Volume 1 | Issue 9
April 2014 28-30 Live Clean When life gets messy, Live Clean does the dirty work for you.
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Going Green
44
Artist Profile: The Thrillhammers
In Every Issue
32 Summer Camp Guide 2
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
06 Calendar
18 Community Life
10 Business Life
20 Academic Life
16 Family of 4
24 Taste of Life
150 North Street, Suite A, Canton, GA 30114 (O) 770-213-7095 | (F) 770-213-7106 FamilyLifePublications.com
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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
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pring has always been filled with inspiration for me, in life and in work. Of course, the warmer temperatures tend to lead us outdoors and we are generally more active than in the colder months, yet the newness of life almost makes me feel like a child again. The second Saturday of last month was spent almost entirely outside cutting brush, weeding, prepping container gardens, cleaning gutters, blowing leaves and some general straightening up, or “spring cleaning” as it has come to be known. This year, working in my yard seems to have more purpose; I’ve been putting more heart into it. Over the past few months, several people in my circles have had to deal with the loss of a loved one. Some over time, expectantly, while others passed quite suddenly without any warning. One good friend of mine, married for nearly 44 years, lost his wife in a cart accident while she was doing what she loved the most: gardening. George and his wife, Mary Nelle, had retired after decades of teaching and they loved being outdoors, in the yard or at the lake. Mary Nelle perennially had the most wonderful yards and gardens filled with color and thriving year-round. The works of her hands, tending the soil, providing nurture for young seedlings and caring for those plants until they were healthy and could stand on their own was, in a way, a beautiful continuance of her and her
husband George’s careers in teaching. And George, being a loving father, has been courageous and a pillar for his daughters as they have rallied to support each other. I’ll be enjoying planting, the yard and even life more this year thinking about the lessons that I’ve learned recently from Mary Nelle’s love of gardening, George’s love of Mary Nelle and the support of family. Each year when the daffodils begin to bloom, we’re reminded of the resiliency of the natural world — how, when the world around them gets dark and cold, they instinctively seem to retract into the shelter of the ground, much like we do under similar circumstances. Then, when the moment comes, they burst forth with all the splendor within them — leading the charge into the new season. It’s important for us to remember that life’s not perfect. It’s okay to shelter or seek solace from what befalls us. It’s more important that, when the time is right, we harness whatever it takes to gain a foothold and rise again, to be bolder and brighter than we were before, be a positive influence on others, and enjoy the marvels of being renewed, refreshed and resilient. Root firmly, find courage, break forth. Grow.
Jack Tuszynski, publisher
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Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
SALES Janet Ponichtera janet@familylifepublications.com George Colmant george@familylifepublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS George Anderson, Dr. Kellie Baxter, Crystal Bryant, Jyl Craven, Arlene Dickerson, Dr. Kyle Edwards, Louise Estabrook, Meghan Griffin, Fred Hawkins, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Mayor Gene Hobgood, Travis Jones, Zach Kell, James Kilgore, Michelle Knapp, Dr. Vicki Knight-Mathis, Dr. James E. Leake, Robbie Matiak, Dr. Chris Meiners, Dr. E. Anthony Musarra, Dr. Michael Petrosky, Janet Read, Suzanne Taylor, Lisa Woodruff 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. © 2014 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
April Through Unearthing the Past: Archaeology in Cherokee April County — Sponsored by Canton Tourism Inc., this exhibit explores the last 80 years of archaeological investigations in Cherokee County, highlighting some of the more than 1,000 archaeological sites in the area and featuring rarely seen artifacts found in Cherokee County. They represent more than 8,000 years of Native American occupation and include ceremonial objects, game pieces, weapons, and tools. The featured items are part of private collections and are on public display for the first time. 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Wednesdays-Fridays; 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Saturdays, Cherokee County History Museum, 100 North St., Suite 140, Canton. 770-345-3288, RockBarn.org
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Friday Fish Fry — Diners will enjoy a plate of fried fish, baked beans, coleslaw, hushpuppies and dessert. A macaroni and cheese plate will be available for those who prefer a vegetarian option. The goal for this year’s Fish Fry is $5,000, with 100 percent of proceeds going to the St. Clement’s Outreach Ministry budget to assist local persons in need and to help support other community programs, including Bethesda Medical Clinic, Habitat for Humanity, and Cherokee Family Violence Center. $6 for adult plates, $3 for children 10 and under; carry-out is available. 5:00-7:30 p.m., St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-345-6722, StClementsCanton.org
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Blood Drive — Your blood donation could help save 3-year-old Cailyn Thompson, who has been diagnosed with
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Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
R.T. Jones Memorial Library 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090
Lymphoblastic Leukemia, or any number of people in critical need of your matching blood type. Cailyn and her parents, Adam and Shelley Thompson, are members of Hopewell Baptist Church. Come out and show your support. Blood donations from the blood drive in January helped 171 people locally. 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Hopewell Baptist Church, 78 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-345-5723, HopewellBaptist.com
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Main Street Mornings — Once a month, Canton Main Street Development hosts a morning networking event at a local business (varies each month). The event is a great opportunity for business owners and members of the community to learn more about Downtown Canton’s businesses, services and programs. Coffee and light refreshments usually are served. The event is free and open to the public. 8:00 a.m., Cherokee County History Museum, Historic Courthouse, 100 North St., Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com
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Serenade Heights Motorcycle Benefit Ride & BBQ — This event will raise funds to help support local single mothers and their families. The ride will begin at First Baptist Church Woodstock and end with lunch at Woodstock Church-Jasper. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. ($35 per rider/$40 for two). You can also support without riding. Serenade Heights Inc. is a Transitional Housing Ministry for single mother families in the community. Registration is available online. 10:00 a.m., First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock. 678-494-2811, SerenadeHeights.org continued on page 8
Holiday Hours
April 18 & 20: All branches closed Story Times Family Story Times April 15, 22 & 29, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m., R.T. Jones April 17 & 24, 10:30 a.m., Ball Ground, Hickory Flat Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. Lapsit Story Times April 16, 23 & 30, 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones Lapsit story times will be limited to the first 15 children (plus caregiver) to arrive and the doors to the program will be closed when the program begins. Super Saturday Story Times April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones Super Saturday story times are family story times designed with the working parent and/or schoolaged child in mind. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Special Programs Reading Dogs April 7 & 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Ball Ground, R.T. Jones April 15 & 29, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Hickory Flat Kids and dogs go together like books and reading. Letting a child read to a dog builds confidence by providing a friendly, furry and non-judgmental listener. Sessions of 10-15 minutes for ages 6 and up are available, but space is limited. Register by calling the appropriate branch up to two weeks before the scheduled event.
continued on page 8
Library Events
Calendar of
Events
continued from page 6
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Strike Out Cancer — BridgeMill Sixes Service League will host this fun family bowling and raffle event to raise money for Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society. Monies raised will go to support patient services, prevention and education in Cherokee County. Awards will be given for best and worst score, and prizes to everyone who wears purple! $15 per adult/$7 per child (12 and under; 3 and under free) for two hours of bowling. 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Cherokee Lanes, 1149 Marietta Hwy, Canton. BSSL.org/RelayBowl
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Gardening Seminar — Cherokee County Master Gardeners will present “Advanced Fruit and Vegetable Gardening.” Visit a working farm to expand your basic knowledge of fruits and vegetables. Registration is required. 10:00 a.m., Buckeye Creek Farm, 2115 Jep Wheeler Road, Woodstock. 770-721-7803, Facebook.com/ CherokeeMasterGardeners
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Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University — This class will help you achieve your financial goals by showing you how to eliminate debt, save for the future, and give like never before. You will be challenged and motivated to make a plan for your money. This is a nine-week course on Sunday afternoons. 4:00 p.m., St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road, Canton. 770-345-6722, StClementsCanton.org
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Free Prostate Cancer Screenings — Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute will offer a free prostate cancer screening to the community. Healthcare professionals will screen adult men for symptoms of prostate cancer and offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and rectal exams at no charge. A nurse navigator will be available to help arrange follow-up care, if indicated. Free parking will be available and qualified Spanish interpreters will be available on site. Appointments are required. Call 404845-5555 and press “0.” 6:00-8:00 p.m., Northside Hospital-Cherokee Outpatient Rehab Services Building., 211 Hospital Road, Canton. Northside.com
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Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
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Spring Plant Sale — Cherokee County Master Gardeners will present its annual Spring Plant Sale, featuring native and drought-tolerant plants, carpenter bee traps and yard art. Master Gardener volunteers will also be available to answer questions. A special “Raised Bed Gardening” seminar will coincide at 10:00 a.m. (registration is required: 770-721-7803). 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Cherokee County Senior Services Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. Facebook.com/CherokeeMasterGardeners
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Spring Fling Fashion Show — BridgeMill Sixes Service League will present its 13th annual Spring Fling Fashion Show by Belk Riverstone. Proceeds from the event, which will include raffle drawings for great prizes, will benefit children and families in Cherokee County. 11:00 a.m., Tuscany’s Italian Grill, 250 Cinema View, Woodstock. BSSL.org
May 2
First Friday — Come out for an evening of food, music, shopping, and fun! The event is free and great for the whole family! The evening’s activities will include classic cars, food and drinks, and lots of fun! 6:00-9:00 p.m., Cannon Park, 130 E. Main St., Downtown Canton.
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Art Rock at the Arts Center — International instrumental rock recording artist Erik Norlander and the Galactic Collective will perform in this special concert at the Cherokee Arts Center. Considered one of progressive/ art rock’s most talented and innovative keyboardists, Norlander has remained a stalwart in the progressive rock movement for more than two decades. He has recorded, produced, written, and performed with many of progressive rock’s highly regarded acts; developed keyboards for Alesis and audio tracks for Line 6; and his music has been featured on television and in documentaries. 7:30 pm. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.), Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. SergeEntertainmentGroup.com/GalacticCollective-Concert
continued from page 6 Protect Yourself from Identity Theft April 7, 6:00 p.m., R.T. Jones What are the common forms of identity theft, and how can you protect yourself? What if you suspect you are a victim of identity theft? What should you do if your wallet or purse is lost or stolen? How can you be prepared in advance for emergencies such as identity theft? Christine Senior, a coordinator for Regions Bank at Work, will lead this informative session. Managing Your Money April 8, 2:00 p.m., R.T. Jones What are the steps for setting financial goals? How can you track your daily spending habits? How can you prepare a personal saving and spending plan to estimate your monthly income and expenses? Are there tools to help you manage your cash flow? Are there ways to increase your income and decrease your spending? Christine Senior, a coordinator for Regions Bank at Work, will lead this informative session. Bunny Buddies April 9, 4:00 p.m., R.T. Jones Real, live rabbit ambassadors from the Georgia House Rabbit Society are hopping into the library! After you learn about these fascinating little creatures, you’ll be able to interact with them. All ages. Banking Basics for Students April 12, 10:00 a.m., R.T. Jones How can you best manage your money? How can you start to save money? How can you use credit wisely? How can you avoid identity theft and fraud? Reservations required. 770-479-3090, ext. 232. Financial Aid 101 April 12, 11:00 a.m., R.T. Jones Benjamin Meadows from the Georgia Student Finance Commission will lead this seminar open to all Cherokee County students (and their parents) who plan to attend college. Yarn Time: Arm Knitting & Beyond! April 14, 6:00-7:30 p.m., R.T. Jones This is an open house event in the Children’s Activity Room. You are invited to visit with fellow knitters while you work on your projects. Call Lisa at (770) 479-3090, ext. 228, if you have a question about supplies. Teen Writing Workshop April 21, 6:00 p.m., R.T. Jones Love to write? Have a creative side you would like to share? Join fellow writers and unleash your creativity by sharing your latest projects, playing fun writing games, and enjoying snacks! Ages 12 and up.
Easter Events 12
City of Holly Springs Easter Egg Hunt — Easter activities will include an Easter Egg Hunt, a petting zoo and playground, and photos with the Easter Bunny (one complimentary photo per family). Please plan to arrive early and find your appropriate age-group area. Each child will receive a prize egg. 11:00 a.m., Barrett Park, 120 Park Lane, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536, HollySpringsGa.us
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Northside Hospital-Cherokee Easter Eggstravaganza — Here comes Peter Cottontail… hoppin’ down to Northside Hospital-Cherokee’s 28th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza! This year’s event will include fun for all ages, such as a petting zoo, moon walks, carnival games, face painters, arts and crafts, food, music and much more. Bring your Easter basket to participate in one of four Easter egg hunts: 1:30 p.m. (age 0 to 3 years old, and for those who have special needs and require assistance); 1:45 p.m. (ages 4 to 6); 2:00 p.m. (ages 7-9); and 2:15 p.m. (ages 10 years and up). Admission to the Easter Eggstravaganza, food and activities is free. Photos with the Easter Bunny are $5 for two photos, and souvenir T-shirts are $10 each. All proceeds will benefit the Special Care Nursery at Northside Hospital-Cherokee. Guests also are encouraged to bring donations of diapers (large size diapers and pull-ups) and/or wipes for MUST Ministries in Cherokee. Collection bins will be available at the event. In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled to April 13 (in case of inclement weather on April 13, the event will be canceled). 1:00-3:00 p.m., Northside Hospital-Cherokee, 201 Hospital Road, Canton. 770-720-5132.
BridgePointe Church
River Church
233 Arnold Mill, Woodstock 770-517-2977 BridgePointeChurch.org April 19: Grand Easter Egg Hunt & Cookout, 4:00-6:00 p.m., J.J. Biello Park, 155 Brooke Blvd., Woodstock. Everyone is welcome! April 20: Easter Worship, “The Hunger Games: Catching Hope,” 9:00 & 10:30 a.m. Childcare is available for birth through fifth grade.
2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975, RiverAtlanta.org April 18: David Platt’s Secret Church Simulcast — This is an intense time of Bible study and prayer. Cost is $10 per person. 7:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. April 20: Easter Worship, 10:30 a.m.
Cherokee Baptist Church
2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 StClementsCanton.org April 13: Palm/Passion Sunday Liturgy of the Palms, 8:00-9:00 a.m. April 14-18: Morning Prayer, 9:00 a.m. April 16: Tenebrae with Holy Communion, 6:30 p.m. April 17: Maundy Thursday — Liturgy of the Day, Holy Eucharist, Foot Washing, Stripping of the Altar, Midnight the Vigil and the Mass of the Pre-Sanctified Gifts, 7:00 p.m. April 18: Good Friday — The Three Hours, 12:00-3:00 p.m.; Stations of the Cross, 6:30 p.m.; Liturgy of the Day with the Veneration of the Cross, 7:00 p.m. April 19: Holy Saturday Liturgy, 9:00 a.m.; The Great Vigil of Easter, 8:00 p.m. April 20: Easter Sunday — Holy Eucharist, 8:00 & 11:00 a.m.; Contemporary Holy Eucharist, 9:00 a.m.
7770 Hickory Flat Hwy., Woodstock 770-720-3399 CherokeeBaptistChurch.org April 18: David Platt’s Secret Church Simulcast — This is an intense time of Bible study and prayer. Attendance is free, and a study guide is available for $5. Visit the website for details. 7:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. April 20: Easter Worship, 11:00 a.m.
Crabapple First Baptist Church 12760 Birmingham Hwy., Milton 770-475-6111, CrabappleFBC.org April 17-19: The Passion Play, 7:00 p.m. Free childcare for ages 3 and under. April 20: Easter Worship, 10:30 a.m.
Hopewell Baptist 78 Ridge Road, Canton (770) 345-5723 HopewellBaptist.com April 20: Easter Worship with Pastor Norman R. Hunt, 9:30 &
St. Clement’s Episcopal Church
11:00 a.m.
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Business Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce recognized the graduating participants of its 13th Annual Teen Leadership Cherokee (TLC) Class. Of the 109 Cherokee County high school sophomores that applied for the program, 20 students were chosen. Applicants were asked to submit a formal application and participated in two rounds of personal interviews with local business leaders. Over the past three months the TLC Class attended an orientation with their parents, an all-day retreat, and several class sessions planned by local business leaders, all of whom are graduates of the Chamber’s Adult Leadership Cherokee program. The classes addressed such topics as community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development and team building. The class participated in an ongoing project designed to challenge them with real-life scenarios that would instill invaluable skills and introduce them to tools in the community that could assist them in many circumstances. Graduates of the 13th Annual Teen Leadership Cherokee Class are Yeseul Heo, Sequoyah; Dixie Rich, Creekview; Donovan Giardina, Sequoyah; Luke Berryhill, River Ridge; Julia Morrow, Cherokee Christian School; Caitlin Franchini, Sequoyah; Samantha Rolka, Creekview; Cherokee Rabjohn, River Ridge; Lucy Groves, Cherokee; Paula Ruiz, Woodstock; Emily Stuchlik, Etowah; Breeara Murphy, Woodstock; Miles Ruff, Cherokee; Joshua Minter, Etowah; Molly Perkins, River Ridge; Nick Duclos, Sequoyah; James Lindsay, Sequoyah; Coleman Pecht, Sequoyah; Katie Carlsen, River Ridge; and Amber Richards, Sequoyah. The mission of Teen Leadership Cherokee is to develop the knowledge and leadership skills of young people in Cherokee County so they may confidently become our leaders of tomorrow. The Chamber congratulates all of the students and is proud of their dedication and hard work throughout the program.
Becky Babcock’s ERA Real Estate team in Canton was recognized recently as the No. 1 residential producers in the country for ERA Real Estate, recording $1.35 million in adjusted commission income in 2013. Babcock was also recognized as the No. 3 agent in the nation in total units, with 228 sales. Babcock led her team to an impressive 47 percent year-over-year increase in properties sold from the previous year. “Becky demonstrates excellence in every aspect of real estate,” said Charlie Young, president/CEO of ERA Real Estate. “This includes sales and year-overyear growth, usage of ERA tools and services, and customer satisfaction. We are proud to have such a seasoned and accomplished professional representing our ERA Real Estate brand.” ERA Real Estate also named Babcock as one of three finalists for the 2013 Brenda W. Casserly Memorial Award, ERA Real Estate’s highest honor for a sales associate. In addition, Babcock and her Path & Post team is also a finalist for the Jim Jackson Memorial Award as one of the Top 5 agents in the country for customer satisfaction based on client surveys after closing. Babcock was honored during the ERA® 2014 International Business Conference, held March 24-27, 2014, at L.A. Live in Los Angeles. 10
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
Georgia Medical Treatment Center is moving soon to a new location directly behind its previous office in Canton, in the space formerly occupied by Tuesday Morning off of Riverstone Parkway. Georgia Medical Treatment Center is an association of board-certified medical doctors, a certified physician’s assistant, chiropractors, and physical therapists who are experts in the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of pain. They utilize advanced, nonsurgical, FDA-approved protocols and the latest diagnostic tools, and offer a combination of specialties under one roof for continuity of care that assures positive patient outcomes. Georgia Medical Treatment Center is dedicated to helping patients achieve a pain-free life and offers free evaluations. 551 Riverstone Parkway, Canton. 770 345-2000, GeorgiaPTC.com
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Mayor’s
Minute By Mayor Gene Hobgood
Springtime: Time to Get Outdoors in Canton
N
o season is more beautiful in Canton than spring. Our location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains provides the perfect climate for outdoor activities. We are fortunate to have so many opportunities for both youth and adults to enjoy. It’s baseball season, and the Dizzy Dean teams at Harmon Field are ready to go. If you’re a kid who likes baseball, get involved in the game. If you’re an adult, volunteer to help or just take in a game or two. Lots of youth and adults alike will be playing organized or pick-up games of soccer in Boling and Heritage parks. Heritage and Boling parks also are perfect for a morning or late afternoon stroll, or biking along the Etowah River at Heritage Park. Or, maybe you’d like to take a leisurely visit to Downtown Canton’s Cannon Park or Brown Park. Personally, I enjoy seeing the children playing at the playground in Brown Park directly in front of City Hall. For those who enjoy boating or fishing, Canton’s 400-acre reservoir is waiting. While gasoline motors are not allowed,
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Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
small fishing boats with electric motors and canoes can provide a full day of fun and great fishing (swimming is not allowed). The Fairways of Canton in Laurel Canyon features an 18-hole golf course. The Canton Golf Course, a private course near downtown, is open to the public on Mondays. If you’re serious about exercising and getting fit, you may want to join the G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA, which offers a variety of exercise, organized sports and swimming opportunities. If you have a green thumb or would like to try gardening, Canton’s community gardens have a plot just waiting for you. It’s really fun and you will enjoy the fruits of your labor. The Farmers’ Market around Cannon Park on Saturday mornings is a great place to pick up some healthy, fresh fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget to visit the Cherokee County History Museum and Cherokee Arts Center just across from Cannon Park. While in downtown, take in a classic movie or dramatic presentation at Canton Theatre on Main Street. A picnic along the banks of the Etowah River at Heritage
Park may be just what your family needs to enjoy the warm Canton sunshine while relaxing to the sound of the gently flowing river. First Friday provides a great opportunity for all to enjoy strolling downtown, taking in the entertainment, great food and car shows. The 11th Annual “Festival of the Arts” will be coming to downtown May 17-18. Etowah River Park will open in early summer. Here, you’ll be able to walk, play on one of several multi-purpose fields, enjoy entertainment at the new amphitheater, or launch a canoe into the Etowah River. There are so many springtime outdoor opportunities in Canton — and more to come. Take your choice; but, get out there and enjoy what Canton has to offer.
Gene Hobgood is the mayor of Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com
Invest Your
Tax Refund in Yourself! By Arlene Dickerson
Financial advisors often recommend that you put your tax refund in a retirement account or other investment. This is sound advice, but there are other ways to invest that money. Career training is a great investment to consider. Taking a class is a safe way to help you determine if you should move into a career where you don’t have a lot of firsthand knowledge. Or, if you want to further your current career, you can use your tax refund dollars to take classes to obtain a new certification or credential that will make you more appealing to potential employers or clients. Training classes also can be relaxing if you take classes to support your hobbies. Regardless of your reason for taking a class, make sure you take a few things into consideration before you sign up: • How long is the class? Can you block out a few hours or a full day? Will it require a longer commitment? • Do you need to bring your own supplies? Many classes have everything you need waiting when you walk through the door, or will ship the materials to you. However, some classes require you to bring a laptop or tablet. Other classes may require students to purchase specific textbooks. • Do you need to have specific skills in order to take the class? For example, if you are taking an advanced Excel class, make sure you have used Excel and already are comfortable with the basics. • Will you receive a certification when the class is completed? If you are taking the class to fulfill a work requirement, make sure the training company or instructor is prepared to provide you with a receipt, certificate, or other proof that you completed the coursework. Whether you take a class to advance your work, your hobbies, or just to satisfy your curiosity, asking a few questions up-front will help ensure you get the best investment possible when you pay the course registration fees. Arlene Dickerson is the co-owner/director of Technical Resource Solutions. 678-928-9491, TechnicalRS.com
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Stretch It Out This Spring! By Kellie Baxter, D.C.
The definition of flexibility is a joint’s ability to move through a full range of motion. Can yours? It’s scary, but most people have restricted range of motion in one or more joints. I deal with decreased range of motion daily. New patients arrive at my office unable to bend in what should be a normal direction. I’ve seen people that couldn’t touch their toes or turn their head if they were asked to do so at gunpoint. Flexibility is incredibly important. Unfortunately, there is only one way to achieve flexibility — you have to stretch. As dogs and cats know, you have to do it daily. Flexibility training isn’t easy. If you don’t stretch regularly, then you overuse muscle groups and create muscular imbalances, which lead to the development of poor posture and joint degeneration.
Let me give you some very good reasons to start a flexibility training routine. First, it can help you live longer. No kidding! Did you know that poor posture has been linked to decreased lifespan? If you are bent over, you can’t breathe to your full capacity and your lungs can’t get as much oxygen to tissues and organs. Stretching improves posture. Stretching decreases your risk of injury and improves your athletic performance. The ability to move through greater ranges of motion, and slightly exceed them if forced to do so, keeps you from getting injured.
When you stretch you increase temperature and circulation into the surrounding tissues. The flow of nutrients into these tissues helps heal injured areas, improves elasticity and performance of the joint, and increases synovial fluid into the joint space. Synovial fluid is a lubricating fluid that promotes greater range of motion and reduces joint degeneration. Another great reason to stretch: Flexibility training is a key component to a balanced fitness and antiaging regimen! Remember, adjustments and massage also increase flexibility by improving range of motion to the joints, so stay well adjusted.
Flexibility reduces low back pain. Believe me, I can tell which patients are stretching between visits. Stretching relaxes tight muscles and reduces accumulated toxins, relieving back pain.
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 (address, phone & email). Only emailed answers with full information will be accepted. Individuals can win only once per calendar year. Happy Hunting!
Congratulations to our March winner, Barbara McCloskey! 14
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
Dr. Kellie Baxter is president/ owner of Revive Day Spa and Baxter Chiropractic. 770-345-1111, MyReviveDaySpa.com, BaxterChiro.com
Don’t Miss a Life-Changing Experience! By James E Kilgore, Ph.D. “Leadercast Cherokee” is coming! On Friday, May 9, from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., more than 200 leaders in athletics, business, churches, civic clubs, education, government and industry will gather at Canton First United Methodist Church for a live simulcast of the fourthannual “Leadercast Cherokee,” hosted locally by the International Family Foundation Inc. “Leadercast Cherokee” is one of the most influential leadership experiences offered this year as part of the live event at The Arena at Gwinnett Center in Duluth. Featured guests will include former First Lady Laura Bush; Dr. Henry Cloud, a clinical psychologist, author and consultant; Malcolm Gladwell, an awardwinning journalist and author; Bill McDermott, CEO of SAP AG; Laura Schroff, a best-selling author and former advertising sales executive; Simon Sinek, a best-selling author and leadership
expert; Andy Stanley, senior pastor of North Pointe Community Church, best-selling author and leadership communicator; Archbishop Desmond Tutu; and Randy Wallace, screenwriter/ director/producer/songwriter. The Cherokee simulcast event has been sponsored by Northside Hospital, Southeast Restoration, Darby Funeral Home, Delphi Global Technology, Edward Jones Investments (Ned Castleberry & Kelly Geiken), Express Impressions, and, adding this year, Family Life Publications — publisher of Canton Family Life magazine. The Cherokee event also will feature local students who are emerging youth leaders, nominated by their civic clubs, school principals, athletic directors, coaches or youth pastors. Businesses in Cherokee County have generously provided scholarships for these young leaders to attend.
Leaders influence others through their concern for others and through ideas that change lives and make dreams into reality. “Leadercast Cherokee 2014” can do that for you, too! As Chris Jackman with Georgia State University says, “I’ve seen our team grow immensely as a result of ‘Leadercast Cherokee.’ I’ve seen a transformation — they are more focused and are meeting deadlines, as well as growing individually.” Tickets to “Leadercast Cherokee” are on sale now. The registration fee will include lunch and breaks; a gift bag; door prizes; and all of the great speakers featured in the program! Call or email me for more information. James Kilgore is president of International Family Foundation Inc. 770-479-3669, jekiff@hotmail.com, InternationalFamily.org
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Magnolia Thomas House Every Sunday, but especially Easter Sunday, the Magnolia Thomas Restaurant in Downtown Woodstock has an amazing brunch. Enjoy traditional country breakfast favorites, plus Eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles, buttermilk fried chicken, and a carving station. Prices begin at $12.99 for kids and $15.99 for adults. Easter Sunday brunch will feature a special expanded menu to delight your tastebuds even more. Special Easter activities also will feature a petting zoo and an Easter Egg hunt! Make your reservation early. 108 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-5789, MagnoliaThomas.com
kids’ story time & crafts
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with the help of Michelle and Suzanne at ScoopOTP, we found some. Curious for more? Visit ScoopOTP.com!
Learning Express Learning Express, a unique educational gift store located in the Kroger shopping center off of Towne Lake Parkway, has story time and crafts at 11:00 a.m. on Thursdays for your little ones. They also offer crafts on Saturday, but the time and events change weekly. For Easter, Learning Express will offer free personalized buckets with the purchase of any creative or educational toy from the store’s “Bunny Buffet.” Visit the website for story times and crafts. 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 770-517-2766, LearningExpress. com/Store/Woodstock
Live Music
Get Creative
Sunday brunch
Family of
Looking for family fun things to do? We are too! And
Paper.Scissors.Cake Paper.Scissors.Cake is full of fun this month! In addition to the regular classes for preschoolers, the art studio will also offer a Paint Your Cupcake Canvas class on April 18, an Earth Day event making mini terraniums on April 22, and a very glittery Fairy Party on April 26. Call or email to register for classes, and check them out on Facebook for more event listings. 6678 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 404-867-1630
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
Sixes Tavern Bar & Grille If you are looking for a night out with live music, Sixes Tavern Bar & Grille has live music every Friday and Saturday night. Sixes Tavern features a full menu and bar, along with a great outdoor patio. You can even use the Sixes Tavern shuttle bus to get home safely (pick-up/drop-off service locally). 3568 Sixes Road, Canton. 770-345-2939 Sixes-Tavern.com
4 Tips on How ‘Knot’ to Damage Tangled Hair By Jyl Craven Do you find yourself constantly struggling with those troublesome tangles in your child’s hair? Dealing with knotted hair and a crying child is the last problem you need when you’re rushing to get out the door for school in the morning or to get to that all-important dance recital. Nobody wants to battle tangles day in and day out, so we’ve put together a few tips that may help you and/or your child when challenged with a knotty dilemma.
Tip #1: At Night If you constantly struggle with knots,
one solution could be an easy fix at bedtime. Simply change your child’s pillowcase from cotton to silk or satin. Cotton’s coarse texture allows hair to break, tangle, matt and frizz. Silk (or satin) pillowcases, on the other hand, are made of perfectly smooth fibers, which reduces friction and the chance for tangles. This means that sleeping on a silk pillowcase will cause no mechanical irritation to your hair. This even helps reduce hair damage, such as split ends. Also before bed, remove any hair braids and comb your child’s hair out thoroughly. Re-braiding hair before bed can also work to eliminate friction between your child’s hair and the pillowcase, meaning no morning struggles with the hairbrush.
Tip# 2: While Showering Shampoo commercials have been getting it all wrong. Those commercials where models happily stack or pile their hair on their heads during shampooing have probably actually contributed
to a lot of tangling throughout the decades! Never stack your hair during shampooing. Also, turn the water to cool while rinsing. This causes the cuticle hair to lay fat on your head, creating smoother hair with less chance of tangling. Condition every time you wash, and be sure to thoroughly rinse all shampoo and conditioner out of your hair.
Tip#3: After Showering Use a hair-detangling spray while combing out hair after the shower. In a nutshell, hair detanglers coat hair with oil that causes the hair’s surface to tighten and smooth out. Hair detanglers further give hair a positive electrical charge — which actually lessens the static that causes frizz and worsens tangles.
Tip# 4: Combing & Brushing Unleashing a brush on wet, tangled hair is the worst thing you can do; in fact, it can damage and break your child’s smooth, delicate locks. Never brush wet hair. Instead of brushing, comb through wet hair section by section. Always start at the bottom of a section, working your way up before moving on to the next section. Use only a wide-toothed comb when dealing with knotted hair. If your child still has a problem with tangles, consider trying a product called the “Wet Brush.” These rounded flat brushes have been especially created to solve the tangle problem in children’s and adults’ hair. While we geared these tips toward children, adults who experience knotting and tangling can also benefit from them.
Jyl Craven is owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411, JylCraven.com
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Community
Canton Resident Honored by Georgia DAR
Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services Donates to Goshen Valley Boys Ranch Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services presented a check for $2,930 to Zach Blend, director of Residential Life at the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, located in the Salacoa area of Cherokee County. The donation was from the fire department’s winnings from the recent Guns and Hoses 5K Run. The purpose of Goshen Valley Boys Ranch is to provide hope and a family-model home for boys who do not have either. According to Blend, the money will be used to pay for fees in order for the boys to play any of the sports offered at Cherokee High School.
Navy veteran Tom Doner of Canton was recently awarded a Veterans Volunteer Award by the Hightower Trail Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), recognizing outstanding achievement, including patriotism and public awareness of veterans. Doner, a Korean Conflict veteran, currently volunteers at the Georgia National Cemetery. Doner was also selected as top honoree by the Georgia Society of the DAR.
Historical Society Honors Local Preservation Efforts The Cherokee County Historical Society’s annual Preservation Awards Banquet, held March 21 at Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs, recognized four businesses and individuals for their achievement in historic preservation. Properties were judged by the attention given to preserving historic features and maintaining the integrity of initial design. Those receiving a 2014 Historic Preservation Award were: • McCanless Park Scout Hut, Canton — Constructed around 1940, the Scout Hut was provided by the McCanless families in honor of William (Bill) McCanless, son of Eugene and Hettie McCanless, and Canton’s first known Eagle Scout. Boy Scout Troup 241 renovated the Scout Hut, taking care to maintain the historic integrity while making necessary upgrades to keep it functional for an active scout troup. • Fackler-Hendrix Home, Canton — This Craftsman style home built in 1923 by Newman and Edna Fackler stayed in the Fackler family until the late 1980s, when it was purchased by Quinn and Martha Hendrix. Martha lived in the home until 2010 and began the renovation that was completed by her son, Greg, and his wife, Katherine. • Ball Ground City Gym, Ball Ground — The Ball Ground City Gym was built as a community project for the Ball Ground School in 1948-49. The City of Ball Ground purchased the gym when the school closed in 2012 and made extensive repairs to the roof, upgraded the electrical system and refinished the floors. The gym has truly become a community center and is being used for more than 16 games each week. • R&M Hoagie Shop, Canton — This one-story brick building built prior to 1918 was used as a barbershop in the McCanless Park Scout Hut 1930s and 1940s, and as the R&M Hoagie Shop since the 1970s. Mike Deluca and his family completed a renovation of the building, exposing the old brick walls and original wood floors and removing the dropped ceiling to reveal the original ceiling and skylight.
Fackler-Hendrix Home
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Ball Ground City Gym
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
R&M Hoagie Shop
Pictured (left to right): Kip McVay, DAR past regent; Tom Doner; and Loriann White, chapter regent
Holly Springs One of Georgia’s Safest Cities Holly Springs has been ranked as the No. 4 safest city in Georgia on The SafeWise Report, which ranks the 50 safest cities in Georgia. To compile the report, SafeWise used the most recent FBI crime data from 2012, population, and other ranking factors, including unique safety initiatives and security programs implemented within the past few years. “What is most impressive to me about a state like Georgia is the collective dedication to both personal and community safety,” said Carolyn Heneghan, SafeWise security analyst. “Of the 50 cities we recognized, it’s not just the small towns but also the bigger cities that all take part in keeping themselves, their neighbors, and their children safe.”
Spring Eye Allergies are in Full Swing By Kyle Edwards, O.D.
Have itchy, red eyes become an all too common occurrence for you since the beginning of spring this year? You may be suffering from eye allergies. While an estimated 50 million Americans suffer from different types of allergies, approximately 4 percent of allergy sufferers report eye allergies as their primary allergy. Itchy eyes are the most common symptom associated with eye allergies and is triggered by both outdoor and indoor allergens. For some, eye allergies can prove so uncomfortable and irritating that they interfere with job performance, impede leisure or sports activities, and even curtail vacations. Eye allergies can encompass many symptoms, such as itching, burning and dryness, caused by allergens in our environment. Eye care professionals
commonly refer to these types of eye allergies as “allergic conjunctivitis” — a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens (such as pollen, mold, dust mites or pet dander) that get into your eyes and cause inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and helps keep your eyelid and eyeball moist. Eye allergies are not contagious. Other substances called “irritants” (dirt, smoke and chlorine), and even viruses and bacteria, can compound the effect of eye allergies. In some cases, irritants, viruses and bacteria can cause irritation symptoms similar to eye allergies for people who may not even have allergies. The eyes are an easy target for allergens and irritants because, like the skin, they are exposed and sensitive to the outside environment. Certain medications and
cosmetics can also cause eye allergy symptoms. In response to these allergens and irritants, the body releases chemicals called histamines, which, in turn, cause inflammation. In very mild cases, oral allergy medication, along with cold compresses to the eyes a few times each day, may help relieve itchy eyes. However, your eye care professional can treat this condition with specific antiallergy drops that can keep those red, itchy eyes away so that you can get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of spring.
Dr. Kyle Edwards is an optometrist at Edwards Eye Care in Woodstock. 770-479-0222, EdwardsEyeCare.com
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Academic CHS Student Wins Music Contest Creekview High School senior and band student Jacob Morgan recently won a music composition contest sponsored by the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA). Jacob had composed a multi-movement work for brass ensemble, which he also submitted to GMEA for consideration. Jacob Morgan Jacob’s composition, “The Immigrant,” was among 13 works selected by GMEA. Composers of the 13 winning pieces performed their selections recently at the Georgia Music Educators Association In-Service Conference as a part of a recital session. Upon graduation, Jacob plans to major in music education and music composition in college.
FMS Students Donate Jeans Freedom Middle School’s Junior Beta Club recently sponsored its first “Teens for Jeans, Make a Difference” clothing drive. The students Pictured (left to right): Ashley McMunn, collected more Olivia Dietzel; back row: Hannah Hair, Katie than 220 Vinterella, and Matthew Hitchcock pairs of gently worn, good condition jeans, which were donated to the DoSomething.org nonprofit organization to help homeless teenagers.
CHS Principal Named Georgia High School Principal of the Year Cherokee High School (CHS) Principal Debra Murdock has been named Georgia High School Principal of the Year, which is presented by the Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals (GASSP). She is the first principal in the Cherokee County School District (CCSD) to earn the prestigious title. The award recognizes principals who provide high-quality learning opportunities for students and are acknowledged by their peers for making exemplary contributions to the profession.
Debra Murdock, Georgia High School Principal of the Year
Nominees are judged on selection criteria that include: personal excellence; collaborative leadership; curriculum, instruction and assessment; and personalization. The selection process includes essays and supporting data, as well as interviews with school leaders from across the state. Murdock, a graduate of CHS, is in her 21st year in public education and fourth year as principal of CHS. “I’m most proud to have come back and to lead Cherokee High School and some of the most exceptional students I’ve ever known,” she said, thanking her family, her school and CCSD Superintendent Frank Petruzielo. “I stand here, thanks to him.” Murdock will be recognized formally at the GASSP’s fall conference in Savannah, where she will be presented with a Principal of the Year ring, plaque and a financial award for the school. This spring and summer, she will begin the interview process to compete for the title of National Principal of the Year at the National Principal of the Year program in Washington, D.C.
CCA Project Promotes Kindness Against Girl Bullying Families at Cherokee Charter Academy (CCA) in Canton had a special opportunity to learn more about the problem of girl bullying through on-campus screenings of the award-winning film, “Finding Kind.” The documentary, produced by Lauren Parsekian and Molly Thompson, serves as a conversation with women and girls across the country. CCA sixth-graders used the movie as the springboard for a day dedicated to anti-bullying discussions, team-building activities and encouraging kindness. Middle school students also created and shared hearts to encourage kindness and respect through their “Have Some HeART’ project. Kara Reeder, who teaches sixth-grade science, said, “I’m hoping our ‘Kindness Day’ will be the beginning of a ‘Kind Movement’ at CCA.’’ Students at Cherokee Charter Academy display their ‘Have Some HeART’ projects as part of a special program about girl bullying.
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Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
Education: Preparing students to
face the challenges of the Information Age is an important responsibility that all educators face. Our interactive classroom teaching, multi-day offsite expeditions, Servant Leader training and intentional discipleship focus are unique among homeschool programs.
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering
Living Science Homeschool Study Center offers families a safe, loving, challenging, hands-on educational atmosphere for their children.
History: Founders Lance and Penney
Davis started the program in their basement in 1996 with 20 students. Course offerings were added over the years as more students were drawn to the Christian-based learning center. In 2004, Living Science moved to its current Woodstock location on a beautiful fiveacre campus. Now, hundreds of students and faculty thrive in an atmosphere that puts the “wow” back into learning and also fosters a biblical world view.
and Math classes begin at 4th grade and continue through high school. Classes are hands-on, with immediate application of learning through design and building projects. Our open campus and academic freedom allow for construction of many unusual projects, such as Rube Goldberg devices, Trebuchets, bridges and software development. Construction on a new STEM/Arts building will begin later this year. The new building will allow us to expand our current class load; add STEM weekend, summer and online programs; take part in live or streamed presentations from experts around the world; and participate in companysponsored engineering design and build projects.
Servant Leadership: Our Servant Leader program is a high-level training program that teaches high school students leadership skills through service to others. Students earn academic credit
in the
limelight
through leadership training, assisting in weekly science classes, and participating in field trips to natural environments. The students’ scientific research of dune habitat studies and mangrove tree studies has been used by organizations, such as the University of Florida.
Achievements: Living Science was a 2013 finalist in the TAG Education awards for STEM activities. Student classes taken per year have increased by 77 percent since 2009.
770-591-4141, LivingScience.com
Now Accepting Applications for 2014-2015 Classes! Present this page to receive a
$100 discount on tuition for 2014-2015!
One coupon per family. Offer expires May 31, 2014.
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Practical Allergy Advice By Vicki Knight-Mathis, M.D. As the seasons change and the white snow is replaced by yellow pollen, many of us continue to need our Kleenex.
So, how do I know if my child’s runny nose is allergies and not a cold? Do your child’s symptoms last more than a couple of weeks and tend to occur around the same time of year? Is the runny nose clear and chronic, which is lasting more than a couple of weeks? Allergies may be either year-round or seasonal. Indoor allergens like animal dander, dust and mold are common culprits for year-round allergies. Seasonal allergens include trees, grasses or weeds. Allergy symptoms include clear runny
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nose, nasal stuffiness, sneezing, itchy face/eyes/nose, and watery eyes. Most colds start off with a clear runny nose that becomes cloudy, and then becomes clear again prior to going away.
Does your child have asthma or eczema? Coughs with asthma usually increase in the middle of the night, say 2:00-5:00 a.m., and with exercise. Red scaly, itchy and dry recurrent rash that is more pronounced in the creases of the elbows, knees, ankles, wrists is often eczema. Asthma, allergies and eczema are all in the same family of atopic disorders, which means if you have one of these, the other are more likely.
Based on the above questions, I suspect my child has allergies. What should I do? If your child is allergic to animals, a pet is not recommended. If you already have a pet and finding it a new home is not an option, it’s very important to keep it outside or at least out of your
child’s bedroom. Dust mite allergies are managed by frequent vacuuming, washing bedding in hot water at least weekly, minimizing dust collectors like stuffed animals, and enclosing mattresses and pillows in an allergen-proof cover. Outdoor allergens can be improved by keeping windows closed and using air conditioners, showering at the end of the day to remove pollen, avoiding freshly mowed grass and jumping in piles of leaves in the fall.
Medications if avoidance is not enough: May include antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, or immunotherapy.
Contact your physician for additional information about allergy treatments.
Dr. Vicki-Knight Mathis is a pediatric physician at DV Pediatrics. 770-704-0057, DVPediatrics.com
Don’t Give Up On Your Relationships By George Anderson
“But I have this against you: you have abandoned the love (you had) at first. Remember then how far you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first” (Revelation 2:4-5). “First love” is not puppy love or infatuation. It is that strong, passionate, committed love that you felt when you stood at the altar and said, “I take you, from this day forward, to be my wedded wife/ husband.” Notice John, in Revelation, does not say, “You lost your love.” It is easier to admit we lost something than to admit we abandoned it. We all lose things, right? We lose our keys, our wallet, our passport, etc. “It was an accident!” But to say I “abandoned” something suggests a deliberate turning away. It’s less convicting to say “I lost my love for her” than to say “I abandoned my love for her.” But we never really lose our love. Trust me, it is there. We don’t need to give up on it; we need to rekindle it. How do we do that? Remember this: Passion follows action. It is hard to change our feelings. We have very little, if any, control over our emotions. But we do control our actions. And here is the amazing thing: When we change our actions, our feelings will follow suit. This is what Jesus is saying. Is your passion fading? First, remember how it was once. The first step to recovering anything is to admit you’ve lost it. Second, repent. Don’t go any further. You’re going in the wrong direction. Stop immediately…and turn around. Third, do the first works. Do what you used to do when you were so in love with your spouse, so in love with Jesus, so in love with your church. Start doing the same things you did back then. And here is the amazing thing: Passion follows action, just like day follows night. Jesus also said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Passion follows action. So don’t give up. Start up!
George Anderson is senior pastor of First Baptist Church Canton. 770-479-5538, FBCCanton.org
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Taste of By Lisa Woodruff
Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon 3 eggs, beaten 1 cup vegetable oil 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple (not drained) 1½ cups pecans, chopped, divided 2 cups bananas, chopped Cream cheese frosting
Preparation Combine flour, sugar, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. Add eggs and oil, stirring until dry ingredients are moistened. Do not beat. Stir in vanilla, pineapple, 1 cup pecans and bananas. Pour into greased and floured 9-inch cake pans. Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes. Cool.
Cream Cheese Frosting ¼ cup butter, softened 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 (16-ounce) box confectioner’s sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Preparation Combine all ingredients. Beat until smooth. Spread cream cheese frosting between layers and on sides and top. Top with ½ cup pecans.
Mary Winslow’s
Hummingbird
Cake
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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Are You Ready for
Swimsuit Season? By Drs. Musarra, Leake & Petrosky
Spring is here, which means bathing suit season is just right around the corner! Now is the perfect time to consider having breast augmentation surgery. If you have been thinking about it for a while, now is the time to have your consultation and surgery so you can embrace the summer (and your new swimsuit) with confidence! Also known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation uses breast implants to fulfill your desire for fuller breasts, or to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy. Many women say they would like to improve their figures, while others choose breast implants to improve their self-esteem. You and your physician can do many things to customize your breast augmentation to achieve one-of-a-kind, personalized results. You can choose breast implants that reflect your own aesthetic preferences and that flatter your body. Whatever your reasons may be, here are three tips for selecting the implant size and style that is right for you.
Look at “before” and “after” photos. Photos of other
women who have had breast augmentation are a good indication of what to expect. Be sure to look for women whose bodies and breasts are similar to your own. Print out a few pictures that you like and take them with you to your consultation.
Choose a size that will contribute to a natural look. Breast implants come in many sizes and shapes. There are options that can give you full, yet very natural-looking breasts. Your surgeon should take several measurements of your body in order to determine the right fit. You can also try on a variety of implant “sizers” to help you decide.
Find a qualified and experienced specialist. Who you choose to perform your surgery is critical to achieving beautiful results. Select a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers many types and styles of breast implants so that you have a wide variety of options. Your surgeon should work closely with you to understand your expectations and to create the look you want.
Drs. Musarra, Leake & Petrosky are board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 770-421-1242, PlasticSurgeryCenteroftheSouth.net
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April is National Child Abuse Prevention & Awareness Month, a period of time dedicated to the many children who live with abuse and neglect, and a reminder to us all that there may be opportunities for us to help alleviate their suffering. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is one organization in Cherokee County that is working to make a difference. CASA volunteers are courtappointed advocates who speak up for the best interests of abused and neglected children who have been removed from their homes and are placed in foster care. CASA works to put a trained, compassionate adult into the life of a child to fight for and protect that child’s right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to grow up in the embrace of a loving family where they can thrive. CASA volunteers handle just one or two cases at a
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time, so that they can give each child the sustained, personal attention they deserve. The volunteers serve, at no charge to taxpayers, as a safety net to ensure a child does not get lost in the overburdened court and social service systems. Children need to do more than simply survive childhood; they deserve to thrive! CASA has been a leader in Cherokee County in mobilizing community volunteers to respond to the needs of children in the foster care system for more than 20 years. CASA will soon begin providing mentoring, tutoring, support groups and an emergency supply closet for foster youth at its new facility, located at 1038 Marietta Highway in Canton. This will further allow community members to become involved and respond to the specific needs of children in their local foster care system. CASA cannot fulfill its mission without the support of the community — individuals, churches, civic clubs, legislators, child welfare professionals, and the local courts — who are willing to get involved with active participation and with donations. Volunteers serving as board members provide important leadership roles in establishing goals and objectives of the agency. They also lead and participate in events that help with fundraising and awareness through their established community contacts. Donors can give money, specific items or their services to help CASA fulfill its mission. Individual donors make up 40 percent of CASA’s operating budget each year. Clubs, churches and organizations can invite CASA staff to
speak at meetings to help advance CASA’s efforts even further. This network of supporters work together toward a shared vision that each abused and neglected child involved in juvenile court proceedings will have an advocate by his/her side, will be safe, will be treated with dignity and respect, and will grow up in the loving embrace of a permanent family where they can thrive! In the words of former Juvenile Court Judge Glenda Hatchett, “We have the opportunity to change the future by taking the hands and protecting the hearts of our children.” If you are interested in making a commitment to a child in your community, please contact CASA for more information.
770-345-3274
CASACherokee.org
Electrical Safety &
Sm ke Alarms By Fred Hawkins Electrical accidents and fires cause millions of dollars of damage to homes each year. These tragedies often result from improper installation, electrical systems that have not been maintained, and corrosive or outdated wiring. Almost two-thirds of home-fire deaths in 2005-2009 resulted from fires in homes either without a smoke alarm or with non-working smoke alarms. Your smoke alarm should be replaced every
8 to 10 years. In addition, smoke-alarm batteries should be replaced each year, and the entire system should be checked to make sure the alarms are working properly. Typically, smoke alarms fail because batteries are missing, are disconnected or are dead; in fact, almost one-quarter of smoke-alarm failures are due to dead batteries. Teach your kids the sound a smoke alarm makes and what to do when they hear that sound. The electrical industry is constantly improving with new codes to make your home safer for you and your family. Arch fault breakers are designed to stop electrical problems and fires — from a staple or nail in a wire to a bad ceiling fan. They are designed to trip as soon as they detect an arch, usually sooner than conventional breakers. This may eliminate a problem in your wall and decrease the chance of fire. GFI receptacles lessen the chance of electrical shock from a wet location while using an electrical device. Tamper-proof
outlets prevent children from inserting metal objects into outlets, which may cause electrical shock. CO2 detectors and smoke CO2 combo units are required in all new homes today. CO2 detectors save lives from CO2 leaks commonly caused by bad vent pipes in water heaters and furnaces. Every house should have at least one CO2 detector on the main floor and near bedrooms. With homeowner education, improved safety standards and programs like a Home Protection Plan — a contract that offers service at a discounted rate — homes are being protected and lives are being saved. Have your home or business checked by a professional electrician each year to protect your family and pets.
Fred Hawkins is owner of H&H Electric and Security LLC. 770-735-1136, MyAtlantaElectrician.net
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COVER STORY
When life
gets messy,
does the dirty work for you.
By Michelle Martin l Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net Tracey Satterfield, owner of Live Clean, never dreamed that cleaning a few houses on her own while a stay-at-home mother would lead to her running a successful, full-time cleaning business 20 years later. As she explains, “I just wanted to do something to earn grocery money for my growing family. There was no master plan. Everything just kind of evolved over the years — adding one client, then another and another — and just fell into place.” 28
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
Tracey describes herself as having a serving spirit that comes through in her work and, she believes, has helped grow the business. “I’ve always tried to serve others however I could,” she says. “Cleaning is just one way I’ve been able to help so many different people — from 1,000-square-foot homes to 15,000-square-foot mansions, construction offices to churches, and everything in between.”
Before incorporating as Live Clean five years ago, Tracey initially dubbed her cleaning business “Helping Hands Cleaning Service.” As the business and staff grew, she decided to take it to a more professional level; unfortunately, the Helping Hands name was already incorporated. She chose “Live Clean” as the new name in the spirit of the wellknown “Live Strong” campaign. “It’s cool and catchy, and it very simply but
accurately defines what we do: help people to live clean,” she says. The next big step in taking the cleaning business to a more professional level was securing office space. “We ran everything out of my family’s barn for a few years,” Tracey says. “It was functional for a time, but we outgrew it. Moving to a real office just last year was a scary step, but the good Lord took care of us with 10 new clients right away.” Live Clean residential and commercial cleaning service operates from its new office in Downtown Canton. Tracey’s staff now includes Jennifer Wray, office manager, and Lilia Estrada, operations manager, with five cleaning crews running daily, Monday-Friday (and plans to add a sixth crew in anticipation of the busy spring and summer seasons), throughout Cherokee County. Just as the vibrant Live Clean logo featured on the cleaning crews’ cars reflects Tracey’s cheerful attitude, so do her employees. “This job is about more than just cleaning skills; it’s really about attitude,” she says. “You can teach employees how to clean, but you can’t really teach them how to have a good, giving attitude. We’re all too busy being happy around here for anything else!” Live Clean offers a variety of cleaning services and schedules, including weekly, biweekly, and monthly appointments; special events; and movein/move-out deep cleanings. The goal of any cleaning job, Tracey says, is to provide stress-free, seamless service. “Recently, a family booked us for the entire day as they moved out of their current home and into their new home,” she recalls. “While they were loading up the moving van, we were at
the new house getting it cleaned and ready for them to move right in. Then, once they arrived at the new house to unload the moving van, we went to work cleaning behind them in the old house. We took care of the ‘dirty work’ so that all they had to worry about was getting everything moved. Everything that we do is about making it easy for our clients.” Jennifer and Lilia work together to ensure everything stays on schedule, usually sending teams of two or three for most appointments. Live Clean furnishes all cleaning supplies — brooms, mops, cleaners, vacuums, etc. — unless clients have special requests due to allergies or other individual preferences. “A lot of organization and prep work goes into this every day,” says Jennifer. “We have to stay on top of everything in order to clean our clients’ homes and businesses to their satisfaction and on their schedule. We do whatever it takes to make sure we have enough people on the job, enough supplies and working equipment. We have to be prepared for anything.”
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Residential & Commercial Cleaning Weekly / Biweekly / Monthly As much as possible, Jennifer arranges the daily schedule so that clients receive consistent service on the same day, at the same time, by the same workers. “Our clients like knowing that they can expect the same people to come in on a set schedule and walk into a clean home or business,” she says. “They trust us to take care of what is important to them.” Live Clean is fully licensed, bonded and insured. “We believe that offers our clients a certain reassurance that they’re getting quality, professional service from a professional company,” Tracey says. “Nowadays, everyone wants million-dollar service on a one-dollar budget. The old adage, ‘You get what you pay for,’ is true. At Live Clean, we stand behind our work. We are committed to hiring good people who will do a great job and will leave our clients’ homes and businesses looking beautiful.” 30
Canton Family Life | APRIL 2014
Move-In / Move-Out Special Events Professional, Reliable, Quality Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured Free Estimates
Live Clean 24 Waleska St., Suite 100, Canton
770-345-8035, LiveCleanInc.com Watch our new video online to learn more about Live Clean!
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Special Advertising Section
guide
Recreational, creative and educational programs promote overall youth development. By Michelle Martin In this technology-driven age when it seems so much of our kids’ focus is in some sort of hand-held electronic device and, in many cases, the only social aspect of their lives is social media, it’s encouraging to know there still are opportunities for kids to unplug and connect for real — with the outdoors, with new interests, with other kids, and even with themselves. That’s what the YMCA summer camp programs are all about: disconnecting from the
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distractions of everyday life and discovering a new world of fun, adventure and life skills. As Erik Bullock, program director for teen initiatives, camp and retreats at the Cherokee Outdoor Family YMCA in Woodstock and the G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA in Canton, explains, “Our focus is providing an enriching camp experience with activities that build on youth development.” The YMCA offers a variety of recreational, creative and educational summer camp programs that play an integral role in overall youth development, emphasizing the YMCA’s four character values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. “These values are demonstrated through the actions of our staff and reaffirmed through their language with campers,” Bullock says. “By incorporating these values into the summer camp programs, campers learn to overcome challenges, think about their personal decisions before they act, and learn valuable tools that will help them in everyday life throughout their lives.” Bullock also says the YMCA’s summer camp program is beneficial to kids because it helps them reach their full potential and prepares them to connect to and serve the community. “We set them on a course to achieve their maximum potential by encouraging, nurturing, teaching, and assisting them with developing self-esteem, social acceptance and leadership. Youth who participate in YMCA summer camps have the opportunity to make new friends, build self-esteem and engage in activities that are beneficial to them, their parents and the community.” What that means to kids, generally ages 5-15, is lots of interactive fun, learning and exploring! The YMCA’s most popular summer camps include horseback riding, water sports, mountain biking, fishing, Survivor, and Outdoor Adventure; these camps tend to fill up quickly, so Bullock encourages parents to register their children early. The YMCA also will offer several new camp programs this year to appeal to a wide range of interests. Little Jedi Camp for Grades K-1 and Grades 2-3 teaches campers the art of becoming a Jedi, training with soft light sabers, completing Jedi agility courses, and mastering selfcontrol through Jedi mind power. Also for Grades K-1 and Grades 2-3, Little Princess Camp is a week of fairytale fun! Little Princesses will learn about real princesses around the world, then decorate their own tiaras and wands as Little Princesses in Camp Royal Family. They’ll also learn proper etiquette for a tea party and enjoy a Read more on page 34
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guide
spa day with “the royal treatment” on their hands and nails! In addition, elite soccer player and YMCA counselor Luke Williams will lead a special Soccer Skills Camp. Other new programs include Leather & Wood Camp, which teaches leather design, wood burning, witling and carving; Trailblazers Camp, which takes campers off property three times a week to enjoy outdoor activities, theme parks, roller skating, etc.; Wranglers in Training, which teaches campers about caring for horses; and Teen Expedition, which promotes teambuilding through ropes courses, backpacking, outdoor cooking and a special five-day adventure trip supervised by male and female YMCA staff. Teens in Grades 8-10 can apply and interview for leadership training camps. Visit CherokeeYMCARegistration.com for complete summer camp details and registration. YMCA Summer Camps are open to all children, but, as Bullock explains, they must be a current YMCA member. The annual family membership fee for Cherokee County residents is $40. Summer camps run all day from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., with before and after supervised care from 7:00 a.m. and until 6:30 p.m. Transportation is available (for an additional fee) at two pickup and drop-off locations. In recent years, Bullock says a special partnership with Cherokee County School Nutrition Dept. provided free breakfasts and lunches to summer camp participants; he hopes the meal partnership will be offered again this year. Scholarships also are available to qualified summer camp participants, Bullock says. Of course, summer camp counselors play a vital role in the overall camp experience. “The YMCA hires and trains exceptional staff who care about nurturing the next generation of children,” Bullock says. All YMCA staff must pass a criminal background
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Special Advertising Section
check and drug test; must be currently certified in CPR and First-Aid; and must complete pre-camp training, he says. In addition, all water sports require a certified lifeguard. As Bullock explains, YMCA summer camps are more than about activities; they’re about relationships, experiences and life enrichment. “Each summer is a reunion, as children get to reconnect with staff and campers. It is a very special moment when they can share stories and deepen friendships with new adventures and healthy experiences at camp.” Bullock recalls the recent experience of a 12-year-old camper who had gone home from summer camp with a little too much sun on his fair skin. His mother was moved to tears when she learned what had happened, and called to thank the YMCA staff for providing her son such a wonderful experience. “He had always struggled with low self-esteem due to weight issues,” Bullock says. “By participating in activities throughout the summer, he lost some weight and felt more accepted socially. One day while at the swimming pool, he decided to take off his T-shirt — it was literally a transformation that helped him feel accepted and proud of himself. His experience at YMCA summer camp was life-changing, and he is more confident than ever in the person he has become!”
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Thursday, May 1, 2014 7:00 a.m. Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center Cherokee County Administration Building, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton
Tuesday, April 22 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Advanced Registration: $15 On-Site Registration: $20 Future Members: $25 RSVP by 5:00 p.m. on April 29.
Sponsored By:
Presented by:
Double Eagle Sponsor:
Monday, June 9 8:30 a.m. registration; 10:00 a.m. shotgun start
Eagle Sponsors:
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biggest pediatric therapy practice in north Georgia and to offer our services to such a wonderful community. Our team goes above and beyond to ensure your therapy experience is remarkable. In Harmony Pediatric Therapy is a multi-disciplinary pediatric outpatient clinic that proudly serves children with special needs and their families throughout Cherokee, Cobb, Pickens and North Fulton counties. Our experienced pediatric therapy team offers occupational, physical, speechlanguage and music therapies. Since opening in 2008, In Harmony Pediatric Therapy has expanded to an amazing 8,000-square-foot facility on Hwy. 140 in Canton. Co-owners and therapists Kristi Estes, Jennifer Puckett, and Kelly Hidalgo combined their experience and expertise to open this amazing facility to provide special care to children with special needs. We are proud to be the
In addition to traditional therapy, we offer programs, such as Handwriting Without Tears®, Therapeutic Listening®, Fast ForWord®, Aquatic Therapy, Body-Weight Support System Therapy, adaptive music lessons, and Kindermusik® classes. Our mission is to provide an environment “in harmony” with your child’s needs, where families can receive multi-disciplinary services in a nurturing environment. We offer a support system to navigate through the therapy world and assist families to meet the specific needs of their child. In Harmony Pediatric Therapy is located
at 4280 Hickory Flat Hwy., Suite 108, in Canton. We are open 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and Saturday mornings by appointment. We accept insurance and SSI Medicaid. We are in-network with United Healthcare, BCBS, Humana, and Cigna for most therapy services.
Call 770-345-2804 or visit InHarmonyPediatricTherapy.com for more information.
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By Michelle Martin
are not ‘business as usual,’” Jackson says, division, explains, ARC developed the nvironmental conservation “and were chosen for their ability to move Green Communities program to “foster has become a familiar concept the sustainability bar and make a positive greater environmental stewardship by in recent years. But, do you impact on the metro Atlanta region’s providing technical assistance to local know what your community is doing environment.” Local governments that governments and recognizing those to reduce its environmental footprint seek Green Communities certification communities that invest in programs leading and increase overall sustainability? You voluntarily design and implement to a more sustainable region.” Cherokee may be surprised to learn that these measures that conserve energy and County and Woodstock each have been green initiatives are not only conserving water, invest in renewable energy, certified as an ARC Green Community. our own natural resources but also reduce waste, and improving energy protect and restore efficiency, reducing natural resources. costs and creating Certification is new opportunities to based on points (5 enjoy the outdoors or 10 per measure) — all of which in 10 different enhance our quality categories (72 total of life, now and into — Crystal Jackson, ARC’s principal environmental planner measures): green the future. building; energy Launched in 2008, ARC’s Green efficiency; green power; water use Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is Communities regional program was the reduction and efficiency; transportation helping local governments throughout first of its kind nationwide. In addition, and air quality; land use; greenspace metro Atlanta take a proactive approach all of the sustainability measures outlined and tree planting; recycling and waste to environmental stewardship. As in the manual exceed current regulatory reduction; education and outreach; Crystal Jackson, principal environmental requirements for the State of Georgia. “The and innovation. Each category includes planner for the Green Communities Green Communities certification measures government measures and community program under ARC’s natural resources
“ARC’s Green Communities certification helps foster civic pride, creates a positive image of the community, and sets an example for other governments, businesses and organizations seeking to reduce their environmental impact.”
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measures. As Jackson explains, government measures are strategies that local jurisdictions can implement to increase sustainability within their own facilities, fleets and practices (LEED certification of public buildings, use of alternative fuels, installation of waterefficient fixtures, etc.). “Community measures are programs that local governments can adopt to foster greater environmental stewardship among area residents and businesses, such as adopting curbside recycling for all residents and providing space for community gardens, farmers’ markets and recreation areas.” Achievement in each category is not required, but is more likely the higher the certification that communities seek, Jackson says. The four levels of certification are: bronze (175-229 points); silver (230-279 points); gold (280-329 points); and platinum (330435 points). The platinum certification level was added just this year, so local governments applying for first-time or upgraded certification now can seek this new, highest level of Green Communities certification. The certification is valid for four years; however, communities can submit new documentation of recent measures to earn additional points and a higher certification level at any time. Cherokee County earned bronze certification in 2010, and is currently applying for recertification. The City of Woodstock, first recognized as a Green Community at the bronze certification level in 2010, earned silver certification in 2011. “Feedback from local officials has been positive,” Jackson says. “Several officials reported that the application process has led to a comprehensive assessment of every policy and practice and its environmental impact, and has served as a framework for implementing sustainability across the board. They have discovered new ways to incorporate sustainability into their practices and value the information sharing about best practices that other local governments within ARC’s 10-county region are implementing. In addition, many local officials have found that ARC’s Green
Communities certification helps foster civic pride, creates a positive image of the community, and sets an example for other governments, businesses and organizations seeking to reduce their environmental impact.” ARC also provides technical assistance to local governments, regardless of whether they are applying for certification. Jackson
says this includes research; assisting in the development of policies and ordinances; providing contacts at similar communities; meeting one on one to assess current programs and policies; and giving presentations to senior leadership and elected officials. In addition, ARC also recognizes communities’ environmental sustainability as part of its annual CREATE Community Awards.
LEED certification for county-owned buildings Energy Star-rated appliances and equipment LED bulbs in traffic signals WaterSense-certified plumbing fixtures HVAC and lighting upgrades, installation of cool roofs, discontinuation of irrigation and replacement of inefficient plumbing fixtures
The Cherokee County Administration Building is a LEED silver certified building. The building uses an estimated 50 percent less water and 20 percent less energy than a standard building of the same size. Photo courtesy of Atlanta Regional Commission
Encourage builders to use solar energy in new projects or achieve LEED, Energy Star, or EarthCraft certification through expedited permitting reviews and reduced permitting fees Reduce congestion and idling times with synchronized traffic corridors Comprehensive county recycling program at government facilities for traditional and nontraditional recyclable materials (along with drop-off recycling events for electronics, cell phones, fluorescent lightbulbs and batteries) Commitment to preserve 20 percent of county land as permanent greenspace through the Greenspace Protection Program Bells Ferry LCI plan promotes smart growth measures, such as mixed-used development, bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly designs, mixed-income housing and diversity of housing types. WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Greenprints Project — 60 miles of multi-use trails, parks and greenspace Encourage green building through reduced development review time and fees for projects that achieve LEED, EarthCraft, Energy Star or WaterSense certification
Photos courtesy of Atlanta Regional Commission
According to Katy Coulborn, long-range planner for the City of Woodstock, sustainability is one of the most important qualities of a livable community. Participation in ARC’s Green Communities program showcases the City of Woodstock’s commitment to sustainability and serves as an incentive to implement additional measures in an effort to achieve higher levels of certification. “Our most attractive and visible environmental effort is the award-winning Greenprints Project,” she says. “The Greenprints Project will continue to impact the community in terms of enhancing quality of life and ensuring the long-term preservation of greenspace and natural resources throughout the city.” Woodstock also was named a Tree City USA Community by the Arbor Day Foundation in 2009.
The Downtown Woodstock LCI Plan encourages smart growth through pedestrian-oriented development, mixed-use development and redevelopment of the downtown area.
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The Greenprints Project Master Plan is a comprehensive park, trail and open space initiative that establishes a foundation and framework for the creation of a city-wide green infrastructure system. The Plan calls for more than 60 miles of trails connecting greenspace, neighborhoods, and activity centers throughout the city.
6.8kWh solar panel on council chambers roof generates more than 11 percent of needed power First in Georgia to install a municipally owned, free public charging station for electric vehicles Plan 2040 — Working toward ARC’s excellence standards, which include a community-wide bicycle and pedestrian transportation plan; alternative vehicle parking at city/county offices; publish crime statistics or maps; require civic buildings to meet LEED, EarthCraft, Energy Star or similar certification standards; develop and maintain a comprehensive community Greenspace/Green Infrastructure Plan; and identify projects that have been recognized for environmental quality in building or site design through a performance-rating system
UGA Bee Expert
•
Named Honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire By Louise Estabrook Keith Delaplane, professor of entomology with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, has been inducted into the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in recognition of his research into honeybees and their disappearance. Delaplane’s work, both at UGA and while working in Great Britain, has focused on honeybee health, preserving the dwindling population of honeybees, and working to decipher the mystery of colony collapse disorder. Professor Delaplane’s educational efforts are helping bees both nationally and globally. While most of us can’t reach that wide of an audience, there is much we can do, literally, in our own backyards. We don’t even have to be scientific researchers!
•
Use pesticides only when urgently needed. Follow all labels carefully. If you must use pesticides, spray during the evening after most bee activity has quieted down for the day. A wide swath of colorful flowers is better than a few flowers interspersed here and there. It makes it easier for the bees to locate their favorites!
•
Use local native plants when possible.
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Locate a large rock with a slight indentation in it. Keep this “bee bowl” filled with water, wet sand or even mud.
My favorite pollinator plants? Liatris, lantana, parsley, dill, lemon balm, JoePye weed and Vitex trees! Liatris, called Blazing Star, has a spiky flower. It blazes in lavender, pink or white. Its attractive blossoms are a veritable bee beacon. Lantana is another easy favorite. Lantana is covered with
orange, yellow or pink flowers from summer through the fall. Parsley, dill and lemon balm are three easy herbs to include in your garden. They are especially attractive to bees. Joe-Pye weed is a tall Georgia native — six feet of bushy green leaves topped with dusky pink flowers. Its height makes it useful in the back of a flower border. Vitex agnus-castus, the Chaste tree, is a small, drought-tolerant tree. It’s one of the few flowering beauties that deer won’t touch. Do your part to apply Keith Delaplane’s research. Plant a garden with the bees in mind!
Louise Estabrook is the Agricultural and Natural Resources agent for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. 770-479-0418, CAES.UGA.edu/Extension/Cherokee
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in the
limelight
E
agle Business Credit opened a new office in Woodstock this past November as a financial solution to owners of small- and mediumsized companies.
them fulfill their potential by being a flexible funding partner. We also work hard to streamline the application and approval process so it isn’t drawn out or complex. Business owners don’t have a lot of time for that and often just want to know in a quick phone call if we can help or not.” Eagle Business Credit offers a variety of services — from releasing cash tied up in outstanding accounts receivable to providing financing for new purchase orders, or just helping improve collections of a company’s outstanding invoices — to local and national businesses. “We chose the name ‘Eagle’ because it is associated with soaring,” Varley says. “If we do our job right, our clients’ businesses will soar to new heights. We want to help free up business owners to focus on growing their companies without feeling stressed about cash flow. There are a lot of companies in our local area that need our help, and we’re ready to help them!”
“Our goal at Eagle is to help fund companies that are either growing faster than their cash flow or that may have been turned down by other lenders,” says Ian Varley, CEO. “We talk to many business owners whose companies have lots of growth opportunity, but they cannot qualify for a bank line of credit either because the businesses are too new, don’t have a strong balance sheet, or have Ian Varley, CEO of other credit issues. Our job is to help Eagle Business Credit
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678-905-1596 EagleBusinessCredit.com
Company Problem: Your customers pay you in 30-60 days, but you need the cash now to grow your business. Eagle Business Credit Solution: Get your money now by working with Eagle Business Credit to improve your cash flow. • • • • • •
Receivables funding solutions Purchase order funding Import/export funding Collections services No application fees Flexible and competitive fee programs
Soaring — that’s what the Eagle is renowned for. With Eagle Business Credit’s funding support, your business can soar ahead of the competition!
Recovery and Prevention Tips for Foot and Ankle Sprains By Travis Jones, D.P.M., Northside Cherokee Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Your feet and ankles are made up of several bones and ligaments. Ligaments are strong, flexible tissues that connect the bones to one another, providing stability to many joints. A sprain occurs when the foot lands awkwardly, causing some ligaments to pull, stretch and tear. When the injury occurs to the middle part of the foot, it is called a foot sprain. Ankle and foot sprains are among the most common types of injuries, especially among athletes. Still, simply tripping or stumbling on uneven ground is enough for anyone, athlete or not, to endure a sprain. Pain, swelling, bruising and difficulty walking on the affected foot or ankle are some of the most common symptoms of a sprained or fractured foot or ankle. If you suspect you have
sprained your foot or ankle, remember the RICE method:
Rest. Stay off the injured foot or ankle. Ice. Apply ice around the affected area
as soon as possible, reapplying for 15-20 minutes every three or four hours for the first 48 hours after injury.
Compression. Snuggly wrap an elastic bandage (such as an Ace® wrap) around the affected foot or ankle. Elevation. Keep your foot or ankle
elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling. Oral medications, such as ibuprofen, may also be used to help reduce inflammation. Temporary bracing may be important to help reduce inflammation and help hold
ligaments in place to heal properly. A brief course of physical therapy has also been shown to help in recovery. More serious injuries, such as fractures of the foot and ankle, can often be mistaken as a common sprain. If your condition does not improve or you begin to experience increased pain, swelling, bruising and difficulty walking, it’s important to seek care from a physician. In order to help prevent injuries, it’s important to warm up properly before physical activity and undergo a proper stretching routine. Wear shoes that fit well and are activity-specific. Exercises focusing on muscle strength, flexibility, and balance are also important components to preventing common injuries of the foot and ankle.
Dr. Travis Jones is a podiatrist at Northside Cherokee Orthopedics and Sports Medicine whose interests include reconstructive foot and ankle surgery for post-traumatic deformities, foot and ankle trauma, and diabetic limb salvage. Northside Cherokee Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is a full-service orthopedic practice that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the muscles, bones and joints. To make an appointment, call (770) 517-6636, or go NorthsideCherokeeOrtho.com for more information.
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Music has been an integral part of The Thrillhammers’ lives for as long as they can remember. “All four of us were raised within a few miles of each other, in families full of musicians where sing-alongs were a tradition,” says Shannon Bobo, guitarist and bass player of the band. The friendships of the four members of The Thrillhammers date back as far as first grade, and, while they individually joined different bands along the way, the four of them got together for the first time in 1987 to jam — and continued ever since. Musical genres have come and gone, but for more than 25 years The Thrillhammers have been right at home on any loud, smoky stage, ripping through a versatile collection of originals, torqued-out covers and the occasional satirical mocker. Their sound has been described as part Rolling Stones, part George Jones, with a nod to the late ‘60s and early ‘70s bands. “We have a large catalogue; 40-50 originals, plus 250-300 cover songs,” explains Greg Brooks, drummer and singer of the band. Along with lead guitarist/singer Chris Chandler, Brooks is one of the band’s chief songwriters. Both share credits in their nomination as finalists in the “Rock Song of the Year” competition by the Atlanta Songwriting Association. “Greg and Chris are very unique together in their songwriting,” adds Wayne Bagwell, rhythm guitarist. “Altogether, the creation of a new song is a fun process where we all draw upon each other’s ideas from the first guitar rift to the final product.” Their latest release is “Highway 369.” “This album is a very cohesive collection of original
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songs, with the common thread being our immediate area, our history, our story, the people and legends, the Native American history,” says Chandler. Blending Memphis soul, Muscle Shoals legacy and Appalachian attitude, the album tells vivid stories of love, happiness and hardship. While all band members have day jobs, they meet once a week to rehearse and then play select venues on the weekends. Their radius spans the entire South, with a focus on the metro Atlanta area. “Although we never pursued a professional career in the music industry, we are professionals — we get paid,” Bobo jokes. “We are not in it to get famous or rich; we just want to play good music. Being independent and doing things our way is an added bonus,” says Brooks. “Lots of bands can’t stand each other. But we play with our friends. It all started many years ago because it was fun, and that’s still the reason we do it.” Bagwell adds that a gig of The Thrillhammers is not just your average concert. “We gather as many people as possible and make an event out of it.” Their next appearance will be April 12 at the Velvet Underground at Hard Rock Cafe Atlanta. Visit the website for a complete listing of The Thrillhammers’ upcoming shows.
TheThrillhammers.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.
&
See Hear
Is Your
Health Insurance Really ‘Health’ Insurance? By Chris Meiners, D.C.
This is a quote that I have hanging in my office: “Health insurance has as much to do with being healthy as life insurance has to do with being alive. If you rely on insurance companies’ recommended plan for your healthcare needs, we hope you have good life insurance.” You see, your health insurance plan is designed for crisis care — not healthcare. For crisis care, the United States ranks No. 1, but 29th — right below Slovenia — for overall health. Also, the United States spends three times more money per person than Europe or any other country. Yet, we’re still the sickest population on earth, consuming more medications than the rest of the world combined! So, do you think the government really cares about our health? Here’s a direct quote from Medicare, section 2251.3: “A treatment plan that seeks to prevent disease, promote health, prolong and enhance the quality of life, or a therapy that is performed to maintain or prevent deterioration of a chronic condition is deemed not medically necessary.” So, really we’re on our own and have to be responsible for our own health, and that of our children. We cannot depend on an insurance corporation or the government to take care of our health. As we age, wouldn’t it be great to be fully functioning, without any debilitating diseases and without taking any medications, and live a long, healthy life? That’s what I want. That’s why I live my life the way I do.
Dr. Chris Meiners is a licensed chiropractor with Canton Wellness Center. 770-720-4090, CantonWellness.com
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Water Off a
Duck’s
By Meghan Griffin
k c Ba
“Like water off a duck’s back.” My dad has said this for as long as I can remember, especially when someone would get fired up over an insult or an argument. Dad would remind us to just let it roll off. I haven’t been able to find the origination of the phrase, so in my book, Dad coined the phrase.
It has helped me more lately than I care to admit. Canton, like any other city, is made up of a myriad of personalities. From the quiet, laid-back types to the loud, in-yourface types, we have them all. For the most part, we all can get along. It’s wonderful how diverse we are and how passionate we become about our home. That kind of passion fuels my efforts downtown. It fuels the Canton Main Street Board, who work incredibly hard to improve our downtown. Board members work our events and talk up our downtown; attend board meetings, committee meetings, DDA meetings, and tourism meetings; and they are always full of fresh ideas.
April 4
Latin American First Friday 6:00-9:00 p.m. Downtown Canton Food, fun, music and dancing! They are leaders, educators, cheerleaders, and the most giving people I know. So, when I remember that it’s all “like water off a duck’s back,” I also remember that I have a team of amazingly talented people in my corner, in Main Street’s corner, in Canton’s corner. They are also in your corner. That makes it easy to keep pushing forward. Come see us soon!
Meghan Griffin is Main Street director for the City of Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com
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April 8
Main Street Morning 8:00 a.m. Cherokee County History Museum-Historic Courthouse 100 North St., Canton Join us to network with downtown business owners and learn more about the Main Street Program in Canton. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
For more than 25 years, Elite Hardscape and Water Gardens has provided the highest quality service to individual homeowners and commercial property enterprises. Owner Ed Brazis and his team pride themselves in creating beautiful, usable spaces that sustain the tests of time. With innovative design and installation services of a variety of hardscapes and as a pioneer of professional water feature design and construction, Elite Hardscapes and Water Gardens is the leader in the industry for custom property enhancements.
Outdoor improvements can add to your property’s instant curb appeal and usable square footage. From a formal garden to a tropical paradise, Elite can design and build to fit any budget. Elite’s services include concrete and driveway replacement; railroad tie retaining wall replacement; pool and other outdoor structure demolition; yard debris cleanup and removal; and landscape upgrade services. Elite can create fantastic boulder retaining walls, boulder landscaping, exotic water features, or simple garden ponds. Elite also specializes in alternative solutions for failed decomposed railroad tie retaining walls. From driveway replacement to sinkholes, to drainage and erosion control, Elite can take care of all your outdoor needs. Waterfalls are a favorite element of any water garden, and Elite specializes in the design and installation of these attractive water features. Elite can build waterfalls that look natural to over-
in the
limelight
the-top showcase features to meet your budget! Ponds also can be the focal point of any outdoor living space. From garden ponds to Koi ponds or small lakes, Elite can design a beautiful, relaxing water feature to fit your outdoor space. Elite provides custom services to make your outdoor living space unique. Ed and the entire Elite team can design and install any landscape, from natural Georgia gardens to a lost tropical paradise. Elite Hardscape and Water Gardens takes the ordinary and makes it extraordinary! Visit the website to view some of Elite’s amazing creations, including custom designs, before-andafter photos, and testimonials from satisfied customers who are enjoying living an Elite outdoor lifestyle! On-site consultation and estimates are provided at no charge.
770-517-8176, EliteHardscape.com
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Ingredients
Preparation
6 ounces of top quality grade-A fresh tuna
Pound the tuna with a mallet or wine bottle, between two pieces of wax paper from the center going outward. Make sure the tuna is pounded thin all the way around. Place the tuna on a plate and drizzle oil, salt, pepper and capers across the surface “coast to coast� so it is seasoned with every bite.
2 teaspoons of lemon juice Pinch of salt Pinch of black pepper grind 2 teaspoons of olive oil (truffle, if available) 1 tablespoon of pickled capers 2 cups of arugula
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Preparation continued . . . In a separate bowl, combine the arugula with lemon juice, salt and pepper; mix gently. Combine the arugula salad on the plate with the tuna for a nice complementary addition. Garnish with shaved parmesan and avocado, if available. Zach Kell is the chef/owner of Goin’ Coastal in Canton. 770-479-3737 GoinCoastalSeafood.com
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north of the city. He joined Dr. Homer Gold and Dr. Harry Davis in the small town of Canton. Dr. Cooley and his family grew to love Canton and, after 11 years of practice, noticed a need for a place where the people of Cherokee County could get quality medical care quickly, after hours, on weekends and holidays. In 1992, Charles R. Cooley, M.D., was just finishing up his Family Medicine residency in Huntsville, Ala., and was ready to return home in Atlanta. It had been a long road — four years at Georgia State University, four years of medical school at Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, and three years at the University of Alabama-Birmingham program in Huntsville. Atlanta was home, but it had added another million people since Dr. Cooley had been gone. So, he and his wife began looking for a small family practice
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The simple idea of focusing on the convenience of the patients with the very best in quality healthcare is how MD Minor Emergency and Family Medicine was born. The best in medical care, available quickly, efficiently, by a caring, professional staff in a state-of-the-art medical facility — that is MD Minor Emergency and Family Medicine! MD Minor Emergency and Family Medicine is open 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m., seven days a week, 363 days a year (closed Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day). Qualified doctors — not physician extenders, like many insurance companies often use — see patients every day. We can help you with your sports physicals, strep throat, DOT exams, digital X-rays, moderate to complex lab work, and even stitches if you need them.
Real Doctors. Real Fast!
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Living Each Day for the Kingdom By Crystal Bryant Easter is my favorite time of year. There are egg hunts, bunnies, baskets full of goodies, and lots and lots of yummy candy. And for Christians, Easter is the celebration of the events that are the very foundation of our faith: the death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ. Leading up to Easter Sunday, Christians participate in Lent, 40 days to prepare ourselves for the celebration of this crucial event. Most of my friends participate by giving up something, such as coffee, chocolate, social media, or something else pleasurable. This is an attempt to clear out any temptations or distractions that would keep us from fully experiencing the wonder of the resurrected Jesus.
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I used to give up something, or I should say I attempted to give up something. I confess: I was never very successful at it. Then, I decided it was more productive for me to add something as a dedication to God. So, I would add an additional scripture reading, devotion, or even read a book that was especially meaningful to the season. This year, I didn’t feel I could add anything either. So then, what am I to do about Lent? How am I to prepare myself? And then, while I was listening to a sermon a couple weeks ago, it hit me: I was focusing too much on myself. While I still think it’s important to ready myself, Easter is not just about me. It’s about the kingdom of God. So, instead of worrying about what I’m giving up, or if I’m adding
something to my day, I realized there was something much more important on which I should focus. Instead, what if I try to look for opportunities each day that would allow me to make an impact with eternal results? What if I look for more chances to say or do something that would go beyond today, all the way into eternity? What if I only have 40 days (the time of Lent) left to make an impact for the kingdom? I’m going all out this year…won’t you join me?
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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Does Your HVAC System Need a Tune-Up? By Robbie Matiak
When you take your car to the mechanic for an oil change, the service technician usually inspects the engine for any current or potential problems. If you opt to make the recommended adjustments at the time, you could avoid expensive, unexpected repairs down the road. The same applies to your home HVAC system, so there’s no reason to go into a Georgia summer unprepared. You can think of HVAC efficiency in terms of miles per gallon (mpg). Maintaining your car with the recommended tire pressure, oil changes, and other engine tune-up procedures helps optimize its mpg. Your home’s HVAC system is the same. Performing seasonal preventative maintenance on your HVAC systems will optimize your home’s “fuel” efficiency and reduce its electrical consumption. Before each cooling season, it is recommended that central air conditioners get a professional tune-up. This is the biggest step to preventing major malfunctions in an A/C unit. In most cases, the company that installed your HVAC system will offer a preventative maintenance agreement that will include a complete visual 54
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system inspection and documented system recommendations to aid in minimizing future complications with the performance and operation of your HVAC system. Perhaps the most important step is to clean or replace the HVAC system’s air filter every three months. Do not run the unit without the filter. Check the owner’s manual for the proper instructions on cleaning the filter, and allow the washed filter to dry completely before reinstalling it. Every month, especially during the summer months, remove any leaves or debris from around the outdoor condenser units. Some additional energy-saving tips for the summer months include setting the thermostat higher for periods when you are away from home; checking around windows and doors for any gaps or leaking air; minimizing the use of doors leading into garages; and making sure that the stove exhaust is on when cooking. Properly maintaining your HVAC system will help ensure your family experiences a safe and comfortable home environment year-round.
Changing the air filter
Close-up of dirty air filter
Robbie Matiak is a project coordinator at R & D Mechanical Services, Inc. 770-917-1795, RandDMechanical.net
Annual Training Offers Learning Opportunities By Janet Read
One of the requirements for all Cherokee County School District (CCSD) board members is annual training. Each board member must complete a minimum of six hours of individual training and three hours of board training.The six hours can be completed via Georgia School Board Association (GSBA) workshops held throughout the state, trainings through approved trainers, online training, or a combination. For the past few years I have either attended a workshop at the winter conference or have taken online training courses. This year, I decided to take advantage of the Board Chair Workshop in Macon. Although I had planned to attend only as a participant, I was asked to participate on a panel since I have spent five of the last nine years as the board chair or vice-chair. Our workshop had about 40 attendees,
a majority of whom are board chairs. We also had board members, vice-chairs and superintendents in the audience. The six-hour class was packed with information about parliamentary procedure, how to run an effective meeting, media and public relations, legal challenges for board members, and legislative issues. Even as a veteran board member, I always learn a few new things when I attend these trainings. With the increased focus on public education and the large variety of social media outlets, I was particularly interested in the media and public relations segment of the training. This involved examples of potential media/public relations situations and suggested methods for handling those. We were assigned to work in small groups and assess the situations and give “best practices” solutions for
handling them. My group had board chairs and superintendents from small systems and large private high schools. I was proud to confirm that our district is ahead of the curve when it comes to media relations and that we follow correct protocol and procedure when dealing with media outlets, especially in times of potentially negative situations. The CCSD board attorney is a certified trainer for GSBA’s board training. I look forward to continuing to learn how to make the CCSD board even stronger and more effective.
Janet Read is chair of the CCSD board. 770-516-1444, Janet.Read@Cherokee.K12.GA.us
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Index
Aesthetic Center of Skin Cancer Specialists, P.C. 41 Applause Preforming Arts Conservatory 35 Azure Salon and Spa 13 BridgeMill Dentistry 15 Camp Juliette Low 35 Canton Wellness Center 5 Canton/Milton Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 5 The Carpenter’s Shop Christian Preschool 32 Children’s Academy of Hickory Flat 33 Clark Salon 55 Downtown Kitchen 3 Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 23 DV Pediatrics 11 Eagle Business Credit, LLC 42 Edwards Eye Care Inside Front Elements Salon & Spa 42 Elite Hardscapes and Water Gardens 47 Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 56 Fieldstone Farm 35 The Goddard School 34 Goin’ Coastal 48 & 49 The Great Frame Up 51 H&H Electric & Security LLC 27 Healing Hands Youth Ranch 31 Hopewell Baptist Church 11 In Harmony Pediatric Therapy 37 Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA LLC 25 JUMP Kitchen Saloon 11 Jyl Craven Hair Design 7 JSL Cherokee County 53 Landscape Matters 13 Laureate Medical Group 23 LaVida Massage 19 Leadercast Cherokee Inside Front Live Clean Cover, 28-30 Living Science Home Studies, Inc 21 MD Minor Emergency 50 Night Vision Outdoor Lighting 5 Northside Hospital-Cherokee 1 Off Duty Landscape 45 Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 45 Ping Segars Salon 25 Plastic Surgery of the South 3 R & D Mechanical Services, Inc. Inside Back Rejoice Maids 51 Revive Day Spa 52 Sundance Pressure & Seal 47 Taste and Sound of Woodstock 22 Technical Resource Solutions 31 Vein Center of North Georgia 21 WellStar Health Systems Back Cover Zenit Gymnastics 33 56
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