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Contents
February 2019
VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 7
24-25
[24-25]
On the Cover:
The Arbor at Bridgemill
34-35
Start With the Heart for Better Health
38-39
Credit Scores 101 Understanding the Numbers
[34-35]
[38-39] Follow Us >>>
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Family Life Publications
Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
04
.......................... Perspective
08
.............................. Calendar
16
.................... Community Life
20
................... Senator Speaks
22
................... Sheriff Reynolds
23
........................ Book Review
26
.............. Ball Ground Minute
28
......................... Artist Profile
36
............... Community Partner
46
.................... Ribbon Cuttings
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Publisher’s Perspective
PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com
I’ve been inspired by several new books that I received over the holidays (yes, as you may imagine, publishers get books for gifts). This year I got some real gems. They all seem to have a similar course/theme that really got me thinking. Great books tend to do that.
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
Jack Tuszynski, Publisher
SALES ASSISTANT Alexander DuLong CONTRIBUTING WRITERS George Anderson, Hunt Anderson, Jessica Asbell, Mary Kay Buquoi, J. Daran Burns, Jyl Craven, James B. Depew, Joshua Fuder, Corey Harkins, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Karen Jordan, Vicki Knight-Mathis, Mandy Marger, Jennie Mayes, Tim Morris, Vishant Nath, Michael Petrosky, Frank Reynolds, Mike Simmons, Sen. Bruce Thompson,
Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114
770-213-7095
FamilyLifePublications.com Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Canton Family Life is a monthly community magazine with a total print count of over 30,000, direct mailing over 28,000 copies to Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, Hickory Flat, and Waleska. 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. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. © 2019 All rights reserved.
AS
TH
I’m not a scholar on happiness. However, I do practice it as much as possible. Since starting this publication,
Wishing you a path filled with better problems and an easier route to much happiness in your future.
SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com
IS
E R EC Y C
LE
In past perspectives, I’ve written about joy, overcoming challenges, helping others, living life to the fullest, accepting God’s blessings, and facing problems and challenges. These things make us feel fulfilled and genuinely happy. Of course, we all want to look, feel, and be happy! But what is it? What IS happy?
We must do things; even doing nothing is something that solves the problem of being overworked, right? As the band Rush’s lyric says, “If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.” To be happy, we must choose to solve our problems. Problems and challenges, therefore, are the catalyst to happiness. When we think about it that way, happiness is an easier choice to make.
Mandy Marger Mandy@FamilyLifePublications.com
E
With January behind us and February bright on the winter horizon as a fresh clean month before us, I wonder what is ahead. What would happen if the next month, and maybe the rest of the year, was completely problem free? No deadlines, no dirty laundry, no friends in need, and no dog hair to sweep from the baseboards sounds nice on the surface. But what would we do with all the extra time? A-ha! See what just happened? A new problem for me to solve.
I’ve been happier than ever and, conversely, I’ve also had more problems. This has gotten me thinking that maybe happiness is an action noun. The idea that happiness comes from solving problems is not too hard of a concept to grasp. Some people clean to be happy — dirty problem solved. Others glean happiness from exercise and physical exertion, solving an unhealthy sedentary problem. Camping to get away from it all. Dieting because we feel fat. Teaching to see others learn. It’s not so much what we do, but why we do it.
ART Laurie Litke Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com
M AG A ZI
N
“T
he real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection.” – Thomas Paine
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Cyndi Braun
PLE
The Problems With Happiness
EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
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February Is Heart Month By Vicki Knight-Mathis, M.D. With Valentine’s Day just [HealthyLife] around the corner, we turn to matters of the heart. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 600,000 (one in four) adult deaths are related to heart disease. When most people speak of heart disease, they are talking about coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is secondary to a buildup of plaque or fatty-like material in the wall of the arteries of the heart, which predisposes to blockage, secondary to a blood clot causing a heart attack. When most people think about heart attacks, they think about chest pain (angina). Other symptoms include shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and/or pain in the upper arm, neck, back,
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
or upper stomach. Women are more likely to have atypical or less severe symptoms.
Fortunately, most risk factors for heart disease are preventable or treatable. The top risk factors for heart disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Approximately one-half of adult Americans have at least one major risk factor. Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy eating habits. But never underestimate genetics. If your mom had a heart attack before age 60, or if your dad had a heart attack before age 50, discuss this with your doctor. A heart-healthy lifestyle means limiting fatty foods, trans fats, red meat, salt, and sugar. One-half of your plate at each meal should be vegetables and fruits. The American Heart Association recommends that exercise include 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise per week.
Brisk walking at 2.5 miles per hour or biking at less than 10 miles per hour are examples of moderate activity. Vigorous activity is when you have a hard time talking while exercising (running, uphill hiking, swimming laps, etc.). Strengthbased training is recommended twice per week. Overall, the recommendation is to sit less and move more. Increase activity gradually to reach these exercise levels. Taking these steps will help reduce your risk for heart disease. Make sure to get regular medical care, and take your prescribed medication to reduce heart disease risk. If you think you might be having a heart attack, call 911.
Dr. Vicki Knight-Mathis is a pediatric physician at DV Pediatrics. 770-704-0057. DVPediatrics.com
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How to Make Chores Fun [AcademicLife] When you’re a busy parent coming home from the workday and continuing your second job of being a parent, simple household chores can take up valuable time and can become aggravating. Lessen your stress by teaching responsibility to your little ones. Encouraging your children to contribute to small tasks around the house will not only help them develop gross motor skills and responsibility, but it will also provide extra time for you to bond with them by playing a game or reading a book.
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By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.
Here are some fun suggestions: 1. Call your request for assistance something other than “chores.” Emphasize that your child will be helping with daily tasks. Children may feel happier about completing their task if they are helping. 2. Create a “Mommy’s and Daddy’s Helper” chart. Children will be anxious to check off their task of the day. It will entice them to complete it. 3. Add a sticker each time your child completes an assigned task. Offer your child a special prize for obtaining a certain number of stickers.
Prizes can be one of the following: * Have an extra 30 minutes of screen time. * Choose the family dinner one night. * Pick the game for family game night.
Mary Kay Buquoi is owner of The Goddard School, 140 Foster Road, Woodstock. 770720-1311. GoddardSchools.com
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Calendar FEBRUARY
1-22
Exhibit by Photographer L.E. Baskow of Left Eye Images — Check out stunning photos by this talented photographer. Tuesday-Friday 11:00am5:00pm and Saturday 12:00-5:00pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244. CherokeeArts.org
1 & 15
Parent’s Night Out — Drop the kids off at the pool, so you can enjoy adult time. Kids will play in the pool, enjoy a pizza dinner, do crafts, play games, and end the night with a movie. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Parkway, Canton. 678-880-4760. CRPA.net
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Tara Winds Symphonic Band — This all-adult symphonic band is celebrating over 30 years of excellence in musical performance. Tara Winds is composed primarily of musicians from metropolitan Atlanta, but it draws total membership from instrumentalists throughout Georgia. 8:00-10:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-7209167. Reinhardt.edu
ONGOING Canton City Council Meeting — On the first and third Thursday of each month (July meetings are shifted one week due to the holiday), City Council meetings are open to the public. 6:00pm, City Hall, 110 Academy Street, Canton. CantonGa.gov Acoustic Evening Open Mic — On the first Friday of each month, local artists showcase their talents right in Canton’s only true music venue, the Listening Room at The Oak House. 7:00-9:00pm, The Oak House, 151 E. Marietta Street, Canton. 770-653-6625. TheOakHouse.com Free CPR/AED Certification Class — On the last Saturday of each month, this fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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Cherokee Arts Center Parents’ Night Out — Show your love for the Cherokee Arts Center by participating in the Camp Imagine Date Night/Art Class. Tickets are $25/child + $5 supply fee. 5:30-8:30pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244. CherokeeArts.org
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Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a wonderful lunch
for only $5! Bring a friend, coworker, family member, or yourself, and enjoy a tasty lunch while supporting the seniors and veterans of Cherokee County. Stay and eat, or pick up and go. RSVP the location, so the amazing chefs can be prepared for all who come to support. 11:30am1:00pm, Provident Village, 1100 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton. 678-230-4067. VAC-CherokeeGa.org
Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org/ Class-Registration.php Songwriter Sessions — On the second Saturday of each month, The Oak House and Cherokee Music Center present local songwriters for your listening enjoyment. Come discover your new favorite artist! 6:00-10:00pm, The Oak House, 151 E. Marietta Street, Canton. 770-653-6625. TheOakHouse.com Dumpster Day — On the first Saturday of each month, City of Canton residents may dispose of trash, unwanted items, up to 10 tires per resident, and recycle
many electronics free of charge. Please bring proof of residency when dropping off items. Visit the website for a full list of acceptable items. 8:00am-12:00pm, City Hall, 151 Elizabeth Street, Canton. 770704-1554. CantonGa.gov
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18-22
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Marriage Matters Valentine’s Edition — Enjoy a night of food, fun, and fellowship with other married couples. The $20 admission fee includes childcare and dinner. Guests from the Rise and Stein Morning Show on Victory 91.5, David and Leanna Stein will be speaking. This event benefits married couples of all ages and stages of life. Registration is required. 6:308:30pm, Canton First Baptist Church, 1 Mission Point, Canton. 770-479-5538. CantonFirstBaptist.org
15
Sinatra Forever Starring Rick Michel — Michel salutes and interprets “Ol’ Blue Eyes” standards. He has been called “The closest thing to Sinatra we have ever heard” by Variety. Michel, a master impressionist for more than 40 years, has been touring this show around the country, as well as internationally with performances in Canada, Mexico, and Chile. 7:30-9:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu
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Random Acts of Kindness Day — Sometimes, it’s the smallest act that makes the biggest impact. Something as simple as saying please or thank you can turn a day around, and make a life seem that much better. Random Acts of Kindness Day encourages you to get out there and be the light you want to see in the world.
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17th Annual Prom-A-Palooza Prepare for a magical dream prom! FREE prom dresses and accessories are provided for teen girls in foster homes, group homes, and grands raising grands/relative care homes
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throughout the entire state of Georgia. This event is sponsored by Foster Care Support Foundation. 11:00am-2:00pm, Foster Care Support Foundation Distribution Center, 115 Mansell Place, Roswell. 770-641-9591. FosterCares.org
SPLISH SPLASH Break Camp — Camp includes lots of pool fun, arts and crafts, off-site field trips, and more! To attend camp, children must be able to pass a 25-yard, deep water swim test with no assistance. 7:30-9:00am drop off, 9:00am-4:00pm camp activities, 4:00-6:00pm pick-up, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Parkway, Canton. 678-880-4760. CRPA.net
21-3/3
The Secret Garden Reinhardt’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in musical theatre is an extremely focused degree concentrating on the major components of musical theatre. This semester, students present a production of the classic musical, The Secret Garden. Thursday-Saturday 7:309:30pm, Saturday and Sunday matinee 3:00-5:00pm, Reinhardt Theater, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu
18 & 19
Cherokee Theatre Company Auditions — Six males, five females, and two or three extras, ages 18+, are needed for an upcoming production of Jeff Lovett’s The Papers, which is a comical, Weekend at Bernie’s type of story. Performance dates are May 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, and 19. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. 7:00pm, The Hangar, 654 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-591-0282. CherokeeTheatre.org
18, 22, & 24
It’s a Wibit — Children must be able to pass a 25-yard swim test to use the inflatable Wibit water obstacle course. Monday and Friday 12:00-4:00pm, Sunday 1:00-5:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Parkway, Canton. 678-880-4760. CRPA.net
[continued on page 11]
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LIBRARY EVENTS SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org BALL GROUND 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground, 770-735-2025 HICKORY FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565 R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090
ROBOT FREE PLAY February 19, 12:00pm & 2:00pm, Hickory Flat Experience hands-on coding and robots with Dash & Dot, Sphero Sparks, and Bee Bots! This is for ages 3+; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.
THE BOARD GAMES GROUP February 11 & 25, 3:00pm, Ball Ground Join this group for challenging fun playing different board games. A chess set is available for attendees. This is for ages 18+. SPECIAL VALENTINE’S STORY TIME February 12, 3:30pm, R.T. Jones All kids welcome to a special Valentine-themed story time with a cool Valentine’s Day craft, yummy refreshments, and a small gift. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. HARRY POTTER POTIONS CLASS February 4, 6:00pm, R.T. Jones Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to create edible Harry Potter potions! Registration is required. BEGINNER’S YOGA February 4 & 11, 10:00am, Hickory Flat See what yoga is all about in this introductory course led by Jigna Patel. Registration is required. MUSIC AND MOVES February 6, 10:30am, Hickory Flat Get moving and grooving with friends from Go Noodle; it’ll be a dance party to remember! Experience parachute play, music, gross motor skills, and storytelling in one actionpacked hour. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. DIY BOOK PAGE FLOWERS February 7, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Get ready for Valentine’s Day by making your very own flowers out of book pages! Materials will be provided. DIVORCED WOMEN’S BOOT CAMP February 9, 10:00am, Hickory Flat This workshop provides an overview and discussion on legal and financial questions and concerns. There will be a therapist present to discuss the stress and impact of divorce.
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
DIY COFFEE BODY SCRUB February 15, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Treat yourself to an at-home spa experience with your very own coffee body scrub. Materials are provided. Registration is required. FROZEN PARTY February 16, 10:30am, Ball Ground Do you have the winter blues? If so, “Let It Go,” and attend this party with Frozen-inspired crafts and activities. Don’t forget to dress up as your favorite Frozen character! Refreshments are provided while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult. LEGO CLUB February 16, 3:00pm, Ball Ground Children may work alone or in teams to build LEGO masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. LEGO and DUPLO are provided. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. CODERDOJO February 16, 4:30pm, Ball Ground Learn to code, build a website, create an app or a game, and explore technology in an informal, creative, and social environment. Feel free to bring your own laptop. Parents are encouraged to participate. This is for ages 7-17; children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
BALL GROUND BOOK CLUB February 18, 10:30am, Ball Ground Join book club members as they discuss their impressions of The Last Mile and The Fix, both by David Baldacci. MANGA CLUB February 19, 5:00pm, Hickory Flat Teens are encouraged to read and discuss different manga series and related topics. This month, read and discuss My Hero Academia, draw characters, and compete in manga/ anime-inspired group games. DROP-IN LEARNING — RESEARCH WITH GALILEO February 28, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Learn how to use the digital reference collection for any and all your research needs. Access print books that have been digitized, academic articles, and a huge collection of scholarapproved resources. This is for students, homeschool families, and scholars of all ages.
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Calendar [continued from page 9]
FEBRUARY
23
Guns & Hoses 5K and Fun Run — Participate in this 13th annual 5K and help raise funds for local charities selected by Cherokee County Fire Department (Hoses) and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office (Guns). This year, CCFD’s chosen charity is the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, and Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is the Cherokee Sheriffs Foundation. Shirts are available for 5K participants only. 7:30am, Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. LCollette@CherokeeGa.com. CRPA.net
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Balsam Range Acoustic — Balsam Range is a group of five outstanding acoustic musicians and singers from North Carolina who will perform an enjoyable concert of bluegrass music. 7:30-9:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu
23
Dennis Aloia Magic Comedy Mentalism Show – Enjoy a night of laughter with family and friends. This show benefits the Cherokee Arts Center. 7:00pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-7046244. CherokeeArts.org
26
Reinhardt University Wind Ensemble Concert — At each unique concert experience, audiences join the RU Wind Ensemble on a journey
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that uses music to explore a theme and an idea of place. They enjoy close community and sharing their musical gifts with audiences while maintaining their primary focus of nurturing musical growth through performance. 7:30-9:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu
MARCH
28 & 3/1
Tapestry, the Carole King Songbook — This show recreates the sound and vibe of a King 1970s concert experience following her legendary album, Tapestry. Audience members will be transported back to the iconic image of the album that sold 25 million copies in 1971. 7:30-9:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu
1-3
The Tour of the Southern Highlands Cycling Stage Race — This is the only race of this caliber east of the Rocky Mountains. There will be fun events and race viewing opportunities throughout the weekend. Various times, Ball Ground. ClippedIn.bike/event/2019-tour-ofthe-southern-highlands-racing-trip/
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Plastic Surgery Is About You —
Forget the Stigma By Drs. Petrosky, Harkins, and Depew Patients often say that [HealthyLife] plastic surgery is a positive, life-changing experience. At the same time, there is also a stigma surrounding cosmetic plastic surgery, although it seems to be more accepted with each passing year. Some people still consider whether or not to have plastic surgery as a moral question — that physical self-improvement is somehow wrong. Others believe plasticsurgery patients are pursuing some unrealistic ideal, and many are influenced by the media’s focus on sensational and bizarre cosmetic surgery stories. To put it plainly, there is nothing immoral about plastic surgery. Men and women spend hours at the gym, not only for health reasons, but to improve their appearances.
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No one really thinks that’s immoral.
The fact is that most patients don’t want to radically alter their appearance. They simply want to make specific changes that can boost their self-esteem. Plastic surgery is more about giving people natural-looking results than it is about chasing an unrealistic ideal. For example, many women who follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen can’t regain the flat tummy they had before birthing children, and they are self-conscious about the excess abdominal skin. Some call plastic surgery “vain.” However, it should be viewed as self-pride. Our population is living longer and feeling better at older ages. People want to look as good as they feel. Plastic surgery corrects or improves many different problems. Some patients have been bothered by certain physical attributes
their whole life, which can affect their daily function on many levels. If an improvement can be made, thereby improving quality of life, then it’s worth serious consideration. More people than ever are choosing to undergo plastic surgery or nonsurgical cosmetic treatments. Anyone considering a cosmetic procedure should meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can answer questions and help individuals make informed decisions. Drs. Petrosky and Harkins are board-certified plastic surgeons, and Dr. Depew is a board-eligible plastic surgeon at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 770-421-1242. PlasticSurgeryCenterOf TheSouth.net
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Romantic Styles for
Valentine’s Day By Jyl Craven
[Lifestyle] For centuries, February has been a month focused on lovers and loved ones, and Valentine’s Day continues to bring hearts, flowers, romance, and love to mind. This year, get in the spirit with romantic hairstyles and accessories. Here are some ways to create a different look or add something new to your hairstyle to bring love your way. For long hair, try a sexy, messy chignon (bun), which is easy, versatile, and works on all hair types, although it works best on hair that hasn’t been washed in 24 hours. You can choose to wear this bun high on your head or low at the base of your neck. To get this style, see the chignon tutorial in the pink box on this page.
Chignon Tutorial Brush your hair and pull it backward, gathering it into a loose ponytail. To create a lower messy chignon, start the ponytail at the nape of your neck; for a higher bun, make a high ponytail. Tie your ponytail with an elastic band. Smooth out the bumps with a paddle brush and pull up the ponytail to create fullness on the top of your head. Split your ponytail in half and make a single loose tie. Take the two loose ends and tuck them into the chignon, followed with bobby pins that match your hair color, and place them where necessary inside the chignon. Add dangling earrings to this updo for an even more dazzling effect!
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
For a more relaxed look, leave your hair down and go over it with a flat iron for shiny locks. Then, wrap the ends of your hair around a curling iron for a polished, stress-free look that your significant other will go wild for. Pull one or both sides up with a rhinestone pin or pretty brooch for added allure. For medium-length layered hair, use a vent brush for extra volume, switching to a round brush to flip out the ends. Rub in a small amount of pomade for a textured look, and you’re ready for a night out. Use a flower to sweep up one side for a bohemian look. For short hair, get a pixie cut with bangs that show off your eyes. Use a lightweight smoothing styler and blow-dry the hair forward with a natural bristle brush. Distribute a wax-based pomade from roots to ends and tuck the extralong pieces of hair behind your ear with a bobby pin. Wear sparkly earrings to showcase this look. So, spread some love this February by making your own magic with the confidence that comes from knowing you look fantastic! L
Jyl Craven is owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com
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Know Your Dental Benefits By Vishant Nath, D.M.D. [HealthyLife] During the shortest month of the year, with the hustle and bustle of the holidays now a distant memory, it’s a great time to think about dental insurance benefits. While it isn’t the most exciting topic, it is important to know your coverage. And if you figure it out early in the year, you increase your chances of getting the most out of your benefits. Unlike medical insurance, which is in place to cover unforeseen and emergency medical costs, dental insurance is more like a coupon that can offset routine dental care
costs. Dental insurance plans differ in what they cover – routine visits and treatment, orthodontics, or even cosmetic treatments. They also differ in the percentage of dentist’s fees they cover.
participant in knowing your coverage options. Empower yourself by calling your provider, or visit their website and get all the information you can regarding your specific plan.
If you have dental insurance coverage, you are probably paying a monthly premium. As with all things in life, it is important to know what you are paying for. Some insurance plans have parameters that limit which dentist you can choose for treatment. Others require preapproval of treatment plans. Some may limit the number of times a certain treatment will be covered. All these parameters can diminish your options, so it is best to know the details of your specific plan before treatment is scheduled/performed.
If you do not have dental insurance, realize that many dental offices understand the financial burden of dental treatment, so they often offer finance options using third-party vendors.
It is also important to remember that your dental insurance plan is an agreement between you and your insurance provider. Though many dental offices take the time to submit dental claims on your behalf, you need to remain an active
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The bottom line is this: Start the year off right by knowing your dental insurance coverage options, and then schedule your twice-yearly dental visits for cleanings and exams. Remember, prevention is the best way to avoid the need for extensive dental treatment.
Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Alpharetta/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. 678-352-1090. KidsHappyTeeth.com
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15
Community
Military Spouses — Cherokee Veterans Community Is Your Support Connection
Cherokee County Board of Commissioners Receives 2018 Optimas Awards Cherokee County Board of Commissioners recently received two Workforce magazine Optimas Awards. The Board achieved the Gold Award in Benefits and the Silver Award in Business Impact. The prestigious awards program, now in its 28th year, recognizes companies that achieve successful measurable business outcomes through visionary and impactful human resources initiatives. Thirty-one companies were named winners from this year’s pool of nominees.
Cherokee Veterans Community (CVC) understands how tough deployment can be for military spouses. Most of the organization’s members have been deployed and know firsthand the stress, struggles, loneliness, fears, and other emotions that spouses experience.
“For over 28 years, we’ve seen companies place increasing importance on human resources initiatives, realizing the potential a strong HR department can have on business growth,” said Rick Bell, editorial director of Workforce magazine. “This year’s finalists stand out in an ever-expanding field of qualified nominees, and we’re pleased to see so many organizations using innovative HR practices to improve their business.”
During deployments, having a strong support system is critical. CVC offers support groups for both male and female spouses. Groups meet separately once a month, and CVC will assist in getting groups started in local communities.
For more information on the 2018 Optimas Award recipients, visit Workforce. com/2018/10/22/2018-optimas-awards/.
Congratulations to our January Contest Winner, Daniel Morales! 16
Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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New Board of Commissioners Members CVC also helps military spouses with minor home repairs, car problems, and other issues that may arise. Other benefits include Operation Rally Point - Rally Boxes, which are sent to the deployed spouse. All services are free. Attend an informational meeting on Saturday, February 16 at First Baptist Church of Woodstock (11905 Highway 92 in Woodstock) from 10:00-11:30am. Coffee and donuts will be served. There will be a play area set up for children. RSVP to DMSnyder7000@ comcast.net, or call 678-494-2680.
The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners welcomes two new members: Harry Johnston, the new chairman; and Corey Ragsdale, District 4 commissioner. Harry Johnston has held numerous city and county positions. From 2000-2014, he served as District 1 commissioner. From 1996-2000, he served on the Planning Commission, holding the position of chairman from 1998-2000. He is chairman of the City of Canton’s Board of Zoning Appeals and is a member of the City’s Historical Preservation Committee. Corey Ragsdale has a professional background in engineering and business management with a focus on manufacturing. Currently, Corey is director of manufacturing for a custom parts manufacturing company.
Farm Bureau Seeks Entries for Art Contest Students in ninth through 12th grade are invited to enter the Georgia Farm Bureau Art Contest. Artwork should be drawn in black ink or dark soft lead pencil on an 8 1/2 x 11-inch piece of white paper. The artwork should be camera ready. Drawings will be judged on how well the artwork represents modern agriculture found in Cherokee or Georgia’s agriculture industry as well as artistic merit. To enter the contest, students should contact the Cherokee County Farm Bureau for an official entry form and contest rules. All entries must be received at the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office by February 15. For more information, contact the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office at 770-479-1481, ext. 0.
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Georgia Has Talent 2019 Fundraiser Now in its eighth year, the Georgia Has Talent show promises to be the best ticket in town on March 2, with guest performances by Erin Kirby, Victoria Hill, and Belle Rousse. Ticketholders will enjoy 26 competitive acts including singers, dancers, martial artists, rock bands, a twirler, a beat boxer, a STOMP percussion performance, and a bagpiper. The event takes place at Cherokee High School. The silent auction begins at 5:00pm, and performances begin at 6:00pm. With more than a hundred donations from local and national businesses, the silent auction includes musical instruments, massages, gift cards, and family outings. During the show, there will be a raffle for a weekend at a cabin in the mountains. Proceeds are donated to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Over the past seven years, this all-volunteer fundraiser has raised about $50,000 for cancer research. See GeorgiaHasTalent.com to access the full lineup of performers, purchase tickets, and pledge a donation. The website also includes sponsorship information. Businesses interested in being a featured sponsor will receive advertising on the Georgia Has Talent social media streams as well as publication in the event program.
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Community
E.M. Barrett Store to Be Demolished for Road Widening Project After months of collaborative effort among the City of Holly Springs’ elected officials, staff, and engineers, a decision was made to demolish a brick structure known as the E.M. Barrett Store in order to widen Hickory Road as part of the Town Center Road Network Plan. The building is located at the corner of Palm Street and Hickory Road.
CAIRE, Inc. Gains New Owner CAIRE, Inc., a leading global manufacturer of oxygen supply equipment, is now officially a wholly-owned subsidiary of NGK SPARK PLUG CO., LTD. News of the acquisition followed the previous announcement from Chart Industries, Inc. of the planned divesture of its oxygenrelated products business from its BioMedical division to the comprehensive ceramics processing manufacturer for $133.5 million. “For more than 80 years, NGK SPARK PLUG has shared its innovation and commitment to quality around the globe as a leader in the spark plug market. Over the last 15 years, NGK SPARK PLUG has been utilizing its unique sensing and ceramic technologies to develop leading solutions for the health care market. Their sense of vision and planning to meet the health care needs of the future makes the acquisition of CAIRE a natural fit. CAIRE brings a legacy of 50 years in developing oxygen delivery systems, and our goal is to be the manufacturer of choice for the providers and people everywhere who depend on us,” said Earl Lawson, president of CAIRE, Inc. In addition to the manufacturing headquarters in Ball Ground, CAIRE’s global locations include Anjo, Japan; Buffalo, NY; Chengdu, China; Padova, Italy; Wokingham, U.K.; and Wuppertal, Germany. For more information about CAIRE, Inc., please call 1-800-482-2473, or email CAIRE.Request@chartindustries.com.
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“When engineers suggested this option, we asked them immediately if plans could be reworked to avoid the demolition of the E.M. Barrett Store,” said Mayor Steven W. Miller. “When the other option presented was the demolition of the Hardin House at the other corner of Hickory Road and Palm Street, we began to look at each building’s part of history within our city. While the E.M. Barrett Store was a staple in our community for many years, the building as it currently stands is not indicative of its importance to our history. We do plan on salvaging what materials we can from the current structure and integrating those pieces into a permanent feature in the redeveloped Town Center.” The City of Holly Springs has reached out to Stefanie Joyner at the Cherokee County Historical Society for her input on the preservation of the materials salvaged during demolition as well as historic photographs and written history to document the building for future generations.
Cherokee Chamber Selects Teen Leadership Class of 2019 Front row L-R: Emily Baldwin, Creekview; Kayli Jones, Woodstock; Aarya Kothari, River Ridge; Emma Parker, Creekview; Ethan Nichols, The King’s Academy; Ethan Lasenyik, Woodstock; Grayson Richards, Creekview; Will Dowd, Creekview. Middle row L-R: Jessica Helms, 2019 Teen Leadership Cherokee Chair; Brinn Dameron, Creekview; Abbi Gallagher, Creekview; Will Jones, Creekview; Gabby Christian, Creekview; Bekah Seng, Cherokee; Tori Pitts, Creekview; Will Goodwin, 2019 Teen Leadership Cherokee Vice-Chair. Back row L-R: Ivan Shi, Creekview; Aliyah Salame, Etowah; Josh Vickers, Cherokee; Faith Burns, Cherokee; Analise Black, Etowah; Jack Cody, Creekview. 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. For more information on the Chamber and its programs, visit CherokeeChamber.com.
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Foundation Donates $200,000 to Local Nonprofits The LGE Community Outreach Foundation recently presented $200,000 to local nonprofit organizations representing the four counties LGE services (Cobb, Cherokee, Fulton, and Paulding). Nonprofits receiving donations included Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, Next Step Ministries, CASA of Paulding County, Mostly Mutts, The Zone/Davis Direction Foundation, the Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia, and Warehouse of Hope. The LGE Foundation conducts fundraisers throughout the year to raise money for the nonprofit organizations. Every dollar raised by the LGE Foundation is matched by LGE Community Credit Union.
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Reinhardt Student to Lead Pickens County Chamber of Commerce Amberle Godfrey, a “non-traditional, traditional” student at Reinhardt University, has been named president/CEO of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce. “From a highly skilled and experienced pool of applicants, the committee realized that, without question, Amberle has the skills, the knowledge of our culture and recent progress, and the passion to take our Chamber to the next level,” said Chamber Chair Sonny Proctor, M.D. Godfrey, a Pickens County native, raised three sons in the community she has always called “home,” and some 30 years after graduating from Pickens County High School, she returned to the classroom as a student at Reinhardt University. In 2018, when Reinhardt decided to expand its highly successful scholarship program for Cherokee County students into Pickens County, the University turned to Godfrey to lead the charge. Under the leadership of Godfrey, the Pickens Scholars program – a program focused on securing annual scholarship funds for Reinhardt students from Pickens County – raised $37,840, which was 89 percent more than the goal of $20,000.
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Senator Speaks
THE ACCESS PROGRAM By Senator Bruce Thompson
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few years back, I had the privilege of chairing a study committee on cybersecurity. This study committee explored several aspects of cybersecurity including the readiness of our state agencies. In conclusion, our white paper recommended purchasing $100 million of cyber insurance, creating a GBI center in Augusta, and several other action items. The entire process made it abundantly clear how well positioned our state was in becoming the cyber hub for the U.S. Over the next year, technical colleges and universities began adding curricula to prepare students for the incredible opportunities that lie ahead for those who study cybersecurity. In 2018, experts reported that 300,000 jobs in that sector were unfilled. That leads me to an exciting program I successfully launched at the beginning of this year. This program is designed to identify 11th-grade students who may have never been chosen for anything in their life. When I spoke to the selected 25 teens and their guardians back in December on “Signing Day,” I addressed the fact that most of them had never been chosen for athletic teams, academic teams, and in some cases had even been abandoned by their own family. Why would I say such a harsh thing to these students? Well, the answer is in the next statement I made to them: “Boys and girls, today you are chosen. We have chosen you because you are important. In fact, in 16 months, you will walk across that stage and receive your diploma at graduation, because we will see to it! We will have a mentor assigned to you, and you will also simultaneously be employable in the cybersecurity vertical. You see, you have been selected to participate in a cybersecurity curriculum that will prepare you and ensure that you obtain three certifications by graduation day.”
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I call this program “Access” because these free/reduced lunch students will have a renewed access to their future. By design, I wanted to offer a specialized program to students who have a higher risk of falling through the cracks of society. In fact, the first group of Access students has several homeless, foster care, and single-parent teens. My desire is to launch a second class by May 2019 and several more in January 2020. The exciting thing about the Access program is that it provides the training to enter a field of study with zero unemployment, but also ensures that someone will become a contributor to the tax system instead of a recipient.
Bruce Thompson is a state senator for District 14, which includes Canton. 404-656-0065. BruceThompsonGa.com
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Information and Resources
That May Help Save a Life E
ach year, the Cherokee Marshall’s Office keeps a statistical report of all death investigations within the county, which includes the Sheriff’s Office and each of the municipalities. In 2018, there were 133 death investigations within the county. The manner of death is ruled by both the Coroner’s Office and the state crime lab, which may include accidental, accidental overdose, fire, homicide, natural, suicide, and undetermined. The coroner and crime lab reports often rely on toxicology results before making a final determination as to the cause of death. Last year, there were 33 reported cases of suicide. However, that number could increase, as cases are still being finalized. These investigations are some of the most troubling, as detectives must search for reasons that may lead a person to consider suicide.
According to the Georgia Survivor Family Network, an estimated 43,000 Americans commit suicide each year, and almost 1,300 of those are Georgians. There are many risk factors that may lead a person to consider harming themselves: • Bullying • Child abuse or neglect • Alcohol and/or drug abuse • Stress • Exposure to suicidal behavior by others • History of depression or other mental illness • Family history of suicide The warning signs of someone contemplating suicide may vary from person to person. However, there are some common factors/warning signs to consider when someone is trying to cope with pain and may be having suicidal thoughts or tendencies.
By Sheriff Frank Reynolds
A person contemplating suicide may exhibit these warning signs: • Increased substance abuse • Anxiety, agitation, unable to sleep, or sleeping all the time • Hopelessness • Withdrawn from friends and family • Rage, uncontrolled anger, seeking revenge • Talking or writing about death • Acting reckless or engaging in risky activities, seemingly without thinking Another aspect of suicide are the loved ones left behind (survivors). “A survivor of suicide is any person who has lost a loved one to suicide. It could be the loss of a family member, friend, client, or co-worker. Loss is relative to the relationship with the person, so all who are impacted by the loss are considered a survivor of suicide.” -Georgia Survivor Family Network Survivors often feel guilt, shock, and blame when learning that someone close to them has taken his/her life. Resources are available for people who are affected by suicide. One such group is the Georgia Survivor Family Network (GeorgiaSurvivors.com).
If you (or someone you know) are considering suicide, or you are a survivor and need to talk, please reach out to someone to help you cope with your pain. There are many resources available to you.
Georgia Crisis & Access Line 800-715-4225 Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-TALK (8255) GSPIN.org
Frank Reynolds is the sheriff for Cherokee County. 678-493-4100. CherokeeGa-Sheriff.org
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Book Review BY JESSICA ASBELL
“Evelyn Hardcastle will be murdered at 11:00pm. There are eight days and eight witnesses for you to inhabit. We will only let you escape once you tell us the name of the killer.” Stuart Turton’s The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle begins with Aiden Bishop in someone else’s body, with the name “Anna” on his lips. He sees a woman running, hears her scream and a gunshot, and is passed by the killer, who drops something into his coat pocket and whispers, “east.” As Sebastian Bell tries to make his way to get help, he discovers once he arrives at Blackheath that all is not as it seems. The Hardcastles are having a party, a dreadful one to remember the anniversary of their son’s murder. Everyone who is at this party was at their house long ago when it happened. Confused, Sebastian tries to figure out what happened to him, as he also tries to convince everyone that a murder has occurred. Along the way, he meets the players in this twisted game. And day after day, he wakes up as someone else, racing against time to discover who murders Evelyn Hardcastle each night. As he relives the same day through different hosts, he slowly changes the game, setting things into motion with one host, so that another host has the information they need when they need it. Turton’s inventive book is filled with twists and turns. The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle will make you examine the things you think you know, people’s motives, and the balance between grace and punishment. If you are searching for a mystery that is utterly different, pick up this book. Good luck in your quest to discover who murdered Evelyn Hardcastle. It may be more difficult than you think!
Jessica Asbell is an avid reader and a children’s minister. She holds a BBA from Mercer and a Master of Divinity in Christian education from McAfee School of Theology. She’s also a frequent customer at FoxTale Book Shoppe. 770-516-9989. FoxTaleBooks.com
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COVER STORY By Cyndi Braun
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ooking for caring staff, beautiful accommodations, and a fun environment to enjoy your senior years? Look no further. The Arbor at BridgeMill is a place you’ll love to call home.
Services include independent living, assisted living, and dementia care. With varied care options, it’s easy to transition to different “neighborhoods” if needs change.
On any given day, the community is bustling. Residents are busy meeting friends for breakfast, swimming in the saltwater pool, participating in social activities, and gathering in one of many lounge areas.
INDEPENDENT LIVING Seniors who live independently but desire the social aspects of a community enjoy beautiful courtyards, comfortable areas to catch up with friends and family, and amazing dining. They participate in an active social calendar and are free from tedious chores.
“The Arbor at BridgeMill is beautiful on the outside, but what makes it even more special is what you find when you walk inside — a lively community of residents who feel like family. Residents build friendships and enjoy all the social activities that we offer,” said Jerry Rick, executive director of The Arbor. “Most importantly, our staff provides an extraordinary level of care and service. We call it ‘The Arbor Way.’” The 15-acre community offers both charm and luxury for individuals looking to transition into the next phase of retirement living.
Amenities • Luxury accommodations, resort-like lounge and gathering areas, and upscale restaurant-style dining • Professionally landscaped courtyards • Indoor/outdoor saltwater pool and high-end fitness center • Billiard rooms, art room, theater, and on-site salon and spa • Emergency response system and 24-hour access to staff and nurses • Transportation services and available covered parking
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Independent residents can choose from a variety of options, including a two-bedroom cottage with a front porch, walk-in closets, all appliances, and a garage, or an apartment with an open floor plan, eat-in kitchen, granite countertops, full-size appliances, and a balcony. ASSISTED LIVING For residents who need a little more assistance, the community offers luxury assisted living accommodations. Each suite has a wireless emergency call system, so residents can easily summon help. Highly trained staff members support residents 24 hours a day. Residents enjoy regular housekeeping and laundry services, delicious dining, a separate secured courtyard with beautiful landscaping, and a full social calendar. Four levels of assisted living care ensure residents receive assistance tailored to individual needs. The resident care director, with the residents and family, determines the appropriate level of care by regularly assessing each resident’s abilities and needs. MEMORY CARE Memory care suites include the same comforts as assisted living. Memory care residents have access to their own private courtyard where they can enjoy the outdoors in a secure area. Staff members receive unique, multilevel cognitive care training, so they have the skills to interact positively with people experiencing memory loss. They pair this training with individualized programs proven to improve quality of life. Over 30,000 Each Issue, Every Month
For residents requiring dining assistance, The Arbor offers their award-winning Dining with Dignity program. This program uses preparation methods to create food options that hold the same nutritional value as a regularly prepared meal but in a form that allows residents to maintain independence and dignity while eating. Chefs complete special training to learn how to incorporate ingredients for easier chewing and swallowing. Meals are offered in an elegant plate-and-table presentation.
Betty & Bob Frenchie & Lynn
WHAT’S BEHIND THE ARBOR NAME? The Arbor Company manages The Arbor at BridgeMill, which includes 26 stand-alone cottage homes, plus 110 independent living, 54 assisted living, and 16 memory care apartments. Founded 30 years ago in Atlanta, The Arbor Company operates more than 40 communities in 11 states. If you’re looking for a place you’d love to call home, stop by today to experience all that The Arbor at BridgeMill offers.
This sweet couple moved to The Arbor last year. Married for 72 years, Robert and Gloria Lee have three children, seven grandchildren, and 15 greatgrandchildren. They are thrilled to be part of this community because it offers exactly what they were looking for in senior living.
700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton I 770-691-0022 ArborBridgeMill.com I Facebook.com/arborbridgemill
Meet Robert & G
loria
“We fell in love with this place as soon as we saw it,” said Robert. “The first thing we liked was not being tied up in the hustle and bustle of a downtown area and not being in a high-rise. We like the fresh air and being in the foothills of the mountains. You can walk around, and you feel safe.” Robert and Gloria have family close by and enjoy when their children visit. They are independent seniors but are comforted to know that the community offers transportation services should they ever need it. “We’ve met so many lovely people here. The atmosphere is refreshing, and everyone is so friendly,” said Gloria.
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BallGroundMinute
By Karen Jordan
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all Ground ended 2018 bigger and better than ever, with downtown Ball Ground continuing to grow, as new businesses discover that it is the place to be. What was once a sleepy town filled with rocks is now a thriving community where people meet for lunch or dinner, shop, attend concerts, or just take a stroll through the park. Ball Ground has it all! Mayor Rick Roberts and Council Members John Byrd, Frank Homiller, Mickey O’Malley, Lee Prettyman, and Andrenia Stoner are second to none when it comes to elected officials. Nowhere will you find a more dedicated group of men and women working to keep pace with the ever-changing times while maintaining the charm of a small town where everyone wants to live, work, and play. In 2019, Mayor Roberts and the Ball Ground City Council will continue efforts to increase green space and parkland. Other
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goals/plans for 2019 include creating and adopting a historic preservation ordinance that respects personal property rights while helping to preserve the past, hiring additional police officers, and continuing to work with the Georgia Department of Transportation to improve the road conditions of State Route 372.
open Tuesday through Wednesday from 9:00am-2:00pm, providing educational, social, leisure, and recreational activities for senior citizens who are looking to have some fun and make new friends. Senior residents are encouraged to stop by for a visit with Director of Services Julie Arthur to tour the facility.
Work crews began the much-anticipated Valley Street streetscape project last month. This walking path will begin at the intersection of Depot Street and Valley Street, then extend to Howell Bridge Road. This path will give residents an additional area to walk, ride bikes, or just sit and relax.
If you find yourself out for an evening, make sure downtown Ball Ground is your destination. You will find delicious food, the latest home decor and fashion, and the list goes on and on. After your visit, you will know why Ball Ground is the place to be!
Last year, the Ball Ground Senior Center opened a new facility that provided services one day a week to Ball Ground’s aging population. The Center will hopefully be completely staffed five days a week by the end of 2019. Located at 388 Groover Street, the Center is currently
Karen Jordan is the city clerk for Ball Ground. 215 Valley Street, Ball Ground. 770-735-2123. CityOf BallGround.com
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Artist Profile BY JENNIE MAYES
The Ever-Evolving Art
Jennifer Ferris
of
Ferris first started painting small birds as gifts, and it’s easy to see why these gifts became so popular. Her paintings are full of joy and vibrancy. “My goal has always been to paint happy paintings,” she says, “and I would see the joy in so many of my loved ones while watching their bird feeders.” She also feels that studying birds and nature has improved her work. It has helped her to become more observant over time, “I feel I can ‘see’ better in terms of color and structure. It is hard to improve on the beauty already provided by nature, so really seeing what is there can be key,” says Ferris.
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ocal artist Jennifer Ferris has traveled a lot, picking up inspiration along the way, but she gives the lion’s share of credit to her mother and grandmother. When asked how her art is a continuation of or departure from theirs, she says, “The most common thread is our love of nature and our choice of flowers and birds as a frequent subject matter. Also, our drive for perfecting our craft — my grandmother wanted to paint a rose realistic enough that you would want to smell it, and my initial desire with my birds was to paint them so they looked like they were about to fly off the canvas. I have since tried to loosen up, and that is one indicator of how my work differs from theirs. While I like to incorporate elements of realism in my work, I tend to lean toward abstraction. My color palette is also quite different, being inspired more by trends in fashion and home decor, and theirs more closely align to those found in nature.”
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Ferris began with oils, but after an acrylics workshop, she says she was completely converted. “I take photos constantly, and most of my realistic paintings are based on these. I get the most joy, though, out of painting nonrepresentational abstracts right out of my head without any reference, as that is the most freeing for me.”
doesn’t allows her to continue to evolve both as an artist and as a teacher. “The students who stick out most are the ones at the opposite ends of the spectrum, those who are super excited about the lesson and seem to really get it, and then those who have more trouble understanding the process or direction. The former makes me love teaching so much, and the latter helps me get better at ‘rescuing’ students before they get frustrated.” Ferris’ advice for beginning artists? “Be authentic. Don’t copy anyone else’s work, and remember that goes for photographers as well. Practice your craft as often as possible. Never stop trying to learn and improve. Find a community of artists to work with, or to at least chat with frequently. Painting can be a lonely endeavor — lots of ups and downs. Try to be super confident at your easel and super supportive of other artists.” To learn more about Ferris’ work, visit FerrisWheelArts.com or JenniferFerrisArt.com.
When asked about her daily practice, Ferris replied that she works on her paintings in a series and will typically have “at least three to five paintings of a series going at once,” and sometimes multiple series, meaning as many as 10-20 paintings at a time. Ferris has also learned from her students. Paying attention to what works and what
Jennie Mayes is a student in the MFA creative writing program at Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt College Circle, Waleska. 770-720-5582. Reinhardt.edu/Graduate/MFA-CW/
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How many times have you [HomeLife] cleaned your tub to have the first dirty foot, paw, or squirt of soap bring back all the grime and then some? This is a common problem among homeowners, and the cause is simple and surprising. Whether you have a cast iron, porcelain, cultured marble, or fiberglass tub, they all have one thing in common: a bright, shiny top coat that protects the surface of your tub or shower unit. Or at least the item/ appliance did when it was new. What exactly is causing that gorgeous finish to dull and turn into a grime magnet? Bleach! Bleach and abrasives, like those handy
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square erasers, are removing the shiny, protective surface. The same products you use to wash away mold, mildew, dirt, and germs are what are ruining the finish and causing more problems. Once the top coat is worn down and dull, it is very literally acting as a magnet for dirt and scum. A brand-new tub or recently refinished tub can go from beautiful and easy to clean to impossible to maintain. When you go to clean your bathtub (new or old), put down the bleach and bleach products.
Put Down That Bleach!
Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
By Mike Simmons
Many will cry, “But it’s flu season!” It’s completely understandable that you want to disinfect. However, keep the bleach on
surfaces that won’t cost you in the long run, and use a safe alternative. There are many options that will clean without damaging, as well as a way to refinish your tub/sink if you have already made the bleach or abrasive mistake, but the best option is to save money by preserving surfaces in the first place.
Mike Simmons is the owner of Miracle Method of Northwest Atlanta, 4700 Ecton Drive, Marietta. 678-809-7866. MiracleMethod.com/atlanta-nw
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and have been serving up their mother’s delicious, authentic, Puebla Mexican recipes to satisfied, devoted customers ever since. Some of their latest reviews include: “Service is wonderful every time. I bring all my friends and family here. They catered my wedding, and everyone loved it!” -Ellen Sams “Best. Margaritas. Ever!!!” -Vanessa Dawn Treat your family to the best authentic Mexican restaurant in Canton. Owners Iggy and Sebastian Viveros opened Tecali Grille in 1996
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“The friendliest staff, and the food is superb! Whether it has been six months or a year between visits, we are always remembered. Everyone has conversations with the customers like they are all dear friends.” -Pamela Bannon There are many things that set Tecali Grille apart from other Mexican food restaurants, but one of the first things diners will notice is the array of housemade sauces that are brought to the table with your basket of tortilla chips. In addition
to traditional salsa, they also make pineapple habanero, mango habanero, regular habanero, and chipotle sauces. Tecali Grille also keeps things exciting by adding new menu items like hearty Mexican Bean Soup; a refreshing Tropical Salad, which is made with grilled chicken, fresh pineapple, sliced tomatoes, and cheese over romaine lettuce; and sizzling hot Pastor Fajitas, which consist of sliced pork loin, onion and bell pepper, rice, beans, fresh guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. Don’t forget Tecali Grille’s drink menu! Locals love their margaritas and their flavorful Agua de Horchata, which is made with yummy cinnamon and vanilla. And be sure to save room for dessert! Their Banana Chimichanga or Fried Ice Cream are the perfect sweet treats to end your meal. From start to finish, Tecali Grille is a win!
ne Parkway o t s r e iv R 2 13 Canton 72 770-720-37
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Love and Appreciation By Tim Morris
Cherokee Senior Services and the [Lifestyle]
Volunteer Aging Council work hard to take care of the needs of seniors in our community. Amazing things have been accomplished with many success stories throughout the years. The Council helps seniors who don’t have family nearby. They help with things like repair work, past-due bills, housing, transportation, pharmacy needs, vision, and so much more. The group also assists homeless seniors with weeklong hotel stays to get them out of the cold during the winter. In most cases, those who receive help from the Council are just grateful that someone cares enough to do something for them. Sometimes, it’s as simple as replacing light bulbs and designing a contraption that allows seniors to pull a string to turn their light on and off, simple things many of us take for granted. Other times, they need someone to come in their home and remove clutter, so they can walk through their house without tripping. Most times, the Council couldn’t do the work they do without volunteers who take time during their busy schedules to lend a hand. All volunteers are appreciated more than they will ever know. If you would like to help the Volunteer Aging Council or make a donation, please contact Cherokee Senior Services at 770-479-7438. L
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Tim Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. www.CherokeeGa.com/ Senior-Services
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By Hunt Anderson, M.D.
February is American Heart Month, but taking care of your heart is something you should prioritize yearround. A strong heart is essential to vitality; taking it for granted can be deadly. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease accounts for one out of every three deaths in the United States. To put that into perspective, a person in this country dies of heart disease every 38 seconds. Much like the national statistics, Georgia’s own numbers on
cardiovascular disease are grim. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, heart disease is responsible for 20,000 deaths a year. In addition, Georgia Health News recently cited a report that nearly one in five young Georgians (ages 10 to 17) is obese, as well as recent findings by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that this grows to one in three adults being obese. This extra body weight can significantly increase the risk for heart failure, heart disease, and stroke.
In Georgia and beyond, taking care of one’s heart is a serious matter. While some are predisposed to heart conditions based on family history, making healthy choices is important in battling heart disease and other cardiovascular illnesses. Diet, exercise, scheduling regular checkups, and finding ways to manage stress are factors we can — and should — aim to improve and maintain, no matter what genetic factors may be at play. Here is what you can do:
Establish and stick with a smart and sensible diet.
The well-being of the circulatory system and heart is very dependent on foods that promote proper heart function. Eating healthier foods can make a big difference. Controlling portion size, staying well hydrated, limiting unhealthy fats, and consuming lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are essential to a healthy diet. Nutritionists recommend choosing options such as fish, eggs, and dairy to get your protein. Reducing sodium intake to below 2,300 milligrams per day – about a teaspoon of salt – is also important.
Get the right amount of exercise.
With discipline, we can keep our hearts successfully pumping oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. True to its name, cardiovascular exercise is beneficial to the cardiovascular system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderateintensity activity, which can be broken into 10-minute blocks, if needed. 34
Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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Schedule regular checkups.
Some individuals wait until something is wrong with their health before seeing a doctor, but the adage is true: Early detection is crucial. Doctors use measurements like body weight and blood pressure, as well as conducting cardiovascular screenings during routine appointments, to help make recommendations about heart health. If you’re older than 20, get your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index checked. q BMI q Blood Pressure q Cholesterol
Manage stress.
The American Heart Association recommends trying “stress-busting” activities such as creating art, reading a book, listening to music, or going for a walk, in addition to “stress-stoppers” like counting to 10 before reacting, meditating, and more. Similar to maintaining a healthy diet and exercising, attempt to make managing stress part of your daily routine.
Know your family history.
Heart trouble (including high blood pressure), heart disease, and other related issues can be passed from one generation to the next. If your parents or grandparents have experienced a stroke, heart disease, or a heart attack, it’s important to tell your doctor, who may recommend further testing. If heart disease is part of your family history, it’s even more essential to live a healthy lifestyle that incorporates proper diet, physical activity, and stress relief. While American Heart Month is a great reminder to take care of the body’s most important organ, we should aim to keep it a priority year-round. Statistics from the American Heart Association paint a daunting picture for those who ignore symptoms and choose to live an unhealthy lifestyle. The good news? By eating better, exercising more, scheduling checkups, managing stress, and learning family history, you can soon be on the road to better heart health.
FAMILY HISTORY q Stroke q Heart Disease q Heart Attack
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Dr. Hunt Anderson is currently in practice with WellStar Medical Group Cardiovascular Medicine. 4500 Hospital Boulevard, Suite 230, Roswell. 770-410-4520. WellStar.org
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Skye Precious Kids’ mission is to provide resources to families in financial crisis who are caring for children facing life-threatening illnesses and disabilities to support a healthy and safe home environment, full access to medical care and equipment, as well as educational support. Their cause is to aid families in short-term financial hardship with obtaining the necessary tools to allow them to fully focus on caring for their children’s medical and educational needs. Skye Precious Kids serves Georgia families with documented economic hardship, not already receiving financial aid from other organizations or government entities, that are caring for children from birth to 18 who are living with an illness or disability. There are an estimated 13,000 children in Georgia living with a long-term disability or chronic, incurable diagnosis. Nearly 60 percent of these children are cared for by single mothers and in many sad cases, grandmothers. The economic burdens placed on families caring for their special-needs children, particularly those fighting cancer and other life-threatening diseases, is tremendous. Often, a parent must stop working to care for their child, reducing their ability to pay for the many medical costs that are not covered by insurance. Many families may be at risk of eviction or having the lights turned off because they are behind on their bills. Some face the cost of having their homes renovated for wheelchair accessibility or will need a handicapped-accessible vehicle, both of which are not covered by insurance programs. Some will be homebound with children who cannot attend school and are struggling to keep up, so they do not fall behind in their education.
Community Partner ASSISTANCE OPTIONS
Precious Families
Short-term financial support for rent, utilities, food, gas, and other necessities during times of unemployment due to caring for children or due to transition between jobs; renovations to homes for handicapped accessibility with items such as stair lifts, wheelchair lifts, ramping, and bathroom accessibility renovations
Precious Health
Medical costs including co-pays, deductibles, medications, durable medical equipment and supplies, diapers, treatment and therapies, as well as skilled nursing and respite care; aid with bridging the gap between what Medicaid and private insurance provides and what sick and disabled children truly need but their parents cannot afford
Precious Minds
Support to continue meaningful education while homebound including tutors, homework assistance, computers and assistive technology, and scholarships for special and online courses
The families that need assistance go through Skye Precious Kids’ application screening, applying for support for their unique needs. If approved for aid through one of Skye Precious Kids’ three key programs, the organization works with medical providers, utility companies, vendors, and other payees directly. Financial aid is never given directly to individuals. Assistance is provided in the following ways:
For more information on upcoming events, and to learn how you can help, volunteer, and make a difference, visit SkyePreciousKids.org, or call 404-478-9794. 36
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CREDIT SCORES 101 By Mandy Marger
M
uch is made of your “scores” in life. Your school grades partly determine where you go to college and are sometimes considered in employment evaluations. Your health scores (weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, etc.) determine if you are high risk for certain ailments and are also considered by insurance companies when you apply for coverage. These numbers aren’t the best representation of an individual, but for the institution that is interested in that aspect of your life, they are a reliable, concise view of that facet of you. The same can be said for your credit score and the lenders and groups who are interested in your financial history. Consider financing a house. Lenders with the capital to back your mortgage note need to be convinced that you are a “good student” who is worthy of them blindly trusting you to pay them back. And while a mortgage is a large and obvious instance where your credit score is scrutinized, there are many
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
other reasons it is referenced when an organization is screening you. Knowing this, and considering it takes time to establish and change your score, it’s important to keep tabs on it and think about it when making financial decisions. Who Uses Your Score? It seems logical that a company that you are asking to lend you money would check your credit score. This could include credit card companies, mortgage lenders, as well as car and student loan lenders. But you might be surprised to learn that utility companies, insurance companies, cell service providers, and even your employer can use your credit score to make judgments about providing services or hiring you. A Recipe for Good Credit The Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) is one of the largest predictive analytic firms whose scoring models are used by a large portion of lenders. Their basic formula for calculating your score uses the following breakdown:
• 35 Percent Payment History – Demonstrating that you are financially responsible by paying your bills on time is the largest portion of your score. Late payments will drastically affect your score, and in the case of mortgages, a past-due mortgage payment can keep you from obtaining a new loan for up to 12 months. • 30 Percent Amounts Owed – Also called credit utilization, this refers to how high your balances are compared to your credit limits. • 15 Percent Length of Credit History – This refers to how long your credit accounts have been open. • 10 Percent Types of Credit Used – This refers to the mix of accounts you have, such as revolving (credit cards, retail stores, personal loans) and installment (fixed-payment loans like mortgages, car, and student loans). • 10 Percent New Credit – This is about your pursuit of new credit, including credit inquiries and the number of recently opened accounts. Planning Ahead If you have a future major purchase that you plan to finance, it is a good idea to prepare well in advance. Check your credit annually using an accredited free service like FreeCreditCheck.com. It is estimated that one in five Americans have an error on their report, so review it carefully, and open a dispute (if needed) so problems can be resolved ahead of your application. You will save yourself time and heartache if you fully understand your budget and finance options before you begin shopping for a home or car. Make plans to speak with a mortgage broker or other finance professional several weeks before looking at homes or hitting the road for a test drive.
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Maintaining Healthy Credit As complex as your credit life can be, it’s important to stay mindful about your credit health. Consider your daily credit changes and the potential benefit or detriment of opening a new charge card. Plan to save and pay in full for moderately large purchases, such as jewelry and electronics, so that financing does not
affect your credit utilization. Try to keep all bills current and credit utilization under 30 percent. If you are newly establishing or reestablishing your credit history, speak to a finance professional or counselor about the best way to reach your goals. Your credit score is both a complex and overly simplified representation of you.
CREDIT SCORE CONCEPTIONS — TRUE OR FALSE?
3
Credit inquiries will lower your score. True, but there are exceptions. Generally, when your score is pulled by an interested party, it will take a “hit” of less than five points. However, when shopping for a mortgage, car loan, or student loan, you will not be penalized for having credit pulled by multiple lenders in a typical shopping time frame of about 14 days. Credit inquiries remain on your report for two years, and studies show that those with six or more inquires on a report are up to eight times more likely to declare bankruptcy than people with no inquiries on their reports. With that knowledge, you can understand how an inquiry might affect your score by a more significant amount if you have a greater inquiry history.
6
The credit report I see on my free report is my actual score. False. There are many different credit score models; each is used for various credit purposes. So, you may have a different score depending on what an organization is trying to glean from the report. The free scores that you can (and should) be reviewing once a year are based on an educational scoring model; whereas the score your mortgage lender sees is based on a lending scoring model. Even when your scores are pulled from more than one credit scoring company, it’s not always your best that is used. For instance, during a mortgage application, your “middle” score will be used – this would be the middle value of a trimerge score, which is where lenders pull your report from each of the three major companies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). And again, considering mortgages, if you have a co-borrower, it would be the lowest of the mid scores of all borrowers that would be used to tabulate qualification and interest rate.
6
I can pay to have my credit repaired. False. Indeed, attorneys at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, say they’ve never seen a legitimate credit repair operation making bold, boastful, or “guaranteed fix” claims. Instead, they suggest seeking out a certified credit counselor who can help you make the necessary repairs through education and effort.
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Just as you need to work to maintain grades and your health, it takes effort to keep your credit score/profile up to par. Though it may seem complicated to build and maintain a good score, your efforts will pay off in financial savings (lower interest rates) and peace of mind.
HOW GOOD IS YOUR CREDIT? Having a good or excellent score can make securing financing easier and offer you better interest rates, saving you money in the long run.
Excellent: 750 and above Good: 700-749 Fair: 650-699 Poor: 550-649 Bad: 549 and below
Mandy Marger is a local Canton mortgage loan officer for Safe Harbor Mortgage (personal NMLS #1539697, company NMLS #995103, GRML #25780), 4841 Stone Moss Path, Hoschton. 770-364-2913. MMarger@SafeHarborLoans.com, MandyMarger.com
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UNIVERSAL Parenting Tips By Lisa-Marie Haygood
Those who work and [AcademicLife] volunteer in our schools spend a lot of time around parents and children. Over the years, they see many different parenting styles, ideas, and trends from spanking to time-out to bargaining and everything in between. Though each child is unique, and family dynamics are different for everyone, there are a few common do’s and don’ts that can be adopted in all households.
Don’t… •
•
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Be too controlling. Controlling parents can stifle growth and development. Look for approval from
Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
•
•
others. Social media is a great way to share, but remember that you usually just see folks at their best on those sites. Popular parenting does not produce strong, capable children. Try to make your kids happy. Happiness is fleeting. Trying to make your kids happy sets them up to expect that of everyone else in the world, and sadly, the rest of the world is not here to please us. Happiness comes from within. Do things for your children that they are capable of doing for themselves.
Do… •
•
Hold your children accountable for actions and inaction. Forgetting chores, homework, or other responsibilities will not improve without consequences. Teach children to function independently from you. Constantly
•
•
enabling and bailing kids out does not help them learn and grow. Make tough and unpopular decisions. Your child needs a parent, not a friend. Being tough now makes parenting easier later. Pick your battles. If your daughter comes home from college with her hair shaved and dyed a frosted shade of purple, yet she is also an honors chemistry student with straight As and a full academic scholarship, refer to the first “Don’t,” and let that shockingly creative hairstyle go.
No parent is perfect, and no child is either. At the end of the day, if you teach, guide, and love your children, you can be assured that your very best is all anyone is expecting from you.
Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive director for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation. 770-704-4213. CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org
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Procedure - Cut pork skins into 1-inch wide by 12-inch long strips (approximately the size of a ruler). - With a sharp knife, scrape off excess fat from the back side of the skins. -
Ingredients 1-2 pounds of fresh pork skins (Ask your butcher if they carry or can order them for you. Asian and Mexican markets with a butcher shop will be more likely to carry them.) Seasoning of your choice to taste
Bring a large pot of water to boil. For 1-2 pounds of skins, you will need at least 8-12 quarts of water. Add cleaned skins to the water, and return to boil. Reduce to a simmer for 45 minutes-1hour. The skins should turn slightly opaque and have the texture of a large rubber band but should be tender enough to pinch through with your fingers.
- Drain the cooked skins, and while they are still warm, place them in a dehydrator on 180-200 degrees to dry for 6-8 hours (until the skins resemble hard plastic and will snap in half). -
Allow the dried skins to cool in an open container. When dry, the skins will need 5-7 days to equalize before they will cook properly. Leave the dried skins out in an unsealed container, and cover them with a towel for a week before frying.
-
Set a deep fryer to 400 degrees. Once heated, break the dried pork skins into 1-inch pieces and place 3-4 at a time into the fryer. The dried skins will triple or quadruple in size once fried, so do not crowd the fryer.
- Keep the skins submerged with the basket and cook 90 seconds to 2 minutes until fully puffed. - Remove the skins from the fryer, drain the excess oil, and season with salt and pepper, BBQ seasoning, or your favorite spice mix.
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
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Bring on the Bluebirds! By Joshua Fuder
For many, a day in the yard [HomeLife] isn’t complete without sitting on the porch to watch the hustle and bustle at their bird feeders. Various feathered friends flit about in a cacophony of colors and sizes. However, the eastern bluebird is one that marches to its own beat and is not a traditional feeder visitor. There are many reasons to love the eastern bluebird. The males have the distinct, brilliant blue on their wings, back, and tail with a reddish-brown chest. The female is similarly marked but paler in comparison. Their spring and summer diet consists almost entirely of insects like caterpillars, beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers. Perhaps the best thing about an eastern bluebird is its resurgence and survival. Populations fell dramatically in the 20th century with the introduction and spread
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of aggressive species such as European starlings and house sparrows. By the late 1970s, bluebirds were considered rare and uncommon in most of their native range. Conservation efforts and concerned citizens have helped bluebird populations recover and increase. A bluebird box is sometimes all that is needed to bring these beauties to your landscape. They prefer open, grassy areas or meadows with low ground cover. Areas that are open but have a few trees, fences, or utility lines for perching are even better. Things to keep in mind when placing a bluebird home: • Build or buy a home made of untreated wood. The entry hole should be no wider than 1 1/2 inches (round hole) or 1 3/8 by 2 1/4 inches (oval hole).
• •
•
• •
Mount the box so the entry faces east or south. The entrance hole should be at least 5 feet above the ground, preferably on a pole instead of in a tree. Poles should have predator guards, or predator guards made of hardware cloth should be used on the house. Have houses in place by mid-February. Clean existing houses by removing old nests and sanitizing with a 2 percent bleach solution.
Please check out Cornell Lab of Ornithology for downloadable house plans at Birds.Cornell.edu.
Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA. edu/extension/cherokee
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Marriage Is Easy — Divorce Is Hard
Next, what can each individual do to improve? Take accountability – don’t blame your spouse for all the issues. The only person you can change is yourself. See a counselor if you need help, or start with a self-help book. Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages or Dr. John Gottman’s The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work are excellent resources.
Be sure to obtain a credit report to assess your credit standings. Could you prequalify for a mortgage? Consider these issues before you file – not after.
[StrategicLife] Couples must often make
Finally, identify things you’re grateful for. The grass is not always greener on the other side. Make a list of both the good and the bad in your marriage.
Lastly, reach out to an attorney. What are your equitable division, parenting plan, child support, and alimony divorce goals? What are your spouse’s priorities?
If you choose to divorce, planning is key. After completing the “Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit” for each person, determine how two households will be supported with the income currently supporting one household. Is bankruptcy a possibility? Can you afford an attorney? Should you ask family for financial assistance? Will medical insurance or COBRA be available after divorce?
Remember, divorce is not about failure. It’s about better possibilities.
By J. Daran Burns, Esq.
the tough decision to work to improve their marriage or to divorce. For those who choose to work on their marriage, the most common challenge is finances. Start the analysis by completing a “Domestic Relations Financial Affidavit.” This standard family law form is available online. Often, this simple form reveals where problems lie. What steps can be taken to relieve financial stress? If facts are dire, consider reaching out to a financial coach or consult with a bankruptcy attorney.
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
Next, is your spouse considering divorce or dating? Should you hire a private investigator? Has your spouse hired one? Should you terminate all social media until your divorce is final?
J. Daran Burns is an attorney and heads the Burns Law Group. 181 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-956-1400. BASLG.com
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For information on upcoming events, please visit
CherokeeChamber.com
Eagle Business Credit, LLC 615 Molly Lane, Suite 130 Woodstock 678-905-1321 Finance Company
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Canton Family Life | FEBRUARY 2019
SpeeDee Oil Change, Tires & Auto Care
3058 Eagle Drive Woodstock 770-591-1999 Automobile Repair & Service Center
Chick-fil-A
6114 Hickory Flat Highway Canton 678-493-0091 Restaurant
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The Reason
for Suffering By Pastor George Anderson “The [InGoodFaith] people did not turn to him who struck them; they did not seek the Lord of hosts,” (Isaiah 9:13). I think that one of the toughest questions that pastors are asked is, “Why do people suffer?” One reason is that we live in a broken world, and we are the ones who broke it. God created a perfect world, but man rebelled. The result was that all creation was subjected to “futility” and “the bondage of corruption,” (Romans 8:20-21). The
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Law of Thermodynamics is the principle that everything in the physical universe is winding down. Since the Fall, this has been happening; the world is literally decaying at our feet — and us with it. Things die. People die. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Sin entered the world, and death by sin,” (Romans 5:12). So, there are physical consequences of the Fall, but there are also spiritual consequences. There is a spiritual war raging between the forces of light and the forces of darkness, between good and evil. At least three times, Jesus called Satan “the ruler of this world,” (John 12:21; 14:30; 16:11). His purpose is to “steal, kill, and destroy,” (John 10:10). He is a bad ruler who makes bad things happen.
But Isaiah tells us another reason why we suffer. Sometimes bad things happen to us as a result of God’s direct intervention in our lives. The Israelites were a prime example. They had turned from worshipping the living God to worshipping idols. Initially, God sent prophets to warn them and call them to repentance. But they resisted God’s appeals, stiffened their necks, and refused to obey. Had God abandoned them to continue in this direction, they would have destroyed themselves. But God loved them too much for this, so he “struck them.” Sometimes God has to strike us to get our attention. But this suffering is a blessing if it brings us back to God.
Dr. George Anderson is pastor of Rising Hills Church, 3635 Univeter Road, Canton. RisingHillsChurch.org
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The Arbor at Bridgemill
Cover, 24-25
Arranged To Eat
45
Budget Blinds of Canton
23
Bug You No More
12
Burns Law Group
19
Canton Driving School
12
The Carpenter’s Shop
Inside Front
Chamberhouse Fine Gifts
45
Cherokee Charter Academy
15
Cherokee Children’s Dentistry
41
Clearview Windows and Pressure Washing
40
Crabapple Medical Center, P.C.
31
Dentistry at Hickory Flat
37
Dr. Fixit, Ph.D.
23
DV Pediatrics
5
The Falany Performing Arts Center
27
at Reinhardt University Fun Finds and Designs, LLC
43
The Goddard School
21
Goin’ Coastal
27
Guns and Hoses 5K
41
Healing Hands Youth Ranch
48
J. Michael’s Prime
12
Junk Drunk Jones
45
Jyl Craven Hair Design
33
Kenny Phelps for County Commissioner District 3
21
Keys Jewelry
44
Killian Automotive
3
LaVida Massage
43
LGE Community Credit Union Maple Leaf Lawn and Landscape Marsha Malone Farmers Insurance Masterpiece Framer
1 41 5 47
Medical Associates of North Georgia Miracle Method of NW Atlanta Northside Cherokee Pediatrics Northside Heart
3 32 13 Inside Front
Northside Sports Medicine Network Northside Vascular Surgery
7 Inside Back
The Oak House
40
Outdoor Living, Indoor Comfort, LLC
30
Paula’s Zzerts
44
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
6
and Dentistry at Canton Plastic Surgery Center of the South Queenie’s Reinhardt University
3
Suite Six Venue
Inside Back
Tecali Grille
31
Three Sisters Gifts
45
Tour of the Southern Highlands
46
WellStar Health Systems
48
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