Woodstock Family Life 9-20 by Family Life Magazines

Contents

September 2020

VOLUME 8 | ISSUE 2

[20-21]

20-21 On the Cover

North Georgia Vein & Wellness

26-29 Golden Guide

Resources for Older Adults

Speaking Southern

me o c l l a â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Y back!

[26-29]

Family Life Publications

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

Artist Profile

Amy Duke

[32] [36-37]

36-37

04 06 07 08 10 13 14 18 19 24 39

familylifepublications

.......................... Perspective .............................. Calendar ....... Farm Fresh Market Photos ................... Senator Speaks .................... Community Life ............................ Quotables ................. Woodstock Notes ........................ Public Safety ........................ Book Review ............... Community Partner .................... Ribbon Cuttings @FamilyLifeMags

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Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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Publisher’s Perspective PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

Solutions

Preferred

EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Cyndi Braun

Candice Williams Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com

“Well, we aren’t going to lose the diver connected through the swivel on the weight, so we don’t need that rope,” said the first diver. Our problem was overthinking the means to obtain our goal, which created unnecessary difficulty along the way. We ended up lowering and raising the weight with the same rope used to tether our diver. One less rope, one more problem solved. As we travel through life, let’s be aware of problem-focused reactions and, instead, find ways to reach our goals more productively and efficiently. The next time you’re faced with a problem or negative situation, make sure you first develop a solution. You don’t have to solve the problem immediately, but you need to be able to articulate and execute the first action steps of your plan to change or overcome it. Often, instead of thinking outside of the box, maybe we should just consider getting rid of the box all together.

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114

770-213-7095

Also available online at

FamilyLifePublications.com Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Woodstock Family Life is a monthly community magazine with a total print count of over 30,000, direct mailing over 28,000 copies to Towne Lake, downtown Woodstock up to Hickory Flat and toward the Roswell border. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Woodstock Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

E R EC Y C

Finally, someone said, “So what, again, is the rope to the weight for?” “It’s so we don’t lose the weight,” said another.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steve Aleksandrowicz, Steven Anderson, Stacy Brown, Jyl Craven, Kyla Cromer, James B. Depew, Joshua Fuder, Corey Harkins, Steve Lammert, Kelly Marulanda, Madelyn Montgomery, Tim Morris, Michael Petrosky, Forrest Powers, Michael Ray, Frank Reynolds, John Rodgers, Andy Rogers, Ellen Samsell Salas, Pam Santoro, Bruce Thompson, Katie Wise

We tried changing the direction of each rotation to keep the wrap from happening by watching the bubbles. Since bubbles drift in waves and current, that didn’t work. We tried different swivels, setups, and combinations.

Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com

M AG A ZI

A recent example from my crazy life involves a training exercise with the Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services Dive Team. Our team was practicing a specific search technique in which we explore outward from an anchored point in a circular pattern that slowly increases in radius. The problem was that divers in zero-visibility or “black” water are tethered by rope to a handler on the surface for safety, which travels through a swivel on the anchored point, and that tether line would become twisted around the rope marking that weight.

ART Stephanie Bolton Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com

PLE

hen we perceive an obstacle standing between us and our goals, we often fear that our overall plan is in jeopardy. That is usually not the case with most of the glitches to which we twitch. What may be the issue is that the way we choose to tackle a wrinkle in our plan can end up being a different and often bigger problem than the initial goal we set out to accomplish. More than likely, we should try to focus on the end game rather than the obstacle.

Jack Tuszynski, Publisher

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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“Do I have an

African Wildcat Living in My Home?” By Michael Ray, D.V.M. [HomeLife] Our pet cats were derived from Felis Sylvestrus Lybica, a desert dwelling cat that hunts alone and eats several small meals throughout a 24-hour cycle — derived, instead of evolved, because our domestic shorthair cats have almost zero genetic or structural changes compared to their African ancestor. Also, cats were never pack animals, so we cannot become an “alpha” leader in their social structure. Our little wild African cats are one of the most recently evolved of all cat species (10,000 years ago) and that likely contributes to their compatibility with humans. Originally the “mousers” of humans’ grain stores, this species is designed to eat 13-18 small meals per day. Cats eat and drink as separate activities and prefer their water and food not to be in proximity to one another.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

Cats drink very small amounts of water when they are young and healthy and concentrate their urine and have dry feces to compensate. They stay hydrated better than they get hydrated, which is why canned food is essential because hydration is accomplished most efficiently through their diet. Canned food should be offered while cats are very young, or they may refuse to eat it. A dry-only diet is never the best option. How this ties into feeding recommendations for pet cats is crucial. Anything less than five

meals per day is inappropriate for this species. An enlightened feeding program may consist of small quantities of dry food in multiple small portions instead of the one-large-bowl approach. Ideally, these locations change often to encourage hunting or foraging activity. Social dynamics must be considered in the multiple cat home, again referencing their solitary hunter background. Another goal with feeding our cats is the concept of variety. Cats should not be fed just one type of food, so alternate canned and dry and switch brands frequently. Cats eat organs more than what we think of as “meat” (muscle tissue), so do not worry about byproducts or human quality ingredients in their food because those are just marketing tools.

Michael Ray is a doctor of veterinary medicine at The Cat Clinic, 1002 Canton Street, Roswell. 770-552-7877. CatClinicOf Roswell.com

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Calendar Due to recent public health concerns, please confirm each event’s details and safety precautions before attending.

SEPTEMBER

3, 10, 17 & 24

Talk Like A Pirate Day Ahoy mateys! Celebrate this day by peppering all your favorite pirate phrases into normal conversations. But we wouldn’t advise you to tell your boss to “walk the plank” during the next staff meeting, even if you are videoconferencing.

Woodstock Parks & Recreation Brown Bag Concert Series Enjoy FREE lunchtime concerts! Attendees are encouraged to bring a “brown bag” lunch, picnic blanket, and/or chairs to enjoy a little midday music. 12:001:00pm, Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955.WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Woodstock Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz Community members work with park staff to create a snapshot of wildlife found in local parks. Using an app/website, participants take pictures of plants, insects, and animals to document wildlife present in the park on the day of the event. The data collected provides the park system with more information about local pollinators, which are essential to our ecosystem (search iNaturalist app in the app store or visit iNaturalist.org). 9:00am-12:00pm, Dupree Park, 513 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955. Woodstockga.gov/FormCenter/Parksand-Recreation-3/Parks-for-Pollinators-BioBlitz-Registrat-118

SEPTEMBER IS PREPAREDNESS MONTH Spend this month making sure you have plans in place for emergency situations. For example, learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and first aid, or check your insurance policy coverage for disasters such as flood, earthquakes, and tornados.

The Volunteer Aging Council’s 5th Annual Scramble Golf Tournament Fundraiser Proceeds benefit seniors in the Cherokee County community. Lunch will be provided prior to tee time. Registration 9:00am and Tee Time 11:00am, Bradshaw Farm Golf Club, 3030 Bradshaw Club Drive, Woodstock. 678-230-4067. VAC-CherokeeGa.org

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

AMPED in the Park Check out this FREE monthly fitness series presented by Woodstock Parks & Recreation and a monthly community fitness partner. All workouts are fitness friendly (meaning you don’t have to be super fit to participate). 8:30am (registration) and 9:0010:00am (class), Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-592-6000 x1955.WoodstockParksAndRec.com

Canton River Rock Bring the whole family to enjoy a FREE concert by On the Border (Eagles tribute band). 6:00pm (opening act) and 8:00pm (headlining act), Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. Facebook.com/pg/cityofcanton/events

ONGOING Woodstock Farm Fresh Market Each Saturday through December 19, visit Woodstock’s Farm Fresh Market. Vendors are required to grow at least 85% of the product they sell to ensure this is the best market in the region. 8:30am12:00pm, Market Street, Woodstock. 770-924-0406. VisitWoodstockGa.com/ farm-fresh-market

Free CPR/AED Certification Class On the last Saturday of each month, this fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am-12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org/ Class-Registration.php Add

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Photos courtesy of Cassandra Bickel

Landscape of Guitar: The Lantern Series In vivid HD, exotic, artistic guitar imagery is screened behind the multidisciplinary, multi-instrumentalist dynamic duo of Julie Patchouli and Bruce Hecksel who expertly make their two guitars merge into one acoustic wall of music that somehow sounds like 10 instruments are being played on stage. Please contact Elm Street for ticket pricing. 7:30pm, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, Elm Street Event Green, 113 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmStreetArts.org

Walk to End Alzheimer’s Register on the website and walk to raise money for Alzheimer’s! The walk will take place wherever you’d like (your neighborhood, a park, or even your treadmill). 9:00am. CLCurtin@alz.org. Act.Alz.org/atl Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

OCTOBER

The Black Market Trust: The Lantern Series Enjoy this American traditional pop/ vocal jazz group from Los Angeles that combines the sounds of the legendary American crooners and vocal groups with the fire and energy of Gypsy Jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. Tickets $15 (individual)-$260 (table). 7:30pm, Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, Elm Street Event Green, 113 Elm Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmStreetArts.org

Touch-a-Truck Let your children put their imaginations in gear and go! Kids will have the opportunity to climb aboard and get behind the wheel of their favorite vehicles, learn from their operators, and meet some hometown heroes. 10:00am-2:00pm (9:30-10:00am is quiet time for those with sensitive ears), Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. 770-924-7768. PlayCherokee.com

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Senator Speaks

Maintain

Your Lane By State Senator Bruce Thompson

ave you ever had one of those weeks when you wonder what gives? Recently, I was traveling back from the Capitol after attending Gov. Kemp’s signing of a bill I wrote, and the weather was miserable. It was raining very hard, so I decided to pull into a Starbucks to offer my passengers a nice treat. Being a creature of habit, I ordered an extra hot venti caramel macchiato. Usually, I pour the coffee into my Yeti cup to keep it hot and to keep from spilling it, but it was not in my truck, so I just drank from the one that was provided. As we traveled up the interstate, the lid came off my coffee, and the scorching liquid landed in my lap. One of my passengers pointed out that my pants were “smoking.” While I was certainly distracted, I knew it was important that I avoid an accident by maintaining my lane under these unpleasant conditions. The following morning, I arrived at my office at around 6:30am to find a sweet pit bull lying next to the entrance door. The dog immediately greeted me and began

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

licking my hand. It was wearing a collar, but no identification or rabies tags. As the rest of the tenants arrived, I approached each office to see if I could find the owner or obtain information about this dog, so it would not be taken by animal control. At the salon, a customer volunteered to take the dog home and serve as a foster until the rightful owner could be located.

Fortunately, my former collegiate wrestling days kicked in, and I avoided the hold. Embarrassed, he grabbed his dog and left. Many in the crowd asked me to press charges for assault, but I declined and only asked the law enforcement officer to investigate the condition of the owner and the dog. Although this situation could have quickly gotten out of control, I am grateful I was able to avoid drifting into the young man’s lane.

At noon, I headed to lunch and heard a commotion coming from the parking lot. As I approached, I could see six women and an irate man screaming obscenities at them. Evidently, this person claimed to be the dog’s owner, but the friendly dog refused to come to him. When the ladies asked him why the dog came to complete strangers but refused to come to him, he became hostile and threatened them.

The Lord reminds us in Corinthians 10 that temptation will come in life, but it will not exceed what we can handle. God’s grace is sufficient, and although he does not promise our lives will be free from trials, he does promise us a way to escape many of them if only we will remain in our lane.

I informed the man that he was on private property and needed to stop the hostile activities, take his dog, and vacate the property. Instead, he rushed me and attempted to place me in a headlock.

Bruce Thompson represents District 14, which includes Canton and Woodstock. 404-656-0065. BruceThompsonGa.com

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Prepare for By Kelly Marulanda

[HealthyLife] There is a season for everything. The Byrds quoted it in their song, “Turn, Turn, Turn,” and the retail stores advertise to let us know when the holiday seasons “begin.” So, who is going to tell us about flu season? It’s a real season that causes major problems, but there are several ways to maneuver through it with very little work — one way is with the Influenza vaccine. The old belief, “The flu shot gave me the flu,” is simply not true. The vaccine itself does not contain a live virus. The Influenza virus can cause fevers (100.4 F°+), chills, headaches, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, cough, runny/ stuffy nose, nausea/vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea (mostly in children) for up to a week or more. It is very unpredictable and changes annually, so the vaccine must change every year. However, because Influenza is not a bacterial infection, prescribing an antibiotic is not going to help. A physician will test you for the flu and may prescribe antiviral medication if within the first day or two of becoming sick. But most likely, the prescription is going to be for lots of rest and clear fluids. How do you avoid flu season? Get the flu vaccine! Vaccinations are offered everywhere: physician offices, pharmacies, minute clinics, grocery stores, etc., and the best part of all is that the vaccine usually lasts between six and 12 months. Most insurance companies cover this vaccine, and it comes in either a nose spray or a true shot with a tiny needle. Babies can begin getting the flu vaccine at six months old, and the age is limitless thereafter. To be prepared for all the seasons in your life, you definitely do not want the flu season to slow you down. Call your physician with any questions about the flu vaccine. L

Kelly Marulanda is the practice manager at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine, 2000 Professional Way, #200 Woodstock. 770-517-0250. WoodstockPeds.com

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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Community LGE Installs State-of-the-Art Synexis Microbial Reduction Systems in Branch Locations LGE Community Credit Union recently installed Synexis Microbial Reduction Systems in its branch locations across metro Atlanta. This system uses safe, patented dry hydrogen peroxide (DHP) technology to create a controlled environment that reduces airborne and surface bacteria and viruses (including COVID-19). Additionally, the Synexis system is UL Certified to produce no ozone and works continuously without disruptions to member service. Synexis technology takes what is naturally in the environment, ambient oxygen and humidity (water molecules in gas form), to create hydrogen peroxide gas (H2O2) or DHP. DHP becomes part of the environment and starts to safely eliminate pathogens as soon as they enter the branch location. The implementation of Synexis Systems comes as the latest step among a list of many that the credit union has taken to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus to its employees and its members. For more information about LGE’s response to COVID-19, please visit LGEccu.org/ COVID-19. For more information about Synexis, visit Synexis.com.

2020 Census Update Census takers have started door-to-door canvassing in Cherokee County in hopes of meeting the recently accelerated completion deadline of September 30. During the canvassing phase, residents should always ask for credentials from those claiming to be census takers. “If someone visits your home this year to collect information for the 2020 census, check to make sure they have a valid ID badge with their photograph, which will have a U.S. Department of Commerce 10

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

Life Jacket Loaner Station Installed at Rope Mill Park Safe Kids Cherokee County is keeping kids and adults safer with a new life jacket loaner station installed at Rope Mill Park. With the support of community partners Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, Woodstock Fire, Woodstock Parks and Recreation, and BoatUS Foundation, the loaner station was dedicated to Woodstock Parks and Recreation at the end of July. The station has life jackets for those who need to “borrow and return” while they are boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, or canoeing. The station also has information on how to properly fit a life jacket. Water Safety is one of many injury prevention initiatives offered through Safe Kids Cherokee County. “We know life jackets save lives. By providing these for the community, we hope to ensure those who might not have a life jacket or possibly forgot their own will be able to stay safe on the water,” says Coalition Coordinator Lisa Grisham. Safe Kids Cherokee and BoatUS Foundation will continue to supply life jackets as needed, and Woodstock Parks and Recreation will maintain the loaner station. For more information about Safe Kids, visit SafeKidsCherokeeCounty.org or call 678-493-4343.

watermark and an expiration date,” said Cherokee County Deputy Chief Marshal Jamie Gianfala. All census takers will wear masks and follow local public health guidelines while canvassing. They may also carry Census Bureau bags and other equipment with the

Census Bureau logo. If the resident is not home, census takers will leave a notice with information about how to respond online, by phone, or by mail. Citizens who respond online at 2020Census.gov or by phone to 844-330-2020 are less likely to have a census taker visit their home to collect a response. Add

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Community Exciting New Materials To Teach Students About Agriculture Cherokee County Farm Bureau recently received a grant from Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation to compile educational agricultural materials into two bins that can be checked out by teachers for use in instructing their students. The bins will be at Cherokee County Farm Bureau for teachers to borrow as needed.

MUST Ministries Continues To Help the Community Last month, Gov. Brian Kemp signed the “Save Our Sandwiches Bill,” which was based on the MUST Ministries Summer Lunch program. The new law allows nonprofit groups to make and accept sandwiches for at-risk children when schools are closed. Senate Bill 345 was developed after state health inspectors halted the MUST Ministries summer food program that has been serving 5,000-7,000 children in seven counties for 25 years. A technicality in state law prevented the charity from receiving and distributing donated sandwiches and forced the organization to raise more than $250,000 to continue to serve children in need.

The bill will allow nonprofits to secure permits to operate free food programs. Kitchens providing food must follow a list of health safety rules, like wearing gloves and keeping preparation areas clean. Dr. Ike Reighard, president and CEO of MUST Ministries said the organization was already carefully following those rules. On July 20, the MUST Ministries annual Cherokee Golf Tournament at Woodmont Golf and Country Club raised a record $65,000! The generosity of the community will enable MUST to continue to help residents in need.

(L to R): Don Hausfield (The Landon Group), Billy Hayes (CEO - Northside Hospital Cherokee), Wes Latimer (owner - Latimer Construction), and Jerry Cooper (county manager - Cherokee County)

MUST Ministry’s Veterans Supportive Housing program recently helped Army veteran Randy Williams secure an affordable apartment.

Above: Veteran Randy Williams Left: “Save Our Sandwiches” Senate Bill 345 signing

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

Through this program, which assists veterans who need long-term support to return to stability, Williams received several months of rent and a “starter kit” containing a comforter set, hygiene items, and other things to help him settle into his new home.

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Community Elm Street Receives Grant To Help Vision Come to Life Elm Street Cultural Arts Village has received a $20,000 grant from the Rucker-Donnell Foundation, a national organization based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The grant will be used to help fund construction of a visual arts facility.

Oak Grove ES Fine Arts Academy Earns Digital Citizenship Certification Oak Grove ES has been honored by Common Sense Education as a Common Sense Certified School for Digital Citizenship. The national nonprofit helps educators in their efforts to teach students how to use technology safely and adopt positive digital skills and habits. The school earned the certification by teaching students to think critically and to responsibly use technology including how to combat cyberbullying, avoid plagiarism, and understand privacy issues.

“As Elm Street has grown, it continues to showcase Woodstock’s cultural vibrancy and vitality,” said Christopher Brazelton, Elm Street’s executive director. “To continue that growth, larger foundations are now stepping in because they have caught the vision as well. This gift, in particular, was given with the hope to help catalyze local foundations, including family foundations, to join this effort.” The Elm Street property is being developed into a multi-disciplinary art center, providing a large range of arts experiences for Woodstock’s dynamic community. The visual arts facility will be a rebuild of the historic Reeves family home. A new, open interior will feature a gallery for rotating exhibits, classroom and artist studios, and a coffee shop/wine bar to spark casual conversation around art. Elm Street’s current art classes operate in administrative offices, making the completion of the Reeves House pivotal in providing a dedicated space for local artists and robust visual arts programming. This grant continues to close the financial gap, as construction is due to start soon.

“We applaud Oak Grove’s faculty and staff for embracing digital citizenship as an important part of their students’ education,” said Liz Kline, Common Sense Education’s vice president of education programs. “They deserve high praise for giving students the foundational skills they need to compete and succeed in the 21stcentury workplace and participate ethically in society at large.” Oak Grove ES Principal Penny Valle thanked her “amazing” media specialist, Denise Lewis, who also has earned individual certification for coordinating the school’s successful application and efforts by other teachers to achieve the certification badge.

Brazelton has a lot of pride in the community that makes up Elm Street. “Woodstock isn’t just a special place — it can be a model for other communities as well. Donors are learning more about the impact of their gift, and this shows what a full-fledged arts center can look like in a suburban community. We look forward to relationships with family foundations like the Rucker-Donnell Foundation and appreciate Kent Burklow’s partnership.” For more information about Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, call 678-494-4251.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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Quotables

“Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.” -Dr. Seuss “Fools reject reality and

“Opening up and sharing all the parts of you doesn’t mean giving any of yourself away. Hope isn’t a dead language. Independence isn’t a lonely journey. I’ve learned that vulnerability is strength, not weakness.” -Mitesh Pamar

expect things to be different. The wise accept reality and expect the unexpected.”

you become more committed to your dreams than you are to your comfort zone.”

-Maxime Lagacé

-Billy Cox

“Worrying does not take away tomorrow’s troubles. It takes away today’s peace.” -Randy Armstrong “If you only walk on sunny days, you’ll never reach your destination.” -Paulo Coelho “What the mind doesn’t understand, it worships or fears.” -Alice Walker

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

“Life will only change when

“The best fighter is never angry.” -Lao Tzu

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Woodstock Notes

September Is National Preparedness Month

ity of Woodstock urges all citizens and businesses to make or update a disaster plan during the month of September. As we continue to respond to COVID-19, there’s no time like the present to update your plan. You can find resources to help at Ready.gov. The Department of Homeland Security suggests weekly activities to do during this month, so that you are ready for whatever comes.

Week 3: September 13-19 Limit the impact a disaster may have on your household. Think about the potential for major storm damage. Check to ensure your homeowners or renters insurance policy covers all of your needs. Be sure you are signed up to receive emergency alerts. If you click “STAY CONNECTED” on WoodstockGa.gov, you will find a link to sign up for the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office updates through CodeRED.

Week 1: September 1-5 Make a plan for your household by discussing how you will receive emergency alerts, what you will do to shelter in place and evacuate (if necessary), how you will communicate with loved ones, and what you need for an emergency preparedness kit. The Ready.gov National Preparedness Month webpage has a link to a very thorough template. You can complete that document and make copies to keep in cars, purses, or backpacks, so each member of your household can refer to it in the event of an emergency.

Week 4: September 20-26 Teach your children about preparedness. Ready.gov offers resources for kids, teens, families, and educators, including information on coping when disaster strikes as well as financial preparedness. Resources are also available in Spanish.

By Stacy Brown

smoke to activate the alarm. The fire department also recommends that you inspect your fire extinguishers. Be sure they are visible, unobstructed, and have no signs of damage, corrosion, or leakage. Finally, take time to learn more from the American Red Cross at RedCross.org. The website contains valuable information about emergency preparedness as well as how to get involved as a volunteer. You can also purchase emergency gear/ supplies and first aid kits through the online store.

Stacy Brown is the marketing and communications manager for the City of Woodstock. 770-592-6056. WoodstockGa.gov

Additionally, Woodstock Fire & Rescue recommends that you take time this month to check the batteries in your smoke detectors. Having multiple smoke detectors in your home may reduce the time it takes for

Week 2: September 6-12 Take time to build your emergency supply kit. Gather what you will need to stay at home or evacuate to a safer location. Ready.gov lists basic recommended items you will need such as one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days (for drinking and hygiene) as well as a three-day supply of food. Don’t forget your pet’s need for food and water. Other recommended items include first aid kits, dust masks, plastic sheeting, and duct tape. The website suggests that you keep important family documents like insurance policies, identification, and bank records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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The Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup (GLAC) has evolved and grown for more than 34 years. Since 1986, GLAC has documented 127,122 volunteers, providing them conservation, stewardship, and environmental education, and removed 492.34 tons of litter and 1,346 tires from the lake and shoreline. The annual cleanup/education event, recognized as the nation’s largest “one-day” cleanup by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and National Public Lands Day, is conducted on Lake Allatoona, which is one of the country’s most popular lakes and is visited by more than seven million people annually, having a regional economic impact of $250 million. Lake Allatoona’s 270 miles

of shoreline encompasses parts of Cobb, Bartow, and Cherokee counties. Recently, Lake Warriors, Adopt a Mile, and Dive Teams volunteer programs were added, resulting in year-round cleanup and maintenance under the GLAC banner. From January 2018 through June 2020, these programs, coordinated by and reporting to GLAC, have logged more than 2,200 volunteer hours — separate from the one-day event. Other changes include mentoring groups who hold their employee volunteer cleanups at other times of the year, reporting results to GLAC.

Visit GreatAllatoonaCleanup.org for information or to register for the 35th annual cleanup, which takes place on October 3, 2020. Due to recent public health concerns, please confirm event details before attending.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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How to Financially Survive a Pandemic By Katie Wise

[StrategicLife] COVID-19 has affected the life of every American, and for many, it has been an assault on their finances. According to a survey from WalletHub, 67 million Americans anticipate that they will have trouble paying their bills because of the pandemic. This can cause feelings of a loss of control, and anxiety can set in. Whether you’ve lost your job, experienced a cut in pay, or are simply worried about what’s to come, here are steps you can take to gain control and reduce your stress level:

Create a crisis budget, thereby reducing your expenses. Take stock of your income, your savings, and then scrutinize your spending. You’ll likely discover that many of your monthly expenses are not items you truly need to live.

Reduce or eliminate nonessential services. If you’re like many, you subscribe to numerous ongoing services such as cable, streaming services, gym memberships, apps, and more. Review your credit card statements and either cancel or find a way to reduce these

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

services. Some gyms will allow you to pause your membership and restart it at the same rate when your income returns.

There will come a day when the pandemic ends. At that point, you might have the urge to immediately resume previous spending. Try to resist and replenish your savings instead.

Review stay-at-home indulgences. If you’re now finding yourself at home, you might be freeing up money on things like dry cleaning and commuting. Don’t throw those savings away on extravagances like takeout, video games, and online shopping.

Remember the old saying, “The best things in life are free.” Focus on the joy that comes from family time, walking, or experiencing nature. These things are not only good for your wallet, they’re also good for your spirit.

Contact your creditors. If you’ve had a significant loss of income, this is an important step — even if you have emergency savings — because you don’t know how long your loss of income might last. It’s a good idea to let your creditors know your status. Lenders are aware of the difficulties the pandemic is causing and might work with you on your payments.

Finally, we should all be thinking about preparing for the future. Hopefully, we’ll never see another pandemic, but we can’t control what might be down the road. So, take steps now to ensure that the next time you’ll be in better shape. If you don’t have an emergency savings account, it’s time to develop one. Have an idea of how much you need for food, shelter, and transportation, and know the various benefits you might have available if there is a loss of childcare or income or an unexpected illness. Thankfully, this difficult time will end, and life will return to normal. Gain control over your finances now, and you will be stronger when it does. L

Katie Wise is the Woodstock Financial Center manager at LGE Community Credit Union. 12186 Highway 92, Suite 111B, Woodstock. 770-4240060. KathrynW@LGECCU.org, LGECCU.org

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VILLA

Creating Advocates for Schools and Public Education By Kyla Cromer [AcademicLife] Normally at this time of year, Cherokee County School District (CCSD) would be accepting applications for our award-winning Volunteer Instructional Leadership Learning Academy (VILLA). During my initial campaign for the board chair position, I had promised to create additional opportunities for community/parental involvement. VILLA was a result of that promise, which has provided a venue that gives parents an in-depth look at the inner workings of CCSD. Designed in conjunction with the Georgia School Boards Association and with the full support and participation of our school board and superintendent, the program started three years ago with an inaugural class of 20 parents and community members. VILLA is designed to inform and educate parents and develop advocates for our schools and public education.

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The academy offers six classes, each of which focuses on one or two operational divisions. The classes are conducted by school board members, the superintendent, and leaders from the district. The overall program includes a field trip and culminates with recognition and graduation at a school board meeting. Due to the current pandemic, we have decided not to conduct a VILLA class this fall. It saddens me, as this program has proven to be a wonderful opportunity for parents and the community. During these challenging times, our district leaders need to stay focused on studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; health and safety while providing the best teaching and learning opportunities possible. I am hopeful the program can be resumed in the spring. Keep an eye out for an announcement. Until then, please do your part. Wear a mask. Stay positive. Be kind. Wash your hands. Socially distance. Support our teachers and staff.

Kyla Cromer is chairperson of the Cherokee County School Board, 2019 Gold Leaf Parkway, Canton. 678-777-2592. Cherokee.k12.ga.us

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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Public Safety

The History of the

Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office By Sheriff Frank Reynolds

arlier this year, I met with local historian Michael Hitt, a retired police officer and published author, to assist me with the history of the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office (CSO). He has conducted prior research for the Roswell Police Department, the U.S. Army, and more. Hitt has scoured hundreds of newspapers from the University of Georgia and other sources to uncover forgotten history of the CSO. I have also spent hours reading old court minutes archived in the Cherokee County Clerk of Courts records vault to learn about the CSO’s past. The Cherokee County Historical Society’s Executive Director, Stefanie Joyner, has also aided in our research. She and her team have allowed us access to their documents and photographs. We have even discussed the possibility of a future museum of CSO history to be located in the historic courthouse. Together, we have been able to locate old uniforms, equipment, documents, and oral history associated with the CSO since its inception in 1831.

timeline of events to help guide our path down memory lane. For instance, there have been six jails built around Canton since the 1830s. The site of what is now Rotary Park is the location of the third jail built in 1883. It was torn down when the historic marble courthouse was built in 1927. In 1989, Sheriff Bo Ballard built a more modern jail on the site of the old “work camp” on Chattin Drive, and in 2003, Sheriff Roger Garrison built the current facility. There are also numerous “firsts” for the Sheriff’s Office: First use of a canine - April 1907, Sheriff Benjamin Willingham First vehicle - July 1915, Sheriff Joshua Spears First radio installed in a patrol car - August 1949, Sheriff William Wehunt First aircraft - March 1987, Sheriff Bo Ballard First national accreditation - September 1997, Sheriff Roger Garrison One of the common threads that appears throughout our history is the strong relationship between the sheriff’s office and the community. One such example came not from its citizens but rather a group of inmates.

According to Reverend Lloyd G. Marlin’s book, The History of Cherokee County, the first sheriff of the county was John Jolly. Since then, a total of 41 sheriffs have served the citizens of Cherokee.

In a letter to the Cherokee Advance on November 11, 1921, a group of inmates wrote the following:

Some of the notable sheriffs include Enoch G. Gramling (served 1867-1885), Joshua P. Spears (served 1895-1898 and again from 1910-1920), and his son Lee Spears (served 1932-1949).

“…Mr. Blackwell’s kindness to his prisoners cannot be excelled, and his equals are few. Both white and black can realize his sympathy for them by his noble deeds, which prove that he is merciful and has a heart that extends out to help to bear the burden of those who are in need of help.”

Dan Stringer, Newt Adams, and Bo Ballard may be more familiar to our current citizens. Unfortunately, much of the history has been lost over the years, but it is never too late to preserve what is left. With the help of published articles from the Cherokee Advance to the more modern Cherokee Tribune, we have pieced together a 18

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

When our research is complete, my hope is to work with the Cherokee Sheriff’s Foundation, a nonprofit 501(C)3, to produce a book for our community.

Frank Reynolds is the sheriff for Cherokee County. 678-4934100. CherokeeGaSheriff.org

If you are privy to some historical information of the sheriff’s office you’d like to share, please reach out to us. We would love to hear from you. Add

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Book Review BY JOHN RODGERS

oman W r e d n DC’s Wo

eptember is a WONDERful time for Sequoyah Regional Library System. It’s Library Card Signup Month, a time to reflect on the role libraries serve as places of lifelong learning and continuous access to information. To showcase the superpowers that come with a library card, libraries across the U.S. have selected DC’s Wonder Woman as this year’s honorary chair. Since her first appearance in 1941, the iconic heroine’s adventures have spanned generations of stories, many of which can be enjoyed for free from the library. It still comes as a surprise to many that libraries carry graphic novels in addition to “regular books.” Any reading is good reading. Luckily, readers of any age can accompany Wonder Woman (WW) on whichever medium or format they prefer. Parents looking for an age-appropriate dose of super heroism for early learners can pick up titles like Wonder Woman: An Origin Story by John Sazaklis and Luciano Vecchio or Wonder Woman to the Rescue by Courtney Carbone and Erik Doescher, using the library’s contact-free Sequoyah Sidewalk Service, or borrow eBook versions from eRead Kids on the library’s website. Tweens and teens will enjoy Lisa Yee’s Wonder Woman at Super Hero High, the first in a six-part series of chapter books that casts the DC characters as “superheroesin-training” during high school.

Teen and adult readers can find a retelling of WW’s origin story in Leigh Bardugo’s Warbringer, which the library owns in novel and graphic novel versions. These titles are available from Sequoyah Regional Library System in print or as eBooks and audiobooks by logging into OverDrive, the Libby app, or eRead Kids with a library card. Whether experienced as novels, graphic novels, in print, or digitally, the adventures of Wonder Woman offer enough fun to power an invisible jet and are a perfect excuse to apply for a library card this September to celebrate the right to read.

John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System. 770-479-3090, x320. SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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COVER STORY

new vein clinic in Canton is now serving north Georgia communities, helping people walk with greater confidence by removing embarrassing and unsightly varicose veins. North Georgia Vein & Wellness serves patients from Canton, Blue Ridge, Ellijay, Jasper, and Woodstock. The Cumming office assists patients from Cumming, Dawsonville, Alpharetta, Roswell, and Johns Creek. In addition to vein treatments, the clinic provides BioTE hormone replacement therapy and aesthetic procedures such as BOTOX and JUVÉDERM. All too often, many people view varicose veins and spider veins as a strictly cosmetic issue, but that is not true. While you may have unsightly ropy veins, you may also experience discomfort, pain, fatigue in your leg, swelling, or even skin discoloration. These conditions can cause discomfort and sometimes serious health concerns. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Peter Wrobel specializes in diagnosing and treating vein disorders and the problems associated with them.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

“Our goal is to make your legs feel better, feel more youthful, and be less uncomfortable as well as improving the overall appearance of your legs,” said Dr. Peter Wrobel. “Adding a second office in Canton helps us better serve the north Georgia area.”

Many people think that chronic venous insufficiency, which is the condition that causes the previously listed symptoms as well as varicose veins, is a natural part of the aging process, an inherited trait, or a result of being pregnant or overweight. They may not seek treatment because they fear it will require hospitalization or involve a lengthy recovery. Dr. Wrobel, who has performed well over 10,000 vein procedures, assures that all of these thoughts are myths. Using the latest techniques and technology, Dr. Wrobel specializes in noninvasive treatments that have greatly improved from the days of vein stripping. Patients no longer need to be hospitalized, undergo general anesthesia, or suffer through a long recovery period. Today, all vein procedures are done in the office with only local anesthesia. Patients can resume relatively normal activities after each treatment. The best part is that most vein procedures are covered by medical insurance and Medicare. The clinic staff will work with your insurance company to obtain maximum coverage.

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The first step to getting your youthful legs back is to schedule an appointment at the clinic. During the appointment, a venous ultrasound will be performed to map out the veins in your legs. This ultrasound will identify any vein issues or reflux, which is the backward flow of blood. Based on these findings and the patient’s history and symptoms, Dr. Wrobel will outline a customized treatment plan.

Feel Better With BioTE Hormone Therapy Besides vein procedures, North Georgia Vein & Wellness addresses hormonal imbalance issues by providing BioTE hormone therapy. Many people attribute lack of energy and mental focus, difficulty sleeping, mood swings, low sex drive, and weight gain to the stresses of everyday life. However, hormonal imbalances can be the root of these symptoms, according to Dan Ayers, P.A. Diagnosis is done through comprehensive blood work, ensuring that pellet therapy is customized specifically to the patient’s needs. Pellet therapy is designed to restore hormones to their optimum level. Studies have shown that because BioTE hormones are bioidentical to each patient’s hormones, they do not carry the risks associated with synthetic hormones. “After BioTE pellet therapy, most patients generally feel better,” said Ayers. “They sleep better, have more energy, have mood stability, fewer hot flashes, and experience weight loss while increasing some muscle mass among other preventative benefits.” Ayers also offers aesthetic services such as BOTOX and JUVÉDERM, as well as sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is a treatment for spider veins, which are the small blue veins that affect the appearance of the legs. For monthly specials on aesthetics and sclerotherapy, be sure to follow and like the Facebook page, @northgavein. Get your youthful legs back. Lose the tiredness in your legs and body. Get your energy back. It’s time to look good and feel good, in your legs, your body, and your face.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

Two locations to serve you:

100 Liberty Boulevard, Suite 110 Canton, GA 1230 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Suite 500 Cumming, GA

678-513-1600

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NEW SEASON, NEW TRENDS

2020’s Fun Fall Hair Colors By Jyl Craven

[Lifestyle] As the leaves begin to change, you will be ready for a change in your best accessory — your hair. But where do you start? Whether you are looking to trade your summer shine for a more subdued fall look or just need a subtle transition, check out this year’s top autumn hair color trends that are guaranteed to make you fall in love with your locks all over again:

Honey Brown If you are planning a photo op or two this season, honey brown is your go-to color. This look has a creamy texture, blended with hints of warm blonde and golden honey highlights, which make for a stunningly simple fall combination.

Orchard Red Grab your bushel and get ready for a picture-perfect autumn season. As the name implies, orchard red’s gold-copper tones skip the dramatic change of going from light to dark. The earlier fall sunset glistens perfectly across it, and it effortlessly complements cooler skin tones.

Wheat Blonde Wheat blonde is one of the most popular fall hair trends. If you are like most blondes, you are looking for the perfect blend between anti-ashy and platinum blonde. Reap what you sow when you go for this color. Its beigey, buttery look, mixed with a few everyday curls, will complement your chunky knit sweater and booties without fail. L

Chocolate Truffle Calling all brunettes! Chocolate truffle is the ideal color to fall into after a low-maintenance summer of caramel-colored balayage. This darker, sleeker look does not skip a beat going into the season of pumpkin spice and everything nice. It provides a silky texture, allowing you flawless elegance throughout the season.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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

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Give Up the Fat Watch Your Belly Go Flat By Drs. Petrosky, Harkins, and Depew

[HealthyLife] With all that has been happening during the pandemic, you are not alone if you’ve noticed a little extra weight in your midsection or other areas. Here are some fat reduction options:

Lipo 360 is one of the more popular procedures, as it goes all around the midsection/back. The surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. Patients must wear a compression garment for several weeks. Depending on the extent of the liposuction, patients may return to work in a week and resume normal activities within a few weeks. As the swelling goes down, results can be seen in several days and will continue to improve for up to six months.

CoolSculpting CoolSculpting has remained a consistent crowd pleaser, and for good reason. It’s a noninvasive, nonsurgical procedure that freezes away fat cells with no downtime. After placing fatty tissue into a cooling applicator, the cells are permanently destroyed and slowly shed over time. Treatment areas include the midsection, back, waist, flanks, and more.

Tummy Tuck

Most patients require two or three treatments. Results fully develop over the course of two to three months.

Liposuction

Patients can return to work one to two weeks after surgery. It’s best to allow six weeks before returning to strenuous activities.

During liposuction, stubborn fat pockets are permanently removed, as a small tube (cannula) is surgically inserted to suction away fat cells to help sculpt and contour the body. It is a more precise procedure that can be used on targeted areas like the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, or any area of the body that needs attention.

With any procedure you are considering, make sure your surgeon is a specialty trained, board-certified plastic surgeon.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

A tummy tuck is an excellent choice for removing folds of loose, saggy skin. During the surgery, an incision is made to remove any excess fat and tissue. Weakened abdominal muscles that may have been damaged during pregnancy can also be repaired, which helps return the midsection to a toned, smooth silhouette.

Drs. Petrosky, Harkins, and Depew are board-certified plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 770-421-1242. PlasticSurgeryCenterOf TheSouth.net

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Community Partner

outhern Magnolia Charities (SMC) is a nonprofit organization based in Milton, Georgia, that was established in early 2018 to actively serve the people of north Georgia through fundraising events and donations, making philanthropic grants, and providing services or support that contribute to the health and vitality of the community. The primary fundraiser is the annual Milton Tour of Homes that began in 2016 and transferred to SMC when the tour organizers formed the nonprofit corporation. Through dedication and commitment, SMC is honored to support other charitable organizations in the area that enhance the lives of all citizens. In the two years since its inception, SMC has donated $88,500 to local charities including Canine Assistants, Dream Weavers of Georgia, Meals by Grace, Milton First Responders Foundation, and the Will to Live Foundation. Each year, SMCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s board of directors reviews many suggested charities and implements a process by which they select the organizations for the yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fundraising activities. This year, in light of the current challenges created by COVID-19, the SMC board has made the difficult decision to postpone the 2020 Milton Tour of Homes, usually scheduled each fall. Instead, during this time of uncertainty, SMC has chosen to respect the needs of the community, its sponsors, patrons, volunteers and homeowners while still benefiting a local charity. The board has established a GoFundMe account to raise funds for Meals by Grace, which 24

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

has been deeply impacted by the pandemic due to unprecedented demand and increased need for food pantry and delivery services. Southern Magnolia Charities will send 100% of the proceeds to Meals by Grace in order to help facilitate its mission of providing hungry families with meals, ending food insecurity, and promoting self-sufficiency. SMC welcomes donations from individuals, companies, and organizations at Charity. GoFundMe.com/o/en/campaign/fundraiser-formeals-by-grace-by-milton-tour-of-homes. TOGETHER, we can make a difference! For more information on Southern Magnolia Charities or to learn about the Milton Tour of Homes, please visit their websites.

TO MAIL DONATIONS: Southern Magnolia Charities, Inc. c/o Judy Burds 1165 Bream Drive Milton, GA 30004 678-770-7936 SouthernMagnoliaCharities.org MiltonGATourOfHomes.com Facebook at SouthernMagnoliaCharities or MiltonTourOfHomes Add

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Chrysanthemums Offer an Autumn Color Revival By Joshua Fuder

[HomeLife] Fall is a welcome reprieve from the stifling temperatures and humidity of summertime in Georgia. Once gardeners survey what remains of their spring/summer plantings, they quickly realize that many of their beautiful blooms have faded, and their landscape needs a bit of a pickme-up. Fall chrysanthemums (mums) are an excellent way to bring some color back to your yard. Mums are about as low maintenance as plants can be. Select your plants based on color, size, and type of bloom. While many store-bought mums are perennial, in our area, they are best enjoyed as annual color. Smaller plants in six-inch pots work well in window boxes, containers, or mass plantings. The most popular size is the eight- to 10-inch pot. No matter the size, mums can be set out as-is and look beautiful. Before purchasing, make sure leaves have a healthy green color with no signs of yellowing or ragged/dead edges, which can be a sign of a weak or diseased plant. It can be tempting to purchase the plants in full bloom but purchasing ones still in the bud stage will give you a longer color display. Once home, you can leave the mums in their pots, as these containers should have large drainage holes. If you replant them in another container or in the ground, make sure there is adequate drainage. Mums do not like soggy soil. If you plan to plant them in the ground, it may be worth incorporating soil conditioner or compost to improve drainage. Mums are daylight-sensitive plants, so planting them near streetlights may inhibit blooming.

Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA.edu/extension/cherokee

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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By Tim Morris

enior Service programs have been around since the mid-60s. Going back even further, groups of seniors would meet in a community building in their area to sew, socialize, and bring a potluck lunch to share. These informal groups conversed and shared recipes for their favorite foods and desserts. In 1965, the federal government created the Older Americans Act to provide funding for agencies to establish programs for people ages 60 and older who are homebound and in need of helpful services. Through this Act, the National Aging Network was created, comprising the Administration on Aging. The National Aging Network provides funding for nutrition and supportive home and community-based services, disease prevention/healthy promotion services, elder rights programs, the National Family Caregiver Support Program, and the Native American Caregiver Support Program. Funding is primarily based on the percentage of citizens who are 60 or older in an areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population. Cherokee County is part of the Atlanta Regional Commission, which is responsible for the distribution of federal and state dollars to fund programs in all 10 counties within its region. Through this funding, Cherokee County Senior Services is able to provide home delivered meals, homemaker service, Senior Center nutrition sites, case management, transportation, caregiver support groups, information and assistance, and help with other necessary resources for the elderly population in our county.

Home Delivered Meals is one of the larger programs in Cherokee, serving over 40,000 meals to homebound seniors annually. The program consists of four staff members and more than 20 volunteers who help make deliveries to seniors each week. The meals are sent out in either a five- or seven-day frozen box to each client. Each client is case managed before starting services, and the program currently has a waiting list. Normally, clients enjoy their weekly interactions with staff and volunteers, but due to the current pandemic, those delivering meals are not allowed to enter clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes. If a box must be put inside the house, volunteers must follow a specific safety plan.

Senior Center Nutrition Sites offer programs for socialization and nutrition at the Canton Senior Center (daily), the Ball Ground Senior Center (three days a week), and the Waleska Community Center (once a week). The senior centers provide monthly calendars with activities such as card games, guest speakers, health related programs, musical entertainment, trips, and arts and crafts. The senior centers serve a hot lunch daily to older adults who are members of each site. Transportation is provided to the Canton Senior Center for those who no longer drive. Socialization is the most important part of visiting these centers, as it is proven to enhance a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physical and mental well-being. Unfortunately, the centers have been closed since March 17. Safety modifications have been made for when facilities reopen, but in the meantime, staff members have been delivering meals to clients twice a week. The activity coordinator also puts together crafts as well as jigsaw and crossword puzzles for seniors to do at home.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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Homemaker Services provides light housekeeping for homebound seniors once every two weeks for two hours, but sometimes, depending on the situation, it may be once a week. Homemaker aides can do some shopping for their clients. All homemaker clients are managed by the case management staff. At the beginning of the pandemic, this service was halted for almost a month to ensure the safety of homemaker aides and their clients. Several safety measures were put in place before home cleaning was resumed, and aides are now seeing 100% of their clients.

Transportation is an important program within Senior Services, with a variety of trips offered. The Unified System with CATS (Cherokee Area Transportation Service) provides trips within Cherokee County to senior centers, medical appointments, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Senior Services also provides a voucher program for seniors to schedule their own trips with a list of drivers for many other places they need to go. In addition, a volunteer driver program is available, which is made up of people who can take seniors for essential trips. The voucher program and volunteer driver program currently have a waiting list. To maintain health and safety, CATS has made additional modifications to continue to provide transportation to doctor appointments and grocery stores for those who feel comfortable going. The voucher and volunteer driver programs are providing service to a reduced client load.

Active Adult Programming was taken over by Senior Services within the last year. Intended for active adults in Cherokee County, normal programming includes exercise classes, pickle ball, and the Silver Roamers group, which offers day and overnight trips, among other activities. At this time, the only activity that is being offered is virtual BINGO, which is conducted over the phone Monday-Friday at 1:00pm. Winners will receive prizes when the centers reopen.

Case Management, provided by Senior Services to in-home service clients, includes sharing information and answering general questions, taking care of needs, and assisting with in-home services sign ups. A full-time resource coordinator works with groups in the community to better serve older adults. The Volunteer Aging Council is one organization that Senior Services works closely with to assist clients who may need help with repairs or past-due utility bills.

Please contact Senior Services for more information about any of these programs as well as specific details about current pandemic-related modifications.

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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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By Steve Aleksandrowicz

oday’s Medicare program has several options and costs. There is a lot of confusion, especially when we hear politicians talking about “free Medicare for all,” or retired athletes advertising Medicare plan options with free benefits. By the way, Medicare is for people ages 65 and older or some people under 65 who are disabled or have certain medical conditions. To help clear up confusion, read on to learn more about Medicare programs, options, and costs. There are two parts to the original Medicare program. Medicare Hospital Part A and Medical Part B. The Part A benefit typically is at no cost because you or your spouse has paid taxes into the Medicare system while working. The Part B has a monthly premium (cost) when you join Medicare, hence, “no free lunch.” Once you have Parts A and B, you have deductibles and cost shares. Next, you need prescription drug coverage, which is called Part D. Medicare requires you to join a Part D plan, or you can incur a lifetime penalty if you wait and join a plan later. Part D plans have their own monthly premium and are sold by private insurance plans that contract with Medicare. These plans typically have deductibles and cost shares.

when using their Parts A and B benefits of original Medicare. Supplement plans have their own monthly premium and, depending on the level of coverage, plan premiums can get pricey. Now, there is a whole new way to receive your Medicare coverage, which is called Part C Medicare Advantage. Advantage plans typically incorporate Parts A, B, and D benefits. These plans are sold by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. Most Advantage plans are network-based, typically found in HMO and PPO plans, and most will offer additional benefits not found in original Medicare. Some plans offer dental, vision, meals, hearing aids, and even transportation to your doctor. Plans vary based on

county of residence. They are typically lower in cost as compared to a Medicare Supplement and Part D plan combination. Some plans may have a zero-dollar monthly premium. However, buyer beware. You need to make sure you can see your doctor and receive proper coverage. These plans are not one-size-fits-all. In conclusion, Medicare is typically not free. There are several plan options. Members need to make sure they understand their choices and how the program works. There are special rules and times as to when and how you can join, too. Need help? You can call Medicare directly or use a local broker. The advantage of using a local broker who is dedicated to Medicare is that he/she will be well versed in the local market to help you find optimal coverage.

Steve Aleksandrowicz is a senior health benefits consultant at the Bonnie Dobbs Agency. 404-642-5188. SteveAzInsurance.com

Then comes your plan options that work with your Medicare Parts A and B. This is where choices come into play. Medicare supplement plans are also called “Medigap” plans. Supplements have several choices that cover some or all of the deductibles and cost shares that a member incurs 28

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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By Pam Santoro

Joint Tenant With Right of Survivorship vs. Tenants in Common

oint tenant with right of survivorship is a type of warranty deed that most married couples have. If one joint tenant dies, the property automatically belongs to the other joint tenant or tenants co-equally. This it easier for the surviving spouse to sell the property because rather than having to go through probate court to remove the deceased tenant’s name from the deed, he/she will only need to supply a death certificate to the closing attorney. A tenant in common designation on a warranty deed means each tenant owns a specific portion of the property. It is an individual, undivided ownership interest in the property. He/ she can sell, will, or gift any portion of the property that he/ she owns. When a person dies who is a tenant in common, his/her will instructs the probate court to convey his/her portion of the property per his/her wishes. Recently, I had a client who wanted to downsize but had not filed anything with the probate court after his spouse’s death. He then worked with an eldercare estate attorney to file the necessary probate court documents to remove his wife’s name from the deed to enable him to sell the home. My advice is to check your documents to see if your property is tenants in common or joint tenants with right of survivorship. Even in the 1990s, some deeds were written as tenants in common. Currently, most warranty deeds are registered as joint tenants with right of survivorship. It is a nominal fee to have an attorney file the documents to change the warranty deed, which is much easier than going through probate court.

Pam Santoro is a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. 33 S. Main Street, Suite 201, Alpharetta. 678-656-6627. Pam.Santoro@bhhsga.com. PamSantoro.BHHSGeorgia.com

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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Is It Wise To Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed? By Steven Anderson, D.M.D. [HealthyLife] If you’ve got them, why remove them? Wisdom teeth (third molars) are in the very back of your mouth. Sometimes, these molars remain under the gums and never come in. Wisdom teeth that do not come in or do not have room to erupt completely are termed “impacted.” If you are unsure if you have impacted wisdom teeth, your dentist can make this determination. Although you may not currently have any pain or issues with your wisdom teeth, that does not mean you won’t ever have problems. In some cases, tumors can grow around impacted wisdom teeth, destroying the jawbone. By extracting them, you remove this possibility. Often, partially erupted wisdom teeth cause “gum pain” or significantly contribute to periodontitis, a common and serious disease that causes the supporting bone around the tooth to deteriorate. Once the bone deteriorates, the tooth becomes loose and eventually falls out. Unfortunately, destroyed jawbone does not grow back. Periodontitis around wisdom teeth spreads to neighboring teeth, causing additional bone loss around otherwise healthy molars. An astute dentist will recognize this nearly inevitable condition and can guide you through the appropriate treatment for preventing this incurable disease. By removing your wisdom teeth, you can better clean your other molars in the back of your mouth, which can also help prevent periodontitis.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

Should everyone get their wisdom teeth removed? Discuss this question with your dentist. It depends upon a thorough examination and your individual situation. It also depends upon the oral health risks you are willing to live with. A patient’s age and health history should always be a consideration. Also, even though your wisdom teeth might not bother you right now, you should consider having them removed to prevent future issues. Removal of wisdom teeth is a common and generally safe surgery with very few risks. Many general dentists remove wisdom teeth safely and efficiently using local anesthesia. Oral surgeons usually use anesthesia that puts you to sleep for the procedure. As with any surgery, complications can arise. Most complications are successfully managed, and patients usually heal quickly. Remember, early prevention is a key principle in dentistry, and accepting preventative dental treatment often makes a big difference later in life. After all, great dentistry focuses on you, even if it means removing a wisdom tooth. L

Dr. Steven Anderson practices cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry at Anderson Dental of Woodstock and East Cobb. 650 Claremore Professional Way, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA 30188. 770-384-8505. DrStevenAnderson.com

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By Ellen Samsell Salas

became envious of the Southern gift for gab while attending a Shakespeare seminar in Brunswick, Maine. One would expect a deeper understanding of the Bard’s verbal virtuosity to have been my linguistic takeaway from those six weeks. But it was the lexicon of a classmate, a teacher from Alabama, who awakened me to the Southern knack for putting together just the right words. Iago wasn’t merely evil, he was “pond scum.” And Othello wasn’t simply crazed with jealousy, he was “hot as the hinges on the gates of hell” and “havin’ a hissy fit with a tail on it!”

issy fit h a ’ n i v a h n it o l i a t a h wit

Truth be told, I was “getting my knickers in a knot” and green with envy at my friend’s ability to create expressions that dazzled with images, sound, metaphor, and exuberant hyperbole — everything we expect poetry to deliver — all while being rooted in the everyday. After all, as a native Californian, what colorful colloquialisms could I contribute except the addition of “the” to the moniker of all highways, as in, “Take the 101 to the 405.” Decades later, a transplant to Georgia, I remain enamored with Southern phraseology. To start, there are the oft-uttered phrases, part and parcel of Southern parlance that are both apt and endearing. “Welcome in,” “Yes, ma’am,” and “Have a blessed day” make the speaker polite and fill the room with warmth. 32

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

have a blessed day

Two other workhorses, “y’all” and “fixin’ to,” are handy and efficient. “Y’all join us” is so much friendlier than “You guys join us.” And “fixin’ to” leads seamlessly into any number of possibilities, as in “fixin’ to come up a black cloud” and its cousin “comin’ up on some bad weather.” Can’t you just see that black cloud filling the sky, ready to pour down rain or whatever manner of trouble is brewing?

fixin’ to come up black clou a d

The lifeblood of Southern vernacular is its unabashed kinship with real life. Without a drip of pretension, speakers rely on animals, vegetables, food, and weather to make their point. When you hear, “He could eat corn through a picket fence,” those widely spaced buck teeth are front and center in your mind’s eye. And could there be a better way to convey futility than saying, “You’re driving your chickens to the wrong market” or “That dog won’t hunt”? But my favorites have to do with biscuits, a Southern staple with which we salad-loving Californians have minimal acquaintance. Chock full of alliteration, imagery, and a bit of the absurd, two tried and true biscuit-reliant phrases say it all: “You can put your boots in the oven, but that don’t make ‘em biscuits.” And, the more alliterative, “Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit if that don’t beat all,” a phrase that one just wants to repeat. So, while the world turns to BFF, NVM, and LOL, we can be happy that Southern colloquialisms are alive and kicking. Take a little sarcasm, add a heap of exaggeration, spice it up with a metaphor borrowed from real life, and you have a Southern quip. And, bless my heart, I’m learning to love biscuits and not worry about the calorie count.

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Something Worth

Grasping By Pastor Andy Rogers

[InGoodFaith] A lot could be said for what we have experienced thus far in 2020. A global pandemic compounded by social injustices has resulted in great unrest within our country and our community. Much of the tragedy and loss of life has become politicized and has polarized our nation. We are all trying to grasp what is taking place in our lives and our world. Much of the chaos, hurtful rhetoric, and distrust in our society evidenced through traditional and social media reflects our continued grasping for control, status, and position. It is the love of power that corrupts so much we see unfolding around us, and truth be told, even within us. This love of power is not a new thing. The apostle Paul knew firsthand what it felt like to pursue power over love. Born a Jew among Jews, Paul had allowed the love of power to corrupt and bankrupt him, as he held the cloaks of others while they stoned an innocent man to death (Stephen, the first martyr amongst Christ’s followers). Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, while blinding him temporarily, ultimately opened his eyes to something he had failed to grasp before: God’s power to love us despite our love of power. Paul would be forever changed by the power of love expressed on the cross by Christ Jesus, and his life’s work was dedicated to sharing this reality with others. L

Andy Rogers is lead pastor at City On A Hill United Methodist Church/Woodstock United Methodist Church, 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. COAHUMC.org WoodstockUMC.org

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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FIVE WAYS TO Stay Safe on Social Media By Madelyn Montgomery

[StrategicLife] Social media is a powerful tool. People use it personally to connect with their family and friends, and business owners harness its many benefits by creating a consistent voice and brand that allows them to regularly connect with their audience. Pretty powerful stuff, right? Well, with great power comes great responsibility. Just as the number of social media users has increased, so has the number of cybercriminals who seek to obtain personal information or implant malware on computers. So, what can you do to protect yourself? 1. Protect Your Login It’s easy to fall into the habit of using the same password for everything. Your password probably involves birthdays, names, and other easyto-find information. To protect your account from being easily hacked, use a different password for every site and make sure your passwords consist of letters, capitalizations, numbers, and symbols. For an extra level of protection, use multi-factor authentication (MFA) by installing the app on a safe device (i.e., cell phone). With MFA, only people with direct access to your device have the necessary information to log into your accounts.

2. Limit Social Media Posts Your friends and followers list is likely extensive, and you might not realize who is seeing your posts. While you’re showing off your tan at the beach on social media, someone is now aware that your house is unattended, and your home could be next on the list for a robbery. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t ever post about adventures, but you should think twice before sharing detailed information regarding your whereabouts.

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

3. Choose Friends Wisely Before accepting a friend or follow request, make sure you know the person you’re adding. Do not add strangers. Additionally, don’t accept friend requests if you’re already friends with them on social media. Repeat friend requests are often scammers, and they are skilled at making the profile look real. You can even take this a step further and report the scam accounts with a few clicks. This way, the social platform can delete the account and protect others.

4. Check Privacy Settings Check your social media privacy settings and make sure your account isn’t open to the public. Be aware that these settings can default anytime an update is made.

5. Delete Unused Accounts As social media trends come and go, it’s important to keep track of what accounts you have created and be intentional about closing down accounts you no longer use. If an unused account sits for too long, cybercriminals will take advantage and use it to scam others. If you don’t want to completely delete the account, be mindful of checking it periodically to make sure it hasn’t been hacked. L Madelyn Montgomery is a creative content strategist at Technical Resource Solutions, LLC. 120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite 100, Woodstock / 150 North Street, Suite H, Canton (by appointment only). 678-928-9491. TechnicalRS.com

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ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS

“When you go to the coast, the sky gets bigger, the city melts away, and as you stare at the horizon, the vistas and colors are ever-changing. There is something about that play of the horizon and the changing sky that draws me,” said Amy Duke. Through her paintings, Duke captures the beauty of the coastal horizon in landscapes that create serenity in their seeming simplicity. Choosing palettes of only three to four colors, and often leaving portions of her canvases white, Duke creates a mood that engages the viewer. “I’m very pleased when I exhibit and hear people say that my work is peaceful and calm,” she says.

While Duke knows her subject and palette before starting to paint, once she begins, she tries to relax, not let her brain take control, and paint freely and quickly.

“For me, art shouldn’t be too much. I try to keep my works clean. Now, I’m using white backgrounds and don’t feel compelled to fill the canvas.”

“I love acrylics because they make the process fluid. I’m usually working on a few paintings at a time – sometimes a series of boats, small canvasses of birds, and large landscapes. It’s fun to move my brain from one to another,” she says. “Acrylics dry quickly, so I can work on a piece and then move on to another, then return. And, if I’m not happy with what I’ve done, I’ll let it sit a few days, then when I return to it, it works.”

Duke says she finds great satisfaction in sharing her art and especially enjoys doing commissioned work.

Although they are somewhat more detailed, Duke’s paintings of boats and birds also evoke calm.

“I try to make my art accessible to people. It’s an honor to paint for someone who has seen your work and enjoys it,” she says. “I like knowing the home where it ends up, and getting to know the people who will enjoy my work.” With grandparents and parents who loved art, Duke found her calling by the time she was in high school. After graduation, she earned a bachelor’s degree in studio art at Hollins College in Virginia where she met friends who encouraged her to move to Atlanta. “My grandfather was an artist, and that’s where my love for art began. Papa would sketch and photograph during his travels, and when he returned home, he would put on slide shows. He was inspiring. And my mother still goes to every museum she can. When she visits, she says, ‘Let’s find a museum!’”

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

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Inspired by her grandparents, parents, teachers, and professors, Duke knows painting is her calling. “I can have a frustrating day, and then there are the days when I can’t stop. I love that. That’s when I’m completely in my own world. When you are doing what you are meant to do, it just clicks.”

Duke’s paintings can be seen at AmyDukeFineArt.com Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

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Immunocompromised Health Status and Staying Safe

in a COVID-19 Environment By Drs. Steve Lammert and Forrest Powers [HealthyLife] The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health agencies have issued advice regarding safe practices during the current COVID-19 pandemic and at all times for overall well-being. Individuals at increased risk for complications from COVID-19 should take additional precautions to minimize their exposure to the virus. “Immunocompromised” is a broad term used for people who may lack a fully functioning immune system. Having a weakened immune system can occur for a variety of reasons including genetic traits present at birth, certain infections (e.g. HIV), and immunosuppressive medications. Age can make a difference, whether immunocompromised or not. The older we get, the less effective our immune systems are and the more likely we may have additional health issues that could affect illness severity and complications. Immunocompromised patients are at increased risk for having a harder time fighting the virus and often incur other secondary health complications. While the noted death rate is higher in older patients and those who have underlying health conditions, there are many survivors in this subgroup who have recovered or are recovering from COVID-19. The most common reason for which we observe suppression of the immune system is medications. 38

Woodstock Family Life | SEPTEMBER 2020

Immunosuppressive medications can be given for a variety of reasons including cancer treatment, therapy post organ transplant, and treatment of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus. Not all immunosuppressive medications are equal. It is currently unknown whether patients on these drugs have a greater risk of catching COVID-19. Though, certainly, patients on immunosuppression medications do have an increased risk of contracting infections in general. Will patients on immunosuppression medication who contract COVID-19 do worse? It likely depends on which medications they’re taking. Stronger and more suppressive medications are more apt to increase the risk for complications. More targeted medications may not increase risk of complications but may decrease the inflammatory response. Inflammatory response increases the risk of complications from COVID-19. Specific immunosuppressive drugs are being studied in COVID-19 to help suppress the inflammatory response. Regardless, patients who are immunocompromised are advised to follow standard precautions for COVID-19 as well as the advice of their doctors.

WHETHER YOU ARE IMMUNOCOMPROMISED OR NOT, THE FOLLOWING SAFE PRACTICES ARE RECOMMENDED DURING THE PANDEMIC:  DO NOT stop medications or treatments. Please follow the advice of your physicians regarding your care.  Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcoholbased hand sanitizer. Use a hand sanitizer upon reaching your car after shopping, handling packages, or groceries at home. At this time, the CDC does not recommend wiping off every box or bag.  Clean/disinfect common and frequently used surfaces in your home or workplace.  Avoid unnecessary/nonessential travel.  Wear a cloth mask when you must go out.  Consider telemedicine appointments if offered and it is pertinent to your chronic illness monitoring.  Avoid attending large gatherings or places where you cannot practice social distancing.  Consider having supplies, food, and medication delivered to your home when possible. L

Dr. Steve Lammert is a board-certified physician of internal medicine with Towne Lake Primary Care. Dr. Forrest Powers is a boardcertified rheumatologist with Medical Associates of North Georgia. For more information visit Northside.com.

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Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, and Celebrations

Stretch Zone Woodstock 1430 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 100 Woodstock 470-499-3539 Health and Fitness

Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake

Towne Lake Primary Care at BridgeMill 10515 Bells Ferry Road Suite 200 Canton 770-704-6474 Health Care

American Bodyworks

5947 Holly Springs Parkway Suite 305 Woodstock 770-924-0107 Health and Fitness

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