Volume 1 | Issue 4
November 2013 28-29 Audio Intersection Continues Downtown Canton’s Renaissance
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Artist Profile: Shea Vickery
In Every Issue
41-46
06 Calendar
18 Community Life
10 Business Life
22 Academic Life
16 Family of 4
32 Taste of Life
150 North Street, Suite A, Canton, GA 30114 (O) 770-213-7095 | (F) 770-213-7106 FamilyLifePublications.com 2
Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
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Publisher’s
Perspective
PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski jack@familylifepublications.com EDITORIAL Michelle Martin michelle@familylifepublications.com ART Candice Williams candice@familylifepublications.com Tiffany Atwood tiffany@familylifepublications.com SALES Janet Ponichtera janet@familylifepublications.com Jennifer Allen jennifer@familylifepublications.com
“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” — Henry Ford
U
p until a few months ago, I was quite content being a photographer because that was always the perception that many, myself included, had labeled me. I had pretty much reached a plateau in my career path of choice, and was looking for some other outlet for my life that would allow me to be a more positive influence. There are few words that could express my gratitude for how this publication — a dream realized — has been accepted and appreciated by so many. Sometimes we find ourselves standing in a doorway and we look around and try to consider whether or not we should walk through. Are we fine with where we are, or could there be more for us? Do we look beyond who or what we have become and dare to reconsider what more we could be or do? Are we even capable of imagining what lies ahead in this ever-changing world of ours? It isn’t our circumstances that change our direction; it’s our attitudes and reactions to what unfolds before us that shape us.
The trick might just be our personal belief of what we could accomplish from day to day and the actual will to do it. That drive in our core that makes us reach for what we need and relinquish the burden of what we simply want is what moves us forward toward becoming our best. The reality is that, eventually, we all become a little humbled — and that’s alright. We have made our lives exactly how we have lived them up to this point, and we must move toward tomorrow via today. We’ve worked, played, lived and loved — and right here, right now, is our time just to be thankful for our many blessings. So, thank you…for all you do to make your life and the lives of your family better. In turn, you make our community, country and world a better, happier place to live.
Jack Tuszynski, publisher
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Kellie Baxter, Gemma Beylouny, Crystal Bryant, Mary Kay Buquoi, Jyl Craven, Dr. Kyle Edwards, Louise Estabrook, Dr. Thaddeus Fabian, Meghan Griffin, Catherine Groves, Dr. Keith Hanna, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Mayor Gene Hobgood, Norman Hunt, James Kilgore, Michelle Knapp, Dr. Vicki Knight-Mathis, Scott Lavelle, Dr. James E. Leake, Dr. Michael McNeel, Dr. Chris Meiners, Jamie Morgan, Dr. E. Anthony Musarra, Dr. Michael Petrosky, Janet Read, Nick Roper, Archie Speights, Dr. John Symbas, Suzanne Taylor, Dr. Keith West Canton Family Life magazine is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Family Life Publications. The magazine’s mission is to bring relevant, positive stories and timely information to its readers and to provide local businesses with a premium outlet for community-based advertising. Each month, copies are distributed free by mail and through local businesses in the Canton area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found and other information. Canton Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. 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. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission from the Publisher. © 2013 All rights reserved.
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Calendar of
Events
Library Events SequoyahRegionalLibrary.com Ball Ground Public Library 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground, 770-735-2025
Hickory Flat Public Library 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565
November 4
Open House Cherokee Christian Schools will host an Open House to allow prospective students and families to tour the campus, meet staff and faculty, and learn more about the school. Light refreshments will be served, and children are welcome to attend. 7 p.m., Cherokee Christian School, 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock. 678-4945464, CherokeeChristian.org
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Free Cardiovascular Screening Northside Hospital’s Heart and Vascular Institute will offer a free screening to determine risk for heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease, or CVD — the leading cause of death among Americans, according to the American Heart Association. The comprehensive screening will be administered by healthcare professionals and will include a risk assessment, blood pressure reading, total cholesterol (HDL, ratio of TC/HDL) and glucose testing, body mass index (BMI) analysis, and a one-on-one consultation with a healthcare professional. A limited number of advanced services (EKG, leg vein and peripheral artery disease screening, carotid and heart ultrasound) also will be available. The screening is free, but registration is required. 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Northside-Cherokee Towne Lake Medical Campus, 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 404-845-5555
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Master Gardeners Seminar “Birds of Cherokee County” seminar will be presented by the Georgia Master Gardeners Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County. 7 p.m., William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-721-7803
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
R.T. Jones Memorial Library 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090
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Turkey Shoot The Rotary Club of Cherokee County will host its inaugural Turkey Shoot. The event will include a 50/50 money shot, and other prizes will be awarded for best shooters. Proceeds will benefit children in need in Cherokee County. 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 1000 Cagle Drive, Canton. 770-480-4179, CherokeeRotary.org
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Art from the Heart Presented by Next Step Ministries, this fundraiser will support programs for people with special needs. The event will focus on local artists and will include a dessert and coffee buffet, a silent auction, an artisans’ shopping bazaar, gift wrapping and more. 6-9 p.m., Venue 92, 12015 Hwy. 92, Woodstock. 770-592-1227, NextStepMinistries.net
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CASA Foster Volunteers Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children and the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) will host an informational session for those interested in helping foster children in Cherokee County. Representatives from both agencies will explain the role of foster parents and volunteers, and answer any questions. 6 p.m., DFCS Office, 105 Lamar Haley Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3274, CASACherokee.org
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Great American Smoke Out For a $10 donation to the American Cancer Society, participants can learn how to easily stop smoking without cravings, irritability or weight gain through hypnosis. Following the continued on page 8
Holiday Hours (all branches) November 11: Closed November 27: Close at 5 p.m. November 28-29: Closed
Story Times Family Story Times November 5, 12 & 19, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m., R.T. Jones November 7, 14 & 21, 10:30 a.m., Ball Ground November 7, 14 & 21, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m., Hickory Flat Lapsit Story Times November 6, 13 & 20, 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones Super Saturday Story Times November 2, 9, 16 & 23, 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones
Special Programs How to Answer the Difficult Interview Questions Successfully
November 4, 10:30 a.m., Hickory Flat Reading Dogs
November 4 & 18, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Ball Ground & R.T. Jones November 5, 12, 19 & 26, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Hickory Flat Yarn Time
November 4, 11 & 18, 6 p.m., R.T. Jones
Calendar of
Events presentation, those who wish to may participate in a group hypnosis session to experience the pleasant relaxation of the hypnotic state and assist them in preparing to quit. Hosted by Georgia Hypnotherapy Associates as part of the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smoke Out. 6478 Putnam Ford Dr., Suite 125, Woodstock. 678-938-7274, GaHypnotherapy.com
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‘Cards on the Table’ Presented by King’s Academy, this Agatha Christie Mystery tells the story of Mr. Shaitana, a strange and wealthy collector of snuff boxes and other objets d’art. One evening he invites two specialists, Superintendent Battle of Scotland Yard and crime novelist Ariadne Oliver, to a dinner party to view his special collection: four people who have committed murder and gotten away with it. As they play bridge after dinner, Shaitana is daringly murdered by someone at the party. Battle sets out to solve the crime, aided, of course, by the eager Mrs. Oliver, who begins with psychological deductions from the bridge scorecards. After many red herrings, skeletons in the cupboard and two more deaths, Battle lays his cards on the table. 7 p.m., Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. 770-7046244, CherokeeArts.org
December 7-8
North Georgia Art Ramble Eclectic artists, art advocates and local businesses will participate in a self-guided tour showcasing a variety
continued from page 6
of art forms, from the functional to the whimsical and the abstract. See art created from many different types of art mediums, with locations including Canton, Woodstock, Blue Ridge, Calhoun, Cartersville, Cumming, Jasper and Roswell. A map of each art ramble location is available on the website. Reception, 6:30 p.m., December 6, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., December 7-8, Ramble locations. NGaArtRamble.com The Potters of Orange This temporary exhibit features pottery works created in Cherokee County throughout the last century. In the early 1900s, the pottery shops of Edward L. Stork and James P. Reid, in the Orange community, made utilitarian wares churns, jugs, pitchers, bowls, etc. that were sold to local farmers for the preparation and storage of food. Decoration on the pottery was sparse, with most of the visual appeal of the pottery deriving from the forms and the variations in the earthy colors. Today, the pottery produced at the shops of Ron Cooper and Jay Benzel is decorative art pottery (vases, face jugs, figurals, abstract pieces, etc.) in a rainbow of glazes and decorated in an unlimited variety of motifs. The exhibit features the collectible pottery from the four potters, as well as pieces from other affiliated potters, including Earl Stork, Homer Burns and Belle Reid. Admission is free. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Cherokee County History Museum and Visitors Center, Suite 140, Cherokee County Courthouse, 100 North St., Canton. 770-345-3288, Rockbarn.org
Send Your December Events to michelle@familylifepublications.com. 8
Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
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Business What's New Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt opened October 26 at Riverstone Plaza in Canton. Menchie’s premium label yogurt is custom made by Scott Brothers Dairy in California. Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt features four added probiotics to promote intestinal health and comes in a variety of blends and flavors, including non-fat; low-fat; low-carb; no-sugar-added; tart; and sorbet. Customers can mix flavors and add toppings of their choice, including candies, cookies, nuts and fruits. This month’s featured Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt is It’s Pumpkin Time; other flavors alternate weekly. In addition, Menchie’s new Canton location is available for fundraising events and birthday parties. The new Canton franchise is owned by Greg and Jenny Brooks, also of Canton. Store hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday-Thursday, and 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. 1355 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 110, Canton. 770-704-7510, Facebook.com/Menchies.Riverstone
Jill’s Cakes & Bakes re-opened October 30 in a new location, in Canton. The new bakery, located between Moe’s and Riverstone Corner Bistro, is owned by Jill Brown and features a new café style bake shop — serving coffee, beverages, bagels, biscuits and muffins throughout the day, as well as a daily selection of cupcakes, gourmet cookies, brownies, donuts, cake pops, cake by the slice, cheesecakes, pies and petit fours, as well as custom orders. Contact the store for business hours and custom orders. 135 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 2, Canton. 678-493-7277, JillsCakes.com
Amicalola Electric Membership Corp. donated $24,000 recently to Reinhardt University for scholarships to students whose households are served by Amicalola EMC. The Amicalola EMC Scholars Fund will be distributed in $1,000 increments to students who are attending Reinhardt and need financial assistance with their education. A $1,000 donation was also given to A DAY for Reinhardt. The funds for scholarships are awarded from Amicalola EMCs unclaimed property account established by O.C.G.A. 44-12-236, which allows an electric membership corporation to donate capital credits presumed abandoned if the funds are used for education purposes in the EMCs service area. 10
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Mayor’s
Minute By Mayor Gene Hobgood
Construction at Canton City Hall
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ue to Canton’s rapid expansion from a population of about 7,500 in 2000 to about 23,000 in 2013, Canton’s City Hall on Marietta Highway, which had at one time been the main house on Crescent Farms estate, could no longer support all of the City’s staff. In fact, at the time, the City had to rent space on Riverstone Parkway for its Building department. In March 2004, the City of Canton purchased the building formerly used by First Baptist Church of Canton, Georgia Inc. and, after extensive renovation of the building, moved to its new home at 151 Elizabeth Street. The front doors of the current Canton City Hall opened on May 31, 2005. The largest room in the building, formerly the church’s sanctuary, has been used continuously by Municipal Court and sometimes for voting and other purposes over the years, but it has been less than ideal. The room has had leaks, drafts, asbestos and other problems that needed attention. It remained in a state of disrepair until recently, when the City decided that it was time to bite the bullet and forge ahead with the renovation for the safety and welfare of all who use the room. Once completed, the room will be home to City Council meetings, Municipal Court and other functions. While the renovation costs seem quite extravagant, there is much to be done to make the room safe and comfortable for public use. The room, while maintaining its beautiful architecture and charm, will be refinished from floor to ceiling — including removing and replacing the asbestos ceiling; restoring plaster carvings; repairing the heating and air conditioning system; repainting; installing new lighting; recovering the seating; and refinishing the floor. In addition, since the room will be the City Council chambers, the “stage” will be equipped with a dais and an audio-visual system that will guarantee the public can see and hear while the City’s business is being conducted by City Council. The City is also having the hardwood floors in the City Hall lobby refinished, which will spruce up the area and add to the beauty of the renovations. The work has just begun and is expected to take three months to complete. In the meantime, Municipal Court will be held on City Hall’s third floor, in the area currently used as the City Council chambers. The new City Council chambers will be ready in time to swear in the new members at the first City Council meeting in January 2014. Of course, the public is invited to the swearing-in ceremony, which will be at 6 p.m., January 2, 2014. Gene Hobgood is the mayor of Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Breast Enhancement Can Enhance
Women’s Self-Esteem By Drs. Musarra, Leake & Petrosky Fashion, femininity and your figure have one element in common: the curve of the breast. There’s no doubt that the most feminine of a woman’s attributes are her breasts. Through the ages, women have turned to brassieres, corsets and now surgery to obtain a more aesthetically pleasing bustline. The size, shape and appearance of the breast can influence how women feel about their bodies and, in turn, themselves. Most women who seek breast enhancement fall into two groups: the younger woman who has always been dissatisfied with the size and proportion of her breasts; and the woman in her
late 20s-40s who has lost volume due to pregnancy and breast shape changes, especially sagging, that may not warrant a lift. Breast augmentation enhances the size and shape of breasts through the placement of breast implants. What you know — or think you know — about breast implants may surprise you. True or False? • • • •
All breast implants may be detected by the touch: False All breast implants become hard over time: False Breast implants can move or fall out of position: True Silicone breast implants can cause cancer and other diseases: False
Breast surgery is a highly emotional and fulfilling experience. Breast surgery also is a very personal decision. Of course, those who love and support you may have their own concerns about it. But remember, the effects of the surgery on your breasts and
your body are yours, and yours alone. Most women carefully consider and research about breast surgery before making their decision. Homework does not, however, replace the guidance of an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon can assist women in making an informed decision based on their individual desires and predicted results. No other medical specialty includes formal training and testing to maintain credentials in all breast procedures. If you are considering breast enhancement, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if it’s right for you.
Drs. Musarra, Leake & Petrosky are board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 770-421-1242, PlasticSurgeryCenteroftheSouth.net
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Be the first to find the photo where these pieces belong! Please email art@familylifepublications.com to submit your answer. Be sure to include the magazine title, your name and contact information. Only emailed answers with full information will be accepted. Individuals can win only once per calendar year. Happy Hunting!
Congratulations to our October winner, Tiffany Endler!
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
‘Smart Home’ Technology By Nick Roper
When is the last time you upgraded the technology in your home? I am referring not only to the obvious upgrades in your TVs, DVD players, computers and game consoles but also to your whole-home technology, or “smart home” technology. A smart home connects all of the devices in your house so that they communicate with each other. Don’t you wish you could turn on the lights in one area of your home or even the entire home upon your arrival? Several vendors offer a mobile access app that allows you to do this from any Internet-enabled device, such as a smart phone or tablet. Complete smart home technology, though, offers many more capabilities. For example, you can view live camera feeds of your home while on vacation, or monitor your kids
while you are at work or out to dinner. Another great feature with mobile access is being able to control music tracks and volume throughout your house with your smart phone or tablet.
“A smart home connects all
of the devices in your house so that they communicate with each other.” The smart home entertainment systems available now are what I find to be the most exciting. Some systems allow you to separate your home into “zones,” such as your living room, bedrooms, garage, bathrooms, outdoor areas and basement. These zones allow you to tune the flush-mount wall or ceiling speakers to the same audio source (TV, CD player, iPod, etc.), which means guests could hear it playing in each zone. Or,
you could tune each zone individually. For example, you could set the basement zone to one of your favorite sports channels when you have the guys over to watch the big game while, at the same time, the women watch their favorite show or listen to music in another room. In addition, you can send the kids to the playroom to watch their favorite kids’ programs or music. All of this is possible through smart home programming and interconnected audio and video functions! Best of all, smart home technology doesn’t mean a lot of exposed tangled wires. All of the devices are interconnected inside the walls of your home and terminated to a single box in a mechanical closet.
Nick Roper is manager of business development for H&H Electric and Security LLC. 770-735-1136, MyAtlantaElectrician.net
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‘Open Mic Night’
‘Cherokee’s Got Talent’ “Cherokee’s Got Talent,” hosted by the Cherokee Association of Realtors and Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, will showcase Cherokee County’s singers, dancers, actors, musicians, comedians, magicians and other talent in a local competition similar to the “America’s Got Talent” TV program. Tickets are available in advance and at the door. Proceeds will benefit Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. 6 p.m., November 9, The City Center, 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 770-591-0004
Dining
Theater
Copper Coin, the unique and hip coffee shop in Downtown Woodstock, hosts “Open Mic Night” 7-10 p.m. every Monday. Sign-ups begin at 6:30 p.m. The atmosphere is relaxing and safe, and the coffee is even better! Come out and watch scheduled performances also on Friday and Saturday nights for a relaxing and fun evening of live music. 400 Chambers St., Woodstock, CopperCoinCoffee.com
with the help of Michelle and Suzanne at ScoopOTP, we found some. Curious for more? Visit ScoopOTP.com!
Talent Showcase
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LIVE MUSIC
Family of
Looking for family fun things to do? We are too! And
Winchester WoodFire Grill Celebrate the one-year anniversary of Winchester WoodFire Grill this November. Enjoy the beautiful views and the delicious fare, including cowboy-cut bone-in Ribeye steak. Try the special Autumn Pumpkin Martini and other specialties, like the Bacon Blue Cheeseburger. Winchester WoodFire Grill offers a fine dining experience in a casual, inviting atmosphere that features rustic wood paneling and stone décor. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday, and Sunday Brunch (closed Mondays). 110 Mountain Vista Boulevard, Canton. 770-371-0575, WinchesterWoodFire.com
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Agatha Christie Mystery Who did it? The Agatha Christie Mystery, “Cards on the Table,” will be presented November 22-23 by King’s Academy. The mystery tells the story of a murder during a dinner party that is solved with psychological deductions. 7 p.m., Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244, CherokeeArts.org
Thanksgiving for Everything By Norman Hunt
“Be filled with the spirit, always giving thanks to God for everything.” — Ephesians 5:18b, 20 Friends, I believe one of the marks of being filled with God’s Spirit is being a thankful, grateful Christian. Thanklessness is the fruit of a carnal, selfish life. Being thankful is the fruit of a changed heart. The Apostle Paul had learned to give thanks even in the worst of circumstances. This man, with his companion, Silas, sang hymns to God at midnight in the cramped discomfort of a Philippian jail. Paul had earned the right to recommend the same attitude of heart to others. He says in these verses, “Be filled with the Spirit.” Then he goes on to say, “always giving thanks to God for everything.”
The standard of thanksgiving for all things is a uniquely Christian concept. In fact, the very word “thanksgiving” has as its heart the idea of “grace.” By nature we are devoid of the grace of God; therefore, we know nothing of true thankfulness. Romans 1:21 is a description of lost man, unchanged man. “For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him.” But when we turn to God in repentance, receive Christ Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and experience the renewing work of the Holy Spirit in our human personalities, we become possessed of the grace of gratitude
that “gives thanks always for all things unto God.” May God bless you and your family this Thanksgiving season!
Norman R. Hunt is the senior pastor at Hopewell Baptist Church. 770-345-5763, HopewellBaptist.com
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Community CCHS Wins Award for School Partnership Project The Cherokee County Historical Society (CCHS) has received the Roger K. Warlick Local History Achievement Award from the Georgia Historical Society for its project, “Investing in Community Legacy: A Partnership between Cherokee County Schools and the Cherokee County Historical Society.” The project revealed the commitment and collaboration of a local school district and an historical society to ensure that the county’s history is preserved and shared through standards-based teaching. The Cherokee County Historical Society partnered with the Cherokee County School District to offer a Staff Development Course for educators and school tours of the Cherokee County History Museum.
Sharron Hunt is presented the Georgia Historical Society’s Warlick Local History Achievement Award from Todd Groce, president of the organization.
The Local History for Local Teachers Staff Development Course was held at Cherokee High School and facilitated by Sharron Hunt, a CCHS volunteer, in June 2012. Thirteen teachers participated and received instructional materials, including books, historic maps and photos, and other resources to assist in teaching Cherokee County history. During the class, academic sessions were taught by visiting historians, each with expertise in a specific area of local history. The daily academic sessions were followed by field experiences related to the morning classroom sessions, including a paddle trip down the Etowah River to view historic sites from the water and a 65-mile “county-line” bus tour passing notable historic sites within Cherokee County. The second phase of this project was to host school tours at the Cherokee County History Museum. Hunt, who wanted to create a unique learning experience for students, drafted a 55-page instructional guide to facilitate the tours of the museum and Cherokee County Historic Courthouse. This guide has since been used for more than a dozen group tours.
Cherokee County Farm Bureau Receives District Awards
Alexander Promoted to Sergeant
Cherokee County Farm Bureau was recognized recently for its outstanding member programs during the Georgia Farm Bureau 1st District Annual Meeting. The CCFB Young Farmer Committee received the 2013 GFB 1st District Outstanding Young Farmer Committee Award. The Accepting the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Awards st committee was instrumental are (left to right): Teresa Cagle, for the GFB 1 District in planning and raising funds Outstanding Legislative Program Award; Jeannie Ross, for the 1st District Outstanding Women’s Leadership for the construction of a Award; and Molly Childs, for the 1st District Outstanding greenhouse at Free Home Young Farmer Committee Award. Elementary School. The CCFB Women’s Leadership Committee received the 1st District Outstanding Women’s Leadership Award. The committee organized an Ag Expo to demonstrate the extent of agriculture in Cherokee County. The CCFB Legislative and Policy Development committees received the 1st District Outstanding Legislative and Policy Development Program Award. The committees partnered with the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce and Cagle’s Family Farm to organize a political forum and meet-andgreet event to allow Farm Bureau members and the general public an opportunity to interact with elected officials and candidates for office.
Cherokee County Firefighter Mark Alexander was promoted to sergeant during ceremonies held recently at the Cherokee County Administrative Offices, located at The Bluffs in Canton. Alexander, who works at Station 9, came to work for the fire department on February 14, 2006. He resides in Fort Oglethorpe with his wife, Amanda, and his daughter, Alexis.
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Sgt. Mark Alexander (right), Cherokee County Fire Dept., Station 9
in the
limelight
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The Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club is the Cherokee chapter of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. Since opening in 2007, the Malon D. Mimms Club has been in the forefront of creating whole children and members of the community. The club focuses on three pillars that have been shown to help create growth and health in the community’s youth.
nutrition and exercise. Members receive fruits and vegetables three days a week; 100 percent fruit juice two days; and whole grains every day. In addition, members can participate in 60-minute exercise programs and a Healthy Habits course. Members learn how to prepare healthy snacks, such as smoothies, and how to eat healthily with allergies.
Academic Success
Character & Leadership
The Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club offers members direct and intentional study, or “University,” time. This time is incentive-based and gives members complete control of their education. The club offers fine arts, music, technology, creative writing and dramatic arts programming. The staff at the Mimms Club is dedicated to creating growth in using logic, reading, problem-solving and comprehension skills. The club uses Stride Academy to help assess members’ strengths and weaknesses in math, reading and science, with programming designed to improve areas of weakness while growing important 21st Century skills.
Healthy Lifestyles
The Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club’s healthy lifestyles initiative promotes
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Character & Leadership meetings each Wednesday focus on building self-esteem and community awareness. The leadership club grows members from the ages of 6-18 toward becoming good citizens and developing a sense of completion and desire to give back to their community. Outstanding teen members of each club are recognized with the Youth of the Year award, presented to a high school member of each club who has excelled in academics and good study skills, healthy habits, and club and community leadership. Amber Jenkins recently was announced as 2013 Youth of the Year winner for the Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club. A member for nearly three years, Amber credits the club with helping pave her path and set her sights on the future. She is passionate about
combatting bullying and discrimination at her school and club, and encourages her peers to do the same. Amber believes in working together to build a strong community. She has a strong interest in exploring the cultures and traditions of other countries and has been a leading force in the club’s participation in the Kiwanis Kids Cultural Challenge, a celebration of the customs, cultures and traditions of more than 20 countries. Amber plans to attend Middle Tennessee State University and major in forensic pathology. She hopes to help bring closure to families who have experienced crime-related tragedies.
Teen Night
On November 9, youth ages 12-18 are invited to Teen Night at Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club. The event ($3 admission) will feature dancing, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, pool and video games! All community youth are invited to come out to this fun event and learn how the Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club can enrich their lives and, in turn, help enrich their community.
Malon D. Mimms Boys & Girls Club 1082 Univeter Road, Canton 770-720-7712 BGCMA.org/Get Involved
Cleaning Tips for the Holidays By Gemma Beylouny It’s that time of year again: getting ready for the holidays! For most of us, that means lots of cooking, entertaining and cleaning before family and friends arrive. I know cleaning is the last thing on most lists; however, last-minute cleaning can be stressful. Here are some suggestions for stress-free holiday cleaning. First try to get organized. Find a home for everything; use it or toss it! To help keep your home tidy, designate 30 minutes each day to washing dishes, wiping off the dinner table, cleaning counters or clearing the desk of any clutter. Set aside a day to tackle one room at a time before your guests are scheduled to arrive. For example, clean bathrooms on Monday; the foyer on Tuesday; the dining room on Wednesday; the
kitchen on Thursday; and the bedrooms on Friday. Or, if Saturday and Sunday are the only days available, set aside an hour early each morning, when your energy is still high. Target a specific area or room that will be used the most during the holidays. If it is the kitchen, then start organizing there first. Make sure all the pots, pans, dishes, glasses and silverware are clean and ready for the big family cooking marathon and feasts. Next: the dining room. First, remove any cob-webs, using a broom or a vacuum wand. Dust the dining table and chairs, vacuum the corners and floors, and mop the floors if needed. Set the table and you’re ready to serve! Holidays are a big gift-giving time of the year, so it’s helpful to organize all of your wrapping paper, ribbons, cards
and gifts. Separate each item using clear containers for easy access and visibility. Also, discard any old wrappers, unusable ribbons and old cards — there is no need to keep things that are no longer usable. In fact, this is the best time to de-clutter storage areas and keep them organized for use throughout the year. Yes, the holidays can be busy and hectic, but a little planning can make the organization and cleaning process easier. Happy Holidays!
Gemma Beylouny is the owner of Rejoice Maids Service. 678-905-3476, RejoiceMaids.com
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Academic
Cherokee High Band to Perform in London
CCA Student Selected to Student Advisory Council Maddison Faulkner, a freshman at Cherokee Charter Academy, has been selected to serve on the Student Advisory Council for State School Superintendent John Barge. She is one of 50 students from across Georgia selected for the advisory council from 700 applicants. The Student Advisory Council will meet with the superintendent three times throughout the 2013-2014 school year. Maddison says she wants to “make education work for all of Georgia’s students.” Maddison struggles with dyslexia, but says innovative assistance she’s received from the charter school has helped her excel in the classroom and the community. She wants to help ensure that all Georgia students can receive the innovative resources they need to succeed. “We are very proud that Maddison has been chosen to the State Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council,” said Cherokee Charter Principal Scott O’Prey. “Maddison’s involvement as Student Government President has shown that she is an effective leader within our school. We are confident that she will represent the school well.”
The Cherokee High School Marching Band of Warriors has been invited to perform in London’s New Year’s Day The Cherokee High School Marching Band Parade 2015. of Warriors performs a special ceremony for The London New Year’s Day London officials after being invited to perform in London’s New Year’s Day Parade 2015. Parade is a prestigious turnof-year tradition in London and one of the biggest events of its kind worldwide. More than 8,000 performers from various parts of the world will entertain a street audience of around 500,000 — and a global TV audience of tens of millions. Catherine Longworth, the former Lord Mayor of Westminster and a principal patron of the parade, traveled to the school recently, along with Robert Bone, executive director of the parade; Geraldine Bone, director; and Jonathan Whaley, director of International Participation, to extend the formal invitation to the band. Lord Mayor Longworth presented CHS Principal Debra Murdock with a coat of arms from the City of Westminster. CHS Band Director Garrick Cheyne was presented with cufflinks, and pins for the senior drum majors. The London New Year’s Day Parade hosts high school bands from the United States each year through its Youth Music program, which includes an educational program tour while in England. CHS Students will hold fundraisers to cover the cost of the trip.
CCSD Program Supports Local Charities Cherokee County School District (CCSD) students are using a new computer program to learn math…and raise money for charitable causes. Students using the TTM software earn points by completing lessons on grade-specific material designed to help them prepare for the Georgia Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests. Students can use their points to design an avatar that represents them and to make donations to nonprofit organizations. Students at Creekland Middle School donated their points recently to the American Red Cross for Colorado flood relief.
Pictured (left to right) are Dylan Porter, Jordan Carbia, Matthew Thompson, Sterling Thompson, Madelynn Lutt, Principal Deborah Wiseman, Jacob Schwarzman, Emma Nunnally, Logan Childers, Wyatt Higgins and Ellie Schuster.
Send your academic stories to: Michelle@FamilyLifePublications.com
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Focus on Eye Care
During Diabetes Awareness Month By Kyle Edwards, O.D.
Diabetes is becoming more and more prevalent in the United States. More than 21 million Americans have diabetes today, and it is estimated that one-third of this population do not even know they have the condition. During the month of November, we spotlight the importance of frequent eye exams for individuals with diabetes and those at risk for this disease. Dilated eye exams at appropriate intervals are extremely important for individuals with diabetes and those at
risk for diabetes, due to the possibility of substantial vision loss with long-term uncontrolled diabetes and related eye disease. In these cases of advanced diabetic retinopathy, an individual may have irreversible vision loss or even total blindness as a result. Beginning symptoms of diabetic retinopathy can present as routine blurry vision or fluctuating vision; yearly eye exams are important in order to detect any changes as soon as possible and prevent vision loss. To avoid these complications to your eyes, make sure to include your eye doctor in your team of healthcare professionals, and schedule regular visits just as you would with your primary care physician and dentist. As a part of your diabetes management team, your eye doctor can be your first line of detection for diabetes due to the findings of your annual dilated eye exam. Your eye doctor may also utilize advanced high-definition retinal photography in order to document the presence and progression of any
diabetic changes to your eyes during each eye exam. Many optometrists, including myself, are helping to contribute to a healthier patient population by meeting three specific objectives set by the American Optometric Association and its National Diabetes Month campaign. These three vision objectives of the Healthy People 2010-2020 program are: to increase the proportion of persons who have a dilated eye examination at appropriate intervals; reduce visual impairment due to diabetic retinopathy; and increase vision rehabilitation. If you are an individual with or at risk for diabetes, please schedule a comprehensive eye examination each and every year.
Dr. Kyle Edwards is an optometrist at Edwards Eye Care in Woodstock. 770-479-0222, EdwardsEyeCare.com
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Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
Friday Night
Send us your Homecoming & Senior Night photos! Please submit your highquality photos by November 13 to
michelle@familylifepublications.com. 24
Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Canton’s Premier Day Spa If someone had told me six years ago that I would own a day spa, I would have said they were off their rocker! Before becoming the new owner of Afterglow Day Spa in Canton just two months ago, I was a loyal customer for several years. My favorite treatments were the neuromuscular massages and customized facials, and the staff and customer service were always great!
1431 Riverstone Drive, Canton 770-720-1134, AfterglowSpa.net
limelight
My first experience with a day spa was in 2001, when I purchased a gift certificate for a massage and facial for my mom. She was fighting cervical cancer at the time, and I thought the day spa treatments would offer her a nice time of pampering and relaxation. My mom’s day at the spa was priceless! The treatments, and personal attention and tenderness from the therapists uplifted her spirit. Plus, I think she was touched to have been given such a special gift.
teas, citrus-infused water and gourmet cookies. In addition, Afterglow Day Spa carries the Image Skincare line, which includes organic products using potent anti-oxidants and pharmaceutical-grade products available only through spas and physician offices. Our estheticians will be happy to recommend the right product to stimulate, nourish and protect your skin based on your individual needs.
That is the kind of experience I want for all of my customers at Afterglow Day Spa: to feel pampered, relaxed and special. At Afterglow Day Spa, our goal is for our customers’ senses to come alive from the moment they walk through the door until they leave. We have designed the spa with colors, arrangements, scents and sounds that combine to create a warm, welcoming and peaceful environment. Even the waiting room is designed to relax. Guests can choose from a wide selection of hot
My vision for Afterglow Day Spa soon will bring many other features and services to further invoke the mind, body and spirit. Look for classes and events using holistic services like naturopathy, possibly acupuncture and an infrared sauna; a spa pantry with seasonal herbs, Himalayan salts and various teas; and we will sell our own products to include customized bath salts and scrubs. More than anything, our desire is for guests to leave Afterglow Day Spa feeling healthier, more relaxed and inspired!
in the
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By Jyl Craven We mothers sometimes find ourselves saying some interesting things to persuade our children to behave. Whether it’s “sitting too close to the TV will make you go blind” or “cracking your knuckles will give you arthritis,” mothers have been known to tell some whoppers! As I’ve found in my work, there are even myths about caring for your hair! Today it’s time to put the following four hair care myths to rest.
Cutting hair makes it grow faster. Mom’s Myth: If you want your hair to grow faster, quit letting it get so long. Trim the hair back a little and it will “tell” your scalp to grow more hair. The Truth: The only thing trimming your hair back will do is make it appear that it’s growing faster. Why? Cutting off split ends and other damage means your hair looks healthier overall, so it appears to be growing faster than it is. However, hair only grows at about a half-inch per month. Make sure you’re visiting your favorite salon every six to eight weeks to maintain hair health and you won’t have to worry about forcing your locks to hurry up and grow. 26
Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Your hair gets “tired” of the same shampoo.
Conditioner makes your hair oily.
Mom’s Myth: You need to switch shampoo brands every few months because your hair gets “tired” of the same shampoo and it stops working.
Mom’s Myth: Conditioner causes your hair to look dirty and greasy.
The Truth: Your hair doesn’t get any more “tired” of your favorite shampoo than you get tired of sneaking Girl Scout cookies every year! When it comes to product, it either works or it doesn’t. Of course, your hair needs may change along with a color treatment, a move to a new climate or the weather. Be sure to consult with your stylist when a change occurs.
Shampooing frequently contributes to an oily scalp. Mom’s Myth: Shampoo creates oil on your scalp and gives an oily appearance to your hair. The Truth: Genetics and hormones, not shampoo, determine how much oil your scalp produces. The only way to prevent an overly oily scalp is to keep your hair free of dirt and oil that can accumulate in hair follicles and even irritate your head. Of course, nobody wants hair that is too dry either, so use a moisturizer when necessary.
The Truth: Just like frequent shampooing doesn’t cause an oily scalp, neither does conditioning. Greasiness comes from overproduction of sebum, which is a waxy, oily substance that comes from your scalp, not conditioner. Skipping any product altogether won’t do the trick, unfortunately. What will? One tip is to shampoo the roots with a clarifying shampoo and the ends with a moisturizing shampoo. Then, apply conditioner to the middle and ends only. Another great idea is to clean your brush. Sebum can build up on dirty hairbrushes, putting it right back on your hair. I hope this article has put these old hair care myths to rest once and for all!
Jyl Craven is owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411, JylCraven.com
Questions or Concerns? Call My ‘Office’ By Janet Read
At least once a week, someone asks me about the location of my “office.” If I am out and about in Cherokee County and people recognize me, they may ask me if I have the day off. If they call me on my home phone, they often seem surprised that they are speaking directly to me.The general perception is that I have a dedicated workspace for my school board position and a secretary to answer my phone and screen my calls. Let me assure you that neither of those is the case. I thought I would use this month’s article to explain a little more about the “office” where I conduct my school board business. Both the phone number and address listed for me on the Cherokee County School District website are for my
“I do my best to be available for questions and concerns at any time, wherever I may be — whether in my home office or my ‘mobile office.’“ home. I have had the same address and phone number for more than 22 years, so I saw no need to list anything else for my contact information. When I was elected as a school board member in 2004, I promised voters that I would be accessible and available to the residents of this county who would want to speak to me directly. For that reason, I have maintained a home phone line and publicly list it as my contact number.
I do my best to be available for questions and concerns at any time, wherever I may be — whether in my home office or my “mobile office.” I have had people stop me at the grocery store, church, football games and even when I am out walking. Often, I am able to answer their questions or direct them to the right person in just a few minutes. So, if you see me out and about, just stop by my “office” and let me know how I can assist you. As an eight-year veteran board member, I am almost always “in the office!”
Janet Read is chair of the CCSD board. 770-516-1444, Janet.Read@Cherokee.K12.GA.us
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COVER STORY
If you haven’t noticed, a lot has been going on in Downtown Canton these days. Similar to what’s been happening across America, people are choosing to shop and eat in local establishments instead of the common and boring corporate norms. This is not only creating a better customer experience but also helping the economy immensely. In the past few months, new businesses, including The Painted Pig Tavern and B.loved, have opened in Downtown Canton to cater to this new mentality — bringing craft beers and a sense of style in tow. Other existing, well-established businesses, like Key’s Jewelry, Goin’ Coastal Seafood, Burns & Speights Law Firm, and Jones & Cloud Insurance, have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in cosmetic improvements. Add to that a high-end theater sound system and movie screen installed in the existing Canton Theatre and the remodeling of the historic Jones Building, and you’re only starting to get an idea of what all has been going on here in Downtown Canton. In addition, R&M Hoagie Shop soon will undergo a facelift, exposing the beautiful brick walls and skylights that were built in the early 1900s.
Amid all of this feverous activity in our city’s core, even more is on its way. Michael Buckner is relocating his small business, Audio Intersection, to the heart of Downtown Canton. The relocation will combine home theater, automation and Apple support with specialty coffee in once central location. That’s right; a company known for installing sound systems and TVs in homes is entering the coffee business. How in the world does that make sense? Michael Buckner, one of the owners of Audio Intersection, explains his vision here. Canton Family Life: So, tell me more about your new location. Michael Buckner: We are moving to the intersection of E. Marietta and Main streets to deliver a customer experience that has never been offered locally. It is my opinion that today’s most popular coffee shops do a great job at serving gourmet coffee in a social atmosphere, but lack in delivering entertainment to their patrons. We intend to do both. CFL: What gave you this idea? MB: In our previous store, we had an elaborate showroom that was rarely seen. Most of our clientele called us to their home for a consultation, and few people would drop by to see what we do. When we decided to build a new store, we wanted to bring new people in to experience home automation and how it can enhance the home. We also provide Apple products for sale, along with tech support similar to a “Genius Bar.” Coffee seems perfect to not only get people to see our space but also to hang out with us while getting help with their technology. We have no intention of soliciting anyone who is here drinking coffee, but we’ll be in the same room should they want to ask questions about their own technology and gadgets.
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CFL: There were two coffee shops previously in Downtown Canton that have closed. What do you think will make yours a success? MB: The difference with us is that we don’t have to have a profitable coffee business to succeed; the coffee is just for fun. We already have a profitable home entertainment business operating from the same location, so any money we make from the coffee business will be incidental and reinvested into our tech business. A lot of revenue still will come from new customers seeing our audio/video work as they come by to use our space for coffee meetings with their clients. So, it’s a win-win for us, our customers and the City of Canton.
MB: We will be brewing coffee roasted by Batdorf & Bronson, a small roasting company in Atlanta that is dedicated to great coffee. The most popular blend is “Dancing Goat.” Batdorf & Bronson’s coffees are certified organic and purchased from independent farmers from all over the world. I’ve learned that a great cup of coffee is largely dependent on both the care of the coffee bean and the time that it takes from the bean being roasted until it goes in the grinder/brewer. With the typical corporate brand in grocery stores, this timeframe can be months. Starbucks does a great job reducing this timeframe to a few short weeks, but we will take this a step further by serving our coffee within days of it being roasted. I guarantee that you will taste the difference when you try it: There isn’t a more delicious cup of coffee in Cherokee County.
Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
CFL: Tell us about your coffee.
CFL: Where do you see this going in five years? MB: Today, most of us love to be entertained with music, TV, movies, and our Apple devices. In the right social setting, it’s our hope that the people in Canton will want to come into our store for a great cup of coffee and sit down to watch the news on one of our new 65-inch Ultra HDTVs. Here, they will be able to enjoy themselves while seeing the best that technology has to offer. In the event that they want to add this technology to their home, they already will be in the right place to ask questions. On top of that, the home technology sector is exploding. People expect technology in their homes the same as they expect running water. I anticipate this trend to continue over the coming years, and look forward to serving my clients as new technology continues to “wow” us all!
770-479-1000
AudioIntersection.com
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Volunteers: The Heart of Cooperative Extension Office By Louise Estabrook Approximately 75 avid gardening volunteers assist the Cherokee County Cooperative Extension office. They form the volunteer force of the Agriculture and Natural Resource Dept. From filing to researching, from article writing to seminar teaching, the Master Gardeners tirelessly serve the residents of Cherokee County. But what does that mean to you? You may have attended one of the many free public presentations offered yearly by our wonderful Master Gardeners. Topics ranging from landscape design to insect pest identification, from vegetable gardening to holiday wreaths, the Master Gardeners are “Master Educators,” too! Maybe you attended one of the Master Gardeners, plant sales, held at the Canton Senior Center. If you bought one of their well-rooted plants,
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you probably came away with lots of planting advice and a personal tour of the beautiful demonstration gardens in addition to your plant bargains! Perhaps you have gardened with us at one of the area community gardens — sharing vegetable and herb tips. You might have asked horticultural questions at the county’s local farmers’ markets, where we held informational displays every week. One of the most useful and soughtafter services the Master Gardeners offers is assisting county homeowners with all kinds of gardening questions. Residents can call our office and speak with a Master Gardener, or come in for a personal consultation. You can bring in plant samples for identification or a research-based recommendation on disease or insect infestations. You can get free landscape advice from
our highly trained volunteers. Master Gardeners love to talk gardening! If you would like to join forces with us, the Cherokee County Cooperative Extension will offer a new Master Gardeners training program starting next June. Classes will take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., June 2-27, 2014. This training will be tailored to educators and volunteers who enjoy working with youth, but participants are not required to be educators. Please call, email or stop by the office to pick up an application for the new class. Seats will be limited due to space availability. Louise Estabrook is the Agricultural and Natural Resources agent for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. 770-479-0418, CAES.UGA.edu/Extenion/Cherokee
Understanding
Depression & Sadness in Children By Vicki Knight-Mathis, M.D. Some may consider depression a sign of personal weakness, lack of religious steadfastness or a result of bad parenting. Depression is a medical illness, just like diabetes and asthma. Depression and sadness are not the same. We all experience sadness at some point in our lives. Sadness, like happiness, is an emotion usually related to a specific situation — such as your teenager feeling unhappy because he was grounded for not completing his homework, moving away from friends or loss of a loved one recently. Sadness is not fun, but it is a normal part of life. Depression is sadness that has become persistent — lasting weeks, months or years — and is associated with disruption in normal life interests, activities and personal interactions. The primary symptoms of depression include continuous feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Other signs may include: • • • • • • •
Irritability, outbursts or anger Socially withdrawal from family and friends Changes in appetite, either increased or decreased Changes in sleep, either increased need for sleep or an inability to sleep Difficulty concentrating and a decline in grades (secondarily in children) Physical complaints like fatigue, stomachaches and headaches Thoughts of death, suicide or suicide attempts
Some studies report that up to 20 percent of teens have a single depressive episode. Depression is significantly less common, but can occur in childhood. Just like diabetes, asthma and thyroid disease, depression tends to run in families. Untreated depression can result in long-term consequences like bullying, eating disorders, suicide or substance abuse. Substance abuse commonly results as an attempt for teens or adults to regulate their moods. It is so common that when someone tells me that a family member has a history of substance abuse, immediately I wonder if that person is suffering from depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Treatment for depression is available and very effective! If you think your child is depressed, do not ignore the symptoms or avoid the issue. Call your child’s doctor to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Dr. Vicki-Knight Mathis is a pediatric physician at DV Pediatrics. 770-704-0057, DVPediatrics.com
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Taste of
Grits, Smoked Gouda, Bacon & Corn Bake
By Jamie Morgan, honorary member
Ingredients
Preparation
10 slices bacon, chopped
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large skillet, cook bacon and corn over medium heat, stirring frequently, until bacon is crisp. Drain well and set aside. In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Slowly stir in grits; reduce heat and simmer for four to five minutes, or until thickened. Stir in cream. Remove from heat.
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn, thawed and drained 4 cups low sodium chicken broth 1¼ cups quick cooking grits ½ cup heavy whipping cream 2 cups (18-ounce) shredded smoked Gouda cheese ½ cup minced green onion 2 large eggs ½ teaspoon salt
Add cheese, green onion and bacon/corn mixture to grits. Add eggs and salt, stirring until combined. Spoon mixture into a greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until golden brown. Let stand for approximately 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe is from the “Gatherings & Traditions Cookbook,” produced by the Service League of Cherokee County. The Service League of Cherokee County has been working to meet the needs of the children of Cherokee County since 1935. In addition to the cookbook, the organization’s fundraising efforts include the annual Riverfest arts and crafts festival; “Run for the Children” 5K Walk/1-mile Fun Run; and Annual Ball, featuring the “Dancing for the Children” competition.” ServiceLeague.net
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Want to Feed Your Mind? Learn to Write Code By Scott Lavelle One of the things I feel very fortunate about is that I was introduced to technology at a young age and at a depth that both interested me and challenged me in ways I didn’t know something could. I attended a computer summer camp at the University of California-Santa Cruz leading into my freshman year of high school and had the opportunity to take two years of programming classes (in the BASIC and Pascal languages) in my junior and senior years. This was between 1982 and 1985. Fast forward to 2013: I’ve had nearly 30 years to build on that initial spark to earn a degree, build a career, and venture into small business ownership. I hope others will be exposed to things that intrigue them and push them to grow intellectually, just as I
was. A number of websites have come up recently that encourage not only students but also teachers (and other adults) to learn to code. Steve Jobs said it well: “Everybody in this country should learn how to program a computer, because it teaches you how to think.” That’s one of the things that I learned in my process — a new way to think. Programming goes beyond simply creating apps, games or websites. It transcends those objectives, adding to your ability to break things down into processes and to solve problems using logic and reason. Do you like puzzles or word games? Do you enjoy building models or creating things that require artistic thought? Then you might like programming. You can give it a try easily online, where
there are some nearly instant lessons, and soon find yourself immersed in the code-writing process. I spent part of my corporate life in technical training, so teaching professionals new topics — especially in areas they didn’t think they could understand, but come to enjoy — is a passion of mine. It is rewarding to help business professionals and individuals who have a desire to improve themselves learn new skills that expand their knowledge and possibly advance or change their careers!
Scott Lavelle is the Co-Owner/ Technical Director of Technical Resource Solutions. 678-928-9491, TechnicalRS.com
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Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings B. loved 191 E. Main Street, Canton 770-704-7447 Clothing & Accessories
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Motel 6 114 River Pointe Parkway, Canton 770-345-8700 Hotels/Motels
Ice Martini Bar 380 Chambers Street, Woodstock 770-672-6334 Restaurants
Riverstone Counseling Center 132 Riverstone Terrace, Suite 102, Canton 770-213-3615 Counseling Services
Bend Your Knees Inc. 124 Timberland Drive, Canton 404-271-1360 Nonprofit Organization
Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
All ThingsThankful By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed. S.
Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful and reflect on what we have.Teaching kids the concept of being thankful can be difficult. I overheard a great idea that not only will create family time this holiday season but also will help kids to truly understand the concepts of being thankful and showing gratitude. Creating an “All Things Thankful� jar allows kids to sit down with their family and talk about what they are
thankful for and show their gratitude for things throughout their day. I challenge you, during this month, to take some time each night to sit down as a family and talk about what you are thankful for at that moment in time. After you have had a few moments of discussion, write down your thoughts on a sticky note or piece of paper. Encourage your children to write their thoughts as well, or write them down for them if they are not old enough. Fold up your thankful thought and place it in the jar. During your Thanksgiving meal time or some other time during the day, read all the thankful thoughts in the jar.
with my family and seeing what kinds of things my 4-year-old daughter will come up with during the month. I have a feeling it will start with princesses and Barbies, but (I hope) move into a larger concept of gratitude as the month gets closer to the holiday. Try to make this season of Thanksgiving a time to reflect on what you have and create memorable moments for your family. Mary Kay Buquoi is owner of The Goddard School, 140 Foster Road, Woodstock. 770-720-1311, GoddardSchools.com
I am looking forward to doing this
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‘Never Go Back’ Lee Child’s Jack Reacher breaks his own rules, finally facing his past.
T
By Catherine Groves
here are some characters we just yearn to read about, love to know, and to whom we just become….well, a bit addicted. Jack Reacher is one of those characters. Can we ever get enough? We “Reacher Junkies” tend to count down the days until the next installment hits bookstores, and Lee Child always makes the wait worthwhile. In “Never Go Back,” Reacher does finally go back — and it makes for the best Jack Reacher story of them all! Drawn to what he hears and feels in the voice on the other end of a telephone conversation, Reacher makes his way back to northeast Virginia. It took him a few books to get there, but he’s made it. In a less-thansubtle coincidence, northeast Virginia was where Reacher served as a military cop — and “the voice” on the phone fills his position behind his old desk. Having no other agenda but following up on a whim, Reacher walks in to meet Major Susan Turner. Reacher’s whim introduces us to a new storyline that — in typical, nail-biting, Lee Child style — sets the suspenseful tone for the entirety of the book. Susan Turner isn’t sitting behind Reacher’s old desk; she’s being held and accused at another location. Soon, Reacher finds himself literally under the gun. He faces his usual thought process: run or fight. He fights. With the army, FBI and D.C. police on his heels, Reacher is forced to examine his years of solitude; lack of a place to call home; a past that he’s put far behind him; and where his heart truly lies. In tune with his solitary life of never looking back and owning only the clothes on his back, Reacher is faced with those “defining moments” that bring a new edge and dimension to the complex “tough guy.” For the returning Jack Reacher fans, or for those who are just now meeting him, “Never Go Back” will not disappoint. We get to see, more than in any other Reacher novel, what this man is all about. With mind-tingling suspense, Lee Child delivers, quite brilliantly, again.
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Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Catherine Groves has lived in Georgia for 15 years and has lived in the South for considerably longer. An avid book collector (owning more than 5,000 books) and just as avid of a reader, she (as her children have said) “lives and breathes her books.” Catherine studied psychology, is working on an English degree, and is writing her first novel.
in the
limelight
TC Country opened in 2005 at 100 Heritage Town Parkway in Canton. Owners Fabio & Sabine Yepes have a wide knowledge base in the animal category, much of it derived from having their own. Fabio’s special knowledge is in horses, pet nutrition and helping correct problem dogs (those that pull, jump or in general don’t listen). Sabine’s special knowledge is in horses, pet nutrition and chickens. TC Country offers a wide variety of products and supplies for pets and livestock, including chickens, horses, cows, pigs, rabbits, goats and sheep, as well as exotics, such as monkeys and kangaroos. In addition, the store sells chicks and chickens throughout the year and also offers a Rooster Relocation Program to find homes for unwanted roosters (and yes, we take hens too). The store also carries a great selection of pet food brands, including Victor, Taste of the Wild, Chicken Soup, Orijen, Acana, Natural Balance, Blue Buffalo, Nutro, Evo, Nutri Source, Pure Vita, Holistic Select, Earthborn Holistics, Nature’s Variety, Zignature, Weruva and Fussie Cat. In addition, TC Country offers frozen foods for dogs and cats by Blue Ridge Beef, Nature’s Variety, Primal, OC, Stella & Chewy’s, and Bravo. Horse & Livestock brands include ADM, Manna Pro, Mazuri and Purina. Recognizing that many people cannot afford to take their animals to a veterinarian on a regular basis, TC Country also offers monthly lowcost vaccination clinics on the second Saturday of each month, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Costs range from rabies vaccination $10/year or $15/three years; $15 for annual vaccines; $30 for heartworm or feline leukemia tests; and $17 for feline leukemia test only. Special packages ranging from $30-$60 are also available.
Stop by and check out our early Christmas sale. 100 Heritage Town Parkway, Canton (near the Macedonia Community) 770-479-8926, TC-Country.com
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By Heike Hellmann-Brown Murals date back millennia, to the times of cave paintings and the tombs of ancient Egypt. Today, homeowners can express their individuality by commissioning an artist to paint a mural in their foyer or transforming a child’s room into a fantasy world. But, to describe artist Shea Vickery as a mural painter does not do her justice. Vickery learned to paint at an early age from her mother, who taught decorative arts and tole painting. “I was in her classes every day after school. I learned and I assisted,” she says. “As a teenager, I was asked by our next door neighbor to paint inside her house — and that is how it all started.” Vickery continued to teach and transform interiors into decorative masterpieces while completing her studies at Savannah College of Art and Design, with a degree in Interior Design. Today, Vickery’s creations adorn the walls of many local celebrities’ homes and were featured during The Atlanta Street of Dreams Tour of Homes, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Decorator Showcase, and The Roswell Woman’s Club Designer Showcase Homes Tour. “Most of my jobs are word-of-mouth,” she says. “I travel all over the country; often, client relationships start out here in Georgia, but then expand to different states. For instance, one of my clients here now wants to have a new residence in Miami done.” Vickery combines decorative murals with faux finishing techniques, such as fresco or marbleizing, to add texture to the walls, as well as trompe l’oeil (“trick the eye”), which creates architectural details. Her designs are applied free-hand or projected onto the surface. “A mural is not only decorative but also can add resale value to the home if it is strategically placed, not overdone, monochromatic and timeless,” she says. Commercial applications have also become a huge part of Vickery’s work. She completed a mural on a 100-foot wall at SweetWater Brewing Company in Atlanta recently. Her work can be seen at Canton’s Painted Pig Tavern and at several Mellow Mushroom locations, and she currently is designing for “Christmas in Candy Land” at Woodstock Market. Not surprisingly, the entertainment industry has discovered Vickery’s talents, which have expanded to include 3D foam sculptures. One of her first assignments was a staircase for a Titanic exhibit. Other projects include set design, such as the upcoming ABC series, “Resurrection,” and behind-the-scenes work on the movies “Blended “and “Dumb and Dumber To.” In her rare spare time, Vickery enjoys the outdoors, hiking, mountain biking and traveling. Another passion of hers is animals. “If it sits still long enough, I’ll paint it,” she jokes. “In fact, I would love to focus on wildlife art. This is what I paint for pleasure. Eventually, I would love to make a living off of my easel and exhibit my paintings at festivals and in galleries.”
SayItIsntFaux.net Heike Hellmann-Brown is a published writer in the United States and Europe. She has translated and edited several New York Times bestsellers and has taught both English and her native German as a foreign language in a career that has spanned more than 20 years.
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Thankful for Spoons By Crystal Bryant
Being thankful is always a matter of perspective. If we were to keep a list, we could name many things to be thankful for; things we would change; and things we would feel are lacking. If we were to look around us, we could always find someone who has more — and someone who has less — than us for which to be thankful. Many of my life lessons come through my children. I am the proud mother of three boys, ages 12, 9 and 3. With their different personalities and different ages, they all bring their own blessings and challenges as well. Unfortunately,
they have been labeled “preacher’s kids,” a label that brings such an odd mix of grace and expectations — resulting in some proud moments and some embarrassing moments. Recently, my 3-year-old has learned to pray at the dinner table. Not only has he learned to pray, he has demanded to pray. And, as their age almost dictates, my 12- and 9-yearolds have willingly encouraged him to do so. Teaching a 12- and 9-yearold to pray is hard enough, but a 3-year old? So, I would have him repeat after me, line by line, a short prayer that went something like this: “Lord, thank you for this day. Thank you for our blessings, our family and friends, and thank you for the food you have provided for us.” My 3-year-old’s first solo prayer was simply, “Thank you for our family.” Yes, I was proud. But, he quickly began to add to it, determined to
come up with words of his own. Soon he included the family dog, a friend from preschool or a toy. Then one day, though he was determined to pray, he couldn’t seem to find the words. Looking down at his plate, he simply said, “Lord, thank you for spoons.” My other sons both chuckled at their brother’s simple prayer. But, he was right to offer thanks for our spoons. We use spoons every day; how drastically different our lives would be without them. For that matter, how drastically different would our lives be without so many other things that seemingly go unnoticed, taken for granted, every day? Yes, Lord, thank you for the spoons!
Crystal Bryant is the wife of Pastor Chris Bryant at City On A Hill United Methodist Church in Woodstock. She is involved in women’s, prayer and children’s ministries. 678-445-3480, COAHUMC.org
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Holiday Healing By Kellie Baxter, D.C.
You might find it interesting to know that massage has been around for thousands of years. It is referenced in ancient Chinese medical writings that date back 4,000 years. While it is always great fun to indulge in a massage for the sake of relaxation, there are many more reasons to get a massage. Massage has a much longer history of being used in conjunction with medical treatments than with the act of pampering oneself. In fact, massage in the United States is the third most sought-out form of alternative treatment. Massage has been shown to be beneficial in relieving, neck, mid-back and low-back
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pain. Massage improves range of motion through increased flexibility. It is helpful in stretching weak, tight and atrophied muscles, and can help athletes prepare for and recover from strenuous activities. Massage promotes tissue regeneration and reduces scar tissue. It can even lessen the appearance of stretch marks. Massage increases circulation by helping pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and organs. It can boost immunity by stimulating lymph flow and drainage. It can help to lessen depression and anxiety, reduce mental stress and induce relaxation. Massage can lower blood pressure. It releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. Massage can relieve migraine pain. It can ease medication dependence. Massage can also assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers. These are some pretty good reasons to get a massage! When choosing a massage therapist, you should always choose one
that it is nationally certified and licensed. He or she should be trained in a variety of different techniques and massages. A brief history should be taken to determine the type of massage that will best fit your particular needs and goals. Some popular forms of massage are Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Therapeutic, Stretching, Arthritis, Myofascial Release, Cupping, Sinus, Hot Stone and Pregnancy. Remember, with the holidays quickly approaching, massage is not only great for you but also makes a great gift for loved ones! As always, stay well adjusted.
Dr. Kellie Baxter is president/ owner of Revive Day Spa and Baxter Chiropractic. 770-345-1111, MyReviveDaySpa.com, BaxterChiro.com
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Holiday Happenings November 9-10 Holiday Tour of Homes — The Junior Service League of Woodstock’s 17th annual Holiday Tour of Homes will feature exquisite homes in Woodstock and Canton, decorated by local designers for the holiday season. All ticket proceeds and sponsorship donations from the self-guided tour will benefit needy citizens in Cherokee County. JSLWoodstock.org
November 15 Jingle Bell Shop — The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce’s annual Jingle Bell Shop will offer local residents a one-stop shopping extravaganza to help keep Cherokee dollars in Cherokee County. The free holiday shopping expo also will feature holiday musical performances, children’s crafts, Santa’s workshop, a sweet shop, giveaways and much more. 11 a.m.- 8 p.m., Northside HospitalCherokee Conference Center, Cherokee County Administration Bldg., 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. CherokeeChamber.com
November 28 Gobble Jog — MUST Ministries’ 11th annual Gobble Jog on Thanksgiving Day will feature a 5K and 10K walk/run, a 1K walk/ run and a Tot Trot for kids 5 and under. Proceeds will benefit MUST Ministries, a faith-based, nonprofit organization ministering to those living in poverty in an eight-county area of north metro Atlanta.
6:30 a.m. registration, Marietta Square, Marietta. GobbleJog.org
December 6 First Friday — Canton’s First Friday will celebrate the holiday season with musical performances by Teasley Middle School Band, local dance schools and a special country music guest from Nashville! Come and do some holiday shopping and enjoy Downtown Canton in this festive season! 6-9 p.m., Cannon Park,
Downtown Canton. Canton-Georgia.com
December 6 March of the Toys Parade — The City of Ball Ground’s March of the Toys Parade will help support local Toys for Tots, with parade attendees encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. “Officer Don” Kennedy, former host of a WSB children’s program in the ‘50s and ‘60s, will serve as grand marshal. Other features of the parade will include replicas of the 1966 Batmobile
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and Andy Griffith’s patrol car; the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleaders; Civil War re-enactors; costumed characters; high school bands; area dance troupes; floats; tractors; antique cars; and, of course, Santa Claus! A color guard from the U.S. Marine Corps will lead the parade. After the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photos at the gazebo in Downtown Ball Ground (bring your own camera for photos). Deadline for float entries is November 22.
6:30 p.m., Downtown Ball Ground. 770-924-2176
December 6-27 Cherokee Arts Center Gallery Show & Sale — Come to the Cherokee Arts Center Gallery Show & Sale for your holiday gifts. Members’ 2D and 3D artwork will be on display and for sale. Get your loved ones a special and unique gift they will treasure forever! Show entry is open to all member artists; show and sale open to the public. Contact Cherokee Arts Center for times. 770704-6244, CherokeeArts.org
December 7 Run for the Children Reindeer Run — Presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, the 11th annual Reindeer Run will include a 5K race and 1-Mile Fun Run that will start and finish at the gazebo in Downtown Canton. Santa will lead off the race and stay after for pictures. Those wishing to contribute to the cause without actually running can register (before November 29) as a “Santa’s Helper” for a $15 donation. Cash prizes will be awarded to the Top 3 overall male and female 5K runners! Other prizes will be awarded to the Top male and female Masters and Top 3 male and female finishers in standard age groups; special Pandora charms will be presented to the top female in each age group (20 years and older); and Fun Run finishers will receive a commemorative ribbon. In addition, a $1,000 cash prize (donated by Cherokee Bank and Northside Pharmacy & Medical Supply) will be awarded to the school with the most participants. 7:30 a.m. registration, 130 E. Main St., Canton. ServiceLeague.net, Active.com
December 7 Christmas Parade — The Canton Optimist Club will present its 26th annual Christmas Parade. All types of groups are needed and welcome, including floats; bands and marching units; beauty queens;
public officials; horses, funny cars, antique cars, fire trucks and rescue vehicles; law enforcement agencies; and civic organizations, etc. As always, there is no entry fee to participate in the parade; however, donations are appreciated. Sponsorship opportunities also are available. The Optimist Club will donate to school groups participating in the parade and provide bicycles and other Christmas gifts to those in need. Line-up for the parade will take place between 4-4:30 p.m. behind Auto Zone on Waleska Street. Application deadline for parade entries is December 1. In addition, live music and vendors will be featured throughout the day in the downtown square. 6 p.m., 770-704-2481, RRogers@AGLResources.com
December 7-8 Christmas Treasures — The Cherokee Chorale, with Charles Claiborne as conductor, will perform traditional Christmas carols and songs in its annual holiday concert. Tickets can be purchased in advance from Chorale members or at Chamberhouse and the Cherokee Arts Council in Canton; Fox Tale Book Shoppe in Woodstock; Jasper Drug in Jasper; Three Sisters in Hickory Flat; and Ball Ground Drug Store in Ball Ground. Tickets will be on sale at the door 45 minutes prior to each performance. 4 p.m.,
December 7; 3 p.m., December 8, Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-439-8625, CherokeeChorale.org
December 8 Bethlehem Village — Families are invited to walk through the village of Bethlehem and experience the sights and sounds of the time of Jesus’ birth. 9:30 & 11:00 a.m., Fellowship Hall, First Baptist Church Canton, 1 Mission Point, Canton. 770-479-5538, FBCCanton.org
December 8 ‘The Secret of Snowflake County’ — Hopewell Baptist Church will present its annual children’s Christmas musical. 6 p.m., Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-345-5723, HopewellBaptist.com
December 8 Beat Street Children’s Choir Christmas Musical First Baptist Church Canton’s Preschool and Children’s Choir will lead worship and share the story of Christmas. 6 p.m., First Baptist Church Canton, 1 Mission Point, Canton. 770-479-5538, FBCCanton.org
December 14, 20-21 & 23 ‘A Christmas Carol’ — The Elm Street Cultural Arts Village performers will bring the classic Charles Dickens novel to life.
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Holiday
Hospitality
Bank of North Georgia From November 29-December 13, all area Bank of North Georgia locations will host a holiday toy drive to support a local charity. Customers and local residents can participate by bringing in new, unwrapped toys for boys and girls to any local branch.
BankNorthGeorgia.Synovus.com Ebeneezer Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas with the help of four ghostly spirits in this vivid adaptation by G. Lora Grooms with original music and your favorite carols. The 2 p.m. show on December 14 will be free to the public in appreciation for the community’s continued support. Check the website for additional performance times and tickets. City Center Auditorium,
8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251, ElmStreetArts.org
December 15 ‘Joy of Every Longing Heart’ — The Adult Worship Ministry at First Baptist Church Canton will present its annual Christmas musical. 9:30 and 11 a.m., First Baptist Church Canton, 1 Mission Point, Canton. 770-479-5538, FBCCanton.org
December 15 ‘We Have Our Savior’ — Hopewell Baptist Church will present its annual adult Christmas musical. 6 p.m., Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-345-5723, HopewellBaptist.com
December 15 Children’s Choir Christmas Musical — 6:30 p.m., Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton. 770-479-2502, CantonFirstUMC.org
December 24 Christmas Eve Services — Join First Baptist Church Canton for its annual Christmas Eve Services celebrating the arrival of our Messiah, Jesus Christ! 3 & 4:30 p.m., First Baptist Church Canton, 1 Mission Point, Canton. 770-479-5538, FBCCanton.org
December 24 Christmas Eve Service — Come celebrate Christmas with music and the story of Christmas. 4 p.m., Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-345-5723, HopewellBaptist.com 44
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Canton Elementary STEM Academy Many local Cherokee children and families are in need this holiday season. Reach out to your local community by adopting a child or family and assisting them this holiday. Clothing and shoe sizes are available, as well as individual and family needs. To help out a neighbor in need, please contact Whitney Minton, professional school counselor, at Canton Elementary STEM Academy.
770-720-6100 Cherokee County Dept. of Family & Children Services This project is designed to benefit Cherokee County children in foster care. The children in foster care submit a “wish list” to the Cherokee County Dept. of Family & Children Services (DFCS) office, and each list is matched with a “Secret Santa” sponsor. Foster parents and DFCS placement resources pick up the gifts from local offices in time for Santa to deliver them on Christmas morning! Gift sponsors and cash donations are needed to help support more than 220 children in foster care this year.
678-427-9393, CherokeeSanta@yahoo.com, CherokeeSanta.com Cherokee County Senior Services Each December, “elves” contact seniors in the area to determine essential items they may need, including pajamas, socks, blankets, etc. Your donation of these requested items, and any other donations you would like to offer, will be delivered to local seniors for the upcoming holiday season. CherokeeSeniors.com
Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council The Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) supports all of Cherokee County Senior Services’ programs, such as Meals-on-Wheels; the Last Stop Fund for utility bills, meds and other emergency needs; the Food Closet; and more. The VAC also provides nearly $1,000 each month to purchase nutritional supplements for those who cannot eat regular meals due to medical conditions. Any donation is greatly appreciated and can be designated to a specific program or to the area of greatest current need. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
Cherokee Thanksgiving Canton First United Methodist Church will host Cherokee Thanksgiving, providing and delivering free Thanksgiving dinners with all the trimmings to families in need throughout Cherokee County. Volunteers are needed, and monetary donations are accepted. For meals: 770-877-2132, CTMeals2013@gmail.com;
to volunteer: 770-656-9209, CTVolunteer2013@gmail.com. 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton Cherokee Youth Works Gift Connection This holiday season, consider a gift of education. A program of Cherokee Focus, Gift Connection supports the education of local youth through donations that help fund their testing and college entrance fees, interview clothing, transportation, childcare and other necessities. Other gifts of encouragement that can be given through investment dollars or donated volunteer services include: haircut and style; car repair; furniture; and household items. 770-345-5483,
CherokeeFocus.org Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta The Macy’s Pink Pig ride, a beloved Atlanta tradition since 1953, will run through January 5, 2014. Each ride costs $3 (or two rides for $5.50, three rides for $7.50). The ride is located in the Pink Pig Tent at the Lenox Square Mall upper-level parking deck, near Macy’s. A portion of the proceeds from each ride will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. CHOA.org
The greatest needs are for pre-teens and teens; gift ideas include sports equipment, cologne/perfume, jewelry, games, belts, boots, jackets, pajamas, books and school supplies. Donations can be dropped off 9 am.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday, at MUST Ministries in Canton. 111 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770-479-5397,
MustMinistries.org Operation Christmas Child Operation Christmas Child uses gift-filled shoeboxes to bring hope to children living in desperate situations all around the world. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has sent more than 100 million shoebox gifts to children in more than 120 different countries. Suggested items include school supplies, hygiene items and toys. National Collection Week is November 18-25; drop-off locations in Cherokee County include Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton. Some other area churches may also be participating. 770-777-9342, SamaritansPurse.org/OCC
Toys for Tots New, unwrapped toys will be accepted at various drop-off locations throughout Cherokee County, including area Publix supermarkets and the Cherokee County Fire Dept. Financial donations also are accepted. 678-887-5179, AtlantaToysForTots.com
Children’s Restoration Network During the holiday season, Children’s Restoration Network (CRN) will begin its “12 Days of Caring” program to provide new clothes, new toys and other gifts to children. Donations of new clothes and new toys are requested. In addition, churches, businesses and community organizations also may “adopt” an entire shelter or group home. CRN also will sponsor a gift-wrapping party December 19-22. 770-649-7117, ChildRN.org
Foster Care Support Foundation Inc. Foster Care Support Foundation Inc. (FCSF) assists thousands of Georgia’s foster and displaced children by providing free clothes, toys and infant-care equipment. Monetary donations, sponsorships and volunteers are critical in helping FCSF offer programs and assistance for children. 770-641-9591, FosterCares.org
MUST Ministries MUST Ministries is collecting food for 1,000 families that the organization expects to serve this year. The following items are needed to fill the Thanksgiving baskets: cans of corn, green beans, cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes; boxes of mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cornbread mix and stuffing; jars of gravy or packages of gravy mix; frozen pies and turkeys; and grocery store gift cards. Non-perishable items can be dropped off 9 a.m.-3 p.m., November 11-15, at New Life Church, 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton; frozen turkeys and pies can be dropped off 8-9 a.m., November 25-27, at MUST Ministries’ Cherokee location. New, unwrapped toys for children and new gifts for teens and parents are needed.
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Holiday Highlights Alex and Ani Bangle Bracelets Three Sisters Gifts in Hickory Flat has a great selection of holiday gift ideas, including the Alex and Ani Bangle Bracelets that are now a trend. Made in America, each bracelet is handcrafted from recycled metals, coated in a Russian Gold or silver finish, and features its own charm. Or, add your own style with additional charms — choose from initials, birthstones, words and symbols of faith, love, encouragement and friendship, and other designs! Three Sisters
Gifts, 6205 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton. 770-345-3090
Collegiate Fragrances Looking for a unique holiday gift for that special someone who loves college sports? Masik Collegiate Fragrances, created by Katie Masik, could be the perfect gift this year! Each fragrance is designed to reflect signature features of each collegiate program — infusing team colors, campus style and tradition, flowers, trees, etc. Currently, men’s and women’s fragrances are offered for the following schools: University of Georgia, University of Alabama, Auburn University, Clemson University, University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Kentucky, Louisiana State University, University of Mississippi, University of North Carolina, North Carolina State University, University of Oklahoma, Penn State University, University of South Carolina, University of Tennessee, Texas A&M, and Virginia Tech. Local
retailers offering the University of Georgia fragrances include Belk at Riverstone Plaza in Canton.
Happy Holidays from Family Life Publications! 46
Canton Family Life | NOVEMBER 2013
Billy Graham Offers
‘My Hope’ for America By James Kilgore, Ph.D.
Other than my immediate family moments, I have had two life-changing meetings in my life. One occurred in December 1951. I was not in church. I was in a private home watching television when Billy Graham’s “Hour of Decision” began. It seemed to me he looked out of the television set and said to me, “Do you want peace?” I said no words, but my heart felt a responsive “yes!” Then he said, “You’ll never know real peace until you meet the Prince of Peace.” Before that I knew I had felt guilty and unworthy, but after that moment I knew I was forgiven and free from guilt. At age 15, I didn’t fully comprehend how transforming it was to meet Jesus Christ as my Savior that night, but my life has been changed over the last 60-plus years! The second life-changing encounter came when I was invited to speak at a youth meeting in Montreal, N.C., where Billy Graham’s teenage daughter, Gigi, was in attendance. It happened that Billy Graham was at home in nearby Black Mountain. I had the opportunity to visit their home and to meet Billy Graham. “Just call me Billy,” he graciously said. Of course, I did not. But, our relationship continued over the years and he asked me to be a part of the team that worked in the New York Crusade in 1957. I will never forget being present for the first live nationwide telecast from the old Madison Square Garden, when George Beverly Shea sang “How Great Thou Art” for the first time on national television. This month, Billy Graham celebrates his 95th birthday. Now 64 years since his landmark Los Angeles crusade in 1949 and more than eight years since he last spoke from a pulpit in New York City, Billy Graham wants to preach again! Through “My Hope AMERICA,” individuals and church groups can hear Billy Graham’s message of hope in Jesus Christ (check MyHopeWithBillyGraham.org/ Programs for broadcast listings, November 7-10). If you are a Believer, you may change someone’s life by having them join you to watch “My Hope.” If you aren’t, the message may be life-changing for you!
James Kilgore is president of International Family Foundation Inc. 770-479-3669, JEKiff@hotmail.com, InternationalFamily.org
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in the
C
lark Salon has been a positive part of the Canton community for 12 years. Located in the Centre at BridgeMill shopping plaza on Bells Ferry Road, Clark Salon provides customized hair color and design for the entire family, as well as full spa nail services. Clark Salon is dedicated to meeting the individual needs of each guest with the best talent available. Keenan Clark and his staff are sure the professionalism and positive experience at Clark Salon will exceed your expectations. Rooted in a family business, Keenan feels strongly that his team and their core values have helped build Clark Salon’s solid reputation. The corporate culture of Clark Salon is one of honesty, dependability and consistency. Each stylist shares the conviction that healthy hair is beautiful hair. As a result of this belief in creating beautiful hair while maintaining its integrity, Clark Salon has developed a niche in restoring distressed and desensitized hair. Clark Salon’s team of professional designers offers a unique blend of talent and expertise that has resulted in a loyal and happy
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clientele. Each team member is required to complete extensive advanced curriculum taught by Clark Salon educators as part of the salon’s Associate Program. Designers must also attend continuing education courses to stay current with the latest trends and techniques (while staying clear of industry gimmicks). The Associate Program continues to grow, as it is beneficial to stylists just starting in the industry and to seasoned veterans looking to advance in their career. At Clark Salon, there is always room for new talent. This is an exciting time for Clark Salon, which has added two nail specialists to the salon’s extensive offerings. Canton natives Rachele Bruu and Alison Martin offer full nail services, including spa manicures and pedicures. Now, customers can get all of their professional hair and nail needs in one place. Clark Salon has also recently become a Moroccanoil preferred salon, carrying the full line of hair and body essentials. Moroccanoil has fast become Clark Salon’s most soughtafter product line.
limelight
The positive image and atmosphere at Clark Salon carries over into charitable services within the community as well. For years now, Keenan and the Clark Salon team have donated their time and services to TurnAround Kids, a ministry in Woodstock that provides a foster home to more than 20 children. The Clark Salon team enjoys getting to know the children as they cut the children’s hair every month and occasionally offer mini manicures. Everyone at Clark Salon believes it is important to be as generous to the community as the community has been to them and to Clark Salon. That commitment to the community is a large part of what has made Clark Salon an award-winning salon three years in a row. Come in and see what your neighbors have already discovered: a friendly, full-service salon right in your own backyard. Check the website, ClarkSalon.com, for specials and promotions, and “like” them on Facebook to stay updated on salon news.
10511 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 700, Canton
770-479-0052, ClarkSalon.com
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Jason Liford is the executive chef at Downtown Kitchen and has been an integral part of the staff for nearly six years. Jason fell in love with cooking at the age of 16 and is a lifelong Cherokee County resident and graduate of Cherokee High School. He brings his love and passion for food to Downtown Kitchen and enjoys providing these seasonal recipes to the community. He hopes you enjoy them, too!
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Second Mortgage & Bankruptcy By Archie Speights For the vast majority of bankruptcy clients, the most important asset in their case will be their home. And a question bankruptcy clients often ask is, “If I file bankruptcy, do I still have to pay my second mortgage?” As with all things legal, the answer depends on three different things. First, what chapter bankruptcy do you plan to file? Next, what is the value of the home? Lastly, how much is owed on the first mortgage? Section 506 of the Bankruptcy Code allows a valueless junior lien in real property to be stripped off. Let’s say that you own a home that is worth $140,000 today. Let’s also say you have a first mortgage with $175,000 owed, and a second with about $45,000 owed.
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In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the second mortgage can absolutely be stripped off because the second mortgage is wholly unsecured. There is more owed on the first mortgage by itself than what the house is worth. In the Chapter 13, the second mortgage would be treated just as generally unsecured debt. When the Chapter 13 is complete and you receive your discharge, the liability on the second mortgage will also be wiped away and the lien will no longer be on your home. Of course, it should be noted that in a typical Chapter 13 usually you will not receive a discharge until at least three years have passed. In other parts of the country, it has already been ruled that you cannot strip off a second mortgage in Chapter 7. However, in Georgia, you can. Georgia, along with Alabama and Florida, is in the 11th Circuit. The 11th Circuit Courts
have found that we can strip off second mortgages, while other Federal Circuits have found it impermissible. Eventually, the Supreme Court will decide which Circuit is correct. Some bankruptcy judges in our district have essentially put Chapter 7 lien strips on hold until the issue is decided, anticipating that the Supreme Court will reverse the 11th Circuit. After that, we won’t be able to get them here in Georgia either. Archie Speights is a lawyer with Burns & Speights, P.C., Law Group in Canton. 770-956-1400, ASpeights@BASLG.com, BASLG.com
Look Your Best This Holiday By Drs. Keith West, Michael McNeel, Thaddeus Fabian, Keith Hanna & John Symbas
It’s natural to want to look your best for the upcoming family get-togethers, holiday parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations. While some solutions are a bit more involved and require more down time, like a face lift, there are some easier ways to put your best face forward this holiday season. Facial procedures for a fresh new look: Microdermabrasion uses tiny crystals to gently wear away the outer layer of skin, creating a refreshed appearance. A facial cleans the skin, providing nutrients and removing the outermost layer of dead cells, a process known as exfoliation. Facial peels remove even more dead skin, using fruit acids for skin rejuvenation or stronger forms of acid for an extreme peel designed to combat more serious skin issues. Injectables can take years off in minutes:
Injectables are great at softening lines and wrinkles. These include BOTOX® Cosmetic for simple forehead lines and crow’s feet, and dermal fillers for deeper lines around the mouth. BOTOX® temporarily weakens facial muscles that control forehead wrinkles, softening or eliminating their appearance. Results last for months or even longer. Dermal fillers, such as Juvéderm® or Restylane®, fill in the deeper “parenthesis” lines surrounding the mouth. Dermal fillers usually last around nine months, or longer, and the results are almost immediate. Sculptra® is a facial voluminizer that actually stimulates your body to produce its own collagen, helping to replace volume in facial areas lost over time. Lasers lift off the signs of aging: Laser skin resurfacing softens fine lines and improves skin texture and tone. The
process removes the top layer of skin to stimulate the production of more collagen, which improves the skin’s structure and elasticity. Laser procedures can help reverse the effects of sun damage, wrinkles, age spots and acne scars. A newer laser treatment, the Fraxel® Laser, is a breakthrough in skin resurfacing — producing superior results with little to no down time. It usually takes a few sessions, so plan those for November/early December to see results for the holidays. As always, make sure the plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery; other “boards” are not the same. With a little pre-planning, you can look a few years younger for the holidays!
Drs. West, McNeel, Fabian, Hanna and Symbas are plastic surgeons at Marietta Plastic Surgery. They are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 770-425-0118, MariettaPlasticSurgery.com
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DiscoverDowntown Canton Historic walking tour provides up-close look at fall beauty By Meghan Griffin
One of my favorite things to do this time of year is to admire the leaves on the trees and watch them drift slowly to the ground. Did you know that the best leaf-watching time in Georgia is mid-October to mid-November? As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, the leaves stop producing food necessary for the trees’ growth, and the chlorophyll, the compound that gives the leaves their green color, breaks down. This and other chemicals cause the leaves to change from green to red, purple, orange, yellow and brown. Did you also know that the Cherokee County Historical Society produced a historic walking tour brochure for the City of Canton a few years ago? The brochure contains history on our downtown buildings, including historic photographs, and a map to guide you. The combination of the changing leaves and a walking tour of our beautiful downtown area provides
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“The combination of the changing leaves and a walking tour of our beautiful downtown area provides an awesome activity for families, friends and individuals to enjoy.” an awesome activity for families, friends and individuals to enjoy. So, bundle up and come visit the Cherokee County History Museum and Visitors Center for your copy of Canton Historic Walking Tour, then get walking! Be sure to refuel at one of our downtown restaurants and
pick up a gift for the holidays at one of our stores, like Chamberhouse Fine Gifts or the new B.loved. Also, don’t forget that the Canton Main Street Program will host “First Friday” on December 6 in Cannon Park in Downtown Canton. This “First Friday” will be all about the holidays, featuring special programs from local schools and other performers. We will also have lots of food and drink, as well as plenty of shopping opportunities. For more information about “First Friday,” or to become a vendor, call 770-704-1548. For more information on the Cherokee County History Museum and Visitors Center, call 770-345-3288, or visit RockBarn.org. Meghan Griffin is Main Street director for the City of Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com
Is GMO Safe in Foods? GMO stands for genetically modified organisms. Some biotech companies genetically modify different plants, including corn. It is important to understand how the genetic modification alters corn, because corn is a common ingredient in many different foods consumed by humans and animals. Corn is known to be modified by the Monsanto company, and others, by inserting into the DNA a molecule that makes it resistant to Roundup weed and grass killer and to insects. When Roundup is sprayed on the corn, weeds and bugs around the corn die — but the corn does not. In fact, the bugs’ intestines actually implode from feeding on the corn, and die. It’s a gruesome thought, but critical in understanding how GMO foods can affect us. According to Monsanto and the U.S.
By Chris Meiners, D.C.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is no evidence that GMO is harmful to humans. However, Europe, China, Russia and many other countries have restrictions against GMO foods; any foods containing GMO must be labeled as containing GMO. In the United States, laboratory studies have shown that rats that are fed GMO corn develop intestinal tumors and die. Yet, Monsanto and the FDA maintain GMO is not harmful to us. How can we be sure? One of the best ways to avoid taking a chance with GMO foods is to eat only organic foods. Some people may have considered eating organic previously but couldn’t afford it, as many organic products are slightly higher in price compared to similar non-organic products. The real question is: Can you afford to get
sick? The rate of cancer is higher today than ever. More people are suffering from food allergies, ADD/ADHD and intestinal diseases, such as Crohns, Colitis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome, than ever. Have you ever considered if these diseases and ailments could be linked to our foods? I challenge you to investigate GMO for yourself and make your own decision. There are several informative videos about GMO on YouTube. Educate yourself and make the decision that is best for you and your family.
Dr. Chris Meiners is a licensed chiropractor with Canton Wellness Center. 770-720-4090, CantonWellness.com
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Index
Afterglow Spa 25 Arranged to Eat 46 Audio Intersection Cover, 28 & 29 Azure Salon and Spa 9 BridgeMill Dentistry 52 Burns and Speights, P.C. 40 Canton Smiles 19 Canton Wellness Center 14 Canton/Milton Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 5 The Carpenter’s Shop Christian Preschool 30 Cherokee Chorale 45 Clark Salon 48 & 49 Downtown Kitchen 50 & 51 Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 25 DV Pediatrics 39 Edwards Eye Care 33 Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 31 The Goddard School 13 Goin’ Coastal 55 The Great Frame Up 5 H&H Electric & Security LLC 15 In Harmony Pediatric Therapy 9 Jingle Bell Shop 43 Jump Kitchen & Sports Saloon 9 Jyl Craven Hair Design Inside Back Landscape Matters 47 LaVida Massage 11 Marietta Plastic Surgery Inside Front miraDry 17 North Georgia Art Ramble 23 Northside Cherokee Cardiology 11 Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 3 Northside Hospital-Cherokee 1 Northside Hospital Pediatric Imaging Center 49 Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock LLC 37 PharMoore Pharmacy 56 Ping Segars Salon 19 Plastic Surgery Center of the South LLC 27 R & D Mechanical Services Inc. 7 Reinhardt University 56 Rejoice Maids 3 Revive Day Spa 35 Riverstone Counseling Center 47 TC Country 37 Technical Resource Solutions LLC Inside Front Three Sisters Gifts & Home Accents 43 Towne Lake Primary Care Family Medicine 21 Vein Center of North Georgia 5 WellStar Health Systems Back Cover What a Girl Wants 46 Woodstock First Baptist Church 53
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