Canton Family Life 3-17 by Family Life Magazines

Contents

March 2017

Volume 4 | Issue 8

32-33 On the Cover:

Jan Rooney State Farm

38-39

To Protect and Serve: Dogs That Take a Bite Out of Crime

49-50

Buying a House? What to Consider

[32-33]

[38-39] [49-50] 2

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

.......................... Perspective

.............................. Calendar

....................... Business Life

..................... Canton Minute

........................ Capitol Ideas

............... Community Partner

......................... Taste of Life

............................ Quotables

......................... Artist Profile

........................ Book Review

.............. Main Street Canton

.................... Ribbon Cuttings

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Publisher’s Perspective

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com ART Candice Williams Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com Laurie Litke Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com

We never grow wiser from being lucky. We grow from hard work, determination, preparation and perseverance. Being alert, taking more chances and being ready to recognize and take advantage of your opportunities is what manifests “luck.” With any luck at all, we’ll be happier, better and more fulfilled when we all realize just how lucky we are to be celebrating life each day. In the words of Mother Teresa, “Life is Luck.” Wishing you the best this day.

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 150 North Street, Suite A 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 25,000, direct mailing over 23,000 copies to Canton, Sixes/ BridgeMill, Holly Springs and Hickory Flat. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors 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.

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

e r ec y c

Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

What is “luck” anyway? In searching the origins of this mysterious, non-thing “luck,” I find it odd there was no luck before the mid-fifteenth century, and oddly, history tells us that much of what we know about life back then didn’t seem so lucky for most, but luckily for us, many had the determination and ability to overcome their trials and tribulations. We hear people wishing for luck to be good, wanting more, praising it, thanking their lucky stars, admiring their own or coveting the luck of others. We envy the perception of “lady luck’s” presence or admonish the existence of her nasty twin, “bad luck.” However, some believe bad luck isn’t anything but the absence of good luck or “luck” in general, right? That’s why, personally, I cannot wrap my head around the whole “luck” thing.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Atlanta Hand Specialist, Paul Bodrogi, Amy Bradley, Cyndi Braun, Michael Buckner, Mary Kay Buquoi, Rep. Wesley Cantrell, Rick Cheney, Jyl Craven, Ashley Donnelly, Joshua Fuder, Pat Gold, Corey Harkins, Paige Harriss, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Norman Hunt, Vicki Knight-Mathis, James E. Leake, Robbie Matiak, Scott Merritt, Tim Morris, Anthony Musarra, Vishant Nath, Michael Petrosky, Lee Padove, Brandi Price, Rachel Sprouse, Matthew Thomas, Katie Wise, Farris Yawn

m ag a zi

arch is upon us; the early blossoms are sprouting from their twiggy branches, and the fields are greening with lush grasses and young clover. Soon, my backyard will be hopping with rabbits, and a few young deer will eventually appear and provide quick sprints of joy for my dog, Riley, each time she steps out for a walk. One of my simple pleasures is relaxing in a cool pad of clover, reflecting on my day and enjoying the new evening sun after a day on Main Street. After a few years of running my fingers through many hundreds of clusters of clover in my yard, I have resigned myself that there are none of the four-leaf variety taking up residence there. Truth be known, I feel lucky even in their absence, which has me generally questioning this whole “luck” thing.

Ple

SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com

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Calendar Ongoing A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group — This group is open to persons affected by PSP, CBD, MSA and related brain diseases and includes patients, caregivers, family members, etc. Meetings are the third Sunday of each month. RSVP to Rick Wolter at Sbr4Psp@ gmail.com. 2:00-4:00pm, Resurrection Anglican Church, 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 954-830-7274. Sbr4Psp@ gmail.com

MARCH Through Doughboys and the Home Front: April The Great War in Cherokee County — This exhibit honors the centenary of World War I and focuses on the United States’ entry into the war and Cherokee County’s contribution specifically. Wednesday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am3:00pm, Historic Marble Courthouse, 100 North Street, Suite 140, Canton. 770-3453288. RockBarn.org

Play in Canton Day — Adult and student fitness games and programs of all kinds will be highlighted, and there will be music, food trucks and free bounce houses. This event is also BYOB (Bring your own bike!) to encourage families to get out and be active in Canton’s parks. 10:00am-2:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. Canton-Georgia.com

CCSD Special Education Department Agency Fair — More than three dozen companies and agencies will be present, offering resources from preschool to post-secondary options. 2:00-5:00pm, Cherokee County South Annex, 7545 Main Street, Building 200, Woodstock. 770-7218523. CherokeeK12.net

Passport to Employment — Receive individualized, professional help with résumé building, interviewing tips, soft skills and job search strategies as well as access to mobile career lab work stations. This event is FREE and open to the public. 11:00am-5:00pm, Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, terrace level, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-3450400. CherokeeChamber.com

Agriculture Expo — Visit 39 different agriculture booths, and enjoy commodity foods and drinks. 4:008:00pm, River Church, 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. 770-479-1481. CherokeeAgExpo.info

3-5

2017 Tour of the Southern Highlands Bicycle Stage Race — The Tour of the Southern Highlands Stage Race is the only Pro/Am stage race in Georgia since the Tour de Georgia. There will be live music, food and beverage trucks, kids’ activities and a cornhole tournament. Friday 7:00-10:30pm, Elm Street Event Green, Market Street, Woodstock. Saturday 12:00-6:00pm, Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Sunday 11:00am, Ball Ground. 512-844-6383. TOSHSR.com

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

10-19

Paradise — Finding friendship and experiencing loss in Paradise, an assisted living residence, can be bittersweet. Come see this touching dramedy! This premiere play, written by Thomas Reiser, will be presented by Broadway Bound Productions. Friday/Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 2:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 E Main Street, Canton. 770-720-2698. BroadwayBoundProductionsInc.com

10 & 24

Parent’s Night Out — Drop off your

kids at the pool for a night of fun for both of you! This is for ages 5+, and it includes pool games, crafts, dinner and a movie. 5:30-10:00pm, Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Holly Springs. 678-880-4760. CRPA.net

2017 B.L.A.S.T.T. Drive New Business with Social Media — Presented by Howard Flint, Ghost Partner, this seminar will help you understand the different social media platforms, how to choose what to say and where to say it. It will give you the keys to the most effective social media marketing for you. 11:30am, Chamber of Commerce, terrace level, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-3450400. CherokeeChamber.com

15-17

Reinhardt Contemporary Arts Festival — the Reinhardt Contemporary Arts Festival was created to explore the intersection between the musical, theatrical, visual and written arts in a contemporary setting, while showcasing the talents of Reinhardt’s arts faculty and students. There will be two music concerts, a theatrical production, an art exhibit, several film screenings, public readings and several workshops. FREE! 8:00am6:00pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-7209167. Reinhardt.edu

Cherokee Chorale Presents Glory to God and Country — Concert music of Mack Wilberg performed by the Cherokee Chorale, directed by Jenny Piacente. 3:00pm, Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-439-8625. CherokeeChorale.org

Coffee & Connections — Now that you’ve joined the Chamber, it’s time to get oriented! Coffee & Connections

provides the Chamber’s newest members with the opportunity to learn more about the Chamber, its programs and benefits. Committee activities and volunteer opportunities are highlighted. Attendees also learn about their fellow new members. 9:00-10:00am, Chamber of Commerce Board Room, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton. 770-345-0400. CherokeeChamber.com

Kent Rader, “World’s Cleanest Comedian”— This is a onenight-only show, where Kent presents his thoughts on life, marriage and hunting! 7:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 E Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonTheatre.com

24 & 25

The King’s Academy Presents

with fellow alumni. Friends of Reinhardt are welcome and invited to all events. For more information or to RSVP, please visit the website or call. 10:00am, Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-5600. Reinhardt.edu Disney’s The Little Mermaid — Based on the Danish fairytale of the same name by Hans Christian Andersen, The Little Mermaid tells the story of a beautiful mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human. Friday 7:00pm, Saturday 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Cherokee Arts Center. 94 North Street, Canton. 770704-6244. CherokeeArts.org

Reinhardt University Spring Alumni Day — The day promises to be fun, interactive and inspirational, as families gather to honor and reconnect

Once Upon a Dive-in Movie — Come to the indoor pool for a night filled with floating and movie fun. Floats will be available for use, or you can bring your own noodle or clear inner tube. 6:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. 678-8804760. CRPA.net

Canton Elementary Triple Crown 5k/Fun Run Version 2.0 — Proceeds from this race will go to the Canton Elementary PTA. Packet pickup continued on

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Library Events

Calendar continued from page 7

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 Pkwy., Canton, 770-479-3090 Music March Madness March 13, 6:00-7:15pm, Hickory Flat Celebrate your love of music during an evening of fun activities. Teens will vote for their favorite music artists throughout the program. Who will win the Music March Madness? Light refreshments will be served. This program is for 6th-12th graders. Women’s History Month Lecture March 13, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Dr. Karen Owen, a local Reinhardt University professor, will speak about her recently published book,Women Officeholders and the Role Models Who Pioneered the Way. Paranormal 201: Scientifically Understanding the Unearthly March 14, 6:00pm, Ball Ground The Georgia Paranormal Investigators present this program. Team members will share their methods, mission and evidence captured during their investigations. All ages are invited to attend, but children ages nine and under must be accompanied by an adult. Celebrate Fly Guy March 15, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones Kids 4-7 are invited to hear a reading of a Fly Guy book, play games, enjoy themed activities and to make their own Fly Guy to take home! Registration is required. Women’s History Month Film March 16, 3:00pm, R.T. Jones Enjoy a film about a UCLA graduate who is hired to teach art history at the prestigious all-female Wellesley College in 1953. Determined to confront the outdated mores of society and the institution that embraces them, she inspires her traditional students to challenge the lives they are expected to lead. Virtual Reality is Out of This World! March 16, 3:30-5:30pm, Hickory Flat Explore the final frontier using a virtual reality system. There will also be space-themed crafts and activities. All ages welcome. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Spring Time Creation Station March 20, 4:30-6:30pm, Hickory Flat Learn how to create your own birdhouse and paper flower bouquets! All materials provided by the library. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Everything Disney Scavenger Hunt March 20, 6:00-7:15pm, R.T. Jones Teens will need to use their knowledge of their favorite Disney movies to solve puzzles and reach the end of this scavenger hunt. This is for 6th-12th graders. What Makes a Healthy Woman? March 21, 4:00pm, R.T. Jones A local WellStar Health System representative will be teaching us all about what makes a healthy woman. Paper Airplane Science March 22, 4:30-5:30pm, R.T. Jones Kids ages 8-12 are invited to come for a paper airplane STEAM program. Experiment with making different airplane styles then measure to see which flies farthest. Registration is required. Composting 101 March 23, 12:00pm, R.T. Jones Josh Fuder (UGA Extension — Cherokee County) will cover the science behind composting, how to compost and solutions for common composting problems. If you’re interested in starting your own composting bin, bring a 10-18-gallon container — no worms available, but bedding will be available while supplies last. DIY Friday March 24, 11:00am-12:00pm, R.T. Jones Repurpose recyclable materials to make a little snack shack for your winged friends. Materials to make bird feeders, including recyclables, will be provided. While all ages are welcome, an adult must accompany children. Reservations are required. Weird Science March 29, 4:00-5:00pm, Hickory Flat Learn how to make your own optical illusions and science experiments using everyday items! This program is for children 9+. Registration is required.

begins at 7:30am, Canton Elementary School, 712 Marietta Highway, Canton. 404231-1772. CherokeeK12.net/cantones/

The Barefoot Movement — Heralded by CMT Edge as “one of the most promising bands on the bluegrass scene,” the music of the Nashville-based group The Barefoot Movement is as down-to-earth as their intention for members of their audience: sit back, relax, take your shoes off, and stay a while. 7:30pm, Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt.edu

3/31 & 4/1

Classic Movie Nights — A tribute to Debbie Reynolds, Singing’ in the Rain on March 31st and The Unsinkable Molly Brown on April 1st. 3:00pm and 7:00pm, Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonTheatre.com

APRIL

It’s a Wibit — Visit the aquatic center for Sunday Wibit days. No extra fee, just your normal daily admissions. Children must be able to pass a 25-yard swim test to use the Wibit. 1:00-5:00pm, Cherokee Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. 678-880-4760. CRPA.net

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce’s Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast This meeting offers both current and future Chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. 7:00am, Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 770345-0400. CherokeeChamber.com

Canton First Friday — Canton’s monthly block party, featuring live music, food and good times! April’s theme is “Cadillacs and Blue Suede Shoes.” 6:009:00pm, Canton Historic Downtown Loop. 770-704-1548. CherokeeChamber.com

Business Small Business of the Year Award

The Cherokee

County Chamber of Commerce recently announced its

Small Business of the Year Award, its Excellence in Customer Service Award, its Volunteer of the Year Award and its Hustle Award.

Autumn Hill Nursery received this year’s Small Business of the Year Award. They are the epitome of a business that started on a shoestring, just like so many American dreams, and they consistently put in the hard work to make their business succeed. 2017 marks their 25th anniversary, and despite the recent downturn in the economy and so many nurseries closing, they continued to succeed and grow. They have a unique atmosphere, with a very dedicated staff that is passionate about gardening and helping their customers learn to garden better. Their motto is “Garden for Life,” and they put their efforts behind it.

GrassRoots Tree & Turf Care received this year’s Excellence in Customer Service Award. Customer service is their main focus because their reputation depends on it. Customers expect more and are quick to share negative experiences with others. Their employees are continually trained, learning of the company’s

Customer Service Award

products and services in great detail.

The Moye Tea Co., an online tea shop

Employees are also schooled on

for over two years, will be selling their

communication skills and how to

specialty teas and creating delicious,

meet the diverse needs of customers,

customized blends in their own brick-

as no two customers are alike. The

and-mortar location called Steep

exceptional employees make all the

House, which opens this April in historic

difference at GrassRoots. The technicians are not compensated on production like

Tea

downtown Canton, at 198 North Street.

other companies in the industry; they are compensated on results. This allows the techs to take time to go the

Steep Tea will serve breakfast, brunch

extra mile and take ownership of

and lunch, with a full-service tea bar with

each project.

alcohol-infused Teagrias and more. High tea times will be available during week

Volunteer of the Year Award was

days. Special parties and events can be

presented to Russ Phillips with

scheduled by reservation by emailing Lyn@

TransAmerica Financial Advisors, as he best-

moyetea.com. Steep Tea will also have a retail shop with many of their teas and

exemplified on-going dedication

accessories for sale to take and enjoy at

throughout the past year as a

home.

Chamber ambassador while contributing dozens of volunteer hours on the Chairman’s Council. Volunteer of the Year Award

Janet Ponichtera with Family

Life Publications received the Hustle Award for her outstanding attendance at Chamber events

during 2016. “Janet attended more events than I did, and in my role as board chair I didn’t miss many events,” shared outgoing Chairman Steve Garrison. “Her dedication to the Chamber is appreciated, and I’m honored to present her with this award for going above and beyond.”

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

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satisfying the City’s fire and development codes.

CantonMinute

Permits and Approvals: They’re a Serious Matter By Matthew A. Thomas

It is tough to say, “Bring your business to Canton,” only to lead prospective investors into a tangled web of insensitive and confusing approvals and permits. That is why the City labors continuously to streamline its permitting process and simplify understanding of requirements for approvals. In case you want to understand Canton’s codes prior to getting into a project, the City’s Unified Development Code is viewable online at Canton-Georgia.com or SelectCanton.com. For those who may be undertaking a startup business venture, there is also “A Guide to Starting a Business in Canton” available on both websites to walk you through the steps necessary to open a business from idea to ribbon cutting.

any people have heard horror stories of the government being difficult to work with because they take forever to get things done. Many a contractor, builder and business owner can tell of their frustrations with getting permits for their business or project. While some of these horrific accounts may be true, most are exaggerated. The incredible people at the City of Canton set high expectations of themselves and the services they provide. But let’s face it, there is no getting around acquiring the proper permits necessary for certain types of work to be done. Permits are a necessity — rightfully so. In most cases, commercial renovations and structural changes require a permit of some kind. This is true for most municipalities. Fortunately, Canton’s customer-friendly staff has the knowledge and experience to promptly answer questions and assist anyone who needs information about our building, fire and development codes.

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

While we know that abiding by codes and obtaining permits seems like added work, especially for first-timers, they serve the vital and most important purpose of protecting occupants, owners and precious dollars invested into a building or space. Obtaining a building permit promises the safety of your building. Permits are required for new buildings, new building additions, renovations, electrical systems, plumbing systems, HVAC and residential work. Because your business or your home is an investment, you want to make sure your construction project complies with the City’s building codes. Similar importance can be written of

Building permits and the subsequent approvals attached to the issuing of each permit are necessary measures the City takes to ensure the safety and stability of your investment within City limits. This also gives property owners a strong sense of security that their building is safe and less likely to cause injury to any future occupants. As always, feel free to call if you have any questions regarding the importance of permits and approvals. All permits and approvals are scheduled and obtained at Canton City Hall, 151 Elizabeth Street.

Matthew A. Thomas is the economic development manager for the City of Canton. 770-704-1516. Matthew. Thomas@Canton-Georgia.com

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How to Make the Most of Your

By Katie Wise

LIFESTYLE Tax season is here again. For many of us, that means a nice tax refund. But before you dash off with your tax return or start making plans to spend your refund, here are some thoughts to help you get the most out of it:

Contribute to you IRA (or open one!). There is no better savings vehicle than an individual retirement account (IRA). If you have a traditional IRA, you can contribute up to $5500 before April 15th, and give yourself a nice boost to your tax refund ($5500 is the max if you’re under age 50, $6500 if you’re age 50 or over). If you contributed to a Roth IRA, you may be able to claim the retirement savings contribution credit that also lowers taxable income and results in a larger refund check. Don’t have an IRA? It’s not too late. You have until April 15th to open a traditional IRA for the previous tax year. That gives you the flexibility of claiming the credit on your return, filing early and using the refund to open the account.

Use it to improve your financial health. Many people think of their tax refund as a bonus. But actually, this is money that you earned, and it’s wise to treat it as seriously as your paycheck. Here are some smart ways to use your tax refund to improve your financial health:

Create an emergency fund. Many people simply don’t save enough for emergencies. A good rule of thumb is to have enough saved to cover six months of expenses in case you unexpectedly lose your job or are unable to work.

Save for a major appliance. We’ve all had it happen. The air conditioner breaks in the hottest part of summer, or the refrigerator conks out right before the holidays. You can be prepared for life’s unexpected (and expensive) moments with your tax refund!

3. Save for your child’s education. Need I say more? The cost of college tuition rises every year. It’s never too early to start saving. 4.

Reduce credit card debt. Carrying long-term credit card debt is never a good idea. This is your chance to pay it off. If you’ve applied your tax refund and are still carrying a balance, be sure you’re not paying an extraordinary rate. Shop around, and transfer your balance to a card with a lower rate. You can even consolidate your debt with a low-rate personal loan or a home equity line of credit.

Choose direct deposit. By e-filing and choosing direct deposit, your refund will come weeks faster, and you don’t have to worry about it getting lost in the mail.

We work hard for our paychecks, so we want to get the most from each and every penny. Happy tax season, everyone! L

Katie Wise is the Woodstock branch manager at LGE Community Credit Union, 12186 GA-92 #111B, Woodstock. 770-424-0060. LGECCU.org

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Community Feature Applications are now being accepted for the Canton Festival of the Arts, which will take place May 20-21st in Brown Park. The Canton Festival of the Arts features:

Calling All Ar tists and Vendors!

• Artist’s Market with over 75 exhibitors from nine states • Serenity Gardens, which celebrates the art of living well. If you are interested in gardening, sustainability, incorporating nature into your life and all things green, this is the place for you. • Food concessions and a wine and beer garden • An Interactive Children’s Experience offers hands-on art activities. • Live entertainment on the Main Stage • Free parking

For more information, contact the Cherokee Arts Center at 770-704-6244 or CherokeeArts.org.

Cherokee County Educational Foundation Presents 3rd Annual Celebration of Education Gala The Cherokee County Educational Foundation will build upon the success of its past two events, benefitting the Cherokee County School District on March 11th. The black-tie-optional event at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center in Canton begins with a cocktail hour and silent auction at 6:30pm and dinner, awards and entertainment at 7:30pm. The event’s presenting sponsor is Northside Hospital-Cherokee. Since its establishment in 2012, CCEF has awarded more than $205,000 in continued on page 16

Congratulations “7“7 Differences” winner, Melanie Tugman! Congratulationstotoour ourOctober February Differences” winner, Mary Terrian!

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Community Feature continued from page 15

grants to students, teachers and schools. The nonprofit, charitable foundation seeks funding and resources to enrich schools in areas not fully funded in the regular school program. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, raffle with cash prizes and silent auction during the cocktail hour reception, followed by dinner, dessert and the program. The entertainment will be the third annual “CCSD’s Got Talent” student talent show, featuring the best act from each of CCSD’s six high schools in competition for a $1,000 grand prize and $500 runner-up prize. A presentation of the Alumni of the Year Awards will honor one alumnus and one alumna of CCSD high schools for outstanding professional and civic contributions.

First Citizen of Cherokee County Named The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Byron L. Dobbs has been named the 42nd recipient of the First Citizen of Cherokee County Award. A native of Woodstock, and a lifelong resident of Cherokee County (82 years), Mr. Dobbs retired from radio station WCHK in 1998 after forty years and currently works at WLJA 101.1 FM, which he and business associate Randy Gravley own their corporation, Tri-State Communications. Throughout the years, Mr. Dobbs has been involved with many local organizations, and being recognized for his commitment to his community and profession is nothing new for Mr. Dobbs who has been honored by the Georgia Association of Broadcasters’ as Broadcaster of the Year, inducted into the University of Georgia’s Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Daughters of the American Revolution Excellence in Community Service, Cherokee County Proclamation for Byron Dobbs Day, Byron Dobbs Day in the City of Canton, Georgia House of Representatives Resolution for Distinguished Career, Georgia Senate Bill commending his community leadership and the Georgia State School Board’s Beacon Award.

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

LED Bulbs: A Bright Idea! By Rick Cheney LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs are becoming more popular every day. They offer many advantages over standard, incandescent bulbs. Some of the advantages are efficiency, longevity, durability, safety, future proof, as well as versatility and the many different uses for which they are made. LED’s are extremely efficient and can save as much as 90% of the energy used by a comparable incandescent bulb. Since they only use a fraction of the energy that standard incandescent bulbs use, there can be a huge savings on your electric bill each month. Due to the longevity of LED bulbs, you can also expect to save money on bulb

replacement. Additionally, LED bulbs can be used in areas where solar panels are the only power source since they require such a small amount of energy. They typically have a higher initial cost, however, once installed, your money will be quickly recouped with energy savings. LED’s have a lifespan of 60,000 hours. Incandescent bulbs have a lifespan of only 1,500 hours. On average, they last ten times longer than compact fluorescent bulbs and 130 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Many LED bulbs can last for seven years before needing to be replaced. Safety is another important feature of LED bulbs. Even after long hours of being used, they are still cool to the

touch because they don’t put off heat. LED lighting is currently used in a wide variety of industries and applications. It can be found in computers, TVs, the automotive industry, the military, the broadcasting industry and countless other applications. They come in different colors and color temperatures, allowing you to achieve the desired color of lighting in your home more closely. If you are interested in switching to LED bulbs throughout your home, contact a qualified electrical company to help you select the right bulbs; some LED bulbs do not work with dimmers, and some will require special LED dimmers.

Rick Cheney is in the purchasing department at H&H Electric and Security, LLC. 770-735-1136. HHElectrician.com

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Community Feature

Student Athletes Recognized on National Signing Day The students recognized include:

Cherokee HS

Creekview HS

Montrell Washington, football, Samford University (AL); Aaron Knowles, football, U.S. Military Academy- West Point (NY); Jake Alvey, football, U.S. Air Force Academy (CO); Charles Perry, football, Reinhardt University; Kamari Walker, football, Reinhardt University; Braxton Swanson, baseball, Sewanee: University of the South (TN); Andrew Cline, baseball, Covenant College; Ryan Inches, baseball, Cleveland State Community College (TN); Emily Pope, volleyball, Georgia College & State University; Brandon Leftwich, track, Piedmont College; Autumn Bible, softball, Reinhardt University; Alise Hooks, softball, Reinhardt University; Kindell Reeves, softball, Georgia Highlands College. Rachel Chapman, basketball, Brenau University; Brian Davis, baseball, Gordon State College; Connor Dove, baseball, Georgia Highlands College; Josh Horwitz, football, Huntingdon College (AL); Trevor Kolb, football, Tennessee Technological University; Allison Luly, basketball, Belmont University (TN); Bradford Martin, baseball, Washington & Lee University (VA); Michelle McCord, swimming, University of Illinois; Molly Morris, cross county/ track, Georgia State University; Austin Owen, baseball, Toccoa Falls College; Emily Snyder, swimming, University of Missouri; Leah Waagen, soccer, Toccoa Falls College; Jacob Webb, football, University of North Carolina-Charlotte.

Liberty ES Named a 2017 State School of Character â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Only Georgia School Honored! The honor, awarded by the international Character.org nonprofit organization, was bestowed to only eighty schools nationwide. Recipients are considered models of excellence within their states for teaching students to recognize positive ethical and performance character traits and develop them in themselves. Liberty ES now will be evaluated for the National School of Character designation, which will be announced in May.

CCSD Recommended for Continued AdvancED Accreditation

Sequoyah HS Marcelle Butler, volleyball, Howard University (Washington, DC); Katie Williams, lacrosse, Reinhardt University; Olivia Sengstock, lacrosse, Reinhardt University; Kendall Williams, softball, Georgia Highlands College; Dawson Pfost, baseball, Birmingham Southern College (AL); Joseph Cuomo, baseball, Bryan College (TN); Tyler Koprowski, baseball, Trevecca Nazarene University (TN); Amanda Brown, soccer, Life University; Matt Webb, lacrosse, Reinhardt University; Taylor White, lacrosse, Reinhardt University; McGwire Wells, football, Berry College.

To earn AdvancED accreditation, a school district must identify and sustain the implementation of a systemic continuous improvement process and monitor its schools for compliance with five Standards for Quality School Systems: Purpose and Direction, Governance and Leadership, Teaching and Assessing for Learning, Resources and Support Systems and Using Results for Continuous Improvement. AdvancED is the global leader in accrediting schools and universities, and the nine-member team that evaluated CCSD has more than 229 years of educational experience combined.

The school district was rated above the AdvancED network average, which is calculated from evaluations of 32,000 institutions, in all areas assessed â&#x20AC;Ś with an overall Index of Education Quality score of 315.85 out of 400 points and 37 points above average!

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

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By Amy Bradley, MMSc CGC

Genetic testing has become more accessible, but many people still have concerns surrounding the topic. Here are answers to some of the most common questions:

Am I a candidate for genetic testing?

There’s no definitive answer. It isn’t for everybody. But, it can be highly beneficial for some. Genetic counselors help people decide if testing is right for them and what to do with the results. Genetic testing can be helpful for expectant mothers as well as people who have a family history or a diagnosis of cancer or heart problems.

Which cardiac conditions do these tests look for?

Individuals who have a personal or family history of heart problems, including sudden cardiac arrest or death, aortic aneurysm, irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), disease of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) and congenital (structural) heart disease are some of the things that are looked for. Many of these inherited cardiac

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conditions can cause sudden cardiac arrest and death. They can affect anyone of any age, including infants and children. If someone has a personal history of a cardiomyopathy and/or if there is a family history, testing can help determine if there is a genetic or hereditary reason for the condition. Knowing the exact genetic cause in a family can help other family members determine if they, too, could be at a high risk for developing the condition. This helps the family be prepared with information about appropriate screening and symptoms for faster treatment if necessary. Testing is not always the right choice for every family. In those cases, other options are available; one example is an occasional echocardiogram. The ideal scenario is to start with the patient who has the diagnosis. If a patient with a known condition has a gene mutation, then first-degree relatives have a fifty-percent chance of having the same mutation.

How do I know if genetic testing is right for me?

It can be hard to decipher what all of this means and who might benefit from genetic testing. Genetic counselors at WellStar work with individuals — both children and adults — and families to discuss family histories and find patterns of heritable disease. If there’s a compelling reason to test, the counselor will discuss what that information could mean and what type of impact it will have on the patient. Genetic testing is a tool to help people and their families in their pursuit of living the best life possible. It is often covered by insurance.As more is learned over time, information will constantly evolve. When people have questions, it’s helpful to know that genetic counselors are available close to home.

Amy Bradley is a genetic counselor for WellStar Health System, 770-793-7472 or Genetics@wellstar.org

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Capitol Ideas

ompromise is a complicated word. When it comes to religious beliefs, honesty or core values, compromise has a negative connotation. It indicates that a person lacks courage, backbone or resolve. However, when it comes to building a consensus to move forward towards a solution, compromise can be very positive. Such is the case with House Bill 146 — this year’s version of the Firefighter Bill.

The Positive Side of Compromise Firefighter Edition By Representative Wesley Cantrell

You may recall the Firefighter Bill of last year. It was a hard-fought bill that saw hundreds of firefighters crowd the capitol and cheer legislators on, as we passed the bill with overwhelming support in both the House and Senate, only to have the bill vetoed by the governor a few weeks later. This is where the positive side of compromise comes in to play. My colleague, Rep. Micah Gravley, had worked tirelessly on the original bill. After having this bill vetoed by the governor, many of my colleagues would have thrown up their hands and given up, but not Micah. He dug in, got all the parties back to the table and hammered out an impressive compromise that amazed everyone involved. Last year’s bill was a workman’s comp bill. It would have allowed firefighters to file claims when they were diagnosed with certain forms of cancer that are linked to firefighting. They would have had to prove with the “preponderance of the evidence” that their cancer was caused by their duties as a firefighter. Most likely, these cases would have been tied up in court for years, with no guarantee of success and millions of dollars spent on attorneys. This year’s bill is an insurance bill. Under the new bill,

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Representatives Micah Gravley and Wesley Cantrell. firefighters diagnosed with certain forms of cancer will receive a guaranteed settlement of $25,000 or $6,250 depending on the severity of the cancer. There is no litigation involved. The benefits, though modest, are immediate upon diagnosis. It covers both career and volunteer firefighters. After twelve months of continuous service or retirement, the firefighter can take the policy with them and get a tax credit for any out-of-pocket premiums. If the severity of the condition requires separation from the department, the firefighter will receive 60% of their salary for three years. All parties involved in the negotiations of this bill are pleased. Firefighters get a

guaranteed benefit for certain forms of cancer, which they did not have before. Cities and counties are spared the potential exponential cost of a workman’s comp lawsuit. It takes an extraordinary politician with incredible tenacity to think creatively and build consensus to find a solution that is satisfactory to all involved. I am fortunate to have colleagues like Rep. Micah Gravley.

Representative Wesley Cantrell is the young adult pastor at Woodstock Baptist and the State Representative for House District 22, which encompasses parts of Canton, Holly Springs, Woodstock, Ball Ground and Macedonia.

Preventive Maintenance:

Don’t Be a Hot Mess this Summer! By Robbie Matiak

Spring is almost here, and summer will be here before you know it! Before each cooling season, it is recommended that your HVAC systems get professional preventative maintenance. This is the biggest step in helping to prevent major malfunctions in your home’s HVAC system. Preventative maintenance should include a complete system inspection and documented system recommendations to aid in minimizing future complications with the performance and operation of your HVAC systems. Some of the benefits of preventative maintenance include peace of mind for safe operation, return on your investment when purchasing a high efficiency system, reduced repair cost, reduced equipment failures, lower energy bills and extended life of the equipment.

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Your heating, cooling and indoor air quality provider should offer a professional system recommendation, not as a way to sell you something, but as a necessary customer service to ensure the utmost safety and continued comfort for you and your family. The last thing you want is for your family to go into a Georgia summer unprepared and end up with a failed system. There are a variety of products by trusted brands such as Trane®, Rheem® and Honeywell® on the market today. Whether you are looking for a system upgrade, a system replacement or any other indoor air quality improvements, be sure to get a reliable recommendation from a quality professional for your HVAC system — before you are faced with a “hot mess” in the summer months!

Robbie Matiak is a project coordinator at R & D Mechanical Services, Inc. 770-917-1795. RandDMechanical.net

Community Partners March 11th

1:00-5:00pm The Harp Irish Pub

1425 Market Boulevard, Suite 1330 Roswell

March 18th

March 25th

2:00-10:00pm Olde Blind Dog Irish Pub

2:30-11:00pm Guston’s Grille

3300 Cobb Parkway, NW Acworth

March 26th

1:00-4:00pm Amana Academy

285 South Main Street Alpharetta

12650 Crabapple Road Milton

Bald is beautiful, and folks in the beloved peach state have been proving it since 2002, hosting hundreds of St. Baldrick’s Foundation head-shaving events to support childhood cancer research. The funds raised at these events are granted to some of the most promising childhood cancer research facilities in the world, including Georgia’s own Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

St. Baldrick’s events are like a party for good — and you’re invited! Register at StBaldricks.org/atlanta. If shaving your head isn’t your thing, you can still be a hero to kids with cancer as an event organizer, volunteer or donor. See the four leaf clover on this page for local locations where you can get involved.

Childhood Cancer Is a Family Diagnosis. Every two minutes, somewhere in the world, a parent hears the words, “Your child has cancer.” These four words change everything. Suddenly, parents are torn between work, hospital and home, and siblings feel left out and left behind. All the while, the diagnosed child is poked and prodded as their childhood — and sometimes their life — slips away. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Donations to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation fund the most promising childhood cancer research in the world. They work closely with leading pediatric oncologists to determine research priorities, which helps kids of all ages and with all types of childhood cancers. If you’d like to make an immediate impact, visit StBaldricks. org/donate.

Their Life’s Mission is to Fund Lifesaving Children’s Cancer Research. It all started with a dare. Three businessmen challenged each other to shave their heads to help kids with cancer at their annual St. Patrick’s Day party. That first St. Baldrick’s event in 2000 raised $104,000 for childhood cancer research, and the rest is history. Sixteen years later, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation is the world’s largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants, having granted more than $200 million to fund the most promising research to find cures for kids with cancer. And they’re not slowing down. This progress wouldn’t be possible without like-minded supporters holding their mission close to their hearts. People just like you. To learn more about how you can get involved in the fight against childhood cancer, visit StBaldricks.org. 26

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Savor the Moments… ALL of Them

For those of you with high school seniors, things are likely starting to “get real” in your house. College acceptance letters are arriving along with glossy welcome packets from universities and colleges, and decisions must be made. A chapter in your life is coming to a close. New life experiences that do not involve being a parent are in your near future. For most, this is a bittersweet time.

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There may be a voice inside you screaming for a handbrake, some way to stop the inevitable or slow things down, so you can savor these moments. You may be wishing to go back to long nights of sports practices, music classes or dance rehearsals, sitting all day at games, competitions or performances. You would even gladly go back to the days of constantly cleaning up toys and preparing snacks. Those of you who have babies and young children do not yet understand the longing to be back in those moments. When your child is home sick, crying with an earache or whining about having to do something

By Lisa-Marie Haygood

they don’t want to do, a day can feel like an eternity. You are tired.... tired of watching Barney, or The Wiggles after likely being up with them all night. Believe it or not, you will miss those times. Try to really appreciate every single stage of growth. Really look at your child; study their face, and take a few quiet moments to enjoy the noise of weekend pancakes and slumber parties. This will all be gone too quickly. The decisions your child makes will shape who they are, and it is exciting to watch them grow into the person you try to raise them to be. It will also be exciting to see who you become in the process.

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Taste of

by Chef Paul Bodrogi

Cobbler Filling Ingredients: Â˝ ounce softened butter 2 cups fresh blueberries Pinch of nutmeg 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon sugar Juice of 1 lemon 2 ounces water 1 teaspoon cornstarch

(Serves 4)

Cobbler Topping Ingredients:

Cobbler Filling Procedure:

3.5 ounces all-purpose flour

1. Coat 4 shallow ramekins with the softened butter. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and water.

1 ounce granulated sugar 1

3. Gently toss all the remaining ingredients together.

4. Evenly divide the blueberry mixture into the 4 ramekins.

/8 teaspoon baking powder /16 teaspoon baking soda

5. Top the berry mixture with pieces of the cobbler topping.

Pinch of salt 3 ounces cold, unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 2 ounces buttermilk

6. Bake at 375 degrees for about 20 minutes or until the berries start to bubble.

Cobbler Topping Procedure: 1. Combine and sift all the dry ingredients. 2. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks like coarse sand. 3. Stream in the buttermilk, and mix until the mixture just comes together. 4. Set aside.

Paul Bodrogi is a pastry chef, Pastry Live event producer and instructor at Chattahoochee Technical College.

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the Motor Vehicle Administration. They permitted the Clepfish couple to leave “God Is” on their tag.

By Pastor Norman R. Hunt In 1988, Mr. and Mrs. Clepfish, Christian believers in the state of Maryland, applied for their license plates. They wanted to put something on their tag that would be a Christian testimony. So, they requested that their license plate have on it two words, “God Is.” They never imagined they would start the fury that they started. Evidently, some of the citizens of the city where they lived objected to the fact that they had put on their license tag,

“God Is.” Perhaps if they had put some obscenity, or maybe if they had put some crudity, there would have been no complaint whatsoever. But there were complaints because they put two words on their tag, “God Is.” Because of the fury, the Motor Vehicle Administration of the State of Maryland recalled their tag and told them that they could not put the tag on their car. Well, they appealed the case, and the head of the Maryland Department of Transportation overruled the opinion of

Whether you put it on a tag or not, whether the government allows it to be there or not, God Is. The Bible assumes the reality of God. In the book of Genesis, it says, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” The book of Hebrews begins with the statement, “God spoke in times past, and He has spoken in His Son.” There is no attempt in the entire Bible to prove the existence of God. I suppose that means that those who have faith will understand and believe in the existence of God.

Rev. Norman R. Hunt is the pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church. HopewellBaptist.com

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COVER STORY By Cyndi Braun

Your Hometown Agent,

Jan Rooney Here to Help Life Go Right

rying to understand insurance policies is difficult, and thinking about what would happen to your family if you fail to get adequate insurance is terrifying. Still, many of us put off having a conversation with a qualified agent, or we buy something online that sounds good, and hope for the best. Instead, consider having a conversation with Jan Rooney. “G.J. Mecherle built State Farm by selling insurance over a kitchen table,”

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said Rooney. “I want to have a similar connection with people. By having a simple conversation and listening, I help my customers with their unique needs. I am their hometown agent.”

The Personal Touch Since most people no longer have a personal connection with their insurance agent, Rooney’s old-fashioned approach is what makes her agency unique. She combines State Farm’s strength and high technology with her high involvement in serving clients. “In meeting with people,

I ask what’s important to them. When I get that answer, I know their goals and what worries them most, and then I can help them best,” said Rooney. When people buy insurance online, they sometimes choose the cheapest option, which does not provide adequate coverage. “In Georgia, if you don’t get your auto insurance right, and you’re at-fault in an accident, you are at risk of losing up to 25% of your income for 20 years,” said Rooney. “We make sure you are never financially burdened when life goes wrong.”

Some people are afraid to talk about life insurance. Others worry about retirement or paying for their child’s education. Each family has different needs and different worries. By talking it through, Rooney provides peace of mind.

was having, I found a rental truck, then called the claim rep and made sure the insurance company paid for the truck,” said Rooney. “If I hadn’t intervened, he may have gone two days without getting paid while his truck was getting fixed.”

“My job is to educate people and help make sure that if something tragic happens, they are protected,” said Rooney. “We often write life insurance policies, and the next day, the wife calls to thank me and tell me she slept better knowing she and the children would be able to stay in their home, not worry about finances, while they work through their tragic loss.”

The Hometown Agent

Using State Farm products, Rooney creates customized plans based on specific needs and concerns. For example, a family with young children has different life insurance requirements than an elderly couple or a family with a severely disabled child. “Jan is the best insurance agent I’ve ever had the pleasure of doing business with,” said Andrea Sobotor. “She is truly our ‘hometown agent;’ we have auto, home and life insurance through her. She’s even helping us save for our future.” Rooney and her team take extra steps to help clients when they have a claim. Not long ago, a client was in an auto accident while driving his work truck. The other driver was at fault; however, the other insurance company was unwilling to provide the type of vehicle he needed for work. “When I found out the problems my client

“Jan is the best insurance agent I’ve ever had the pleasure of doing business with. She is truly our ‘hometown agent;’ we have auto, home and life insurance through her. She’s even helping us save for our future.”

Besides serving people with their insurance needs, Rooney gives back to the community through: Kindness Revolution — This non-profit business organization raises awareness of values like kindness, leadership and customer services. The program reaches out to young people through school and community events. Good Neighbors Help Campaign — Rooney partners with nonprofit programs (recently Children’s Haven, Stable Moments, Ball Ground Christmas Parade and Toys for Tots), then donates $10 to the nonprofit each time she provides an insurance quote to a prospective customer.

— Andrea Sobotor

Jan Rooney State Farm

Other Community Outreach — Last November, Rooney held a “Chick-fil-A Day” in which she paid $5 for everyone’s lunch and distributed fliers informing people she would give $10 to Children’s Haven for every insurance quote. Mentoring — Rooney is committed to recruiting future leaders. She participates as a mentor in Cherokee County Schools. She also recruits and develops future agents to what she believes is the best opportunity in the country. She plans to develop twenty new agents during her career.

Rooney and her team offer life, auto, homeowners, renters, disability and long-term care insurance. They also offer banking products to clients throughout Cherokee County. Rooney has a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, a master’s degree from Warner University, and she holds a Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriting designation from American Institute for Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters. Over the course of fifteen years, Rooney has worked in State Farm’s underwriting, claims, human resources and recruiting departments.

Jan Rooney State Farm 7768 Cumming Highway, Suite 400 Canton, GA 30115-2984 678-880-8377 JanRooney.com/ Facebook.com/janrooneyagency/?fref=ts

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Medical Care: Cost-Effective, Quality Care —

How Do We Get There? By Vicki Knight-Mathis, M.D. Obamacare is under fire again, and whether you voted for our current president or not, most of us will agree that our medical health care premiums are too expensive, our medical deductibles are too high, copayments are continuing to rise and formularies (covered prescription medications) continue to shrink. So how can we really have affordable, quality healthcare? Education and utilization of sources of care are two major factors. There are currently four sources of outpatient medical care in our community: emergency rooms, urgent

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U R

care clinics, retail clinics and primary care physician’s offices.

designed to provide care for chronic medical complaints. Therefore, if you have to wait days for an appointment with your primary care physician for an acute problem, urgent care is a good option. Although urgent care visits are less costly than emergency room visits, the cost is still up to twice as much as a primary-care office visit.

EMERGENCY

Emergency rooms are obviously for emergencies, so you may be surprised to learn that more than fifty percent of patients seen in emergency rooms are seen for nonemergent problems. Why is that important? Emergency rooms are the most expensive form of care available. The CDC reports 136 million ER visits, which overloads emergency rooms and takes time away from patients with true emergencies, costing an estimated $18 billion.

E N T

Urgent care clinics evolved to serve Americans without access to primary care at night or on weekends. They provide easy access to quality healthcare. Urgent care is designed for acute, non-lifethreatening patient problems that cannot wait until a primary care physician can see them. It should not be a substitute for primary care. Urgent care is not

Walk-in retail clinics are typically staffed by nurse practitioners and/or physician assistants. Physician back up is not available most of the time. Retail clinics are the least costly, but also specialize only in minor injuries and illnesses. Next month, we’ll cover how to select the most appropriate source of care for your child’s acute medical problem.

Dr. Vicki Knight-Mathis is a pediatric physician at DV Pediatrics. 770-704-0057. DVPediatrics.com

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Quotables

“If everyone is rich, then no one is rich. If everyone is happy, everybody is still happy.” -unknown

“Quarrels would not last long if the fault were only on one side.” -Francois Duc de la Rouchefoucauld

“It’s better to be a traveler than a tourist.” -Jack Tuszynski

“A seed grows with no sound, but a tree falls with a huge noise. Destruction has noise, but creation is quiet. This is the power of silence…” -unknown “I sometimes think that people’s hearts are like deep wells. Nobody knows what’s at the bottom. All you can do is imagine by what comes floating to the surface every once in a while.” -Cirkeline

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“When you find no solution to a problem, it’s probably not a problem to be solved, but rather a truth to be accepted.” -unknown

“Privilege is when you think something is not a problem because it’s not a problem that affects you personally.” -unknown “Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.” -Kurt Cobain

“Teaching a man to hate himself is much more criminal than teaching him to hate someone else.” -Malcolm X

“You do not really understand something unless you can explain it to your grandmother.” -Albert Einstein “The only interesting answers are those which destroy the questions.” -Susan Sontag

“Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed. Everything else is public relations.” -George Orwell

by which acid produced by bacteria breaks down the enamel on the tooth surface. If demineralization has occurred and the enamel has been compromised, introducing fluoride to the environment can promote re-mineralization of the surface enamel, thereby working to strengthen an area that has been weakened by the bacteria.

Sodium Diamine Fluoride! By Vishant Nath, D.M.D. Fluoride has long been used as a tool to fight against tooth decay. Fluoride is especially important for children. This is because it creates an environment where better quality enamel is formed on the teeth. Fluoride works in two ways — preventing demineralization and promoting re-mineralization. Demineralization describes the process

So, fluoride is a great tool to have to protect against tooth decay. It is also applied in a simple, easy manner. With the advances in fluoride varnish, the experience is very manageable for both dentists and patients. The fluoride varnish is simply painted onto the surface. As great as fluoride is, it’s not effective if tooth decay has progressed beyond a minor level. There is another tool that dentists can use to stop a cavity in its tracks. It is called sodium diamine fluoride (SDF). SDF has the same easy process to apply as fluoride varnish. The dentist paints it onto the surface of the

decay. SDF reacts with decay, preventing it from advancing, and it also kills the bacteria causing the decay. SDF will blacken the brownish decay on a tooth, arresting decay. For this reason, it is most accepted by parents for use on areas that are not as visible, such as the back molars. It’s a great option for primary teeth as an alternative to any sort of drilling or sedations that might be required for your child if they have significant tooth decay. SDF usage must be determined following a detailed diagnosis of the patient, their risk factors and the depth of the decay. For that reason, it’s not a cure for all. But it’s an awesome tool to have.

Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Alpharetta/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. 678-352-1090. KidsHappyTeeth.com

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ger

By Julie Sen

any of us look forward to having our beloved family dog excitedly greet us at the door at the end of our day, tail wagging, jumping up and down as they look out the window to see us pull in the driveway and emerge from our vehicle. No matter what kind of day we’ve had, we can always count on our dog to be happy to see us, even if it’s just because they need a potty break. There’s a certain level of comfort in that. We rely on our dogs for many things. They help us remain active due to their need for walks and playtime; they alert us when someone is in 38

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our yard or at the door; they comfort us when we’re sick, sad or upset by snuggling up to us or allowing us to pet them until we are calm. But what if we had to rely on them to save our life or the lives of others? There are dogs that are trained to do just that, among other things. K-9 Yup is a 29-month-old German Shephard who was actually born in Germany then raised in Holland from the time he was three months old until he was sixteen months old. In Holland, K-9 Yup was trained in initial obedience, initial patrol work (bite work, aggression training, handler protection/defense) and other areas

of K-9 training. He then made his way to the United States in early 2016 to become Rob Columbo’s security companion/partner. Rob and K-9 Yup work for a private security agency that supplies K-9s nationwide. When Rob first acquired K-9 Yup, they went to Indiana for a sevenweek training program, which would allow Rob the opportunity to learn everything he could about his new partner. But the training doesn’t end at the conclusion of the seven-week program, “K-9s must be trained on daily basis, and they and their handlers have to be certified once a

year,” Rob stated. “From the moment a dog starts training, training lasts until the dog is retired, due to age or medical conditions, or until the dog is taken out of service.” According to Rob, “There is a very distinct, in-depth and intense process when it comes to training police or security dogs.” It starts with a detailed, selective breeding process, where two previous service dogs, two dogs with a service-dog blood line, or two dogs that have strong service/police dog traits are mated. After the puppies are born, they are put through several basic evaluations, which progressively get more complex. Police/security dogs must have a strong level of perseverance. “They must have a high desire to find and locate things, coupled with a drive to hunt, not necessarily for prey, but hunt for people, objects and other materials,” Rob said. Police/security dogs can be trained to do many different things; they can track subjects, sniff out bombs or illegal drugs, find articles and evidence and protect their handlers among other things. One of the things K-9 Yup is certified to do is protect and defend his handler. If a

dog is handler-protection-and-defense certified then “they are trained to protect and defend their handler with or without a command to do so; basically, K-9 Yup reacts to intense or hostile situations and goes into protection mode,” Rob explained; “I would trust K-9 Yup to protect me and/or save my life.” So how are K-9s protected on the job? Many are provided bullet-proof vests, and their handlers often have vehicles that are specially equipped for K-9 safety and transportation. “Because of K-9 Yup, my patrol car is outfitted with a kennel, air system, hydration system, heat-sensor system and a door-pop system,” Rob assured. The heat-sensor system indicates when the vehicle gets too hot for a dog to remain in the vehicle. Rob continued by explaining that:

deploy K-9 Yup at a moment’s notice. I have a remote control that I carry in my vest that will automatically open the door and let K-9 Yup out to come assist me in any ongoing situation. There is not a specific retirement age for police/security dogs, as it largely depends on the type of job each dog is trained to do as well as their physical structure and mental capacity. “I probably will not work K-9 Yup much past eight or nine years old,” Rob stated; “at which point, I will be able to keep him as a pet, and we will get old, fat and happy together in our golden years!”

If the vehicle gets too hot, it will sound alarms, roll down windows and activate a window fan that is installed on the vehicle especially for K-9 Yup in his kennel. The door-pop system is in case I get into a fight or situation where I need to

“We

rely on our

ings dogs for many th e had … But what if w to rely on them to our life or the

save

lives of others?”

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Preeclampsia

Can Threaten Expectant Mothers Beyond Childbirth By Dr. Lee B. Padove One of the biggest challenges of preeclampsia during pregnancy is detecting this nuanced disorder. That’s because, sometimes, preeclampsia can show no obvious symptoms. A prenatal lab examination can detect elevated urine protein levels, which is an indication of preeclampsia. Other symptoms can include severe headaches, vision changes, swelling, severe breathing issues and even seizures (eclampsia). Early-symptom detection is important for improving the odds of a safe pregnancy. When suspicion of preeclampsia exists, a thorough evaluation may include hospitalization, so health care providers

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can more closely monitor the mother, baby and placenta. The treatment for preeclampsia is the baby’s delivery. If only mild preeclampsia exists and both baby and mother are doing well, it is ideal to deliver after 37 weeks. If there is a threat to either the baby’s health or mother’s life, delivery is scheduled earlier. However, the effects of preeclampsia do not necessarily end after pregnancy. If a woman has preeclampsia during pregnancy, she has a higher risk postdelivery for developing blood pressure problems, high cholesterol, diabetes, along with stroke and heart disease.

Women who experienced preeclampsia during pregnancy are at nearly double the risk for heart disease or stroke in the subsequent five to fifteen years. Women who have had severe preeclampsia may have a greater than six-fold risk. It is important that women who’ve experienced preeclampsia embark on a healthy lifestyle path and follow preventive measures as well as continued screening for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and premature heart disease. For recommendations specific to you, continue regular checkups with your primary care physician or cardiologist.

Dr. Lee B. Padove is a board-certified cardiologist at Northside Hospital. 404-303-3320. Northside.com/ maternityresources

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On advising artists, Ed says, “Just let it fly, man.” He believes you limit yourself when you stick solely to what you’ve been taught. Ed thinks breaking barriers and doing what makes you happy is important. Another key aspect of Ed’s art is that he doesn’t create for mass selling. Ed says, “I create what I want to create. If you don’t like it, it’ll go home with me.” Although, that’s not to say he doesn’t love for his art to make people happy. He explained that, “I just love doing things for people. I just enjoy it. It’s not about money to me. It’s just fun. I love to see people happy. I love to see the enjoyment. I love to hear the laughter when they’re coming through here.” Ed has found continued success with his work all over the state, selling and making commissioned pieces. His piece, Hula Hoop Girl, can be seen in Woodstock’s Elm Street Sculpture Garden. He’s even shipped a piece as far as Utah. Though Ed advertises little, you can find him on Facebook, and make a worthwhile visit Ed B’s Studio 54.

ArtistProfile by Brandi Price

pon entering Ed B’s Studio 54, you’re immediately intrigued by this nontraditional art gallery. As you look around, you’ll get a sense of the owner’s talent and creativity. At a young age, Ed Brackin left Charleston, SC to explore the country. Eventually, he settled in Georgia and opened his thriving art studio, Studio 54. For thirty years, Ed has worked for a fire protection company and has always loved creating, but he became intentionally artistic three years ago.

After purchasing and renovating the dilapidated studio property, Ed was eager to learn to weld. Upon learning the craft, he and his daughter began exploring the local scrap yard every Saturday morning, finding treasures to create metal sculptures. Once he completed some of his unique, folksy pieces, Ed decided to enter his first art contest at Hartsfield Jackson Airport, and his piece, Sax Man, took “Best of Show.” Ed was “tickled to death.” Channel Two Action News was even present to broadcast his greatest artistic moment. The inspiration for Ed’s work is both his community and an overactive, highly creative mind. After mastering steel, Ed wanted to do stained glass, so he created a glass room at his studio, which has also been successful. After glass, Ed moved on to pottery and casting, where he molds people’s hands, feet and bodies. Ed is adamant about incorporating the unexpected

Facebook.com/edbstudio54/

Brandi Price is a student in the MFA creative writing program at Reinhardt University. 770-720-5582. Reinhardt.edu/Graduate/MFA-CW/

in his work, as he is tired with the often-overdone themes of nature and landscapes. Ed likes to surprise, and he loves when people are shocked by the pieces throughout his studio gallery. Not only does he generate pieces for Studio 54, but it houses almost twenty local artists, along with his own personal finds. New pieces arrive frequently. WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

“For millions of Americans, having thicker hair may seem like a farfetched dream.” moisture, allowing it to remain plump and hydrated. After blow drying, finish with a texture spray to help build more volume and enhanced definition.

Make Your Fine Hair “So Fine!” Again By Jyl Craven If you could wave a magic wand and instantly have thicker hair, would you? For millions of Americans, having thicker hair may seem like a farfetched dream. But achieving this dream may not be as difficult as you think. For many of us, our hair is the one thing on our body we wish could be a little “fatter.” Here are three styling tips that will plump up your hair to make it “so fine!” again. LIFESTYLE

Shampoo for Success Start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, as these are musthaves for fine hair. Volumizing cleansers are the choice for most women with finer hair because they are very lightweight, remove oils and product buildup, revitalize the scalp and clean the hair. Some professional volumizing shampoos 44

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can enhance the thickness of the hair strands by expanding the cortex, thus providing amplified volume. Others deposit thickening polymers that create a coating around the hair, creating more body. After shampooing, you’ll want to use a towel to remove as much moisture as possible, as this will allow for maximum effect from your product regimen. Cocktail Party No, we’re not talking about a girl’s night out, but a hair cocktail that is sure to give your blow dry a fine boost. Before blow drying, start with a root spray to stimulate circulation, create texture and add volume. Follow with a volumizing mouse that is lightweight and adds body. A mousse containing hyaluronic acid is a great choice, as this mineral helps the hair to attract and retain

Fine Tools You’ve shampooed for success and are ready for your cocktail party, but are you equipped with the proper tools for your situation? To gain maximum volume for your fine locks, you’ll need a brush and blow dryer to compliment your objective. When choosing a brush, look for a vented, ceramic, round brush that contains tourmaline. The ceramic and tourmaline combo will work to provide a quicker, smoother, longerlasting finish. When blow drying, use an air concentrator, and wait until your hair is approximately 70% dry before beginning. Start by sectioning out the hair. Beginning at the bottom section, place your brush on the scalp, and wrap a large section around the brush. Starting at the root of the hair, begin drying while keeping medium tension and working your way down the section to the ends. Having fine hair doesn’t mean you can’t rock your locks. But to achieve an envious style full of body, there are a few things you must do first. Yes, implementing just one of these recommendations will provide some benefit, but why hold back? Go all-in with your fine self, and make your hair “so fine!” again! L

Jyl Craven is owner of Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com

Book Review by farris yawn

here are many wonderful dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, horses, or any other type of pet you can imagine, in desperate need of a forever home. That’s why these two books are important. The History of Homeless Pet School Clubs, by Laura Fritz, tells the story of a well-known veterinarian, Dr. Michael Good, and his search for a way to help the animals he encounters at shelters. Homeless pet clubs teach children about responsible pet ownership and help them get the word out about the great animals available for adoption at local shelters. This book is an excellent way to inspire kids to start their own club! Paw Prints on My Soul, by Deb Gerace, is actually two books in one. The first section is a kid-friendly, photographic journey through Sammy’s and Babycake’s adoption, and their introduction to a new career as therapy dogs. The second half discusses how Deb and her husband, Mike, made the decision to rescue two special-needs dogs and include them in their work with the sick and the elderly. Hopefully, these two books will inspire you to visit your local shelter the next time you are looking for a new family member. If you can’t care for a pet full time, you can volunteer to work with the animals that are waiting for their forever home.

Farris Yawn is the owner of Yawn’s Publishing, 2555 Marietta Highway, #103, Canton. 678-880-1922. YawnsPublishing.com

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Ingredients

(serves 4)

Artichoke Feta Bruschetta:

1 cup artichoke hearts 1 pint of grape tomatoes, halved ¼ cup crumbled feta 1 tablespoon basil, chopped 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or garlic oil for a little extra flavor) ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper

Parmesan-Crusted Salmon:

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1 cup panko bread crumbs, lightly toasted ½ cup of parmesan 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper 4, 4 oz. salmon filets Aged balsamic vinegar to taste

Preparation Artichoke Feta Bruschetta: 1. Toss all ingredients together, and set aside. Parmesan-Crusted Salmon: 1. Combine all ingredients except the salmon and the vinegar. 2. Press salmon into your parmesan crust mixture to coat thoroughly. 3. Pan sear over medium heat or grill to your desired level of doneness and crust is browned. 4. Plate your salmon with your bruschetta, and drizzle with aged balsamic vinegar.

4 Ways to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Phobia By Scott V. Merritt, D.M.D. If your little one is worried about visiting the dentist, there are plenty of ways you can reassure them. Talking them through what will happen at their appointment, discussing any concerns they might have, and setting a good example will all have a positive impact. Your child’s attitude toward the dentist could affect their oral health for the rest of their life, so it’s important to get it right. Read stories about dentists together. Children often learn about the world through books, so this may be a good way to get them familiar with what a dentist does. Pick age-appropriate stories, and look for books with plenty of pictures. Avoid stories where dentists are presented as something negative or scary. Play role-playing games. Some children learn better by doing rather

reassurance. For example, if your child says they’re afraid to be left alone with the dentist, you can say, “Don’t worry; I’ll be there to hold your hand the whole time.”

than by reading, so organizing some dental role-playing games might be helpful. You might surprise your child with a toy dentist kit, and let them pretend to treat you or their other toys. Be sure to offer plenty of positive reinforcement, saying things like, “Dolly feels much better after having her check-up with the dentist, doesn’t she?” Discuss their concerns. If your child is showing signs of fear when the time comes to visit the dentist, ask them why. Once you understand their concerns, you can offer support and

Set a good example. Your child learns from the example you set. If they get the impression that you’re afraid of the dentist, they’re likely to feel scared, too. If you’re struggling with a phobia of dentists, then seeking treatment will help you and your child. In the meantime, try not to say anything negative about dentists while your child is around. If possible, let them sit in on one of your appointments to see that there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Dr. Merritt has been helping families in and around Canton since opening BridgeMill Dentistry on Sixes Road in 2002. 770-704-1812. BridgeMillDentistry.com

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Are you aware that there A high-voltage electrician is what you are two kinds of electricians? Due are accustomed to thinking of when you to the different levels of electricity, think about a guy who works on the the State of Georgia (and all receptacles in your home. If your power others) breaks up goes out but the rest electricians into of your street is still two camps: lowhumming along, it and high-voltage. is the high-voltage They each have electrician that you completely different call. The big mistake requirements and here is that, often, licensing exams. this same guy is hired The way that this to install televisions, breaks down is fix the internet and simple; anything work on the security above 48 volts system. This is a huge is considered error, so it’s important Which One high-voltage, and to understand the anything below 48 difference. Should You Hire volts is low-voltage. for Your Project? While high-voltage While the receptacles electricity deals that the high-voltage By Michael Buckner with only hot, guys attend to are neutral and ground, low-voltage quite possibly the most important wires wiring is drastically different, with in your home, low-voltage is more over twenty different wires to know. diverse in that it encapsulates your

& Voltage High

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Low

internet, security system, cameras, phones, TV, music system, motorized shades, gates, intercom, central vacuum and much more. There are so many different wire types that low-voltage electricians must do their homework before servicing a home because new wires are often available. What’s concerning is that it’s up to the consumer to hire the right electrician for the job. Hiring the wrong licensed electrician will affect your ability to seek legal repercussions if they do a bad job or burn your house down. If it’s receptacles or anything above 48 volts, don’t hire a low-voltage electrician, and if it’s anything lower, don’t hire a highvoltage electrician.

Michael Buckner is owner of Audio Intersection, a provider of audio and video in Georgia. 770-479-1000. AudioIntersection.com

By Ashley Donnelly

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone and a great investment! However, it can also be intimidating and stressful trying to make sure you’re buying a quality home. Having a realtor’s experience and guidance can help greatly with this. They will guide you through the process, make sure you’re protected and ensure you have enough duediligence days to get a thorough inspection. An experienced realtor has also seen enough homes to know the red flags to look for before you must pay for an inspection. Buying resale and new construction are two totally different experiences. Here is what to look for and expect with each:

Resale Homes: One thing to consider when purchasing a resale home is the age of the major components (HV/ AC system, roof, water heater, etc.). The average life span of these items generally ranges from 10-20 years. So, if they’re older but in good, working condition, at least you’ll be prepared and know to budget for possible replacement in the future. In many cases, the seller will agree to offer a oneyear home warranty, which will protect you in your first year if any of these major components give you trouble. A home warranty generally does not exceed $500. In Georgia, it is very important to make sure that the home is termite-free. Usually, the seller will agree to provide a clear-termite letter before closing to make sure there is no activity. A Seller’s Property Disclosure usually tells you anything and everything that the owner knows about the home, and what stays with the home after purchase. Make sure you read this closely, and ask any questions you may have. It could be a big disappointment if you think you’re getting a refrigerator, and it’s not there on move-in day.

Having an inspection is always recommended. A good inspector will point out any major issues that you might not notice on your own. Many times, negotiations can be made to have the seller make repairs or credit the buyer for work that needs to be done. The good thing about due diligence, as noted earlier, is that you can back out with your earnest money protected if anything turns out to be a deal breaker. When doing the final walkthrough, usually a few days before closing, you will want to make sure no major damage or changes have been done since you last saw the home. You also want to make sure that any repairs that you negotiated have been done correctly. Usually, the buying and listing agents keep one another updated on these issues well before the final walkthrough. Contracts generally state that the home should be “broom swept.” In other words, the home should not be full of boxes or garbage, and should be clean enough and suitable for move in. Remember, when purchasing a resale, it’s not always easy to see all the scratches and stains until all the furniture is moved out of the home. Sellers should leave the home the way they would hope to find it, and most of the time, they do. continued on page 50

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continued from page 49

New Construction Homes: New construction is a different ball game, and generally simpler when it comes to the walkthrough. During the final walkthrough, usually a week or so from closing, you will want to make sure everything was completed in accordance to your agreement (colors, finishes, upgrades, etc.). You can look for any scratches, paint touchups, etc. There aren’t usually too many surprises at this point because most of the time, the buyer has been visiting the home during the construction process. It is the buyer’s choice whether to have an inspection or not. With new construction, builders are required to have inspections and code requirements checked and met throughout the entire building process. Most builders offer a warranty, and with the system and components being new, there are usually warranties on those as well.

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Any time you move into a new construction, minor things may come up in the first couple of months you live there. After moving in, buyers should keep a list of anything they notice that might need adjusting, and call their realtor/builder when they have a list of more than just one or two things. Remember, it’s imperative to make sure you go into this process with a trustworthy builder who honors a warranty. It’s important that you are not shy during the walkthrough process. Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you will ever make. Homebuyers deserve a well-built, beautiful home.

Ashley Donnelly is a realtor with Keller Williams Realty Partners/ Woodall Family Realty. 678-230-2911. WoodallFamilyRealty.com

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fake photo, don’t add them. Hackers can create fake accounts to gain access to your information and spread it. A general rule of thumb is to add only people you know or friends of friends.

Social Media Privacy By Rachel Sprouse

n an increasingly digital world, social media has become a part of the fabric of our lives. We use it to make huge announcements, share photos and videos from major events and as a public forum to share thoughts and ideas. But what happens when your information gets stolen or your account gets hacked? To lessen the chance of your private information and personal posts being compromised, follow these tips:

Know your privacy settings. If the account is set to “public,” it’s

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

open for the world to see. Make sure to check each of your social media account’s privacy settings to ensure that their visibility is set up the same way. For example, if your Facebook account is set to “friends only,” make sure it’s the same on Twitter and Instagram. These settings can be changed under any social media account’s settings. Know who follows you. If there’s a friend request from a person you’ve never met or someone with an account that is barely set up and has a

Check your tag settings. Friends can tag you in photos on all platforms, which means any of their friends or the friends of others tagged in the same photo can find your account. Facebook has made it easier to remove and monitor tags, but get to know each social media account’s tag settings. If it’s a photo that shouldn’t be on your profile, contact the person directly, and have them remove your tag from that photo. Think before you post. The Internet is forever. Even if the post is deleted, it can still be found through caching or if a person takes a screen shot of it. If the post is offensive, can be misinterpreted or is something that could come back and hurt you, do not post it.

Affordable Technology Allows You to Enjoy Your Porch or Patio Year-Round! When outdoor enthusiast and equestrian Julie Heinsman bought her small Pickens County farm eleven years ago, one of her new home’s best qualities was a spacious screened-in deck. However, she wanted to be able to enjoy her deck in every season of the year. She searched for a convenient, affordable option for extending the enjoyment of her patio beyond summer mornings and autumn evenings. Lucky for her and savvy North Georgia homeowners, she discovered a solution. As a former executive with Florida-based PGT® Industries, Julie knew the perfect solution: PGT Eze-Breeze® Sliding Panels. Made of heavy-duty (yet flexible) clear vinyl and sturdy aluminum frames, they fit virtually any outdoor space, turning a covered patio or screened-in porch into an adaptable leisure space that can be enjoyed year-round. Eze-Breeze® Sliding Panels are highly customizable — available

in a variety of colors, multiple ventilation styles and optional screens — providing a rare experience in renovation projects. This product will increase the value and your enjoyment of your home, without increasing your stress level or putting a huge dent in your savings. Even better, there’s no construction needed to create your relaxing paradise. Julie founded Outdoor Living, Indoor Comfort to bring this innovative home improvement technology to the area. Her first satisfied customers couldn’t be happier with their new improvements, the speedy one- or two-day installation or the superior customer service they received. With a growing family of clients, Outdoor Living has consistently added new products to meet their needs. If you’re concerned about the view from your deck, the nearly invisible cable railing system is a great

in the

limelight

option, or if your deck is too sunny, you can check out the pergolas. Pergolas are great for providing style and shade. Once your porch or deck is done, Outdoor Living offers a large selection of custom, quality outdoor furniture. With only a three- to four-week turnaround, you can enjoy your new room in no time. For more information or to schedule your free consultation, call 706-301-5698. PGT Eze-Breeze® Sliding Panels from Outdoor Living, Indoor Comfort — SIMPLE, AFFORDABLE and BUILT TO LAST.

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Too Busy

for a Family Dinner? By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

Sitting down to dinner with your family is a wonderful way to recap your day, spend some time together and have some laughs. However, between work, school and extracurricular activities, finding the time to sit down together can be challenging. Here are five ways to make preparing family meals easier. 1. Prepare meals beforehand. Make a lot of a particular dish over the weekend, and serve it throughout the week. For example, make a double batch of a casserole or a big pot of soup or chili, and serve it every other day, so you don’t have to worry about cooking on certain nights. 2. “Cheat” when you cook. Using frozen or pre-cut veggies and other prepared foods is an excellent way to save time when you cook. Also, a slow cooker lets you cook a full meal with less preparation. 3. Keep meals simple. Plenty of fast, easy meals are also delicious and nutritious. The internet has a treasure trove of recipes to suit your family, your wallet, your schedule and your taste buds. 4. Have breakfast for dinner. In a pinch, serve scrambled eggs, toast and fruit. Waffles or pancakes are easy, too. Eating mostly healthy foods is important, but sitting down with your family is important, too. 5. Make dinner as a family. Having help can cut down on meal preparation time. Children can stir and roll out dough, and they can mix the vegetables you chopped into a salad. Cooking together is also a terrific bonding activity.

Mary Kay Buquoi is owner of The Goddard School, 140 Foster Road, Woodstock. 770-720-1311. GoddardSchools.com

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

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Spring is Comingâ&#x20AC;Ś.

Bathing Suits, Tank Tops â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Are You Ready? By Drs. Petrosky, Musarra, Harkins and Leake Have you been considering breast-lift surgery? Are you looking to regain the figure you once had before childbirth, aging or weight loss? Over the years, factors such as pregnancy, nursing, significant weight changes and gravity can all have drastic effects on your breasts. As your skin loses its elasticity, your breasts often lose their shape and firmness. A breast lift can help you regain self-confidence and the figure you deserve. Breast-lift surgery is a procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts. Your breast lift is customized to meet your needs and expectations. The amount of

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

lifting to restore your breasts to your most desired position will vary from patient to patient, as will the level of skin elasticity and the amount of breast tissue in each breast. All these factors will be taken into consideration. If you are planning to have more children, it may be a good idea to postpone your surgery until you are done having children. Your ability to breastfeed may also be compromised. Plus, pregnancy is likely to stretch your breasts again and offset the procedure. Mastopexy, or breast lift surgery, tightens lax breast skin, repositions the nipple and reshapes the breast. If the areolas

(the darker pigmented skin surrounding the nipples) are enlarged, they may be reduced in size. Some breast tissue may also be removed if the patient wants smaller breasts. If larger breasts are desired, breast implants may be inserted to increase breast volume. Breast-lift surgery is usually performed as an outpatient under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The length of the operation varies depending on the complexity. As with any procedure you are considering, make sure your consultation is with a specialtytrained plastic surgeon. Together, you can make an informed decision about Drs. Petrosky, Musarra, Harkins and Leake are board-certified a treatment plastic surgeons at Plastic plan designed Surgery Center of the South. especially for 770-421-1242. PlasticSurgery you. CenterOf TheSouth.net

Things Your Teenager Wishes You Knew,

t’s true. Teenagers are selfabsorbed. In a typical week, they might submit a college essay, score the winning goal in a varsity soccer game and help their friend end a committed, two-week relationship. With such busy schedules, it can become incredibly easy to tune out one’s surroundings. In keeping with this teenage-centric theme of self-indulgence, here are a few things adolescents wish their parents knew. Busy schedules mean big decisions. “Teenagerdom” is a crucial time; decisions such as where to apply to college, what classes to take and who to be influenced by will shape the rest of their lives. In the end, teenagers just want to feel like their parents are empathetic to these stresses. An interview with a friend sums up this sentiment, “You know how parents often say that homework isn’t a big

as Told by a High School Senior By Paige Harriss deal? It’s just a test, it’s not the end of the world? From our point of view, it is. It is that big of a deal. It could be the end of the world.” Ever wonder about abrupt mood changes? Firstly, adolescents do not understand their own feelings much of the time, and constant pressures coupled with occasional mistakes also contribute to outward demeanor. Sharing mistakes means possibly getting in trouble, and the resulting “bottling up” of emotions influences a teen’s comportment. Even their joke or sarcasm might be misunderstood; a common utterance of many teenagers to their parents goes something like this: “I’m completely kidding! I wasn’t insulting you!” Of course, however, a great majority of a teen’s emotions are

a jumbled and chaotic vortex. Perhaps it’s best not to let yourself get sucked in. Disregarding the confusion, the teenage years make for an exciting time. Soon, teens will embark upon an era of complete independence when the lessons they learn from their parents will matter more than ever before. So, while your teen is still at home, take them seriously, yet attempt to understand their occasional sarcasm; give them responsibility while keeping boundaries, and realize their problems are important to them, even if you think their concerns may be fleeting or trivial.

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Canton’s Parks and Trails Welcome Your 4-Legged Family Members

By Pat Gold For most of us, our pets are considered family members, and dogs are often thought of as our children or “fur babies.” Thus, it should come as no surprise that the inability to bring dogs to Canton’s local parks has been an oft-debated issue by many of Canton’s citizens. Seeing a sign that says “no dogs allowed” when you arrive at one of our beautiful parks is not a welcomed sight. When Etowah River Park opened in January of 2015 with the designation of a dog-friendly park, the subject of pets and parks resurfaced. Canton Parks and Recreation Director Tom Gilliam said that he made this park a test case to see how the public responded to having dogs in our parks. It went so well that on July 2nd of 2016, he presented the idea of making all of Canton’s parks dog-friendly to the City Council, as long some rules were observed. After some discussion and deliberation, a motion was presented and passed on July 21st , which allows dogs in all City parks, except Boling Park, and on all trails, with the following rules:

❏ Dogs must be licensed. ❏ Dogs may not harass humans or other animals. ❏ Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet. ❏ Dogs must be kept out of delineated play areas. ❏ Owners are required to remove fecal matter and place it in appropriate receptacles within the parks.

“For most of us, our pets are considered family members, and dogs are often thought of as our children or ‘fur babies.’” This change has made a positive difference in the lives of Canton’s citizens, and it was a direct result of citizen input. Tom Gilliam and the Parks and Recreation Department are proud to have spearheaded the change. Please visit our parks and bring your children — both the two-legged and four-legged kind. We are happy to welcome you!

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Pat Gold is the public outreach manager for the City of Canton. 770-704-1548. Canton-Georgia.com

Family-owned-and-operated business since 1936, servicing all your insurance needs. Automobile Homeowners Renters General Liability Workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Compensation Professional Liability Flood Motorcycle and Recreational Vehicle

121 E. Main Street Canton, Ga. 30114 770-479-4336

www.jonesandcloud.com

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6 Ergonomic Products

for Work and Home By Atlanta Hand Specialist Staff

What does it mean to be ergonomic? Essentially, ergonomic means to be designed for the user, rather than expecting the user to adapt to the product’s design. Ergonomic designs typically put less stress on the user’s physical body, allowing them to work and live more comfortably. They also help prevent repetition-related stress injuries like carpal tunnel and muscle strains.

Make your living and working environments healthier for your hands and body with simple ergonomic products. Some of the recommended ergonomic products include:

Ergonomic Keyboards Because the average office worker spends more than seven hours a day using the computer, ergonomic keyboards can help prevent stress injuries. Ergonomic keyboards are slightly rounded with a break in between the keys in the center of the board. This design works with the hand’s and wrist’s natural resting position to prevent injury.

Ergonomically Designed Computer Mouse Many workers also enjoy using an ergonomic mouse that either doesn’t require rolling or is shaped to fit the natural resting position of the hand. This can help prevent strain on the wrist.

User-Friendly Standing Desk

Ergonomic Kitchen Utensils

With the typical work day lasting 8-10 hours in the United States, it’s vital to find office furniture that supports your physical health. A good ergonomic alternative to the typical desk is the standing desk. This desk allows you to sit or stand, relieving the danger of blood clots and encouraging you to move more throughout the day.

People spend much of their time in the kitchen preparing, cooking and enjoying meals. To help prevent overuse injuries, invest in ergonomic kitchen utensils designed to make repetitive movements carry less strain. From spring-loaded kitchen scissors to easy-grip pots and pans, these simple product changes in your kitchen can help prevent wrist and hand injuries.

Comfortable, Ergonomic Chair Ergonomic desk chairs are available that can provide lumbar support to prevent back strain. They are also made for maximum comfort with specifically designed cushioning to relieve joints. Ergonomic chairs should have an adjustable height, lumbar support and arm rests.

Foot Rests and Lumbar Cushions Cushions and supports are easy additions to your home, office and car that can be helpful in preventing back strain. Although comfortable, many chairs and couches are not ergonomically designed and can actually cause stress to your back and neck muscles. With the proper cushion supports and foot rests, you can enjoy a movie at home without worrying about muscle pain or soreness.

Atlanta Hand Specialist has locations in Canton, Marietta, Smyrna, and Douglasville. 770-333-7888. AtlantaHandSpecialist.com

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Edible Landscaping: Fill Your Dinner Plate and Create Better Curb Appeal at the Same Time! By Joshua Fuder Edible landscaping is the practical incorporation of edible plants into the traditional home landscape. An edible landscape can range from the incorporation of just a few plants with culinary value to the entire outdoor space. Here are some things to consider before incorporating edibles into your landscape: Design and Function Most vegetables and herbs will need

at least six hours of sunlight and welldrained soil. The soil nearest the home may require some amending to have success. Consider starting with a list of plants your family enjoys eating, and then learn how they will grow in your landscape. Some plants are harvested once and others over weeks or months. Plant things that require more attention and harvesting in areas that are easily accessible. Texture and Color Rainbow chard, purple mustard, kale and lettuce can all add dramatic effect with their foliage and mid-rib color variation in cool-season plantings. For texture in cool seasons, try parsley, dill and fennel. Calendula and Nasturtium are both warm-season, edible flowers that can add color to salads, and Nasturtium leaves can be used in pesto. Ground Cover Thyme, oregano, winter savory and strawberries make great evergreen

ground covers. Sweet potatoes, squash and melons will also work in the summer months. Shrubs At maturity, blueberries will make a suitable hedge and good replacement for hollies. Pomegranate and figs will grow with little maintenance and add interest through foliage and fruit. American hazelnut is a deciduous shrub/small tree that also grows well in our area. Herbs, like rosemary and garden sage, are evergreen and exceptionally fragrant. So, with careful consideration, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a healthy, colorful plate of edible plants to enjoy year-round, and you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even have to leave home.

Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. Contact the UGA Extension office for any gardening assistance, 770-721-7830 or CAES.UGA.Edu/ extension/cherokee

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Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

Senior Transportation LIFESTYLE Senior transportation in Cherokee has been a long discussion since my arrival in July 2015, but I know it has been an ongoing issue before my arrival. Cherokee Area Transportation System (CATS) provides the transportation for most senior center trips and various appointments within the county. They are a hardworking group that assists seniors as well as the general public. Senior Services receives some requests that CATS is unable to fulfill because of the time of day or location of the destination. We have seniors who need a ride late in the evening or to a doctor appointment in Cobb or Fulton County. So, CATS is a great service, but it’s very limited due to funding or lack of volunteers. We provide a Volunteer Transportation Program, where a

By Tim Morris

handful of people provide rides for seniors to various appointments. With the help of Volunteer Transportation Coordinator Joy McEuen. these volunteers are angels on wheels, providing a much-needed service. Joy would love to have more volunteers for this program. There is also a Transportation Voucher Program, directed by Dianne Voss, with several providers to drive seniors at a low cost, but this is a program that maintains a waiting list, as these destinations are not limited to just Cherokee County or a specific time. Recently, we’ve been in discussions with other agencies about the use of Uber. Then, a miracle came our way, and not giving names, let’s just call this miracle couple Mr.

and Mrs. Brown. They contacted one of our commissioners, who then forwarded their email to me. We set up a meeting, and by the time the meeting was over, we were all excited about this opportunity. Mrs. Brown volunteered to gather some data on Uber in Cherokee. We were surprised to see how active Uber is here. A lot more research is needed to determine if Uber can assist with transportation needs, but we are hopeful that something can be worked out. For more information on transportation for seniors, please contact Cherokee Senior Services.

Tim Morris is the Director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services

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Acworth Art Fest 9 Atlanta Hand Specialist Inside Front Audio Intersection 48 Ben’s Mattress 45 BridgeMill Dentistry 61 Budget Blinds 54 Burns Law Group 29 Butts and Barley Smokehouse 35 Camp Invention 19 Camp Juliette Low 19 Canton’s First Fridays 2017 59 The Carpenter’s Shop Christian Preschool 5 Cherokee Children’s Dentistry 7 Cherokee Chorale 52 Cherokee Lung and Sleep Specialists 3 Cherokee Theatre Company 64 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta 23 Clean Office Exec, LLC 34 Dance Imagination 19 Dentistry at Hickory Flat 51 Downtown Kitchen 46 Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 35 DV Pediatrics 55 Fieldstone Farm 21 Fun Finds & Designs, LLC 52 Georgia Medical Treatment Center 31 The Goddard School 36 Goin’ Coastal 56 Good Hands Appliance Repair 45 H & H Electric & Security, LLC 17 Hide and Seek Day Camp 19 Howard’s Auto Body 35 Huntington Learning Center 21 Jan Rooney — State Farm Cover, 32 & 33 Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA, LLC 16 Jones and Cloud Insurance 59 Jyl Craven Hair Design 25 Landscape Matters 24 LGE Community Credit Union Inside Back Masterpiece Framer 37 Medical Associates of North Georgia 13 North Georgia OB/GYN Specialists 5 North Georgia Tax Solutions 54 Northside Cherokee Orthopedics 11 & Sports Medicine Northside Hospital Heart & Vascular Institute 1 Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates 13 Outdoor Living, Indoor Comfort, LLC 53 Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 55 paper.scissors.cake, llc 21 Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 27 and Dentistry at Canton Perimeter North Family Medicine 11 Pharmoore & Woodstock 47 Health Mart Pharmacy Plastic Surgery Center of the South 63 R & D Mechanical Services, Inc. 41 Rejoice Maids 29 River Green Academy 55 Studio 5 Salon 16 Taste and Sound of Woodstock 27 Towne Lake Primary Care 3 Tutor Doctor of Woodstock 28 WellStar Health Systems Back Cover Woodall Family Realty 51 Woodstock Summer Concert Series 57 Woodstock TrailFest 59 Zenit Gymnastics 21

Canton Family Life | MARCH 2017

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