Travel One Huntington Learning Center Crestview Animal Hospital MARCH 2011
Retailers Boutique Children’s Clothing Convenience/Gas Station Custom Automotive Drug Store Electronics/Appliance Store Florist Frame Shop Furniture Store Garden Center Gift/Home Décor Store Grocery Store Hardware Store Home Improvement Store Jeweler Liquor Store Music Store Pet Supply Store Shoe Store Specialty Foods Sporting Goods Tire Shop Toy Store
Entertainment Charming Charlie Target Quick Trip Scott’s Automotive CVS Best Buy Edible Arrangements Hobby Lobby Ashley Furniture Home Pike Nursery Parsons Gifts Publix Ace Hardware Store Lowe’s Lance’s Jewelry Jax Best Buy PetsMart DSW Leonard’s Farmers Market Dick’s Sporting Goods Kauffman Tires Target
Dance Studio Fitness/Health Club Golf Course Gymnastics Center Movie Theater
Cumming Dance Academy Bodyplex Windemere Dobbs Creek AMC Avenue Forsyth
Residential Apartment Community Subdivision
Evergreen at Aubrey’s Landing Polo Fields
Congratulations to all!
Community
If you like to swim, or are ready to learn, there is a new aquatic center opening in Forsyth County on Pilgrim Mill Road. According to Greg Little, Cumming Parks and Recreation Director, it should be opening in mid-June, and will take up about 12 acres. Inside the center, there will be three large pools: a fun pool for children and leisure, a 50 meter competition pool complete with diving boards, and a warm pool perfect for therapy and seniors. The center will provide for year-round swim teams from local schools, and a great place during the hot summer days that are soon coming. A water slide, mushroom fountains and a lazy river are only the beginning of what this new aquatic center will have! The center will be open to everyone, and summer passes will be available for purchase. Visit the Parks and Recreation Department’s Web site at www.forsythco.com for details.
Attention
All Swimmers!
[ by Matt Coutu ]
Grant Segal, of the Atlanta Diving Association (www.atlantadiving.com) and teaches kids ages 6-18 springboard diving skills, is excited about the center. “I’m very glad to see the city of Cumming is providing a location to promote both swimming and diving in the Forsyth county area,” he says. “This brand new, modern pool facility will take the place of the outdoor city pool down the street that residents have been using since the late 1970’s.” Swimming is a lifetime sport that benefits the whole body and person. As well as being a fun activity, it is also great exercise. Did you know swimming works every muscle in the body? It also has health benefits that help the heart and lungs. Sometimes when runners get injured, they will swim to relieve the stress from working out on dry land. In addition, there are psychological benefits too; you can relax and swim with very low effort. This is a great way to relieve stress. While swimming is a good way to build endurance and muscles, it is also a good way to lose weight. Swimming burns calories at a rate of about three calories a mile per pound of bodyweight. Basically, if a person weighs 150 pounds and it takes them thirty minutes to swim a mile (1,760 yards or 1,609 meters), a total of 900 calories can be burned in one hour. Swimming laps is not the only way to exercise in the pool. Water fitness activities include kicking workouts, water aerobics, or swimming lessons. Most anyone can do these types of exercises and they are especially beneficial for those who haven’t exercised in a while. All that it takes the desire to get started! Swimming can be fun and healthy, and everyone can do it! So this summer, plan some time to go visit our brand new Aquatic Center, right off of Pilgrim Mill Road. We are so fortunate to live in Forsyth County where there are so many amenities for our families to use and enjoy!
Matt Coutu is a resident of Cumming. He is a student at Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs and an aspiring journalist.
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MARCH 2011
Lifestyle Organizing Your Home and Life Part II: The Kitchen [ by Valerie Donta Young ] Last month we discussed organizing bathrooms and bedroom closets. This month, as promised, let’s tackle the kitchen. Whether you are a gourmet cook or a microwave queen, your kitchen will be a much easier place in which to work if it is organized. Your pots and pans, glassware, utensils, dishes, linens, and spices need to have homes. How do you decide what goes where? Have you ever noticed that when a friend helps you unload your dishwasher, they put things in a different place than you do? That happens because each of us has their own idea of where things should be kept in a kitchen. With this said, as an interior designer and organizational expert, I advise that things should be kept in the closest proximity to where they are to be used.
Focus onAppreciation [ by Christine Roberts ] My husband and I went on a getaway weekend where a childhood friend of his is a manager at a 5-star resort (we’re hanging with the right people!). It was an amazing weekend with gourmet meals, spa day and golf. The friend had organized the entire event and created some incredible memories. One thing I noticed while on the trip was that regardless of all the terrific things he had arranged, his wife seemed to constantly have some type of criticism. “Why isn’t there any jam for the biscuits; how come you bought spread instead of butter, etc.” The look on his face would reveal subtle hurt but he would then crack a joke and she’d respond by saying “Oh, I’m just teasing”. These comments made me think about my own conversations with people, especially my husband. As much as I hoped that I don’t do that, if I’m real honest with myself I have to confess that I do make those types of comments now and again…actually more than I’d like to admit. Do you make critical remarks to someone in your life? Why do we do that? Maybe we think we’re being funny, but being funny shouldn’t be at someone else’s expense. Have you ever had a person do that to you? It is hurtful when we feel like we’ve made a lot of effort putting something together only to have another person come along and point out the “one” thing we missed.
When you start to organize (or reorganize) your kitchen, logic must prevail. The glasses should be closest to where you fill them (usually the refrigerator). Using that kind of logic, where would you put the dish ware? Naturally, the cabinet that is closest to the kitchen table. Placemat and linens should be as close to the table as you can get them; pots and pans under or near the stove; tea towels by the sink. You get the idea. When organizing the pantry put all tomato products together, fruits together, pasta products together, veggies, etc. Do the same things for your spice rack. Keep of the spices that are used in general cooking together and the ones used in cookies and cakes together. Are you ready to make your trips to the grocery store easier? Then organize the pantry and spice(s)! Hang a dry erase board either inside a main cabinet or inside the pantry so that every time you run out of an item that you have taken from its storage place you can write it on the board. Never go to the grocery store without a list (and coupons, if you’re frugal). Even keep a check list of the items in your freezer, so when things are on sale you will be in a position to stock up and save dollars. You will be surprised how much time and money you will save if you follow these simple suggestions. Happy organizing!
Valerie Young, aka “the Frugal Designer,” is a resident of Cumming. She may be reached at (770) 844-6337. MARCH 2011
Think about the times when your spouse goes to the store and gets everything on your list but got white grape juice instead of apple. Instead of saying, “Ugh, don’t you read the labels,” we should consider saying “Thank you.” Or when our children bring home their report card with mostly A’s except for one B or C and we focus on why they didn’t get all A’s, instead of praising them for what a great job they did getting all those excellent grades. When these scenarios take place and the critical words are on the tip of our tongues, maybe if we take a moment and think of the word “appreciate”, that’ll stop us and we can rephrase our response. There’s a fine line between teaching someone and defeating someone. What if we make the decision that if there is some sort of criticism we counter it with twice as many positive comments? Again, back to treat others the way we want to be treated. It is a simple saying but hard to implement sometimes. Although it sure would be nice, I bet our spouses would love it too. Christine Roberts is a volunteer at Jesse’s House, (www.jesseshouse. org), a nonprofit organization that provides a safe haven and longterm care to girls between the ages of 7 and 17, in collaboration with state agencies, where abuse had been confirmed. To volunteer email: volunteere@jesseshouse.org Christine can be reached for speaking engagements at cmroberts10@comcast.net.
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Lifestyle
Financial
Getting Your Manuscript
Spring Cleaning [ by Parkey Thompson ]
Ready for Publication
I do not put a great deal of trust in groundhogs. In fact, I do not know many who do. But this year, I am really hoping the groundhog was right. Spring cannot get here fast enough.
[ by Ahmad Meradji ]
Pay Stubs: Each one of your stubs should be retained throughout the year until your W2 is received and matches up to your final stubs.
Some authors might say that writing their book is the most difficult step in the self-publishing process. And they’re probably right. But once their manuscript is written there are still many important steps ahead. The first step—the editing process. The goal of the editing process is to make your book a better version of itself. The process can vary based on how much work is needed to prepare your manuscript for publication. A publishing services provider can recommend the right level of editing for your book. The most basic level of editing is proofreading, in which an editor corrects spelling and punctuation errors. This is helpful for every book, as spell-check software does not always catch errors, and an editor can finetune punctuation based on style guidelines for the publishing industry. The next step up is what I call basic editing. Basic editing corrects spelling and punctuation, as well as issues with redundancy, clarity and style. An editor might suggest alternate words or phrases, indicate where you’ve repeated yourself, or where you might be able to explain something more clearly. If you have any specific concerns about your manuscript, be sure to let the editor know before they get started with the basic editing process. Sometimes a writer has been so “close” to their work for so long that they need a higher level of feedback. In this case an editor can provide a manuscript critique, which addresses larger content issues of overall structure and diction, including readability and flow. The editor will offer feedback, advice and corrections, addressing plot, character, scene, pacing, conflict, and narrative structure. Think of it as your book’s first review, only you have the opportunity to make changes to the story before the book is printed. Be aware that a good editor will not make permanent changes to your manuscript. Using a program such as Microsoft Word, they will make corrections in a way that you can accept or reject the changes. Be sure that you review all changes made or suggested before your book moves ahead in the publishing process, to layout and design, which we’ll address next month.
Like your house, springtime it is a great time to clean your important documents. If your files are filled with papers and receipts, this may be the perfect time to find out which you need to keep and what do you need to pitch.
Checking/Savings/CD’s: Retain your monthly statements until your final statement of the year has arrived. That final statement, and any cancelled checks, should be kept for seven years if there is anything tax or business related. Any loan discharge documents that you may receive should be retained forever! Monthly Bills and Credit Cards: In most cases, bills can be discarded once a new bill shows the paid amount. The exception would be any bills that may be used for tax purposes. Investment/Retirement Accounts: Monthly/quarterly statements should be kept until you receive your annual statement. The annual documents need to be retained until you transfer or close the account. Any equity purchase or sell statements should be retained until you have satisfied any tax needs, such as a cost basis for any capital gains or losses. Finally, if you roll-over your 401(k) or IRA, it is important that you retain those transfer documents until you transfer or close that account. Taxes: The area that we all love! The general rule is to retain tax paperwork and supporting documents for at least seven years. Storage: Remember to keep your documents in a safe place, but also in a place where they are quickly retrievable. Recent disasters should help us understand why this is important. Having your documents in one place will allow you to always find them, and also allow you to find them quickly if the need arises. Technology can be our friend here. With the availability of scanners and computer storage capacity that is ever increasing, many people are finding it easy to scan their documents for storage or request their statements be sent electronically. However you decide to manage your documents, make sure you protect yourself by properly shredding those that you are planning to discard. Identity theft is a growing problem and taking steps to properly destroy the personal information that is no longer needed is extremely vital. Protect yourself and your family by shredding anything with your name, address, social security number, and account information on it.
Ahmad Meradji is President and CEO of Booklogix Publishing Services in Alpharetta. He can be reached at 770-346-9979 or by email at Ahmad@booklogix.com
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Parkey Thompson is a personal financial coach. He may be reached at 678-648-9940. Visit www.myfinancialfocus.net for more information.
MARCH 2011
lifestyle
It’s Tax Time! Make it Talk Time! [ by Monique A. Honaman ]
Are you ready? Have you gathered your documents and are you prepared to file your tax return? If you are one of those adrenalin junkies who likes to wait until the last possible minute to get your tax return stamped at the post office, you better know that the due date for 2010 individual federal income tax returns is Monday, April 18, 2011. What? Why? Traditionally, Tax Day falls on April 15 unless that day happens to be on a Saturday, Sunday or federal holiday. In 2011, April 15 meets none of those criteria -- it falls on a Friday, and there’s no federal holiday that day. You have Abraham Lincoln to thank for your extra couple of days. You see, in 2011, Washington, D.C., will celebrate Emancipation Day on April 15, a day earlier than normal, since April 16 falls on a Saturday. Emancipation Day marks the anniversary of the day that President Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act which freed 3,100 slaves in the District of Columbia. In observance of the DC holiday, Tax Day will be moved forward one business day, this year landing it on Monday, April 18. What if you have been working towards that April 15 deadline and now find yourself with 3 extra days? What do you do with the extra time? Here’s an idea: talk with your spouse about your total financial portfolio … really take the time to understand what’s coming in each month and what’s going out, align your financial goals, understand your financial attitudes, get on the same page with upcoming opportunities to save or invest, and unanticipated spending that has to occur. MARCH 2011
Benjamin Franklin said, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” Smart man! I can’t emphasize enough the importance of totally understanding your financial picture. Most single adults tend to naturally understand their financial portfolio since they are the only ones responsible for it. However, I find that many married couples rely on one person or the other to really handle all of the decisions when it comes to finances, and the non-involved person tends to be pretty ignorant about some pretty obvious things. How many of you make it a regular “date” or habit to sit down with your partner to review your financial portfolio? I took an informal poll of my girlfriends and fellow women business owners. Very few knew the basics like the amount of their mortgage, let alone the more complex things like where their investments were housed or how much insurance coverage they had. I started to lecture, “Girlfriends, this is fiscally irresponsible,” to which I would hear, “Well, my husband handles that stuff, and we’re never going to get divorced, so it’s fine.” You know where I’m going with this, right? I would respond, “Well, life happens. One, I never planned to get divorced either, and two, what if he drops dead of a heart attack tomorrow? You don’t want to be grieving, taking care of your kids, and trying to figure out what kind of life insurance he had.” You have got to understand your financial situation. This doesn’t mean you have to be wellversed in all the intricacies of the stock market, but you do have to have a general understanding of what you have coming in each month, what you have going out each month, and what you AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
have planned in the way of financial security. I encourage couples to plan a quarterly update (YES! Make it a “date” … add wine or a nice dinner!), to touch base and be sure you are both on the same page. Sure, you may never need it, you may never get divorced, but my friend whose husband dropped dead of a heart attack in his early 40’s wishes she has been smarter about it too. Bottom line? Make time for your financial up“date.” Find time on a somewhat regular and scheduled basis to make sure you are aware of your financial picture, your investments, your assets and liabilities. This doesn’t have to be a cumbersome and dreaded task. Share a bottle of wine, go out to dinner, engage in a good discussion about where you are at and where you want to be. It’s healthy for the relationship, and it’s smart to know where you stand. This can actually be really fun. After all, why shouldn’t it be fun to talk about your hopes, dreams and plans – together?
Adapted from “The High Road Has Less Traffic: honest advice on the path through love and divorce” Author Monique A. Honaman, who has called Forsyth County home since 1996, wrote “The High Road Has Less Traffic” in response to a need for a book that provided honest, real, and raw advice about how to survive and thrive through one of life’s toughest journeys. The book is available at www.HighRoadLessTraffic. com and on Amazon.com. Monique can be reached at Monique@HighRoadLessTraffic.com. 23
The Concierge Approach to
Orthodontics
Smiles For All Ages
Walton Orthodontics 2609 Peachtree Parkway, Suite C Suwanee, GA 30024 P: 770-663-0955 F: 770-663-3865 www.drwalton.com info@drwalton.com 24
A happy beautiful smile can brighten up a room, inspire confidence and bring a cheer to someone’s heart. It’s one of the first things that we notice when meeting someone or while listening to someone speak. Have you ever thought why some photographs of yours are better than others? It is only because of your smile. Thanks to the advances in the field of orthodontics, people of all ages have the opportunity to have a healthier and brighter smile. “Orthodontics can help create that well-aligned, wide smile that most people look for but may not have” explains Dr. Matt Walton. After all, who does not want to look good? All of us want to - right? In this highly competitive world one cannot afford not to look their best. Getting your teeth straight can go a long way in helping you be the best you can be. Matt T Walton DMD runs a “patient centered” orthodontic practice in Forsyth County. As a board certified specialist in orthodontics for children and adults, Dr. Walton is skilled in the latest techniques and technologies of orthodontic care with a focus on Invisalign and cosmetic orthodontic procedures. “These elements are crucial for an aesthetic practice that appeals not only to adolescents but also to adult patients who don’t want any part of metal braces”, adds Dr. Walton. AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
MARCH 2011
Six-Month QuickSmile Braces Think orthodontics takes forever? Think again! Walton Orthodontics offers fast, six-month QuickSmile braces that can provide correction for many common orthodontic problems quickly and discreetly! With Dr. Walton’s QuickSmile System, most adults’ teeth can be straightened in just a few months. Clear braes or Invisible braces (braces behind the teeth) can be used to make your treatment cosmetic and practically unnoticeable. The 6-month QuickSmile system is affordable and cost-effective and uses very light safe forces to move teeth.
Treatment Philosophy
The results that can be achieved with orthodontics today are far better than just a few years ago. Beautiful smiles and faces are created in much less time with far gentler, more biologically sensible forces than traditional braces (still in use by a majority of orthodontists today). This can most often be accomplished, without extractions or rapid palatal expanders. Ask us about the Damon-Sarver In-Ovation System. Our treatment approach takes into consideration a patient’s face, profile and other factors, in anticipating what they will look like in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and beyond. This system assures improved tooth position for a stunning smile and beautiful facial symmetry. For this reason, as Dr. Walton explains, “it is vital that all children have a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.” A dentist referral is not necessary. Orthodontic problems, generally a result of genetic and developmental factors, can often be hidden from casual observation and therefore must be properly diagnosed. Even though most children don’t require braces until their permanent teeth come in (usually between ages of 11 and 13), some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until puberty is nearly complete can be a big mistake necessitating the need for permanent tooth extractions, jaw surgery and/or make correction of some problems more difficult. Since no two patients are alike, Dr. Walton offers a complimentary consultation to determine if your child could benefit from wearing braces. The office is located in the Brookwood Marketplace (SuperTarget) Center at Windermere Parkway and 141, next to Starbucks. What makes the office different than most is the heightened level of personal service that exists in every aspect of a patient’s orthodontic experience, from the initial phone call, to insurance processing, to the explanation and understanding of the orthodontic problem and treatment plan, through the efficient completion of treatment. Dr. Walton refers to this as his “concierge approach” to orthodontics. Dr. Walton surrounds himself with a staff of specialists empowered to provide a best-inclass, high touch patient experience. All staff members are college educated and have advanced training in their respective areas of expertise. Walton Orthodontics offers an intimate state-of-the-art private practice setting that does not feel like the “typical” factory or assembly line office. The first face or voice patients and referring offices come into contact with is, Monique, the
practice concierge. Dr. Walton explains the approach this way: “Building loyalty with your patients and referring doctors is critical for long term success. Loyal patients don’t want to go anywhere else. With major competition all around we needed a conduit to keep referring offices connected to our office as well as offer the personal touch that would keep patients from feeling “lost in the system”.” Kelly Wilson, mother of five, knows firsthand the value of a great orthodontist. She travels from over one hour away to come to Dr. Walton. “Three of my kids have been treated by Dr. Walton. He is very thorough and explained the treatment in a very easy to understand manner,” Wilson explains. “We tried other orthodontists and were unhappy with our experience. There were too many hands involved and we were simply not happy with the treatment we received.” A patient’s Initial Exam is the beginning of a relationship of trust and confidence. “From my very first visit to the office, I felt at ease and was treated with utmost respect and in a manner that made all of my visits as if I was visiting friends,” explained Bernice Barreros. Patients are greeted by Monique, followed by Ivonne , Adrianna and Sarah. “Dr. Walton and his staff made this process absolutely seemless as I noticed the changes that were taking place were exactly what I was explained and are making my smile be exactly what I want it to be.” Being able to work with Ivonne, the Treatment Coordinator/ Office Manager and general “go to” person in the office, is extremely helpful to patients with her expertise at coming up with affordable payment plans and getting the most from insurance for patients wanting orthodontics.
A Technology, Patient-Centered Approach
“We know time is of value to our patients and their families and while we make all provisions possible to ensure prompt service and convenience “ Dr. Walton explained. The office has a variety of offerings to promote productivity and education while at the office. I-Pads, iPod Touches, and plasma screen TVs are scattered throughout the office providing entertainment and educational content. “Technology is available for us to use at all times, and we encourage our patients to take advantage of the I-services available to them while at Walton Orthodontics,” added Dr. Walton.
Education: • Marist High School - Atlanta, GA • University of Georgia - College • Medical College of Georgia - Dental School • Boston University - Orthodontic Residency
MARCH 2011
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Dr. Walton’s Team • Monique • Adriana • Ivonne • Sarah • Sherri • Rose 25
Lifestyle Oral Cancer:
Are you at Risk? [ by Sherry Jordan, D.M.D. ] Oral cancer is the 6th most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. In 2011 close to 37,000 Americans will be diagnosed, which is around 100 people per day. It will cause over 8000 deaths this year, killing roughly 1 person per hour 24 hours a day. This is the fifth year in a row which there has been an increase in the incidence of oral cancer. There are two distinct pathways most people get oral cancer. One is tobacco and alcohol use, and the other is through exposure to the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). A small percentage of people do get oral cancer from no identified cause. The average age of diagnosis is 50 years old and 2:1 males to females. Current research indicates that HPV is rapidly changing the ratio and age groups of new individuals being diagnosed. Younger, non-smoking patients in their 20’s and 30’s are the fastest growing segment of the oral cancer population. Unfortunately the death rate is higher for oral cancer due to the late detection since early stages are painless. The good news is that if detected early, oral cancer is 80-90% curable. Early detection is possible by having a simple screening at your routine dental cleaning appointment. These tests are painless, quick, inexpensive, and non invasive. If your dentist detects an area of concern, a simple brush biosy can be performed, or a referral to a specialist may be needed. A thorough examination with proper visual aid is recommended at least once a year starting at age 18 or for any individual that is sexually active since this is how HPV is transmitted. Some dentists have tests to screen you for the HPV virus to see if you are at a higher risk for developing oral cancer so you can be screened more frequently. Any person with a history of tobacco and alcohol use also has a significant risk of developing oral cancer and needs to be screened more frequently. One reason for the high morbidity rate of oral cancer is due to the lack of public awareness. Call your dentist today if you haven’t had an oral cancer screening. Be sure to ask for an oral cancer screening at your routine dental visits, it may save your life.
Broken Resolutions?
No worries! [ by John C. Thomas, DC ]
After a few months into the New Year how many of us have broken those New Year’s resolutions already? Losing weight, eating well, and give up smoking and other bad habits are the most popular resolutions that most of make, however by this time some of us have fallen back into our comfort zones that lead to poor health. Its not too late, by getting back on track most of us can start to cut heart disease risk by 80 percent, diabetes risk by 90 percent and cancer risk by 50 percent, according to the Harvard Health Study. So here it is—your second chance at achieving those New Year’s Resolutions! 1. Wear a pedometer. Research suggests that routinely wearing a pedometer encourages people to walk about an extra mile each day, lose weight, and lower their blood pressure. Aim for at least 30 minutes of brisk walking and a total of 10,000 steps per day. 2. Don’t forget strength training, involving both the upper and lower body. Too many people neglect resistance exercise, particularly women for whom it’s crucial for preventing muscle and bone loss with age. Lift weights for at least 20 minutes, two- to three-times per week. 3. Eat at least two fish meals per week. The evidence is strong that the oils in darker types of fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring, are beneficial for the heart and brain and may even lower risk of cancer. 4. Supplement with Omega 3 (Fish Oil). More and more research is suggesting that every one should supplement with fish oil even if you eat fish twice per week. The amount will vary based on age and health concerns, but most adults should be taking a minimum of 2000mg per day. 5. Drink water. No matter where you are, water should always be the first thing you reach for when you’re thirsty. Water truly is essential.
Dr. Sherry Jordan earned her dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia. She may be reached at 770-888-6262.
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[ Continued on page 43 ] Dr. John C. Thomas is the clinical director of Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation in Cumming, GA. He can be reached at 678-456-9122.
MARCH 2011
Lifestyle Your lungs are the “gateway for the air
your body uses and anything that you breathe in can affect your lungs.
”
Lowering Your Risk for Lung Cancer [ by Patti Owen, MN, RN, director of oncology services, Northside Hospital ] As one of the most frequently treated forms of cancer at Northside Hospital, lung cancer is the deadliest cancer in both men and women. Each year, more people die of the disease than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. Ironically, our biggest cancer killer is preventable. The more you know about lung cancer, the better chance you have against the disease and for maintaining the quality of life that is important to you. Why is Lung Cancer so Serious? Lung cancer is very hard to detect in its early stages. Symptoms usually don’t appear until the disease is advanced and, in many cases, it’s found only when the person undergoes an X-ray for another reason. Symptoms vary from person to person, but may include: • A persistent or intense cough, • Coughing up blood or phlegm tinged with blood, • Harsh sounds accompanying breathing, • Recurrent lung problems such as bronchitis or pneumonia, • Shortness of breath. True or False? If I don’t smoke, I’m not at risk for lung cancer. False. You CAN get lung cancer if even you never smoked. Your lungs are the gateway for the air your body uses and anything that you breathe in can affect your lungs. Though smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, it is not the only one. Approximately 10 percent of lung cancer cases are caused by other culprits. Radon The second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., radon is a colorless and odorless gas that occurs naturally in soil. It can seep up into a home, office building or school through gaps or cracks in floors or walls. MARCH 2011
Industrial Exposures Working with certain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, uranium, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel and some petroleum products is especially dangerous. Arsenic High levels of arsenic, a poison used to kill weeds and pests, in drinking water may increase the risk of lung cancer. Air Pollution In some cities, air pollution (air with traces of diesel exhaust, coal products and other industrial substances) may slightly increase the risk of lung cancer. Family History A family history of lung cancer may indicate a higher risk of developing the disease. Early Detection is Key It’s important to maintain annual check-ups to stay healthy. Discuss any symptoms or health changes with your doctor and follow up on your doctor’s recommendations for screening and treatments to ensure you stay cancer free. More cancer cases are treated at Northside Hospital than at any other community hospital in Georgia. As a National Cancer Institute (NCI) cancer centers program, the hospital offers a comprehensive treatment process that encompasses the entire cancer experience — from education, prevention and screening to diagnosis and treatment, research, support and survivorship.
For more information, visit www.northside.com.
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Lifestyle [ by Mark Spain ]
Without getting into an economics lesson on supply and demand, let me just say that the vast supply of resale, preforeclosure and bank-owned properties on the local real estate market is heavily tilting the advantage to buyers. So much so, in fact, that we are in a buyer’s market of historic proportions. The same is true for most other major American cities. The number of first-time home buyers is increasing as are the number of REO and short sales. For example, one estimate reported 47 percent of all U.S. home sales for December 2010 were distressed properties. Combined, first-timers and distressed properties make up as much as three-quarters of the market in some areas of the U.S. According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly five million properties sold in 2010. While this number is not at the level experienced prior to the recession, activity is happening. If you’re a seller, how do you compete with all these properties on the market? The market today is definitely a price war with a bit of a beauty contest thrown in at the same time. For a normal seller to compete, his home must be priced similar to nearby distressed properties. Otherwise, it’s very likely the buyer will simply bypass the property. Today’s motivated seller needs to have the best looking home at the best
Family Muse An anagram is a word or phrase formed by rearranging the letters of another word or phrase; a review of Wordsmith.com will provide you with many such words. Did you know that an anagram of mother-in-law is Woman Hitler? I should tell my son-in-law that, he will get a kick out of it. Actually, he loves me to pieces. These pieces: my back and my feet walking out the door. My son-in-law is a really great guy; though he just does not like me very much. I think it has something to do with the fact that he is married to my daughter! He can’t forgive me for not slapping a Government Health Warning on her when I sent her out to play. What sign should I have used? ‘Keep Out. Danger!’ Or maybe ‘Radioactive Material,’ or ‘Warning, Incendiary Devices are Hidden.’ She is not volatile, just sharp. A little too sharp sometimes, but funny with it. At least I think so.
price. Having a real estate agent to help with this delicate balance as well as the negotiation process to eventually get the property to closing is essential. Not all agents are the same. Get more than one to give you a proposed listing price. Then, don’t simply go with the highest listing price, unless the competitive market analysis numbers can justify the number. Listing at too high a price can cost you months of inactivity on the market. Your property will quickly become stale inventory in the eyes of agents and buyers. Whether buying or selling, today’s market is much different than five years ago. Do your research and have an agent in your corner to advise you every step of the way. Mark Spain is a Realtor with RE/MAX Greater Atlanta, is Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certified by the National Association of Realtors and earned his Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation. He is a native Atlantan and graduate of the University of Georgia. Visit www. MarkSpain.com or call 770-886-9000. For details on considering a short sale, visit www.GreaterAtlantaForeclosureHelp.com
[ by Caroline Sherouse ] many strong apologies and ‘Oh my goshes’ from my daughter, the guy was angry, and said, “This is how you will get yourself shot!” My daughter, who never passes up a challenge, retorted, “Well you had better be fast with your gun, before your guard dog licks me to death!” Each party returned back to their respective areas and moved on. My husband, an angel, a saint, patient to the point of being annoying, is another example of a really great guy. I mean who watches paint dry? He does! He is not a spender like me; he is conservative and careful with his money, and considers for hours, days and weeks before he goes to buy that item we saw at 50% off. By the time we return to the store to purchase the item, it has long gone of course. It’s a great strategy—we never buy anything, and he saves his money, and gives himself a pat on the back. It saves me from having to pat his back! Hard!
Recently she and her husband went looking at houses for sale, and could not resist peeping into the windows of one particularly well-kept home. Unfortunately, she disregarded the sign that said ‘By Appointment Only,’ decided no one was living there, and startled a guy who was watching TV, relaxing with his feet in a foot spa. Upon realizing there were folks looking through his uncovered window, he jumped and arrived wet-footed on the doorstep, while his guard dog leaped around trying to get attention. Despite
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Caroline Sherouse is a resident of Cumming. She may be reached at carolinamoon33@yahoo.com.
MARCH 2011
Lifestyle
Summer Camps are ready!
It’s that time of year when parents begin their plans for the summer months that are fast approaching. Forsyth County counts with a variety of choices for kids of all ages. Below are a few offerings available. Remember, summer is just around the corner, and it’s a great time for everyone to learn, explore, grow and discover their talents while building friendships, confidence and memories that will last a lifetime.
Driver’s Ed Summer Class June 6-10 | Ages 14 and above • Pinecrest Academy Why use your Saturdays or miss sports during the school year when you can take Driver’s Ed this summer in a five-day class -- with your friends! Take driver’s ed in five days versus five weeks or more. Taught by Johns Creek Driving School with dynamic teacher, Miss Brooks, the class consists of 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of road lessons. This course satisfies the Joshua’s Law requirement in Georgia; the class offers interactive tutorials and group discussion; participants get a state guaranteed insurance discount of at least 10%, and receive a $150 tax credit. Register at www.pinecrestacademy.org. Lacrosse Summer Camp at Pinecrest Coached by National Champ July 19-22 | Ages 7-18 • Pinecrest Academy Pinecrest Academy’s summer Lacrosse camp will offer a well accomplished coaching staff, led by camp owner and director, Ned Bowen, a member of the 2003 Virginia National Championship Lacrosse Team. The goal is to help young athletes, both new and experienced, gain a better understanding of the game of Lacrosse. Young athletes will become better Lacrosse players by improving their skills and developing a greater understanding of the game in a fun and positive atmosphere. Coach Bowen brings personalized coaching for each camper, raffle and prizes, an ‘All Out’ Lacrosse jersey and socks, an autograph session, guest lectures, stick stringing session and lots of play time. The prominent, accomplished and dedicated staff will help your child take his/her game to the next level! To register, go to www.pinecrestacademy.org. Teen Etiquette Boot Camp July 26-27 • Pinecrest Academy How well would your teenage son fare if he sat for an admissions interview for a prestigious college? Would your daughter sound confident and capable during a job interview, or would her every other word be “likeâ€?? This ‘Teen Etiquette Boot Camp’ is taught by Kate Lewis, a professional certified in Corporate Etiquette and International Protocol through the Protocol School of Washington, and author of The Civilized Minute. This program provides high school students with social skills to help them mature into confident, self-assured adults. The program is interactive and fun, equipping teens with skills they need to handle social situations with poise and confidence, and to prepare them for college and job interviews. In two half-day sessions, social and professional etiquette (including “Netiquette,â€? do’s and don’ts of social networking) will be covered, along with dining etiquette. A catered lunch is included both days, with the first day devoted to an intensive dining tutorial, and the second day for dining etiquette and conversational skills practice with a guest VIP seated at each table. To register, visit www.pinecrestacademy.org. MARCH 2011
Camp “Fun Tastic!â€? May 26 – August 5 • Willow Brook Academy Are you ready for a great summer? Different educational and entertaining theme each week highlights the Summer Camp at Willow Brook Academy. There is something for everyone! Curriculum based lesson plans, water play activities in our on-site water park, choice of complementary hip-hop dance or soccer coaching, and weekly field trips that go along with each weekly theme (included in tuition rates). Campers will show off their special talents at our annual “Willow Brook’s Got Talentâ€? show! There’s a game area with Wii, pool, ping pong, air hockey and more. Campers will try out their “green thumbsâ€? at the camp’s herb and vegetable garden. Special visitors will keep everyone busy both on and off campus. A Computer Lab available for theme related games and summer learning. Not enough? Other activities include arts and crafts, music, cooking, literature, science, sports, games and dramatic play. Register at by calling (678) 455-0555 or visit www.willowbrookacademy.com.
Are you ready for another year of fun, adventure and learning?
Join Camp “Fun Tastic!�
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third week’s tuition. Coupon must be redeemed with enrollment package. 0''&3 &91*3&4 +6/& 45
8150 Majors Road | Cumming GA | 678-455-0555 www.willowbrookacademy.com
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schools
Forsyth County Schools’ Science Olympiad Held
Students from various elementary schools in Forsyth County and other North Georgia counties participated in the first Forsyth County Schools Science Olympiad, hosted by Piney Grove Middle School. Lakeside Middle School teacher and Science Olympiad coach Patti Grammens, described the event as “an excellent way to look at all the disciplines we teach while enhancing science education and interest in science.” Teams from Vickery Creek Elementary, Cumming Elementary, Midway Elementary, Chattahoochee Elementary, Matt Elementary and Carmel Elementary schools participated in a variety of events, including: Chopper Challenge, Crime Busters, Deep Blue Sea, Grasp a Graph, Straw Tower, Mystery Architecture, Paper Rockets, Rock Hound, Don’t Bug Me and Wildlife Safari. Lisa Cleland, a Vickery Creek Elementary School mom, stated the event is a “wonderful opportunity to get parents to work with their kids in academics.” The event was sponsored by Sawnee EMC, the Armed Forces Communication and Electronics Association, and the Forsyth County Schools. The Science Olympiad began as a grassroots assembly of science teachers is now one of the premiere science competitions in the nation, providing rigorous, standards-based challenges to nearly 6,000 teams in 50 states. Georgia’s Olympiad program is the 8th largest in the nation. Dr. Kelly Price, Curriculum Coordinator Curriculum Coordinator K-12 Math, K-12 Science, Secondary gifted and AP/IB Programs, and coordinator of the Science Olympiad stated next year’s event will be bigger, better and greater. “We hope more schools will participate and the Science Olympiad continues to bring more participants to the event,” Dr. Price added.
West Forsyth High School Hosts Regional Science and Engineering Fair
Students from Forsyth, Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Dade, Dawson, Fanning, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Lumpkin, Murray, Pickens, Union, Walker, and Whitfield counties recently participated in the Northwest Georgia Regional Science and Engineering Fair, a qualifier for the Georgia Science and Engineering Fair and the International Science and Engineering Fair. The fair serves students in grades 6-12. Thirtyseven of the 70 projects entered were invited to progress to the region science fair. The fair includes public, private and homeschooled students. Forsyth County Schools’ students that advanced to the state science fair are: Gabriel Shook, Liberty Middle School - Earth & Planetary Science Composting and the effects of worms on nitrate and phosphorus output; Brennan Hale. Piney Grove Middle School - Energy & Transportation Fruit Juice and Veggie Power; Lauren Little, Liberty Middle School –Going Green: One Building at a Time. Tyler Mallon, Liberty Middle School-How is Georgia Soil Affected by Household Chemicals? Samantha Hudock, Liberty Middle School-Our Carbon Footprint; How is it Effecting Melittobia Digitata?; Carly Wages, Liberty Middle School-The Buzz on Cell Phone Radiation; Cameron Clutts The King’s Academy Home School - Sweet Poison: Aspartame and Formaldehyde; Andrew Kane, Forsyth Central High School-What Vegetable Oil Produces the Most Biodiesel Fuel?; and, Franklin Russell, The King’s Academy-Why Does Spin Make a Curveball Curve? 30
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MARCH 2011
SWEET REWARDS
Culinary student reaps benefits of continuing her education By Ann Vancza, Assistant Director, College of Continuing and Professional Education at Kennesaw State University Rosi Ponce of Roswell knew continuing her education was important, but she never dreamed it would have her working with one of the most prestigious culinary teams in Atlanta: Park 75 at the Four Seasons Hotel. “The people at Four Seasons are absolutely fantastic,” she said. Ms. Ponce is getting a taste of what continuing education has to offer its students – career training from actively engaged professionals. She is a student in the Culinary Apprenticeship Certificate Program offered by the College of Continuing and Professional Education at Kennesaw State University. Launched in 2009, this unique, ninemonth certificate program offers real-world experience to those who enroll. Students work in some of Atlanta’s best restaurants and catering companies as part of the apprenticeship component. They also receive classroom training with instructor Chef Greg Brooks, a graduate from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts. In addition to Park 75 at the Four Seasons Hotel, students may also complete unpaid apprenticeships with
Villa Christina, InterContinental Hotel, Bold American Catering and Endive Catering. A member of the class of 2011, Ms. Ponce said that she chose the program so she could learn many of the skills that would be helpful to her current job in the industry. With the support of her employer, she is able to attend the weekly class and perform all of her apprenticeship hours with the school’s various culinary partners. Although Ms. Ponce had four years of experience, she believes she has benefited from the instruction from both Chef Brooks and the chefs at the apprenticeship locations. She said that her culinary and kitchen management skills have gone to the next level, which is sure to improve her employer’s bottom line. Ms. Ponce’s Hispanic background came in handy while working in one of the apprenticeship locations. She said a customer requested the chef prepare plantains, which were not on the menu. This request had the team scurrying to the Internet to find a recipe when she arrived at work that day.
Ms. Ponce said she was confident in having success in this particular food challenge. “I said, ‘Piece of cake!’ That’s something we eat all the time,” she said with a laugh. She said that the head chef was a bit worried, but only until he tasted her work. “He said, ‘Oh yes, it’s so good!’” She said that both the restaurants and catering companies treat students serving as apprentices as if they are a member of the team and expect excellence. “Everything is so hands-on and for real. It’s not like reading to the next chapter. It’s happening!” she said. If you are interested in pursuing a career in the culinary industry, now is the time to look at culinary programs and get a clear picture of the time commitment and the financial investment involved. The next Culinary Apprenticeship Certificate Program will begin in the fall of 2011. For more information, call (770) 423-6765, email ceculinary@kennesaw.edu, or visit ccpe.kennesaw.edu/hospitality.
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schools
School News
Forsyth County Schools 2011 Elementary, Middle and High School Counselors of the Year Named
Counselors ensure that every student receives the benefit of the school counseling program by designing and teaching content curriculum on academic, personal/social and career standards. The 2011 Counselors of the Year are:
Elementary Counselor of the Year:
Middle School Counselor of the Year:
High School Counselor of the Year:
Kathy Bain, Brookwood Elementary Kathy received her Master’s degree from the University of Texas and her Bachelor’s degree from David Lipscomb University. She has worked for FCS since 2005, and prior to that worked in Texas and Tennessee as a Kindergarten and first grade teacher, as well as a school counselor.
Jody Glude, Little Mill Middle Jody has worked as school counselor for both Forsyth County and Hall County Schools. As a United States Air Force veteran, she served in Desert Storm. Jody’s Masters Degree is from the State University of West Georgia and her Bachelors degree is from Kennesaw State University.
Tracey Winkler, West Forsyth High Tracey has Bachelors, Masters and Educational Specialists degrees from Florida State University and received her Leadership Certification from the University of Georgia. She has counseling experience from two schools in Florida and two schools in Forsyth County.
Counselors also provide strategies for closing the achievement gap by providing small group or individual counseling focusing on academic success, behaviors, and attendance. Counselors ensure equitable access to educational opportunities and they promote an interdisciplinary team approach to address student needs and educational goals. ceremony. “Today marks a defining step forward for Pinecrest Academy as we begin to construct the first permanent building for the new Lower School campus. Truly, you have led Pinecrest into a new era of educational excellence and opportunity, “commented Tarpley. He then led the students in their morning prayers.
Pinecrest Academy Breaks Ground The Ground Blessing and Breaking of Pinecrest Academy’s first permanent building of the Lower School was recently held. In attendance were school administrators, lower school students and faculty, families, friends and benefactors of Pinecrest, and representatives from Tollett Management Company, Lyman Davidson Dooley, Inc., and New South Construction. Principal Dr. John Tarpley welcomed all to the 32
The school’s chaplain, Father Dominic Pham, LC, followed with a blessing of the ground, assisted by altar servers Alex Pausa and Jake Wilson, both fourth grade students. Fr. Dominic commented, “The work we are beginning today should enliven our faith and make us grateful. Let us ask God, our all-powerful Father, that this work contribute to the building up of his kingdom and join us in faith and love to Christ, who is the cornerstone.” Executive Director, Mr. Rick Swygman, began the ceremonial breaking of the ground, reminding guests of the $1 million gift from an anonyAROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
mous donor that helped begin the construction of the building. “This gift, along with many gifts from you and others, has enabled us to break ground today on the Activities Building,” said Swygman. Swygman introduced and thanked Construction Manager, Mark Tollett, from Tollett Management, who has been instrumental in helping to make the project a reality. The Lower School campus will consist of five permanent buildings, constructed in different phases for cost effectiveness and to minimize disruption to the academic day during construction. This first phase of construction will be the Activities Building, which will include a gym, stage, restrooms and coaches offices, and will provide space for Lower School PE classes and performances. The building will also offer much needed relief for the overburdened existing gym. Construction begins in early March with an estimated completion date of mid- to late fall. MARCH 2011
Eagle Scouts Recognized by Forsyth County Commissioners The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners recognized the accomplishments of four Eagle Scouts during recently held meetings. All Eagle Scouts were each presented with a Resolution from the commissioners. Stephen Pawlik is a member of Troop 207 of the Boy Scouts of America and is a student at South Forsyth High School. His Eagle Scout Court of Honor will be held in Cumming.
Tyler Cromwell is also a member of Troop 207 of the Boy Scouts of America and a student at South Forsyth High School. His Eagle Scout Court of Honor was held December 11, 2010.
Josh Thompson is a member of Troop 207 of the Boy Scouts of America and is a student at South Forsyth High School. His Eagle Scout Court of Honor was held December 11, 2010.
Peter Sisserson attends Lambert High School and is also a member of Troop 207 of the Boy Scouts of America. His Eagle Scout Court of Honor was held December 11, 2010.
Heritage Night at Johns Creek Elementary Students, parents, families and friends were treated to a feast of foods and traditions from around the world during Heritage Night at Johns Creek Elementary. India, China, Korea, Canada, Nepal, Israel, Colombia, Romania, South Africa, Germany, Mexico, Sweden, and USA were represented during the event, which also included music and a display of instruments, customs and traditions. Performances were also part of the evening’s presentations, along with a Parade of Nations and music by the Johns Creek Elementary Choral group. MARCH 2011
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schools
Tips to Help Your Child Become a Stronger Writer [ by Kathy Martin ]
No child is born with the ability to write well. Writing is a skill that takes patience and most importantly, lots of practice. How can parents encourage their child to regularly practice writing, thereby becoming a stronger writer? The easiest way is by showing them how enjoyable it can be. Here are a few tips that can help you accomplish this goal.
Elementary school children In elementary school, your job is to make writing fun for your child. Even when your child begins reading on his or her own, continue the habit of reading together at night. Have your child read to you. Explore topics of interest at the library and let your child choose stories for him or herself. Where’s the writing in all of these activities? The fact is that reading and writing go hand in hand, and beginning writers are often inspired by what they read. They find joy in discovery and learning new things and begin to see the value in writing as a way to create stories, communicate facts, record history and the like. Other ideas to encourage your elementary student to write include: • Playing word and letter recognition games, such as Scrabble, Mad Libs or Balderdash. • Writing letters to a friend or family member. • Making lists of favorite bands, goals, ideas for a summer business, or ways to spend an allowance.
Middle school children In middle school, students begin writing more often as homework increases and teachers expect their students to express themselves clearly on paper. This is an important time to teach your child the relevance of writing. The written word, after all, can be quite a powerful tool. What is your child passionate about? Encourage him or her to write about it. If your child forms a strong opinion about a community issue, why not write a letter to your senator or the editor of your local newspaper? If your child loves cooking, help him or her start a blog where they can share their recipes and adventures in cooking. Other ideas to encourage your middle school student to explore writing independently (and for pleasure) include: • Journaling • Planning a trip or activity for the family—writing out ideas for 34
places to visit and things to do, developing an itinerary, even writing a compelling argument for his or her top destination pick. • Writing a charter for a new club—at or outside of school.
High school students By high school, your teen has likely formed an opinion about writing, and you may think there is little you can do to change it. However, remember that your teen is a cerebral person with complex thoughts. Show your teen to use writing to express him or herself; think and explore problems, ideas or questions; or get what he or she wants. When your teen shares his or her work with you, point out specific words or lines that you like. Find positive things to say about what he or she writes, and avoid being too critical of grammar or spelling mistakes. Other ideas to encourage your high school student to enjoy writing and do it more often include: • • •
Reading—books, online, magazines, even the local daily newspaper. The more your teen is inspired by the written word, the more he or she will be likely to try his or her hand at it. Writing solely for fun in the form of made-up stories, poetry or for the high school newspaper. Writing is part of nearly every school subject and a practical necessity in everyday life. Your child must learn to communicate in writing, even if it isn’t his or her favorite activity. Find ways to make writing a relevant, fun activity and your child’s writing skills will improve by leaps and bounds.
Solid, concise and effective writing will serve every child well for the rest of their lives.
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Kathy Martin, Executive Director of the Huntington Learning Center on Bethelview Road in Cumming. For additional information contact 770-292-8994.
MARCH 2011
schools Elementary Schools
Big Creek Elementary 1994 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 887-4584 Principal: Sherri Black sblack@forsyth.k12.ga.us Brookwood Elementary 2980 Vaughan Drive, (678) 965-5060 Principal: Kathie Braswell kbraswell@forsyth.k12,ga.us Chattahoochee Elementary 2800 Holtzclaw Road, (770) 781-2240 Principal: Dave Culpepper dculpepper@forsyth.k12.ga.us Chestatee Elementary 6945 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville (770) 887-2341 Principal: Rebecca G. Johnson rjohnson@forsyth.k12.ga.us Coal Mountain Elementary 3455 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 887-7705 Principal: Debbie Smith dsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us Cumming Elementary 540 Dahlonega Street, (770) 887-7749 Principal: Pam Pajerski ppajerski@forsyth.k12.ga.us Daves Creek Elementary 3740 Melody Mizer Lane, (770) 888-1223 Principal: Eric Ashton eashton@forsyth.k12.ga.us Haw Creek Elementary 2555 Echols Road, (678) 965-5070 Principal: Dr. Amy Davis ardavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us Johns Creek Elementary 6205 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (678) 965-5041 Principal: Alyssa Degliumberto adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us Mashburn Elementary 3777 Samples Road, (770) 889-1630 Principal: Tracey Smith tbsmith@forysth.k12.ga.us Matt Elementary 7455 Wallace Tatum Road, (678) 455-4500 Principal: Charlley Stalder cstalder@forsyth.k12.ga.us Midway Elementary 4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (770) 475-6670 Principal: Todd Smith tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us Sawnee Elementary 1616 Canton Highway, (770) 887-6161 Principal: Dr. Eileen Nix ecnix@forsyth.k12.ga.us Settles Bridge Elementary 600 James Burgess Road, Suwanee (770) 887-1883 Principal: Donna Morris dmorris@forsyth.k12.ga.us 36
School Information www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Sharon Elementary 3595 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (770) 888-7511 Principal: Amy Bartlett abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us
High Schools
Shiloh Point Elementary 8145 Majors Road, (678) 341-6481 Principal: Sharon Ericson sericson@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Lambert High School 805 Nichols Road, (678) 965-5050 Principal: Dr. Gary Davison gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Sliver City Elementary 6200 Dahlonega Highway, (678) 965-5020 Principal: Kristan Morse kmorse@forsyth.k12.ga.us
North Forsyth High 3635 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 781-6637 Principal: Beth Hebert bhebert@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Vickery Creek Elementary 6280 Post Road, (770) 346-0040 Principal: Ron McAllister rmcallister@forsyth.k12.ga.us
South Forsyth High 585 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 781-2264 Principal: Dr. Jason Branch jbranch@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Whitlow Elementary 3655 Castleberry Road, (678) 965-5090 Principal: Lynne Castleberry lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us
West Forsyth High 4155 Drew Road, (770) 888-3470 Principal: Richard Gill rgill@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Middle Schools
Private Schools
Lakeside Middle 2565 Echols Road, (678) 965-5080 Principal: Debbie Sarver dsarver@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Forsyth Central High 520 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-8151 Principal: Rudy Hampton rhampton@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Cornerstone Schools 4888 Browns Bridge Road, (770) 205-8202 Principal: Elaine M. Francel www.cornerstonesch.com
Liberty Middle 7465 Wallace Tatum Road, (770) 781-4889 Principal: Connie Stovall cstovall@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Covenant Christian Academy 6905 Post Road, (770) 674-2990 Headmaster: Johnathan Arnold www.covenantrams.com
Little Mill Middle 6800 Little Mill Road, (678) 965-5000 Principal: Connie McCrary cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Fideles Christian School 1390 Weber Industrial Drive, (770) 888-6705 Directors: Jonny and Ellen Whisenant www.fideles.net
North Forsyth Middle 3645 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 889-0743 Principal: Jeff Hunt jhunt@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Friendship Christian School 3160 Old Atlanta Road, (678)845-0418 Principal: Tom Davis www.friendshipchristianschool.us
Otwell Middle 605 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Horizon Christian Academy (K-6) 2160 Freedom Parkway (7-12) 433 Canton Road (678) 947-3583, (678) 947-0711 Headmaster: Heather Marshall www.horizonchristian.org
Piney Grove Middle 8135 Majors Road, (678) 965-5010 Principal: Terri North tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us Riverwatch Middle 610 James Burgess Road, Suwanee (678) 455-7311 Principal: Kathy Carpenter kcarpenter@forsyth.k12.ga.us South Forsyth Middle 2865 Old Atlanta Road, (770) 888-3170 Principal: Sandy Tinsley stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us Vickery Creek Middle 6240 Post Road, (770) 667-2580 Principal: Kathy Rohacek krohacek@forsyth.k12.ga.us AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
Ivy League Montessori School 1791 Kelly Mill Road, (770) 781-5586 School Director: Becky Carty www.ilmsnet.com Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs 2830 Old Atlanta Road, (770) 205-6277 Head of School, Kathy Lindaman www.montessoriacademygeorgia.com Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 888-4477 Executive Director: Rick Swygman www.pinecrestacademy.com
MARCH 2011
MARCH 2011
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37
faith
The Time In Between A New Way of [ by Maria I. Morgan ] The bitter cold of winter is past, but the warmer days of spring have yet to arrive. Sometimes it’s difficult to be caught in between. It’s not quite time to switch the thermostat from heat to cool, and it’s too soon to get into spring cleaning mode. But cabin fever has me eagerly anticipating a change. Time to exercise a virtue I have yet to master—patience. From simple everyday events, to life’s major stressors, all require varying degrees of waiting patiently. The dictionary defines the word ‘patient’ as: capable of bearing affliction with calmness; tolerant; persevering. All wonderful characteristics that don’t come naturally. That’s because patience, also referred to as long-suffering, is a result of the Holy Spirit’s work in my life. Waiting can be hard. But it also offers me an opportunity for growth. I can use this time of waiting to evaluate things. Is there anything I need to change? Something I need to do differently? The Apostle Paul offers some challenging words for me to consider, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,” (Hebrews 12:1; KJV). My life is a journey. Others are watching. Times of waiting require patience. Will I give in to my impatience, charging ahead recklessly, or submit to the will of my Heavenly Father who knows exactly what I need? When I make the choice to run life’s race with patience, times of waiting become opportunities to point others to the Savior. On this journey of life, how do you view times of waiting? Do you get impatient? Are you willing to see waiting as an opportunity for growth? Focus on Jesus. Take a step toward patience and make the Savior known! Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for times of waiting in my life. Help me to submit to the Holy Spirit, so I can develop the quality of patience. When others see this characteristic in my life, help me to be quick to point them to You. You are worthy of all of my praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Being Grown Up [ by Nancy Johnson ] We “grown ups” can get awfully boring. I was taught this lesson just a few days ago as I was exercising on my parents’ treadmill. What do most of us do on a treadmill? Usually, we walk. And walk and walk and walk. My children, on the other hand, thought very little of my unoriginal employment of our exercise equipment. They took it upon themselves, therefore, to find much more interesting uses for this new piece of machinery. My daughter learned to “surf” the treadmill, riding it to the end then jumping off. My son enjoyed putting objects on the belt – a sippy cup, art supplies – then sitting back and watching them go by. This was especially fun for me since I had to dodge them. When I was a child, I thought that nothing in the world would be better than growing up and making my own decisions. Now that I am well into adult years, I would still say that the grown up life is pretty good. Still, I deeply miss the sense of adventure that came with just about everything I ever saw or did when I was small. When does normal life quit being so fun? When do we outgrow our sense of curiosity and possibility? Why on earth should we, as intelligent adults, conform ourselves to only one way of doing things? Or using things? Or thinking about things? I would think that life could and should be a lot more interesting. Not long ago, our family took a trip to visit some relatives in another state. Going there, we travelled the same nostalgic route we always take. On the way home, however, we decided to do things a little differently. We took a different route, stopped at the welcome center to see what tourist opportunities there were, and had a great time visiting a new town and taking a scenic route home. One simple decision reminded us that there is a whole world out there, waiting to be discovered. We only had to choose to take a different perspective and try something new. I have an idea for a new way of being grown up. It starts by seeing the world of possibilities that exist in every choice we make, in every activity we take on. We could start to view our world as an adventure, something to be explored and enjoyed, and begin to see the potential for what can be built in it. We have more choices than we may realize. We have the opportunity to build our lives and the world around us. We may as well have some fun doing it. What would our lives be like if the possibilities were limitless? Maybe they are. Start exploring them today.
Maria Morgan is a freelance writer and a Cumming resident. Visit her on the web @ www.mariaimorgan.blogspot.com 38
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Nancy Johnson is an ordained United Methodist minister. She can be reached at nancy.johnson@ngumc. net. Visit her blog, A Feast for the Soul, at soul-feast.blogspot.com. MARCH 2011
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faith Assemblies of God
Northside Family Worship Center 2820 Brookwood Road, Cumming (770) 888-8852 Sunday School all ages: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Pastors: David & Robin Houtsma www.visitnorthside.com
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 2465 Antioch Road (770) 887-6900 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Service: 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. AWANA: Sunday at 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Pastor: Travis Bridgeman www.welcometoantioch.org Cumming Baptist Church 115 Church Street, (770) 205-6699 Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship service: 10:50 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Barry Crocker www.cummingbaptist.net First Baptist Cumming 1597 Sawnee Drive, (770) 887-2428 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups 11 a.m. Traditional Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups Wednesday: 6:15 p.m. AWANA Pastor: Dr. Bob Jolly www.firstbaptistcumming.org First Redeemer Church 2100 Peachtree Parkway, (678) 513-9400 Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m. – Contemporary Service (SFC) 9:15 a.m. – Blended Service (Auditorium) 10:45 a.m. – Blended Service (Auditorium) 9, 10:45 a.m., 6:30 p.m. Bible Fellowship Pastor: Dr. Richard Lee www.firstredeemer.org Greater Heights Baptist Church 3790 Post Road, (770) 887-4802 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship: 11 a.m. Sunday Evening: 5 p.m. Wednesday Evening & AWANA: 7 p.m. Pastor: Chris Grinstead www.ghbcc.org Longstreet Baptist Church 6868 Campground Road, (770) 889-1959 www.longstreetchurch.com Sunday School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday night adult and youth activities 40
Cumming Area Houses of Worship North Lanier Baptist Church 829 Atlanta Highway, (770) 781-5433 Church service times: 8:30 a.m. Classic Worship Service 9:30 Bible Studies 11 a.m. Celebration Worship Service (main auditorium) 11 a.m. Spanish Worship Service (Student Center) Refuge Baptist Church 3525 Pilgrim Mill Road, (678) 807-7746 Sunday Bible Study: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m., 6 p.m. Wednesday Prayer Service: 7 p.m. www.refugebaptistchurch.org
Episcopal
St. Columba’s Church 939 James Burgess Road, Suwanee, (770) 888-4464 Wednesday Services: 6 p.m. Saturdays Service: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Service: 7:45, 9 & 11 a.m. Rector: Father Tripp Norris Curate: Father Joseph Greene www.saintcolumba.net The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit 724 Pilgrim Mill Road, (770) 887-8190 Services: Thursdays 12 noon, Sundays 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. Rector: Keith Oglesby www.episcopalholyspirit.org
Greek Orthodox
Saints Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene Greek Orthodox Church 3074 Bethelview Rd., (770) 781-5250 Divine Liturgy every Sunday at 10 AM Pastor: Fr. Barnabas Powell www.stsrni.org
Lutheran
Living Faith Lutheran Church, LCM S 103 Buford Dam Road, (770) 887-0184 Sunday school: 9:30 a.m., all ages Sunday worship: 8 &10:45 a.m. Living Faith Lutheran Korean Church worship: 12:30 p.m. Wednesday evening fellowship meal (6 p.m.) Bible study for all ages (7 p.m.) Pastor Tim Droegemueller www.livingfaithlutheran.com
Other Churches
Castle Christian Church 3149 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (678) 648-5248 www.castlechristianchurch.com Sunday Worship: 10 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
Senior Minister: Jason Rodenbeck jason@castlechristian.com Family By Faith Worship Center 4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (Midway Elementary School), (678) 230-4800 Small Groups: 9:30 a.m. Worship: 10:30 a.m. Nursery available Pastor: Randy Grimes www.familybyfaith.com First Christian Church 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming, (770) 887-5542 Pastor Stan Percival www.fccga.org LDS Church 510 Brannon Road, (678) 577-4991 Sunday Service: 1 p.m. LifePoint Christian Church 5000 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta (678) 366-2797 Sunday Small Groups: 9 a.m. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: Chris Stovall www.lifepoint.org NewSong Community Church 433 Canton Road, Suite 306, Located across from Ingles, behind the National Guard in Building 300, (770) 888-5212 Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Case Koolhaas www.newsongweb.org Rameshori Buddhist Center 130 Allen Road, Unit B Sandy Springs, 30328 , (404) 255-1585
Presbyterian
Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church 7620 Lanier Drive, (770) 887-6801 Sunday School all ages: 9:45 am Sunday Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: John S. Martin www.deercreekshores.org email: dcspres@comcast.net Korean New Vision Presbyterian Church Meets at Parkway Presbyterian Church 5830 Bethelview Road, (678) 200-5048 Sunday Services: 1:30 p.m. Pastor: Rev. Young Jeon
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faith
The Country Preacher The rhythmic marching sound of soldier’s feet is no longer associated with the month whose noisy storms are said to roar. March derived its name from Martius, referring to Mars the Roman war god. Warmer weather was a logical time for Rome to begin its military campaigns. Winter’s icy days will soon be replaced by the smell of fresh rain and new mown grass. Only the frosty mornings will recall the chill of cold weather. God promised “While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease” (Genesis 8:22). This is the time of year I envision horse trailers unloading 52 snorting, bucking, long haired giants who had spent five months in their winter pasture. Their only memory of last year’s riders was the one who weekly checked their water supply and left hay. With no cows we weren’t cowboys. We weren’t bronc riders who spurred them into 8 seconds of wild action. Our job was to ride off the rough and unlearn any bad habits so they’d behave on trail rides and riding lessons. We were pilots. The title either described our jobs as trail guides or our rainy day stall cleaning. My minimum wage pay of $1.25 per hour was offset by the promise of at least 120 hours of work in two weeks. The economy may have placed you in a mundane low paying job. Some day you may wish you could return to its stress free simplicity. Parkway Church 5830 Bethelview Road (770) 889-8694 (½ mile west of GA 400 exit 13) Sunday Traditional Service: 9 a.m. Sunday Contemporary Service: 11 a.m. Childcare available for both services Senior Pastor: Bill Ford www.parkway-church.org email: info@parkway-church.org The Vine Community Church 4655 Bethelview Road, (678) 990-9395 Sunday Services: 9 & 10:45 a.m. Wednesday: Middle and High School youth meet at 7:15 – 8:30 p.m. Pastor: Jon Adams www.thevinecommunitychurch.com
Roman Catholic
Church of Good Shepherd 3740 Holtzclaw Road (770) 887-9861 Mass: Saturday Vigil, 5 p.m.; Sundays, 7:30, 9 & 10:30 a.m. and 12 noon; 5:30 p.m. Spanish Mass, 1:30 p.m. Weekdays: 9 a.m Pastor: Father Frank www.goodshepherdcumming.com St. Brendan Catholic Church 4633 Shiloh Road, (770) 205-7969 Mass: Saturday Vigil: 5 p.m. MARCH 2011
[ by David Hill ]
When God sent Jonah to Nineveh (in Iraq) to offer the opportunity of repentance He expressed His pleasure in sparing 120,000 persons “and also much cattle.” (Jonah 4:11) God loves His creation. The entire creation is endowed with a similarity that reveals His touch. Working with so many different horses reminds me of the characteristics they share with people. How different and special they were. Smoky was lazy and pokey, if allowed to be. Elmer was a clown who would remove the phone’s receiver when it rang in the barn. The more the children who were taking lessons laughed, the more he enjoyed it. General Lee was cranky. It took a strong hand and a tight rein to control Hi-Fi. Ricky was an 8-year old (about 30 in human years) who couldn’t be separated from his 20 year old mother. Rex was gentle, dependable and happiest when teaching riding to young children. [ Continued on page 43 ]
Sunday: 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. Spanish Mass: 1 p.m. Weekdays: 8:30 a.m. Pastor: Father John Howren www.stbrendansatl.com
United Methodist
Bethelview United Methodist Church 4525 Bethelview Road, (770) 887-4888 Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. (child care available) Pastor: Rev. Deborah Griffith www.bethelview.net Cumming First United Methodist Church 770 Canton Highway, (770) 887-2900 Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11 a.m. (Child care available) Sunday Hispanic/Latino Worship: 12 noon Wednesday Communion Service: 12 noon Senior Pastor: Rev. John L. Cromartie, Jr. www.cfumcga.com
Rev. Hill is a Cumming resident and frequent guest preacher at Antioch Baptist Church. Biblical quotes are from the King James Version of the Bible.
Midway United Methodist Church 5025 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (770) 475-5230 Sunday Traditional Worship: 8:30 a.m. Sunday Children’s Church: 9:30 a.m. Sunday School all ages: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Contemporary Worship: 10:45 a.m. www.midwayumc.org Piedmont United Methodist Church 1170 Dahlonega Highway, (770) 887-0770 Sunday Services Bible Study 10 a.m. Traditional Service 11 a.m. Bible Study 5 p.m. PiedmontUMC@bellsouth.net
Lanier United Methodist Church 1979 Buford Highway, (770) 887-0615 Sunday Traditional Service: 8:45 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Contemporary Praise Service: 11 a.m. Nursery available for both services Pastor: Ted Miller www.lanierumc.org AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
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Reference
Cumming Area Clubs and Organizations
Business Networking
Business 400 Meeting: First Tuesday 5:30 — 7:30 p.m. Location: Lanier Tech College New Conference Center 7745 Majors Rd Cumming, GA 30041 Contact: (877) 581-1039 or ron@business400.com Information: The goal is to provide the 400 Community the opportunity to effectively network and to view the 400 corridor as a single economic engine. $250 annual membership fee. Visit twice for free. Central Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: Second & fourth Tuesdays 11 a.m. — 1 p.m. Location: The Columns at Pilgrim Mill Apartments Contact: Nancy Wright, (770) 886-0500 or nancyw@ecigroups.com Information: No fees. Open to all. Forsyth Network for Business Professionals Meeting: Thursdays 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Location: New) Bello Italian Restaurant 101 Meadow Drive Contact: Fred Burak, (678) 677-0815 Information: $50 membership fee and $10 monthly. Visit twice for free. No occupation overlap. Call first. Forsyth Business Network Meeting: Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. Location: Stars & Strikes, 133 Merchants Square Contact: Cheryl Campbell, cheryl@starsandstrikes.org Information: There is a membership fee, may visit twice for free. The Inspiration Network of Cumming Meeting: Third Wednesdays from 7 — 8:30 p.m. Location: The Nurturing Nook, 205 Pilgrim Mill Road Contact: Leanne Temple, (678) 965-5969 Lunch and Learn Meeting: Fourth Tuesday 11:45 a.m. — 1 p.m. Location: Cumming Chamber of Commerce Contact: (770) 887-6461 or cfccoc@ cummingforsythchamber.org Information: Free for first timers. The cost is $5 for members. Pizza and drinks are provided South Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. No fees. Location: Holiday Inn Express – John’s Creek, 7146 Mcginnis Ferry Rd., Suwanee Contact: Robin Grier (770) 887-2772 rgrier@harborfs.com
Women Who Mean Business Meeting: First Tuesday, Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Location: Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Event’s Facility 513 W. Maple Street Contact: (770) 887-6461 Information: Free for members; $30 for non-members. Register online at www. cummingforsythchamber.org.
Charitable Organizations
Georgia Highlands Medical Services Contact: (770) 887-1668 Information: This is a non-profit Community Health Center (CHC) serving the medical needs of North Georgia since 1979. Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement Fund, Inc. Contact: (770) 886-5419 Website: www.savethehorses.org Humane Society of Forsyth County No-Kill Shelter Location: 4440 Keith Bridge Road Contact: (770) 887-6480 Information: Non-profit, no-kill shelter for cats and dogs. Website: www.forsythpets.org There’s Hope for the Hungry Contact: (678) 513-9400 Information: Non-profit organization partnering with churches across North Georgia to feed those in need. Website: www.thereshope.org Whispering Hope Resource & Pregnancy Center Location: 133 Samaritan Drive, Suite 306 Information: Non-profit organization dedicated to informing, educating, and providing an outstretched hand to women who face an untimely pregnancy. Contact: (770) 889-8302, whisperinghope4u@bellsouth.net Website: www.WhisperingHope.org
Civic Organizations
Ducktown Chapter #460 — Order of the Eastern Star Meeting: 2nd & 4th Fridays at 7:30 p.m. Location: 4655 Canton Hwy. Contact: (770) 887-8147 Rotary Club of South Forsyth Meeting: Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. Location: 6300 Polo Club Drive Website: www.southforsythrotaryclub.org
Political Organizations
Democratic Women of Forsyth County Meeting: Second Thursday Location: Different restaurants in Cumming Contact: Mary Chatfield, (770) 887-1106 Facebook page: DWFC GA Information: Democratic women meet monthly and the meetings alternate between lunch and dinner meetings with programs.
Forsyth County Democratic Party Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: CooCoo’s Nest restaurant, corner of Freedom Parkway & Pilgrim Mill Road, Cumming Contact: Ricia Maxie at ricialm@aol.com or Mary Chatfield at (770) 887-1106
Recreation & Hobbies
Cuong Nhu Martial Arts Club Contact: (404) 423-3524 Meeting: Every other Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Central Park Website: www.meetup.com/North-Atlanta Cuong-Nhu-Martial-Arts-Club/ Information: No fees, open to 16 years + North Georgia Chess Center Location: 2450 Atlanta Hwy. Suite 1401 Contact: Joseph or Cathy Couvillion 770-844-9204, northgachesscenter@gmail.com, www.northgachesscenter.com Information: Call for hours. Membership $15 per month or $150 annually. Lessons are also available. Piecemakers Quilt Guild Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of each month; 4th Tuesday is “sewcialbee” (community quilts, classes or just getting together) Location: Christ the King Lutheran Church 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road, Cumming Website: www.piecemakersquiltguild.org
Support Organizations
AA Cumming Meeting: Meets four times daily Location: Ingles Shopping Center at 432 Canton Highway (Hwy 20) Second suite on far left. 24-hour information line: (770) 886-0696 Information: Group of Alcoholics Anonymous located in Forsyth County Website: www.aacummingga.org Forsyth County Newcomers and Women’s Club Meeting: Third Thursday of each month Location: Windermere Golf Club Contact: Imy Rach, imyrach@yahoo.com Information: A luncheon with program, many interest group activities every week (ladies, mens, couples and singles). Open to all women currently living in the county. Website: www.newcomersclubofforsyth.org Holistic Moms Network - Forsyth County Monthly meetings with informational speakers, yoga group, play groups Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Location: Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House 5095 Post Road, Cumming Contact: Ann Linke at holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com Website: www.holisticmoms.org
clubs, cont’d
Broken Resolutions?
Labrador Friends of the South, Inc. Location: PO Box 933, Cumming Contact: labfriendinfo@gmail.com Website: www.labradorfriends.com
No worries! [ Continued from page 26]
Moms Club of Cumming — North Monthly meetings with informational speakers, park play days, holiday parties, fieldtrips, playgroups and a monthly MOMS Night Out. Contact: momscummingnorth@yahoo.com Website: www.momsclub.org
6. Sleep 8 hours a night. A number of recent studies have confirmed that you really do need at least eight hours a night. Among the many benefits: Adequate sleep makes you feel better, decreases risk for cardiovascular disease, boosts memory and reduces the likelihood of being in a car accident. Various health issues such as fibromyalgia and migraine headaches may be due to neurological dysregulation stimming from lack of sleep.
Moms Club of Cumming — Southwest Meeting: Last Tuesday of each month Contact: http://www.momsclub.org NAMI Forsyth Dawson Lumpkin Meeting: Thursdays, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Location: Forsyth County Family Center 133 Samaritian Dr., Cumming, GA Information: Two support groups (family & peer) meet every Thurs. except the last when there is a speaker. Contact: namifdlga@gmail.com Website: www.namifdlga.org SMART Recovery Meeting: Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Professional Recovery Counseling, LLC. 107 W. Court house Square, Suite 274 Website: www.smartrecovery.org
The Country Preacher [ Continued from page 41] My lead horse was a dark bay that turned black by the end of a 4 mile trail ride. He danced and pranced but with a slight movement of the reins he would do exactly as instructed. His name was The Judge, like a popular saying in the ‘60s. I returned to college leaving my days as a pilot behind. “A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.” (Proverbs 12:10) Paraphrasing this verse, someone who in freezing weather doesn’t warm a cold bit before putting it in the mouth of a horse probably won’t treat people much differently! God has “given the horse strength . . . clothed his neck with thunder . . . he paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in his strength . . . he mocketh at fear . . . he swalloweth the ground with fierceness and rage.” (Job 39:19-25)
MARCH 2011
7. Consider chiropractic and massage as valid therapies for chronic problems, such as headaches, back pain and neuropathy. Seeing a chiropractor for neck or back pain will work better than taking extra strength Tylenol and/or Advil regularly. 8. If you smoke, quit. There is nothing good about it. If you’re having trouble quitting, start smoking less today—smoke only half a cigarette, and skip as many of your usual smokes as you can—and get help right away. Get some guidance about why it is you smoke to figure out how best to stop doing it. Smoking cessation groups can be extremely helpful and supportive, and medications like a nicotine patch can help decrease the cravings. Acupuncture may also be useful. 9. Don’t focus on dieting. Focus on eating. If you’re hungry, you’re more likely to overeat, especially in the evening. Instead, of sacrificing all day and gorging later, it’s better to eat enough during the day to avoid hunger pangs and uncontrolled eating at night. Eat every four hours or so, and make sure to eat a “second lunch”—think of it as another meal rather than a snack—in the mid-afternoon to keep your energy up and make you less hungry in the evening. 10. Don’t drink too many calories. It’s easy to drink calories without noticing: that mocha latte at Starbucks has nearly as many calories as a Big Mac. It’s okay to have one as an occasional treat, but consider it a meal, not a drink. Make 2011 your healthiest year yet— start today! (Always consult a health care professional when staring an exercise or nutritional program.)
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Reference Community Information Numbers & Websites Emergency — 911 • AroundAbout — Cumming • (770) 615-3334 Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines: Battered Women Hotline Poison Control Center — Atlanta Outside Metro Atlanta Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center
(770) 479-1703 (404) 616-9000 (800) 222-1222 (404) 250-KIDS (770) 428-2666
Medical Northside Hospital — Forsyth 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive
(770) 844-3200 www.northside.com
Neighborhood Healthcare Center 2825 Keith Bridge Road Health Department 428 Canton Highway
(770) 844-7494 (770) 886-7135 (770) 781-6906
Fire and Law Enforcement City of Cumming Police Department (770) 781-2000 301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard www.cummingpd.net Forsyth County Fire Department 3520 Settingdown Road Georgia State Patrol Libraries Forsyth County Public Library 585 Dahlonega Road Sharon Forks Branch 2810 Old Atlanta Road Parks and Recreation Main Number: 410 Pilgrim Mill Road Athletic Division
(770) 781-2180 www.forsythco.com (770) 205-5400
(770) 781-9840 www.forsythpl.org (770) 781-9840
(770) 781-2030
770) 781-2215
Central Park Recreation Center 2300 Keith Bridge Road
(678) 455-8540
Windermere Park 3355 Windermere Parkway
(770) 205-4715
Fairgrounds 235 Castleberry Road Golf Clubs Chestatee Golf Club 777 Dogwood Way, Dawsonville
(770) 781-3491
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Country Land Golf Course 6560 Mayfield Drive Polo Golf & Country Club 6300 Polo Club Drive Windermere Golf Club 5000 Davis Love Drive Forsyth County Marinas Habersham Marina 2200 Habersham Marina Road Port Royale Marina 9200 LanMar Road, Gainesville
(770) 887-0006 (770) 887-7656 (678) 513-1000
(770) 887-5432 (770) 887-5715
YMCA 6050 Y Street
(770) 888-2788
POST OFICE 525 Tribble Gap Road
(770) 886-2388
Schools Forsyth County Board of Education www.forsyth.k12.ga.us
See page 36 for complete listing (770) 887-2461
UTILITIES Water & Sewer Forsyth County Water & Sewer 110 East Main Street
City of Cumming (770) 781-2020 (770) 781-2160 www.forsythco.com
Solid Waste Advanced Disposal/Eagle Point Landfill (770) 887-6063 8880 Old Federal Road, Ball Ground www.advanceddisposal.com Olde Atlanta Recycling LLC 2535 Ivy Street East
(770) 205-6912
Waste Management, Inc. 774 McFarland Road, Alpharetta
(770) 751-1304 www.wm.com
Recycling Keep Forsyth County Beautiful
(770) 205-4573
Telephone AT&T Residential Business www.att.com
(888) 757-6500 (866) 213-6300
Georgia Power
888) 660-5890
Sawnee Electric Membership
(770) 887-2363
(706) 216-7336
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Reference Elected & Appointed Officials United States Government: President Barack H. Obama (D) 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov
(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461
Commissioners: R.J. (Pete) Amos, District 1 (R) e-mail: rjamos@forsythco.com
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) Atlanta Office: 100 Galleria Parkway Suite 1340 GA: Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.chambliss.senate.gov e-mail: use contact form on website
(202) 224-3521
Senator Johnny Isakson (R) Atlanta Office: One Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: 3625 Cumberland Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.isakson.senate.gov
(202) 224-3643
Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 Georgia Office: Wachovia Center GA: 500 Jesse Jewel Parkway, Suite 301, Gainesville, GA 30503 Website: www.tomgraves.house.gov
(202) 225-5211 (770) 535-2592
Rep. John Linder (R), District 7 1026 Longworth House Office Building, GA: Washington D.C. 20515 Website: http://linder.house.gov
(202) 225-4272 (770) 232-3005
State Government: Governor Nathan Deal (R) Website: www.gov.state.ga.us fax:
County Manager Doug Derrer
(770) 763-9090 fax: (202) 224-0103
(770) 661-0999
(770) 781.2101 fax : (770) 781.2199
(678) 513-5881
Brian R. Tam, District 2 (R) e-mail: brtam@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5882
Todd Levent, District 3 (R) e-mail: tlevent@forsythco.com
(770) 781-2101
Patrick B. Bell, District 4 (R) e-mail: pbbell@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5884
Jim Boff, District 5 (R) e-mail: jjboff@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5885
Forsyth County School System Superintendent, Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans 1120 Dahlonega Highway Cumming Website: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Forsyth County Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter 1092 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040 Website: www.forsythco.com Board of Education: Ann Crow, District 1 (R) e-mail: ACrow@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-2461
(770) 781-2110
(770) 490-6316
(404) 652-7003 (404) 652-7123
Kristin Morrissey, District 2 (R) e-mail: KMorrisey@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 781-5222
LT. Governor Casey Cagle Website: www.gov.state.ga.us
(404) 656-5030
Tom Cleveland, District 3 (R) e-mail: TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 657-0810
Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov fax:
(770) 887-1960 (770) 205-0602
Darla Light, District 4 e-mail: DLight@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-0678
Senator Steve Gooch (R), District 51 e-mail: steve.gooch@statesenate.ga.gov
(678) 341-6203 fax: (770) 844-5821
Nancy Roche, Chairperson, District 5 (R) e-mail: NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 889-0229
Rep. Mark Hamilton (R), District 23 e-mail: mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov
(770) 844-6768
Rep. Mike Dudgeon (R), District 24 e-mail: mike.dudgeon@house.ga.gov
(770) 887-0400
City of Cumming Mayor Henry Ford Gravitt Cumming City Hall 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040
Rep. Amos Amerson (R), District 9 e-mail: amos.amerson@house.ga.gov
(404) 657-8534
Forsyth County Government: Forsyth County Board of Commissioners 110 East Main Street, Suite 210, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 781-2101 Website:www.forsythco.com fax: (770) 781-2199 46
(770) 781-2010
Cumming City Council Members: Quincy Holton, Lewis Ledbetter, Ralph Perry, John Pugh and Rupert Sexton City Administrator Gerald Blackburn
(770) 781-2101
City Clerk Jeff Honea jhonea@cityofcumming.net
AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
MARCH 2011
Support the Advertisers that Support Your Community! BOOKS/BOOK PUBLISHERS Book Logix Publishing Services, Inc......................... 13 770-346-9979
Kennesaw State University Continued Education............ 29 770-423-6765 www.kennesawedu/coned.com
GARDENING CENTER Pike Nursery......................... 15 770-205-1737 www.pikenursery.com
The Client Nation.................. 13 www.theclientnation.com
Leadership/LeaderCAST........ 39 770-479-3669
CAMPS/SUMMER CAMPS Willow Brook Academy......... 29 678-455-055
DENTISTS/ORTHODONTICS Jordan Dentistry................... 5 770-888-6262 www.jordandentistry.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN Pixelution Studios................. 37 678-945-7301 www.pixelutionstudios.com
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS Carpet Dry Tech................... 7 678-368-5991 CHIROPRACTOR Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation........................ 11 678-456-9122
Walton Orthodontics............. 24, 25 770-663-0955 www.drwalton.com ENTERTAINMENT/THEATER Georgia Senior Follies.......... 39 770-781-9178
CHURCH SERVICES Cumming First United Methodist.............................. 39 770-887-2900
EVENTS FACILITY Forsyth Conference Center ...........................Inside Front Cover 770-781-6974 www.forsythconferencecenter.com
CHILDREN/GIFTS Tooth Fairy Land................... 37 www.toothfairyland.com
FESTIVAL Mutts & More ....................... 4 www.forsythpets.org
EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION Huntington Learning Center ...........................Inside Front Cover 770-205-2800 www.huntingtonlearningcenter.com
FREELANCE WRITERS Shelly Kent............................ 11 404-232-9898
48
FINANCIAL SERVICES Summit Financial Solutions... 6 770-928-8100
HAIR SALON Kim King, OVO Salon........... 5 678-469-4414 Wendy Grosse, OVO Salon..................................... 5 678-469-4414 HOME IMPROVEMENT/ SERVICE Custom Iron Works & Design.................................. 48 678-513-2866 Handyman Malcolm............. 17 678-654-3852 JEWELRY STORE Lance’s Jewelry.. ...........................Back Cover 770-781-5500 MAILING SERVICES/ PACKAGING The UPS Store, Bethelview.... 6 770-888-1502
AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
PAWN/GOLD BUYERS The Pawn Father................... 7 678-456-8683; 770-757-8654 PET ADOPTION/RESCUE Humane Society of Forsyth Co.35 770-889-1365; 770-887-6480 www.forsythpets.org PHOTOGRAPHER Kim Bates Photography ...........................Inside Back Cover 770-617-7597 www.kimbatesphotoart.com PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL SERVICES Northside Hospital Forsyth... 1 www.northside.com RESTAURANTS/FOOD SERVICES Baba’s Gyros & Kabobs....... 17 770-888-8100 Good Measure Meals........... 11 404-815-7695 RESORT/VACATION DESTINATION Casa La Lanchita................. 11 800-774-4717; 787-741-8449 WEB HOSTING SERVICES GhostNet, Inc.....Inside Back Cover 770-852-2292 www.ghostnetinc.com
MARCH 2011