July/August 2010
Featured Articles
Volume 4, Issue 4
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20 & 21 On the Cover: State Senator Judson Hill Incumbent State Senator, District 32 Photos by Rod Kaye
Chris Kief, one of East Cobb’s “Greatest Dads” with his family at Berry Patch Farm.
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“Why My Dad is the Greatest!”
Jennifer Aylin Goldberger tells us about her very special stepdad.
16
Laws that Will Affect You in 2010
Attorney Doug Rohan keeps you informed about some new laws on the books.
18
“The Creative Habit”
Ike Reighard shares an inspirational book he discovered.
23
Primary Voters’ Guide
Get to know the candidates before you vote.
In Every Issue
23 It’s Time to ... make your voice heard and vote in the Primary election.
LeeAnn Jones is the Title Manager for AroundAbout — East Cobb. She has more than 20 years experience assisting clients grow their businesses. Look for her out and about in East Cobb! You can reach her at (770) 615-3310 or leeann@ aroundaboutmagazines.com. 2
Birthdays................................................ 8
Elected Officials.................................... 42
Calendar............................................... 14
Community Numbers........................... 44
Houses of Worship....................... 38 & 39
Classifieds............................................ 46
Clubs & Organizations................... 40 & 41
Advertisers Directory............................ 47
Contributing Writers Don Akridge......................................... 12
Chris Leggett......................................... 16
Dr. Cristi Cheek..................................... 18
Ike Reighard......................................... 18
Sen. Judson Hill.................................... 12
Doug Rohan.......................................... 16
AroundAbout — East Cobb is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25% recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste. AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
Community
T
his has been an amazing year of change and growth for AroundAbout — East Cobb. We began 2010 with a battle cry, “It’s Time!” The economy was showing signs of recovery, and we wanted to share our enthusiasm for the future with our community. It was also during this time that AroundAbout Community Magazines came under the ownership of Karen and Jon Flaig, longtime supporters of our publication and our community.
Publisher AroundAbout Community Magazines, Inc. Owners Karen & Jon Flaig Executive Editor Kara Kiefer
With the change in ownership, we added key staffing positions, including our AroundAbout — East Cobb Title Manager, LeeAnn Jones. Through LeeAnn’s efforts, we are pleased to announce that once again, AroundAbout — East Cobb will be a monthly publication starting with our September issue. We are excited about the benefits this change will provide to our advertisers and our readers!
Advertising Director Leslie Proctor Title Manager LeeAnn Jones Art Director Michelle McCulloch
Additionally, we currently are working towards launching a dynamic, interactive and entertaining web presence. Our goal is to not just be a website, but the ultimate virtual destination for all things East Cobb. You will hear a lot more about our web presence in the coming months!
Digital Marketing Director James Ball
Finally, we would like to welcome our new AroundAbout — East Cobb Community Board members: Dr. Cristi Cheek, owner Cristi Y.Cheek, D.M.D., P.C., Family and Cosmetic Dentistry; Ronald Sumper, Director, Community Marketing-Cobb EMC; Ashley Womble, Owner Womber Watchworks and Douglas Rohan, attorney with Caston & Lecca, P.C. We will introduce these valued members along with additional new board members of the AroundAbout — East Cobb family in our September issue.
AroundAbout — East Cobb is a franchisee of AroundAbout Community Magazines, Inc., a bi-monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the East Cobb area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It is distributed free by mail to approximately 17,500 homes and businesses and 3,500 in racks throughout the East Cobb community.
From all of us at AroundAbout — East Cobb, we thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to continuing our tradition of “Building Stronger Communities!”
Executive Editor AroundAbout Community Magazines kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com
College Intern Amanda Santiago
AroundAbout — East Cobb welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 20th of August. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send payment 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 — East Cobb 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 2010.
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
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NOW to Advertise! 770-615-3304
Email: leslie@aroundaboutmagazines.com July / August 2010
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Community
News Around East Cobb Musical Opportunities Available for Senior Musicians
Atlanta, Forsyth and Cherokee. The Zoo was a bustle of activity as families explored animal exhibits and participated in activities like cookie decorating, arts and crafts, puppet making, face painting, hula-hoop contests and more.
The East Cobb New Horizons Band program expands musical opportunities for senior citizens with musical instrument experience. The band, directed by George Broom, is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit charitable organization. It was established for the purpose of providing senior citizen musicians from Cobb, Cherokee, Fulton and other surrounding counties, with an opportunity to take part in an actively performing concert band or jazz ensemble. In addition, the band provides musical entertainment and cultural enrichment to the community through its public and private performances.
This year’s festivities were given even more meaning with a donation collection of canned food and diapers for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Attendees donated an astounding 1,687 pounds of items. “We had estimated that we would need ten barrels, but ended up filling twelve,” said James Johnson, product procurement coordinator, Atlanta Community Food Bank. “We greatly appreciate the efforts of everyone at Northside to fight hunger in our community.”
The East Cobb New Horizons Band is configured as a concert band playing a variety of arrangements, which include Broadway, classical-traditional, hymns, marches, patriotic, and popular music including arrangements for special holidays. Band members include woodwind, brass wind and percussion instrument musicians.
Jason McCabe, son of Cathie and Brian McCabe.
The band rehearses Mondays from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Marietta First Baptist Church located at 146 Church St. in the Family Living Center. Auditions are not required. For more information, please contact Chuck LaBarbera, Membership Chairperson at (678) 644-5950, email him at chuck. ecnhb@gmail.com or visit bobndaleh@bellsouth.netwww. eastcobbnewhorizonsband.org
Cobb Libraries, Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Thrashers Team Up The Cobb County Public Library System (CCPLS) is taking part in the sixth annual Atlanta Hawks/Atlanta Thrashers ‘Check-ItOut Reading Challenge,’ running through August 15 for students in grades K-12. The event is designed to encourage youth to read throughout the summer months. By reading at least five books, participants can earn a free ticket to an Atlanta Hawks game and a free ticket for an Atlanta Thrashers game. Tickets are valid for 2010-2011 regular season home games. For more information on the Reading Challenge and its rules, log on to www. checkitoutreading.com or visit one of the 17 CCPLS branches in your area.
Zoo Hosts Largest Birthday Party Northside Hospital’s 21st Annual Baby Alumni Birthday Party was a celebration like no other, with approximately 3,000 children and their families in attendance. Held at Zoo Atlanta, the party honored all those born at Northside’s hospitals in
Banking, only better! 6
Cobb EMC Recognizes Law Enforcement Cobb EMC recently hosted its fourth annual Steak Out event, a luncheon to recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who protect communities within the EMC’s service area. More than 90 law enforcement officers and city officials from around the area attended the event, which was catered by Longhorn Steak House, Acworth. Also attending were several members from Cobb EMC’s board of directors and employees from Cobb EMC and Gas South. At the event, which included live music from the bluegrass band Highway 41, law enforcement officials won a wide range of door prizes provided by the EMC and local businesses.
Left to right: Emerson Police Department Chief Stanley Bradley, Cobb County Manager David Hankerson, Kennesaw Chief William Westenberger, Powder Springs Chief L. Rick Richardson, Senior Chaplain of Cobb County Police and Fraternal Order of Police Scotty Davis, Director of Cobb County Public Safety Mickey Lloyd, Woodstock Asst. Chief Bart Giesey, Chief Deputy of Cobb Sheriff’s Department Lynda Coker, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department Lt. Jay Baker, City of Mountain Park Mayor Jim Still, Cobb EMC President/CEO Dwight Brown and City of Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques.
LGE
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
July / August 2010
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Community
Happy Birthday!
Chris McCulloch Age 11 on July 6 Son of Michelle & Jim McCulloch Brother of Bryan
Bryan McCulloch Age 17 on August 4 Son of Michelle & Jim McCulloch Brother of Chris
Garrett Kiefer
Aurora Ellis
Jacqui Ellis
Age 15 on July 24 Son of Kara & Mike Kiefer Brother of Brandon
Age 9 June 27 Daughter of Jacqui & Mike Ellis
Celebrating on July 2 Wife of Mike Mother of Aurora
Happy Anniversary!
Stork Watch Madeleine Lily O’Neal Born April 29, 2010 8 lbs., 7 oz., 20 in. Daughter of Courtney & Kelly O’Neal Sister of Brock
Joan & James Carter Celebrated their 40th Anniversary on June 20
Surprise your loved one with a free birthday or anniversary wish! Mail to: Around About — East Cobb 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 340, Woodstock, GA 30189 Brooke & Jake Hopkins
e-mail: kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com
Married 7 years on June 7
Banking, only better! 8
Deadline is the 20th of August
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Get the Word Out to Your Neighbors! Local Community News Local School News Local Calendar items Local Church News email: kara@aroundaboutmagazines.com Deadline is August 20 July / August 2010
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Feature
Why My Dad is the Greatest! Each year, AroundAbout-East Cobb solicits submissions from our readers telling us why they think their dad is the greatest. To us, there is no one “greatest” dad — they all are special to their families. The following essay was submitted by Jennifer Aylin Golderberger to express why she felt her stepdad is “the greatest.”
Chris Keif “My stepdad, Chr is Keif, has been in my life for ab Since the beginn out four years. ing, he has im
pressed upon m e the impact an importance of acceptance, an d d its role in a lo vi mom had two bo ng relations hi p. ys, both with au My tism, in a relatio with my stepda ns hi p pr io r to hers d. Throughout their relations hi p, Chris has take the role of thei r father, showin n on g no notice of distinction betw his biological ch een ildren and his st epchildren. Chr gesture of acce is m ad e th e ultimate ptance recently, by adopting my majority of pare br ot he rs . A vast nts with autistic children divorce, that the percen so I ca n on ly assume tage of men who adopt them is a warms my hear m in is cu le number. It t to see them ac knowledge each sons. I believe ot he r as fa ther and it has impacted my mother’s fa ith in which many in m en . In a world single mothers remain single du e to many a man aversion to resp onsibility, his un ’s conditional acce and her childre pt an ce of m y mother n — including m yself — and his proven commitm been a shining example to me ent have of what a truly dedicated and relations hi p shou devoted ld look like.” Submitted by Je nnifer Aylin Gol dberger, age 16
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July / August 2010
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Community
What Do Your Children Know About Building Wealth?
Why Half of All Workers May Lose their Health Insurance
by Don Akridge, MBA, CPA, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ U.S. Marine Corps Veteran - Emory University Alumnus
by State Senator Judson Hill
When you were 20 or 25, what was your level of financial literacy? What would you like to have known at 18, 25 or 35? What did you think of when the nightly news mentioned Wall Street or the Federal Reserve? Did you even care about those things at that time? Few young adults fully understand how wealth can be built. That’s not smart. Decades from now, many will wish they had started planning to amass wealth earlier in life. How can you encourage your children to start that process?
Help them start before they turn 18. If your child is a minor, there are still several ways she or he can get a head start on growing wealth. Besides the basic move of opening a savings account, it is possible for your child to open a Roth IRA. The IRS sets no minimum age limit for IRA contributions. If your son or daughter has earned income from a job and filed taxes, he or she can open a Roth or traditional IRA with your assistance and contribute to it. Your child may also buy a government bond with your help, or buy equity shares or make a direct stock purchase via a guardian account or custodial account. Encourage them to set life and financial goals. Why not?
It is not far fetched if your teen wants to become a millionaire; given inflation over time, we may need to be millionaires down the road. Even if your son or daughter simply sets a life goal – for example, to start a business someday or to graduate from a prestigious university – he or she will start to think about what that will take financially.
Last week, the Obama administration’s Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services and Treasury issued rules following the passage of what’s been called “Obamacare” H.R. 4872. The new rules set forth individuals’ and employees’ rights to keep their current health insurance coverage in light of the federal takeover of health care. President Obama promised numerous times last year and this year that “the government is not going to make you change [health] plans under health reform.” And now, this month, we are told by the Obama administration that “after some period of time, most [health] plans will relinquish their grandfathered status,” which means that most people cannot keep their health insurance and will be forced to join “Obamacare.” This is what many conservatives said all along. Federal rules are treated as law “It’s time to place by federal departments and agencies. The rules detail the Georgians above circumstances under which a politics and renew change in plan benefits would our efforts to prepare cause someone to lose his/her Georgia to meet its current health insurance which future challenges.” is known as “grandfathered status.” Health insurance plans that lose its grandfathered status must now comply with at least 13 new federal health mandates. This means higher insurance premiums, and not the $2,500 annual family savings that Obama promised. Furthermore, for the first time, everyone must pay these new premiums with aftertax dollars.
Wean them off plastic. As your children become young adults, the great lesson is a simple one – spend less than what you make. If they have to go into big debt, it better be for education’s sake and not for comparatively frivolous reasons. Remind them that it is possible to pay off debt and plan to build wealth at the same time.
Look back over your life for a moment. What shaped you more – the material things you bought when you were 18 or 21, or the experiences you had when you were 18 or 21?
Convey that it is not what you own, but what you do that counts. Hopefully, your son or daughter will start investing early – and sensibly. Some young investors like the thrill of day trading, of looking for the next hot stock that will be the talk of Wall Street. It is better for your son or daughter to learn principles of diversification from the start (and not
The Obama administration admits that an average of 51 percent of all employees and 66 percent of small business employees will lose their grandfathered status in more than two years. They estimated that possibly 70 percent of all workers and four in five small business employees will lose their current health insurance coverage by 2013. Even if their best estimate comes true, according to their report, then only 15 percent of Americans will lose their current coverage next year! Also troubling is that the new law and rules prohibit employers from modifying their health benefits to keep their current plans. Typically, more than 50 percent of employers make annual health plan changes; however, now you cannot do so and keep your existing health coverage. The risk that a company’s employees could lose benefits and suffer much higher premiums may cause most employers to allow federal workers to establish
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Community
Community Calendar Ongoing East Cobb New Horizons Band Location: 146 Church Street Time: Mondays 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (rehearsal) Information: The East Cobb New Horizons Band is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization. Contact Chuck LaBarbera, Membership Chairperson, at (678) 6445850 or chuck.ecnhb@gmail.com or www. eastcobbnewhorizonsband.org.
July 14 Wild About Wildlife Location: Stout Park, 5420 Brownsville-Lithia Springs Road, Powder Springs Time: 9 – 11 a.m. Information: All ages are welcome. Facilitated by educators from the Watershed Steward Program and the Natural Resources Program. Space is limited so please RSVP early. To register, call (770) 528-8803 or email Karen. Faucett@cobbcounty.org.
July 17 Fishing Rodeo Location: Lost Mountain Park, 4845 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs Time: 9 – 11 a.m. Information: Open to children ages 3 – 16 years old. Participants will be grouped by ages: 3 – 6 years old, 7 – 9 years old, 10 – 12 years old and 13 – 16 years old. Trophies will be given out to first through third place in each age group and for Overall Big Fish. Contact John Purcell at (770) 528-8825 or email him at John. Purcell@cobbcounty.org. Visit www.prca. cobbcountyga.gov.
Polk Street Players: “Hot Property” Location: St. James’ Episcopal Church, 161 Church Street, Marietta Dates/Times: July 9, 10, 16, 17, 8 p.m.; July 11, 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $12.50. Information: Box office (770) 218-9669. Visit http://www.stjamesmarietta.com/
Polk.St.Players/Main.html.
July 28 Family Scavenger Hunt Location: Sweetwater Park, 447 Clay Rd, Austell Time: 9 – 11 a.m. Information: All ages are welcome. Facilitated by educators from the Watershed Steward Program and the Natural Resources Program. Space is limited so please RSVP early. To register, call (770) 528-8803 or email Karen. Faucett@cobbcounty.org.
July 17 – August 21 East Cobb Market Location: Friends and Family Chiropractic, 2500 Sandy Plains Road, across from Sprayberry High School Dates/Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on the third Saturday of every month Information: Local vendors will be selling their items, food, and music. Free to everyone; great for the entire family. Call (770) 826-8951.
Ongoing through July Summer Tennis Camps: Location: Harrison Tennis Center, 2653 Shallowford Road, Marietta Days/Times: Monday-Thursday. Critter Camp, 8:30 – 9 a.m. Mini Camp, 9:15 – 10:30 a.m. Full Camp, 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. Information: Critter Camp (4 – 5 years old) cost is $30. Mini Camp (6 – 8 years old) cost is $65. Full camp (9 – 17 years old) cost is $140. Call (770) 591-3151 or email rlrazz@aol.com. Visit prca. cobbcountyga.gov.
August 14 Dog Days Run Location: Time:
Banking, only better! 14
Information: Benefits multiple Cobb County charities. Visit www.dogdaysrun. com for registration information.
August 21 Tots To Tween Consignment Sale Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Location: Sandy Plains Baptist Church, 2825 Sandy Plains Road, Marietta Information: Sponsored by Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples (formerly Cobb Parents of Multiples Club). They will offer clothing (newborn to juniors), accessories, toys, play equipment, strollers, car seats, furniture, and much, much, more! For more info, contact Megan at (678) 4536993 or sale@nowamom.org, or visit our website at www.NOWaMOM.org.
September 6 Holy Smoke BBQ and Music Festival Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, 955 Johnson Ferry Road, Marietta Time: Noon – 7 p.m. Information: Tickets currently available at www.johnsonferry.org. Proceeds will benefit FCA of Cobb and Good Samaritan Health Center of Cobb.
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Deadline is August 20.
Johnson Ferry Baptist Church (start/finish) 5K 7 a.m.; 1-mile fun run 7:45 a.m.; tot trot 8 a.m.
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Feature
New Laws That Will Affect You in 2010
Understanding and Improving Your Credit Score
by Doug Rohan
by Chris Leggett
Every year on July 1, a number of new laws take effect. Over the next three issues, we will review those laws most likely to have a direct impact on you and your family. Ban on Cell Phone Use — Under Age 18: This law now prohibits all drivers under age 18 from using any wireless communication device while driving. There are certain exceptions for emergencies. The problem is that it is not clear how the police will prove it. Can the State request the records from the phone company? What is particularly concerning is, much like a “no seatbelt” citation, the fact that a young driver is on the cell phone is enough reason for the police to stop your son or daughter. This creates a situation where a more thorough search can be initiated, potentially leading to either harassment or more serious charges. Discuss this new law with your children. The minimum fine is $150. If the ticket is issued in conjunction with an accident, the fine increases to $300. The driver will be assessed one point on his/her license. This means it will be reported to your insurance carrier and will likely result in an increase of premiums. Once a driver under age 21 accumulates four points, his/her license is suspended for six months. If you are concerned about his or her ability to exhibit self-control, there are several applications that can be downloaded to the device to assist with their decision making while driving. These applications can be set up to prohibit calls and texts while driving. See 2010 HB 23. Effective 07-01-2010. See 2010 HB 23. Effective 07-01-2010. Ban on Texting While Driving — All Ages: All drivers (regardless of age) will be prohibited from sending and reading incoming texts while driving. The ban includes use of the Internet or other data transmissions. This includes using the maps or other applications on your handheld device. If cell phone records are available to the State, the punishment is one point for each violation. So if you have been driving for ten minutes and phone records show ten incoming texts and ten replies, you will have twenty violations. If you accumulate fifteen points within two years, your license will be suspended. See 2010 SB 360. Effective 07-01-2010. DUI / Administrative Suspension of License — If charged with DUI (driving under influence), you should seek immediate legal representation. Often, you will only have 10 days after the arrest to appeal a license suspension. A new law, which has already been signed and enacted, requires a fee of $150 must be submitted to the Department of Driver Services in all instances where someone is requesting an Administrative continued on page 36 16
Your credit score is a very important aspect of your overall financial health. It can be used by a number of sources such as lenders, insurers, employers, utilities and landlords to determine what services you qualify for and how much those services will cost. A credit score is a number based on information in your credit file. It is used to determine the likelihood of timely payment of debt or services and your ability to manage financial obligations or credit. A credit score can range from 380-830 (the higher the better) and is usually calculated using five different factors: payment history, capacity, length of credit, accumulation of debt in the last 12 — 18 months and credit mix. There are a number of different actions that can negatively affect your credit score. Some of the most common include missing payments (regardless of the amount, it will take 24 months to restore credit with one late payment); credit cards at their maximum capacity;
“There are ways to improve your credit score, and doing so will open many doors for future credit availability, access to more services and lower borrowing cost. ” simultaneously closing all credit cards out (this lowers available capacity); having more revolving loans (credit cards) in relation to installment loans (auto or mortgage); and opening up numerous loans in a short period of time. There are ways to improve your credit score, and doing so will open many doors for future credit availability, access to more services and lower borrowing cost. The most common ways to improve your credit score include pay down credit card balances; do not close credit cards at the same time; make payments on time; slow down the opening of new accounts and move revolving debt into installment debt. Chris Leggett is CEO/president of LGE Community Credit Union, a federally insured banking alternative offering checking and savings accounts, certificates, money market accounts, IRA’s, credit cards, loans, and mortgages, with better rates and lower fees than you will typically find in a bank. If you have questions about your credit score, or are looking to apply for a loan in the near future, contact an LGE loan representative at 770-424-0060 or visit www.LGEccu.org
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July / August 2010
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Feature
Are Implants Right for You?
“The Creative Habit”
by Cristi Cheek, DMD
by Dwight “Ike” Reighard
Do you hide your smile because of spaces from missing teeth? Maybe your dentures do not feel secure, or perhaps you have difficulty chewing. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to smile, speak and eat again with comfort and confidence, there is good news! Dental implants are teeth that can look and feel just like your own! In years past when you lost a tooth, you had only two options for replacement – a fixed bridge, which involves grinding down the teeth adjacent to the missing one, or a removable partial denture, which can feel bulky and uncomfortable and must be removed for cleaning. Today, dental implants are commonly chosen as the most favorable treatment for replacing missing teeth and have actually been around for decades. Implants are manufactured “anchors” that look like cylinders or screws and are usually made of titanium. Restoring teeth with implants first involves surgical placement of the implant, which serves as a “root” into the jawbone. This usually is done with only local anesthesia in a dental chair in as little as 30 minutes for a single “To be a good implant. Most patients have candidate for implants only minor discomfort after you must be healthy the procedure. The implant with good bone levels typically is allowed to and have good oral integrate with the jawbone hygiene.” for several weeks before a permanent restoration is placed over it. A post, or “abutment,” is attached at that time to the implant and a crown is cemented onto the abutment, requiring no anesthesia. Multiple implants can be placed in cases of several missing teeth or even in patients with no teeth where a denture would normally be worn. Implants can also be used to create “snaps” to which a denture can be affixed to help stabilize the denture, or implants can serve as a base for a fixed bridge. If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime! Today’s implants look and feel like natural teeth, but they are not for everyone. To be a good candidate for implants you must be healthy with good bone levels and have good oral hygiene. Whether you are a young, middle-aged or an older adult or whether you need to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all of your teeth, there is a dental implant solution for you! Dr. Cristi Cheek, DMD, is the owner of Cristi Y. Cheek, D.M.D., P.C., Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Cheek is also a member of the AroundaAbout — East Cobb Community Board. You may contact her at (770) 993-3775 or visit www.cheekdental.com. 18
My daughter, Abigail (missAreighard on Twitter), has an insatiable desire when it comes to having an eclectic reading list. She recently introduced me to a book that I would have never picked out to read if left to my own wisdom. The book, The Creative Habit, is by renowned choreographer, Twyla Tharp. The author takes on the task of how to be creative when creativity is not being channeled easily. Over the last 35 years, she has created more than 130 dances and ballets, so she is an expert. Tharp asserts that being creative is tied closely to developing a series of habits carried out on a daily basis. The daily routines become habits and habits, over time, become your life. For those who see creativity as a spontaneous burst of inspiration, Tharp’s insights may come as a bit of a jolt. In a nutshell, the author describes creativity this way: “Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is a result of good work habits.” What are the biggest obstacles to creativity? According to Twyla Tharp there are two: distractions and fears. She goes on to describe her five biggest fears: 1. People will laugh at me. 2. Someone has done this before. 3. I have nothing to say. 4. I will upset someone I love. 5. Once executed, the idea will never be as good as it is in my mind. When we face our fears, then and only then can we become our creative best. Our daily rituals become the faith that helps to counteract our fears. I hope you read The Creative Habit. I would love to hear from our readers about your favorite books on creativity. Email me at ike.reighard@piedmontchurch.tv.
AroundAbout — East Cobb
Dr. Dwight “Ike” Reighard is a pastor (Piedmont Church) an author, and a speaker/trainer in the corporate world. July / August 2010
July / August 2010
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Feature supports charter schools and co-sponsored legislation allowing more local control and flexibility for Georgia schools.
Standing Up for Taxpayers Judson co-sponsored a major senior tax cut that exempts retirement income from taxation.
Judson Hill Cobb County’s Senator
I
n 2004, candidate Judson Hill walked door-to-door across most every neighborhood in the 32nd Senate District asking for your vote with the simple promise that he’d work tirelessly to represent us and to put our conservative values into action. Senator Judson Hill has kept his word! Judson and his wife Shelly have lived in East Cobb for more than 20 years. They are proud parents of three children and are active at Buckhead Church. They were married, taught Sunday school and led missions programs for years at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church.
bill” for other states to follow. In 2010, Judson stood up to President Obama by passing legislation that prevents you from being forced to join government health plans or buy health insurance against your will. Judson authored the country’s first model bill to allow you to buy affordable health insurance from other states and co-sponsored Georgia’s tort reform law that lowers health care costs. Senator Hill also authored the nation’s first freemarket wellness focused health care reform legislation providing tax breaks to the selfemployed and small business employees to purchase health insurance.
“I have been proud to partner with Judson on free-market health solutions that will lower health insurance costs. We are lucky to have a conservative like Judson in the Legislature.”
Promises Kept!
Standing Up for Health Care Judson is a recognized national leader for conservative health care reform with several measures adopted as the “model 20
Property Rights Protection — Property Tax Reform
In 2010, Senator Hill co-sponsored a sweeping property tax reform measure requiring property owners receive annual valuations of their property and simplifying the procedures to appeal valuations. Judson also worked to pass a Constitutional Amendment limiting the annual increase in property assessments to help protect property owners from being taxed off their land.
Transportation Serving for years on the Senate Transportation Committee, Judson has advocated for common-sense funding solutions for transportation. In 2010, Judson helped get Georgians moving again passing a bill to allow each region across the state to propose needed transportation projects on a voter referendum to raise and spend monies in their region.
Creating Jobs
Judson knows he represents you first and does not answer to anyone but the people of Senate District 32.
As your Georgia Senator, Judson has authored and successfully passed the nation’s first free market health care reform legislation to help make health care and health insurance more affordable. He was instrumental in the passage of Georgia’s tort reform legislation to stop frivolous lawsuits and also advocated for tax cutting measures to help families, businesses and seniors. Judson has also worked hard to fund transportation projects and improve the educational opportunities for our children.
—Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the U.S. House.
Standing Up for Education
Endorsed by Cobb Teachers and Educators.
Judson continues to work hard to fund education, to keep our best teachers in the classroom and to save the HOPE scholarship program from going broke. Senator Hill AroundAbout — East Cobb
Judson has worked hard to save Georgian’s jobs and to bring high paying jobs to our state. Judson is often invited to meet with international delegations and company leaders to encourage them to expand their businesses in Georgia. He has co-sponsored measures to create a more business friendly environment to create jobs.
Standing Up for Families Judson has sponsored several bills protecting children from the dangers found on the Internet. In 2007, he authored a tough sexual predator bill to protect our children from convicted child molesters and joined with Representative Keen to pass one of the nation’s strongest measures to strengthen prison sentences and monitor the worst offenders. Senator Hill co-sponsored the nation’s strongest state law requiring that federal July / August 2010
The Conservative Leader that Delivers • Senator Judson Hill • www.judsonhill.com Endorsed by Cobb and Georgia Teachers, Georgia Right to Life, National Federation of Independent Businesses immigration laws be enforced at the state level. In 2010, Judson authored a bill imposing strong fines on those who violate our immigration laws by hiring illegal immigrants over Georgians on public works projects. Judson has also co-sponsored and advocated for historic gun rights legislation allowing firearms license holders’ greater freedom to exercise their Second Amendment rights to protect themselves.
Senator Hill has accomplished a lot in the past six years as your State Senator. We posed several questions regarding his record as well as his goals for the next legislative session.
What legislation are you most proud of sponsoring? “This is a difficult question because I’ve worked hard on many issues. As your Senator I’ve sponsored legislation to strengthen Georgia’s illegal immigration laws, to reform education by focusing on students and supporting teachers. I’ve also worked to cut spending and reduce the size of government. This year, it was very rewarding to stand up for Georgians to successfully protect you against Obama’s federal takeover of health care. I authored and passed legislation to preserve your healthcare freedoms and to protect you from being forced to join a government health plan or buy health insurance against your will. Passing this constitutionally sound legislation also can preserve Medicare Advantage for Georgia’s seniors. My legislation is estimated to save businesses millions and save taxpayers more than $500 million every year.”
What stance are you most proud of? “I am most proud of my stand to put principles first and oppose tax increases during the 2010 Session. As a candidate in 2004 and for six years as your Senator, I pledged to you that I would oppose all tax increases. When forced to choose to either side with the Lt Governor and support a hospital bed tax plus huge fee increases or to vote “No,” I stood on my principles and on the values I saw modeled when I worked for President Ronald Reagan. I voted “NO” opposing tax increases several times. For my opposition, senate leadership punished me by stripping me of my Committee Chairmanship and blocking my conservative legislation. I know my constituents do not elect me to be Chairman but to represent them and their values with integrity rather than seek personal gain or titles.”
What legislation will you introduce next Session? “My six-year record in the Georgia Senate shows that I am not afraid to tackle any tough issue. I spend a lot of time researching
conservative common-sense solutions to the challenges we face and regularly take the lead to author such measures. If you don’t care who gets the credit, a lot can be accomplished. Our state faces several big issues. Georgia needs to reform its tax code making it fairer. We must improve education by giving teachers the freedom to effectively educate our kids so I will re-introduce by education bill to bring this needed relief and improve education. ”
State Spending Reform. “We must limit the growth of state spending. I will sponsor the Taxpayer Protection Act constitutional amendment to place reasonable limits on the growth of state government and intend to champion measures to examine every state program against the Georgia Constitution to determine the state’s most essential services. Non-essential programs should be eliminated or reduced and some agencies should be consolidated to leverage resources and save money.” Immigration Enforcement. “I will refile my bill to strengthen our immigration laws by imposing real fines on those who violate our laws by using taxpayers’ money to hire illegal immigrants over Georgians on public works projects. It’s wrong to continue to allow illegal workers to take jobs from Georgians who want to build roads and bridges. I will also sponsor a bill similar to Arizona’s that will strengthen Georgia’s ability to enforce immigration laws. The Federal government’s failure to enforce our immigration laws make it incumbent on states to take the lead, otherwise Georgians will remain saddled with even higher health care, education and other expenses.”
Heath Care Reform. “I intend to renew my bill that let’s Georgians buy more affordable health insurance in other states from pre-approved insurance companies. And I will re-introduce legislation to reform Georgia’s Medicaid program to improve access to doctors while saving millions of taxpayer dollars and reducing our reliance on the Federal government.”
Senator Judson Hill will never waiver on defending your conservative values!
Paid for by Friends of Judson Hill July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
2010 Primary Voters’ Guide O
ne of the most important and guarded freedoms we have as American citizens is the right to vote and select our leaders. We elect those whom we feel best represent our values and our goals, and when these leaders fail, it is our job to vote them out. In every election, every vote counts, and the process begins with the primary elections, which will be held on Tuesday, July 20.
In order to help you make an informed decision, we have compiled the AroundAbout — East Cobb Voters’ Guide. Each candidate who is applicable to our readership was provided an opportunity to respond to our online questionnaire. Those who replied are featured in the following pages. This year, several state and local offices are up for re-election, including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State School Superintendent and more. Locally, we have the opportunity to vote for our State Senator, State House Representative, School Board members and County Commissioners. While the date has passed for those not registered to vote to do so for the primaries, the registration deadline is October 4 for the November 2 general election. For complete election information for Cobb County, please visit http://www.cobbcounty.org and www.sos.georgia.gov for state information.
Disclaimer: Each candidate applicable to our readership was either sent an Around About Voters’ Guide questionnaire by email or instructions were provided to complete the questionnaire online. Not all candidates responded to our request by the given deadline. All responses are printed as received, including grammatical and spelling preferences.
July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
23
Governor
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DuBose Porter (D)
Roy Barnes (D)
Eric Johnson (R)
Personal Information
Age: 56. Birth Place: Dublin, GA Marital Status: Married Current Profession: Newspaper publisher. Education: Undergraduate degree from Davidson College and law degree from Cumberland School of Law. Hobbies: Hunting and Fishing.
Age: 62. Birth Place: Mableton, GA. Marital Status: Married to wife Marie. Profession: Attorney, Barnes Law Group. Education: B.A., University of Georgia, J.D., University of Georgia. Hobbies: Reading, hunting, spending time with my 6 grandkids, attending Braves games and concerts at the Mable House, grilling out with friends and family.
Age: 57. Birth Place: New Orleans, LA. Marital Status: Married to Kathryn. Profession: Architect. Education: Masters of Architecture, Tulane University 1976. Hobbies: Fishing and hunting.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Dedicated, sincere, passionate and persistent.
Creative, loyal, hardworking, and competent.
Dedicated, sincere, passionate and persistent.
How long have you lived in Georgia?
All of my life
62 years – my entire life!
33 Years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
Carol Porter, my wife, because of the way she has nurtured and loved our four boys.
My father taught me some of life’s most important lessons. Despite only having a seventh grade education, my father became a successful businessman through his tremendous work ethic and his ability to build relationships. Most importantly, he taught me that there is always opportunity, even in difficult times.
George Washington. He had the courage, skills, and vision to lead our fledgling country into greatness. I tried to follow his example when leading Georgia’s Republican Party to majority for the first time in 150 years.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
The Governor oversees the executive branch of state government, manages the state budget and can veto legislation that the General Assembly passes.
The Governor has many duties, but I believe that the Governor’s number one job is to educate the next generation of Georgians. As Governor, I will not support teacher furloughs and I will not renege on salary obligations. A robust public education system is the only guarantee that our children – and our families – have for a promising tomorrow. Protecting public education is the key to making Georgia work.
The Governor is hired by Georgia’s citizens to lead their state. The people choose a leader who will balance the budget and develop policies that will revive our state’s economy and create jobs. The Governor must be someone who will fight for what is right. The Governor must focus on the primary duty of a state—to educate its children. The Governor must make education a top priority because a good education equals good jobs.
Why do you think you will make a good Governor?
I am the only candidate with the background and experience that can unite Georgia and bring prosperity back to our state. Being from rural Georgia, I can go to cities such as Americus, Blairsville, Hawkinsville and Darien with credibility and explain why it is good for them that we help Counties such as Forsyth. With this kind of leadership I will unite Georgia and get our economy moving again.
I have a plan to make Georgia work. I believe that I have the experience and vision to solve many of the problems that Georgia is facing, and I am offering concrete solutions to address our state’s challenges. Should I be elected, I will be ready to go to work for Georgians all across the state on day one.
I love this state and have a passion for making it better. I want to put my proven ability to get things done to work for Georgia. We can get Georgia back to work by improving infrastructure, reforming our tax code, transforming education, and making sure we’re positioned to compete in the 21st Century global economy. I have the conservative record and experience to show I am just the guy to get it done.
What are the most important issues facing the State of Georgia and if elected, what would you do about it?
The most important issue facing Georgia is a lack of leadership. We are not making education, transportation, water and public safety a priority. It is costing us jobs and hurting our economy. Industry seeking to relocate wants to go to states where they make these issues a priority. As Governor I will do that and bring leadership to the Capitol. Together, we can make Georgia prosperous once again.
Our campaign is focusing the issues that matter to Georgians – education, transportation, water, and, most importantly, creating jobs and fostering economic opportunity all across our state. We simply cannot take full advantage of the opportunities that the future will bring Georgia without strengthening our economy and getting back on course in these key areas.
The single most important issue is putting Georgia back to work. We must build Georgia’s infrastructure-- roads and reservoirs that the private sector needs to grow and prosper. We must make Georgia the energy leader in the Southeast by expanding all energy sources. We must incentivize entrepreneurs and get government off the backs and out of the pockets of business. And we must concentrate on personalizing education for each child.
AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
Governor
Karen Handel (R)
Jeff Chapman (R)
Nathan Deal (R)
Age: 48. Birth Place: Washington, D.C. Marital Status: Married to Steve Handel. Profession: Former Secretary of State. Education: Attended the University of Maryland – University College. Hobbies: Golf, reading and watching football.
Age: 50. Birth Place: Brunswick, GA. Marital Status: Married to Angela Chapman for almost 29 years. Profession: State Senator of three terms, retired businessman. Education: Glynn Academy High School. Hobbies: Spending time with my family, hunting, fishing, and reading.
Age: 67. Birth Place: Millen, GA. Marital Status: Married to Sandra. Profession: I recently retired from the U.S. House of Representatives as the member of Georgia’s 9th Congressional District. Education: I have a law degree from Mercer University. Hobbies: Fishing, farming, reading, spending time with family.
Tenacious, conservative, pragmatic and ethical.
Dependable, persistent, thoughtful, principled.
Christian, conservative, patriotic, respectful.
18 years
My entire life.
Entire life.
My Dad. He is the most hardworking, honest, strongest individual I know. Looking back, I know he sacrificed so much for me, my brother and sister, and instilled in me the values that guide me today.
My grandfather; he was born into extreme poverty and his parents died at a young age but despite those hardships he kept a positive attitude. He was a considerate person and a successful businessman. I admired his diligence towards doing a job right and treating people with respect and fairness.
My mother, Mary Deal, was a longtime public school teacher and a widow for nearly 40 years. She was a woman of great determination, who promoted hard work and Christian values.
Our Governor must be a leader and a strong executive. It is one thing to vote on legislation. It is another matter entirely to implement and execute. A Governor doesn’t have the luxury of voting and going home. He or she must be able to see projects through from beginning to end – to actually “do” and deliver results. Our Governor must be willing to make the tough decisions regardless of the political consequences.
The Governor is the chief executive officer of the state and runs the executive branch, is Commander in Chief of the state’s military forces, is responsible for the safety of Georgia’s citizens, and serves as an Ambassador of Georgia, attracting new industry and business. The governor is the “gatekeeper” who is responsible for ensuring that the citizens’ best interests are represented in state government and in interactions with the federal government.
The governor is Georgia’s CEO and COO. As governor, I will oversee the state’s day-to-day operations and keep the government running effectively and efficiently. But just as important, the governor must lead and provide vision for the state’s future. He must set the legislative agenda and serve as the state’s ambassador and salesman. I’ll accomplish this by keeping an open door policy with legislators and hardworking Georgians.
I bring the required combination of professional, executive, and political experience to do the job. I am not a career politician, but a business minded professional. I am a tenacious problem solver ready to tackle the difficult issues we face and am prepared to put my personal political capitol on the table to do what is needed for our state.
As I have in the past, as Governor I will uphold conservative principles. This entails raising the bar for ethical and moral standards so we can root out the politics of favoritism and return honor and integrity to government. I will judge ideas on their merits rather than on who proposes them. I will work to steer political discussion away from inflammatory rhetoric and towards open and rational discourse. I will definitely be a servant leader.
Georgia faces its most trying time in the modern era, and I have the experience, vision and credentials needed to lead this state through rough waters. I’m the only candidate who served this nation in uniform; in addition to running small businesses, I have served Georgia at the local, state and federal level as a prosecutor, judge, state senator and congressman. I’m seeking this office because I have a passion for serving the people of Georgia, and I want to go right to work creating jobs and a better future for families.
We face many difficult issues in the areas of transportation, water, jobs, education and health care. I have a plan to address each of those. The top priority is to get our economy moving again. To do that we must reduce state spending, streamline government, and reform our tax code reducing the burden on Georgians. I am the only candidate with a proven track record of actually getting the job done in the toughest of environments.
Georgia not only has an unemployment crisis, but an ethics crisis as well. It is no secret that sweetheart deals, special interest ties, and moral bankruptcy trouble our state government, and that is inexcusable. As Governor, I will lead the return to conservative, principled public service. This translates into promoting lean and smart government, keeping taxes low, prioritizing budget items by merit not politics, providing incentives for job creation, and improving the quality of education.
Creating jobs. Period. No other issue comes close to its importance to Georgians in these tough times. I will actively recruit businesses in the medical technology fields. I will lower the corporate tax and give a grace period on taxes to new business. Georgia’s diverse population and business-friendly climate combined with our strong health care infrastructure make Georgia an ideal location to relocate or start a business.
July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
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Lieutenant Governor
Secretary of State
Michael Mills (D)
Casey Cagle (R) Incumbent
Personal Information
Age: 44. Birth Place: Gainesville, GA. Marital Status: Married. Profession: Lt. Governor of Georgia. Education: Attended Georgia Southern University. Hobbies: Biking, swimming, running, golf.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Husband and father, honest, conservative, generous.
How long have you lived in Georgia?
I am a seventh generation Hall County resident and am proud to have called Georgia home my entire life.
Who is the person you admire most and why?
I most admire my mother. As a single mother, she worked tirelessly to provide for me and instill the values and principles that still guide me to this day. As a husband and father of three, my appreciation, respect, and admiration for my mother have only grown.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
Why do you think you will make a good Lieutenant Governor?
What are the most important issues facing the State of Georgia and if elected, what would you do about it?
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In my four years as Lt. Governor, I have been a conservative leader for Georgia families, small businesses, and communities. As President of the Senate, my focus has centered on passing meaningful reforms that set Georgia on firm footing for the future. From cutting three billion dollars in wasteful government spending to passing a jobs package that helps get Georgians back to work, I have been a solutions-oriented leader during difficult times for our state.
Personal Information
Age: 36. Birth Place: Rochester, NY. Marital Status: Single. Current Profession: Owner of a public relations consulting practice. Education: Bachelor of Arts, Hobart College; Master’s of Arts, Georgia State University
List 4 words to describe yourself.
n/a
How long have you lived in Georgia?
13 years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
My grandfather who exemplified the Greatest Generation – earned a Bronze Star in World War II and then came home and served his family and community. He taught me the importance of giving of yourself and committing to civic activity.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
The Secretary of State runs five divisions: Archives; Corporations; Elections; Professional Licensing; and Securities. The office touches every part of our lives, managing our history, business, votes, more than 400,000 licensed professionals and our stocks and retirement funds. We must elect someone who has a vision for moving the office into the 21st Century from its current 20th Century bureaucratic state.
Why do you think you will make a good Secretary of State?
A proven track-record of solving policy problems – studying issues, generating common sense ideas and uniting people in government, non-profit and corporate settings. His experience includes: politics – aide to Secretary of State Lewis Massey and Lt. Gov. Mark Taylor); corporate world – designing programs to create jobs and managing health care and environmental legislation; and elections expert – grad thesis on elections, launched a non-profit to activate citizens and wrote the book “Battling Democracy’s Decline.
What are the most important issues facing the State of Georgia and if elected, what would you do about it?
Georgians need a government that helps them dream about a brighter future, while providing basic resources to make those aspirations possible. That’s why I will: Ensure the security of Georgia’s election system while removing unnecessary barriers to voting for all eligible citizens; grow jobs by moving the Corporations Division from a 20th Century bureaucracy to a 21st Century business center; and protect citizens against financial ruin and fraud through the Professional Licensing and Securities Divisions.
During these difficult times, one of the greatest challenges Georgia faces is an out-of-control federal government. I believe Washington should take a page from the Georgia playbook: cut wasteful government spending, balance the budget without raising taxes, and create new economic opportunity through pro-growth policies. If reelected, I will continue working for common-sense reforms that ignite our state’s potential and will transform Georgia into a national leader for growth and job creation.
The most important issue facing our state today is unemployment. Our state must be at the forefront of creating jobs and new opportunities through a pro-growth, pro-business environment that rewards investment, innovation, and ingenuity. We must forge new public-private partnerships that attract business to our state, promote our ports and airports as engines of our economy, and keep taxes on Georgia’s citizens and businesses low.
AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
Attorney General
Sam Olens (R)
Max Wood (R)
Personal Information
Age: 52. Birth Place: Miami,FL. Marital Status: Married to Lisa for 25 years with two children. Current Profession: Lawyer, Ezor & Olens. Education: A graduate of Emory University School of Law, Master and undergraduate degrees from the American University in Washington, D.C. Hobbies: Travel, Tennis, Reading.
Age: 50. Birth Place: Atlanta, GA. Marital Status: Married. Current Profession: Attorney. Education: B.S. LaGrange College, J.D. University of Georgia. Hobbies: Writing, history, traveling, public speaking, spending time with family
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Honest, Tenacious, Humble, Loyal
Tested, strong, proven, leader
How long have you lived in Georgia?
30 years
I have lived in Georgia all my life with the exception of five years when I was in the Air Force.
Who is the person you admire most and why?
My Aunt, who took me into her family and reared me after my Mom died when I was 5 years old and my Father died when I was 12 years old. After marrying and rearing my own children, I now understand and appreciate the sacrifices and love she demonstrated.
I most admire my father, Jim Wood, Jr. He is an honest self-made Christian man. He has shown by example how to be a good husband, father, and community leader.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
The primary responsibilities include:
The Attorney General is the chief law enforcement officer for the state. The Attorney General heads up the legal representation for the state and provides legal opinions to Constitutional officers and state agencies. The Attorney General also represents the state in litigation.
Serves as the legal advisor and provides opinions for all state agencies, departments, authorities and the Governor. Represents the State in capital felony appeals before the Georgia Supreme Court. Represents the State in all civil cases before any court.
Why do you think you will make a good Attorney General?
My 27 years of legal experience gives me the constitutional knowledge required. As Chairman of the Atlanta Regional Commission, I fought for all Georgians on statewide issues such as water and transportation. As Chairman of Cobb County, I successfully managed and balanced an $820 million budget and 4,500 employees. I will use my legal knowledge, my public service and executive management experience to protect and serve Georgia citizens.
For eight years I was the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia. The job is similar to an Attorney General. I am the only candidate who is a military veteran, and the only candidate who has over twenty years of state, federal and military prosecution experience. In 2005 I went to Iraq to help that country set up its legal system. I personally prosecuted the largest child molestation case in Georgia history.
What are the most important issues facing the State of Georgia and if elected, what would you do about it?
Water: I will file law suits necessary to assure all Georgians have sufficient water supply.
The first thing I would do if elected Attorney General is continue the ongoing litigation against the Obamacare Legislation. There are increasing issues regarding the federal government encroaching into state’s rights, and I would develop an appellate division that would handle such issues. Georgia also has a continuing problem with the three state water battle and I would use my prosecution and litigation skills to represent the state in this matter.
Heath care: I will challenge the federal heath care bill. Redistricting: I will prepare for and defend 2011 redistricting efforts. Ethics: I will strengthen current ethics laws and prosecute elected officials who violate their oaths of office. Gang and Drug Crime: I will create statewide grand juries to strengthen the current system and expedite prosecutions in gang and drug crimes.
Insurance Commissioner
Tom Knox (R)
Seth Harp (R) Personal Information
Age: 67. Birthplace: Monticello, Arkansas. Marital Status: Married. Profession: Attorney. Education: B.S. Pharmacy, Auburn University – 1966; Juris Doctor, Mercer University – 1972. Hobbies: Hunting, Fishing, Gardening.
Age: 66. Birth Place: St. Louis. Marital Status: Married. Current Profession: Attorney. Education: BA, JD. Hobbies: Sailing, Boating, Reading, Snow Skiing, Trap and Skeet Shooting
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Honest, Hardworking, Fair, Caring
Committed, Educated, Loyal, Engaged
How long have you lived in Georgia?
41 years
40 years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
Rev. Bill Hinson. He led me to the Christian walk but with respect and caring for everyone he reached. His Christian life was a role model for me.
My parents, Pastor, President Ronald Reagan, and several teachers, together they formed, informed and inspired me.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
The Insurance Commissioner has the responsibility of enacting and enforcing the laws as they pertain to the areas of insurance, fire and safety and industrial loans. The Insurance Commissioner also has the responsibility and oversight of the fiscal soundness of the State of Georgia.
Enforcing laws governing the Insurance Department, Fire Safety Office, Small Loan companies, Racetracks, Mobile Home Industry, protects the person, property and financial assets of Georgia citizens, and formulating regulations to enforce state laws.
Why do you think you will make a good Insurance Commissioner?
I have the education, temperament and a lifelong history of integrity. I also have a proven relationship with the General Assembly and knowledge of the law. I am a compassionate and caring person who has the desire to help his fellow man. I have a drive to seek out and solve problems with logic and fairness to all concerned. As Georgia’s next Insurance Commissioner, I will practice these character traits and knowledge
I have 20 years of experience in the Insurance industry. I know the practical realties of the industry. I have operated my own law practice business for 20 years. I know what it takes to operate a small business. I know how important insurance of all kinds is to small business and individuals. I have 10 years experience in the Georgia House of Representatives with 6 of those years as Chairman of House of Insurance Committee.
What are the most important issues facing the State of Georgia and if elected, what would you do about it?
The foremost issue facing Georgia is our fiscal condition. I would prioritize my office in such a way as to maximize use of tax payer funds. The second greatest issue is the usurpation of our insurance industry by the federal government. I will work, where possible, to stop and protect the interests of the people of Georgia.
Reducing the role of the Federal Government, Reducing the size of the Federal Government, Reducing spending at all levels of government, Surviving National Healthcare, Work to rescind and revoke the National Health Insurance laws to save our health care system and the right of individual choice and decisions involving healthcare, Making more free enterprise choices available to consumers for their insurance, financial and safety needs.
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
State School Superintendent
Dr. Beth Farokhi (D)
Brian Westlake (D)
Richard Woods (R)
Personal Information
Age: 62. Birth Place: Augusta, GA. Marital Status: Married. Current Profession: Educator. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Health & Physical Education, LaGrange College; Master in Arts in Teaching, Emory University; Doctorate in Higher Education, University of Georgia. Hobbies: Reading, swimming, writing, volunteering
Age:40. Birth Place: Hialeah, Florida . Marital Status: Married for 18 years. Current Profession: High School Social Studies Teacher. Education: U.S. Marine Corps 1987-1991, BA History FSU 1996, MS Sociology FSU 1998, MPA GSU 2006, JD GSU 2006
Age: 47. Birth Place: Pensacola, Florida. Marital Status: Married to Lisha Woods. Current Profession: Principal over the Irwin County Pre-K, alternative school and home school programs. Education:B.S. Secondary Education, Social Studies and M.Ed. in Educational Leadership. Hobbies: golf, painting and reading
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Dedicated, Leader, Educator, Knowledgeable
Teacher, leader, advocate, citizen
Christian, Husband, American, Educator
How long have you lived in Georgia?
Whole life
12 years
37 years. The U.S. Navy invited my family to move around as a young boy.
Who is the person you admire most and why?
My grandmother, who was courageous, lived with compassion and kindness to help others, and had an inner strength that she used in her every day life. Her priority was always family and making each person feel special, but love of children was central and she always provided creative and fun ways to care for those who came into her daily life.
I once had a student who had lost her mother to cancer during the school year, and her father had fallen into a deep depression. Despite all these challenges, she was able to complete high school and provide the emotional support that her siblings and father needed. To this day, the story inspires me, and I don’t know how she did it.
Jesus. I am eternally thankful that God’s Son gave the ultimate expression of love by bearing the punishment and death for my sin. Furthermore, He is the example of servant leadership. It is this model of leadership that I plan to bring into the office of State Superintendent of Schools.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
The State School Superintendent is a constitutional position and is the executive officer of the State Board of Education and the administrative chief executive officer of the Department of Education. The State School Superintendent shall carry out and enforce all the rules and regulations of the State Board of Education and the laws governing the schools receiving state aid and make recommendations to the state board. (GA Code 20. EDUCATION O.C.G.A. § 20-2-30 (2009)
The State School Superintendent’s primary job should be to constantly advocate on behalf of our public schools, our teachers, and the students they serve. This is the most important of the State School Superintendent’s duties.
I believe this office is to be the defender of the classroom. The classroom is the area of impact for public schools. The superintendent must develop and communicate budgetary, curriculum, and educational policy that will maximize teaching and student learning inside the classroom. This office must also defend and speak out against policies that would deter the performance of our public schools. This office must be the spokesperson for education; it must also be its biggest listener.
Why do you think you will make a good State School Superintendent?
For over 35 years, I have worked tirelessly in education. My expertise, knowledge, leadership, and passion are marked by a record of professional achievement at the local, state, and national levels with in-depth experience across the education spectrum. I have been a classroom teacher, a university administrator in the College of Education at Georgia State University working with curriculum development for teacher education, and a board member for national nonprofit organizations focused on education. www.BethforEducation.com
I have the passion, leadership skills, and recent classroom experience to intimately know the problems currently facing our schools.
Experience that Counts. I am the candidate who has experience from Pre-K through 12th grade as either a teacher or an administrator. For fourteen years, I served as a high school social studies teacher. During the past seven years, I worked as an assistant principal, K-2 principal, and an on-site K-5 curriculum director. I am presently the principal over the Pre-K, alternative school, home school, and hospital homebound programs for the Irwin County School System.
What are the most important education issues facing the State of Georgia, and if elected, what would you do about it?
Inadequate funding; which is the first obstacle to a strong education in Georgia followed by a curricula that is too focused on teaching to standardized tests and not enough on content, creativity and critical thinking. As Superintendent of the State I will be an advocate for our children, professional teachers, and parents. I will provide leadership and vision. The schools must provide a balanced curriculum for the whole child that encompasses the intellectual, creative, and physical.
We are at a critical time in education in our state. We need a State School Superintendent who has the vision and energy to build a coalition of groups and citizen that will rebuild the foundation of support for our public schools. We also need a leader who is a teacher and will reestablish a professional culture in education.
Classroom integrity, educational governance, and funding. 1) Provide students with a safe and orderly leaning environment 2) Establish a solid foundation by requiring mastery of reading, writing and math in grades K-5 3) Offer diploma choice 4) Become student driven and not test driven 5) Protect Georgia’s Constitutional right to govern education 5) Conduct a complete audit of the department of education 6) Offer financial and decision making flexibility to local school systems.
State Senator, District 21
Chip Rogers (R)
Patrick Thompson (D)
Incumbent
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Personal Information
Age: 42. Birthplace: Clearwater, Florida. Been in Georgia since age of 3. Raised in Cobb County. Marital Status: Happily Married! Profession: Senate Majority Leader & Small Business Owner. Education: Bachelor of Science Georgia Tech Certificate in Economics Georgia Tech M.B.A Georgia State. Hobbies: My four kids and everything they do. Coaching youth basketball and I love High School football.
Age: 53. Birth Place: Huntington, WV. Marital Status: Married. Current Profession: Sales Manager & Part Business Owner. Education: BS, Biology & Psychology at Mary Washington College, MBA work at Averett University Hobbies: Recreational sports, coaching, hiking, camping, gardening, music
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Husband Father Loyal Hard-Working
Motivator, visionary, compassionate, dedicated
In which county do you live and for how long?
Cherokee County for about ten years
Cherokee County, 18 years, at the confluence of Marietta, Roswell & Woodstock
Who is the person you admire most and why?
My father. Every person I’ve met that knows him likes him. More importantly, he instilled in me the love of a father and his children. Regardless of what success I may have in public service it will never compare to the lasting bond I have with my children. I thank my father for teaching me.
My father, who moved from a coal mining upbringing to serving his country to commanding commercial airplanes as they evolved, instilling the valuable lessons of hard work, self-reliance and education - a lifelong history of service to others and dedication to his wife.
Please define a State Senator’s duties.
The most important duty is to serve as the voice of your community in the lawmaking process. The last eight years I have held more than 120 ”Town Hall” meetings thought the district. To my knowledge, it is the most by any elected official in Georgia. Listening and serving is our responsibility.
Represent the citizens of the area I serve, connect them with services. Bring forward ideas of those people, socialize those ideas that have real merit and most positive impact on others, communicate and solidify those ideas into legislation. Collaborate with and keep in check the executive branch.
What are the most important issues facing the State Senate, and if elected, what would you do about it?
Grow Georgia’s economy! We need more economic freedom, educational freedom, and individual freedom. Georgia will become the ultimate destination for people and commerce if we expand freedom and contain government. I will again author a Constitutional Amendment to limit the growth of government spending and reduce the tax burden. Georgians know better than government how to spend the money we earn. I will also work tirelessly to put parents in charge of education so that every child in Georgia has the educational opportunity they deserve.
Job Creation & Continuity - Align policy, education, hiring organizations, promote buying local & American Education a budgetary priority - Hire, retain top professionals Stabilize Home Values - Free up local credit, initiate judicial process to prevent foreclosure Banking Stewardship - banking certification process, audits, support local lenders Responsible Taxation - Modernize GA tax code, end special tax exemptions Smart Growth - light rail, coal alternates, code Restore Ethics End gifting, trips, harassment, lobbyist contribution.
Why do you think you will make a good State Senator?
Service is about listening and leading. A good State Senator is committed to leading based upon the principle’s that made America the greatest nation on earth - liberty and limited government. I have been willing to lead on every major issue regardless of difficulty. If elected again, I will continue
Habitual listener to citizens and their needs; been one who’s felt unrepresented. Accept no corporate or lobbyist dollars; beholden to no one for my actions but the people I represent. No ambitions, just service. Will deliver energy and integrity back to the role. Focus on results, end tax shifting..
What is the single most important issue facing Cherokee residents and what will you do about it?
Growing our economy. Good high-paying private sector jobs solve most problems. When citizens realize the American dream they have little need for government. We must stand firm against plans to raise taxes. We must stand for the entrepreneur and small business owners that create jobs and paychecks.
Job creation and continuity. Help build, promote a tax policy which keeps careers here. Penalize overseas job moves. Enforce corporate tax collection, American HQ, ownership. Build atmosphere of cooperation between policy, education, industry to generate jobs. Become the center for GA green careers.
AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
State Senator, District 32
Judson Hill (R)
State Representative District 41
Diane Lore (D)
Lynda Coker (R)
Incumbent Age: 50. Birth Place: Miami, FL. Marital Status: Married to Shelly. Current Profession: Attorney & small businessman. Education: Emory University — BA in Economics & Political Science; Mercer University Law School — Juris Doctorate. Hobbies: Running, fly-fishing, playing sports with my kids
Age: 63. Birth Place: Jacksonville, FL. Marital Status: Married to Gene Coker. Current Profession: Chief Deputy Sheriff, Cobb County Sheriff’s Office. Education: Bachelor of Science, Social Work, Florida State Univ. MEd, Administraton and Supervision, Georgia State Univ., GA Certified Peace Officer, North Central GA Law Enforcement Academy. Hobbies: Pleasure reading; visiting with my grandchildren; relaxing in the mountains of North Georgia.
Father, Integrity, Principled Conservative
Organized, accessible, ethical and personable
Cobb County 24 years +
I have lived in East Cobb County for over 30 years.
Ronald Reagan because he is a man of great integrity and vision. I had the opportunity to work for the White House and travel with President Reagan and witness his optimistic conservative vision, his leadership and willingness to consistently stand on his principles in the face of adversity.
My mother, Edna Stringer. She instilled in me the value of education, a work ethic second to none, the moral fortitude to face all challenges with honesty and integrity and above all that with these values as a foundation, I could achieve any goal in life.
Your State Senator represents a substantial number of people, their values and their perspectives in the Georgia Senate. The right Senator can have a significant impact and should be a leader in promoting your values and advocating policies that lower taxes, protect families and create jobs.
Duties of a State Senator are to represent the citizens of their district in the Georgia General Assembly. That service directly affects the quality of life and personal safety of every citizen. It is imperative that State officials not just shift tax burdens to local levels. Downsize government.
We must continue to create a better economic environment for job creation and control our spending; otherwise, it is difficult to effectively address education, transportation, healthcare and other important issues. We can reduce the size of government by deciding which government services are essential as reflected in our state Constitution. Nonessential programs should be eliminated, cut or privatized to save money. I opposed tax increases and lost my leadership position for standing on principles. Raising spending and taxes is not an option
In today’s economy, the most important and difficult issue facing State government is to rein in spending, yet maintain quality services that will meet our constitutional responsibilities. Government cannot be everything to everybody. Cutting waste should be primary. Evaluating services, determining if they are cost effective and of value, minimizing entitlements and ultimately reducing the size of State government should be our goal.
For 6 years I’ve been your conservative Senator that delivers on my promises to cut taxes and reduce the size of government. My record shows I’ve effectively led on conservative public policy initiatives passing free market healthcare reforms and tackled tough transportation and educations issues.
As a former member of the GA House of Representatives, I have always viewed representation as a service to constituents, not as a career, source of power or personal gain. I have the experience, knowledge and commitment to provide common sense, conservative leadership to the citizens of District 32.
Jobs — developing the best economic environment to attract and create new jobs for individuals and families across our community is most important and will help provide additional state revenues to fund important services. To do this we must cut taxes, reduce spending & end frustrating regulations.
The impact of illegal immigration weighs heavily on the resources in our community. So often it is thought of as a federal issue, but when it impacts Cobb, it becomes a local issue. We must work to strengthen our state laws and demand that our borders be secured. This will be a goal for me.
July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
Personal Information
Current Age: 46. Birth Place: Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. Marital Status: M. Current Profession: Business Owner, Deep South Digital. Education: BA, The Ohio State University; The Nieman Seminar on Narrative Writing, Harvard University. Hobbies: Photography, movie making, scrapbooking, pets – two mutt dogs, one hamster, two birds.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Leader, Collaborator, Innovator, Explorer
In which county do you live and for how long?
Cobb for 13 years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
Abraham Lincoln: Smart, courageous, made the tough decisions for the greater good. Not from wealth, but from grass roots America; faced difficult adversity in his personal life, from his own depression to the death of a child to a chronically ill wife – and yet still achieved greatness and never forgot that he was the President.
Please define the duties of the office you are seeking.
A State Representative is a collaborative public servant - not a voice for lobbyists and Big Business. That means she answers citizens’ calls and she makes at least as much time for her district residents as for those who troll the State House. She reaches out to the vulnerable populations often neglected in the political debate – the elderly, the sick, the poor and yes, children.
Why do you think you will make a good State Representative?
Because I’m a business owner and have the management and collaborative skills to know what it takes to get things done. Because I’m a mother of three and realize that human nature sometimes defies logic. Because I’ve been a journalist and know how corruption hides from the light of public scrutiny.
What are the most important issues facing the State of Georgia and if elected, what would you do about it?
The Economy: If we do not correct issues with private and public money, then all the rest of these issues collapse – from education to tax incentives. I would push for programs that promote economic growth – from public transportation to deal with the traffic gridlock (and to attract large workforces for significant companies) to incentives to inspire companies to start and grow.
31
Cobb County Commission Chariman
Tim Lee (R)
32
Larry Savage (R)
Personal Information
Age: 53. Birth Place: Milwaukee, WI. Marital Status: Married to Annette for 21 years. Current Profession: President, Summit View Marketing, Inc. — Marketing Consultant. Education: Completed 3 years of Economics studies at Fordham University. Hobbies: Reading, working around the house.
Age: 66. Birth Place: Atlanta, Georgia. Marital Status: Divorced, no children. Current Profession: Retired. Last employment was Manager, LIS Business Unit, Henkel Corp. Have also done some consulting work since retirement, supporting Henkel in China with technical expertise and business and sales strategy. Education: East Atlanta High School, top of class Bachelor’s degree, Mechanical Engineering, GMI (now Kettering University), Flint, MI MBA, Georgia State University. Hobbies: Special interest cars and motorcycles Home improvement projects Researching two stories from family history.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Serious, Visionary, Committed, Leader
Honest Thorough Creative Curious
How long have you lived in Cobb County?
21 years
34 years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
President Lincoln. Standing by his honor and principals he prevailed on so many issues.
Joe Gibbs. Winner in NFL & NASCAR. Succeeded in both sports while living exemplary Christian faith.
Please define a County Commissioner Chairman’s duties.
Sets the direction for the county and prevailing philosophy regarding a fiscally conservative budget
Provide leadership and direction for County government, represent the best of Cobb to the world.
What are the most important issues facing the County Commission, and if elected, what would you do about it?
Developing a balanced budget utilizing zero based methods and conduct department audits for effectiveness, reorganization and process streamlining.
Reduced revenue due to falling property values. I will not resort to tax increases. Citizen loss of trust in Government. I stress openess, integrity
Why do you think you will make a good County Commissioner Chairman?
I’m proven, fiscally responsible and have the serious leadership needed to solve to tough challenges
I am an outsider with no obligations to anyone. I bring fresh thinking, high standards of service.
What is the single most important issue facing Cobb residents, and if elected, what will you do about it?
Developing a balanced budget that continues to deliver a high quality level of essential services.
Transportation. We need a complete analysis of traffic problems and focus on actual solutions.
AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
Cobb County Board of Commissioners
Picture Not Available
Earl Stine (R)
JoAnn Birrell (R)
District 3
District 3
Stephen Douglas Moon (R) District 3
Personal Information
Age: 56Birth Place: Goldsboro, North Carolina. Marital Status: Married for 12 years to Dave Birrell. Current Profession: Community Relations Manager for Waste Management. Education: Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Hobbies: Family outings, Sports and Travel
Age: 56. Birth Place: Gadsden, Alabama. Marital Status: Married to Cindy Watkins Stine for 32 years. Current Profession: Owner of Earl Stine Consulting, an IT Management Consulting Company. Education: BBA in Accounty from Georgia State University. Hobbies: Woodworking, fishing, hunting, hiking, and working in the yard with my wife
Age: 40. Birth Place: Kennestone Hospital, Marietta, GA. Marital Status Celebrating 15 years with my wife, Victoria, in June 2010, 3 children under 7 years of age. Current Profession: Architect and Operations Manager for The Beck Group. Education: Architectural degrees from Georgia Tech and University of Kentucky. Hobbies: Guitar, piano, golf.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Integrity, Compassionate, Sincere and Committed.
Honest, hard working, sincere, and leader
Honest, sincere, creative, committed
How long have you lived in Cobb County?
14 and 1/2 years
35 years
I have lived in Cobb my entire life except 1994-03 working in Louisville, KY
Who is the person you admire most and why?
Mother Teresa “ Her love of all other human beings and her humble work to aid all in need..
My maternal grandfather. He raised 11 kids on a farm in the depression. He was the hardest working person I have ever met. I got a lot of my values from him from work ethic to doing what you say you are going to do.
My late mother lost her own mother at age five, and lost her five-year battle with breast cancer in 2007. She inspired all who knew her, and helped shape my decision to run for public office. The fight and determination she always displayed helped her survive cancer much longer than expected.
Please define the County Commissioner’s duties.
County commissioners oversee county activities, work to ensure that citizen concerns are addressed, federal/state requirements are fulfilled and oversee operations. Commissioners represent the people, review/adopt the county budget, zoning laws, authorize the levy/collection of property taxes.
Provide all essential government services at the highest possible service level. The two main functions of county government are public safety and infrastructure. We need to make sure that these areas are funded appropriately.
Commissioners set policy, taxation, shape the built environment through planning and zoning decisions, and adopt the budget for county operations. Operations are run by department heads and the county manager. A Commissioner’s most important duty is to listen to the voters.
What are the most important issues facing the County Commision, and if elected, what would you do about it?
The effect of our economy on our citizens and businesses and the safety of our citizens are the two most important issues facing Cobb County. When elected I will establish an initiative called “Keep it in Cobb” and form a committee to come together, exchange ideas and encourage residents of Cobb to do business inside Cobb to keep our businesses alive and thriving in Cobb and attract new ones. I would continue to work with Cobb Public Safety and Sheriff’s office to enhance our current programs such as Pens, CAGE, 911 and all Departments.
The first priority is the economy; TAXES-JOBSGOVERNMENT SPENDING. Taxpayers must not face a tax increase. We need to go to zero based budgeting, meaning that every year each department must start with a zero budget and justify every expenditure and position. This would ensure that we explain all expenditures and each and every position in the budget. This will show ways to streamline the budget as well as point out any duplication in services between departments.
Budget, roads, and redevelopment. In the debates, all candidates have said “Economy,” but it’s really the Budget. We can’t change the economy, but we can control our own budget. As Operations Manager, I work with budgets, payroll and spending everyday. Redevelopment and roads projects are at the top of my list too. I commute to a real job in Cobb traffic past empty retail centers. We must maintain our roads and fill retail centers before they contribute to crime. Visit Moon4Cobb.com to learn more about me and my leadership experience.
Why do you think you will make a good County Commissioner?
A person with integrity who has worked with municipalities throughout metro area and state dealing with contract issues, quality of life issues and budgets and one who has experience in working with others, a consensus builder, has business experience and will listen to all. I am that Candidate.
I am an independent business person with experience in running my own business. I understand the challenges that we are experiencing at this time. I understand how to operate on the revenue that is available without raising taxes. We have to protect our property values.
Qualifications, qualifications, qualifications. We don’t know what the future will bring. By electing a qualified professional, we can react to almost any need. As an architect and Operations Manager, I deal with zoning and budgets every day and will be the most qualified to make Cobb proud!
What is the single most important issue facing Cobb residents and what will you do about it?
The economy and unemployment is the single most issue facing Cobb residents. My initiative called Keep it in Cobb will bring business leaders together to exchange ideas to keep their businesses thriving and offer incentives to keep business local and put people back to work.
The first priority and issue is the economy; TAXESJOBS-GOVERNMENT SPENDING. Taxpayers must not face a tax increase. We need to go to zero based budgeting, meaning that every year each department must start with a zero budget and justify every expenditure and position.
To solve the budget, road and redevelopment, we must ensure the single most important issue is addressed—responsive government. Voters have told me about phone calls unreturned, and the impression Commissioners represent only deep pocket special interests. I’m running to serve people not the system.
July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
33
Cobb County Board of Education
William Borden (R)
Kathleen Angelucci (R)
Post 4
Post 4
34
Personal Information
Age: 48. Birth Place: Kinston, NC. Marital Status: Married 27 years. Current Profession: Event Manager, Corporate and private events Education Activist Education: Anne Arundel College, (MD) Thomas Nelson College, (VA) Early Childhood Development Certification. Hobbies: Educational research and writing. Reading, singing, cooking and entertaining.
Age: 50. Birth Place: Glasgow, KY. Marital Status: Married to wonderful wife, Brenda. Current Profession: Real Estate Broker and Educational Non-Profit Founder. Education: Undergrad degrees – Western Kentucky University and Doctorate degree – John Marshall Law School. Hobbies: Sled dogs, bikes, travel, photography, all outdoor sports.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Tenacious, collaborative, loyal and experienced
Tenacious, ethical, creative, involved
How long have you lived in Cobb County?
15 years - since 1995.
27+ years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
I admire the graciousness and concerted effort to remain strong for our children by heroic teachers, bus drivers and staff during the week leading up to and throughout the very painful process of the RIFs. They were more concerned about how our students would react than their own pain. Remarkable.
I admire my wife Brenda. She is the stability in my life that it takes for me to deal with the ever-changing world and the situations that it presents.
Why do you think you will make a good School Board member?
My knowledge of the Cobb school system and its processes, (pressing for district transparency, true access for all citizens, accountability and ethics in government), demonstrate my educational experience and strong personal commitment to the advancement of Cobb County through education.
I have a law degree and 32 years experience in the business world. My “day job” involves negotiating contracts and bringing parties together in a win-win situation on a daily basis. I fully understand that the single most important building block in the structure of the quality of life we enjoy in our county is the Cobb County School System. With these components, I believe that I can build a consensus on the Board and use a mutual governance model to bring a new respect to the Board, keep our teachers teaching and keep our schools great.
How would you address overcrowding, discipline and conflict in our schools?
Overcrowding could have been addressed by the Quality Classroom Initiative; putting classrooms where they were needed. It is unfortunate that it has been abandoned. Discipline problems can be reduced significantly by developing a cooperative attitude and agreement among students, parents and administrators. The district has policies in place that deal with discipline occurences and consequences. Conflict resolution is best left to the individual schools in conjunction with policy; by minimizing conflict and maximizing collaboration.
The Board needs to set policy that allows the teachers more control in their classrooms, with the support of the administration. We have gone too long in allowing a select few to act out and be disruptive to an entire classroom. Overcrowding will be examined as we deal with the budget crisis at hand. Additional revenue streams must be explored to add more adults to the mix and reduce adult/ student ratios.
What are the most important issues facing Cobb County schools, and if elected, what would you do about it?
I believe that the board must make strategic budgetary choices that serve the needs of all students and teachers, adjusting district policies and rules to clearly address Cobb’s challenges and strengths, redefining the superintendent’s role by clarifying the board’s authority and assessing whether top level positions directly benefit students in the classroom – and have the courage to correct it if they do not – must take top priority. Economically, we should challenge the district to live within its means.
The single most important issue facing our schools is continued improvement of student achievement within the constraints of a down economy. I would prioritize the budget so that any cuts do not directly affect student education, safety and learning environment and so that we can keep the teachers teaching. We also should pursue creative, alternative revenue streams for the district.
AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
Cobb County Board of Education
Picture Not Available
Picture Not Available
James Snell (R)
Ricky Alan Welkis (D) Post 6
Post 6
Personal Information
Age: 53. Birth Place: Atlanta, GA. Marital Status: Married to Diane for 28 years. Current Profession: Retired Educator. Education: BS Ed., Ed. Specialist School Admin. Hobbies: Spending time with my family, ceramics/ pottery, biking.
Age: 44. Birth Place: Liberty, NY. Marital Status: Married. Current Profession: Doctor of Chiropractic. Education: Doctorate of Chiropractic, Life University, 1997 Hobbies: Tae Kwon Do - Black Belt, 1st Degree East Marietta Little League Baseball Pack 565 Cub Scouts.
List 4 words to describe yourself.
Determined, Collaborative, Innovative, Ethical
Creative, Logical, Enthusiastic, and Social
How long have you lived in Cobb County?
Twenty years
16 years
Who is the person you admire most and why?
My parents, who instilled in me the core values I hold important today. I grew up in an environment where I felt I could accomplish anything I set my mind to. The “Golden Rule” was a standard modeled by my parents throughout my childhood, and is what I try to live by today.
The person admire most is my wife. She is a great mother, established career woman, and my best friend. She is energetic, persistent and intelligent. She is dedicated and steadfast in all that she does.
Why do you think you will make a good School Board member?
An attitude of service. I have worked with students and teachers in public schools in Cobb, Emanuel, & Screven Counties. I was trained as a State Director to assist schools designated “NI” as per NCLB benchmarks. I research current events daily. School Board service will be my full-time job.
As a father of two young boys, I have 15 more years in the CCSD. I do not accept status quo and I will work to change the bureaucratic practices that currently exist. My track record has proven I am not afraid to commit to controversial issues and see them through to the end.
How would you address overcrowding, discipline and conflict in our schools?
It is critical that we support teachers in every way possible. I would make sure that all options for reduced spending are being implemented before teacher and staff positions are cut. Students who are disruptive need to be removed from class immediately. When I served as principal of Floyd MS in 1998, I designated a “Time Out” space for this purpose. Teachers simply pressed the call button and an administrator arrived to remove the disruptive student without question. Possible further consequences for the student were then determined.
I would address overcrowding by continuing with the Quality Classroom initiative as well as strategic redistricting. Many students are in substandard classrooms and we have an inequitable distribution of facilities throughout the county. I believe class discipline should be handled by the teacher when appropriate; he/she should not have to prove documented occurrences prior to escalation. Conflicts should be handled objectively and with third-party involvement if requested.
What are the most important issues facing Cobb County schools, and if elected, what would you do about it?
Effective and transparent communication, while working through budget priorties, is the most immediate issue. The inability of the Board and administration to work collaboratively has further complicated this task. Some viable options offered by the public have never really been “on the table” during this budget process. To promote and encourage this type of communication, I plan to meet regularly with constituents from Post 6 to share the BoE agenda from the previous work session to gain input before the following evening BoE action meeting.
To continue the quality of education that Cobb County is known for, we need to make every effort to preserve class size and teacher jobs. I am supportive of securing short term debt or borrowing against our reserves in order to “buy” us the time we need to make educated and informed decisions. We need to thoroughly review all of our options, engage key stakeholders, as well as network with other districts, who are managing through the budget crisis, before making irreparable decisions.
July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
35
Why Half of All Workers May Lose their Health Insurance
What Do Your Children Know?
continued from page 36
retrospectively). Getting rich slowly is not a bad idea. Investing seriously means staying invested through market cycles.
their company’s health benefit offerings to stay compliant. This concern will prevent companies from individually tailoring their health plans to reduce expenses. This also hurts small businesses’ ability to negotiate their health insurance rates unless, of course, the employees join a union to receive an exemption from this new law. The intent of these rules seems clear. President Obama has directed his administration’s bureaucrats to eliminate Americans’ existing health coverage. This fact is more clearly evidenced in these new rules. Any flexibility in the rules is only intended to force businesses to drop their existing health insurance coverage to join the government-run exchanges. If you don’t participate, then you pay much higher premiums or are fined. The details do matter. Unfortunately America had to wait until it was too late to find out what is Obamacare. Many Georgians and businesses are struggling now to make ends meet. They cannot afford higher health care expenses. People cannot afford the big fines and penalties that are imposed if they violate these restrictive new rules and federal health mandates. The end result is that more people will become uninsured forcing taxpayers to once again pick up the bill. This is a price tag people cannot afford. And this is not the health care reform Americans wanted. Obama and the Democrats did not keep their promises, nor did they solve any of the health care problems they promised to fix. There is good news. This year, Georgia stood up to Obamacare and passed my legislation that prevents you from being forced to join Obamacare against your will. Senate Bill 317, which passed as Senate Bill 411, was signed by the Governor, and became Georgia law effective July 1. Individuals and business can stake their opposition to Obamacare and to its new rules on this valid and legally sound new State law. This is our best option to preserve our free market health care system. And, this is Georgia’s best means to bring conservative patient-centered solutions to improve health care and to make it accessible and more affordable. That’s the promise we must keep. Senator Judson Hill serves as the Republican caucus vice chairman. He represents the 32nd Senate district which includes portions of Cobb and Fulton counties. He may be reached at (404)656-0150 or judson.hill@senate.ga.gov.
continued from page 12
Remind them of the power of compounding. If your
child opens an IRA or 401(k) before age 30, that does so much in terms of retirement savings potential. Yet few young adults focus on these retirement savings tools. The tax information service CCH took a poll in 2007 and found that just 4 percent of employees aged 25 and younger were maxing out retirement plans. That same year, Charles Schwab conducted a survey and learned that only 40 percent of adults aged 26 – 40 were contributing to an IRA. Looking back, what did you wish you had known? Today is as good as any day to let your son or daughter know about some investment and asset-building principles. At first glance, it may seem boring to them – but making money sure isn’t. The more they know now, the more years they have on their side to grow wealth. Don Akridge is President of Citadel CPA, Financial Planning & Investment Services founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. Phone 770-952-6707. Securities offered through 1st Global Capital Corp. Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through 1st Global Advisors, Inc. Created by 1st Global for use by our financial advisors
New Laws that Will Affect You in 2010 continued from page 16
Hearing. Since this information is not printed in the 1205 Form (which the officer currently issues), there is no way to be aware of this requirement unless you have reviewed the massive new budget bill. Further, there is no guidance on how the money is to be paid. If paid by check, what will happen to the request for a hearing if or when the check bounces? There are several practical issues that still must be ironed out, including possible legal challenges to the new law. See 2010 HB 1033. Effective 05-13-2010. Super-Speeder Law — This became effective January 1, 2010, after a highly publicized marketing campaign. All speeding offenses involving speeds over 84 mph on any road in Georgia or over 74 mph on surface two-lane road results in a surcharge of $200 added to your existing fine amount. See 2010 HB 160. Effective 01-01-2010. Doug Rohan lives in East Cobb with his wife, Julia, and daughters Vivian and Claudia. He is a bi-lingual attorney with the law firm Castan & Lecca, PC where he specializes in Criminal Defense and Workers’ Compensation claims. He also is a Community Board member of AroundAbout — East Cobb.
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
37
Faith
East Cobb Area Houses of Worship Apostolic Northside Apostolic Church 2115 Northfield Court, (770) 975-3001
Baha’i Faith Baha’i Faith of Marietta 2601 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 509-0070
Baptist Bible Baptist Church 2025 Eula Drive, NE, (770) 592-2660 Pastor: D.L. Cooper Chattahootchee Baptist Church 375 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 977-2058 Pastor: Rick Shoup www.chattahootcheebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Baptist Church 1506 Sawyer Road, (770) 422-3579 Pastor: Carl George Crossview Baptist Church 1100 Piedmont Road, (770) 973-0063 Pastor: Greg Belcher www.crossviewbaptist.org East Cobb Baptist Church 1940 Shallowford Road, (770) 928-2233 Pastor: David York www.eastcobbbaptist.org Eastside Baptist Church 2450 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 971-2323 Pastor: Dr. David H. Chauncey www.ebcfamily.org Eastwood Baptist Church 1150 Allgood Road, (770) 973-9011 Pastor: Mike Hatton www.eastwoodbaptist.org Elizabeth Baptist Church 315 Kurtz Road, (770) 427-3325 Pastor: Steve Echols Galilee Baptist Church 2050 Bentley Lake Road, (770) 422-6487 Holt Road Baptist Church 675 Holt Road, NE, (770) 971-3052 www.holtroadbaptist.org Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 973-6561 Pastor: Bryant Wright www.johnsonferry.org Liberty Hill Baptist Church 1053 Liberty Hill Road, NE, (770) 422-1406 Pastor: Amos Williams
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Mt. Arbor Baptist Church 2235 Morgan Road, NE, (770) 971-9339 New Life Baptist Church 4010 Canton Road, (770) 592-6880 Pastor: Roger Brink www.thenewlife.org New Providence Baptist Church 3740 Providence Road, (770) 971-3519 Pastor: Charles Whittaker www.newprovidencebc.com Piedmont Baptist Church 570 Piedmont Road, Marietta, (770) 422-2566 www.piedmontchurch.tv Sandy Plains Baptist Church 2825 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-8525 Pastor: Dr. Alvin Southerland www.sandyplains.org Sewell Mill Baptist Church 2550 Sewell Mill Road, (770) 971-3746 Pastor: David Watson www.sewellmill.org Shady Grove Baptist Church 1654 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 428-0216 Shallowford Free Will Baptist 1686 Shallowford Road, (770) 926-1163 Pastor: Len Blanchard www.shallowfordchurch.com
Catholic Holy Family Catholic Church 3401 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 973-0038 Pastor: Darragh Griffith www.holyfamilycc.org St. Ann’s Catholic Church 4905 Roswell Road, (770) 552-6400 Pastor: Tom Rielly www.st-ann.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road, (770) 977-1442 Pastor: Monsignor Patrick Bishop www.transfiguration.com
Christian Chestnut Ridge Christian Church 2663 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 971-8888 Pastor: Byron Wells Northside Christian Church 3535 Shallowford Road, (770) 565-6613 Pastor: Jason Burchfield Walking By Faith Christian 1821 Kinridge Road, (678) 560-1144 AroundAbout — East Cobb
Christian and Missionary Alliance Marietta Alliance Church 1787 E. Piedmont Road, (770) 973-2189 Pastor: David Hayes www.macweb.org
Christian Science Christian Science Churches & Reading Rooms 2641 Old Sewell Road, (770) 565-7271
Church of Christ Church of Christ at East Cobb 5240 Roswell Road, (770) 587-5888 Pastor: Ray Hawkins Church of Christ-Piedmont Road 1630 Piedmont Road, (770) 971-9933 Minister: Neil Richey www.pr-coc.com Emmanuel Tabernacle Christ Church 2692 Sandy Plains Road, #A32, (770) 422-3268 Pastor: Dwight Graves
Church of God Church of God of Prophecy 3393 Canton Road, (770) 427-5923 First Church of God 592 Shannon Drive, (770) 461-1925 Mount Paran North 1700 Allgood Road, (770) 578-9081 www.mtparan.com Town Center Church of God 1040 Blackwell Road, (770) 424-4004
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 3195 Trickum Road, NE, (770) 509-9074 Pastor: Bishop Ho Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints — Paper Mill Ward 95 Holt Road, (770) 578-8734
Community Churches Cobb Community Church at Highlands 4649 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 992-3330 Pastor: Alan Daniels www.cobbcc.com July / August 2010
Shallowford Falls Community Church 3662 Shallowford Road, (770) 565-7468 Pastor: David White www.shallowfordfalls.com Vineyard Community Church 2692 Sandy Plains Road, #A25, (770) 565-1505 Pastor: Tommy Papevies
Episcopal Episcopal Church of St. Peter & St. Paul 1795 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 977-7473 Rector: The Rev. Dr. Robert G. Certain www.peterandpaul.org Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, (770) 928-7916 St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church 571 Holt Road, NE, (770) 971-2839 Rev. Jim Nixon www.stcatherines.org
Greek Orthodox Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church 3431 Trickum Road, NE, (770) 924-8080 Rev. Father Panayiotis Papageorgiou www.HolyTransfiguration.info
Jehovah’s Witness Jehovah’s Witness 2065 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 427-1881 Pastor: Hope Torkornoo www.watchtower.org
Jewish Chabad of East Cobb 4450 Lower Roswell Road (770) 565-4412 Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills Pkwy, (770) 973-0137 Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, (770) 973-9205 Rabbi: Stephen Lebow www.kolemeth.net
Korean Bethany Korean Presbyterian Multi-cultural (Korean, Brazilian and American) 4644 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 643-1459 Pastor: Byeongho Choi www.bethanykorean.org Korean Covenant Presbyterian 2100 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 565-4777 Pastor: Paul Sim www.sungyahk.org Korean United Methodist Church 945 Old Canton Road, (770) 321-0020
Lutheran Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church 2240 Shallowford Road, (770) 928-7919 Pastor: John Guse July / August 2010
www.bslc.us Faith Lutheran Church and School 2111 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 973-8921 Marietta, GA 30068 Interim Pastor: Rev. Robert Strickert Jack D. Hibbs, Principal Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 2922 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-4600 Pastor: Ronald Grunke www.holytrinitymarietta.org Lutheran Church of Resurrection 4814 Paper Mill Road, (770) 953-3193 Marietta, GA 30068 www.lcrmarietta.org
Methodist East Cobb United Methodist 2325 Roswell Road, (770) 971-3643 Pastor: Brian Germano www.eastcobbumc.org Mount Bethel United Methodist Church 4385 Lower Roswell Road, (770) 971-2880 www.mtbethel.org Mountain View United Methodist 2300 Jamerson Road, (770) 928-0050 Sunday Services at 8:45 and 11 a.m. Sunday School at 10 a.m. Pastor: Bill Burch www.mvumc.org Mt. Zion United Methodist Church 1770 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 971-1465 Pastor: Dr. Joe Peabody www.mtzionumc.org Powers Ferry United Methodist Church 245 Powers Ferry Road, (770) 973-5271 Pastor: Jane Nugent www.powerumc.com Sacred Tapestry UMC 3000 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 605-5083 www.sacredtapestry.com St. Andrew United Methodist Church 3455 Canton Road, (770) 926-4961 St. Paul United Methodist Church 244 Kurtz Road, (770) 422-1089 Pastor: Dana Overton-Garrett Wesley Chapel United Methodist 4495 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 993-4919 Pastor: Jim Bocian www.wesleychapelumc.com
Non-Denominational Marietta Vineyard Church 1492 Roswell Road, (770) 977-9496 Pastor: Jeremy Graves www.mariettavineyard.org North Atlanta Church 2800 Johnson Ferry Road, (770) 518-0303 AroundAbout — East Cobb
Overcomers World Church 2300 Shallowford Road, (770) 924-0607 Pastors: Allison and Isaac Crawford overcomerswc.org Restoration Life Church 2692 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 509-1481 Pastor: Ken Kessler www.lifeschoolinternational.org
Orthodox St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church Sunday Divine Liturgy: 10 a.m. Service at the Woodstock Funeral Home Chapel 8855 Main Street, Woodstock (Olde Towne), (770) 485-0504 Priest Frederick Watson www.stelizabethga.org
Presbyterian Christ Presbyterian Church 495 Terrell Mill Road, (770) 956-7572 Pastor: Legree Finch www.christpreschurch.org East Cobb Presbyterian 4616 Roswell Road, (770) 973-4114 Pastor: Richard Holmes www.ecpca.org Eastminster Presbyterian Church 3125 Sewell Mill Road, (770) 977-2976 Pastor: Dr. Tim Erskine www.epres.org Geneva Orthodox Presbyterian 3605 Sandy Plains Road #240-161 (404) 786-9815 Pastor: John Fesko www.genevaopc.org Hope Presbyterian Church 4101 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-4673 Pastor: Martin Hawley www.hopepca.org Ray-Thomas Memorial Presbyterian Church 4644 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 998-9321 Pastor: Carrie Scott www.rtmchurch.org
United Church of Christ Pilgrimage Church UCC 3755 Sandy Plains Road, (770) 971-0007 Pastor: Kimberleigh Buchanan www.pilgrimageucc.org
Unitarian Universalist Emerson Unitarian Universalist 2799 Holly Springs Road, NE, (770) 578-1533 Pastor: Glenda Gray
Unity Unity North Atlanta Church 4255 Sandy Plains Road, (678) 819-9100 Temporary Minister: Stephanie Seigh www.unitynorth.org
39
Reference
East Cobb Area Clubs and Organizations Business Organizations The Association for Holistic Wellness Meeting: First Thursday at 7:00 p.m. Location: Meditating Mantis - Historic Roswell Contact: Chris Kell - Chris@ah-we.com Website: www.AH-We.com East Cobb Business Association Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. Contact: Susan Hampton, (404) 218-6216 www.eastcobbba.com East Cobb Open Networking A referral network for professionals Meeting: Fridays at 7:30 a.m. Location: Capozzi’s NY Deli, 4285 Roswell Road Contact: Tim Langley, (770) 993-0405 East Cobb PowerCore Team Meeting: Thursdays at 7 a.m. Location: IHOP, 3130 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Amy Caplan, (404) 572-1278 Joy of Connecting A networking dinner for professional women Meeting: 7 p.m., call for date Contact: Betty Goodman, (770) 906-3391 Bsg1011@bellsouth.net www.thejoyofconnecting.com Northeast Cobb Business Association Meeting: Third Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. Location: Piedmont Church, 570 Piedmont Road Contact: crba@cantonroadba.org or (770) 423-1330
Charitable Organizations Animals Deserve Better, Inc. Animal rescue and adoptions Contact: Kimberly Brenowitz, (770) 402-0297 kimberlyadb@aol.com Boys and Girls Clubs Contact: (770) 427-0418 Meals on Wheels Contact: Shelia Perkins, (770) 528-5381 MUST Ministries Contact: (770) 426-7667 SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, Inc. Contact: Elizabeth Underwood (770) 801-3465
Civic Organizations Children of the American Revolution Contact: B. Schilling, (770) 643-1010 Cobb American Association of University Women Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 7 p.m. Contact: www.aauwcobb.org Cobb County WWII Veterans Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 1 p.m. Location: Windy Hill Senior Center Contact: Bill Hill, (678) 354-7059
40
East Cobb AARP Meeting: 1st Thursday at 1:30 p.m. Location: East Cobb Senior Center 3332 Sandy Plains Road Contact: Martha Boyce, (678) 290-9895 East Cobb Civic Organization Meeting: Last Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Government Services Center 4400 Lower Roswell Road Contact: Mark McClellan, (678) 222-3465 www.eastcobb.net East Cobb Civitans Meeting: 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 12 noon Location: Parc at Piedmont, 999 Hood Road Contact: Mary Karras, (770) 422-6485 East Cobb Community Friends for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Contact: Suzanne Strickland, (770) 992-2882 East Cobb Lions Club Meeting: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Eastside Baptist Church 2450 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta Contact: Susan Hampton, (404) 218-6216 East Cobb Optimist Clubs Meeting: Mondays at 7 p.m. Location: Shillings on the Square 19 N. Park Square NE, Marietta Contact: Jim David, (404) 683-0196
Meeting: 2nd Thursday at 6 p.m. Contact: Beverly McMurry, (770) 426-6916 btmcmurray@comcaStreet.net Cobb Young Democrats Meeting: Wednesdays at 12 noon Contact: webmaster@ydcobb.org www.ydcobb.org East Cobb Democratic Alliance Meeting: 1st Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Spaghetti Factory, Delk Road Contact: David Lombrozo, (770) 649-8330 Cobb County Libertarian Party Meeting: 1st Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Location: Council Chamber Marietta City Hall Contact: Ted Skirvin, (770) 795-1331 www.cobblp.org Cobb County Republican Party Meeting: 1st Saturday at 8:30 a.m. Location: Williamson Bros. BBQ, Marietta Contact: (770) 421-1833, scottj@applebank.net www.cobbgop.org Cobb County Republican Women Meeting: 4th Friday at 11:30 a.m. Location: Marietta Conference Center 500 Powder Springs Street Contact: (770) 785-2522, www.ccrwc.org
Support Groups
Kiwanis Club of East Cobb Meetings: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Scalini’s, 1205 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Johnny Johnson, (770) 977-2026 www.eastcobbkiwanis.org
Al-Anon Meeting: Location: Contact:
Rotary Club of East Cobb Meeting: Wednesdays at 7 — 8 a.m. Location: Indian Hills Country Club Contact: (770) 971-2605 www.eastcobbrotary.com
Alzheimer’s Support Group Meeting: Third Thursday at 7 p.m. Location: 866 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Janet Shiflet, (770) 977-4420
President’s Club Toastmasters Meeting: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Location: East Cobb Government Services Building, 4400 Lower Roswell Road Contact: Sean Ryan, sean_ryan@comcast.net http://presidentsclub.freetoasthost. com/index.html VFW Post 2681 Location: 140 Powers Ferry Road Contact: (770) 977-2088 www.vfwwebcom.org/ga/post2681
Political Organizations Cobb County Democratic Party Committee Meeting: 2nd Saturday at 9 a.m. Location: Piccadilly Cafeteria, 536 Cobb Parkway Contact: (770) 420-7133 ccdc@cobbdemocrat.com Cobb Democratic Women
AroundAbout — East Cobb
Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling
Autism Support Group Meeting: 3rd Thursday at 9 a.m. or 7 p.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road, Room F002 Contact: (770) 971-2880 Blended Families Support Group Meeting: 3rd Sunday at 7 p.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Contact: (770) 971-2880 Breast Cancer Support Group Meeting: 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 7 p.m. Location: St. Andrew United Methodist Church 3455 Canton Road Contact: Sandy, (770) 926-3488 sandy@thepumpkinchurch.org Cancer Support Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Mondays at 7 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church
July / August 2010
955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling Career Quest Ministry Meeting: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. Location: St. Ann’s Catholic Church 4905 Roswell Road Contact: (770) 552-6400 x 6104 Care Partner Support Group Meetings : First Monday of each month at 6 p.m. Location: Sunrise of East Cobb 1551 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: Dawn Reed, (678) 777-7241 or dawn@alohatoseniorsolutions.com. Caregivers/Alzheimers Support Group Meeting: 1st Monday at 10:30 a.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Contact: (770) 971-2880 Codependents Anonymous Meeting: Monday and Thursdays at 7:30pm Location: Unity North Church, 4225 Sandy Plains Road (Administration Bldg upstairs) Contact: Janet D. 770-578-6368 Website: northgeorgiacoda.org Dad 2 Dad For stay-at-home dads Contact: Richard Collins, (770) 579-5445 Depression Support Group Meeting: Thursdays at 7 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling Diabetes Support Group Contact: Wellstar, (770) 793-7828 East Cobb CHADD For parents with children who have ADHD. Contact: east-cobb@chadd.net Website: www.chadd.net/300 East Cobb Moms For stay-at-home moms Contact: www.eastcobbmoms.com Foundation for Ensuring Access and Equity Contact: Mychal Wynn, (678) 395-5825 or (678) 620-3685 Website: www.accessandequity.org Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Meeting: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7:15 p.m. Location: Transfiguration Catholic Church Blackwell Road Contact: Jeannie DeCarlo, (770) 919-9275 Grief and Loss Support Group All faiths are welcome, not only for Jewish faith. Meeting: 12-week programs Location: Jewish Family & Career Services, 1501 Johnson Ferry Road Suite 100 Contact: Barbara Dolin, (770) 933-0081 bdolin@jfcs-atlanta.org Health and Wellness Support Group Meeting: Wednesdays every other month at 6:30 p.m.
July / August 2010
Location: Contact:
Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Room B118 Gina Murphy, (770) 971-2880
Job Seekers Meeting: 1st and 3rd Saturdays at 8 a.m. Location: Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3125 Sewell Mill Road Contact: (770) 977-2976 MOMS Club of Marietta Northeast Meeting: 1st Monday at 9:30 a.m. Location: Hope Presbyterian Church 4101 Sandy Plains Road Contact: lcstokes@bellsouth.net Moms In Touch — East Side Elementary Meeting: Mondays at 10 a.m. Contact: Movita Stallworth, (770) 321-1783 Mo633@bellsouth.net Mothers and More Meeting: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Location: Saint Catherine’s Episcopal Church, 681 Holt Road Contact: www.mmeastcobb.homestead.com Newcomers of Cobb County Meeting: 3rd Tuesday at 10 a.m. Location: John Knox Presbyterian Church, 505 Powers Ferry Road Contact: Christine, (770) 819-7531 newcomersofcobbcounty@yahoo.com Next Century Youth, Inc. Location: 791 Mimosa Boulevard, Roswell Contact: Mary Brooks Green, (678) 278-9278 Website: www.nextcenturyyouth.org Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples Club (formerly the Cobb Parents of Multiples Club) Meeting: 2nd Monday of each month Location: North Metro Church on Barrett Parkway. Contact: www.NOWaMOM.org. Overeaters Anonymous Meeting: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10 a.m. Location: St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 4905 Roswell Rd Contact: Betsy, (404) 226-4931, www.oa.org Parents of Prodigals (children with selfdestructive lifestyle) Meeting: 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling Parents Without Partners Contact: Ted Perskey, (770) 973-4087 www.Pwpchapter698.org PASA (Parents of All Stages and Ages) Meeting: Fridays at 10 a.m. Free child care available Location: East Cobb UMC Lower Level Activities Building, 2325 Roswell Road Contact: Lisa Hunt (770) 984-0699
AroundAbout — East Cobb
Road to Recovery Divorce Support Group Meeting: Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church 4385 Lower Roswell Road Mission House Contact: (770) 971-2880 Sexual Assault Support Group Meeting: Mondays at 7 p.m. Location: YMCA of NW GA, 48 Henderson St, Contact: Susan Roberts (770) 427-3390 Single’s Ministry Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 973-6561, www.jfbc.org Single Adult Ministry Location: Mount Bethel United Methodist Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Contact: (770) 971-3447, www.mtbethel.org Treasures in Heaven (miscarriage/infant death) Meeting: 4th Monday at 7 p.m. Location: Johnson Ferry Baptist Church 955 Johnson Ferry Road Contact: (770) 794-2978 www.johnsonferry.org/counseling Widowed Helping Others A group for widows and widowers Meeting: Twice each month Location: St. Ann’s Catholic Church 4905 Roswell Road Contact: Marguerite Williamson, (770) 977-8438
Recreation and Hobbies American Needlepoint Guild Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 6:45 p.m. Location: Mountainview Library, 3320 Sandy Plains Road Contact: Penny Boswinkle, (770) 394-0065 Bridge Club Meeting: Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. Location: 1089 Roswell Road Contact: (770) 973-7717 Cobb Alley Cats A group for people who help stray cats Contact: Sue Verner, (770) 436-6758 Cobb County Special Olympics Contact: (770) 819-3223 www.prca.cobbcoga.org Cobb County Stamp Club Meeting: 2nd Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Location: Jewish Towers, 3160 Howell Mill Rd Meeting: 4th Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Central Cobb Library, 266 Roswell St. Contact: C. Rejent, (770) 330-0790 crejent@stampsclubs.com www.stampclubs.com/cobb Dog Hikers of Georgia Meeting: Sundays at 10 a.m. Contact: Dan Batchelor, (770) 992-2362 Sope Creek Garden Club Meeting: 1st Wednesday at 10 a.m. Contact: Karin Guzy, (770) 955-1303
41
Reference
Elected and Appointed Officials United States Government: President Barack 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
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) (202) 224-3521 Senate Russell Courtyard-2 fax: (202) 224-0103 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: www.saxby.org e-mail: Saxby_chambliss@chambliss.senate.gov Senator Johnny Isakson (R) 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 3625 Cumberland Blvd,
(202) 224-3643 GA: (770) 661-0999
Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov
fax: (770) 661-0768
Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6 3730 Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30062 Website: http://tom.house.gov e-mail: tom@tomprice.com
GA: (770) 565-4990 fax: (770) 565-7570
Rep. Phil Gingrey (R), District 11 219 Roswell Street Marietta, GA 30060 Website: www.gingrey.house.gov e-mail: gingrey.ga@mail.house.gov
(202) 225-2931 GA: (770) 429-1776 fax: (770) 795-9551
State Government: Governor Sonny Perdue (R) 203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-1776 fax: (404) 657-7332 www.gov.ga.gov.com
Senator Chip Rogers (R), District 21 chip@SenatorChipRogers.com
(404) 463-1378
Senator Judson Hill (R), District 32 judson.hill@senate.ga.gov
(770) 565-0024
Rep. Sharon Cooper (R), District 41 sharon.cooper@house.ga.gov
(770) 956-8357
Magistrate Court Chief Judge Frank R. Cox
(770) 528-8900
Probate Court Judge Kelli Wolk
(770) 528-1900
Juvenile Court Judge Joanne Elsey Judge Juanita Stedman Judge James Whitfield
(770) 528-2220
Cobb County Coroner Brian Frist 150 North Marietta Pkwy Marietta, GA 30060 Cobb County Board of Commissioners 100 Cherokee Street Marietta, GA 30090 www.cobbcountyga.gov Commissioners: Samuel S. Olens (R), Chairperson e-mail: solens@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3316
Tim Lee (R), District 3 e-mail: tlee@cobbcounty.org
(770) 528-3318
Cobb County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Neil Warren 185 Roswell Street Marietta, GA 30060 Cobb County School System Superintendent, Fred Sanderson 514 Glover Street Marietta, GA 30060 www.cobb.k12.ga.us e-mail: fred.sanderson@cobbk12.org See school listings on pages 34 and 35.
(770) 977-4426
Rep. Bobby Franklin (R), District 43 bobby.franklin@house.ga.gov
(770) 591-6240
Rep. Matt Dollar (R), District 45 matt.dollar@house.ga.gov
David Banks, District 5 e-mail: David.Banks@cobbk12.org
(404) 656-0254
Dr. John Crooks, District 6 e-mail: John.crooks@cobbk12.org
42
(770) 528-3300
Bob Ott (R), District 2 e-mail:bott@cobbcounty.org
Board of Education Dr. John Abraham, District 4 e-mail: John.abraham@cobbk12.org
Cobb County Judges Superior Court Chief Judge S. Lark Ingram
(770) 528-3300 fax: (770) 528-2606
Rep. Don L. Parsons (R), District 42 repdon@gmail.com
County Government:
(770) 528-2200
(770) 499-4600
(770) 426-3300 fax: (678) 594-8559
City of Marietta: (770) 528-1800
Mayor William B. “Bill” Dunaway bdunaway@mariettaga.gov
AroundAbout — East Cobb
(770) 794-5501
July / August 2010
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July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
43
Reference
Community Information Numbers & Websites Emergency — 911 • AroundAbout — East Cobb • (770) 516-7105 Cobb County Chamber of Commerce Driver’s License Health Department Post Office www.usps.com Recycling Center
Cobb County Government:
Business License Keep Cobb Beautiful Commissioners Engineering Office Traffic Signals Extension Office Jury Phone — State Court Jury Phone — Superior Court Planning and Zoning Senior Services Tax Assessors/Evaluation Taxes: License Plates/Tags Property Tax Voter Registration CCT Bus Service
Children/Family:
Department of Family and Children’s Services Next Steps (Child/Adolescent) Mothers Making a Change Child and Adolescent Services Meals on Wheels MUST Ministries Child Support Enforcement YMCA of Northwest GA, Rape Crisis Center
(770) 980-2000 (678) 413-8400 (678) 784-2180 (800) 275-8777 (770) 528-2500
(770) 528-8410 (770) 528-1135 (770) 528-1000 (770) 528-1616 (770) 528-1600 (770) 528-4070 (770) 528-2626 (770) 528-1804 (770) 528-2004 (770) 528-5355 (770) 528-3100 (770) 528-8247 (770) 528-8600 (770) 528-2581 (770) 528-8465
(770) 528-5000 (770) 514-2300 (770) 499-2422 (770) 514-2300 (770) 528-5381 (770) 427-9862 (770) 528-2410 (770) 427-3390
Clubs/Groups:
AARP Kiwanis Club Lions Club Rotary Club
Public Service:
Fire Departments: 2905 Library Lane 4431 Trickum Road 3892 Oak Lane Georgia State Patrol Non-Emergency 911 Sheriff’s Department www.cobbsheriff.org
Hospitals:
Wellstar Kennestone Hospital North Fulton Hospital Northside Hospital Atlanta
(678) 290-9895 (770) 912-9632 (404) 218-6216 (770) 422-7551
Poison Control Center Cobb Judicial Victim Assistance Domestic Violence Unit Drug Tip Public Outreach/Programs
(404) 589-4400 (770) 528-3047 (770) 499-4665 (770) 590-5520 (770) 499-4719
Libraries:
East Marietta Merchant’s Walk Gritter’s Mountain View Regional
(770) 509-2711 (770) 509-2730 (770) 528-2524 (770) 509-2725
Parks and Recreation: Main Office Aquatic Centers: Mountain View Sewell Park East Cobb Park Mount Bethel Park Sweat Mountain Park Fullers Park Harrison Park Harrison Tennis Center
YMCA
(770) 528-8800 (770) 509-4927 (770) 509-2741 (770) 591-3160 (770) 509-2748 (770) 591-3160 (770) 509-2737 (770) 591-3150 (770) 591-3151
(770) 977-5991
Pets:
Animal Control Animal Shelter and Pet Adoptions Cobb County Humane Society Emergency Veterinary Clinic Cobb County Animal Control Good Mews Animal Foundation
(770) 499-4136 (770) 499-4136 (770) 428-5678 (770) 424-9157 (770) 499-4136 (770) 499-CATS
Schools: Board of Education www.cobbk12.org
(770) 426-3300
Utilities: (770) 528-8000
(770) 205-4500 (770) 499-3900 (770) 499-4600
(770) 793-5000 (770) 751-2500 (404) 851-8000
Banking, only better! 44
Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines:
AT&T Residential Phone Service www.att.com AT&T Broadband/Comcast www.comcast.com Atlanta Gas Light Co. www.aglc.com Cobb County Water System water.cobbcountyga.gov Water Emergency Cobb EMC www.cobbemc.com Georgia Power www.georgiapower.com
LGE
770-424-0060
(888) 757-6500 (404) 266-2278 (770) 907-4231 (770) 423-1000 (770) 419-6201 (770) 429-2100 (888) 660-5890
www.LGEccu.org
Community Credit Union
AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
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July / August 2010
AroundAbout — East Cobb
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Classifieds HELP WANTED
VACATION RENTAL
Be Loved By Your Clients. Comfort Keepers is seeking mature, dependable people to fill open positions caring for the elderly. If you enjoy providing companionship, preparing meals and shopping for the elderly, we want to hear from you. Call (678) 354-0102, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., M — F.
Stressed? We’ll get you unpacked and organized the day after you move! (770) 634-1595.
home services Fix it Fast! Home repair & “honey do’s”, plus kitchens/baths, carpentry, trim, weatherproofing, tile/stone, drywall. Call Dean, (678) 661-1878.
VACATION RENTAL
CONDO Panama City Beach Gulf Highlands Beach Resort. 3 BR, 2 BA, sunroom, full kitchen, W/D, very nice view, swimming pools, large pool at beach house, tennis courts, putt putt golf. Call for daily rates and specials. (770) 592-1070, (770) 356-1059.
Www.atlantaroofingandconstruction.com. Roofing, gutters, gutter cleaning and pressure washing. Free estimates. (404) 376-7380. E.P. Pressure Wash. Reasonable rates, free estimates, insured. (770) 380-2325. Frameless Shower Enclosures. Update your bathroom now with glass benches, mirrors and frameless enclosures. By D’Sapone, (770) 9242871. Free estimates. Visit our website, www. dsapone.com.
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010
Advertisers Directory Support the Advertisers that Support Your Community! Automotive E.H. Sellars Goodyear...........................Inside Front (770) 973-8737
English Trades........................................................9
Banking/Financial Services Citadel CPA & Wealth Care Services....................45 (770) 952-6707 175 Town Park Drive, Kennesaw
Reliable Heating & Air..........................Inside Front (770) 594-9969 www.reliableair.com
LGE Community Credit Union...... 6,8,14,44, Back Cvr (770) 565-5118 www.LGEccu.org Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners Carpet Dry Tech...................................................17 (678) 368-5991 Dentists/Orthodontists Cristi Y. Cheek DMD, P.C.......................................11 (770) 993-3775 www.cheekdental.com Education/Instruction/Counseling Chattahoochee Technical College..........................7 (770) 528-4545 www.chatttahoocheetech.edu Furtah Preparatory School..................................17 (678) 574-6488 Gandolfo Enterprises.............................................7 (678) 640-0000 Kennesaw State University, Cont. Ed................43, 48 (770) 423-6765 www.kennesawedu/coned.com Health & Beauty Patrick Carmen NR.9 Salon..................................15 (678) 427-8000 Home Improvement/Repair & Service A+ Water & Foundations Solutions.....................15 (770) 475-0070 apluswatersolutions.com
July / August 2010
Georgia Custom Interiors....................................36
Towne Lake Air Conditioning & Heating Inc........37 (678) 285-2700 www.townelakehvac.com US Cabinetworks..................................................... 13 (770) 592-5125 1130 Hayes Industrial Dr., Marietta Insurance services State Farm................................................ Inside Front (770) 792-6699 lawn maintenance/landscaping Crawford Landscaping.........................................11 (770) 509-0355 www.crawford-landscaping.com Lawn Squad, The.................................................15 (770) 591-4745
Wellstar Health Systems........................................3 (770) 956-7827 www.wellstar.org Pet/Veterinarian Services & Supplies Humane Society of Cobb County.........................19 (770) 428-9882 www.humanecobb.org 148 Fairground St. SE, Marietta political Friends of Jusdon Hill......................... Cover, 5, 21, 21 REstaurants/Food SErvices Good Measure Meals............................................5 (404) 815-7695 Services/Retailers Miscellaneous Kitchen & Bath Overstock......................................7 (770) 419-9200 Paper Affair..........................................................37 (678) 560-2032 Rod Kaye Photography........................................17 (404) 786-4136 www.rodkaye.com
Pike Nursery........................................................ 9, 22 (770) 640-6468 www.pikenursery.com
Take Shape for Life...............................................37 (770) 843-2026
Physicians and Medical Services Comfort Keepers...................................................9 (678) 354-0102
Business Been Slow?
Northside Hospital................................................1 www.northside.com Pediatric Associates.............................................47 (770) 993-2922 Plastic Surgery Center of the South........................... 5 (770) 421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net
AroundAbout — East Cobb
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AroundAbout — East Cobb
July / August 2010